text:
Methods, systems and kits for the simultaneous or sequential analysis of a multitude of steroid hormones by mass spectrometry are disclosed. The methods require minimal sample size and minimal preparation time. The methods include ionizing the hormones and analyzing the hormones by mass spectrometry. In addition, methods, systems and kits for the simultaneous or sequential analysis of steroid hormones are disclosed including ionization of the steroid hormones by photoionization.
1. A method for mass spectrometric analysis of a sample containing a multitude of steroid hormones, comprising the steps:
(a) providing a sample containing a multitude of steroid hormones;
(b) deproteinating the sample;
(c) separating the multitude of steroid hormones from the sample; and
(d) analyzing the multitude of steroid hormones using a mass spectrometer, wherein the multitude of steroid hormones comprises at least four hormones selected from the group consisting of estrogens, testosterones, aldosterone, dehydroepicandrosterone, dehydroepiandrosterone sulphate (DHEAs) and Vitamin D.
2. The method according to
3. The method according to
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8. The method of
9. The method according to
10. The method according to
(a) adding acetonitrile, containing internal standards;
(b) vortexing the sample; and
(c) subjecting the sample to centrifugation.
11. The method according to
12. The method according to
13. The method according to
14. The method according to
15. The method according to
16. The method according to
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22. The method according to
23. The method according to
24. The method according to
25. The method according to
26. The method according to
27. A method of instructing an analysis of a sample that contains a multitude of steroid hormones, the method comprising providing instructions to prepare the sample according to steps (b) and (c) of
28. A system for the mass spectrometric analysis of a sample containing a multitude of steroid hormones, comprising:
(a) reagents for deproteinating the sample, including internal standards;
(b) reagents for analyzing the multitude of steroid hormones using a mass spectrometer; and
(c) a mass spectrometer,
wherein the multitude of steroid hormones comprises at least four hormones selected from the group consisting of estrogens, testosterones, aldosterones, dehydroepicandrosterones, dehydroepiandrosterone sulphates (DHEAs) and Vitamin D.
29. The system according to
30. A kit for use in mass spectrometric analysis of a sample containing a multitude of steroid hormones, wherein the multitude of steroid hormones comprises at least four hormones selected from the group consisting of estrogens, testosterones, aldosterone, dehydroepicandrosterone, dehydroepiandrosterone sulphate (DHEAs) and Vitamin D, comprising:
(a) reagents for deproteinating the sample, including internal standards;
(b) reagents for separating the multitude of steroid hormones from the sample;
(c) reagents for analyzing the multitude of steroid hormones using a mass spectrometer;
(d) a solution of four steroid hormones selected from the group consisting of estrogens, testosterones, aldosterone, dehydroepicandrosterone, dehydroepiandrosterone sulphate (DHEAs) and Vitamin D; and
(e) instructions for analyzing the multitude of steroid hormones using a mass spectrometer.
31. The kit according to
(a) mobile phase solutions;
(b) a chromatography column; and
(c) a quality control specimen.
32. Use of a mass spectrometer for sequentially or simultaneously analyzing a sample containing a multitude of steroid hormones, comprising:
(a) providing a sample containing a multitude of steroid hormones;
(b) deproteinating the sample;
(c) separating the multitude of steroid hormones from the sample; and
(d) analyzing the multitude of steroid hormones using a mass spectrometer,
wherein the multitude of steroid hormones comprises at least four hormones selected from the group consisting of estrogens, testosterones, aldosterone, dehydroepicandrosterone, dehydroepiandrosterone sulphate (DHEAs) and Vitamin D.
33. The use according to
The present invention combines the fields of hormone analysis and mass spectrometry. In particular the invention relates to analyzing steroid hormones using mass spectrometry.
Hormones are biological messengers. They are synthesized by specific tissues (glands) and are secreted into the blood. The blood carries them to target cells where they act to alter the activities of the target cells.
Hormones are chemically diverse, and are generally categorized into three main groups: (1) small molecules derived from amino acids, for example thyroxine, (2) polypeptides or proteins, for example insulin and thyroid-stimulating hormone, and (3) molecules derived from cholesterol, for example steroids.
An important class of hormone is the thyroid hormones. Examples of thyroid hormones are thyroxine (T4) and triiodothyronine (T3). Both T4 and T3 enter cells and bind to intracellular receptors where they increase the metabolic capabilities of the cell by increasing mitochondria and mitochondrial enzymes.
Steroids make up another important class of hormones. Examples of steroid hormones include estrogens, progesterone and testosterone. Estrogen is the name of a group of hormones of which there are three principle forms, estrone, estradiol and estriol. Estrogens and progesterone cause the development of the female secondary sexual characteristics and develop and maintain the reproductive function. Testosterone develops and maintains the male secondary sex characteristics, promotes growth and formation of sperm. Steroids enter target cells and bind to intracellular receptors and then cause the production of mRNA coding for proteins that manifest the changes induced by steroids.
The accurate analysis and quantification of hormones is becoming more important. For example, estrogen and estrogen like compounds are playing an ever-increasing role in today's society through hormone replacement therapy. Also, the analysis and quantification of estrogen and estrogenike compounds helps in the management of estrogen-related diseases, like breast cancer.
Presently, the common methods of hormone analysis use immunoassay techniques. Table 1 lists the common hormones and the current methods for their analysis.
For example, estriol is analyzed by a radioimmunoassay utilizing radiolabelled antigen (iodine 125) in competition with unlabelled estriol in the sample, for a known amount of antibody. The assay is read using a gamma counter.
Androstenedione is analyzed using an enzyme immunoassay comprising horseradish peroxidase. Unlabeled antigen in the sample is in competition with enzyme labeled antigen for a fixed number of antibody binding sites. The assay is read using a microtitre plate enzyme immunoassay reader.
Several hormones are currently analyzed using a chemiluminescent immunoassay. For example, progesterone, testosterone, cortisol and T3 are analyzed using this method. The assay utilizes an assay-specific antibody-coated bead. The assay is read using a photon counter.
However, the current immunoassays are disadvantageous for the following reasons:
More recently, hormones have been analysed and quantified by mass spectrometry. However, there are several disadvantages to these methods.
For example, a method of analyzing urinary testosterone and dihydrotestosterone glucuronides using electrospray tandem mass spectrometry has been described [2]. The method involves a complex system employing high performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) and a three-column two-switching valve. The shortcomings include the following: (i) the hormone glucuronides were analyzed, not the hormones, (ii) the method is applicable to urine only and (iii) only two analytes were analysed simultaneously, (iv) the limit of detection (LOD) was 200 pg ml−1 for testosterone and the limit of quantification was 10 ug L−1 for dihydrotestosterone and (v) the method is complex.
Another publication discloses a method for the determination of estradiol in bovine plasma by an ion trap gas chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry technique [3]. The shortcomings include the following: (i) only one analyte was analyzed, (ii) 4 ml of plasma was required for the analysis of one analyte, (iii) the limit of detection was 5 pg ml−1, and (iv) derivation was required because the method employs gas chromatography. Unfortunately, the analysis of estrogens by mass spectrometry is problematic, because they show low sensitivity under conventional electrospray ionization (ESI) or atmospheric pressure chemical ionization (APCI) techniques. Steroid compounds generally lack chemical groups with high proton affinity, so the protonation reaction that normally leads to the formation of the analytical ion is difficult to produce with the standard ESI and APCI sources.
A method for analysis of 17-hydroxyprogesterone by HPLC electrospray ionization tandem mass spectrometry from dried blood spots has also been described [4]. However, this method analyses only one analyte at a time, and requires liquid-liquid extraction, which is laborious and time consuming, with sample extraction alone taking 50 minutes to complete.
Finally, a gas chromatography mass spectrometry method to analyze the production rates of testosterone and dihydrosterone has been disclosed [5].
The invention provides a fast and accurate method of hormone analysis and quantification using a mass spectrometer.
A plurality of hormones can be analyzed simultaneously or sequentially. The procedure allows for as little as 700 μL of a sample containing steroid hormone to be analyzed. In addition, minimal sample preparation time is required.
The invention permits the analysis of hormones in a number of complex matrices as they might be found in nature, e.g. the human body. For, example, hormone analysis can be performed on samples of blood, saliva, serum, plasma and urine.
There are several advantages to this invention:
Accordingly, there is provided a use for a mass spectrometer in simultaneously or sequentially analyzing a sample for a plurality of hormones in a fast, simple and accurate way. The sample may be, for example, serum, plasma, urine or saliva.
There is also provided a system for the fast, simple and accurate analysis of a plurality of hormones comprising: reagents for the preparation of the sample, reagents for analysis by a mass spectrometer, and the mass spectrometer to perform the analysis.
There is also provided a kit, comprising the various reagents required for simultaneously or sequentially analyzing, within a sample, a plurality of hormones, including steroid hormones, thyroid hormones and other hormones. The kit may include a standard solution of the hormones of interest, compounds as internal standards, mobile phase solutions, methods and tools for the separation of hormones from the sample, for example an HPLC column, and quality control specimens.
Accordingly, there is provided a method for the simultaneous or sequential analysis of one or more hormones comprising ionizing the hormones and analyzing the hormones by mass spectrometry.
Accordingly, there is also provided a method for simultaneous or sequential analysis of one or more hormones comprising: obtaining a sample containing or suspected of containing one or more hormones, removing proteins from the sample, extracting the hormones from the sample, ionizing the hormones, and analyzing the hormones in a mass spectrometer.
Accordingly, there is also provided a method for the simultaneous or sequential analysis of one or more steroid hormones comprising: obtaining a sample containing or suspected of containing one or more steroid hormones, removing proteins from the sample, extracting the steroid hormones from the sample, ionizing the steroid hormones by photoionization, in the negative or positive mode, and analyzing the hormones in a mass spectrometer.
Accordingly, there is also provided a method for the analysis of one or more steroid hormones comprising: obtaining a sample containing or suspected of containing one or more steroid hormones, removing proteins from the sample, extracting the steroid hormone from the sample, ionizing the steroid hormone by photoionization, in the negative or positive mode, and analyzing the hormone in a mass spectrometer.
Accordingly, there is also provided a method for simultaneous or sequential analysis of a plurality of thyroid hormones and a plurality of steroid hormones comprising: obtaining a sample containing or suspected of containing a plurality of hormones, removing proteins from the sample, extracting the hormones from the sample, ionizing the steroid hormones in the negative or positive mode by photoionization, ionizing the thyroid hormones, for example by electrospray ionization, and analyzing the hormones in a mass spectrometer.
The invention, including the best approaches known to the inventors, can be better understood with reference to the following detailed description taken in combination with the following drawings, in which:
The invention provides methods of analysis for hormones. The hormones may include:
Any sample containing or suspected of containing a hormone can be used, including a sample of blood, plasma, serum, urine or saliva. The sample may contain both free and conjugated or bound hormones. A sample size of at least about 700 μL for steroid hormones is presently preferred.
The sample is de-proteinated. This can be done by conventional techniques known to those skilled in the art. For example, a sample can be de-proteinated with acetonitrile, containing internal standard, followed by vortexing and centrifugation. The internal standard may be, for example, the deuterated hormone.
Separation of Hormones from the Sample
The hormones are separated by methods known to those skilled in the art. For example, the hormones may be separated by liquid chromatography through a column. The column may be a C-18 column. The hormones are subsequently eluted from the column.
Introduction of Hormones into a Mass Spectrometer
The hormones are then introduced into a mass spectrometer. Optionally, the separation step and step of introducing the hormones into a mass spectrometer can be combined using a combined liquid chromatography spectrometry apparatus (LC/MS). This procedure is based on an online extraction of the injected sample with subsequent introduction into the mass spectrometer using a built-in switching valve. LC/MS and liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS-MS) are specific and offer simple approaches to sample preparation without sample derivation steps, and are presently preferred for use in the present invention.
Isotope Dilution Tandem Mass Spectrometry
Isotope dilution tandem mass spectrometry incorporates additional dilution steps that act as an internal calibration so that an independent isotopic reference material is not required. It avoids the need to measure the isotope ratio of the highly enriched spike directly, and enables the final results to be arranged as a combination of measurements that are largely insensitive to instrumental bias and drift. Consequently, it has the potential to extend the scope of application of isotope dilution tandem mass spectrometry to include analysis for which reference materials with certified isotope ratios are not available or where contamination of the instrument by the highlyenriched spike causes difficulty.
Instrumentation and Ionization Techniques
The hormones are subjected to ionization. Various ionization techniques can be used. For example, photoionization, electrospray ionization (ESI), atmospheric pressure chemical ionization (APCI), and electron capture ionization may be used. Preferably, photoionization is used when analyzing steroid hormones. It is presently preferred that an atmospheric pressure photoionization (APPI) source be used when analyzing steroid hormones.
The following mass spectrometers can be used: any tandem-mass spectrometer, including hybrid quadrupole-linear ion trap mass spectrometers and liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometers such as the API 2000™ mass spectrometer, the API 3000™ mass spectrometer, and the API 4000™ mass spectrometer, described in U.S. Pat. Nos. 4,121,099; 4,137,750; 4,328,420; 4,963,736; 5,179,278; 5,248,875; 5,412,208; and 5,847,386 (Applied Biosystems/MDS SCIEX, Foster City, Calif./Concord Ontario, Canada). When analyzing steroid hormones, a spectrometer with a photospray ion source, such as the API 3000™ mass spectrometer, is presently preferred.
Ionization may be performed by utilizing the mass spectrometer in the negative or the positive mode. Factors such as a particular analyte's tendency to give rise to a particular ion form, as is known to those skilled in the art, may make either the negative mode or the positive mode more preferable. For example, analysis in the positive mode is typically made for DHEA, Aldosterone, Cortisol, 11-Deoxycortisol, Androstenedione, Testosterone, Estradiol, 17-OH Progesterone, Progesterone, Allopregnalone, and Vitamin D whereas analysis in the negative mode is typically made for 16-OH Estrone, 2-OH Estrone. Estriol and DHEAS. However, it is possible to analyze any of the hormones in either positive or negative mode.
Hormones are identified on the basis of the mass to charge ratio of their molecular ions and fragment ions, as is known to those skilled in the art. When the hormones are purified by liquid chromatography, they can also be identified by their retention times.
Hormones are quantified by their intensity as determined in the mass spectrometer in counts per second. Calibration curves for known concentrations of the hormones are established for comparison.
The invention will now be demonstrated using the following examples, provided to demonstrate but not limit the embodiments of the present invention:
1. Analysis of a Sample for Steroid Hormones
A sample of 800 μL of plasma was used. Proteins were precipitated with 1.2 mL of acetonitrile, containing deuterated internal standard, and vortexed. The sample was centrifuged, and 1.7 mL of the supematant was injected onto a C-18 column coupled to a LC/MS/MS. The column was washed with 2% methanol in 5 mM ammonium acetate for 3 minutes. The valve on the column was switched and the sample was eluted in a methanol gradient of 2 to 100%. The total run time was 12 minutes. Slight adjustments to the volumes, concentrations and times described can be made, as is known to those skilled in the art.
1.7 ml of the eluant was introduced into the mass spectrometer and the sample was ionized by photoionization and analyzed in an API-3000™ mass spectrometer, in the negative or positive mode as described above.
This demonstrates a simple method of preparing a complex biological matrix for analysis of steroid hormone content, and a sensitive analytical method that permits the simultaneous analysis of multiple hormones.
2. Analysis of a Sample for Steroid Hormones
Described below is an example demonstrating a method that permits the simultaneous measurement of 9 steroids in a 760 μL of serum or plasma sample, without derivatization and with minimal sample workup-acetonitrile protein precipitation. The reliability of the method has been evaluated by correlation with currently used immunoassays, and assessment of within-day and between-day imprecision, recovery and accuracy. Comparison of results obtained by tandem-mass spectrometry (tandem MS) with the All Method Mean (CAP PT Program, 2002) has also been made [6].
Materials and Methods
Chemicals: Androstenedione [4-Androstene-3,17-dione], testosterone [4-Androsten-17β-ol-3-one], dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA, [5-Androsten-3β-ol-17-one]), sodium dehydroepiandrosterone 3-sulfate (DHEAS, [5-Androsten-3β-ol-17-one sulfate, sodium salt], cortisol [4-Pregnen-11β,17α,21-triol-3,20-dione], 11-deoxycortisol [4-Pregnen-17α,21-diol-3,20-dione], progesterone [4Pregnen-3,20-dione], 17α-hydroxyprogesterone [4-Pregnen-17β-ol-3,20-dione], 17β-estradiol [1,3,5(10)-Estratriene-3,17,β-diol], Estriol [1,3,5(10)-Estratriene-3,16α,17β-triol], ammonium acetate, and bovine albumin (96%) were purchased from Sigma-Aldrich (St. Louis, Mo.). Deuterium labeled internal standard: testosterone-1,2-d2, cortisol-9,11,12,12-d4, and estradiol-2,4,16,16-d4 were from Cambridge Isotope Laboratory, Inc. (Andover, Mass.); 4-androstene-3,17-dione-2,2,4,6,6,16,6-d7, dehydroepiandrosterone-16,16-d2, 4-pregnen-17α-ol-3,20-dione-2,2,4,6,6,21,21,21-d8, 11deoxycortisol-21,21-d2, estriol-2,4-d2, and progesterone-2,2,4,6,6,17a,21,21,21-d9 were from C/D/N Isotopes Inc. (Pointe-Claire, Quebec, Canada). HPLC grade water and methanol were obtained from Burdick & Jackson (Muskegon, Mich.). Optima-grade acetonitrile and toluene were from Fisher Scientific (Fair Lawn, N.J.). All chemicals except noted otherwise had a purity of at least 98%, as reported by the manufacturer.
Standard solutions: Stock solutions of 1.0 mg/mL in methanol were prepared for each steroid of interest and stored at −20� C. Working profile standard solutions at various concentrations were prepared as follows: appropriate amounts of the stock solutions were mixed and diluted with methanol to obtain a solution containing 7.81 μg/mL of 11-deoxycotisol, 2.96 μg/mL of 17-hydroxyprogesterone, 1.26 μg/mL of androstenedione, 0.344 μg/mL of estradiol. 2.73 μg/mL of DHEA. 2.09 μg/mL of testosterone, 3.31 μg/mL of progesterone, 68.1 μg/mL of cortisol, and 469.4 μg/mL of DHEAS. This mixed steroid standard solution was added to a 4% solution of albumin in water to provide steroid profile standards that were diluted 10, 20, 100, 200, 500, and 1000 fold. These seven solutions, including the blank albumin solution, were then used to prepare a calibration curve covering the clinically important range of concentration for each steroid. A solution of 80 ng/mL for each of eight deuteriumabeled steroids in acetonitrile was used as internal standard and precipitant of proteins either for the albumin standards or serum/plasma samples. Quality control (QC) samples at three concentration levels were purchased from BioRad (Irvine, Calif.) and were used to evaluate the within-day and between-day precision as well as the accuracy of the method.
Sample preparation: 760 μL of each profile standard or serum sample containing steroids of interest was placed into a 2.0 mL conical plastic centrifuge tube. 1140 μL of internal standard solution in acetonitrile was added to the tube to precipitate the proteins in the sample. The tubes were capped, vortexed vigorously for at least 30 s and centrifuged at 13000 g for 10 min. The supematant in the tubes was transferred into autosampler vials for injection into the LC-MS- MS system. Sample preparation was performed at room temperature.
LC-MS-MS analysis: We used an SCIEX (Applied Biosystems/MDS SCIEX, Foster City. Calif. USA/Concord, Ontario, Canada) API-3000™ triple quadrupole tandem mass spectrometer equipped with an atmospheric pressure photoionization (Applied Biosystems/MDS SCIEX, Foster City, Calif. USA/Concord, Ontario, Canada) source. The Photoionization lamp used was a 10 eV Cathodeon Ltd. type number PKS100 krypton discharge lamp. Nitrogen produced by a high purity nitrogen generator (PEAK Scientific Instruments Ltd., Chicago. Ill.) was employed as curtain, nebulizer, collision, and lamp gases. Unit mass resolution was set in both mass-resolving quadrupole Q1 and Q3. The HPLC system consisted of three Shimadzu SCL-10Avp pumps, Shimadzu SIL-HTc autosampler, and Shimadzu DUG-14A degasser (Shimadzu Corp., Kyoto, Japan). Data were collected by using a Dell Optiplex GX400 workstation and processed by Analyst 1.3.1 software package (MDS SCIEX, Concord, Ontario, Canada).
Aliquots of 1700 μL were injected by the autosampler onto a Supelco LC-18-DB (3.3 mm�3.0 mm, 3.0 mm ID) chromatographic column equipped with Supelco Discovery C-18 (3.0 mm) guard column with identical packing material (Supelco, St. Louis, Mo., USA) at room temperature. The steroids adhered to the column, which was then washed with solvent C, a mixture of 15 mM ammonium acetate and methanol (98:2, v/v, pH 5.5), at a rate of 1.0 mL/min. After 5.0 min of washing the switching valve (VICI, Valco Instruments Co. Inc., Houston, Tex.) was activated and the column was eluted with a gradient (Table 3) at a rate of 0.5 mL/min and the sample was introduced into the mass spectrometer. The column was flushed for 4 min with 100% solvent B (methanol) before the next injection. The dopant (Optima-grade toluene) was delivered into the source by using a syringe pump (model '22', Harvard Apparatus Inc., Holliston, Mass.) at a flow rate of 50 μL/min. Analytes were then quantified in MRM mode.
Calibration, using internal standardization, was done by linear regression analysis over various concentration ranges for the different steroids of interest. For each standard curve, a minimum of six different concentrations was used. Stable isotope dilution was employed for 8 of the 9 steroids. For DHEAS, we employed testosterone-d2 as the internal standard, because we could not find a sensitive and specific MRM transition for the deuterated DHEAS-d2 in positive ion mode. Peak area ratios between target analytes and their respective internal standards were used for quantification.
Precision was evaluated by assaying BioRad Liquichek Immunoassay Plus Control (LOT 40620) in replicates (n=10 for within-day, n=20 for between-day) at three levels of concentration. Accuracy for cortisol, progesterone, and testosterone was evaluated by assaying BioRad Lyphochek Immunoassay Plus Control (LOT 40130), which provides target mass spectrometric values for these steroids.
Results and Discussion
The method described allows for the simultaneous quantitation of 9 steroids in positive ion mode by tandem mass spectrometry within 18 minutes. The method is based on isotope dilution and unlike immunoassays is very specific for the analytes of interest. The method possesses adequate sensitivity (due to use of the APPI source, with the lower level of sensitivity being 100 pg/mL for each steroid) and precision to be used in the routine clinical laboratory. The method has been used for the measurement of steroid concentrations in patient samples. The API4000™ mass spectrometer may be used to measure estradiol below 100 pg/mL. Results have been compared with immunoassay techniques. Generally, tandem mass spectrometry provides lower values no doubt due to improved specificity. The correlation coefficients shown in Table 6 are good. Unlike immunoassays where each steroid has to be assayed separately, the current procedure allows for the simultaneous measurement of many steroids thereby providing a steroid profile on each sample measured. We believe that the improved specificity and simultaneous quantitation features afforded by this method represent distinct advantages over current IAs. No drug interferences have been detected.
In regards to the analysis of Vitamin D, the separation time in chromatography may be lengthened to at least 23 minutes and the gradient may be extended to at least 95% methanol, as compared to other steroid hormones.
Information from this example is contained in Archives of Pathology & Laboratory Medicine, "Steroid Profiles Using Liquid Chromatography-Tandem Mass Spectrometry With Atmospheric Pressure Photoionization Source.", Tiedong Guo MS, Michael Chan PhD and Steven J. Soldin PhD, pages 469-475, April, 2004.
"This work was supported by grant M01-RR13297 from the General Clinical Research Center Program of the National Center for Research Resources, National Institutes of Health, Department of Health and Human Services."
A sample of 100 μL of plasma is used. Proteins are precipitated with 150 μL of acetonirile and vortexed. The sample is centrifuged, and 200 μL of the supernatant is injected onto a C-18 column coupled to a tandem mass spectrometer (LC/MS/MS). The column is washed with 20% methanol in 5 mM ammonium acetate for 3 minutes. The valve on the column is switched and the sample is eluted in a methanol gradient of 20 to 100%. The total run time is 10 minutes. Slight adjustments to the volumes, concentrations and time described can be made, as is known to those skilled in the art.
A sample of the eluant is introduced into an ion-spray ionization chamber and analyzed by API 3000™ mass spectrometer using the negative mode for thyroid hormones in the sample. Steroid hormones in the sample are ionized by photoionization, with the spectrometer in the negative or positive mode as described above.
This demonstrates a simple method of preparing a complex biological matrix for analysis of possible steroid and thyroid hormone content, and a sensitive analytical method that permits the simultaneous analysis of steroid and thyroid hormones.
4. Performance Comparison of Various Ionization Techniques for the Quantification of Estrogens in Biological Fluids Using a Hybrid Quadrupole-Linear Ion Trap Mass Spectrometer
A number of different ionization techniques were compared in terms of detection sensitivity for estrogen like compounds. Among these were electron capture of derivatized estrogens, electrospray detection of native and derivatized estrogens, conventional APCI and photoionization. Each source technique was tested by flow injection analysis to determine the ultimate sensitivity.
The resulting preferred ionization technique was photoionization using an ionizable chemical dopant. This photoionization technique is described elsewhere [7], and disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 6,534,765. It is particularly well adapted to LC/MS/MS analyses as it overcomes the major deficiencies previously observed with direct photoionization of analytes in LC eluents. With this source, large quantities of an ionizable dopant are mixed with the vaporized LC eluent. The vapor mixture is then exposed to an ultra-violet source emitting 10-eV photons. The ultra-violet radiation preferentially ionizes the dopant that in turn initiates a cascade of ion-molecule reactions leading to the formation of the ionized analytical species. Analytical ions are transferred to the orifice of the spectrometer through a transport tube with the assistance of an electrostatic field. Toluene is normally used as ionizable dopant, however, other compounds with the appropriate first ionization energy, proton affinity and physical properties can also be used. Compared to the ionspray and APCI sources, a dopant-assisted photoionization source greatly enhances the ion signal for compounds that lack chemical groups with high affinity for the proton. The atmospheric pressure photoionization (APPI) source has been demonstrated to be significantly more sensitive than APCI for certain compounds. [7] A comparative study employed APPI-tandem mass spectrometry for the detection of steroids in biological matrices, and showed that in both selected ion monitoring (SIM) mode and multiple reaction monitoring (MRM) mode, the signal obtained by photoionization was more intense by a factor of 3 to 10 when compared to the APCI source [8].
The technique was used to identify and characterize low-level concentrations of metabolites using a mass spectrometer with increased multiple reaction monitoring (MRM) precursor ion and neutral loss scan sensitivities. MRM allows for enhanced selectivity through the measurement of parent and daughter ions simultaneously for each of the compounds of interest. Further, Information Dependent Acquisition (IDA) software tools were used to allow the combination of quadrupole scan functionality with the high sensitivity scan functions of the linear ion trap. Enhanced product ion scans were used for qualitative analysis of estradiol and its metabolites present in human saliva.
The results indicate that this technique allows for the identification and characterization of low levels of estradiol and its metabolites in human plasma and saliva.
While the above detailed description describes the exemplifying embodiments of the present invention, it should be understood that the present invention is susceptible to modifications, variations and alterations without deviating from the scope of the invention.
All references listed herein are incorporated by reference in their entirety.
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Mistah F.A.B
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Artist: Mistah F.A.B
Album: Da Baydestrian
Thizz Nation has been sideshowin' and scrapin' for years, and if you have no idea what that means you're not from the Bay Area. Mistah F.A.B. continues the hyphy movement's rise to national prominence with his album... More
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Mansfield Movieplex Movie Showtimes
95 Storrs Road
Mansfield CT 06250 map
Seating: Stadium
Listening Devices available
Accessible to Disabled Audiences
Prices:adult: 8.50, senior: 6.00, child: 6.00
11:35am, 12:15pm, 2:00pm, 4:25pm, 6:50pm, 9:15pm
Inside Out in Disney Digital 3D
2:40pm, 5:05pm, 7:30pm, 9:55pm
11:45am, 2:30pm, 5:15pm, 8:00pm
1:10pm, 3:55pm, 6:40pm, 9:25pm
11:50am, 2:20pm, 4:50pm, 7:20pm, 9:50pm
1:40pm, 4:30pm
7:00pm, 9:35pm
1:30pm, 4:00pm, 6:30pm, 9:00pm
1:20pm, 4:15pm
User reviews on Mansfield Movieplex
I love this theater. Yes, it is small but it's great! Don't have to fight the zoo like the other theaters. Large theaters look like a mall inside with thousands of people, lines and hasstles. This little theater is perfect. Love it!!
January 2, 2011
I enjoy going to this theater because it's close to home, reasonably priced, and the employees are nice. You can also get your tickets early and either go shopping or eat before the movie because it's located in the mall. The seats used to be tight, but they have renovated most if not all of the theaters. I also like it because no matter when you go you can usually see people you know because of the small town atmosphere.
ive lived in one of the towns next to mansfield all of my life. im now almost fourteen and have to admit it was great to have a movie theater being put in so close to home. we have manchester, but its a totally differnt feel. this theater may have some small rooms, but some are just as big as other theaters. personally, my friends and i love this theater. its small and not too croweded. on a friday night or saturday night? yeah, it can fill up. on an opening night? yupp. but my friends and i love going to the small room movies because when you get a group of ten or 15 friends its like you have the whole theater to yourself and can do whatever you want. and the bigger rooms? well...theyre regular theater size, so you really cant complain. would it be nicer if it were bigger? yeah, probably because they would play more movies, but it definatly has its perks the way it is :]
Ok how about another review .. went to see Ghost Town and it was in one of the SMALLER theaters .. um .. yea.. LOL i didnt know they made non-home theaters that small. 4 rows deep about 4-5 seats each side for a max of about 20 seats. they were the regular style seating. who knows it may be excellent being in a theater that small .. but we didnt find out .. decided to see a different movie in the bigger theater with the nicer seats.
An update to my last review.. I went back to this theater and gave another look at the seating arrangement .. thinking that maybe now that i was in a different cinema it might be different. It wasnt. The leg room was still very very shallow BUT the seats were very very nice and comfortable. so just make sure you get there before the movie starts and get a seat where people wont have to pass you and you will be good to go.
I am new to the area .. from a little town in Utah.. I went to a matinee the other day at Mansfield Movieplex with a friend of mine.. he is 6\'2 and im 5\' no leg room for him could be understandable but i had to laugh when i saw the leg room in this theater. There is maybe 6-8\" between the seat and the back of the seat in front of you.. that was absolutely amazing.. i have never seen anything like it. and prices?? the matinee price was the same as the evening price in utah.. oh well .. the movie was good lol
WOW what a bunch of **************. .. @Barbara
It 's built in to a small mall so not all the theater rooms are big. 2 or 3 are small sized and the rest are about the same size other theaters have. @Ryan
Th e things you describe are seen at most other theaters as well. Customer service is great. The place is very clean and friendly. It's small so you don't have to wait in line most of the time. There is very little noise as well because of the small amount of people.
This is the WORST theatre I've ever been to. Half the theatre is tiny; the rooms have about 25 seats total. The room size isn't much larger than my family room at home. In all the theaters, both big and small, the seats are entirely too close to one another. Unless you sit in the front row, your knees bump into the seat in front of you. Whoever designed this theater wasn't very bright. I only go there now when the weather isn't suitable to drive to Buckland Cinemas (like a blizzard). What a waste as it would have been nice to have a theater closer to home.
quit your complaining, jeese. no one was asking how the movie theater looks, they are probably looking for the treatment by the employees, which i think is great.
I am quite reasonable when confronted with unfortunate situations. Well, when i say that Mansfield Movieplex is bad I'm being generous. Firstly, DO NOT EVER UNDER ANY CIRCUMSTANCE PURCHASE THEIR "GIFT CARDS". It looks like a bad business card with a fake signature and roughly four numbers on the top right. as far as i understand this is how the window attendant is to designate "Discounted" tickets from regular gift card ones. Now, for my 21st b-day i was given four of these tickets with the numbers highlighted in green. From what they say at the top "EXECUTIVE PASS" i understood that they will work whenever i would like (during matinées or late night shows) when i went to see a movie that day i was informed they are discounted ones... they were not. So instead of waiting in line for the manager i just shelled out CASH (thats right, they do not offer DEBIT or CREDIT machines... Later) so, when i told my brother the one who gave me them for my birthday he snatched them up and ran down to the movieplex with zero haste. Now when he came back he had them not only write on the back that they were "GOOD ANYTIME" and the manager initialed the cards. So with my understanding was that they were good anytime matinée or late night. well i was wrong since i could only use them on movies that were not on their "NO DISCOUNTED TICKETS LIST" which in and of itself is dumb! So if the theater is showing a movie not on that list i can get 25, 50 or like 75% off the ticket price? are the tickets for matinées? what? So when i tried to see another movie the following day, i was halted with those new tickets because they had different numbers... so i asked for the manager. she came over and said that they cant be used for that particular movie since it was on that list of NO DISCOUNTS, well i pulled out the others with the green highlight and boy did their eyes widen and smiles broke out since hey those are gift cards... with an extreme lack of communication at this theater i would have come back, but then i went into the actual cinema portion and wow. not only were the floors not cleaned but there were still a ton of soda cups and popcorn still from the previous showing. This could also be overlooked, but then one sits down in the comfortable seats (the only thing i enjoyed in the theater) ones knees will literally push into the seat in front. I am not above average in height, around 6' so when i can do that most people can do that. this coupled with the cold temperature (even for me, and i love the cold) this is the WORST theater I've ever been too


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Backup QB gets 1st start at Lake Dallas
Raiders aim to slow Falcons' running back
The Chase London era has begun.
With star quarterback J.T. Barrett probably out for the season with a knee injury, London will get his first start tonight against Lake Dallas.
The District 5-4A game will kickoff at 7 p.m. at the Lake Dallas stadium in Corinth, just south of Denton.
Barrett accounted for 1,335 yards and a dozen touchdowns running and throwing before being injured last week against Brewer.
"No one man makes a football team. Our goal is still to win the district championship and the state championship," Rider coach Jim Garfield said. "We are still working toward that.
"I know there are some people who think we are going to stumble, but I don't think this team will do that."
London has plenty of weapons behind him and an outstanding offensive line in front of him.
Running backs Domanic Thrasher and Carlos Fleeks lead a running attack that has gained 1,283 yards this year.
Thrasher has run for 361 yards and six TDs while Fleeks has had fewer touches but averages 7.9 yards a carry.
The Raiders (4-1, 2-0) ride a four-game win streak into this game.
The Falcons are 3-2 and 1-1.
"They are one of the better teams in our district," Garfield said. "They have a defensive lineman, (6-3, 220) Graysen Schantz, who a lot of Division I schools are looking at.
"The guy we have to stop is running back Tony Green (401 rushing yards; five TDs)."
Lake Dallas quarterback Marshall Dominy has thrown for 691 yards with six touchdowns and five interceptions.
The Falcons get a lot of protection from 6-5, 315-pound offensive lineman John Laubacher.
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2007 Pitt Preview |
2007 Pitt Offense Preview
2007 Pitt Depth Chart
2006 CFN Pitt Preview
What you
need to know:
Last year's defense had big names, like H.B. Blades and Darrelle
Revis, with poor results. This year's defense is devoid of
stars, but might wind up being statistically better. The key
will be stopping the run, something that vexed the Panthers
throughout the second half of the 2006 season. The difference
this fall will be a defensive line that'll be much deeper than
last year, and capable of creating inside-outside pressure with
junior tackle Gus Mustakas and senior end Joe Clermond.
Although replacing Revis won't be a snap, the secondary is
busting with potential from future all-Big East players, like
sophomores Aaron Berry and Elijah Fields.
Kennard Cox, 51
Joe Clermond, Chris McKillop, 5.5
Interceptions: Several with 1
Star of the
Senior DE Joe Clermond
Player that has to step up and become a star: Junior LB
Scott McKillop
Unsung star on the rise: Sophomore CB Aaron Berry
Best pro prospect: Clermond
Top three all-star candidates: 1) Clermond 2) DE Gus
Mustakas 3) CB Kennard Cox
Strength of the defense: Line, creating turnovers
Weakness of the defense: Linebacker, run defense
Defensive Line
Projected Starters: Just like the offensive line,
the D-line boasts depth and five returners with starting
experience. Leading the charge in 2007 will be senior Joe
Clermond on the outside and junior Gus Mustakas on
the inside. In his first season as a starter, Clermond far
exceeded expectations in 2006, parlaying 48 tackles, 16.5
tackles for loss and 5.5 sacks into a spot on the all-Big East
second team. After rededicating himself to the game before the
season began, he went on to become one of the league's most
consistent pass rushers.
Just 6-3 and 265 pounds, Mustakas is undersized for an interior
lineman, but plays with enough passion and quickness to offset
that concern. He comes to play on every down and was virtually
unblockable in the spring, prompting the staff to finger him as
one of this year's breakout players.
At the nose will be junior Rashaad Duncan, a 290-pound
run stopper that provides the meat in the middle of the Panther
line. He was shoved around at times in 2006 and needs to occupy
more than one blocker while making more plays for minus yards.
The opening at right end figures to be a fluid situation until
the season begins. Senior end Chris McKillop tied for
the team lead last year with 5.5 sacks and is one of the
defensive leaders. Despite being just 250 pounds and not a
superior athlete, he just finds a way to beat his man and make
plays in the backfield.
Projected Top Reserves: Although just a redshirt
freshman, the Panthers are giddy about Greg Romeus, a raw
talent with the physical traits to eventually be a great one.
At 6-5 and 230 pounds, he's extremely fast off the ball, has a
bounce in his step and displays keen instincts for a kid that
played just one year of high school ball. If the coaches can
refine his technique, Pitt could be harboring a hidden gem of a
Sophomore Doug Fulmer started three games as a freshman
last fall and was supposed to challenge for the starting job
before suffering injuries to ankle and knee. While he's
expected to contribute at some point this season, it won't be
before the start of the year.
Providing depth at tackle this year will be sophomores John
Malecki and Mick Williams. Malecki was a regular in
the rotation as a true freshman, gaining experience that'll
serve him well in 2007. Williams has the quickness and the
motor to be a factor if he can get healthy by the summer and
stay healthy all year.
Watch Out For… JUCO transfer Tommie Duhart.
One of the nation's most coveted junior-college prospects,
Duhart is big enough to clog the middle and quick enough to move
outside and rush the passer. His skill set will earn him
immediate reps in the rotation this fall.
Strength: Inside-outside pass rush. With Clermond
building on last year's big season and Mustakas poised to make a
lot of noise, the Panthers should improve markedly at getting
after the passer in 2007.
Weakness: Interior size. The Panthers lack a wide
body in the middle of the line that can take on two blockers and
jam up the line of scrimmage. That could explain why they were
107th nationally against the run in 2006.
Outlook: Once everyone gets healthy, the defensive
line will better than last year, but still not where Wannstedt
needs it to be. While it'll improve on last year's 21 sacks,
problems with the run defense won't go away overnight.
Rating: 6.5
Projected Starters: It's going to be a massive
rebuilding year for the linebackers who'll be replacing standout
H.B. Blades, Clint Session and Brian Bennett. The unit is young
and experienced which is why junior Scott McKillop is
being counted on to be its leader. A returning letterwinner
that backed up Blades last year, he's a fundamentally sound run
defender that's had as good an off-season as any Panther
defender. Wannstedt craves athletes at linebacker that can fly
all over the field and make plays. He'll have a few of those,
but their experience will be very limited. At outside
linebacker, while sophomore Shane Murray and junior
Adam Gunn have played a lot of football, they've yet to
start a game.
Murray moved from strong safety, playing well last spring and
earning an edge at weakside. Only 6-1 and 210 pounds, he isn't
all that big or fast, but, like McKillop and Bennett, just seems
to be around the ball a lot.
At strongside, Gunn needs to step up after earning letters on
special teams the last two years. He moves well at 6-2 and 225
pounds and provides a little more than the other linebackers.
Projected Top Reserves: The second-string outside
linebackers, sophomore Dorin Dickerson and redshirt
freshman Nate Nix are terrific athletes that need to be
molded into more polished defenders. One of the prizes of the
2006 recruiting class, Dickerson was moved from offense to get
his speed and power on the field in 2007. Now up to 225 pounds,
he's one of the strongest linebackers and the kind of athlete
Wannstedt can't wait to turn loose at weakside once he's more
comfortable in his new role.
Nix is another chiseled specimen that's filled out to 6-3 and
220 pounds. He is, however, very raw and still prone to being
out of position every so often. With more reps, he'll push Gunn
for playing time throughout the season.
Watch Out For… McKillop to break the century mark
in tackles. He has sharp football instincts, and flanked by a
couple of novices, will be the first man to the ball plenty of
times this fall.
Strength: Athleticism on the outside. All four
linebackers on the two-deep move well laterally and possess the
quickness to be real effective in pass defense.
Weakness: Proven players. Not a single linebacker
on the roster has ever started a game for the Panthers, putting
more pressure on the front four to impede the progress of backs
before they get to the second level.
Outlook: McKillop is poised for a solid season,
but after him, Pitt fans will be holding their breath that
Dickerson and Nix blossom into defensive playmakers. If not,
the unit will be a liability, especially against the more
dynamic offenses.
Rating: 6
Projected Starters: Despite the early departure of
Darrelle Revis to the NFL, the Panthers feel good about the
secondary now that the last couple of recruiting classes have
begun to ripen. Although just a sophomore, cornerback Aaron
Berry already has the look and feel of a future Big East
star. Blessed with the flexible hips, good feet and confidence
inherent to top corners, he'll blossom into a shutdown corner
with more reps and a few more pounds of muscle.
Berry will be joined by senior Kennard Cox, the cagey
veteran of 35 games and 12 starts. While not even the best
cover guy on his team, he makes up for a lack of ball skills
with big hits and solid run support.
The return from injury of junior Eric Thatcher greatly
solidifies the safety position. While built more like a
cornerback at 5-9 and 190 pounds, he can deliver the payload and
was playing as well as anyone before fracturing his ankle in
last year's fifth game.
Senior Mike Phillips, who has played every secondary
position in his career, will line up at strong safety in 2007.
A big hitter with good cover skills, he has started games in
each of the last three seasons and brings an element of
leadership to a young unit.
Projected Top Reserves: Lurking behind Phillips at
strong safety is Elijah Fields, a big-hitting sophomore
with a world of potential. An intimidator at 6-2 and 210 pounds
with good ball skills, he has a chance to be special sooner than
The Panthers' top backup at corner will be sophomore Jovani
Chappel who lettered as a true freshman, cutting his teeth
on special teams. Like Berry, he's undersized, yet has the
athleticism, attitude and aggressiveness to overcome a slight
Watch Out For… the emergence of Fields. Although
a violation of team policy temporarily slowed his progress in
the spring, he played lights out after returning. A tenacious
tackler, Fields is just what the feeble run defense needs.
Strength: The future. The secondary will be good
this season, but even better in 2008 when Berry and Chappel are
third-year corners and Fields and Thatcher are sizing up
unsuspecting receivers.
Weakness: Size. Of the six primary defensive
backs, only the two strong safeties are taller than 6-0, making
the unit really vulnerable over the top. Against the Big East's
more physical receivers, Berry and Chappel are liable to get
pushed around.
Outlook: Although there will be some inevitable
rough patches at times, it's going to be fun watching the young
Panther defensive backs make plays and grow up. The potential is
there for a breakout year across the board.
Rating: 7
Projected Starters: Special teams was a strength
for the Panthers in 2006, largely because of the play of
placekicker Conor Lee. In his debut as the starter, the
junior connected on 12-of-14 field goals, including all ten
beyond 30 yards, and displayed above average leg strength.
Without the pressure of having to win a job this season, a
confident and settled Lee will be even more effective in 2007.
At punter, the Panthers lose four-year starter Adam Graessle,
however, the situation isn't dire now that Purdue transfer
Dave Brytus has sat out his mandatory season. A
linebacker-sized lefty, he has tremendous leg strength and hang
time and the experience of having punted in the Big Ten. A Ray
Guy Award candidate as a sophomore in West Lafayette, he should
pick up where he left off this season.
Senior Lowell Robinson is back to handle kickoff returns
after leading the Big East and finishing No. 9 nationally a year
ago with a 27.8 per return average. A replacement, however,
needs to be found for Darrelle Revis on the punt team with
Derek Kinder and Aaron Berry as the primary
Projected Top Reserves: The kicking game is pretty
much set unless Lee or Brytus flops at some point before or
during the season. That could open the door for redshirt
freshman Dan Hutchins, sophomore Lucas Stone or
junior Cody Sawhill at kicker and Stone at punter. All
three are walk-ons with limited chances to earn a starting nod.
Watch Out For… Brytus. It's never easy losing a
punter like Graessle, but Brytus has the leg speed and strength
to turn it into a smoother-than-expected transition. He and Lee
will make the kicking game an asset for the Panthers for the
next two seasons.
Strength: Lee's consistency. With a new quarterback at
the controls, the Panther offense could be slow out of the gate,
making Lee's arrow-straight kicks a vital part of the scoring
Weakness: Clutch kicking. Lee's next attempt with
the game hanging in the balance will be his first. He was solid
throughout his sophomore year, but we still have no idea how
he'll perform in the waning moments of a tight game. Only one
Panther game was decided by less than ten points last year.


text:
Add some facial hair to your already stunning appearance when you don this Mustache See Through Mask. This clear mask with mustache will add a bit of anonymity to your costume.
…don this amazing latex Grim Reaper mask - it features a moving mouth so you look alive while clearly you are dead. Peer out from beneath the black hood and make eye contact with your next victim - they will never know what hit them when you create or complete your costume with this frightful mask.
You'll be the master of Kung Fume this Halloween in the Officially Licensed Skylanders Stink Bomb Child Costume. Clear the air and let everyone know you are the best Swap Force member in this brown jumpsuit with ninja star detail and Stink Bomb's green tail and mask.


text:
Download Research Tools
Millions of people worldwide live with type 1 diabetes, a potentially devastating disease with no known cure. People who have type 1 diabetes do not produce insulin in their pancreas, so they must constantly monitor their blood sugar levels while balancing food intake against insulin intake. It's a mentally taxing, painful process that must be repeated throughout the day.
A collaboration between Associate Professor Babak Parviz at the University of Washington (UW) and Microsoft Senior Researcher Desney Tan is focused on developing a non-invasive, technological solution that promises to improve both the health and overall quality of life for people with diabetes: a contact lens that monitors blood glucose levels. The functional lens technology is representative of a trend in technology known as Natural User Interface (NUI).
NUI technology has the potential to provide user benefits without being obvious to others or intrusive to the user. We believe it has tremendous potential in the healthcare industry, where technology is a necessary, but not always pleasant, part of a patient's diagnosis or care. The functional contact lens is an excellent example of how NUI can change patient monitoring from "snapshots" of information to continuous health monitoring that could potentially improve the wearer's overall health—especially for those with a chronic disease, such as diabetes.
Today, people with type 1 diabetes use needles to draw blood from their fingers multiple times throughout the day—every day, including meal times—to check their blood glucose levels. By monitoring their glucose levels, they can more easily ensure that they maintain an acceptable glucose level, which is critical to optimal health and longevity for diabetes patients.
The Daily Impact of Diabetes
Daily, repeated blood draws are a painful necessity for people with diabetes. This process has limitations because the monitoring is only periodic. Diabetics may experience glucose fluctuations that require correction—for example, by increasing insulin intake or eating a piece of candy to raise their blood sugar level—anytime of the day. Regular glucose monitoring, in addition to sensible dietary choices, are part of daily life for Kevin McFeely, who was diagnosed with type 1 diabetes 30 years ago, and his two young children, who also have diabetes.
"If I don't check my blood sugar, or my children don't check their blood sugar daily, there are some different things that could potentially happen," he explained. "If my blood sugar gets too high, I have noticed that my vision begins to blur, I begin feeling nauseous, very, very tired, and just almost physically sick. And potentially, if I let that go, I could pass out from having high blood glucose."
Low blood sugar also presents a danger to people with diabetes. If glucose falls too low, a diabetic may begin to sweat, suffer an elevated heart rate, and potentially lose consciousness. So it is critical that diabetics monitor their blood glucose on a regular basis throughout the day. McFeely's children, who are ages seven and ten, are responsible for managing their disease and monitoring themselves at school throughout the day.
"I'm used to testing myself six to eight times per day. I've been doing it for 30 years," McFeely says. "But boy, when I think about my children… I mean, you have a spring-loaded needle that's coming into your finger, and it hurts them. I can see their faces [when they test], and I can see them cringe."
A New Approach to Monitoring Health
As envisioned, the lens would be worn daily, just like regular contact lenses. But instead of, or in addition to, correcting vision, the lens would monitor the wearer's glucose level through their tears. Much of the information that can be obtained through blood testing is also accessible on the surface of the eye. The functional lens is being designed to sample eye fluid, analyze it, and transmit the information to a reporting machine. A tiny radio transmitter embedded in the lens will handle the information transfer.
Parviz's team at UW has built a variety of contact lenses with small radios and antennas built in, enabling them to draw power as well as send and receive information through radio frequencies. Also, the UW team has been able to place a glucose sensor on the contact lens and demonstrate that it can detect glucose at levels that are found in the tear film. The goal is to unite these elements to develop a contact lens that constantly monitors the blood glucose level and records information that can be accessed later by the patient's doctor.
McFeely is hopeful that technology, like the functional contact lens, can improve the monitoring and care options available to his children. "Thinking about the functional contact lens for my children who are both type 1 diabetic—I think that would be incredible," he said. "Given that my children are diagnosed at such a young age, it does have the potential to help them live a longer, healthier life."
Visualizing Future Applications
Ideally, the lens will do more than just record information. The UW team envisions a way to automatically display important information—including abnormal glucose or insulin alerts—in the lens wearer's view. It could alert the wearer when they should stop eating due to glucose levels, or remind them when it's time to get a snack. This real-time feedback would empower the user to react quickly, avoiding health-threatening or uncomfortable episodes. The visual information would be dormant the rest of the time, adhering to the NUI idea of being unobtrusive until needed.
Once fully developed, the technology could be used to replace virtually any screening or diagnostics that currently depend upon blood draws. Additionally, the researchers who are involved in the project envision a future in which contact lenses deliver medicine directly into the bloodstream through the cornea.
—Kristin Tolle, Director, Natural User Interface, Microsoft Research Connections
Learn More
Well, now it is. Today, we are pleased to announce the launch of Code Hunt, a browser-based game for anyone who is interested in coding. We built Code Hunt to take advantage of the fact that any task can be more effective and sustainable when it's fun. And Code Hunt is fun! It uses puzzles, which players explore by means of clues presented as test cases. Players iteratively modify their code to match the functional behavior of secret solutions. Once their code matches, lights flash and sounds play, letting players know that they have "captured" the code. Players then get a score, which depends on how elegant their solution is, and are encouraged to move on to the next puzzle or level.
When we demoed Code Hunt a few months ago, we were amazed at the interest it elicited across groups at Microsoft, from those involved with K-12 education to those focused on college recruiting. However, today we want to talk about how Microsoft Research Asia used Code Hunt during their annual Beauty of Programming (BOP) event, a competition that attracts thousands of students in the Greater China Region (GCR).
In the past, the BOP competition gave students specifications for problems and then checked their solutions automatically using a test suite. This is the traditional approach: students pit their wits against each other—and against the clock—to create a solution to a defined problem. While this kind of coding is similar to what they will encounter in courses or later in their careers, it isn't necessarily fun.
Code Hunt is different. Instead of giving students a problem and comparing their solutions to a set of fixed test cases, Code Hunt does the opposite: it presents an empty slate to the user and a set of constantly changing test cases. It thus teaches coding as a by-product of solving a problem that is presented as pattern matching inputs and outputs. The fun is in finding the pattern. Fun is seen as a vital ingredient in accelerating learning and retaining interest during what might be a long and sometimes boring journey towards obtaining a necessary skill—or in this case, winning a competition. The GCR team recognized that Code Hunt would not only make the BOP competition more fun, but it would also enable them to check the solutions more quickly and accurately.
With considerable optimism, we opened Code Hunt to BOP competitors in April. In three rounds, 2,353 students scored in the game, and the contestants solved an average of 55.7% of the puzzles. Since Code Hunt runs on Microsoft Azure, we have all the statistics. We could see that, on average, it took players 41 tries to capture the code for puzzles. However, we were really interested in the 350 top students who solved all of the puzzles—even the most difficult ones. These students needed only 7.6 tries on average to solve a puzzle, showing that Code Hunt can reliably surface the better coders. From these students, 13 were selected to proceed to the finals, and we wish them luck.
Code Hunt was developed by a team in Microsoft Research led by Principal Development Lead Nikolai Tillmann and Principal Research Software Engineer Peli de Halleux. It is based on Pex, Microsoft Research's state-of-the-art implementation of dynamic symbolic execution (analyzing a program to determine what inputs cause each part of a program to execute), which is available as a Power Tool in Microsoft Visual Studio.
We look forward to Code Hunt's further application and would be happy to receive inquiries regarding competitions or courses. But remember, anyone can play Code Hunt—for fun or to hone their coding skills. Just go to www.codehunt.com and start coding!
—Judith Bishop, Director of Computer Science, Microsoft Research, and Guobin Wu, Research Program Manager, Microsoft Research Asia
Learn more
Microsoft Research is pleased to announce the successful applicants in our first round of Windows Azure for Research awards. You didn't make it easy for us—we received many good quality proposals. Our selection committee evaluated each submission in terms of its potential to accelerate research and its suitability for deployment on the Windows Azure cloud platform. There were far more outstanding proposals than we could accommodate during this first round of awards.
Difficult though it was, we selected 35 proposals for the initial set of awards. The award recipients come from 15 countries/regions and represent a variety of research domains, including scholarly communication and collaboration, big data and machine learning, urban informatics, genomics and related health science, geo and environmental science, and computer science. Each selected project will receive a substantial allocation of Windows Azure compute and storage resources to support the research over the next 12 months.
The deadline for the next round of proposals is December 15, 2013. Applicants are also encouraged to attend one of our cloud computing for research training events, which are being held at locations around the world.
The first-round selected projects are:
We are thrilled to be off and running with the Windows Azure for Research awards, and we look forward to being amazed by the next batch of proposals.
—Dennis Gannon, Director of Cloud Research Strategy, Microsoft Research
Learn more


text:
I broke a tooth and exposed a nerve, just before I got pregnant I broke a tooth and it never actually bothered me until now. I just kep brushing as normal and doing my normal dental hygene routine.. (I know now that was a stupid idea)
Anywa about a week ago I started hurting and today I realized there is exposed nerve. Wehn I lay my head down it hurts so bad, so it makes it hard for me to sleep. I don't have bleeding gums or anything like that. Everthing else is normal. Heat and cold obviously make it worse and I am waiting for my appt to come up next week. Until then I need to be able to sleep. Tylenol is starting to not work much...
Help! Please!
Any advice on a comfortable sleeping position to help avoid it starting, and or something that can help with the pain if it starts?
I'm desperate... but like all of you 26 weeks pregnant so my options are limited.


text:
In Ubuntu 12.10, there was "File system" which is Ubuntu installation drive, and "Computer", which was opening "my computer" equivalent of Windows. Now "Computer" drive showing "file system" and as I remember giving computer:// command in terminal was opening "my computer"(equivalent of windows). And I had added same command to custom shortcut which was working fine to open my computer(windows equivalent). My computer view is better to use for me. So please tell me how can I open "My computer" equivalent of Windows in Ubuntu 14.04.
Take the 2-minute tour ×
Ask Ubuntu is a question and answer site for Ubuntu users and developers. It's 100% free, no registration required.
If you want to Directly open "Computer" location, then run/type following command:
Or by using Alt+F2, then type
This will Show "Computer" which you want!
you can also use
In the file manager hit Ctrl-L and then type in


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Trompe-L'oeil Bags: Tricks Up Your Sleeve
While the adage, "things aren't always as they seem," may be old, it applies to some of the freshest designs out there. In English, trompe l'oeil translates to "deceives the eye," and these designers make that deception one that you'll welcome with a smile.
Exclusive Luisa via Roma Discount: 20% Off!
Yes, you read that right! I got us an additional 20% off already reduced items on Luisa via Roma. They really love us Bag Snobs there! Some of these are pieces you've been pining over all year, waiting for them to go on sale, so here's your chance to snatch them up at an even bigger discount.
Kirna Zabete Sale: Up to 75% Off!
The Wednesday blues getting you down? Fight them off with some cure-all shopping! Kirna Zabete has marked down its sale items up to 75% off, making it 100% guilt-free. Stock up on last-minute summer essentials, or ready your wardrobe for fall with blazers, jewels, and form-fitting Roland Mourets.
Top 5 Aubergine Bags: Awed by Aubergine
If there's one thing that makes leaving the summer sun behind more bearable, it's the rich hues of fall, and none is more tempting than aubergine (honestly, I think I like saying the word more than anything else!).
Proenza Schouler PS Eliot Suede and Leather Clutch: Pure Poetry
A bag like this is the epitome of elegant, refined cool. No surprise it's brought to us by the boys at Proenza Schouler. Likely named as a playful nod to famed poet T.S. Eliot, the soft fold-over PS Eliot clutch is quintessential Jack and Lazaro, just all grown up.
Top Updated Top Handles: In Tip-Top Shape
Top-handle bags are having a major moment right now. The first famous top-handler was the Kelly bag; designed in the 1930s and originally known as "Sac à dépêches," it was aptly renamed for the Princess of Monaco in 1954.
Proenza Schouler Bucket Medium Textured-Leather Shoulder Bag: Something Subtle This Way Comes
A solid bag, there's absolutely nothing wrong with this design – other than the fact that it's somewhat unremarkable. The Bucket lacks the hallmarks of what I've come to consider Proenza-luxe: the striking details and signature "PS" elements. Instead, it's a truly clean and casual bucket style with minimal metal accents and strong structuring…
Two-Tone Shoes: The Black & White Market
It may be summer, the time when we indulge in shock-and-awe neons and rainbow prints, but who needs color when you've got contrast?
Patchwork: Patch Me Up!
Did I say I was on the fence about patchwork? Some new fall styles have me eating my words!


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Can it Defrag your boot disk?
The versions of this software on the app store don't defrag your main disk that you boot from. I was wondering if this (more expensive) one does?
- Asked by Mark B from Cupertino
ProSoft Drive Genius 3
Product No Longer Available
1 Answer from the Community
No version of Drive Genius will defrag your system disk if you run the application from the same system disk you are attempting to defrag. You must boot your Mac from the Drive Genius DVD and run the software from there or boot from an external or secondary bootable drive that has the Drive Genius software on it. All versions (at least recently) support that method.
- Answered by Paul K from Atlanta


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Home remedies for minor maladies
Somehow the most nonthreatening body problems almost always turn out to be the most frustrating. Sure, your cramps, stress headaches or yeast infections aren't going to kill you, but man, what a hassle! Wouldn't it be nice to solve them yourself, once and for all? Well, you can, with the right know-how: "Conventional medicine has a solid track record for serious issues, but natural cures can be a great way to ease those day-to-day annoyances," says Mao Shing Ni (known as Dr. Mao), PhD, a doctor of Chinese medicine and author of Secrets of Longevity Cookbook. "Plus, in many cases, the risk of adverse reactions is much lower, and the ingredients may already be in your home." Next time one of the following minor maladies messes with your life, look to some alternative remedies, along with dietary tweaks that can make all the difference.
HEALTH.COM: 21 Natural Headache Cures
You've got: A stress headache
What causes it: When you get really frazzled, the muscles in your head and neck tend to tense up, which constricts blood flow and can bring on the distinct throb of a stress headache. It's generally felt all over, like a dull but distracting ache, versus a migraine's one-sided pounding.
Eat this: Foods containing magnesium, such as spinach, nuts, Swiss chard and beans. "I call magnesium the relaxation mineral," says Mark Hyman, MD, a functional-medicine specialist and author of The Blood Sugar Solution 10-Day Detox Diet. "It pulls calcium out of muscle cells, which helps the muscle relax." Running low on magnesium (which most of us are, Dr. Hyman says) can lead to constantly tense muscles because the calcium is locked in. It's best to eat your magnesium, but supplements are an option. Women 30 and under need 310 milligrams daily. Over 30? Go for 320mg. In the meantime, avoid refined sugar, which can cause big spikes and crashes in blood sugar—a recipe for a skull throbber. Instead, satisfy your sweet tooth with fruit.
Do this: Put your thumb on the back of your neck at the base of your skull, and look up so you're creating firm, steady pressure. "There's an acupressure point here that's connected to the muscles that tend to tense up," Dr. Mao explains. "While you're pressing into it, breathe in as you count to five, then breathe out, counting to 10." Perform this breathing exercise while holding the point for five minutes and the pain should dissipate. And "if possible, take a 15-minute break from the stressful environment that led to the headache and go somewhere dark and quiet to relax," adds Draion M. Burch, DO, an ob-gyn at the University of Pittsburgh Magee-Womens Hospital. "Take deep breaths or turn on soothing music. When you relax, your muscles will too."
You've got: A recurring yeast infection
What causes it: While pretty much every woman can count on experiencing the redness, intense itching and thick, white discharge of a vaginal yeast infection at some point, the worst is one that just keeps coming back, striking at least four times a year. If you've tried over-the-counter creams or prescription antifungals and you're still itching, that's a sign you may have a resistant strain of candida, the fungus that causes yeast infections.
Eat this: A daily 6- to 8-ounce container of plain yogurt (if you're lactose intolerant, soy or coconut yogurt works). Make sure it contains Lactobacillus acidophilus, a probiotic (good bacteria) that helps create an unfriendly environment in the vagina so yeast doesn't grow out of control, Burch says. It's very important to check that the yogurt has no added sugar, since yeast thrives on the sweet stuff, Burch adds. Other healthy whole foods, like lean proteins, leafy and cruciferous greens and healthy fats, along with garlic and coconut oil, also have anti-yeast properties, Dr. Hyman says.
HEALTH.COM: 15 Signs You May Have an Iron Deficiency
Do this: Try a vaginal suppository with boric acid powder. Yep, you know boric acid as a bug killer, but hear us out. "Ob-gyns used to prescribe boric acid to women all the time before over-the-counter creams and the one-day prescription pill appeared," explains Tieraona Low Dog, MD, a specialist in natural remedies and author of Healthy at Home. "It's effective against the less common species of the fungus, which don't always respond to conventional treatment." If you want to try it, "you can buy boric acid powder, not crystals, in any pharmacy, then place it in size 0 or 00 capsules, sold at drugstores, and insert one into the vagina each night for a week," Dr. Low Dog says. Don't take the capsules by mouth (they're toxic if ingested), and don't use them at all if you're pregnant.
And FYI: Chronic yeast infections can be an early sign of diabetes. See your doc if you have symptoms such as frequent urination.
You've got: A runny nose
What causes it: When a cold virus or allergen invades your nasal passages, your body releases chemicals called histamines that increase mucus production and cause other symptoms, like itchy eyes or sneezing.
Eat this: Fermented foods, such as yogurt, miso or sauerkraut. They contain probiotics that can help boost immunity so you're armed against colds and flu. If you're already congested, you might want to avoid dairy products (they can make symptoms more noticeable) and sweets, which can crank up mucus production. Sometimes a runny nose is a reaction to a food allergen, like dairy or gluten (a protein in wheat rye and barley). "If your symptoms persist, consider being tested," Dr. Mao says.
Do this: Disinfect a small squirt bottle by dipping it in boiling water. Then, after the water has bubbled for at least a minute, let it cool and add it to the bottle with 1 or 2 teaspoons of table salt. Shoot a tiny amount into your nasal passage before blowing it out gently, Dr. Mao suggests. (Sounds unpleasant, but we promise it's not bad.) Besides rinsing out allergens and other germs, salt water is a natural antimicrobial that helps fight the bacteria and viruses that caused the cold in the first place. It can also dry up excess mucus. Don't have a squirt bottle? A neti pot will work the same way, or you can try a premade salt spray like Simply Saline. Both are available in drugstores.
HEALTH.COM: 10 Ways to Soothe a Sore Throat
You've got: Constipation
What causes it: Often it's a change in your routine—you go on a big trip or have a superbusy few weeks that keep you out of the gym—that disrupts your regular bowel habits, making you feel backed up and bloated. And the longer things remain standing still, the worse constipation can get.
Eat this: Down an 8-ounce glass of unfiltered aloe vera juice with 2 ounces of unfiltered apple juice. "Apple juice has pectin, which is fibrous, and the aloe vera speeds digestion," Dr. Mao says. Another option: a tablespoon of hemp seed oil or flaxseed oil before bed, which lubricates the digestive tract, he says. If you're often constipated, it might be a good idea to consider a daily regimen: Take 2 tablespoons of ground flaxseeds every morning (you can add them to your yogurt or mix them into green juice), pop 150 to 300mg of magnesium citrate in capsule form at breakfast and lunch and drink at least eight glasses of water throughout the day. "Flaxseed is an excellent source of fiber and omega-3 fatty acids, which are good for reducing gut inflammation; water helps move things through," Dr. Hyman says. "Magnesium citrate helps relax the bowels so you can go."
Do this: "Lie flat and massage your lower abdomen with your fingertips in short up-and-down motions for a few minutes every hour to help get things moving," Burch says. Afterward, walk around for a few minutes and have a full glass of water.
Are you chronically stopped up? See your doc for a thyroid check; a sluggish thyroid gland can cause constipation as well as other health issues, like weight gain and fatigue, Dr. Hyman adds.
You've got: Menstrual cramps
What causes them: When it's time for your period, your body ramps up production of prostaglandins, hormone-like chemicals that help expel the uterine lining by causing contractions—and, unfortunately, triggering inflammation and those familiar pains in your belly. Over-the-counter pain meds are the usual go-to, but if you take them too often, they can lead to side effects such as upset stomach and diarrhea.
Eat this: Ginger is an antispasmodic that helps block prostaglandins. Sip ginger tea (you can buy tea bags or steep grated fresh ginger root) at the first twinge of cramps so you stop them before they get really intense, Dr. Low Dog says. Foods with omega-3s, like walnuts, pumpkin seeds and fatty fish (salmon, sardines) can also help reduce cramps over time. Omega-3s have anti-inflammatory powers that help slow prostaglandin production. "Up your consumption of cold-water fish to 3 to 4 ounces twice a week, or take a daily fish oil supplement that offers 500 to 800mg of EPA or 200 to 500mg of DHA. You'll see improvement in your cramps in three months," Dr. Low Dog says.
HEALTH.COM: 10 Things That Mess With Your Period
Do this: Massage a pressure point at the end of your spine (about 2 inches above your butt). "The nerves here connect to the uterus, so applying constant pressure to this spot with your palm or fingertip relaxes the uterine muscles," Burch says. You can reach back and do it yourself or ask your partner to help.
You've got: Canker sores
What causes them: These shallow, painful sores tend to strike because of some kind of irritation, like after you've bitten your tongue. They also appear when you're stressed. Most of the time the exact cause is unclear, but they're unrelated to cold sores (which are brought on by a virus).
Eat this: Yogurt. Swishing a spoonful of the plain, sugar-free kind along your gums helps rebalance the microbes in your mouth so it's a less favorable place for the harmful germs that can irritate the sore and make it worse, Dr. Low Dog says. Skip spicy or acidic foods, such as citrus or sodas, which can exacerbate an existing canker sore and may even cause new ones to form, Dr. Mao explains.
Do this: Gargle with a 50/50 solution of hydrogen peroxide and water three times a day and right before bed. Hydrogen peroxide is an antiseptic that can kill those bacteria, Dr. Mao says. "If the sore is already irritated, coat it with baking powder before bed, which helps it close up faster." Canker sores can also be a sign of celiac disease or gluten sensitivity, Dr. Mao notes, so consider being tested if you get them frequently or if you have symptoms such as abdominal pain.
You've got: Itchy winter skin
What causes it: Your skin just can't win in the colder months. Both the heated indoor air and the dry, chilly air outside mean you're facing dehydrated, flaky skin no matter what. And it's hard to resist scratching it—which only contributes to the irritation.
Eat this: Foods high in B vitamins, such as poultry, meat and whole grains. "B vitamins, especially niacin (or B[subscript 3], found in poultry, meat and fish), help open capillaries near the skin's surface, improving delivery of blood and boosting skin health," Dr. Mao says. Avoid refined sugar: "Sugary, processed foods worsen skin issues because they immediately raise blood sugar levels, triggering an insulin response that leads to puffiness, itching and dryness," Dr. Hyman says.
HEALTH.COM: Winter Skin Annoyances, Solved
Do this: Moisturize skin with natural nut or vegetable oils, available at supermarkets and organic food stores. "Walnut, coconut, hemp seed and avocado oils are high in specific amino acids that help your skin rehydrate," Dr. Mao says. (One quick note of caution: If you or someone in your family has a tree nut allergy, skip oils made with those; there is a potential for a reaction when used on skin, Dr. Mao adds.) You can apply it directly to skin as needed. Or, for a hydrating treat, replace your nightly shower with a relaxing bath. Add 2 tablespoons of your favorite oil to the warm water and climb in. Afterward your flaky skin (and your stress) will be gone for sure.


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You can now invite anyone to meet at your favorite Starbucks.
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42 year old man | San Francisco, CA, USA | Seeking women 38-42 within 5 miles
If I asked one of your friends to set me up with you they'd say no way
Here's what I think would be a good fit. No drama. Like to stick around town as much as leave it every now and then. Knows about music, but more importantly, has an open mind regarding it. Loves projects. Can hold a conversation but when you can't, love to listen. Would rather walk then ride, especially in town. Likes variety and to make suggestions. Gritty bars are most always better. Will find my dumb jokes funny, or at least pretend to. I also think that relationships are really important, and there needs to be an enthusiasm for not only the person you're with, but the relationship itself. Maybe you get what I mean. Family is important too. You gotta love to laugh, and you can definitely laugh at me. I really enjoy music, and find talking about it almost as rewarding as listening to it. I also enjoy thinking of fun things to do that you'll say "no" to but end up laughing and having a killer time. When I watch sports I like to do it at a bar, you can even facebook and text the whole time, cool with me, but you gotta want to come. I like to get to know one person at a time, so if you're into juggling, it probably wouldn't work. Could never see how you get to know somebody that way.
Book club , Cooking , Hobbies and crafts , Music and concerts , Performing arts , Watching sports , Wine tasting
Auto racing / Motorcross, Baseball, Cycling, Football, Running, Skiing, VolleyBall, Walking / Hiking
I exercise 1-2 times per week.
I like Cats, Dogs, Fish
Middle of the Road
Anyplace that is showing the Giants or Niners, but not too young. My neighborhood can be a bit puerile.
Fish tacos IPAs My Kindle I get really excited when people get new cars Those little tuna sandwiches at La Boulange Vans Cotton clothing
Music, being outdoors, reading, watching Pooty Tang, socializing and making my friends laugh.
The Rise of Theodore Roosevelt
Z{{Cta}} {{#if HasMoreInfo}} ?{{CtaSecondary}} {{/if}}
|What he is looking for
|6'0" (182cms)
|3'0" (91cms) to 8'11" (271cms)
|Body type:
|About average
|No preference
|No preference
|Dark brown
|No preference
|No Way
|No preference
|Social Drinker
|No preference
|No preference
|I'll tell you later
|No preference
|Never Married
|No preference
|Have kids:
|Wants kids:
|White / Caucasian
|White / Caucasian
|I'll tell you later
|No preference
|Graduate degree
|No preference


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Is sports concussion doc by 'Hoop Dreams' director in Oscar mix?
"Head Games," a documentary about concussions in sports - from the NFL to Pee Wee leagues - feels like it is coming at a tipping point of a moment.
With the weekly list of ineligible-to-play players and the recent revelation that the NFL paid $2 million to three players with brain injuries, the film couldn't be more relevant. »Read Full Blog Post(2)
Five singers declared winners in local Met Opera auditions
Five singers were selected by judges to advance to the next round at Saturday's Wisconsin District Metropolitan Opera National Council Auditions.
Countertenor Kangmin Justin Kim, mezzo-soprano Corrie Stallings, soprano Caitlin Ruby Miller, tenor Ian D. Koziar and tenor Joe Shadday will compete at the Upper Midwest Regional in St. Paul, Minn. The five vocalists also won $2,000 each. »Read Full Article
'Belle of Amherst' best when profiling Dickinson's poetry
Walt Whitman may have rightly claimed that his poetry contains multitudes, but Emily Dickinson can stake an equally valid claim to being America's greatest poet.
She is also the hardest one to know. Harold Bloom once wrote that no poet "seems so separate from us as Dickinson," adding that "we have no accurate approaches to her." »Read Full Article


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Torii Hunter is going to take a detour on the Tigers' offday Thursday
Sep 10, 2013, 2:02 PM EDT
The Tigers finish up their series in Chicago on Wednesday night and play at home against the Royals on Friday night. For Torii Hunter, there will be some extra travel in between. He's going to Jonesboro, Arkansas that night to see his son Monshadrik — nicknamed "Money" — play football for Arkansas State. From the Freep:
"I haven't seen any of my sons play since they've been out of high school," Hunter said. "If you've got that opportunity, you gotta do it. I'm going to check it out and have my jersey on and hat on, then come back ready to play on Friday. It'll be good. I haven't seen my boys in months."
Hunter has three sons playing college football.
I'm torn here, of course. On the one hand I am all for dads doing whatever they can to be close to their families and don't begrudge Hunter's little trek one bit because family is way, way more important than sports. On the other hand, I can't help but feel like if other players did this — players without the friends in the media Hunter has — they'd be getting criticism for all of the traveling on an off-day and would have to answer questions about it all.
- gigab0t - Sep 10, 2013 at 2:07 PM
Wait so his son's name is Money Hunter? Awesome.
- philliesblow - Sep 10, 2013 at 2:58 PM
If you can get "Money" from Monshadrik, glad he didn't name a kid Percival. Short for Percival is Percy. It's a short step to Pussy Hunter.
- mantastic54 - Sep 10, 2013 at 2:12 PM
Unless his 3 sons are all freshmen, how has he not seen them play since high school? It's not like baseball season lasts until December
- fatediesel - Sep 10, 2013 at 5:16 PM
All 3 of his sons are freshmen. In addition to Money he's got a son who is a freshman at Southeastern Louisiana and a son who is a freshman at Notre Dame.
- proudlycanadian - Sep 10, 2013 at 5:25 PM
So how did he choose which one to watch?
- jwbiii - Sep 10, 2013 at 10:52 PM
I'm guessing that the other two teams play on Saturday and Arkansas State is playing one of those off-night games to fill programming on ESPNU.
- rickdobrydney - Sep 10, 2013 at 2:14 PM
Monshadrik —what is that ?
- historiophiliac - Sep 10, 2013 at 2:20 PM
His Christian name.
- cohnjusack - Sep 10, 2013 at 2:24 PM
A much more interesting name than "Bill"
- stlouis1baseball - Sep 10, 2013 at 6:20 PM
Interesting isn't always better Cusack.
- cur68 - Sep 10, 2013 at 2:23 PM
If ARod did this…
- historiophiliac - Sep 10, 2013 at 2:37 PM
Money-Rod hehehehehe
- motobus - Sep 10, 2013 at 2:42 PM
Why would anyone take criticism for traveling to see their child on an off day?
- Detroit Michael - Sep 10, 2013 at 3:47 PM
I thought that, for veterans who are wealthy enough to charter planes or whatever they need to do to get around, traveling separate from the team when there is an off-day on the schedule was common. I don't know this for sure though.
- CyclePower - Sep 10, 2013 at 4:20 PM
I really can't think of a scenario where any player would be criticized for this if the circumstances were the same. I think even A Rod would get a pass on this. I think this is just a back-door device to re-introduce the criticism of Hunter and his gay comment.
"… I am all for dads doing whatever they can to be close to their families and don't begrudge Hunter's little trek one bit because family is way, way more important than sports." That's really where I think your commentary should have ended.
- frank433 - Sep 10, 2013 at 6:05 PM
It might be weird if A-Rod traveled to Arkansas State to watch Torii Hunters son play on an off day, but thats just, like my opinion, man.
- proudlycanadian - Sep 10, 2013 at 5:28 PM
I can see the headline "HUNTER SNUBS TWO SONS FOR MONEY" !
- stlouis1baseball - Sep 10, 2013 at 6:14 PM
The only thing I am torn about is he and his Wife agreeing on the name "Monshadrik ."
Really? "Monshadrik?" You have a kid…and name him "Monshadrik?"
"Honey…I have been thinking long and hard about the name of our next born child."
"What are your thoughts on "Monshadrik?"
Lol! Just when you think you have heard them all…
You get a "Monshadrik" that totally squashes the name "Barkevious" in the let's choose the dumbest name possible game. In the words of the great philosopher Charles Barkley…"that's turrible."
- historiophiliac - Sep 10, 2013 at 7:32 PM
Don't be close-minded. And, I bet no one calls you "Money" for short.
- stlouis1baseball - Sep 11, 2013 at 9:36 AM
Really? Close minded? What does me thinking the name "Monshadrik" is a "turrible" name have to do with being close minded? Close minded w/ regards to what? The horrible name club? Everything isn't an affront on society, culture, race, gender, etc… We already have a "Money" in our group (based upon his last name). And I shouldn't have to point out someone calling me "Money" isn't a the top of my wish list. My nickmane is fine. I have had it for 20+ years. Monshadrik Hunter. Yep…rolls right off the tongue. Lol!
- irishdodger - Sep 10, 2013 at 7:14 PM
All three sons are freshmen in college. Tori, Jr is at Notre Dame but likely taking a red shirt to recover from a broken leg suffered at the Army All-American game. I don't believe the three boys are triplets but maybe someone can verify that.
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Chen Rong (painter)
From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
Chen Rong (simplified Chinese: 陈容; traditional Chinese: 陳容; pinyin: Chén Róng; Wade–Giles: Ch'en Jung; ca. 1200–1266)[1] was a painter of the Southern Song Dynasty celebrated for his depictions of dragons. The Nine Dragons handscroll in the Museum of Fine Arts, Boston, Massachusetts, USA, bearing a date of 1244, is attributed to Chen.[2]
- ^ Barnhart, R. M. et al. (1997). Three thousand years of Chinese painting. New Haven, Yale University Press. ISBN 0-300-07013-6. Page 372. Chen Rong's style name was Suoweng (所翁)
- ^ Nine Dragon's Scroll
|This article about a Chinese painter is a stub. You can help Wikipedia by expanding it.