text:
Michigan State's balanced attack too much for Wisconsin
Mar 10, 2012, 3:49 PM EDT
INDIANAPOLIS – After a sluggish start that sent Tom Izzo into a tizzy, the No. 8 Michigan State Spartans recovered nicely, earning a 65-52 victory over the No. 14 Wisconsin Badgers.
Spotting the Badgers nine points in the first two minutes of the game, the Spartans went on a 20-4 run over a seven minute span – in which they went 10-10 from the field, securing a double-digit halftime lead that they would never relinquish.
The run was sparked by three consecutive Austin Thornton three-pointers, a senior whose proving to serve as an invaluable piece to this team.
"Bizarre game, but I thought we played well," Izzo said after the game. "I never felt comfortable, but for about 30 minutes there I thought we played some of our basketball of the season."
As the game got chippy in the middle of the second-half, the pace slowed down and the Badgers cut the lead to six, but never got closer than that. With 12:10 remaining, Tom Izzo called a timeout to set up a post-play for Draymond Green. It resulted in a basket and foul that, in hindsight, essentially sealed the game.
From there the Spartans forced Wisconsin into bad shots or no shots, going on an11-2 run and kept the Badgers at bay until the final buzzer sounded. It was Michigan State's third win over the Badgers this season.
Leading the way for the Spartans was Mr. Everything Draymond Green, who finished with 14 points. But with five players scoring at least nine points, the Big Ten's top seed displayed their balanced attack to get the victory.
When the Spartans are clicking, they're turning tough defense into easy offense, and have proven to be able to play both in the half court, or in transition.
The priority is establishing an inside game in the half-court and working the ball out when needed, but today they didn't shy away from forcing the issue in transition.
Keith Appling, who finished with 13-points, was superb in wisely selecting when to push the ball and when to call an offensive set.
The Three Headed Monster of Green, Adreian Payne and Derrick Nix seemed down a man today, as Payne seeemd out of sorts – drawing plenty of ire from Izzo and his assistants.
Regardless, the win was impressive, and places the Spartans in the Big Ten Championship game for the first time since 2000.
- philliesblow - Mar 10, 2012 at 4:26 PM
First trip to conference championship since 2000, emotional All-American senior leader like 2000, I was in Florida in February for the first time since 2000. I like the direction this is heading!
- liberal47 - Mar 10, 2012 at 11:58 PM
This reminds me of Earvin and the guys, with Terry Donnely sitting outside the non-existant three point line, hitting shots with impunity! Okay, Thornton is about a foot taller but the result is the same.
C'mon coach give him the green light!
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text: On our trip to ski at Banff we had a family dinner at the Balkan. We were there on a Thursday night which was a bonus. They had a belly dancer, restaurant patrons dancing, and of course traditional smashing of the plates. Our food and service where very good. The manager made sure everyone was having a good time and good food. I recommend getting a reservation as they are very busy. Thank you for making our evening enjoyable!

subset: commoncrawl


text:
A scratch-resistant coating comprising a polymer including a functionalized polysilsesquioxane. The scratch-resistant coating is exposed to oxidizing conditions (e.g., ozone or ultraviolet light) that modify the surface chemistry of the coating to enhance adhesion to inorganic thin film coatings, such as antireflective coatings.
1. A method of making an ophthalmic lens having a scratch-resistant coating, comprising the steps of:
providing a polymerizable scratch-resistant coating composition comprising a polyhedral oligomeric silsesquioxane;
polymerizing the scratch-resistant coating composition on the surface of a lens; and
exposing the polymerized scratch resistant coating composition to oxidizing conditions.
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17. An ophthalmic lens comprising:
an optical lens; and
a scratch-resistant coating on the surface of the optical lens, comprising a polymer derived from a polyhedral oligomeric silsesquioxane, and wherein the surface of the scratch resistant coating is chemically modified by exposure to oxidizing conditions.
18. The ophthalmic lens of
wherein R is one or more substituent groups, at least one of which is capable of forming a chemical bond between polyhedral oligomeric silsesquioxane molecules.
19. The ophthalmic lens of
20. The ophthalmic lens of
21. The ophthalmic lens of
22. The ophthalmic lens of
23. The ophthalmic lens of
24. An ophthalmic lens, comprising:
an optical lens;
a scratch-resistant coating on the surface of the optical lens, comprising a polymer derived from a polyhedral oligomeric silsesquioxane, and wherein the surface of the scratch-resistant coating is chemically modified by exposure to oxidizing conditions; and
an inorganic thin film coating on the surface of the scratch-resistant coating.
25. The ophthalmic lens of
26. The ophthalmic lens of
27. The ophthalmic lens of
28. The ophthalmic lens of
29. The ophthalmic lens of
30. The ophthalmic lens of
31. The ophthalmic lens of
32. The ophthalmic lens of
33. The ophthalmic lens of
34. The ophthalmic lens of
35. The ophthalmic lens of
36. The ophthalmic lens of
37. The ophthalmic lens of
The present invention relates to scratch-resistant coatings for plastic articles, such as ophthalmic spectacle lenses and, in particular, to scratch-resistant coatings having improved adhesion to inorganic thin film coatings, such as antireflective coatings, mirror coatings and the like.
The application of scratch-resistant coatings to ophthalmic spectacle lenses is well known in the art. Scratch-resistant coatings are typically applied to plastic spectacle lenses, where the lens materials do not have a high degree of inherent scratch resistance—e.g., lenses made from injection molded polycarbonate or cast polymerizable monomers such as allyl diglycol carbonate. The scratch-resistant coatings are commonly applied by various techniques such as by spinning, dipping, or flowing the coating onto the substrate lens and curing the coating, usually by thermal or ultraviolet (UV) methods.
Another method of applying the scratch-resistant coating, referred to as "in-mold" coating, is described in U.S. Pat. Nos. 4,544,572 and 4,758,448, which are hereby incorporated by reference. This technique involves coating a mold used to form a cast lens with a polymerizable composition containing reactive ethylenically unsaturated groups, such as acrylates or vinyl compounds. The coating on the mold is then partially cured, such that some of the reactive groups remain available to form chemical bonds with the lens material. The coated mold is then used to cast an ophthalmic lens using a polymerizable composition also having reactive ethylenically unsaturated groups, such as allyl diglycol carbonate. When the lens material is cured and removed from the mold, the scratch-resistant coating is chemically bonded to the surface of the lens, imparting abrasion resistant properties.
Compositions used for in-mold scratch-resistant coatings frequently consist of multifunctional acrylic or methacrylic aliphatic monomers, multifunctional urethane(meth)acrylate oligomers or mixtures thereof. The term (meth)acrylate means the monomers or oligomers have either acrylate or methacrylate functionality. The resulting coating is hard and very abrasion resistant. The coating is optically clear, chemically resistant and resistant to degradation by sunlight (such as is evidenced by yellowing). Additionally, these coatings generally release relatively easily from the glass mold after polymerization of the lens. Such coatings also form chemical bonds with the lens materials during polymerization and, therefore, are very well bonded to the substrate lens.
In recent years, it has become popular to apply antireflective coatings to the surfaces of ophthalmic lenses. Antireflective coatings can significantly reduce the reflected light from the rear surface (the surface closest to the eye) of the spectacle lens, which is an annoyance to the wearer, and from the front surface of the lens, which improves the aesthetic appeal of the lens. Furthermore, because less light is reflected from the lens surfaces having antireflective coatings, more light is transmitted through the lens. It has also become popular to apply reflective inorganic thin film coatings to the surfaces of ophthalmic lenses particularly for certain lenses used for sunwear (eg. "mirror coatings").
Antireflective coatings commonly consist of multiple thin layers of minerals, such as metal and metalloid oxides, having alternating relatively high and low index of refraction values. The ability of the first layer to adhere to the underlying scratch-resistant coating can affect how well the antireflective coating as a whole will adhere to the lens. Metal oxides and metalloid oxides such as silicon oxides often do not adhere well to organic scratch-resistant coatings—e.g., coatings made from multifunctional aliphatic(meth)acrylates and/or multifunctional urethane(meth)acrylate oligomers. Poor adhesion results in the gradual delamination of the antireflective coating over time and shortens the lifespan of the antireflective coating. Thus it would be desirable to provide a coating that is capable of being applied by in-mold coating techniques that is scratch-resistant and that has improved adhesion to antireflective coatings.
Scratch resistant coatings for an ophthalmic lens are disclosed, comprising a polymer including a polysilsesquioxane, and wherein the coating is chemically modified by exposure to oxidizing conditions. In one embodiment, the ophthalmic lens comprises an optical lens, a scratch-resistant coating on the surface of the optical lens. The scratch-resistant coating comprises a polymer including a polysilsesquioxane, and the surface of the scratch-resistant coating is chemically modified by exposure to oxidizing conditions. An inorganic thin film coating is applied on the surface of the scratch-resistant coating. In yet another embodiment, the scratch resistant coating further comprises a monomer, and the polysilsesquioxane has a reactive group that is capable of forming a polysilsesquioxane polymer and/or a copolymer of the polysilsesquioxane and the monomer.
Methods of making an ophthalmic lens having a scratch-resistant coating are also disclosed, comprising the steps of providing a polymerizable scratch-resistant coating composition comprising a polysilsesquioxane. The scratch-resistant coating composition is polymerized on the surface of a lens, and exposed to oxidizing conditions.
Inorganic thin film coatings for optical materials are well known in the art. For example, antireflective coatings typically consist of either a single layer of a relatively low refractive index material, such as magnesium fluoride, or multiple layers of dielectric materials arranged as a stack of alternating layers of high and low refractive index. These dielectric materials commonly comprise metal oxides and metalloid oxides of silicon, titanium, zirconium, hafnium and the like. The layers can be applied by vacuum deposition techniques such as sputtering, chemical vapor deposition, or physical vapor deposition and have an optical thicknesses equivalent to a quarter wavelength of light or an odd number of quarter wavelengths of light for each layer. A light wavelength of 550 nm is often used for the calculation, additionally considering the index of refraction for the materials.
The exact composition and methods of constructing antireflective coatings are typically proprietary to the manufacturer. The surface of the substrate lens is typically pre-cleaned prior to the application of the antireflective coating—e.g., with a weak caustic solution or an ion gun pre-cleaning process. The initial layer of the antireflective coating stack that is applied adjacent to the surface of the lens frequently comprise silicon oxides, chromium and/or other metals and metal oxides that are often difficult to adhere to lenses that have in-mold scratch-resistant coatings, particularly in combination with the pre-cleaning step.
It would be desirable to add an inorganic oxide, such as silica, to the scratch-resistant coating to improve adhesion to the metal oxides used in the antireflective coating or other inorganic thin film coating. The use of silica nanoparticles in coatings for the improvement of abrasion resistance is known in the art. However, such materials have been problematic for use in optical applications, such as coatings for ophthalmic lenses and, particularly, in-mold coated lenses. Silica nanoparticles are very sensitive to their chemical environment, and readily agglomerate under many circumstances. Typically, these particles are provided as dispersions in solvents, such as isopropanol or occasionally in certain monomers. Agglomeration frequently occurs when these dispersions are added to acrylic materials commonly used for in-mold scratch-resistant coatings. The agglomeration of the nanoparticles results in a hazy coating, that is unacceptable for optical materials. Additionally, the silica nanoparticles have an affinity for the glass molds used to cast ophthalmic lenses, making it difficult to separate the cast lens from the glass mold.
Contrary to the use of conventional silica nanoparticles, the inventors have found that scratch-resistant coatings incorporating new classes of silica nanoparticles with attached organic pendant groups can overcome the problems of agglomeration and can also provide for easier separation of the coated lens from the glass mold. In addition, the incorporation of these functionalized particles into the scratch-resistant coating can improve the adhesion of antireflective coatings and other inorganic thin film coatings to the lens. Adhesion of inorganic thin film coatings can be further enhanced by chemical modification of the surface of the scratch-resistant coating by exposure to oxidizing conditions—e.g., by exposure to short wavelength ultraviolet light, electron beams, or oxidizing agents, such as ozone.
Polysilsesquioxane compounds and, particularly, functionalized polysilsesquioxanes, have been found to be advantageous for making scratch-resistant coatings with improved adhesion to inorganic thin film coatings. The polysilsesquioxane is provided with reactive substituent groups that can form chemical bonds either between polysilsesquioxane molecules and/or with other reactive compounds that are capable of polymerizing with the polysilsesquioxane to form the scratch-resistant coating. The resulting coating may be treated to modify the chemistry of the polysilsesquioxane molecules at the surface of the lens to promote bonding with the initial layer of an antireflective coating stack. Modification of the scratch-resistant coating may be accomplished by a variety of means, including treatment of the lens with ozone, oxygen plasma, exposure to short wavelength ultraviolet light, electron beam radiation or similar means.
Suitable polysilsesquioxane compounds greatly reduce the problems of haziness caused by agglomeration of the nanoparticles, and contain one or more substituent (R) groups attached to one or more of the silicon atoms. The polysilsesquioxanes contemplated for use in the practice of the present invention include polyhedral oligomeric silsesquioxanes having the general formula [(RSiO1.5)n]Σn(Tn), where n is an even number, and polyhedral oligomeric silicates having the general formula [Rn+2Sin−1O1.5n−3]Σn(Tn−1), where n is an even number, and their analogs and derivatives. An example of suitable polyhedral oligomeric silsequioxane compounds having structures A and B, are shown below:
In a preferred embodiment, at least one of the substituent (R) group or groups are selected that are capable of forming chemical bonds between polysilsesquioxane molecules and/or are capable of forming chemical bonds with other monomers and/or oligomers that may comprise the coating. In addition, the substituent (R) groups may also be capable of forming chemical bonds with the substrate, such as a plastic lens. In a particularly preferred embodiment, the polyhedral oligomeric silsesquioxane compound contains one or more substituent groups that are capable of chemically bonding to the materials used for plastic lenses to permit in-mold coating such as epoxy groups or groups that are ethylenically unsaturated, such as allyl, vinyl, acrylic or methacrylic groups. An example of a suitable polyhedral oligomeric silsesquioxane compound that contains multiple methacrylate groups is commercially available as MA0735 Methacryl POSS� Cage Mixture (Hybrid Plastics, Inc.—Hattiesburg, Miss.).
The polysilsesquioxane compound can be used alone, or in combination with one or more monomers that are capable of copolymerizing with it. The monomers may also comprise monomer oligomers. For example, in the case of a polyhedral oligomeric silsesquioxane compound such as MA0735 that contains methacrylate substituent groups, suitable monomers and oligomers include acrylic or methacrylic esters, and monomers and oligomers that contain acrylate or methacrylate functionality.
The specific monomers (and/or oligomers) incorporated into the coating can be selected depending on the desired properties of the coating. For example, a tough oligomer having higher tensile elongation characteristics might be chosen to provide resistance to cracking for thin lenses subject to flexing during certain lens treatment processes. Multifunctional (meth)acrylic monomers (and/or oligomers) are particularly useful for forming highly scratch-resistant coatings. Examples of suitable (meth)acrylic monomers (and/or oligomers) that will form scratch-resistant coatings with polyhedral oligomeric silsesquioxane compounds containing ethylenically unsaturated substituent groups include: pentaerythritol triacrylate, pentaerythritol tetraacrylate, dipentaerythritol pentaacrylate, dipentaerythritol hexacrylate, aliphatic and aromatic urethane acrylates and methacrylates, polyester acrylates and methacrylates and the like.
The composition of the scratch-resistant coating may comprise as much as 100% of the polysilsesquioxane compound. In a preferred embodiment, the scratch-resistant coating composition contains from about 10 wt % to about 100 wt % polysilsesquioxane, more preferably, between about 20 wt % to about 100 wt % polysilsesquioxane and, most preferably, between about 30 wt % to about 100 wt % polyhedral oligomeric silsesquioxane, where wt % refers to the weight percentage of polysilsesquioxane in the mixture of polysilsesquioxane and any monomers and/or oligomers present in the composition. The composition may also contain additives, such as photoinitiators, surfactants, light stabilizers, dyes, and adhesion promoters. The additives preferably comprise about 10 wt % or less of the total solids in the scratch-resistant coating composition, and more preferably about 7 wt % or less.
The scratch-resistant coating composition of the present invention can be applied directly to the surface of a lens by, for example, flow coating, spin coating or dip coating, as are known in the art. The coating can then be cured using ultraviolet light or thermally cured by heat, depending on the polymerization method employed that is suitable for the coating. In a preferred embodiment, the scratch-resistant coating composition is applied using an in-mold process. Methods for preparing in-mold coated ophthalmic lenses are well known in the art and are described in U.S. Pat. Nos. 4,544,572 and 4,758,448, which are hereby incorporated by reference. The scratch-resistant coating composition containing a photoinitiator is applied to the casting surface of a mold used to cast the lens. The coating is then exposed to actinic radiation sufficient to activate the photoinitiator and partially polymerize the coating, such that there is residual unsaturation resulting from unreacted substituent (R)—e.g., (meth)acrylate groups—in the coating composition. The lens mold is then assembled and the lens casting composition is introduced into the mold in contact with the scratch-resistant coating. The lens casting composition is then polymerized and the residual unsaturation of the coating is available for covalent bonding to the polymerizing lens composition. After polymerization, the lens is separated from the lens mold. The coating is well adhered to the lens body and may be optionally exposed to further actinic radiation to completely cure and harden the coating either immediately before or after disassembly of the lens mold.
The cast lens may be treated to enhance the adhesion of a subsequent inorganic thin film coating, such as an antireflective coating. Without wishing to be limited to any particular theory, subjecting the lens to oxidizing conditions is believed to modify the surface chemistry of the scratch-resistant coating by breaking the chemical bonds of the coating to make the silicon and/or silicon-oxygen species of the polysilsesquioxane available for bonding with the mineral coating. Suitable treatment methods include exposure to ozone, oxygen plasma, or other oxidizing agents.
In a preferred embodiment, the scratch-resistant coating is modified by exposure to short wavelength ultraviolet (UV) light. UV light provides a number of advantages over ozone, oxygen plasma and other methods. In particular, treatment with UV light is inexpensive, efficient, clean and can be performed at atmospheric pressure and in ambient conditions. Thus, treatment with UV light is easily incorporated into commercial manufacturing processes, without the need for additional equipment or reagents, or the requirement for special conditions, such as vacuum. The UV exposure also appears to increase the surface roughness of the scratch-resistant coatings of the present invention, which is believed to assist in the adhesion to inorganic thin film coatings.
The UV light preferably comprises wavelengths less than 300 nm and, more preferably, less than about 200 nm. These wavelengths possess sufficient energy to break a large number of chemical bond types. Lamps capable of generating short wavelength ultraviolet light are commercially available and are commonly used in cleaning and sterilization processes. Examples of suitable lamps include mercury discharge lamps made using quartz envelopes that can transmit the short wavelengths required, typically the 185 nm mercury line. Additionally, mercury lamps are relatively inexpensive and long lived. Xenon excimer lamps can also be employed, such as those that emit light at 172 nm, which is capable of cleaving more chemical bond types.
The working distance between the scratch-resistant coating and the UV lamp, and the time of exposure to the ultraviolet light depend upon the irradiance at the coating surface and the coating composition. With too little exposure, not enough bonds will be modified to promote adhesion to the antireflective coating. If the exposure is too great, the abrasion resistance of the scratch-resistant coating will be reduced.
Those of skill in the art will appreciate that the working distance between the UV lamp and the scratch-resistant coating is affected by atmospheric absorption, particularly by oxygen in the air. Shorter wavelengths are particularly impacted. In atmospheric conditions, the working distance for light at 185 nm will be greater than the working distance for light at 172 nm. Thus, if shorter wavelengths are required, it may be desirable to use a less absorbing atmosphere—eg., nitrogen or a vacuum—to ensure sufficient working distance between the lamp and the scratch-resistant surface. In a preferred embodiment, the working distance for light at 185 nm in atmospheric conditions is about 1 cm to about 3 cm from the quartz envelope of the UV lamp. This working distance has been found to be satisfactory to accommodate the variations encountered in ophthalmic lens geometries under atmospheric conditions.
Highly cross-linked scratch-resistant coating compositions exhibiting relatively high hardness may require somewhat longer exposure times than softer compositions, in order to enhance adhesion to inorganic thin film coatings. Thus, scratch-resistant coating compositions comprising higher ratios of polysilsesquioxanes to monomers (and/or oligomers), for example from about 65 wt. % to 100 wt. % polysilsesquioxane, may require shorter exposure times than compositions containing, for example, about 25 wt. % to about 35 wt. % polysilsesquioxane. In a preferred embodiment, for polysilsequioxane concentrations of about 25 wt % to about 100 wt %, the exposure time to 185 nm wavelength light with an irradiance of about 10 milliwatts/cm2 is about 1 minute to about 8 minutes and, more preferably, about 2 minutes to about 4 minutes.
An advantage of the treated lenses is that the modification of the surface chemistry of the scratch-resistant coatings is permanent. This permits the treated lenses to be inventoried for long periods of time after treatment (months or years) prior to being processed to receive the antireflective coating. Additionally, the treated lenses can be processed conventionally, e.g., stamped with commonly used ink markings, covered with surface protecting tape for blocking and subsequent processing of the non-finished surface by grinding and polishing equipment, and subsequently cleaned by common solvents such as isopropyl alcohol or water. The preceding process steps do not affect the ability of the modified scratch-resistant coating to bond well to subsequently applied antireflective coatings.
The following examples are included to demonstrate preferred embodiments of the invention. It should be appreciated by those of skill in the art that the techniques disclosed in the examples which follow represent techniques discovered by the inventors to function well in the practice of the invention, and thus can be considered to constitute preferred modes for its practice. However, those of skill in the art should, in light of the present disclosure, appreciate that many changes can be made in the specific embodiments which are disclosed and still obtain a like or similar result without departing from the scope of the invention.
BR101D is an aliphatic urethane acrylate oligomer with a maximum acrylate functionality of fifteen, available from Bomar Specialties Co. (Torrington, Conn.). Ebecryl 1290 is a hexafunctional aliphatic urethane acrylate oligomer, available from Cytec Surface Specialties (Smyrna, Ga.). Irgacure 184 is a photointiator, 1-hydroxycyclohexyl phenyl ketone, available from Ciba Specialty Chemicals (Basel, Switzerland). CS3503 is an acrylate functional silicone used as a flow agent, available from OSi Specialties (South Charleton, W.Va.). MA0735 Methacryl POSS� is a polyhedral oligomeric silsesquioxane with multiple methacrylate groups, available from Hybrid Plastics, Inc. (Hattiesburg, Miss.).
Preparation of Lenses with In-Mold Scratch-Resistant Coating
Scratch-resistant coating compositions were prepared as shown in Table 1, with and without the addition of MA0735 Methacryl POSS�. Composition A reflects a conventional scratch-resistant, acrylate-based coating composition suitable for in-mold coating. Composition B contained about 46.8 wt % Methacryl POSS� after evaporation of the methyl ethyl ketone solvent. Compositions A and B had a similar solids content relative to the total coating solution composition and, therefore, are expected to produce coatings of similar thickness.
Compositions A and B were used to produce sample in-mold coated, composite photochromic ophthalmic lenses using methods similar to those described in U.S. Pat. No. 6,863,848, which is hereby incorporated by reference. The coating compositions were applied to the concave surface of a glass mold used to form the front surface of a composite photochromic lens having a surface curvature of approximately 6 diopters. The mold was spun at approximately 400 to 600 revolutions per minute while the coating composition was applied to the mold surface for about two seconds. The mold was allowed to spin for an additional 15 seconds while the solvent evaporated, leaving a generally uniform coating on the mold surface.
The coating composition applied to the mold surface was then exposed to actinic radiation sufficient to partially polymerize the coating to a slightly tacky to tack-free state. The light source was a Fusion UV Systems Inc. (Gaithersburg, Md.) type I300 irradiator equipped with a Fusion UV Systems type "D" lamp and an LC-6 conveyor. The appropriate dosage was obtained when a very light fingerprint to no fingerprint was visible on the coating surface after lightly touching the coating after exposure. Care was taken during the partial polymerization step to ensure that the coating was not cured significantly beyond the slightly tacky to tack-free state. Curing the coating too much may decrease the ability of the coating to adhere to the lens. Conversely, insufficient curing may result in solubilization of the coating by the liquid monomers used to form the lens.
The amount of exposure to light from the type "D" lamp in order to obtain an appropriate amount of partial polymerization of the coating was found to vary depending on the composition of the coating and the lens substrate material. Generally, those coatings having higher levels of polyhedral oligomeric silsesquioxane, in this case MA0735 Methacryl POSS�, were found to require somewhat longer exposure than coatings with lower concentrations or no polyhedral oligomeric silsesquioxane. Typical exposure dosages ranged from about 800 to about 3000 mJ/cm2 as measured by an International Light Model 390 radiometer (International Light Technologies—Peabody, Mass.).
Photochromic matrix compositions were prepared as described in U.S. Pat. No. 6,863,844, which is hereby incorporated by reference. The coated lens mold was fitted with a gasket having an inner wall height of about one millimeter. A sufficient amount of liquid photochromic matrix composition, about six grams, was placed into the coated mold assembly, and the gel-form intermediate and attached rear mold was placed in contact with the photochromic composition forming a closed lens mold assembly.
The lens mold assembly was then exposed to the light of a Fusion UV Systems type "V" lamp with an intensity of about 3.8 mW/cm2 for about 45 minutes. Light intensity was measured using an International Light IL1400 radiometer equipped with a 405 nm narrow bandpass filter. The curing arrangement was such that the light from the "V" lamps first passed through the gel-form, then through the photochromic matrix composition, and finally through the scratch-resistant coating.
The cured lens was removed from the lens mold assembly and further irradiated in an optional post-curing step to ensure that the scratch-resistant coating composition was fully cured. The lens was exposed to light from a Fusion type "H" lamp mounted in an I300 irradiator and conveyor for a dosage of approximately 3000 mJ/cm2 as measured with an International Light Model 390 radiometer. Alternatively, the coating could have been post-cured in the lens mold assembly using a Fusion type "D" lamp at a dosage of approximately 4000 mJ/cm2.
Abrasion Resistance and Adhesion of the Scratch-Resistant Coating
Sample lenses prepared as described in Example 2 were tested for abrasion resistance by manually rubbing the front surface of the lens with "000" steel wool, using moderate pressure. Both of the coatings corresponding to Compositions A and B were found to have good abrasion resistance and showed minimal scratching of the surface of the lens.
Adhesion of the scratch-resistant coating to the substrate was determined by scoring a 6�6 grid pattern of squares on the surface of the coating using a razor blade assembly having seven blades spaced approximately 1.5 mm apart. A fresh piece of � inch Scotch� 600 tape (3M—St. Paul, Minn.) was applied firmly over the grid pattern and rubbed to assure good contact with the coating. The tape was then pulled off the coating, and the tape and grid pattern on the lens surface were examined for removal of the coating. Both of the coatings corresponding to Compositions A and B were found to adhere strongly to the photochromic matrix substrate, since almost no coating was removed from the grid by the tape.
UV Modification of the Scratch-Resistant Coating
Sample lenses were prepared as described in Example 2 and were treated by exposure to short wavelength ultraviolet light to modify the surface chemistry of the scratch-resistant coatings. The cured lenses were cleaned by wiping the surface with a tissue wetted with isopropanol and allowing the lens to air dry. The cleaned lenses were exposed to an array of three type G30T6 HV/U Ster-L-Ray� germicidal lamps (Atlantic Ultraviolet Corp.—Hauppauge, N.Y.) for a period of 4 minutes at a distance of two centimeters from the nearest plane of the lamp envelopes. These conditions were found to provide 185 nm irradiance of approximately 10 mw/cm2 as measured with an International Light Model 1400A radiometer equipped with an SEL185 detector and a NS185 narrow pass interference filter for 185 nm (available from International Light Technologies, Peabody, Mass.).
Application of Antireflective Coating
Sample lenses were prepared as described in Example 2, with and without UV modification of the polyhedral oligomeric silsesquioxane coating as described in Example 4. The lenses were then processed using conventional optical laboratory lens surfacing techniques to produce a finished lens with a power of approximately −2.00 diopters, a center thickness of approximately 1.8 mm and a diameter of approximately 68 mm. An antireflective coating, Endura AR (Satis Vacuum AG Industries), was commercially applied on the scratch-resistant coating at the front surface of the processed lenses, through a process provided by Ozarks Optical Laboratories, Inc. (Springfield, Mo.). The Endura AR coating is known to be especially difficult to adhere to conventional in-mold applied acrylic coatings.
Adhesion of the Antireflective Coating
Sample lenses with an Endura AR antireflective coating were prepared as described in Example 5 and were tested for adhesion of the antireflective coating to the scratch-resistant coating. Prior to testing, the lenses were exposed to simulated environmental conditions for a period of 160 hours, and were tested at 16 hour intervals. The simulated environmental conditions were as specified in ISO Standard 8980-4:2006(E), Annex B. The lenses were subjected to alternating cycles of water vapor condensation (4 hours) and irradiation with UV and visible light (4 hours) at temperatures between 35� C. and 50� C. for a total environmental exposure time of 16 hours. This process was repeated for a total of ten 16 hour environmental exposure cycles. After each 16 hour exposure cycle, the lenses were washed, dried and tested for adhesion of the antireflective coating to the scratch-resistant coating.
Adhesion of the anti-reflective coating was tested in a similar manner as described in Example 3. A cross-hatch pattern was scored on the front surface of the lens by means of a blade assembly consisting of six blades spaced approximately 1.5 mm apart. The blades were drawn across the lens surface in the direction of the lens radius, and then again across the scored area at an angle of 90 degrees to the lens radius, to produce a cross-hatch pattern forming a 5�5 square grid. The center of the grid was positioned approximately 12 mm from the edge of the lens.
The scored lenses were rinsed with water at about 40� C. and then cleaned using a sponge soaked with a mild solution of dishwashing soap (4 grams of soap to 500 ml water, 40� C.) by gently rubbing the lens surface for four times. The cleaned lenses were rinsed in water at about 40� C. and dried. A fresh, � inch piece of Scotch� 600 tape (3M—St. Paul, Minn.) that was not previously exposed to air was applied to the grid and rubbed with a dull plastic blade to ensure good contact with the scribed surface of the lens. The tape was allowed to remain in contact with the grid for about 90 seconds before being quickly pulled upward and away from the lens surface. Fresh tape is then reapplied to the grid and the process is repeated a total of three times.
The grid surface was examined for removal of the antireflective coating using the following scoring system. A score of "0" indicates that no coating was removed from the surface of the lens in the grid area. A score of "1" indicates that the coating was removed from less than 5% of the total grid area. A score of "2" indicates that the coating was removed from between 5% and 15% of the total grid area. A score of "3" indicates that the coating was removed from between 15% and 35% of the total grid area. A score of "4" indicates that the coating was removed from between 35% and 65% of the total grid area. A score of "5" indicates that the coating was removed from over 65% of the total grid area. Generally, an adhesion score greater than 2 was considered to be unsatisfactory. The resulting averages of the adhesion testing scores are reported in Table 2.
As shown in Table 2, lenses prepared with conventional scratch-resistant coatings, Composition A (0 wt % MA0735), and without UV modification, exhibited early failure of the antireflective coating within 1 to 2 16-hour cycles of environmental exposure ("Env."). Adhesion performance was improved somewhat when the scratch-resistant coating was modified by exposure to UV.
Lenses prepared from scratch-resistant coatings containing polyhedral oligomeric silsesquioxane, Composition B (46.8 wt % MA0735), without UV modification exhibited slightly improved adhesion in comparison to Composition A. However, adhesion performance was dramatically improved when the scratch-resistant coating containing polyhedral oligomeric silsesquioxane was modified by exposure to UV, showing little or no removal of the antireflective coating even after 10 16-hour cycles of environmental exposure.
Ozone Modification of Scratch-Resistant Coating
Scratch-resistant coating compositions containing three different concentrations of polyhedral oligomeric silsesquioxane were prepared from Composition C (28.0 wt % MA0735), Composition D (46.8 wt % MA0735) and Composition E (75.0 wt % MA0735) as shown in Table 3. The coating compositions were then used to prepare in-mold coated, composite photochromic ophthalmic lenses using the methods described in Example 2.
The cast lenses were prepared with and without modification of the surface chemistry of the scratch-resistant coating by exposure to ozone for a period of 2 hours at a concentration of approximately 55 mg/l in oxygen. The ozone level was monitored by means of a UV-VIS spectrometer, noting the 1 cm path length absorption with the appropriate extinction coefficient for the wavelength. In this case, 275 nm was chosen since the absorbance was too intense for a 1 cm path length at the ozone peak absorption wavelength of about 255 nm.
The ozone treated and untreated lenses were commercially coated with Endura AR as described in Example 5, and then tested and scored for adhesion of the antireflective coating to the scratch-resistant coating after simulated environmental conditions using the methods described in Example 6. The results of adhesion testing are reported in Table 4.
As shown in Table 4, adhesion of the antireflective coating to the scratch-resistant coating was significantly improved for each Composition C, D and E when the scratch-resistant coating was modified by exposure to ozone.
Effect of UV Exposure Time on Adhesion of Antireflective Coating
Scratch-resistant coatings compositions containing three different concentrations of polyhedral oligomeric silsesquioxane were prepared from Composition F (23.4 wt % MA0735), Composition G (46.9 wt % MA0735) and Composition H (70.3 wt % MA0735) as shown in Table 5, and were used to prepare in-mold coated, composite photochromic ophthalmic lenses using the methods described in Example 2. Compositions F, G and H were based on CN9006, an aliphatic urethane acrylate oligomer with acrylate functionality of six, a compound found to form coatings with relatively high abrasion resistance.
The scratch-resistant coatings were modified by exposure to UV (185 nm) for a period of 2, 3, 4 or 5 minutes using the methods described in Example 4. The UV modified lenses were commercially coated with Endura AR as described in Example 5, and then tested and scored for adhesion of the antireflective coating to the scratch-resistant coating after simulated environmental conditions using the methods described in Example 6. The results of adhesion testing are reported in Table 6.
As shown in Table 4, shorter exposure times generally produce better adhesion results with coatings having higher polyhedral oligomeric silsesquioxane concentrations.
Although the invention has been described in detail with reference to preferred embodiments, variations and modifications exist within the scope and spirit of the invention as described and defined in the following claims.
Patent Citations
Non-Patent Citations
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text:
diplay a ddl of years in yahoo.calendar
Is it possible to display a drop down list of years in yahoo.calendar so users can change year pretty quickly. I like the same presentation as http://18.104.22.168:8080/SampleComponents/faces/SampleCalendar.jsp.
Hi Chuck,
Doing this with the Yahoo calendar would take some work but there already is a Dojo drop down calendar which can be seen at:
See it live at:
I want to see a list of years as combobox so I can quickly navigate it. The demo version just show three years on the buttom line. Can I customize this?


text:
Circus Family PRO
User Stats
Profile Images
User Bio
We are Circus Family, a diverse group of Audio Visual storytellers whose mission is to create content that moves people. Our expertise includes motion design, graphics, animation, visual effects, live-action production and technical consultancy. We have made emotional connections with audiences with our short films, documentaries, animations, commercials and massive projection installations, among other things. And like every good circus, we're always out to instill a sense of wonder and awe in our audience.
External Links
- http://www.circusfamily.com - Circus Family Official
- Facebook - Circus Family Facebook
- Twitter - Circus Family Twitter
- Instagram - Circus Family Blog


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Video: 49ers' Jim Harbaugh Doing Pushups With A Walrus
By Sports Talk Florida
News Desk
Follow @ SportsTalkFLA
News Desk
Follow @ SportsTalkFLA
Someone get that walrus some pads and a helmet!
San Francisco 49ers head coach Jim Harbaugh ran a very informal scouting combine at Six Flags Discovery Kingdom in Vallejo, Calif., during a weekend excursion with his family and shot this video.
For more on this story visit: Irving DeJohn, New York Daily News
Tags: San Francisco 49ers


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"Distributed routing algorithms for multi-hop ad hoc networks using d-hop connected d-dominating sets"
Rieck, Michael Q.
Pai, Sukesh
Dhar, Subhankar
MetadataShow full item record
This paper describes a distributed algorithm (generalized d-CDS) for producing a variety of d-dominating sets of nodes that can be used to form the backbone of an ad hoc wireless network. In special cases (ordinary d-CDS), these sets are also d-hop connected and has a desirable "shortest path property". Routing via the backbone created is also discussed. The algorithm has a "constant time" complexity in the limited sense that it is unaffected by expanding the size of the network as long as the maximal node degree is not allowed to increase too. The performances of this algorithm for various parameters are compared, and also compared with other algorithms.
Michael Q. Rieck is Assistant Professor of Computer Science in the Department of Math and Computer Science at Drake University.
Related items
Showing items related by title, author, creator and subject.
"Distributed routing schemes for ad hoc networks using d-SPR sets" Dhar, Subhankar; Rieck, Michael Q.; Pai, Sukesh; Kim, Eun Jik (Elsevier Science, 2004-10)In this paper, we propose several new distributed algorithms for producing sets of nodes that can be used to form backbones of an ad hoc wireless network. Our focus is on producing small sets that are d-hop connected and ...
"Hierarchical routing in sensor networks using κ-dominating sets " Rieck, Michael Q.; Dhar, Subhankar (Springer-Verlag, 2005)For a connected graph, representing a sensor network, distributed algorithms for the Set Covering Problem can be employed to construct reasonably small subsets of the nodes, called k-SPR sets. Such a set can serve as a ...
Hierarchical routing using k-SPR Nesheim, Skyler; Smith, Matt (2007-05-31)The goal of our research is to create an improved routing protocol for Ad-Hoc Wireless networking. We began our research by studying a protocol developed by two Drake students, Tiffany Meredith and Jennifer Ehrlich, which ...


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TV Info
Episode PremiereNovember 26, 2007
GenreComedy, Drama
Show Period2005 - 2009
Production CompanyChris Rock Entertainment
Cast and Crew
DirectorTed Wass
ScreenwriterAlyson Fouse
Main Cast
- Tyler James Williams as Chris Rock
- Tichina Arnold
- Terry Crews as Julius Rock
- Tequan Richmond
- Imani Hakim
- Vincent Martella
Additional Cast
- Kwame Boateng
When a new student, Albert (guest star Kwame Boateng), enrolls at Corleone, Chris realizes that he has a lot more in common with Albert than just being the only two African American kids in school. Unfortunately, Albert makes more enemies than friends, including Greg (Vincent Martella) who warns Chris to stay far away from Albert.
Meanwhile, Julius (Terry Crews) and Rochelle (Tichina Arnold) get an unexpected IRS refund check in the mail, but Julius is too afraid to spend any of the money in case the IRS decides to take the money back from them.


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Buy Tickets Love & Diane: 10th Anniversary Screening
Show From Series
Monday, June 9
Tuesday, June 10
Wednesday, June 11
Thursday, June 12
Friday, June 13
Saturday, June 14
Sunday, June 15
Love & Diane: 10th Anniversary Screening
October 22, 2012
A special 10th anniversary screening of director Jennifer Dworkin's rich, subtle, and moving portrait of a New York City family facing enormous challenges—one of the revelations of the 2002 New York Film Festival. In person: Jennifer Dworkin. Read more »


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The .exe extension on a filename indicates an executable file. Executable files may, in some cases, harm your computer. Therefore, please read below to decide for yourself whether the praetorian.exe on your computer is a Trojan that you should remove, or whether it is a file belonging to the Windows operating system or to a trusted application.
The process known as praetorian.exe belongs to software Yandex by Yandex (www.yandex.com).
Description: Praetorian.exe is not essential for Windows and will often cause problems. Praetorian.exe is located in a subfolder of "C:\Documents and Settings".
Known file sizes on Windows 8/7/XP are 1,534,976 bytes (26% of all occurrences), 1,515,352 bytes and 8 more variants.
It is not a Windows system file. The software starts upon Windows startup (see Registry key: Run, MACHINE\Run). The program has no visible window. The praetorian.exe file is digitally signed. The praetorian.exe file is a Verisign signed file. You can uninstall this program in the Control Panel. Praetorian.exe is able to monitor applications. Therefore the technical security rating is 32% dangerous, however you should also read the user reviews.
In the event of any problems with praetorian.exe, you can also do the following:
Recommended: Identify praetorian.exe related errors
Important: Some malware also uses the file name praetorian.exe, for example WS.Reputation.1 (detected by Symantec), and Trojan.Generic.KDV.643231 (detected by F-Secure). Therefore, you should check the praetorian.exe process on your PC to see if it is a threat. We recommend Security Task Manager for verifying your computer's security. This was one of the Top Download Picks of The Washington Post and PC World.
Summary: Average user rating of praetorian.exe: based on 2 votes with 1 user comment. 2 users think praetorian.exe is dangerous and recommend removing it.
A clean and tidy computer is the key requirement for avoiding problems with praetorian. This means running a scan for malware, cleaning your hard drive using cleanmgr and sfc /scannow, uninstalling programs that you no longer need, checking for Autostart programs (using msconfig) and enabling Windows' Automatic Update. Always remember to perform periodic backups, or at least to set restore points.
Should you experience an actual problem, try to recall the last thing you did, or the last thing you installed before the problem appeared for the first time. Use the resmon command to identify the processes that are causing your problem. Even for serious problems, rather than reinstalling Windows, you are better off doing a repair of your installation, or in the case of Windows 8, executing the DISM.exe /Online /Cleanup-image /Restorehealth command. This allows you to repair the operating system without losing data.
To help you analyze the praetorian.exe process on your computer, the following programs have proven to be helpful: Security Task Manager displays all running Windows tasks, including embedded hidden processes, such as keyboard and browser monitoring or Autostart entries. A unique security risk rating indicates the likelihood of the process being potential spyware, malware or a Trojan. Malwarebytes Anti-Malware detects and removes sleeping spyware, adware, Trojans, keyloggers, malware and trackers from your hard drive.
drvicon.exe ophaldcs.exe brmfcmon.exe praetorian.exe ssqpn.dll updaterservice.exe viaagp1.sys tmesrv31.exe curseclient.exe wbload.dll vet-filt.sys [all]


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Gear Review
a great jacket on normal and mildly snowy days. i wore it in the rain once and didn't get soaked through. love the roo pockets and the pancho zipper! the only thing i don't like about this jacket is the hood. it's a little too deep and needs a different adjustment setup. bottom line.. i'm the only one on the mountain wearing this jacket and it looks/performs great.
Brent Norris
What size you get
View More Details on Airblaster Freedom Pullover Jacket - Men's


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Originally written on Ted's Army | Last updated 4/18/13
The Sox just released their lineup for tonight's game against the Indians and there's one major omission: Will Middlebrooks. Will will be replaced by Pedro Ciriaco at the hot corner after going two for his last 30. Aside from that Toronto game in which he hit three home runs a combined 6,000 feet, Middlebrooks has been atrocious this year. He got off on a bad foot by playing opening day through a pretty serious fever, but he hasn't been able to recover. His big problem continues to be plate discipline. He's got just three walks on the year versus 18 strikeouts. If you check out his Fangraphs page you can see that his swing percentages both in and out of the strike zone are far higher than league averages -- 32% vs. 28% on pitches outside the zone, 68% vs. 64% inside the zone, and 50% vs. 45% overall. His contact percentages -- perhaps obviously -- go the other way, as he's well down on contact both in and outside the zone as well. How well he matures and advances in this respect will say a lot about what kind of career Will is going to have. It's a similar situation Jacoby Ellsbury faced early on, when he seemed to be more of a free-swinging slap hitter. He got much more patient and became much more feared. Can Middlebrooks do the same? We'll have to hope so, because he seems to be the full package. He's at least to this point not done anything controversial off the field, and his defense appears to be a plus. He's obviously got the power when he does make contact. Now we just need to see if he can start seeing the ball better, and putting a better swing on the ball when he gets the chance. Hopefully a day off is the first step in the right direction.
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2016 Honda BR-V: Why Haven't We Heard Of This Futuristic Seven-Seater?
The 2016 Honda BR-V is like a Honda CR-V that was bent and crimped like an origami napkin. Uh, no "Asian market" pun intended. The final form will probably be dialed back a bit, but these renders look like a positive nudge in design direction for the Big H. »


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Get the latest ticket info for concerts coming to the South Texas area!
KONO Big Night Out 11 with Steve Miller Band at The Majestic
Stop by the Community Corner to find out about upcoming benefits, festivals, reunions, and more going on in the San Antonio area!
We want to help you save some money. Stop by our Gas Buddy Pump Patrol feature to find some of the cheapest gas prices in the San Antonio area! Brought to you by KONO 101.1.
Review: David Gordon Green's 'Joe:' The gritty return of Nicolas Cage
Review: 'Captain America: The Winter Soldier' forces our hero to question everything
REVIEW: 'Sabotage' Whodunit? Hard to see through all that gore
Review: In 'Cesar Chavez,' strong actresses overshadow title character
Review: 'Divergent' falls short of 'Hunger Games' franchise it tries to emulate
Shop World Car today!
Comments (2)


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Ingredients: Polystyrene and steel.
Added to My List as a guest*.
*Your guest list will be temporarily saved until you end this browser session.
Honeybee Gardens Pencil Sharpener Purple -- 1 Piece
Oops! Something went wrong and we were unable to process your request. Please try again.
Side By Side Dual Sharpener With Flip Top Lid
Colorful little sharpeners with the added benefit of a flip top to make sharpening your pencils a neat and tidy experience. Choose from pretty pink or perky purple.


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Possible Duplicate:
Global or Singleton for database connection?
i have a database class in database.php then on the same file i create an object;
$database = new Database();
Then i include this file into another file- this file has a class called
Test inside Class
Test has a method
inside test_me method i want to access $connection variable of Database class. how can i do this?
this is what i've tried;
function test_me(){
global $connection;
//use $connection on another function..
this gives me an error
undefined variable $connection . any idea what i'm doing wrong?


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Darvish 11 Ks in first home loss, 3-1 to Oakland
ARLINGTON, Texas Yu Darvish threw a wild pitch that allowed the tiebreaking run and lost at home for the first time with the Texas Rangers, a 3-1 defeat against Oakland despite the Japanese ace's 11 strikeouts in seven innings Sunday night.
Brandon Moss homered for Oakland and left-hander Travis Blackley (2-2) picked off two runners while holding a Texas lineup filled with All-Stars to one run over seven innings.
The fifth 10-strikeout game for Darvish (10-5) matched NL All-Star pitcher R.A. Dickey for the most in the majors this year. The 11 Ks equaled his season high.
Though Darvish was left off the initial AL All-Star roster announced earlier Sunday that included seven Rangers, the right-hander is one of five pitchers who are candidates for the final spot that will be determined by fans voting online through Thursday.
Darvish had won his first seven career home starts, only the second major leaguer in the last half-century to do that.
Blackley, claimed off waivers in mid-May after San Francisco designated him for assignment, struck out three with no walks. The lefty is 2-0 with a 1.93 ERA his last four starts for the A's.
Ryan Cook, Oakland's only All-Star pick, worked a perfect ninth for his seventh save in 10 chances.
Texas (50-30), still with the best record in the majors, had its five-game winning streak snapped. The Rangers have won seven consecutive series after winning the first three games against Oakland.
After Darvish got his 10th strikeout in the sixth, and before his 11th to end the inning, Yoenis Cespedes doubled down the right-field line before a wild pitch on a strange play that put Oakland up 2-1.
The speedy Jemile Weeks, who reached on a fielder's choice, stopped at third. But Darvish threw a pitch that bounced under the feet of a hopping batter Seth Smith and the mitt of catcher Yorvit Torrealba then bounced off umpire Manny Gonzalez and in front of the plate.
Weeks slid home safely while Darvish unsuccessfully tried to scoop the ball with his glove toward the plate.
Moss hit the first pitch of the seventh into the second deck of seats in right field, his eighth homer making it 3-1.
Oakland was the first team Darvish has faced three times, and has lost the last two against the AL West rival.
In the Texas sixth, No. 9 hitter Craig Gentry led off with a drive to straightaway center that bounced off the wall and then the foot of Cespedes. The ball went over the wall and umpires ruled it a double even though Gentry got to third.
Blackley got out of that inning retiring All-Star selections Ian Kinsler, Elvis Andrus and Josh Hamilton on popups.
Hamilton, Adrian Beltre and Mike Napoli, the three Rangers selected by the fans as All-Star starters, were a combined 0-for-9 against Blackley.
Andrus extended his hitting streak to nine games with a first-inning single, but was picked off by Blackley. Torrealba got picked off after a leadoff single in the third.


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Top Definition
the coolest kid in town
the girl next door is safa
por Bilal 23 de Novembro de 2004
5 more definitions
the baddest chick in beaner town. Originally from Afghanistan, she now runs beaner town to the fullest. Pretty much everybody loves and adores her. She's also the inventor of the word "adorktable".
P1- Dude, I love Safa.
P2- Me too. Who doesn't?
P1 - Stupid fuckers that's who.
P2- Me too. Who doesn't?
P1 - Stupid fuckers that's who.
por mustafavt07 08 de Dezembro de 2010
A person who hails from South Africa.
Did you see all those Safa's at the rugby?!
por UKPeaches 18 de Outubro de 2007
This girl is beautiful. She always has voluminous hair and the perfect amount of curves. She is strong independent and confident. Ever get the blessing of having her in bed then you will think she is a sex goddess. Slightly reserved. Will keep playing with you unless shes serious that your serious. Not to mention stunning and flawless.
that girl is a safa
por KeepingItTruthful 09 de Fevereiro de 2015
The ATM nxt Door.
Compressor at work.
Man to call when locked up in jail
Compressor at work.
Man to call when locked up in jail
Safa chill avvu.
annaana safa
annaana safa
por Serial killer 01 de Abril de 2005
girl with those Double D's that cant tell a red light from a green light and barfs mid sentence
por anonymous 04 de Outubro de 2004


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'The Simpsons' Voice Actor Marcia Wallace Dead at 70
Marcia Wallace, best known for her roles as teacher Edna Krabappel on The Simpsons and Carol Kester on The Bob Newhart Show, died at the age of 70.
Marcia Wallace, best known for her roles as teacher Edna Krabappel on The Simpsons and Carol Kester on The Bob Newhart Show, died at the age of 70.
It's not every day you see a funeral in an actual cemetery for a fictional character, but fans of Breaking Bad in Albuquerque, the setting and shooting location for the show, did just that yesterday, paying respect to the show's lead character, Walter White. However, some saw it in bad taste.
Jimmy Kimmel understands what happens when you take a perfectly innocent statement and censor it.
Did you notice how South Park didn't show a new episode last night? Find out why right here.
Do you recognize this iconic rocker?
Forbes magazine has compiled their list of the ten highest paid actors on television, or what can also be called the "CBS Pays Their Actors Too Much" list.
What happens when you censor a harmless statement? Your dirty mind fills in the rest!
I know I wouldn't pay this much for some underwear in my life.
Musicians are taking a look at mean tweets that people have posted, and nobody is safe.
I absolutely love this commercial for the all new Samsung Galaxy Gear.
The iconic director had the time to help design one of the coolest Simpsons openings ever.
A story about a chemistry teacher that starts cooking meth, I feel like I have heard this one before.


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Red Hat 8.0 and (Possible) nForce Problems
I've installed 8.0 on my 60GB hard drive. First 6GB is for XP, next 10GB is for Linux (~100MB /boot, ~8.8GB /, ~1GB swap), and the rest is NTFS storage.
It won't boot :(
If I try to boot from the hd in Grub, I get this:
Booting 'Red Hat Linux (2.4.18-14)'
root (hd0, 1)
Filesystem type is ext2fs, partition type 0x83
kernel /vmlinuz-2.4.18-14 ro root=LABEL=/ hdd=ide-scsi
[Linux-bzImage, setup=0x1400, size=0x10ea0d]
Error 28: Selected item cannot fit into memory
If I boot off the boot floppy, it starts to load, then seems to hang on "Looking for module dependencies:" (IIRC; I let it sit for about 3 minutes, no hdd activity)
I have an Athlon XP 2000+
Asus A7N-266C nForce Mainboard
Abit Siluro GeForce4Ti4200/64MB
Any info would be greatly appreciated.
similar problem unger 7.3
Hello... I am a total noob BUT when I tried to install Rh 7.3 with an nforce chipset and GRUB it would not work...same error
I had to use lilo... but it works...
Also I (we) are not alone, others had this problem under RH7.3...see the graphics forum (Rh7.3 success story thread)
Thanks for the reply!
I gave up and reinstalled using LiLo, and it booted, but freezes at "Finding module dependencies"
So I gave up on Red Hat, and installed Mandrake 9.0.
Same thing, stops on "Finding module dependencies".
Gonna give up on Linux for the time being I guess, unless anyone thinks a different distro would be different? (isn't Mandrake built off of Red Hat?)
I cant even get the nforce drivers to compile using the source rpms. I have tried to install the rpm's with no luck and I have tried the tarball. the tarball went in and now I can see nvnet in my network settings but i cant activate it. The sound is the same It shows its there but I get nothing but an error saying i dont have permission to use it(I am root). any ideas?
Why hasn't nVidia come out with a new version to fix all these issues? RH8 has been out for almost three weeks now. I had emailed them and was told that the new nForce drivers would be out within the first week.
I must say though that the video drivers for my Ti4200 compiled and installed without a hitch. Kudos for that one.
instead of using GRUB as your book manager, try using just LILO instead. I've heard many many stories about errors just like your's, and all of them got fixed as soon as they switched over to LILO.
Well, being a n00b to linux entirely.. you may want to take my advice with a grain of salt.
Firstly, I ran into the same problem with grub boot selection, regarding not fitting into memory so I hear it has to do with where the boot-partition is on the hardrive (physiscally). Lilo however works fine.
I've been running my mouse using a usb -> ps2 adapter due to the fact I'm beta testing a couple things which have problems with usb currently. So, recently I decided to switch back to usb.
Poof, system hang on boot when "detecting module dependencies"... unplug the mouse and it cruises by just fine, same as always.
Just figured I'd add an observation, as I don't really want to switch my mouse back to ps2 I'm still stumbling along trying to find a solution.
I'm using the asus a7n266-c
If anyone figures anything out regarding the problem, please let me know.
I also had the same problems ...
but you should not blame nForce for your Boot hassles..
To get R.H8.0 grub work,
Install R.HL8.0, ***with a boot floppy***.
goto gnu's site, download latest grub(3.0 i believe),
boot in to Linux with boot floppy
copy the downloaded rpm to some dir of your machine,
update existing grub
rpm -U grub-whatever_latest_version.rpm
Now, assuming your boot parition lies on the HDD partition
grub-install /dev/hdb2
reboot, it should work
for DaMaxx:
I think you should install kernel headers.
Install pakage : kernel develop from your RH CD
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text:
About Donations for Diabetes:
Lynn and Bradley Pratt started Donations for Diabetes after their seven year old daughter, Ashley, was diagnosed with Type 1 Diabetes in October of 2010. "We started this non-profit organization to help spread awareness that a cure for diabetes is within reach. We hope to make a difference by raising funds to help support diabetes research and ultimately find a cure for this disease. This will allow our daughter, and all the others out there like her, to lead normal lives." For more information on Donation for Diabetes visit donationfordiabetes.org or call 802-325-3257.
Read the full story at http://www.prweb.com/releases/type-1-diabetes/donations-for-diabetes/prweb10409147.htm.
|Source: PRWeb
Copyright©2012 Vocus, Inc.
All rights reserved


text:
What a moron, the thread has nothing to do with a song; it is a movie that has to do with the abolition of slavery. I think the first sentence says something like, "Have you seen the movie Amazing Grace?" Notice the wording of the word movie. For your information a movie is not a song, and a song is not a movie. In fact, I think most 1st graders maybe even Kindergarteners understand the difference between a movie and a song. If you have trouble with that definition, let us know, I am sure someone has a first or second grade child at home that could relate to you and explain the difference in a way you could understand.
A little hint, I assure you, the last thing you will do is get me angry over something you obviously know nothing about. It would be too much like taking candy away from a baby. I actually think your ignorance as to reality is humorous as you show your total ignorance or stupidity, (I am giving you some benefit of the doubt here) as to the tripe you posted. But, with a whopping 75 posts I am sure you have been able to figure everything about everyone on these boards out, or at least you think you have. I think the clinical term for that is delusional, which you obviously seem to be. If you want, I can prescribe you some medications to deal with that, if you don't want those medications, I just hope you are not a danger to yourself or others, but your comments as of recent may seem to indicate that someone close to you, or the state, may be putting into practice a non voluntary commitment soon.


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Queerty is better as a member
Thanks QUEERTY for posting about the film I directed, I DO. Much appreciated, but in the spirit of accuracy, my last name is spelled GAYLORD, not GAYFORD. Remember LORD OF THE GAYS and you'll never get it wrong again. I swear! xx
Glenn Gaylord your movies suck!
@Jay: Aww thanks. As long as SUCK is used in the same sentence as my name, I'm good to go!
@Jay: Does your care taker know you are on the computer?
Need an account? Register It's free and easy.
Fisher-Price Campaign Shows Beauty And Diversity Of LGBT Families
WATCH: Chris Salvatore Cruises Grindr With Octogenarian Gal Pal Norma
Male Strippers Grind To Victory On "Britain's Got Talent"
Gay Water Polo Club, Toronto Triggerfish, Pay Tribute To Baywatch & Tight Speedos
Magic Mike Goes To Twerk & Other Moments From The MTV Movie Awards


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The Fordham Mentoring Program (FMP) offers alumni the opportunity to share their experience and put current students on the path to success.
The Fordham Mentoring Team pairs students one-on-one with alumni who provide professional expertise and career advice.
At the beginning of the fall semester, student and alumni participants are thoughtfully matched based off commonalities in their personal and professional profiles.
Throughout the yearlong program, mentors and mentees communicate and meet regularly based off the agreed-upon terms that best suit them. In addition to these individual interactions, pairs are required to attend four milestone events over the course of the year and check in regularly to assess their progress through Checkpoint Surveys. Learn more about the program and the matching process.
Mentoring Fordham students is a great way to reconnect with the University and to give back, in a tangible and personalized way. Seeing your mentees grow before your eyes is as exciting as it is rewarding. These are relationships that will last for years.
Chris Gulotta, FCLC '82, LAW '88, Alumni Mentor 2008-2012
For more information, contact the Fordham Mentoring Team at firstname.lastname@example.com.


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Plymouth Herald has all the best restaurants in Plymouth and every type of restaurant in Plymouth listed, many with reviews and star ratings; you'll find Indian Restaurants, Chinese Restaurants, Italian Restaurants as well as other places to eat in Plymouth such as Pizza Parlours and Brasseries.
Why not list your Plymouth Restaurant business on Plymouth Herald ?
Address: 28/30 Fore Street, , Saltash, PL12 6JL
Address: 123 street, Cadleigh Park, IVYBRIDGE, PL21 9JN
Address: 15 West Street, , Tavistock, PL19 8AN
Address: 31 New Street, , Plymouth, PL1 2NA
Address: 4 Derrys Cross, , PLYMOUTH, PL1 2SW
Address: Century Quay, Sutton Harbour, PLYMOUTH, PL4 0EP
Address: Arcadia Road, Elburton, PLYMOUTH, PL9 8EG
Address: 11 St Andrews Street, , Plymouth, PL1 1AA
Address: 16 Barbican Approach, , Plymouth, PL4 0LG
Address: 1, Church Lane, , Tavistock, PL19 8AA
Address: 41-42 Southside Street, , PLYMOUTH, PL1 2LD
Address: Tamar Street, , TORPOINT, PL11 2AW
Address: , , YELVERTON, PL20 6DW
Address: 300 Plymouth Road, , PLYMOUTH, PL3 6RW
Address: Eau 2, East Quay House, Plymouth, PL4 0HX
Address: King Point Marina, Millbay Docks, PLYMOUTH, PL1 3EF
Address: 33a Cattedown Road, , PLYMOUTH, PL4 0PG
Address: 19 Princess Street, , PLYMOUTH, PL1 2EU
Address: 12-15 Mills Bakery, Royal William Yard, PLYMOUTH, PL1 3RP
Address: 1 Lockyers Quay, , PLYMOUTH, PL4 0DX


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product details-Tab
Protects Mattresses & Chairs
For use in hospitals, nursing homes and in the home, Attends Underpads are made with soft inner fibers that make them comfortable and absorbent, and a strong, leak-resistant backsheet holds fluid. Available in a variety of shapes and sizes, all of our underpads help promote healthy skin, while at the same time protecting mattresses and chairs.
Contains additional super absorbent polymer and cellulose fibers for heavy absorbency. Soft, cloth-like topsheet covers entire surface to promote healthy skin. Leak-resistant, peach backsheet protects surfaces from fluid. Perfect for standard, everyday use.
©Attends Healthcare Products, Inc.
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Great For Pets!!
By avstampa
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describe yourself Dog pads
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Comments about Attends Night Preserver Fluff Underpad 30x30, 100 ea:
I had used cheaper pads that leaked all over the floor but these are wonderful, absorbent and very high quality. The best I've found. Think they would be great for bed pads also.
Bottom Line Yes, I would recommend this to a friend
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Trademark Global U.S Army Framed Graphic Art
Trademark Global U.S Army Framed Graphic Art
Weights & Dimensions
|Product Type: Graphic art
|Subject: Inspirational
|Medium: Giclee printed
|Orientation: Horizontal
|Size: Medium 25"-32"
|Shape: Rectangle
|Color: Black
|Primary Art Material: Glass
|Number of Items Included: 1
|Wall Hook: Yes
|Glass Component: Yes
|Time Period: Contemporary
|Region: North America
|Gender: Unisex/Both
|Eco-Friendly: No
|Country of Manufacture: United States
About the ManufacturerTrademark Global is a distributor of many products and product lines. In addition to the wide range of products that Trademark Global has to offer, their shipping services are quick and efficient. Trademark Global's highly developed home gaming line features such brand names as Trademark Poker, NexGen, Copag, and Paulson. Through Trademark Global, you will find a variety of items from poker chips to roulette, craps to blackjack, darts to chess, and so much more.
Trademark Global U.S Army Framed Graphic Art
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Customer Reviews
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Tell us what you think about this product. It will help us provide you with better products in the future and help your fellow shoppers make better purchases.Write the first review
OUR SKU # TMK4856U.S Army Framed Graphic Art is also sometimes listed under the following manufacturer numbers: ARMY1500


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Press release from PR Newswire
GNC Extends Trusted Line of Preventive Nutrition® Supplements
Tuesday, March 26, 2013
GNC Extends Trusted Line of Preventive Nutrition® Supplements08:00 EDT Tuesday, March 26, 2013Teams up with its Medical Advisory Board to develop premium formulas that support overall health and wellnessPITTSBURGH, March 26, 2013 /PRNewswire/ -- GNC Holdings, Inc. (NYSE: GNC), the nation's largest specialty retailer of health, wellness and sports nutrition products, announces the extension of its trusted line of advanced nutrition supplements. GNC's Preventive Nutrition® brand features more advanced, robust formulas comprised of scientifically formulated and clinically validated ingredients. The line is designed to provide nutritional support for a wide range of health concerns and support overall health and wellness.(Logo: http://photos.prnewswire.com/prnh/20110302/NE57701LOGO )"Health and wellness is important to men and women of all ages, and their health concerns are far-reaching and can range from supporting brain health to healthy digestion and cholesterol," said Tom Dowd, Executive Vice President, Chief Merchandising Officer and General Manager for GNC. "This extension of our Preventive Nutrition® line is part of GNC's goal of providing consumers with the best innovative products the nutritional supplement industry has to offer."Working with GNC's Medical Advisory Board of renowned physicians, GNC's latest innovations contain blends of clinically studied ingredients along with additional nutrients. Reflecting GNC's commitment to helping our customers Live Well, the line's lifestyle programs can also help consumers to modify their diet and/or exercise regimen to further support their health."With 11 new formulas to choose from, consumers can rest assured that they are taking a supplement that will help them support the key health concern they are focused on, such as eye health, blood pressure, digestive health or liver health," said the Chairman of GNC's Medical Advisory Board, Dr. Joseph C. Maroon, MD., F.A.C.S. "For example, the Healthy Cholesterol Formula? supports normal, healthy cholesterol and triglyceride levels. It combines potent phytosterols, which support heart health, and CoQ-10 for powerful cardiovascular antioxidant support."GNC's physician-formulated nutrition solutions feature premium ingredients for optimum performance: Eye Health Formula? ? Supports overall eye health and function Liver Health Formula? ? Supports the liver's natural cleansing and detoxifying process Brain Health Formula? ? Supports memory function and retention Energy Enhancing Formula? ? Provides stimulant-free energy production, fuels cellular energy and combats a key marker of muscle fatigue Healthy Digestion Formula? ? Improves overall digestive health and replenishes beneficial bacteria for optimal digestion Bone and Joint Health Formula? ? Improves overall bone and joint health Enhanced Sleep Formula? ? Naturally helps promote restful sleep Healthy Cholesterol Formula? ? Supports normal, healthy cholesterol and triglyceride levels Healthy Blood Pressure Formula? ? Supports normal, healthy blood pressure levels and enhances blood vessel dilation Cellular Antioxidant Formula? ? Protects cell structure and function Healthy Blood Sugar Formula? ? Supports normal, healthy blood glucose levelsTo purchase these products or to learn more about GNC's Preventive Nutrition® brand of products, visit your local GNC retailer or GNC.com.About Dr. Joseph C. Maroon, MD., F.A.C.S., Chairman of GNC'S Medical Advisory BoardDr. Joseph C. Maroon is a world-renowned neurosurgeon, health and fitness expert and Ironman triathlete. He is regarded as a premiere specialist in the surgical treatment of injuries and diseases of the brain and spine, particularly with microscopic and minimally invasive procedures. Consistently listed in America's Best Doctors, Dr. Maroon's patients travel from all over the world to seek his care. About GNCGNC Holdings, Inc., headquartered in Pittsburgh, Pa., is a leading global specialty retailer of health and wellness products, including vitamins, minerals, and herbal supplement products, sports nutrition products and diet products, and trades on the New York Stock Exchange under the symbol "GNC."As of December 31, 2012, GNC has more than 8,100 locations, of which more than 6,100 retail locations are in the United States (including 949 franchise and 2,181 Rite Aid franchise store-within-a-store locations) and franchise operations in 54 countries (including distribution centers where retail sales are made). The Company?which is dedicated to helping consumers Live Well?has a diversified, multi-channel business model and derives revenue from product sales through company-owned retail stores, domestic and international franchise activities, third-party contract manufacturing, e-commerce and corporate partnerships. The Company's broad and deep product mix, which is focused on high-margin, premium, value-added nutritional products, is sold under GNC proprietary brands, including Mega Men®, Ultra Mega®, GNC Total Lean?, Pro Performance®, Pro Performance® AMP and Beyond Raw®, and under nationally recognized third-party brands.Web: GNC.com l Twitter: @GNCLiveWell l Facebook: facebook.com/GNCLiveWellMedia Contact:Laura Brophy212-537-5177 Ext. email@example.com GNC Holdings, Inc.


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Writer For Hire® Pat Kramer
Please visit my two Facebook pages:
Writer For Hire &
Travel Writer Pat Kramer
Click to see my:
Office Hours: 9 - 5 p.m. Mon. - Fri (PST)
(818) 353-5699 or email@example.com
"Pat Kramer and I go back many years, she actually put my story into print; she was a writer for several newspapers in Glendale. The story of my cancer experience in today's world is a victory for most, but 20 years ago, it was unheard of to make choices that went against the grain. I am so blessed, fortunate, lucky, and touched to have had her in my life. She put me on the map to help others by going public with a message of Hope, Faith and Courage. Thank you, Ms. Pat, for your way with words. Much love to you always." March 1, 2015, Rev. Emma Molina-ynequez BodyNSoul
exceeded my expectations in every way. She was generous with her time
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"Pat is a very accomplished writer who helped me establish a better Linkedin profile than I had written. Pat is very disciplined about the value of accuracy when preparing and presenting the written word to achieve the anticipated results of the document. I would strongly recommend Pat as the "go to" Ghost Writer. January 28, 2015, Richard Krelstein, Richard Krelstein Management Consultant
"My first year of working with Pat has been nothing short of wonderful. She innately knows how to meld her listening and professional writing skills with the information and ideas I want to share. Her help on my first few blogs has erased my fears of that form of communication. I look forward to every session with Pat. I am very proud of our working partnership." December 12, 2014, Harcourt Hervey, The Law Offices of Harcourt Hervey
Kramer (Writer For Hire) recently drafted profiles for me for inclusion
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"I needed a refresh on my resume and my LinkedIn profile. I met with Pat and in two days all was complete. What I thought was going to be a long drawn out process was quick, painless and the results were outstanding. I would recommend Pat to anyone who is literally at a loss for words." July 24, 2014, Elizabeth Wheeler, Founder, Corporate Interior Consultancy
"As an instructor in the form, Pat provides great insight into the
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well designed and delivered with authority and panache." August 20, 2014, William Buckley, Senior Managing Director, GlassRatner Advisory & Capital Group.
Tita Tavares, Enterey Life Sciences Consulting, Inc.: "Pat is detail-oriented and an excellent writer. Not only did she produce quality pieces but she delivered on-time. I enjoyed working with Pat on multiple assignments and look forward to collaborating with her in the future."
Izzy Eichenstein, CEO, The Oakstone Company: "Pat Kramer is simply outstanding at her craft. She understands your concept and turns it into magic with her superior writing skills. She is a pleasure to work with. She has outstanding patience and asks the right questions which is the key to producing your desired result."
Thomas Daly, Partner, Christie, Parker & Hale, LLP: "It is tough to write a recommendation for Pat, because you know she could write it better. She provided a clear, concise and upbeat presentation on marketing materials. It was both witty and informative."
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Of Counsel, Squire, Sanders & Dempsey LLP: "Pat provided a
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award-winning journalist with 30+ years of writing experience, Pat
Kramer writes, edits, and collaborates on content for business and
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I have to give credit to the young lady who inspired me to write, her name was Anne Frank. Like many other young girls in elementary school, I was required to read "The Diary of Anne Frank" when I was in fifth grade. While it ultimately documented one of the most horrific times in world history, Anne's story also inspired me in many ways: Here was a young woman who showed exceptional courage as her very life was being threatened for the two, long years that her family was in hiding.
Frank inspired me to write as a young woman. The year I read her diary,
I started my own and I have never stopped writing. It is in Anne's
memory that I pay tribute for awakening in me a desire to write. Pat Kramer, 2014
Writing Samples > Film Reviews >


text: The Volume Nine wiki last edited by pikahyper on 04/10/14 10:57PM View full history Zayne and his con-artist partner Gryph are finally learning the truth about their fierce friend Jarael and the strange Mandalorian deserter Rohlan. Deception has been company to the foursome since Zayne's life as a fugitive banded them together. As they have adventured across the galaxy, light has shone on each of their pasts. Yet for one of Zayne's companions, a resurfacing past brings deadly peril -- and he'll have to call in every favor he can if he hopes to save the day!


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Earlier this year, Scott Kelby came to me and asked if we wouldn't be interested in helping him re-design and re-launch the Photoshop Hall of Fame website which had been left alone for a few years. Needless to say, I accepted and over the past couple of months we have been working closely with the teams at NAPP to create this new website and we are very happy to finally be able to share the new site with everybody. Continue Reading »
Adding a Separator to the WordPress Admin Menu
Custom Post Types in WordPress are superb! More often that not, websites that we build for clients have more than one custom post type which inevitably will clutter up the admin menu slightly. The solution to the problem is one that WordPress itself employs: De-clutter the meny by inserting a separator in between sections.
Doing this requires just a couple of simple PHP functions that you can add to your
functions.php file. One to create the separator, one to add any number of separators at any position in the menu and finally an action hook into the menu to add it. Continue Reading »
Supercharged Coda Workflow UI
For most web development, Coda 2 from Panic is the main application of choice. The reason I favor Coda for site development is a combination of all of its features but mainly its ability to organize sites and handle publishing of edited files. A benefit is the ability to set up the user interface for super quick development, which is what I wanted to share with you guys today.
The way I set up Coda when starting the development of a site is to take advantage of the columns feature, splitting the window up in three columns on my 27″ screen. One for the HTML code, one for the CSS and a final for a browser preview. The browser preview is automatically updated when you change something in the CSS or HTML views. This way, you get instant references from your HTML code (when coding CSS) and get the instant update in the browser too.
Facebook Releases Official WordPress Plugin
In an interesting move, it seems like Facebook has released an official WordPress plugin to support sharing from your WordPress blog right into your Facebook page via their OpenGraph protocol.
So far I haven't had a chance to check out the new plugin as I just saw the release notes. You will be able to publish to people's timelines by tagging them in your post as well as directly integrate Facebook comments and the like send and subscribe buttons on each post. You also get a few widgets for your sidebar too.
Check out the plugin and the notes over at Facebook's developer site.
Launching an Updated Website for Team Hälso & Friskvård
We have been working with local personal fitness and training company Team Hälso & Friskvård for several months to create an improved website for them to attract more customers.
Their old website wasn't bad at all and we have kept the design, which is deeply rooted in their graphical identity and just improved on it.
Our Goals
We had a number of goals that Team HF set for us to make the new website look better. Firstly, it needed to perform better. They had a fairly high bounce rate on the site and were not getting any major leads of their contact us section. Attracting more leads became the lead goal.
Secondly, Team HF wanted to increase the number of people that used their training center and gym by updating its training section with a more appealing page design.
Finally, we were asked to make the site easy to keep up to date with new content and information.
What we did.
Let's now take a look at what we did to improve their website and make it perform better.
Backend System Change to WordPress & Code Tweaking
The site used to be powered by a .NET based content management system that was custom made by the agency that initially made their website. We suggested that we change the backend system to WordPress for several key reasons:
- Extensibility: The custom CMS would be hard to extend with new features, even contact forms.
- Ease-of-use: WordPress allows us to make it easier for Team HF to update more of the website themselves which was one of their key requirements.
- Security: By choosing WordPress, we can ensure that the site is constantly being updates to patch the latest security threats which would be harder and more costly on the custom CMS.
Redesigning the Frontpage
Team HF's previous frontpage did not have much information to lead you through and want to explore the site. It was pretty unclear where you should be heading next. To solve this, we created a new design (within their existing layout and graphical identity).
Specific services are immediately visible along with good-looking photos to attract the viewers attention and make them go deeper into the site and become interested in the services that Team HF offers.
Finally, we chose to clean up the page, make the design simpler and make it less cluttered with inconsistent font sizes and families.
Introduced Quick Contact Form
To make it easier for them to convert visitors into customers, we added a contact form on each informational page on the site that asks the visitor if he/she wants to learn more, allowing them to painlessly drop their name and contact information. This can be picked up by the team at Team HF to call or email the lead and close the deal.
By allowing users to painlessly contact them, we dramatically increase the likelihood of new customers as Team HF themselves can personally contact the client and sell the products in a more personal way than the website can, without the client having to do much work.
Cleaner Design & New Training Page
As a final part in reaching our goals, we opted to fully re-design the main landing page for the training section to promote the different services that are offered and overall make it more visual instead of the old text based section.
Many of the links and graphics on the old site lacked contrast, making it hard to use and navigate the site. This was improved by altering some of the colors, still keeping it within the main graphical identity.
Even though the new site was only just released we have seen an increase in leads coming through the instant access contact forms on every page of the site. With time, it remains to be seen how much the bounce rate is being affected, but we are confident that Team HF will ultimately gain more customers through their updated website.
How To Add A Twitter Feed To Your Website
It is very simple to add a Twitter feed to your own website without using Twitter's default UI widget, which frankly looks quite ugly. If you want full customization ability, keep on reading and I'll show you what to do using a bit of PHP. Continue Reading »
WordPress Theme Preview: Lucent
Hey folks. Today I wanted to share a theme that we are working on releasing very shortly for purchase at ThemeForest. We are currently going through the final phases of testing it to make sure it works well in different set-ups and once that's done, it will be on its way to ThemeForest.
In the meantime, here's a screenshot of the frontpage. Let us know in the comments what you think about it.
WordPress 3.3.2 Available For Download
Last night the WordPress team released WordPress 3.3.2 which is available for download and update in the built-in updater. The release is a bug fix and maintenance release and includes security updates for the following libraries (taken from the WordPress blog post):
- Plupload (version 1.5.4), which WordPress uses for uploading media.
- SWFUpload, which WordPress previously used for uploading media, and may still be in use by plugins.
- SWFObject, which WordPress previously used to embed Flash content, and may still be in use by plugins and themes.
The release also addresses the following bugs (taken from the official blog post):
- Limited privilege escalation where a site administrator could deactivate network-wide plugins when running a WordPress network under particular circumstances, disclosed by Jon Cave of our WordPress core security team, and Adam Backstrom.
- Cross-site scripting vulnerability when making URLs clickable, by Jon Cave.
- Cross-site scripting vulnerabilities in redirects after posting comments in older browsers, and when filtering URLs. Thanks to Mauro Gentile for responsibly disclosing these issues to the security team.
As always we recommend that you update right away in order to keep your WordPress installation secure and prevent breaches. If you are on our maintenance plan, your site has already been upgraded.
Auto-Generating a Select Menu in WordPress With a Custom Menu Walker
While working on the new website for BestAppSite, I wanted to have the functional <select> drop-down menu for smaller screen sizes, such as for the iPhone. These menus behave nicely and save valuable real-estate when you have many items to present.
Creating the menu itself isn't very hard in plain HTML. The theory is to add the code for the drop-down underneath the default unordered list menu and then display/hide it using the media queries in the CSS. Couple that with the simple javascript snippet to open a URL from a drop-down selection, the menu itself is no problem. Continue Reading »
Happy Easter!
From us here at XLD Studios, I want to wish you a very Happy Easter!