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Joined: Feb 2004
Location: london, England
Oddometer: 2,708
Old Guzzi and new boots ride to Spain.
A trip made last October to the Moto Piston Rally in Spain. .
A ride abroad has it's own special needs - With, as Ian drury said "New boots and pants"..
Technically the boots aren't new. Just my old faithful fully waterproof timberlands with a new set of soles, thicker and more grippy than the previous soles.
But the pants are new, in a selection of monochrome colours (is monochrome a colour ?) , from black to grey and a greyer grey.
And hopefully they won't show the thick rich skidmarks that are possible from eating greasy foreign food and sitting on my sweaty arse all day riding and having to use garage kharzis.
Clothing packed, now onto the essentials.
Seeing as i'll be riding a 33 year old guzzi, that hasn't been used for some considerable time i took a spare clutch and throttle cable, an inner tube, real tyre levers, compulsary hi-vis vest and bulbs, and a tin of finilec and cable ties. These were stored in the left hand (laughly called) pannier.
The righthand laughing box had all my personal favourite items.
A selection of vegetables, both soft skinned and root . A bottle of non bio washing liquid, a tub of butter substitute and a 25 foot electrical extension lead.
The laughing boxes weren't lockable, maybe this wasn't needed in such innocent times 33 years ago. But i took precuations and locked the left box with a hefty cable tie (hoping it wouldn't need to be opened except in dire emergencies).
The right hand box had a quality bungee (courtesy of john plane, who accidently left it on my loan bike) to secure it as i'd be frequently rummaging amongst it's contents on my journey.
The idea was to travel by chunnel to northern france and then head down the west coast of france to spain and santander for the weekend of the 8th/9th of october for the Moto piston rally.
Left home at 5.30am on weds 5th. In the dark and in light drizzle.
Crossed without drama. Started off to Rouen, in strong side winds and sheet rain.
Travelled 150 miles and thought sod this, due to a combination of very high petrol and toll costs on the autoroutes. It'll be cheaper heading towards St naziare and getting the overnight ferry to Gijon. See, you can do this when you don't make plans.
Stopped for elevensies on the way. A pain aux raisin and coffee.
I love a moist pain.
Onwards onwards across featureless northern france.
I could think of some grand references for the weather, like swirling winds, thundering rain, booming, pelting, pounding, pouring, chilling, squally angry clouds. The fog rolled in like dice only slower, quieter, and without numbers on it. It was dark outside like pants. Black pants.
But lets just say it was shite and leave it at that. .
The rain did gradually dissipate although it stayed grey and very english like.
Stopped for lunch at a garage, a traditional french baton of tuna, egg and garlic.
This picture took several attempts and much mirth for the garage staff with plenty of exercise running back and forth on the self timer before getting the bollard in the exact position. It's the hidden price you pay for art.
While stopped i bought a container of my own travel guardians, Tick Tacks.
Some people have gilded shiney tissues boxes on the rear shelf of their cars, others have jangly CDs hanging from the rear veiw mirrors. I always have a box of tick tacks.
Tell me, when did you ever see a tick tack lorry broken down or crashed on your travels -never.
As the french say " Regarde tick-tacks et va-t-en rassuré" and "Si en tick tacks confías, de accidente no morirás". There you go, that's good enough for me.
And the guzzi bars and speedo set up are perfect for holding the coffee, the italians think of everything.
After 491 miles i arrived at St nazaire ferry terminal, at about 5ish in the afternoon, the sailing leaves at 9pm.
Booked my cabin with the nice lady in reception, they had no 2 berth cabins, but the 4 berth was only £4 more so not a ball breaker. And while passing the time of day talking to her got offered the return trip for £80 - thank you please.
While waiting i did another self timer shot, but could only get a few plants in the foreground and lots of flare in this one.
Nice cabin, but must be claustrophobic with four people in it. Restaurant was good ( for a ferry) but a little pricey. Next stop Espania. ETA Gijon 12 midday (perhaps ETA isn't the best phrase to use for northern spain). Had a nice cabin and as i laid on the bunk with the lights out and a view of the nearly full moon through the cabin window and the ipod playing i felt like sam manicom on acid.
So, arrived without incident. Bikes are last on the ferry, but first off.
Espania, lets " i r a hacer una".
Gijon is only around 100 miles from sanatander so after unboarding and filling with fuel and a leasurely ride along the coast i arrived at my hotel about 3clock. The hotel was 2 minutes walk from james burtons/bsogris groups hotel.
I thought i had a room, but it was a suite, with HD flat screens in both rooms, a dining table and sofa in the living room and two bathrooms, all for 47euros a night, saturday was 54 euros. And free parking for the bike. Result. I'm here from thursday until monday.
And two minutes from the beach.
met up with the boy burton and his group on thurday evening and went into town.
Brian (bsogri) took us to a bar, beer was 2 euros, but if you ordered a small tapas like roll with a filling ( accompanied with crisps and olives) for one euro you get a beer for one euro - So whoevers round it was got the menu and ticked off a random selection on the menu and we waited to see what arrived. A good way to get pissed.
After we'd eaten enough we then hit a few more bars. There are no pictures as no one had a camera ( fred may have but who can remember).
All i do know is that drinking half pints of tequila and naranja enables you to time travel, as i lost 15 hours and woke up early on friday afternoon.
Friday afternoon was spent chugging around santander on the guzzi amongst hundreds of other bikes all arriving for the moto piston rally, and having tapas and coffee at one of the many cafes while watching the bikes go past.
While sitting in self inflicted discomfort i thought i'd take another picture of coffee.
And yet another successful self timer shot that proves you don't have to be control of your faculties to produce art
I'd been on away from home for a few days now, and had needs, i was missing something.
So i set off downtown, and asked a few guys where i could get myself "sorted out" in my best spanish. I was directed to a small door, and went inside to be met by a young spanish girl, late teens early twenties. I explained in bad spanish what i needed, and did some hand gestures so she fully understood.
She smiled sweetly, turned around and bent over, and then with both hands opened her box and showed me her labia.
Just what i needed. As i'd forgotten my lip balm.
How i kept a straight face as she asked if i wanted her labia i'll never know. But it did cure my hangover, and soften my lips.
I couldn't face another night on the town so friday was a 5 course meal for 22 euros, main was sea bream. Very nice. Then had an early night.
Saturday was an early start, the rally had arranged a race course around the Racing santander football stadium, very conveniant for me, as it was around the corner from my hotel.
So i spent the morning watching the old bikes and the racing.
The old bike picture first.
An assortment in the paddock.
Bumped into buzz lightyear (burton) and paul (clydcymru or whatever welsh name is is on here), and had an icea creameo.
And a spanish snack.
Went into the autojumble and surprise surprise, much the same as any other autojumble the world over, except instead of old british tat it was full of old spanish tat.
A four caliper laverda :
Then back outside to watch the racing which was getting into full swing.
A brief shower made it interesting
And the dogs couldn't take their eyes off it.
The riders were also vintage -this old boy said he had raced a few times in his youth at the TT races. The lying old bastard , he didn't even have a bike, he came on the bus.
The last race had two moto morinis that were really going for it and kept the crowd entertained for 20 minutes as they diced with death, the kerbs and lamposts. A quality afternoon .
Then back to looking at a few more bikes.
Then it was a quick tapas and refreshment before the evening
I popped along to the rally hotel, just along the sea front and bumped into Devon and number 6, and had a wander around the underground garage with where all the bikes in the rally were parked. Amazing.
And they had Elvis as entertainment in the rally hotel that night.
That night started off in the irish bar having a beer with paul, james and fred
Then swiftly moved onto large luminescent orbs of gin and tonic.
We went into town, had more tapas and drink and watched paul contort himself into shapes on the slippery steps, no he wasn't drunk officer, he does yoga.
We went home, tired and emotional. Or rather Paul did. We all went back to the irish bar and met some of the others.
I didn't want to go time travelling so stayed off the naranja and tequila.
An excellent day and i only rode the bike for 5 minutes.
Woke up early on sunday morning clear headed and watched the japanese grand prix in bed with a cup of tea.
Then went into town and had a ride along the front.
Met a new mate. He couldn't say a word in english, on a par with my spanish but still took me 20 minutes to get away from him . I think he was trying to explain why he'd done a bunk from church this morning and would i back him if his missus caught him by saying we were related, and would i like a kipper from his bag..
I spied a small private secluded beach and thought i'd have a closer look, for photographing wildlife purposes and playing my trumpet.
After finding the gate locked purely by chance i discovered a hole in the perimeter fence, and after clambering through 500 yards of thick gorse and bramble ( obviously to keep the spanish perverts out) i stumbled onto the beach.
I kept in a low crouch, so as not to attract attention and scare the wildlife.
Look, a sign. No nudismo !. And no trumpets. That's my day ruined.
Oh well best make my way back and see what's going on at the rally.
Passed some architectural oddities on the way.
Someone had done graffiti on the side of an office block from the roof of a house - and the house has since been demolished.
The area has a nice coastline and beaches.
It was show time back at the rally, lots of bikes parked up while they all had lunch supplied by the rally organisers.
Not so many primary colours as the previous day, maybe because they were mostly english bikes on display.
Cool as feck. :cool:
Another good day. I was back on the road tomorrow (monday), heading towards Santiago.
Found a top restaurant and had another 5 course meal, the starter was courgette, scrambled egg, iberian ham and homemade tomatoe sauce, doesn't sound much but it was astounding - main was Hake with prepubescent penises, and a bottle of wine.
I've had Hake plenty of times before, but this was the one. Put on this earth to swim and end up on my plate.
Is it done to lick the plate in a spanish restaurant.
And the pudding ....
And the wine was good. So good i ended up speaking to the germans on the next table for half an hour, and i can't speak german. I slept very well.
Left the lap of luxury monday morning, heading west along the coast road to ribadeo and onto santiago.
Nice roads but much the same as any coast roads the world over - views of the sea one side of the road, houses, woods or fields on the other.
Once past ribadeo the coast turned more wild.
And a very noisey sea, which i enjoyed sitting relaxing watching and listening to for quite a while.
At one alcove i noticed a movement and thought it was a spot of nudismo bathing going on - no such luck, just a couple of seals. They'd better not hang around too long on they'll be on the menu at a local restaurant.
Looping around the coast from Foz to Ferrol i recognised an area where i stayed back in 1980 while riding around the coast road of spain and portugal, two up with my girlfriend on an R65 with £200 each in our pockets, no credit cards, no cares and no plans.
These two pictures are in almost the same place, 31 years apart. The small family run hotel and bar have gone, but the ghosts of happy memories are still there. I stood for a long while absorbing the past.
Decided i'd get a move on and get to santiago late afternoon.
No tapas today. But i did stop for a good meal consisting of all the basic ingredients needed for a healthy diet.
Took the small quite roads to santiago and arrived at 5.30pm. Booked into the Santiago Grand. It wasn't.
No decent restaurants near the hotel. As it was in the student quarter it was just burger bars etc. Ended up in the hotel restaurant having a buffet. Pictures would do the food justice, and it didn't deserve any.
Up early as the sun rose because there were some interesting buildings next to the hotel.
These are student digs. Not a scrap of litter or grafitti anywhere, which is in sharp contrast to the student digs near my home.
Had a mooch around the old town on foot which made me feel at one with the pilgrims . And that was santiago done.
Up and away from Santiago, on the road heading east - Today i'm going to ride small roads and use the GPS as a guide to where i am and not as a route robot.
It was a warm start to the day, so i'd decided to stop and get some provisions at the next likely looking town.
My ipod was playing the "Good bad and the ugly" as i arrived on the edge of town. I paused and looked, and really did feel like the man with no name.
I'd reached the fabled town of Fisteous. The town that's responsible for introducing the term "Rictus Grin" to the world.
I stopped in a small busy store (I noticed i was the only person wearing a watch ?) and restocked some provisions.
You can only imagine my unbridled joy and delight at finding a lightweight alloy technical hand whisk.
I also picked up some of the more mundane items that travellers always need, a vacuum packed genuine spanish potato omelette and a smoke alarm, to be stored in the R/H laughing box alongside the other essentials.
Time to get my arse out of town and back on the road. .
The day was very warm with some enjoyable riding, the miles and time flew by on my way to Gijon.
The motorway on stilts was impressive
But not as impressive as the jumbo croissant, and which i had to stab to death with my fork before i could eat.
A bridge. Over a river. With a bike obscuring the view. Incredible. Would love to know the full story.
Before i knew it i'd arrived at Gijon.
That's my bike in lane 2, with the boat i was catching in the background.
Fours later i was onboard ( did i mention that bikes are always last on ). The boat was full and some lorries didn't get aboard.
Lots of police were called to calm down the very excitable and loud latin types driving the perishable goods lorries still on the dock.
From up on deck it looked like the waving about of some rolled up newspaper by the police had the desired effect on calming the situation.
Went to check into my cabin and wqas told they'd run out of 2 berths, so i could have a 4 berth, see, there is some benefits to being last on.
This cabin was at the very front of the boat with a nice view out of the window (note the use of seafaring terms).
This was taken in the morning as it's dark when you leave Gijon
St Naziare ahead.
I had plenty of time to get back to the Uk so once off the ferry i decided to ride to calais using the smallest roads without using any maps or GPS. Pretty easy. Just keep the sea on your left.
Haven't a clue where this is.
All uneventful, apart from the amount of mud on some of the very small french roads left by militant english hating french farmers.
Only other problem was fuel related. Thirtythree years ago the the italians didn't deem it necessary to fit trip meters to the california. This hadn't been a problem when the GPS was turned on as i used the trip on the GPS unit. Now i was using guestimates.
Not crucial as there is a reserve tap. But as you know petrol stations in the rural parts of france are few and far between, especially in the evenings.
It was 7.30pm and drizzling and for the last hour i'd been saying to myself "next hotel and i'll stop for the night". And they'd been nothing.
So i diverted onto larger roads in the hope of coming across something. I did at 8.15pm, and on reserve.
I'd come into the town of Forges-les-aux. On my left a dimly lit pink hotel, on my right a large casino/hotel/spa/golf course ( or "twat farm" as whatton calls them).
I chose using my wallet ( how i managed that i don't know, as i don't carry a wallet).
Anyway here's a picture. Looks OK in the light of day. But if i say not one bulb was higher than 40 watts you'll get the idea what it was like at night.
Don't be lulled into a false sense of security by the picture, if you're ever passing, just carry on. Oh, and the hotel doesn't do evening meals.
Ate at a primary coloured (decor was yellow and red) pizza come restaurant 5 minutes along the road.
And confirms my theory on restaurants in europe. If they decorate their shop front in any primary colour avoid it. You have been warned.
This is was across the road from the hotel.
The usual french WW2 tourism in locations with nothing much else going for them. The remains of a building after a typical german attrocity.
Anyway, while cooped up in the pink palace i thought of a challenge for you.
Guess the song from the pictures........
The pictures are representitive of a verse in the song.
"Say what you see" (as the great philosopher Roy Walker used to say) and it's obvious.
The first person to get it right will win a prize that money can't buy- A snickers bar thats travelled 2400 miles in my aerostich pocket and has melted and hardened several times during it's journey.
This isn't easy, as i'm not giving this prize away without any effort involved.
Here we go.
Post your answers and i'll announce the winner.
Up and away the next morning. A mile down the road in the main town were a nice selection of hotels and restaurants. Ho hum.
I stopped for a coffee and raisan pain in the first petrol station i saw. And looking at the pictures from the previous stop on the way down it looks identical. But it isn't/wasn't, as you can tell by the change on the counter.It was 50 cents cheaper.
But this garage had a surprise in store, a commotion by the sell by date sandwiches attracted my attention. People were paying homage to something on their way in and out of the shop -
The sheer beauty took my breath away - You will not see a finer selection of pompier figurines anywhere on the planet.
And knocks into a cocked hat the typical uk service stations shortbread selections.. It brought a tear to my eye looking at all those excellent representaions of helpless children being saved from perilous situations.
If only i had room in my laughing boxes.
Still riding without maps or GPS i bumped into the sea at le croy, just north of abbeville, and decided to stay hugging the coast where possible all the way to calais.
A strange area that section of coast up to Le Touquet at this time of year. Whole holiday towns/villages that just shut up shop until next spring. And not a person to be seen.
You can drive along the prom.
Up to the beach, and even onto it if you had the right bike.
Headed off to le Touquet as it was British week
Not a red bus or phone box to be seen.
So instead have a picture of a british registered italian bike on the front in the cycle lane at le Touquet.
Now, no ukgser ride report that involves riding through northern france can go by without a reference to any of the world wars, it's compulsory.
So here's a cemetery.
And i found Private Ryan.
Well, that's it. 2400 miles on a 33 year old moto guzzi that only had an oil change as mechanical preparation. The boots didn't leak and the pants stayed clean.
And thanks to borderraider couple of pictures from the thursday night earlier in the report.
The bar with the old BMW's inside.
And feck knows where but enjoying myself.
Steptoe screwed with this post 03-01-2012 at 11:01 AM
Beastly Adventurer
Joined: Jan 2010
Location: Inverary, Ontario, Canada
Oddometer: 1,096
Guzzis Rule: Britannia and elsewhere
Great pictures, Great Bike! You have a super eye for interesting detail. No nudists, no trumpets indeed!
Your T-3 is delicious. At 33 years old its almost new, and at 12000+ miles its hardly even broken in properly yet (unless its been around the clock already - always a possibility).
Trans-Labrador Solo, 72 Moto Guzzi
Joined: May 2009
Location: Meath,Ireland
Oddometer: 47
Great report,love the photos not to mention the gardening gloves!!
Prime of Senility
Joined: Feb 2012
Location: The Dakotas
Oddometer: 56
Brill RR, great bike, a smoke detector and wisk?
Joined: Feb 2004
Location: london, England
Oddometer: 2,708
Aussie BM rider, West Oz.
Joined: Jun 2005
Location: Perth.
Oddometer: 1,862
Thanks, I enjoyed that.
On my first west to east, and return, crossing of Australia, my mate rode his Cali while I was on a BM 750/6, about 1980-81 I think it was. Not a single problem with either bike in +8,000 kms.
I've had a soft spot for those Guzzi's ever since.
Joined: Mar 2004
Location: Memphis, Motorcycle Purgatory
Oddometer: 2,925
that was a good read. Thanks!
God. Family. Motorcycles. Guns. Music. Books. Dogs. Beer. Baseball. Work. That about covers it.
wet coaster
Joined: Sep 2008
Location: left coast
Oddometer: 1,292
Thank you.
Great report.
Beastly Adventurer
Joined: Mar 2010
Location: sydney, east
Oddometer: 1,778
Great ride. My summer gear is also garden gloves and old lace up army boots. Did you really have to share info about your underwear??? Oh and riding a guzzi, now you've been outed!
i just seek clarity
Gnarly Adventurer
Joined: Sep 2011
Location: Scotland - UK
Oddometer: 228
Tell us a bit more about your Moto Guzzi please? Is it shaft drive and what engine cc etc? Have you owned it long, reliable etc?
Enjoyed your ride report, a great experience!
stop acting
Joined: Feb 2007
Location: In transit
Oddometer: 17,453
Thanks, made me laugh out loud. Great RR.
MG 850 LM Mk II Ducati 900 FE #301
Bewildered Adventurer
Joined: Jul 2008
Location: Kas-Antalya,Turkey
Oddometer: 1,043
Short, sweet and superlative.
Any bike, anywhere
Joined: May 2007
Location: Russell, New Zealand
Oddometer: 786
Couldn't get the verse from the pics, though; musta been a trick question.
PJ Honda XL1000V, Suzuki DR650, Adventure Royal Enfield, OSSA Explorer, first model XL250, 11 other offroad, road, and roadrace bikes
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All authors contributed equally to this work
Towards an integrated global framework to assess the impacts of land use and management change on soil carbon: current capability and future vision
Article first published online: 9 APR 2012
DOI: 10.1111/j.1365-2486.2012.02689.x
© 2012 Blackwell Publishing Ltd
Global Change Biology
Volume 18, Issue 7, pages 2089–2101, July 2012
Additional Information
How to Cite
Smith, P., Davies, C. A., Ogle, S., Zanchi, G., Bellarby, J., Bird, N., Boddey, R. M., McNamara, N. P., Powlson, D., Cowie, A., van Noordwijk, M., Davis, S. C., Richter, D. D. B., Kryzanowski, L., van Wijk, M. T., Stuart, J., Kirton, A., Eggar, D., Newton-Cross, G., Adhya, T. K. and Braimoh, A. K. (2012), Towards an integrated global framework to assess the impacts of land use and management change on soil carbon: current capability and future vision. Global Change Biology, 18: 2089–2101. doi: 10.1111/j.1365-2486.2012.02689.x
Publication History
- Issue published online: 5 JUN 2012
- Article first published online: 9 APR 2012
- Accepted manuscript online: 8 MAR 2012 11:42AM EST
- Manuscript Accepted: 4 MAR 2012
- Manuscript Revised: 28 FEB 2012
- Manuscript Received: 14 NOV 2011
Funded by
- UK Biotechnology and Biological Sciences Research Council
- Energy Technologies Institute
- land use;
- land use change;
- model;
- monitoring;
- soil carbon
Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) Tier 1 methodologies commonly underpin project-scale carbon accounting for changes in land use and management and are used in frameworks for Life Cycle Assessment and carbon footprinting of food and energy crops. These methodologies were intended for use at large spatial scales. This can introduce error in predictions at finer spatial scales. There is an urgent need for development and implementation of higher tier methodologies that can be applied at fine spatial scales (e.g. farm/project/plantation) for food and bioenergy crop greenhouse gas (GHG) accounting to facilitate decision making in the land-based sectors. Higher tier methods have been defined by IPCC and must be well evaluated and operate across a range of domains (e.g. climate region, soil type, crop type, topography), and must account for land use transitions and management changes being implemented. Furthermore, the data required to calibrate and drive the models used at higher tiers need to be available and applicable at fine spatial resolution, covering the meteorological, soil, cropping system and management domains, with quantified uncertainties. Testing the reliability of the models will require data either from sites with repeated measurements or from chronosequences. We review current global capability for estimating changes in soil carbon at fine spatial scales and present a vision for a framework capable of quantifying land use change and management impacts on soil carbon, which could be used for addressing issues such as bioenergy and biofuel sustainability, food security, forest protection, and direct/indirect impacts of land use change. The aim of this framework is to provide a globally accepted standard of carbon measurement and modelling appropriate for GHG accounting that could be applied at project to national scales (allowing outputs to be scaled up to a country level), to address the impacts of land use and land management change on soil carbon.

subset: commoncrawl


text:
250 Lexington
El Cajon, California, 92020
Commute to Downtown El Cajon
Most errands can be accomplished on foot.
Score Details
250 Lexington has a Walk Score of 85 out of 100. This location is Very Walkable so most errands can be accomplished on foot.
250 Lexington is a 21 minute walk from the Green Line at the El Cajon Transit Center stop.
This location is in El Cajon. Nearby parks include Wildmere Park, Park and Red Cross Park.
Nearby schools include Cajon Valley Community Day Middle School, Cajon Valley Middle School and Johnson Elementary School.
The closest grocery stores are Downtown El Cajon Farmers' Market, Maria's Fresh Foods Inc and El Cajon International Foods.
Nearby coffee shops include Downtown Cafe, Fresh Cup Coffee and Starbucks. There are 35 restaurants within a 15 minute walk including Nicolosi's Italian Restaurant El Cajon, Mexican Food El Cajon - El Mariachi Mexican Restaurant and Mezzah.
250 Lexington is near Cajon Valley Park, Renette Park and Tuttle Park.
Explore how far you can travel by car, bus, bike and foot from 250 Lexington.
Rail lines:
Green Line
1.2 mi
Bus lines:
0.1 mi
0.1 mi
0.1 mi
0.1 mi
0.1 mi
0.1 mi
0.4 mi
Car shares:
View all El Cajon apartments on a map.
Popular apartment searches include pool, fireplace and fitness.
This location is in the city of El Cajon, CA. El Cajon has an average Walk Score of 52 and has 99,478 residents.


text:
Institute of Physics and Engineering in Medicine
|1997 (1943)
|Learned society
Official language
|Professor Stephen Keevil
Key people
|Rosemary Cook CBE (CEO)
Professor David Brettle (President elect)
The Institute of Physics and Engineering in Medicine (IPEM) is the United Kingdom's professional body and learned society for physicists and engineers within the field of medicine, founded in 1995, changing its name from the Institute of Physics and Engineering in Medicine and Biology (IPEMB) in 1997.[1] The Institute is governed by an elected Board of Trustees reporting to which is a substructure of committees, groups and panels of members, which undertake the professional work of the Institute. IPEM is a member of the Science Council. [2]
The Institute is licensed by the Engineering Council to register Chartered Engineers and by the Science Council to register Chartered Scientists,[3] Registered Scientists and Registered Science Technicians.[4]
The claimed aim of the Institute and its members is to promote for the public benefit the advancement of physics and engineering applied to medicine and biology, and to advance public education in the field.[5]
The organization can trace its origin to three societies:[1][6][7]
- the Hospital Physicists Association (HPA) founded in 1943,
- the Hospital Physics Technicians Association (HPTA) founded in 1952, and
- the Biological Engineering Society (BES) founded in 1960.
The HPA created its scientific arm in 1984, the Institute of Physical Sciences in Medicine (IPSM). The trade union and scientific activities split in 1989: the scientific arm merged with the BES to form IPEMB while the trade union (HPA) joined the Manufacturing, Science and Finance Trades Union (MSF).[1][7] The Association of Medical Technologists (AMT) formerly (HPTA) merged with IPEM in 2001.[1]
The Institute issues an IPEM Diploma on successful completion of Part I training (the initial training grade, which for medical physicists and clinical engineers it involves two years in-service training, incorporating an accredited MSc).
There are 11 categories of membership:
- Fellowship (FIPEM): This is the most senior category of membership. It is only awarded to Corporate members (MIPEM) who have made an outstanding contribution to Medical Physics or Engineering.
- Full Membership (MIPEM): This category is for people seeking recognition as professional Scientists, Engineers or Technologist in the field of Medical Physics or Engineering. It includes the old Incorporated Membership.
- Medical Fellowship (MedFIPEM): This membership is for Medical Practitioners who have made outstanding contributions to Physics and Engineering applied to medicine.
- Medical Membership (MedMIPEM): For Medical Practitioners working in fields associated with Medical Physics and Engineering.
- Associate Membership: For people working in the field of Medical Physics, Engineering and Technology but who do not yet meet the requirements of MIPEM.
- Student Membership: For students in the field of Medical Physics and Engineering who do not meet the requirement of Associate Membership (e.g. a Post-graduate students).
- Affiliate Membership: For anyone with an interest in Medical Physics and Engineering.
- International Membership: For Medical Physicists, Engineers and technologists working outside the United-Kingdom and members of a national organisation equivalent to IPEM.
- Honorary Fellowship is awarded for outstanding contributions in the field of physics or engineering applied to medicine or related biological science. Up to and including September 2010, 53 Honorary fellows or equivalent have been appointed to IPEM and its forerunner organisations.
- Affiliated Companies and Affiliated Societies.
Women are under-represented within IPEM with over a third of the membership. The Institute is a signatory [8] of the Engineering Diversity Concordat of the Royal Academy of Engineering.
Dual Membership with the Institute of Physics[edit]
On 1 March 2006 an agreement was signed by the IPEM and the Institute of Physics to allow a 25% discount on membership subscriptions payable to each organisation for those who are or become individual members of both organisations.
Annual Conference and Woolmer Lecture[edit]
The Institute holds an annual conference on Medical Physics and Engineering. During this conference the flagship lecture of the Institute, the Woolmer Lecture, is presented. The lecture is dedicated to Professor Ronald Woolmer who was the first Director of the Research Department of Anaesthetics at the Royal College of Surgeons.[9] Woolmer convened a meeting at the Royal College of Surgeons, London, to discuss the evolving field of engineering applied to medicine.[10] It was agreed that the group should hold regular meetings and as a result the Biological Engineering Society (BES) was formed with Ronald Woolmer as the first President. Woolmer died two years after the formation of the BES and it was agreed that a memorial lecture would be sponsored in recognition of his achievements.
The following table includes a list of the lectures since 2002:
|Anthony Unsworth
|Hip Joint Replacement
|Arun Holden
|Computational Modelling in Medicine and Biology
|Professor Kevin Warwick
|Implant Technology
|H Gollee
|Assistive technologies for function restoration
|Professor Denis Noble
|Cardiac Modelling
|Professor Sir Michael Brady
|Digital Imaging
|Professor Clive Hahn
|Bioengineering Aspects of the Lung: Models and Measurements
|Professor Martin Birchall
|Regenerative Medicine: New challenges, new hopes
|Professor Mark Tooley
|Imitating the Patient
|Prof Dr Willi Kalender
|Developments in Computed Tomography: Is sub-mSv a realistic option?
|Professor Lionel Tarassenko
|Physiology-Driven Signal Analysis and Data
|Professor Molly Stevens
|Designing Biomaterials for Ultrasensitive Biosensing and Regenerative Medicine
|Professor David Keating
|Medical Physics: A Gateway to Innovation
IPEM owns three international peer-reviewed journals:[11]
- Physics in Medicine and Biology (PMB)
- Medical Engineering and Physics
- Physiological Measurement
PMB and Physiological measurements are published in association with IOP Publishing while Medical Engineering and Physics is published by Elsevier.
The Institute also publishes:[12]
- SCOPE - The Institute's quarterly magazine which is free to members and available for a small fee for non members.
- a report series
- educational and teaching material
President of IPEM[edit]
The IPEM president serves for two years and takes office at the Annual Conference. The following table includes a list of all past presidents of IPEMB/IPEM.[13][14][15][16]
|Prof P.N.T. Wells
|Dr P.C. Jackson
|Prof P.F. Sharp
|Dr K.T. Ison
|Prof R.H. Smallwood
|Dr C.J. Gibson
|Dr S.W. Smye
|Prof P.H. Jarritt
|Prof P.C. Williams
|Prof S.F. Keevil
Fairmount House
230 Tadcaster Road
United Kingdom
- ^ a b c d Jennings, Allan (December 2006). "Introduction". Scope 15 (Heritage Supplement): 2–5.
- ^ http://www.sciencecouncil.org/our-members#I
- ^ http://www.charteredscientist.org
- ^ http://www.sciencecouncil.org/professional_registers
- ^ IPEM (2013). "2012 A Review of the Year" (PDF). Retrieved 16 September 2013.
- ^ K. Reynard (2003). Aslib Directory of Information Sources in the United Kingdom. Aslib. p. 646. ISBN 978-0-85142-472-9. Retrieved 7 January 2013.
- ^ a b Zoi Kolitsi et al. (2001). "Introduction". In Zoi Kolitsi. Towards a European Framework for Education and Training in Medical Physics and Biomedical Engineering. IOS Press. p. 12. ISBN 978-1-58603-151-0. Retrieved 7 January 2013.
- ^ http://www.raeng.org.uk/about/diversity/pdf/Diversity_Concordat_Signatories.pdf
- ^ G.S.W.O (February 1963). "In Memoriam: Professor R. F. Woolmer, V.R.D.". Annals of Royal College of Surgeons of England 332 (1): 129–131.
- ^ "Prof. R. F. Woolmer, 1908–1962". Medical electronics and biological engineering 2 (1): 161–162. April–June 1963.
- ^ http://www.ipem.ac.uk/Publications/Journals.aspx
- ^ http://www.ipem.ac.uk/Publications.aspx
- ^ "Appendix 3: Honorary Officers of the IPEM Diversity within the Institute". Scope 15 (Heritage Supplement): 56. December 2006.
- ^ Ison, Keith (December 2007). "President's Letter: Diversity within the Institute". Scope 16 (4). ISSN 0964-9565.
- ^ Gibson, Chris (December 2009). "President's Letter: Welcome to all readers". Scope 20 (4): 3. ISSN 0964-9565. Retrieved 23 January 2013.
- ^ Jarritt, Peter (December 2011). "President's Letter: In the Spotlight". Scope 20 (4): 3. ISSN 0964-9565. Retrieved 23 January 2013.
External links[edit]
- www.ipem.ac.uk - The Official site of the IPEM
- E-SCOPE - The online archive of the IPEM magazine
- Engineering societies
- Physics societies
- Science and technology in the United Kingdom
- Professional associations based in the United Kingdom
- Learned societies of the United Kingdom
- ECUK Licensed Members
- Educational institutions established in 1995
- 1995 establishments in the United Kingdom
- Scientific organizations established in 1995


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text:
Results 1 to 4 of 4
Thread: time to sell
July 12th, 2007 #1
time to sell
Finished last week, combination of illustrator and good old photoshop. It's my first piece done in this style, so a lot of time was spent figuring out new ways to do things.
I'd love to hear any and all comments, as I'm comfortable with the process now and would like to work primarily on composition.
you chose a bad time to sell your happiness


text:
This techno beat was created in FL Studio.
Simple Drumbeat with percussion delayed and filtered
240bpm rhythmic drumloop made in hydrogen drum machine
Taken from a track I produced. Please Credit if you intend to use and send us a link as we ...
175 bpm drum and bass loop, plenty of room to add and layer more drums, no copyright use at ease;-)
wubby drums
Hip Hop Beat Loop
The drums for a hip hop beat I was making, this is the only real hip hop element in the ...
big beat, dance, funk, breaks
Percussion LOOP
These are some Drum Loops I lifted from tunes I was writing... which got abandoned. I wrote all the Drum ...
a little cannon and a tube some synths, and yours truly... enjoy.


text:
Minimalist Touring Thread (250cc and under)
View Single Post
Studly Adventurer
Joined: Jun 2010
Location: Thunder Bay, Ontario, Canada
Oddometer: 784
Originally Posted by
I've had my eye on this tent.
I never backpack alone, always have wife and two labradors which is why I have the palace.
The trick to this minimalism is not to think "how much stuff can I get on this little bike" but "what can I do without."
Good point regarding the "what I can do without" part.
I've refined my setup over the past couple of years - getting rid of stuff that simply doesn't work for me - while experimenting with other gear. Over time - you realize there are certain items you just can't live without and they become a mainstay in your setup. Obviously, what I can't live without is likely different from what others can't live without.
With my CBR125R - just like my other bikes - the focus for me is a great night's sleep while camping (I refuse to stay in motels). I've tried many variations. The one that consistently allows me to sleep like I am at home involves....
1) A camp-time roll-a-cot (only 10 lbs) with my Nemo Cosmo Air insulated mattress (packs small, is insulated, and the built-in foot pump allows me to inflate it in about 30 seconds) on top. And a thick, comfy, warm sleeping bag on top of the mattress. The cot allows me to place my helmet and other gear underneath it - to save space in the tent. And it is a real treat to get dressed while sitting on the edge of the cot - like a bed - in the morning. I often find myself over-sleeping with this setup - because it is just so damn comfortable and cozy - I don't want to get up. And it is always great to face another day of riding when you feel so fresh and rested.
2) A Nemo Moki single-walled tent. Quick to set up. Lightweight. Completely waterproof. Packs down very small. And I never ever have to fiddle around with a tent fly again (or lose it) - not to mention the extra time it takes to drape it over the tent and peg it down.
3) Ortlieb dry tailbag and saddles. I wish I would have purchased these the first time around. Now I never have to put on rain covers ever again. All my gear stays dry all the time. I'll never go back.
4) A waterproof Kriega US20 tankbag that I plan to try out this summer. However, the Icon Urban Tankbag has many pockets, holds all my maps and little items, and easily carries two large drinks and food for the day.
5) Ortlieb saddles that carry extra clothes, chain wax, tools, sandals, mp3 player with speakers, toiletry travel bag, and various other essentials. That's everything I need.
You can read about my recent trip here:
Nanabijou screwed with this post 01-31-2013 at
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text:
Just curious if anybody saw signs of this at CES or have heard any rumors.
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Guest Message by DevFuse
Will Dish ever have a back-lit remote for Hopper?
Started by ATARI , Jan 15 2013 09:41 PM
2 replies to this topic
Posted 15 January 2013 - 09:41 PM
|...Ads Help To Support This Site...
Posted 16 January 2013 - 10:33 AM
I would add one or a few small LEDs into it if I would need the illumination .
Posted 18 January 2013 - 07:22 PM
I'm using a Harmony 700 and it's backlit.
Just another old geezer killin' time till time kills me.


text:
1840-D $5 Narrow Mill MS63 NGC. Variety 3-B. The 1840-D ...
2004 May (CSNS) Signature Sale #346
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|Milwaukee, WI
Possible Finest Known 1840-D Half Eagle, MS631840-D $5 Narrow Mill MS63 NGC. Variety 3-B. The 1840-D half eagle is a significant issue as it is the first Dahlonega five with the new, modified head of Liberty--a type that would last long after the Dahlonega mint was gone and until the end of the series in 1908. It is also the first year the D mintmark was placed on the reverse, where it would stay until the end of the half eagle series. This is an important coin that should be closely examined by specialists as it seems to have been overlooked on the current Condition Census. It is definitely not the Green Pond coin, nor is it the Ex: Numisma '95 piece. The surfaces display even green-gold coloration that is typically found on high grade, original examples of this issue. It is believed that some 120-140 pieces are known today in all grades with a mere 5-7 coins in mint condition. The striking details are uncommonly strong with no areas of weakness on either side. Abrasions are also held to a minimum with the most obvious ones that could be used for pedigree purposes being a scrape on the upper portion of Liberty's neck, and a tiny cut across one of the denticles below star 1. (#8198) (NGC ID# 25SG, PCGS# 8198)
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text:
Originally written on Larry Brown Sports | Last updated 1/13/13
JJ Watt sounds ready for the Houston Texans' rematch with the New England Patriots. According to a few reporters and some others in attendance at Gillette Stadium, the Texans All-Pro defensive end spit on the Patriots' logo at midfield during warmups before the Divisional Round playoff game between the teams. WEEI's Mike Petraglia reported that Watt came out to stretch around midfield just before 3:00 pm ET. A few minutes later, Petraglia tweeted that Watt spit on the logo. WHDH's Darren M. Haynes also reported the same news. Pats fans are probably hoping this report gets back to the team to give them a little extra motivation for the game. Both teams are 12-4, but the Patriots rocked the Texans 42-14 in Week 14. We certainly know from past behavior that Watt isn't afraid to disrespect another team or player. The post JJ Watt reportedly spit on Patriots logo before game appeared first on Larry Brown Sports. Related posts: J.J. Watt plays flight attendant on the plane after Texans win (Picture) Rex Ryan: JJ Watt should be playing for Knicks J.J. Watt to Ray Rice: I've eaten burritos bigger than you (Video)
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All hotels in Saugatuck, Michigan, United States of America
1 room, 2 adults
3353 Blue Star Hwy, Saugatuck, MI, 49453, United States of America, 800-491-6126
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- Clearbrook Golf Club (0.7 mi / 1.1 km)
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Staff is very helpful, and they are making cosmetic changes to the hotel. However, much…
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text:
A cat library in New Mexico encourages office workers to check out kittens
They operate on the Mew-ey Decimal System.
They operate on the Mew-ey Decimal System.
New Mexico, which has invested $218.5 million into the future of space tourism, is concerned about the viability of Spaceport America.
Two young brothers readjust to normal life after spending time in jail.
A new study reports that a remote, coal-rich patch of the Southwest produces the highest methane concentrations in the United States.
Same-sex couples from across the Southwest are flooding the Santa Fe County Clerk's office with marriage requests.
Virgin Galactic is one step closer to taking tourists to space, after signing an agreement with the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) on Thursday. The agreement provides details on how the Albuquerque Air Route Traffic Control Center and the New ...
The California drought news keeps getting worse. Now, for the first time in at least 15 years, the entire Golden State is in moderate to exceptional drought, with 77 percent of the state classified in the two worst drought categories, data shows.
The Defense Department has asked MIT Lincoln Laboratory to conduct a study of the potential impact a planned $1.5 billion electric transmission line will have on test operations at the White Sands Missile Range in southern New Mexico. The transmissio...
Silver City may not be the biggest city in New Mexico, but it is the first to officially proclaim June 30 as Social Media Day. Silver City Mayor James R. Marshall signed off on the proclamation at a Town Council meeting last week, a month after event...


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Smith's Food and Drug Centers Inc. is scheduled to appear Oct. 19 in Albuquerque for a hearing on a bad faith bargaining charge by the grocer's union.
Smith's has two local stores, one in Los Alamos and one in White Rock.
BRUNO, Calif. (AP) — Fire crews tried to douse the remnants of an enormous blaze and account for the residents of dozens of homes after a gas line ruptured and an explosion ripped through in a neighborhood near San Francisco, killing at least four people and likely more.
The Los Alamos Cooperative Market has taken yet another major step in its journey to becoming a reality. It has hired a general manager with extensive co-op experience to help move the operation through the home stretch.
"The co-op board is delighted to announce that Steve Watts has accepted our offer," said Nancy Savoia, board president. "Steve was the general manager of the French Broad Food Cooperative in Asheville, N.C. for the last four years and before that was the business development director for the La Montanita Co-op here in New Mexico."
Investigators have obtained a search warrant for the cell phone belonging to the driver involved in a recent head-on collision in which a woman died.
"We have the cell phone in our possession and are examining it," Capt. Randy Foster said. "We're also going through the process to retain the vehicle in which the woman passed away for further investigation and evidence purposes."
The vehicle is a gray Nissan Altima that belonged to Miranda Martinez, 29, of Velarde.
For New Mexico Senator Tom Udall, the takeaway from a whirlwind tour of a clean-up area at the Los Alamos National Laboratory was twofold. He was impressed by the lab's scientific nature and plans to press for additional funds to continue the lab's work.
That's good news for Los Alamos, an economy that is heavily reliant on the lab.
"I was most impressed by the scientists and their work there," Udall said.
President Flavio Martinez of the Los Alamos Firefighters Union said the rank and file has endorsed Democrat Stephanie Richard for the District 43 House seat held nine consecutive terms by Republican Jeannette Wallace.
"We proudly stand in support of Stephanie Richard," Martinez said in a news release. "She's committed to public safety and will be a strong champion for area firefighters."
Richard said she was "proud" to receive the endorsement in the release.
As the political season heats up, the Los Alamos Republican Party opened its campaign headquarters in Central Park Square Saturday. Congressional candidate Tom Mullins, gubernatorial candidate Susana Martinez and Errol Chavez, who is running for state auditor, attended the event.
BOULDER, Colo. (AP) — A wind-whipped wildfire sent flames roaring through a rugged canyon in the Colorado foothills, forcing about 3,000 people to flee the area and destroying dozens of homes — some that belonged to the firefighters themselves, authorities said Tuesday.
Fire officials were assessing the extent of the damage and planned to release details at a morning news conference.
Republican gubernatorial candidate Susana Martinez flew in to town late Saturday afternoon to attend the grand opening of the local GOP campaign headquarters in Central Park Square.
About 100 people turned out for the event including several candidates. Congressional candidate Tom Mullins of Farmington drove his truck to the grand opening and spoke of his frustration with Rep. Ben Ray Lujan's refusal to debate him on the issues.
Get the details in Tuesday's Los Alamos Monitor.
With a visitor center and street improvements already approved, the drive to improve White Rock further accelerated when Los Alamos County Councilors passed a motion for the design and construction of the Canada del Buey pathway and park project.
Copyright © 2015
The Los Alamos Monitor is your source for local news, sports, events, and information in Los Alamos County and Los Alamos, NM, and the surrounding area.


text:
A tri-leaflet heart valve includes an annular valve base with an inner surface forming an orifice through which blood flows from the upstream side to the downstream side. Three protruding hinges, each with concave sockets on opposite sides, are formed on the inner surface. Each hinge has a downstream face and an upstream face connected by a ridge. Three leaflets are respectively arranged between adjacent hinges. Each leaflet has round pivots on both sides that rest inside the concave sockets, allowing the leaflets to freely rotate in the annular valve base. When the leaflets are subject to a positive pressure from the blood flow, the leaflets are pushed open and allow a central flow. When the leaflets are subject to a negative pressure, the leaflets are closed to occlude the blood flow.
1. A tri-leaflet heart valve comprising:
an annular valve base with an inner surface defining a central orifice through which a blood flow moves from an upstream side to a downstream side;
three protruding hinges formed on the inner surface of the annular valve base and equally spaced along the inner surface of the annular valve base, each hinge comprising a convex downstream face connected to a convex upstream face by a curved ridge and a pair of concave sockets on opposite sides of the hinge; and
three leaflets arranged between adjacent hinges, each leaflet having an arcuate contour and being provided with a pair of round pivots respectively mounted inside the concave sockets of the hinges, each of leaflets being respectively suspended between a corresponding pair of concave sockets and being freely rotatable within the annular valve base;
when the leaflets are subject to a positive pressure from the blood flow, the leaflets are fully opened to allow the blood to flow through the central orifice, and when the leaflets are subject to a negative pressure, the leaflets are closed to occlude the blood flow.
2. The tri-leaflet heart valve as claimed in
3. The tri-leaflet heart valve as claimed in
4. The tri-leaflet heart valve as claimed in
5. The tri-leaflet heart valve as claimed in
6. The ti-leaflet heart valve as claimed in
1. Field of the Invention
The present invention relates generally to the field of artificial mechanical heart valves (MHV), and in particular to a tri-leaflet MHV with a smooth and streamlined curved surface that effectively prevents clotting and hemolysis while forming a sturdy and firm seal when closed.
2. Description of Prior Technology
Heart valve replacement surgery is one of the most mature and effective therapies for valvular diseases. This type of operation has become a regular surgical procedure since the commercialization of the first artificial heart valve in 1966. Clinically, the postoperative death rate is below 5%. On average, successful heart valve implantation may extend patient life for more than 10 years. Currently, the demand for artificial heart valve replacement surgery is approximately 200,000 patients each year.
Generally, there are two major types of artificial heart valves. The first type is the Mechanical Heart Valve (MHV), which is completely composed of artificial materials. The second type is the Bioprosthetic Heart Valve (BHV), which consists of chemically treated biomaterials. Pyrolytic carbon (PyC) has become the most commonly used material for MHV since it was first introduced for clinical implantation in 1969. Single leaflet and bi-leaflet MHVs made of PyC became common in the late 1970's and have since been used in the treatment of valvular diseases. Up to now, more than two million PyC heart valves have been implanted in human bodies and the accumulated clinical experience exceeds two hundred thousand patient-years.
BHVs are chemically treated animal valves, such as pig and ox. Their geometry is similar to the human valve and is thus commonly used by medical doctors. However, the BHV suffers from calcification and tissue regression, making it unsuitable for patients aged below 30.
Although MHV does not exhibit calcification and tissue regression, clinical reports indicate MHV often causes thrombosis and thromboembolism. The MHV patients must continuously take anticoagulants for life in order to reduce the risks of these complications. This has been one of the biggest problems with MHV implantation. The intake of anticoagulants may increase the incidence of hemorrhagic diseases and threaten the life of MHV patients. Moreover, long term medication may cause cardiac complications like endocarditis, hemolysis and so on. Although the incidence of cardiac complications is low, it cannot be neglected.
MHV basically contains one or more leaflets, an annular valve base, a hinge and a sewing ring. The leaflets are occluders for the opening and closing of the valve, which operates 0-200 times every minute inside the human body. The valve base serves as a frame for holding the occluders. The hinge rotatably supports the leaflets in the valve base. The sewing ring is a woven material surrounding the MHV for attachment to the implantation site. The leaflets, the annular valve base and the hinge still need improvements from the viewpoint of fluid dynamics.
Bi-leaflet heart valves form three streams when the two leaflets are opened, which is non-symmetric with respect to a center of the heart valve. Non-hermetic compliance with the aortic sinuses leads to non-symmetric flow profile, thus inducing a large velocity gradient and turbulence. Since the bi-leaflet MHV is centrally asymmetric, the two leaflets are not opened synchronously, leading to great recirculation of blood and increasing the burden of heart. To overcome such deficiencies, new tri-leaflet heart valves are continuously designed.
Hemodynamically, the tri-leaflet heart valve opens to form a single central flow, similar to the operation of the human aortic valve. The pressure induced by the circulation of blood inside semi-circular aortic sinuses downstream the heart valve helps to open and close the heart valve. The most important factors in the design of the tri-leaflet heart valve are the shape of the leaflets and the pivoting mechanism.
Conventional tri-leaflet heart valve designs use protruding supports to control the opening of leaflets. For example, U.S. Pat. No. 5,843,183 discloses a support member that extends from the annular valve base to support the corresponding leaflet. Leaflet movement from open to closed position is controlled both by upstream retainers aligned with the flat central sections of each leaflet and by surfaces on the side walls of the projections along which the leaflets slide. In U.S. Pat. No. 6,395,024, two support members support each corresponding leaflet. The disadvantage associated with these prior designs is that the support member and the leaflet will create wakes and turbulence of the blood flow.
Other examples of conventional tri-leaflet heart valves are disclosed in U.S. Pat. Nos. 4,446,577 and 5,522,886, wherein a pair of projections on the sides of the leaflet fit into slots inside the annular valve base and pivotally support the leaflet. In U.S. Pat. No. 5,628,791, a boss slides and rotates inside the slot to control the leaflet The complicated manufacturing process and occurrence of thrombosis are the main disadvantages.
The conventional tri-leaflet heart valves that employ support members extending out of the annular valve base suffer from the disadvantage of wake and turbulence created in the blood flow through the heart valve. The drawbacks of other tri-leaflet heart valves include a complicated manufacturing process to form deep slots in the annular valve base and bosses on the leaflets that rotatably fit into the slots, which lead to thromboembolism.
To overcome the deficiencies of conventional tri-leaflet heart valves, the present inventor designed a new tri-leaflet heart valve that was issued Taiwan Utility Model No. 134683. Although working well, the design can be further improved in the leaflet structure, the annular valve base and the pivoting joint.
Thus, the primary objective of the present invention provides a tri-leaflet heart valve that has a central flow hemodynamic configuration similar to the human aortic valve. The pressure induced by blood circulation inside the semi-circular aortic sinuses downstream the heart valve assists in opening and closing the leaflets.
Another goal of the present invention is to provide a tri-leaflet heart valve that effectively eliminates the occurrence of thrombosis. A pivot joint between the leaflet and the annular valve base is formed by a curved projection and semi-circular smooth socket in the valve base, which allows for rotation and sliding of the leaflet with respect to the valve base. The leaflet is loosely supported by the projection, which minimizes the mechanical resistance against leaflet movement and allows for washing effect to minimize thrombosis.
This tri-leaflet heart valve also aims to provide excellent sealing effect, wherein the annular valve base forms a small socket and a ridge to maintain the leaflets sealed when the valve is closed.
A further objective of the present design is to allow a perpendicular opening angle. The protruding hinges of the valve base has a downstream inclination that supports and fixes the leaflet at a desired orientation when the heart valve is opened.
To overcome the deficiencies of previous designs, the present invention provides a tri-leaflet heart valve with an annular valve base with three protruding hinges on the inner surface. Each protrusion has a concave socket on both the upstream face and downstream face connected by a ridge. Three fan-shaped leaflets with curved configuration are fit into the annular valve base. Each leaflet has rounded ends on both of the bottom edges that serve as hinges inside the corresponding concave sockets in which the leaflets are allowed to rotate freely. When the leaflets are subject to a positive pressure of the blood flow, the leaflets are opened to allow blood flow through a central orifice. Under negative pressure, the leaflets are closed to occlude the central opening.
Notches are built into the bottom of the leaflets, from which the smooth outward projection forms the hinge. The leaflets have no sharp projections and allow for smooth blood flow. The side edges adjacent leaflets contact each other when the heart valve is closed. The leaflet has a curved inner surface that forms a recessed surface of the annular valve base. When the leaflets are opened, the downstream inclination on the annular valve base provides support to maintain the leaflet at the desired angle.
The present invention will be apparent to experts via the following descriptions with reference to the attached drawings, in which:
In reference to the drawings and in particular to
Referring to
Each leaflet 22 is positioned between adjacent hinges 30. The leaflet 22 has round pivots 40 on both sides rotatably received in and supported by the concave sockets 35 of the adjacent protruding hinges 30. Rotation of the leaflet 22 with respect to the annular valve base 21 about the pivots 40 thereby opens and closes the heart valve 20.
The leaflets 22 are fan-shaped plates with a smooth curved surface. When the leaflets 22 are fully opened, a maximum opening area is available in the heart valve 20, forming a single, central blood flow for the best hemodynamic results. In comparison, the conventional bi-leaflet heart valve forms three streams of blood flow, which is susceptible to separation at the boundary layer and turbulence, causing damage to the blood cells and formation of thrombosis. Conventional tri-leaflet heart valves have flat leaflets, that form a triangular opening at the center of the valve and crescent-shaped, secondary openings between the leaflets and the inner surface of the valve base, leading to four streams of blood.
The leaflet 22 of the present invention forms a triangle with two side edges 45 extending from an apex 47 that points downstream and a curved bottom edge 46 which forms a mating face (not labeled). The side edges 45 are configured so that, when the heart valve 20 is closed, the side edges 45 of adjacent leaflets 22 tightly engage each other, while the mating face of the bottom edge 46 contacts a curved recess 27 to occlude the heart valve 20. The recess 27 is formed on the inner upstream surface of the annular valve base 21 and complementary in geometry to the mating face of the bottom edge 46 of the leaflet 22 whereby a tight seal is formed between the leaflets 22 and the annular valve base 21 when the heart valve 20 is closed.
When the heart valve 20 is fully opened, the leaflets 22 rotate about the round pivots 40 retained in the concave sockets 35 of the protruding hinge 30 until a stop edge 41, formed between each side edge 45 and the bottom edge 46 in the form of a curved notch 48, physically engages the downstream face 33 of the hinge 30 to maintain the leaflet 22 in a position substantially parallel to the blood flow, thus allowing the maximum flow of blood. When the heart valve 20 is closed, the side edges 45 of the leaflets 22 engage each other and the apexes 47 coincide with each other. The curved faces of the bottom edges 46 of the leaflets 22 tightly engage the corresponding upstream recesses 27 of the annular valve base 21. Thus, the leaflets 22, the hinges 30 and the upstream recessed face 27 of the annular valve base 21 together form a continuous and smooth surface with no undesired sharp projections. This configuration allows for induction of smooth flow field.
When the heart valve 20 is opened, the stop edge 41 of each leaflet 22 contacts the corresponding downstream face 33 of the protruding hinge 30. When the heart valve 20 is closed, the curved bottom edges 46 of the leaflets 22 contact the upstream recesses 27 of the annular valve base 21 with the stop edge 41 engaging the curved ridge 32 of the hinge 30. This maintains the rotation of the leaflet 22 while effectively retaining the leaflet 22 inside the annular valve base 21. The ridge 32 also tightly seals with the notch 48 of the leaflet 22 when the valve 20 is closed.
The downstream face 33 of the hinge 30 of the annular valve base 21 limits the rotation of the leaflet 22 with respect to the annular valve base 21 when the heart valve 20 is opened. The leaflet 22 is maintained at 90 degrees with respect to the annular valve base 21, thus allowing maximum flow area. In comparison, the pivoting structure of the conventional artificial heart valve is formed by a grooved recess, which may lead to stagnation, separation of the blood flow, and thromboembolism The present invention eliminates this problem.
When the leaflets 22 are subject to a positive pressure from the blood flow, they open to allow blood flow through the central orifice of the heart valve 20 from the upstream side to the downstream side. When the heart begins to contract, the blood is forced to flow through the heart valve 20, providing the positive pressure to rotate the leaflets 22 to their fully opened position. When the heart begins to expand, the pressure caused by circulation in the aortic sinus pushes the leaflets 22 toward the closed position. When the heart fully expands and creates negative pressure, the leaflets 22 are completely closed and occlude the blood flow through the heart valve 20. At this moment, as mentioned above, the annular valve base 21 and the leaflets 22 together form a continuous and smooth surface to effectively occlude the blood flow.
Although the present invention has been described with reference to the preferred design and operating mechanism, experts in the same field may make modifications and changes without departing from the scope of the present invention, which is defined by the following claims.
Patent Citations
Referenced by
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TOKYO (AP) — Four members of a Japanese government team that sets atomic reactor safety standards received funding from utility companies or nuclear manufacturers, raising questions about their neutrality in the wake of last year's tsunami-triggered disaster.
4 on Japan nuclear safety team took utility money
The Nuclear Regulation Authority said Friday that Nagoya University Professor Akio Yamamoto received 27.14 million yen ($339,000) over the past three years for research on reactors. That included 6.28 million yen ($79,000) from a subsidiary of Tokyo Electric Power Co., the utility that runs the Fukushima Dai-ichi nuclear plant that suffered meltdowns last year.
The authority said three others on the six-member standards team received industry funding. Getting such money is not illegal, but could call the neutrality of the team into question, since the industry would benefit from laxer standards.
The commission had asked the team members to voluntarily disclose such funding, including grants and donations, in an effort to boost transparency.
Akira Yamaguchi, a professor at Osaka University, received 10 million yen ($125,000) in such money, including 3 million yen from Mitsubishi Heavy Industries, which makes nuclear plants.
Before, nuclear regulators were in the same ministry that promotes the industry. The Nuclear Regulation Authority was set up this year following calls for a more independent watchdog, and after large and frequent public protests against nuclear power.
The Tokyo Shimbun newspaper reported Saturday that such funding indicates a "danger the measures may turn spineless to reflect the utilities' wishes."
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"Our game night was a definite fundraising success as well as a great marketing opportunity for our organization to increase awareness about Marguerite's Place. Between the ticket sales and the 50/50 raffle we did that night we raised over $500. Our August 3 game was one of the best nights of the summer! There was a fabulous crowd and it was a really nice night for baseball. The seats we had blocked off for Marguerite's Place were awesome!"
- Beverly Doolan, Marguerite's Place


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Nicole Miller Chambers C01 Tortoise eyeglasses are fierce and sharp. This elegant cateye style comes in a warm brown tortoise acetate and features a prominent keyhole cutout bridge. The semi-transparent temples are minimally accented by the rustic gold-toned decal wrapped around the hinges.Close
Nicole Miller Fifth C01 Tortoise eyeglasses are fantastically fearless. This bold cateye style boasts a striking semi-transparent tortoise acetate finish with rounded oval lenses. The temples are embellished with pale matte gold panels that have a wood inspired piece on the exterior.Close
Nicole Miller Essex C01 Black Fade eyeglasses are casually glamorous. This subtle cat eye style features a semi-transparent fade finish along the frame front. The monochromatic temples are discreetly embellished with matte black metal accents by the hinges.Close
Nicole Miller Crosby C02 Brown eyeglasses are refreshingly elegant. This effortless style has a discreet cateye shape in a light brown havana finish with curved rectangular shaped lenses. The semi-transparent temples are complemented by the satin gunmetal metal hinges for a subtle accent..Close
Nicole Miller Houston C02 Tortoise eyeglasses are funky and edgy. This daring style features a glossy olive tortoise finish with a semi-transparent green interior and oval shaped lenses. The temples are embellished with light gold gothic inspired cross decals that are textured with embossed stud borders..Close
Nicole Miller Duane C02 Tortoise eyeglasses are polished with a touch of edge. This trendy style has a casual Retro Wingtip shape in a semi-transparent brown tortoise finish with rounded rectangular shaped lenses. The matching temples are embellished with rustic gunmetal metal hinges featuring a weaving pattern along with a cross adorned with a single white crystal..Close


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I woke with a start. There was banging on my door and annoyed grunts coming from outside.
"Stormy! Come on, wake up!"
I looked over at my clock and sighed. I had slept through breakfast and lunch. I guess I should have set the alarm.
I sat up and took my hairbrush off of the bedside table and brushed my hair. The knocking continued.
I narrowed my eyes.
"You've missed breakfast and lunch."
I smiled slightly. Well, obviously. I could see the clock. I wasn't blind.
There was silence for a moment before, "I swear to God…I had to walk all the way up here to get a girl that I don't even know just to bring her down so that she can have her precious food. Get out of there before I break in!"
I stood and climbed into skinny jeans and threw on a black t-shirt.
The door swung open and I looked over at the boy. His bright green eyes burned with anger. He flipped his bleach blonde hair out of his eyes and crossed his arms.
Amused, I snickered. I grabbed my keys and put them in my pocket.
A low growl grumbled deep in his throat, "Now, come on. I don't want to have to resort to using force."
Well, that was entertaining. Did he think that I wasn't going to ask him to try? That's funny.
I tilted my head slightly.
"Quit smiling," he said, taking a step towards me, "And he said to bring you downstairs by any means necessary. So don't tempt me."
A sigh escaped my lips. This whole not talking thing was actually kind of hard.
He smirked.
My eyes widened. Why the heck was he looking at me like that? And why was he smirking?
When he took a step towards me, I immediately took a step back. As he continued towards me, I ended up backing into a wall.
Well, that's convenient, I thought dryly.
He reached me and stared down at me.
I raised my eyebrows.
He knelt down, grabbed me, and threw me over his shoulder. A small whine escaped my lips, making him chuckle lightly.
As he pulled me through the door, I closed it.
He stopped, "Do you want to lock it?"
I nodded.
"Use your words," he said, putting me back down onto the ground.
I stared at him.
"What are you," he growled, "A mute? Come on. Just say yes."
If I don't talk to anyone else, I'm sure as heck not talking to you, buddy.
A few moments passed, allowing me to turn and lock my door. I stuffed my keys back into my pocket and looked at him. Anger was etched on his face.
He pushed me against my door and leaned in, "When I talk to you, I expect a reply."
"Maybe you shouldn't expect such things from her," a familiar voice said.
I looked over to see Kevin making his way down the hallway.
He smiled at me.
I nodded a hello.
"Sam," he turned his attention to the boy, "She doesn't talk to people. She is still adjusting to her surroundings. She will talk on her own terms…scaring her won't make her want to talk to you."
Sam rolled his eyes and pushed past him, "Then you take her downstairs. If it were up to me, I wouldn't give her another chance to eat. She can learn just like the rest of us."
When Sam was out of sight, Kevin sighed and ran his fingers through his hair, "I'm sorry that you had to go through that."
I took a deep breath and let it out slowly. It wasn't his fault.
He held out his hand, "You ready to go eat? The diner should be cleared out by now. You can eat without all the interruptions."
I nodded and put my hand in his. He smiled slightly and began to lead me to the elevators.
"Don't worry about that guy," he said once we got into the elevator, "He wouldn't hurt a fly."
I shot him a look of skepticism.
He laughed and let my hand go, "Test his patience sometime…more than you did this time. Next time, I won't intercede and help. You'll see."
He won't help me next time? With Sam or with anyone? I liked feeling as though I had someone protecting me at all times…but how long would that last? When would I have to protect myself and myself alone?
I stepped into the diner, and, as expected, there was no one there. I walked through the line of food, grabbed a piece of pizza and an apple again, and walked back to sit down.
Kevin looked down to my food and laughed, "Do you only eat pizza and apples?"
I looked at him, "I'm not that hungry."
His eyes widened, "She talks."
"Only to you and the superintendent," I said softly, returning my attention back to my food. When Kevin sat down next to me, I lifted the piece of pizza to my mouth and took a bite.
He rested his head in his hand, "So, why don't you talk?"
I smiled slightly, "Because I like to see how long people can take it before they want to rip my throat out. I gave up on trying to annoy you."
"Why's that?"
"Because you didn't seem like you'd ever get annoyed."
A few moments passed and I sighed, "That's not the reason…"
Kevin tilted his head.
"Guys freak me out," I said, laughing to myself, "I've never been comfortable around them. And, being around this many is overwhelming. Like you said earlier, I'm still adjusting."
Ever since I was young, boys had always scared me. Nothing happened to me to cause my discomfort. I just didn't trust them. Don't get me wrong, I was completely attracted to them. I just couldn't bring myself to trust them. Kevin was probably the first one that I somewhat trusted.
Kevin nodded in understanding. He didn't push the subject any further. He just seemed satisfied that he actually heard my voice.
When I finished eating, I threw my paper plate away and looked back at Kevin.
"Are you going to go back to not talking," he asked, glancing down at his watch.
When he looked back up at me, I nodded.
A small smile appeared on his face as he led me back to the elevator. When we got in, he pressed one.
I kept my eyes on the ground as I followed him to the office. He closed the door and headed over to Mr. Samuels' door. After knocking twice, he looked back at me.
Mr. Samuels opened the door and stepped out, "Can I help you? Oh, hello, Stormy."
I waved.
"Stormy needs to associate herself more with the boys," Kevin said, "She informed me that she was still rather uncomfortable here. I'd be happy to find someone to take care of her."
My eyes widened. I didn't want anyone to take care of me! Heck, I didn't mind staying in my room!
Mr. Samuels looked at me, "I don't know who I would trust with her…I guess I can look through the rosters and see who I see fit. Until then, Stormy?"
I raised my head.
"The guard is waiting for you by the showers," he said, "Go and take a shower. After you're done, come back here and I'll have someone to take care of you."
I nodded.
Kevin looked over at me for a moment before shaking Mr. Samuels' hand. He walked past me and motioned for me to follow him. I followed him down the hallway, past an indoor pool, and to the door of the showers.
The female guard looked at me and gave me a huge smile, "You're so cute! When they said a girl was coming here, I thought you'd be ugly. Or more on the guy side."
I stared at her.
Kevin patted me on the back and walked away.
She handed me a towel, shampoo, and conditioner before she stepped to the side and opened the door for me, "I'll make sure no one comes in. Take as long as you please."
I thanked her and walked in. I walked over to the farthest shower and turned on the water. Setting down my towel and soaps, I felt dread wash over me.
This was a boys' shower room.
I checked the shower for any sign of a camera before closing the curtain. I stripped slowly and stepped under the hot water. I froze in place from the scorching heat for a moment until my body got used to it. Allowing the water to cascade down my body, I closed my eyes.
I washed my hair and body. After I was done, I shut off the water and wrapped the small white towel around me before stepping out of the shower and into the cold air of the room.
I sat down on the floor and stared at the door.
Was she really just standing there, telling people that they couldn't come in until after I was done with my shower? Or was she just there at the beginning, coming back to check on the doors every few minutes?
I put my head down on my knees.
Women were not people who I had to doubt. She wasn't going to just leave.
Was she?
I stood and got dressed. I left the towel and soaps on the ground before walking out the door.
The guard looked down at me, "Hello! How was your shower?"
"Fine," I said, "Do you want me to get the soaps and stuff?"
"No," she smiled, "I'll get them when you leave. So, what's your name?"
"I'm Tiffany," she said, her dark brown eyes squinting in amusement.
I smiled at her before making my way back to the front office. When I walked into the door, I stopped dead in my tracks.
Mr. Samuels smiled at me, "This is Sam. He'll be the one who will be taking care of you today."
Sam looked at me from the corner of his eye and smirked.
A/N: You all are going to hate me...
Yes, I deleted the story up until chapter 3. There is a simple reason behind this. And that reason is: I am hoping to publish it soon. If that doesn't work out, the rest of the book will be updated. But, if it becomes published, the only thing you'll be able to read up to is chapter 3. Sorry :)
Wish me luck! You all are great.


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Montego Bay Horseback Riding Excursion Reviews
Savor the day on horseback while riding through Montego Bayâs tropical terrain and sandy beaches.
1 review
Nov 2012
Only tour we did with ship and was disappointed with the tour. There was too much waiting on arrival at the horse riding venue. Too many ships in port. Staff were excellent and kept us entertained with games/jokes etc but we had only 30 minutes total on horses. Allure passengers were last to get horses so spent lots of time just sitting around. When we did get to ride the horses and swim them it was lots of fun. We feel we missed out on other exciting options as a result of doing this tour. Allure kindly refunded our money on arrival back to ship since we were so disappointed.Read chrisngayle's full Allure of the Seas cruise review
Provider: Royal Caribbean International
1 review
Aug 2012
Montego Bay: We were very unhappy with the first one. We went on the Chukka Horseback Ride and Swim. It was supposed to be from 9:30-12:30. We waited and waited in the hot building at the port. Then they took us outside and we waited some more until our bus finally came to pick us up. The horseback ride was very nice. There are some beautiful views and at the end you ride along the shore back to where you start. Then we did our ride into the water on different horses. Our ride in the water was significantly shorter than the group we watch ed before ours. We were pretty disappointed that they rushed that part. Then we sat and waited for around an hour until our bus showed up to pick us up. We didn't get back to the port until 3. We had planned on having about 4 hours after this excursion to go to a beach and were very disappointed that instead we spent 3 extra hours on this excursion waiting. Also, they have lockers to secure your things but they charge you $5.00 to use them. We enjoyed the horseback riding a lot but were very disappointed that we spent most of our day in Montego Bay waiting. We complained at the shore excursion desk. I didn't find them to be very helpful. They refunded 20% of our excursion cost. On a positive note, our bus driver, Garfield, was wonderful. He gave us some great info about the island and kept us laughing.Read melanierose327's full Carnival Magic cruise review
Provider: Carnival Cruise Line
1 review
Aug 2012
Very enjoyable. We rode on trails and on the beach. We stopped, the saddles were removed, and we rode in an ocean pool. Very cool, once in a lifetime experience. The only part I didn't like was wearing the riding helmet. They didn't look very clean but I got over it.Read dtredy2go's full Carnival Conquest cruise review
Provider: Braco Stables
1 review
Jun 2012
Excursion was great... Cruise terminal at Montego Bay is awful.Read CruisingTexanLady's full Carnival Magic cruise review
Provider: Carnival Cruise Line
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Proton centers may complement, not compete
Advanced Particle also expects to break ground in August on a project with the University of Maryland to build a proton therapy center in Baltimore.
UCSD officials have said 35 percent of their center space would be devoted to research, with proton beam time available for scientists.
The center also would work in conjunction with Moores UCSD Cancer Center, which is one of 40 National Cancer Institute Comprehensive Centers. The designation means more federal research funding and national recognition.
Ultimately, the cost for proton treatment may drop as more research is done on optimal radiation dosages, said Slater at the Loma Linda proton center.
Multiple treatments are done in both proton and traditional radiation therapy to minimize damage to surrounding tissues.
Since proton therapy is more targeted, fewer and higher-dose treatments may be possible, he said.
"The biggest cost of radiation therapy is the number of treatments you have to deliver," Slater said. "If you can cut that in half that makes a very significant difference in cost."
While the business of proton therapy is booming, more science is needed, said Dr. Bhadrasain Vikram, chief of the Clinical Radiation Oncology Branch at the National Cancer Institute in Bethesda, Md.
"It's something that looks good on the computer screen, but the question is — is this treatment better, worse or about the same" as others, he said.
"There have been almost no randomized clinical trials, and that's the gold standard. It sounds promising, which is why we're interested."
The National Cancer Institute is funding clinical trials at Massachusetts General Hospital and at MD Anderson Cancer Center in Houston, Vikram said.
The institute also funds a clinical trials network called the Children's Oncology Group in which some patients receive proton therapy at Loma Linda, the University of Florida and other locations, Vikram said.


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Commissions constitute a big slice (nearly two-fifths on average) of overall compensation for Consulting Engineers, and the median take-home for this group lies near $112K. Total cash earnings of Consulting Engineers range from $56K on the low end to $180K on the high end; the final amount can include bonuses and profit sharing proceeds that occasionally exceed $30K and $10K, respectively. Experience level is the biggest factor affecting pay for this group, followed by geography. Job satisfaction for Consulting Engineers is high. Medical benefits are awarded to most, and a strong majority earn dental coverage. The numbers in this rundown were provided by PayScale's salary survey participants.
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A consulting engineer consults companies on technical subjects to optimize profitability and efficiency. Depending on the companies' exact field, specialized knowledge may be required to perform daily operations such as troubleshooting problems, recommending tools and software, evaluating procedures and methods, and providing budgeting advice. Positions for consulting engineers be available internally (limiting work to one company) or be with a wide variety of customers. Either way, there is great potential for regular travel and/or teleconferencing work with remote offices and locations.Read More...
Most of consulting engineers' work is done independently, but coordination with clients and their employees is frequent; this ranges from working with internal consultants and employees to high level management. Hours for the positions are usually limited to general business hours, but flexibility may be required. Aside from travel, most work is done in an indoor office environment with minimal physical requirements associated with the job.
A bachelor's degree in an engineering field is usually considered the minimum educational requirement. Most positions also require five or more years of experience working with technology companies in a management position and, in some cases, hands-on experience with the technology being used. Interpersonal, writing, analysis, and communication skills are also necessary.
Consulting Engineers note just a narrow range of job skills. Skill set and salary are closely correlated, and individuals who are practiced in Project Management, Engineering Design and Cisco Networking abilities will see corresponding pay increases between 6 percent and 8 percent.
Median of all compensation (including tips, bonus, and overtime) by years of experience.
Consulting Engineers with a lot of experience tend to enjoy higher earnings. Respondents with less than five years' experience take home $66K on average. In contrast, those who have been around for five to 10 years earn a noticeably higher average of $96K. Professionals who claim 10 to 20 years of experience can secure some pretty cushy paychecks; the median for this group is a six-figure $124K. Individuals who report more than two decades of experience seem to make only slightly more than folks in the 10-to-20 year range; the more senior group sees median earnings in the comparatively modest ballpark of $148K.
|Extremely satisfied
Rated 5 out of 5
based on 65 votes.
11 %
89 %
|Medical: 86%
|Dental: 73%
|Vision: 63%
|None: 13%