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|735 posts found
Advanced Member
Joined: 2/15/05
Deralied thread back on track.
Worlds! You sir made my day, it's been a while since I read a thread that makes sense and I agree with.
I dare to say that even worlds are too little. I want a universe. Limitless opportunities to be or do what I would like to.
No fate but what we make, so make me a ham sandwich please.
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MMORPG.COM Staff
Joined: 6/30/09
I love this quote and could not agree more!
Worlds are where things are going...hopefully, back to the beginnings with Ultima Online.
Novice Member
Joined: 3/17/07
Sums it up nicely
Advanced Member
Joined: 7/13/04
"Free crack and everybody gets laid."
Advanced Member
Joined: 7/13/04
"Free crack and everybody gets laid."
Haha all joking aside, I see the point the OP is trying to make. Personally i'm fine with playing games.
Originally posted by Lobotomist
Maan,2004 playing Anarchy Online and thinking how MMORPGs are going to be at 2010.
We have 5000 more skills ,we are conquering new planets and flying in the space,and someone opened CoH chests.
but no.
Apprentice Member
Joined: 6/11/08
I think with my heart and move with my head.-Kongos
Hmmm. We've already been there. Let's go someplace new.
I can not remember winning or losing a single debate on the internet.
Apprentice Member
Joined: 1/16/09
Fear not Ultima lovers, you are in for a bright future.
I think many developers are realizing that Sandbox is the future of gaming, as technology expands, and limitations become less and less.
Sandbox gaming isn't so much a niche as someone earlier described, in as much as it is not so well executed in most games. Most sandbox games tend to be too over the top in complexity so much so that building a house is a fulltime job in itself to the point that you might as well be living a second life. (see what I did there?)
But that is not to say that Sandbox can not be refined, streamlined to where complexity finds equal and common ground with user friendlyness. And thats the biggest detractor from Sandbox games. People think sandbox games and they get so overexcited about the possibilities, but when they actually get in to play the game their response is, "Well, this sucks." Not because Sandbox isn't an awesome idea, but simply because it is too difficult to get into or understand when done at such an extreme level. (Wurm will drive you nuts!... and FUCK Salem.)
Those over the top hardcore games do have their merits to the type of people that are into that thing but usually require dedication to them on a near daily basis to be able to maintain your little virtual life.
BUT, as technology expands, and people are figuring out new ways to do things, we are constantly refining our games and making them easier to play, yet as well, achieving that complex feel. Look at Assassin's Creed for example. When I first saw the tech demo for Assassin's Creed 1.0 I was blown away. And thinking on how that could even be done on a single controller blew my mind. But they did it... and they continued to evolve the formula. Or hell, look at Metal Gear Solid 4. That had a complex control scheme, with so many interactions in comparison to your average shooter, and yet, they also did it on a single controller. And thats why I think we only have a few more years to go until Sandbox games grow on the rise again. Because they are the next expansion and next step into making these 'MMORPGs' more believable, more immersive. But as well, developers are refining old mistakes, and finding ways to make games more 'ergonomic'. And that really comes down to what will be successful for a Sandbox MMO. An ergonomical control scheme. The ability to control complex functions with ease and little effort.
Archeage looks like it is the first MMO taking a big step into streamlining the gap between the themebox and the sandbox. What little I participated in the Korean Beta, I saw that the game was beauitful, and the UI (despite being in a language I couldn't understand) was detailed with lots of user friendly information regarding different tasks. IT was the fun of playing Sandbox, with the ease of playing any other MMO. I think bridging this gap will be what makes Sandbox Games largely successful.
Graphics and technology continue to expand, but eventually we're going to hit a wall there. If the game starts looking like real life, well, there isn't a whole lot else you can do there, can you? Asthetics in the long run of gaming will not be half as important as gameplay, and the functionality and ease of use of future games. Its not making a complex game less complicated and less interesting. Its simply making them egornomically easier to perform complex tasks. Its going to be about not losing your player base in the first five minutes of playing a game because they can't figure out how to do a damn thing (which is typical in most indie sandbox games. *Coughs* Xsyon *Coughs* Salem *Coughs*)
I think games that should be on your watch list will be games like:
Archeage -
Archeage will play, (and does play) like a typical themepark game in terms of questing and combat. Its much like WoW in that regard, only much more beautiful. And it has an insane amount of sandbox elements, largely inspired by the lead developer himself by his love for Ultima Online series. He even goes as far in saying that it is Ultima Online's spiritual predecessor.
Black Desert Online -
Not much info out on this game yet, but it looks incredibly promising. While it likely is going to be less sandboxy than Archeage, that isn't necessarily a good reason to write it off your list. It also is a korean developed game like Archeage, but do not let that alarm you. The Artstyle is very much Western inspired... and incredibly realistic looking. The armors and architecture I saw in the reveal trailer is very comparible to what you see in the Game of Thrones HBO series. It is by far one of the sexiest games I've ever seen, let alone an MMO. Think of playing a Fable game Online with graphics better than Crysis 3, --- (Maybe on Par with is a better term. But it IS sexy) an entirely seamless world with no loading screens, and *gasps* almost every building in game being able to be player owned and operated? Oh, the Skyrim-Esque action combat system looks beautiful as well with the fluid animations and the active block and dodge skills. There will be a place in a game like that for good warriors, politicians, craftsman, among many other things... it might be a lot of hype, but its worth keeping an eye on!
Everquest Next -
Or Everquest 3, is reported by the Devteam to be focused on Sandbox Features, breaking away from its predecessors in that regard (which more or less could be described as the father of themepark MMOs.) Not a whole lot of info beyond that, but suffice it to say the lead developer made a public statement along the lines of, "Exploring the Sandbox in MMO gaming, is the next step in evolving MMOs. We want to do something new, we want to break away from today's perception of MMORPGs"
Project Titan -
This one probably doesn't even deserve to be on the list, because no one knows what the fuck it is, besides that it is Blizzard's secret MMO behemoth title they've been working on now for almost four years. Using words such as, "It will blow peoples minds" can be described as an easy salesman's trick to pull on potential customers legs to lure them in and get them interested... but lets face it. If any company has the power, and resources to put together a well thought out, beautiful, and completely stunning sandbox title its Blizzard. They have a near infiinite budget, and more talent in the gaming industry than they could possible ever need to put a beautiful game together. They're not going to do the same formula as WoW, because WoW is still going strong and will be for many more years to come. But the fact that the name of the Project has been confirmed as Project Titan, it eludes that whatever it is they're working on, its something big. They're not idiots at blizzard, no matter how hard we try to hate them for the countless times they dissapoint us. But lets not forget what they've achieved either. And the potential and capacity for them to achieve greater things in the MMO industry by far surpasses the resources of other gaming companies.
No, I don't think what we're getting will be anything like WoW at all. I think Blizzard is going all in with a royal flush, ready to define what it is to sit on the "Iron Throne" of the MMO industry. And I think the test and challenge of doing something new and different from what WoW is something that will drive them to do so. Now is not a time for repitition. Its a time for evolution.
Speculation aside though, I wouldn't daydream all day about the glorious potential Sandbox titles we'll get in the future. They're not that far away at all, and they'll be here before you know it.
Novice Member
Joined: 7/12/12
Originally posted by nariusseldon
Nope...outside of the rifts I didn't think there was alot of "worldishness" to the game. As soon as I started having to do dungeons, I quit.
Originally posted by Metentso
very much true
Novice Member
Joined: 7/07/05
Originally posted by fernetek
Same here. I wish they'd focused more on the whole rift mechanic, in all sorts of ways, instead of going the way of instance grinding. They could have worked endgame and even PvP into it, but instead it was just a great example of "one step forward, two steps back."
When I want a single-player story, I'll play a single-player game. When I play an MMO, I want a massively multiplayer world.
Originally posted by lotaparty
Why would i want to adapt to anything?
a) This is entertainment. It is not like work that i have to do something valuable to the world.
b) It is not like there isn't other entertainment choice. If devs don't make games i want to play, it is their choice, but they are not getting my money.
Novice Member
Joined: 3/06/10
My vote goes to Wurm Online (http://www.wurmonline.com). Yes, it's a little old, and the graphics could be better, but for an indie game it's amazing. You take the time to work your skills up, and you can terraform pretty much anything and build almost anything. It has multiple servers that are as big as some complete games. It is the definition of sandbox, and so far I am loving it.
Advanced Member
Joined: 12/09/08
"See how I reward those who fail me!"
I do want a game. But for MMOs I also want a world. Too many MMOs are gamey at the expense of the world part.
"Tiny clown, he got wet. I was talking to a psychic and I can't sleep in the ozone. There are too many different peanuts, looking sad.
Originally posted by Axxar
Which, from my perspective, is 100x better than worldly at the expense of the game part.
Apprentice Member
Joined: 6/11/08
I think with my heart and move with my head.-Kongos
I know this has been said before, but I think games that have aspects of both are the way to go. Especially if the two types of players could interface with each other. Stuff that players got from playing the game could be sold to players who were living in the world, and stuff the players produced in the world could be sold to players for progression in their game.
I can not remember winning or losing a single debate on the internet.
Novice Member
Joined: 2/27/08
Originally posted by nariusseldon
Exactly so. These are games first, everything else, be it an MMO, FPS, RTS, platformer, etc. a distant second. If it's not fun, if it doesn't draw you in and make you want to play, then everything else is irrelevant.
Played: UO, EQ, WoW, DDO, SWG, AO, CoH, EvE, TR, AoC, GW, GA, Aion, Allods, lots more
Originally posted by Cephus404
Yeah ..
And no design feature should be sacred. Look at the big successes. In the past, Diablo became a big success because it did away with all the story in RPGs, and focus on combat.
Recently, LOL and WOT are successes because it focuses on instanced PvP combat, and don't even bother with a world.
For people who claim they want innovation, it is sad to see they are clinging to old ideas done back in UO, EQ and DAOC.
Apprentice Member
Joined: 11/21/11
You don't want an actual mmo though nari.
What you need is a lobby where you can go do dungeons without the "boring" leveling and outdoor bits.
And that would not be a mmo.
Originally posted by ShakyMo
1) No. i don't want a virtual world MMO. And yes, i want a lobby instanced game with fun levelilng and combat. Some outdoor bits is good. Diablo 3 is the perfect game. Won't touch a MMO until i am sick of it.
2) Secondly, MMOs are turning into lobby games, are they not? If so, why shouldn't i play them if i like lobby game? I am quitting wow, but that is only because the combat is boring compared to the competition. I played it as a lobby game for quite a while already.


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I'm a nurse by day, and a smut writer by night. It's my secret identity, like I'm Supergirl or something. Only my super power is making people read one-handed.
I'm working on two new series right now. The Forgotten Virgins Club is about a group of girls who were ignored by boys all through high school but when they go to college things start picking up. These are all longer stories, written as very steamy erotic romances. The Perils of Polly is about a girl named Polly who is a college senior who is always getting into some sort of trouble. These are shorter stories with a much higher proportion of sex, a lot like the Preacher's Daughters series.
Thanks to everyone who takes the time to let me know how they like my stories. *kisses*


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Friday, February 14, 2014
In my column last Friday, I wrote about a fictitious couple, Minnie and Angus, who might have lived in Georgetown in 1914. Imagine my surprise when I received the following letter by email Friday afternoon.
Dear Debby,
Thank you so very much for publishing that letter from Minnie. I havent seen Minnie or Angus for some time. I usually run into them at the church. As you know both of them serve on the Parish Altar Guild. I talked with the pastor just last week and he said that he didnt know what the Parish would do without their service.
They seem like members of my family I have known them for so long. I remember that old Angus would stop by the house and take my Grandpa along to go fishin. They really enjoyed jawin with each other. They never told me where they went fishin, but when they brought the fish back home they were all cut open and ready for fryin.
That was a long time ago and Grandpa has been gone for a spell. We still have the place on the river and me and my lady sometimes steal away out there.
As you know we got a place out there in the Pleasant Hill area. We do some farmin and have a head of cattle or two, but nothin much. It does keep us out of mischief.
I tell you it was a real treat to read that letter. Folks out in these parts dont really know how it was around here. In the early days Grandpa worked sometimes out there at the Atlantic Coast Lumber company. I havent heard about the lumber yard much any more. Maybe they are out of business.
I do hear that things in town are pickin up. That old movie theater is some kind of play place. I havent been there, but they say they put on some real good stuff.
The other day when I come to town I heard the town clock. I didnt know they fixed it. It sure took me back to when I was growin up.
Well, dinner is almost ready. I hear Ma rattlin those pots and pans. She gets mighty disturbed if Im late to the table. It does smell like were havin fish. It does smell good.
Maybe later in the evenin we might pull up a chair and have a drink of somethin. Theres a fella out this way that makes some good stuff. I dont know what he puts in it but Im probably better off not knowin.
I really have to go now, but its been fun to chat. The next time me and Ma are in town we will try to stop by.
You know, there are so many new streets that I get lost. Some of those streets used to be dirt paths. Out this way everybody knows everybody and I can always ask somebody. In town they all think I just got here from someplace else. Its sure nice to have friends.
Since my granddaughter got me this new machine I dont need to spell anymore. I wish my third grade teacher could see me now. I got through schoolin by the skin of my teeth. I finished up over there at the Winyah school. I guess its still there. Last week my Granddaughter took me over to get my eyes checked and it was around there somewhere.
Ma and I get to church sometimes, but not as regular as we used to. I think the Lord knows our hearts are in the right place. We dont have a regular minister anymore because we dont have enough folks to come. From time to time somebody from town shows up and we have service. I cant remember who was here last. Im getting old.
Drop me a line when you can and it was real good hearin about the doins of Minnie and Angus. Bless their hearts they are good folks.
This fictitious letter, written in response to my fictitious couple, was actually written by my friend, Warren Umstead, who lives at Pawleys Island. It gave me a start are Minnie and Angus really make-believe?
To Warren Umstead . . . thanks for the memories.
Debby Summey may be reached at (843) 446-4777 or firstname.lastname@example.com.
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If GSP were the same size as Anderson I feel like GSP would win, but when GSP walks around at 190-195 and Anderson walks around at 220-230 and his frame in general is bigger I think Anderson would smash him. I don't think it's a foregone conclusion as I'd give GSP a chance as he's a great fighter but I'd put my money on Silva.
As for the comment with only maybe less than 5% being able to land the kick that Condit did, well I'd put Anderson in that category and he'd be able to pull out a lot more different types of strikes than Condit could ever dream to do. If at any point Anderson were to land a shot that floored GSP, the fight would be over once Anderson moved in for the kill. Plus I think Anderson's takedown defense has greatly improved after training for his fight against Sonnen.


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CBS Sports' Jon Heyman reports that the Rockies will sign Boone Logan to a three-year, $16.5 million contract.
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David Peralta went 3-for-4 with a double, a stolen base, two RBI, and a run scored as the Diamondbacks defeated the Mariners 8-4 on Tuesday.
Brett Gardner and his Yankees teammates took it to the Rangers on Tuesday, with the outfielder going 3-for-4 with a homer, three RBI and five runs scored in the 21-5 rout.
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Sonny Gray tossed a three-hit shutout, beating the Dodgers on Tuesday.
Jung-Ho Kang went 2-for-4 with a game-winning home run as the Pirates outlasted the Twins 8-7 on Tuesday.
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I'm 35 + 5 today.
I went to my OB appointment yesterday and my BP was 167/110 and high protein so she sent me to the hospital to get assessed. I was here 2 weeks ago for 3 days to be monitored and I was sent home with labetalol and put on modified bed rest. Since then my BP meds were increased since my BP was getting higher.
I've now been told that I will not be going home without a baby within the next week. My blood work is good and baby is good and I'm in the middle of a 24 hour urine test and waiting for more labs to get done, and an ultrasound. My BP in the hospital has benn 130-145/80s so not too bad. If my tests come back worse then I'm induced right away or else induction could happen in a few days (and I'm nervous!).
The waiting game never seems to end...


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PHILLIPS has skated in four games with Toledo since being assigned there on Oct. 26, notching one assist and a +3 plus/minus rating. He has not appeared in any games with Chicago this season.
Last year, the 23-year-old blueliner made his North American hockey debut when he appeared in 52 games with Rockford IceHogs (AHL), notching six assists and 52 penalty minutes. He also skated in six ECHL outings with Toledo, tallying two points (G, A) and two penalty minutes.
PHILLIPS will join the Wolves in Michigan as they continue a season-high eight-game road trip with a matchup against the Grand Rapids Griffins at Van Andel Arena tonight at 6 p.m. For more information, or tickets to Wolves home games, call 1-800-THE-WOLVES or visit chicagowolves.com.


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Kepler-452b revolves around a sun much like our own.
Mind the Clock
September 1, 2013|
Many of the body's tissues can tell time, and these peripheral clocks can be influenced by environmental cues, such as the timing of food consumption.
September 1, 2013|
Many of the body's tissues can tell time, and these peripheral clocks can be influenced by environmental cues, such as the timing of food consumption.
May 1, 2013|
Desulfobulbaceae bacteria were recently discovered to form centimeter-long cables, containing thousands of cells that share an outer membrane.
May 1, 2013|
Shewanella bacteria generate energy for survival by transporting electrons to nearby mineral surfaces.
March 2, 2013|
The method to the dengue virus's maddening infectiousness.
January 1, 2013|
There's a lot more than dirt to the soil in which plants grow.
July 1, 2012|
Present in every tissue of the body, ubiquitin appears to be involved in a dizzying array of functions, from cell cycle and division to organelle and ribosome biogenesis, as well as the response to viral infection. The protein plays at least two role
July 1, 2012|
Despite its discovery as a protein that seems to show up everywhere, at least in eukaryotic cells, researchers are only beginning to scratch the surface of all of the cellular functions involving ubiquitin.
May 1, 2012|
Telomeres are repetitive, noncoding sequences that cap the ends of linear chromosomes. They consist of hexameric nucleotide sequences (TTAGGG in humans) repeated hundreds to thousands of times.
February 1, 2012|
There are five steps of autophagosome biogenesis: induction, expansion, vesicle completion, fusion, and cargo degradation.
January 1, 2012|
Not all inflammation leads to pain. Despite widespread infection followed by fever, colds rarely cause pain. But when some cytokines and certain immune cells are active near pain-sensing nerves, they trigger receptors that convey pain sensations to the brain.


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As I posted before, the funeral home called on Saturday afternoon to let me know Gracie's death certificate was ready to be picked up. Because we didn't want to go on Mother's Day, we decided to go today. We also decided to go by the courthouse to pick up a copy of her birth certificate and our marriage certificate.
I almost cried when she asked if the birth certificate was correct. It has DECEASED stamped right in the middle of it. I didn't expect to see it, so it caught me by surprise. After a while I got upset. I know she died, but why couldn't she at least have a normal birth certificate?
When we went to pick up her death certificate I let myself cry as I read it. One of the listed causes of her death is "maternal hypertension". I already felt guilty about getting preeclampsia, but to see it on an official document is a slap in the face.


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And it begins again. The rain, incessant rain, the pitter patter of heavy drops on the windowpanes, the whistling of the wind through the cracks in the glass, the chill dampness that seems to invade every corner of our home, slipping under blankets and crawling up sweaters. We bundle up just a little bit more, scrunch down into our respective corners of the sofa and watch the rain fall. And fall. And fall.
Day how many now that we've been listening to the demonstrators as they march and sing down the main thoroughfare a mere stone's throw from our window? How many news programs have we watched the disgruntled shake their proverbial fist at the government, vowing a never-ending stand down? How many days have we been without gasoline, the car sitting woefully alone in the parking garage as husband and son trudge to work and school on foot? How many days do I lean out of the window and watch the police, decked out in riot gear from head to foot, assemble, line up in human blockades to protect the police prefecture amid the piles of uncollected trash? And the sun comes, and the sun goes and the rains begin again and it is just another autumn in France.
And so we regale ourselves, soothe our dour moods with comfort food, warm our home with baking as the oven heats up and we slip out one more tray of cookies redolent of cinnamon and chocolate, the rich, homey scents of pumpkin and roasting sweet potatoes calm our nerves as we flip off another tv news program showing the mobs who've taken to the streets yet again. And each morning we peep out through the curtains and check the weather wondering what the day will bring. Nothing seems to go as expected, they promise us a crisp, golden autumn and we step out into rain, dreary pewter skies and steely moods as the rain seeps inside our collars and down the back of our necks, as we see them gathering once again on the street corner, huddling together under their signs. I rush to the market, take refuge under the eaves, choose my apples carefully, toss in a basketful of vegetables to add to a comforting chicken soup and dash back home. I am in the mood for warm apples and cinnamon, something yeasty good and sweet warming my afternoon and welcoming a naughty, unpredictable autumn like a capricious child.
As I write this post the skies have cleared once again (although I hold no hope for it lasting) and the streets are momentarily silent, the trash has been swept up and the gas tank has been filled. I brace for another call to arms and another rainy day, both sure to make their weekly appearance. I sit in the warm house, heat cranked up, fighting a seasonal cold while being pampered as I deserve to be (husband making all the meals, son actually walking the dog, both going grocery shopping), counting the days until baby boy arrives home bringing our foursome together again, and enjoying just a little down time. We watch the temperamental skies from our comfortable spots on the livingroom sofa knowing that the gray is lurking just out of sight. I flip through a pile of cookbooks looking for inspiration, for just the right recipe to pop off of the page and shout autumn to me. I dream of the comfort of warm apples and cinnamon as the world outside loses its mind, I yearn for the consolation of dense, soft brioche as images of the discontent and angry float across my tv screen from both sides of the Atlantic. I pour myself a hot cup of coffee with that second slice and ponder, alone in my kitchen, the utter craziness of the world.
Ah, lovely talented Deeba of Passionate About Baking is hosting this month's Monthly Mingle for the lovely talented Meeta of What's For Lunch, Honey? (Am I biased? Me? Naw! I love these two girls!) and her theme for the month is Baking With Fruit! I am sending this wonderful, luscious, flavorful, comforting Apple Coffee Cake her way for Monthly Mingle. I am also sending this to Susan of Wild Yeast for Yeastspotting.
Autumn in Italy always meant Pan dei Morti for me – Bread of the Dead, a rich, dense, chewy cookie, layers of cocoa, cinnamon and fig with an intriguing hint of wine, a toothsome textural game of crispy cookies and figs, the crunch of pine nuts reminding us of… bones. Pan dei Morti is a wonderful treat that appears in Milan all too briefly around All Souls' Day and I've offered you a traditional recipe for this seasonal sweet treat on Huffington Post Food. You will find it here. Please know that I appreciate every comment left after my Huff Post pieces and do feel free to share the link on Facebook and Twitter.
And as you know, my recipes for Vanilla Sponge Cake and Chocolate Mocha Pudding are in the Foodista Best of Food Blogs Cookbook. I am proud to be a part of this project, to have been included alongside 99 fantastic bloggers. To celebrate the release, Foodista is featuring a prize giveaway for those who purchase the book on November 3, 2010 from 10 a.m. to 11 a.m. P.D.T. For details CLICK HERE.
Adapted from Carole Walter's excellent Great Coffee Cakes, Sticky Buns, Muffins & More
Prepare the Simple Sweet Dough the day before as it must be refrigerated overnight:
Simple Sweet Dough
4 Tbs (60 g) sugar
¼ cup (62 ml) warm water
2 ¼ tsp (7 g) active dry yeast
3 cups (375 g) flour + more for kneading
1 tsp salt
1 cup (225 g) unsalted butter, cubed + 1 tsp soft butter for brushing top of dough
½ cup (125 ml) milk
3 large egg yolks (save the whites for macarons!)
1 tsp vanilla
Rinse a small bowl with hot water to warm it, then place 1 tablespoon of the sugar and the ¼ cup warm water to the empty bowl. Sprinkle the active dry yeast over the water and, without stirring it, allow it to stand for 5 minutes. At the end of the 5 minutes, stir it briefly with a fork, cover the bowl with a saucer and allow to stand for about 10 more minutes until foamy.
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together 3 cups of flour, remaining 3 tablespoons sugar and the salt. Add the cubes of butter and, using the tips of your fingers, work in the butter until the mixture resembles fine meal and there are no chunks of butter visible.
Make a well in the center. Warm the milk slightly then whisk it together with the egg yolks and the vanilla. Pour it into the well made in the dry ingredients and then add the dissolved yeast. Using a wooden spoon, stir until all of the dry ingredients have been moistened and it all holds together in a rough ball. Scrape the dough out onto a floured work surface and knead lightly, adding flour a little at a time as needed, just until you have a smooth, soft dough.
Lightly butter a clean medium or large bowl and place the dough in the bowl. Spread a thin layer of the softened butter over the top all the way to the edges. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and then a clean kitchen towel and refrigerate overnight.
½ recipe Simple Sweet Dough
2 Tbs (30 g) unsalted butter
3 baking apples (Golden are fine, I used Reines des Reinettes)
3 Tbs sugar
½ tsp ground ginger
¼ tsp ground allspice
Splash vanilla
2 tsps lemon juice
Slivered almonds or streusel topping, optional
Remove the dough from the refrigerator 1 ½ hours before using. After the waiting time, slice the dough in two equal pieces and prepare one piece for freezing: wrap tightly in plastic wrap, slip in a plastic freezer bag, remove all the air from the bag and seal. Freeze for up to 3 months.
Peel and core the apples. Cut each apple in half and then each half into 8 slices each.
In a heavy skillet, melt the butter over low heat. Add the apples, sugar, cinnamon and allspice and, stirring, sauté the mixture until the apples are soft, translucent and caramelized. Remove from the heat and stir in the lemon juice and vanilla. Allow to cool to room temperature.
Butter a 9-inch springform pan. Set the pan on a large square piece of heavy aluminum foil and wrap the bottom of the pan in case of leakage.
On a lightly floured work surface, gently knead the dough 6 or 8 times and then shape it into a disc slightly larger than the pan. With floured hands, gently lift the dough disc and press it into the prepared pan, stretching it to cover the bottom and up the sides about ¾-inch high (the sides should be about ¼-inch thick). Be sure to press it well into the crease of the pan. Prick the surface of the dough ten to twelve times with a fork, cover with a kitchen towel and set it in a warm place to rise until puffy (it won't be doubled), about 30 minutes.
15 minutes before baking, preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and position the rack in the lower third of the oven. Redefine the edge (lip) of the dough with your thumb and gently depress the center with your hand. Carefully spoon the cooled filling over the dough, smoothing and evening it out over the dough up to the lip. If you like, sprinkle the top with a few tablespoons of streusel topping and/or slivered almonds (I had some leftover from my Nectarine Crisp).
Cover the pan loosely with foil and place it (remember that the bottom has been wrapped in foil as well) in the preheated oven and bake for 10 minutes. Remove the top piece of foil and reduce the oven temperature to 350°F (180°C). Bake for an additional 45 minutes or so, until the edges of the dough are a golden brown and the sides just begin to release.
Remove the coffee cake from the oven and set on a cooling rack. Allow to cool for 20 minutes. Release and remove the side of the springform pan and cool for another 30 minutes. Carefully slide the coffee cake off of the springform base onto a serving platter.
As with all brioche-type cakes and breads, this Apple Coffee Cake is best served fresh and warm. We found that wrapped in aluminum foil, it stayed wonderful and moist for several days, even up to a week. Perfect for both the beautiful and the rainy autumn days.


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Yo Yo Yo Bratzos!
All the world's a stage and YOU are the lead role in your own production.
That's right. The drama mama! The queen bee! The drama queen!
That's why this week we want to hear from you!! Tell us, what do you want to talk about? What interests you? What worries you? What would you like to see us write blogs about? And what topics are you totally over. Like, seriously over.
Should we talk boyz? Celebrities? Every day hometown heroes? Fashion? About our doll line and new products? Music? Movies? Webshows? It can be anything! There are no wrong answers!
What are your faves? What are your hates?
It's a new year, and in 2014 we want to focus on our Bratzies!!
Can't wait to hear from ya!


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Copyright and Intellectual Property
Copyright Policies
It is the policy of the university to encourage appropriate scholarly and creative activity by faculty, staff and students. Foremost among these activities is the production of works disseminating the results of academic research or scholarly study.
Administrative policy regarding copyrights (3342-5-10.1) http://www1.kent.edu/policyreg/chap5/5-10-1.cfm
Administrative policy regarding patents (3342-5-09.1) http://www1.kent.edu/policyreg/chap5/5-09-1.cfm
Copyright Infringement and Digital Millennium Copyright Act (DMCA)
It is illegal to download or share copyrighted materials without the express permission of the copyright holder. If you download and/or distribute copyrighted material without the copyright holders' permission then this is a violation of both Federal law and University policy subject to severe penalties.
For information regarding the DMCA, please go to the following site: http://www1.kent.edu/is/Security/Copyright.cfm


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Who looks chicest in a T-shirt?
It's easy to make a gorgeous gown look grand, but which celeb makes a casual tee look runway-worthy? Play to vote!
Your score: 0
Which star made their tee more stylish?
See how many out of 20 you can get right. Score by clicking on the photo with the most votes.
Good luck!


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Member Since: 06/19/08Send girlyfirefighter a Message Give girlyfirefighter a Gift Add girlyfirefighter as a Friend
You can complete this milestone by accruing more than 50 reputation points in the last 7 days
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You can reach this milestone by becoming one of the top 100 users on the Reputation Leaderboard.
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Hey, I'll catch ya later, I just wanted to let you know that I deleted your last comment on my page, just because I figured it probably wouldn't be great to have your email address out there for everyone to see/get.
I feel so special. Seriously.
Oh, I don't feel left out! Don't even worry about it... (but hey, I'm not saying I'd be proud to have you as an honorary wife) ;) Well, actually, funny thing is... the last few weeks I've been going into the LA area for random testing, etc... I'm not sure if I'll be down their anytime soon. I'll let ya know!
CONGRATS!!! You go!!
:D well, I would wish you luck, however, A: you probably don't need it, and B: your school day is already over! I had a pretty busy shift today... All medical though. :(
Stay safe!
sweet... ya i've got two semesters left.. im going to school at Las Positas College in Livermore
Hey, thanks for the add. How far along with school are ya? Im doing the same thing right now.. in the east bay tho..not to far away lol :)
Well, frankly; yes the academy was very intense. As with most academies, it's a mix of emotional, mental and physical intensity... they pattern it that way, obviously, because those are the same challenges as are met on an emergency scene. Academies vary quite a bit, however, most involve some physical training in addition to a demanding schedule full of almost unachievable challenges... in all however, it was a GREAT experience!
Our academy was actually the first VVC academy in many, many years, that did not have at least one girl. Girls or no girls, everyone in each squad has to earn the trust and respect of his/her brothers and sisters... everyone deserves to know that you will never give up on each other. This shouldn't be a huge issue for you.
Awww... thanks for the tags! Have a nice evening!!
Stay safe, and stay low!
Well, in the inspection during academy, they would check for anything in the pockets... Pretty much anything more than an ID card was considered push-ups. Period. (Including lint). Back home, I'm assuming means L.A.? What's your friend's name?
Good luck with academy! If you have any questions, let me know... I'd love to be helpful if I can!
Thank you for the add! You seem to be a really neat person! (at least from your "personal description" :D ) Stay safe, and stay low!
almost 7 years ago
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Thanks for the add!
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almost 7 years ago
Thanks for the add be safe out there and have a good rest of the weekend keep in touch.
almost 7 years ago
5590 comments
Thank you for adding me to your friends list. Hope you have a terrific day.
Account Removed
almost 7 years ago
thanks for the add
almost 7 years ago
256 comments
Thanks for the add,stay safe and God bless.


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Occupational Therapy Assistant Program
Occupational Therapy Assistant - Technology and Training
Occupational therapy is a health rehabilitation profession that uses activities as treatment to help people of all ages perform the skills they need to live.s independently as possible. Occupational therapy assistant programs teach students the knowledge and skills needed for assessment and execution of tasks with their clients that lead to more productive, active lifestyles and independence. Certified occupational therapist assistants (COTA's) assist with the evaluation and treatment of individuals with injuries, illnesses, cognitive impairments, psychosocial dysfunctions, mental illness, developmental or learning disabilities, physical disabilities, or other disorders or conditions. Under the supervision of occupational therapists (OTs), COTAs, who have completed occupational therapy assistant programs:
IMAGE: Occupational therapy is a health rehabilitation profession that uses activities as treatment to help people of all ages perform the skills they need to live.
Contribute to the evaluation process through the administration of assessments (standardized and non-standardized) for which they have established competency; and
- Implement therapeutic interventions which use purposeful activity for developing, improving, sustaining or restoring function in areas of occupation including daily living skills, instrumental activities of daily living, work performance, educational performance, social participation and leisure activities. The performance skills (motor, process and interaction) and client factors (mental, neuromusculoskeletal and sensory) are the elements of performance in which COTAs intervene for the purpose of attaining an individual's highest level of functional independence within the appropriate environmental context. Under the supervision of an OT, COTAs also assist in the design, development, adaptation, application or training in the use of assistive technology devices; the design, fabrication or application of orthotic devices; the training in the use of orthotic or prosthetic devices; application of physical agent modalities; and the adaptation of environments and processes to enhance functional performance.
Occupational Therapy Assistant Program, is accredited by Accreditation Council for Occupational Therapy Education (ACOTE) of the American Occupational Therapy Association (AOTA), located at 4720 Montgomery Lane, Suite 200, Bethesda, MD 20814-3449. ACOTE's telephone number c/o AOTA is(301) 652-AOTA and its website address is www.acoteonline.org.
Application Deadline: April 30
Number of Students Accepted: Up to 25 each year
For more information contact:
Harriett Bynum
Director of Occupational Therapy Assistant Program
400 East Fourth Street
East Liverpool, OH 43920
E-mail: firstname.lastname@example.com
Phone: 1-330-382-7426
Ext: 77426
Fax: 1-330-382-7564
Lisa McNicol
Senior Secretary
400 East Fourth Street
East Liverpool, OH 43920
E-mail: firstname.lastname@example.com
Phone: 1-330-382-7567
Ext: 77567
Fax: 1-330-382-7564
* Note: A felony conviction may affect a graduate's ability to sit for the NBCOT Certification Examination or attain state licensure.


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Arkansas Pet Friendly Hotels & Lodging
Home to picturesque mountain, forest and river landscapes, as well as quaint and charming historic sites, Arkansas is a Southern gem that's ideal for exploring with your pet.
Whether you enjoy hiking through the woods, fishing in a tranquil river, or going on a scenic drive with your pet, Arkansas is the place to be. With over 600,000 acres of lakes, 9,700 miles of streams and rivers, 47 hot springs, two national parks, and 51 state parks, Arkansas is a mecca for those who love to immerse themselves in nature.
If you plan to travel with your pet to Arkansas, you'll have no trouble finding pet friendly accommodations. From Little Rock, to Hot Springs, to Fayetteville, there are hotels, motels, cabins, vacation rentals and charming bed and breakfasts, ready and willing to welcome your four-legged friend, and help make sure your trip to Arkansas is one to remember.
Top 10 Pet Friendly Cities in Arkansas
Little Rock, Fort Smith, Fayetteville, Springdale, Jonesboro, Conway, Rogers, Pine Bluff, Bentonville, Hot Springs
Featured Pet Friendly Lodging In Arkansas
Arkansas Top Picks
Browse Pet Friendly Destinations in Arkansas
- Alma, AR
- Arkadelphia, AR
- Bald Knob, AR
- Batesville, AR
- Beebe, AR
- Benton, AR
- Bentonville, AR
- Blytheville, AR
- Brinkley, AR
- Bryant, AR
- Cabot, AR
- Camden, AR
- Carlisle, AR
- Clarksville, AR
- Clinton, AR
- Conway, AR
- Crossett, AR
- Dumas, AR
- El Dorado, AR
- Eureka Springs, AR
- Fayetteville, AR
- Fordyce, AR
- Forrest City, AR
- Fort Smith, AR
- Harrison, AR
- Hope, AR
- Hot Springs, AR
- Jacksonville, AR
- Johnson, AR
- Jonesboro, AR
- Little Rock, AR
- Lonoke, AR
- Malvern, AR
- Marion, AR
- Maumelle, AR
- McGehee, AR
- Monticello, AR
- Morrilton, AR
- Mountain Home, AR
- Mountain View, AR
- Nashville, AR
- Newport, AR
- North Little Rock, AR
- Osceola, AR
- Ozark, AR
- Paragould, AR
- Pine Bluff, AR
- Prescott, AR
- Rogers, AR
- Russellville, AR
- Searcy, AR
- Springdale, AR
- Star City, AR
- Stuttgart, AR
- Texarkana, AR
- Trumann, AR
- Van Buren, AR
- Warren, AR
- West Helena, AR
- West Memphis, AR


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Side Navigation
- New Arrivals
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- Swim Series
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Main Content:
Athleta Beach Cover up Bottoms
Beach cover up bottoms from Athleta are just what the active woman needs in her swimwear wardrobe.
Beach Cover Up Bottoms Athleta Collection
Swim cover up bottoms from our performance collection are available in a variety of styles and lengths from short shorts to long pants. Find bottoms in the bright colors of the season and in classic black, white and navy. We offer both pull on, zip front and button front bottoms. We offer cover ups in regular, petite and tall sizes so that you can get the perfect fit.
Beach Cover Up Bottoms Features
Cover up beach bottoms from this assortment are made from stretch blended fabrics that are made to be breathable and are the ultimate in comfortable fit. The sleek, stretchy fabrics provide UPF 50+ protection from the sun. Our bottoms are made with designer quality construction that is exactly what is needed for the discerning woman. Find double stitching, finished seams and other designer details.
Athleta Beach Cover Up Bottoms Style Tips
Wear our versatile cover up bottoms for a variety of occasions. Of course, you can pull on our cover ups after a fun day at the beach. You can also put on a casual tee or blouse with a pair of sneakers and our bottoms and you are set for a day at the beach or pool, for running errands or just hanging out with friends. Add a dressy top, your favorite jewelry and you're set to rock a night out in our sporty coverups. Our beach bottoms are versatile styles and can be worn with everything from tunic length tops to crop tops. Wear some cute sandals and a tank top and you are set for vacation sightseeing or a walk on a tropical beach. Add a belt to some of our coverup styles for a dressy look.
The flattering cut and fit of Athleta beach cover up bottoms makes them a great choice for exercise or for any casual occasion.


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Mortgage Rates - Current Rates from Lenders
30 Yr. Fixed
4.180% Rate
$1,220 / month (est)
Updated 8/3/2015
- We close our loans FAST - many in 30 days or less!
- Rates are still historically low! Lock in a low rate and payment today.
- Why pay more for your home than you have to? Check out rates now.
The advertised rates were submitted by each individual lender/broker on the date indicated. Rate/APR terms offered by advertisers may differ from those listed above based on the creditworthiness of the borrower and other differences between an individual loan and the loan criteria used for the quotes. More Info.. These quotes are from banks, thrifts and brokers who have paid for a link to their website in the listings above and you can find additional information about their loan programs on their websites.
Get FREE Mortgage Quotes Now
Choosing the right mortgage
When it comes to mortgages, the length of the agreement and the sum of money involved make it vital that you do your homework. More so than almost any other financial transaction, it pays to get the details right on your mortgage. Your home may be the biggest purchase of your life, and the type of mortgage you choose significantly influences how long and how much you pay for it.
There are many factors to consider when shopping for a mortgage, but mortgage rates fall into one of two categories: fixed rate and adjustable rate. Knowing the difference between the two is key, as which you choose can make a big difference to your bottom line.
Fixed-rate mortgages
Fixed-rate mortgages are the most common type of mortgage loan. They use a static interest rate that locks in an unchanging monthly payment for the life of the mortgage. Fixed-rate loans most often come in 15-, 20- or 30-year terms.
- Short-term fixed loans, such as 15-year loans, typically have lower interest rates than 30-year loans, but higher payments, as the amount is spread out over fewer years.
- Long-term fixed loans, such as 30-year mortgages, have lower monthly payments, yet tend to have higher interest rates, and you will pay more interest over time.
- Because they're not susceptible to market forces, fixed-rate mortgages guard you against payment increases from interest rate spikes.
- If interest rates decline, your mortgage payment won't go down. But you can consider refinancing if rates drop low enough to offset the transaction costs.
Adjustable-rate mortgages (ARMs)
Adjustable-rate mortgages feature interest rates that fluctuate according to market conditions throughout the life of the loan. You may start with a lower monthly interest rate than the prevailing fixed interest rate, but you will likely end up with a higher rate after the initial loan adjustment period, which can last from 6 months to 10 years.
- ARM interest rates typically move up within three, five or seven years, and even if interest rates don't increase, your payment may still rise.
- When interest rates drop, your payment may not lower much, if at all.
- Early payoff penalties exist on some ARMs, making it impossible to avoid higher payments due to interest rate increases.
- After the interest adjusts initially, it may continue to change throughout the life of the loan.
Fees and closing costs
Other factors to consider when choosing a mortgage are the fees and closing costs. These can vary between lenders, so it pays to examine how these charges will affect your mortgage's overall price.
Typical fees include appraisal and application fees, origination/underwriting fees, broker fees and settlement/closing costs. The variety of fees can seem dizzying (and costly) to borrowers, but they are often negotiable. No-cost loans also exist, but they usually feature higher interest rates.
Buying a home can be a complex and tiring process. But by thoroughly examining your options, you can better your chances of finding the home loan that best suits your long-term needs.
Featured Stories and Latest News
Amid historically low rates, is real estate a good investment?
Recent declines in mortgage rates may generate enthusiasm for real estate investments, but there are reasons to be skeptical of this. Go »
When it makes sense to bet the house
Shifting your debt burden into a mortgage can save you money, but it can also put your home at risk. Learn when this approach makes sense. Go »
Playing the spread in today's interest rates
Rising long-term interest rates should impact how you shop for income vehicles and loans. Go »
Is the housing bubble rising again?
Home prices may be the same as in 2004, but other conditions have changed since then. Is history ready to repeat itself? Go »
A boon for banks, a calamity for consumers
The recent shift in interest rates has hurt borrowers without helping depositors. Here's how to cope. Go »
Handling today's diverging bank rates
Various interest rates are moving in different directions, which may require consumers to fine-tune their borrowing and deposit strategies. Go »
5 things to know before investing in real estate
Real estate investments can provide growth and income, but they also carry some special risks. Go »
4 financial lessons from 'Downton Abbey'
Though "Downton Abbey" is set in a distinctly different era, its plot holds some financial lessons that are relevant today. Go »
5 moves to make after the fiscal cliff
The fiscal cliff deal contains some possible clues about the country's future. Learn what financial choices you may want to consider as a result. Go »
Waiting to refinance: A dangerous game?
If you have been dragging your feet on refinancing, you shouldn't ignore a certain warning sign that has appeared lately. Go »


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Find hotels in Lenoir using the list and search tools below. Search for the cheapest discounted hotel and motel rates in or near Lenoir, NC for your upcoming personal or group travel. We list the best Lenoir North Carolina hotel rooms. Review the Lenoir hotel list below to find the perfect lodging. We also have a map of the Lenoir hotels. Booking 5+ Rooms? Find Lenoir Group Hotel DealsThe Lenoir center point is approximately 14 miles from Catawba Meadows and 14 miles from L.P. Frans Stadium.
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The Salvation Army of Aiken is encouraging residents to stop by one of its three family stores, as well as clean out their closets for some possible donations.
At each of the three Salvation Army-operated stores, there are deals on clothing, household items and furniture. Old items can be donated to these stores. While this is a place to donate and get a tax write-off or find a bargain, it is so much more.
Every time a donation or purchase is made at The Salvation Army Family Store, the proceeds are used to run local programs like the homeless shelter, Boys & Girls Club and social services office.
Last year, more than 20,000 meals to hungry people were served and more than 450 homeless people were homed.
The Salvation Army operates the only homeless shelter in Aiken County for men, women and children. While it receives funding, it is not enough to cover the operating costs, so every donation to or purchase from the Salvation Army keeps somebody from having their lights turned off, puts food on the table of a hungry family, provides a safe place for at-risk children to go after school and provides somewhere to sleep for someone with nowhere to turn.
To arrange a pick up for your furniture donations, call 641-4141. All donations are tax-exempt.
For more information, visit http://www.salvationarmycarolinas.org/commands/aiken.
Notice about comments:
Aiken Standard is pleased to offer readers the enhanced ability to comment on stories. Some of the comments may be reprinted elsewhere in the site or in the newspaper. We ask that you refrain from profanity, hate speech, personal comments and remarks that are off point.
We do not edit user submitted statements and we cannot promise that readers will not occasionally find offensive or inaccurate comments posted in the comments area. If you find a comment that is objectionable, please click the X that appears in the upper right corner when you hover over a comment. This will send the comment to Facebook for review. Please be reminded, however, that in accordance with our Terms of Use and federal law, we are under no obligation to remove any third party comments posted on our website. Read our full terms and conditions.


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The present invention relates to a probe for testing of integrated circuits or other microelectronic devices.
1. A probe comprising:
(a) a substantially rigid support comprising a planar board having additional electrical elements including a plurality of spaced connection sites;
(b) an integrated tip assembly comprising:
(ii) a tab;
(ii) a plurality of contact fingers each comprising a first end portion and a second end portion, said plurality of contact fingers maintained in a predetermined alignment by said tab secured to said contact fingers, said second end portions of said contact fingers cantilevered from said first end portions in a relationship spaced to align respective second end portions of said contact fingers with respective connection sites; and
(c) a plurality of soldered interconnections securing respective second end portions of said contact fingers to respective connection sites, said first end portions of said contact fingers extending from an edge of said support.
2. The probe of
3. The probe of
4. The probe of
5. The probe of
6. The probe of
7. The probe of
8. The probe of
9. The probe of
This application is a division of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 11/796,237, filed Apr. 26, 2007, which is a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 09/997,501, filed Nov. 19, 2001, now U.S. Pat. No. 7,233,160; which application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional App. No. 60/251,186, filed Dec. 4, 2000.
The present invention relates to a probe for testing of integrated circuits or other microelectronic devices.
One type of probe utilizes a spaced-apart array of slender needles to contact pads on a device under test (DUT). A signal is provided to the DUT, and the voltages and/or currents at the selected nodes are routed to measurement equipment. A problem encountered with such measurement systems, particularly at high frequencies, is that the close proximity between the needle tips creates inductance that can interfere with accurate measurements. Though this inductance can be reduced by limiting the isolated portion of the probe tips to the region immediately surrounding the DUT, practical considerations make such a design difficult.
Probe structures have been developed to compensate for the inductance at the probe tips. One such design is exemplified by Lockwood et al., U.S. Pat. No. 4,697,143. Lockwood et al. disclose a ground-signal-ground arrangement of strip like conductive traces formed on the underside of an alumina substrate so as to create coplanar transmission lines. These coplanar transmission lines extend from the pads of the DUT at one end to a coaxial cable at the other end. The associated pair of ground traces on each coplanar transmission line is connected to the outer conductor of the coaxial cable and the interposed signal trace is connected to the inner conductor. Areas of wear-resistant conductive material are provided to reliably establish an electrical connection with the respective pads of the DUT. Layers of ferrite-containing microwave absorbing material are mounted about the substrate to absorb spurious microwave energy over a major portion of the length of each ground-signal-ground trace pattern. In accordance with this type of construction, a high frequency impedance (e.g., 50 ohms) can be presented at the probe tips to the device under test. Thus broadband signals of eighteen gigahertz or less can travel with little loss across the coplanar transmission lines formed by each ground-signal-ground trace pattern.
The probing system of Lockwood et al., however, is insufficient to effectively probe non-planar surfaces. Such surfaces might result, for example, if the pads of the DUT differ in height, if a loose metallic particle of minute dimension adheres electrostatically to the surface of one of the pads of the DUT so as to form a non-planar surface irregularity, or when the plane of the DUT is inadvertently tilted slightly with respect to the plane of the coplanar tips of the probing assembly. Further, proper alignment between the needles and the DUT requires careful placement of each needle, a time consuming process.
The alignment limitation between the needles was addressed by Godshalk, U.S. Pat. No. 5,506,515. Godshalk discloses a ground-signal-ground finger arrangement attached to a coaxial cable, as in Lockwood. The fingers, however, are originally formed in one piece, joined together by a carrier tab at the contact ends. Once the fingers are attached to the coaxial cable, the carrier tab is severed and the contact fingers appropriately shaped for contact with the DUT. Godshalk discloses that the relative position of each finger is held in alignment first by the carrying tab, and then by the coaxial cable. Unfortunately, Godshalk's design is limited in that the close placement of a coaxial cable to the finely spaced geometry of the DUT places a limit on the number of coaxial cables, and hence contact fingers, that may be used effectively in the probe. Further, a probe having multiple adjacent coaxial cables, each of which has different flexibilities, may lead to insufficient contact with some of the nodes on the DUT.
Another class of probes that provide clean power to circuits at low impedance are generally referred to as power bypass probes. Another configuration that has been developed to counteract the inductance at the tips of a probe assembly is a power bypass quadrant. The power bypass quadrant minimizes such inductance by providing integrated capacitors or resistor-capacitor networks within the probe.
Strid, U.S. Pat. No. 4,764,723, discloses a power bypass quadrant probe that utilizes an array of ceramic fingers coated with a thin gold or polyimide film to make contact with the DUT. The test signals are routed through a power bypass structure consisting of an RC network. Because of the small geometries near the DUT, the capacitors are located far away from the probe tip, which potentially decreases performance. In addition, the ceramic contact fingers tend to break during probing, particularly when the probe overshoots the contact pads. Further, probing pads that are not coplanar is exceedingly difficult because the ceramic contacting fingers lack flexibility.
Boll et al., U.S. Pat. No. 5,373,231 disclose a probe that includes an array of blades to contact the pads of a DUT. The array of blades extend from a transmission line network traced on a circuit board. An RC network is provided on the circuit board to provide the requisite power bypass, and in some instances, flexible capacitors are located close to, or between the contact blades. Because of the limited geometries near the DUT, the capacitance of the capacitors interconnected between the blades are small, and alone are insufficient to adequately eliminate circuit inductance. Accordingly, a second bank of capacitors with larger values are located away from the probe tip where space is available. Probes utilizing flexible capacitors between the closely spaced blades of the probe have proven to be of limited mechanical durability.
What is desired, therefore, is a configurable, multi-contact probe for high frequency testing of integrated circuits or other microelectronic devices that reduces the inductance at the probe tip to levels acceptable for measurement over a wide range of frequencies. The probe should be sufficiently durable and flexible to reliably and repeatedly probe substantially non-planar devices over time. It is further desired that the probe be easily aligned with the contact points on the device to be tested and that the probe be capable of simultaneously probing a number of such contact points.
The foregoing and other objectives, features, and advantages of the invention will be more readily understood upon consideration of the following detailed description of the invention, taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings.
The wafer probe 10 is designed to be mounted on a support through a three hole mounting frame 24 of a wafer probe station so as to be in a suitable position for probing a device under test, such as an individual component on a semiconductor wafer. In this type of application, the wafer is typically supported under vacuum pressure on the upper surface of a chuck that is part of the same probing station. Ordinarily an X-Y-Z positioning mechanism is provided, such as a micrometer knob assembly, to effect movement between the supporting member and the chuck so that the tip assembly of the wafer probe can be brought into pressing engagement with the contact pads of the device under test.
Referring to
The spacing of the contact fingers 16 at their respective distal ends 18 is selected to match the geometry of the DUT pads. Use of an integrated tip assembly 12 advantageously serves to maintain this proper spacing while the contact fingers 16 are attached to their respective connections to the circuit board 14. Typically, contact fingers or needles are attached to a circuit board by being held flush to their respective traces and soldered into the appropriate position and pitch. During this process, lateral forces tend to displace the distal ends of the contact fingers, making it difficult to maintain the proper spatial relationship between the contact fingers to match that of the pads of the DUT. Use of a carrying tab 26, however, maintains the proper transverse spacing of the distal ends 18 of the contact fingers 16 by counteracting any lateral forces encountered in the attachment process.
In addition, the probe 16 described herein achieves an improved spatial transformation between the compact geometry of the microelectronic device being probed and the dispersed geometry of the testing equipment and, if provided, any power bypass circuitry. This improved spatial characteristic stands in contrast to earlier design, in which signals were routed through a coaxial cable. A coaxial cable, having simply an inner and an outer conductor, limits the number of attached contact fingers to three, arranged in a ground-signal-ground arrangement. Accordingly, any common carrying tab used to hold the contact fingers in position during their attachment to a coaxial cable also is limited to a maximum of three contact fingers.
Oftentimes, however, the DUT has more than three pads to be tested. In such a case, configuring the probe requires the use of multiple coaxial cables arranged in an adjacent relationship to each other, usually an awkward process given the limited space available near the probe tips. Use of multiple coaxial cables is also problematical in that different cables have differing flexibility, making it difficult to line up all the cables in a single plane and leading to uneven probe forces when the contact fingers are pressed to their respective pads. Moreover, the used of multiple coaxial cables and multiple carrying tabs necessitates the careful and time consuming adjustment of the relative position between the sets of contact fingers to the geometry of the pads of the DUT. In another design, the use of multiple coaxial cables and a single carrying tab necessitates the careful and time consuming adjustment of the relative position of the coaxial cables.
Use of a circuit board 14, however, addresses each of these drawbacks. Because the circuit board 14 can include separate traces for each of the contact pads of the DUT to which the probe will be engaged during testing, the common carrying tab 26 depicted in
If the pads of the device are formed of aluminum instead of gold, it is preferable to use a harder material for the fingers 16, such as tungsten. Here again, the finger material selected is substantially harder than the contact pad material in order to ensure minimal wearing of the fingers 16. If tungsten fingers are used, it is preferable that they also be gold plated to reduce resistive losses. Use of materials such as BeCu and tungsten allows repeated use of the probe while avoiding the fragility encountered through the use of the ceramic contact fingers described earlier. It should also be noted that other potential materials may be used, in addition to BeCu or tungsten. In addition, a number of other potential techniques exist to connect the contact fingers with the circuit board besides soldering, including epoxy and the like.
The contact fingers 16 are fabricated as a single, integrated unit attached to a common carrying tab 26 at the distal (tip) ends 18. The distal end 18 has a shape that provides a geometrical fanning of the contacts from the very small pitch (center-to center contact spacing) at the distal ends 18 up to the larger geometry of the traces 40 on the circuit board 14.
In accordance with one preferred assembly method, to prepare for connection of the respective contact fingers to the circuit board, solder paste is evenly applied to the exposed traces on the circuit board. The fingers are then held just above their corresponding traces, then lowered until they press against the solder paste in an appropriate position. When the solder is melted, preferably by heating elements arranged above and below the connection region a solder fillet is desirably formed between each finger and its corresponding circuit board trace.
Preferably, while heating the solder, the fingers are held at a slight downward incline relative to the distal ends so that during cooling, each finger assumes a planar relationship with the circuit board 14. During this connection process, it will be noted that the proper transverse spacing is maintained between the respective fingers by the common carrier tab since any forces that would tend to laterally displace the fingers are negated by the common carrier tab 26 that holds the contact fingers at their respective distal ends. 18 After the fingers 16 are attached to the circuit board 14, the common carrier tab 26 is severed as it is no longer needed because proper finger alignment is maintained by the circuit board 14. The fingers 16 are preferably shaped using grinding and lapping processes to create a flat contact area whose leading edge is visible when viewed from directly above.
Referring to
As shown in
To illustrate how such a power bypass structure may be incorporated,
While the MIM capacitor has very low inductive parasitics and a very high self-resonant frequency it does not have very much capacitance. This limits its ability to provide power bypass at lower frequencies. Accordingly, a relatively larger sized and valued SMT capacitor, though still of very small physically dimension, is placed further up the board where there is sufficient space. A small value SMT resistor is used in series with this capacitor to "de-Q" or spoil the parallel resonance that can occur between the MIM capacitor and the inductance of the line length running to the SMT capacitor.
Referring specifically to
Referring again to
The terms and expressions which have been employed in the foregoing specification are used therein as terms of description and not of limitation, and there is no intention, in the use of such terms and expressions, of excluding equivalents of the features shown and described or portions thereof, it being recognized that the scope of the invention is defined and limited only by the claims which follow.
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October is National Bullying Prevention Month. This is one topic that should be discussed with our children, and not only during the month of October.
Bullying is defined by an American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) policy statement as "a form of aggression in which one or more children repeatedly and intentionally intimidate, harass, or physically harm a victim who is perceived as unable to defend himself or herself".
Unfortunately, study after study shows that the incidence of bullying is on the rise with the most prevalent bullying occurring during the middle school years. One study I read stated that "160,000 students skip school everyday to avoid being bullied". Another study stated that somewhere between 10-40% of middle school students report being bullied.
Where does bullying begin? Sadly, some of the bully behavior is modeled from parent to child, and parents can be part of the problem. Good behavior and acceptance of others needs to begin in the home with parents discussing hurt feelings and mean language in the toddler years. How many times have you heard yourself saying to your own child, "when you say that it hurts my feelings", or "did that person hurt your feelings?" These lessons are taught early on, beginning in the sandbox. The discussions really continue throughout childhood but are obviously age appropriate.
When talking to my patients during middle school years about bullying and the "mean girls" phenomena (verbal and cyber bullying is more common among girls, while physical bullying is more common among boys) I ask about their friendships and how they perceive themselves as friends. Many middle school patients of mine report feeling excluded from some groups, or events, but at the same time are learning how to decide who are their "real" friends. The discussion often comes back to the basic, "if you are nice to everyone, you will find that you are not very interesting to bully or gossip about". Sounds easy, but it is really hard to always be nice. It is a good place to start.
Bullying not only causes emotional effects it is often linked to physical effects as well. Anxiety, depression, substance abuse, physical complaints (head and tummy aches) and even suicidal ideas may all arise due to bullying. These are all problems that I see in my own practice.
Take some time to engage in a bit of dinner conversation and talk to your children about the various types of bullying and how to prevent it.
- Kids & Media Use
- Feeding Baby Solid Foods
- Kids & Media Use
- Allergic to a Baby Wipe?
- When a Child Looks Yellow


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©1998 John Gray; (P)1998 HarperCollins Publishers, Inc., All Rights Reserved, Harper Audio, A Division of HarperCollins Publishers
"A valuable, much-needed book. A contribution to the understanding of the communication styles of men and women." (Harville Hendrix, Ph.D., author of Getting the Love You Want)
"May I suggest..."
This is an excellent book, in spite of how cliche the title has become. But I STRONGLY recommend the abridged version.
I am usually 100% anti-abridgement, I hate them hate them hate them. I owned the abridgement of this book on cassette before I purchased the unabridged version. It was abridged by and is read by the author - so you can be certain it still has everything in it that he felt was essential. The unabridged version is very repetitive, which is fine when you are reading but may put you to sleep if you are listening!
Lucy Dog
"Truly Comforting"
I don't normally take the time to write reviews, but this book is AMAZING. I downloaded it at a time in my life where my relationship just seemed like it was falling to pieces, but both my fiance and I have been listening to it together, and we BOTH come back to each other time and again to share just how right John Gray is! It is wonderful not only to understand the opposite sex, but also to help you understand yourself and how you can express yourself to your partner. Most of all, it is so comforting to know that you aren't alone! You recognize yourself in almost every word. Repetitive? Maybe. But almost everything John Gray says is WELL worth repeating until you've got it right. I don't know what we would do without this book. It is not a fix-all if you've got serious problems, but it is a wonderful beginning to giving each other the chance that you both deserve.
"A Very Helpful Guide to The Opposite sex"
A GREAT TOOL!!! to becoming a great partner............ This Book will save you from many many unneeded missunderstandings in a relationship. it brings much self improfment by bringing a better understanding of how and why men and women differ. ................. The ONLY negatives are 1) the voice reading is unpleasant at times and 2) few times, it may seem repetative-due to much topic clearification. yet this is really nothing compared to all the benifets it brings........All in ALL, a must read..
"Saved our relationship"
This book truely saved our relationship at a time where both of us were very confused! John Grey is funny, insightful, and speaks well to not only women, but men too!
"loved the hard-copy and loved the audio book"
almost everyone has heard of this title unless you live in a cave on an island without any access to society and the opposite sex ... listened to it 3 times (on different flights) - makes me laugh even now just thinking about it ...
"Poor Quality"
Poor Quality of the audio book. Did not follow the book verbatim. I downloaded the unabridged version and wanted to follow along reading the unabridged book as well; in order to follow the tone of Dr. Gray's Men are from Mars. Some parts were omitted in the audio recording that were listed in the book. The audio otherwise conveyed the point in capturing the tone and message of the book, however it was overall difficult to follow along.
"Wish I knew about this book earlier"
Recently divorced after 2 years of seperation. I wish my X-wife and myself read this book 2 years ago. The reasons for most of our problems, which I could not explain before are very clear now. I would have handled many situations differently only if had this knowledge then. I am confident the knowledge gained through this book will be very useful in my future relationships with the people from Venus
I love SciFy and Fantasy Novels History is my second love especially the Dark ages through the Renaissance and The American Civil War
"Wow what an eye opener"
This book may have single handedly given me the tools I need to have a successful relationship with my wife or any woman.
It's easy to understand with real world scenarios and descriptions and solid tools to use to help communicate with the female race!
I highly recommend this book for everyone.
"A deeper understanding"
My wife has told me that she read this book years ago, and now that I have also read it I really appreciate the things my wife does for me that may have been learned from the book. Her understanding that I need to spend time alone in my man cave to recharge has really made our relationship strong. Now I need to giver her more time to talk and express herself without being interrupted or given "solutions."
"A must read for all men and women"
I can't say that this is the end-all be-all book for understanding the opposite sex, but it's a true beginning. Reading this book helps you develop and nurture your relationships with family, friends, co-workers and most especially your companion.
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To raise the millage rate or not to raise the millage rate? That was the question at the Aiken County School Board meeting held on Tuesday night.
The Aiken County School Board unanimously passed the 2013-14 budget of $238 million but, in a separate motion, approved a net 3.3 mill increase by a slim five-to-four vote. Board members Ronnie West, Wesley Hightower, Levi Green and Tad Barber voted against the millage increase.
This was the final vote to approve funding for the next fiscal year.
The operating millage went up 5.8 mills which affects businesses, rental properties and personal properties by $19.80 per $100,000 value.
That impact on businesses was a major sticking point with some Board members.
The debt service budget, which generates revenue for new construction, decreased by 2.5 mills.
Owners of primary residents do not pay operations taxes in South Carolina. They will see the taxes on their homes reduced by $10 per $100,000 thanks to the decrease in the debt service budget.
The millage rate increase is to alleviate a $2.2 million shortfall in the General Fund.
For more than an hour, members debated whether to approve the millage rate hike or attempt to use funds from its reserve accounts of approximately $24 million to lessen the blow on businesses.
Board Member Dwight Smith said he was experiencing an internal struggle with the idea of taking that approach because he doesn't like the idea of burdening businesses with a tax increase but he has an obligation to the children of Aiken County.
Smith added that with the effects of sequestration, it's better to err on the side of caution and not take away from the school district's safety net.
Board members Wesley Hightower and Levi Green passionately defended the idea to avoid raising the millage rate. Hightower said he'd love for business owners to wake up in the morning and see in the newspaper that their taxes were not increasing.
Last year, there was a 4.2 mill increase in the school board budget.
"We fought a good fight and we fought for what we thought was right," Hightower said after the meeting. "But, I do believe this was the year and the time not to have this increase."
Board Chairwoman Rosemary English said the issue really lies with the legislators in Columbia, and more support is needed from the state. She said the state's base student cost is more than $600 per pupil below what it should be. Base student cost is a calculation of teachers, materials and operating expenses required per pupil in the public education system. This funding was established in 1977 and started off at $2,700 per student but is now at about $2,100.
With about 24,000 students in Aiken County, that deficit in funding adds up quickly, English said.
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A new Day Reporting Program expected to save Carroll County tens of thousands of dollars will also allow the county to receive labor from criminals convicted of non-violent and non-sexual offenses.
During its Nov. 15 meeting, the Carroll County Board of Supervisors unanimously approved the new program, which Carroll County Sheriff J.B. Gardner said has saved Grayson County $88,000. Gardner told the board the Day Reporting Program is a collaborative effort by the Carroll County Circuit Court, Commonwealth Attorney's Office, and the Sheriff's Office.
He said he found out about the program through two nearby localities that have already implemented it - Grayson and Giles counties. Only non-violent and non-sexual offenders are eligible to take part in the program, he said.
"This gives them the opportunity to provide community service locally, which will save jail costs we pay for inmates per day. We pay a per diem of $29.50 to keep them in jail (each day)," Gardner said. "Any day we use them we save that $29.50, plus we get the amount of work they'd be doing."
Labor associated with the program will range from anything from window washing to picking up trash, Gardner said.
"Grayson County's program saved them $88,000 in jail costs," Gardner said. "We feel we could see a substantial savings and see some benefit from it."
Gardner said New River Valley Regional Jail is almost always at capacity. The inmates involved with the program would not have to be closely supervised.
"We don't have to stand and watch them," Gardner said. "They get one shot at proving they can make it work, and if not, they go to jail."
Also, people signed up in the program are required to attend life skills classes, and if needed, drug abuse programs.
"I'm excited because I think we can save a lot of money for this county," Gardner said.
Pine Creek District Supervisor Bob Martin said most non-violent, non-sexual offenders are usual fairly well-mannered. At one point, he said he used some of the same kinds of offenders in school situations and it worked well.
"I think there is a place for it in our schools," Martin said. "With all the cuts in schools, we have people who are doing so many more jobs and I could see where they could do custodial stuff, help in the kitchen - a lot of stuff."
Gardner said he knew of one case in Grayson County where an offender with a DUI was a professional window washer. It just made sense for him to pull community service washing windows for the county.
"Sometimes there is a better alternative than putting them in jail," Gardner said.
Laurel Fork District Supervisor Joshua Hendrick wanted to know if the program would be filled by an existing position within the Sheriff's Office. Gardner said Grayson County hired a new person to fill the position. The board approval item in supervisor's packets for the meeting estimated the program would cost about $30,000.
"They argued that it saved $88,000 in jail costs," Gardner said of Grayon. "I think it would pay for itself. I've not worked the logistics angle of a new person, but it is an opportunity to get a lot of roadside landfills cleaned up."
Martin said he liked the idea of implementing the program in Carroll. He said he didn't think the type of offenders eligible for the program would gain a lot from sitting in jail. Board Chairman Sam Dickson wanted to know what kind of time frame Gardner was looking at if the board approved the program.
"I'd like it to be up and running by January 1," Gardner said. "Grayson has offered to show us what they are doing and they learned it from Giles County."
Fancy Gap District Supervisor Phil McCraw then made a motion for Carroll County to approve the program, calling it a "no-brainer." Pipers Gap Supervisor Tom Littrell seconded the motion, which passed unanimously.


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Benoit, Diaz, Holdsworth OTN winners
$50,000 'of the Night' performance bonuses
Fight of the Night*
Josh Sampo defeated Ryan Benoit by Submission (RNC, Round 2, 4:31)
Knockout of the Night
Nate Diaz defeated Gray Maynard by TKO (Ref Stoppage, 1st Round, 2:38)
Submission of the Night
Chris Holdsworth defeated Davey Grant by Submission (RNC, 2nd Round, 2:10)
*Ordinarily both the winning and the losing fighter get $50,000 for being in the fight of the night. However, in a response to fighters failing to make weight, the UFC said previously that fighters must make weight to receive a performance bonus. Thus, despite losing Benoit earned an extra $100K.
There were also $25,000 TUF 18 'of the Season' bonuses awarded, and all went to female fighters.
Fight of the Season
Raquel Pennington over Jessamyn Duke by unanimous decision, episode six.
Knockout of the Season
Jessica Rakoczy beat Roxanne Modafferi by TKO in the second
Submission of the Season
Sarah Moras over Peggy Morgan during the elimination round.
TUF 18 Finale draws reported 4,346 attendance for $322,742.50 live gate
TJ Grant ✔ @TJ_Grant
Wow! Could have been stopped a bit earlier maybe.
9:45 PM - 30 Nov 2013Jens Pulver ✔ @Jens_Pulver
@NateDiaz209 sweet lord son, that was incredible.
9:45 PM - 30 Nov 2013Urijah Faber ✔ @UrijahFaber
Damn homie!! @ufc
9:46 PM - 30 Nov 2013Tim Kennedy ✔ @TimKennedyMMA
Everybody saying that it was a late stoppage remember that it was 2 1/2 minutes into the first round. #TUF18Finale


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If you know golf, then like us you won't need to be told that Sun Mountain manufacture arguably the finest golf bags in the world.
Sun Mountain were the original producers of a waterproof golf bag and now dominate the market with their H2N0 franchise Range.
Browse the full range Sun Mountain H2N0 Golf Bags, The H2N0 Cart Lite, H2N0 Lite 14 Way Stand Bag and the H2N0 Lite Stand Bag. Seventeen options to choose from in some great colourways.
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Thursday, November 29, 2012
If you can make a peanut butter and jelly sandwich and fry an egg, you already have all the skills needed to make this incredible Christmas morning stuffed French toast.
We start with cinnamon swirl bread and make sandwiches using cream cheese spiked with dried cranberries and crystalized ginger. Dunk the sandwiches in eggs blended with cinnamon and a bit more ginger, then toss them in the pan. But don't forget the maple syrup!
Want to get a jump on this the night before? Prepare the sandwiches up to the step of soaking them in the egg mixture. Refrigerate them until morning, then proceed as directed. You'll have delicious French toast on the table in less time than it takes for the kids to empty their stockings.
Start to finish: 20 minutes
Servings: 4
4 ounces cream cheese, softened
1/4 cup chopped dried cranberries
2 tablespoons finely chopped crystallized ginger
1 tablespoon honey
8 slices cinnamon swirl bread
4 eggs
2/3 cup fat-free half-and-half
1 teaspoon cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon ground dry ginger
Butter, as needed
Maple syrup, to serve
In a small bowl, mix together the cream cheese, cranberries, crystallized ginger and honey. Divide this mixture between 4 slices of the cinnamon swirl bread, spreading to just 1/2 inch from the edge. Top with the remaining 4 slices of bread to make 4 sandwiches.
In a medium bowl, whisk together the eggs, half-and-half, cinnamon and dry ginger. Dunk each of the sandwiches into the egg mixture to thoroughly coat and soak them.
In a large skillet over medium heat, melt just enough butter to coat the pan. Working in batches, fry the sandwiches for 4 minutes per side, or until nicely toasted and heated through. Add butter between batches. Serve warm with maple syrup.
Nutrition information per serving: 470 calories; 230 calories from fat (49 percent of total calories); 25 g fat (12 g saturated; 0 g trans fats); 230 mg cholesterol; 45 g carbohydrate; 5 g fiber; 21 g sugar; 15 g protein; 440 mg sodium.
EDITOR'S NOTE: Alison Ladman is a recipe developer for the AP. Follow her on Twitter at https://twitter.com/CrustAndCrumbCo
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