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Publications (179)698.86 Total impact
Article: Diagnostic Procedures, Treatments, and Outcomes in Stroke Patients Admitted to Different Types of Hospitals[Show abstract] [Hide abstract]
ABSTRACT: In many countries, including Sweden, initiatives have been taken to reduce between-hospital differences in the quality of stroke services. We have explored to what extent hospital type (university, specialized nonuniversity, or community hospital) influences hospital performance. Riksstroke collects clinical data during hospital stay (national coverage 94%). Follow-up data at 3 months were collected using administrative registers and a questionnaire completed by surviving patients (response rate 88%). Structural data were collected from a questionnaire completed by hospital staff (response rate 100%). Multivariate analyses with adjustment for clustering were used to test differences between types of hospitals. The proportion of patients admitted directly to a stroke unit was highest in community hospitals and lowest in university hospitals. Magnetic resonance, carotid imaging, and thrombectomy were more frequently performed in university hospitals, and the door-to-needle time for thrombolysis was shorter. Secondary prevention with antihypertensive drugs was used less often, and outpatient follow-up was less frequent in university hospitals. Fewer patients in community hospitals were dissatisfied with their rehabilitation. After adjusting for possible confounders, poor outcome (dead or activities of daily living dependency 3 months after stroke) was not significantly different between the 3 types of hospital. In a setting with national stroke guidelines, stroke units in all hospitals, and measurement of hospital performance and benchmarking, outcome (after case-mix adjustment) is similar in university, specialized nonuniversity, and community hospitals. There seems to be fewer barriers to organizing well-functioning stroke services in community hospitals compared with university hospitals. © 2015 American Heart Association, Inc.Stroke 02/2015; 46(3). DOI:10.1161/STROKEAHA.114.007212 · 5.72 Impact Factor
Dataset: Are changes in mortality from stroke caused by changes in stroke event rates or case fatality Result
Dataset: World Health Organization MONICA Project. A worldwide monitoring system for cardiovascular diseases: cardiovascular mortality and risk factors in selected communities. In:World Health Statistics Annual 1987, pp27-59, Geneva: WHO
Dataset: Are Changes in Mortality From Stroke Caused by Changes in Stroke Event Rates or Case Fatality
Dataset: Estimation of contribution of changes in classic risk factors to trends in coronary-event rate across the WHO MONICA populations[Show abstract] [Hide abstract]
ABSTRACT: Background: From the mid-1980s to mid-1990s, the WHO MONICA Project monitored coronary events and classic risk factors for coronary heart disease (CHD) in 38 populations from 21 countries. We assessed the extent to which changes in these risk factors explain the variation in the trends in coronary-event rates across the populations. Methods: In men and women aged 35—64 years, non-fatal myocardial infarction and coronary deaths were registered continuously to assess trends in rates of coronary events. We carried out population surveys to estimate trends in risk factors. Trends in event rates were regressed on trends in risk score and in individual risk factors. Findings: Smoking rates decreased in most male populations but trends were mixed in women; mean blood pressures and cholesterol concentrations decreased, bodymass index increased, and overall risk scores and coronary-event rates decreased. The model of trends in 10-year coronary-event rates against risk scores and single risk factors showed a poor fit, but this was improved with a 4-year time lag for coronary events. The explanatory power of the analyses was limited by imprecision of the estimates and homogeneity of trends in the study populations. Interpretation: Changes in the classic risk factors seem to partly explain the variation in population trends in CHD. Residual variance is attributable to difficulties in measurement and analysis, including time lag, and to factors that were not included, such as medical interventions. The results support prevention policies based on the classic risk factors but suggest potential for prevention beyond these.
Dataset: Geographical variation in the major risk factors of coronary heart disease in men and women aged 35-64 years. The WHO MONICA Project.World Health Stat Q[Show abstract] [Hide abstract]
ABSTRACT: SUMMARY: The WHO MONICA Project is designed to measure the trends in mortality and morbidity from coronary heart disease (CHD) and stroke, and to assess the extent to which they are related to changes in known risk factors in different populations in 27 countries. Risk-factor data are collected from population samples examined in at least two population surveys (one at the beginning of the study and the other at the end). The results of the baseline population surveys are presented. In populations studied, the proportion of smokers varied between 34-62% among men and 3-52% among women. The population median of systolic blood pressure varied between 121-146 mmHg in men. In women the figures were 118 mmHg and 141 mmHg respectively. In diastolic blood pressure, the variation of median was from 74 mmHg to over 91 mmHg among men and from 72-89 mmHg among women. The third major risk factor considered was total cholesterol, with the population median ranging between 4.1-6.4 mmol/l among men and 4.2-6.3 mmol/l among women. Caution is required when making cross-sectional comparisons between the risk-factor levels as the MONICA Project was not designed for this purpose. Nevertheless, these data demonstrate clearly the large variety of baseline risk-factor patterns in populations studied in the MONICA Project. MeSH Terms: Adult; Australia; Blood Pressure; Body Weight; China; Cholesterol/blood; Coronary Disease/etiology*; Data Interpretation, Statistical; Europe; Female; Humans; Male; Middle Aged; Population Surveillance*; Quality Control; Risk Factors; Smoking/statistics & numerical data; USSR; World Health Organization; Substances: Cholesterol
Article: STOP-Hypertension 2: A Prospective Intervention Trial of "Newer" versus "Older" Treatment Alternatives in Old Patients with Hypertension[Show abstract] [Hide abstract]
ABSTRACT: It is well established that hypertensive patients benefit from drug treatment of their disorder. In recent years three major out-come studies of antihypertensive treatment in elderly hypertensives have shown substantial benefits, i.e. a reduction in the risk of stroke and other cardiovascular mortality and morbidity. In all these studies β-blockers and/or diuretics were used in comparison with placebo. Newer therapeutic alternatives have, however, at least theoretically, many advantages which could result in further improvements in prognosis. The initial Swedish Trial in Old Patients with Hypertension (STOP-Hypertension 1) was conducted in men and women aged 70–84 years. STOP-Hypertension 2 will evaluate the therapy used in STOP-Hypertension 1 against therapy based on either ACE-inhibitors (enalapril and lisinopril) or on calcium antagonists (isradipine and felodipine), using the PROBE design (Prospective, Randomised, Open, Blinded Endpoint evaluation). The primary aim will be to assess the effect on cardiovascular mortality. Statistical calculations indicate that 6,600 patients, followed for four years will be needed (2p < 0.05, power 90%) to obtain significance if there is a 25% difference between the new and the established therapy. Patients in primary health care (300 centres) will be included if their supine blood pressure is ≥ 180/105 mmHg (and/or). Recruitment of patients started in September 1992 and so far more than 100 patients/week have been included.Blood Pressure 07/2009; 2(2):136-141. DOI:10.3109/08037059309077541 · 1.81 Impact Factor
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ABSTRACT: A non-intensive stroke unit of 10 beds has been started in the Medical Department, Serafimerlasarettet, Stockholm. The aim is to make diagnostic and therapeutic studies in unselected stroke patients. Patients with suspect cerebrovascular disease in the Casualty Department are admitted to the unit non-selectively and without any age limit. Relevant physical findings and laboratory data are followed and registered by code on special charts to make evaluation by computer possible. A preplanned investigative programme is adhered to. Strict criteria for diagnosis and treatment are followed. The experience and results from the first 100 patients treated in the Stroke Unit indicate that the unit is a good basis for both education and research.Journal of Internal Medicine 04/2009; 205(1‐6):231 - 235. DOI:10.1111/j.0954-6820.1979.tb06036.x · 6.06 Impact Factor
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ABSTRACT: Priorities in the care of stroke patients are often intuitive. An open and translucent priority-setting procedure would benefit patients, professionals, and decision-makers. Prioritization is an innovative part of the new Swedish national stroke guidelines. Working groups identified diagnostic procedures, interventions and therapies in stroke care, assessed each one according to severity (needs), effect of action, level of scientific evidence and cost-effectiveness. The items were then ranked into priority groups from 1 (highest) to 10 (lowest). Procedures lacking evidence for routine clinical use were also identified (and entered a do-not-do list), as well as procedures in research and development. Resource allocations resulting from the priority-setting process were identified. Of 102 core procedures identified, 50 were assigned to high-priority groups (1-3), 29 to moderate priority groups (4-7) and 23 to low priority groups (8-10). Almost a quarter were graded 8 to 10, indicating that they may not necessarily be applied if resources are scarce. Twenty-eight procedures were assigned to the do-not-do list and 16 to the research and development list. In stroke services, it is possible to identify not only diagnostic procedures and interventions with high priority, but also a considerable number of items used today that have low priority or should not be used at all. Strict adherence to the guidelines would result in a substantial reallocation of resources from low-priority to high-priority areas.Stroke 08/2007; 38(7):2185-90. DOI:10.1161/STROKEAHA.106.481457 · 5.72 Impact Factor
Article: [Life after stroke--a new national study. Renewed follow-up of stroke patients shows increased dependency on the support from the next-of-kin].[Show abstract] [Hide abstract]
ABSTRACT: The National Board of Health and Welfare together with Riks-Stroke (the Swedish National Registry for Quality Assessment of Acute Stroke Care) initiated a follow-up 2 years after a stroke event in 10,303 individuals, registrated in Riks-Stroke during the first 6 months of 2001. The aim was to evaluate the health status of the patients and the burden and needs of the spouses. 6,695 patients (65 percent) were alive. 4,729 patients (71 percent) answered the questionnaire. 2,367 spouses answered a separate questionnaire. This study was compared with an almost identical study performed four years earlier. The results showed that more patients lived at home and were satisfied with help and support. Rehabilitation was still deficient for 30 percent, and more patients were highly dependent on support from next-of-kin. Thirty percent could stay alone less than half a day. These results will be used for improving rehabilitation for the stroke patients and support for their spouses.Lakartidningen 01/2005; 102(41):2938-41.
Article: The need to recognize the difference between a quality register and a randomized controlled trialStroke 12/2004; 35(11):2431-2. DOI:10.1161/01.STR.0000144687.45236.a0 · 5.72 Impact Factor
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ABSTRACT: In this paper present two methods of estimating the trend, seasonality and noise in time series of coronary heart disease events. In contrast to previous work we use a non-linear trend, allow multiple seasonal components, and carefully examine the residuals from the fitted model. We show the importance of estimating these three aspects of the observed data to aid insight of the underlying process, although our major focus is on the seasonal components. For one method we allow the seasonal effects to vary over time and show how this helps the understanding of the association between coronary heart disease and varying temperature patterns.Statistics in Medicine 11/2004; 23:3505-3523. · 1.83 Impact Factor
Article: Current smoking and the risk of non-fatal myocardial infarction in the WHO MONICA Project populations[Show abstract] [Hide abstract]
ABSTRACT: Background Cohort studies have shown that smoking has a substantial influence on coronary heart disease mortality in young people. Population based data on non-fatal events have been sparse, however. Objective Study the impact of smoking on the risk of non-fatal acute myocardial infarction (MI) in young middle age people. Methods From 1985 to 1994 all non-fatal MI events in the age group 35–64 were registered in men and women in the WHO MONICA (multinational monitoring of trends and determinants in cardiovascular disease) project populations (18 762 events in men and 4047 in women from 32 populations from 21 countries). In the same populations and age groups 65 741 men and 66 717 women participated in the surveys of risk factors (overall response rate 72%). The relative risk of non-fatal MI for current smokers was compared with non-smokers, by sex and five year age group. Results The prevalence of smoking in people aged 35–39 years who experienced non-fatal MI events was 81% in men and 77% in women. It declined with increasing age to 45% in men aged 60–64 years and 36% in women, respectively. In the 35–39 years age group the relative risk of non-fatal MI for smokers was 4.9 (95% confidence interval (CI) 3.9 to 6.1) in men and 5.3 (95% CI 3.2 to 8.7) in women, and the population attributable fractions were 65% and 55%, respectively. Conclusions During the study period more than half of the non-fatal MIs occurring in young middle age people can be attributed to smoking.Tobacco Control 03/2004; 13:244–250. DOI:10.1136/tc.2003.003269 · 5.93 Impact Factor
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ABSTRACT: Thrombolysis is a highly promising treatment in acute ischaemic stroke. There is evidence of positive effects at least up to three hours and most probably up to six. The risk of intracranial haemorrhage is increased fourfold with thrombolysis; risk factors other than the treatment as such have not been identified for certain; the risk is not related to giving thrombolysis during the 0-3 as opposed to the 3-6 hour time window. There is a non-significant excess of deaths, ranging from a small reduction to a substantial excess. There is not enough evidence to answer several questions regarding the influence of patient- and stroke characteristics on effectsize; death; and risk of intracranial haemorrhage. Giving priority to new large randomized controlled trials is essential to achieve this knowledge.Lakartidningen 03/2004; 101(8):662-8, 670-3.
Article: Are changes in mortality from stroke caused by changes in stroke event rates or case fatality?[Show abstract] [Hide abstract]
ABSTRACT: Background and Purpose— Mortality from stroke has been declining over recent decades in most countries, except in Eastern Europe. In this analysis, based on the World Health Organization Monitoring Trends and Determinants in Cardiovascular Disease (WHO MONICA) Project, we explored to what extent these trends are due to changes in stroke event rate and to changes in case fatality. Methods— The WHO MONICA Project collected standardized data from 14 populations in 9 countries. All acute strokes occurring in men and women 35 to 64 years of age were included. Registration was carried out between 1982 and 1995, resulting in time spans from 7 to 13 years. Trends in event rates and case fatality were calculated as average annual percentage change. Results— Up to 6-fold differences were observed in stroke mortality. Mortality declined in 8 of 14 populations in men and in 10 of 14 populations in women. An increase in mortality was observed in Eastern Europe. In the populations with a declining trend, about two thirds of the change could be attributed to a decline in case fatality. In populations with increasing mortality, the rise was explained by an increase in case fatality. Conclusions— In most populations, changes in stroke mortality, whether declining or increasing, were principally attributable to changes in case fatality rather than changes in event rates. Whether this was due to changes in the management of stroke or changes in disease severity cannot be established on the basis of these results.Stroke 07/2003; 34:1833-1840. DOI:10.1161/01.STR.0000081224.15480.52 · 5.72 Impact Factor
Article: Do Trends in Population Levels of Blood Pressure and Other Cardiovascular Risk Factors explain Trends in Stroke Event Rates[Show abstract] [Hide abstract]
ABSTRACT: Background and Purpose— Previous studies have indicated a reasonably strong relationship between secular trends in classic cardiovascular risk factors and stroke incidence within single populations. To what extent variations in stroke trends between populations can be attributed to differences in classic cardiovascular risk factor trends is unknown. Methods— In the World Health Organization Monitoring of Trends and Determinants in Cardiovascular Disease (WHO MONICA) Project, repeated population surveys of cardiovascular risk factors and continuous monitoring of stroke events have been conducted in 35- to 64-year-old people over a 7- to 13-year period in 15 populations in 9 countries. Stroke trends were compared with trends in individual risk factors and their combinations. A 3- to 4-year time lag between changes in risk factors and change in stroke rates was considered. Results— Population-level trends in systolic blood pressure showed a strong association with stroke event trends in women, but there was no association in men. In women, 38% of the variation in stroke event trends was explained by changes in systolic blood pressure when the 3- to 4-year time lag was taken into account. Combining trends in systolic blood pressure, daily cigarette smoking, serum cholesterol, and body mass index into a risk score explained only a small fraction of the variation in stroke event trends. Conclusions— In this study, it appears that variations in stroke trends between populations can be explained only in part by changes in classic cardiovascular risk factors. The associations between risk factor trends and stroke trends are stronger for women than for men.Stroke 02/2002; 33:2367-2375. DOI:10.1161/01.STR.0000033131.27936 · 5.72 Impact Factor
Article: [Stroke--and then? Considerable need of assistance two year after stroke according to a large nation-wide study].[Show abstract] [Hide abstract]
ABSTRACT: The National Board of Health and Welfare together with Riks-Stroke (the Swedish National Registry for Quality Assessment of Acute Stroke Care) were commissioned by the government to study the circumstances of 4,023 stroke patients, two years after the event. Both physical and psychological impairments together with psychosocial consequences were common. Approximately one fifth of the patients did not receive enough help and support, and the most common reason for this was the high cost. Instead many were dependent upon next-of-kin. This indicates that the long-term care of stroke patients needs to be improved.Lakartidningen 11/2001; 98(41):4462-7.
Article: Differences in Long-Term Outcome Between Patients Treated in Stroke Units and in General Wards: A 2-Year Follow-Up of Stroke Patients in Sweden[Show abstract] [Hide abstract]
ABSTRACT: The long-term beneficial effects of stroke unit care have been proved in several randomized trials. However, there is a question of large-scale applicability in routine clinical practice of interventions used by dedicated investigators in small randomized trials. The objective of this study was to compare, 21/2 years after stroke, patients who had been treated in stroke units and those treated in general wards in routine clinical practice. This is a prospective cohort study based on 8194 patients who were included, during the first 6 months in 1997, in Riks-Stroke, the Swedish National Register for quality assessment of acute stroke. Two years after the event, 5189 patients were still alive and 5104 were followed up with a postal questionnaire to which 4038 responded. Among the group of patients who were independent in activities of daily living (ADL) functions before the stroke, patients who were treated in stroke units were less often dependent in ADL functions, after adjustment for case mix (OR, 0.79; CI, 0.66 to 0.94). If they also lived at home before the stroke, then they had a lower case-fatality rate 2 years after the stroke (OR, 0.81; CI, 0.72 to 0.92). Long-term beneficial effects of treatment in stroke units were shown for patients who were independent in ADL functions before the stroke. No benefits were shown for patients who were dependent on help for primary ADL before the stroke. Further studies on this group of patients with more detailed outcome measures are needed.Stroke 10/2001; 32(9):2124-30. DOI:10.1161/hs0901.095724 · 5.72 Impact Factor
Top Journals
- Acta medica Scandinavica (34)
- Lakartidningen (18)
- Stroke (11)
- Science of The Total Environment (8)
- The Lancet (8)
Umeå University
Umeå, Västerbotten, Sweden
- Department of Public Health and Clinical Medicine
Stockholm UniversityTukholma, Stockholm, Sweden
Landstinget i Uppsala IänUppsala, Uppsala, Sweden
Danderyds Sjukhus ABTukholma, Stockholm, Sweden
National Public Health InstituteHelsinki, Southern Finland Province, Finland
Lund University
Lund, Skane, Sweden
- Department of Health Sciences
George Washington University
Washington, Washington, D.C., United States
- Department of Medicine
University of GothenburgGoeteborg, Västra Götaland, Sweden
Mid Sweden UniversityHärnösand, Västernorrland, Sweden
Karolinska Institutet
Solna, Stockholm, Sweden
- Department of Medicine, Huddinge


text: Evan Tognotti: "I'd like to start this review with a disclaimer (which I've never done before). There are three main campaigns in Resident Evil 6, with a fourth that unlocks upon completion of the rest. I made it a chapter into this fourth campaign, but gave up due to a string of aggravating and inscrutable puzzles. You can say what you will: that I'm not fit to review this game, or that I'm an impatient player. But with this disclaimer, I have at least made my process somewhat transparent. I've spent 20 hours with the game, and nothing in the last two to three hours would change my opinion on the whole. If that is unsatisfactory to you as the reader, then feel free to discount my opinion entirely." 1/5

subset: commoncrawl


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Victorian dairy farmers to set the price in deregulated industry
KERRY O'BRIEN: The GST is not the only reform coming into effect on 1 July.
The deregulation of the Australian dairy industry also begins on Saturday.
For many small farmers, the end of a fixed price for their milk will mean the end of a long struggle to keep their farms.
Angry demonstrations and protests have been the public expression of much of their despair and heartache.
On the other hand, the dairy industry is the last sector of agriculture to be deregulated and, according to the promoters of deregulation, the last to become efficient.
What is still unclear, though, is whether lower prices for farmers will mean lower prices for consumers.
Business and economics editor Alan Kohler reports.
PAT ROWLEY, AUSTRALIAN DAIRY INDUSTRY COUNCIL: There'll be winners and losers in this.
The winners generally are in Victoria, Tasmania and SA.
The losers in the short term are the other three States, and we've had to try to find a way to buffer that change.
MAX FEHRING, UNITED DAIRY FARMERS OF VICTORIA: We're in the world dairy market.
The reason Victoria's in the world dairy market we're darn good at what we do.
We're amongst the best in the world.
The export earnings this country gets of $2.2 billion should be applauded, not being criticised because we're going to run over some other States.
TONY ALLAN, DAIRY FARMER: Unfortunately, Mr Rowley and Mr Fehring -- fine, upstanding men -- they'll be, in time, be known as the people who actually destroyed the dairy industry in Australia.
ALAN KOHLER: Make no mistake about it, milk deregulation from next Saturday is not just about theories of competition policy, it's about cheap Victorian milk produced by the most efficient Victorian farms coming to the rest of Australia.
From next Saturday, dairy farmers will have to produce milk at a price equivalent to the Victorian price, plus the cost of transport, or they will sooner or later have to get out of the industry.
A $1.8 billion assistance package has been extracted from the Government by the industry to help with the transition, but basically it's as simple as that.
For dairy farmers like Tony Allan in Bega in NSW, it's going to be tough going.
TONY ALLAN: There have been suicides, you know that, directly related to the angst of deregulation.
But you have to take my word that the anger and the feeling of betrayal, the feeling of despair, is welling up in people now -- in big doses, too.
ALAN KOHLER: Essentially, what's happening from 1 July is that the farm gate price of drinking milk, or what's called market milk, is to be deregulated around Australia.
This results from a study done in Victoria under the national competition policy, which found that there was no benefit to consumers from the fixed price to farmers, and under the policy, Victoria was obliged to deregulate.
Once that happened, the pressure from Victoria for deregulation around the rest of the country became irresistible.
MAX FEHRING: All the Victorian industry is seeking is a fair go at the Australian market on equal terms to every other dairy farmer, and it's not been the case.
We've now reached a time with the technology and the ability to deliver milk all over Australia in various forms, Victoria just wants that open right to supply that milk to those markets.
ALAN KOHLER: But that's not how they see it in Bega.
For them, it's about the balance of power in the industry.
MAURICE VAN RYAN, BEGA CHEESE CO-OP: I think the processors in the supermarkets will win at the end of the day and possibly even the consumers.
I don't say that that's necessarily a good thing.
I don't think it's necessarily the case that just because milk is 10 cents a litre cheaper at the retail level, that all the farmers in Victoria, or in Australia, should be suffering and living on very, very low levels of income.
Why not have a retail price 10 cents a litre higher and have those people as well have a reasonable lifestyle?
PAT ROWLEY: They're dreaming because five years ago they should have got into the debate real hard to see whether there were any better ways to do it than the way we've gone.
Now, we've had enormous debate within the Australian Dairy Industry Council about this for the last five years, but particularly the last two, and we had a look at eight options.
Now, six of those options required a higher level of regulation, and the Victorian Government and the Victorian industry was never going to support that high level of regulation.
ALAN KOHLER: That's right -- the Victorian industry would not have accepted continuing regulation.
So the rest of the country must get used to the lack of it.
But it's not all despair, though.
Some Victorian farmers are relishing the challenge.
CRAIG DAVIS, VICTORIAN DAIRY FARMER: I reckon it's going to be good really, good for the industry in the long run.
Like in a State, it's like being in a different country at the moment.
I reckon it will be good.
BARRY, VICTORIAN DAIRY FARMER: We've seen the writing on the wall for a long time, probably three or four years since they've started talking about it.
So we've had a lot of warning, we've done a lot of preparation, as far as stocking rate, pasture utilisation -- we're more efficient in a lot of areas, trying to do things better.
We realise we'll get a lower price for our milk.
We have to do the job better and go on with it.
ALAN KOHLER: As for whether deregulation of the farm price of milk will lower the price in supermarkets, well, no-one really knows.
That's up to the supermarkets.
PETER TOWERTON, DAIRY INDUSTRY CONSULTANT: Overall-wise, there may be the savings of 1, 2, 3, 4 cents a litre, while the processors fight for market share and do their deregulation fighting, but, generally, it will be more expensive and continue to be more expensive milk.
MAX FEHRING: I get mystified by this debate.
When I go on to a supermarket shelf, or my wife goes in to a supermarket shelf, and you buy a litre of water, a litre of Coca-Cola, a litre of milk, a litre of fruit juice, guess which is the cheapest?
A litre of milk.
ALAN KOHLER: While he's a passionate defender of his local Bega farmers, Maurice Van Ryan does recognise the inevitability of deregulation.
MAURICE VAN RYAN: At the end of the day, it was probably difficult to rationalise why one agricultural industry in Australia should have retained that regulated feature of, say, a set milk price.
I guess anyone listening to me from another industry, whether it's egg, bread, wheat, beef or whatever would say "Join the club, pal, that's the way it is in Australian agriculture."
Transcripts on this website are created by an independent transcription service. The ABC does not warrant the accuracy of the transcripts.
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text:
I'm trying to find a way to use print_r() on all of my existing objects without having to pass them as a parameter in a function manually. Currently use this for debugging and do it this way:
function($obj1 as null){
// insert styling here
// insert more styling
Right now, I have to use this function for each object on each of my pages. It becomes a lot to manage. It would be nice to just have one function that would use some sort of collection to output the object variables using get_object_vars.
While writing this I thought about creating a class with variables for each object. Then in __construct for each of my classes, assign itself to the new class using that object. However, that will be A LOT of work and seems inefficient.


text:
Thank you for your feedback!
Which version of the Android™ platform does my Samsung Galaxy Note® 3 use?
This mobile device operates on Android™ version 5.0 Lollipop (N900PVPUEOH1).
Update History
This mobile device operates on Android™ version 5.0 Lollipop (N900PVPUEOH1).
Version Date Released Description N900PVPUEOH1 8/12/2015
This software update includes:
- Google Security Patch (Stagefright)
- Android 5.0 (Lollipop)
- Minor enhancements to the Samsung User Interface
- Android 4.4.4
- HD voice Icon support
- International Wi-Fi Calling support
- Google Security Patches
- Knox 2.0
- Kids Mode
- WI-FI Calling Support
- OS upgrade to Android 4.4.2 (KitKat)
- New Lock Screen Access
- Media Controls - full-screen album art and media controls when listening to music
- Camera Shortcut - access the Camera application right from the lock screen
- SMS App Chooser - select a default application for sending and receiving SMS text messages
- Restyled Status and Navigation Bars - status and navigation bars are translucent and can sit on top of apps, along with simplified status bar icons
- Consolidated Location Settings - location services are integrated and more detailed by new Location menu
- Expanded Emoji Icons
- Wireless Printing – supports printing over Wi-Fi and Bluetooth
- Prevention Information pop-up message is suppressed.
- New Lock Screen Access
- Call audio improvement
- Fixed Samsung Keyboard handwriting feature
- Voicemail audio restored when connected to Galaxy Gear
- Restriction to benchmark sites removed
- Initial Release
Check the Software on Your Mobile Device
- From the Home screen, touch Menu > Settings > General > About device .
- The Build number and Baseband version show the software version on your mobile device.
Upgrade to the Current Software Version
An upgrade is available for the Sprint Samsung Galaxy Note® 3. Click here for more information.
Check for Updates
From the Home screen, touch Menu > Settings > General > System Update > Update.
We will also relay news about software releases on our Twitter® and Facebook® pages.
Software Updates: The Samsung Customer Care team cannot speculate on when a future software update may be released and can provide information only on available updates in the U.S.
© 2015 Samsung Electronics America, Inc. SAMSUNG is a registered trademark of Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd. All other brands, products and services, and their respective trademarks, names and logos, are the property of their respective owners. The above content is provided for entertainment and information purposes only. Consult user manual for more complete information. All information included herein is subject to change without notice. Samsung is not responsible for any direct or indirect damages, arising from or related to use or reliance of the content herein.


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Jazz on the Villa Hostel
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TripAdvisor Reviews Jazz on the Villa Hostel New York City
Travel Blogs from New York City
Last holiday treats - NYC
... about stopping disease (malaria, measles, guinea worm, filaria etc). Excellent lunch at a great Italian restaurant - 5 shares plates. Then walked back via park on west side. Trialled another rooftop site with views of Empire State. Then off to Greenwich village on the Metro to continue food research! Two Italian restaurants later back onto metro to midtown. A nightcap at Rockefeller centre and at our rooftop bar. ...
First day in the Big Apple
... and headed up to the high heights of our seats, but surprisingly the view was still very good. It was an extremely close game with 5 shots in it, is meant time went very slowly at the end as they made the last 40 seconds last at least 10 mins with times out and break shows of dancers! But in the end we won and left happy :) Back at the hotel in was Christmas film time... The Grinch had been bugging us for ages and we finally rented it and had our movie ...
Our last port of call and on to New York
... reinforcement about fire sales next day. Within an hour the firies had solved the problem and we joined the thousands of others in shopping at a very smoke smelling Macys. Graham completely out shopped a disappointing Karen. That night we headed off on a trip to New Jersey to see Fleetwood Mac in concert at Newark stadium. We had to put on our mountaineering gear to reach our seats on the second to top level. It was worth it the group were sensational. It was the first ...
Neeeeew Yoooork!
... great music & as it starts to rain again we trundle home very happy, tummys full & looking forward to laying my head on my pillow & lights out.
Thursday & Belinda 2, Gianna & Ash catch the subway downtown to do their tour of the 9/11 Memorial & museum. I didn't feel like I was ready to see it all but we were there earlier in the week (it's across the road from Century 21) and saw the new towers. It has a serenity about ...
Roosevelt Island visit
... a walkway right around the island which has the Roosevelt Memorial Park at one end and a lighthouse at the other.
Had bit of a look at Bloomingdales on the way home and got home at 4.00pm just in time to miss a real downpour of ...
Other places to stay in New York City
The Gershwin HotelMidtown, New York City | 1 star hostelfrom $184
- Eeeeew
- Pleasant at times, with some disappointments
- Hated the Gershwin
West Side YMCAUpper West Side, New York City | 1 star hostelfrom $109
- What a sick joke!!!
- It served its purpose
- A Good Place To Stay!!!
The Vanderbilt YMCAMidtown, New York City | 1 star hostelfrom $114
- This is the right place to stay in NY city if you have low budget
- Beware!
- Small room, good facilities, great location
The Harlem YMCAUptown, New York City | 1 star hostelfrom $74
Fresh HostelUpper West Side, New York City | 2 star hostel
- Avoid!
- A dump!
- Awesome!!!
Hostelling International - New YorkUpper West Side, New York City | Hostelfrom $57
- For the money- Great!
- Brilliant Place!
- Great value
Candy HostelUpper West Side, New York City | 2 star hostel
- Actually its not that bad!
- Nothing sweet about this hostel!
Central Park InnUpper West Side, New York City | Hostelfrom $94
- Saved the Day
- Thumbs up
Chelsea International HostelChelsea, New York City | 1 star hostelfrom $25
- Totally fine in every way
- Good price
- Had a great time - I recommend this hostel
Jazz on the Town HostelSoho/Greenwich Village, New York City | Hostelfrom $32
Zip112 HostelGreenpoint, New York City | Hostelfrom $138
Uptown HostelUptown, New York City | Hostelfrom $92
Chelsea Spot HostelMidtown, New York City | Hostelfrom $75
American Dream HostelGramercy Park, New York City | Hostelfrom $55
Times Square Dream HostelMidtown, New York City | Hostelfrom $80
Central Park Studios at Lexington Ave. Co.Upper East Side, New York City | Hostelfrom $104
International Student CenterUpper West Side, New York City | Hostelfrom $39


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The ketogenic diet as a treatment option in adults with chronic refractory epilepsy: Efficacy and tolerability in clinical practice
ABSTRACT The ketogenic diet (KD) is a high-fat, low-protein, low-carbohydrate diet that is used as a treatment for patients with difficult-to-control epilepsy. The present study assesses the efficacy and tolerability of the KD as an add-on therapy in adults with chronic refractory epilepsy. 15 adults were treated with the classical diet or MCT diet. During a follow-up period of 1 year we assessed seizure frequency, seizure severity, tolerability, cognitive performance, mood and quality of life (QOL). We found a significant reduction in seizures among the patients who followed the diet at least 1 year (n=5). Of these 5 patients, 2 had a reduction between 50 and 90%. Analyzing the study months separately, we found a seizure reduction of ≥50% in 26.6% of the patients during at least 1 month of treatment. Common side-effects were gastrointestinal disorders, loss of weight and fatigue. There was a considerable, non-significant improvement found in mood and QOL scores. Improvements were independent of reduction in seizure frequency, indicating that the effects of the KD reach further than seizure control.
Full-textDOI: · Available from: Reina Johanna Adriana de Kinderen, Sep 26, 2015
- SourceAvailable from: PubMed Central
- "However, anti-inflammatory properties of VNS have been reported in various experimental models of inflammation [160], even it is still unknown whether the anti-convulsive effect of VNS was mediated through this anti-inflammatory mechanism. Meanwhile, many recent studies have shown that ketogenic diet has anti-inflammatory effects and protects against excitotoxicity-mediated neuronal cell death [161, 162]. "
Article: Modulation of Immunity and the Inflammatory Response: A New Target for Treating Drug-resistant Epilepsy[Show abstract] [Hide abstract]
ABSTRACT: Until recently, epilepsy medical therapy is usually limited to anti-epileptic drugs (AEDs). However, approximately 1/3 of epilepsy patients, described as drug-resistant epilepsy (DRE) patients, still suffer from continuous frequent seizures despite receiving adequate AEDs treatment of sufficient duration. More recently, with the remarkable progress of immunology, immunity and inflammation are considered to be key elements of the pathobiology of epilepsy. Activation of inflammatory processes in brain tissue has been observed in both experimental seizure animal models and epilepsy patients. Anti-inflammatory and immunotherapies also showed significant anticonvulsant properties both in clinical and in experimental settings. The above emerging evidence indicates that modulation of immunity and inflammatory processes could serve as novel specific targets to achieve potential anticonvulsant effects for the patients with epilepsy, especially DRE. Herein we review the recent evidence supporting the role of inflammation in the development and perpetuation of seizures, and also discuss the recent achievements in modulation of inflammation and immunotherapy applied to the treatment of epilepsy. Apart from medical therapy, we also discuss the influences of surgery, ketogenic diet, and electroconvulsive therapy on immunity and inflammation in DRE patients. Taken together, a promising perspective is suggested for future immunomodulatory therapies in the treatment of patients with DRE.Current Neuropharmacology 01/2013; 11(1):114-27. DOI:10.2174/157015913804999540 · 3.05 Impact Factor
Article: Epilepsy therapy development: Technical and methodologic issues in studies with animal models[Show abstract] [Hide abstract]
ABSTRACT: The search for new treatments for seizures, epilepsies, and their comorbidities faces considerable challenges. This is due in part to gaps in our understanding of the etiology and pathophysiology of most forms of epilepsy. An additional challenge is the difficulty in predicting the efficacy, tolerability, and impact of potential new treatments on epilepsies and comorbidities in humans, using the available resources. Herein we provide a summary of the discussions and proposals of the Working Group 2 as presented in the Joint American Epilepsy Society and International League Against Epilepsy Translational Workshop in London (September 2012). We propose methodologic and reporting practices that will enhance the uniformity, reliability, and reporting of early stage preclinical studies with animal seizure and epilepsy models that aim to develop and evaluate new therapies for seizures or epilepsies, using multidisciplinary approaches. The topics considered include the following: (1) implementation of better study design and reporting practices; (2) incorporation Wiley Periodicals, Inc.Epilepsia 08/2013; 54 Suppl 4(s4):13-23. DOI:10.1111/epi.12295 · 4.57 Impact Factor
- [Show abstract] [Hide abstract]
ABSTRACT: Purpose The ketogenic diet is an alternative treatment for patients with refractory epilepsy. Most studies to date report dietary response in children. There are limited data evaluating the efficacy of the ketogenic diet in adults. This is a report of the long-term outcome in a largely adult population of patients treated with the ketogenic diet for epilepsy. Methods Twenty-nine adult and adolescent patients (mean age 32 years, range 11-51) were initiated on the ketogenic diet and followed until diet discontinuation. Clinical response and adverse effects were noted during the duration of the diet. Results Fifty-two percent of patients had a significant reduction in seizure frequency on the ketogenic diet, including 45% with ≥ 50% reduction in seizure frequency. Thirty-one percent had no improvement, seven percent were unable to successfully initiate the diet, and 10% had a >50% increase in seizure frequency. The diet was continued for a mean of 9 months (range 0.13–35 months), with five patients completing ≥23 months. There was a trend towards better response and better tolerability/longer duration in patients with symptomatic generalized epilepsy. The diet was generally well-tolerated, but undesired weight loss and constipation were the most frequent adverse effects. Conclusions The ketogenic diet can be used safely in the adult and adolescent population, with a response rate similar to those seen in children. Patient with symptomatic generalized epilepsy may be particularly good candidates for this type of dietary treatment.Seizure 06/2014; 23(6). DOI:10.1016/j.seizure.2014.02.015 · 1.82 Impact Factor


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Notes from the Manager
Related Strips: #514: A Flesh Wound; #524: Hazed and Confused, Part One; #525: Hazed and Confused, Part Two; #528: I Never Kid, Part One; #529: I Never Kid, Part Two
Since I promised a Wednesday strip, here's a Wednesday strip — but unfortunately a last-minute freelance gig added to the usual Thanksgiving family obligations are going to get in the way of having a third strip up this week. Hopefully three next week. Sorry!
(11/26 UPDATE: You can see a new hand-drawn Multiplex strip — or the pencils, anyway — over at the Deleted Scenes blog, though!)
As many of you know, I'm back to looking for freelance work to make up for the time spent working on Multiplex: Enjoy Your Show full-time earlier this year (which was, y'know, all of my living expenses). It's sort of annoying to be home spending so much time looking for paying work when I could be drawing more comics instead, but since the comics don't pay all my bills, I gotta look for work that does. :(
That said, if you want to pick up the book or a T-shirt in the near future, I will be having a sale running from Black Friday through Cyber Monday… Stop by the store on Friday to see what's up!
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Deleted Scenes Blog
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Major NASA Announcement
Tuesday, September 29, 2015
I know I don't usually post stuff like this here, but I was so amazed by this major NASA announcement yesterday. Check it out!
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Job ID53 DivisionAprecia Pharma OverviewThis position is responsible for performing and documenting, per GXP (Good ?anything? Practices) practices, the maintenance and calibration activities required for Aprecia Pharmaceuticals solid dosage facility and facility equipment. The8/2/2015 East Windsor, NJ Save This Job
In-Store Product Promoters Brad?s Raw Foods is looking for in-store product promoters. Your role would be to go into our retailer stores for 3-4 hour shifts to sample, inform and educate people about the products and encourage sales. This is a part-time, ongoing8/2/2015 Pipersville, PA Save This Job


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Papal Audience Tickets and Presentation
- Informative, friendly and professional guide
- All entrance fees included
Recent Photos of this Tour
Schedule details
Select a month to view a calendar of availability and departure details.
Pricing information
Click the link below to check pricing & availability on your preferred travel date. Our pricing is constantly updated to ensure you always receive the lowest price possible.
Pricing information
Papal Audience Tickets and Presentation
- Professional guide
- Papal audience
- Commentary (legacy of the Vatican presentation)
- Headsets to hear the guide clearly
- Optional gratuities
- Hotel pickup and drop-off
- Confirmation will be received at time of booking, unless booked within 1 day of travel. In this case confirmation will be received within 24 hours, subject to availability
- Not wheelchair accessible
Traveler Reviews
Reviewed by: Ronald P, October 2015
Amazing experience. Our Guide was Great and knew so much he positioned us so that when Pope Francis entered we were seated 2 rows away 15 feet from Pope Francis. It was a very moving experience!
Reviewed by: Raymond S, September 2015
Worth the extra to get a good spot.


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Ratings based on 3,610 Verified Reviews
They paid and stayed. We double-checked.
4.1 Room cleanliness
4.2 Service & staff
3.8 Room comfort
3.9 Hotel condition
They paid and stayed.
We double-checked.
We double-checked.
for Everyoneby A verified traveler
Posted Oct 6, 2015
The location was perfect for all interests. Great food and beverage options and right across the street from the Alamo. Riverwalk access across a courtyard. Will definitely return.
for Everyoneby A verified traveler from s
My stay was greatPosted Oct 4, 2015
My experience was great. Expedia didn't get the room I requested, so I will not use their service again.
for Everyoneby A verified traveler
Great Stay at the Alamo Plz Historic Menger HotelPosted Oct 4, 2015
Great historic hotel, 150 years old, next to the Alamo Village. Easy access to the river walk & all down town attractions. Only downsides are parking was $35.00 a night & the standard room is small as is the double bed. The room is well appointed & decorated well. Dining in the restaurant for breakfast & lunch was surprisingly affordable & the food was very good. The historic Menger bar serves great drinks ! This is a great place for a weekend of fun, relaxation and learning the history of the Lone Star State !
for Everyoneby A verified traveler from Scottsdale, AZ
what other hotel has ghost tours? great hotel!Posted Oct 2, 2015
Pros: location, look, history.
my first room was a 1 bed standard near the back of the hotel, There was construction going on outside my window on another building beginning around 6:30am. I told the asst mgr about this and he was not only nice enough to move me to a 2 bed with balcony overlooking the pool, but refunded me for one evening!
for Everyoneby A verified traveler from UK
Beautiful old hotelPosted Sep 29, 2015
The hotel is beautifully kept and furnished, with antiques in public areas and rooms. The service is exceptional and the staff are friendly and exceptional. The prime rib in the restaurant is one of the best steaks I have ever eaten, and the signature baked potato is delicious.
for Everyoneby A verified traveler from austin, tx
Old but with plenty of characterPosted Sep 26, 2015
You get what you get with an old hotel. The rooms need serious updating. Having said that, this place is great. The Menger Bar is worth the price of admission and the common areas are beautifully kept. The location is central and convenient. For a two day business trip by myself, it was perfect.
for Everyoneby A verified traveler from Tokyo, JAPAN
Historic Hotels of AmericaPosted Sep 26, 2015
Pros: デザインがとても上品で部屋も広い。価格が安い。
Cons: WiFi。エレベーターがカビ臭い。
Location: rever walk沿いでは無いが近い。
伝統的なデザイン。部屋は充分に広く清潔。ベッドも快適。なんといっても同じクラスのriver wail沿いのホテルよりも価格が安いことが多い。
for Everyoneby A verified traveler from Virginia
Historic hotel at the corner of the AlamoPosted Sep 24, 2015
I loved my stay at the Menger. The historic architecture is beautiful and consistent throughout. Furniture, carpet, wallpaper--all reflect the 1900s and make you feel like you've stepped back in time. Antiques decorate glass displays throughout the lobby that reflects the Alamo just across the street. You do have to pay for parking, because it is in downtown, but a very reasonable fare for being across the street from the Alamo. You can walk across the street to see the Alamo and Ripley's Believe it Or Not emporium. The hotel staff was very helpful, the decor charming, and the accommodations superb. I will be staying there again next time I visit San Antonio.
by A verified traveler from Bastrop, TX
Posted Sep 24, 2015
Pros: The location was great for my needs.
Cons: Maintenance would be a start.
Location: View of Alamo was great and easy walk to convention center.
The hotel smelled musty and moldy. The shower head in the bath needed to be replaced badly and the carpet felt sticky.
for Everyoneby A verified traveler from Abilene Tx
Great hotel and locationPosted Sep 24, 2015
If you are a history buff, then you must stay here. A very beautiful hotel. Check in was fast and no complications. Room was clean and spacious. Only thing I noticed was water pressure in bathroom sink for cold water only was low. Which we reported as we checked out to the front desk. But overall everything was great! We will be back!


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Lil Dartley's life is upside down. Her previously steadfast and predictable sister is marrying an influential billionaire and needs help planning the wedding of the century in less than a month. Years of middle class rebellion have not prepared Lil for handling billionaires or paparazzi.
Jake Walton knows a train wreck when he sees one. Lil was trouble from the first day he met her, but since her sister is marrying his best friend, he has no choice but to help her or this wedding will be in the news for all the wrong reasons. Keeping Lil safe would be a whole lot easier if she didn't drive him crazy both in and out of the bedroom.
©2012 Ruth Cardello (P)2013 Ruth Cardello
"It Was Ok"
I liked the 1st and 2nd books. There's been a while since I read them though. This one just fell flat. The additional characters like Lil's best friend can't remember her name, the 1 who gate crashed the party was horrible, and nit at all how a best friend would act.Also the synopsis is wrong. Where in the book does Lil and Jake organise the wedding? I only brought it because of the synopsis appealed to me.
I haven't listened to a book by this author before however I am listening to the 4th book now only because I really liked Zhang's character. I will be stopping there though. I have no desire to read about the horrid best friend.
Lord where do I start?? She's supposed to be an actress but if I saw her on TV or a movie I'd switch it off or walk out. It was down right annoying. Her character voices were cringe worthy. The ones with the accents, the high pitched voice for Maddy, what the hell was that about??? Is her American accent fake? I know she was born in Canada but come on I can do a better American accent than her. I'm listening to Zhang's book now but once I heard the sheikh's voice it's been turned off. Please don't torture your readers any more Ms Cardello.
Read above.If she just read it normally without all the put on voices, just a bit of expression in the reading it wouldn't have been so ridiculous
"Part of a series & well written"
Following on in this series-great storyline and it keeps you entertained for hours. I'd recommend book & series to anyone
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Budnitz Bicycles Plus
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Budnitz Bicycles creates the fastest, lightest, and most elegant city bicycles in the world. We are committed to only make products that look beautiful, function to perfection, and are designed to last a lifetime. Visit us at budnitzbicycles.com.
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This year's Original Miami Beach Antiques Show saw the largest opening day attendance in seven years, strong sales, and a good response to special events including appraisals and educational events, report show organizers with U.S. Antique Shows.
Weekly Antique Auction & Show Ads: Jan. 1 – Feb. 8, 2015
If you're into making New Year's resolutions, why not set yourself up for success, and commit to making it to a show, shop, auction or market the first couple months of 2015? Then turn to Antique Trader to find out what's happening and where.
Weekly Antique Auction & Show Ads: Oct. 31 – Nov. 23, 2014
Its often not a matter of not having enough opportunities to locate items to add to our collections, but not having enough time. While we here at Antique Trader can't do a lot about adding more hours to the day, or revamping your schedule, we can keep you informed about the shows and auctions...
Weekly Antique Auction & Show Ads Oct. 3 – Nov.16, 2014
Antique Trader is committed to helping you make the most of today's antique marketplace with relevant nformation about shows and auctions. Check out the latest installment of the Weekly Antiques Auction & Show Ads feature for more.
Phantom of the Opera one sheet closes at $203,150
A seldom-seen original one sheet poster for the 1925 horror classic "The Phantom of the Opera" rose to $203,105 in Heritage Auctions' Vintage Movie Poster auction.
Weekly Antique Auction & Show Ads: Sept. 19-Oct. 26, 2014
Some of the best places to find the antique or collectible you're looking for, or something you didn't even know you were after, are auctions and shows. Check out some select advertisements from the Sept. 17, 2014 issue of Antique Trader to find an event you fancy.
'Outlaw' country star's collection headlining auction
Come Oct. 5 Phoenix's Musical Instrument Museum will be host to auction action as bidders vie for items from the collection of the late Waylon Jennings, a pioneer of outlaw country music, during a sale presented by Guernsey's.
Weekly Antiques Auction & Show Ads: Sept. 6-Oct. 26, 2014
Summer may be drawing to a close, but there is no shortage of events to satisfy your passion for antiques. Check out the latest selection of antiques auctions & shows ad from Antique Trader.
Bears to go before bidders Sept. 19
It's going to be a parade of bears at Norman C. Heckler & Co.'s Sept. 19 auction, with more than 1,100 toy bears, including 200 antique models up for grabs.
1896 Coca-Cola calendar in shadow box display may soar to $60K
A seldom-seen complete collection of Coca-Cola calendars, including one dating back to 1896, may prompt bidding wars during Morphy Auction's Aug. 22-24 Coin-op & Advertising auction.


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Select Local Merchants
Sahara CafeRead MoreHead to Sahara Cafe, a local Mediterranean restaurant, for good times and good eats. Put the diet on pause when you visit Sahara Cafe — there are no low-fat menu items. Find time to peruse the wine list here — Sahara Cafe offers a variety of drink options. Check out the brews and bites at happy hour, and kick back without spending a fortune. Find ample room to enjoy yourself at Sahara Cafe — this spot caters to large groups. Dine under the sun (or stars) at Sahara Cafe with their charming outdoor seating. Wifi is on the house at Sahara Cafe, so bring along your tablet or laptop. Noise levels at the restaurant can be ear-piercing, so save the t te- -t tes for another night. Don't let your weekend plans get spoiled! Be sure to reserve a table if you're heading to the restaurant on a Friday or Saturday since it can get pretty crowded. Shake off the stiff workday duds at Sahara Cafe — attire is casual. For those in a hurry, the restaurant lets you take your meal or snack to go. Can't get enough of Sahara Cafe's tasty dishes? They also offer a catering service for parties and events. For easy dining, Sahara Cafe provides convenient parking in a connecting lot. Meals at Sahara Cafe usually set you back about $30 per diner.10771 Beach BlvdJacksonville, FL US
Amsterdam LoungeRead MoreStop by Amsterdam Lounge for a satisfying Mediterranean meal. Amsterdam Lounge is a fantastic spot to indulge and with no low-fat options, you'll need to save the diet for another day. Pair your entree with a glass of wine or draft beer — Amsterdam Lounge has a fully-stocked bar to complement your meal. Perfect for after-work outings, Amsterdam Lounge's happy hour is hard to beat. Get online gratis thanks to Amsterdam Lounge's complimentary wifi. Big parties won't feel squeezed in at Amsterdam Lounge, which offers great seating for large groups. If you're feeling up to it, take a turn on the dance floor. Between the music and the crowds, be prepared for a lot of noise at this restaurant. Looking for something delicious to serve at your next party? Amsterdam Lounge also offers catering. If you're strapped for time, take out food from Amsterdam Lounge. For convenience, diners can park in a neighboring lot. A mid-priced establishment, Amsterdam Lounge offers meals that typically cost about $30 or less.11380 Beach BlvdJacksonville, FL US
Park Place LoungeRead MoreEnjoy a large array of finger food at Park Place Lounge, a local pub. Ready for a drink to unwind? At Park Place Lounge, you can pair your meal with something from their full bar. Score happy hour deals and steals at Park Place Lounge. For comfortable outdoor service, Park Place Lounge sets up a seasonal patio. It's easy to get down and dance at Park Place Lounge when there's a live DJ spinning the best beats. Expect to wait longer for weekday service as the after-work crowd tends to fill the restaurant. Endless parking options are readily available close to Park Place Lounge. Park Place Lounge offers various parking options, including bike parking. If you don't want a night that will cost you an arm and a leg but you do want a delicious meal, come to Park Place Lounge.931 King StJacksonville, FL US
Comedy Club of JacksonvilleRead MoreMunch on tasty pub grub at Comedy Club of Jacksonville. The restaurant hosts a DJ, and diners can take to the dance floor as well. Loud crowds paired with a healthy sound system keep the volume level at this restaurant at the edge of ear-splitting. During the restaurant's weekend rush, waiting in line is the name of the game (so avoid Friday and Saturday nights if you're looking for something quick). In addition to its great location, Comedy Club of Jacksonville is also located near plenty of parking options. Meals at Comedy Club of Jacksonville are incredibly tasty and reasonably priced around $30. So when you're in the mood for some tasty pub food, make your way over to Comedy Club of Jacksonville.11000 Beach Blvd.Jacksonville, FL US
AvondaleRead MoreFor top-notch performances of historical and contemporary plays, there's no better place in Jacksonville than Avondale. Feeling hungry? Sit down for a bite to eat at this club 's restaurant. From craft cocktails to quality beer, Avondale is a local hot spot with great drinks. Treat your ears to some live tunes — the club frequently features a DJ or band. If sitting still is not your style, feel free to take the dance floor and hop to the beat of the club's live DJ. Weekend customers, beware! The club is busiest on Friday and Saturday, so getting seated will take some time. Drive to Avondale and find easy parking in a lot close by or on the street.3551 Saint Johns AvenueJacksonville, FL US
Black Sheep RestaurantRead MoreBlack Sheep Restaurant serves up tasty American cuisine in a trendy decor. Low-fat fare is not available here, so leave some room in your diet. Get online for free courtesy of Black Sheep Restaurant's wifi. If dining outdoors is your idea of a good time, you'll love the gorgeous patio seating at Black Sheep Restaurant. Bring your furry friend to the restaurant — Black Sheep Restaurant allows dogs to dine, too. Weeknights are busy for Black Sheep Restaurant, so call ahead and make a reservation if you can. null Menu items at Black Sheep Restaurant tend to be mid-priced, so expect to plop down about $30 per person to dine here.1534 Oak StJacksonville, FL US


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porters have to be maintained, who are not fully employed, in order that no more time than is necessary should be lost in the change of trains.
"With regard to goods, the inconvenience attending the change is far more serious.
"Up to this day a great number of waggons laden with goods of all descriptions have been lying at Gloucester, which we have been unable to remove in spite of every exertion. We keep an establishment of clerks and porters to superintend and effect the transhipment, but, in the hurry of business, mistakes occur; goods destined for Hull are perhaps put into the Manchester truck; boxes are bruised, packing torn, furniture and brittle articles damaged. There is the chance of mistake in the re-invoicing of goods; the other day, for instance, a bale for Bristol was laid hold of by a carrier at Gloucester and taken to Brecon, a claim for some 30l. being instantly made upon us.
"In short, all the inconvenience, delay, and expense attending an unloading and reloading
When the economic downturn ends Matty Cruzs co... Read more
Cara Devon has always suffered curiosity and im... Read more
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Leader Resource 3: Holy Babies
Image 1: Baby Jesus
Image 2: Baby Moses
Image 3: Baby Krishna
Image 4: Birth of Aphrodite
Image 5: Baby Buddha, from Fo Guang Shan Hsi Lai Temple. Used with permission.
Image 6: Birth of Ganesha
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Fall Vest and Skirt Street Style
Look of the Day: Getting Vesty
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Skirt: Walter
Belt: Banana Republic
Shoes: Gucci
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Talk in Stroud 15 May
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- Ian Mackintosh is giving a talk at 7.30pm on Monday 15 May at the Stroud Subscription Rooms on "First stop the Indies". The talk will outline Stroud's relationship with the greatest of London's trading companies, the East India Company. Tickets are £3.50 from Kendrick Street Gallery, Stroud or telephone the Stroudwater Festival Office on 01453 752682.
Should be a very interesting talk
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Risk factors for antenatal depression, postnatal depression and parenting stress
Author affiliations
1 Parent-Infant Research Institute, Department of Clinical and Health Psychology, Heidelberg Repatriation Hospital Austin Health, 300 Waterdale Rd, Heidelberg Heights 3081, Victoria, Australia
2 Department of Psychology, School of Behavioural Science, University of Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
Citation and License
BMC Psychiatry 2008, 8:24 doi:10.1186/1471-244X-8-24Published: 16 April 2008
Given that the prevalence of antenatal and postnatal depression is high, with estimates around 13%, and the consequences serious, efforts have been made to identify risk factors to assist in prevention, identification and treatment. Most risk factors associated with postnatal depression have been well researched, whereas predictors of antenatal depression have been less researched. Risk factors associated with early parenting stress have not been widely researched, despite the strong link with depression. The aim of this study was to further elucidate which of some previously identified risk factors are most predictive of three outcome measures: antenatal depression, postnatal depression and parenting stress and to examine the relationship between them.
Primipara and multiparae women were recruited antenatally from two major hoitals as part of the beyondblue National Postnatal Depression Program [1]. In this subsidiary study, 367 women completed an additional large battery of validated questionnaires to identify risk factors in the antenatal period at 26–32 weeks gestation. A subsample of these women (N = 161) also completed questionnaires at 10–12 weeks postnatally. Depression level was measured by the Beck Depression Inventory (BDI).
Regression analyses identified significant risk factors for the three outcome measures. (1). Significant predictors for antenatal depression: low self-esteem, antenatal anxiety, low social support, negative cognitive style, major life events, low income and history of abuse. (2). Significant predictors for postnatal depression: antenatal depression and a history of depression while also controlling for concurrent parenting stress, which was a significant variable. Antenatal depression was identified as a mediator between seven of the risk factors and postnatal depression. (3). Postnatal depression was the only significant predictor for parenting stress and also acted as a mediator for other risk factors.
Risk factor profiles for antenatal depression, postnatal depression and parenting stress differ but are interrelated. Antenatal depression was the strongest predictor of postnatal depression, and in turn postnatal depression was the strongest predictor for parenting stress. These results provide clinical direction suggesting that early identification and treatment of perinatal depression is important.


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Modulation of Angiotensin II–mediated cardiac remodeling by
the MEF2A target gene Xirp2
Sarah A. McCalmon, PhD1, Danielle M. Desjardins, BA1, Saad Ahmad, MD2, Katharine S.
Davidoff1, Christine M. Snyder, MA1, Kaori Sato, MD2, Koji Ohashi, MD, PhD2, Ondra M.
Kielbasa, MA1, Matthen Mathew, BA1, Elizabeth P. Ewen, MA1, Kenneth Walsh, PhD2,
Haralambos Gavras, MD2,3, and Francisco J. Naya, PhD1,2
1Department of Biology, Program in Cell and Molecular Biology, Boston University, 24
Cummington Street, Boston, MA 02215
2Whitaker Cardiovascular Institute, Boston University Medical School, 700 Albany Street, Boston,
3Alapis Research Laboratories, Boston University Medical School, 700 Albany Street, Boston, MA
Rationale—The vasoactive peptide angiotensin II (AngII) is a potent cardiotoxic hormone whose
actions have been well studied, yet questions remain pertaining to the downstream factors that
mediate its effects in cardiomyocytes.
Objective—The in vivo role of the MEF2A target gene Xirp2 in AngII-mediated cardiac
remodeling was investigated.
Methods and Results—Here we demonstrate that the MEF2A target gene Xirp2 (also known
as cardiomyopathy associated gene 3; CMYA3) is an important effector of the AngII signaling
pathway in the heart. Xirp2 belongs to the evolutionarily conserved, muscle-specific, actin-binding
Xin gene family and is significantly induced in the heart in response to systemic administration of
AngII. Initially, we characterized the Xirp2 promoter and demonstrate that AngII activates Xirp2
expression by stimulating MEF2A transcriptional activity. To further characterize the role of
Xirp2 downstream of AngII signaling we generated mice harboring a hypomorphic allele of the
Xirp2 gene that resulted in a marked reduction in its expression in the heart. In the absence of
AngII, adult Xirp2 hypomorphic mice displayed cardiac hypertrophy and increased βMHC
expression. Strikingly, Xirp2 hypomorphic mice chronically infused with AngII exhibited altered
pathological cardiac remodeling including an attenuated hypertrophic response, as well as
diminished fibrosis and apoptosis.
Conclusions—These findings reveal a novel MEF2A-Xirp2 pathway that functions downstream
of AngII signaling to modulate its pathological effects in the heart.
Address correspondence to Francisco J. Naya, Department of Biology, Boston University, 24 Cummington Street, Boston, MA 02215,
Tel: 617-353-2469; Fax. 617-353-6340; firstname.lastname@example.com.
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Author Manuscript
Circ Res. Author manuscript; available in PMC 2011 March 19.
Published in final edited form as:
Circ Res. 2010 March 19; 106(5): 952–960. doi:10.1161/CIRCRESAHA.109.209007.
NIH-PA Author Manuscript
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Myocyte enhancer factor 2; Angiotensin II; Xirp2; myomaxin; cardiac hypertrophy; hypomorphic
Angiotensin II (AngII) is a potent hypertensive agonist that also promotes extensive
myocardial damage even in the absence of hypertension (1). The repertoire of downstream
effectors in AngII-mediated pathological cardiac remodeling, however, remains largely
incomplete (2,3). A recent global gene expression study identified transcripts of a novel
gene, named CMYA3 (cardiomyopathy associated gene 3), that were up-regulated in hearts
of mice treated with AngII but not in salt-induced hypertensive mice (4) suggesting that
CMYA3 is directly regulated by AngII signaling. This gene, since named Xirp2 (also known
as mXinβ and myomaxin), is a direct target of the MEF2A transcription factor and is
markedly down-regulated in hearts lacking MEF2A (5,6).
Xirp2 belongs to the ancient, muscle-specific, actin-binding Xin gene family whose
expression can be traced to ancestral vertebrates with a two-chambered heart (7–9). Xirp2 is
expressed in cardiac and skeletal muscle where it interacts with filamentous actin and α-
actinin through the novel actin-binding motif, the Xin repeat (5,8). In striated muscle, Xirp2
localizes to the peripheral Z-disc region, or costamere (5), and the intercalated disk (10,11).
The sub-cellular localization of Xirp2 is significant in that the costamere and intercalated
disk harbor mechanical stress sensors that are critical for normal muscle function (12–14).
Antisense knockdown of Xin in developing chick embryos, the sole Xin family member in
this species, results in a severe disruption of cardiac looping morphogenesis (9). In mice, a
loss-of-function mutation of mXinα, the mammalian ortholog of Xin, results in
cardiomyopathy and conduction defects (11). In the present study we sought to determine
the role of Xirp2 in cardiac development and/or function. Mice harboring a hypomorphic
Xirp2 allele are viable but display cardiac hypertrophy. As Xirp2 is regulated by AngII, we
also examined cardiac pathology in hypomorphic mice with long-term administration of this
hormone. In contrast to wild type mice exposed to a chronic AngII infusion, hypomorphic
mice displayed diminished cardiac hypertrophy, fibrosis, and apoptosis. Furthermore, we
demonstrate that regulation of Xirp2 gene expression in response to AngII signaling is
mediated by MEF2A. Our results suggest that MEF2A and Xirp2 are important downstream
effectors in mediating pathological cardiac remodeling in response to AngII signaling.
Details of materials and experimental procedures can be found in the expanded Methods
section in the Online Data Supplement.
Generation of Xirp2 loxP-targeted mice
Xirp2 loxP-neo targeted mice were generated by inGenious Targeting Laboratory Inc.
(Stony Brook, NY).
Histology and immunofluorescence
Hearts were fixed in 4% paraformaldehyde, cryoprotected in sucrose, and placed in
embedding compound (OCT). Whole-heart sections were stained with hematoxylin & eosin
(H&E). Masson's trichrome staining was performed to determine the extent of cardiac
fibrosis. Apoptosis was assessed by terminal dUTP nick-end labeling (TUNEL) assay using
the Promega DeadEnd™ Colorimetric TUNEL System kit. For immunofluorescence, heart
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cryosections were blocked in BSA prior to incubation with primary and secondary
Administration of Angiotensin II
Angiotensin II (0.9µg/hr) was administered via subcutaneous osmotic mini-pumps (Alzet
model 2004) for 14 days.
Echocardiography and blood pressure analysis
Transthoracic M-mode echocardiography was performed on mice at baseline (pre-treatment)
and post-2week AngII infusion. Blood pressure analysis was performed using the non-
invasive tail cuff method (Model BP 2000, Visitech Systems).
Microarray and gene expression analysis
cDNA was prepared from total RNA isolated from either hindlimb or ventricular tissue
using Trizol reagent (Invitrogen). Primers for qRT-PCR/RT-PCR can be found in the Online
Data Supplement. For qRT-PCR, individual non-pooled samples were run in triplicate wells.
qRT-PCR was performed with SYBR® Green master mix (Applied Biosystems) using the
7900 Sequence Detection System (Applied Biosystems). For microarray, samples were
prepared as described previously (15) and hybridized to the Mouse Gene 1.0 ST Array
(Affymetrix) at the Boston University Microarray Facility.
Western blot analysis
To detect cardiac Xirp2 protein, ventricular muscle was snap-frozen in liquid nitrogen
immediately following dissection, pulverized and resuspended in sample loading buffer.
Protein concentrations were analyzed by Bradford assay. Samples were subjected to SDS-
PAGE, transferred to PVDF membrane (Biorad) and immunoblotted using primary
antibodies described in the Online Data Supplement.
Cell culture, luciferase assays, and plasmids
COS1 cells were grown in Dulbecco's modified Eagle medium with 10% Fetal Bovine
Serum, 1% Penicillin/Streptomycin, and 1% L-Glutamine and transfected using Mirus
TransIT®-LT1 transfection reagent. Luciferase assays were performed using Luciferase
Assay Reagent (Promega), and results were normalized by Bradford assay. For analysis of
Xirp2 expression in primary neonatal rat ventricular myocytes (NRVMs), cells were isolated
as described previously (5). All Xirp2 luciferase promoter constructs were cloned into the
pGL3b-luciferase vector (Promega) except the −1425/−285 deletion mutant which was
cloned into the pGL3p-luciferase construct (Promega).
Statistical analysis
Appropriate data sets were analyzed for significance using 2-way ANOVA. Variance of data
sets was determined using the Bartlett's-test. Either a 2-tailed Student's t-test or Welch's t-
test was performed for each pair-wise comparison. A p-value of <0.05 was considered to be
statistically significant.
AngII stimulates MEF2A transcriptional activity to regulate Xirp2 expression
To determine whether the AngII-mediated up-regulation of Xirp2 was a direct effect of the
hormone on cardiomyocytes or due to secondary effects resulting from pressure overload,
primary neonatal rat ventricular myocytes (NRVMs) were isolated and treated with AngII.
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As shown in Figure 1A, Xirp2 transcripts were induced in NRVMs upon AngII treatment
indicating that Xirp2 is directly stimulated by the hormone.
The above results prompted us to map the AngII-responsive region in the proximal 1.5kb
Xirp2 promoter (5). Due to the very high basal activity of this promoter and smaller deletion
constructs in NRVMs, we were unable to detect enhanced activation by AngII in this
system. Subsequently, we examined the responsiveness of various Xirp2 promoter
constructs (Fig. 1B) to AngII in COS cells since these cells express the type I angiotensin
receptor. In transiently transfected COS cells, the −1425 Xirp2 promoter was stimulated 2.5-
fold by AngII (Fig. 1C). A truncated Xirp2 promoter (−285/+60) was similarly activated by
AngII (Fig. 1C), indicating that the AngII-responsive region resides within the first 300 base
pairs upstream of the transcription start site. This minimal region harbors an essential MEF2
site (5). Given that MEF2 activity is modulated by AngII in vascular smooth muscle (16,17)
we reasoned that AngII-induced Xirp2 expression is mediated by MEF2. To test this
hypothesis, we transfected a mutant promoter construct that harbors a mutation in the −75
MEF2 site (−285mut) which disrupts MEF2 DNA binding. AngII activation of the −285
mutant promoter was significantly reduced, indicating that the MEF2 site functions as an
AngII-responsive element in the Xirp2 promoter (Fig. 1C).
To further investigate the role of MEF2 downstream of AngII-mediated activation of the
Xirp2 gene, the −1425 Xirp2 promoter was co-transfected in COS cells along with MEF2A
in the presence or absence of AngII. AngII or MEF2A alone activated the −1425 promoter
by 2.5-fold and 3.4-fold, respectively (Fig. 1D). The combination of AngII and MEF2A
robustly activated the −1425 Xirp2 promoter 10.6-fold (Fig. 1D). Similar results were
observed with the −285 promoter construct (Fig. 1D). This cooperative effect was severely
attenuated in three different mutant Xirp2 promoters in which the −75 MEF2 site was either
deleted (−1425/−285) or disrupted by point mutation (−1425mut and −285mut) (Fig. 1D).
However, the ability of AngII to stimulate MEF2A was not mediated by enhanced binding
to the MEF2 site (Online Fig. I).
To reinforce the notion that MEF2A is an essential regulator of Xirp2 downstream of AngII
signaling in vivo, we examined the expression of Xirp2 in NRVMs in which MEF2A was
knocked down by adenoviruses expressing MEF2A-specific short hairpin RNAs (shRNAs)
(Online Fig. IX and to be described in detail elsewhere). We failed to observe an induction
of Xirp2 by AngII in cells transduced with MEF2A shRNAs but not control lacZ shRNAs
(Fig. 1E, compare lanes 3 and 4 to lanes 5 and 6). These results demonstrate that Xirp2 is a
novel, direct transcriptional target of AngII whose induction is mediated by MEF2A.
Generation of Xirp2 hypomorphic mice
Having established that Xirp2 is directly regulated by AngII, we wanted to determine the in
vivo requirement of this gene in AngII-induced cardiomyopathy. Therefore, we generated a
conditional null allele of the Xirp2 gene which contained loxP sequences flanking exons 4
and 6, and a PGK-neomycin (PGK-neo) cassette in the intron between exons 6 and 7 (Fig.
2A). To generate a complete loss-of-function allele, conditional Xirp2 mice were crossed to
EIIa-Cre transgenic mice which removed exons 4–6 along with the loxP flanked PGK-neo
cassette in the germline. These heterozygous Xirp2 loxP mice (+/loxP) were intercrossed
resulting in homozygous Xirp2 loxP/loxP mice that were viable, fertile and genotyped at the
expected Mendelian ratios. The excision of exons 4–6 was confirmed by RT-PCR analysis
on cardiac muscle cDNA (Fig. 2B). Sequencing of these truncated cDNAs revealed an in-
frame splice between exons 3 and 7 (Fig. 2B). This in-frame splice had no effect on Xirp2
expression in homozygous loxP/loxP mice (data not shown) and as a result, these mice have
not been further characterized.
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In parallel, we generated loxP-neo targeted Xirp2 homozygous mice (referred to as loxP-
neo) that retained the PGK-neo cassette (Fig. 2A). Homozygous loxP-neo mice were
identified in the expected Mendelian ratios demonstrating that this allele, like the in-frame
deletion, does not affect viability. As retention of PGK-neo can often interfere with
expression of the targeted gene (18), we examined Xirp2 transcript levels in homozygous
loxP-neo mice by quantitative real time RT-PCR (qRT-PCR). Using primers spanning exons
2 and 3, qRT-PCR analysis of cardiac and skeletal muscle cDNA revealed that these tissues
express Xirp2 at only 15–20% of wild type levels (Fig. 2C). RT-PCR analysis using multiple
downstream primer sets demonstrated similar results suggesting that full length Xirp2
transcripts are being produced from the loxP-neo targeted allele (Online Fig. II). In addition,
Xirp2 protein is largely absent from both hindlimb and cardiac muscle extracts (Fig. 2D).
Unlike the up-regulation of Xirp2 in Xin knockout hearts (11), there was no compensatory
increase in Xin gene expression in Xirp2 hypomorphic hearts (Fig. 2E). Given these exciting
results we focused on characterizing the cardiac phenotype of Xirp2 hypomorphic mice.
Cardiac hypertrophy in Xirp2 hypomorphic mice
Because Xirp2 is enriched at the muscle costamere we reasoned that its reduction would
adversely affect the normal growth and/or function of the heart. We measured heart weight :
body weight (HW:BW) ratios in wild type and Xirp2 hypomorphic adult mice. Between 9
and 15 weeks post-natally Xirp2 hypomorphic mice displayed a modest increase in HW:BW
ratio (19%) (Fig. 3A). We performed morphometric analysis of ventricular myocytes in
adult hypomorphic hearts and observed a significant increase in the cross-sectional area
(CSA) (1.6-fold) (Fig. 3B) but other hallmarks of cardiomyopathy such as fibrosis and
apoptosis were not significantly altered (data not shown). Similarly, examination of
cardiomyocytes by electron microscopy did not reveal any obvious perturbations in
myofibrillar structure (data not shown). Echocardiographic assessment of cardiac function
showed no significant differences in ejection fraction (%EF) or fractional shortening (%FS)
in hypomorphic mice (Online Fig. III). As Xirp2 is also expressed in skeletal muscle future
studies will focus on the characterization of a possible phenotype in this tissue.
To further characterize the hypertrophic phenotype we examined the expression of
hypertrophic marker genes by qRT-PCR. There was no significant change in expression of
atrial natriuretic factor (ANF), brain natriuretic peptide (BNP), or alpha myosin heavy chain
(αMHC) genes (Fig. 4A). However, Xirp2 hypomorphic hearts exhibited a significant
activation (3.9-fold) of the beta myosin heavy chain (βMHC) gene (Fig. 4A).
Global dysregulation of cardiac gene expression in Xirp2 hypomorphic mice
To investigate the molecular mechanisms of the hypomorphic cardiac phenotype we
performed microarray analysis of ventricular RNA from adult wild type and Xirp2
hypomorphic mice. We found a dysregulation of genes belonging to a broad spectrum of
functional categories including metabolism (15%), muscle contraction (11%), calcium
handling (9%), and cytoskeleton (5%) (Fig. 4B). A subset of these genes was validated by
qRT-PCR. MARCKS (myristoylated alanine-rich C kinase substrate), Pdlim3/ALP (α-
actinin interacting LIM protein), and Lipocalin 2 genes were significantly up-regulated,
whereas RCAN1/MCIP1 (regulator of calcineurin) was significantly down-regulated (Fig.
4C). In addition, the down-regulation of RCAN1/MCIP1 was confirmed by Western blot
analysis (Online Fig. IV). Interestingly, like Xirp2, both MARCKS and Pdlim3/ALP are
involved in F-actin and α-actinin cross-linking dynamics, respectively (19,20). The
Lipocalin 2 gene encodes a glycoprotein involved in numerous cellular processes (21) and
its up-regulation in hypomorphic hearts is consistent with the reported activation of this gene
in human and rodent models of heart failure (22). One possible outcome of reduced RCAN1/
MCIP1, a modulator of the pro-hypertrophic factor calcineurin (23), is an elevation in
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|Program Terms:
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Program Dates &
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|Minimum Language Requirement:
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|Other Eligibility Requirements:
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|All Engineering Majors, Computer Science, Information Technology
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|Program Description:
GE3: Denmark, Denmark Technical University (DTU)
The Program
The Global Engineering Education Exchange (GE3) is an international exchange program for all College of Engineering, iSchool and Biomedical Engineering majors. The program allows Drexel students to study in one of 9 countries overseas, fully immersed into the education, culture and daily life of their host country. This is a fantastic opportunity to make new friends and explore your academic interests from a different perspective.
For more information on study at Denmark Technical University (DTU) please visit their website.
DTU is a semester based school. Only fall semester is workable with Drexel's calendar.
Program calendar
Fall term start: Late August. Students will need to leave summer term early
Fall term end: Early January - You may take your exams before Christmas.
Spring term start: Early February ( you may need to depart US last week of Jan)
Spring term end: Early June
DTU offers a variety of courses in English. Majors offered at DTU include: Biotechnology, Civil Engineering, Chemical Engineering, Computer Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Mathematics, Mechanical Engineering and Physics.
Please consult the DTU Course Catalog for more details.
DTU - Course Equivalents.xls List of DTU courses that have been approved with Drexel equivalents. If there are courses that you would like to take that are not listed, you will need to get equivalents approved by the appropriate department. For example, if you want to take a sociology course for Drexel credit, the Sociology Department at Drexel must pre- approve the course and equivalency.
Grading: Students are taught by Danish faculty at DTU. Grades are noted as credit/no credit (CR/NCR) on students - transcript and will NOT affect their GPA. In order to receive CR students must earn a "C" or above. The goal is to be a full-time student at DTU while also taking the equivalent of a full-time load at Drexel. A full course load at a Danish school is between 20-30 ECTS credits per semester.
The Experience
Just a few hours flight from the capitals of Sweden, Norway, Finland, the UK, Germany and the Baltic States, DTU lies at the heart of Scandinavia and Northern Europe and is a leading-edge institution in the thriving design and engineering culture of the region.
There will be an international orientation week arranged by the international student counselors. The program includes an introduction to Danish language courses, lectures on Danish culture, introduction to studying at DTU and much more. During this week, you have the occasion to meet with your new fellow students from all over the world and get help from the student counselors with all the practical issues relating to your studies at DTU.
Most students live in the dormitories while attending classes in Denmark but off-campus housing is also available. For information on housing for international exchange students at DTU, please visit DTU's website. DTU International Students.
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Jeffry Johnson was recognized as a national honorary life member of SkillsUSA before a crowd of 15,000 during the opening ceremony of the 50th Annual SkillsUSA National Leadership and Skills Conference held this month in Kansas City, Mo.
Oklahoma City technology center teacher gets national award
This is SkillsUSA's highest recognition award, given for outstanding service that advances the purposes and goals of the national organization.
Johnson is an automotive instructor at Francis Tuttle Technology Center. Prior to his 10-year career as an instructor, he was a senior master technician with Ford Motor Co. He has been involved with SkillsUSA since he was a student.
Once committed to a career in education, he graduated summa cum laude with a bachelor's degree in adult education from the University of Central Oklahoma. He is pursuing his master's degree in educational leadership at the same institution.
Johnson is vice president for the trade and industrial education division of the Association for Career and Technical Education. He's been a district SkillsUSA adviser since 2007 and serves on SkillsUSA's board of directors.
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Through two varied but connected — and highly successful — careers, Jeff has demonstrated the same cutting edge skills he hopes to develop in others."
Tim Lawrence,
executive director of SkillsUSA