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RAID 0 Database/OLTP
This test emulates Database and On-Line Transaction Processing (OLTP) workloads. OLTP is in essence the processing of transactions such as credit cards and high frequency trading in the financial sector. Databases are the bread and butter of many deployments. These are demanding 8K random workloads with a 66% read and 33% write distribution that can bring even the highest performing solutions down to earth.
The WD Se array averages 645 IOPS in this mixed workload test, while the Red array trails with 555 IOPS at QD256.
The WD Red actually beats out the Se array in the lower-end of the latency chart, with great results in the .6-.8ms and 1-2ms range.
RAID 0 Fileserver
The File Server profile represents typical file server workloads that are very relevant to NAS usage. This profile tests a wide variety of different file sizes simultaneously to simulate multiple users with an 80% read and 20% write distribution.
The WD Red again only trails slightly, with an impressive average of 689 IOPS at QD256, a result that is very close to the 791 IOPS from the WD Se array.


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|| Printer Friendly
|Honda Begins European Sales of LEAD Scooter Made in India
|Tokyo, April 14, 2003 --- Honda Europe Motorcycle S.R.L. has begun imports of the India-manufactured low-price LEAD scooter, for sales in Europe to commence first in Germany, with later expansion to include Italy, France and other countries.
The LEAD, equipped with an air-cooled, 4-stroke, single-cylinder 100cc engine, features clean and quiet performance, with a stylish design. The model is manufactured by Honda Motorcycle & Scooter India (Private) Ltd. and will be sold at a price of 1,640 euros (manufacturer's suggested retail price) - equivalent to that of motorcycles in the 50cc class.
Annual unit sales are forecast at 12,500 units.
Last November, prior to marketing the LEAD in Europe, Honda began sales in Greece of the 125cc step-through scooter INNOVA, manufactured by Thai Honda Mfg. Co., Ltd., and later introduced the model in other countries. This year, Honda plans to increase the number of models exported from countries other than Japan from the existing about 20 models at the end of 2002 to over 30 models, including the LEAD, through the use of Honda's Global Supply Network.
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subset: commoncrawl


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Little about me. I'm 28 male and ran in highshool. (Was pretty good a decade ago)
I got back into running about 2 months ago and I'm having a blast. I look forward to my run all day. I had been running pretty hard each run and not doing the slower longer runs. I worked my way up to 4 mile runs in the first month and shaved my time from 45 minutes down to about 38 and change. However my time has not improved and to be honest some days is slower. These times are nothing stellar but I'm in this for the long haul. I'm wanting to train for a year and then start doing some races. I want to be able to actually compete in these races. I read alot about runners just starting out shouldn't really give it everything they have every run. This weekend I went out and bought a Garmin410 with heart rate monitor. Yesterday was my first run with it and I focused on keeping my heart rate down between 150 and 160 for the same 4 mile run at time of 43 minutes (This showed me I was pushing myself well beyond what my actual conditioning level was/) Should I just take a few months and just focus on slower runs and racking up the miles?
All ideals are welcome. Like I said i'm in this for the long haul so I'm willing to do whatever is needed.
I am a 51-year-old runner and can identify with your situation. Like you, I was a solid runner and competitor in high school and college. I continued to compete up until my early 30s, and then "retired" for lack of a better term. Then, about 3 years ago, after a 16-year hiatus from running, I wanted to get back into competition. I have to say it has been a long struggle, filled with many mountains, valleys, and plateaus, which is precisely what you are experiencing.
The only thing I can suggest is to vary your running. Alternate your workouts: easy, difficult, easy, moderately-difficult, all in terms of distance, time, and effort. Most experts also recommend that you take a day off every 7 to 10 days.
I am in the middle of a plateau myself. I was making good progress in terms of my training, running times, and distances, but starting in April I have really leveled off. The good news is I am feeling better, and I am really enjoying myself when I run and when I enter competition. That is the key. Just have a blast and stay healthy. As an experienced runner yourself, you probably now how this sport works. We might feel that our progress has halted, and maybe we are going in reverse, then all of a sudden... BAM... everything comes together where we feel great, and we are able run a PR without too much of an extreme effort. That's when we experience the true thrill of running, and that is what exhilerates us and motivates us. So, keep it going. You WILL have your day... on the course (or track), as it were.
I second what Anaheim said. I ran HS and college and was a HS coach for awhile. Take a page out of the Crossfit handbook and realize that you have to switch up your exercise. If you're not changing this up and challenging your body in new ways, your body becomes as efficient as possible in that one exercise. That's a plateua for you.
Do some speed work. Do some tempos. Do some fartleks. Do some long-slow. You've been doing 4 mile runs? Do at least one long run a week, and one fast run a week. Your body will adapt.
Hello Anaheim,
This is the same Joe but my account locked up and it was just easier to create a new one.
What would an example of a good plan be. I see so many options online but many are too basic or meant for elites. Is there not any merit to just running miles at first to get conditioned or am I already past that point for just building a base?
I ran 5 days straight this week sunday through today. Totaling 20 miles. I'm taking the next 2 off. This is also ideal for my scheduling and keeping the wife happy. :-)
If you are serious about getting back into competition, it is going to take more than 20 miles per week.
But for now, forget about the heart rate monitors and your distance.
Focus on your total time running. Given what you have accomplished already, I would recommend running for 30 minutes at a moderate pace. Don't jog too easy, or push the pace too hard. The way to guage your pace is imagine if you were engaged in a conversation while running, and determine how difficult it would be to converse. If you are able to easily talk, you are running too slow. If it is too difficult to hold a conversation, you are running too fast. However, if you are breathing hard but still able to converse, then the pace is probably just right.
On your easy days, just jog nice and easy for thirty minutes, the only difference from your hard workout days is the distance you run. Be sure to stretch a lot before you run, and stretch a little after you run.
After a couple of weeks, on your hard days, you might notice that you are feeling good and want too push the pace a little, or at the end of the 30 minutes, your recovery is quicker than normal. Then, it is time to notch up your running time to 35 minutes. Follow this pattern of increasing your running time by 5 minutes. When you reach 45 minutes of running time (usually 2 to 3 months, if you are consistent with your running), you have a good foundation, and then you can start mixing in speed work and intervals. When you start with interval work, you will be ready for a time trial.
ACTIVE is the leader in online event registrations from 5k running races and marathons to softball leagues and local events. ACTIVE also makes it easy to learn and prepare for all the things you love to do with expert resources, training plans and fitness calculators.


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Tom Rahm of Truman is what many could call an "idea man" or even an "answer man."
You need no further proof of this than to ask him a question – any question, really – and he either will have an idea, an answer or, in all probability, both.Take, for instance, his new modern innovation, Juice Tek, which is posted on the website Quirky Ideations, and you kind of get a picture of what goes on within the grinding gears of his brain.
"There's people out there who juice every day," explained Rahm. "And there's other people who buy [juice machines] and it's a mess. And you get the cheap ones and they don't work real well and it takes too much time, so they just quit and it goes under the counter again, collecting dust. We got one, I used it, and then I quit."
The product, which according to the website, "Juice Tek offers a mess-free and pulp-free juicing solution to meet the needs of healthy-minded consumers with busy schedules. The key to creating a mess-free juicer, is the Juice Tek Filter. The filter keeps the pulp contained in the earth-friendly paper, keeping the sticky mess out of the kitchen..."
For the complete article, or to purchase a subscription, call (507) 375 3161
Comments are currently unavailable on this article
Location, ST | website.com


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Weather Journal: Soaking Rain Showers
More clouds than sun are in the forecast for Greater New York on Thursday, along with yet another round of soaking rain showers. Though the mercury won't climb beyond the mid-80s, extremely moist air continues to saturate the region, causing that seasonal 85 degrees to feel more like a steamy 95 degrees.
Thursday's skies start out mostly cloudy, with a few small breaks in the gray during morning hours. Clouds increase midday, with showers and isolated thunderstorms returning to the tri-state area beginning in the early afternoon; these will linger over New York City, Long Island and southern Connecticut through the evening commute. Expect winds to blow from the north at around 10 mph, with stronger, gustier winds during thunderstorms, making umbrellas somewhat useless for those braving the afternoon and evening elements.
The cold front that's been dawdling over the Great Lakes finally rolls into northwestern parts of the region by late afternoon, bringing with it the cooler and less humid air many of us have been looking forward to. Thursday ends with overnight cloudiness and temperatures falling close to 70, but probably not below that in the five boroughs. Showers taper off very early Friday morning, while the cold front moving into the region paves the way for a cooler and less humid weekend for Greater New York.
Storm Watch
South of us, Tropical Storm Chantal made waves in the Caribbean this week. The storm weakened considerably on Wednesday, degenerating into a Tropical Wave, but remnants of the storm will drop significant amounts of rain on Florida and the Bahamas over the next few days, and generate swells that should please surfers as far north as the Carolinas. The storm is unlikely to have much of an effect on Greater New York. If it does, any Chantal-related rain won't arrive until after you've enjoyed your two days off.
Thursday's Greater New York forecast roundup:
- WSJ Headquarters in Manhattan:
- Actual High: 83; RealFeel High: 97
- Actual Low: 70; RealFeel Low: 67
- Weather: Mostly cloudy and humid, with chance of showers and thunderstorms
- Brooklyn: 84/70
- Queens: 83/70
- Bronx: 85/70
- Staten Island: 84/70
- Poughkeepsie, N.Y.: 82/64
- Trenton, N.J.: 84/67
- Islip, Long Island: 80/70
- New Haven, Conn.: 82/69
Rebecca Fowler is a science writer at Columbia University's Lamont-Doherty Earth Observatory.


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January 13, 2010
Dear Friend of Idaho State University,
Especially in tough economic times, it can be difficult for even the most talented students to find ways to fund their college education.
Along with the incredible generosity of our donor alumni and friends who support our programs and scholarships financially, our faculty and staff at Idaho State University work diligently to make a high-quality education more attainable for our students.
The ISU chemistry department recently received a National Science Foundation grant totaling more than $560,000 to fund scholarships that will help talented students stay in school and achieve their goals.
The Scholarships in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) Grant will be awarded over the next five years, and will fund the equivalent of 20 four-year scholarships for both new and continuing students. Financially disadvantaged students and students from underrepresented groups, along with Idaho residents, will be given priority for the scholarships.
In the College of Education, ISU has taken advantage of the federal TEACH grant program. So far this academic year, we have awarded nearly $350,000 to undergraduate students and $60,000 to graduate students who will teach in a high-need field in a school serving low-income students. The program is an excellent way for students to receive a quality education and give back to the community when they graduate.
In addition, Idaho State University disburses about $10 million in University scholarships each year. ISU is the only four-year institution in the state to match the Robert R. Lee Promise Category B Scholarship, a state-sponsored scholarship program designed to encourage Idaho students to do well in school and continue their education at an Idaho university or college.
Idaho State University was also recently the recipient of $1 million in scholarship funds as part of the J.A. and Kathryn Albertson Foundation "Go On" program. The Go On program encourages first-generation college students, students who excelled in high school and took four years of math and science, non-traditional students who graduated high school at least one year ago and have never attended college, transfer students going on to additional college after completing their core requirements and students who want to return to school to complete degrees.
More students are also getting a jump-start on their higher education by enrolling in ISU classes while still in high school. Through the Early College program, high school students can enroll in classes that offer credit for both high school and college. ISU offers Early College participants a partial fee waiver so they can begin their studies and overcome financial obstacles that might otherwise hinder their journey to higher education.
For the first time this semester, ISU is offering health education classes online to high school students through the new University Health High School website. Students can take courses such as "Medical Terminology" and "Introduction to Dental Hygiene" online for the same class fee as the Early College program. The social networking aspect of the website allows high school students interested in the medical professions to interact with faculty in health care-related fields, along with current university students and fellow high school students across the state.
With the rising cost of higher education, it's important for us to continue to offer options that aid promising students attending ISU. Of course, our students also often rely on the community for help as well. We can all help by encouraging high school students to take part in the Early College Program, talking to college students about scholarship opportunities, or even considering a gift to the ISU Foundation. When our students succeed, we all succeed.
Go Bengals!
Arthur C. Vailas, Ph.D.
President, Idaho State University


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Posted: Tue Jul 08, 2008 12:52 pm
Post subject: Due 1st week in Feb 2009
I'm 10weeks preggers with my first baby and very excited - still cant believe it but looking forward to being a yummy mummy in Feb 09. I have my first scan soon - so i'm a little axnious but more excited to see the little one and see the heart beat pulsing.
Bye for now
Posted: Wed Jul 23, 2008 8:11 pm
Post subject: im in the Feb gang too!
hi, im due 4th feb, although my dating scan is next week so it will prb change. Im so scared that she is going to say 'oh your only 8 wks' ha ha, i'd be gutted. Im hoping i might be further along than i think. It is my first and so far so good! Where are you all from?
Posted: Wed Jul 30, 2008 10:32 am
Post subject:
Hiya Misia,
I was 12 weeks and 2 days when i had my first scan, i was a bit out i thought i was due in Feb only to be told that i was further gone and was now due nearer end of Jan. Its the best thing ever seeing the baby on the screen, i cant wait for my 20 week scan it seems like ages away. I'm desperate to find out what i'm having and to get more photos with baby being bigger hopefully next time he/she will be awake and not on its tummy so we can see if its a boy/girl.
How are things with you?
Posted: Mon Sep 29, 2008 12:14 pm
Post subject:
i been havinan alright time the last few days. no trapped nerves! ust insomnia and constant hunger which ends in heart burn lol!! cant win them all
gettin excited now thou! baby moves all the time and is stronger so i feel it more too makes it all seem real


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February 10, 2009
Advisor Perspectives welcomes guest contributions. The views presented here do not necessarily represent those of Advisor Perspectives
The human propensity to gravitate towards evidence supporting existing biases is one of the most important lessons of behavioral finance.
What that means, quite simply, is that in buoyant markets, investors are prone to believe outrageous claims by market bulls – think no further than "the world has changed forever" rhetoric and best selling books like "Dow Jones 36,000" and Harry Dent's "The Great Boom Ahead," during the technology bubble of the last decade.
In the same way, in negative markets such as we're experiencing right now, investors tend to believe even the gloomiest assertions from "media gurus" and self appointed experts. A recent New York Times article headlined "Forecasters race to call the bottom to the market" discussed the competition among market pundits to come up with the direst possible predictions.
Jumping on this bandwagon is the same Harry Dent, who just published "The Great Depression Ahead."
Most members of the media strive for accuracy in their reporting and work very hard to get the facts right. Unfortunately, many of the assertions getting the highest profile are based on flawed analysis of past stock market performance. Pundits who distort history to get media coverage for their alarmist claims and well-meaning commentators who quite simply get the facts wrong are usually the culprits.
The only way for advisors to combat this misinformation is by presenting the true facts.
Among the common misleading claims about investing in the stock market recently espoused in the media are the following:
- Investors made no money in the market from the mid 60s to early 80s.
- It took 25 years for the market to recover to the level reached in 1929.
- When inflation is taken into account, investors lost money for long periods of time.
Display article as PDF for printing.
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Fostering the Conversation: You and our Scientists
Posted by Jessica Snyder Sachs, director of science communications for Autism Speaks
This month has been a tremendously exciting time in autism research, as our blog posts make clear. Naively, I've been waiting for a pause in the torrent of news to introduce myself. That's not looking likely, so allow me to shoehorn a quick intro—and a couple questions for you.
Three weeks ago, I stepped into the newly created position of Autism Speaks' director of science communications. It's now my privilege to suds and squeegee your window onto the science that donor dollars are funding. I'll also be enlisting our science staff to answer your questions and generally provide perspective on some of the splashy—and sometimes confusing—headlines in the national news.
By background, I'm a science journalist and medical writer. For the last 20 years, I've been a regular contributor to national magazines such as Discover, Popular Science, Parents, Parenting, and Prevention. I've also written a few science books for the general reader, the most recent being Good Germs, Bad Germs.
The science staff at Autism Speaks has always been passionate about communicating with families affected by autism and with everyone who cares about enhancing the lives of the remarkable individuals on the spectrum. I'm here to facilitate their conversation with you—in both directions.
Perhaps you're a volunteer and want resources that can help you explain the nature and importance of the research we fund. Perhaps you have a child affected by autism and would consider participating in research. Perhaps you are a parent who is looking forward to answers and new treatment approaches that will help your child. Or perhaps you are a high-functioning teenager, college student, or other adult on the spectrum and want to know more about studies that relate to you (the link goes to just one example).
In whatever way you're comfortable, we want to involve you in our scientific mission: To improve the lives of all who struggle with autism. To that end, I'd love your input on some of the new avenues of communication we're considering. Would you please take a moment to answer our two-question survey? Please feel free to provide additional feedback in the comments section. Thanks!
The secrets of serotonin
by Guest blogger, Efrain Azmitia, Ph.D., Professor of Biology at New York University
Fifty years ago, researchers discovered elevated levels of serotonin in the blood of children with autism. What would it mean to our understanding of autism if serotonin—a highly active neurochemical—was also increased in the brain?
In 1961, Schain and Freedman reported that about 40% of autistic children are born with high circulating blood levels of serotonin. This finding has been repeated many times by other researchers. What are the implications? Despite around 600 published research papers looking at autism and serotonin, we're not really sure. But we're getting closer to providing answers thanks to crucial help from Autism Speaks.
In the young, developing brain, serotonin stimulates the growth of neurons, or nerve cells. So it follows logically that if serotonin levels are increased in the brains of autistic children, then their brains should be larger. In fact, macrocephaly (big heads) in young children with autism is common. Not only are the brains larger, but certain sensory responses appear earlier in children with autism.
But these findings raise new questions: What do serotonin-producing neurons look like in the brains of children with autism? Would the size and number of serotonin-producing neurons suggest that these cells function earlier in children with autism than in children whose brains develop typically?
The best way to answer such questions is to examine brains of individuals with autism after death. Autism Speaks supports the Autism Tissue Program (ATP), which provides researchers such as myself with access to a the precious resource of brains from autism donors (whose identities are always kept confidential). For instance, ATP records have already confirmed that the brain weights of donors between the ages of 3 and 18 years who had autism are significantly heavier the brains of donors without autism.
To examine the details of serotonin-producing neurons, I and my colleagues prepare and stain slices of brain tissue to reveal the presence of proteins that distinguish serotonin neurons. This procedure allow us to follow how the branches, or axons, of these cells reach out and connect with neighboring cells. Such studies have shown a stark increase in the number of serotonin axons in the brains of children with autism, with these changes appearing in the youngest brains studied (age 3 years) and peaking at around 18 year so of age. Analyses of axon size and branching pattern confirm this increase in an area of the brain associated with auditory sensation and language—the superior temporal cortex. It is hypothesized that the earlier maturation of cortical neurons in this primary auditory area may hinder their incorporation into complex circuits underlying speech.
Of particular interest, my lab has found increased serotonin neuron connections that, on first impression, seem inconsistent with observations widely reported in the scientific literature. Let's examine them:
First, imaging studies show a decreased rate of serotonin creation and use in the brains of children with autism following administration of tryptophan, a chemical that the body needs to make serotonin. Second, many of the behaviors associated with autism suggest a decrease in serotonin activity. In fact, doctors typically treat hyperactivity, repetitive behavior, and insomnia in adults with drugs that increase serotonin. Paradoxically, recent clinical studies show that drugs that increase serotonin (e.g., selective serotonin re-uptake inhibitors) actually worsen symptoms in children with autism.
The observation that serotonin axons are increased in the brains of people with autism may provide answers to these inconsistencies. Much work needs to done, and the availability of valuable postmortem tissue should be used to its greatest advantage to study not only serotonin neurons, but also other types of brain cells that can affect neurological development. Using the precious resource of donated brain tissue, scientists are able to perform the detailed analyses necessary to see which cells have problems, when and where those problems begin, and what mechanisms may be involved.
Autism Speaks' Autism Tissue Program supports specialized neuropathology research by providing approved scientists access to the most rare and necessary of resources, post mortem human brain tissue. We wish to recognize the commitment and generosity by our ATP donor families. More information can be found at http://www.autismtissueprogram.org or call 877-333-0999 for information or to initiate a brain donation.
1. Schain RJ, Freedman DX. (1961) Studies on 5-hydroxyindole metabolism in autistic and other mentally retarded children. J Pediatr. Mar;58:315-20.
2. Azmitia EC, Singh JS, Whitaker-Azmitia PM. (2011) Increased serotonin axons (immunoreactive to 5-HT transporter) in postmortem brains from young autism donors. Neuropharmacology. 2011 Jun;60(7-8):1347-54.
California Autism Twin Study Suggests Prenatal Risk Factors
Posted by Clara Lajonchere, PhD, vice president of clinical programs, Autism Speaks
As head of clinical programs at Autism Speaks, I oversee a number of vital resources for researchers studying the causes and treatment of autism. Today brought the publication of a new and revealing study made possible by Autism Speaks' Autism Genetic Resource Exchange (AGRE).
Autism researchers have been studying twins for years for insights into the genetic and nongenetic factors that influence the development of autism. One of the most powerful ways to do so is to study twins (both identical and non-identical) where at least one of the pair has autism. This approach allows us to look at how often both twins receive a diagnosis of autism. Study of identical twins, who share 100 percent of their genes, then helps us determine the degree to which autism is inherited, or genetic; and comparison to fraternal twins, who share around 50 percent of their DNA, allows us to understand how environmental influences add to the risk of autism spectrum disorder (ASD).
But until now we've had only three, small twin studies, which together looked at just 66 twin pairs–a number too small to produce reliable conclusions. Still, these studies were the best we had, and theysuggested that when one identical twin develops an ASD, the chance of the other twin developing the disorder is as high as 90 percent. These same studies showed little to no overlap among fraternal twins – leading to the conclusion that inherited genes alone produced the risk.
Now comes the game changer. The California Autism Twins Study (CATS) is the largest ever study of twins with ASD, with scientifically reliable information on 192 twin pairs, both identical and fraternal. It was conducted by a group of renowned researchers in collaboration with the AGRE team. AGRE clinical staff collected DNA and helped perform the home-based diagnostic and cognitive testing on many of the participants, using scientifically validated research measures for diagnosing ASD.
So what were its dramatic findings?
It found that when one identical twin develops autism, the chance of the other twin developing the disorder is 70 percent. More surprisingly, it documented a whopping 35 percent overlap among fraternal twins. This is strong evidence that environmental influences are at play. Moreover, the 35 percent "both twins affected" rate is higher than the 3 percent to 14 percent overlap between different age siblings. (i.e. If one child in a family has autism, there is a 3 percent to 14 percent chance that a younger sibling will develop it.) This suggests that there are environmental influences uniquely shared by twins–for instance, in the womb and perhaps during birth.
In other words, we now have strong evidence that, on top of genetic heritability, a shared prenatal environment may have a greater than previously realized role in the development of autism in twins
This has important implications for future research. For instance, is there a particular time period during the pregnancy when a child's brain development is particularly vulnerable to environmental influences? And what might these influences be? Already we have evidence implicating such factors as advanced parental age, maternal nutrition, maternal infections (especially flu) during pregnancy, and premature and/or underweight birth. Indeed, multiple-birth pregnancies are themselves associated with increased risk of developmental disorders such as cerebral palsy and autism.
Only by further studying these issues can we begin to provide parents and parents-to-be with the reliable guidance they seek and need. Autism Speaks is currently investing in several studies that are exploring how environmental factors increase the risk for ASD. As we go forward in these endeavors, we greatly value your input. So please write and share your comments on our blog and website. For more on the study, read The Womb as Environment.
On July 5th, NBC Nightly News came to Andy Shih, Autism Speaks' vice president of scientific affairs, for perspective on the game-changing California Autism Twins study. To view the clip please visit here.
More national television media coverage of the ground-breaking results of the California Autism Twin study–research made possible by the Autism Speaks Autism Genetic Resource Exchange (AGRE) and Autism Speaks' supporters such as you.
Vodpod videos no longer available.
The next step toward treatment for the core symptoms of autism
by Chief Science Officer of Autism Speaks, Geraldine Dawson, Ph.D.
I often get the question: How is the research we are funding on single gene disorders, such as Fragile X, relevant to the larger population of individuals with ASD? My answer is that, although autism has many different causes – including single gene mutations, multiple genetic factors, and even environmental factors – it is likely that these causes affect common underlying biological pathways. By studying the "simpler" single gene disorders, especially by studying animal models of these disorders, we can discover these pathways and develop medications that hopefully can help restore the functioning of these pathways.
As you will see in the press release, this strategy is being implemented by Seaside Therapeutics. With the help of funding from Autism Speaks and NIH, Mark Bear and other scientists developed an animal model for Fragile X and discovered that glutamate, an excitatory neurotransmitter, is affected by the Fragile X mutation. An overabundance of glutamate is interfering with the ability of neurons to communicate with each other (synaptic functioning). SeasideTherapeutics then tested a medicine, STX209 (arbaclofen), which helps to restore normal synaptic functioning, in a clinical trial with people with Fragile X. They found encouraging results! The next step, which was launched yesterday, is to test the efficacy of STX209 in individuals with ASD. The hope is that this medicine will improve social behavior and reduce irritability (e.g. aggression, tantrums) in people with ASD.
In the press release Randall L. Carpenter, M.D., President and Chief Executive Officer of Seaside Therapeutics says, "In our open-label Phase 2a study of STX209, we observed significant improvements in social impairment—a core symptom of autism spectrum disorders—including symptoms such as preference to be alone, being withdrawn or isolated, and lack of social reactivity. We are spearheading late-stage development of a drug candidate that has the potential to change the treatment paradigm for autism spectrum disorders—addressing core symptoms—and are truly excited about the prospect of helping patients and their families achieve an improved quality of life."
Arbaclofen acts by stimulating the release of GABA in the brain. To make an simplified analogy, if we think of glutamate as the accelerator pedal in brain, then GABA is the brake pedal. By reducing glutamate through stimulating GABA receptors, the first clinical trial with people who have Fragile X syndrome demonstrated positive effects on behavior.
In Phase 2b of the trial, 25 sites will conduct a randomized, placebo-controlled trial of arbaclofen, enrolling 150 people with ASD for a total duration of treatment of 12 weeks. For more information about the clinical trial visit www.clinicaltrials.gov .
We will be sure to keep you informed as this study and other translational research progresses!
ATN welcomes families as advisors
This is by Staff blogger Rick Kolan, Program Officer with the Autism Treatment Network at Autism Speaks.
Organizations strive to please those they serve, often saying that "the customer is always right." Striving to meet, and if possible, exceed customers' expectations is a common business goal. To adequately meet these needs, businesses frequently solicit customer feedback on their products and services in the hope of improving performance.
As Autism Speaks' Autism Treatment Network (ATN) sees its fourth year, we have taken that concept to the next level. We have engaged families at each of our ATN sites to constitute a Family Advisory Committee. Their role? To provide their perspective and that of their children concerning the care and service they receive at our ATN centers. We have also asked them to help map our direction into the future, providing us ongoing advice on the issues that are important to them now and as their children progress.
Since the beginning of the year ATN sites have been selecting parent representatives and alternates willing and available to attend local ATN site meetings, conference calls and the periodic national meetings of ATN leadership and clinicians. The aim is for the committee to help guide ATN policy and planning at the national level while partnering with their local ATN clinicians to enhance care and services at the individual site.
During the week of June 8-10 the Family Advisory Committee (FAC) met in Washington DC to take part in an ATN/AIR-P Steering Committee Meeting. The event marked both the kick-off of the ATN/AIR-P Quality Improvement Collaborative and the inaugural meeting of the FAC.
FAC members met for the first time on Wednesday morning. As representatives introduced themselves around the conference table, it was clear that each brings a unique array of skills and experience. Yet in spite of differences in their backgrounds they immediately found common ground. Each member has a sincere desire to improve care for people with autism, from age toddler to adult, in the belief that the ATN's commitment to family-centered care is more than simply words.
Even at this initial meeting the FAC provided an important perspective as certain themes repeatedly emerged in the course of open discussion:
- Aging and ASD
- What will happen to my child as he/she gets older? There is plenty of support while they are young, but parents are commonly at a loss as their children get older.
- Continuity of care across the spectrum, as well as across age groups, is needed.
- Transitions – to adolescence and to adulthood—are especially difficult.
- Families need guidance in advising employers on how to support workers on the spectrum.
- Affect on family
- Autism is a family diagnosis.
- Autism affects where families choose to live.
- Transfer of information and knowledge
- Much of the information families get or give is by word-of-mouth
- Messages must be delivered in a way so that parents really understand what certain tests and screenings can and cannot do.
- How do we get information to families that are not directly part our network (families in the "dark spots")?
- How do we make sure that needed information is available at the primary care and the well-child levels, so that clinicians and families know what to do if the child starts to change?
- The culture at the various resources, including doctors, needs to change; just because a tool kit is out there it doesn't mean the doctor will use it.
- Care for the whole-person
- Care is fragmented with different sectors dealing with different aspects of a child's needs: schools, PCP, speech, early intervention.
- Schools as well as doctors need to see the child as a whole being.
- Schools and doctors need to collaborate on the child's care. It doesn't work if the doctor says the child should have certain accommodations or support and the school doesn't work to make that happen.
- A key Challenge
- What can we do when we develop effective therapies or other solutions but families cannot afford them and insurers won't pay for them?
This first FAC meeting demonstrated the group's potential for generating practical ideas that will keep the ATN focused on the family as we move forward.
More Screening, Not Less
A new report was released yesterday in the journal Pediatrics that questions the value of uniform early screening for autism spectrum disorders. The premise behind the report titled, "Early Autism Detection: Are We Ready for Routine Screening?" was a desire to evaluate the usefulness of universal screening for infants at 18 to 24 months of age given what is known about the quality of screening tools, the availability of effective treatments, and other considerations.
The authors argue that there have not been enough quality studies comparing screening tools. The availability of effective treatments for those who screened positive is also far from wide or uniform causing the authors to question the value of screening overall.
Autism Speaks remains in support of American Academy of Pediatrics recommendation that all infants be screened for autism spectrum disorders.
The sense of urgency of our mission to create a world in which suffering because of autism no longer exists demands identification and intervention as early as possible, where we do, in fact, have data for the effectiveness for intervention. Dr. Geraldine Dawson, chief science officer of Autism Speaks says, "Early intervention has been shown to result in significant increases in cognitive and language abilities and adaptive behavior, allowing children the best chance for a positive outcome.
Instead of closing the door to an opportunity to guide the development of an infant who is headed toward struggles with an atypical development, we must create new opportunities for those infants to thrive. Indeed, the path to obtaining effective treatments that target the unique needs of your child is still shadowy, but it is something to which are bringing light together. Autism Speaks supports research on effective early screening methods as well as finding best ways to deliver interventions that were shown to be effective to all those who need them today.
What I Heard
Last Thursday evening, I attended a talk at Boston University with Dr. Geri Dawson, Chief Science Officer for Autism Speaks. What follows is the letter that I felt compelled to write to her after hearing her speak.
Ed note: I have written before about Autism Speaks and why I have stuck with them through some difficult times. If you're interested, please click –> HERE <– to read a post that I believe pretty well sums up my position.
I need to share his words with you. I need you to know how much this matters. To our precious children, of course, above all. But also to US – to their mothers and fathers, their siblings, their grandparents, their aunts, their uncles, their cousins, and, if they're lucky enough to have them, their friends.
Quicksand And A Rope from Luau's blog, Run Luau Run
**I am running – pounding the treadmill.
My demeanor is calm, almost stoic, but I am sinking.
Sweat is dripping out of every single pore of my body. I am drenched. The display of the treadmill is spattered.
I'm waiting…waiting for the endorphins to kick in; waiting for the wave of "feel good" to wash over me and wash away the troubles of the day, the 1000 paper cuts that are threatening to bleed me out. I wait, and when I feel like I've waited long enough, I double-down and pick up the pace. The sweat continues to pour out of me, now like a leaky bucket losing water.
My breathing becomes labored and yet, I am still calm, stone-faced and waiting.
When the endorphins finally kick in, it is almost anti-climactic.
Yes, I feel good.
Yes, there is some release of tension.
But there is an underlying sense of dread, of sadness, of disappointment, of loneliness.
Something is not right. There is still a weight upon my chest, my shoulders, pressing down. The immediate world around me is no longer bending to my will. The destiny of me and my family no longer seems to be in my hands.
I think about Brooke's future a lot. I know that any parent thinks about their child(ren)'s future, but when you have a child with special needs, like Brooke has, those concerns get multiplied. What roadblocks will autism throw up against her as an adult? as a teenager? as a tween? next week? It doesn't seem to stop. A few weeks ago we had a scare that Brooke might be suffering from brain seizures (nearly 1/4 of kids on the autism spectrum will at some point suffer a seizure of some sort). She had been rolling her eyes into her head sometimes at a terrifying rate of 10 – 15 times per minute. In the end, after an EEG and an evaluation, it was determined that she was not suffering from seizures, but rather a motor tic associated with autism.
Not that I would have wanted it to be a brain seizure, but I thought, "Great, just one more thing that is going to make it difficult for her. Great!" Fortunately the eye rolling has subsided immensely. I now see her do it maybe 10 times in a day as opposed to 10 times in a minute.
That, along with a few other factors related to Brooke, have taken their toll I think. My sleep has suffered. My running has suffered. My motivation to do ANYTHING has suffered. I have been sinking slowly in a quicksand that has threatened to swallow me up.
But then last night I was thrown a rope.
Jess and I went to listen to a talk given my Autism Speaks Chief Science Officer Geri Dawson. She spoke on the state of science and research in the field of autism – where we were, where we are and where we just might be going in the not-so-distant future. Jess is much better at conveying events, so I will leave it to her to elaborate on the talk, but I will tell you this – we were sitting with Mrs. SGM, a military wife/mother of a little one with autism. At the end of the talk, Mrs. SGM went up to Dr. Dawson and told her that this was the first time she had been to something like this where she walked away with a sense of hope – a true sense of hope.
That is exactly how I felt.
It took those words for me to realize that my "hope" had been waning over the past few months. It was more of a general deterioration of my hope for the future. As the economy continues to struggle and town budgets get tighter, administrators eye more and more the funds spent on a child like Brooke. Long-term views are replaced by short-sighted ones. It's happening everywhere and our community is no exception. So my hope for Brooke had taken a beating.
Until last night.
What she said will not impact the budget issues each town faces, but as I listened to Dr. Dawson speak, I was lifted by the possibility that big breakthroughs are right around the corner – that there may be a time, relatively soon, when Brooke's autism won't demand so much attention, so much manpower. My hope for a truly independent adult Brooke was reborn.
And with that, a certain amount of weight was lifted off of my chest. This morning I woke up just after 4AM and went for my run (10 miles, putting me over 1,000 miles for 2011!). There was the usual dragging my butt out of the comforts of my bed, but there wasn't the sense of defeat and dread that has accompanied the moment of consciousness this past month or so.
Did Dr. Dawson's talk resolve the issues we are currently dealing with now? No. Not even a little. BUT, as I look out over the horizon of time, I can see the storm clouds starting to break. The skies aren't quite as dark or threatening and I think I see some sunshine coming through.
Thank you Dr. Dawson and Autism Speaks for inadvertently throwing me a rope and bringing back the sun.
Little darling, the smiles returning to the facesLittle darling, it seems like years since it's been hereHere comes the sun, here comes the sunand I say it's all right
-The Beatles


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Grayville Police arrested Amber Gaudern, 30, of Grayville and Matthew Gaudern, 24, also of Grayville for possession of more than 10-30 grams of cannabis and possession of drug paraphernalia Monday evening, Oct. 8.
Acting on a request by the Edwards County Sheriff's Department, Grayville Police went to their residence in search of a 1996 green Chevy Lumina that the Gauderns had traveled back into town in. The vehicle was located at the residence and the officer made contact with the couple, asking them to come outside. Once other officers had arrived, a search warrant for the vehicle and the apartment was executed by Grayville Police from Edwards County State's Attorney Michael Valentine.
In the vehicle, a small green "bowl" pipe was discovered along with three wooden boxes known as hitter boxes and two were containing small metal pipes known as hitter pipes. Another container had a total of 21.4 grams of cannabis. All evidence was found under the passenger seat.
Both suspects were transported to the White County Jail.
Location, ST | website.com


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Enjoy the invigorating local community during your stay. View our Panama events calendar to see upcoming events in Panama City and the surrounding areas of our luxury hotel.
Events for August 2016
Corpus Christi Festival
When: 06/07/2013
This entertaining religious festival, Festival Corpus Christi Villa de Los Santos, gathers locals and travelers to celebrate and join in a variety of activities including elaborate dances led by men in devil masks.


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Definition of acquiesce in English:
verb[no object]
Accept something reluctantly but without protest: Sara acquiesced in his decision
More example sentences
- The police reluctantly acquiesced to the proposals given no alternatives were offered.
- However, to understand is not to acquiesce in or accept these developments.
- Then folding the map away, he instructed her to start driving again and Andrea reluctantly acquiesced.
Early 17th century: from Latin acquiescere, from ad- 'to, at' + quiescere 'to rest'.
There is a notion of peacefully leaving an argument unspoken in acquiesce which comes from Latin acquiescere, from ad- 'at' and quiescere 'to rest'.
Words that rhyme with acquiesceaddress, assess, Bess, bless, bouillabaisse, caress, cess, chess, coalesce, compress, confess, convalesce, cress, deliquesce, digress, dress, duchesse, duress, effervesce, effloresce, evanesce, excess, express, fess, finesse, fluoresce, guess, Hesse, impress, incandesce, intumesce, jess, largesse, less, manageress, mess, ness, noblesse, obsess, oppress, outguess, phosphoresce, politesse, possess, press, priestess, princess, process, profess, progress, prophetess, regress, retrogress, stress, success, suppress, tendresse, top-dress, transgress, tress, tristesse, underdress, vicomtesse, yes
For editors and proofreaders
Line breaks: ac¦qui|esce
Definition of acquiesce in:
What do you find interesting about this word or phrase?
Comments that don't adhere to our Community Guidelines may be moderated or removed.
= trending


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If you have had norovirus symptoms in the past 48 hours do not visit friends or relatives in hospital as the virus can be easily passed on.
If you have been in close contact with someone who has had sickness and/or diarrhoea you are likely to become ill yourself so please DO NOT ENTER THE HOSPITAL.
If you are due to have an outpatient appointment please postpone it if you have had diarrhoea and vomiting during the 48hrs before the appointment.
Norovirus, better known as the winter vomiting bug, is the most common stomach bug in the UK, affecting people of all ages.
The virus, which is highly contagious, causes vomiting and diarrhoea. As there is no specific cure, you have to let it run its course, but it should not last more than a couple of days. If you get norovirus, make sure you drink plenty of fluids to avoid dehydration and practise good hygiene to help prevent it from spreading.
Norovirus can be unpleasant to experience, but it's not generally dangerous and most people make a full recovery within a couple of days without having to see a doctor.
Noroviruses are a group of viruses that are the most common cause of stomach bugs (gastroenteritis) in the UK. They are also known as small round structured viruses (SRSV) or Norwalk-like viruses.
Between 600,000 and one million people in the UK catch norovirus every year. You may have heard of it as the "winter vomiting bug" because the illness is more common in winter. However, the virus can be caught at any time of the year.
What should I do?
If you have norovirus, the following steps should help ease your symptoms:
- Drink plenty of water to avoid dehydration.
- Take paracetamol for any fever or aches and pains.
- If you feel like eating, eat foods that are easy to digest.
- Stay at home and don't go to the doctor, because norovirus is contagious and there is nothing the doctor can do while you have it. However, you may wish to visit your GP if your symptoms last longer than a few days.
- Extra care should be taken to prevent babies and small children who are vomiting or have diarrhoea from dehydrating, by giving them plenty of fluids.
Don't worry if you are pregnant and you get norovirus: there is no risk to your unborn child.
How to stop it spreading
The virus is easily spread by contact with an infected person, especially through their hands. You can also catch it through contaminated food or drink or by touching contaminated surfaces or objects.
The following measures should help prevent the virus from spreading further:
- Wash your hands frequently.
- Do not share towels and flannels.
- Disinfect any surfaces that an infected person has touched.
- Read more about preventing norovirus.


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Hi Ian,
If you're up to it you can repair the Psion 5/5MX yourself.
Download the Psion Series 5 Service Manual from here:
Good luck!
Richard van Stappershoef
----- Original Message -----
From: "B Bear"
Newsgroups: comp.sys.psion.misc
Sent: Saturday, March 04, 2006 4:09 PM
Subject: Psion 5 keypad came off
> Hi
> I posted some time ago but no luck. Thought I'd try again.
> Daughter opened Psion 5 and said "i didn't do anything!".
> The keypad is no longer attached. I've fiddled with the springs but can't
> get it back.
> Any help appreciated.
> Ian


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ON January 16 the Lagan Group welcomed new assistant group manager, Ruth McKelvey to the team.
Ruth has recently graduated from the University of Ulster with a BSc (Hons) in Communication. Ruth grew up on a dairy and suckler farm outside Castlederg in Co Tyrone. She has always had a keen interest in the family farm and helping out where she can. Coming from this practical background Ruth understands the issues that farmers can face on a daily basis.
Ruth's interest grew whilst working closely with many local farmers in a local agri-supply store. This enabled her to establish a rapport within the local community and it also enhanced her knowledge of the industry's needs.
Since coming to Lisburn, Ruth has had the opportunity to attend the Lagan Group meeting which was held on the 27th February. Guest speaker Donald Eakin from McCauley and Ritchie Solicitors presented a very informative discussion on legal matters.
On a more social aspect Ruth was also involved in the 2012 Moira Outing which saw 50 members travel to Lusk, outside Dublin. Two large vegetable farms were visited and it proved to be a very interesting and enjoyable day.
Ruth commented: "I am very excited about getting settled into my career with the NFU Mutual and the Ulster Farmers' Union, within the Lisburn area.
"Farming has been a huge part of my life and I can't wait to help the local farmers in any way I can."


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Video: Insane Clown Posse Ft Danny Brown – When Im Clownin
July 24, 2013 | Music Videos, Videos
Insance Clown Posse replace Kreyshawn with fellow Detroit rapper Danny Brown on their track 'When Im Clownin' and shoot an official video for it. Their new TV series 'Insane Clown Posse Theater' premieres tonight on Fuse.
Watch the video below.


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Father Lucien Galtier (1841) having the foresight of what his mission would become named this sprawling community St. Paul. Over a century and a half later, developers of the Lowertown neighborhood honored Father Galtier by the naming of Galtier Plaza. Galtier Plaza as an architectural project was meant to be the centerpiece of Lowertown while "fitting in" with the existing architecture at the turn of the century.
Galtier Plaza as a functioning building should not only fit in with the existing profile of the Lowertown community, but become the focal point. Lowertown and Galtier Plaza are a blend of the arts and technology, a meeting place for business and a supporter of community events.
Galtier Plaza has become the centerpiece of Lowertown and has now attracted many new businesses. Visit the Galtier Plaza site to see what is happening.


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DEXTER -- Luther Anderson Lee, 81, died July 25, 2005, at Beverly Health and Rehabilitation Center.
Born April 8, 1924, in Tennessee, he was a retired mechanic and member of the Baptist Church in Dudley. He had lived in Dexter since 1996.
On June 24, 1988, at Milan, Tenn., he married Frances J. Sylvester who survives of the home.
Other survivors include: seven sons, Charles Fuller of Murray, Ky., James Lee and Terry Lee of Tresvent, Tenn., Kenneth Lee of Alamo, Tenn., Johnny Lee of Huntington, Tenn., Danny Lee of Odessa and Roger Lee of San Diego, Calif; one daughter, April Lovell of Dexter; two brothers, Robert Lee of Brighton, Tenn., and Wallace Lee of Mississippi; one sister, Eva Daniel of Dyersburg, Tenn.; and eight grandchildren and two great-grandchildren.
Visitation is from 10 a.m. Thursday until time for services at 1 p.m. at Watkins and Sons Funeral Home in Dexter with the Rev. Mike Watkins officiating.
Burial will follow in the Hagy Cemetery at Dexter.


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- Vitamin Guide
- Health Conditions
- Health Centers
- Diet & Weight Loss
- Herbal Remedies
- Current News
- Food Guide
- Recipes
Researchers randomly selected 118 children with atopic dermatitis to take a probiotic supplement of Lactobacillus plantarum CJLP133 or a placebo (no probiotic), twice daily for twelve weeks. The children ranged in age from 1 to 13 years, and all continued to receive regular medical treatment to manage their eczema.
A standardized atopic dermatitis scoring system was used to evaluate the severity of the skin condition before, during, and after the 12-week study. Blood measures of immune system activity were collected during the study as well, including total eosinophil count, and levels of interferon and interleukin, two substances produced by the immune system, which help regulate its activity.
Higher levels of all three measures can indicate more activity in a part of the immune system that is linked with worsening atopic dermatitis. These blood measures often increase during flare-ups of the skin condition.
Compared with the children who received the placebo, those who received the probiotic had significant improvements in their atopic dermatitis score. They had significantly decreased levels of total eosinophils, interferon, and interleukin as well.
This study suggests that supplementing with probiotic bacteria may help ease the severity of pediatric eczema. It's important to note that the children taking probiotics didn't use any less steroid medication than the children taking a placebo. Still, objective blood measures of immune system activity did change for the better, suggesting there may be benefit to supplementing these bacteria.
Our tips can help you ponder the pros and cons of adding probiotics into your little ones' routine:
(Pediatr Allergy Immunol 2012; 23:667–73)
Copyright © 2015 Aisle7. All rights reserved. Aisle7.com
Learn more about Aisle7, the company.


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Mission Statement
The mission of the Barataria-Terrebonne Estuary Foundation (BTEF) is to involve a representation of a broad base of people to support the Barataria-Terrebonne National Estuary Program (BTNEP). This includes supporting the mission of stewardship of the cultural, economic and ecological resources of the Barataria and Terrebonne Basins. Formed in 1995, the Foundation is the fund-raising organization for the benefit of the BTNEP.
Action Plan
The Barataria-Terrebonne National Estuary Program (BTNEP) strives to rebuild and protect the estuary for future generations through a Comprehensive Conservation Management Plan. The plan includes the implementation of science-based, consensus-driven actions that utilize partnerships focused on the estuary's rich cultural, economic, and natural resources. For more information, visit www.BTNEP.org.
BTNEP receives some federal funds through Section 320 of the EPA's Clean Water Act, but so much more is needed in order to successfully implement the comprehensive plan for restoring and protecting our national estuary.
The Barataria-Terrebonne National Estuary is located between the Mississippi and Atchafalaya Rivers in south Louisiana. Bayou Lafourche separates this complex into two basins, Barataria Basin to the east, and Terrebonne Basin to the west. The Estuary includes all or parts of 16 Louisiana parishes. Those parishes include: Ascension, Assumption, Iberia, Iberville, Jefferson, Lafourche, Orleans, Plaquemines, Pointe Coupee, St. Charles, St. James, St. John the Baptist, St. Martin, St. Mary, Terrebonne, and West Baton Rouge.
Whether you live, work, or play in Louisiana's Barataria-Terrebonne National Estuary or you are one of the millions that use its resources across the nation, you have a vested interest in its restoration.
Habitat Restoration: Projects including vegetative plantings, restoration of bird nesting grounds, wetlands, and maritime forests as well as invasive species and litter removal programs.
Volunteer Program: Support for the volunteeropportunities in coastal restoration.
Outreach & Education: Events including Paddle Bayou LaFourche, Bayou Lafourche Clean-up, White Boot Stroll, the development of classroom curricula, and the production of educational material.
Research: Estuarine research including costal birds, marine life, and water quality.
By volunteering, you can:
Gain valuable field training and experience in environmental conservation and restoration
Earn volunteer credit for school, community service, and other service projects
Enjoy the amazing feeling of doing something great for the environment!
Some employers offer a grant to the nonprofit for a certain amount of hours volunteered. Inquire to your HR department to find out.
Become experienced in non-profit development, administration, and fundraising activities.
Group Plantings:
BTNEP can work with corporate groups, college, and youth groups to coordinate coastal restoration plantings. A minimum number of volunteers are required for most plantings. Planting opportunities will dependent on site availability.
› Email email@example.com to check availability.
Annual Bayou Lafourche Cleanup:
Bringing awareness to the public regarding the importance of keeping Bayou Lafourche clean has become a major goal of the BTNEP. For the past four years, thousands of volunteers have joined us for this event. We have removed approximately 75 tons of trash and debris from our drinking water supply. We invite you to participate in this highly successful community project by becoming a volunteer.
› Email firstname.lastname@example.com for more information.
Administrative & Fundraising Support:
The Estuary Foundation has a lot going on around the office! If you're looking to earn a few volunteer hours after school, utilize your administrative or fundraising skills, or seeking other special in-office projects, let us know and we may be able to work with you.
› Email email@example.com to check availability.
Throughout the year, we host a variety of events and projects that educate, integrate, and entertain the public. Let us know what you are looking for, and we will gladly work with you to make you a vital part of our volunteer network.
› Email firstname.lastname@example.com for more information.
Contact Us:
Michele Beary
Development Director
Phone: 985-447-0871
Mailing Address:
P.O. Box 1336
Thibodaux, LA 70302
Office Location:
Nicholls State University
S. Babington Hall, Rm. 110


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In Star Trek IV, the crew of the Enterprise time-travels to 1980s San Francisco. Scotty, the engineer, tries to access the state-of-the-art Macintosh computer by speaking into the mouse: "Computer? Computer?"
When he fails to elicit a response from the machine, he puts down the mouse in disgust and resorts to typing on the keyboard.
Guess what? That's what each of us experiences when we search, although we're more used to it than the frustrated Mr. Scott. But we don't think of our problems and desires in terms of keywords. We have to stuff all our thoughts and feelings into a small search box, because that's what the search engines offer us.
In Gone with the Wind, beautiful Scarlett O'Hara is the most desirable young woman in town. All the young men follow her around, laugh at her comments, do her bidding, and make their intentions known.
And they all look alike, dress alike, wear their hair alike, speak alike, think alike, and bore Scarlett half to death.
She only wants the one guy who's unavailable, Ashley Wilkes, and settles for obnoxious bad boy Rhett Butler, because she is unable to choose a suitable mate from the sea of sameness presented to her.
Your prospect is Scarlett, and you and your competitors are the beaus surrounding her, promising her the moon, catering to her every whim.
If you don't want your prospect to end up buying from some bad boy website, you've got to differentiate yourself through your ad.
Got a favorite "Marketing Movie"? Let us know in comments: tell us what we learn from it, and how we can apply it to marketing.]]>
What's the relationship between AdWords and the landing page? How should keywords be used on the web site to achieve consistant quality rankings? Google gives me low quality scores because it says my landing page quality is "Poor." What can I do?
My reply:
Your landing page has two customers: Google, and the visitor. If you don't please Google (as represented by a "No Problems" designation), then the visitor doesn't matter. They won't ever see your landing page.
So let's start with Google.
Google grades landing pages on a pass-fail basis. It's either a problem, or no problem. There's no middle ground. Like pregnancy. As much as I find duality to be an illusion of consciousness, it's really in play here.
So when your landing page triggers a "Poor" score (see screen shot below for how you can tell), you have to fix the problem right away.
Most landing page problems fall into two categories: bad or missing content.
Bad content means, as Perry Marshall wrote last month, that some Google rep is responding negatively to the question, "Would I send my grandmother to this site?"
Maybe you sell questionable stuff, in Google's eyes. Maybe you are (or appear to be) a zero-value-adding reseller (ie affiliate). Maybe you promise something in your ad (free tarot reading) and offer something completely different ($4 tarot reading).
Here's what Google says (click here for the source):
Website Types to Avoid
The following website types will be penalized with low landing page quality scores. If we receive complaints about ads for websites of this kind, they will not be allowed to continue running.
* Data collection sites that offer free items, etc., in order to collect private information
* Arbitrage sites that are designed for the purpose of showing ads
* Malware sites that knowingly or unknowingly install software on a visitor's computer
Website Types to Advertise with Caution
The following website types will sometimes merit low landing page quality scores and may be difficult to advertise affordably. If you choose to advertise one of these website types, be particularly careful to adhere to our landing page quality guidelines – especially the rule about offering unique content.
* eBook sites
* 'Get rich quick' sites
* Comparison shopping sites
* Travel aggregators
* Affiliates
Google is quite explicit about what it wants to see on your landing page: relevance, originality, transparency, and navigability.
Your landing page must be about the same thing as your keyword and ad. It must not be an exact or close-to-exact copy of information found on some other website (Brad Geddes reassured me that duplicate content penalties don't occur when identical content lives on the same website – so you can split test within a single domain to your heart's delight).
You must share information about your business, your privacy policy, and your shipping and refund policies, if applicable. Your site can't mess around with their computer, installing programs, resizing windows, or making you want to punch your screen (actually, I made that last one up). If you show ads, make sure visitors can tell the difference between the ads and the editorial content.
You must make it easy for visitors to find what they're looking for. Here's Google's advice:
Actually, just follow Google's advice for the most part, and your pages will be, at the very least, acceptable to your visitors. But if the Google bar is low, the Conversion bar is quite high. Just "not sucking" is good enough for Google, but it won't make you sales.
Here's the best landing page advice I can give:
Your landing page fulfills the promise of your ad.
Every ad is a promise. It goes like this: "Click me (and ignore everything else on this page) and you'll get…"
The "…" is the reason they click your ad. Either you promise it explicitly ("Free download" or "Canon PowerShot SD780 $279 Free Shipping" or "Complete Guide to Garlic-Scented Candles") or the promise is implicit and must be assumed by the searcher ("Landing Page optimization system. Achieve maximum CTR with science. www.sitespect.com").
Ask a few friends who don't know anything about your business to read your ad and tell you what they think they're being promised.
That's your landing page.
Actually, that's the top of your landing page.
You see, you don't always have to fulfill the promise on the landing page. Nobody thinks they're going to read SiteSpect's landing page and instantly achieve maximum CTR (that's click through rate, for you AdWords newbies).
But they have to believe they're in the right place, on the right trail. Ben Hunt talks about the scent trail of search. Like a bloodhound searching for the owner of the sweaty sock, your visitor is also in pursuit of a goal, and will naturally take the path that appears to be the quickest route to that goal.
Most landing pages fail in the first 7 seconds. Something about the header graphic, the headline (or more commonly, lack thereof), and overall design just screams "It ain't me, Babe, No no no, it ain't me, Babe, it ain't me you're looking for, Babe."
(If you want to watch a youtube video of me performing this song, leave a comment to that effect. If I get 10 comments, by golly, I'll do it. 15 comments, I'll add the harmonica. Of course, you're also free to beg me not to.)
Recently I met Mugurdy, a visual search engine that, instead of showing links, shows actual landing page snapshots side by side. While it currently runs off the Yahoo API, it's still a fascinating and valuable tool for anyone looking to improve their landing page design and top messaging.
Let's say you're advertising for the keyword tarot reading. Here's what your user would see if they searched on Yahoo:
Take a minute and pretend you're looking for a tarot reading – which listing do you choose?
Using Mugurdy, the user decides based on the look of the landing page. So here's their results for tarot reading:
Now, based on those images, which site would you visit? (I personally lean toward the seventh one, the Tarot Course page with the yellow sidebar. It looks like the one where I'll learn the most, and I like the look of the page. If I landed on one of the black-background pages, I'd probably bounce back to Yahoo within seconds. But that's just me.)
Chances are, the winner in visual search won't be the same as the ad text winner. And if that's the case, then somebody's landing page is sub-optimized for this traffic.
Mugurdy hasn't yet created a visual search engine for AdWords listings, but you can use it to get an instant snapshot of a bunch of competitors' sites. And you'll learn a lot about how to make a landing page instantly attractive, based on the promise of the ad.
If you want to create landing pages that totally fulfill the promise of the ad, while leading to sales, not just happy browsers, check out the Traffic Surge course that begins October 8, 2009.
Graduates of the last Traffic Surge course have been raving about it (that's why I'm offering it again). They feel like they've unlocked the mystery of AdWords, and can now research and succeed in any market they want.
See their comments here.
There are still a couple of seats left that include a free live Checkmate workshop in Durham in early December ($2000 value). Act quickly to reserve your seat.
Go to the Original Article: askHowie.com – AdWords Help, Advice and Tools
I just finished going through your book Google Adwords for Dummies.
In plunking around in Google search (now that I know what those results down the right side mean), I've noticed that some search terms result in zero Google Adword ads on the result page.
Would that indicate that firms who would likely use Google Adwords see no value in Google Adwords for their businesses?
My reply:
When there are no ads for a given keyword, it's either because it has a huge search volume that no one has figured out how to monetize, or because it has such a low search volume that it's not worth the effort of writing ads for.
Here's an example of a very popular keyword that doesn't attract advertising:
This keyword gets about 2 million searches per month. Take a look at the Google SERP (search engine results page) for bridges:
As you can see, no ads.
In the examples that you gave me (which I'm not sharing publicly), I see very long tail, specialized keywords that Google may not know what to do with. If the search volume is very low, Google will disallow the keyword. This forces you to bid on more general keywords with higher search volume. This makes Google happy by aggregating auctions and keeping bid prices high.
It also makes life easier for many advertisers who can't be bothered to brainstorm lots of keyword variations.
For example, if I wanted to sell off my collection of Three Mile Island paperweights (of course, I never would), I might bid on the keyword Three Mile Island Unit II Dedication Acrylic Paperweight.
And if you typed in that exact search term, you would hope and expect to see my ad. But in fact, all you'd see are a few ads for paperweights:
If I wanted my ad to show up when you search for the long tail keyword, I need to bid on the broad match for acrylic paperweight and hope that Google finds it a good match. Annoying, but that's the way things are in 2009.
Google wants to show ads for every search (ads is how they make their money). So if you see zero ads for a search, it's because nobody has figured out how to make money from that keyword.
For your specialized, long tail keywords, you need to find the more general keywords and bid on those in broad match.
But for some B2B markets, you may find that so few of your prospects exist in the world (let's say, Directors of HR at Fortune 1oo companies, or purchasing managers at injection molding factories) that AdWords is an impractical way of reaching them. In that case, focus on SEO for the long tails (easy to rank high) and take out ads in print and online journals and go for PR.
Anybody else out there confused about keywords? If so, please check out the Traffic Surge course that begins October 8, 2009. My guarantee is that you'll go from beginner to Market Master in 8 weeks.
Or, if you're just interested in fine paperweights, I'm entertaining offers:
Go to the Original Article: askHowie.com – AdWords Help, Advice and Tools
In Germany, people bring their dogs everywhere. Stores, restaurants, you name it – Fido (or Augustus Sterk, as a Dresden dog might be called is as welcome as their owner's wallet.
But not here, in the punk section.
Possibly. A lot of dog owners might not only be discouraged by the sign, but actually offended by the image of the handgun with a finger on the trigger.
But in this neighborhood in Dresden, it seems that some percentage of residents might prefer to shop in a store that caters solely to two-leggeds, who don't shed (much) or hump (indiscriminately).
So the "Go Away" sign for dog owners functions as a "Come In" sign for dog haters (or at least, dog-averse shoppers). It flags their attention by singling out another group for exclusion.
If you're advertising to appeal to every single searcher on your keyword, you're probably wasting a lot of money. First, by attracting non-ideal-prospects to your site. Folks who are unlikely to buy.
Second, by not attracting the group you don't want to exclude.
The goth shop probably does a great business selling to disaffected, anti-establishment, unemployed youth who still live at home and can't afford a dog. A group likely to smile at the gruesome image of Fido about to get wasted, and likely to buy the studded bracelets and obscene black t-shirts and thick-soled black boots on offer inside.
If you want to attract singles to your site, then announce, Not For Married People.
If you sell software to advanced users, let your searchers know that it's not for beginners.
And so on.
This process of disqualification not only brings you fewer non-buyers and more buyers, but it does something even more subtle, basic and powerful:
It helps you identify and target your ideal customer.
Once you know who you're selling to (and you've given up the fantasy notion that you can sell to everyone), everything about your marketing gets easier.
Discover how to use the web and a few minutes of smart research to discover your ideal customer in the upcoming Traffic Surge course. Starts October 7, 2009.
If you aren't getting enough qualified traffic to your site (i.e., not enough impressions or clicks, or the wrong impressions and clicks), then Traffic Surge will turn your fortunes around in eight weeks. Guaranteed.
Learn more about Traffic Surge and sign up here.
Go to the Original Article: askHowie.com – AdWords Help, Advice and Tools
Thai Veggie? Gulasch Gourmet?
What's going on?
What happened to Two All Beef Patties etc? Large fries and a shake? Apple Pie?
McDonalds, the world's best-known restaurant chain, is peeling and sticking.
When I first started using AdWords, I had no idea what I was doing. (Sound familiar?
My first teacher, Perry Marshall, hired me to work on some AdWords campaigns for a client of his. (Apparently, in the early years, there weren't a lot of us to choose from.) I diligently researched the market, using the Overture Inventory Tool (R.I.P., but in its day it was amazing!) and came up with about 2000 promising keywords.
I dumped them all into a single ad group, wrote two ads (I knew enough to split test, at least), and sent a proud email to Perry informing him that I had done my job.
Perry wrote back, "Yeah, let's get on the phone and talk about this."
Perry gently explained to me that maybe 2000 keywords in a single ad group was not such a good idea. Because the people searching for all those keywords weren't all going to be attracted to the same ad.
I needed to separate the keywords into buckets, Perry said. All the keywords related to Topic A should go into one ad group. Then I could write an ad specifically about Topic A. And so on for all the themes contained in the giant keyword list.
That took a heck of a lot of time. Lots of iterations. Many printer cartridges, and several highlighters. And probably a few gray hairs.
But that was what it took to generate hundreds of inexpensive, valuable leads for the client.
And that's what it took to get me on the road to AdWords mastery.
McDonalds would be much more efficient, I'm sure, if their menu was the same everywhere in the world.
Yet they offer regional specialties based on market research and testing in different countries and regions around the world. And they don't automatically apply the results of a test conducted in Duluth, Minnesota to Berlin, Germany. They understand that while humans have certain things in common (among them, apparently, a deep love for fat and sugar), significant differences exist among groups. And ignoring those differences, in advertising, architecture, and product selection, would sub-optimize their profitability.
So if you are sending all your keywords to the same ad group, showing the same ad or ad rotation, and (heaven forbid) sending all your traffic to the same landing page (gasp – possibly even your home page?), you need to stop what you're doing, hop on a plane, and walk down Schwertnergasse, near the Dom Cathedral. And check out what Ronald McDonald is doing.
Or, you can stay at home and attend my upcoming Traffic Surge telecourse. From online beginner to being able to choose a market and enter it effectively in 8 weeks. Discover how to set up your AdWords campaigns the right way. Avoid paying the Google Lazy Tax.
This is the last time I'm teaching this course live. Don't miss out – get your online marketing on the right track, and start making the breakthrough online profits you deserve.
Read the reviews from the last class here:
Traffic Surge – course description and reviews.
And in case you're wondering, no. You can't get fries with that.
Go to the Original Article: askHowie.com – AdWords Help, Advice and Tools
In case your browser cuts off the end of the sentence, it says, "Only about 1/3 of this book is about google adwords. The other 2/3 is about landing pages & customer followups!"
Now, I don't want to give the impression that everyone feels this way. My mother doesn't. Neither do my kids. And neither do most of the 80+ reviewers who have give the two editions an average rating of five stars. But since this reviewer makes a point that, on its surface, seems valid, I thought I'd offer a comment.
Here's the comment:
"Are you out of your freaking mind?"
There, that feels better.
If you came to me to learn how to beat the house in Vegas and I gave you a lesson in how to put coins into a slot machine and pull the lever, I dare say you'd be disappointed.
Yet the ability to set up and run AdWords campaigns, by itself, is about as useful as popping quarters into 1-armed bandits.
And less profitable.
AdWords is a data junkie's dream. You can run reports with hundreds of thousands of cells. You can calculate average CPC, average ad position by keyword, and hundreds of other metrics.
Novices often ask me to help them navigate the sea of data, to identify the most important metrics to monitor.
The most important AdWords metric is not cost per click, or click through rate, or even cost per conversion. Those are important, sure, but only as throughputs. They aren't where the money's at.
The whole goal of AdWords is to maximize the difference between what you pay for a customer and what that customer is worth to your bottom line.
Whoever can generate the biggest margin between cost per conversion and value per conversion wins.
And dominates their market.
That contest is not decided at the first sale.
In every mature market, the cost of customer acquisition trends toward break-even. As the web matures, there are fewer "Wild West" opportunities to make a fortune with no serious competition in sight. Fewer "secret keywords" that no other advertiser has thought of.
Since AdWords consists of a keyword auction, the bid prices inevitably rise toward break-even. As long as they can make a penny in profit, your competitors have incentive to keep paying for that traffic.
AdWords is not won or lost in the AdWords campaign management console, since that console consists of getting new impressions, new leads and new customers.
You win by selling more and more stuff to the same customer over time. By staying in touch. By building a relationship. By offering consistent value on your site, in your emails, on your blog, in your customer service, and in your product and service delivery.
AdWords For Dummies retails for $24.95, and you can get it on amazon for under $17. And it includes a $25 gift card that you can spend on a new AdWords account, so you could argue that a basic value proposition of the book is, "Get this book and $8 for free."
It's not hard to get people to buy the book, if they have any intention of getting into AdWords.
- Even if they've never heard of me.
- Even if they know nothing of my credentials.
- Even if they think "Howie" is a stupid name.
But how many of those book buyers would buy a $497 home study course from me?
Or take a live $999 telecourse on mastering your market in 8 weeks?
Or fly to Durham for a 3-day advanced AdWords workshop for $3995?
Yet lots of book readers eventually find their way to those higher level purchases (yea!).
And every one of them moves from $20 to hundreds and thousands of dollars because of what I do after generating the lead.
So when you read a negative review of Google AdWords For Dummies that complains about the irrelevance of the chapters on landing pages, web strategy, web page testing, and email followup, say a silent prayer that the reviewer is one of your competitors.
Or shout out loud, "Are you out of your freaking mind?"
Howie Jacobson, PhD, is the author of Google AdWords For Dummies. He is teaching an 8-part course, AdWords Ball, for online business owners who are making sales via AdWords, but not enough. If you're not using AdWords Ball methods, you're guaranteed to be wasting hundreds or thousands of dollars each month on underperforming AdWords campaigns. And that doesn't include the profits you're missing out on.
Find out more about AdWords Ball, and the zero-risk guarantee, at http://askhowie.com/adwordsball.
Watch an AdWords Ball introductory web clinic here: http://askhowie.com/adwords-ball-video.
If you aren't making sales, then AdWords Ball is not for you yet. Instead, check out Traffic Surge, for folks who need more traffic to their sites, or who haven't found their online market yet. In Traffic Surge, you learn how to use free tools for quick and dirty online research (including the crucial question of whether a market is worth entering in the first place!), and how to apply that research to send qualified traffic to your site.
The first class is available online, at http://askhowie.com/traffic-surge-video. Howie hopes that you find it so valuable, you register for the rest of the series (starts in early October). The sales letter is below the video, for your convenience
Go to the Original Article: askHowie.com – AdWords Help, Advice and Tools
Your job, if you have a web site, is to focus the first-time visitor on the HOT – the Honking Obvious Thing that clearly and instantly signals why they should pay attention to you.
Here's an example that I'm about to gush over: my web hosting provider, LiquidWeb.com.
First, their home page:
Now, this page can certainly be improved – most notable, the headline "Step Inside" and the blah blah description, "LW is a leading provider or Fully Managed Web Hosting." I mean, have you ever heard someone describe their business as a "trailing provider"?
What gets my attention is the cartoon superhero with a toll-free number on his shirt. And the tag line "Heroic Support."
The claim is supported by a Heroic Support button below, touting "24×7×365 access to level 3 engineers within seconds. And by the Excellent Service button, laying out the guarantee of 100% uptime and 30 minute response time.
I immediately get the HOT here: Heroic Support. We will respond to you within 30 minutes, no matter when you contact us. And you can call us toll-free.
Everything about the company orients around Heroic Support. The wholly owned data centers with Liquid Web engineers on-site. The way employees view themselves and how they act.
Heroic Support is what Dan and Chip Heath call a "generative metaphor." By casting their support staff as superheros, they're generating a set of guidelines for the staff to follow. In any situation, a support technician or engineer can figure out what to do by asking, "Am I providing Heroic Support?"
So this morning, I screwed up my entire site while trying to create a simple redirect to my Facebook Fan page. askHowie.com went away completely, replaced by a nasty 500 Internal Server Error.
Since it was 5am EDT (I just returned from Germany and I'm still jetlagged), I couldn't exactly get Steve Goyette on the line and beg him to fix what I'd broken.
So I opened a support ticket at 5:23am. By 5:36am the site was back up, and I had received a detailed description of the problem and how it had been solved:
Here's a company that walks their talk!
I don't know anything about the management and internal structure of Liquid Web, but observing from the outside as a thrilled and amazed customer, I see the power of their HOT. Not only to get me to become a customer in the first place. But also to guide their own culture of service, so the words don't just become an empty marketing slogan. And to make me, their customer, appreciate the value of their service even when nothing goes wrong.
So the next thing I did was sign up for Liquid Web's affiliate program, and then write this post.
If you aren't thrilled with the support and responsiveness you get from your web host, and your business will suffer if your site is down for hours at a time, then I heartily recommend you give a shout to Liquid Web.
If you want to send a few affiliate bucks my way, use this link: http://askhowie.com/liquidweb.
And if not: www.liquidweb.com.
Here's the most important thing you can do for your own business: ask a few acquaintances who aren't familiar with your site to look at it and find the HOT – the Honking Obvious Thing that explains what you do, how you're different, and why prospects should care.
Go to the Original Article: askHowie.com – AdWords Help, Advice and Tools
In 17th century Europe, Porcelain vases, pots, table settings, sculptures and other chatchkes (Chinese for "knick-knacks" were all the rage. Monarchs, churchmen and nobles postured for status and power in part by showing off the quality and quantity of bling they could buy, barter, or steal.
And porcelain, a hard, smooth, lustrous, non-staining earthenware product, was near the top of the "Look what I've got" heap. Europeans, for all their artistry and technological achievements, had no idea how to make the stuff. Every cup, bowl, and plate had to be imported from the Far East. And Portugal (and later the Dutch East India company) monopolized the trade routes, raising the prices even higher than they otherwise would have been.
Augustus the Strong, ruler of Saxony and a self-proclaimed porcelain addict, once traded 600 mercenary soldiers ("dragoons") for 151 large vases, known ever after as the Dragoon Vases.
With everyone wanting porcelain and it being so difficult to come by in Saxony, it was only natural that lots of rich and powerful people invested in efforts by artisans, scientists, philosophers, alchemists and spies to discover the secret formula by which it was made.
The first approach, of course, was industrial espionage. Hundreds of Europeans shlepped to the Far East to try to steal the formula for porcelain.
This failed spectacularly, as no Korean or Chinese potter would reveal their secrets to anyone but a trusted apprentice of 20 years, let alone to pale, greedy foreigners with no sense of personal hygiene. Heck, it took 600 years for the art to spread from China to Korea – what did they expect?
Hundreds of years of experimentation also failed. It was not even known if the missing piece was an ingredient or a step of the recipe.
Finally, the big breakthrough came to Saxony, not in the form of a flash of inspiration, but rather a speedier way of testing.
Ehrenfried Walther von Tschirnhaus invented a large spherical burning mirror, which, when pointed at the sun, could generate a small area of over 1500 degrees Fahrenheit.
Suddenly, would-be porcelain makers could try out dozens of experiments per day, instead of just one in the labor- and time-intensive kiln. They would use tongs to position the would-be porcelain piece in the center of the focused sunlight for a few minutes, put it to the side, and try another piece.
Within a few years, Tschirnhaus and a colleague, Johann Friedrich Böttger, had solved the riddle. The missing ingredients included high heat and addition of a reduction agent. As much as anything else, it was the ability to split test quickly and inexpensively that led Tschirnhaus and Böttger to their discovery.
And that's what I want to talk about today – your ability to achieve breakthroughs via speedy testing. Most businesses never test anything. That's incredible, given that even modest tests reveal huge potential for improvement. Take this example, for example:
See how the difference of just one word (powerful vs. effective) led to a cost per lead reduction of 35%?
Without testing, my career as an online marketing educator would never have gotten off the ground.
Google AdWords is the ultimate source of traffic for testing.
You can test ad messages in a week or two. If your traffic stream is robust, you can tweak your landing pages and get more leads and sales in under a month. You can pay for 200 clicks, knowing in advance how much they're going to cost you.
And using AdWords conversion tracking, Google Analytics and Google Website Optimizer (all zero-cost), you can perform scientifically valid and statistically powerful tests that simply wouldn't have been possible even 7 years ago.
If you're using AdWords and not testing for continuous improvement, you're missing out on the very best feature of the whole program.
Here's the thing: the money you're losing by not testing (or not testing correctly) could be the difference between making it or not making it online. And it's so easy to improve, once you get in the habit of always asking, "Can I do better?"
Increasing profits is often hard work – cutting costs, developing new lead sources, developing new product line and service offerings.
Getting your ads to deliver twice the traffic – or four times, or eight (these numbers are not uncommon) – is relatively easy. Especially if you haven't tested yet: chances are, a lot of improvements are "low hanging fruit."
And once you catch the testing bug, via ad testing, your next stop is Website Optimizer, the free Google tool that helps you improve the performance of your web pages.
Talk about highly leveraged activities – if you can double your site conversion rate, you've doubled your sales. And more than doubled your profits, since you're not spending a single additional cent on Google traffic.
No giant burning mirror required…
Go to the Original Article: askHowie.com – AdWords Help, Advice and Tools]]>
And the more you know and love your soil, the more you'll be able to grow, and the better it will taste and look.
In this short video, I show you how to prune a basil plant that's going to seed, and relate it to your AdWords account. To learn specific AdWords pruning techniques for free, go here to view a 60-minute web clinic on the AdWords Ball method.
Happy late summer eating!
Go to the Original Article: askHowie.com – AdWords Help, Advice and Tools


text:
I have not given up on blogging, despite all appearances to the contrary. It's just that, well, I've been busy.
Lots of great stuff going on at work. As you may have heard, we announced our first product and have been talking about it at various shows. I know many of you are anxious for more news on the MMO, but our promotional efforts are focused on the RPG right now. All good things to those who wait.
If it counts for anything, I have started (or thought about starting) several articles over the past few months, but never finished writing them for one reason or another. So for your own amusement, please pretend that you read timely, thought-provoking, and highly entertaining posts on the following topics:
- Are used video game sales a blight upon the industry?
- The subscription MMO isn't going anywhere
- "Truth, Lies, and Frogloks: A Cautionary Tale"
- Please buy me an iPad
That last one isn't really an article; I'd just love for someone to buy me an iPad.
But honestly, you should really be grateful that you're getting a break from my ramblings. You'll probably be sick of me again soon enough.
Speaking of which, I'll be on a panel at GDC Online next month talking about transmedia stories. Looking forward to it!


text:
October 2013
The brain is a complicated organ. At a weight of three pounds, it is made up of about 75% water and consists of approximately 100 billion neurons and uses 20% of the total oxygen in your body.1
But to offer the best possible learning experiences, one must understand fundamental brain functions and limitations in relation to how they impact learning. Paul McGinniss, Director, Training and Delivery - North America for the NeuroLeadership Group, spoke about these subjects and more during his presentation entitled, "The Neuroscience of Learning: New Insights for Delivering High Impact Learning" at the 2013 National Registry Summit in Houston, TX.
According to McGinniss, there are two types of mindsets that affect learning: fixed mindsets and growth mindsets. People with fixed mindsets believe they were born smart and that we can't change much in terms of what we learn through the years. On the opposite spectrum, those with growth mindsets are born to learn, see feedback as helpful and find the success of others as an opportunity to learn.
"A fixed mindset is about innate talent, while a growth mindset focuses on development through hard work," said McGinniss.
Delving further into high-level brain functions, McGinniss took some time to discuss the prefrontal cortex, or as he referred to it, "the director of the brain." The prefrontal cortex is responsible for functions that involve decision-making, understanding and recall.
Because the prefrontal cortex has so many important responsibilities, McGinniss said it burns a tremendous amount of energy and has its limitations, especially in terms of multitasking.
"Think of it like a computer that slows down when it's running too many tasks," he said.
McGinniss said it's important to make sure that Sponsors utilize learning methods that help to store information so that it is able to be recalled in the long-term, and to avoid the "massing effect," a.k.a. "cramming," which may work in the short term, but is bad for long-term recall.
"Think about how you eat your meals," McGinniss said. "You eat your meals spread out throughout the day, but how do we often learn? By cramming it all in at once, right? If you space things out, just like our meals, you give the brain time to digest it and hold it, so it can take it and recall it later."
Kathy Risko, Director of Advertising Production at the Center for Professional Education, Inc., said McGinniss' presentation was one of the highlights of the Summit.
"I felt that Paul McGinniss' presentation was very informative and delivered in such an engaging style," said Risko. "I have really enjoyed the presentations from the last two years on Generational Insights and Paul's Neuroscience of Learning. It is very important to understand concepts such as these to build strong teams in the workplace."
In his presentation, McGinniss explained NeuroLeadership as the neuroscience of how leaders make decisions and solve problems, regulate emotions, collaborate with others and facilitate change. For more information on NeuroLeadership and much more, visit their website, NeuroLeadership Group.
1100 Fascinating Facts You Never Knew About the Human Brain: http://www.nursingassistantcentral.com/blog/2008/100-fascinating-facts-you-never-knew-about-the-human-brain/


text:
FEB 11, 2013 - Cleveland Plain Dealer
A Must Read - Share
On today's episode of Sports Insider, cleveland.com's Glenn Moore talked with The Plain Dealer's Bud Shaw about the Browns going after Joe Flacco and the Tribe's most recent signings.
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On today's episode of Sports Insider, The Plain Dealer's Bud Shaw joined cleveland.com's Glenn Moore to talk about Joe Flacco and the Tribe.
Bud discussed whether or not the Browns should give up two first-round picks to get Joe Flacco.
He also
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