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These authors contributed equally to this work.
This article is an open access article distributed under the terms and conditions of the Creative Commons Attribution license (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/3.0/).
The isolation of hematopoietic stem and progenitor cells (HSPCs) is critical for transplantation therapy and HSPC research, however current isolation techniques can be prohibitively expensive, time-consuming, and produce variable results. Selectin-coated microtubes have shown promise in rapidly isolating HSPCs from human bone marrow, but further purification of HSPCs remains a challenge. Herein, a biomimetic device for HSPC isolation is presented to mimic the acidic vascular microenvironment during trauma, which can enhance the binding frequency between L-selectin and its counter-receptor PSGL-1 and HSPCs. Under acidic pH conditions, L-selectin coated microtubes enhanced CD34+ HSPC adhesion, as evidenced by decreased cell rolling velocity and increased rolling flux. Dynamic light scattering was utilized as a novel sensor to confirm an L-selectin conformational change under acidic conditions, as previously predicted by molecular dynamics. These results suggest that mimicking the acidic conditions of trauma can induce a conformational extension of L-selectin, which can be utilized for flow-based, clinical isolation of HSPCs.
Human hematopoietic stem and progenitor cells (HSPCs) originating from the bone marrow (BM) play a critical role in treating many hematological malignancies due to their unique multipotent, stem cell quality [
HSPCs routinely leave the BM to enter the circulatory system and distant tissues to establish and maintain hematopoiesis [
In this study, we determined that L-selectin ligands expressed on the surface of HSPCs bind with enhanced affinity to L-selectin under acidic extracellular pH. Furthermore, the enhanced L-selectin:ligand binding affinity is due to L-selectin undergoing conformational change in acidic pH as quantified by dynamic light scattering measurements of selectin-PEG-decocorated liposomes. Finally, by mimicking this physiological phenomenon, we demonstrate its potential use to capture and enrich HSPCs by perfusing a suspension of BM cells through L-selectin coated microtubes under acidic pH.
Phosphate-buffered saline (PBS) and Hank's balanced salt solution (HBSS) were purchased from Invitrogen (Grand Island, NY, USA). Recombinant human P-, L-, and E-selectin/IgG chimera were purchased from R&D Systems (Minneapolis, MN, USA). Phycoerythrin (PE)-conjugated mouse anti-human CD34 (clone 581) and PE-conjugated mouse IgG1 κ-isotype control were purchased from Biolegend (San Diego, CA, USA). APC-conjugated mouse anti-human L-selectin (clone DREG-56) was purchased from BD Biosciences (San Jose, CA, USA).
Bone narrow mononuclear cells (MNCs) were extracted from consenting adult donors following a protocol approved by the Research Subjects Review Board of the University of Rochester, as described previously [
To characterize the rolling characteristics of CD34+ HSPCs in acidic pH, CD34+ bone marrow HSPCs were isolated using EasySep Human CD34 Positive Selection Kit by StemCell Technology (Vanvouver, BC, Canada) per manufacturer's instructions. Briefly, a solution of mononuclear cells was incubated with tetrameric antibody complexes against CD34 for 15 min, followed by incubation with dextran-coated magnetic nanoparticles (MNP) for 10 min. The cell-containing tube was then placed in an EasySep® magnet for positive selectin, allowing the MNP-conjugated CD34+ cells to remain in the tube while the supernatant was poured off. The cell population was washed and the magnetic separation was repeated until the desired purity was achieved.
Micro-renathane (MRE) tubes (300 μm inner diameter, 50 cm long; Braintree Scientific, Braintree, MA, USA) were sterilized with 80% ethanol for 10 min. The tubes were then washed (3×) with PBS buffer (Ca2+-free). The inner surface was functionalized with recombinant human L-selectin/Fc at specified concentration for 2 h. The microtubes were then incubated in PBS supplemented with dry milk (5%
Cells suspended in PBS buffer (supplemented with 2 mM Ca2+) at a specified pH (6.6 or 7.4) were perfused through functionalized microtubes using a syringe pump at a wall shear stress of 2.0 dynes (dyn)/cm2. Videos of rolling cells were captured and analyzed using ImageJ (US National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, USA). Cell rolling velocity was determined by measuring the displacement of a rolling cell over time, while rolling flux was determined by quantifying the number of rolling cells entering the image frame over the course of 1 min.
A cell suspension of bone marrow MNCs (5 × 106 cell/mL) in PBS buffer (supplemented with 2 mM Ca2+) at specified pH was perfused through L-selectin functionalized microtubes at a wall shear stress of 1.0 dyn/cm2. To collect captured cells, the microtube was incubated with fresh PBS buffer (Ca2+ free and supplemented with 2 mM of EDTA) for 15 min, and then the cell gently collected into a 1.5 mL Eppendorf tube. Captured cells were also detached from the surface via air embolism. An air bubble is introduced into the microtube using an empty syringe. The bubble is then slowly pushed through the entire length of the microtube to dislodge any remaining captured cells into the collecting tube at the opposing end.
Multilamellar liposomes were prepared using a thin lipid film hydration method as previously described [
To detect changes in selectin protein conformation, freshly prepared selectin-conjugated liposomes (<24 h) were diluted (1,000×) in buffer at specified pH. To remove aggregates, samples were filtered through a 0.45 μm filter (MicroLiter Analytical Supplies, Inc., Suwanee, GA, USA). Samples were analyzed for changes in particle size and polydispersity index (PDI) using a Malvern Zetasizer Nano-ZS (Malvern, Worcestershire, UK).
Isolated cells were stained with mouse anti-human CD34 (clone 581), or mouse IgG1 κ-isotype purchased from Biolegend (San Diego, CA, USA). Cells were washed twice with PBS (supplemented with 1% BSA) and then incubated with antibody at 4 °C for 30 min. Cells were washed twice with buffer and analyzed using a Guava EasyCyte flow cytometer (Millipore, Billerica, MA, USA). CD34+ post-isolation cell populations were quantified and plotted using FlowJo software (Treestar Inc., San Carlos, CA, USA).
Cell rolling velocity and flux were plotted and statistically analyzed using Prism (GraphPad Software, San Diego, CA, USA). Two-tailed unpaired
To characterize the influence of acidic extracellular pH on the interaction of human HSPCs and L-selectin, CD34+ cells were perfused through microtubes coated with L-selectin (
Previous work showed that L-selectin can adopt an "extended" (high affinity) conformation with a point mutation of an amino acid in the EGF domain of L-selectin [
Together, these results indicate that, in comparison to physiological pH, L-selectin can extend its conformation under acidic pH, which is consistent with an observed enhancement in CD34+ cell adhesion. An extended conformation of L-selectin can allow the protein to bind to its ligands more strongly and at higher frequency, as evidenced by a lower CD34+ cell rolling velocity and increased flux (
Selectin-coated microdevices have been shown to effectively capture viable stem cells [
During tissue inflammation, extracellular pH can become increasingly acidic. Furthermore, it is also known that HSPCs are recruited to sites of inflammation via selectin-mediated cell rolling. In this study, we showed that acidic extracellular pH enhances CD34+ HSPCs adhesion to L-selectin, consistent with a measurable extended conformational change of L-selectin to a "high affinity" orientation in acidic pH. This conformational change is taken to increase the frequency of L-selectin:ligand binding. These biophysical insights were applied to the isolation and enrichment of CD34+ HSPCs from bone marrow using an L-selectin coated microtube. The described biomimetic technique allows for both rapid and simple isolation of viable CD34+ HSPCs from patient bone marrow.
The authors gratefully acknowledge Karen Rosell of the University of Rochester for assistance in bone marrow isolation and processing. This work was funded by the National Institutes of Health (grants HL018208 and HL097971).
The authors declare no conflicts of interest.
Enhanced adhesion of CD34+ cells to L-selectin at acidic pH. (
MNCs isolated from bone marrow display higher binding affinity to L-selectin in acidic pH. A suspension of MNCs (1 × 106 cells/mL) was perfused through L-selectin coated (20 μg/mL) microtubes at a shear stress of 2.0 dyn/cm2 in buffer at specified pH. Cell rolling flux was measured by counting the number of rolling cells crossing into the image frame over 1 min (unpaired t-test, error bars indicate standard error of the mean; *
Extension of E-, L-, and P-selectin protein size (in nanometers) upon exposure to acidic (pH 6.6) conditions. Changes in E-, L-, and P-selectin protein size were determined using dynamic light scattering by subtracting the mean particle radius of selectin-coated liposomes under neutral conditions from the mean particle radius of selectin-coated liposomes under acidic conditions. *
Schematic of increased HSPC adhesion to L-selectin in high affinity, extended conformation under acidic pH (
L-selectin mediated isolation of CD34+ cells from patient bone marrow samples under acidic pH. Captured cells were labeled using a mouse anti-human CD34 monoclonal antibody. Flow cytometry plots are a representation of experiments done in triplicate. SSC = side scatter.
Mean particle radius and polydispersity index (PDI) measurements of selectin-coated liposome samples under neutral and acidic conditions. Data reported as mean ± standard deviation. Results recorded in triplicate.
|52.99 ± 0.95
|0.103 ± 0.008
|52.33 ± 0.83
|0.102 ± 0.013
|74.86 ± 1.18
|0.101 ± 0.008
|74.06 ± 0.94
|0.105 ± 0.007
|63.08 ± 0.94
|0.102 ± 0.011
|61.10 ± 0.99
|0.101 ± 0.007
|84.57 ± 0.83
|0.108 ± 0.007
|83.65 ± 1.17
|0.106 ± 0.009


text:
Tom Brokaw's retirement at age 64 ended a nine-year run as the No. 1 network news anchor as measured by Nielsen. For nearly a decade, he topped ABC's Peter Jennings, 66, and CBS' Dan Rather, 73.
What kept him on top so long and why did he step down before his older competitors?
His decision to give up the daily grind was made when he took 10 weeks off in the summer of 2001 to ponder the future. He decided then at age 61: "It was time for me to pave the way for a new generation to come so they can have their chance."
Brian Williams, 45, a longtime and carefully groomed NBC sidekick, now has that chance.
The era of Brokaw and his two competitors demonstrated that most of us carry on and cash in with the values we learned growing up. Contrasts:
• Brokaw is from South Dakota. In his 2002 memoirs, A Long Way From Home, he recalls how the hard work of his dad, "Red," overcame the hardships that the typical heartland family endured.
• Jennings was born in Toronto. He is a sophisticated big-city foreigner, accepted on the USA's Eastern seaboard, but he didn't play as well in Peoria.
• Rather is from Texas. True to his native state, he demonstrated often that you "Don't mess with Texans," but he messed with too many others.
Brokaw asked himself on his farewell broadcast: "What have I learned here?" His reply: "It's not the questions that get us into trouble; it's the answers." Sage advice for all newsmen, newswomen and news makers.

subset: commoncrawl


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[L.B. Evans Son Company shoe factory, Wakefield, Mass.]
[L.B. Evans Son Company shoe factory, Wakefield, Mass.]
[Wakefield, Mass.]
Postcard shows a view looking west on Water Street toward Main Street. The L.B. Evans' Son Co. Shoe factory is on the left. The rear of the Miller Piano factory is visible on the right. The Evans factory building was sold in 1979 and the company phased out its operations. It has since been converted for office use. Card is undated but bears a postmark of 1907.
L.B. Evans' Son Company (Wakefield, Mass.)
Wakefield (Mass.) -- Pictorial works.
Collection :
Citation :
"[L.B. Evans Son Company shoe factory, Wakefield, Mass.]," in NOBLE Digital Heritage, Item #11129, http://heritage.noblenet.org/items/show/11129 (accessed July 24, 2017).


text:
With President
Walmart, the world's largest retailer, has said it would continue to sell guns, including rifles like the one used at Newtown, where 26 people, most of them children, were killed on December 14. By contrast, Dick's Sporting Goods suspended sales of similar guns at its more than 500 stores.
Searches of five kinds of semi-automatic rifles on Walmart's website showed them to be out of stock at stores in five states, including Pennsylvania, Kansas and Alabama. Walmart has about 10 modern sporting rifles, the gun industry's term for firearms that look like an M-16 military rifle, listed on its website. The retailer removed a description and picture of the Bushmaster AR-15, the model used in Newtown, after the shootings.
Walmart does not disclose how many guns it sells, although at an analysts' meeting in October it said gun revenue rose 76 per cent in the first half of this fiscal year. The chain advertised a Sig Sauer M400 as one of its Black Friday doorbusters last month, offering the rifle for $US50 off, at $US867.
On eBay's auction site, shoppers have recently bid up gun magazines. The current bid for four Glock handgun magazines, ammunition for one of the guns used at Newtown, is $US118.37, compared with $US45 on the day before the shooting. The bid for seven Glock magazines hit $US201 on December 17, up from $US71.01 before the massacre.
Gun buyers have flooded other firearms retailers, too. The Hyatt Gun Shop in Charlotte, North Carolina, racked up more than $US1 million in sales on Tuesday for the best single-day performance since the store opened in 1959, according to Justin Anderson, director of online sales.
At the top of shoppers' lists was the Bushmaster AR-15, the model of rifle used at Newtown that sells for as much as $US4000 and had almost sold out, he said.
Revenue at one of the largest US gun stores surpassed even the spike just after Mr Obama was elected President in 2008, Mr Anderson said. Sales were not as robust when Obama was re-elected last month because the President had not backed major new gun laws, he said.
The Australian Financial Review


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Gov. Andrew Cuomo arrived for his first full day of work at the state Capitol this morning as the state's chief executive, getting an early start into diving into the state's myriad problems.
Cuomo, a Democrat, arrived at the Capitol Building at 8:16 a.m. and said little to reporters except that he was ready to go to work.
"We'll be ready to work day one, because that's what it's all about," he said.
Cuomo met for about 35 minutes with his top aides and Lt. Gov. Robert Duffy, who greeted him with a hug.
Duffy, the former mayor of Rochester, arrived at the Capitol shortly after Cuomo.
"You can see where Gov. Cuomo is going the first day in office with the staff meeting, meeting with our team and talking about our future," he said when he arrived at the Capitol. "It's a new year and new day in the state of New York."
Cuomo and Duffy were both sworn into office before midnight Friday and officially assumed their new posts at the stroke of midnight.
Cuomo is expected to deliver his inaugural address at around noon. He plans to discuss the problems New York faces and how he will enlist a disaffected public into fixing state government.
He is holding a modest ceremony in the state Capitol compared to previous inaugural parties past governors have held. The no-frills event today is meant to set the tone of fiscal austerity in dire economic times.
After the ceremony, Cuomo plans to hold a receiving line with Duffy at the Executive Mansion.


text:
Board Safe
Pearson Pilings
Bedford Reinforced Plastics
Fendering Systems
IMS Structural Components
Who We Are
Innovative Marine Solutions, LLC, brings 30 years of construction experience to every project. Our extensive knowledge of environmentally friendly building products and low impact building practices in marine and wetlands construction allows us to promote environmental sustainability.
Innovative Marine Solutions services the entire United States and portions of Canada.
Our Mission
Our mission is to provide extraordinary products at exceptional prices with a level of service unmatched by anyone. By providing value engineering, our goal is to make sure that our customers get the best value for their investment, while preserving our natural resources.


text:
Tallahassee, Fla. -- Jacksonville, Fla.-based Regency Centers has announced the completion of two new anchor leases and the renovation of Carriage Gate, a 78,583-sq.-ft. neighborhood center, located in Tallahassee, Fla.
Office Depot announced that Office Depot stores in Plano, Texas; Raleigh, N.C.; and Tallahassee, Fla., won the top three spots for retail energy efficiency gains in the 2011 U.S. Environmental Protection Agency's (EPA) Energy Star National Building Competition.
Office Depot said that three of its stores hold the top spots for retail energy efficiency gains at the midpoint of the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency's Energy Star National Building Competition.
Woolbright Development said that Stuart Segall has been named a leasing agent for the company, and is responsible for leasing shopping centers in Tampa, Brandon and Tallahassee.
Orlando, Fla., HHGregg...


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About Us
The Holland America Blog web site serves as the primary portal for all news and information, images and video, gossip and discussion about the 15 ships in the Holland America Line fleet. Visitors to Holland America Blog get the latest news from the ships, meet the people who work on board, travel around the world through video and photos from various ports, and hear from guests and fans of Holland America Line.
With nearly 140 years of experience, Holland America Line is recognized as the undisputed leader in the cruise industry's premium segment. With the introduction of a new 2,660-passenger, 99,000-ton ship in fall 2015, Holland America Line's fleet will grow to 16 ships, offering nearly 500 cruises from more than 25 home ports. Itineraries range from two-day samplers to extended cruises of more than 100 days, and the ships visit all seven continents, including Australia/New Zealand and Asia sailings, a World Cruise, extravagant Grand Voyages and popular sailings to the Caribbean, Alaska, South America, Mexico and Europe.
If you have a question about Holland America or if there is a topic that you would like to see us cover, send us an e-mail or leave us a comment.


text:
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Watch Hellsing Episode 12 English version online and free episodes. Anime Episode guide, Chapter Hellsing Episode 12 English dubbed Total Destruction After Integra Hellsing's meeting with the Queen was cancelled, she begins to hear reports that her soldiers at the Tower of London are encountering fierce resistance. To make matters worse, Hellsing has been labeled as a terrorist organization and the British military begins their attempt to put an end to their operations. Meanwhile, Alucard heads into the Tower of London in hopes of encountering Incognito while Integra and Walter try to figure out what exactly they should do next.


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The 'Sin City' star is in talks to portray a mother of two stepchildren who will be the new Spy Kids in 'All the Time in the World'.
Jessica Alba is set to work together with Robert Rodriguez again. The actress, who has starred in Rodriguez-directed "Sin City", is in negotiation to join the cast line up for "Spy Kids 4: All the Time in the World", The Hollywood Reporter (THR) states.
Alba will be seen as a retired spy who has been reactivated. Her character is a mother of a baby and two preteen stepchildren. These preteens will be the new Spy Kids but the actors who will tackle the roles have not been cast. Other characters that will appear in the new "Spy Kids" movie include Alba's husband, a slightly nerdy investigative reporter, and the villain, known as the Time Keeper, whose goal is to stop time.
"Spy Kids 4: All the Time in the World", also known as "Spy Kids 4: Armageddon", is a reboot of sorts for the film franchise. The original lead stars, Alexa Vega and Daryl Sabara, are no longer kids anymore but Rodriguez wants to continue the series. Thus, he makes the fourth film with new main characters.
Vega and Sabara portrayed the Spy Kids in the previous three films with Antonio Banderas and Carla Gugino playing their superspy parents. THR further reports that Vega, Sabara and Banderas are expected to return to the upcoming installment for supporting roles.
"Spy Kids 4: All the Time in the World" is planned to begin shooting in September in Texas and made in 3-D. Rodriguez is on board to direct, write and produce the action adventure flick.
Jessica Alba recently appeared in limited release "The Killer Inside Me". She next will be seen playing in "Little Fockers" and "Machete", the latter which is written and directed by Robert Rodriguez too.


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3 things to do for free in Denver this week, September 23-26
Summer is officially over, but that doesn't mean the free fun has to end. Whether you want to develop technology while eating free pizza, attend a Bring Your Own Records Party or get literary at Denver's only bookstore-slash-wine bar, there's plenty of bargain entertainment on the calendar this week. Share more free events in the comments section below and, as always, find hundreds of other events on the online Westword calendar.
See also: 100 Colorado Creatives: Katie HoffmanM2M Hackfest at Quick Left (Wednesday)
Though the Internet is renowned for its ability to connect people to people, innovative new technology is moving in the direction of machine to machine (aka M2M) communication. Tech company 2lemetry is holding a hackfest today, September 25, when aspiring hackers can develop their own M2M solutions, complete with free beer, pizza and MaKey MaKey toolkits full of all they'll need to develop their own brand-new technology.
Bring Your Own Records Party at Lost Lake (Wednesday) Westword MasterMind Sarah Slater's DIY DJ night is back. The concept is simple: bring three to five songs to play on vinyl, share them, and then sit back and listen to the eclectic selections of everyone else -- while enjoying a drink or two at the bar.
Sip and Sign at the BookBar (Thursday) If you've been meaning to check out Denver's new bookstore-meets-wine bar on Tennyson Street, tonight is an ideal opportunity to visit the store that puts pinots and paperbacks in the same space. BookBar will host a signing with L.K. Collins, Red Phoenix, R.L. Griffin and Robert Reeves; sip wine and celebrate the release of debut novels by Reeves and Collins.
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text:
CINCINNATI (AP) -- The end of a lockout that lasted nearly 13 months at its Middletown Works plant gave AK Steel Holding Corp. a labor contract it hopes will make the company more competitive in the global steel industry, but it remains unclear whether the company can sustain its goal of avoiding a takeover.
AK capped its pension and health care costs and won the right to completely restructure its work force, eliminating a minimum limit on the number of employees and reducing about 1,000 job classifications to seven so that workers can handle more duties.
AK Steel as made it clear that it faced an increased competitive disadvantage due to standard agreements reached between steel makers and the United Steelworkers of America union, said Mark Parr, a steel industry analyst with KeyBank Capital Markets in Cleveland.
"They said they needed a new agreement to reduce that disadvantage, and I'm going to assume the company made a lot of progress toward that," Parr said.
Members of the Machinists union that represents workers at the Middletown plant voted 1,275 to 226 on Wednesday to ratify the contract and are to begin returning to work next week.
The company has been running the mill with about 1,900 replacement workers and salaried employees. Even if it hires another 100 or 200 workers, which is likely, it will have reduced the jobs in the mill by about 1,000 from the guarantee in the old contract.
AK agreed to participate in the Machinists' multi-employer pension plan and froze and locked its own defined-benefits plan. Future retirees will have to pay part of their health care insurance costs, as will active employees.
AK Steel had contended that its old contract gave competitors a $40-a-ton cost advantage in producing steel.


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In a post in back in January 2009 on the Shapeways blog, Joris discussed some implications of intellectual property rights for the Shapeways community via I Love Threadless & IP Rights. Now that more models are being made available to download by the Shapeways community it may be worth looking at exactly how you would like to share your digital files.
You may already know of Creative Commons, a nonprofit corporation dedicated to making it easier for people to share and build upon the work of others, consistent with the rules of copyright.
They provide free licenses and other legal tools to mark creative work with the freedom the creator wants it to carry, so others can share, remix, use commercially, or any combination thereof.
Creative Commons released its first set of copyright licenses for free to the public late 2002. Creative Commons developed its licenses inspired in part by the Free Software Foundation's GNU General Public License (GNU GPL) to help people license their works freely for certain uses, on certain conditions; or dedicate works to the public domain.
Shapeways member Improbable Cog has released a number of his works for download under a Creative Commons Attribution Share Alike License as part of his successful Kickstarter initiative. Under this license you are free to
Share: to copy, distribute and transmit the work
Remix: to adapt the work
Under the following conditions:
Attribution: You must attribute the work in the manner specified by the author or licensor (but not in any way that suggests that they endorse you or your use of the work).
Share Alike: If you alter, transform, or build upon this work, you may distribute the resulting work only under the same or similar license to this one.
By allocating this license to the file anyone who downloads the file should be aware of the conditions that Improbable Cog is willing to share his work.
If you are not sure which license is right for you, there is a form on the Creative Commons site to make it easier for you to select a license.
The Creative Commons Licenses are used in many fields at many different levels from amateur to professional. Some that may be relevant include Flickr, Thingiverse, CadYou, Wikipedia, Open Design etc. etc. etc.
So think about the designs you are sharing and how you would like to share them. Would you like attribution, would you like to send your babies out ino the world and see how they evolve and are mutated by others? Do you want to se others commercialize a derivative of your initial concept?


text: To get from Mazara del Vallo to San Cataldo by train you can catch one of the 2 trains that everyday travel between these two cities. The first train to San Cataldo leaves from Mazara del Vallo at 06:36 and the last train departs at 10:33. If you choose a local train the trip lasts on average 06:40 hours. For your trip from Mazara del Vallo to San Cataldo by train you can choose to leave from one of Mazara del Vallo main stations: Mazara del Vallo On Wanderio you can compare all schedules, fares and railway companies to San Cataldo and book the best itinerary starting from Mazara del Vallo.


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Hello!! This is my first post this week! This has been a hectic week.... it has been a hectic month for that matter!
We have had lots going on around here... including having to put our dog, Buddy, to sleep a couple of days ago! :( I just haven't felt a lot like posting this week! I had planned to go back to my 'live' posting and now I remember why I started scheduling a weeks worth of posts! If I don't... I don't seem to post that often. BUT... all that said... maybe I will do better now! We'll see how it goes! :)
My husband was gone to New Orleans on a mission trip all last week. Today he has taken the day off to spend time with us. Carver has worn him out today so Michael is napping and Carver is in 'rest time'! I plan to go clean out/purge our closet. I decided to put that off a minute and post a few cards! :)
The cards that I am posting today are all rejects from the latest PC Sketch call!
Hope you have a great day! I am off to clean a closet I guess! :)
Peace and Love!


text:
Part of their response:
". . . According to Samsung, color of the accessories will be designed specifically depending upon the model of the unit. The model number which you have purchased will be bundled with contrast color accessories to the Tablet. . . ."
Well, this sounds like a bunch of BS to me but, before I pursue it further, I would like to know if this is the norm for this tablet. Has anyone else gotten one like this, or are they all black/black and white/white? If it is BS,I will pursue it with a vengeance.
Thanks for your input.


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Jamie Watson does not belong to any Nations, yet.
'When elephants fight, it is the grass that suffers' - African Proverb
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text:
You've Got to Read This 161-Year-Old 'New York Times' Article About '12 Years a Slave'
History was made when 12 Years a Slave was crowned the Best Picture of 2013 at the Academy Awards. However, that saga began a full 173 years ago when the real Solomon Northrup, the subject of the film, was abducted and sold into slavery. The Times was on it.
An article published in the 1853 New York Times has been circulating online in the wake of 12 Years' historic win. It is a must read. "THE KIDNAPPING CASE," screams the article's headline. "Narrative of the Seizure and Recovery of Solomon Northrup. Interesting Disclosures," it continues.
The piece documents everything covered in Northrup's autobiography and, subsequently, the film. There is his abduction:
While suffering with severe pain some persons came in, and, seeing the condition he was in, proposed to give him some medicine and did so. That is the last thing of which he had any recollection until he found himself chained to the floor of Williams' slave pen in this City, and handcuffed.
The Times' piece details the horrid conditions in which Edwin Eppes, the man who came to own Northrup, kept his slaves. It also goes on to document Northrup's 12 year struggle for freedom. It's not exactly an uplifting tale.
By the laws of Louisiana no man can be punished there for having sold Solomon into slavery wrongfully, because more than two years had elapsed since he was sold; and no recovery can be had for his services, because he was bought without the knowledge that he was a free citizen.
The article also introduces us to the girl who would inspire Patsey, the character who Lupita Nyong'o played in the film and to who Nyong'o dedicated her Oscar.
When Solomon was about to leave, under the care of Mr. Northrup, this girl came from behind her but, unseen by her master, and throwing her arms around the neck of Solomon congratulated him on his escape from slavery, and his return to his family, at the same time in language of despair exclaiming, "But, Oh, God! what will become of me?"
You can read the full article here.


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Subscribe for ad free access & additional features for teachers. Authors: 267, Books: 3,607, Poems & Short Stories: 4,435, Forum Members: 71,154, Forum Posts: 1,238,602, Quizzes: 344
As he stood there on the great flat rock over the swimming hole Red never guessed that Snowball was behind him. But the swimmers soon noticed Snowball. And they all began to call to Red. They didn't care what they said, so long as they could keep Red so busy answering them that he wouldn't turn around and discover Snowball. They splashed about, and hooted, and on the whole made such an uproar that Red couldn't have heard the Muley Cow had she walked up behind him.
Now, there was nothing that Red enjoyed any more than a wordy battle. Whenever a boy called him a name Red hurled a worse one back at him. It seemed as if he actually took pride in making blood curdling retorts. Certainly he didn't mean to leave, so long as anybody gave him an excuse for a jibe.
Meanwhile Snowball had spied Red. And to Snowball he was a tempting sight. As Snowball drew nearer Red leaned forward with his hands upon his knees and taunted Johnnie Green: "You'd better keep that ole ram-lamb of yours out of my way! If he ever comes near me I'll——"
Nobody ever found out what it was that Red meant to do. His threat stuck fast in his throat. For before he could utter it Snowball lowered his head and dashed at him. He gave Red a butt that lifted him off the rock and sent him sailing through the air with arms and legs waving wildly, to fall with a great splash into the swimming hole, where the water was deepest.
There was a howl of delight. But it did not come from Red. He was somewhere between the surface of the water and the mucky bottom.
Presently he appeared, spluttering and blowing and gasping. For once in his life Red had nothing to say in answer to the jibes and jeers of his mates.
His hat was floating near him. Johnnie Green snatched it up, scooped it full of water and clapped it upon Red's head.
Even then Red didn't say a word.
But when Snowball looked blandly down at the boys from the great flat rock and said, "Baa-a-a!"—then Red spoke.
He spoke his mind very freely and at some length. And he dared Johnnie to come out upon the bank with him.
Johnnie Green promptly swam towards the bank where Snowball stood.
"Not that side!" cried Red. "The other one!"
But Johnnie remarked mildly that he supposed of course Red meant the side towards home. "You've got all your clothes on," said Johnnie. "You wouldn't want to have to cross the brook, later, and get them wet."
Now, since Red's clothes were as wet as clothes could be, that seemed a very stupid remark. And Red told Johnnie Green—well, he told him a number of things. And then Red scrambled up the opposite bank from the one where Snowball stood, and started off, leaving a trail of water behind him.
Johnnie Green and his friends forsook the swimming hole and took their clothes out upon the flat rock, which was warm in the sunshine. And there they spent a pleasant time untying the knots that Red had made in them. But first the boys made Johnnie Green drive Snowball away.
"Red will catch it when he gets home," said one of them. "His father told him not to go swimming to-day."
And not one of them said he was sorry.


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Fraser's dolphin
From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
(Redirected from Fraser's Dolphin)
Fraser's dolphin (Lagenodelphis hosei) or Sarawak dolphin is a cetacean in the oceanic dolphin family (Delphinidae). It is found in deep waters in the Pacific Ocean and to a lesser extent in the Indian Ocean and Atlantic Oceans.
|Wikimedia Commons has media related to: Lagenodelphis hosei
|Wikispecies has information on: Lagenodelphis hosei.


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|Home > Avery
♂ Avery
What does Avery mean?
Avery [av-ery]▲ as a boys' name (also used more commonly as girls' name Avery) is pronounced AY-vree. It is of Old English origin, and the meaning of Avery is "elf or magical counsel". Transferred use of the surname, which originated in the Middle Ages from a Norman French pronunciation of Alfred. Philanthropist Avery Fisher. Also form of Aubrey.
ASSOCIATED WITH old english, elf, magical, counsel, surname, norman
ALTERNATIVE FORMS VIA ALFRED Alfey, Alfre, Alfrey, AlfyCREATIVE FORMS
(male) Akery, Azery, ..
(female) Avar, Avara, .. MIDDLE NAME PAIRINGS
Avery Jairus (A.J.), ..
How popular is Avery?
Avery is a somewhat prominent first name for men (#638 out of 1220, Top 52%) and an even more prominent last name for all people (#840 out of 150436, Top 1%). (2000 U.S. CENSUS)
Avery reached its top rank of #186 in the U.S. in the year 2014, and is presently at #187. (TOP 2000 NAMES, 2015)
Which version is better?with its variant forms and related boy names. Alfred (#920 A YEAR AGO) and Aubrey (#1226) are the popular related forms of Avery (#187). Other forms, like Alfy, are uncommon. These relations of Avery were at the peak of their popularity a century ago (AVERAGE #276) and are now significantly less conventional (#777, ▼75%), with versions such as Aubrey becoming less stylish. Avery has generally been preferred by parents.
Similar Names
Avery▲ is alike in pronunciation to Averi and Averie. Other recommended names are Abert, Abey, Acer, Acey, Aeryn, Ahern, Aimery, Alexy, Alvern, Alvert, Amer, Amerey, Amery, Amory, Amry, Arry, Ary, Aubery (see Aubrey), Aubry, Autry, Ave, Avel, Averel, Averet, Averil, Averit, Averyl, Averyll, Avner, Ayers, Aymery, Emery and Gery. These names tend to be less commonly used than Avery.See names in meaning and etymology.


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Pens thump Islanders
The Penguins can't be satisfied - not with qualifying for the Stanley Cup playoffs, and certainly not with entering as the Eastern Conference's sixth seed.
Sure, if push comes to shove, they'll take that No. 6 slot and their chances against third-seeded New Jersey and Devils goaltender Martin Brodeur, the NHL all-time wins leader. After all, previous Penguins clubs have never lost a first-round playoff series to the Devils, and these Penguins whacked New Jersey, 6-1, only a few weeks ago.
Still, all things being equal, the Penguins would really like to open the playoffs at Mellon Arena, where they are 16-4-0 in 2009 after a 6-1 victory Thursday over the New York Islanders.
The win assured the Penguins (44-28-9, 97 points) of no worse than a sixth-place finish in the East.
They are tied with Philadelphia (43-26-11, 97 points) and Carolina (45-29-7, 97 points) for fourth place. The Flyers have two remaining games: Saturday afternoon at the Islanders and Sunday night against the New York Rangers. The Hurricanes play Saturday afternoon at New Jersey.
The Penguins will know Saturday night before they play at Montreal if they can move ahead of Carolina. That will happen with a win or non-regulation loss against Montreal and a regulation loss by Carolina, or a win over the Canadiens a non-regulation loss by the Hurricanes.
A win by the Hurricanes over New Jersey would prevent the Penguins from passing them because a team's wins are the first NHL tiebreaker.
The Flyers are in control of home ice. They can secure the No. 4 seed without help by earning three points in their final two games.
Tiebreakers (wins or points earned in the season series) will allow the Penguins to pass Philadelphia if the teams finish tied in total points.
In terms of individual points, Penguins center Evgeni Malkin moved to a comfortable lead - though not insurmountable - on rival Russian and Washington Capitals left wing Alexander Ovechkin for the Art Ross Trophy.
With two assists against the Islanders, Malkin pushed his league-leading point total to 112. Ovechkin did not record a point last night in the Capitals' win over Tampa Bay and remains second in overall scoring with 108 points.
The Capitals play Saturday night at Florida.
Malkin's assists were on goals by defenseman Philippe Boucher (at 14:15 of the first period, in his first game since Jan. 31); and defenseman Sergei Gonchar, at 12:36 of the third period.
In between those tallies, wingers Pascal Dupuis, Matt Cooke and Bill Guerin scored their respective 12th, 13th and 21st goals. Right wing Tyler Kennedy scored his 15th goal late in the third to cap the Penguins' scoring.
Goalie Mathieu Garon, making only his third start since he was acquired Jan. 17 from Edmonton, made 28 saves.


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You get a phone call from an excited caller saying you've won a trip, a car, or a lot of money. Next, they ask you to send money before you get the prize. That is a sure sign of a scam.
Recently, we've heard about a spike in prize scam calls. Although there are some legitimate contests, remember: there are a lot of scams. Here are a few ways to spot a prize scam:
Scammers will do just about anything to rip you off. They will create fake websites, use fake endorsements from public figures, lie about the effectiveness of their products, and much more.
We did some investigating and found that a number of shady companies selling "brain booster" pills are using these exact tactics to promote their products. Here's how:
Did you ever sign up for a free trial of a product you heard about on the radio? Some sellers will send you — and charge you — a lot more than you agreed to. The FTC says one group of dietary supplement marketers sold products through deceptive "risk free" offers and charged people repeatedly for unwanted products.
Here's some good news for everyone who likes to write — and read — product reviews. A new federal law says businesses can't use contracts that prevent you from writing a truthful comment, or penalize you if you do.
Military Saves Week is February 27 through March 4. Join @MilConsumer for a Twitter chat today with @Military Saves as we talk about how servicemembers and military families can boost their savings.
Last fall, the FTC shut down an operation called Global Connect, which sent deceptive pop-up messages to people's computers. The pop-ups claimed the computers had problems when they really didn't, and the operators scared thousands of people into paying hundreds of dollars each for tech support services they didn't need.We recently learned that some of these same people are getting called again.
When the FTC wants to know whether funeral homes are following the Funeral Rule and giving people the required price information about funeral products and services, it sends undercover investigators into funeral homes. The investigators pretend to be someone who needs to make funeral arrangements.
When you hear about people getting scammed into wiring money, do you ever wonder who's picking the money up on the other end?
In the case of people scammed by certain call centers in India, the answer was employees of PHLG Enterprises.
If you've defaulted on a federal student loan, chances are you'll hear from a debt collector. Debt collectors must obey the law when trying to find people who owe money. One student loan debt collector — GC Services, LP — failed to follow the law, and the FTC is taking action against them.
I enjoy reading magazines related to my hobbies, for trends and inspiration. But sometimes I get overwhelmed by renewal notices. Keeping track of the expiration dates for my magazine subscriptions can get confusing, especially when I get multiple renewal notices for the same publication. Sound familiar? Well, here are a few tips to help keep track of magazine subscriptions.
The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) is the nation's consumer protection agency. The FTC works to prevent fraudulent, deceptive and unfair business practices in the marketplace.
Share Our Resources. Here's How >
File a Complaint with the FTC >


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Rowan Woods's dark and disturbing The Boys, now on DVD, led to a gig with "It" girl Cate Blanchett, writes Bernard Zuel.
Playwright and screenwriter Stephen Sewell could well be talking about Australian culture in general, or our warped contemporary political life when he says, "We needed to go one step more, past psychology into philosophy: the need for control, the need for power, the need to project yourself in the world."
In fact, Sewell is talking about The Boys, the shattering 1998 film he wrote for director Rowan Woods that is easily one of the best films ever made in this country, and one of the most disturbing, with its story of three brothers on the path to a shocking, if senseless, crime, and the women who bear the brunt of it.
The AFI award-winning feature didn't need a camp aesthetic, wog jokes or a patronising middle-class comic take on working-class life. It didn't pull in widescreen shots of iconic landmarks or star a soapie actor going legit. And it didn't need balletic fight scenes. What it did have was an intense atmosphere of barely suppressed inchoate anger, an emotional landscape as ragged and unfocused as the urban setting (captured in a striking blend of film and video, hand-held and fixed camera, present tense and flash forward) and an ensemble performance grounded by David Wenham that rings so true it scars.
Just how potent is The Boys still? Watching the newly released DVD of the film with the director's commentary running instead of the dialogue or soundtrack, I found myself just as disturbed as I had been in the cinema five years ago: stomach tightening, flesh crawling and eyes caught between fascination and flinching.
The DVD has been a long labour for Rowan Woods, who will make his second feature film - Little Fish, starring Cate Blanchett - next year. Last summer, Woods shot the accompanying documentary, Filmmakers Talking, which includes interviews with key figures such as Sewell, cinematographer Tristan Milani, producer Robert Connolly, and Gordon Graham, who wrote the play of the same name on which The Boys was based. In it, the physical and emotional aesthetic of the film is explained, from what Connolly calls the "peering around corners" nature of the camera work so that "the tension came from what you weren't seeing", to the carefully calibrated shifts between film and video, and the unusually long rehearsal process.
And, as well as his quite personal commentary, Woods included one of his earlier short films, Tran the Man, another film set in Sydney's south-western suburbs, laced with the threat of violence and starring David Wenham. "That particular film was integral to the coming together of a whole lot of people at film school who went on to do The Boys [four years later], so it was fantastic to include it in its entirety," Woods says. "Not just for posterity's sake but for cross-referencing in relation to the documentary."
But for Woods, who has had a long and busy career in television before and after The Boys, the DVD was a chance for more than nostalgia. "Four or five years is a long time, especially when you're going away doing other jobs to pay the rent and, as a filmmaker, you can sometimes forget what worked and why it worked in your early films, when you took time to do the things you wanted to do," he says.
And in retrospect, it's time - time to plan, write and get things right - which he believes was the key to both The Boys (which took some four years from concept to film) and why he's not made another feature since.
"When I look back through the making of the documentary, you realise, quite often your first film is better than succeeding pieces of work because you've given yourself the time, you've set the benchmarks and you've stuck to your guns," Woods says. "It sounds simple and obvious but one of the reasons why I haven't made [a second film yet] was that, in my gut, I was feeling something I couldn't define but I can define now, having made the documentary of The Boys. That was that I didn't feel comfortable about the undercooked nature of a lot of the projects that were on offer.
"By comparison with The Boys, a lot of the features that have been offered to me hadn't set the benchmarks in development of those scripts that we set ourselves. A lot of those projects hadn't done the hard yards or they weren't prepared to do the hard yards in the production timetable because they'd got the money and it was, 'Go go go: we've got the star, the script is wonderful, blah blah blah.' And I thought to myself, 'No, no, no and no'."
Crucially, as he prepares for pre-production on Little Fish (an idea he had before The Boys, taken up more recently by his partner, screenwriter Jacquelin Perske), The Boys has given Woods confidence and a renewed affection for his first film and the close working relationships; the combination of minds at the top of the food chain, that made it possible.
"I still love it. I almost feel guilty saying that because I have to admit there are a lot of pieces of work before The Boys I find a lot of fault in. But I can't find much to fault in The Boys, which is scary," he laughs.
Or, as he says in the documentary: "In the end, you can't answer any questions, you can just pose them. I think our movie does that and I think that's what movies should do."
The DVD of The Boys is out now.
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Sid Henderson will be toastmaster, on account of his great work.
But it was Ned they wanted, because he was to be toastmaster.
He called on the president of a bank, who rose totteringly and undid the toastmaster's good offices by making too long a speech.
He consented, and I arranged the matter with the toastmaster.
President Lauman was toastmaster, and opened the banquet with an address of welcome to Senator Harrison.
But, believe me, Mr. toastmaster, I deeply appreciate your effort.
However, there was no help for it, and the dinner had to be eaten without the presence of Ned, the toastmaster.
And speakers should cooperate with the toastmaster and with each other to that end.
It was presided over by the veteran author and publisher, Henry Holt, who nominated Mr. Carnegie as toastmaster.
James had just returned from a class banquet where he had been the toastmaster.


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by Whisper Rain Whisper was taken under the wing of some of the godly people at her new church. They taught her how to sew, and how to cook the way they did... which was very different from what she was used to. She felt like there was so much she needed to learn and re-learn to be a truly godly woman, but she was willing to do it! Where would she be if she hadn't met these people? Not living the way God expected her to, that was for sure! She was so thankful God had led her to a group of people who really understood what he wanted- people who were serious about God, and who would do anything he told them to. Looking around at the average, "professing christians" living such "lukewarm" … [Read more...]
No Charity in the Remnant ~ Part 8: Bull in China Shop
No Charity in the Remnant ~ Part 7: She Trusted Them Because She Trusted God …
by Whisper RainThe months that followed were a bit of a blur. Whisper's newfound happiness was getting attention, and she had to figure out how to explain it. People would just walk up to her out of the blue and ask her what happened, because she looked like a different person. At the time, the simplest explanation that made the most sense (in the context of the teaching in her new church) was that she had finally surrendered herself to God completely. Yes, it felt a little "off" to put it that way... it was a woeful oversimplification at best... and a complete fabrication at worst. But Whisper didn't know how to explain what had happened, so it didn't seem like such a big deal to let … [Read more...]
No Charity in the Remnant ~ Part 6: Finally!
by Whisper RainFinally! Whisper gleefully jumped into her car and took off toward the Dietz's house. She knew Angelica well enough to know that things wouldn't be strained between the two of them because of their little exchange through letters awhile back. She had written a somewhat apologetic letter back to Angelica after her salvation was questioned, and had carefully kept her letters very vanilla ever since. Angelica was a picture of grace and forgiveness, as always, and Whisper felt no need to worry.She finished the long drive, and all of the Dietz girls were happy to see her! She felt the comforting, familiar sensation of being around people she understood. If that new church did … [Read more...]
No Charity in the Remnant ~ Part 5: They had freedom and liberty and so many choices …
by Whisper RainWhisper's parents went to the church they'd heard about on Sunday morning. When they got home, they were cautiously optimistic. Maybe this was the right place for them. Maybe the Rains could finally fit in somewhere, and be a part of something that would be a good, godly influence on their family. Maybe some new friends would be good for the children, especially Whisper. It was drastic... but it seemed like it was time for something drastic.When the next Sunday rolled around, Whisper's parents were much more picky than usual about the kids' clothes. Yes, the girls were wearing skirts but... they'd better take off their jewelry too. And the boys had better wear button up … [Read more...]
No Charity in The Remnant ~ Part 4: Biblical Proof
by Whisper RainWhisper stared at Angelica's letter for a long, long time. She forgot to blink, and the words on the page blurred. "Whisper, are you saved?" She started to tremble... then shake... the horrible descriptions of hellfire she'd heard long ago rang in her ears. "YES!" She told herself. "I prayed the prayer!.. I prayed it so many, many times. I meant it! I MUST be saved!"Phrases from Charity sermons she'd heard around the house came back to haunt her... painstaking, detailed descriptions of all the actions that "naturally flow out of a life TRULY dedicated to God." Whisper was not submissive. She did not give a hoot about "modesty"... not according to those people's standards … [Read more...]
No Charity in The Remnant ~ Part 3: Rebellion
by Whisper RainWhisper ran outside, down the slope, and into a tangle of trees. She sat down in the grass, in shock. It was kind of a blur, what had happened just now in the house... something that had never happened before in her sixteen years of life. It was joked about maybe, but never for real... but this... this was dead serious.Her parents used to feel kind of sorry for her friends who lived their lives inside a rigid cage of rules. The Rains didn't operate that way! Whisper's parents were her friends! But the way she had just been talked to in that house felt anything but friendly... it felt demeaning.Denny Kenaston's archaic chatter about "modesty" and "submission," and … [Read more...]
No Charity in The Remnant ~ Part 2: Just Follow
by Whisper RainWhen Whisper woke up the morning after praying the Sinner's Prayer with her parents, she didn't really think about it much.Nothing was different. Life at the Rain house went on as usual. Homeschooling every day, changing clothes to go to friends' houses, and yes, church was still scary. Her parents and brothers and sisters were her favorite people in the world. Second place went to the Orwells, the family who had moved south with them. The Orwells came over a lot, they were Whisper's family's best friends! The children were close enough in age that everybody had somebody to play with.Around this time, two new things started happening. Whisper started noticing Mama … [Read more...]
No Charity in The Remnant ~ Part 1: The Sinner's Prayer
by Whisper Rain Once upon a time, there was a little girl. We'll call her Whisper Rain. :) She was a furiously happy little girl- she had tons of energy & was sometimes loud and difficult, but her parents loved her very much just the way she was.Soon her little brothers and sisters started coming along, and happy little Whisper got even happier. She was confident- and bossy sometimes- but her little brothers and sisters didn't seem to mind. She made up stories and jumped on the couch, and even cussed like a sailor once in awhile.One day Whisper's Mommy was excited! She had met Jesus, and now she finally felt like, through his strength and with his guidance, she could be the Mommy … [Read more...]


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What does Xamir mean?
Definitions for Xamir
Here are all the possible meanings and translations of the word Xamir.
A small ethnic group of Ethiopia, speaking the Xamtanga language.
Chaldean Numerology
The numerical value of Xamir in Chaldean Numerology is: 4
Pythagorean Numerology
The numerical value of Xamir in Pythagorean Numerology is: 2
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Harcourt Assessment is responsible for reporting scores that accurately reflect the performance of examinees. For this reason, Harcourt Assessment adheres to a set of test administration and test security standards that require the review of all PCAT scores and administrative conditions.
Harcourt Assessment reserves the right to cancel any test score believed to be obtained in a questionable manner. This includes testing/administrative irregularities, questionable score gains, questionable item responses, unusual answer patterns, misconduct, non-compliance with policies, plagiarism, or any other reason that would invalidate the score. These reasons are discussed in more detail below. For any of these reasons, Harcourt Assessment may either decline to score the test or cancel the test score. Affected examinees may, at Harcourt's discretion, be given the opportunity to take the test again at no charge.
The cancellation of an examinee's score as a result of these policies in no way suggests that cheating or any other inappropriate action has occurred. A score invalidation is a technicality that may be an inconvenience for both the examinee and Harcourt Assessment, but it is necessary in order to maintain the integrity of the test and to ensure that test scores are as accurate and as reflective of each examinee's ability as possible.
All score cancellations and invalidations are held in strict confidence, with the reason for the cancellation disclosed only to the examinee, except in certain group cases. When Harcourt Assessment cancels a score after the results have already been reported, all Official Transcript recipients are notified that the score has been cancelled, but the reason for cancellation is not disclosed, except in certain cases involving groups of examinees. An examinee whose scores are cancelled may apply to take the test again and pay all applicable fees. Any request to take the test again will be evaluated by Harcourt Assessment with consideration for the reason that the score was cancelled.
Testing irregularities are problems that occur during a test administration. These irregularities include, but are not limited to, possible compromises to the test, inappropriate seating or timing, defective test materials, disruptions to a test administration (such as a power loss or a natural disaster), misconduct, examinees misrepresenting identity, unauthorized access to test contents, receiving or providing assistance of any kind during the test, failing to comply with test administration regulations or with directions given by the test administrator or a proctor, having prohibited materials in the testing room, removing test materials from the testing room, creating a disturbance (such as talking during testing, letting a cell phone ring during testing, or any other action deemed disruptive by the test center staff), and violating any other Harcourt Assessment test administration policy, as described in the Candidate Information Booklet or on the PCAT website.
When a testing irregularity occurs, Harcourt Assessment will examine the situation and determine whether corrective action is warranted, including non-scoring of Answer Booklets or cancellation of scores. At Harcourt's discretion, examinees may be given the option either to retest at no additional fee [for PCAT, normally on a future national test date] or to receive a refund of his or her examination fee (unless the affected examinees are found to have caused or been involved in the conduct which resulted in the corrective action, in which event Harcourt reserves the right to withhold either or both of these options). If Harcourt offers a retest and the examinee chooses that option, the examinee must retake the entire examination in order to produce a valid score. These are the only options available to examinees affected by a testing irregularity.
If the results of a test show unusual similarities in test item responses by examinees who took the PCAT at the same Test Center, or if an examinee's responses to test items show that an unusually large proportion of responses are all the same answer option (for example, an unreasonable preponderance of "A" choices), the examinee's scores may be cancelled. Harcourt Assessment will examine each situation and, in its sole discretion, will determine what corrective action is warranted. When Harcourt Assessment decides to cancel test scores for reasons of questionable item responses or unusual answer patterns, the examinee will be notified before the action is taken. The notice to the examinee will include the options available regarding the planned score cancellation, which may or may not include an offer of a retest.
If an examinee's scores seem questionable when compared to PCAT scores obtained by the examinee in the previous testing cycle, the scores may be cancelled. When scores are cancelled for this reason, no scores will be reported to the examinee or to any score recipient schools.
Harcourt Assessment follows a strict policy in determining when a score gain is questionable and thus invalid. The following explanation of this policy refers to scaled score points, which are reported on the personal Score Report and the Official Transcripts.
If the score on the most recent test is 50 or more scaled score points greater than the previous test score, an invalidation of the most recent test score automatically occurs due to the large score gain. The most recent test then becomes known as the "Score Gain Test."
If the scaled score on the Free Retest is within 25 scaled score points above or below the invalidated score on the Score Gain Test, the score on the Free Retest is validated and scores from the Free Retest will be released. The examinee will receive a personal Score Report, and each of the score recipient schools indicated will receive an Official Transcript, which will include the scores from the Free Retest, but not the scores from the Score Gain Test.
If the scaled score on the Free Retest is more than 25 scaled score points above or below the invalidated score on the Score Gain Test, the score on the invalidated test remains invalidated and the scores will not be released. In addition, the scores on the Free Retest are also invalidated, and the scores will not be released. Neither the original Score Gain Test scores nor the Free Retest scores will ever be released to anyone.
Harcourt Assessment may cancel scores if, in its judgment, other substantial evidence suggests that these scores are invalid. Evidence suggesting that scores must be invalidated include, but are not limited to, inconsistent performance on different parts of the test, inconsistent handwriting, plagiarism (quoting, paraphrasing, or using language that appears in published or unpublished sources without attribution), essay text similar to text found in essays written by other PCAT examinees, and item responses or essays that are in any way not produced exclusively by the examinee. Before canceling a score for any of these reasons, Harcourt Assessment will notify the examinee and provide an opportunity for the examinee to submit an explanation. Harcourt Assessment will review the information submitted by the examinee in response to the notification of score cancellation and may offer the examinee a choice of options, which may include voluntary score cancellation or a Free Retest.


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Pahlmeyer Napa Valley Proprietary Red 2007
Bordeaux Red Blends from Napa Valley, California
Winemaker's Notes
The 2007 Proprietary Red is at once restrained yet complex. Composed and intensely focused, it exhibits layer after layer of blackberry, cassis, anise, sweet cocoa, black cherry, blackberry preserves, extract, tar and cola. On the palate it is dense and concentrated with great weight and structure. Each layer lingers on and on. This wine is exceptional now and will only open further with time.
Composition: 85% Cabernet Sauvignon, 7% Merlot, 4%, Cabernet Franc, 3% Petit Verdot, 1% Malbec
Critical Acclaim
The Wine Advocate - "The sensational 2007 Proprietary Red Wine (a 7,000-case blend of 82% Cabernet Sauvignon and the rest Merlot, Cabernet Franc, Petit Verdot, and Malbec) is slightly more restrained aromatically than the Merlot, but there is no doubting its extraordinary bouquet of subtle smoked meats, oak, mountain wild flowers, blueberries, blackberries, coffee, and cassis. Super-rich and full-bodied with noticeable, but stunningly sweet tannins, it possesses a rare minerality and definition, characteristics that seem to be found across the board in Napa's 2007s. This dense, powerful red needs 3-5 years of cellaring, and should have 25 years of life ahead of it.
Wine Spectator - "A rich, explosive style, packed with layers of currant, blackberry, wild berry and black cherry fruit woven together in a tight way. Full-bodied, turning supple and polished on the finish, where the fine-grained tannins are ripe and let the fruit flavors flow freely. Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Cabernet Franc, Petit Verdot and Malbec. Drink now through 2020."
Pahlmeyer Winery
Jayson Pahlmeyer has been producing highly sought-after wines since 1986. It began with Jayson's dream to make world-class Bordeaux-style wine from Napa Valley. Pahlmeyer's estate vineyard - Waters Rance - is situated at 2100 feet in the Atlas Peak appellation of Napa Valley. It is the key source for their Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Cabernet Franc, Petit Verdot, Malbec and Chardonnay. Jayson's passion eventually led him to the Sonoma Coast, where less than seven miles and two ridges from the Pacific Ocean, he planted Wayfarer Farm, their key source for Pinot Noir. View all Pahlmeyer Wines
About Napa ValleyView a map of Napa Valley wineries
It's hard not to think of Napa Valley when thinking of California wines. The region is, after all, the one that brought world recognition to California wine making. The area was settled by a few choice wine families in the 1960's who bet that the wines of the area would grow and flourish. They were right. The Napa wine industry really took off in the 1980's, when vineyard lands were scooped up and vines were planted throughout the county. A number of wineries emerged, from large conglomerates to small boutiques to cult classics. Cabernet Sauvignon is definitely the grape of choice here, with many winemakers also focusing on Bordeaux Blends. Whites are usually Chardonnay and Sauvignon Blanc.
Notable FactsWithin the Napa Valley lie smaller sub-AVAs that lend even more character specifics to the wines. Furthest south is Carneros, followed by Yountville, Oakville & Rutherford. Above those two is St.-Helena and finally, just granted an AVA, Calistoga. These areas are situated on the valley floor and are known for creating rich, smooth Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot and Chardonnay. There are a few mountain regions as well, nestled on the slopes overlooking the valley AVAs. Those include Howell Mountain, Stags Leap and Mount Veeder. Wines from the mountain regions are often more structured and firm, benefiting from more time in the bottle to evolve and soften.
About CaliforniaIt's not rare to see a wine's country of origin listed as "California." A country unto itself in the wine world, California makes enough varieties and styles to match many European wine countries. It produces a diverse range of wines that span the quality spectrum.
The most famous of the California wine regions is Napa Valley, and these wines are certainly outstanding – but it's not as broad and diverse as its larger neighbor, Sonoma County. Down south, Santa Barbara's Santa Maria Valley is well-known for its Rhône blends, as well as cool-climate varieties like Pinot and Chardonnay. The Central Coast, the largest California AVA, has many different microclimates that lead to a wide range of wines with many sub-AVAs.
Customer ReviewsSign In to Add Your Review4.54.6 out of 5 stars
7 ratings, 2 with reviews111ImNumber1 - Cambridge, MA46/9/2011
Actually, 4.25 stars. The vintage of 2007 of Napa valley is one of the best ever. I don't know why Pahlmeyer is not as famous as Mondavi and Caymus or Joseph Phillips, even though he deserves it! This is an exceptional effort! Very classic California wine that you only can find in the older vintages (the 1960's). This is a fruit bomb wine. Color, this wine has a clean seductive ruby red color. On the nose, I am picking a lot of back and some red fruits. A lot of black licorice is going on, blackberry, cranberry, some cassis, black cherry, a little hint of coffee and a little (very little) hint of tar that compliments the other components. Midpalate, very consistent to what I get on the nose, some toasted oak is coming through, a little (very little) heat also is coming through here, but all is well rounded. Finish, this wine has a smooth finish, firm nice tannins (not over the top). This wine is very well made and balanced. Back licorice is still dominating and dancing on my palate. Very good job, James Pahlmeyer! This is a top effort. I am easily 94+ on this effort. I can see this wine age for 13 to 17 years, no problem! You should seek this wine out. happy drinking!Anonymous - Spokane, WA16/25/2017Anonymous - Howell, NJ16/25/2017bodido - Miami, FL53/21/2017bpstlouis - Saint Louis, MO57/2/2013
- Style
- Big & Bold
- Pair With
- Cheese > Semi-Firm
Awesome. Great wine, one of the best cabs made. Drinks great today and will be fantastic for many years to come.51/6/2012Richard Wirtz - Morton, IL511/17/2011Hongfei Li - Sunnyvale, CA53/25/2011
- Style
- Smooth & Supple


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Roxann Biggs-Dawson
plays Lt. B'Elana Torres on
"Star Trek Voyager"
. Her character is a half-Klingon, half-human chief engineer. Recently, romance has blossomed between the feisty engineer and Tom Paris, the suave frat-boy helmsman. While the actress is on the cast of a family-oriented show, that hasn't prevented her from showing a little skin. In one episode, she walks around in a sexy swimsuit. Pictures from this episode and more are available on this site.
While Roxann (yes, that's how you spell it!) has never done a "true" nude scene, she has appeared in some sexy roles in some movies. In one, she is seen from behind in bun-hugging exercise wear. She has also been seen on "Star Trek: Voyager" in a sexy swimsuit. Pictures of this and others are also available on this site.
There are a total of
pictures of Roxann Biggs-Dawson on this site, including
swimsuit pictures and


text:
Hello to everyone,
I'm using miranda portable v0.9.46 together with facebook protocol RM 0.0.8.0.
I'm switching the application between my laptop [Win7] and my office pc [WinXP] daily.
This worked fine for quite a long time ...
A few weeks ago, suddenly there was no more facebook protocol when I started miranda at my office pc.
I can't even see the plugin in the list. When I open my account settings my facebook account is still there, but has two messages:
"protocol not loaded" & "account is deactivated"
Back home on my laptop everything is still fine ...
What can I do?
Thanks a lot in advance for your help ...


text:
Idel Hostel Guesthouse
calzada de los actores 112, col. Atzingo, Cuernavaca, Mexico
- Free Wi-Fi
- Self-Catering Facilities
- Board Games
- Breakfast Not Included
- Ceiling fan
- Free Internet Access
- Free Parking
- Hot Showers
- Housekeeping
- Internet Access
- Linen Included
- Meals available
- Outdoor Swimming Pool
- Outdoor Terrace
- Parking
- Reception (limited hours)
- Swimming Pool
- Tea/Coffee Making Facilities
- Towels Included
- WiFi
Check-in / Check-out
Earliest check-in: 06:00
Latest Check-out: 01:00
- Age Restriction
- Credit Cards Not Accepted
Group booking?
Group of 15 or more traveling to Cuernavaca?
Private Rooms
Standard Twin Private Ensuite
Sleeps 2
Room types
Private Room
Private Bathroom
Standard 3 Bed PRIVATE Ensuite
Sleeps 3
Room types
Private Room
Private Bathroom
Standard 3 Bed PRIVATE Ensuite
Sleeps 3
Room types
Private Room
Private Bathroom
About Idel Hostel
Hostel Idel is located in Cuernavaca Morelos Mexico,
Surrounding by breath taking vegetation landscape, hostel Idel is the best option in Cuernavaca locate at just 15 minutes walking from the downtown. Facilities include: Swimming pool, barbecue area and guest kitchen, clean rooms with own bathroom
Just a 5minute walk away you will find an ATM, bank and supermarket.
We have 7 comfortable rooms that can be arranged for one or two people.
Also we provide free WIFI internet access on our terrace area for those guest who bring their lap top with them.
Accommodation Information
We have 2 types of room:
Single room ensuite, ceiling fan, security key
Twin room ensuite, ceiling fan, security key
Location Information
Some of the Near by attractions are:
Palacio de Cortes " Cuahunahuac Museum"
Robert Brady Museum
The Asuncuion Cathedral
Teopanzolco archaelogical Ruins
"El Salto de San Anton" waterfall
Borda Gardens - colonial garden
Cancellation Policy
Customers can cancel their reservation free of charge up to 1 day before arrival. After this date, charges will be applied by the property up to the first nights cost of the reservation, unless otherwise stated in the property's conditions. Deposits paid are non refundable.


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Answer this question - Do you want to save thousands off the cost of solar panels?Of course you do!You can now make solar panels at home! You have probably read about it or seen it on TV, but have you tried it yourself?"I just made my own solar panel. It was so simple and looks just like a bought
f you are interested in learning exactly how to generate power and reduce your bill then this is the perfect resource for you! With the ever increasing costs of living, there is no better time than right now to stop throwing money out the window and start generating our own electricity.


text:
Natalie Portman High
Got a few hundred dollars burning a hole in your pocket? I know I know, hookers aren't free, but you might also consider blowing your cash on Natalie Portman's High School Yearbook. Among other things, the 1999 Syosset H.S. yearbook includes Natalie's 'Senior Superlative' where she was voted "Most likely to appear on Jeopardy!"
You know, considering how cruel high schoolers can be, that's actually not too bad. In my my senior yearbook I was voted "Most likely to masturbate to Sesame Street." I tell you what though, that was the last time I left the webcam on in the living room. That was also the last time I ran around the house wearing my sequined man-thong. Okay, next to last.


text:
Each month, Rated People connects over 50,000 homeowners with quality tradesmen - simply enter your job details in the form above to get started.
We'll match your job to the relevant tradesmen in your area - those interested will pay to see your contact details and call you to quote.
As each tradesman expresses interest in quoting on your job, we'll send you their profile and ratings to help you choose the right one for you.
After the work is complete, return to the site and rate your tradesman based on their quality of work, reliability and value for money.
Carpenter / Joiner
Added 12/02/2017
supply and erect decking around hot tub
Carpenter / Joiner
Added 16/10/2016
Box in under stairs to create a cupboard complete with doors and internal shelves. Approx 1...
Carpenter / Joiner
Added 03/04/2014
it is a single garage roof stirling 22mil meter boards needs bwangs to keep it sturdy
Carpenter / Joiner
Added 29/11/2011
T & G wood floor required laying approx 17 square meters.
Carpenter / Joiner
Added 31/07/2010
Need to visit to take measurements. Would need long ladder to see roofline. Would need temporary...
Igor was polite, professional and had experience that meant he was able to give some good advice and tips with the work. He was very reliable and efficient. Would recommend and use again.
Very very pleased with this firm, Karen & Steve the bosses are nice people to deal with and agreed a good price .Dave the fitter was a very nice bloke and a good tradesman + him and kevin were very helpful and willing to help . A fantastic job all round. THANKS AGAIN
Very good you would never know they were there just got on with there worrk never stopped very clean and polite would use them again
Chris was able to make exactly what we were hoping for. In a loft conversion, with awkward spaces, he was able to create a beautiful wardrobe and cupboard space, that suits the room and looks beautiful.
John did a great job - I thoroughly recommend him.
Reliable, friendly, easy to contact and got on the with the job quickly and professionally. I would def use them again.
Excellent job and reasonable price, turned up on time and my neighbours now want to use the same company. Definitely use again
Managing your job is easier with the Rated People Homes App, download it today.


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Charles had disturbed the equilibrium of her heart by his warmth, and had not restored it again by a word of recompense.
That is how you recompense me for the really paternal care that I lavish on you!
These provisions materially reduce living expenses, and, in a way, recompense for the low salaries received.
Our experts will evaluate such holdings and recompense the owners.
He dwelleth not at the court of the king, neither does he receive aught in recompense for the good that he doeth.
You've had your troubles, but you're not without a recompense.
But if anything remained unfinished on the first day of summer, he should forfeit the recompense agreed on.
This is not the only department of training in which the recompense has been abundant.
Were they better treated, and did they receive any recompense?
I will not accept any recompense; but pray don't take offense.
early 15c., from Middle French recompense (13c.), related to recompenser "make good, recompense" from Late Latin recompensare (see recompense (v.)).
c.1400, "to redress," from Middle French recompenser (14c.) and directly from Medieval Latin recompensare "to reward, remunerate," from Latin re- "again" (see re-) + compensare "balance out," literally "weigh together" (see compensate). From early 15c. as "to compensate." Related: Recompensed; recompensing.


text:
[Date Index]
[Thread Index]
[Author Index]
Re: Loading graphics package
On 7/22/04 at 2:45 AM, gregory.lypny at videotron.ca (Gregory Lypny)
>I tried to reproduce an example from the online help by entering
><< Graphics`Graphics`
>BarChart[{1, -3, 4, 5, 2, 3}, {3, 6, 4, 3}]
>but got nothing. What am I doing wrong?
Literally nothing? No error message? Not even an unevaluated expression starting with BarChart? If you literally got no response at all, this seems quite strange.
My suggestion would be try this in a fresh session
To reply via email subtract one hundred and four


text:
Etymology 1[edit]
From Middle English stoor, stour ("large, powerful"), from Old English stōr ("large, great, strong, violent"), from Proto-Germanic *stōraz, *stōrijaz ("great, big, strong"), from Proto-Indo-European *stār-, *stōr- ("big, thick, old"). Akin to Scots stour ("tall, large, great, stout"), Saterland Frisian stor ("great, many"), Low German stur ("large"), German stur ("willful, stubborn"), Dutch stoer ("firm, sturdy, robust"), Danish, Swedish and Norwegian stor ("large, great"), Icelandic stórr ("large, tall"), Polish stary ("old, ancient") and probably Albanian shtoj ("I add, increase"). Compare also stoor, steer.
Alternative forms[edit]
stour (comparative more stour, superlative most stour)
- (now rare outside dialects) Tall; large; stout.
- (now rare outside dialects) Strong; powerful; hardy; robust; sturdy.
- O stronge lady stoor, what doest thou?--Chaucer.
- (now rare outside dialects) Bold; audacious.
- (now rare outside dialects) Rough in manner; stern; austere; ill-tempered.
- (now rare outside dialects, of a voice) Rough; hoarse; deep-toned; harsh.
- (now rare outside dialects, of land or cloth) Stiff; inflexible.
- (obsolete) Resolute; unyielding.
In a stour wise.
Derived terms[edit]
stour (comparative more stour, superlative most stour)
Etymology 2[edit]
From Middle English stoure, stourre, from Old Norse staurr ("a stake, pale"), from Proto-Germanic *stauraz ("pole, support"), from Proto-Indo-European *stā- ("to stand, place"). Cognate with Icelandic staur ("a stake, pole"), Ancient Greek σταυρός (staurós, "a stake, cross").
stour (plural stours)
- A stake.
- A round of a ladder.
- A stave in the side of a wagon.
- A large pole by which barges are propelled against the stream; a poy.
Etymology 3[edit]
From Middle English stour, stor ("conflict") from Anglo-Norman estur ("conflict, struggle"), from Old French estour, estor, estorme, estourmie, estormie ("battle, assault, conflict, tumult"), from Frankish *sturm ("storm, commotion, battle"), from Proto-Germanic *sturmaz ("storm"). Akin to Old High German sturm ("battle, storm"). More at storm.
stour (plural stours)
- (obsolete) An armed battle or conflict.
- 1485, Sir Thomas Malory, Le Morte d'Arthur, Book V:
- Then there began a passyng harde stoure, for the Romaynes ever wexed ever bygger.
- 1600, Edward Fairfax, The Jerusalem Delivered of Tasso, XII, xv:
- This pair, who past have many a dreadful stour, / And proffer now to prove this venture stout, / Alone to this attempt let them go forth, / Alone than thousands of more price and worth.
- 1485, Sir Thomas Malory, Le Morte d'Arthur, Book V:
- (obsolete) A time of struggle or stress.
- 1590, Edmund Spenser, The Faerie Queene, I.ii:
- Then gan she waile and weepe, to see that woefull stowre.
- 1590, Edmund Spenser, The Faerie Queene, I.ii:
- (now dialectal) Tumult, commotion; confusion.
- (Britain dialectal, Ulster) A blowing or deposit of dust; dust in motion or at rest; dust in general.
stour (third-person singular simple present stours, present participle stouring, simple past and past participle stoured)
- Alternative form of stoor
Middle English[edit]
Alternative forms[edit]
- English terms derived from Middle English
- English terms derived from Old English
- English terms derived from Proto-Germanic
- English terms derived from Proto-Indo-European
- English lemmas
- English adjectives
- English terms with rare senses
- English dialectal terms
- English terms with obsolete senses
- English terms with usage examples
- English adverbs
- English terms derived from Old Norse
- English nouns
- English countable nouns
- English terms derived from Anglo-Norman
- English terms derived from Old French
- English terms derived from Frankish
- British English
- Ulster English
- English verbs
- Middle English lemmas
- Middle English adjectives


text:
Anne Billson on film
Anne Billson: Did Bette Davis live and die in vain? I want Wallis Simpson in all her adulterous, Nazi-loving glory – even if it makes her a bitch
The three-act story seems natural. But so many blockbusters, like the new Mission Impossible, would be better off without part three
Science fiction isn't all 'talking squids in space'. And its creep into mainstream cinema is everywhere from Never Let Me Go to Midnight in Paris | Anne Billson
Film blog I know Twilight is awful, but …Anne BillsonTwilight caters to the sexual fantasies of teenage girls. I'm not saying in a good way, but there's not much else at the cinema that does, writes Anne Billson
Forget all the collapsing staircases, revolving rooms, daft CGI and haunted hair-dos. You barely need to show anything to make a truly petrifying ghost movie
The Da Vinci Code, of course, is full of Leonardo, but I prefer my Last Supper posed by beggars, as in Viridiana
I'd like to see action films regress to an epoch when swords were as prevalent as guns, or hop forward to a time when firearms don't work, writes Anne Billson
Anne Billson: By warning us in advance that Bruce Willis or Tom Cruise isn't going to save the day, Lars Von Trier's Melancholia joins the fine tradition of films that preview their own coming attractions
Long takes make the viewer an active participant rather than a passive sponge, encouraged to scour the frame, or worry about what might enter into it, writes Anne Billson
If a female contract killer isn't prepared to smuggle herself into the villain's lair disguised as a scantily clad hooker, the movie world isn't interested
Someone (but not Anne Hathaway) needs to stick up for the girl geek, a social group so under-represented in movies it's almost extinct
Anne Billson: I'm no purist, but it really takes me out of a film to hear the Narnia kids saying 'Sorted!' or Alice in Wonderland using terms like 'bonkers'
Anne Billson: Adopting another's identity is seen as a melodramatic trick of the movies, like the evil twin in soap operas – but aren't we all imposture experts?
Star ratings may be massively popular, but since when did liking or not liking become the standard by which a film should be judged, asks Anne Billson
An eyepatch indicates the wearer has been in the wars or had his eye pecked out by a hawk like axe-hurling Kirk Douglas in The Vikings
The Beaver isn't the only movie that should have taken the horror route – so many comedies are just a sliver away from being terrifying psycho thrillers
A well-turned phrase can go a long way towards cementing a movie's cult status, but Apocalypse Now marks the point at which film quotes became self-conscious
Anne Billson: Horror movies no longer make me feel queasy, but sentimental ones can reduce me to jelly
Anne Billson: Short hair on female characters is usually a humiliating punishment – and a small step to alien, monster or homicidal maniac
Anne Billson: We're like demented twitchers, ticking off movie titles – but how many of these films do we actually need to see?
Anne Bilson: Zack Snyder's adolescent Sucker Punch makes me wonder why female action stars can't have a happy medium between drab boiler suits and stay-up stockings
Anne Billson: If British comedians insist on crossing over to the big screen, they need to pay more attention to narrative and character development
Anne Billson: While it's women who do most of the screaming – since Peeping Tom, the camera prefers to stalk females – I don't think the slasher subgenre is misogynist
Anne Billson: 'I hear you control your explosions,' Sharon Stone purrs to Sly Stallone in The Specialist. I wish more film directors could control theirs
Anne Billson: Where did the western go? The cowboys and gunslingers of yore passed the baton to cops and detectives, hitmen and astronauts
Anne Billson: Movie stars should earn their spurs in vaudeville, then next time a Black Swan comes around, the lead can do her own fouettés
Anne Billson: Apparently Amer is 'an enigma and only the spectator has the key'. I'm sorry, but if I wanted a DIY plot I'd have written my own
Fakery is so ingrained in pop culture that we're suspicious of anything claiming the truth. So we question the authenticity of what happens in Catfish, writes Anne Billson
Lust, power, murder, the quest for eternal youth and a dash of lesbianism – no wonder the story of Erzébet Báthory appeals to film-makers so much, writes Anne Billson
Anne Billson: In horror films, old dark houses have their place, but as hell is other people apartments are far spookier
You don't often see movie dentists who are regular guys. When they're not psychos, they're played for laughs, says Anne Billson
Annette Bening looks older. Well, hurrah for that! It's a rare but pleasurable example of a woman my age on screen, says Anne Bilson
Whenever I hear the words 'insider trading' or 'subprime', my eyes glaze over and I start thinking about hats, says Anne Billson
Saul Bass's credit sequence for The Man With the Golden Arm was carried into the film's publicity, prefiguring today's corporate identity approach
Plunging counterweights, whiplash cables, clamp-like sliding doors – movie lifts are forever conspiring to do away with their passengers. By Anne Billson