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Freeport school board discussess options for building
Freeport Area School Board members played Tetris with the proposed site location for the new middle school.
At a special meeting Wednesday night, architect and engineering firm HHSDR presented the board with a suggested building and site plan.
But not all board members were happy with the placement of the new school, directly behind the current senior high school off Route 356 (South Pike Road).
District officials are closing the Freeport Junior High School building and the Freeport Kindergarten Center, both in Freeport, and will build a new school housing grades six through eight behind the current high school.
The building will cost $30 million.
"We like what the building looks like," said President Daniel P. Lucovich. "We just don't like the location."
He also expressed concern with the traffic congestion that could be caused by placing the middle school so close to the high school.
J. Greer Hayden, president of HHSDR, pointed out that the problem with moving the school farther away is that the building would have to be located across a small tributary and ditch on the district property.
That could cost more money.
"We're got a lot of property we can't do anything with," Director Mark A. Shoaf said.
He suggested flipping the position of the proposed middle school so that it parallels the high school or moving it farther into the corner of the district's property. That could open up space for a new high school building as well as reduce traffic congestion.
Hayden said the district will need to decide on a site soon so that they can secure permits from the township, the conservation district and the Pennsylvania Department of Education.
Based on a tentative time line, the district will start construction in April 2015 and open the school in September 2015.
New stage planned
The board agreed to move ahead with renovations to the high school stage's rigging, which will cost about $110,000.
Because safety is a concern, work on the stage will proceed starting in February, and will hopefully be completed by the Spring musical.
Manager's job in question
The board also voted 6-1 not to automatically renew Business Manager William Reilly's employment agreement with the district when it ends June 30, 2013.
John A. Marty was absent, Michael J. Huth abstained and Susan F. Lowers voted no.
Lucovich refused to explain the reasoning behind the decision.
"We do not comment on personnel," he said.
Reilly had no comment on the vote. He simply shrugged his shoulders.
He has been with the district for 39 years.
Kate Wilcox is a freelance writer for Trib Total Media.

subset: commoncrawl


text:
|Authors Name
|American Academy of Environmental Engineers [1]
|Association of Environmental Engineers and Scientists [2]
|Engineering Energy & Environmental Institute. Penn State University [1]
|Georgia Institute of Technology. School of Civil and Environmental Engineering [3]
|Logan, Bruce E. [1]
|Patterson Environmental Consultants, Inc. [1]
|Patterson, James W. [1]
|Ramanathan, Veerabhadran [1]
|Scripps Institution of Oceanography [1]


text:
The intellectual diversity of our students, faculty, and staff is a key ingredient for achieving a diverse community on our campus. Academic excellence requires a learning community in which people of different backgrounds and perspectives join in the pursuit of knowledge and truth. Lehigh University is determined to prepare students to succeed in the world, and in a nation, where multiple viewpoints offer challenges and enrich our lives. Thus, Lehigh University will continue to make it a top priority to make our campus community more diverse for study and working.
The Diversity Initiative is a long-term effort with evolving strategies as goals are met. Creating an inclusive diverse community can be achieved only through the focused efforts of each of us and is the responsibility and accountability of the leadership on every level.


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5 Upcoming Must Watch Bollywood Movies of 2015
It has been a fantastic year for Bollywood so far. We have seen commercial masala movies like Bhajrangi Bhaijaan, ABCD 2, Dil Dhadakne Do, Byomkesh Bakshi, Shamitabh, Baahubali(Hindi dubbed Version) and some action flicks like Baby, Phantom, NH10 etc and some hatke films like Hunterrr, Dum laga k Haisha, Badlapur. While one quarter of year is remaining the lineup for next 3 months seems extremely tight and exciting.
We bring top 5 upcoming Bollywood movies you must watch for more than one reason. You can skip other movies but these upcoming Bollywood movies are must watch. We did our research to give you the best cause we have less than 10 weeks remaining and more than 20 movies from Big to small banners are having their bet.
(We have arranged them in order of their release date)
1. Jazbaa (Release date: 9/10/2015)
If you have seen the trailer and "Bandeya" and "Kahaaniya" song from movie you will agree that this is the must watch movie for all Aishwarya Rai Bachchan's fan. One simply can't ignore this. This is a perfect comeback movie for Aishwarya with such thrilling and exciting storyline. Also we have Irrfan Khan the man with Midas touch and Sanjay Gupta behind the camera.
2. Shaandar (Release date: 22/10/2015)
It has got Karan Johar and Phantom productions to back up the Shaandar sets and locations, Shahid Kapoor and Alia Bhatt's super cute and sparkling pair, Amit Trivedi's upbeat music and Queen Fame Vikas Bahl as Director. Can you really ignore this? You simply can't. An icing on cake is the fun, happening, charming and exhilarating trailer of movie. It shows how the movie is Shaandar in every way and a must watch for all movie lovers.
3. Jagga Jassos (Release date: 27/11/2015)
Anuraj Basu and Ranbir Kapoor are back with another movie after their success of Barfi. Katrina Kaif only makes it better for her fans. This movie has created much buzz on internet but the first look poster has raised many eye brows. And we know this latest bollywood movie is more than just a poster.
4. Prem Ratan Dhan Payo (Release date: November)
The one and only one, Salman Khan. His fans don't need any other reason to watch a movie if it has Salman khan in it. Also it will be Bhai's another movie with Rajshri Productions after Hum Aapke Hai Kaun. This movie has Sonam Kapoor opposite Salman Khan for first time and we love whatever we saw on internet.
5. Bajirao Mastani (Release date: 18/12/2015)
This December we may not see Aamir Khan's movie but we have an epic film instead. Bajirao Mastani is an out and out Sanjay Leela Bhansali movie with larger than life sets, picture perfect photography and a star cast to die for. Ranveer and Dipika has shown us what they can do on screen with Ram-Leela and now with Priyanka Chopra its getting way better than our expectations. This will be the perfect way to end our year on high note. This movie definitely completes the list of Upcoming Bollywood movies of 2015.
Superhit Bollywood Movies
The Bollywood always gives some biggest superhit movies in a year, some breaks previous records and some makes new records. The superhit Bollywood movies are always those movies which not only liked by the audience but also by the critics. So here we will discuss about the movies which nailed at the box office and proved that if you have a good content then the movies can become a part of the list of Superhit Bollywood Movies.
Here we starts the list with discussing the last year superhit movies like Salman Khan's Bajrangi Bhaijaan and Prem Ratan Dhan Payo. Both the movies have different genre but both the films loved by the audience. Where Prem Ratan Dhan Payo is a pure family drama and on the other hand Bajrangi Bhaijaan is an emotional story with a social message. So here we will discuss about the movies which nailed at the box office and proved that if you have a good content then the movies can become a part of the list of Superhit Bollywood Movies. In Bajrangi Bhaijaan Salman has played the role of Pavan Kumar Chaturvedi a lord Hanuman devotee who never says lie but struck in the situation where he met with a little girl Munni who is not able to speak. We will discuss the top 2 movies which should join the hit list of Bollywood box office but due to fail their destiny they can't. Everybody just nailed by their performances in the film. The people loved the film and the film was a masterpiece by Akshay Kumar's career but failed to destiny it also can't become a part of Superhit films.
Then after some realization Pavan goes to know that the girl has been missed in India and she belongs from Pakistan. Then Pavan makes the aim to send munni back to her home in Pakistan. On the other hand Salman Khan did a pure family film with his favorite Sooraj Barjatya who both ruined after a 16 years gap. This film Prem Ratan Dhan Payo revolves around brother and sister relation and a tale of destiny. Both the films were superhit at the box office. The movies contained very much nail bitter suspense thriller scenes which showed patriotism and the soldiers of India.
Here We will Analyze the Upcoming Bollywood Movies 2016
Every year more than 300 movie releases and every year many movies breaks some record of collection and some itself becomes record through its excellent performance at the box office. Like every year this year also has started with some delightful movies and some really boring movies. Now we will discuss about the Bollywood movies 2016 which are expectations from the film and how much the film can earn at the box office. However many movies from Bollywood movies 2016 list have been releases so far and some become so some become a flop film.
Here we will analyze the upcoming Bollywood movies 2016 so which film will perform well in upcoming months. However 3 and a half month have been spent and there are many movies who have created record at the box office. Till the time only 4 movies have calculated much more money at the box office some breaks record and some manage to earn as they expected. In the starting of the year Akshay Kumar starring Airlift did a fantastic job at the box office and managed to earn 127 crores approx. at the box office, the film not only managed good collection but also become one of the best 2016 Bollywood movies review.
This same happened with Sonam Kapoor starring Neerja, from the time of promotion the film was a under dock film but when it came to the silver screen the film made a huge blast at the box office and the result is that the film is still running in the theaters, which is truly a record for the movie. The movie has managed to cross 100 crore club at worldwide box office collection. This film is one of the best female centric films in the Bollywood with a bravery story.
Then we entered in March month and here only one movie called Kapoor& Sons mark its name in the super hit movies list. This family drama movie starring Fawad Khan, Siddharth Malhotra and Alia Bhatt in leading roles did a fantastic collection at the box office and proved that if you have a family movie with some emotional and teachable fact then it will surely work at the box office. Rishi Kapoor, RatnaPathak Shah and Rajat Kapoor played a very important supporting leads in the film and the whole story of the film revolves around a family called Kapoor& Sons. The film has managed to earn 100 crores at the India box office and more than 50 crores at overseas box office.
Now in April month there is only one movie of Bollywood Ki and Ka which done a very good collection at the box office. The ArjunKapoor and Kareena Kapoor Khan starring movie is all about gender exchange work like man will become househusband and women will become working women. The new concept really got loved by the audience of Bollywood films and the chemistry between Kareena and Arjun was a really hot in the film. The film managed to earn more than 50 crores at the box office.
New Bollywood Movies 2016 List
The year 2016 seems to be a wonderful year for the lovers of Bollywood movies as a handful of them are scheduled to be released this year. The list of Bollywood Movies 2016 include those of Shahrukh Khan, Salman Khan, Aamir Khan and of all other favourite actors and actresses of the B Town.
Probably, Bollywood will witness biggest collection fight ever this year asShahrukh'sRaees and Salman's Sultan are scheduled to release on July 3rd as Eid special movies. Though their movies Raees and Sultanfall into two different categories, the films are sure to fight each other for box office collections. While Raees is an action thriller, the other is sports thriller. These two films are those top favourites among the upcoming Bollywood movies 2016 as well.
Another much awaited one is Dangal of Aamir Khan.This is another top one in the 2016 Bollywood movies list for a number of reasons. As always an Aamir movie gives a lot of reasons to be overjoyed, Dangal too is expected to make the audience fully thrilled and entertained.
There are a good number of biopic films as well. Earlier in January, the first of biopic The Killing Veerappan was released.Apart from these, two biopic movies depicting the life-stories of cricketers Mohammad Azharuddin and Mahendra Singh Dhoni are also to be released this year. Both of them are two great captains of the Indiancricket team and have carved their own niche in this field. There is no doubt that they have huge fan base across the globe.Official teasers of both MS Dhoni; The Untold Story and Azhar were received well by the audience with lauder applauses.
Hot star Sunny Leone is another who gains a lot from this year. Having two films hitting big screens this year, her name is well echoed in the 2016 Bollywood movies list. The first one Mastizaade was released and was received well by those lovers of adult comedies. The star sizzles in this film and fulfils what she is expected of. Now her second movie One Night Stand is still on the making and is scheduled to be released on May 6th. The film based on a social taboo speaks from the stand point of a girl.With her recent comments on the movie rousing criticism from far and wide, she has made it a point that her movie is going to be a successful one.
Upcoming Bollywood Movies 2016 Calendar
Bollywood is getting Matured with the time. Earlier there was not much logics used in the film, but these day, audience mentality has been chaged, they don't want anything illogical in the film, but they would perfer more deep intensity in the movie. Last year Bollywood gave many utlimate movies for it's audience, like Bajrangi Bhaijaan, Tanu Weds Manu Return, Dilwale, Bajirao Mastani, this film not only had good story line but it did great business at the box office in 2015. Same is expected from year 2016. Bollywood Movies 2016 is expected to set records, as many great directors movies are releasing this year.
As 2016, has been started, movies are coming on theatres like flood, some were really appreciable and some were disappointing. It is not important that good story line will always make good business, In my point of view, if we check the list of Bollywood Movies 2016, then the first which was released this year was Wazir, this movie had a good story line, with amazing content, but this movie did not do well at the box office, same goes for Katrina Kaif starrer Fitoor based on the novel of Charles Dickens.
Here I am taking about those Bollywood movies 2016, which are already been released, second come Kyaa Kool Hain Hum 3, this was a sex comedy. This film was directed by Umesh Ghadge.
Now lets talk about another sex comedy, i.e. Mastizaade, Mastizaade was one controvercial movie, directed my Milap Zaveri, who wrote Masti, Hey Baby and Grand Masti.
One of the best Bollywood movies 2016 is Airlift, starring Akshay Kumar and Nimrat Kaur. This movies is based on true event, Raja Krishna Menon directed film Airlift is based on 1990's gulf war in Kuwait. Akshay is playing a businessman Ranjit Katiyal who wants to return his country during the war. Nimrat kaur is playing the wife of the businessman, who will always give support to his husband.
Another movies which won everyone's hear was Neerja Starring Sonam Kapoor, this is also based on real incident, Neerja Bhanot was a flight attendant, she lost her life passengers from the terrorist.
Now Lets Talk about Upcoming Bollywood Movies 2016, seeing the list, we get to know that there now the main films are started now, Azhar, M.S Dhoni : The Untold Story, Fan, Raees, Sultan, Dangal, lets her talk about these movies.
Azhar, this film is based on the life of Indian Cricket Player Azharuddin, trailer of the film is released and film is releasing on 13 May.
M.S Dhoni : The Untold Story, this is one of the most awaited film of this year. This film will tell you about the film of Indian Cricket Captain M.S Dhoni. Sushant Singh Rajput has played role of Dhoni. This film is releasing on 22 September.
Shahrukh Khan is coming up with two movies this year, Fan and Raees, again the most awaited film, Fan is releasing on 15 April and Raees is expected to clash with Sultan on EID.
Aamir Khan is also coming up with a movie this year, Dangal, based on wrestling, a sports Drama, this movie is about Haryana Wrestler Mahavir Singh Phogat. Releasing on 23 December.


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Site created 12/15/97.
page created: 11/5/03
Once Upon a Time in the West
Special Collector's Edition
- 1968 (2003) - Paramount
review by Todd Doogan and Bill Hunt of
The Digital Bits
Film Rating: A+
Disc Ratings (Video/Audio/Extras): A/B+/A
Specs and Features
Disc One - The Film
165 mins, PG-13, letterboxed widescreen (2.35:1), 16x9 enhanced, single-sided, RSDL dual-layered (layer switch at 79:20 at the start of chapter 14), dual-disc keep case packaging, audio commentary (with film historians Sir Christopher Frayling and Dr. Sheldon Hall, filmmakers John Carpenter, John Milius and Alex Cox, actress Claudia Cardinale and additional members of the cast and crew), animated film-themed menus with sound and music, scene selection (33 chapters), languages: English (DD 5.1 & "restored" 2.0 mono) and French (DD 2.0 mono), subtitles: English, Closed Captioned
Disc Two - Supplemental Material
An Opera of Violence
documentary (29 mins, 16x9),
The Wages of Sin
documentary (20 mins, 16x9),
Something to Do with Death
documentary (18 mins, 16x9),
Railroad: Revolutionizing the West
featurette (6 mins, 16x9), location photo gallery (16x9), production photo gallery (16x9), theatrical trailer (16x9), cast profiles (16x9),
Easter egg
, animated film-themed menu screens with sound and music, languages: English (DD 2.0), subtitles: English, Closed Captioned
"People scare better when they're dying..."
There are films that define who we are. There are films that define the careers of the people who made them. And there are films that purely and unabashedly define the genres they rest in. Very few films ever achieve all three of the above. But then again, very few films are as glorious as
Once Upon a Time in the West
We think it's pretty safe to say that both of us fell in love with movies even deeper than we ever were before the minute we saw
Once Upon a Time in the West
laid out before us on the big, wide, silver screen. Sergio Leone was always a fan favorite filmmaker, but with this work he became a film legend. Leone is man whose whole career became that much cooler simply because he lovingly brought this tale to life.
If you're not familiar with the epic known as
Once Upon a Time in the West
, we only have one piece of advice for you. Stop your daily routine where it is, go get this DVD and watch it about a hundred times. Then, and only then, you can go back to living your life. It sounds funny to say that, but we're not kidding... this film is that good. Of course, if you're already a fan, we're preaching to the choir. We don't need to say another word - you probably already have your 30 bucks ready to spend.
Once Upon a Time in the West
isn't a wholly original film. The story has been told before (most notably in the cult western
Johnny Guitar
). But it's never been told this well, which is why
Once Upon a Time in the West
ends up being THE definitive Western. The story, as it is, goes like this: a power hungry railroad baron named Morton wants the land of Jill McBain (Claudia Cardinale) for his empire. Morton's hired a henchman named Frank (Henry Fonda, as one of cinema's definitive villains) for just this sort of occasion. In comes "Harmonica," a.k.a. The Man with No Name (played by Charles Bronson). Harmonica's got a not so secret agenda for revenge against Frank, and therefore a willingness to help Jill in her plight. He's soon joined by a rough around the edges, but severely competent, gunslinger named Cheyenne (Jason Robards), who's also been wronged by Frank. Together, they work to protect Jill and foil the nefarious plans of Frank and Morton.
Though the plot is hardly original, this film's quality is all about the execution. Extreme close-ups, sweeping camera moves, incredible use of the widescreen image, and the casting of unlikely actors as some of the best characters in any Western ever - these are just a few of the reasons this picture works on so many different levels. Flat out, we love this film so much, that we just want to share our enthusiasm for it with everyone we can. We have no reservations at all in advising each of you reading this review to add this disc to your collection. Hell... with Christmas coming up, buy two copies - one for you and one for your best, movie-loving friend. He or she will thank you for it.
Since Day One here at
The Bits
, we've been on Paramount's back about releasing
Once Upon a Time in the West
on DVD. "When is it coming? "Soon." "Okay... when is soon?" "Believe us, we want it out as much as you do." "No, you don't. If you did we'd already have it." "Good point, then let's stick with soon." That's how our conversations with Paramount often played out on the phone, at public functions, and in the halls of studio over the years. Owing to the lengthy restoration process, and the speed of working with the Leone estate, soon didn't quite come soon enough. Thankfully, though, the wait is now over... and we're pleased to say that it was well worth the time it took. This is one hell of a disc.
The film is presented in anamorphic widescreen on this DVD, and how Paramount got the film looking so good we'll never know. Given that this film is more than thirty years old, it could easily suffer from a host of print related problems, but such is not the case here. Contrast is absolutely fantastic, while retaining excellent shadow detail. In fact, detail has a whole is outstanding, which is very important for this film. Leone's direction is such that you're often seeing extreme close-ups of the actors - every wrinkle, blemish and bit of stubble is accentuated, and you'll miss none of it in this transfer. Color is good and accurate, with a definite warm push as was intended for the film, given its desert settings. There's very little digital artifacting visible, only light edge-enhancement and only light to occasionally moderate print grain. This isn't quite reference quality, given the age of the film. That said,
Once Upon a Time in the West
has quite simply never looked better than it does on this DVD.
While we're talking about the print, you should know that this DVD does feature the 165-minute European version of the film. That means the scene where we're first introduced to the character of Cheyenne at a way-side livery and inn is included, as is a brief scene at the end of the film involving the same character.
Moving on to the audio, you'll find no complaints from us with this disc. The film's soundtrack is presented in two English versions - newly remixed Dolby Digital 5.1, as well as a a "restored" Dolby Digital 2.0 mono (French 2.0 mono is also included). The 5.1 track features excellent presentation quality, with a big, wide front soundstage, centered and clear dialogue and nicely atmospheric use of the surrounds. You're not going to get extensive panning or directional effects, but they're not really appropriate for this film anyway. We're pleased to say that the 5.1 track still retains the "sound" of the original mono audio, and the film's fantastic score by composer Ennio Morricone is perfectly placed in the mix. The "restored" mono audio, if you chose that option, is also quite good. It's been cleaned up somewhat to remove unwanted noise and other age-related artifacts. Whichever track you go with, you'll be plenty satisfied with the audio experience on this DVD.
Surprisingly, Paramount's really gone the extra mile with the supplements on this special collector's edition. To start with, literally every single thing you'll experience on these two discs is in anamorphic widescreen. That means the trailer, the photo galleries, all the documentaries... everything. Kicking off the extras, Disc One features a very good audio commentary track with film historians (Sir Christopher Frayling and Dr. Sheldon Hall), a trio of directors who admire Leone (including John Carpenter, John Milius and Alex Cox), actress Claudia Cardinale and other select members of the cast and crew. The track begins with Frayling, the author of the biography
Sergio Leone: Something to Do with Death
. It's got a scholarly feel, but is very easy to listen to. He'll give you a ton of anecdotes about the making of
Once Upon a Time in the West
, and lots of interesting historical information, including comments on the many intentional references to classic Hollywood Westerns in this film. The other participants appear at selected moments to make their own contributions. Each was recorded separately and edited together for this commentary. The result could be distancing or disjointed, but is instead a fascinating listening experience, despite occasional pauses in the track. These people know Leone and this film well, and their love of both is obvious.
That love continues to be apparent on Disc Two, where we're treated to a trio of documentaries featuring many of the same participants.
An Opera of Violence
The Wages of Sin
Something to Do with Death
are basically three parts of a whole, which in total runs for a little over an hour. Combining interview clips with historical photos and footage, we learn about Sergio Leone's origins as a filmmaker, the conception of
Once Upon a Time in the West
arising from his love (and disdain) of Hollywood Westerns, the development of the production (including the casting of American Western film regulars in roles completely opposite to what they'd played previously), the actual filming itself, the ultimate reaction to the film, and its eventual place in cinema history. There are fascinating moments with Bernardo Bertolucci talking about the unlikely way he became involved in the writing of the film (along with fellow writer and filmmaker Dario Argento), and Leone admirers Carpenter, Milius and Cox talking about their reactions of the film. Cardinale reminisces about her experiences on the film, as do actor Gabriele Ferzetti and cinematographer Tonino Delli Colli. There's even an amusing moment of archival footage featuring Henry Fonda talking about his having been cast in the film as a bad guy, and trying to figure out how to approach the role. It's all great stuff for fans of this film, and well worth your time.
Railroad: Revolutionizing the West
featurette is a strange piece of work, but it's no less interesting for this fact. The short features relevant film clips and historical photos in a window in the upper right portion of the frame, along with the entire narrator-spoken text at the bottom. It cuts away to interview clips occasionally, featuring the participants talking about how the subject relates to the film. Also present on Disc Two is the film's original theatrical trailer in excellent quality, as well as video galleries of location photos (seen then and now) and production photos set to music from the film. A section of cast profiles of the major players in the film rounds out the extras. Again, all of this is anamorphic in its presentation - a very welcome touch.
In crafting his homage to the great Hollywood Westerns, Sergio Leone honored those films while also turning the conventions of the genre on end. At a time when Westerns were considered passe, Leone not only made them cool again, he managed to create what is arguably the best Western ever. Thankfully, Paramount's given the epic first-rate treatment on DVD. This is the studio's best special edition treatment since
The Godfather Collection
. It's definitely not the most extensive bonus material, but the quality of what you do get is undeniable. This is one of those DVDs we live for here at
The Bits
. Simply put,
Once Upon a Time in the West
is not to be missed.
Todd Doogan
[email protected]
Bill Hunt
[email protected]
Easter egg Instructions
On the main menu for Disc Two, highlight the "Documentaries" selection, then navigate "left" with your remote. The film's title will become highlighted in the line above. Press "enter" to view another trailer for the film - a sort of modern-styled, badass "rock" trailer (16x9, DD 2.0). It's definitely worth checking out.
Site designed for 1024 x 768 resolution, using 16M colors and .gif 89a animation.
© 1997-2015 The Digital Bits, Inc., All Rights Reserved.
[email protected]


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Fishy Friday
July 13, 2007 by 12 Comments
My brother converted to the Catholic faith a few years ago, and one of his in laws from Philadelphia tried to dissuade him. A solid Archie Bunker type, he said, "Lemme tellya about dem Catlicks. I grew up wid dem in Philly. Ya know dey all eat fish on Fridays right? Well lemme tellya why. Its because all the fish market guys in Philly are Italians, and the Italian pope makes this rule dat you gotta eat fish on Friday so all his Italian friends in Philly can sell all their fish so it don't go off over da weekend."
Telling this story my brother rolls his eyes, "This is the level of apologetics I'm working on…"
Remember fish on Friday was because Friday was a day of fasting and abstinence. I think no meat on Friday is a good rule, but better than that is the idea of really doing some serious fasting on Friday. No meat? OK, but why not do something radical and test yourself? Why not do bread and water or why not eat nothing at all between Thursday supper and Saturday breakfast?
Here are ten good reasons for fasting on Friday. First, it gives you a penitential day in the week. This penitential day reminds you that you are a sinner. When you fast you feel bad and this reminds you that it is because of your sins that you should feel bad. It's very important for the spiritual life to have a day of penitence each week because it is very easy to forget we are sinners and fall into the complacent mind set that we are really ok people.
Second, when you fast you become more alert mentally and spiritually. By giving yourself a day for fasting and penitence it really does make you more aware of things spiritually.
Third, fasting on Friday is a physical, mental and spiritual identification with our Lord's death on Friday. Its a little way to take up your cross and follow him; a little way to be crucified with Christ, and to bear his marks in your body physically.
Fourth, giving yourself one day a week for fasting and penitence helps focus the negativity in your life. If you are prone to dark moods, feel depressed at times, feel guilty and 'down' Friday can become the day when all this stuff surfaces. You sort of allow yourself a 'shadow day' on Fridays–a day when you can actually face the darkness and, by God's grace, deal with the troubles. If you do this, you'll be surprised how this becomes a way to control the dark moods and troublesome worries of life. It's like you are giving your psyche a day to enter the dark places and wrestle with the dragons there, and as a result the problems (since they are controlled) are far less worrisome.
Fifth, Friday becomes a day of introspection and reflection. In this crazy, busy world we can all use a bit more time for silence, looking within and reflecting on the mysteries of the faith. Friday can become a mini-retreat day each week. Instead of eating spend more time praying, reading the Scriptures and good spiritual books.
Sixth, fasting is physical. It reminds you that what you do with your body as spiritual consequences. If fasting helps spiritually then gluttony, illicit sexual gratification, laziness and drunkenness also have their spiritual payback.
Seventh: fasting one day a week is good for you. It helps check your weight gain. It helps clear toxins out of the system. It gives your body a rest from gorging on yet more food. It aids digestion and clears the system.
Eighth: You (or whoever cooks for you or with you) get a day off cooking, washing dishes etc.
Ninth: Not eating saves money.
Tenth: You'll really enjoy your bacon and eggs on Saturday.
Related posts from Standing on my Head:
- http://www.blogger.com/profile/18300768025577786157
- http://www.blogger.com/profile/00133131881423202010
- http://www.blogger.com/profile/12373317560249811006
- http://www.blogger.com/profile/17490367338505806906
- http://www.blogger.com/profile/02222317790850869834
- http://www.blogger.com/profile/01960521706457744649
- http://www.blogger.com/profile/16220380405943891911
- http://www.blogger.com/profile/11484509700642430451
- http://www.blogger.com/profile/07458505171598638169


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|Intro to Energy Healing
Event Type: Adult Learning &Leisure
Age Group(s): adult 18+
Date: No Dates Found!
Start Time: 7:00 PM
End Time: 8:30 PM
Join Eileen Hill MD for a workshop that introduces people to the concept of energy healing.
This is a two-part program that requires registration. When you register, you will automatically be registered for both part 1 (July 8) and part 2 (July 29).
Part 1- Many health problems (both physical and psychological) can be due to disruptions and blockages to an individuals' energy systems. Part 1 explains the basics of energy healing and includes fun demonstrations of energy.
Part 2- Learn simple easy energy healing techniques that can be done at home to restore energy flow and help people feel better.
Bring a towel or yoga mat. Wear comfortable clothing.
Location: Meeting Room 1
Registration Ends: 7/8/2013 at 9:30 AM
Contact: Joan M Serpico
Contact Number: 856-234-7319x314
Status: Waiting List
We're sorry. The registration deadline was 7/8/2013 at 9:30 AM.


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Greek actor and stage director Andreas Voutsinas was pronounced dead on Tuesday, June 8 at an Athens hospital.
Warren Beatty and Jane Fonda's one-time drama coach, Andreas Voutsinas, has died at the age of 79. The Greek actor and stage director passed away on Tuesday, June 8 at a hospital in Athens.
Voutsinas learned his trade at the famous Actors' Studio in New York in 1957 and went on to enjoy a career spanning more than 50 years. He established himself as an actor with roles in musical "The Producers" and in Luc Besson's "The Big Blue", and he directed a young Jane Fonda in 1960 Broadway play titled "The Fun Couple".
Voutsinas later turned drama teacher to pass on his skills to rising stars including Beatty, Faye Dunaway and "The Graduate" actress Anne Bancroft before relocating to France in 1968.


text: Serum Cystatin C Correlates Negatively With Viral Load in Treatment-naïve Children With Chronic Hepatitis CBehairy, Behairy E.*; Saber, Magdy A.*; Elhenawy, Ibrahim A.*; Abou-Zeinah, Sahar S.*; El-Sharawy, Ahmed A.†; Sira, Mostafa M.*Journal of Pediatric Gastroenterology & Nutrition: March 2012 - Volume 54 - Issue 3 - p 364–368 doi: 10.1097/MPG.0b013e31823e98c2 Original Articles: Hepatology and Nutrition Abstract Author Information Article Outline Objectives: Hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection is a serious health problem that causes chronic infection in up to 85% of cases. HCV nonstructural (NS) cysteine protease, NS2/3, is required for viral replication in vivo. Cystatin C is a naturally occurring cysteine protease inhibitor in human cells. We aimed to investigate the relation between serum levels of cystatin C and HCV viremia in treatment-naïve children with chronic hepatitis C. Methods: Serum cystatin C levels were measured in 27 children with chronic hepatitis C and determined their relation with liver functions, histopathological parameters, and hepatitis C viral load. Serum cystatin C was compared with that of 25 age- and sex-matched healthy controls. Results: Cystatin C was significantly higher in patients than in controls (1.4 ± 0.47 vs 0.99 ± 0.49; P = 0.006), and in those with low viremia than in those with moderate viremia (1.55 ± 0.41 vs 0.99 ± 0.43; P = 0.013). Cystatin C was not correlated with histopathological findings in liver biopsy (P > 0.05 for all). In addition, there was no significant difference of cystatin C levels in patients with normal versus those with elevated transaminases (P > 0.05). Of importance, cystatin C correlated negatively with viral load (P < 0.0001). Conclusions: Cystatin C levels correlated negatively with HCV viremia. This finding may reflect an inhibitory effect of cystatin C on HCV replication through inhibiting its NS2/3 and tempting for further studies for cystatin C as a possible adjuvant therapy for HCV infection. *Department of Pediatric Hepatology †Department of Clinical Pathology, National Liver Institute, Menofiya University, Shebin El-koom, Menofiya, Egypt. Address correspondence and reprint requests to Mostafa M. Sira, Department of Pediatric Hepatology, National Liver Institute, Menofiya University, 32511 Shebin El-koom, Menofiya, Egypt (e-mail: firstname.lastname@example.com). Received 13 July, 2011 Accepted 24 October, 2011 The present study was funded by the Ministry of Health, Egypt, in collaboration with the National Liver Institute, Menofiya University, Egypt, without any particular role in the study design, recruitment of individuals, data analysis, or the writing of the report. The authors report no conflicts of interest. ABSTRACT METHODS Study Population Sample Collection Etiological Diagnosis and Group Allocation Laboratory Investigations Liver Biopsy and Histological Evaluation Statistical Analysis RESULTS Study Population Characteristics Cystatin C Levels Differed Significantly in Patients and Co... Cystatin C Levels Did Not Differ Significantly With Histopa... DISCUSSION REFERENCES Hepatitis C virus (HCV) is a serious health problem worldwide that causes chronic infection in up to 85% of cases (1). Egypt has the highest prevalence in the world (2). HCV is the sole member of the genus Hepacivirus and can be grouped into 11 genotypes with distinct geographical distributions (3,4). It is a single-stranded RNA virus that encodes a single polypeptide chain. The polyprotein precursor is proteolytically cleaved into 4 structural proteins (C, E1, E2, and p7) followed by 6 nonstructural (NS) proteins (NS2, NS3, NS4A, NS4B, NS5A, and NS5B) (5). The NS2/3 protease is a cysteine protease required for HCV polyprotein processing and is responsible for the cleavage between NS2 and NS3, which is required for viral replication in vivo (6,7). NS2 upregulates viral translation (8) and inhibits host cell apoptosis, which provides a cellular environment that is advantageous for viral replication without the elimination of the host cell (1). Moreover, it is required for NS5A activation (9), which in turn inhibits interferon-signaling pathway and interferon-stimulated gene activation, thus counteracting host cell antiviral response, and promotes viral translation and replication (10). NS3 functions both as a protease, cleaving mature NS proteins from the polyprotein, and an RNA helicase, which is believed to be required for the RNA replication (11). This demonstrates that all of the consequences of the action of NS2/3 and cleavage between NS2 and NS3 are in favor of hepatitis C viral replication and infection establishment in the host. The HCV NS2/3 protease shares no obvious sequence homology to any known proteases in the animal kingdom and would therefore make an attractive target for antiviral therapy (1). Cystatin C is a nonglycated low-molecular-weight protein of 13.3 kDa, which belongs to the superfamily of cystatins. Its basic function is to inhibit and regulate the activity of cysteine proteases (12). Cystatin C displays the strongest inhibitory activity of all of the cystatins toward cysteine proteases and has a widespread distribution in human tissues and body fluids (13). Cystatin C has also been shown to exhibit antiviral functions, as suggested from experiments done with virus-infected cell lines (14). Cystatin C has been extensively studied in renal diseases as a marker of kidney function (15,16) and cardiovascular diseases (17,18), yet the results are controversial (19,20). In addition, elevated serum cystatin C in patients with chronic liver disease has been reported (21), but reports about its correlation with disease severity are contradictory (22,23). The relation of cystatin C levels, as a cysteine protease inhibitor, to the viral load in chronic HCV infection has never been addressed before. The present study was undertaken to study the relation of cystatin C serum levels and HCV viremia in treatment-naïve children with chronic hepatitis C. It demonstrates that cystatin C may be one of the important therapeutic opportunities against HCV infection. Back to Top | Article Outline METHODS Study Population Inclusion criteria were children with treatment-naïve chronic HCV infection, ages 3 to 18 years and body mass index <95th percentile. Of 64 children with chronic HCV infection attending the outpatient and the inpatient of the Department of Pediatric Hepatology, National Liver Institute, Menofiya University, Egypt, between February 2010 and February 2011, only 27 were enrolled in the study after exclusion of those with ongoing or a history of antiviral therapy, those with cirrhosis or renal or cardiac impairment, or those who have any evidence of infection. Those with combined liver disease (eg, HCV combined with hepatitis B virus, autoimmune hepatitis, diabetes, thalassemia, or other metabolic disorder) or those receiving corticosteroids were also excluded from the study. Another group of 25 apparently healthy children were included in the study and served as controls. Signed informed consent was obtained from the parents of all of the patients and controls before enrollment in the study. The study was approved by the research ethics committee of the National Liver Institute, Menofiya University. Back to Top | Article Outline Sample Collection Three blood samples were collected from the patients. The first sample was allowed to clot naturally in the test tube; serum was separated and divided into small aliquots and stored immediately at −80°C until time of use for liver function tests, viral markers, kidney functions (urea and creatinine), C-reactive protein (CRP), and cystatin C assays. A second sample was added to ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid for complete blood count (CBC) and tested immediately. A third sample was added to sodium citrate for prothrombin time and tested just before performing liver biopsy. A serum sample was collected from controls for liver transaminases (alanine transaminase [ALT], aspartate transaminase [AST]), kidney functions, CRP, anti-HCV antibody (Ab), and cystatin C assay. Back to Top | Article Outline Etiological Diagnosis and Group Allocation Diagnosis of chronic hepatitis C was based on the presence of serum anti-HCV Ab and persistently positive HCV-RNA for >6 months (24,25), negative hepatitis B viral markers, and absence of any associated liver disease, supported by the histopathological feature of HCV infection in liver biopsy. To eliminate the possibility of any renal complication, kidney functions and abdominal ultrasound screening for patients were included. Control groups were defined by apparently healthy individuals with no signs or symptoms of liver disease or any other diseases, normal liver transaminases, normal kidney functions, negative anti-HCV Ab, and negative CRP. Back to Top | Article Outline Laboratory Investigations Certain relevant clinical values, including CBC, liver function tests, kidney function tests, CRP, and prothrombin time, were performed for every analyzed sample. Viral markers were performed using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay according to the manufacturer's instructions: HCV Ab (Innogenetics, Ghent, Belgium), hepatitis B virus surface antigen, hepatitis B virus core immunoglobulin M, and immunoglobulin G Abs (Dia Sorin, Saluggia, Italy). Real-time polymerase chain reaction for HCV-RNA was performed for patients only using COBAS Ampliprep/COBAS TaqMan (Roche Molecular Systems, Branchburg, NJ; detection limit is 15 IU/mL). According to the viral load, viremia was classified arbitrarily into low (15–2 × 105 IU/mL), moderate (>2 × 105–2 × 106 IU/mL), and high viremia (>2 × 106 IU/mL). Serum cystatin C assays were performed for all of the patients and controls using an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay kit (R&D Systems, Minneapolis, MN). Genotyping/subtyping was done by restriction fragment length polymorphism using restriction enzymes HaeIII, RsaI, MvaI, and HinfI on polymerase chain reaction–amplified 5′-untranslated region (5′-UTR). Back to Top | Article Outline Liver Biopsy and Histological Evaluation Liver biopsy was performed using a true-cut needle. Specimens were fixed in formalin, embedded in paraffin, and stained with hematoxylin and eosin, Masson's trichrome, reticulin, and Perl stains. Hepatic necroinflammatory activity and liver fibrosis were evaluated according to Ishak staging and grading score (26). Necroinflammatory activity was classified into mild (score 1–5), moderate (score 6–8), and severe (score 9–18). Fibrosis was classified into mild (stage 1), moderate (stages 2–3), and severe fibrosis or cirrhosis (stages 4–6) (27). Back to Top | Article Outline Statistical Analysis Values were expressed as mean ± standard deviation or number (percentage) of individuals with a condition. For quantitative data, statistical significance was tested by either the Kruskal-Wallis nonparametric test or the Mann-Whitney U test. For qualitative data, significance was tested by the χ2 test. Correlation was tested by the Spearman test. Results were considered significant if P value is ≤0.05. Statistical analysis was done using the SPSS statistical package version 13 (SPSS Inc, Chicago, IL) on an IBM-compatible computer. Back to Top | Article Outline RESULTS Study Population Characteristics The study included 27 children with chronic HCV infection: 13 (48.1%) girls and 14 (51.9%) boys. Their mean age was 11.66 ± 3.99 ranging from 3 to 17 years. Genotype 4a was found in 23 patients, whereas HCV genotype could not be determined in 4 patients. Mode of HCV infection was surgery in 10 (37%), blood transfusion in 6 (22.2%), male circumcision in 5 (18.5%), vertical transmission in 3 (11.1%), dental procedures in 1 (3.7%), and unknown in 2 (7.4%) children. A second group of 25 apparently healthy children were included as controls: 8 (32%) girls and 17 (68%) boys. Their mean age was 10.16 ± 3.61 ranging from 4 to 16 years. Both groups were age and sex matched (P = 0.149 and 0.27, respectively). Both groups had normal serum urea (26.02 ± 6.71 vs 23.14 ± 5.24 mg/dL; P = 0.338) and creatinine (0.57 ± 0.19 vs 0.58 ± 0.19 mg/dL; P = 0.903) with no significant difference between both groups. ALT (40.37 ± 23.42 vs 20.8 ± 6.01 U/L) and AST (43.74 ± 26.75 vs 27.24 ± 6.31 U/L) values of patients with chronic hepatitis C were significantly higher than that of the controls (P = 0.0002 and 0.002, respectively). Back to Top | Article Outline Cystatin C Levels Differed Significantly in Patients and Controls and Correlated Negatively With HCV Viremia Serum cystatin C levels were significantly higher in patients than in the controls (1.4 ± 0.47 vs 0.99 ± 0.49 mg/L; P = 0.006). Moreover, cystatin C was significantly higher in those with low viremia (1.55 ± 0.41) than in those with moderate viremia (0.99 ± 0.43) and controls (0.99 ± 0.49; P = 0.013 and P = 0.0004, respectively); however, there was no statistical significant difference between those with moderate viremia and controls (P = 0.909) (Fig. 1). To investigate the parameters related to different cystatin C levels in patients with low and those with moderate viremia, the demographic, laboratory, and histopathological parameters were compared between both groups. With the exception of albumin (P = 0.016), all of the parameters were comparable with no statistically significant difference (Table 1). The correlation of cystatin C with age, laboratory, and histopathological parameters was tested (Table 2). No significant correlation was found between age and cystatin C in both HCV and control groups (P = 0.714 and 0.517, respectively). In the HCV group, there was no significant correlation with any of the studied parameters except for a significant positive correlation with serum albumin (P = 0.008) and a greatly significant negative correlation with HCV viremia (P < 0.0001) (Fig. 2). Figure 1 Table 1 Table 2 Figure 2 Back to Top | Article Outline Cystatin C Levels Did Not Differ Significantly With Histopathological Changes or With Severity of Liver Disease All of the patients underwent liver biopsy. Two of them had mild steatosis. Activity ranged from A2 to A10 and fibrosis ranged from F1 to F4. None of the patients had cirrhosis. We compared cystatin C levels in patients with mild, moderate, and severe fibrosis (1.49 ± 0.46, 1.33 ± 0.52, and 1.59 ± 0.02 mg/L, respectively) and activity (1.43 ± 0.38, 1.31 ± 0.58, and 1.77 ± 0.03 mg/L, respectively). In addition, we compared the levels in patients with and without hepatic steatosis (1.74 ± 0.78 vs 1.37 ± 0.46 mg/L, respectively). There was no significant difference in serum cystatin C levels between patients with different stages of hepatic fibrosis (P = 0.717), different grades of activity (P = 0.365), or presence or absence of steatosis (P = 0.406). To look at the relation between cystatin C and the severity of liver disease, patients were regrouped according to the level of transaminases into those with normal versus elevated ALT or AST. There was no significant difference in cystatin C levels between those with normal and those with elevated ALT (1.41 ± 0.47 vs 1.39 ± 0.52 U/L; P = 0.657). Similarly, there was no significant difference between those with normal and those with elevated AST (1.33 ± 0.56 vs 1.49 ± 0.36 U/L; P = 0.306). Back to Top | Article Outline DISCUSSION The aim of the present study was to evaluate the serum cystatin C level in children with chronic HCV infection and its relation to the level of HCV viremia. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first study to be performed in this concern. Our results showed that serum cystatin C was significantly higher in patients with HCV than in controls. This finding may be supported by that reported by Chu et al (22), in which average cystatin C was significantly higher in patients with HCV than that in controls. Similarly, Takeuchi et al (21) reported the greatly significant elevation (P < 0.0001) of serum cystatin C in patients with chronic hepatitis compared with healthy controls. The present study showed that there was no significant difference in cystatin C level according to different stages of fibrosis, grades of activity, or the presence or absence of steatosis (P > 0.05). In addition, cystatin C was not correlated with any CBC parameters or liver functions, except for serum albumin, which directly correlated with cystatin C (P = 0.023). Apart from albumin and contrary to our results, Takeuchi et al (21) reported that significant correlations were observed among cystatin C levels and total bilirubin levels, albumin levels, and platelet counts. Serum cystatin C concentrations correlated well with histological stages despite the lack of correlation with histological grades. Moreover, Chu et al (22) revealed a direct relation between cystatin C and the severity of liver diseases. Such a relation was not found in our study. This may result from the difference in population characteristics in these studies because they were adults with chronic hepatitis, cirrhosis, and hepatocellular carcinoma, whereas ours was performed in children and none had cirrhosis. Interestingly, our results showed a greatly significant negative correlation between serum cystatin C and HCV viremia (P < 0.0001). This would be of utmost importance, implicating a possible role of cystatin C as an inhibitor of hepatitis C viral replication. Cystatin C has been reported to have an antiviral effect on poliovirus–, herpes simplex virus–, and coronavirus–infected cell cultures (28,29), and salivary cystatins were able to inhibit herpes simplex virus replication (30). One of the proposed mechanisms of cystatin C as an antiviral is the anticysteine protease function against HCV NS2/3 protease. Another possible mechanism is the immunomodulatory role of cystatin C leading to the augmentation of the TH1 response (14), which is protective particularly against intracellular pathogens (31). Cystatin C is mainly extracellular, whereas HCV is found both extracellular in the serum and intracellular, such as hepatocytes (32) and peripheral mononuclear cells (33). This raises the question of whether cystatin C can antagonize intracellular HCV. The answer to this question is the study performed by Ekstrom et al (34), in which they demonstrated that human cell lines internalized fluorophore-conjugated cystatin C when exposed to physiological concentrations. Intracellular cystatin C increased, reaching 4 to 6 times the baseline level. Moreover, the observation that recombinant cystatin C can be internalized in the cells of several tissues following intraperitoneal injection could lead to a mechanism allowing the protein to increase the total intracellular cysteine protease inhibitory activity significantly (35). When we compared cystatin C levels in patients with low viremia and in those with moderate viremia with the controls, the levels were significantly higher in those with low viremia than in those with moderate viremia (P = 0.013) and controls (P = 0.0004), whereas there was no significant difference between the levels in those with moderate viremia and controls (P = 0.909); that is to say that the patients with low viremia could upregulate cystatin C levels from those present in healthy controls, which in turn shared in the antiviral action against HCV as reflected by the low viral load. Those who could not upregulate their serum levels of cystatin experienced a higher viral load (moderate viremia). El-Araby et al (36) demonstrated that the only determinant factor for response to antiviral therapy in children with chronic hepatitis C was the pretreatment level of viremia in which lower viral loads were significantly associated with rapid and sustained virological responses. We postulate that higher serum cystatin C would increase the chances for lower viral loads, which in turn increase the chances for either the spontaneous clearance of the virus or successful antiviral therapy. In conclusion, our study demonstrated that higher serum cystatin C levels in children with chronic HCV were associated with lower HCV viremia and those with higher viral load failed to upregulate the basal serum levels that were found in healthy controls. The limitation in our study is the small number of patients, but the greatly significant correlation may reflect a possible inhibitory effect of cystatin C on HCV replication through inhibiting its NS2/3 (cysteine protease) enzyme and is tempting for further in vitro and in vivo studies for cystatin C as a promising adjuvant therapy for HCV infection. Back to Top | Article Outline REFERENCES1. Welbourn S, Pause A. The hepatitis C virus NS2/3 protease. Curr Issues Mol Biol 2007; 9:63–69. Cited Here... | PubMed 2. El-Raziky MS, El-Hawary M, Esmat G, et al. Prevalence and risk factors of asymptomatic hepatitis C virus infection in Egyptian children. World J Gastroenterol 2007; 13:1828–1832. Cited Here... | PubMed 3. Liew M, Erali M, Page S, et al. Hepatitis C genotyping by denaturing high-performance liquid chromatography. J Clin Microbiol 2004; 42:158–163. Cited Here... | PubMed | CrossRef 4. Webster DP, Klenerman P, Collier J, et al. Development of novel treatments for hepatitis C. Lancet Infect Dis 2009; 9:108–117. Cited Here... | PubMed | CrossRef 5. Glenn JS. Molecular virology of the hepatitis C virus: implication for novel therapies. Clin Liver Dis 2005; 9:353–369. Cited Here... | PubMed | CrossRef 6. Kolykhalov AA, Mihalik K, Feinstone SM, et al. Hepatitis C virus-encoded enzymatic activities and conserved RNA elements in the 3′ nontranslated region are essential for virus replication in vivo. J Virol 2000; 74:2046–2051. Cited Here... | PubMed | CrossRef 7. Lorenz IC, Marcotrigiano J, Dentzer TG, et al. Structure of the catalytic domain of the hepatitis C virus NS2-3 protease. Nature 2006; 442:831–835. Cited Here... | View Full Text | PubMed | CrossRef 8. She Y, Liao Q, Chen X, et al. Hepatitis C virus (HCV) NS2 protein up-regulates HCV IRES-dependent translation and down-regulates NS5B RdRp activity. Arch Virol 2008; 153:1991–1997. Cited Here... | PubMed | CrossRef 9. Liu Q, Bhat RA, Prince AM, et al. The hepatitis C virus NS2 protein generated by NS2-3 autocleavage is required for NS5A phosphorylation. Biochem Biophys Res Commun 1999; 254:572–577. Cited Here... | PubMed | CrossRef 10. Wohnsland A, Hofmann WP, Sarrazin C. Viral determinants of resistance to treatment in patients with hepatitis C. Clin Microbiol Rev 2007; 20:23–38. Cited Here... | PubMed | CrossRef 11. Beran RK, Pyle AM. Hepatitis C viral NS3-4A protease activity is enhanced by the NS3 helicase. J Biol Chem 2008; 283:29929–29937. Cited Here... | PubMed | CrossRef 12. Korolenko TA, Filatova TG, Cherkanova MS, et al. Cystatins: cysteine proteases regulation and disturbances in tumors and inflammation. Biomed Khim 2008; 54:210–217. Cited Here... | PubMed 13. Jiborn T, Abrahamson M, Wallin H, et al. Cystatin C is highly expressed in the human male reproductive system. J Androl 2004; 25:564–572. Cited Here... | PubMed 14. Mukherjee S, Ukil A, Das PK. Immunomodulatory peptide from cystatin, a natural cysteine protease inhibitor, against leishmaniasis as a model macrophage disease. Antimicrob Agents Chemother 2007; 51:1700–1707. Cited Here... | PubMed | CrossRef 15. Takeuchi T, Isobe S, Sato K, et al. Cystatin C: a possible sensitive marker for detecting potential kidney injury after computed tomography coronary angiography. J Comput Assist Tomogr 2011; 35:240–245. Cited Here... | View Full Text | PubMed | CrossRef 16. Roos JF, Doust J, Tett SE, et al. Diagnostic accuracy of cystatin C compared to serum creatinine for the estimation of renal dysfunction in adults and children—a meta-analysis. Clin Biochem 2007; 40:383–391. Cited Here... | PubMed | CrossRef 17. Satoh-Asahara N, Suganami T, Majima T, et al. Urinary cystatin C as a potential risk marker for cardiovascular disease and chronic kidney disease in patients with obesity and metabolic syndrome. Clin J Am Soc Nephrol 2011; 6:265–273. Cited Here... | PubMed 18. Lassus J, Harjola VP. Cystatin C: a step forward in assessing kidney function and cardiovascular risk. Heart Fail Rev 2011. Cited Here... 19. Uemura O, Ushijima K, Nagai T, et al. Measurements of serum cystatin C concentrations underestimate renal dysfunction in pediatric patients with chronic kidney disease. Clin Exp Nephrol 2011;15:535–8. Cited Here... | PubMed | CrossRef 20. Royakkers AA, Korevaar JC, van Suijlen JD, et al. Serum and urine cystatin C are poor biomarkers for acute kidney injury and renal replacement therapy. Intensive Care Med 2011; 37:493–501. Cited Here... | PubMed | CrossRef 21. Takeuchi M, Fukuda Y, Nakano I, et al. Elevation of serum cystatin C concentrations in patients with chronic liver disease. Eur J Gastroenterol Hepatol 2001; 13:951–955. Cited Here... | View Full Text | PubMed | CrossRef 22. Chu SC, Wang CP, Chang YH, et al. Increased cystatin C serum concentrations in patients with hepatic diseases of various severities. Clin Chim Acta 2004; 341:133–138. Cited Here... | PubMed | CrossRef 23. Lebensztejn DM, Skiba E, Kaczmarski M, et al. Serum cystatin C concentration does not predict advanced liver disease in children with chronic hepatitis B. Clin Chim Acta 2004; 347:227–228. Cited Here... | PubMed | CrossRef 24. Alisi A, Comparcola D, Nobili V. Treatment of chronic hepatitis C in children: is it necessary and, if so, in whom? J Hepatol 2010; 52:472–474. Cited Here... 25. Chen SL, Morgan TR. The natural history of hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection. Int J Med Sci 2006; 3:47–52. Cited Here... | PubMed | CrossRef 26. Ishak K, Baptista A, Bianchi L, et al. Histological grading and staging of chronic hepatitis. J Hepatol 1995; 22:696–699. Cited Here... | PubMed | CrossRef 27. Esmat G, Metwally M, Zalata KR, et al. Evaluation of serum biomarkers of fibrosis and injury in Egyptian patients with chronic hepatitis C. J Hepatol 2007; 46:620–627. Cited Here... | PubMed | CrossRef 28. Bjorck L, Grubb A, Kjellen L. Cystatin C, a human proteinase inhibitor, blocks replication of herpes simplex virus. J Virol 1990; 64:941–943. Cited Here... | PubMed 29. Collins AR, Grubb A. Inhibitory effects of recombinant human cystatin C on human coronaviruses. Antimicrob Agents Chemother 1991; 35:2444–2446. Cited Here... | PubMed | CrossRef 30. Peri P, Hukkanen V, Nuutila KS, et al. The cysteine protease inhibitors cystatins inhibit herpes simplex virus type 1-induced apoptosis and virus yield in HEp-2 cells. J Gen Virol 2007; 88:2101–2105. Cited Here... | PubMed | CrossRef 31. Vray B, Hartmann S, Hoebeke J. Immunomodulatory properties of cystatins. Cell Mol Life Sci 2002; 59:1503–1512. Cited Here... | PubMed | CrossRef 32. Castillo I, Rodriguez-Inigo E, Lopez-Alcorocho JM, et al. Hepatitis C virus replicates in the liver of patients who have a sustained response to antiviral treatment. Clin Infect Dis 2006; 43:1277–1283. Cited Here... | View Full Text | PubMed | CrossRef 33. Castillo I, Rodriguez-Inigo E, Bartolome J, et al. Hepatitis C virus replicates in peripheral blood mononuclear cells of patients with occult hepatitis C virus infection. Gut 2005; 54:682–685. Cited Here... | View Full Text | PubMed | CrossRef 34. Ekstrom U, Wallin H, Lorenzo J, et al. Internalization of cystatin C in human cell lines. FEBS J 2008; 275:4571–4582. Cited Here... | CrossRef 35. Frendeus KH, Wallin H, Janciauskiene S, et al. Macrophage responses to interferon-gamma are dependent on cystatin C levels. Int J Biochem Cell Biol 2009; 41:2262–2269. Cited Here... 36. El-Araby HA, Sira MM, Behairy EB, et al. Interferon induction regimen for chronic hepatitis C genotype 4 in Egyptian children. J Pediatr Infect Dis 2010; 5:233–241. Cited Here... Keywords: cystatin C; cysteine protease; genotype 4; hepatitis C virus; viral load Copyright 2012 by ESPGHAN and NASPGHAN Article Outline ABSTRACT METHODS Study Population Sample Collection Etiological Diagnosis and Group Allocation Laboratory Investigations Liver Biopsy and Histological Evaluation Statistical Analysis RESULTS Study Population Characteristics Cystatin C Levels Differed Significantly in Patients and Co... Cystatin C Levels Did Not Differ Significantly With Histopa... DISCUSSION REFERENCES Source Serum Cystatin C Correlates Negatively With Viral Load in Treatment-naïve Children With Chronic Hepatitis C Journal of Pediatric Gastroenterology and Nutrition. 54(3):364-368, March 2012. Full-Size Email + Favorites Export View in Gallery Email to a Colleague Colleague's E-mail is Invalid Your Name: (optional) Your Email: Colleague's Email: Separate multiple e-mails with a (;). Message: Thought you might appreciate this item(s) I saw at Journal of Pediatric Gastroenterology and Nutrition. Send a copy to your email Your message has been successfully sent to your colleague. Some error has occurred while processing your request. Please try after some time. Add Item(s) to: An Existing Folder A New Folder Folder Name: Description: The item(s) has been successfully added to "".


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Kumamoto: Lotus Root (からし蓮根) Tawashi by Sachiyo Fukao (深尾幸世)
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© Luluriel
Kumamoto: Lotus Root (からし蓮根) Tawashi
からし蓮根 karashi renkon (lotus root) of Kumamoto Prefecture, Japan
col.2 (pale beige) 8g
col.6 (mustard) 6g
col.3 (lt. brown) 50cm
+ 7 strands 60cm each of pale beige for stuffing
Hook: Japanese standard size 7.5/0 (4.5mm)
Finished Size:
8.5 x 8.5cm


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The GOES Product Generation System (GPGS) is a set of computer codes and scripts that enable the assimilation of real-time Geostationary Operational Environmental Satellite (GOES) data into regional weather forecasting mathematical models. The GPGS can be used to derive such geophysical parameters as land surface temperature, the amount of precipitable water, the degree of cloud cover, the surface albedo, and the amount of insolation from satellite measurements of radiant energy emitted by the Earth and its atmosphere. GPGS incorporates a priori information (initial guesses of thermodynamic parameters of the atmosphere) and radiometric measurements from the geostationary operational environmental satellites along with mathematical models of physical principles that govern the transfer of energy in the atmosphere. GPGS solves the radiative-transfer equation and provides the resulting data products in formats suitable for use by weather-forecasting computer programs. The data-assimilation capability afforded by GPGS offers the potential to improve local weather forecasts ranging from 3 hours to 2 days — especially with respect to temperature, humidity, cloud cover, and the probability of precipitation. The improvements afforded by GPGS could be of interest to news media, utility companies, and other organizations that utilize regional weather forecasts.
This program was written by Gary J. Jedlovec and Ronnie J. Suggs of Marshall Space Flight Center and Juan M. Lecue of the Universities Space Research Association and the Global Hydrology and Climate Center. For further information, contact Sammy Nabors, MSFC Commercializaton Assistance Lead, at sammy.a.nabors@ nasa.gov. Refer to MFS- 31615.


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Ann Tarantino
Ann Tarantino works on paper and on canvas, using ink and other water-based media. She has an MFA from Pennsylvania State University and a BA from Brown University. Her work has been shown in galleries and institutions across the country. In 2007, she collaborated with Kate McGraw for an exhibition of works at Curator's Office in Washington, D.C. In the spring of 2009, she again partnered with McGraw on a large-scale wall drawing and video installation at Flashpoint, also in Washington. Ann's work is currently represented by the Curator's Office in Washington, D.C.


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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: July 1, 2005
Researchers Return from Expedition to Deepest U.S. Reef
--Oceans Initiative Helping to Close the Science Gap--
ST. PETERSBURG - Combining resources and implementing a shared strategy for improved coastal research and ocean education, researchers today returned from an eight-day exploration and discovery mission to the deepest coral reef in the Unites States. Funded in part by the Florida Department of Environmental Protection (DEP), the expedition to Pulley Ridge just 100 miles off Naples included scientists from the University of South Florida, the Florida Institute of Oceanography, U.S. Geological Survey, Mote Marine Laboratory and the Harte Institute of Texas A&M University.
"The Pulley Ridge expedition is the first step in what will be a comprehensive regional assessment of marine resources and habitats in all of Florida's waters including the Gulf of Mexico to the edge of the shelf," said Florida Institute of Oceanography Director John Ogden.
At depths of 250 feet, the Pulley Ridge reef is located in the Gulf of Mexico in an area called the south Florida platform. Unique because of its depth, the reef stretches for 125 miles on ancient, barrier islands that are thought to have become submerged when sea levels rose after the last ice age, over 13,000 years ago. The announcement of the unique reefs' discovery was made just last January.
To aid the recent expedition, the Florida Institute of Oceanography deployed two ships, the "RV Bellows" and the "RV Suncoaster." Working in shifts, crews conducted research 24 hours a day for the eight-day mission along the full length of Pulley Ridge. The objectives of the expedition were to map the full extent of the Ridge to locate the richest coral concentrations, photograph the reef with state-of-the art digital cameras and bring back samples of the reef and algae.
"Florida has long recognized that healthy marine resources are the foundation for sustaining our quality of life and ocean-based economy," said DEP Secretary Colleen M. Castille. "This is an exciting time. New discovery and the exploration of uncharted ocean areas may provide the science and solutions to better understand, manage and protect critical marine life."
Recognizing the need to enhance science-based ocean management, Governor Jeb Bush last year launched the Florida Oceans Initiative to advance state-of-the-art coastal observation technologies, expand recreation and ocean education, conduct marine resource assessments and increase protection for seagrass beds, fisheries and coral reefs. With a $2 million investment, the Oceans Initiative is merging science and research with environmental management to safeguard Florida's valuable ocean resources and sensitive coastal areas. To extend the benefits of marine resource protection beyond Florida's coastline, Governor Bush, also extended a call to action to five Gulf states and established the Gulf of Mexico Alliance.
To learn more about Florida's Ocean Initiative, visit http://www.dep.state.fl.us/secretary/news/2004/ocean/default.htm.


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Scams target anti-Timeline Facebook users
What do you think about the new Facebook Timeline? Many of us are big fans, but a significant number of change-fearing consumers simply want the service back the way it was.
Of course, where there's unrest, there are scammers looking to take advantage of the situation. It should be no surprise that not long after Facebook rolled out its brand new function, an assortment of fraudulent pages started to pop up promising the ability to revert to the old profile.
Stop me if you've heard this one
It's a similar scenario to the dislike button hoax that sweeps the network every few months. The hoax pages, just like many others on social networking sites, require users to click Like buttons, download files, watch videos, answer questions and — inevitably — invite friends.
At the very least, pages like this are annoying, providing spammy wall posts and constant messages to friends or showing endless pages of advertising. At the other end of the spectrum, they can be quite nasty, forcing users to install malware or other unpleasant software compromising their computer security. As much as you may dislike the new Timeline, surely it's not worth virtually handing over your credit card details!
How the scam works
Many of the pages offer the same promise: a plug-in for your browser that will "disable" the new Timeline functionality. The developers even add helpful hints advising users to ignore software warnings that extensions, plug-ins, and other apps "can harm your computer." The developers also suggest that you should "allow up to 24 hours for the changes to take effect," which is a cute way of covering up the fact that absolutely nothing will happen.
Here to stay
The problem: Once you opt in to the new Timeline, it's permanently switched over. Within a few weeks, everybody on Facebook will be forced into the new layout (like it or not).
As a company, Facebook has tried to educate its millions of users, pointing out options, updating security information, and answering privacy concerns. Unfortunately, it doesn't look like that's been enough, with more than 70,000 people joining anti-Timeline pages across the board.
What can you do?
Given the sheer number of pages and groups created every hour, Facebook does not have the time or manpower to hunt down every fraudulent entry. Instead, the company relies on you to point out things that aren't quite what they seem. On each page or group, there is an option to "report this page" shown in the left-hand menu, under Likes. By taking the time to report pages that are offensive, fraudulent, or otherwise breaching the terms and conditions of the site, you can help make Facebook a better, safer place.
Another great idea is to take a look at the Facebook Security page and click the Like button. While the page hasn't been updated to include information on this latest scam, it's still a great spot to find out what's happening on the site. Live chats with staff, security hints and tips, and information about new features — it's a great resource.
Keep your wits about you
As we've seen over the past few years, the only thing constant about Facebook (and most other social networks) is change. Everything is constantly being tweaked, updated, and overhauled — and with a customer base in the millions, the developers simply can't please all the people all the time. Sometimes, the site will make a change that you don't like, and you won't be alone in your opinion. Rather than resorting to shady pages, online petitions, and apps that don't quite look right, do a little homework and avoid spreading the hysteria.
At present, Facebook has no plans to allow users to opt out of the Timeline functionality and is actively squashing any attempts as well as plug-ins and workarounds that are designed to hide the new page layout. Solutions that worked last week no longer work today, and the trend is continuing as Facebook evolves. Sorry, but it looks like we're stuck with Facebook's Timeline for now.
More from Tecca:
Everything you need to know about Facebook Timelines
Just show me: A tour of Facebook's new Timeline feature
Posted | Updated


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Webb Park Civic Association draws big crowd
BATON ROUGE - The Webb Park Civic Association held its first meeting Tuesday evening and it attracted a large crowd, about 100 residents met to talk about their future.
The gathering also included people from Steele Place, Glenmore Place, Walnut Hills, Country Club and Westdale subdivisions. In all, there are nearly 800 homes in the area and the association is working to preserve those places and give a voice to the community.
"Our mission is to really improve our neighborhood and the community surrounding us, so hopefully that will reduce our crime problem," said Dr. Blake Ray, who spearheaded the organization.
Webb has had a number of burglaries. Last January, a home invasion had many on high alert. W.A.R.N., or Watchful, Alert, Residential Neighbors already patrol the streets. Webb is also active on social media. Now, with the help of the new association, people hope to better the crime watch initiative.
"[It will] bring the community together, because I think that's going to positively effect the Mid City community," said Ray.
Ray says the association is looking to bring the neighborhood together and create an identity by incorporating beautification projects social events, helping Mid City grow by shopping local and working with BREC on Webb Park Golf Course improvements.
The Webb Park Civic Association costs $30 a year to be a member.
They are also looking to address traffic with the help of CPEX, and develop bike and walking trails.
Image: WBRZ


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A Wakefield man allegedly videotaped himself as he raped and sexually abused 13 small children — some as young as 8 days old — while providing day care for people at their homes in various towns outside Boston, Middlesex District Attorney Gerard T. Leone Jr. said today.
John Burbine, 49, has been indicted on 100 counts. He gained access to the children through the child care service, Waterfall Education Center, run by his wife
The victims were both male and female and ranged in age from 8 days to 3½ years old. The assaults occurred from August 2010 and through August 2012,
John Burbine faces charges of aggravated forcible rape of a child, subsequent offense (40 counts), aggravaged indecent assault and battery on a child, subsequent offense (17 counts), posing a child in a state of nudity (12 counts), posing a child in sexual conduct (11 counts), possession of child pornography (13 counts), dissemination of material harmful to a minor (2 counts), and operating an unlicensed child care program.
Wakefield man faces more than 100 counts of child sex abuse charges -
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Yummilicious Whimsical Wonderland
Bus stop advert for NOISE Singapore 2011
Bus stop advert for NOISE Singapore 2011
I'm hoping to make a trip to the bus stop that this advert was placed. Snap a photo and perhaps update this project status again. :) I had a lot of fun making this piece. It seriously represents me as an artist!
Thank You!