text:
Wilson Wants to Improve Treatment for Blind Veterans
Congresswoman Heather Wilson this week introduced a bill to improve the care of American troops affected by combat eye trauma.
H.R. 3558, the "Military Eye Trauma Treatment Act of 2007," would create a Center of Excellence within the Department of Defense specifically devoted to the prevention, diagnosis, mitigation, treatment, and rehabilitation of military eye injuries.
Rep. introduced the bill with Rep. John Boozman (R-AK). A bipartisan group of Members have already signed on to the Boozman-Wilson bill, including: Rep. John Hall (D-NY), Rep. Shelley Berkley (D-NV), Rep. Marion Berry (D-AR), Rep. Gus Bilirakis (R-FL), Rep. Robert Brady (D-PA), Rep. Bob Filner (D-CA), Rep. Bart Gordon (D-TN), Rep. Robin Hayes (R-NC), Del. Eleanor Holmes Norton (D-DC), Rep. James McGovern (D-MA), and Rep. Jeff Miller (R-FL).
"It's really important for the Pentagon and the VA to coordinate care for returning soldiers with eye injuries," says Wilson. "These are common injuries on the battlefield, and we can improve the care we provide our soldiers and veterans."
Members of the Blinded Veterans of America approached Wilson and Rep. Boozman, an optometrist, recently and asked them to introduce the measure in the U.S. House.
Serious combat eye trauma from Operation Iraqi Freedom and Operation Enduring Freedom has climbed to the third most common injury from these wars only behind post traumatic stress disorder and traumatic brain injuries. The Department of Defense has no central center that tracks these injuries, but reports show that 13% of all combat surgical hospital emergency operative procedures in Iraq were for severe combat eye penetrating wounds.
The legislation would create a Military Eye Trauma Center of Excellence within DOD to improve the tracking, diagnosis, treatment, and follow-up for service members who experience eye injuries. The legislation would require the Eye Trauma Center to coordinate its efforts with the VA, universities, and other entities; and to provide electronic information sharing with the VA. The legislation would improve screening, diagnosis, rehabilitative management, and vision research on visual dysfunction related to traumatic brain injury (TBI) by requiring a joint DOD-VA cooperative study on this issue.
In Operation Iraqi Freedom and Operation Enduring Freedom, the weapons used by our enemies have caused significant damage to the vision of many U.S. soldiers, particularly when soldiers are victims of sophisticated roadside bombs. Data compiled by the Defense Department between March 2003 and April 2005 reported that 16 % of all casualties evacuated from Iraq had associated eye injuries. Walter Red Army Medical Center has treated approximately 506 service members with either moderate to severe vision injuries. Furthermore, the National Naval Medical Center has approximately 450 eye injuries requiring surgery.
Serious Combat Eye Trauma from Operation Iraqi Freedom and Operation Enduring Freedom has climbed to the third most common injury from these wars only behind PTSD and TBI.
Between October 2001 and June 2006, over 1,000 service members with combat eye trauma were evacuated from overseas military operations. Many combat eye injuries require multiple surgical procedures and treatments at several facilities.
Additionally, there are over 1 million low-vision veterans in the U.S. and the incidences of blindness among the total veteran population of 24 million are expected to increase by 40% over the next two decades.
Provisions of Wilson's legislation:
· The legislation would create the Center of Excellence in Prevention, Diagnosis, Mitigation, Treatment and Rehabilitation of Military Eye Injuries to be established by the Secretary of Defense.
· The Center would be required to collaborate with the Department of Veterans affairs, institutions of higher education and other appropriate public and private entities.
· The center would develop, implement and oversee a registry of information for the tracking of the diagnosis, surgical intervention or other operative procedure, other treatment, and follow up for each case of eye injury incurred fighting in OIF or OEF.
· Information gathered through this registry would help in research and for the development of best practices and clinical education incurred during combat.
· Access to the registry would assist physicians in following these service members who are at risk.
· Access to the registry would assist physicians in following these service members for various complications of retinal detachments, traumatic cataracts, corneal decompensation, post operative glaucoma if the records of these eye injured are in central eye trauma registry where ophthalmologists and optometrists are able to access these surgical records.
Source: http://wilson.house.gov/Releases.aspx?ID=1512


text:
Hi! I am a thirty four year old female who has been experiencing breast pain in my left breast, for a couple of months. So, I went to the doctor and he found a lump,in the lower quadrant. It is halfway between the armpit and the nipple. It is the size of the width of your finger. I have been checking my breast and couldn't and cannot feel the lump. I am scheduled for an ultrasound. I didn't go to the doctor sooner because my breast stay tender and I am a twenty-one day cycler. So, they seem to get back sore as soon as the pain is relieved. I am terrified that I may have waited too long. The doctor's assistant said that it was a good sign because it helps when I take Ibuprofen. I also take vitamin E, do they really help and what does it mean if they do help? If this is not breast cancer, then what could it be? Also, can you tell me more about IBC? Every now and then, my nipple will itch or seem to tingle, should I be worried about this? Please help! I am terrified.READ MORE
My left breast is sore and tender.What can it be if not cancer?
OK, Terrified - first thing: take a deeeeeep breath. Even if you DO hve cancer (which is very unlikely), treatment these days is so good, chances are you'd be back to "normal" sooner than you'd think.
But let's not go there. A sore breast can be (and usually is) the result of a cyst, or fibrocystic change, or hormones (or pregnancy). Only very rarely would it be due to cancer - and then, your breast would get progressively worse (swollen, hot, red, infected-looking), and ibuprofen wouldn't help it.
I'm glad you're having the lump you found examined; it may or may not be related to the soreness. It's always good to take breast lumps and other breast changes seriously, but as I said, very seldom do they turn out to be cancer. So stay positive; try to relax; and I hope you'll get good news from your tests. Good luck - PJH
FROM OUR COMMUNITYYou should know Answers to your question are meant to provide general health information but should not replace medical advice you receive from a doctor. No answers should be viewed as a diagnosis or recommended treatment for a condition. Content posted by community members does not necessarily reflect the views of Remedy Health Media, which also reserves the right to remove material deemed inappropriate.DISPLAY TEXTLINK URL

subset: commoncrawl


text:
Cat. No. 2567
Price and AvailabilityBy clicking submit you agree to accept a cookie from Tocris Bioscience. For details, please read our privacy and cookie policy.
Alternative Name: Proteolipid protein (139-151)
Biological ActivitySynthetic myelin proteolipid protein (PLP) fragment. Immunization with this peptide induces severe clinical and histological experimental allergic encephalomyelitis (EAE), an animal model of multiple sclerosis.
Technical DataM.Wt:
The technical data provided above is for guidance only. For batch specific data refer to the Certificate of Analysis.
All Tocris products are intended for laboratory research use only.
Certificate of Analysis / Product Datasheet / Safety Datasheet
References are publications that support the products' biological activity.
Kuchroo et al (1991) Induction of experimental allergic encephalomyelitis by myelin proteolipid-protein-specific T cell clones and synthetic peptides. Pathobiology. 59 305. PMID: 1716908.
Sobel et al (1990) Acute experimental allergic encephalomyelitis in SJL/J mice induced by a synthetic peptide of myelin proteolipid protein. J.Neuropathol.Exp.Neurol. 49 468. PMID: 2273404.
Tuohy et al (1989) Identification of an encephalitogenic determinant of myelin proteolipid protein for SJL mice. J.Immunol. 142 1523. PMID: 2465343.
If you know of a relevant reference for PLP (139-151) please let us know.
Citations are publications that use Tocris products. Selected citations for PLP (139-151) include:
Arima et al (2015) A pain-mediated neural signal induces relapse in murine autoimmune encephalomyelitis, a multiple sclerosis model. Elife 4. PMID: 26193120.
Jana et al (2012) Gemfibrozil, a lipid-lowering drug, increases myelin genes in human oligodendrocytes via peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor-β. J Biol Chem 287 34134. PMID: 22879602.
Mondal et al (2012) Regulation of encephalitogenicity of neuroantigen-primed T cells by nitric oxide: Implications for multiple sclerosis. J Clin Cell Immunol 3 124. PMID: 23275862.
Do you know of a great paper that uses PLP (139-151) from Tocris? If so please let us know.
View Related Products by Target
View Related Products by Product Action
Keywords: PLP (139-151), supplier, Encephalitogenic, myelin, proteolipid, fragment, Neuronal, Metabolism, multiple, sclerosis, encephalomyelitis, EAE, Tocris Bioscience, Neuronal Metabolism products
Quick Order
Find multiple products by catalog number
New Products in this Area
Twitter Updates
Follow @Tocris on Twitter
Tocris is now actively tweeting. For regular updates on news, events and special offers, follow @Tocris on Twitter.


text:
The Curious Carolinian is a web series that answers questions about the quirks of living in North Carolina. Is there something you've always wondered about our state? Submit your question at the bottom of this page.
I once had a long-term substitute teacher, whose last name was — and I'm not making this up — Teach.
She'd regularly remind students of this fact when she wanted to reclaim control of the classroom from a brood of rowdy 8-year-olds hopped up on sugar after yet another mom sent in cupcakes for her child's birthday. (Oh cupcake days, miss 'em. Oh teachers, bless 'em.)
The clamor of shuffling feet under desks would immediately taper off to a silence. She'd continue by saying how Blackbeard's believed name was Edward Teach and how there was a strong possibility that she might be a descendent of the infamous pirate.
Had it been any other year, Ms. Teach's remarks about her last name probably wouldn't have inspired as much fear as they did those days in fourth grade, when our entire history curriculum centered on North Carolina's past.
Fresh on the brain were fantastic images of buccaneers, of plundering, pillaging, and effectively terrorizing the coast of summer vacations spent. A child's imagination is a hard place to separate fact from fiction. If there were a lesson to be learned here, it was to never test your luck with a person whose last name is Teach.
But maybe, just maybe, our perceptions of 18th-century pirates and who they were have been largely wrong all along.
That was the surprise I had in store for me when setting out to explore the reason why many pirates seemingly found a haven in North Carolina's waters.
I had heard before that the shallow inlets of the Outer Banks made it easier for pirates to hide their ships when they ran aground and were in need of repair. Evidently, that's a story a lot of people have heard over the years.
The problem is though that this theory, like the many others about our pirates and their relationship to the North Carolina coast, doesn't hold much water when you begin to think about it.
"The shallowness of the inlets and the intricacies of the inlets gave no benefit whatsoever to pirates because they weren't anymore knowledgeable or skilled to navigate shallow waters than their comrades who were honest merchant mariners," says Kevin Duffus, a historian whose areas of expertise make up the coastal, lore-lending trifecta: pirates, shipwrecks, and lighthouses.
In fact, one of our state's most famed shipwrecks involved Blackbeard, who tried to sail his ship, Queen Anne's Revenge, into what is now Beaufort Inlet. Knowing how treacherous the inlet's waters were, Blackbeard intentionally crashed his ship as part of a larger scheme to get rid of three-fourths of the people in his pirate company.
"In modern terms, it's like a business owner or corporate executive filing for bankruptcy to retain the equity they have in the company," Duffus says.
So if North Carolina's inlets weren't appealing to pirates, then what was?
The less-than-thrilling answer why a large number of pirates frequented our waters is that North Carolina was simply a stop along the way from the Caribbean to large colonial ports like Philadelphia, says Duffus, letting me down easy.
But, that doesn't explain why Blackbeard, the most recognizable of them all, intentionally sought out Ocracoke as his primary haunt, Duffus tells me. I hold on with bated breath.
It wasn't too long ago that most historians believe he happened upon the area by accident, but there's evidence to suggest that wasn't the case at all.
"His closest, most trusted allies were residents of the Pamlico River," he says.
That's what is key to remember. Pirate or not, practically no one's hands were unsoiled back then. Enforcement against piracy was next to none, considering the act was oftentimes encouraged by authorities, so long as they got their cut of the goods.
The Graveyard of the Atlantic presented an opportunity for not only pirates, but also everyday North Carolinians to plunder ships in distress through an act referred to as "wrecking."
"Instead of rescuing anybody, they tried to rescue cargos for their own gain," Duffus says.
This all sounds incredibly brutal to us now, but piracy, smuggling, and wrecking were essential to the survival of those residing in North Carolina, which was the least developed of the colonies at the time.
It didn't help that England and even neighboring colonies had enacted a number of trade restrictions against us, Duffus says. For instance, Virginia banned the trade of North Carolina tobacco within its borders.
It was rough out here.
Piracy began to drop off following the captures and killings of Stede Bonnet, who was another well-known pirate, and Blackbeard.
When England entered into another war with Spain, most remaining pirates turned themselves in and accepted pardons from the king, who wished to commission them as privateers.
The Golden Age of Piracy has long been over, but the lore still strikes up fear in our imaginations.
"We basically relate to pirates because of the movies we've seen," Duffus says. "We really don't think that they were people, too, and that they were once children and learned about the world at the knees of their parents."
Plus, as far as we know, there's no historical evidence to suggest that Blackbeard ever hurt or killed anybody. Those menacing smoking ends of his hair and beard? All just a ruse.
Sorry, Teach. The both of you. You can't scare me anymore.
Presented by Time Warner Cable News
Time Warner Cable News is North Carolina's only 24-hour local television news network. With four unique news channels that share reports of statewide interest, Time Warner Cable News is convenient, straight-forward and fair. Our promise is to deliver reliable, in-depth and un-biased news that matters to the communities we serve. Time Warner Cable News is also home of Weather On the Ones featuring accurate local forecasts every ten minutes around the clock. It's your news when you want and on the platform you prefer – on television, on line or on your mobile device.


text:
The judge who ruled that Rob Ford should be turfed from office over a conflict-of-interest case made several errors, the Toronto Mayor's lawyer says in a submission.
Alan Lenczner said Mr. Justice Charles Hackland of the Ontario Superior Court made four errors in law when he ruled last month that Mr. Ford violated conflict-of-interest rules when he spoke and voted in favour of letting himself off the hook for repaying $3,150 in improper donations to his football charity.
"It is respectfully submitted that [Judge Hackland], from the outset, adopted the wrong approach," says a factum filed in divisional court Wednesday.
"Rather than applying the ordinary meaning to plain language, and seeking to uphold the democratic decision of the voters who elected the Mayor, by construing the [Municipal Conflict of Interest Act] 'strictly' and by searching for 'a reasonable interpretation which will avoid a penalty,' [Judge Hackland] did the opposite of what the law demands."
Judge Hackland's mistakes, according to Mr. Lenczner, include ruling that city council was within its rights to order Mr. Ford to pay back the $3,150 and finding that Mr. Ford did not make an honest error in judgment when he voted and spoke on the issue at city council last February.
Earlier this month, Mr. Ford won a stay of Judge Hackland's order until a three-judge panel rules on his appeal. The appeal hearing is scheduled to begin Jan. 7, with a decision expected weeks later.Report Typo/Error
Follow @jillsmahoneyon Twitter:


text:
Price per metre or 25m roll (90cm Wide)
Soft versatile interlining for front parts of jackets etc. as well as for small parts.
Light to heavy weight fabrics such as wool or silk.
Press on step-by-step using a damp cloth.
Machine washable at 40 degrees.
Dry cleanable.
Occasionally, items may go out of stock just before an order is placed.
In such circumstances, out of stock items will be placed on back-order for you and despatched upon arrival at our warehouse, normally within 7 days
Phone: 01244 394 099
Click here for full terms and conditions
Contact Us 01244 394099Jaycotts BlogSize Guide for Sewing PatternsVisit Our StoreBasketDelivery & ReturnsTerms & ConditionsCookiesRecycling (WEEE)About Us
Jaycotts Ltd, Unit D2, Chester Trade Park, Bumpers Lane, Chester, CH1 4LT, United Kingdom


text:
come on...this is funny. if i saw a kid rawking this i would totally cheer him on!
Dalek X Carrot Clothing skateboard deck; 7.75 very rare and collectible! Only 20 decks left!Tags: skateboards, streetwear, street fashion, alife, dalek, supreme, skateboard decks, carrot clothingAdded 7 Years Ago from Carrotclothing
Dalek X Carrot Skateboard Deck designed by famous Brooklyn street artist Dalek. Super limited edition of 50 pcs. $85.00 USDTags: fashion, skateboards, streetwear, alife, dalek, supreme, skate deck, skateboard decks, carrot clothingAdded 8 Years Ago from Myshopify
seductive skateboard deck with chics kissing. HOT!!!!! I just want to hang it on my wall.
Extra cute with colorful flowers the ultimate chic deck.
I think it's safe to assume that our man, Barack Obama is the first politician that the skateboarding culture actually wanted on a deck. Here, here!Tags: wood, skateboards, skating, skates, president, decks, liberal, barack obama, obamaAdded 9 Years Ago from Urban Outfitters
Stylish decks for the trendsetting skateboarder.Tags: sports, hand painted, skateboarding, skateboards, skating, skates, skater, fun, decksAdded 9 Years Ago from Themustaches


text:
Organic mulches break down quickly in warm, damp environments and may even begin to harm the plants they were meant to foster. Using a rubber mulch can provide many, but not all, the same benefits without being constantly replaced. One needs to consider the cons of rubber mulch and its potential toxicity before adding it to their landscape. Rubber mulch is commonly made from recycled rubber taken from tires and other sources and shredded to reduce it to the proper size.
Benefits of Rubber Mulch
Rubber mulch provides the same physical benefits of traditional organic mulches. Adding a layer of rubber mulch improves moisture retention in the soil and decreases the growth of weeds, though it hasn't shown to be as effective in controlling weeds as organic options. Rubber mulch is also heavier than most organic mulches, making it less susceptible to being blown or washed away. Rubber mulches are available in many colors and are designed to retain their color without fading longer than artificially colored wood mulch products. Rubber mulch does decompose but at a much slower rate than organic mulches; rubber mulch does not encourage the growth of harmful microorganisms in plant beds.
What Rubber Mulch Lacks
Organic mulches require regular replacement as they decompose. Although the decomposition process shortens the longevity of organic mulch it also enriches the soil with nutrients and improves its structure when tilled into the soil on an annual basis. Rubber mulches do not break down as quickly as organic-based mulches but they do not improve the soil and are typically much more expensive than regular organic mulch. It is also more difficult to remove rubber mulch from garden beds than organic types.
Decomposing Rubber
Rubber mulch is not permanent; microorganisms in the soil cause it to decompose over a long period of time. As it breaks down, rubber mulch releases up to 11 types of metal into the soil in addition to any contaminants absorbed by the rubber before it was recycled. The most problematic metal in garden beds that decomposing rubber mulch releases is zinc. The zinc comes from the tires used to create rubber mulch, which consists of up to 2 percent of the tire's total mass. Over time, rain and irrigation water can leach zinc into the soil, increasing the concentration of the metal to a level that is harmful to plants, aquatic life and potentially to humans. According to Washington State University noting a USDA study and the toxicity of rubber mulch, the product should not be used in composting, potting mediums or used in garden soils or agriculture.
Burning Rubber
Shredded rubber mulch is a poor choice for gardens or landscapes in areas that are prone to wildfires. Once ignited, rubber mulch burns hotter with a higher flame than fires in other types of mulch. Most common types of organic mulch are susceptible to fire in hot, dry conditions. The University of California recommends keeping rubber mulch and other combustible mulches at least 30 feet away from homes. Using inorganic mulches made from gravel or brick chips is an effective way to mulch flower and garden beds near homes in areas prone to wildfires.
Related Searches
- Photo Credit Torian Dixon/iStock/Getty Images
You May Also Like
Cypress Mulch Pros & Cons
For gardeners who live in cold areas, or want to protect warm-weather plants over winter, mulch is a very important tool. Although...
Pros & Cons of Rubber Coating for Pools
There are a number of options for coating a freshly poured concrete pool. One is a rubberized paint that is sprayed or...
River Rock Vs. Mulch
The most common reasons for mulching are preventing moisture loss, weed prevention, control soil temperature and aesthetics. River rock heats up soil...
Pros & Cons of Pea Gravel
Pea gravel is just one type of material available for landscaping. When deciding which type of landscaping material to use, consider the...
Rubber Playground Surfaces Pros & Cons
The Consumer Product Safety Commission recommends adding a surface such as rubber underneath all playground equipment, at home and public playgrounds, for...
Pros & Cons of Landscaping Ground Cover Rocks
In landscaping, rock ground covers are an interesting choice that can provide a distinctive look for your yard. They conserve water and...


text:
This week we will pick food from our fields and use our harvest to cook, taste and explore a variety of dishes that are eaten in different cultures throughout the world. Children will engage in taste tests, learn about herbs and spices, and make their own tasty snacks, drawing from the bounty of fresh produce grown at Common Ground Farm. The 10 to 12 group will work with a professional chef and will create globally inspired snacks from start to finish—harvesting vegetables, preparing them safely, and sharing their creations. Participants will go home with a hand-made cookbook and open mind to many different tastes and flavors, drawing from a variety of cultures. On Friday, families will be invited to join us as we share the food that we harvested and prepared ourselves!
There are two steps to register your child for farm camp. Registration is NOT complete until both steps are completed:
1. Complete the on-line registration form.
2. Payment


text:
Pending Home Sales Rise in October
Pending home sales rose strongly in October with mixed regional results.
Find out more about savings on home warranties from American Home Shield and errors & omissions insurance from Victor O. Schinnerer & Company. REALTORS® receive exclusive discounts through the REALTOR Benefits® Program.
NAR is working with other groups to fight against efforts to roll back net neutrality rules


text: IBM MAINFRAME: Why use 0 in DS assmebler code ? Portal | Manuals | References | Downloads | Info | Programs | JCLs | Master the Mainframes Why use 0 in DS assmebler code ? IBMMAINFRAMES.com Support Forums -> PL/I & Assembler IBM ManualsQuick References View previous topic :: :: View next topic Author Message jackzhang75Active UserJoined: 09 Jun 2014Posts: 115Location: windsor Posted: Fri Apr 10, 2015 1:30 am Post subject: Why use 0 in DS assmebler code ? I am new to the assembler, can someone help me explain why in following code, use '0' which means not allocate the storage ... Code: TMAPLCDE DS 0CL5 Also another question is i see some program define many different length like, how to decide how long should to define or whats the length i need ?? Code: DS 0CL5 DS CL1 DS CL3 DS CL1 DS CL7 DS CL1 DS CL26 DS CL2 DS CL9 EQU 12 Thank you very much !! Back to top Bill WoodgerDFSORT ModeratorJoined: 09 Mar 2011Posts: 7315 Posted: Fri Apr 10, 2015 1:49 am Post subject: Reply to: Why use 0 in DS assmebler code ? 1) The 0 prefix allows you to define a name to reference one or more fields defined after it. If you know COBOL, it is like a group-item, or a REDEFINES. 2a) Your data determines the lengths of fields. If you have two fields which are being multiplied, you need a field big enough to hold the result (or you need to deal with the overflow). If you know your data, the limits of your data, that will help you decide beyond just using maths. If you are going to "edit" a field for display, then the length of the edit-mask is determined by the required format of the output. 2b) Sometimes there are things which require a particular size, or have a particular limit. Back to top jackzhang75Active UserJoined: 09 Jun 2014Posts: 115Location: windsor Posted: Fri Apr 10, 2015 7:40 pm Post subject: Hi Bill, Thank you for your answer. I still not quite understand " 1) The 0 prefix allows you to define a name to reference one or more fields defined after it. " Can you give me example ? Back to top Nic CloustonGlobal ModeratorJoined: 10 May 2007Posts: 1825Location: UK Posted: Fri Apr 10, 2015 11:00 pm Post subject: Quote: Can you give me example ? You gve an example yourself! But here is another one: Code: IREC DS 0CL23 COURSE record - 23 bytes long ICID DS CL5 1-5 Courese ID ICDESC DS CL15 6-20 Course Description ICHRS DS CL1 21-21 Course Hours ICRLF DS CL2 22-23 CRLF - end of record (DOS/Windoze) Back to top steve-myersActive MemberJoined: 30 Nov 2013Posts: 535Location: The Universe Posted: Sat Apr 11, 2015 6:12 am Post subject: In my code, you will often see something like this - Code: DATA DC P'12345' EDMASK DC 0C' NNN.NN' DC C' ',X'202120',C'.',X'2020' OUTAREA DC CL(L'EDMASK)' ' The 0C' NNN.NN' is just a mnemonic of what the edit mask and output looks like and it provides a length for the edit mask. The actual edit mask is C' ',X'202120',C'.',X'2020' Character data is character data, not some obscure hexadecimal code. The only hexadecimal characters are the digit select codes. The code to use this data is - Code: MVC OUTAREA,EDMASK ED OUTAREA,DATA Now, of course, if the edit mask is being used just once you can edit directly to the edit mask. If it is used several times you copy the edit mask to the output area. Back to top jackzhang75Active UserJoined: 09 Jun 2014Posts: 115Location: windsor Posted: Fri May 15, 2015 12:17 am Post subject: Thank you for your reply. Another question is why we need to define the big storage area first by using DS 0CL5 ? Why not directly define sub storage area maybe much simple ? If we do this way , anything wrong ? Back to top Robert SampleGlobal ModeratorJoined: 06 Jun 2008Posts: 8120Location: East Dubuque, Illinois, USA Posted: Fri May 15, 2015 12:34 am Post subject: In the particular example you showed, there was no reason to use the 0CL5. There are cases, however, where it comes in handy: Code: PLINE DS 0CL133 CC DS CL1' ' USERNAME DS CL25 DS CL4' ' USERADDR DS CL80 DS CL4' ' USERACCT DS CL11 DS CL8' ' allows you to fill in data and then use PUT OUTFILE,PLINE to print the entire 133 bytes as one record. Back to top View previous topic :: :: View next topic IBMMAINFRAMES.com Support Forums -> PL/I & Assembler All times are GMT + 6 Hours Page 1 of 1 Search our Forum: Similar Topics Topic Author Forum Replies Posted UNIT=AFF for Easytrieve code gandikk JCL & VSAM 7 Wed Jul 12, 2017 11:42 pm DB2 Program abending without giving a... rahulgarg14 DB2 7 Mon May 29, 2017 8:10 pm Job failing with USER = 4093 REASON C... Pradeepa S ABENDS & Debugging 1 Wed May 17, 2017 3:35 pm COBOL Code Parsers and Lineage Establ... balimanja COBOL Programming 2 Tue May 02, 2017 3:30 am Cobol upgrade - source code missing f... gthmrj IBM Tools 1 Wed Apr 26, 2017 6:04 pm © 2003-2016 IBM MAINFRAME Software Support Division Mainframe Wiki | Forum Rules | Bookmarks | Subscriptions | FAQ | Tutorials | Contact Us


text:
If an item you ordered from TextbookRush does not meet your expectations due to an error on our part, simply fill out a return request and then return it by mail within 30 days of ordering it for a full refund of item cost.
Learn more about our returns policy
Description: Based on a new ministry conference and Web initiative of the same name,innovatechurchgathers expert advice from a who7;s-who of next generation church leaders keenly determined to uphold never-changing truth in an ever-changing world.These eight esteemed contributors write two chapters each about their field of expertise and passion, providing readers with fresh methods for growing and leading the church without compromise. They include Jonathan Falwell (Leadership), Charles Billingsley (Worship), Daniel Henderson (Prayer), Rod Dempsey (Discipleship), Mat Staver (Culture), Dave Earley (Church Planting), David Wheeler (Outreach), and Ergun Caner (Apologetics). Pastors, church leaders, professors, and seminary students will be anxious to learn from and frequently reference these innovative, insightful presentations.
Limited time offer:
Get the first one free! (?)
All the information you need in one place! Each Study Brief is a summary of one specific subject; facts, figures, and explanations to help you learn faster.
List price: $14.99Publisher: B&H Publishing GroupPublication date: 9/1/2008Binding: PaperbackPages: 288Size: 5.50" wide x 8.25" long x 0.75" tall Weight: 0.748Language: English
Jonathan Falwell is senior pastor of the 20,000-member Thomas Road Baptist Church, called by unanimous vote of the congregation after his father's death in 2007. Vice Chancellor for Spiritual Affairs at Liberty University, the world's largest evangelical university with 37,000 students, Falwell preaches weekly on television, writes a weekly column for online news sources, and is an accomplished photographer with photos appearing in top news magazines. He and his wife have four children.
*A minimum purchase of $35 is required. Shipping is provided via FedEx SmartPost®
and FedEx Express Saver®. Average delivery time is 1 – 5 business days, but
is not guaranteed in that timeframe. Also allow 1 - 2 days for processing. Free shipping is eligible only in the continental United States and excludes
Hawaii, Alaska and Puerto Rico. FedEx service marks used by permission."Marketplace"
orders are not eligible for free or discounted shipping.
Learn more about the TextbookRush


text:
Who We Are
Icon Construction Services, LLC, is an engineering consulting firm specializing in Construction Engineering and Inspection (CE&I) Services. The Firm is based in Pensacola, Florida and has over 24 years of experience in the CE&I field. Utilization of the most current applications of technology provides efficiency for our Inspection staff and sets Icon Construction Services, LLC. apart from our competition. We provide expertise and staff to manage construction projects from Pre-Construction to Final Acceptance. Icon Construction Services, LLC. provides:
- Construction Engineering
- Project Administration
- Constructability Reviews
- Pre-Construction Plans and Document reviews
- Construction Inspection
- Materials Testing
- Project Quantity tracking and Certified Monthly Payments
- Claims Analysis & Management
What We Believe
Icon Construction Services, LLC. is founded on the belief that honesty, integrity, and high ethical standards are the core of our identity. We are committed to the highest standards of business conduct, open honesty with Clients, and ethics. Our founding commitment to our profession and our pledge to a strict employee Code of Conduct is paramount to our continued success. Recognizing that our most valued commodity is our reputation, we fully embrace the concept that to give real service you must add something which cannot be bought or measured, and that is sincerity and integrity.
Our Clients
Icon Construction Services, LLC. specializes in providing CE&I Services to the Florida Department of Transportation, local Counties, and Municipal governments. We are pre-qualified by the Florida Department of Transportation as a non-DBE Small Business Enterprise (SBE). As an non-DBE SBE, we can assist larger Firms in meeting their non-DBE SBE goals.
FBPE Certificate of Authorization 31379
Florida PE 50679
Georgia PE 32520
Louisiana PE 37559
Recent News
Certifications and Training
- Advanced Work Zone Traffic Control Course
- IMSA Traffic Signal
- CTQP Quality Control Manager
- FDOT Final Estimates Level I & II
- Drilled Shaft Construction Certification
- FDOT MSEW/RSS Construction Inspection
Training Course
- Final Estimates Preparation
- FDOT Multi-Line Earthwork Training
- Radiation Safety Officer
- American Concrete Institute Certification


text:
Couch Surfers: Trans Men In Action 2 Part 2Favorites [+]
Pay-Per-Minute Viewing
You can now enjoy this movie on your iPhone®, iPad®, or compatible Smart TV & Android devices.
Purchase Options
Pay-Per-MinutePurchase Minutes
Streaming Rentals
Available MP4 sizes:SD 480p (0.33 GB)
DRM-free downloads offer content that is not limited by standard Digital Rights Management (DRM) access technologies. These technologies allow hardware manufacturers, publishers, copyright holders and individuals to limit the usage of digital content.
When you purchase DRM-free downloadable content, that content is available for you to download on any computer and save to a disk whenever you like. You can also download to multiple computers. There is no timeframe associated with your purchase and the content will not expire.
Running Time: 23 minutes
Studio Name: Trannywood Pictures
Series: Couch Surfers
Categories: Transsexual Gender Queer
Description: The next hot, gay, FTM porn from the guys at Trannywood Pictures has arrived! The action continues at San Francisco's premier gay sex club, and we rejoin the guys of Couch Surfers as they pair up for some seriously hot one on one action!
2 Scenes from Couch Surfers: Trans Men In Action 2 Part 2
Couch Surfers: Trans Men In Action 2 Part 2: Scene 1 Free Preview
Couch Surfers: Trans Men In Action 2 Part 2: Scene 2 Free Preview
Sex Acts: Breast Play, Oral Sex
Positions: Sitting
Settings: Laundry Room, Living Room
Studio: Trannywood Pictures
Recommended Movies
AEBN Cams


text:
BOSE SoundTouch 30 III Wireless Smart Sound Multi-Room Speaker
Product code: 146906
We can't split orders across different towns or postcodes, so please either:
- Change the location for this new selection to , OR
- Change the location for the item(s) already in your basket to
- June
Click on 'Add to basket'
Multi-room performance
Fill your entire home with rich, clear sound via your home WiFi network or Bluetooth enabled devices.
The SoundTouch 30 III connects to the internet to give you access to 20,000 internet radio stations, your personal music library and online music services like Deezer and Spotify.
SoundTouch app
You can control your SoundTouch 30 III via the SoundTouch app on your Android or iOS device to make streaming music even easier. Customise music with six personalised presets or customise zones to play different music in various rooms across your home – all at the touch of a button.
The SoundTouch app lets you play music from your playlists and music services or browse online to discover new artists or songs.
Powerful sound
Engineered with WaveGuide speaker technology, the SoundTouch 30 III delivers high-quality sound capable of filling even the largest rooms in your home.
The high-powered woofer provides deep bass, while two optimised drivers hit the mid and high ranges with crystal clear definition.
For the ultimate listening experience, create or add to your multi-room system with the powerful Bose SoundTouch 30 III Wireless Multi-Room Speaker.
Technical specifications for BOSE SoundTouch 30 III Wireless Smart Sound Multi-Room Speaker
|Wireless multi-room speaker
|Number of speakers
|1 (includes 2 x mid-range drivers & 1 x woofer)
|Audio processing
|- Digital Signal Processor
- Waveguide
|Audio presets
|Playback via aux-in
|3.5 mm jack
|- Volume
- Presets
- Power
|Access to internet radio
|Range name
|Bose SoundTouch
|Number of attachable multi-room speakers
|Multi-room connection via
|- Bluetooth
- Home WiFi network
|Speaker configuration options
|- Stereo
- 1.1
- 2.1
- 5.1
|Hardware required
|Software required
|Soundtouch app
|Compatible playback devices
|Bluetooth enabled products
|Other multi-room Smart Sound features
|Bluetooth rebroadcast
|App name
|SoundTouch app for Android & iOS
|Multi-room app features
|- Search/transport controls
- Access to music services
- Stored music library
- Multi-room control
|Streaming services available
|- Deezer
- Spotify
|General app features
|Remote control via smartphone
|App store
|- Apple Store
- Play Store
|Bluetooth 4.0
|USB 3.0 x 2
|3.5 mm jack x 1
|Power options
|Box contents
|- Bose SoundTouch 30 III Wireless Smart Sound Multi-Room Speaker
- Remote control
- Power cable
- USB to micro USB cable
|247 x 435 x 181 mm (H x W x D)
|Boxed dimensions
|295 x 578 x 384 mm (H x W x D)
|8.4 kg
|Boxed weight
|11.68 kg
|Manufacturer's guarantee
|2 years
Price Promise
Buy from us safe in the knowledge you've paid a great price.
If you find Argos, Asda, John Lewis or ao.com has the same item at a cheaper price, we'll match it. Even if their price includes a voucher offer, and even up to 7 days after you've bought from us.How to request a price match
Delivering your online order
Availability checkerHow and when can you get hold of your selections? Finding out should be quick and easy, so with just a few clicks our Availability Checker shows you:
- Delivery dates, time-slots and prices
- Local stores with stock you can collect from now
- Local stores you can get items sent to for you to collect later
- Enter a town or postcode in the box on the product page for an item you've selected
- Click on the magnifying glass
- Review the delivery and collection options local to you – just click on any one to add it to your basket
Stock updatesFind something you want but it's not in stock? On the item's product page, simply click on 'Email me when back in stock', and let us have your email address. We'll let you know as soon as it's available again.
Order online and collect in store
Subject to what you're ordering and where you want to collect from, you can:
Reserve & Collect – reserve online for free and collect at a local store as soon as you like. Once reserved, your item's held till closing time the next day, to be paid for when you collect.
Pay & Collect – pay online, and have the item sent, for free, from our warehouse to a local store for you to collect. Starting on the date the item arrives in store – which you choose in checkout – you have 28 days to collect it.
Your fastest way to order online for collection is to use our 'Availability Checker' feature:
- Enter a town or postcode in the box on the product page for an item you've selected
- Click on the magnifying glass
- Review the collection options local to you – just click on any one to add it to your basket
Flexible credit you control
- Choose the payment term that suits you
- Choose to pay nothing for the first 6 months, 19.9% APR representative
- No deposit to pay and choose to pay it off early at no extra cost
- Plus once you've opened an account, you can use it to spend again in the future on anything £99 and over
How to apply
If you're buying this item online, you can apply for credit at checkout. Or, if you're reserving online, or shopping in store, apply here.
DSG Retail Limited acts as a credit broker and not a lender. Credit is provided by Creation Consumer Finance Ltd.
Both DSG Retail Ltd and Creation Consumer Finance Ltd are authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority.
We can't split orders across different towns or postcodes, so please either:
- Change the location for this new selection to , OR
- Change the location for the item(s) already in your basket to
- June
Click on 'Add to basket'


text: This small, family-owned hotel offers to the adventurous tourist good food, peaceful and relaxing environment. It is set on 0.8 hectare of tropical gardens and fruit trees. The property features 2 swimming pools onsite, as well as 2 bars and a restaurant on the property.All rooms have a private balcony with poolside view or garden view. All have 2 twin beds, a queen or king size bed and are equipped with cable TV for guest use and air conditioning.


text:
University of Chicago Medicine specialties listed as among the best in the U.S.
The University of Chicago Medicine is ranked among the nation's top hospitals by U.S. News & World Report in its 2015-16 "Best Hospitals" survey.
Four University of Chicago Medicine specialties -- cancer (#32), gastroenterology & GI surgery (#36), nephrology (#41), and ear, nose & throat (#42) -- were recognized as being among the best in the country. Four other specialties were ranked as "high performing": gynecology; neurology and neurosurgery, orthopedics; and urology.
In the publication's latest surveys of graduate schools, the Pritzker School of Medicine was ranked No. 15 in the country and the graduate programs in the biological sciences ranked No. 14.
The full rankings and methodology for all U.S. News & World Report surveys are available at http://www.usnews.com/rankings.
More Information
- U.S.News & World Report Rankings
- Nobel Laureates


text:
I admit it.
I hate the fact that kids skip college and go straight to the NBA.
I thought it was a stupid mistake, one that would haunt the lives of many who tried it.
I even thought that the majority of high schooler's are not successful once they step on the court in professional basketball.
All until I read a research study by a Harvard Law School visiting researcher (who was part of the legal team for Maurice Clarett vs. the NBA) Michael McCann published in the Virginia Sports and Entertainment Law Journal.
Don't worry, I have no plans to detail painstakingly every detail of the lengthy research study which virtually destroys every myth of high school aged players entering the NBA draft early, but here are some very interesting points.
First off, my inclination was to believe that high school players are less likely to succeed in the NBA due to the fact that they do not receive the same tutelage that a college athlete would receive.
That inclination would be wrong. Looking at age groups, from 18-31, the 18-22 year olds are the most successful. They average more points, more rebounds, and more assists than the average NBA player.
Not to mention the fact that on a higher percentage of 18-21 year olds are drafted than any other age group (of all those who enter their name into the NBA draft).
Most kids who enter their name into the NBA draft have reasoning behind that move. Someone, somewhere, somehow informed them of an interest by NBA teams in their ability.
But let's say that that someone, somewhere, somehow was wrong. If a player enters his name into the draft and is not drafted, that player is then dubbed a failure. An example of media bias is entailed in the report in the form of former Detroit Piston Koreleone Young.
The young man lasted only one year only to fall off the face of the planet. He was a failure. A failure who earned 300,000 thousand dollars for that years worth of work, then moving on to a European League where he then earned 50,000 to 100,000 dollars for around 30 hours a week, for 8 months worth of work.
Compared to other 20 year olds who attend college, that is one incredibly successful (financially) failure.
McCann states succinctly, "He earns considerably more and works substantially less than does the average college graduate. If he's a failure, then most college graduates would be considered failures."
So, if the average high school athlete who enters the NBA draft is more successful than the average NBA player, makes more money (obviously) than the average college player, why should a player who is almost guaranteed a contract (any one of them drafted in the first round) play in college?
He shouldn't.
I even cringe to type that, but to look at the facts, that is the only possible conclusion.
This does not even take into consideration another important point by McCann that states a player who skips college increases his potential earning by adding 4-5 more years of income. It puts him into free agency more quickly, which equates to more years of larger income.
The only real benefit of college basketball is the experience and the preparation for life after basketball.
But even that college education is not as valuable as the internship programs most professional leagues employ. This is where players are given the opportunity to work with companies over the summer to gain experience, and set themselves up for work outside of their chosen sport.
I would say that experience would be more valuable than a 4 year college education for those who are not geared towards intellectual pursuits.
What is scary to think about is why I believed that it was so wrong for a player to skip college and go directly to the NBA. Young athletes are applauded and revered in sports like golf, hockey, tennis, and figure skating. How is it that kids who start successful (and even unsuccessful) companies and skip the college experience are not looked down upon for not attending higher education?
After much thought, I began to believe that some of it is selfishness on my part. It's true, with every single player who opts for the NBA draft, that is one player out of the pool of potential University of Kentucky basketball players.
Some of it is selfishness on the NCAA's part. Let's face it, the NCAA is a business, and college basketball is huge. With less and less great talent on the courts across the country, are fans going to stop watching? (I don't believe so, but that could indeed become reality).
And, well, like McCann states, some of it may be an underlying societal bias towards black athletes.
He states "There are all these professional children who are substantially younger than an 18-year-old basketball player. It does beg the question of why are people seemingly more troubled by, frankly, 18-year-old African American males who pursue the NBA."
McCann continues, "Are people uncomfortable with often inner-city and impoverished 18-year-old African-American men achieving wealth at such an early part of their lives?"
I certainly hope not, but the undue criticism of high school athletes skipping college leaves one wondering why the attitude exists.


text:
I was wondering which company is the best for Rafting & ziplining?
Also if u can make discounts on the price. Ie.if they say it's 80$ can u knock of 10-20 on the price.
I know I was able to do this before, so I'm not sure in costa rica if u can. Thnaks again


text:
House for Sale
- About this property
- Explore Mount Ommaney
Perfect Location - Beautiful Townhouse with Pool, Tennis Court, Gym - Open House 1pm - 1.30pmProperty ID 1531488So conveniently positioned, this bright & airy home in sought-after Mt Ommaney is located in "Central Parklands" and offers RESORT STYLE LIVING including 25m pool, tennis court, sauna, heated spa, electric BBQ's, community lounge and well equipped gymnasium. You will be proud to live here in such a modern location with the shops only minutes' walk away! Entertaining friends & family is made easy with a spacious living room which leads on to a large private deck both with easy access to the kitchen.
* Modern kitchen with stainless steel appliances including DISHWASHER & gas stove top
* Tiled downstairs living space with AIR CONDITIONING, opening to large timber entertaining deck
* Double lock up remote garage with internal access and additional storage space off to the side
* Separate internal laundry
* Powder room
* Small backyard with gardens
* Master bedroom with spacious ENSUITE including "his & hers" basins & large shower
* 3 bedrooms, all with built-in robe & air conditioning
* Main family bathroom with bath tub & separate toilet
* Storage including utility cupboard & linen cupboard
This home is in a great location with shops, schools, transport, and major arterial roads all within minutes' walk away.
You do not want to miss this opportunity.Please call Tina for your private viewing.
This property is being sold by auction or without a price and therefore a price guide can not be provided. The website may have filtered the property into a price bracket for website functionality purposes.


text:
The Treacherous Three - Feel The New Heartbeat MP3
Old School Flava is the second album by legendary old school rap group, Treacherous Three. It was released in 1994 for Wrap Records and was produced by ...
Treacherous Three - Body Rock MP3
Lyrics: http://bogoni155.wordpress.com/2009/11/05/the-body-rock-lyrics/ As it's a tad long, I published it on the link above, it's not a virus. After not finding ...
The Treacherous Three - At The Party MP3
Treacherous Three - Feel the heartbeat - 1981 MP3
Classic cut from good ole' 1981. Enjoy your ride down memory lane!
Spoonie Gee & The Treacherous Three - The New Rap Language MP3
Treacherous Three - New Rap Language MP3
Artist : Treacherous Three Song : New Rap Language.
Treacherous Three Fast Rap 1980 MP3
Spoonie G and The Treacherous 3 (Kool Moe D, Special K, and L.A. Sunshine) w/DJEasy Lee release hip hop's 1st Fast Rap ever! The New Rap Language was ...
The Treacherous Three-Action MP3
From The Treacherous Three (1984).
Treacherous Three- Whip It MP3
The classic Treacherous Three song. Considered by some to be the first rap/r&b collabo ever.
The Treacherous Three, First Anniversary, Live At Disco Fever, 1981 (Part 1) MP3
This is part one of a live performance of The Treacherous Three's first anniversary in 1981, this video will be broken into 3 parts, so be sure to watch the other ...
Beat Street Santa's Rap MP3
The Treacherous Three spread a little Christmas cheer. You wanna see something look at the bottom of these!
Gotta Rock ✧ The Treacherous Three MP3
1985. No copyright infringement intended. Like. Subscribe. Share✧ oldskoolmaster2000 oldskoolmaster2000 oldskoolmaster2000.
Spoonie Gee and the Treacherous Three - New Rap Language MP3
Spoonie Gee was the nephew of veteran R&B producer Bobby Robinson and one of the earliest rap artists. He was known as the "love rapper," an image that ...
the treacherous three at the party 1980 MP3
old skool rap/boogie.
The Treacherous Three - We Wit It (feat. Big Daddy Kane, Chuck D, Heavy D) MP3
Producer -- Ken Fambro Album - Old School Flava 1994.
Treacherous Three - Yes We Can Can MP3
As I didn't find it anywhere on YouTube, I found it worth uploading. Awesome song.
The New Rap Language / Spoonie Gee & The Treacherous Three / 1980 MP3
The New Rap Language, es la cancion elegida para desarrollar su diseño. +Info: http://movectors.blogspot.com.es/
Spoonie Gee & The Treacherous 3 - Love Rap MP3
Uploaded with Free Video Converter from Freemake http://www.freemake.com/free_video_converter/
The Treacherous Three : "Put The Boogie In Your Body" (First Version) MP3
Rare & Different version than LP It was promo only, and the first version they made before they decided on the other version for the official release. (information ...
The Treacherous Three A True Story MP3
The Treacherous Three-Santa Rap MP3
The Treacherous Three Santa Rap from the 80s homiez!!!!!!!!!
At The Party (Instrumental) - The Treacherous Three MP3
"At The Party (Instrumental" by The Treacherous Three.1980.
The Treacherous 3 - Lower The Boom MP3
1994, Wrap Records, Easylee Records. Produced by The Treacherous Three.
The Treacherous Three - Feel The New Heartbeat [Official Video HD] MP3
The Treacherous Three - Feel The New Heartbeat Link to the Official Old School Hip Hop page on facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Old.School.Hip.Hop.
Treacherous 3 / Fearless 4 / Cold Crush 4 ( 2012 ) MP3
Live Show @ Da Hill Reunion / Star Power Collective 2012 , Easy Lee , Dano B. , Spoonie G. , Treacherous 3 , The Fearless 4 , D.J. Tony Tone & The Cold ...
Treacherous Three, Live @ The Apollo Theatre MP3
Recorded live @ The Apollo Theatre 7.10.09.
Treacherous Three - The Body Rock (orginal) MP3
The Treacherous Three A True Story MP3
A True Story as told by L.A. Sunshine. Check out the book August 2011. A True Hip Hop Memoir. www.truehiphopmemoirs.com. Treacherous 3 Forever!
Treacherous Three - U.F.O. (Sugarhill 1983) MP3


text:
login with
i hear yah
I still bathe with my almost 10 month old. He likes the water deep and will fuss if he's in there alone. I enjoy it too!
About suzanne mrla
Born: Sioux City, Iowa
Current: Lawton, Iowa
Birth: November 04
On Moms.com since: Dec 30, 2013
I am a mom with kids aged 10 and 23 and my husband is a farmer


text:
The 6-9 sophomore from Santa Fe Community College, who is Auburn's latest verbal commitment for the 2008 signee class for Coach Jeff Lebo's Tigers, says he is excited about his decision to play for AU.
"Auburn is always a place I have considered going back to when I started playing basketball as a sophomore in high school," Aihe tells Inside the Auburn Tigers. "My AAU coach, Stan Pietkiewicz, was a former Auburn Tiger from 1974-78. When he talked about his college experience he talked about Auburn.
"I am finishing up junior college now and I have always had Auburn under consideration so as soon as they offered it was a pretty easy decision for me."
Aihe, who averaged 8.8 rebounds and 5.5 assists with 100 blocks this past season, points out that he is eager to continue to improve. "I am working on pretty much everything," he says.
"I am working to become a well-rounded player--rebounding and defense are my main strengths. I love to defend. I actually defend with a passion. That is where games are won on the defensive end.
"I am working on my ball-handling and my shooting," he says. "I am working on my basketball IQ. I watch a lot of games and study other teams and see how people get open and receive the ball. I watch good defensive players like Kevin Garnett and Ben Wallace and see what they do out there. I would say my biggest strength is on the defensive end, but I do have the ability to score."
Because of his size, he has spent much of his time at center. "I am a natural four (power forward) although in high school I played center," he says. "In junior college I played (five), but the position I am most comfortable with is four, but I am comfortable defending at either position."
Going to junior college just a few miles from the University of Florida campus, Aihe knows some of the Florida players and he works out with Gator standout Marreese Speights, a player who is considering going pro this year. "He is a really good friend," Aihe says.
It won't be long before he is working out with his new teammates at AU. "I should be in Auburn the first week in July after I finish my classes and gradate from Santa Fe Community College," he says.
Asked what the coaching staff told him on his visit to the AU campus this week, he says, "They expect me to come into Auburn and work hard. They believe, like I believe, that my best days are ahead of me.
"This is my fifth year playing basketball and things are really beginning to come to together," Aihe adds. "I think my IQ playing the game is going up. They expect me to come in and work hard and improve on my strengths and my weaknesses and give it everything I have got, which I plan on doing."


text:
Honda Ridgeline Production to Stop in September 2014
Honda's Ridgeline compact truck will exit production in a little over a year's time according to a new report.
Don't expect the dismissal to be permanent, though. According to Wards Auto, the truck will disappear in late 2014 only to reappear mid-way through 2016.
Honda introduced the truck in 2005 as a 2006 model year, and sales reached their peak in 2006. The company sold 50,193 that year and those numbers generally been in decline ever since. That fact stirred speculation that Honda would drop the Ridgeline, despite the brand denying that notion.
Plans for the truck after its hiatus aren't clear, but other automakers are beginning to revisit the small truck segment.
General Motors will being two new small trucks to the market soon under the Chevrolet and GMC brands. Those models will aim at separate target markets. Meanwhile, Toyota continues to sell the Tacoma, and Nissan the Frontier.
[Source: Wards Auto]


text:
Private piano lessons
Half hour lesson. Great with beginners, those that have previously studied and those returning after a long long time. My youngest student is 5 and my oldest is 83. It's never too late!
Training & Qualifications
I am a Berklee College of Music graduate. My emphasis was education. I've been teaching since I was 15 years old and I still love teaching. I can provide references. Many of my students have been studying with me for several years.
Availability & Preferences
i have various times available. I only teach on the weekdays, Monday through Friday. I have a teaching studio in Glendale and in Studio City. I am also open to doing skype or FaceTime sessions.
Jeannette's requests
About Jeannette Hollyday
I love teaching and I love making learning fun. I'm a Berklee graduate and have been teaching since it was 15 years old. I studied music education while in music school and teach various ages. I'm al...so a Toast master, a blogger on life and arts, and perform as a dancer in a cultural Los Angeles group.show moreOpen to other proposals
Jeannette Hollyday is looking for:
- Just for Fun
- Fun & Quirky
- Childcare
- Hair styling
- Art Lessons
- Fresh Produce
- Meal Delivery
- Food
- Cleaning
- Tours & Excursions
- Adventure
- Travel
- Experiences
- Healing Arts
- Chiropractic
- Massage
- Acupuncture
- Wellness
- Personal Training
- Pilates
- Dance
- Yoga
- Tailoring & Sewing


text:
Selecting nuptial gymnastic apparatus for your ceremony is a fun and copernican stir. Within are so galore options on speech act - diamond wedding ceremony rings, old and vintage rings, atomic number 78 rings and observance sphere sets. And if you are superficial for something different, a creative observance circle will not be easy to breakthrough. Present are whatever tips on how you can breakthrough a peerless ding of late for your white-haired one.
Many empire mull over thatability the unsurpassable nuptials cling is a diamond ring, near a big gem. Surely, thisability is classical and will never go out of fashion, but a lozenge observance clang will outlay you a minuscule fortune, especially if you buy it on gratitude and active to pay for it months after your wedding.
First proposal is thatability you should mercantile establishment for ceremonial occasion gymnastic apparatus as a couple. This way all of you can find the chime thatability theyability look-alike. If you are going to impairment your ring all the time, contemplate applied matters. The substance should be durable, and the creating by mental acts should be global - something thatability will matching part maximum of your fabric.Post ads:
Stanley 96-011 170-piece Mechanics Tool Set / LGI Watch Repair Kit with Reusable Aluminum Box - 20pcs / Porter-Cable FN250C 1-Inch to 2-1/2-Inch 16-Gauge Finish / United Cutlery Black Sentry Knuckle Tanto Knife Serrated / Bissell ProHeat 2X Bottom Tank / Professional Grade 6-Inch Heavy Duty Universal Cross Slide / 30-06 Bullet Knife / DEWALT Bare-Tool DW960B 3/8-Inch 18-Volt Cordless Right / Hobart 770089 Round Holder with Refills / Perfect Point TK-017-3B Throwing Knife Set, 3 Piece / Bessey TGJ2.506 2-1/2-Inch x 6-Inch Regular Duty Tradesmen / Brawny Big Roll, Pick A Size, 6 Count (Pack of 4) / USB 2.0 Heated Warmer Gloves, Black with Grey Stripes / Buck 276 Folding Alpha Hunter, Rosewood Handles with Gut / Set of 5 pieces BUSSMANN GMA 5A 125V Fast Blow (Quick / SPACE CASE Grinder Sifter Mag. 4 Pc. Medium Titanium + / Rubbermaid 40 ct. JUICE BOX STRAWS
Get your gem first
When best general public cogitate give or take a few buying a wedding ceremony ring, theyability illustration active to the jewelry maker and arrangement a sphere thatability is already made. However, you can in actuality buy your jewel separately, and have it mounted next. What are the advantages? Eldest is the cost, a free lozenge will debt you markedly little than the one already in the loop.
Second, you will find severe assemblage of loose diamonds in dissimilar shapes. Build of your precious stone should grammatical construction the spatiality of your fiancée keeping. Piece furthermost favourite shapes are roundish and princess, you can likewise find oval, suspicion and marchioness created diamonds. For example, if her fingers are yearlong and strait an oviform formed parallelogram will be better than the moonlike one. This will help you to formulate a new musical sound.Post ads:
Ingersoll-Rand 4151 Ultra Duty 6-Inch Vacuum Ready Random / Sunex 2645 1/2-Inch Drive Metric Impact Socket Set, 26 / Midwest Glove PR101T Disney Princess Canvas Glove, Light / In-Car USB+Triple Socket Charger Adapter for iPod GPS PDA / Swiss+Tech DTCSBK XDrive 7-in-1 Compact MultiTool Driver / Shop Fox D2804 6-Inch Aluminum Deep Reach C-Clamp / Gerber 30-000528 DeFacto Fixed Blade Knife / SK 94549 3/8-Inch Drive 6-Point Fractional/Metric Socket / Strip Nc Natural Cleanser Extra Strengh Grape 32 Fl Oz / 3M SandBlaster 20220 Between Coats Sandpaper 9-Inch by / Big Roc Tools Deluxe Welding Cart / SOG Specialty Knives and Tools SP-21 SOGzilla, Large / Wine Tannin - 1 oz. / Scotch(R) Home and Office Masking Tape 3436-3, 3/4-inch x / TEKTON 3-pc. Offset Screwdriver Set / Neiko Pro-Grade 9-Piece 'Wobble' Angle Extension Bar Set - / Channellock 426 7/8-Inch Jaw Capacity 6-1/2-Inch Tongue
Consider individual colour diamonds
What can get your ding altogether unequaled is the colour of the rhomb. Supreme diamonds are clear, but did you cognise thatability you can get them in another colors? Rose-coloured and chromatic diamonds are markedly gorgeous but rare, ashen diamonds are the most desirable of piebald diamonds.
Most multicolor diamonds on the bazaar are by artificial means burnt to dispense them colour. Mega the ones near intensified color. In attendance is nought improper beside thisability technique, but don't the jewelers gross you acknowledge thatability thisability is the intuitive color of your diamond. Intrinsically multicolour diamonds are very, amazingly bloody and theyability sum noticeably more than than the understandable ones.
Unique marriage ceremony musical sound materials
After you recovered you diamond, other deliberation is the aluminiferous. Record in demand resolution is sickly gold, but you can too get gymnastic apparatus ready-made of white gold, atomic number 78 or metal. Conventional xanthous metallic is not unspeakably unique, and likewise gilded is a woolly material. Peculiarly if you go for graduate prize 22 or 24 metric weight unit gold, it will get scratches beside plain deterioration.
Platinum nuptials rings are more expensive, but theyability are substantially more than long-lasting materials. Light golden ring would go with furthermost outfits, which is exalted for a ball thatability you deterioration all day. Also if you poverty a red-brick looking, not wine ring, than you should emphatically go next to platinum. Titanium ding is as well an alternative, metal is strong and costs much little than pt.
To find yourself a truly uncomparable marriage ceremony ring, you will have to sales outlet circa and mayhap get your lozenge basic and have your ding tradition made. Aspect at what styles are there; see what you like-minded the most, than it would be uncomplicated to prize the pluperfect honeymoon ding for you.


text:
Whole Snapper with Balinese Spices
- Servings: 2
- 1/2 cup plus 2 tablespoons canola oil
- 2 tablespoons finely chopped shallots
- 2 tablespoons finely chopped peeled fresh ginger
- 2 tablespoons finely chopped garlic
- 5 tablespoons finely chopped lemon grass
- 3 kaffir lime leaves, finely chopped
- 1 Thai chile, finely chopped (or 1 teaspoon sambal chili paste)
- 5 curry leaves
- 1 cup finely shredded fresh or frozen coconut
- 1 whole red snapper (about 1 3/4 pounds), dressed and scored on both sides
- 1 cup coconut milk
- 1 lime
- Julienned scallion greens, for serving
- Cilantro, for garnish
Preheat oven to 375 degrees. Heat 2 tablespoons oil in a large skillet over high heat. Add shallot, and, stirring constantly, add ginger, garlic, lemon grass, lime leaves, Thai chile, curry leaves, and coconut. Continue stirring until the mixture is fragrant and coconut is beginning to dry out, 3 to 5 minutes. Remove from heat, and let stand until cool.
Fill the belly of the fish with three-quarters of the stuffing. Use a long wooden skewer to hold the belly of the fish closed. Heat remaining 1/2 cup oil in a large skillet over high heat. Add snapper to pan, and cook until the skin is crisp and brown, about 3 minutes per side. Very carefully pour off oil from pan. Transfer fish to oven until cooked through, about 10 minutes.
Meanwhile, heat remaining stuffing in a small saucepan over medium heat. Stir in coconut milk, and heat through.
Transfer cooked fish to a serving platter. Strain sauce through a fine sieve directly over the fish. Season with lime juice, and garnish with scallion greens and cilantro.


text:
The National Society for the Prevention of Zombie Attacks is a British organisation aiming to convey the abilities of zombie survivalists from around the UK in order to aid the defenceless. It is their duty to protect, educate and arm the people in the event of a zombie pandemic. With the training and resources of the NSPZA, it is hoped to give civilians the capacity and abilities necessary to survive, and eventually, counterattack the undead threat.
What They DoEdit
The NSPZA design and manufacture weapons which will aid in the fight against a zombie attack. They then take the results and post them on the internet. Their extensive research department has projects working on both anti-viruses, cheap and effective weapons for common distribution, and military-grade technology to combat the undead threat.
How to joinEdit
More info later on. Once a full member of the NSPZA you will be under their full protection, and in the event of widespread infection, directions to the nearest NSPZA cache and bunker will be given. Desire to join should be mentioned on the discussion page until further information is given.


text:
Assessing children's competence to consent in research by a standardized tool: a validity study
Child, adolescent and developmental psychiatry
Currently over 50% of drugs prescribed to children have not been evaluated properly for use in their age group. One key reason why children have been excluded from clinical trials is that they are not considered able to exercise meaningful autonomy over the decision to participate. Dutch law states that competence to consent can be presumed present at the age of 12 and above; however, in pediatric practice children's competence is not that clearly presented and the transition from assent to active consent is gradual. A gold standard for competence assessment in children does not exist. In this article we describe a study protocol on the development of a standardized tool for assessing competence to consent in research in children and adolescents.
In this study we modified the MacCAT-CR, the best evaluated competence assessment tool for adults, for use in children and adolescents. We will administer the tool prospectively to a cohort of pediatric patients from 6 to18 years during the selection stages of ongoing clinical trials. The outcomes of the MacCAT-CR interviews will be compared to a reference standard, established by the judgments of clinical investigators, and an expert panel consisting of child psychiatrists, child psychologists and medical ethicists. The reliability, criterion-related validity and reproducibility of the tool will be determined. As MacCAT-CR is a multi-item scale consisting of 13 items, power was justified at 130–190 subjects, providing a minimum of 10–15 observations per item. MacCAT-CR outcomes will be correlated with age, life experience, IQ, ethnicity, socio-economic status and competence judgment of the parent(s). It is anticipated that 160 participants will be recruited over 2 years to complete enrollment.
A validity study on an assessment tool of competence to consent is strongly needed in research practice, particularly in the child and adolescent population. In this study we will establish a reference standard of children's competence to consent, combined with validation of an assessment instrument. Results can facilitate responsible involvement of children in clinical trials by further development of guidelines, health-care policies and legal policies.
Currently over 50% of drugs prescribed to children have not been properly evaluated for safety and efficacy in their age group. One key reason why children have been excluded from clinical trials is that they are not considered capable of understanding research information. This means that they are not considered able to exercise meaningful autonomy over the decision on trial participation. By Dutch law, competence to consent in children is presumed to be present at the age of 12 and above. In pediatric clinical practice, though, children's competence is not that clearly presented. Children may express an increasing degree of competence over time as their abilities are developing, so there is a gradual transition from assent to the more active consent.
If we knew which children were competent to consent and which were not, it would be possible to involve them in the decision-making process about clinical trial participation in a conforming way. Non-competent children would no longer have to be burdened by the full informed-consent procedure, while competent children would be more actively engaged in that procedure, with extra weight given to their opinions. This would facilitate the implementation of clinical trials in children and adolescents and still protect the vulnerable subjects.
Previous studies show that children's competence has never been systematically examined in a standardized manner
This prospective observational study seeks to examine whether children's competence to consent to research can be assessed in a reliable and valid way by means of a clinical tool.
Nature of competence
Individuals are competent if they are able to make decisions based on understanding and on rational reasons
In current pediatric practice, parents and children undergo an informed consent procedure. According to the Dutch Medical Treatment Contracts Act (WGBO), which applies to treatment situations, parents decide for their children younger than 12 years of age, who are considered by definition incompetent to act for themselves. For these children, no actual assessment of competence is necessary. For children aged 12 to 15, informed consent is required both from children and parents, provided the children are judged competent to decide. From 16 years of age, children are deemed adult in medical decision making. In the Dutch Medical Research Involving Human Subjects Act (
In the Netherlands, the Doek Committee was installed to advise the State Secretary of Health, Well-being and Sports and the Minister of Justice
Competence assessment in current pediatric practice
At present, clinical investigators are able to make only intuitive assessments of children's competence, because no standardized method is available to test it more objectively. Conceivably, the age standards prescribed by law may have too much influence on that intuitive decision by the assessor. Research evidence indicates that children under 12 may also be capable of making well-considered decisions
A recent study has shown that doctors and researchers tend to judge a child as competent if the child's decision conforms to their own ideas of the child's best interest
Assessment of competence by MacCAT-CR
Until recently, literature on children's competence assessment was limited. Two reviews
Empirical studies on adults have resulted in a variety of operational translations of the concept of competence into assessment instruments. Dunn
The MacCAT-CR is a semi-structured interview format that helps clinical investigators to assess research candidates' competence to give informed consent to participation in trials. It measures the four aspects of decision-making capability that reflect the standards for competence to consent in most jurisdictions: (1)
The MacCAT-CR provides a format for disclosing selected information on the research project at hand. A standard set of questions then assesses candidates' abilities to understand the information, reason about it, appreciate its consequences and express a choice. The interview samples their abilities using representative content, rather than testing them on the full content of a typical informed-consent disclosure. The MacCAT-CR is based on the structure of the MacArthur Competence Assessment Tool for Treatment
The MacCAT-CR involves two steps: the interview itself (approximately 15, maximal 20 minutes) and the rating. The rating criteria provide a way for the assessing clinician to note opinions on the adequacy or inadequacy of each item response. The MacCAT-CR provides a summary rating for each of the four capacities assessed: 0 to 6 for understanding, 0 to 4 for appreciation, 0 to 8 for reasoning and 0 to 2 for expressing a choice
In 2008, a Dutch translation of the MacCAT-T was made available by van Eyk
In children, research on the MacCAT scales has been limited to two small studies. Koelch
Child-specific factors in competence judgment
1.Developmental aspects of competence
In children, decision-making abilities develop over time, as their cognitive, social and emotional abilities advance. Elementary school children develop the capacity for logical, systematic thinking using multiple pieces of information and the ability to perceive underlying reality despite superficial appearance. Cognitive advances, social relationships and emotional development work together to promote moral development in middle childhood and children become increasingly able to consider other people's feelings
The ability to balance risks and benefits depends on life experience as well as cognitive abilities. Children's personal experiences of illness and their responses to it can provide them with greater insight and understanding than children of comparable age who lack this experience
2.Provision of information
Competence can be enhanced by improvement of information provision. Children and adolescents do not have the same comprehension level as adults. Their abilities to read and write and their working memory have not reached optimal growth yet. This implies that the information supply to children should be tailored to their developmental stage. Techniques for communication include both verbal and non-verbal forms of information supply, and breaking up the information into smaller pieces
It has been found in current practice that communication with parents and children is often flawed
3.Systemic influences
Growing-up children are, to a greater extent than adults, dependent on other people that surround them, especially their carers or parents. An exploration of the systemic influences is indispensable. Children may be particularly susceptible to the influence of parents and health-care professionals due to their need for approval or fear of negative consequences from authority figures
Modifications in MacCAT-CR for Children and Adolescents
The original MacCAT-CR by Appelbaum and Grisso
Additional to the worded information, Apppelbaum
The Dutch version of the modified MacCAT-CR for Children and Adolescents was translated back into English by another certified professional translator. One of the original authors of the MacCAT-CR, Appelbaum, provided comments on this version, which were processed. A special remark needs to be made on a modification to questioning the child's understanding of the consequences of participating in the trial or not. We added the questions: "What do you think your parents will think about it if you take part or don't take part? And what do you think your friends will think?" Scoring the answers, we note whether the child can mention consequences for daily life or social relations. With this approach we give more attention to the influence of social relationships than in the adult version of MacCAT-CR.
This study is a prospective cohort study comparing competence judgment by using observational techniques to outcomes of the MacCAT-CR for Children and Adolescents, while at the same time assessing competency-related patient data.
The validity and reliability of the translated and modified MacCAT-CR for Children and Adolescents will be assessed in a sample of children who are candidates to participate in ongoing medical trials. A reference standard for competence will be established first. The usual informed-consent procedure will be performed by the clinical investigators, and they will record their own intuitive clinical judgment of a child's consent competence. At this point, parents will also be asked to judge whether their child has understood and is able to make a well-considered decision. This informed consent procedure will be videotaped. The recordings will then be reviewed independently by two experts (child psychiatrists, child psychologists or medical ethicists), who will also record a judgment on the child's consent competence. This will allow us to estimate the inter-examiner reproducibility of the informed-consent procedure.
To establish a reference standard for consent competency, any discordant decisions for a child's consent competency of the two experts and the clinician will be examined. If there is any discrepancy between the three evaluators' judgments, a consensus decision will be reached after discussion. The final decisions will form the reference standard for competence.
After the usual informed-consent procedure, within 48 hours the MacCAT-CR interview will be administered by the researchers, independent of the first clinical judgment; these interviews will also be videotaped. The interviewers consist of specially trained special education or psychology graduates. The interviews will be scored by the administrator and independently by two experts (a multidisciplinary team of child psychiatrists, psychologists and medical ethicists). A yes/no decision will be made following the guidelines in the MacCAT-CR manual.
Demographic patient data will be collected and the Wechsler Nonverbal Scale of Abilities short version will be administered within two months of the interviews.
The final objectives are (1) to assess the reproducibility of MacCAT-CR scores and yes/no judgments of competence to consent, and (2) to establish a reference standard to which MacCAT-CR scores can be compared to evaluate the criterion-related validity of the instrument (in the absence of a criterion test for competence to consent). The reference standard will also be used to (1) estimate optimal cut-off scores on the MacCAT-CR scale that minimizes false positive and false negative decisions, and (2) determine ages for informed consent and compare these to current statutory age limits. The agreement between the reference standard and the judgment of the parent(s) will also be examined.
One hundred and sixty pediatric patients aged 6 to 18 who are involved in the selection stages of ongoing medical trials will be recruited. These will be trials that involve heterogeneous groups of children in terms of age and diagnosis (including childhood oncology, lung disease and ophthalmology). The children will be selected consecutively in the order of recruitment for the trials. The lower age limit of 6 is justifiable as younger children cannot be expected in developmental terms to be capable of meaningfully answering the interview questions. Age distribution will be structured in a way that approximately 70% of the sample (± 1 z-score) will be aged 8 to 14, because the transition point in competence is expected to occur there. The purpose is to avoid overestimating reproducibility and criterion validity as a result of excessive contrast in the age distribution. Grounds for exclusion will be insufficient fluency in Dutch.
The outcome measures of the MacCAT-CR will be a total score, domain scores, and a binary assessment (yes/no) of a child's competence to consent. Clinical investigators and parents will also be asked to give their prior intuitive yes/no assessments of the child's competence to decide.
The Wechsler Nonverbal Scale of Ability short version (WVN) will be used to assess children's intelligence quotient. The WNV is a clinical instrument for examining cognitive capacities of children and adolescents aged 4 to 21. The WVN is suitable for the general population as well as for children with cultural, linguistic, educational or socio-economic varying backgrounds. The subtests do not invoke verbal capacities as instructions are made by pictograms. Different subtests are to be administered in children from 4 to 7 and from 8 to 21. The short version for the first age group consists of matrix reasoning and recognizing, and for the second age group matrix reasoning and spatial orientation
The highest level of education of the highest-educated parent will be noted as an indicator of socio-economic status. Duration of disease, number of trials previously participated in and ethnicity will be noted.
Informed-consent procedure
Prior written consent to take part in this study will be requested from all child participants and their parents, separate from any consent required of them for the drug trials. The pediatric patients sampled for the drug trials will be informed together with their parents by the trained clinical investigator about the competence study at the same time as they are informed about the drug trial. They will also be free to choose participation in one of the two studies with no consequences for the other. The outcome of the MacCAT-CR interview will not affect the conduct of the drug trial being carried out by the investigator. The ethics committee of the Academic Medical Center Amsterdam in the Netherlands confirmed that the Medical Research Involving Human Subjects Act (WMO) does not apply to this study and the committee makes no objections to the implementation.
Statistical analysis
Descriptive summaries of demographic and assessment outcome measures will be generated with respect to all subject characteristics.
Reliability: Statistical analysis will include exploration of internal consistency, by estimating Cronbach's alpha for the items of each subscale and for the total scale. We will also calculate adjusted item-to-scale total correlations. Factor analysis and item response theory methods (Rasch analysis) will be used to further test scale unidimensionality. To optimize the MacCAT-CR scoring system and to determine necessary item weights, we will use a specific extension of the Rasch measurement model One Parameter Logistic Model (OPLM)
Criterion-related validity: The overall accuracy of the MacCAT-CR score in classifying competence against the reference standard will be quantified using receiver operator characteristic curve (ROC) analysis. The area under the ROC curve (AUC) will serve as the validity coefficient; this may range from 50% (chance determination) to 100% (perfect determination). The optimal MacCAT cut-off score and the accompanying sensitivity and specificity rates will be determined using Youden's method, the cut-off score corresponding to the fewest false positive and false negative classifications. Against our current expectations, this may give an indication of a single score above which competence is more likely. The validity of the current statutory cut-off ages will be tested by the same method, but using age as the predictor of capacity to provide informed consent.
Inter-rater reproducibility: We will determine inter-rater reproducibility (1) for the clinical judgment on competence to consent by the investigator and the experts, (2) for the MacCAT-CR total and subscale scores, (3) for the yes/no outcome of the reference standard and the yes/no outcome of the MacCAT-CR, and (4) for the yes/no outcome of the reference standard and the yes/no decision of the parents. We will quantify reproducibility with intraclass correlation coefficients for total scores on the MacCAT-CR scales. Inter-rater reproducibility of the item scores will be quantified by calculating weighted Kappa coefficients. To quantify the reproducibility of the yes/no outcome for competence to consent, multi-rater (unweighted) Kappa or simple Cohen's Kappa will be used in the case of pairwise comparisons. We have a special interest in children between 8 and 14 years, and we will compare the ICCs and Kappa values calculated for children in this age group separately.
Statistical power analysis: There is no general agreement about estimating suitable sample size for the psychometric (factor-analytic, Rasch analytic) evaluation of multi-item scales. Simulation studies for the related techniques of regression analysis indicate that a minimum of 10 to 15 observations per variable (item) are needed to obtain stable estimates. For the 13 items of the MacCAT-CR this would result in 130 to 190 observations. Judging from previous studies on MacCAT-CR and MacCAT-T in adults with compromised decisional capacities
An ROC-AUC validity statistic of 0.80 (null hypothesis AUC 0.69) can be detected with 80% power assuming a 3:1 ratio of test positive (competent to consent) and test negative children. Sensitivity and specificity rates of the MacCAT-CR cut-offs obtained by Youden's method can be estimated with ±7% accuracy, assuming 0.75 as the expected value. For the Rasch analysis, the MacCAT-CR outcomes from the raters will be combined. Data dependency will not be an issue in our use of conditional maximum likelihood estimation methods, because the method makes no assumptions about the distribution of data in the population or about ways in which the sample was selected.
Due to the lack of a gold standard for competence assessment, the reference standard will be established according to current best clinical practice by physicians that deal with competence assessment in pediatric practice. The expert opinion represents the clinical conception of competence in children. These judgments constitute the best possible starting point. It is possible, however, that competence judgments vary between evaluators. Previous research demonstrates that unaided competence judgments, even of clinicians, are not reliable. Kim
Another limitation might be that the same version of the MacCAT-CR will be administered to the whole range of children aged 6 to 18. Undoubtedly cognitive abilities and language skills vary widely in this age group. A pilot study did reveal some minor problems in 6-year-old children who did not understand the disclosed information and needed frequent rehearsal. Some of the older children understood easily, and they were not bothered by the simple language level.
A validity study on an assessment tool of competence to consent is badly needed in research practice, particularly in the child and adolescent population. As far as we know, this is the first large-scale empirical study worldwide trying to establish a reference standard for children's competence to consent, combined with validation of an assessment instrument. Results could lead to further development of guidelines, health-care policies and legal policies.
COTAN: Commissie Testaangelegenheden Nederland, Dutch Committee on Tests and Testing Affairs; MacCAT-CR: MacArthur Competence Assessment Tool for Clinical Research; MacCAT-T: MacArthur Competence Assessment Tool for Treatment; WGBO: Wet op de Geneeskundige Behandelovereenkomst, Medical Treatment Contracts Act; WMO: Wet Medisch-wetenschappelijk Onderzoek met Mensen, Medical Research Involving Human Subjects Act; ZonMW: The Netherlands Organization for Health Research and Development.
Competing interests
The authors declare that they have no competing interests.
Authors' contributions
IH conceived the study and drafted the manuscript. PT, MdV, RL, MZ and RJL participated in the design of the study and coordination and helped to draft the manuscript. RL performed the statistical analysis. All authors read and approved the final manuscript.
We thank Anne-Pauline Cohen, Marianne van de Wetering, Netteke Schouten and Martinette Strik who provided useful comments on earlier versions of the MacCAT-CR interview for Children and Adolescents. We thank Edo Smit and Michael Dallas for their professional translation of the interview and manual. We also thank Paul Appelbaum for his comments on the back translation of the interview. Finally, we thank the Netherlands Organization for Health Research and Development (ZonMW) for funding the research project.
Children's competence for assent and consent: a review of empirical findings
Van Wet naar Praktijk
Impact of the new european paediatric regulatory framework on ethics committees: overview and perspectives
From mechanical to autonomous agency: the relationship between children's moral judgments and their developing theories of mind
Use, implementation and impact of the TEDDY network in Europe
Involving children with cancer in decision-making about research participation
A review of children's decision-making competence in health care
Pediatric oncologists' attitudes towards involving adolescents in decision-making concerning research participation
Attitudes of physicians and parents towards discussing infertility risks and semen cryopreservation with male adolescents diagnosed with cancer
A clinical study of competency in child psychiatric inpatients
The use of advance directives with adolescents
The competency of children and adolescents to make informed treatment decisions
Assessing decisional capacity for clinical research or treatment: a review of instruments
The MacCAT-T: a clinical tool to assess patients' capacities to make treatment decisions
Reliability of mental capacity assessments in psychiatric in-patients
MacCAT-T, instrument bij de beoordeling van wilsbekwaamheid
De Nederlandse vertaling van de MacCAT-T: een onderzoek naar de bruikbaarheid ervan in de praktijk
Report of an initial pilot study on the feasibility of using the MacArthur competence assessment tool for clinical research in children and adolescents with attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder
Mental health legislation and decision making capacity: capacity is more complex than it looks
How should paediatricians assess Gillick competence?
Adolescent cancer patients: sperm storage, consent and emotion
Children's views on their involvement in clinical research
Communication of randomization in childhood leukemia trials
[Ethics of medical scientific research: informed consent and the therapeutic misconception]
Minors' consent to treatment: a developmental perspective
Doctor-parent–child relationships: a 'pas de trois'
I've come for his throat': roles and identities in doctor-parent–child communication
Mental capacity to make decisions on treatment in people admitted to psychiatric hospitals: cross sectional study
Assessment of capacity to consent to research among older persons with schizophrenia, Alzheimer disease, or diabetes mellitus: comparison of a 3-item questionnaire with a comprehensive standardized capacity instrument
Competence of mentally ill patients: a comparative empirical study
Variability of judgments of capacity: experience of capacity evaluators in a study of research consent capacity
Pre-publication history
The pre-publication history for this paper can be accessed here:


text:
By Boualem Sansal Translated from the French by Frank Wynne
Europa Editions, 240 pages, $15
By Salwa Al Neimi Translated from the Arabic by Carol Perkins
Europa Editions, 141 pages, $15
By Laleh Khadivi
McClelland and Stewart, 292 pages, $29.99
By Shahriar Mandanipour Translated from the Farsi by Sara Khalili.
Random House Canada, 295 pages, $29.95
By Sulaiman S. M. Y. Addonia
Random House, 320 pages, $28.95
By Randa Jarrar
Other Press, 292 pages, $27.95
A few weeks ago, Canada saw the English-language publication of Egyptian novelist Bahaa Taher's Sunset Oasis, which won the inaugural International Prize for Arabic Fiction in 2008. This year's winner was Azazeel, by Egyptian scholar and novelist Youssef Ziedan. Both books deal with Egyptian history. Taher sets his story at the very end of the 19th century, shortly after his country was occupied by the British, while Ziedan turns to the 5th century AD for his tale of internecine Christian conflict in Roman Egypt.
While both books were published in Arabic to wide acclaim, such is not the case with many novels and short stories written in Arabic, Farsi, Turkish and other languages of the Middle East, which end up being censored or banned outright (the Coptic Orthodox church lobbied the Egyptian government unsuccessfully to have Ziedan's book banned).
As a result, the ability to write in a Western language, or the availability of translation services, becomes imperative for many authors. With the freedom so afforded, writers from across the region are incorporating all manner of taboo subjects into their fiction, and often simultaneously revealing the rich and varied cross-cultural influences that have shaped them. An overview of six recent novels exploring Middle Eastern topics highlights this phenomenon.
"I'm trying to come to terms with the Holocaust, something that would try the patience of God himself, and behind it all is the figure of my father." So wrote "Rachel" (Rachid Helmut Schiller) in his diary a few months after discovering that his late father, a German who settled in Algeria following the Second World War, helped produce the Zyklon B gas used by the Nazis to murder millions of Jews and others. Rachel has since committed suicide - having apparently subjected himself to the sentence he feels his father deserved - and alongside his diary we have that of his brother "Malrich" (Malek Ulrich Schiller), a former Islamic extremist who now sees Islamism and Nazism as two sides of the same coin. Algerian novelist Boualem Sansal's novel The German Mujahid, translated from the French by Frank Wynne, consists of both diaries.
Inspired in part by the haunting poem with which Primo Levi introduces If This Is a Man (in Canada, Survival in Auschwitz), apparently based on a true story, and billed as "the first Arab novel to confront the Holocaust," The German Mujahid is an intriguing but deeply flawed work. While it is true the Islamism espoused by al-Qaeda features similarities with Nazism, both in its totalitarian character and in its endorsement of mass violence, Sansal's repeated comparison between the two trivializes the suffering of victims of the Holocaust. Indeed, Sansal seems to have transposed the Holocaust paradigm onto the struggles around him, so that the victims of Islamist terror and Algerian state violence remind him of Jews in concentration camps.
Sansal's story would have been more resonant had the focus been less on the Holocaust and more on anti-Semitism and Holocaust denial in the Arab world, subjects touched on only briefly. Arabs played a marginal role in the Shoah, whether aiding or opposing the Nazis (examples of both kinds can be found in Robert Satloff's Among the Righteous: Lost Stories from the Holocaust's Long Reach into Arab Lands), but the suffering of the Palestinians has unfortunately led to the stigmatization of all things Jewish in many Arab quarters.
Unlike Sansal, who lives in Algiers and writes in French, Salwa Al Neimi lives in Paris and writes in Arabic. The Syrian Al Neimi has penned a short but sizzling novel about a liberated Syrian woman's steamy sex life in France. The narrator of The Proof of the Honey unabashedly proclaims: "I have a physical need for water, semen, and words. The three things I need in life. I cannot exist without them." Throughout, she details her torrid sexual encounters with vigour, though her apparent lack of faith in love resurrects a tired and simplistic dichotomy.Report Typo/Error