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Sports: Golf Camps
A sliced tee-shot, coupled with a deep-throated moan of frustration, was all too familiar to Dan Ackerson, the president of MCI Telecommunications Inc. Like so many of America's 28 million golfers, he believed he could study a few magazines or videos, take some lessons, then launch golf balls into the next postal code. Just like his control over corporate business, Ackerson didn't count on failure. But even though hitting a stationary ball looked so easy, Ackerson invariably wound up like Indiana Jones, wading through water, woods and poison ivy to search for yet another lost ball.
"My grip, my stance, my backswing--everything was such a mess I was elated when I didn't lose every ball in my bag," recalls Ackerson, who on "good" days scored in the 120s. "Playing golf just wasn't enjoyable. I constantly felt embarrassed."
Ackerson's lament is all too common. Though the game is analyzed as exhaustively as the stock market, self-anointed gurus sell everything from theories to bizarre gizmos--For instance, a fishhook dangling from a headband and attached to a golfer's crotch is one way to keep the head focused on the ball. Despite all the outlandish golfer's aids, the perfect swing remains elusive. Instead of clarity, there is only the Stengelese babble of conflicting tips and mechanics, leaving average golfers disgusted with instruction and doomed to the rough, emotionally if not in reality.
Golf schools, however, with their intensive shot making and confidence building regimens, can work stroke-saving wonders, particularly for golfers shooting in the 90s or higher. Optimally operating at a one to six, teacher to student ratio, the better academies also benefit more competent players, refining every aspect of their game from full swing fundamentals to the finesse needed on and around the green. And while this two- three- or five-day experience evokes images of hitting balls until semiconsciousness, self-improvement usually comes within a chip shot of an ultra-luxurious resort.
Nothing is easy in golf. Over 100 schools have sprung up in the wake of golf's surging popularity, a tribute to some late-onset baby boomer epiphany that jogging and health clubs are bad for the knees while soft, green fairways and padded cushions on the golf cart are partners for life. That means choosing the right school, one suited to your talent and temperament, is a challenge. Some effort is required as a prospective enrollee should weigh the student to teacher ratios, inquire about an instructor's credentials and, above all, be wary of schools with marquee-name logos. While these big name venues hold out promise of instruction with a famous teacher or pro, a student might at most receive a pep talk from that celebrity, then be shunted off for classes with an unheralded, freckle-faced assistant. Of course, the bottom line must be considered in the decision too; nothing in golf is inexpensive, especially the better things in golf...but if you've read this far, you already knew that.
Instead of suffering such disappointment, MCI's Dan Ackerson has shaved 30 strokes off his game in five visits to the Royal Golf Academy at the Port Royal Golf and Racquet Club on Hilton Head island, South Carolina. Now breaking 90, and confident of even more improvement, he encountered two teachers that "don't overburden you with video tapes, intimidating lingo and a crash course in body mechanics." In fact, he never actually thought he was being taught. "Their approach is that simple and relaxed," says Ackerson of Keith Marks Sr. and Jr., the camp's top teaching professionals.
These earthy, plain-talking men, "Swing Doctors" to the likes of Michael Jordan and former White House chief of staff Sam Skinner, are classicists, emphasizing a return to golf's basics. The elder Marks learned golf's fundamentals from such legends as Henry Picard and Jack Grout (Jack Nicklaus's tutor), and now he follows their lead by initially stressing "a key secret" to the proper swing--good foot-work and body balance.
Believing this sequenced weight shift from the left to the right side promotes long, soaring shots, the Marks typically work on ankle, leg and hip movements for hours. This repetitive drill, without clubs in hand, and usually done in groups of six students or less amid a steady stream of one-liners from Academy staffers, could easily bore more accomplished players. But Keith Marks Jr., a teacher for 12 years, insists, "By refining certain essentials, a mid-range player can become a good player. Once I'm sure the foundation is there, I guarantee a 100 percent improvement in the flight of everyone's golf ball, and that's something I can do real quickly."
In stark contrast to most schools, Marks pursues that goal without having students sweltering in the sun, pounding ball after ball. This is a not a boot camp where enrollees must rush between driving range, putting green and sand bunkers. All aspects of the game are scrutinized, but only after proper swing motion and wrist action are firmly etched in the students' heads. Plus the instruction occurs at a languid pace, in a chummy, hospitable Southern atmosphere conducive to beneficial and substantive talks with the Markses.
Both men are well-suited for this role of confidant/psychoanalyst. They understand there are huge individual differences in golf swings, and that transformations come over time, not in a three-day course. Their approach, consequently, is keyed to reducing emotional pressures, as they set "small objectives." This can mean swinging into a tee and making consistent contact, or actually using golf balls and easily advancing them with short irons. The most troublesome club in a golf bag, the driver, isn't even discussed until the last day of classes.
As Marks Jr. says of the Royal Golf Academy's game plan, "We do everything very gradually to instill confidence. During the first two days I'm just intent on the shape of the swing, some iron play, a golfer's meeting basic challenges. I know most golf factories stress the splashy: students muscling balls at the range with their drivers. But this doesn't straighten out old, bad habits. It's as the great Tommy Bolt once said, 'Drivers are for professional use only."'
Rules, though, are meant to be broken. At least according to Marks's own version of "dessert."
Following long hours of instruction, Marks accompanies students to one of Port Royal's three championship courses, located on the remnants of a Civil War stronghold. Meandering along weeping willow-lined fairways--the first special treat--he expounds upon the game's secrets and occasionally, he'll even bend that Bolt axiom and allow students to rip a driver for distance.
But most importantly, he discusses course management skills--shot selection, when to take and avoid risks, etiquette--and this too distinguishes Royal Golf from the pack. Most schools don't take students onto a course, only sending them home with a bag tag and a pat on the back.
"We're old-fashioned here. We don't promote ourselves as miracle workers, but we do make every effort to give students all the essentials," says Marks, who conducts numerous outings for MCI execs and clients annually. "My big thing is the swing, helping people get the ball into the air. This generates confidence and the discovery that golf isn't torture, that it can be a lot of fun."
A three-day visit to the Academy costs $850. For reservations call (803) 689-1300 or (800) 277-5588. Walking distance from the school, there is a five Diamond Westin Resort, a sprawling beach-front retreat featuring tennis, health club and conference facilities with some of Hilton Head's tastiest seafood.
Of course, there are other golf academies around the country. Many are just as effective in creating a positive golf experience. CIGAR AFICIONADO conducted a survey of the various possibilities, and has come up with five other suggestions for instructional camps that offer a variety of techniques and emphasis for the struggling golfer.
In the spirit of nearby Walt Disney World and Universal Studios, this is the home of "Stickman," golf's technological marvel. The brainchild of Dr. Ralph Mann, the Stickman is billed as the perfect swing model. It's actually a recorded composite image of over 50 top Professional Golf Association (PGA) Tour players, and for instructional purposes, your own videotaped swing is superimposed against this ideal--with perhaps disheartening results.
Kevin McKinney, the sales manager for the school, admits all this high-tech, biomechanical wizardry may be intimidating to Joe Average Golfer. Yet he still insists that "the immediate feedback from the swing model, coupled with the personalized touch of our five full-time instructors [only eight students per group] ensures a valuable golf experience. The Stickman is a student's friend, an instant replay of your faults and a great learning tool."
The instruction here is constant: three full days at various chipping greens and practice holes. Senior Tour pro Phil Rodgers frequently appears to lend a personal touch to the activities. Yet there's invariably more work in front of a video screen as this program reduces everything to a science, even the time-honored "feel" of the putting stroke.
Escaping the microseconds and digitized dazzle is possible. Along with 45 holes of Jack Nicklaus-designed golf, this widely acclaimed 1500-acre resort offers numerous creature comforts, including ,a racquet club, horseback riding and inviting Mediterranean-style villas.
But the most distinctive feature here is still the Stickman. You either graduate with a new appreciation for science, or shake your head despairingly, thinking it's all Mickey Mouse.
Three days at Grand Cypress including accommodations, lunch and four hours of instruction per day is $1520 for one person, $2530 for two.
The same package with eight hours of daily instruction is $2170 for an individual, $3830 for two.
Call (407) 239-1975 for more information.
Call (407) 239-1975 for more information.
Here Beauty and the Beast reign.
Always bedeviling, there is the internationally celebrated Blue Monster course. An adventure at 6,939 yards, it's known for treacherous water holes, and is one of five courses at this 2400-acre pleasure oasis.
Then there's Jim McLean, one of those rare instructors who's more concerned with teaching than in marketing himself. He's worked with such PGA Tour stars as Steve Elkington, Tom Kite and Peter Jacobsen. But touting an "individually oriented approach without any absolutes," he also helps the average golfers tame their monsters.
"Along with my eight instructors, I work real hard on an athletic move, a sequence of motion that's a shift, rotation, hit idea," says McLean, who in his five-day ($2250) program offers a highly desirable three to one, student to teacher ratio. "But I don't just focus on the full swing. The short game, mental attitude and course management skills are equally vital. It's a self-realization approach, one that gives students strategy and confidence to reduce ten to 20 handicaps to a single digit.
That's McLean's special province--the competent golfers who are willing to work hard. And they do at his school, refining skills at the practice range, then playing the two courses with a team of instructors.
Another attraction of McLean's school is Doral's own version of a 19th hole, the sumptuous Saturnia International Spa. It's a deluxe destination devoted to stress management, nutrition and a panoply of therapies. After a week here, what with "de-stress" facials, imagery training and fitness programs, out-dueling the Blue Monster will only be one satisfaction. More critically, a graduate will again be ready to take on the world.
Rates for Saturnia and Doral Resort packages differ. Call either (305) 593-6030 or (305) 592-2000 for information. The Jim McLean/Doral Golf Learning Center also has two differently priced two- three- and five-day programs. For details and availability, call (305) 591-6409.
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I wondered what the NFL Network was talking about, saying she was the best part of media day!
Good gravy, I think I need a bib
That's a smokin' hottie if I ever saw one. All we need is for Jermaniac to visit this thread and call her a butter face compared to his chick and her hotness will be confirmed.
Gotta love Azteca TV. Wasn't she a Miss Some-Country-or-Other a few years back? I'm sure she gets all the best interviews covering soccer.
I will say that these pictures are a very persuasive argument for not having the SB in a cold weather city.
The poster formerly known as Rimfire
I don't know, some pretty exciting things happen to the female body in lower temps...This quote is hidden because you are ignoring this member. Show Quote
Nuntius was right for a while. I was wrong for a while. But ultimately I was right and Frank Vogel has been let go.
"A player who makes a team great is more valuable than a great player. Losing yourself in the group, for the good of the group, thats teamwork."
-John Wooden

subset: commoncrawl


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Life Is Simple: Eat, Sleep And Aerobics Canvas Tote Bag
Product Color:
Product information
Why get a Canvas Tote Bag Life Is Simple: Eat, Sleep And Aerobics? Are you one of those that can't leave home without 50 "essential items" that just won't fit into your pockets? Plenty of room for all your necessities and more. Or simply let it speak your mind! Due to its sturdy fabric it also makes a great shopping bag, which lasts and saves the environment.
This Life Is Simple: Eat, Sleep And Aerobics product includes a full side and bottom gusset and extra long handles for easy carrying. Aerobics Canvas Tote Bag made of sturdy 100% Cotton. Measurements: 15" x 18" x 6".
Sku: BL0BL0000004670202020006SGWHDS000


text: Student Services These organizations work to provide social, cultural, and educational opportunities that promote student involvement outside of the classroom. Creese Student Center – The University's student center complements the educational mission of the University through cultural, educational, social, and recreational programs. Ross Commons – The commons serves as a student center on the north side of campus. International Students and Scholars Services (ISSS) – ISSS staff work to promote meaningful interaction between United States citizens and nationals of other countries. Commuter Student Engagement – This office provides its constituents with student learning and engagement opportunities outside of the classroom. Office of Veteran Student Services – This is a campus-wide effort that unifies services and support and provides mentorship for veterans. Office of Student Conduct and Community Standards – The conduct process attempts to foster personal learning and growth, while at the same time holding individuals and groups accountable for inappropriate behavior. Public Safety – Drexel's Department of Public Safety is committed to ensuring a safe environment, providing preventative and protective services and programs to the entire Drexel University community. The Drexel University Police Department is on patrol at all times in buildings and around campus, and students have access to DrexelALERT, emergency telephones, and walking escorts.


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By Varietal
it is sweet and spicy and because it uses ground turkey breast it is fast to cook and healthier than a beef burger
Have a Happy Thanksgiving all year long with this tasty and moist burger! It's a great "day-after" Thanksgiving meal. Your family won't even know that your using up the Thanksgiving left-overs!
This burger was inspired by my love of Chinese food and my husband love of grilling. Once we had it and we both fell in love with it. It's a get merger.
I created this burger as an alternative to beef. Since we live in Texas, I incorporated some of the Southwest flavors of this fine state.
This "burger" is sooo good you will not believe it is healthier with less fat. It is super and even snoopy husbands and kids will eat it!


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Chianti nouvellesCHIANTI WINE STORY - 6/1/2012
The Chianti wine has ancient origins, so as to give the name even to a part of Tuscany. According to some, the wine chianti was already known to the Etruscans, it certainly speaks in the year 913 and in other documents of 1037, found in the Badia a Coltibuono.
A curiosity about the origin of the name Chianti, according to some could come from the Latin word Clangor (noise), as the noise of the hunters that were popular in the area that today is the Chianti, the second derives from the Etruscan Clante other (water).
The first document, which identifies as an area of Chianti wine production, but also the wine, dating back to the thirteenth century, and refer to the "Chianti League" which was founded in Florence in order to regulate relations with tertiary area of Radda, Gaiole and Castellina.
What is still the emblem of the Chianti wine in the world draws its origins from the right symbol of the League of Chianti Gallo Nero on a gold background.
In 1398 the Chianti was a white wine of poor quality. Later, in 1427, turns red Chianti wine, the quality is improved to the point that is also chosen by the Popes.
Sangiovese grape-
Grape SangioveseIl September 24, 1716 in Florence the Grand Duke Cosimo III de 'Medici, issued a proclamation in which they were specified, for the first time, the boundaries of the areas within which they could be produced wines Chianti Pomino, Carmarthen, and Val d'Arno Sopra, a sort of indication of specific areas of wine production, what is now summarized in the acronym DOC. Grand Duke Cosimo III de 'Medici issued a decree with which the Congregation was a school supervisor on the production, shipping, fraud control and marketing of wine.
It was in 1835 that Bettino Ricasoli, a farmer and winemaker, produced in his estate in Tuscany Castle Brolio a red wine full-bodied and intensely flavored as to keep up with the famous Italian and French red wines. The wine created by Bettino Ricasoli in fact opened the way for marketing in the wine Chianti, which was spread throughout the world.
Vineyards of the Chianti wine recipe ChiantiLa Bettino Ricasoli, was in the vinification of two red grapes (Sangiovese in quantity from 75% to 90%, and 5-10% Canaiolo) and white (2-5% Malvasia) , to which was added later also the quality Trebbiano.
Around 1920, some producers of the "old classical" give life to the consortium for the first defense of the Chianti wine chosen as the symbol of the ancient mark of the Chianti League, the "black cock".
-vineyard Chianti
Vineyard ChiantiNegli seventies recognizes the designation of origin and end of the century, stretches the product specification with the division into seven geographical sub-areas of Tuscany.
Thus was born the Chianti wine that has made Tuscany famous throughout the world through a production that has never stopped improving the quality of that research by one of the best wines of Chianti and disseminated.
Read the other news >>
Forfaits vacances
A tasting of ChiantiChianti's flavours and colours tasting local wine and food during a fast but deep immersion into this land at Villa Vignamaggio (2 nights)
History and castles in TuscanyYou'll visit timeless walled town that look like the XIV century and villages settled on top of the most beautiful hillside of Italy (3 nights)
Siena and ChiantiVisit the famous town of Siena and explore some of the most beautiful castles and medieval villages of Chianti region (4 nights)
Chiantis wellnessWhat you could expect more? The beauty of Tuscan countryside and beauty treatments at the state of the art combined (2 nights)
Chianti on a horse-backRiding a horse is a very relaxing way to get in touch with Nature experiencing local sounds and feelings (2 nights)
Join our fan page on Facebook, get resources, read our latest notes and connect with other people interested in Chianti, Tuscany and Italy.


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SHEPHERDSVILLE - A pair of seniors in the Bullitt County Area Technology Center's Health Sciences Technology program earned honors at 33rd Kentucky Health Occupational Students of America (HOSA) Spring Leadership Conference March 23-25 at the Crowne Plaza Hotel in Louisville.
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This Ashley Already Has An Owner - Reserved Hoodie
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Hoodie This Ashley Already Has An Owner - Reserved is the all-time ultimate in comfort with its classic, relaxed fit. On the surface rich cotton with This Ashley Already Has An Owner - Reserved, inside flannel for the softest sensation. Medium to heavy weight ensuring warmth and makes it great, weather as a throw-over in rainy and windy weather or to protect against the snow and ice in the winter.
Additionally warms head and hands, featuring a roomy reinforced pocket. A big and wide hood ensures extra coziness. Stretched cuffs and hem assure a lasting shape. Ashley Hoodie comes in 12 basic colors. Heather Grey: 80% Cotton/20% Polyester. Remaining Colors: 100% Cotton.
Sku: SC1DS0000021022121210044CRREWH000


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Brighton's successful North Laine contraflow scheme
This month Cycling UK has launched the national Space for Cycling campaign with the vision of making it safe for anyone to cycle anywhere in the country.
Both experienced campaigners and thousands of everyday people are taking part by sending emails via our website www.space4cycling.org.uk challenging Councillors all over the country to pledge their support. United, we're confident change can happen, as it has in examples all over the country, including Brighton.
In 1998 Brighton and Hove decided that many of their roads needed to become one way to stop them from being used as "rat runs" by car users. On the surface this makes complete sense, no one wants their road to become the go to route for fast moving cars or taxis in a hurry. The down side of the new one way systems was that no provision for cyclists was made along side, meaning that either the cyclists needed to go far out of their way to navigate within the law or, as many did, they were forced to break the law and their safety into their own hands and cycle illegally.
"Having ridden constantly from childhood it began to make me angry when I saw rules and roads changed that made it unnecessarily difficult for cyclists. I guess I'm an enthusiast for improved conditions. I don't want to live in a place where children are strapped into cars from the moment they're born.
Becky Reynolds
One of the main affected areas of the city was Brighton's North Laine, a network of shopping and residential streets near Brighton Station. Recent studies have shown that shoppers who arrive by bicycle can provide an essential boost to local economies and can help regeneration, something people rarely considered in the 90s.
Becky and her fellow campaigners at Bricycles began a cleverly named "One Way? No way" campaign insisting that there should be no one-way streets without a 2-way provision for cyclists. One of the fellow bike minded campaigners she met was a cycle trainer by the name of Ian Davey, who retained his passion for championing cycling as he went on to become one of Brighton's Green Party Councillors.
Things really began to change once the Green Party took control of the council and formed a minority administration in 2011. "There are a lot of environmentally minded people in Brighton but it seemed we really gained momentum when Ian Davy joined the Green Party, it created a sea of change in the community, and a lot positive changes gained cross party support."
In the autumn of 2012 Becky Reynolds, Bricycles, Councillor Ian Davey and fellow campaigners were able to celebrate their success as North Laine was transformed and many one-way streets became two-way for cycling.
If you want to see help open up one-way streets to cycling, the first step is to write to your councillors asking them to make Space for Cycling - click the link below to get started.


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School Day at the K postponed due to weather
KANSAS CITY -- How appropriate is this? Weather day is postponed because of a poor forecast.
Actually, the title is "School Day at The K," and it's an annual function that brings thousands of kids to Kauffman Stadium to learn about science and weather from Fox 4 television's meteorologist. The 15th School Day at the K was supposed to happen on Thursday before an afternoon game against Tampa Bay.
However, a forecast for cold and rain on Thursday prompted the postponement of School Day to Wednesday, June 12, before a 1:10 p.m. CT game against Detroit.
Thursday's game between the Rays and Royals, however, remains on schedule.
Dick Kaegel is a reporter for MLB.com. Bill Chastain is a reporter for MLB.com. This story was not subject to the approval of Major League Baseball or its clubs.


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OAKLAND — A San Francisco man who set up a deal through a Craigslist ad to buy some iPads in Oakland's Redwood Heights neighborhood Monday night was instead beaten and robbed of cash and his Mercedes-Benz, police said Wednesday.
The incident was reported about 8:13 p.m. Monday in the 3500 block of Jordan Road, a quiet residential area.
The 20-year-old man told police he spotted some iPads for sale on Craigslist and a man responded and they set up a meeting at the Oakland site.
The man was standing by his car talking to the so-called iPad seller when a gunman walked up, pushed him to the ground, hit him in the head and demanded his money. The man lost more than $1,000 and also the Mercedes, which contained several cell phones, including his own.
The last thing the victim saw was the 2001 Mercedes driving away followed by a gold Lexus. He could not tell which car was driven by the gunman and which by the so-called seller who police said set up the robbery.
Police and Crime Stoppers of Oakland are offering up to $2,500 in reward money for information leading to the arrest of the robbers. Anyone with information may call police at 510-238-3326.
The robbery and carjacking is one of many investigated by police that have involved Craigslist ads. Police caution those involved in Craigslist deals to be extremely careful and insist transactions happen in public places, even at the police department if there is any concern, and to not be alone and to avoid actual cash transactions especially if you are a buyer.


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Cash-In Refinancing: Can You Benefit from This Growing Trend?
With mortgage interest rates at or near historic lows, you may be wondering if it's time to refinance your home. But declining property values and stricter mortgage lending standards may make it harder for you to capitalize on low mortgage rates, because you may no longer have enough equity in your home to qualify for a new mortgage. Enter cash-in refinancing. With cash-in refinancing, you bring cash to closing to reduce your mortgage balance and increase your home equity, enabling you to meet the lender's loan requirements.
Why is cash-in refinancing becoming popular?
Cash-in refinancing reverses the trend of cash-out refinancing that has been popular during the last decade. If, like many homeowners, you refinanced your home three or four years ago when home values were skyrocketing, you may have tapped into your available home equity to obtain cash to invest, put toward home improvements, or pay off debt. According to Freddie Mac, more than 80% of homeowners who refinanced a few years ago received cash back at closing. But the unfortunate combination of declining home values and rising foreclosure rates forced financial institutions to tighten lending standards, leading to a sharp increase in the number of homeowners now putting cash in at closing instead of taking cash out.
Of course, to complete a cash-in refinance, you must have a lump sum of money that you can put toward reducing your mortgage balance. Those contemplating a cash-in refinance often have funds sitting in a savings or money market account that is yielding low returns--e.g., 1% or less--that they would like to put to better use. For example, if you're nearing retirement and plan to stay put, you may especially welcome the opportunity to pay down your mortgage balance and refinance at a low interest rate, thereby reducing your retirement expenses.
Here are some other reasons to consider a cash-in refinance:
- You can't otherwise qualify to refinance because the value of your home has declined. If the appraised value of your home has fallen, your equity may not be enough to meet minimum lending requirements; bringing cash to the table may enable you to refinance your loan.
- You have enough equity in your home to meet a lender's criteria for refinancing, but not enough to avoid paying private mortgage insurance (PMI), which lenders generally require if you have less than 20% equity in your home. Bringing enough cash to the closing to reach that all-important 80% loan-to-value ratio will enable you to avoid paying PMI and reduce your mortgage balance at the same time.
- You want to qualify for a better mortgage interest rate and terms. For example, putting cash in at closing could help you avoid taking out a jumbo mortgage, which generally has a higher interest rate.
- You want to reduce your loan term. For example, now that interest rates are low, you may be able to afford the monthly payment on a 15-year mortgage rather than a 30-year mortgage, but to do so, you need additional home equity.
Even if you can refinance, should you?
The prospect of potentially shaving hundreds of dollars off your monthly mortgage payment or saving thousands of dollars in interest over the life of your loan is obviously appealing. But there's a lot to think about before you take the plunge. One major drawback of increasing your home equity is that you could tie up money you may need for other purposes, such as reducing high interest debt or bolstering an emergency savings account. Home equity isn't liquid, and in difficult economic times it's wise to have some cash on hand. It's possible that home values will continue to decline instead of stabilize or even rise; if so, you may sink further underwater, so make sure you're able to ride out the economic storm.
Finally, make sure that you'll really benefit financially from a cash-in refinance. For example, if you plan on moving within the next couple of years, you may not have enough time to recoup the costs associated with obtaining a new mortgage, even if you're able to refinance at today's historically low interest rates.


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Topic: My Port Worked!
Went to Dr. Lee's (Princeton) today and was expecting to get some meds to unclog the "gunk" that gets into ports. 2 weeks ago they couldn't get blood return. They even reaccessed my port and no go. I wonder if it's the nurse now??? She tried 2x and they ordered the meds. I went in today expecting to get them, and guess what?? Blood return!!! I am so happy that I don't have to worry anymore.
But they refilled my pump and the same nurse tried to access it. She failed 2x. So the other nurse had to do it.
I wonder if it's the nurse?? Maybe she just doesn't have a good "touch" where I'm concerned.
I'm just relieved it's over and I can quit worrying about that now... now it's on to worrying about radiation and the size of my nodes, etc......
"Don't just have minutes in the day; have moments in time."
Any opinions I give are based on personal experiences, and are not based on medical knowledge. I strongly suggest receiving medical care and opinions.


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Just before the intense debate on the Reproductive Health bill, Filipinos are once more at odds with each other in considering another controversial piece of legislation: the Divorce bill.
The debate on legalizing divorce took a kick-start when news of Maltese referendum favoring divorce reached the Philippines a few days ago. This has prompted progressive groups to make a bolder call for the country to follow in Malta's steps and legalize divorce in a predominantly Catholic nation.
The debate on divorce is nothing new, see here AttyatWork's round-up of talking points [1] on the issue from last year.
Filipino Thinkers [2] has a great digest of how the debate was settled and how the referendum unfolded in Malta. More importantly, it provides a side by side comparison of the issue between the Philippines and Malta:
Aside from the happy ending, which left the Philippines the only country without divorce1, the story of Malta's divorce referendum shares similarities with our own reproductive health (RH) debates:
both countries are last bastions of Catholicism: Malta in Europe, the Philippines in Asia; both countries are predominantly Catholic: 95% in Malta, 80% in the Philippines; and both battles are primarily between progressive Catholics and conservative bishops. And in both cases, the conservative bishops use fear mongering to keep their flock in line.
For a quick refresher on the differences between divorce, annulment and legal separation, Lyle R. Santos has a quick guide in layman's terms [3].
With Malta's approval of divorce, the Philippines is now the lone country in the world that prohibits it. For Blue Dela Kanluran, the debate on divorce should not be framed on this fact alone [4]:
As i had stated earlier my stand is against divorce however, I will not begrudge a sovereign nation of their right to decide whats best for their country and themselves as Malta has displayed here. (See, that is an example of the separation of Church and State).
Which leads me to wonder, what effects will the stigma of the only country which outlaws divorce have on the Philippines?
Personally, I think this will make pro-divorce legislation in the future more difficult not only because of the meddling of the Church but with the stigma earlier stated as well (Which is not how legislation should be argued).
Cocoy views the near-approval of the Reproductive Health and now the Divorce bill as a 'reboot [5]' of the Philippines, moving from a predominantly religious state in a secular one:
If the Reproductive Health bill becomes law, and it is followed by a divorce bill? That would be one continuity reboot for the Philippines. It signals that the nation is slowly becoming secular and less under the thrall of the Vatican.
As a Catholic, for me, it presents an opportunity for the Church to focus on the spiritual. I want sermons and direction that make me a better person. I don't need the Church to tell me what is wrong with government. Filipinos everywhere already know what's wrong with our nation. It is that time in history that we fix it. I need my church to help guide that poor maid who is always beaten up by her husband. I need a Church that guides street children away from the streets, and into education. I need this church to be relevant.
Dreamwalker takes delight in the fact that this proposed laws, no matter how dividing and controversial, sparks debate among society [6], thus encouraging everyone to take part in the national discourse:
I continue to be amazed by how Filipinos seem to be more aware of what is happening in the country and how we seek to be more informed about our laws – both proposed and existing. In my opinion, this can only lead to more good. Never mind that there will always b
Maju brings forward a valid point in cautioning that our lawmakers should take up the divorce law with a keener eye [7]:
We should also get onto considerations on how good or bad are existing divorce laws. In many countries, notably those under the Sharia, the rights of women and men in divorce are not the same.
Lastly, here's a good discussion by a lawyer, Connie Veneracion [8], about annulment, legal separation under current Philippine laws and how divorce could plug the holes in the current Family Code:
Later on, however, it became clear that despite the leeway allowed by the concept of psychological incapacity, there was a huge gaping hole in the law. Annulment is a very expensive legal procedure beyond the financial capacity of majority of the Filipinos. The laundrywoman living in the slums who is physically abused by the drunken jobless husband could not afford it. In addition to the expense, the process was a long and tedious one. Eventually, the divorce advocates started making noise again. As expected, the Catholic church is getting more imaginative in coming up with arguments against divorce.
It is sad that most Filipinos cannot view marriage independently from its religious context. It is even more sad that most Filipinos do not consider themselves validly married unless married in church. Very sad indeed.
So, will the passage of a divorce law patch the loopholes in the Family Code? It depends on what the law will allow as valid grounds for divorce and what the required procedure will be. It has happened before that a law is passed as some sort of pacifier. Congress can pass a "divorce" law which such narrow grounds and complex process that it will effectively negate the very purpose of a divorce. You know, just so it can be said that a divorce law has been passed. I doubt if that will satisfy the progressives and the divorce advocates.


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We know about the health risks associated with preterm babies, but new research has found that post-term babies (born after 42 weeks gestation) have a higher risk of behavioral and emotional problems like ADHD. According to MSNBC, researchers analyzed pregnant women in the Netherlands who were expecting from April 2002 to January 2006. The mothers filled out a questionnaire when their children were 18 months and 36 months old, and the fathers filled out a questionnaire at 36 months old. There were 5,145 babies born and 4.4 percent were born preterm, 7.4 percent were born post-term. Researchers found that the risk of behavioral problems at 18 to 36 months old doubled for post-term babies and they were also more likely to develop ADHD.
Experts are unsure of the cause of these risks, but are looking to do more research on the long-term effects of post-term births.
Are you worried about baby developing behavioral problems? Did you give birth after your due date?


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do (one's) bidding(redirected from doing bidding)
do (one's) bidding
To do what someone else wants or has requested, to the point of servitude. I hate how my mother always wants me to do her bidding—I refuse to do what she wants any longer! I can always get Tom to do my bidding, which is great when I'm faced with something I don't want to do!
See also: bidding


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Soto, Chirinos fill void competently behind the plate
ARLINGTON -- The Rangers have won nine of their last 14 games. That's significant because those 14 games took place while catcher A.J. Pierzynski was on the disabled list with a strained oblique muscle in his right rib cage.
The Rangers were able to survive and thrive because of the work of Geovany Soto and Robinson Chirinos. Soto was 9-for-38 with two home runs and five RBIs, while Chirinos was 3-for-12. The Rangers won all three games that Chirinos started. In the past 12 games, there have been no errors or passed balls charged to a Rangers catcher and there was just three stolen bases against them.
"Soto started picking it up after he started playing regularly," manager Ron Washington said. "Chirinos, we didn't know what we had, but he showed he could handle anybody, he gives a good at-bat, the ball didn't get past him and he received the ball very well. It's nice to know he's down there."
The Rangers remain the only American League team without a passed ball charged to their catchers. The Rangers had also allowed just 17 stolen bases, the fourth fewest in the league and their catchers had committed just two errors, tied for the fourth fewest in the league.
T.R. Sullivan is a reporter for MLB.com. Read his blog, Postcards from Elysian Fields, and follow him on Twitter @Sullivan_Ranger. Christian Corona is a contributor to MLB.com. This story was not subject to the approval of Major League Baseball or its clubs.


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Mattingly puts Dodgers' hot stretch in perspective
LOS ANGELES -- Last year, the uphill climb started on June 22. This year, on June 8. In both cases, the Dodgers were out 9 1/2 games in the National League West standings.
In 2013, the Dodgers went on a historic 42-8 run and finished the season 11 games up. The book isn't yet closed on this season, but the Dodgers enter Friday night's series opener with the Cubs at a season-high 3 games ahead of the second-place Giants.
While they haven't put together a 50-game run quite like last season's, the Dodgers are undeniably hot, riding a season-high six-game winning streak after not winning -- or losing -- three in a row the entire year.
How does this season's Dodgers run stack up?
"I didn't really notice it last year, honestly, that we went on that kind of run," manager Don Mattingly said Friday. "We were just kind of going day to day and kind of grinding it out. The similarities for me this year with last year is really us getting down a lot [in the standings].
"It seemed like earlier this year we got back in it, and once we got back in it, I felt pretty confident that we were going to at least be in the race. We didn't get into too much trouble there early."
And as of late, there's hardly been any trouble at all. The Dodgers went to San Francisco last weekend and swept a first-place Giants team to take the division lead, and they followed that series up with a three-game sweep of a tough Atlanta Braves team.
"I don't feel a whole lot different because it's just happening recently," Mattingly said of his team's run. "We hadn't won more than three or lost more than three, which kind of shows you we've been fairly consistent, we just haven't been on any kind of run. The San Francisco series, it felt like it gave us a little confidence.
"Hopefully, we just ride now."
Michael Lananna is an associate reporter for MLB.com. This story was not subject to the approval of Major League Baseball or its clubs.


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The Los Angeles Lakers, a game below .500 (15-16) after Tuesday's loss to the Philadelphia 76ers, are running out of time to pull things together, point guard Steve Nash says, according to the Los Angeles Times.
"We've got a lot of work to do," Nash told reporters after the loss. "We're running out of time here. We can't necessarily hit the panic button, but there needs to be a better sense of urgency."
Because of injuries, the team, as constructed in the offseason, hasn't played much together. And while Nash—who has played in only seven games this season—is counseling patience, he says the process has to speed up.
"It's confounding," Nash said. "It's frustrating. We're in a tough position. We really have a lot of ground to make up. We're not finding a lot of answers right now, and we're struggling a little bit."
The Lakers are 9½ games behind the first-place Los Angeles Clippers in the Pacific Division and yet only 1½ games out of eighth place, the cutoff for the playoffs, in the Western Conference with months to go in the regular season.
The team's play has raised a question, according to the Times: Do the Lakers have the pieces they need to win, once given enough collective experience, or are they just a .500 team, despite all the expectations?
Nash says a lack of cohesion is natural, given the lack of reps.
"There's just so little commonality. There's so few common experiences between us, so many situations just seem new," he said. "I think we're struggling to find that little bit of connectivity that makes a team a team.
"We need common experiences. So far we just look like, I think, a bunch of guys who are trying to learn each other. We don't have that understanding yet."
The tricky part for general manager Mitch Kupchak, the Times notes, is figuring out whether a roster change would be beneficial. Roster additions—or subtractions—may be needed for the team to blossom, but they also might cause additional painful adjustments.


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MODIS/Aqua Snow Cover Daily L3 Global 0.05Deg CMG (MYD10C1) consists of 7200-column by 3600-row global arrays of snow cover in a 0.05 deg climate modeling grid (CMG). Data and quality assurance (QA) fields are in HDF-EOS format, along with corresponding metadata. Data extend from 04 July 2002 to 03 January 2007. MODIS snow cover data are based on a snow mapping algorithm that employs a Normalized Difference Snow Index (NDSI) and other criteria tests. The only data available for Version 4 (V004) is the Golden Month, which is a sample of V004 data covering the time period 29 August 2002 (day of year 241) through 7 October 2002 (day of year 280). The Golden Month is only available by special request by contacting NSIDC User Services.
Please note that NSIDC now has a complete series of Version 5 data, which is the highest version number now available and represents the best quality of data.
As a condition of using these data, you must cite the use of this data set using the following citation. For more information, see our Use and Copyright Web page.
The following example shows how to cite the use of this data set in a publication. List the principal investigators, year of data set release (2000), data set title and version, date of the version you used, publishers (NSIDC), and digital media.
Hall, D.K., G.A. Riggs, and V.V. Salomonson. 2003, updated daily. MODIS/Aqua Snow Cover Daily L3 Global 0.05Deg CMG V004, January to March 2003. Boulder, CO, USA: National Snow and Ice Data Center. Digital media.
|Data format
|Spatial coverage and resolution
|Coverage is global. Grid resolution is 0.05°.
|Temporal coverage and resolution
Data extend from 04 July 2002 to 03 January 2007. Temporal resolution is daily.
|Tools for accessing data
NSIDC's HDF-EOS site
|Data range
Pixel values are as follows:
0: Snow-free land
|Grid type and size
The CMG products contain global snow cover arrays of 7200 columns by 3600 rows. Each cell is 0.05° resolution.
|File naming convention
Example: "MYD10C1.A2001033.004.2001268165647.hdf"
|File size
Each data granule is 101.36 MB.
The snow mapping algorithm for CMG products classifies pixels as snow, snow-free land, cloud, night, masked (Antarctica), or no data. Snow extent is the primary variable of interest in this data set.
|Procedures for obtaining data
Contact NSIDC User Services to order data.
1. Contacts and Acknowledgments
2. Detailed Data Description
3. Data Access and Tools
4. Data Acquisition and Processing
5. References and Related Publications
6. Document Information
Dorothy K. Hall
NASA Goddard Space Flight Center
Mailstop 974.0
Greenbelt, MD 20771
Vincent V. Salomonson
NASA Goddard Space Flight Center
Mailstop 974.0
Greenbelt, MD 20771
George A. Riggs
Science Systems and Applications, Inc. NASA Goddard Space Flight Center
Mailstop 974.1
Greenbelt, MD 20771
NSIDC User Services
National Snow and Ice Data Center
University of Colorado
Boulder, CO 80309-0449 USA
phone: +1 303.492.6199
fax: +1 303.492.2468
form: Contact NSIDC User Services
e-mail: firstname.lastname@example.com
Algorithms that generate snow cover products are continually being improved, as limitations become apparent in early versions of data. As a new algorithm becomes available, a new version of data is released. Users are encouraged to work with the latest version available, which is the highest version number.
Please visit the following sites for more information about known data problems, production schedule, and future plans:
MYD10C1 consists of 7200-column by 3600-row global arrays of snow cover. MYD10A1 500 m cells that lie within a 0.05° resolution CMG cell are binned to determine surface features. Data are gridded in a geographic projection. Each data granule contains the following HDF-EOS fields:
Snow percentage in each cell of the Day CMG Snow Cover field is calculated using 500 m totals of the number of snow observations and count of land observations in that cell for the day. The percentage of snow-covered land is based on the clear-sky view of land in the CMG cell. So, the amount of snow observed in a CMG cell is based on the cloud-free observations mapped into the CMG grid cell for all land in that cell.
percent snow = 100 * count of snow observations/count of land
Cloud percentage in each cell of the Day CMG Cloud Obscured field is calculated in the same way as the percentage of snow, except that the count of cloud observations is used. Data from the Day CMG Snow Cover and Day CMG Cloud Obscured fields are used together to better understand the observed snow. For example, if MODIS views a snow-covered region and no clouds obstruct the view on that day, then the percentage of snow cover is 100 percent. If there is 30 percent cloud cover for that day, the percentage of snow cover is 70 percent.
percent cloud obscured = 100 * count of cloud observations/count of land
The Day CMG Confidence Index field represents an estimate of confidence of the data value in each cell. The index indicates how confident the algorithm is that snow percentage in a cell is correct based on which data (snow, snow-free land, cloud, and unknown) were binned into the grid cell.
The Snow Spatial QA field provides additional information on algorithm results for each pixel within a spatial context, and is used as a measure of usefulness for snow-cover data. QA data are stored as bit flags, and QA information is extracted by reading the bits within a byte. (See MODIS Snow Cover Quality Assurance Fields.) The QA information tells if algorithm results were nominal, abnormal, or if other defined conditions were encountered for a pixel (Riggs, Hall, and Salomonson 2003).
A separate ASCII text file containing metadata with a .met file extension accompanies the HDF-EOS file. The metadata file contains some of the same metadata as in the product file, but also includes other information regarding archiving, user support, and post production quality assurance (QA) relative to the granule ordered. The post-production QA metadata may or may not be present depending on whether or not the data granule has been investigated for quality assurance. The metadata file should be examined to determine if post-production QA has been applied to the granule (Riggs, Hall, and Salomonson 2003).
Example: "MYD10C1.A2003121.004.2003142152431.hdf"
MYD = MODIS/Aqua
2003 = Year of data acquisition
121 = Julian date of data acquisition (day 121)
004 = Version of data type (Version 4)
2003 = Year of production (2003)
142 = Julian date of production (day 142)
152431 = Hour/minute/second of production in GMT (15:24:31)
Each data granule is 101.36 MB.
Coverage is global, but snow extent is calculated for land pixels only.
Gridded resolution is 0.05°.
MYD10C1 is in a geographic projection.
The CMG products contain global snow cover arrays of 7200 columns by 3600 rows. Each cell is 0.05° resolution. The following is a sample image derived from MYD10C1 data.
See Geolocating MODIS Climate Modeling Grid (CMG) Data in ENVI.
Version 4 (V004) data extend from 04 July 2002 to 03 January 2007.
Temporal resolution is daily for MYD10C1.
The snow mapping algorithm for CMG products classifies pixels as snow, snow-free land, cloud, night, masked (Antarctica), or no data. Snow extent is the primary variable of interest in this data set.
Pixel values are as follows:
0: Snow-free land
1-100: Percent snow in cell
111: Night
252: Antarctica
253: Data not mapped
254: Open water (ocean)
255: Fill
Errors may exist in the reflectance calculations due to the anisotropy of snow and ice. Snow is not a Lambertian reflector and reflects more in a forward direction, particularly with aged snow. Thus, as snow ages, its anisotropy increases. The increase in forward scattering with snow age is greater in the near infrared wavelengths, relative to the visible wavelengths. Such errors will likely be greater at larger angles (30° or more) off nadir as the amount of reflected solar irradiance varies with view angle. Additionally, errors in precise reflectance value due to anisotropy related to topographic variability will be inherent in the data (Hall et al. 2001a).
Errors with the snow mapping algorithm are lowest in tundra and prairie regions. The maximum expected errors are 15 percent for forests, 10 percent for mixed agriculture and forest, and 5 percent for other land covers. Estimating snow cover is difficult in forests because trees partially or completely conceal underlying snow. These errors were used to estimate the expected maximum monthly and annual errors in Northern Hemisphere snow-mapping methods from the algorithm. The maximum monthly errors are expected to range from 5 percent to 9 percent for North America, and from 5 percent to 10 percent for Eurasia. The maximum aggregated Northern Hemisphere snow mapping error is estimated to be 7.5 percent. The error is highest, around 9 percent to 10 percent, when snow covers the Boreal Forest roughly between November and April (Hall et al. 2001b).
Quality indicators for MODIS snow data are represented by AutomaticQualityFlag and ScienceQualityFlag metadata objects and their corresponding explanations, AutomaticQualityFlagExplanation and ScienceQualityFlagExplanation, in the CoreMetadata.0 global attribute and also in the Snow Spatial QA data field. These are generated during production or in post-product scientific and quality checks of the data product.
The AutomaticQualityFlag is automatically set according to conditions for meeting data criteria in the snow mapping algorithm. In most cases, the flag is set to either Passed or Suspect, and in rare instances it may be set to Failed. Suspect means that a significant percentage of the data were anomalous and that further analysis should be done to determine the source of anomalies. The AutomaticQualityFlagExplanation contains a brief message explaining the reason for the setting of the AutomaticQualityFlag. The ScienceQualityFlag and the ScienceQualityFlagExplanation are set after production, either after an automated QA program is run or after the data product is inspected by a qualified snow scientist. Content and explanation of this flag are dynamic so it should always be examined if present.
The Snow Cover PixelQA field provides additional information on algorithm results for each pixel within a spatial context, and is used as a measure of usefulness for snow-cover data. QA data are stored as bit flags, and QA information is extracted by reading the bits within a byte. (See MODIS Snow Cover Quality Assurance Fields.) The QA information tells if algorithm results were nominal, abnormal, or if other defined conditions were encountered for a pixel (Riggs, Hall, and Salomonson 2003). For example, intermediate checks for theoretical bounding of reflectance data and the NDSI ratio are made in the algorithm. In theory, reflectance values should lie within the 0-100 percent range, and the NDSI ratio should lie within the -1.0 to +1.0 range. Summary statistics are kept for pixels that exceed these theoretical limits; however, the test for snow is done regardless of violations of these limits. Violations are tracked and written as Auto_check_QA local attributes, as they suggest that error or other anomalies may have been introduced into the input data, indicating the need for further investigation.
The snow algorithm also identifies missing data and reports them in the output product. Certain expected anomalous conditions may exist with the input data, such as a few missing lines or unusable data from the MODIS sensor. In these cases, the snow algorithm makes no snow decision for an affected pixel. A snow spatial QA bit is set to indicate the cause, and the algorithm moves to the next pixel. Summary statistics are calculated for these conditions, and reported as Valid EV Obs Band x local attributes (Riggs, Hall, and Salomonson 2003).
The MODIS Land Quality Assurance Web site provides updated quality information for each product.
Contact NSIDC User Services to order data.
Hierarchical Data Format - Earth Observing System (HDF-EOS): NSIDC provides more information about the HDF-EOS format, tools for extracting binary and ASCII objects from HDF, and a list of other HDF-EOS resources.
The following sites can help users select appropriate MODIS data for your study:
See MODIS Data Summaries for other MODIS snow and sea ice products available from NSIDC.
Satellites are well suited to the measurement of snow cover because the high albedo of snow presents a good contrast with most other natural surfaces except clouds. Spectral reflectivity of snow depends on grain size and shape, impurity content, liquid water content, depth, surface roughness, and solar elevation angle (Hall and Martinec 1985). Reflectance of fresh snow is very high in the visible wavelengths, but decreases in the near-infrared wavelengths especially as grain size increases. Because of natural aging and other factors such as soot or volcanic ash deposition, reflectance of snow decreases over time. Fresh snow can have a reflectance up to about 80 percent, but its reflectance may decrease to below 40 percent after snow crystals metamorphose (Hall et al. 1998).
Snow and Cloud Discrimination
Snow and cloud discrimination techniques are based on differences between cloud and snow/ice reflectance and emittance properties (Figure 1). Clouds typically have high reflectance in visible and near-infrared wavelengths while reflectance of snow decreases in shortwave infrared wavelengths (Hall et al. 1998).
Special Considerations for Dense Forests
The mapping of snow cover becomes limited in areas where snow cover is obscured by dense forest canopies. A forested landscape is never completely snow-covered because tree branches, trunks, and canopies may not be covered with snow. Often, in boreal forests, snow that falls on the coniferous tree canopy will not stay on the canopy for the entire winter because of sublimation. Thus, even in a continuously snow-covered area, much of the forested landscape will not be snow-covered. Furthermore, snow that falls onto the ground through the canopy may not be visible from above.
A canopy reflectance model (GeoSAIL) for discontinuous canopies is the basis for determining the fraction of sunlit crown, sunlit background, crown reflectance, canopy transmittance, shadowed crown, and shadowed background within a forest stand. Reflectances for the sunlit snow are calculated using the Wiscombe and Warren (1980) model, while reflectances from other components were measured from direct observations. A significant difference exists between the high reflectance of snow and the low reflectance of soil, leaves, and bark. Depending on the vegetation type, snow may also cause a decrease in the mid-infrared reflectance of the forest stand. In addition, reflectance in the visible spectrum often increases with respect to the near-infrared reflectance. This lowers the Normalized Difference Vegetation Index (NDVI), a complement to the NDSI (Figure 2).
The NDSI and NDVI are used together to discriminate between snow-free and snow- covered forests (Figure 2). Forested pixels have higher NDVI values compared with non-forested pixels. Thus, by using the NDSI and NDVI in combination, it is possible to lower the NDSI threshold in forested areas without compromising the algorithm performance in other land covers (Hall et al. 1998).
The MODIS instrument provides 12-bit radiometric sensitivity in 36 spectral bands, ranging in wavelength from 0.4 µm to 14.4 µm. Two bands are imaged at a nominal resolution of 250 m at nadir, five bands at 500 m, and the remaining bands at 1000 m. A ±55° scanning pattern at 705 km achieves a 2330 km swath, with global coverage every one to two days.
The scan mirror assembly uses a continuously rotating double-sided scan mirror to scan ±55°, driven by a motor encoder built to operate 100 percent of the time throughout the six year instrument design life. The optical system consists of a two-mirror off-axis afocal telescope which directs energy to four refractive objective assemblies: one each for the visible, near-infrared, shortwave-infrared, and longwave-infrared spectral regions (MODIS Web 2003).
|705 km, 1:30 p.m. ascending node (Aqua), sun-synchronous, near-polar, circular
|Scan Rate
|20.3 rmp, cross track
|Swath Dimensions
|2330 km (cross track) by 10 km (along track at nadir)
|17.78 cm diameter off-axis, afocal (collimated) with intermediate field stop
|1.0 x 1.6 x 1.0 m
|228.7 kg
|162.5 W (single orbit average)
|Data Rate
|10.6 Mbps (peak daytime); 6.1 Mbps (orbital average)
|12 bits
|Spatial Resolution
|250 m (bands 1-2)
500 m (bands 3-7)
1000 m (bands 8-36)
|Design Life
|Six years
|Primary Use
|Spectral Radiance
|620-670 nm
|841-876 nm
|459-479 nm
|545-565 nm
|1230-1250 nm
|1628-1652 nm
|2105-2155 nm
|Ocean Color
|405-420 nm
|438-448 nm
|483-493 nm
|526-536 nm
|546-556 nm
|662-672 nm
|673-683 nm
|743-753 nm
|862-877 nm
|Atmospheric Water Vapor
|890-920 nm
|931-941 nm
|915-965 nm
|Surface/Cloud Temperature
|3.660-3.840 µm
|3.929-3.989 µm
|3.929-3.989 µm
|4.020-4.080 µm
|Atmospheric Temperature
|4.433-4.498 µm
|4.482-4.549 µm
|Cirrus Clouds
Water Vapor
|1.360-1.390 µm
|6.535-6.895 µm
|7.175-7.475 µm
|Cloud Properties
|8.400-8.700 µm
|9.580-9.880 µm
|Surface/Cloud Temperature
|10.780-11.280 µm
|11.770-12.270 µm
|Cloud Top Attitude
|13.185-13.485 µm
|13.485-13.785 µm
|13.785-14.085 µm
|14.085-14.385 µm
The MODIS scan mirror assembly uses a continuously rotating double-sided scan mirror to scan ±55°, with a 20.3 rpm cross track. The viewing swath is 10 km along track at nadir, and 2330 km cross track at ±55°.
MODIS instruments were built to NASA specifications by Santa Barbara Remote Sensing, a division of Raytheon Electronics Systems.
MODIS has a series of on-board calibrators that provide radiometric, spectral, and spatial calibration of the MODIS instrument. The blackbody calibrator is the primary calibration source for thermal bands between 3.5 µm and 14.4 µm, while the Solar Diffuser (SD) provides a diffuse, solar-illuminated calibration source for visible, near-infrared, and shortwave infrared bands. The Solar Diffuser Stability Monitor (SDSM) tracks changes in the reflectance of the SD with reference to the sun so that potential instrument changes are not incorrectly attributed to changes in this calibration source. The Spectroradiometric Calibration Assembly (SRCA) provides additional spectral, radiometric, and spatial calibration.
MODIS uses the moon as an additional calibration technique and for tracking degradation of the SD, by referencing the illumination of the moon since the moon's brightness is approximately the same as that of the Earth. Finally, MODIS deep space views provide a photon input signal of zero, which is used as a point of reference for calibration (MODIS Web 2003).
The objective of the mission is to develop and implement algorithms that map snow and ice on a daily basis, and provide statistics of the extent and persistence of snow and ice over eight-day periods. Data at 500 m resolution enables sub-pixel snow mapping for use in regional and global climate models. A study of subgrid-scale snow-cover variability is expected to improve features of a model that simulates Earth radiation balance and land-surface hydrology.
A ±55° scanning pattern at 705 km achieves a 2330 km swath, with global coverage every one to two days.
The MODIS sensor contains a system whereby visible light from the earth passes through a scan aperture and into a scan cavity to a scan mirror. The double-sided scan mirror reflects incoming light onto an internal telescope, which in turn focuses the light onto four different detector assemblies. Before the light reaches the detector assemblies, it passes through beam splitters and spectral filters that divide the light into four broad wavelength ranges. Each time a photon strikes a detector assembly, an electron is created. Electrons are collected in a capacitor where they are eventually transferred into the preamplifier. Electrons are converted from an analog signal to digital data, and downlinked to ground receiving stations (MODIS Web 2003).
The EOS Ground System (EGS) consists of facilities, networks, and systems which archive, process, and distribute EOS and other NASA earth science data to the science and user community. The EOS Data and Operations System (EDOS) performs forward-link processing of data and return-link of science data from EOS spacecraft and instruments, processes telemetry to generate Level-0 products, and maintains a backup archive of Level-0 products.
EOSDIS ground stations are a component of EDOS, providing space to ground communication. EOSDIS ground stations comprise the Radio Frequency (RF) ground terminal, EDOS ground station interface, and the EOSDIS Backbone Network (EBnet) telecommunication system. The RF ground terminal provides space to ground link communication channels for receipt of science data, receipt of spacecraft telemetry data and transmission of spacecraft commands for two EOS spacecraft simultaneously, including X-band and S-band capabilities. The EDOS ground station interface monitors and captures the high-rate science data and transfers data to the EDOS Level-0 processing facility at the Goddard Space Flight Center (ESDIS 1996).
GSFC processes Level-1A data from Level-0 instrument packet data, then processes a Level-1B Calibrated Radiance product (MOD02) and Geolocation Fields (MOD03). The MODIS SIPS team creates a Level-2 product for snow cover (MOD10_L2 and MYD10_L2), which is then used as input to create Level-3 gridded products for daily and 8-day snow cover (MOD10A1 and MOD10A2, respectively). The team bins the MOD10A1 and MOD10A2 data into corresponding cells of a 0.05° CMG to create daily and 8-day CMG products, respectively. These data are archived at the NSIDC DAAC and distributed to EOS investigators and other users via external networks and interfaces (MODIS Web 2003). Data are available to the public through the Warehouse Inventory Search Tool (WIST).
The local equatorial crossing time of the Aqua satellite is approximately 1:30 p.m. in an ascending node with a sun-synchronous, near-polar, circular orbit.
The MODIS Science Investigator-led Processing System (SIPS) is responsible for algorithm development, product generation, and transfer of products to NSIDC.
A snow-mapping algorithm generates global daily and 8-day snow cover products from MODIS data. The algorithm identifies the presence of snow by reflectance or emittance properties in each 500 m pixel for each orbit. The snow mapping algorithm is based on the Normalized Difference Snow Index (NDSI). The NDSI is a measure of the difference between the infrared reflectance of snow in visible and shortwave wavelengths. The NDSI is adaptable for a number of illumination conditions, it does not depend on reflectance for a specific band, and it is partially normalized for atmospheric effects. The algorithm uses MODIS bands 4 (0.55 µm) and 6 (1.6 µm) from MOD02HKM to calculate the NDSI (Hall et al. 1998).
MODIS Level-1B Calibrated and Geolocated Radiances (MOD02HKM), available from the NASA Goddard Space Flight Center (GSFC) Distributed Active Archive Center (DAAC), are used as input to calculate reflectance, using the following equation (MCST 2000):
pcos(θ) = reflectance_scalesB(SIB - reflectance_offsetsB)
The reflectance_scales and reflectance_offsets are read from the metadata in each MOD02HKM granule, and they are computed from calibration parameters such that the reflectance product (p) is determined directly from the integer representation (SI) of the digital number. The subscript (B) refers to band. The result of this equation is then multiplied by 1/cos(θ) to give at-satellite reflectance (p):
p = pcos(θ) * 1/cos(θ)
A binning algorithm maps MYD10A1 daily snow cover data at 500 m resolution into the corresponding cell of a 0.05° climate modeling grid (CMG) and computes snow and cloud percentages, QA, and a confidence index based on the mapping results. The algorithm generates these parameters based on the total number of observations of a class (snow, cloud, land, and others) and the total number of land observations mapped into a cell of the CMG. The objective of the algorithm and output product is to provide the user with an estimate of snow cover observed in a CMG cell, an estimate of how much of the land surface was obscured by clouds, and an index that determines the confidence of the estimates.
The binning algorithm places the different classes of observations into categories for each class. The MODIS snow algorithm analyzed all land pixels to determine if snow was present, during Level 2 processing. The snow algorithm processed only land pixels using the MOD03 land/water mask. A land bin sums all the observations made over land (snow, land, cloud, and others). This sum of land counts is the basis for expressing the percentage of snow, cloud, and the confidence index for each CMG cell.
A 0.05° land mask, derived from the University of Maryland 1 km global land cover data set, is used with the binning algorithm. If a CMG cell contains 12 percent or greater land, then it is classified as land and analyzed. If a cell contains less than 12 percent land, it is classified as ocean. This threshold was selected to minimize snow errors along coasts while being sensitive enough to map snow along coasts (Riggs, Hall, and Salomonson 2003).
Because Antarctica's surface is typically less than 1 percent snow-free (a value less than the global error rate for MODIS snow mapping), the algorithm classifies Antarctica as completely snow-covered. This also reduces confusion with cloud signatures (Riggs, Hall, and Salomonson 2003).
Diner, D.J., J.V. Martonchik, C. Borel, S.A.W. Gerstl, H.R. Gordon, Y. Knyazikhin, R. Myneni, B. Pinty, and M.M. Verstraete. 1999. MISR Level-2 surface retrieval Algorithm Theoretical Basis Document. Pasadena, CA: Jet Propulsion Laboratory.
Earth Science Data and Information System (ESDIS). 1996. EOS Ground System (EGS) systems and operations concept. Greenbelt, MD: Goddard Space Flight Center.
Hall, D.K., J.L. Foster, D.L. Verbyla, A.G. Klein, and C.S. Benson. 1998. Assessment of snow cover mapping accuracy in a variety of vegetation cover densities in central Alaska. Remote Sensing of the Environment 66: 129-137.
Hall, D.K. and J. Martinec. 1985. Remote sensing of ice and snow. London: Chapman and Hall.
Hall, D.K., G.A. Riggs, and V.V. Salomonson. September 2001a. Algorithm Theoretical Basis Document (ATBD) for the MODIS Snow-, Lake Ice- and Sea Ice-Mapping Algorithms. Greenbelt, MD: Goddard Space Flight Center. <http://modis-snow-ice.gsfc.nasa.gov/atbd.html> .
Hall, D.K., J.L. Foster, V.V. Salomonson, A.G. Klein, and J.Y.L. Chien. 2001b. Development of a technique to assess snow-cover mapping accuracy from space. IEEE Transactions on Geoscience and Remote Sensing 39(2): 232-238.
Hapke, B. 1993. Theory of reflectance and emittance spectroscopy. Cambridge: Cambridge University Press.
Klein, A. MODIS Snow Albedo Prototype. 2003. <http://geog.tamu.edu/klein/modis_albedo/> Accessed July 2003.
Klein, A.G., and J. Stroeve. 2002. Development and validation of a snow albedo algorithm for the MODIS instrument. Annals of Glaciology 34: 45-52.
Klein, A.G., D.K. Hall, and G.A. Riggs. 1998. Improving snow-cover mapping in forests through the use of a canopy reflectance model. Hydrologic Processes 12(10-11): 1723-1744.
Markham, B.L. and J.L. Barker. 1986. Landsat MSS and TM post-calibration dynamic ranges, exoatmospheric reflectances and at-satellite temperatures. EOSAT Technical Notes 1:3-8.
MODIS Characterization and Support Team (MCST). 2000. MODIS Level-1B product user's guide for Level-1B Version 2.3.x Release 2. MCST Document #MCM-PUG-01-U-DNCN.
MODIS Science and Instrument Team. MODIS Web. July 2003. <http://modis.gsfc.nasa.gov/> Accessed October 2000.
Pearson II, F. 1990. Map projections: theory and applications. Boca Raton, FL: CRC Press, Inc.
Riggs, G.A., D.K. Hall, and V.V. Salomonson. January 2003. MODIS snow products user guide for collection 4 data products. <http://modis-snow-ice.gsfc.nasa.gov/sug_main.html> .
Wiscombe, W.J. and S.G. Warren. 1980. A model for the spectral albedo of snow I: pure snow. Journal of the Atmospheric Sciences 37: 2712-2733.
Please see the EOSDIS Glossary of Terms for a general list of terms.
Please see the EOSDIS Acronyms list for a general list of Acronyms. The following acronyms are used in this document:
ATBD: Algorithm Theoretical Basis Document
CMG: Climate Modeling Grid
DAAC: Distributed Active Archive Center
EBNet: EOSDIS Backbone Network
ECS: EOSDIS Core System
EDOS: EOS Data and Operations System
EGS: EOS Ground System
EOS: Earth Observing System
EOSDIS: Earth Observing System Data and Information System
ESDIS: Earth Science Data and Information System
ESDT: Earth Science Data Type
FTP: File Transfer Protocol
GMT: Greenwich Mean Time
GSFC: Goddard Space Flight Center
HDF-EOS: Hierarchical Data Format - Earth Observing System
ISIN: Integerized Sinusoidal
LP DAAC: Land Processes DAAC
MAS: MODIS Airborne Simulator
MCST: MODIS Characterization Support Team
MODIS: Moderate Resolution Imaging Spectroradiometer
MODLAND: MODIS Land
MRT: MODIS Reprojection Tool
MSS: Multispectral Scanner
NASA: National Aeronautics and Space Administration
NCSA: National Center for Supercomputing Applications
NDSI: Normalized Difference Snow Index
NDVI: Normalized Difference Vegetation Index
NOAA: National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration
NOHRSC: National Operational Hydrologic Remote Sensing Center
NSIDC: National Snow and Ice Data Center
PVL: Parameter Value Language
QA: Quality Assurance
RF: Radio Frequency
SCA: Snow Covered Area
SCF: Science Computing Facility
SD: Solar Diffuser
SDP: Science Data Processing
SDSM: Solar Diffuser Stability Monitor
SIPS: Science Investigator-led Processing System
SRCA: Spectroradiometric Calibration Assembly
TM: Thematic Mapper
TOA: Top-of-atmosphere
February 2004
October 2009


text:
Officials have removed a relaxation drink named after reggae icon Bob Marley after several students at a New Jersey school were sickened.
Read: 8 healthy ways to boost energy
Marley's Mellow Mood is promoted to reduce stress. The drink's nutrition facts say it may cause drowsiness and is not intended for children.
However, students at Satz Middle School and Holmdel High School could buy it on campus. Several middle school students were sickened on Friday.
Read: 5-Hour Energy drinks cited in 13 deaths
The Asbury Park Press reports the school district's food service provider has removed a manager pending an investigation. Chartwells School Dining Services also has removed the Marley product.
The company issued a statement in which it said it takes this situation very seriously.
It's unclear what the students' symptoms were.
You may also like:
Read: Students suspended over energy mints
Read: Fight against childhood obesity begins at home
Soft drinks for breakfast?
Fast food restaurants offer deals on morning soft drinks
In the battle over sugary soft drinks, some fast food restaurants are refusing to budge. In fact, they're offering the sweet, caffeinated drinks with the "most important meal of the day": breakfast!
For those of you who dread the taste of coffee and prefer a soft drink to get a burst of energy in the morning, this may seem like a good thing, but plenty of health advocates are questioning whether soft drinks should be served up first thing in the morning.
Recently, New York Mayor Michael Bloomberg and the mayor of Cambridge, Massachusetts moved to limit the size of soft drinks. No one needs drinks with added sugar "any time," Hope Warshaw, author of Guide to Healthy Restaurant Eating, told USA Today.
The newspaper reports Steak 'n Shake is offering a free breakfast taco with a $1.79 purchase of a 28-ounce Coca Cola, 6 a.m. to 11 a.m., through July 11th. A Facebook coupon is required. The company declined to comment.
Some Taco Bells in California are testing a new product it's calling MTN Dew AM, a mix of orange juice and Mountain Dew. It told USA Today it's responding to consumer demands. Sonic is promoting its .99 cent fountain drinks in the morning, but did not comment about the promotion.
Copyright 2012 by ClickOnDetroit.com. The Associated Press contributed to this report. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.


text:
A Frantic Father's DayLogic Grid puzzles come with a handy interactive grid that will help you solve the puzzle based on the given clues.
Three forgetful best friends (Frankie, Emily, and Alana, yes, they're all girls) realized the day just before Father's day that they had not gotten their dads gifts! They called each other up and made a plan to go shopping. However, none of the girls could agree on where to buy a gift, so they went to three different stores and bought three different gifts. You must determine the girls' fathers' names, the store they went to, and the gifts they bought.
Their Names: Frankie, Alana, and Emily
Their dad's Names: Dan, Rich, and Max
The Stores: Super Fan, Ducks Unlimited, and Bass Pro Shops
The Gifts: ball cap, duck call, and a coffee mug
1. Emily knew her dad loved to be outdoors, so she chose not to go to Super Fan and buy a coffee mug.
2. Max's daughter didn't have to think long to know her father wouldn't want to wear a hat.
3.Alana's father Rich, likes being outdoors, but that's not the kind of store Alana chose to go to.
4. The gift Frankie chose to get makes noises.
5. The girl that went to Ducks Unlimited had to call Alana to ask her opinion on which color gift she should get her father.
HintAre you sure you need a hint? I mean, this is the easiest teaser I could come up with. But if you really need a hint, or you figured out that that last clue was pretty much pointless, the colored gift in the last clue is something you would wear.
AnswerFrankie; Max; Duck Call; Bass Pro Shops
Alana; Rich; Coffee Mug; Super Fan
Emily; Dan; Ball Cap; Ducks Unlimited
What Next?
See another brain teaser just like this one...
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text:
The Naughty and Nice Marathon, Half and 10mi
beach path off of Bay st and Ocean ave
Sat 12/22/2012
10 mile, Half Marathon, Marathon
45 Participants
This is a small informal event. All the participants will have their results posted with their names and times. And FREE pictures for everyone posted on our facebook page after the event! Pacers and crew are welcome at any time. There are numerous restrooms and water fountains along the course. Course map: Here is the 7.85 mi loop: http://www.gmap-pedometer.com/?r=5643063 and the 5.25 loop: http://www.gmap-pedometer.com/?r=5643065 http://www.gmap-pedometer.com?r=5634764 2.66 loop thorton ave http://www.gmap-pedometer.com?r=5634764 2.17 mi mile Rose Ave Marathon = 3 times large loops and 1 small loop (small loop ran first) = 23.55 plus 2.66 = 26.21 half marathon 1 medium loop and 1 large loop 5.25 plus 7.85 = 13.1 10 mi = 1 large loop and one 2.17 mi small loop, 7.85 plus 2.17 = 10.02 We will have the usual buffet of food for competitors ranging from, bananas, GU Gels, water, gatorade, cookies, etc. And anything else participants request. Misc info. Time Limits- None No DNF's here: A person, at anytime, can drop down to a lessor distance. If a person does not complete a marathon or any other distance, then we WILL make a distance that the person completed in increments of common standard distances: 5k, 10k, 10mi, half marathon, marathon, etc. Check in and bib pick up starts at 6am until the start of the race at 630am on race day. All finishers get a medal. Send us an email letting us know what you would like at the Aid Stations, we will try and personalize the food as much as possible. This is YOUR race and we want to make it as special as possible. FYI Also to save money, you can just mail the fee along with all your info, email: [email protected] for more info. ENTRY FORMS CAN BE FOUND ON OUR WEBSITE www.rocketracingproductions.com All results will be posted after the event at www.rocketracingproductions.com
- Address:Bay and Ocean Ave
Santa Monica, CA 90405


text:
LatAm: Capital Economics Bullish On Mexico, Bearish On Peru
Even though the currencies in Latin America have fallen significantly last year, they may suffer some more, said Capital Economics, a London-based research firm.
Capital Economics forecast that the Brazilian real will fall from 2.37 to 2.5 against the dollar by year-end, Colombian sol from 1,986 to 2,000; Peruvian sol from 2.35 to 2.95; and Chilean peso from 542 to 550.
Here is Capital Economics justifying their forecasts:
This is due in part to concerns surrounding the Fed's withdrawal of stimulus, falling commodity prices and weaker economic growth in the region. These factors are likely to weigh on risk appetite and capital inflows.
These countries' equity markets are not expected to perform either. Brazil, Colombia and Chile are expected to remain flat, and Peru is forecast to slump from 16,380 to 14,175.
Mexico is the only bright star. The peso is forecast to appreciate from 13.3 to 12, and the equity market from 42,062 to 42,900.
If Capital Economics were right, we could be expecting a 20%+ return in dollars from Mexico this year. And Peru would be the weakest link, potentially posting a 30%+ loss.
This morning, the iShares MSCI Mexico Capped ETF (EWW) lost 1.6%, the iShares MSCI Brazil Capped ETF (EWZ) lost 2.4%, the iShares MSCI Chile Capped ETF (ECH) lost 2.1%, and the iShares MSCI Peru Capped ETF (EPU) lost 0.2%.


text:
NEW YORK ( TheStreet) -- The "precipitous decline" in the rate of sales growth at privately held companies over the past few months could mean fewer jobs next year, warns Brian Hamilton, co-founder and CEO of Sageworks. The average annual sales growth for private companies has slowed to approximately 5.4% as of September from 9% on May 31. Sales increased on average 6.9% in 2010 and 10.4% in 2011, according to a presentation Hamilton gave to a group of reporters in New York on Thursday morning. Sageworks expects private company average sales growth this year to be 7.4%. On the other hand, net profit margins are rising, according to the data. Net profit margins were on average 3.3% in 2009; 4.3% in 2010; and 5.3% in 2011. Sageworks expects the average net profit margin for private companies to be 7.9% this year. "If these guys are not hiring when sales growth is 10% and net margins are healthy, what are they going to do
when sales growth is at 5%?" Hamilton said during the presentation. While no one can predict a recession, "this trend is sort of similar to what we saw back in 2008." Cash flow is the most primary concern for private companies, as opposed to public companies beholden to shareholders. If private businesses continue to see sales growth slow, profit margins will inevitably slow -- but that will be a short-term effect, since business owners will likely cut costs to keep cash flow stable, Hamilton says. Companies are likely to make the adjustments to their profit margin by reducing their biggest expense: payroll. "In 2013, what's going to happen in most private companies is that their sales might stay lower, they might go up, but they're going to invest to what? Their profit. They're going to manage to their profit or cash flow," Hamilton says. "We've got to know how they behave because it has very big implications to the job market." The Bureau of Labor Statistics is expected to release the September unemployment rate Friday. Economists expect the rate to tick up to 8.2% from 8.1%. There are 27 million private companies in the U.S. today versus 5,000 publicly listed companies. Eight million of those companies have employees. Private companies shouldn't necessarily be called small businesses, though, since more than 85% of the 18,500 privately held companies in the U.S. have more than 500 employees, according to Sageworks.
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text:
THE Friends of Darwen Cemetery have launched an appeal for more people to adopt war graves in the town.
The appeal comes as the friends gear up for commemorations of the 100th anniversary of the start of the First World War in August.
Chairman John East said: "We are making an appeal for people who would like to adopt a war grave.
"We have a few Commonwealth War Graves which need adopting.
"People need to contact us and we will show them where the graves are.
"They will be given some instructions on what to do and how to look after it.
"We will make sure they know what to do and then they just need to maintain it throughout the year.
"There are nearly 100 Commonwealth War Graves in Darwen Cemetery and the majority of them are adopted.
"This is just one other way people can commemorate the war dead of Darwen."
Once a war grave has been adopted, people are asked to visit the grave regularaly and tend the bed, possibly placing flowers or other floral tributes.
The headstones are the responsibility of the Commonwealth War Graves Commission who will repair and clean them.
Individuals can adopt war graves as well as schools or community groups.
Anyone wishing to adopt a war grave can email firstname.lastname@example.com
Get the latest local news straight to your inbox every day
THE Friends of Darwen Cemetery have launched an appeal for more people to adopt war graves in the town.


text:
Anytime, Baba. When you come to London one day beers are one me
That's brilliant news. You studied extremely hard I know, so it's paid off in the end. You should have come to London, though, we're crying out for qualified workers.
Baba Snair!!!!!!!
I'm good bruv
How are you doing? Work going OK?
Thanks! I appreciate it.
It's the security software that the forum uses to block spambots. Every now and then it does that users. It's even happened to me a couple times!
Happy Birthday
Happyyyyyyyy birthday!
BA BA SNAIR!!! HAPPY BIRTHDAY MY DUDE!!! May you have a great day homie!! *Hands him his honorary JBW Birthday Championship* Wear it with pride!!
Whoo hoo! I'll be sure to read in a minutes bud.
Thanks you, bruva man.
Black Ninja!
Super Member
Fresh Member
The Trinity
© 2011 eWrestlingNews, All Rights Reserved.


text:
Logan thought this bonus pack of Colgate contained two equally-sized tubes of toothpaste. After all, the boxes are exactly the same size. Yet when he opened the bonus box, he found a smaller box containing a mini tube of toothpaste.
worst toothpaste
This Colgate Toothpaste Packaging Is Awfully Deceptive
By July 12, 2008


text:
A Safety Study to Evaluate the Antiviral Activity of Darunavir in Combination With Ritonavir in HIV 1 Infected Children
This study has been completed.
Tibotec Pharmaceuticals, Ireland
Tibotec Pharmaceutical Limited
Information provided by (Responsible Party):
Tibotec Pharmaceuticals, Ireland
ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier:
First received: June 11, 2009
Last updated: April 3, 2014
Last verified: April 2014
- Full Text View
- Tabular View
- Study Results
- Disclaimer
- How to Read a Study Record
Detailed Description:
The purpose of this study is to evaluate the pharmacokinetics (what the body does to the medication), safety and antiviral activity to support dose recommendations by body weight of darunavir with low-dose ritonavir (DRV/rtv), in combination with other antiretroviral drugs (ARVs), in treatment-experienced Human immunodeficiency virus 1 (HIV 1) infected children.
|Human Immunodeficiency Virus 1
|Drug: Darunavir Drug: Ritonavir
|Phase 2
|Study Type:
|Study Design:
|Intervention Model: Single Group Assignment
Masking: None (Open Label)
Primary Purpose: Treatment
|Official Title:
|A Phase II, Open Label Trial, to Evaluate Pharmacokinetics, Safety, Tolerability and Antiviral Activity of DRV in Combination With Low-Dose Ritonavir (DRV/Rtv) in Treatment-Experienced HIV-1 Infected Children From 3 Years to Below 6 Years of Age
Resource links provided by NLM:
MedlinePlus related topics: HIV/AIDS
Drug Information available for: Ritonavir Darunavir Darunavir ethanolateU.S. FDA Resources
Further study details as provided by Tibotec Pharmaceuticals, Ireland:
Primary Outcome Measures:
- Number of Participants With Virological Response (Viral Load Less Than 50 Copies/mL) at Week 24 - Time to Loss of Virologic Response (TLOVR) [ Time Frame: Week 24 ]The TLOVR algorithm was used to derive response, ie, response and loss of response needed to be confirmed at 2 consecutive visits and participants who permanently discontinued were considered nonresponders after discontinuation. Participants with intermittent missing viral load values were considered responders if the preceeding and succeeding visits indicated response. In all other cases, intermittent values were imputed with nonresponse. Resuppression after confirmed virologic failure was considered as failure in this algorithm.
Secondary Outcome Measures:
- Number of Participants With Virological Response (Viral Load Less Than 50 Copies/mL) at Week 48 [ Time Frame: Week 48 ]
- Number of Participants With Virological Response (Viral Load Less Than 400 Copies/mL) at Week 24 and Week 48 [ Time Frame: Week 24 and Week 48 ]
- Number of Participants With Less Than or Equal to 1 log10 Decrease in Plasma Viral Load at Week 24 and Week 48 [ Time Frame: Week 24 and Week 48 ]
- Mean Change From Baseline to Week 24 and Week 48 in Plasma log10 Viral Load [ Time Frame: Baseline, Week 24 and Week 48 ]
- Mean Change From Baseline to Week 24 and Week 48 in CD4+ Percentage [ Time Frame: Baseline, Week 24 and Week 48 ]
|Study Start Date:
|September 2009
|Study Completion Date:
|February 2011
|Primary Completion Date:
|August 2010 (Final data collection date for primary outcome measure)
|Assigned Interventions
Experimental: Darunavir (DRV)+Ritonavir (rtv)
Before dose adjustment, oral darunavir suspension (100 mg/mL): 20 mg per kg body weight twice daily for children weighing between 10 and <20 kg. After dose adjustment, 25 mg per kg body weight twice daily if weight less than 15 kg, and fixed dose of 375 mg twice daily if weight more than or equal to 15 kg. Before dose adjustment, oral ritonavir solution (80 mg/mL): 3 mg per kg body weight twice daily and after dose adjustment fixed dose of 50 mg twice daily if weight more than or equal to 15 kg.
Drug: Darunavir
Darunavir oral suspension (100 mg/mL) will be administered as 20 mg per kg body weight twice daily for children weighing between 10 and <20 kg before dose adjustment. Darunavir oral suspension will be administered 25 mg per kg body weight twice daily if weight less than 15 kg, and fixed dose of 375 mg darunavir tablets twice daily if weight more than or equal to 15 kg after dose adjustment.Drug: Ritonavir
Ritonavir oral solution (80 mg/mL) will be administered as 3 mg per kg body weight twice daily before dose adjustment and after dose adjustment fixed dose of 50 mg twice daily if weight more than or equal to 15 kg.
Detailed Description:
This is an open-label (all people know the identity of the intervention), study to evaluate the pharmacokinetics, safety and antiviral activity. Approximately 24 HIV-1 infected children will be enrolled in this study. The study consists of a 4-week screening period, a 48-week treatment period, and a 4-week follow-up period. Participants will receive DRV/rtv according to their body weight. Safety evaluations will include assessment of adverse events, laboratory tests, physical Examination, neurologic examination, vital signs, and electrocardiogram. The total duration of the study will be 56 weeks.
|Ages Eligible for Study:
|3 Years to 6 Years (Child)
|Sexes Eligible for Study:
|Accepts Healthy Volunteers:
Inclusion Criteria:
- Participants with a documented HIV 1 infection (by any of the local standard diagnostic methods, such as HIV PCR-DNA, ELISA or western blot (WB) test for HIV antibodies, etc.)
- Body weight from 10 kg to less than 20 kg at screening
- Participants currently on stable ART (anti retroviral therapy) for at least 12 weeks, who need to change their ARV regimen because it is currently failing, with a viral load of greater than 1000 copies/mL
- Screening genotype resistance test results showing less than 3 DRV resistance-associated mutations
- Parents or legal representative willing and able to give consent
Exclusion Criteria:
- Participants with presence of any currently active conditions included in the listing of WHO ( World Health Organisation) Clinical Stage 4 and participants with presence of a non-HIV encephalopathy
- Administration of any ARV (antiretroviral) or non-ARV investigational medication or investigational vaccine within 30 days prior to screening, except for those medications where dose recommendations for children are available
- Life expectancy less than 6 months, according to the judgment of the investigator
- Co-enrollment in other clinical and/or cohort trials without written permission of the Sponsor
- Participants with any active clinically significant disease (eg, tuberculosis [TB], cardiac dysfunction, pancreatitis, acute viral infections) or findings during screening of medical history or physical examination that, in the investigator's opinion, would compromise the subject's safety or outcome of the study
Contacts and Locations
Choosing to participate in a study is an important personal decision. Talk with your doctor and family members or friends about deciding to join a study. To learn more about this study, you or your doctor may contact the study research staff using the Contacts provided below. For general information, see Learn About Clinical Studies.
Please refer to this study by its ClinicalTrials.gov identifier: NCT00919854
Please refer to this study by its ClinicalTrials.gov identifier: NCT00919854
|Buenos Aires, Argentina
|Rio De Janeiro, Brazil
|Sao Paulo, Brazil
|Chennai, India
|Kilifi, Kenya
|South Africa
|Durban, South Africa
|Johannesburg Gauteng, South Africa
|Johannesburg, South Africa
Sponsors and Collaborators
Tibotec Pharmaceuticals, Ireland
Tibotec Pharmaceutical Limited
|Study Director:
|Tibotec Pharmaceuticals, Ireland Clinical Trial
|Tibotec Pharmaceuticals, Ireland
More Information
Publications automatically indexed to this study by ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier (NCT Number):
Keywords provided by Tibotec Pharmaceuticals, Ireland:
Additional relevant MeSH terms:
ClinicalTrials.gov processed this record on September 25, 2017
Publications automatically indexed to this study by ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier (NCT Number):
Violari A, Bologna R, Kumarasamy N, Pilotto JH, Hendrickx A, Kakuda TN, Lathouwers E, Opsomer M, Van de Casteele T, Tomaka FL. Safety and efficacy of darunavir/ritonavir in treatment-experienced pediatric patients: week 48 results of the ARIEL trial. Pediatr Infect Dis J. 2015 May;34(5):e132-7. doi: 10.1097/INF.0000000000000644.
|Responsible Party:
|Tibotec Pharmaceuticals, Ireland
|ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier:
|NCT00919854 History of Changes
|Other Study ID Numbers:
TMC114-TiDP29-C228 ( Other Identifier: Tibotec Pharmaceuticals, Ireland )
|Study First Received:
|June 11, 2009
|Results First Received:
|August 3, 2011
|Last Updated:
|April 3, 2014
Keywords provided by Tibotec Pharmaceuticals, Ireland:
Human immunodeficiency virus 1
Additional relevant MeSH terms:
Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome
HIV Infections
Immunologic Deficiency Syndromes
Immune System Diseases
Lentivirus Infections
Retroviridae Infections
RNA Virus Infections
Virus Diseases
Sexually Transmitted Diseases, Viral
Sexually Transmitted Diseases
Slow Virus Diseases
Antiviral Agents
HIV Protease Inhibitors
Protease Inhibitors
Enzyme Inhibitors
Molecular Mechanisms of Pharmacological Action
Anti-HIV Agents
Anti-Retroviral Agents
Anti-Infective Agents
Cytochrome P-450 CYP3A Inhibitors
Cytochrome P-450 Enzyme Inhibitors
ClinicalTrials.gov processed this record on September 25, 2017


text:
The Mosaic Company announced a reduction of up to 20 percent in planned potash production from February through May 2012. This curtailment will result in lower operating rates at Mosaic's mines, but is not currently expected to result in any employee layoffs or material mine shutdowns.
"Cautious dealer sentiment continues to delay purchases and lower near-term demand for potash," said Jim Prokopanko, President and Chief Executive Officer. "Farmer economics remain strong, and we continue to expect an above average application season inNorth America and record-setting global potash shipments in 2012. While we are confident fundamentals will ultimately prevail, we've taken steps that reflect the near-term supply and demand balance for potash."