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Part 2: The human price of coal
By Miao Ye
Part 1: Hydropower, wave of the future?
HONG KONG – Driven to boost its economy, coal-dependent China has undertaken a potentially hazardous tradeoff: increasing the production of coal at what could be the price of mine safety. It certainly will mean more coal – and very possibly more dead miners.
China, the world's largest coal producer, burns more than a billion tons of coal a year to produce 75 percent of its energy, and there is a production shortfall – a major factor in the nation's power famine. China has decided to increase production, but the price could be high in terms of safety.
China's coal-mining industry is among the most dangerous in the world and ordering higher output runs the risk of increasing the already high rate of coal-mine accidents. Last year, by December 21, 1,035 workers had been killed in 50 "large scale" disasters, including explosions and cave-ins, according to the State Administration of Work Safety. The number of deaths in smaller accidents – possibly higher – was not disclosed. In 2002, about 6,900 miners were killed, according to government figures.
China has thousands of small mines and pits, many of them uncertified and having abysmal safety records. Yet they account for a major portion of coal output. At one time, China had more than 430,000 small mines, many of them now closed, so the task of regulation is daunting.
The government doesn't want more highly publicized disasters, often caused by poor mine construction, lack of safety equipment, precautions and education, but it needs more coal.
Between January and September 2003, a total of 21 power grid zones nationwide resorted to electricity blackouts to prevent system collapse, while only those in the northeast, a coal-mining region, reported a slight energy surplus, according to the State Grid Corp of China. The corporation is a large enterprise approved by the State Council to operate power transmission, distribution and other aspects of the electrical-power industry and to ensure a continuous electrical supply.
The national power shortage results mainly from the fact that coal-burning power plants, more than 70 percent of China's total installed electrical capacity, are still 3 million tons short of the pre-set goal for coal stores, thus limiting the required power generation, according to the grid corporation.
Mine safety campaign short-lived
To alleviate the power famine, coal producers were ordered last autumn to increase output and guarantee the supply for coal-fired power plants. The State Development Planning Commission decreed on November 26 that "to ease the demand of coal and to strike a balance between production and safety, the most direct solution is to increase the amount of coal production".
Major mines, such as those in Shanxi and Hunan provinces, "should intensify their coal production and supply as much as possible", the commission directed.
At the same time, those coal mines still "under rectification" – ordered to slow down, pause or close to improve safety – were ordered to resume production as soon as possible. The National Development and Reform Commission (NDRC) announced an end to the short-lived policy to "rectify the coal-mining industry".
Last August, because of frequent grievous accidents, Premier Wen Jiabao insisted upon the overhaul of mine safety and initiated the rectification campaign. It lasted only a few months.
While initially taking a tough line on improving safety, Beijing was stunned by the resulting drastic reduction in coal output. Most of the mining pits that have been ordered to halt and improve safety or that have been closed for major safety problems are small, but they are numerous and contribute greatly to coal production.
Northern China's Shanxi province, known as China's "coal warehouse", boasts one-third of the country's gross coal reserves and 6,000-plus small coal mines. Authorities estimated that its fourth-quarter output would be cut by 40 million tons after the shutdown of small pits following a series of three explosions in August 2002 that claimed more than 98 lives.
Suspending small and medium-sized pits has triggered the coal shortage and worsened the power shortage, which could eventually hurt steel, cement and other critical industries, even pushing some enterprises to the brink of closure.
Despite their awareness of the potentially devastating consequences, the authorities in ending the rectification campaign have chosen to ensure a sufficient power supply at the expense of coal-mine safety.
The head of the NDRC emphasized the importance of maintaining an abundant coal supply during a major meeting on coal supply on November 25. He called maintaining an adequate coal supply a critical measure for accomplishing the nation's economic objectives.
Coal supply as a 'political mission'
According to development and reform guidelines, coordination between coal suppliers and users should be improved. All coal-producing provinces and enterprises, especially state-owned coal mines, must further explore their potential and especially must fully implement their supply contracts for 2003, the NDRC said.
The Shanxi Economic Commission, a government organization regulating the provincial economy, also convened a meeting of coal producers and power enterprises on December 5 and declared that maintaining and improving coal supply and production was a "a political mission" closely tied to economic development – even social stability.
At the province level, the national order to shift the focus of coal-mine operators from work safety to increased output is very likely to mean work overload and overtime. The rectification and safety campaign has meant new safer equipment, such as gas detectors and electrical wiring, better construction and bracing for mines, better safety education for miners and mine managers, rest periods and limited working hours, among other improvements.
Since all small coal pits were shut down for rectification in August 2002, Shanxi province has only four state-owned coal corporations still running, including Shanxi Coking Co, Lu'an Mining Corp, Jincheng Anthracite Coal Mining Group and Pingshuo Coal Industry Corp.
Yet coal production in the third quarter decreased by 34.64 million tons from the second quarter, because the closed pits actually add up to 50 percent of the gross output in the province. By the end of November, however, the overall production figure had increased by a staggering 22.29 percent over the same period last year.
Lu'an, Jincheng, and Pingshuo mining corporations all recorded output increases of more than 25 percent. Clearly, the mines were being operated at full load and full speed to meet the national demand for higher output.
Silence at the top
Virtually no public figure has publicly criticized the speedup, and the apparent tradeoff between safety and output.
According to the Shanxi Administration of Coal Mine Safety, half of the closed mines have resumed production since late October, when the pace of safety inspections increased, and more were deemed qualified and reopened by the end of the year.
Some Chinese officials predict that the price of coal will continue to rise for some time, and then may fall as numerous small mines are reopened, increasing output.
The fear that output might decrease and stall the economy has prevailed over the initially proposed top-to-bottom overhaul of Shanxi province's coal-mining operations.
On the other hand, Premier Wen, chairing State Council meetings last June 18 and August 27, said specifically that coal-mine safety administration should be strengthened, rectification advanced and safety rules and regulations stringently implemented.
In 2004 the central government will appropriate 2.2 billion yuan (US$265 million) for coal-mine safety, after an earlier total injection of 4 billion yuan in 2002 and 2003. The state also is developing a new mechanism to guarantee sufficient funding for mine safety.
The unexpected "power famine" – and the resulting need to increase output – disrupted Premier Wen's plan and call for safety. Whether the output increase will be achieved on the altar of more casualties remains to be seen.
(Copyright 2004 Asia Times Online Co, Ltd. All rights reserved. Please contact [email protected] for information on our sales and syndication policies.)


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Becoming NERC CIP-Compliant
What you need to know to be compliant with the new mandatory compliance standards.
By Jay Abshier
A sea change is sweeping through the North American bulk electricity system in the wake of the U.S. Energy Policy Act of 2005 (EPAct). Previously voluntary reliability programs under the aegis of the North American Electric Reliability Council (NERC) are transitioning to mandatory standards under the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC), with substantial financial penalties for noncompliance.
The enforcement timeline for the CIP Standards commenced on January 1, 2007, with auditable compliance being required in 2010. The exact dates depend on the functional entity(ies) for which the utility is registered (transmission operator, generation operator, etc.).
Penalties for noncompliance use the standard Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) and North American Reliability Council (NERC) penalty matrix, with fines ranging from $1,000 to $1,000,000.
In July 2007, the FERC staff recommended to its Board that the CIP standards and implementation schedule be approved. FERC has also recommended that NERC revisit the CIP standard and has recommended specific areas that need modification. Observers think if the CIP standard is modified, new implementation schedules will also be adopted for conformance to any approved changes.
Reliability Standards Emerge
Reliability standards had their genesis following the major North American power outage in November 1965, with the implementation of voluntary operating policies and planning standards. These were designed to ensure the reliability of the bulk power system in the U.S. and Canada. Subsequent outage events, such as the summer 1996 Western grid blackouts and the August 2003 Northeast blackout, led to further emphasis on these standards.
As a result of EPAct, FERC certified NERC in 2006 as the Electric Reliability Organization (ERO) with full oversight for enforcing reliability standards compliance. An additional result of EPAct is that FERC now has full authority to approve all reliability standards. To date, NERC has submitted 107 standards to FERC for approval; 83 have been approved, while 24 are awaiting approval pending further refinement. Many of the approved standards received conditional approval and will require updatinga process that may require up to two, and in some cases, three years to complete. Furthermore, FERC has identified issues with CIP (Critical Infrastructure Protection) 002-009 and has solicited comments. This article will focus on CIP 002-009, the standards for cyber security.
Scope of CIP 002-009
Any entity that owns, operates or uses any portion of the bulk power system must comply with these new mandatory reliability standards. The compliance process itself involves periodic, formal NERC audits by the Regional Reliability Councils. The process also involves active self-certification, periodic reporting of compliance data and statistics and self-reporting of any noncompliance with NERC policies, procedures or standards.
Briefly, NERC CIP 002-009 covers the following topics:
- CIP 002 Critical Assets. Requirements for defining methodologies for identifying critical assets and critical cyber assets and using those methodologies to document these assets.
- CIP 003 Security Management Controls. Requirements for establishing the governance of an entitys CIP compliance program and for key elements of an effective cyber security program: policies and procedures, information protection, change control and configuration management.
- CIP 004 Personnel and Training. Requirements for security awareness and training, personnel risk assessments and documenting access to critical cyber access.
- CIP 005 Electronic Security Perimeter. Requirements for defining, documenting, monitoring and controlling access to the electronic security perimeter, within which are located the critical cyber assets.
- CIP 006 Physical Security of Critical Cyber Assets Requirements for defining, documenting, monitoring and controlling access to the physical security perimeter, within which are located the critical cyber assets.
- CIP 007 Systems Security Management. Requirements for securing, monitoring, documenting and controlling access to critical cyber assets.
- CIP 008 Incident Reporting and Response Planning. Requirements for developing, testing and executing incident response plans, and for reporting incidents to the appropriate agencies.
- CIP 009 Recovery Planning. Requirement for developing, testing and exercising plans for backup and recovery and disaster recovery.
- FAQs. These are answers to frequently asked questions, and were treated by NERC CIP Training as having equal importance to the requirements in CIP 002-009.
A Typical CIP Compliance Project
NERC CIP compliance should be undertaken in a four- phase approach. CIP 002, with the leadership portion of CIP 003, should be undertaken and completed first to determine the number and type of critical assets and critical cyber assets. Once this is finalized, Phase 2 establishes the electronic and physical security perimeter(s) and conducts a gap analysis between the clients current state and that required for compliance. Phase 3 implements the policies, procedures, documentation and, if required, infrastructure upgrades that allow the client to achieve compliance. Compliance mechanismsbasically identifying the documents required for compliance and implementing mechanisms for capturing these documentsalso must be put in place. Phase 4 is the collection of one calendar years worth of documentation identified by the compliance mechanisms to achieve auditably compliant status.
Crucial to the success of the project will be the availability of key client stakeholders and support staff to assist with this effort, and establishing an effective governance structure for both cyber security in general and CIP compliance.
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subset: commoncrawl


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CONCORD, N.C. — Brad Keselowski has a good feeling about Penske Racing's switch from Dodge to Ford and it has nothing to do with what's on his car or underneath the hood.
He knows that one of the keys to his 2012 Sprint Cup title was the unwavering support and depth of Dodge engineers in helping Penske Racing improve its cars throughout the year.
The Dodge engineers supported the team until the end of 2012 even though Penske announced in March that it would move from Dodge to Ford in 2013 and Dodge announced in August that it would pull out of the sport.
"The level of engagement from the Ford camp is very, very high, which is extremely encouraging and that's from the top on down," Keselowski said Tuesday during testing at Charlotte Motor Speedway. "That makes me feel more confident than anything else because at the end of the day this is a people sport."
MORE: Hamlin wrecks at test | Earnhardt likes new car | Top 25: Burton
Ford engineers have the knowledge and work ethic that Keselowski believes can help him repeat as champion. For the first time, Penske is using a non-Penske engine shop as the team will get its engines from Roush Yates Engines.
"I'm very happy with that desire and passion we share as a team and from the manufacturer perspective as well," Keselowski said. "That commitment is across the board and it feels really good and makes me feel like the potential is there to be just as good, if not better than ever."
A new manufacturer isn't the only thing new for Keselowksi, who has a new Penske teammate in Joey Logano.
Logano, the full-time replacement for the suspended and later fired AJ Allmendinger, was championed by Keselowski as he lobbied Penske brass to hire the Joe Gibbs Racing driver.
"He has the ability to unload at a place like this and just instantly be fast, and that's not my style," Keselowski said. "It's something that I would like to add to my arsenal because there are times where that's really, really helpful. … Joey is an elite talent in this sport and if we can work together, we will both be better."


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Welcome to the Muppet Central Forum!
You are viewing our forum as a guest. Join our free community to post topics and start private conversations. Please contact us if you need help with registration or your account login.
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Discussion in 'Games' started by Fozzie Bear, Apr 1, 2005.
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BT London Live Tickets
This summer Hyde Park will host two unmissable nights of entertainment in support of the Opening and Closing Ceremonies celebrating the Best of British music. With some of the biggest acts in the UK performing BT London Live tickets sold out fast. viagogo has some of the last available tickets so don't delay, grab yours now and join the crowds celebrating London's summer of fun! Select a date to view the range of tickets available or view the BT London Live tour on a map to find an event near you. You can also sell your spare BT London Live tickets on viagogo, and listing tickets is free. All BT London Live tickets are covered by the viagogo Ticket guarantee! Don't wait any longer - buy your BT London Live tickets now!
Sign Up for BT London Live Ticket Alerts
Sign up for the latest information on upcoming BT London Live events. Be the first to know when BT London Live tickets go on sale!


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AUTHORITIES are working to move on a group of travellers who set up camp at the Wroughton Park and Ride site on Tuesday evening.
At least 14 vehicles entered the site in Pipers Way at about 7pm and parked on an area which is rented out to Nationwide Building Society as an overflow car park.
Eyewitnesses said it caused traffic chaos yesterday morning because staff were not able to park.
Wiltshire Police said the travellers planned to move on in a few days. The site is served by the number 11 bus but Thamesdown Transport said it was not affected.
A Croft Road resident, who did not want to be identified, said: "There's got to be about 20 caravans and vans, if not more.
"Nationwide have been using that as a car park so people couldn't even get in there this morning.
"People were trying to get into the main Nationwide car park instead of the overflow."
A Nationwide spokesman said: "We are aware that a number of travellers have parked their vehicles in the Park and Ride on Pipers Ways in spaces that are reserved for our employees. "The situation is being dealt with by Swindon Borough Council and the relevant authorities."
A Wiltshire Police spokesman said: "Wiltshire Police received a call from a member of the public on Tuesday evening who reported that several vehicles were entering the Wroughton Park and Ride, Pipers Way.
"Officers visited the site and liaised with the group who have stated they intend to move on in a few days. "The situation is being monitored by Wiltshire Police and Swindon Borough Council."
A Swindon Council spokesman said: "A large group of travellers arrived on Tuesday night and drove on to the Wroughton Park and Ride site, which is owned by the council, before it was due to be locked for the night.
"It is still operational but there is a section of it which is now occupied by the travellers. "We are liaising with our partners, including the police, and council officers will be speaking to the travellers to find out what their intentions are. "Our course of action depends on the result of our inquiries. This is the first time the Park and Ride site has been used as a parking area by travellers."
Coun Wayne Crabbe (Con, Wroughton and Wichelstowe) said: "I know there were a small number of travellers who moved on to a site within Wichelstowe about six months ago but there were only there for a matter of days and then moved on.
"I don't know if it's the same group of travellers but travellers by their very nature tend to come and go."


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ANIMART, Inc. announces the recent addition of Dr. Andy Bohnhoff to the technical services veterinarian team of the dairy and livestock division which provides animal health products, supplies and solutions to producers.
In his new role, Dr. Bohnhoff will work with clients in southern Wisconsin to analyze and improve herd health using his knowledge of Dairy Comp 305, reproduction, ultrasounding, synchronization programs and hoof health.
"Dr. Andy will be a great asset to the ANIMART team," says Katie Flagel, technical services manager of ANIMART. "He is eager to focus on the dairy industry and proactively help dairymen succeed."
After receiving his DVM in 2007 from the University of Wisconsin-Madison, Dr. Bohnhoff interned at Colorado State University in Food Animal Medicine and Surgery. He then practiced at a large animal clinic in Colorado for several years working on large progressive dairies. He will contribute his expertise in dairy reproduction and dairy farm management.
Established in 1982 and headquartered in Beaver Dam, Wis., ANIMART, Inc. is a privately held provider of animal health and veterinary products as well as show equipment for dairy and livestock producers. ANIMART is committed to offering a full line of products and solutions to help dairy and livestock businesses succeed. More information about the company and its products can be accessed at www.animart.com.


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Posted 6 years ago
(4 items)
Has anyone ever seen a Budweiser Barley Malt Sirup Barrel? I found this barrel in an old fallen down barn, it was all there except missing the other end. Don't know much about this barrel but would like to know how common it is... my email: email@example.com


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Effects of Vitamin D Dose and Genotype of the Binding Protein in Infants and Children (VitaD)
- Full Text View
- Tabular View
- No Study Results Posted
- Disclaimer
- How to Read a Study Record
|Vitamin D Deficiency
|Dietary Supplement: Vitamin D
|Study Type:
|Study Design:
|Allocation: Randomized
Intervention Model: Parallel Assignment
Masking: Quadruple (Participant, Care Provider, Investigator, Outcomes Assessor)
Primary Purpose: Treatment
|Official Title:
|A Randomized, Controlled Trial of Vitamin D Supplementation in Infants and Children: Effects of Vitamin D Dose and Genotype of the Binding Protein
- Changes in serum 25-OH vitamin D [ Time Frame: 6 months ]
|Study Start Date:
|January 2010
|Study Completion Date:
|February 2013
|Primary Completion Date:
|February 2013 (Final data collection date for primary outcome measure)
Dietary Supplement: Vitamin D
Vitamin D has recently been the subject of much attention. Advantages to the prevention of vitamin D deficiency (VDD) in young children are obvious: acutely, hypocalcemic seizures may occur in VDD, and rickets can result in long-term skeletal deformities. Previous research has emphasized the importance of identifying optimal supplementation doses and appropriate target thresholds for circulating 25-hydroxyvitamin D (25-OHD), the best described marker of vitamin D status. The timely next step is to objectively establish effective doses for the prevention of VDD, without creating risk from overzealous supplementation, in a population representative of those most at risk for overt disease.
Although the primary role of vitamin D is considered to be its effect on intestinal calcium absorption, enormous variability of fractional calcium absorption in relation to 25-OHD levels exists. We provide evidence that a significant component of this variability is genetic in nature and in particular, relates to vitamin D binding protein (DBP) genotype.
The aggregate data suggest that the critical mechanism for the development of nutritional rickets is reduction in availability of calcium to the skeleton, which is largely determined by vitamin D status and intestinal calcium absorption. Our proposal focuses on the establishment of a workable definition of vitamin D deficiency in an underserved and highly vulnerable population and to assess the impact of genetic variance in VDR and DBP as factors to be considered in the recommendation of vitamin D status assessment, taking into account the outcome of 25-OHD level, and in additional studies, potential functional consequences of vitamin D related to both its classical and non-classical effects.
|Ages Eligible for Study:
|6 Months to 6 Years (Child)
|Sexes Eligible for Study:
|Accepts Healthy Volunteers:
Inclusion Criteria:
- 6 months to 6 years of age
- healthy or free from any diseases or conditions that may affect nutritional status or bone metabolism
- willingness of family to participate in a 6-month study of vitamin D supplementation
Exclusion Criteria:
- Chronic disease
- Prematurity < 32 weeks gestational age
- Liver disease such as hepatitis or renal/urologic disease (e.g., recurrent urinary tract infection)
- Use of pharmacologic or prescription-level dosages of vitamin D or its metabolites. We will exclude users of any systemic glucocorticoid preparation and users of inhaled steroids that are considered greater than medium dose for age 4 yrs. Specifically, this would exclude users of over 1 mg/day of budesonide, and over 352 mcg/day of fluticasone.
- Current or recent (within 1 month) use of anticonvulsants or other medications known to affect bone and mineral homeostasis or alkaline phosphatase levels.
Please refer to this study by its ClinicalTrials.gov identifier: NCT01050387
|United States, Connecticut
|Yale University School of Medicine
|New Haven, Connecticut, United States, 06520
|Principal Investigator:
|Thomas O Carpenter, M.D.
|Yale University
|Responsible Party:
|Thomas Carpenter, Professor, Yale University
|ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier:
|NCT01050387 History of Changes
|Other Study ID Numbers:
1RC1HD063562 ( U.S. NIH Grant/Contract )
|Study First Received:
|January 13, 2010
|Last Updated:
|August 2, 2014
Keywords provided by Thomas Carpenter, Yale University:
Vitamin D Deficiency
Vitamin D Supplementation
Vitamin D Binding Protein
Nutritional rickets
25hydroxyvitamin D
vitamin D metabolites
vitamin D homeostasis
Additional relevant MeSH terms:
Vitamin D Deficiency
Deficiency Diseases
Nutrition Disorders
Vitamin D
Growth Substances
Physiological Effects of Drugs
Bone Density Conservation Agents
ClinicalTrials.gov processed this record on September 21, 2017


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Socom: Tactical StrikeItem#: GAME-PSP SCE 98649 | Model#: 711719864929
Currently Out Of Stock!
Product Details
Video Game Edition: Socom: Tactical Strike
In the midst of rising instability, insurgents have abducted the U.S. ambassador. Sanctioned by the Panamanian government, America's elite fighting force has been deployed to rescue and extract the ambassador. Take control of an entire SEAL team and engage in real-time tactical combat, where you evaluate each situation, determine a plan of action, and then execute on your command. All-new SOCOM experience delivers a true combat simulation, where tactics determine the outcome of each encounter Innovative, easy-to-use graphical interface lets you switch seamlessly between fireteam, sub-team elements and individual SEALs to view the action and issue commands Enhanced artificial intelligence results in smarter, more formidable enemies that communicate with each other Choose from nine international special forces units, each with unique weapons and loadouts Tactical-action gameplay delivers a unique online multiplayer experience, featuring 2-4 player Ad Hoc and Infrastucture play with full headset support Operate in highly-detailed environments, including urban, industrial and jungle terrains Authentic special forces movements and tactics, refined through association with U.S. Naval Special Warfare Command, makes this the most realistic SOCOM to date Command Equity and Local Influence allows skills, weapons and gear upgrades
Manufactured by: Sony PlayStation
Warranty provided by: Sony PlayStation
UPC No: 711719864929
Mfg Part No: 711719864929
Box Size:
( Length:0, Width:0, Depth:0)
Shipping Weight: 0.2000 pound(s)
Click here for full warranty and support information
- Sony PlayStation logos are registered trademarks of Sony PlayStation. All others trademarks and copyrights mentioned herein are the property of their respective owners.


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And, of course, the fine print:
Get free shipping on your next order when you spend over $100. The discount will be automatically applied to your purchase; no promo code required. The subtotal of your purchase must be $100.01 or greater after any promotional discounts have been applied. Additional fees such as tax or shipping and handling do not apply toward your minimum subtotal requirement of $100.01. Offer applies to standard shipping only. Certain items that require additional shipping and handling are excluded from this promotion and do not apply towards your $100.01 subtotal minimum. Offer subject to change.
Transform nightcaps and morning coffees into an industrial affair with this set of four concrete coasters. Each coaster features a hand-painted bicycle, is sealed with olive oil and includes a cork backing. Every piece is hand-poured and hand-stamped so there will be some variations in color and texture––in other words, a whole lot of character.
- Natural cement finish.
- Measures 4" in diameter.
This product ships from the maker within 10 days, via USPS
If you're not happy with this item for any reason, you may return it for a full refund within 14 days.


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Springer will begin rehab stint at Quad Cities
HOUSTON -- The Astros announced after Sunday's 6-1 win over the Blue Jays that rookie outfielder George Springer will begin a rehab assignment with Class A Quad Cities on Monday.
Springer has been working his way back from a left quad strain, and it was even thought that he might rejoin the team in Philadelphia for a series starting on Tuesday.
That seems unlikely now, though manager Bo Porter did hint that the rehab assignment would not last long.
"We want him to go play and make sure everything we see here -- moving around well and going through all the training activities -- is right," Porter said. "We'll re-evaluate after tomorrow."
That indicates that Springer may return from the 15-day disabled list by next weekend, when the Astros face the Rangers at Minute Maid Park.
First, though, the slugger said he needs to test himself at full speed.
"I'm obviously looking forward to live game reps," Springer said. "It's just one of those things, I'll see how it feels [running] and we'll go from there."
Springer said the plan is for him to be in the Quad Cities lineup on Monday, but beyond that, he has no idea of the timetable for his return to the Majors.
Despite missing the last two weeks, Springer is second in the Majors among rookies with 20 home runs since his April callup.
Chris Abshire 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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The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has released an updated list of the top 50 organizations for voluntarily using clean energy from resources such as wind, solar and low-impact hydropower.
Intel Corp. continues to hold the No. 1 spot as the largest single user of green power, and has increased its green power usage by over 300 GWh annually. With this increase, Intel now uses more than 31 TWh of green power annually, which is enough to meet 100% of the company's electricity use.
The top 20 green power users are as follows:
1. Intel Corp.
2. Kohl's Department Stores
3. Microsoft Corp.
4. Whole Foods Market
5. Wal-Mart Stores Inc.
6. Staples
7. Lockheed Martin Corp.
8. District of Columbia
9. Cisco Systems Inc.
10. City of Houston, Texas
11. Starbucks
12. City of Austin, Texas
14. Hilton Worldwide
15. McDonald's USA LLC
16. U.S. Department of Energy
17. City of Dallas, Texas
18. U.S. Air Force
19. TD Bank
20. U.S. Environmental Protection Agency
For more on the rankings and to view the full top 50, click here.


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Sneak A Glimpse Inside The Millionaire Matchmaker's Fancy LA Home
The entire concept of Patti Stanger's Millionaire's Club and its subsequent television show strikes me as being bizarre at best and depraved at worst, but that doesn't mean I won't happily watch three episodes in a row while I power walk on the treadmill. I feel like the majority of Millionaire Matchmaker's audience has to be in somewhat of the same position, like, "this isn't something I really want to watch, but I need to watch something trashy and mind-numbing right now so this will have to suffice," followed almost immediately by, "oh god, I'm maybe actually enjoying this, and should I call my next of kin and insist they go on without me, I am done here?" OR MAYBE THAT'S JUST ME.
But, whatever, bottom line is that, against my better judgement, I like Millionaire Matchmaker, and I even like its polarizing star, the Millionaire Matchmaker herself, Patti Stanger. She says a lot of shallow, occasionally bafflingly insensitive bullshit, but whatever, she's kind of rad. But who knew the Millionaire Matchmaker made such a damn good living off of this? Her home is fancy, all glossy wood floors and cowhide-upholstered chairs. I almost wanted to commend her on her excellent taste, but then I got to the bedrooms, which I feel are really indicative of her New Jersey upbringing. More photos after the jump! [Huffington Post]


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MOR Rays Opening Week Watch and Win
MORRays Opening Week Watch and Win OFFICIAL RULES NO PURCHASE NECESSARY VOID WHERE PROHIBITED. VOID OUTSIDE TAMPA-ST. PETE-SARASOTA DESIGNATED MARKET AREA MUST BE AT LEAST 18 YEARS OF AGE TO ENTER
HOW TO ENTER and HOW TO WIN: The entry period for the MOR's Rays Opening Week Sweepstakes (the Sweepstakes) begins 6:00 p.m. Monday, April 2, 2012, and ends 6:59 p.m. on Thursday, April 5, 2012, (Sweepstakes Entry Period). For purposes of this Sweepstakes, all times refer to eastern time (ET). To participate, watch MOR's Family Guy from 6:00 p.m. 6:59 p.m. weeknights between April 2, 2012, and April 5, 2012. Limit one entry per day per household regardless of entry method. Each weeknight of the Sweepstakes Entry Period, a Keyword or Clue will be announced or displayed during Family Guy, (including breaks) aired on MOR between 6:00 p.m. and 6:59 p.m. (the Programming). Viewers must watch for the Keyword/Clue, because knowledge of the Keyword/Clue is necessary in order to submit an eligible entry. There are two ways to enter: A. Text Message Entry Method. After the Keyword/Clue is announced or displayed during Programming, participants may enter the Sweepstakes by sending a text message to 35253 with the Keyword/Clue in the body of the message. All entrants entering via the text message entry method must have a text messaging two-way capable handset and digital service in order to enter the Sweepstakes. Entrants entering by the Text Message Entry Method will be sent a text message to confirm entry into the Sweepstakes. Entrants entering by text will be charged standard text messaging rates for text messages sent from and received by their handset according to the terms and conditions in their wireless calling plan. Text messaging and wireless service are not available in all areas. B. Web Entry Method. After the Keyword/Clue is announced or displayed during Programming, participants may enter the Sweepstakes by logging onto www.mor-tv.com and accessing an entry form and following the onscreen instructions to enter and submit the Keyword/Clue, all requested information (name, contact information, etc.). Internet access is required to enter via the Web Entry Method. During the Sweepstakes Entry Period Sponsors will randomly select (1) one Daily Prize winner from among eligible entries submitted during the Sweepstakes Entry Period and will notify them via text message if they entered via texting or via telephone if they entered via online registration.
Sponsors may not verify receipt of entries. Entries become property of Sponsors and will not be returned. Incorrect entries are void. Sponsors are not responsible for entries that are lost, late, misdirected, incomplete, incomprehensible, illegible, damaged, undeliverable or delayed. Entries generated by any automated means that are detected as such are void. 2. Eligibility: This Sweepstakes is only open to legal U.S. residents who are physically located and residing within counties located within the Tampa-St. Pete-Sarasota Designated Market Area as defined by Nielsen Media Research and who are 18 years of age or older as of the date of entry. Employees of Tampa Bay Rays, Inc, Tampa Bay Area Buick-GMC Dealers, WMOR Hearst Television Company, Inc., those involved in the development, production (including prize suppliers), implementation and distribution of this Sweepstakes, their advertising or promotion agencies, parent companies, agents, officers, directors, subsidiaries or affiliates, participating stations, service providers, any other persons or entities directly associated with this Sweepstakes (collectively Sweepstakes Entities), members of their immediate families (parents, children, siblings, spouses), and/or persons living in the same households as such persons (whether related or not) are ineligible to participate in the Sweepstakes. 3. Grand Prize Winner: A minimum of (1) one Grand Prize Winner will be chosen: Grand Prize Winner will receive 2 tickets for the Hancock Bank Club for one of the Tampa Bay Rays opening weekend games. Prize Value: $300
Daily Winners: A minimum of (5) five daily winners will be chosen: Each daily winner will receive 4 (four) tickets for admission to one Tampa Bay Rays game during the opening weekend of the 2012 season.
Prize Value: $120 per winner.
One winner per household for the duration of the contest and winner must not have won a previous contest on MOR within the last 60 days. Odds of winning depend on the number of eligible entries. As a condition of winners acceptance of the prize, Sweepstakes Entities, their parent, related, affiliated and subsidiary companies and their respective officers, directors agents, employees and assigns shall be released and discharged from any and all legal claims, losses, injuries, demands, damages, actions, and/or causes of actions that arise out of and/or in any way related to the prize, the receipt, use and/or enjoyment of the prize and/or the Sweepstakes. 4. Claiming Prize: Winner may be required to complete an Affidavit of Eligibility and Liability and Publicity Release when claiming prize. Only the actual winner may claim his or her prize, and prizes are non-transferable by winners. The selected winner has 48 hours in which to claim their prize via phone following notification. Failure to timely claim prize will result in the forfeiture of the prize, and such prize will remain the property of Sponsors. Winner must present the original winning text message on the original cell phone with proof of age. 5. General Conditions/Liability Waiver: Sweepstakes is subject to these Official Rules and all applicable federal, state, and local laws. By entering, participants agree to be bound to these Sweepstakes rules and agree to abide by all decisions of Sponsors, including the interpretation of any ambiguities in Sponsors sole discretion. By returning the completed Affidavit/Release, winner attests the authenticity of his/her winning entry. Any personal information supplied by entrants to Sponsors or their affiliates will be subject to Sponsors Privacy Policy. Thus, except where prohibited by law or Sponsors Privacy Policies: (1) entry and/or winners acceptance of prize constitutes permission for the Sweepstakes Entities use of winners name, address (city and state), photo, likeness, biographical information, statement and voice for advertising/publicity purposes worldwide and in all forms of media, in perpetuity, without further notice to or compensation in connection with said Sweepstakes or the prize awarded and (2) Sponsors have the right to modify, edit, adapt, electronically alter, use, assign and/or dispose of entries however they see fit and for any purpose without any notice or compensation to entrant or any third parties. Any person attempting to defraud or tamper with this Sweepstakes may be prosecuted and is not eligible for the prize. If, for any reason, the Sweepstakes is not capable of running as originally planned, Sponsors at their sole discretion, reserve the right to cancel, suspend or modify the Sweepstakes. WINNERS AND ENTRANTS AGREE, EXCEPT WHERE PROHIBITED BY LAW, TO RELEASE AND DISCHARGE, HOLD HARMLESS AND INDEMNIFY THE SWEEPSTAKES ENTITIES, THEIR EMPLOYEES, AGENTS AND REPRESENTATIVES, OFFICERS AND DIRECTORS AND THEIR IMMEDIATE FAMILIES, SUCCESSORS AND ASSIGNS, AND ALL OTHERS ASSOCIATED WITH THE DEVELOPMENT AND EXECUTION OF THIS SWEEPSTAKES, FROM ANY AND ALL TAX LIABILITY THAT MAY BE IMPOSED OR ASSOCIATED WITH RECEIPT OR USE OF THE PRIZES, AND FROM AND AGAINST ANY AND ALL CLAIMS, ACTIONS, PROCEEDINGS, AND LIABILITY FOR ANY DAMAGES, EXPENSES, FEES, INJURY OR LOSSES (INCLUDING PERSONAL INJURY OR DEATH) SUSTAINED IN CONNECTION WITH THE RECEIPT, OWNERSHIP, OR USE OF THE PRIZE OR WHILE TRAVELING TO, PREPARING FOR, OR PARTICIPATING IN ANY SWEEPSTAKES-RELATED OR PRIZE-RELATED ACTIVITY. By entering the Sweepstakes or by winning, participants grant to the Sweepstakes Entities the right to publicize the participants name, photograph, image, likeness, voice, statements, and biographical information for advertising, trade, and promotion purposes without compensation and without opportunity for review, except where prohibited by law. Sponsors retain the discretion to make all decisions regarding the interpretation and application of these rules. All decisions of Sponsors are final and discretionary. In the event the selected winner of a prize is ineligible, refuses the prize, or if the prize is forfeited for any reason, the prize will be forfeited. The laws of the State of Florida shall govern this Sweepstakes, without regard to Floridas choice of law rules. The courts of Florida in Hillsborough County shall be the exclusive forum and venue for any dispute relating to these rules, terms and conditions and/or this Sweepstakes. All participants and winners agree, by their participation in the Sweepstakes, to submit to the personal jurisdiction of the courts of Florida in Hillsborough County. For prizes valued at $600 or greater, winner must provide his or her Social Security Number for tax purposes. Prizes may be considered income, and any and all taxes associated with prizes are responsibility of winner.
6. Disclaimers and Force Majeure Clause: Sweepstakes Entities, their affiliated, parent, and subsidiary companies, their employees, agents and officers, advertising and promotion agencies, and all others associated with the development and execution of this Sweepstakes are not responsible for: (1) problems associated with television transmission, radio transmission, cable transmission, satellite transmission, phone lines, facsimile, or cable lines and/or phone or IP numbers that are beyond their control. This includes, but is not limited to: any error, omission, interruption, defect or delay in operation or transmission at any website, or wireless calling/text message carrier service, interrupted or unavailable network, server or other connections; failure of any entry to be received in whole or in part by Sponsor due to technical problems, telephone service problems, human error or traffic congestion on the Internet or at any website, or wireless calling/text message carrier service; communications line, hardware and/or software failures, malfunction of phones (including wireless phones/handsets), phone lines, other communications malfunctions, unavailable network connections, cellular equipment towers, telephone systems or wireless service; damage to any computer (software or hardware) resulting from participation in the Sweepstakes, or damage to mobile phone or other PDA device; a busy signal, operator interference, cellular interference, Internet congestion, technical or atmospheric conditions that disrupt the completion of a phone call, facsimile transmission, email transmission, or cable modem service, or other Internet interruptions or malfunctions or for technical or other difficulties which may prohibit, prevent, or interfere with the transmission of television or radio signals to all or limited geographic areas during the playing of the Sweepstakes or that may prohibit, prevent, or interfere with the acquisition, completion, or submission of an entry; failures of or other problems relating to computer or communications hardware, software, the Internet, or similar systems, including but not limited to difficulties relating to entrants ISP, DSL, or cable modem access, worms, or viruses or any other problem of any description or nature which may prohibit prevent or interfere with the acquisition, completion or submission of an entry; (2) typographical errors in any materials relating to the Sweepstakes; (3) lost, misdirected, illegible, incomplete, or delayed entry forms; (4) cancellations, postponements, or delays; (5) Acts of God, war, terrorism, government regulation, disaster, fire, strikes, civil disorder, or other similar causes beyond the control of the Sweepstakes Entities, their affiliated, parent, and subsidiary companies, advertising and promotional agencies and their immediate assigns, making it inadvisable, illegal, impossible or impractical to continue the Sweepstakes or to perform under these Rules. In the event of any of the foregoing, Sponsor reserves the right to suspend, terminate, modify, or continue the Sweepstakes, in its sole discretion. SWEEPSTAKES ENTITIES MAKE NO WARRANTY, GUARANTEE, OR REPRESENTATION OF ANY KIND CONCERNING ANY PRIZE, AND SWEEPSTAKES ENTITIES SPECIFICALLY DISCLAIM ANY IMPLIED WARRANTY OF MERCHANTABILITY, WARRANTY OF FITNESS, AND ANY OTHER IMPLIED WARRANTY. 7. Rules and Winners List: For a copy of these official rules, log onto www.mor-tv.com or send a self-addressed, stamped envelope to MORs Rays Opening Weekend Sweepstakes, 7201 E. Hillsborough Ave, Tampa, FL 33610. Rules requests must be received by April 5, 2012. These Official Rules may also be posted on Sponsor websites. For a list of winners, send an SASE by April 9, 2011 to MORs Rays Opening Week Sweepstakes winners at the address above. © 2012 WMOR. All rights reserved. Official rules may be copied for personal use only and not for any commercial purposes whatsoever.


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Oil prices fell below $97 a barrel Monday, echoing a decline in global equities on persistent concerns about the European debt crisis and floundering efforts to cut the U.S. deficit.
By early afternoon in Europe, benchmark crude for January delivery was down $1.13 at $96.54 a barrel in electronic trading on the New York Mercantile Exchange.
In London, Brent crude was down 53 cents at $107.03 a barrel on the ICE Futures exchange.
Borrowing costs for deeply indebted European countries continued to edge higher, while an announcement was expected soon that talks in Washington aimed at reaching a bipartisan agreement on cutting the U.S. government deficit had collapsed.
"The eurozone debt crisis is still weighing on sentiment," said analysts at Commerzbank in Frankfurt. "What is more, talks aimed at trimming the deficit in the U.S. appear to have failed for now, in which case there is a risk of automatic expenditure cuts and, possibly, further rating downgrades from 2013. We therefore initially anticipate further falls in oil prices."
Major equity markets in Europe were mostly down at least 2 percent on Monday, following smaller losses in Asian markets.
Chinese Vice Premier Wang Qishan, who oversees trade and finance, said this weekend that the global economic situation is "extremely serious" and his country would focus on domestic challenges, state media reported.
"In a time of uncertainty the only thing we can be certain of is that the world economic recession caused by the international crisis will last a long time," he was quoted as saying.
The effects of slowing global demand were also evident in Japan, where exports fell for the first time in three months in October.
Crude has jumped from $75 on Oct. 4 on signs the U.S. will avoid a recession this year. However, oil pulled back from a near four-month high above $103 last week as weakness in the global economy came into focus.
"Oil values will continue to be jostled by broad based global economic crosscurrents but with primary focus on the eurozone probably through the rest of this year and beyond," energy consultant Ritterbusch and Associates said in a report. "However, U.S. economic guidance remains positive and emerging markets still appear robust."
The International Monetary Fund in September forecast 4 percent growth for the global economy next year.
In other Nymex trading, heating oil rose 0.27 cent to $3.0352 per gallon and gasoline futures added 1.11 cents to $2.4991 per gallon. Natural gas fell 2.1 cents to $3.295 per 1,000 cubic feet.
Alex Kennedy in Singapore contributed to this report.
Copyright 2011 The Associated Press.


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Kipnis getting locked in at the plate
DETROIT -- The bright orange shirts first popped up in Cleveland shortly before the All-Star break. Indians players have taken to wearing them around the clubhouse and during batting practice, having a little fun with second baseman Jason Kipnis.
The front of the shirts read, "JK Construction," and the back has the slogan, "I break it. You fix it."
Kipnis has been vague about the origins of the humorous tees, but the Tribe's second baseman laughed and elaborated in more detail after the Indians' 9-3 rout of the Tigers on Friday night. Kipnis was understandably in a good mood after launching two home runs and collecting four RBIs in the victory for Cleveland.
"I break it, you fix it," Kipnis said with a laugh. "That's down below where the cameras can't go."
What has Kipnis broken?
"Anything I can lift, usually," he said. "I've got a nice little tab going on downstairs. If some guys say we need a new fan or [air conditioner], and I go 0-for-3 or something like that, I'm a team player. I'll help them out and knock it out of the wall and we'll have a new one there the next day."
Kipnis has saved the damage for on the field lately. With his showing on Friday night, the second baseman has posted a .319 average with three extra-base hits, five stolen bases, six RBIs, nine runs scored and an .842 OPS in his last 11 games, entering Saturday's doubleheader in Detroit. He ended a drought of 218 plate appearances without a home run on Friday, and then belted homers in consecutive at-bats.
On the season, Kipnis has hit .257 with five homers, 13 stolen bases, 20 extra-base hits, 28 RBIs, 36 runs and .706 OPS through 69 games.
"I can go through a lot of breaks in power," Kipnis said. "But, I think you guys have seen [homers] come in bunches for me. Hopefully, it's a sign of something good. Let's really hope that it is."
Kipnis cracked a smile when asked who was behind the T-shirts.
"The secret guy behind everything: Corey Kluber," Kipnis said. "Any time you don't think it's him, it's him."
Jordan Bastian is a reporter for MLB.com. Read his blog, Major League Bastian, and follow him on Twitter @MLBastian. This story was not subject to the approval of Major League Baseball or its clubs.


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I think everyone knows we're adding a Mammoth to our list of water-park rides this year, but that's not the only critter we're introducing in May.
Meet Holidog's new friend … Kitty Claws.
Kitty will join Holidog, Safari Sam and George the Eagle in May, with lots of hugs plus maybe even an occasional pirouette.
So what goes into designing a new park mascot? GM Matt shared the drawings (he has two young daughters, so you may see just a little of their influence as the design steps progress):
We start out with an outline and a sketch.
Here was the first rendition of Ms. Claws:
At this point, she sort of looked like an Olympic runner (spoiler alert: and a human needs to comfortably fit inside), so we let out the seams a bit:
Next it was time to add some theming. Kitty Claws is a black cat from … Halloween!
All Kitty Claws still needed was some fancy footwear … oh, and some eyelashes.
And here she is:
Her tutu will not be quite as stiff as pictured; she'll be all ready to hug lots of children this season.
Kitty Claws and Holidog promise to be good buddies — no chasing each other up the big Christmas tree in our entrance plaza!
We'd love to hear your reaction (try to keep it from being too … um … catty) – please post your feedback below.


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, by HARUN YAHYA
The brain contains a pea-sized organ that weighs around 0.5 grams (0.017 ounce) and, amazingly enough, supervises and regulates the entire body. Known as the pituitary gland, this most complex, flawless, and vital administrator distributes jobs to countless hormones and monitors each one, all of which have their own appointed tasks, without interruption. We move our heads and arms, see, hear, smile, speak, and touch all at the same time. We remember what people have said to us and analyse things. All of the sensations that reach us and our movements take place by means of hormones.
The pituitary gland enables hundreds of processes to take place simultaneously, flawlessly, and without delay. There is no question of any hormone running late; being unable to transmit the messages that reach them; or, apart from exceptional cases of sickness, of hearing what a person who is talking to us only after several minutes have passed; or of not feeling the sensation of being burned before the burn appears on our hands. This is because the tiny pituitary gland, which consists of protein, water, and fat, flawlessly carries out all of its tasks because Allah, the Lord of the worlds, wills it to do so.
Anything that any entity does occurs only because of His will, for nothing is independent of His power and control. When Allah so wills, He manifests His Own might and greatness as He wills through a particular entity that He has created. Everything we see or do not see, but that we know about, is a separate manifestation of His infinite Greatness:
That is Allah, your Lord. There is no deity but Him, the Creator of everything. So worship Him. He is responsible for everything. Eyesight cannot perceive Him, but He perceives eyesight. He is the All Penetrating, the All-Aware. "Clear insights have come to you from your Lord. Whoever sees clearly does so to his own benefit. Whoever is blind, it is to his own detriment. I am not here as your keeper." (Surat al-An'am, 102-04)
The pea-sized pituitary gland, which weighs 0.5 grams (0.017 ounces), distributes to the body's countless hormones their tasks and regulates each one without the slightest interruption. It is a blessing that Allah has created and charged this small organ with regulating the human body.


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April 16, 2007
Go Wild Outdoors at San Antonio's First-Ever WildFest
SAN ANTONIO, Texas — In this day of electronics and virtual reality, it's known by many that regardless of age, most of us just don't get outdoors as much as we once did in the "good ol' days." WildFest San Antonio, scheduled the first weekend of May, intends to change all that.
The City of San Antonio, Los Vecinos de las Missiones, Medina River Natural Area, Mitchell Lake Audubon Center, San Antonio Missions National Historical Park, San Antonio Area Tourism Council, San Antonio Convention and Visitors Bureau, San Antonio River Authority, San Antonio Water System, and Texas Parks and Wildlife Department along with many local organizations are teaming up to present San Antonio's first-ever birding and nature festival May 4-6. More than 70 WildFest events — field trips, seminars and workshops — are scheduled during the three days.
WildFest San Antonio celebrates Bexar County's world-class historical sites and natural areas and extensive park system that offer opportunities for the young and the young at heart to get outside and enjoy nature, regardless of their interests.
Advanced registration is required for all festival events, even the ones being offered at no charge. Mailed-in registration must be postmarked by April 27. For more information and to obtain registration forms online visit the WildFest San Antonio Web site or call (210) 886-9991.
"WildFest is designed to permit individuals and families to see millions of bats emerge from Bracken Cave, bird watch along the Medina River, or learn about people and plants of early San Antonio," said WildFest San Antonio Planning Committee chairman Dwight Henderson.
An integral part of the festival, according to Texas Parks & Wildlife Department's Judit Green, an urban wildlife biologist based in San Antonio, will be guided field trips to city and state parks, and other natural sites and facilities in the area to share with participants the many places available locally where they can get outdoors and enjoy biking, hiking, birding and other activities that allow them to experience nature close up.
Comanche Park, for example, offers opportunities to get wet as you learn how to fish and climb into and explore one of two local caves; get out in darkness to experience calling up owls or finding night critters at Medina River Natural Area; or explore the newly renovated Botanical Garden in the heart of downtown which offers a taste of some of the different ecoregions found throughout Texas.
Recent rainfall, Green noted, should ensure a proliferation of wildflowers and blooming plants that attract butterflies, birds and other wildlife. She said Bexar County's location at the crossroads of ecological regions results in an impressive diversity of plants and wildlife species.
"This means you'll have a good chance to see coyotes in the distance, turkeys strutting their stuff in a nearby field, or lizards cocking their heads giving you a once over as you bend over them to get a closer look," Green said. "Participants may also have the opportunity to see or hear the endangered golden-cheeked warbler especially at Government Canyon State Natural Area, one of the Hill Country's most sought out specialty birds, part of an impressive bird list that numbers almost 500 species for this area."
Also on the festival planning committee, Linda Winchester of the San Antonio Area Tourism Council, believes that WildFest San Antonio not only will help educate local residents about the area's natural resources, but also enhance the visitor experience for out-of-towners while boosting the economy.
"Ecotourism has been growing rapidly as a niche market for many destinations," Winchester said. "We are fortunate to be in South Central Texas, which is home to and a crossroads for many birds, plants and animal species."
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Ross' resurgence in Minors gives Rangers options
ARLINGTON -- Exiled left-hander Robbie Ross Jr. is starting to find himself again at Triple-A Round Rock. His resurgence comes at a time when the Rangers are getting trade interest in left-hander Neal Cotts before Thursday's 3 p.m. CT Trade Deadline.
Ross, who has been pitching out of the Round Rock rotation, is 2-1 with a 2.37 ERA in his last three starts. In 19 innings, he has allowed 22 hits, walked three and struck out 13.
"Robbie is starting to find his command of his fastball, and getting his life [on the pitch] back," said Danny Clark, Rangers Minor League pitching coordinator. "His slider is starting to show better tilt. His confidence level is starting to come."
Ross was optioned to Round Rock on June 17 after going 2-4 with a 5.61 ERA in nine starts and nine relief appearances for the Rangers. He spent his first two years in the Major Leagues as a reliever before his ill-fated move to the rotation this season.
The Rangers are getting interest in Cotts, who is a free agent after the season. If the Rangers trade Cotts, the only other left-handed reliever in the bullpen would be Ryan Feierabend. The Rangers also have left-hander Aaron Poreda at Triple-A.
T.R. Sullivan is a reporter for MLB.com. Read his blog, Postcards from Elysian Fields, and follow him on Twitter @Sullivan_Ranger. Grace Raynor 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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Brace Yourself for a Cliff Landing
Reports that House Republicans have all but dropped out of fiscal cliff negotiations are obviously driving market moves this morning. How exactly will this play out? Your guess is as good as mine. But one thing we can say with more certainty is that there will be material fiscal consolidation in 2013, from either tax hikes or spending cuts, or both. So rather than try to predict the eventual outcome of these negotiations, I am focusing my analysis on how changes in taxes and spending will affect the actual economy.
Unfortunately, there is a lot of rhetoric (or perhaps zealotry is a better term) around these issues. Indeed, it is this zealotry that is impeding the U.S.' ability to deal with our government debt problem. And to be fair, the academic research on the relationships between taxes, government spending and private-sector activity is all over the board. But if you are willing to put your own philosophical preferences aside, there are a few conclusions one can draw....971 more words left in this article. To read them, just click below and try Real Money FREE for 14 days.
There's no substitute for a trading floor to get great ideas, so Jim Cramer created a better one at Real Money and blogs there exclusively. We then added legendary hedge fund manager, Doug Kass, with his exclusive Daily Diary and best investing ideas. Staffed with more than 4 dozen investing pros, money managers, journalists and analysts, Real Money Pro gives you a flood of opinions, analysis and actionable trading advice found nowhere else, and allows you to interact directly with each expert.
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Study of the Effect of Eicosanoids on Contractile Activity of Pregnant Human Myometrium in Pathological Situation (EAU2)
Recruitment status was: Recruiting
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- Disclaimer
- How to Read a Study Record
Recent studies show that EET and 20-HETE have important biological effects, particularly in the vascular system. The investigators studied the effect of eicosanoids on the gravid rat uterus. The results suggest that 20-HETE had an tocolytics effect on gravid uterus. In the previous study, we demonstrated that the enzymes of the pathway of EET were present in human uterine tissues. Moreover, the addition of an inhibitor of degradation of EET had an tocolytic effect on the human myometrium, as the exogenous addition of 8.9, 14,15-EET and 20-HETE.
Primary objective: To compare the balance of different metabolic pathways of arachidonic acid (AA) of the pregnant human myometrium in pathological situations (preterm labor, uterine atony, prolonged pregnancy).
Specific objectives: i) To study the effect of derived from the AA on in vitro contractile activity of normal and pathological uterine tissues, and ii) detect and quantify the different sub-products of metabolism of AA in the uterine tissues (myometrium, fetal membranes and placenta).
The management of uterine contraction is in the heart of modern obstetrics year, yet the progress made in other specialties, based on the study of smooth muscle have not yet been transposed in obstetrics. A better understanding of systems for regulating the contraction is important in terms of 1) new physiological knowledge, but it could also be the source of 2) modification of strategies to take care of premature delivery (new Tocolytic), or 3) improving the efficiency of uterine muscle during delivery or 4) for treatment of patients with prolonged pregnancy.
|Obstetric Labor Complications Prolonged Pregnancy
|Study Type:
|Study Design:
|Observational Model: Case-Only
Time Perspective: Prospective
|Official Title:
|Study of the Effect of Eicosanoids on Contractile Activity of Pregnant Human Myometrium in Pathological Situation.
- effect of eicosanoids on contractile activity of myometrium of pregnant women with pathological situations [ Time Frame: during c-section ]
- effect of enzymatic inhibitors on contractile activity of myometrium from pregnant women with pathological situations [ Time Frame: during c-section ]
- detection of enzymes from the different pathways [ Time Frame: after c-section ]
- quantification of eicosanoids in different tissues [ Time Frame: after c-section ]
Biospecimen Retention: Samples Without DNA
|Estimated Enrollment:
|Study Start Date:
|May 2009
|Estimated Study Completion Date:
|October 2015
|Estimated Primary Completion Date:
|July 2015 (Final data collection date for primary outcome measure)
Women who will have a c-section at the CHUS
Detailed Description:
It is a clinical study with a slope fundamental aims to examine the metabolic pathways of AA of human myometrium and their functional roles according to their clinical profile divided into three contractile pathological situations - threat of premature delivery, dynamic dystocia, prolonged pregnancy - and two groups of patients at term: a group before work and group work.
The sampling method. After birth, a biopsy will be perform from the lower segment of the uterus. After caesarean sections of membrane and placenta are collected.
The substances studied during isometric tension tests are part of the three degradation pathways of the AA.
- new eicosanoids in cumulative dose (8,9-EET, 11,12-EET, 14,15-EET, 20-HETE), and in combination
- enzyme inhibitors of the eicosanoids pathway (AUDA, MS-PPOH, DDMS), and the COX and LOX pathways (indomethacin), alone or in combination.
|Ages Eligible for Study:
|18 Years to 40 Years (Adult)
|Sexes Eligible for Study:
|Accepts Healthy Volunteers:
|Sampling Method:
|Non-Probability Sample
Inclusion Criteria:
- all women who will have a c-section
Exclusion Criteria:
- induction of labor,
- child with malformation,
- birth weight less than 2500 grams or greater than 4500g
Please refer to this study by its ClinicalTrials.gov identifier: NCT00939744
|Contact: Stéphanie Corriveau, BSc
|819 346-1110 ext 13875
|Contact: Simon Blouin, PhD
|819 346-1110 ext 13877
|Canada, Quebec
|Centre hospitalier de l'Université de Sherbrooke
|Sherbrooke, Quebec, Canada, J1H 5N4
|Principal Investigator:
|Jean-Charles Pasquier, MD, PhD
|Centre hospitalier de l'Université de Sherbrooke
|Principal Investigator:
|Rousseau Éric, PhD
|Université de Sherbrooke
Publications automatically indexed to this study by ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier (NCT Number):
|Responsible Party:
|Jean-Charles Pasquier, MD, PhD, Dr, Université de Sherbrooke
|ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier:
|NCT00939744 History of Changes
|Other Study ID Numbers:
|Study First Received:
|July 14, 2009
|Last Updated:
|March 3, 2015
Keywords provided by Jean-Charles Pasquier, MD, PhD, Université de Sherbrooke:
contractile activity
pregnant women
obstetrics complications
Additional relevant MeSH terms:
Obstetric Labor Complications
Pregnancy, Prolonged
Pregnancy Complications
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Book a flight to Maputo with Qatar Airways and you'll be introduced to a city that perfectly captures the essence of African life. Currently, Mozambique is unspoilt and relatively tourist-free. However, its wild beauty, cream-coloured beaches and world-class snorkelling are putting it firmly on the tourism radar.
If you want to see Mozambique's capital in all its Art Deco-inspired glory, then book a flight to Maputo as soon as you can. The country as a whole is set to become something of a hotspot and it would be a shame not to catch this stunning destination while it's still a little 'off the beaten track'.
Take a trip to Maputo and you'll find yourself in Mozambique's largest, living attraction. The city was founded in the 17th Century by the Portuguese who were enticed by the promise of pearls. Maputo quickly became prosperous, only to be ravaged by a civil war. Today, however, it is peaceful and the remnants of its glory days only serve to add to its charm.
The Maputo Elephant Reserve is a popular attraction for wildlife enthusiasts, encompassing 50,000 hectares of lakes, swamps, woodlands and beaches. Here, you can watch elephants and other creatures, such as hippos, crocodiles and even vervet monkeys.
For a look at Maputo's colonial history, visit the Fortaleza da Nossa Conceicao Maputo – the remains of a Portuguese fortress. In addition to the ramparts, artillery shells and statues, you'll also get a fantastic view of the city. Alternatively, you can easily spend a day visiting the Xefina islands. You can catch a traditional dhow from Maputo harbour and explore this stunning island – once a military base. Many tours will offer traditional music as you sail and even supply a beach-cooked barbecue as part of the day.
If you only try one activity on your trip to Maputo, then make sure it's snorkelling or scuba diving. While all of Mozambique's beaches are perfect for lazing and gazing, it's what's under the water that's truly amazing. You can swim with kaleidoscopic-coloured fish and even get a glimpse of wild turtles. Bilene is the nearest beach and there are diving schools on hand to get you trained up and ready to get into the water.
A trip to Maputo Central Railway Station might not sound like holiday material, but it really is worth a visit. Designed by Gustave Eiffel, who designed France's famous Tower, it's a stunning mix of marble, glass and metalwork and widely regarded as one of the world's most beautiful train stations.
The city's cuisine is a vibrant mix of Portuguese, Oriental, African and Arabic flavours, resulting in dishes that feature creamy coconut sauces, piquant piri-piri and crushed cashew nuts. Your trip to Maputo wouldn't be complete without visiting Avenida Marginal, the beach road, where you'll find street vendors selling curries, samosas and the much-loved galinha al Zambeziana – a dish of grilled chicken with a lime, piri-piri and coconut milk. For a real taste of Mozambique, try their famous prawns – a little spicy but absolutely delicious!
However, if you want to indulge yourself with some fine dining then there are plenty of high-end restaurants serving a wide variety of local and international cuisine.
Shopping on a trip to Maputo can be as simple as walking down the street. Flea markets and impromptu stalls are everywhere. The most traded items are used shoes – so if you have a pair you're looking to get rid of, get yourself down to the square near Avenue 24. Shoes dominate the markets, but root around and you'll also find saris, tunics and an abundance of dresses.
However, if you prefer more conventional shopping, seek out the Maputo Shopping Centre in Marques de Pombal. It's glitzy and glamorous and brimming with shops, selling everything you could wish for. The Centre is incredibly popular and seen by the locals as Mozambique's first steps into the modern world.
Flights to Maputo will bring you into Maputo International Airport, about three kilometres from the centre. You'll find plenty of cabs and car-hire facilities, so travelling to your accommodation shouldn't be a problem.
Visa restrictions for entry into the country will depend on your country of origin, length of stay and whether your trip is for business or pleasure. So before you fly to Maputo please check the visa and passport requirements.
Currency: Mozambican Metical (MZN)
Voltage: 220 V 50 Hz
Plugs: Type C / F / M
Language: Portuguese
International dialing code: +258
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Sema Show 2005 - Las Vegas Trade Show
Bigger And Better Than Ever
The hype for the '05 SEMA Show didn't disappoint, as it was bigger than ever. With a record number of vendors this year and hundreds of vehicles on display, electrified enthusiasts as well as industry professionals flocked to the Las Vegas Convention Center from November first through the fourth.
Covering three enormous buildings, there was no shortage of people bitching about how much their feet hurt. The talk of the show on the mini side would have to be the Viair booth and the two insane Chevys. Farva's Blazerado (rendering featured in our January '05 issue) made it out of the shop and under the bright lights of the convention center. CCE also brought out their roadstered and body dropped Colorado, which hasn't even burned off a full tank of gas yet. These vehicles made the miles of walking worth it.
Lexani shocked the rim world with a million-dollar set of wheels that were encrusted with diamonds and sapphires, which comes complete with a Bentley and a bodyguard for a year. The Eastcoast Ryders were rolling hard with 28-inch wheels on lifted Caprices and such. The new trend of the mini? I think not. Hundreds of gorgeous models were on-hand as always to steal the attention from the millions of dollars in vehicles that had so much blood, sweat, and tears put into them.
The big sight outside would have to be the enormous showing that Overhaulin' had. A complete build of a vehicle was going on all during the show in typical Foose fashion. It was something to see a SEMA-quality vehicle being built at the show. On the flip note, Lamborghini doors on Chrysler 300's with 22's could practically be bought at the dealership on the week of SEMA.
To make the week even better, there was a full-blown custom show at the Hard Rock Hotel and Casino Friday night after SEMA was over. This brought out a couple hundred of the finest vehicles from SEMA as well as the local area. Trophies came in the form of gold and vinyl records that had been mounted in plaques for the winners to hang in their trophy rooms.
Preparations for next year's SEMA is already underway. The dates for next year's show are scheduled smack-dab on Halloween, from October 31st to November 3rd of '06. This is the show that you don't want to miss if you're an automotive enthusiast. To get information on next year's show, check out www.sema.org.


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Man OverboardSituation puzzles (sometimes called lateral thinking puzzles) are ones where you need to ask lots of yes or no questions to figure out what happened in the situation. These are good puzzles for groups where one person knows the puzzle and answers the questions.
A man holidaying abroad was alone on his yacht when he fell off into deep water. He was a non-swimmer and wasn't wearing anything to help keep him afloat. He was rescued half an hour later. Why didn't he drown?
HintThe previous day he had bought some postcards of Jerusalem.
AnswerHe fell into the Dead Sea, which lies between Israel and Jordan. The water of the Dead Sea is so salty and dense that anyone floats very easily.
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Bongo Drum Mugs are an Idakoos specialtiy! Idakoos has many things to offer. Whether you want to get a Bongo Drum Mug for a special occasion, give a Bongo Drum Printed Mug as a present or need to represent with a funny Bongo Drum Coffee Mugs during Holidays or Family and Friends get-togethers, Idakoos is sure to have the right Bongo Drum Mug for you! Even if it turns out you can't find the right Bongo Drum Coffee Mugs with the perfect design for your mother, father or children (or friends!); Idakoos offers all of its Bongo Drum Mugs as Custom Bongo Drum Mugs. Personalize any Bongo Drum Mug the way you want to ensure the perfect gift.
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The practical importance of economic theory can be demonstrated by picking up any major newspaper. On just about every page, economic principles are manifest — articles about consumer behavior, national health care costs, employment and international trade, crime and punishment and high finance.
The goal of the economics department is to develop in students a keen understanding of the economic way of thinking and to give students insight into how this applies to social issues (including poverty, unemployment, and environmental concerns) and business decisions (such as pricing, financial decisions, and investment).
Students who have majored or minored in economics have found their credentials qualify them for a wide variety of careers. Since economics provides a useful analytic foundation for most kinds of business problems, many economics graduates are recruited for management positions in the private sector. Others put their skills to work in government service—either in administration or policy analysis. Many students find studying economics an excellent preparation for law school, business school, or graduate study in economics and other social sciences.
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The Last Stand
General Custer is surrounded by Indians and he's the only cowboy left.
He finds an old lamp in front of him and rubs it. Out pops a genie. The genie grants Custer one wish, with a catch. He says, "Whatever you wish for, each Indian will get two of the same thing."
Custer ponders a while and thinks:"If I get a bow and arrow they get two. If I get a rifle they get two!" He then rubs the bottle again and out pops the genie. "Well," the genie asks "have you made up your mind?"
What did Custer ask for to help him get away?
AnswerOne Glass Eye
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NEW YORK ( TheStreet) -- Of all the articles on the $24.4 billion deal for Dell ( DELL), TheStreet's Antoine Gara wrote the best one.It's the best because he approached the story from a unique perspective. He brought up something novel, something that actually matters in the bigger picture. He didn't plant himself in the middle of the media circle (insert popular spice for chicken here) by jockeying for position to get the story. That would have been a waste of all of our time.
Beyond Gara's astute observation vis-a-vis Federal Reserve policy, this Dell deal represents little more than another signpost on the dirt path to death for swaths of entire industries and several specific companies. If it wasn't for that, this would be a non-story. Sure, the numbers are the biggest we've seen in some time, but that, in and of itself, doesn't make this meaningful news. It's shocking to me that we lead with this Dell news or a dead-cat bounce in the artist formerly known as RIM, BlackBerry ( BBRY), yet we let innovation at Apple ( AAPL) bubble beneath the surface. That's because we're mired in this cycle of everything Apple does is bad, therefore when they do things that are good we must ignore them. Here are the takeaways from the Dell "news." Number One: You'll likely never hear from Dell again. It's not like it has been part of your water cooler, dinner or post-romp chats for quite some time anyway, but now the company is out of sight and out of mind for good. IBM ( IBM), Oracle ( ORCL) and Cisco Systems ( CSCO) will make Dell rue the day. Michael Dell had zero options. His company has little, if any, chance of competing in any space right now. No company in its right mind would buy it. Taking Dell private then becomes the corporate equivalent of allowing it die (without dignity, though) in hospice.
Number Two: You can explain it a dozen different ways, but it will never make sense that Microsoft ( MSFT) put its money -- even if it wasn't all that much of it -- into this sinking ship. Shareholders should be calling for Steve Ballmer's head. While Microsoft should have its head down and vision tunneled, it's screwing around with this tangential stuff. Grade A example of why Ballmer is an awful CEO.


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It's day two at the 2013 North American International Auto Show, and surprises are few and far between. Sure, Ford trotted out its concept for the new F-150 despite radio silence on the matter during the weeks leading up to the event, and Shelby's long-rumored EcoBoost concept is actually a Focus ST, but the tired, huddled masses are difficult to surprise (and sometimes difficult to delight) at this point.
Leave it to Acura, the inoffensive Japanese luxury brand that makes handsome but safe cars to give us something that lights up our eyes, melts our admittedly cold hearts, and gets our blood flowing again. The car in question is the NSX Concept.
This is the second time we've seen the NSX concept, to be fair: Acura marched the long, low, sleek supercar onto the stand last year to gasps and a standing ovation; almost immediately it rose to the top of pundits' "things I loved at Detroit" lists. But the NSX you see above is different than before: Acura VP Michael Accavitti says that this car, a sort of "NSX 2.0," is a second-generation concept that reflects the extensive engineering work the concept has undergone. With just two years to go until the NSX greets Acura dealers, the new concept is more realistic, more likely to go in production.
Which is a good thing, because the NSX 2.0 is stunning in a manner unlike anything else on the floor. Where the Corvette (admittedly a showstopper) is brash and bold, the NSX is handsomely styled to the point of perfection. Acura's Jewel Eye LED headlights might look a bit unsightly on Acura's other models, but they look tailored to the NSX's low, angled front end. Even the corporate grille insert–the single-blade razor, if you will–is neatly folded in. The C-pillars feature an updated version of the "flying buttress" motif we saw years ago on the Ferrari 599GTB Fiorano.
But the NSX 2.0 also has an enticing new feature: an interior. The carpets (ostensibly wool), seats (probably suede), and door panels (leather) are matching shades of red; the red seats are deeply bucketed, carbon-fiber-backed numbers with thin, swoopy black swatches stitched into the seatbacks. Some trim pieces on the doors are carbon fiber; others–like on the simple, touch-activated center stack, are piano black. The center stack is topped by a decent-sized LCD screen; there's another behind the steering wheel to serve as a gauge cluster. The pedals are brushed aluminum, as are the door sills emblazoned with the NSX logo.
Acura's MDX crossover will sell many, many times more units than the NSX at the other end of the stand. But for weary travelers and journalists (not to mention public showgoers), there is no comparison: Acura's occasional lack of focus in the design studio (which produced cars like the bland RLX) is relegated to the history books after you take a good, long look at this car. We can't wait to see what happens next.


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Sergio Garcia has turned in a bogey-free round to claim a share of the Masters lead.
Garcia shot a 6-under 66 Thursday, leaving him tied with Marc Leishman and matching his best score at Augusta National.
MASTERS UPDATE: Follow Friday's second-round action from Augusta here
This is a course that has never suited Garcia's game — especially his shaky putter. But he breezed around without a bogey on his card for the first time since 2002.
It's still a reach to think this might be the place where Garcia wins his first major championship. He's had only two top-10 finishes in 14 Masters appearances.
But the way he played in the opening round could mean a change in fortune.
Dustin Johnson is one stroke back at 67. Tiger Woods is just four shots off the lead after a 70.
Leishman, a 29-year-old Australian, shot a 6-under 66 Thursday for an early two-stroke lead over another unheralded player, England's David Lynn.
AT AUGUSTA: Lindsey Vonn on hand to watch Woods | Nicklaus: No talk with Tiger
Leishman missed the cut in 2010 and is playing in just his second Masters. He surged to the top of the leaderboard with four consecutive birdies on the back side, starting at No. 13. Leishman came into the first major of the year after missing two straight cuts.
Lynn was one of the early starters on an overcast day at Augusta National. He birdied four of five holes around the turn, shook off a short miss at No. 17 and rolled in a 15-footer at the final hole to secure his spot atop the leaderboard, at least for now.
Lynn was runner-up to Rory McIlroy at last year's PGA Championship in just his second major appearance.
Also Thursday, Jamie Donaldson of Wales carded a hole in one on the sixth hole at Augusta.
(All times ET)
11 a.m.-1 p.m.: Live Masters - On The Range | CBS Sports Network
3 p.m.-7:30 p.m.: Live coverage | ESPN
4:30 p.m.-7:30 p.m.: Live 3D coverage | ESPN 3D
8 p.m.-11 p.m.: Replay of the telecast | ESPN
11:30 p.m.-11:45 p.m.: Highlights Show | CBS
MORE MASTERS: Want to watch online? Learn more here.
10:56 a.m. — Sandy Lyle, John Peterson, a-Nathan Smith
11:07 a.m. — Larry Mize, Brian Gay, Russell Henley
11:18 a.m. — Ian Woosnam, David Lynn, Kevin Na
11:29 a.m. — David Toms, Richard Sterne, Ted Potter Jr.
11:40 a.m. — Tom Watson, Ryan Moore, Kevin Streelman
11:51 a.m. — Robert Garrigus, Carl Pettersson, Tim Clark
12:13 p.m. — Mike Weir, Lee Westwood, Jim Furyk
12:24 p.m. — Brandt Snedeker, Ryo Ishikawa, Justin Rose
12:35 p.m. — Jose Maria Olazabal, Marc Leishman, a-T.J. Vogel
12:46 p.m. — Charl Schwartzel, Webb Simpson, Peter Hanson
12:57 p.m. — Zach Johnson, K.J. Choi, Graeme McDowell
1:08 p.m. — Michael Thompson, John Huh, John Senden
1:19 p.m. — Stewart Cink, Nicolas Colsaerts, Thaworn Wiratchant
1:30 p.m. — Bubba Watson, Ian Poulter, a-Steven Fox
1:41 p.m. — Tiger Woods, Luke Donald, Scott Piercy
1:52 p.m. — Jason Day, Rickie Fowler, Padraig Harrington
8 a.m. — John Merrick, Thorbjorn Olesen, D.A. Points
8:11 a.m. — Craig Stadler, Ben Curtis, a-Michael Weaver
8:22 a.m. — Mark O'Meara, Martin Laird, Jamie Donaldson
8:33 a.m. — Paul Lawrie, Thomas Bjorn, Gonzalo Fernandez-Castano
8:44 a.m. — Trevor Immelman, George Coetzee, a-Alan Dunbar
8:55 a.m. — Ernie Els, Steve Stricker, Nick Watney
9:06 a.m. — Ben Crenshaw, Matteo Manassero, a-Guan Tianlang
9:17 a.m. — Bernhard Langer, Lucas Glover, Henrik Stenson
9:28 a.m. — Vijay Singh, Bo Van Pelt, Y.E. Yang
9:39 a.m. — Angel Cabrera, Sergio Garcia, Adam Scott
9:50 a.m. — Fred Couples, Dustin Johnson, Branden Grace
10:12 a.m. — Hunter Mahan, Hiroyuki Fujita, Francesco Molinari
10:23 a.m. — Phil Mickelson, Louis Oosthuizen, Martin Kaymer
10:34 a.m. — Rory McIlroy, Keegan Bradley, Freddie Jacobson
10:45 a.m. — Jason Dufner, Matt Kuchar, Bill Haas
LINEMAKERS: Masters odds, picks and predictions


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Use as a portfolio, for business sites etc.
- Changing the color theme is simple and quick!
- jQuery framework (homepage slideshow, portfolio slideshow, lightbox)
- Includes fully working contact form
- Well organized HTML and CSS files for easy editing
Check out the screenshots to see how this looks in different color themes.
Includes a comprehensive readme file, which guides you to make changes to this template.


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Simulations Invade Model-Predictive, Abnormal Situations on Way to Real-Time
Process Simulations Are Bursting Their Former Boundaries and Storming into Optimization, Model-Predictive Control, Abnormal Situations Management and Closing In on Real-Time Operations
Virtual reality is getting more like real reality every day.
Historically, simulation was the realm of NASA, aerospace, big oil-and-gas applications and other deep-pocket processes. However, ever faster and cheaper data processing is bringing simulation to masses of new users and types of applications in a seemingly inevitable progression from design and configuration, onward to training for routine and exceptional events, and more recently to optimization.
But why stop there? By bringing in more real-time data to make simulations more true-to-life, it soon becomes obvious they also can point out ways to improve an existing application's performance in the same way earlier simulations identify bugs and other fixes needed at the configuration and testing stages. Finally, as data processing keeps accelerating, moving information between a physical operation and its simulation is becoming easy and fast enough for some simulations to closely assist—if not actually run—some real-time operations. Simulation's next stop? Real-time process control.
Seeking Realism
Still, even though simulation is moving into new realms, this doesn't mean it's forgetting its roots in design.
"Modeling and simulation have already transformed military, nuclear, aviation, automotive and durable goods manufacturing, and now they're starting to transform our consumer packaged goods industry for the same reasons—it costs too much and takes too long to build physical learning cycles, and so the products they produce aren't innovative," says Tom Lange, Procter & Gamble's (www.pg.com) modeling and simulation director, who presented "Virtual Prescience" earlier this year at ARC Advisory Group's (www.arcweb.com) annual forum event in Orlando, Fla.
"In our modeling world, we build the first prototypes, and they fit, work and make financial sense. We do stuff before it exists in the real world because the computers we have now are faster than the fastest computers in the world just 10 years ago. All this computing power is allowing us to replace physical cycles with virtual ones and pursue realism," explains Lange. "So instead of building a model, doing some calculations, getting close to the physical experiment and securing some guidance, realism means making a model that's indistinguishable from the physical experiment. This requires using computing power for much bigger and more complex problems—doing parametric studies instead of point estimates. We're no longer interested in what's going to happen with one simulation. We want to know about the 64 designs around it or doing 128 runs of all the experiments around one finite element."
For example, physically testing mixing of liquids used to involve dumping in materials and just seeing where they went, but this real-world method didn't scale up from small models to larger tanks. However, simulation that includes computational fluid dynamics (CPD) can be easily scaled up, according to Lange. "Likewise, if we're trying to mix some dense, viscous fluids, they may not mix in a tank. If we did this experiment in reality, we'd now have to clean the tank ourselves. So using a simulation is more preferable because it can help us decide when to use a tank or a static mixer (Figure 1)," explains Lange. "And if we go with the static mixer, the simulation also can show how long it has to run, what its pressure drop will be and how well the material will be mixed. These are all questions that are entirely reasonable to be answered computationally. In their heads, people don't want to believe that simulations can be this accurate, but there are many times when the simulation performs better than the experiment."
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HIGHLAND -- Evan Bowser battled the conditions and shot a 1-under-par 71 to capture the individual title and lead Oakland at the Detroit Titans Invitational on Saturday at Prestwick Village Golf Club. Bowser finished the tournament with a career-best score of 212 (-4) to win by two shots.
"Evan arrived here a special talent, but I think he has gotten better," said OU coach Russ Cunningham. "Evan is maturing as a golfer and he worked out on his own over the winter which I believe helped him to be mentally and physically stronger in these extreme conditions."
The Golden Grizzlies ended in fifth place with an overall score of 908 (+44). Tournament host Detroit took home the team title with a total score of 872 (+8).
Also posting a top-15 finish for the Grizzlies was Mark Foster. The junior shot a final round 75 to tally a tie for 15th-place finish with an overall score of 224 (+8). This is the second straight week Bowser and Foster tallied top-15 finishes for the Golden Grizzlies.
Bowser is the first OU player to win multiple tournaments in the same season since Jon Pauli and current PGA Tour player Brian Stuard each won a pair of tournaments in 2005. Oakland will compete in The Summit League Championship, April 22-24, in Keller, Texas.


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The Day Ahead: The Vibe in the Corner Offices
Memo: I am not trading the stock market from an illegal basement in Florida and at the same time writing a dizzying number of minimal value-add notes. Rather, behind the scenes, I am talking with management teams for these three prime reasons:Help in making individual stock calls on either the interviewed company or one in its peer matrix. To gain insight into the true state of business (after five or so interrogations, clear themes begin to emerge). To get beyond the market's jargon zone, which often clouds judgment on an investment that may be very worthwhile.
The convos I am presently having are interesting from the standpoint that the tone regarding business conditions has improved from what it was in October and November. In fact, there is a renewed attention on how a business could shape its future earnings and cash flow on its own, as opposed to sitting idle because of the large, black cloud that is a tax-and-spend government....552 more words left in this article. To read them, just click below and try Real Money FREE for 14 days.
There's no substitute for a trading floor to get great ideas, so Jim Cramer created a better one at Real Money and blogs there exclusively. We then added legendary hedge fund manager, Doug Kass, with his exclusive Daily Diary and best investing ideas. Staffed with more than 4 dozen investing pros, money managers, journalists and analysts, Real Money Pro gives you a flood of opinions, analysis and actionable trading advice found nowhere else, and allows you to interact directly with each expert.
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16 U.S. Code § 760aa–3 - Community partnership enhancement
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(a) Projects and programs
Subject to the requirements of the Fish and Wildlife Coordination Act (16 U.S.C. 661 et seq.) and other applicable law, and such terms and conditions as the Secretary of the Interior determines to be appropriate, the Secretary may approve projects and programs for a facility of the System that—
(1) promote the stewardship of resources of the hatchery through habitat maintenance, restoration, and improvement, biological monitoring, or research;
(2) support the operation and maintenance of the hatchery through constructing, operating, maintaining, or improving the facilities and services of the hatchery;
(3) increase the awareness and understanding of the hatchery and the System, through the development, publication, or distribution of educational materials and products;
(4) advance education concerning the purposes of the hatchery and the mission of the System, through the use of the hatchery as an outdoor classroom and development of other educational programs; or
(b) Treasury account
Amounts received by the Secretary of the Interior as a result of projects and programs under subsection (a) shall be deposited in a separate account in the Treasury. Amounts in the account that are attributable to activities at a particular facility of the System shall be available to the Secretary of the Interior, without further appropriation, to pay the costs of incidental expenses related to volunteer activities, and to carry out cooperative agreements for the hatchery facility.
Source(Pub. L. 109–360, § 5,Oct. 16, 2006, 120 Stat. 2060.)
References in Text
The Fish and Wildlife Coordination Act, referred to in subsec. (a), is act Mar. 10, 1934, ch. 55, 48 Stat. 401, as amended, which is classified generally to sections 661 to 666c of this title. For complete classification of this Act to the Code, see Short Title note set out under section 661 of this title and Tables.
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