text: McDowell teen birth rate soars as state's rate falls By The Associated Press February 5, 2013 Story Share MORGANTOWN, W.Va. -- Even as the statewide rate falls, the number of teenagers giving birth in McDowell County is soaring, jumping 34 percent in five years.The 2012 West Virginia KIDS COUNT report released Tuesday shows a rate in McDowell of 96 births per 1,000 girls in 2010, the latest figures available. That's 17 more births per 1,000 girls than the next-closest county, Mingo, and more than double the statewide rate.McDowell's rate also is seven times higher than the county with the fewest teen births: In Monongalia, it's just 14 per 1,000 girls between the ages of 15 and 19.The figures are alarming, said KIDS COUNT Executive Director Margie Hale, because teenagers who get pregnant are likely to drop out of school and live in poverty. Their children are at higher risk of being born underweight and dying before their first birthday. Experts say they're also less likely to get the intellectual and emotional stimulation needed for healthy development.Overall, though, the report shows a positive trend: The statewide teen birth rate fell in 2010, as did the national rate. However, West Virginia still ranks among the 10 worst states, with 45 births per 1,000 teens, compared to a national rate of 34.Hale said it's time for communities, parents and educators alike to ensure that a comprehensive sex-education curriculum approved and mandated by the state Department of Education in 2003 is actually being taught. She said there's no solid data to show that it is.The program for fifth- through 12-graders is "fantastic,'' Hale said Monday, largely focusing on self-esteem, decision-making, what to expect from boys and how to say no, and how to avoid risky behaviors, such as drug use. Birth-control methods are just one component."Many schools are not implementing it because the teacher's not comfortable or the community doesn't want them to or the principal doesn't want them to,'' Hale said. Although she can understand a teacher's reluctance to discuss sex, Hale said the state has specialists to help.The Department of Education provides a curriculum framework and health-education standards, but spokeswoman Liza Cordeiro said it's up to counties and schools to decide how to implement the "services and environmental strategies'' to achieve a comprehensive sex education.Cordeiro said she did not how many schools are using the state's curriculum or if McDowell County schools are among them.McDowell Superintendent Nelson Spencer wouldn't comment. For decades, teen births had been decreasing in West Virginia and nationally, but the state numbers started rising again between 2005 and 2009. The problem is now particularly acute in eight southern and central counties: McDowell, Mingo, Clay, Boone, Fayette, Calhoun, Mercer and Logan.McDowell, plagued by high unemployment, poverty and drug abuse, also has the state's highest infant-mortality rate, at 16 per 1,000 live births, the report says. That's a 50 percent increase from 2005.And it has the state's second-highest rate of child abuse and neglect, with 46 cases per 1,000 children. That's up 39 percent from 2005, the report says. McDowell also ranks worst in West Virginia for births to women and girls with less than a 12th-grade education, at 31 percent, and worst for children living in poverty, 45 percent.For the past year, educators, government agencies, private companies and nonprofits have focused on McDowell, hoping to improve the school system and address other chronic problems created by the economic challenges.The Reconnecting McDowell initiative is a year old and has made some progress in expanding broadband access, literacy programs and health services. Teen pregnancy is one of the areas it hopes to tackle, along with dropout rates, substance abuse, poor nutrition and a lack of physical activity.Hale said giving teen girls a "credible vision of a positive future'' is critical to reversing the trend."A large factor contributing to teen pregnancy there is teenagers having no sense of themselves in the future,'' she said. "They have no career goals. They have no sense of how to get education, training, jobs. ... That kind of thinking makes you slip into risky behaviors.''More than a third of McDowell residents live in poverty, and median incomes are less than half the U.S. average. The county ranks last in the state in many other health measures, with a premature death rate nearly double the state average and high rates of physical inactivity, adult smoking and obesity. It also has led the nation in fatal prescription-painkiller overdoses. Story Share Story Share Trending Now 1 Facebook founder visits Charleston restaurant 2 Gazette editorial: Capito has second chance to do the right thing 3 WVU seeking improvements during off week 4 Doug Smock: AAC not ready for Power 6 quite yet 5 Innerviews: Dual-identity surgeon riding high in horse racing world Obama seeks to avoid sequester with short-term fix Previous Story A 'Taste of Soul Food' at WVSU (featured photo) Next Story


text:
Cart is empty
Wheeler™ Sterling Deep Cone Reflector Wall Sconce
- Specification Sheet
- Send to Friend
Wheeler™ Sterling Deep Cone Reflector Wall Sconce (sterling-deep-cone-reflector-sconce-spec-sheet001.pdf, 158 Kb) [Download]
Finish Chart / Features
Product Details
Loaded with industrial style, the Sterling Deep Cone Reflector Wall Sconce features a deep neck and sleek flat shade to throw a wide span of light. Hand spun from commercial grade steel, these versatile wall sconces receive multiple coats of porcelain enamel glass baked on to a long-lasting, high gloss finish. Choose from one of more than a dozen finish colors in our porcelain enamel palette to customize this light for your own space.
Available in three mid-size shades, this American-made sconce is wet rated for indoor or outdoor use. Makes a stunning statement in hallways, porches, or on the garage. Rugged enough for commercial lighting needs too! The plug-in option is perfect for apartments, allowing for easy installation.
Fixture Dimensions:
|12" Shade: W 12" x OAH 13 ¼"
|Projection: 14 ¼"
|14" Shade: W 14" x OAH 13 ¾"
|Projection: 15 ¼"
|16" Shade: W 16" x OAH 15 ½"
|Projection: 18"
Additional Information:
- Finish: Multiple (See Finish Options)
- Mounting: Sconce
- Wall Canopy Dimensions: 6 ¼" Diameter
- Max Wattage Per Socket: 200W Standard Incandescent (Bulb Not Included)
- Note: Max wattage is 100W Standard Incandescent with cast guard addition.
- Cord & Plug Option:
- 8 Feet of Cord with 2-Prong Polarized Plug
- Includes Inline On/Off Switch
- Black Plug & Switch is standard with all cord options. Standard White Cord and White Cloth Cord include white plug and switch.
- Number of Sockets: 1
- Use: CSA Listed for Wet Locations (Damp Location Only for Plug-In)
- Manufactured in the U.S.A. This light fixture is made-to-order to suit your custom specifications. Learn more about the process here.
- Due to the hand spun and hand applied porcelain enamel process, slight blemishes and character are common.
- Wall canopy and arm are powder coated to match the porcelain shade.
Please Note: No metal fixture, no matter the finish, is guaranteed against corrosion especially in salt air environments. If your fixtures will be installed in a location near salt water or with extreme weather conditions, we recommend routine and careful maintenance of your lighting including a mild soap-and-water wash and gentle buffing to help maintain the finish.
Customer Reviews
Click button to post comments.

subset: commoncrawl


text:
http://www.examiner.com/sports-in-paduc ... just-a-fad
What do you make of this? Have you ever seen anyone bowl this way?
Moderators: Timko, Fritz, Solty, Booter, Blake_T, Frank Delicious
Anode|ION|JOKERi|MD2|FD|TD|PD|LEGENDaParks wrote:If the posts on this forum are any indication, the PD is like a Teebird with sunshine coming out of its butthole so hard that it flies faster.
Return to Off-Topic, Miscellaneous, etc.
Users browsing this forum: No registered users and 1 guest


text:
NEW YORK ( TheStreet) -- I'm in San Francisco Friday to chat with Tim Westergren, co-founder and Chief Strategy Officer at Pandora ( P). (Check my Twitter feed -- @Rocco_TheStreet -- for pictures from Pandora's Oakland HQ and elsewhere around the Bay Area all weekend.)We'll air my conversation with Westergren Tuesday morning on the first edition of TheBeach Meets TheStreet. This article sums up what we're going for. There's no better guest to kick it off than Westergren. I get at this whole "thing" I'm trying to get at (read that a few times and it makes sense ... really) in this morning's Apple ( AAPL): Einhorn's a Hustler and He Doesn't Understand or Care About Apple. Perpetual start-up. Start-up mentality. Start-up culture. There's just this whole way of thinking about companies as start-ups that, say, the classically trained MBA simply cannot wrap his or her head around. As someone who is rarely at a loss for words, I have a bit of difficulty expressing how I feel. It's almost like it's such a part of me that I can't explain it (if that makes sense!). That said, when I talk to entrepreneurs, people at start-ups and others of that ilk, they just "get it." They completely understand why I'm bullish Amazon.com ( AMZN) and bow to the Bezos. When I pitch them on TheBeach Meets TheStreet, the idea of a raw, unrefined, wholly casual production resonates with them. They have no trouble making sense of the notion that companies such as Pandora, Facebook ( FB) and LinkedIn ( LNKD) are the future ... NOW.
Investors need to embrace a new way of thinking as the decade progresses: This is not 1999-2000. That era set the stage for what we have now -- companies changing the rules of the game, not to mention the way we carry out our most basic daily functions. If LinkedIn's earnings report doesn't make you think twice about all of this, I'm not sure what will. This is the classic case of a perpetual start-up with massive long-term opportunity and the drive, resources and know-how to leverage it. You can read the above-linked article to get the numbers on LinkedIn's quarter, but I'm more concerned with the great instinct of the company's CEO, Jeff Weiner, and the people who work with him. They just get things done. Head down. Tunnel vision. No attention paid to the critics who claim they're not for real ... because they realize -- though with humility -- that these critics simply do not get it.


text:
AOL Search
Skip over navigation
Search the Web
Trending Topics
Jersey sales soar
SCOTUS cancels date
Hope for coma patients
WH disputes war claim
Private warnings
Heaviest woman dies
Actor dies in fall
Cancer prognosis
Giant pink diamond
Opposes anthem protest
Responds to Trump
Health bill revised
Kelly's 'Today' debut
Abortion law blocked
Weiner sentenced
$1M for storm victims
Historic anniversary
Is your fish charming?
Thousands flee volcano
Farage backs Moore
Brady criticizes Trump
Buying Korean stake
Independence vote
Far-right tempers win
Australia into space
Judge ties rookie mark
Violent crime rises
Wade to join Cavs?
Abe calls election
Widespread protest
Packers win in OT
Week 3 scores
Ignite conference
New travel ban
Help disaster victims
© AOL Inc. All Rights Reserved.
Terms of Use
Contact Us


text:
The jarsigner tool provides a way for developers to sign their JAR
files with a given private key, so that others may verify the classes
provided inside the archive. Unfortunately, neither this tool, nor
the underlying
sun.tools.jar.Main, is appropriate for
embedding in other applications; in order to allow programmatic JAR
signing, jarsigner needs to be retooled.
It is not an accident that programmatic JAR signing isn't supported by the core Java library. JAR signing gives users the ability to verify the integrity of the classes and other resources contained within the archive. Most JAR files are signed with the private key of the archive author, which is the end of a certificate chain that begins at a well-known certificate authority. Standard private key usage dictates that the password protecting a private key be kept only by the code author; storing the password on a computer makes the password inherently insecure. Thus, in most cases, programmatically signing JAR files is a frowned upon; however, there are a few cases when it is necessary.
Signed JAR files are simply JAR files with a few additional files that Java uses for verification. Using public-private encryption, Java appends each file in the JAR to a buffer, and signs each file individually. Java then records these entries into the Manifest file. This Manifest is converted into a signature file which contains a digest of the entire manifest, preventing any files from being added or deleted from the JAR. The public key used for verification is provided along with the JAR file.
These additional files are inserted into the
JAR entry directory of the signed JAR file. The signature
block file has a
SF extension and is named according to
the key used to sign. (The jarsigner converts the proposed name for
the key alias to be the name of the signing key; all alphanumeric
characters in the name become uppercase; all other characters are
replaced with the
_ character.) The public key is also
inserted with a
DSA extension. The manifest file is then
inserted as
The signed JAR format verifies that the user of the JAR file has received the file in the state that the signer intended. The JAR user can also decide whether he or she trusts the JAR signer or any other entity along the certificate chain. Signature blocks are computed by incrementally updating the signing buffer. This prevents files in the JAR file from being altered; a single modification would effect a change in the signature blocks for that file and for every file following it. This also ensures that files are not inserted "between" any of the files in the Manifest. Since the signature of the entire Manifest is also provided, the recipient can be sure that no files have been added to the end of the JAR file.
During verification, the public key is first extracted from the signed JAR file. Next, the Manifest signature is checked to ensure that no entity has tampered with the Manifest. The contents of the JAR are then compared to the contents and the attributes in the Manifest; all the files in the JAR must be in the Manifest (and all entries in the Manifest must be present in the JAR), and the signatures blocks provided in the Manifest must verify. If any of these steps fail, then the JAR isn't verified correctly.
The JDK provides jarsigner as the tool to sign and verify JAR
files. When jarsigner is given an existing JAR file and a private
key, it signs each file in the archive, records all the necessary
information into the files detailed above, and outputs a signed
JAR. When used in verification mode, jarsigner does the reverse,
verifying the signatures provided in the signature block file and in
the manifest against the public key provided in the
META-INF directory of the JAR.
The drawback to jarsigner is that was created for use by a person;
it was not designed to be embedded in any other application. Simply
forking off the
jarsigner executable from within another
process requires that the contents of the process's
System.out and
System.err stream be parsed
to account for all errors. Because many different errors are wrapped
in the same error message, not all errors are reported distinctly via
the error stream. Making use of the classes in the
sun.tools.jar package, which contains all classes
comprising the jarsigner, doesn't help, as the
sun.tools.jar.Main class reports its error via two
java.io.PrintStreams and a boolean return value on the
only extra-package accessible method.
The ideal JAR signing solution would allow for all the different
errors to be distinguished in a programmatic way and not by parsing
strings off a
PrintStream. To provide this, the JAR
signing utility class must not simply return true or false on whether
the method completes properly, but, instead, it should propagate the
different exceptions which may occur when signing the JAR file. This
allows other authors to catch the different exceptions and handle them
as desired.
Now that we have described an ideal JAR signing utility, let's
create one. The following
JARSigner class takes a name
for the signing key, a
java.security.PrivateKey, and an
array of
java.security.cert.X509Certificate objects which
act as the certificate chain, the first element of which is the
certificate containing the public key corresponding to the private key
used in the JAR signing, and which ends in the certificate of the root
signing authority. We then provide a
signJarFile method
which takes as parameters the
java.util.jar.JarFile to
sign and an output stream to which the signed jar file will be
written. The signing method, as desired, also propagates
java.security.SignatureException, and
java.io.IOException -- all of which can be handled
individually by any application which wishes to wrap the
import java.io.*;
import java.security.*;
import java.security.cert.*;
import java.util.*;
import sun.misc.BASE64Encoder;
import sun.security.util.ManifestDigester;
import sun.security.util.SignatureFile;
public class JARSigner
extends Object {
// the alias for the signing key, the private key to sign with,
// and the certificate chain
private String alias;
private PrivateKey privateKey;
private X509Certificate[] certChain;
public JARSigner( String alias, PrivateKey privateKey, X509Certificate[] certChain ) {
this.alias = alias;
this.privateKey = privateKey;
this.certChain = certChain;
If a JAR has a
MANIFEST.MF file, then we need to
extract it from the JAR and verify its contents. All entries must be
validated; entries in the Manifest that do not map to actual entries
in the JAR must be removed and JAR entries that do not have
corresponding entries in the Manifest must be added. To do this,
three methods are provided: one to extract a Manifest if one exists,
another to validate the contents, and a third, a higher level method,
to create both the Manifest and to verify the contents.
// retrieve the manifest from a jar file -- this will either
// load a pre-existing META-INF/MANIFEST.MF, or create a new
// one
private static Manifest getManifestFile( JarFile jarFile )
throws IOException {
JarEntry je = jarFile.getJarEntry( "META-INF/MANIFEST.MF" );
if( je != null ) {
Enumeration entries = jarFile.entries();
while( entries.hasMoreElements() ) {
je = (JarEntry)entries.nextElement();
if( "META-INF/MANIFEST.MF".equalsIgnoreCase( je.getName() ) )
je = null;
// create the manifest object
Manifest manifest = new Manifest();
if( je != null )
manifest.read( jarFile.getInputStream( je ) );
return manifest;
// given a manifest file and given a jar file, make sure that
// the contents of the manifest file is correct and return a
// map of all the valid entries from the manifest
private static Map pruneManifest( Manifest manifest, JarFile jarFile )
throws IOException {
Map map = manifest.getEntries();
Iterator elements = map.keySet().iterator();
while( elements.hasNext() ) {
String element = (String)elements.next();
if( jarFile.getEntry( element ) == null )
return map;
// make sure that the manifest entries are ready for the signed
// JAR manifest file. if we already have a manifest, then we
// make sure that all the elements are valid. if we do not
// have a manifest, then we create a new signed JAR manifest
// file by adding the appropriate headers
private static Map createEntries( Manifest manifest, JarFile jarFile )
throws IOException {
Map entries = null;
if( manifest.getEntries().size() > 0 )
entries = pruneManifest( manifest, jarFile );
else {
// if there are no pre-existing entries in the manifest,
// then we put a few default ones in
Attributes attributes = manifest.getMainAttributes();
attributes.putValue( Attributes.Name.MANIFEST_VERSION.toString(), "1.0" );
attributes.putValue( "Created-By", System.getProperty( "java.version" ) + " (" + System.getProperty( "java.vendor" ) + ")" );
entries = manifest.getEntries();
return entries;
Each entry must have an associated cryptographic message digest in
the Manifest. As described above, we need to enumerate through all
the JAR entries and record the base-64 encoding of the signature of
the "running" contents of the JAR, i.e. the signature of the first
file is the digest of the contents of the first entry, the signature
of the second file is the digest of the contents of the second file
appended to the first, and so on. The digest is recorded as an
attribute under the key
SHA1-Digest for the entry in the
Here is an example of a Manifest for a signed JAR
Manifest-Version: 1.0
Created-By: 1.3.0_02 (Sun Microsystems Inc.)
Name: a/b/c1.class
SHA1-Digest: fcav7ShIG6i86xPepmitOVo4vWY=
Name: a/b/c2.class
SHA1-Digest: kdHbE7kL9ZHLgK7akHttYV4XIa0=
SHA1-Digest for
a/b/c1.class is the
base-64 version of the signature block of
c1.class, and
SHA1-Digest of
a/b/c2.class is the
signature block of the bytes of
c1.class and
c2.class. The files in the
directory do not make it into the Manifest.
// helper function to update the digest
private static BASE64Encoder b64Encoder = new BASE64Encoder();
private static String updateDigest( MessageDigest digest, InputStream inputStream )
throws IOException {
byte[] buffer = new byte[2048];
int read = 0;
while( ( read = inputStream.read( buffer ) ) > 0 )
digest.update( buffer, 0, read );
return b64Encoder.encode( digest.digest() );
// update the attributes in the manifest to have the
// appropriate message digests. we store the new entries into
// the entries Map and return it (we do not compute the digests
// for those entries in the META-INF directory)
private static Map updateManifestEntries( Manifest manifest, JarFile jarFile, MessageDigest messageDigest, Map entries )
throws IOException {
Enumeration jarElements = jarFile.entries();
while( jarElements.hasMoreElements() ) {
JarEntry jarEntry = (JarEntry)jarElements.nextElement();
if( jarEntry.getName().startsWith( "META-INF" ) )
else if( manifest.getAttributes( jarEntry.getName() ) != null ) {
// update the digest and record the base 64 version of
// it into the attribute list
Attributes attributes = manifest.getAttributes( jarEntry.getName() );
attributes.putValue( "SHA1-Digest", updateDigest( messageDigest, jarFile.getInputStream( jarEntry ) ) );
} else if( !jarEntry.isDirectory() ) {
// store away the digest into a new Attribute
// because we don't already have an attribute list
// for this entry. we do not store attributes for
// directories within the JAR
Attributes attributes = new Attributes();
attributes.putValue( "SHA1-Digest", updateDigest( messageDigest, jarFile.getInputStream( jarEntry ) ) );
entries.put( jarEntry.getName(), attributes );
return entries;
The signature file is the record that contains the signed version
of the Manifest file, preventing any files from being added to the JAR
file without the signed JAR verifier noticing. The signature file
contains a digest of both the entire Manifest in the
SHA1-Digest-Manifest header as well as digest values for
all the entries that are present in the Manifest. It is similar to
the Manifest, except taht the digests are computed from the
corresponding values in the Manifest rather than the contents of the
file itself.
Signature-Version: 1.0
SHA1-Digest-Manifest: h1yS+K9T7DyHtZrtI+LxvgqaMYM=
Created-By: SignatureFile JDK 1.2
Name: a/b/c1.class
SHA1-Digest: fcav7ShIG6i86xPepmitOVo4vWY=
Name: a/b/c2.class
SHA1-Digest: xrQem9snnPhLySDiZyclMlsFdtM=
This is an example of the final
SF file in the
META-INF directory of the signed JAR. Thankfully, there are already
classes in the Java library to generate the signature file for us, so
we do not have to manually create it. Using the
sun.security.util package, we can easily use a serialized
version of the Manifest along with a ManifestDigester and a
SignatureFile object. The SignatureFile object can write itself to an
output stream, so we can use that later to write the file out into the
// a small helper function that will convert a manifest into an
// array of bytes
private byte[] serialiseManifest( Manifest manifest )
throws IOException {
ByteArrayOutputStream baos = new ByteArrayOutputStream();
manifest.write( baos );
return baos.toByteArray();
// create a signature file object out of the manifest and the
// message digest
private SignatureFile createSignatureFile( Manifest manifest, MessageDigest messageDigest )
throws IOException {
// construct the signature file and the signature block for
// this manifest
ManifestDigester manifestDigester = new ManifestDigester( serialiseManifest( manifest ) );
return new SignatureFile( new MessageDigest[] { messageDigest }, manifest, manifestDigester, this.alias, true );
A signature block must be created along with the signature. It
contains the public key and the certificate signing chain in a
non-human readable format used to verify the contents of the signed
JAR. Using the
sun.security.util package, we can
generate the signature block from the SignatureFile object that we
just created.
SignatureFile.Block block = signatureFile.generateBlock( this.privateKey, this.certChain, true );
Now we can actually create and output the signed JAR file. The
signJarFile method is the publicly accessible method
which propagates all the exceptions which may occur when signing the
JAR file. First we need to compute all the necessary files to go into
META-INF directory for the signed JAR. Next we write
out the contents of the
META-INF directory (the
MANIFEST.MF file, the
SF, the
DSA file, and the rest of the files that were originally
in the
META-INF directory), and then we will iterate,
writing out the rest of the JAR.
// a helper function that can take entries from one jar file and
// write it to another jar stream
private static void writeJarEntry( JarEntry je, JarFile jarFile, JarOutputStream jos )
throws IOException {
jos.putNextEntry( je );
byte[] buffer = new byte[2048];
int read = 0;
InputStream is = jarFile.getInputStream( je );
while( ( read = is.read( buffer ) ) > 0 )
jos.write( buffer, 0, read );
// the actual JAR signing method -- this is the method which
// will be called by those wrapping the JARSigner class
public void signJarFile( JarFile jarFile, OutputStream outputStream )
throws NoSuchAlgorithmException, InvalidKeyException, SignatureException, IOException {
// calculate the necessary files for the signed jAR
// get the manifest out of the jar and verify that
// all the entries in the manifest are correct
Manifest manifest = getManifestFile( jarFile );
Map entries = createEntries( manifest, jarFile );
// create the message digest and start updating the
// the attributes in the manifest to contain the SHA1
// digests
MessageDigest messageDigest = MessageDigest.getInstance( "SHA1" );
updateManifestDigest( manifest, jarFile, messageDigest, entries );
// construct the signature file object and the
// signature block objects
SignatureFile signatureFile = createSignatureFile( manifest, messageDigest );
SignatureFile.Block block = signatureFile.generateBlock( privateKey, certChain, true );
// start writing out the signed JAR file
// write out the manifest to the output jar stream
String manifestFileName = "META-INF/MANIFEST.MF";
JarOutputStream jos = new JarOutputStream( outputStream );
JarEntry manifestFile = new JarEntry( manifestFileName );
jos.putNextEntry( manifestFile );
jos.write( manifestBytes, 0, manifestBytes.length );
// write out the signature file -- the signatureFile
// object will name itself appropriately
String signatureFileName = signatureFile.getMetaName();
JarEntry signatureFileEntry = new JarEntry( signatureFileName );
jos.putNextEntry( signatureFileEntry );
signatureFile.write( jos );
// write out the signature block file -- again, the block
// will name itself appropriately
String signatureBlockName = block.getMetaName();
JarEntry signatureBlockEntry = new JarEntry( signatureBlockName );
jos.putNextEntry( signatureBlockEntry );
block.write( jos );
// commit the rest of the original entries in the
// META-INF directory. if any of their names conflict
// with one that we created for the signed JAR file, then
// we simply ignore it
Enumeration metaEntries = jarFile.entries();
while( metaEntries.hasMoreElements() ) {
JarEntry metaEntry = (JarEntry)metaEntries.nextElement();
if( metaEntry.getName().startsWith( "META-INF" ) &&
!( manifestFileName.equalsIgnoreCase( metaEntry.getName() ) ||
signatureFileName.equalsIgnoreCase( metaEntry.getName() ) ||
signatureBlockName.equalsIgnoreCase( metaEntry.getName() ) ) )
writeJarEntry( metaEntry, jarFile, jos );
// now write out the rest of the files to the stream
Enumeration allEntries = jarFile.entries();
while( allEntries.hasMoreElements() ) {
JarEntry entry = (JarEntry)allEntries.nextElement();
if( !entry.getName().startsWith( "META-INF" ) )
writeJarEntry( entry, jarFile, jos );
// finish the stream that we have been writing to
// close the JAR file that we have been using
And that's it. Using this class, JAR files can be signed from within different applications; their error conditions are exposed so they may be caught and dealt with in a more robust way than that which is provided by the Java libraries themselves.
Return to ONJava.com.


text:
Exploratory CSII Trial on Erectile Dysfunction in T2DM Patients (ECSIITED)
- Full Text View
- Tabular View
- No Study Results Posted
- Disclaimer
- How to Read a Study Record
|Diabetes Mellitus, Type 2 Erectile Dysfunction
|Drug: Insulin
|Phase 4
|Study Type:
|Study Design:
|Allocation: Randomized
Intervention Model: Parallel Assignment
Masking: Single (Outcomes Assessor)
Primary Purpose: Treatment
|Official Title:
|Effects of Continuous Subcutaneous Insulin Infusion (CSII) on Erectile Dysfunction in T2DM Patients: A Prospective, Exploratory, Controlled Trial
- Change in total International Index of Erectile Function (IIEF) score from baseline to six months [ Time Frame: baseline and six months ]IIEF quetionnaire is a standardised and validated 15-item self-evaluation scale that provides pre-post treatment clinic evaluations of erectile function, orgasmic function, sexual desire, satisfaction in sexual intercourse and general satisfaction
- Global assessment question on erectile function [ Time Frame: baseline and 6 months ]Global assessment question (GAQ), "Has the treatment you have been having improved your erections? (yes/no)."
|Study Start Date:
|January 2012
|Study Completion Date:
|November 2014
|Primary Completion Date:
|September 2014 (Final data collection date for primary outcome measure)
|Assigned Interventions
Experimental: CSII
continuous subcutaneous insulin infusion
Drug: Insulin
Insulin via continuous subcutaneous insulin infusion
Active Comparator: MDI
multiple daily insulin injections
Drug: Insulin
insulin via multiple daily injections
Detailed Description:
Background Erectile dysfunction (ED) is a common form of organic sexual dysfunction in males with diabetes, with estimated incidence rates between 35 and 75%. Fifty percent of men with diabetes are afflicted with ED within 10 years of their diagnosis. Long-term poor glycemic control increases the risk ED. Neuropathy is a major contributor to diabetic ED. Other causes of ED in diabetes include vascular disease, metabolic control, nutrition, endocrine disorders, psychogenic factors, and drugs.
Continuous Sub-cutaneous Insulin Infusion The Continuous Subcutaneous Insulin Infusion (CSII) Pump (insulin pump for short) is a pager-sized device which can be connected to the body through an infusion set so as to deliver insulin continuously. It consists of a disposable reservoir for insulin, a disposable infusion set, including a cannula for subcutaneous insertion and a tubing system which connects the insulin reservoir to the cannula. Insulin pump therapy by itself is not a new therapy for diabetes mellitus. It is an alternative delivery mechanism for administration of insulin and is found to be superior to ordinary syringes and insulin pens. Insulin pumps were popularly used in T1DM but nowadays insulin pumps are commonly used in T2DM patients as well.
A guideline for use of insulin pumps in India has been recently published in Diabetes Technology and Therapeutics journal, which included participation from Jothydev's Diabetes Center.
Although comparatively costly, advantages of CSII over other modes of insulin delivery include better glycemic control, fewer hypoglycemic episodes, and improved quality of life. Our own center has reported a significant reduction in HbA1c when subjects in multiple daily insulin switched to CSII.
Relevant Clinical Data In the aforementioned study of CSII in Type 2 diabetes patients in our study, 83% of men reported an improvement in sexual function when queried after 6 months on CSII. The mode of improvement and magnitude of this effect is not known, and needs to be ascertained in prospective trials. The present study proposal is to corroborate the findings, and obtain clarification of effect size.
Potential Benefits & Risks The following improvements can be expected following initiation of insulin pump therapy.
- Improvement in HbA1c
- Reduction in blood sugar fluctuations
- Reduction in major and minor hypoglycemic episodes
- Reduction in total daily dose of insulin
- Improvement in QOL
The following are some risks/disadvantages of using insulin pump therapy
- Cost of pumps and consumables is higher than other modes of insulin delivery
- There is a risk of infection if the cannula is not changed once in every three days.
- Improper use of insulin pump boluses can lead to insulin stacking and low sugars.
Proper patient education and monitoring will be part of the study to overcome the risks of insulin pump therapy.
|Ages Eligible for Study:
|25 Years to 65 Years (Adult)
|Sexes Eligible for Study:
|Accepts Healthy Volunteers:
Inclusion Criteria:
- Male T2DM patients with HbA1c < 9%
- Mild ED to Moderate ED as defined by International Index of Erectile Function (IIEF) questionnaire
- Able and willing to use insulin pumps for at least the duration of the study
Exclusion Criteria:
- Severe dysfunction in IIEF Score or duration of ED more than 3 years
- Heart failure (class II - IV) or unstable cardiovascular disease; poorly controlled blood pressure (systolic > 170 or < 90 mmHg or diastolic > 100 or < 50 mmHg) or orthostatic hypotension
- Medications: Substance abuse, anticancer and steroid therapy
- Sexual dysfunction in partner, lack of stable relationship.
- History of radical prostatectomy or pelvic surgery, significant penile deformities, penile implants, or history of stroke or spinal-cord trauma.
Please refer to this study by its ClinicalTrials.gov identifier: NCT01468519
|Jothydev's Diabetes & Research Center
|Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala, India, 695032
|Principal Investigator:
|Jothydev Kesavadev, MD
|Jothydev's Diabetes & Research Center
|Study Chair:
|Gopika Krishnan, BPHARM
|Jothydev's Diabetes & Research Center
|Responsible Party:
|Dr. Jothydev Kesavadev, CEO & Director., Jothydev's Diabetes and Research Centre
|ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier:
|NCT01468519 History of Changes
|Other Study ID Numbers:
|Study First Received:
|July 2, 2011
|Last Updated:
|December 10, 2014
Keywords provided by Dr. Jothydev Kesavadev, Jothydev's Diabetes and Research Centre:
Diabetes mellitus, type 2
Erectile dysfunction
continuous subcutaneous insulin infusion
Additional relevant MeSH terms:
Diabetes Mellitus
Diabetes Mellitus, Type 2
Erectile Dysfunction
Glucose Metabolism Disorders
Metabolic Diseases
Endocrine System Diseases
Sexual Dysfunction, Physiological
Genital Diseases, Male
Sexual Dysfunctions, Psychological
Mental Disorders
Insulin, Globin Zinc
Hypoglycemic Agents
Physiological Effects of Drugs
ClinicalTrials.gov processed this record on September 25, 2017


text:
34 35th St., Unit 26, Brooklyn, NY, 11232
Education and participation have always been at the heart of Eyebeam programming. Building on the work of our Education Lab (active from 1997 to 2006) we continue to favor participation over skills based learning and integrate education into most of what we do.
Education covers areas as diverse as our cornerstone Youth Programs to Skillshare programs for the public as well as internally among our residents, fellows and staff, and results in the diversity of projects and programs outlined below.
Related Eyebeam programs are listed below.
Education People
- ‹‹
- 2 of 2


text:
Vancouver hosted a fascinating hybrid of public spatial art and waste material upcycling in its downtown area this summer: Pop Rocks, a temporary installation that covered a full city block. The project is fabricated entirely from post-consumer and post-industrial waste from the metropolitan Vancouver region. — bustler.net
The installation, an equal collaboration between Matthew Soules Architecture and AFJD Studio (Amber Frid-Jimenez & Joe Dahmen), engages tactically with these materials to produce soft forms that extend the typical range of active and passive social activities, fostering unexpected social... View full entry
Current tag:
SUBMIT NEWS: submit in 60 seconds!


text:
J. Computer Applications
Fachbereich / Organisatorische Einheit
- Dissertation (3)
- Bericht (2)
- Ambient Intelligence (2)
- Elektrotechnik (2)
- B-Spline (1)
- Informatik (1)
- Isogeometrische Analyse (1)
- Networked Control Systems (1)
- Netzwerk (1)
- Optimale Kontrolle (1)
- Produktion (1)
- Statistical Language Modeling for Historical Documents using Weighted Finite-State Transducers and Long Short-Term Memory (2015)
- The goal of this work is to develop statistical natural language models and processing techniques based on Recurrent Neural Networks (RNN), especially the recently introduced Long Short- Term Memory (LSTM). Due to their adapting and predicting abilities, these methods are more robust, and easier to train than traditional methods, i.e., words list and rule-based models. They improve the output of recognition systems and make them more accessible to users for browsing and reading. These techniques are required, especially for historical books which might take years of effort and huge costs to manually transcribe them. The contributions of this thesis are several new methods which have high-performance computing and accuracy. First, an error model for improving recognition results is designed. As a second contribution, a hyphenation model for difficult transcription for alignment purposes is suggested. Third, a dehyphenation model is used to classify the hyphens in noisy transcription. The fourth contribution is using LSTM networks for normalizing historical orthography. A size normalization alignment is implemented to equal the size of strings, before the training phase. Using the LSTM networks as a language model to improve the recognition results is the fifth contribution. Finally, the sixth contribution is a combination of Weighted Finite-State Transducers (WFSTs), and LSTM applied on multiple recognition systems. These contributions will be elaborated in more detail. Context-dependent confusion rules is a new technique to build an error model for Optical Character Recognition (OCR) corrections. The rules are extracted from the OCR confusions which appear in the recognition outputs and are translated into edit operations, e.g., insertions, deletions, and substitutions using the Levenshtein edit distance algorithm. The edit operations are extracted in a form of rules with respect to the context of the incorrect string to build an error model using WFSTs. The context-dependent rules assist the language model to find the best candidate corrections. They avoid the calculations that occur in searching the language model and they also make the language model able to correct incorrect words by using context- dependent confusion rules. The context-dependent error model is applied on the university of Washington (UWIII) dataset and the Nastaleeq script in Urdu dataset. It improves the OCR results from an error rate of 1.14% to an error rate of 0.68%. It performs better than the state-of-the-art single rule-based which returns an error rate of 1.0%. This thesis describes a new, simple, fast, and accurate system for generating correspondences between real scanned historical books and their transcriptions. The alignment has many challenges, first, the transcriptions might have different modifications, and layout variations than the original book. Second, the recognition of the historical books have misrecognition, and segmentation errors, which make the alignment more difficult especially the line breaks, and pages will not have the same correspondences. Adapted WFSTs are designed to represent the transcription. The WFSTs process Fraktur ligatures and adapt the transcription with a hyphenations model that allows the alignment with respect to the varieties of the hyphenated words in the line breaks of the OCR documents. In this work, several approaches are implemented to be used for the alignment such as: text-segments, page-wise, and book-wise approaches. The approaches are evaluated on German calligraphic (Fraktur) script historical documents dataset from "Wan- derungen durch die Mark Brandenburg" volumes (1862-1889). The text-segmentation approach returns an error rate of 2.33% without using a hyphenation model and an error rate of 2.0% using a hyphenation model. Dehyphenation methods are presented to remove the hyphen from the transcription. They provide the transcription in a readable and reflowable format to be used for alignment purposes. We consider the task as classification problem and classify the hyphens from the given patterns as hyphens for line breaks, combined words, or noise. The methods are applied on clean and noisy transcription for different languages. The Decision Trees classifier returns better performance on UWIII dataset and returns an accuracy of 98%. It returns 97% on Fraktur script. A new method for normalizing historical OCRed text using LSTM is implemented for different texts, ranging from Early New High German 14th - 16th centuries to modern forms in New High German applied on the Luther bible. It performed better than the rule-based word-list approaches. It provides a transcription for various purposes such as part-of-speech tagging and n-grams. Also two new techniques are presented for aligning the OCR results and normalize the size by using adding Character-Epsilons or Appending-Epsilons. They allow deletion and insertion in the appropriate position in the string. In normalizing historical wordforms to modern wordforms, the accuracy of LSTM on seen data is around 94%, while the state-of-the-art combined rule-based method returns 93%. On unseen data, LSTM returns 88% and the combined rule-based method returns 76%. In normalizing modern wordforms to historical wordforms, the LSTM delivers the best performance and returns 93.4% on seen data and 89.17% on unknown data. In this thesis, a deep investigation has been done on constructing high-performance language modeling for improving the recognition systems. A new method to construct a language model using LSTM is designed to correct OCR results. The method is applied on UWIII and Urdu script. The LSTM approach outperforms the state-of-the-art, especially for unseen tokens during training. On the UWIII dataset, the LSTM returns reduction in OCR error rates from 1.14% to 0.48%. On the Nastaleeq script in Urdu dataset, the LSTM reduces the error rate from 6.9% to 1.58%. Finally, the integration of multiple recognition outputs can give higher performance than a single recognition system. Therefore, a new method for combining the results of OCR systems is explored using WFSTs and LSTM. It uses multiple OCR outputs and votes for the best output to improve the OCR results. It performs better than the ISRI tool, Pairwise of Multiple Sequence and it helps to improve the OCR results. The purpose is to provide correct transcription so that it can be used for digitizing books, linguistics purposes, N-grams, and part-of-speech tagging. The method consists of two alignment steps. First, two recognition systems are aligned using WFSTs. The transducers are designed to be more flexible and compatible with the different symbols in line and page breaks to avoid the segmentation and misrecognition errors. The LSTM model then is used to vote the best candidate correction of the two systems and improve the incorrect tokens which are produced during the first alignment. The approaches are evaluated on OCRs output from the English UWIII and historical German Fraktur dataset which are obtained from state-of-the-art OCR systems. The Experiments show that the error rate of ISRI-Voting is 1.45%, the error rate of the Pairwise of Multiple Sequence is 1.32%, the error rate of the Line-to-Page alignment is 1.26% and the error rate of the LSTM approach has the best performance with 0.40%. The purpose of this thesis is to contribute methods providing correct transcriptions corresponding to the original book. This is considered to be the first step towards an accurate and more effective use of the documents in digital libraries.
- Isogeometric finite element methods for shape optimization (2015)
- In this thesis we develop a shape optimization framework for isogeometric analysis in the optimize first–discretize then setting. For the discretization we use isogeometric analysis (iga) to solve the state equation, and search optimal designs in a space of admissible b-spline or nurbs combinations. Thus a quite general class of functions for representing optimal shapes is available. For the gradient-descent method, the shape derivatives indicate both stopping criteria and search directions and are determined isogeometrically. The numerical treatment requires solvers for partial differential equations and optimization methods, which introduces numerical errors. The tight connection between iga and geometry representation offers new ways of refining the geometry and analysis discretization by the same means. Therefore, our main concern is to develop the optimize first framework for isogeometric shape optimization as ground work for both implementation and an error analysis. Numerical examples show that this ansatz is practical and case studies indicate that it allows local refinement.
- Szenario Human Centered Manufacturing (Man-u-Faktur 2012) (2003)
- Unter Ambient Intelligence (AmI) wird die Integration verschiedener Technologien zu einer den Menschen umgebenden, (nahezu) unsichtbaren Gesamtheit verstanden. Diese Intelligente Umgebung wird möglich durch die Miniaturisierung hochintegrierter Bauteile (Sensoren, Aktuatoren und Rechnern), deren zunehmende Intelligenz und vor allem deren lokale und globale zunehmend drahtlose Vernetzung. Unter dem Titel Man-u-Faktur 2012 (man and factoring in 2012) wurde an der Technischen Universität Kaiserslautern im Rahmen des Forschungsschwerpunkts Ambient Intelligence ein Szenario entwickelt, das ein beeindruckendes Gesamtbild einer Technik, die den Menschen in den Mittelpunkt rückt, beschreibt. Man-u-Faktur 2012 steht dabei für ein Weiterdrehen des Rads der Industrialisierung von der heute üblichen variantenreichen, technologiezentrierten Massenfertigung hin zu einer kundenindividuellen, mitarbeiterzentrierten Maßfertigung. Im Speziellen wird hierunter der Aufbau massiv verteiler kunden- aber auch mitarbeiterfreundlicher Produktionsanlagen verstanden, die sich im hochdynamischen Umfeld entsprechend der jeweiligen Gegebenheiten anzupassen wissen. Der Mensch ist überall dort präsent, wo flexibles Arbeiten oder flexible Entscheidungen im Vordergrund stehen. In diesem Bericht wird der Einfluss von Ambient Intelligence beispielhaft auf die Vision einer Fahrradproduktion in der Man-u-Faktur 2012 angewandt. Aus diesem Szenario werden anschließend sowohl die zu entwickelnden Schlüsseltechnologien als auch die Einflüsse auf Wirtschaft und Gesellschaft abgeleitet.
- Visualization and Analysis Techniques for Urban Microclimate Data Sets (2015)
- This dissertation focuses on the visualization of urban microclimate data sets, which describe the atmospheric impact of individual urban features. The application and adaptation of visualization and analysis concepts to enhance the insight into observational data sets used this specialized area are explored, motivated through application problems encountered during active involvement in urban microclimate research at the Arizona State University in Tempe, Arizona. Besides two smaller projects dealing with the analysis of thermographs recorded with a hand-held device and visualization techniques used for building performance simulation results, the main focus of the work described in this document is the development of a prototypic tool for the visualization and analysis of mobile transect measurements. This observation technique involves a sensor platform mounted to a vehicle, which is then used to traverse a heterogeneous neighborhood to investigate the relationships between urban form and microclimate. The resulting data sets are among the most complex modes of in-situ observations due to their spatio-temporal dependence, their multivariate nature, but also due to the various error sources associated with moving platform observations. The prototype enables urban climate researchers to preprocess their data, to explore a single transect in detail, and to aggregate observations from multiple traverses conducted over diverse routes for a visual delineation of climatic microenvironments. Extending traditional analysis methods, the suggested visualization tool provides techniques to relate the measured attributes to each other and to the surrounding land cover structure. In addition to that, an improved method for sensor lag correction is described, which shows the potential to increase the spatial resolution of measurements conducted with slow air temperature sensors. In summary, the interdisciplinary approach followed in this thesis triggers contributions to geospatial visualization and visual analytics, as well as to urban climatology. The solutions developed in the course of this dissertation are meant to support domain experts in their research tasks, providing means to gain a qualitative overview over their specific data sets and to detect patterns, which can then be further analyzed using domain-specific tools and methods.
- Papierlose Feldinstallation 2015 (2003)
- Dieses Szenario ist eine Erweiterung eines Teilszenarios von Human Centered Manufacturing. Dabei geht es um die Montage der Energieelektrik für industrielle Anlagen. Im Jahr 2015 enthält die Ausrüstung eines Elektromonteurs bei der Verdrahtung von Schaltschränken u.a. einen Schutzhelm mit integrierter Farbkamera, integriertem Mikrofon und einem Lautsprecher im Ohrbereich sowie einen automatisch gesteuerten Laserpointer. Auf der Baustelle sind keine Pläne mehr erforderlich. Der Monteur benötigt keinen Plan während der Montage.


text:
Plan for on-premises or hosted virtualization in SharePoint 2013
We are in the process of combining the SharePoint Server 2013 and SharePoint Server 2016 content into a single content set. We appreciate your patience while we reorganize things. See the Applies To tag at the top of each article to find out which version of SharePoint an article applies to.
Applies to: SharePoint Foundation 2013, SharePoint Server 2013
Topic Last Modified: 2016-12-16
Summary: Create a well-designed plan to install and configure SharePoint 2013 in a virtual environment.
The following downloadable resources, articles on TechNet, video recordings, and related resources provide information about the planning you have to do before deploying SharePoint 2013 in a virtual environment.
The following articles about planning for virtualization are available to view online. Writers update articles on a continuing basis as new information becomes available and as users provide feedback.
Understand and evaluate hosting options for SharePoint farms
This article describes the options available for deploying and running a SharePoint farm and includes information about evaluation criteria.
This article provides support and licensing information about virtualization host computers used for on-premise virtualization.
Support and licensing for Microsoft Azure in SharePoint 2013
This article provides support and licensing information about hosted virtualization solutions.
Microsoft Windows Server 2012 with Hyper-V and SharePoint 2013
This ESG Lab report documents the results of independent, hands-on testing of the performance, scalability, and efficiency of Microsoft's Windows Server 2012 with improved Hyper-V virtualization. ESG Lab tested with a tier-1 virtualized SharePoint 2013 application workload to confirm that Hyper-V can be used to increase scalability and maintain high levels of enterprise-class performance.
This article describes the mandatory computer processor architecture and software requirements for using hardware-based virtualization technologies.
This article describes the scope and major elements of a virtualization plan, and identifies the key decision points for the plan.
Overview of farm virtualization and architectures for SharePoint 2013
This article discusses the key considerations for determining a virtual architecture and provides examples of typical virtual architectures.
Detailed design and system specification process for a virtual SharePoint 2013 farm
This article describes a process to create a detailed architecture design and system specifications for SharePoint 2013 farm that meets performance goals, will scale, and is highly available.


text:
Milwaukee Repertory Theater presents: A Christmas Carol
By Charles Dickens
Adapted by Joseph Hanreddy
and Edward Morgan
Directed by Aaron Posner
November 27–December 24
Pabst Theater
Nineteenth century London comes to life when you and your family join Tiny Tim, Bob Cratchit, and, of course, Ebenezer Scrooge on a fantastical journey through Christmas Past, Present, and Future. Enjoy the music, dancing, and timeless message of hope, peace,and love, as the Dickens' classic masterpiece celebrates its 38th year at Milwaukee Rep!
For info: http://www.milwaukeerep.com/season/carol.html
For tickets: 414-224-9490.
Running Time
Approx. 2 hrs.
Performance Times
Monday: 7pm (only Dec. 23)
Tuesday: 7pm (only Dec. 17)
Tuesday: Noon & 4pm (only Dec. 24)
Wednesday: 7pm
Thursday: 7:30pm
Friday: 7:30pm
Saturday: 2 & 7:30pm
Sunday: Noon & 4:30pm
Recommended Age
7 years and older


text:
'Pominville, who looks like he's emerging as the reliable scorer the Sabres had in mind, added that the days off from Sunday through Thursday would give players lots of time to go over video and correct any hitches in their game. But the right winger could see February roll around and wish for those five days to rest and rehab the many nicks and hurts a hockey player picks up over 50 games. "Maybe, but it won't be like last year with the Olympics. After that break it felt like we played every day in March."'
You are here: Home / SabresBeat / Sabres cool their blades


text:
Aramis targeting next homestand for return
MILWAUKEE -- Brewers third baseman Aramis Ramirez will play it safe, but he is targeting the Brewers' next homestand for his return from a left knee sprain.
Ramirez took soft toss and hit off a tee Friday for the third time since he sprained his left knee on April 5. He has also been playing catch on the field, and on the Brewers' upcoming West Coast road trip will try running the bases for the first time.
If that goes well, he could play soon after the Brewers return to Miller Park for nine games against the Pirates, Cardinals and Rangers.
"That's what I'm shooting for," Ramirez said. "I don't know if it will be in the Pirates series, that may be pushing it. But next homestand. That's what I'm looking at. I'm making strides."
Slow strides. He suffered the same injury in Spring Training and was back in action two weeks later, but at less than 100 percent of full strength. That, Ramirez believes, is why he re-injured his knee in the Brewers' fifth regular season game.
He is approaching this comeback more cautiously.
"I have to," Ramirez said. "Because the last time, I didn't let it heal the way I was supposed to, because I wanted to rush back and get on the field. If I hurt this thing again, it's going to be rough."
Adam McCalvy is a reporter for MLB.com. Read his blog, Brew Beat, and follow him on Twitter at @AdamMcCalvy. This story was not subject to the approval of Major League Baseball or its clubs.


text:
Gyorko, Venable homer in slow offensive day
Despaigne allows six runs over 5 2/3 innings; Padres manage three hits
SAN DIEGO -- Odrisamer Despaigne had his second straight uneven performance on Thursday and the Padres couldn't keep up on offense after an early pair of solo homers, as San Diego wasted a chance to sweep the Cardinals and lost to St. Louis, 6-2.
Despaigne allowed more than two earned runs for the first time in seven career starts, giving up six runs and nine hits in 5 2/3 innings with one walk and three strikeouts.
Since logging a 1.33 ERA in his first five starts in the big leagues and coming within five outs of the Padres' first no-hitter on July 20, his last two outings have yielded eight earned runs in 9 1/3 frames (7.71 ERA).
"With Odrisamer, we saw the same sort of package of stuff, but he just couldn't seem to wiggle out of some difficulties," manager Bud Black said. "They just sort of bunched some hits together against him."
Jedd Gyorko and Will Venable both homered for the second straight day in the second inning of what looked like would be a barnburner early on. But Shelby Miller and the Cardinals (57-50) gave up just one hit to the Padres (48-60) the rest of the way to deny San Diego its second series sweep this year.
"When you're aggressive with your fastball, you have that option to go to your offspeed stuff," Venable said. "It wasn't like we were beating [Miller] on his fastball, other than a couple of them. He was doing exactly what he wanted."
Despite being the two lowest-scoring clubs in the Majors, the Cardinals and Padres showed off some power early on.
Oscar Taveras, who had a permanent starting spot in right field open up for him when the Cardinals traded away Allen Craig on Thursday morning, belted a two-run homer in the second inning to put St. Louis in front.
"I prepared for the game by watching video of the pitcher and seeing what he throws," Taveras said. "I was looking for a changeup, and he threw it. I got a good result."
Then Gyorko, who is 7-for-14 with two homers in four games since returning from the disabled list, and Venable both connected off of Miller to tie it up in the bottom half.
But from there, the two starting pitchers went in different directions. As Miller (8-8) stabilized and retired 13 of the last 14 batters he faced, Despaigne (2-3) unraveled.
The Cuban rookie allowed a two-run single to Matt Holliday in the third, then loaded the bases with no outs in the sixth to give the Cardinals a chance to break it open. Despaigne briefly looked like he might escape after Taveras lined into a double play, but Peter Bourjos and Miller followed with consecutive singles to make the score 5-2 and knock out Despaigne with the bases juiced once again.
Blaine Boyer came on and issued a free pass to Matt Carpenter to walk in another run before striking out Kolten Wong to keep the score 6-2.
It was already too late for any comeback, though, as Miller mowed down the Padres again in the sixth before Kevin Siegrist, Pat Neshek and Trevor Rosenthal each threw a perfect inning of relief to close it out.
"The secondary pitches came into play for [Miller] as the game went on, and he landed them for strikes," Black said. "Their bullpen did a nice job, too. Neshek was an All-Star, then Rosenthal's got a big arm. They shut us down."
Yasmani Grandal was scratched just minutes before first pitch after his knee flared up while squatting down to catch Despaigne's pregame bullpen session.
However, Black and Despaigne both downplayed the notion that the last-minute change contributed to Despaigne's troubles, and Black said that Grandal is expected to play Friday against Atlanta.
"His stuff was the same as it's been all season," Black said. "He just didn't get the results, and sometimes that happens."
Will Laws is an associate reporter for MLB.com. You can follow him at @WillLaws. This story was not subject to the approval of Major League Baseball or its clubs.


text:
British Miniatures Company Unleashes Dropzone Commander...
To insure your action figure collection, get in touch with Collectibles Insurance, the official insurance company of the Figures.com network. Say "Figures.com" to get 5% off your first term premiums.
To buy action figures, take a look at BigBadToyStore.com, PlasmaInfusion.com, Toynk.com, BriansToys.com, ToyWiz.com, and MonkeyDepot.com.
One of the most eye-catching displays in this years GAMA exhibit hall was the massive Cityscape at the Hawk Wargames booth. Part of their Dropzone Commander miniatures game, the city package allows you to build a 6 by 4 fully customizable urban battlefield in the popular 10mm scale. The Cityscape box set comes with 20 cardboard buildings and 24 double-sided ground tiles so you can create tons of different designs for your game. And of course while its perfect for Dropzone Commander, the Cityscape could be used for other miniature games as well.
What is Dropzone Commander, you may be wondering? Hawk Wargames describes it as 10mm Sci-Fi Massed Battles. I might add that its a miniature game featuring some of the most detailed and cool-looking sci-fi vehicles Ive ever seen. The futuristic battlefield consists of four factions (Scourge, Shaltari Tribes, Post-Human Republic, United Colonies of Mankind), each with its own unique machines of war from troops to ground vehicles, support craft, flying dreadnaughts, and more. The game features Starter Sets for each faction, heavy duty and full color Rulebooks (that include paint guides), and Blister Packs for additional units. If youre a gamer or just a fan of cool sci-fi designs, you should check these out. Let your local game store know your interested in Dropzone Commander, and head on over to hawkwargames.com for more info.
- Scott Rubin


text:
|Small Print
DMXzone.COM | Small Print
This page contains details on:
|Privacy Pledge
DMXzone.COM believes that strong electronic privacy is crucial for the ongoing success of the Internet as a service, commercial, and entertainment medium.
We pledge that DMXzone.COM will not release your personal data to anyone else without your consent.
When we do present information to our advertisers, unless you tell us otherwise, it is in the form of aggregate statistics compiled among all our visitors' answers to survey questions as well as grouped on-site behavior.
|Document Use
The restrictions on the use of DMXzone.COM are fairly relaxed:
Requests for purchase, let or hire of any part of DMXzone.COM in any format (electronic, paper etc) must be made to the author of the relevant item.
As part of our ongoing effort to provide the best in content to you, the user, DMXzone.COM has outlined the following information to address online privacy and consumer protection:
We do NOT share e-mail addresses, obtained via communcation with visitors to DMXzone.COM, with anyone.
We make no effort to identify public users of DMXzone.COM. No identifying data is disclosed to any third party for any purpose. Data that we collect is used only for server administration and Web protocol research.
While we will strive to deliver content and advertising that are specifically relevant to you, our pledge is that DMXzone.COM, will not release personal data to anyone else without consent. If others want this information, including your name or your email address, only you can choose to give it to them.
As is typical, we log http requests to our server. This means that we know the originating IP (e.g. 18.104.22.168) address of an agent requesting a URL, the visitor's domain name, referral data, and browser and platform type. We do not log the specific identity of visitors. We occasionally analyze the log files to determine which files are most requested.
We use cookies to provide useful features on our website for our customers (for example, they enable us to personalise your visit to our website). Cookies themselves do not personally identify users (although they do identify a user's computer). Most browsers are initially set to accept cookies. If you prefer, you can set yours to refuse cookies. However, you may not be able to take full advantage of the website's functionality if you do so. We therefore recommend that you leave the facility to receive cookies switched on.
We also count, track and aggregate the visitors activity into our analysis of general traffic flows at DMXzone.COM. To these ends, we may merge information about you into group data, which may then be shared on an aggregates basis with our advertisers; but DMXzone.COM will not disclose your individual identity or personal data without your permission. When DMXzone.COM does present aggregated information to outside companies, no one will be able to identify you or contact you.
We also log requests to our search, CGI, and list maintenance services. This data is only used for administration and researching the efficiency of our tools.
Logged information is not disclosed outside of DMXzone.COM staff personnel. Aggregate (completely non-identifying) statistics generated from these logs may be reported as part of research results.
Additionally, users should be aware that when they voluntarily disclose personally identifiable information (e.g. name, email address) on the bulletin boards of DMXzone.COM, that information, along with any substantive information disclosed in the user's communication, can be collected and correlated and used by third parties and may result in unsolicited messages from other posters or third parties. Such activities are beyond the control of DMXzone.COM.
A translation, is a derivative work. We allow such derivative works to be created, reproduced, or displayed if the following requirements are met:
This disclosure should be made in a header and/or footer that wraps the translated DMXzone.COM document. No semantic changes should be made to any part of the DMXzone.COM document including the contributors, or appendices. If comments or annotations are absolutely necessary within the content of the specification, those annotations must be clearly represented as such.
|Limitation on Liability
In no event will DMXzone.COM be liable to any part for any direct, indirect, special or consequential damages for any use of this site, or on any other hyperlinked web site, including, without limitation, any lost profits, business interruption, loss of programs or other data on your information handling system or otherwise, even if DMXzone.COM is expressly advised of the possibility of such damages.
|Additional Questions?
DMXzone.COM would like to receive your comments and questions about this policy.
Please address comments or questions regarding DMXzone.COM privacy practices to DMXzone.COM by emailing email@example.com.
DMXzone.COM may occasionally update this policy. Notice of revisions will be posted here.
DMXzone.COM | Small Print


text:
New PSAs Encourage Americans to Make a Financial Contribution in Support of Hurricane Sandy Relief Efforts
NEW YORK, NY, November 5, 2012 — In response to the devastation wrought by Hurricane Sandy, the Ad Council launched today a new series of television, print and Web public service advertisements (PSAs) encouraging Americans to help by making financial contributions to charitable relief organizations. Monetary donations enable relief organizations to react with speed and specificity across all critical sectors, for both immediate relief and long-term recovery operations, providing the most urgently needed supplies and services to those affected by the storm.
The Ad Council was able to act quickly after the hurricane to develop the PSAs because of their partnership with a disaster relief coalition. The public/private sector coalition of humanitarian and aid organizations came together in 2011 following the Joplin tornados with the goal of developing consistent messages that can be used in times of crisis to motivate people to donate money to support domestic and international disaster relief efforts. Coalition members include the Center for International Disaster Information, the U.S. Agency for International Development, The UPS Foundation, the National Voluntary Organizations Active in Disaster and InterAction.
As of November 5, Hurricane Sandy has severely affected portions of the Caribbean and in the Mid-Atlantic and Northeastern United States, where the storm has impacted at least 24 states from Florida to New England. More than 100 people in the Caribbean and the U.S. have lost their lives, and Sandy is estimated to have caused at least $60 billion in economic damages. Furthermore, 1 million homes have been evacuated and 8 million people are still without power.
The Ad Council worked with the disaster relief coalition organizations to develop an online toolkit with public service communications materials for the organizations to customize and use in outreach efforts following a disaster. The toolkit includes customizable PSA materials, such as an online video, radio, print and Web ads, research-based messaging recommendations, social media messaging, and tips to conduct outreach to consumers. Immediately following Hurricane Sandy the first creative iteration from the toolkit, released today, was developed by the Ad Council and made available to encourage support for relief efforts. The new television, radio, print and Web PSAs, developed by Free Range Studios and RadioFace, highlight that even a small monetary donation will make a big difference in the wake of the disaster. The PSAs direct audiences to visit Sandy.AdCouncil.org, where they can find a list of charitable organizations working to help those affected by Hurricane Sandy.
"We know from our experience in addressing crises such as Hurricane Katrina and the earthquake in Haiti that Americans respond quickly and generously following disasters to offer a helping hand," said Peggy Conlon, president and CEO of the Ad Council. "We're based in New York City and, therefore, many of us witnessed the devastation of Sandy firsthand. We're proud to join this wonderful collaboration to develop consistent messaging that will educate Americans about the benefits of monetary donations to support those affected by this crisis and future relief efforts."
The creative materials were developed and informed by research conducted by Egg Strategy and the Ad Council to determine the most effective way to communicate the importance for monetary donations in disaster relief efforts. Interviews and focus groups included disaster relief experts, community affairs/news directors, and individual donors. The research found that donors often give goods because they believe that a material donation will have a greater, more immediate impact than a small cash donation. In reality, monetary contributions—even relatively small ones—can be used immediately, can purchase exactly what is needed, and help support local economies over the long term.
"It was an honor for Free Range to work on this important messaging piece with the Ad Council. In the aftermath of a disaster, people really want to help, and informing them of how to do so is of critical importance. We are excited to see how this campaign supports people to take action and donate," said Erica Priggen, Executive Producer at
Free Range Studios.
DG donated the digital distribution for television PSAs and Laser Video Corporation donated editing services.
The Ad Council
The Ad Council (www.adcouncil.org) is a private, non-profit organization with a rich history of marshalling volunteer talent from the advertising and media industries to deliver critical messages to the American public. Having produced literally thousands of PSA campaigns addressing the most pressing social issues of the day, the Ad Council has effected, and continues to effect, tremendous positive change by raising awareness, inspiring action and saving lives. To learn more about the Ad Council and its campaigns, visit www.adcouncil.org. For more information, please visit www.adcouncil.org. You can also visit www.facebook.com/adcouncil or follow the Ad Council on Twitter @AdCouncil.
Media Contact:
Ellyn Fisher
The Ad Council
[email protected]


text:
Topic: Metastisis to ovaries
Does anyone have any experience with CCA reoccurrence in the ovaries? Yesterday during my two year scan, a mass was discovered on my right ovary. An ultrasound was done today; it is non vascular and solid. Radiologist and my tx coordinator think it is likely benign but of course, my mind has raced through all the possibilities. I see a gynecological oncologist in the morning. Dr. Google hasn't been helpful in finding much information.
Thanks for any and all information.


text:
At least 26 people have been killed in clashes between security forces and Sunni protestors near the northern Iraqi city Kirkuk.
The gun battle erupted after the protest camp was stormed by government troops and threatens to destabilise sectarian relations in the country further.
The country experienced a wave of political violence in the run-up to provincial elections that took place last Saturday, but these are the worst armed clashes since thousands of Sunnis took to the streets last December to protest about their treatment by the Shia led government.
Iraq's defense ministry told Reuters that security forces responded after being fired upon by protestors in Hawija town, near Kirkuk.
"When the armed forces started... to enforce the law using units of riot control forces they confronted with heavy fire," said the ministry in a statement.
Protestors told the news agency that they were unarmed when troops opened fire.
[1] http://www.syndigate.info
[2] http://www.albawaba.com


text:
IT'S not every day a renowned actor comes to Winchester to do some promotional work.
TV comic Robert Powell, best known for the title role in Jesus of Nazareth, was spotted in the Black Boy doing a bit of filming last week (July 23).
The Holby City actor was promoting local communication agency Remarkable.
The group have launched a new content marketing division depicted by Mr Powell with his reading of How Content became King.
Stephen Pomeroy, chief executive of Remarkable, said: "We are delighted to enlist the support of Robert Powell for the launch, who tells the Remarkable story with such charisma and charm; it really is an enticing tale.
"The Black Boy in Winchester was the perfect characterful setting!"


text:
USA Basketball Chairman Jerry Colangelo announced today that Pelicans Forwards Ryan Anderson and Anthony Davis are among the 27 players confirmed to attend the 2013 USA Basketball Men's National Team mini-camp that will be held July 22-25 in Las Vegas, Nev.
Davis, the lone returning Gold Medalist from the 2012 Olympic Games, and Anderson will join recently named USA National Team Assistant Coach Monty Williams at the mini-camp.
Along with Ryan Anderson and Anthony Davis, the following 25 players are accepting invitations to participate in the 2013 USA Basketball Men's National Team mini-camp: Harrison Barnes (Golden State Warriors); Bradley Beal (Washington Wizards); Mike Conley (Memphis Grizzlies); DeMarcus Cousins (Sacramento Kings); DeMar DeRozan (Toronto Raptors); Andre Drummond (Detroit Pistons); Kenneth Faried (Denver Nuggets); Derrick Favors (Utah Jazz); Paul George (Indiana Pacers); Taj Gibson (Chicago Bulls); Gordon Hayward (Utah Jazz); Jrue Holiday (Philadelphia 76ers); Kyrie Irving (Cleveland Cavaliers); DeAndre Jordan (Los Angeles Clippers); Ty Lawson (Denver Nuggets); Kawhi Leonard (San Antonio Spurs); Damian Lillard (Portland Trail Blazers); Greg Monroe (Detroit Pistons); Chandler Parsons (Houston Rockets); Larry Sanders (Milwaukee Bucks); Klay Thompson (Golden State Warriors); Dion Waiters (Cleveland Cavaliers); Kemba Walker (Charlotte Bobcats); John Wall (Washington Wizards); and Tyler Zeller (Cleveland Cavaliers).
2013-16 USA Basketball National Team head coach and Duke University's Naismith Hall of Fame mentor Mike Krzyzewski will direct the mini-camp. In addition to Pelicans head coach Monty Williams, Syracuse University veteran coach Jim Boeheim and Chicago Bulls head coach Tom Thibodeau will assist with the mini-camp.
Over the course of the 2013-16 quad, USA Men's National Teams will conduct a team mini-camp in Las Vegas, Nev., July 22-25, 2013; compete in the 2014 FIBA Basketball World Cup (formerly the FIBA World Championship) Aug. 30-Sept. 14 in Spain; if necessary, participate in the 2015 FIBA Americas Olympic Qualifying Tournament (dates and site TBD); and if the USA qualifies, compete in the 2016 Summer Olympic Games (Aug. 5-21) in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil.


text:
4 Ways to Protect Yourself from Laptop Theft
Posted by Andru Edwards - Categories: Cell Phones, Features, Handhelds, PC / Laptop, Software
As we close out Device Theft Awareness Month, we wanted to talk about laptop security. We've already covered the device theft statistics, alongside a bunch of ways to protect yourself from smartphone theft. Some may argue that notebooks are even more of a danger to lose than a smartphone, due to the vast amount of personal data stored on them that can be lost or fall into the wrong hands, as well as the cost of replacement. Let's talk about some of the ways to protect both your investment and your data.
1. Password protect your computer. Regardless of whether you use a PC, Mac, or Linux, you have the option of settings up a lock screen barrier where you'll need to enter a password, custom swipe, image touch, or other secure option. It's a small step that some may find to be an annoyance, but it's an easy (and free) first line of defense in case someone is able to snatch up your device.
Click to continue reading 4 Ways to Protect Yourself from Laptop Theft
Deal of the Day: 36% off Limefuel Lite USB battery pack
Posted by Andru Edwards - Categories: Accessories, USB, Cell Phones, Handhelds, Hot Deals
Today in the Gear Live Deals Shop we've got 36% off the Limefuel Lite USB battery pack. Whenever I go on a trip, I make sure my Limefuel USB battery pack is in my bag. It's saved me on numerous occasions where my smartphone was about to run out of precious juice while on the go. Today our Deal of the Day brings you $20 off the Limefuel Lite USB battery pack. This one packs in 15,000mAh of power, which is enough to charge the average smartphone over 7 times from empty to full. Two USB ports mean you can charge multiple devices at once, and auto-on/auto-off preserves the battery reserve when it's no longer needed.
Save 36% on the Limefuel Lite USB Battery Pack
Don't forget, if you're looking for other deals, be sure to check out our Newegg Promo Code thread. Oh, and if you're on Twitter, be sure to follow @TechPromos for the latest deals.
4 Ways to Protect Yourself from Smartphone Theft
Posted by Andru Edwards - Categories: Cell Phones, Features, Handhelds, PC / Laptop, Software
As we mentioned last week, we're celebrating Device Theft Awareness Month in conjunction with Absolute LoJack. We gave you a rundown of just how big a problem device theft is nowadays, with over 3 million people becoming victims of smartphone theft just last year alone. It's a growing problem that you can protect yourself from, and this week we wanted to share three tips that you can do to avoid permanently losing your device or data in the event of loss.
1. Create a passcode for your device. This is a simple method of protecting the data that lives on your device in the event of loss or theft. Some Android devices will allow you to set a pattern instead of an alphanumeric code, and the iPhone 5s and later lets you use Touch ID fingerprint recognition. Any of these are a better option than not protecting the home screen of your device, which will let prying eyes get to anything on your product.
Click to continue reading 4 Ways to Protect Yourself from Smartphone Theft
Latest Gear Live Videos
- Subscribe:
- YouTube
- iTunes High Definition
- iTunes Standard Version
Deal of the Day: 40% off Air-Fi Metro2 Bluetooth headphones
Posted by Andru Edwards - Categories: Accessories, Wearables, Hot Deals, Music
Today in the Gear Live Deals Shop we've got 40% off the Air-Fi Metro2 Bluetooth headset as our Deal of the Day. This pair of noise-isolating buds stream music and calls wirelessly from your smartphone, tablet, or other Bluetooth device. They're lightweight and have an ergonomic fit to maximize comfort during long listening sessions. Outside noise is blocked, and AptX means you get HD audio support. Instead of paying the full price of $100, today they're just $59.99.
Save 40% on the Air-Fi Metro2 Bluetooth headset
Don't forget, if you're looking for other deals, be sure to check out our Newegg Promo Code thread. Oh, and if you're on Twitter, be sure to follow @TechPromos for the latest deals.
EA Access now open to all Xbox One owners
Posted by Andru Edwards - Categories: Electronic Arts, First Person Shooters, Puzzle, Sports, Xbox One
EA Access, the new subscription gaming service from EA, is now available to Xbox One console owners. Just log in and download the EA Access app, and you'll have unlimited access to a select grouping of EA titles for $4.99 per month, or $29.99 per year. The service launches with FIFA 14, Madden NFL 25, Battlefield 4, and Peggle 2. The company says there is more to come, and that one a game is added to the Vault, it stays there. So, for your money, you get unlimited access to a growing list of EA games. Additionally, EA Access members get 10% off on EA digital purchases on Xbox One. PlayStation 4 gamers are left out here, as Sony doesn't think its gamers want to pay a $5 per month all-you-can-eat subscription fee for EA content.
Deal of the Day: 57% off BACtrack S35 Breathalyzer
Posted by Andru Edwards - Categories: Accessories, Hot Deals, Household, Science
Today in the Gear Live Deals Shop we're hooking you up with an awesome 57% discount on the BACtrack S35 Breathalyzer. This Deal of the Day is a portable breathalyzer that you can keep on your keychain to have with you anytime you need it. Now you have a way to seeing what your blood alcohol content happens to be after happy hour or a night out, allowing you to make a much more informed decision about what to do next. Goodbye DUIs. Typically selling for $70, this deal gets it to you for $29.99 with free shipping. Here's a list of the top features of the BACtrack S35:
- Advanced semiconductor sensor provides trusted results
- Learn how your body processes alcohol and always make smart, informed decisions
- Ultra-portable design and unmistakable, palm-of-hand feel
- Three optional mouthpieces also included for multiple users
- Results displayed range from 0.00-0.40% BAC
Save 57% on the BACtrack S35 Breathalyzer
Don't forget, if you're looking for other deals, be sure to check out our Newegg Promo Code thread. Oh, and if you're on Twitter, be sure to follow @TechPromos for the latest deals.
Kicking off Device Theft Awareness Month with #AbsoluteUncovered
Posted by Andru Edwards - Categories: Cell Phones, Features, Handhelds, PC / Laptop, Software
A few weeks ago we talked about what what you can do to protect yourself in the event that your smartphone, tablet, or laptop gets lost or stolen. We even took a 24-hour #DigitallyDark challenge where we gave up our smartphones for 24 hours to see how it would feel. Well, August is Device Theft Awareness Month, and we wanna talk more about what you can do if you find that you're one of over 3.1 million Americans who'll likely fall victim to smartphone theft this year. A staggering 1.4 million people who lost their devices in 2013 never got them back--that is 4.5 million lost and stolen smartphones (and that doesn't include tablets or laptops,) and is enough to make us want to do something about it. This month, follow the hashtag #AbsoluteUncovered as we dive deep into this topic.
Back in June we introduced you to Absolute LoJack, a data protection software product that is tailored to help you keep your mobile data safe, track your devices in the event of loss or theft, and even an option for assistance with recovery so you can get them back. We are taking part in Device Theft Awareness Month by bringing you a series of articles in order to keep you more informed on the issue and how you can protect yourself from becoming another statistic.
Click to continue reading Kicking off Device Theft Awareness Month with #AbsoluteUncovered
2 new WWE 2K15 next-gen Randy Orton screenshots released
Posted by Andru Edwards - Categories: Fighting, PlayStation 4, Screenshots, Sports, Xbox One
We recently gave you a look at John Cena in WWE 2K15, and now 2K Games has released two shots of Randy Orton from the upcoming next-gen version of the wrestling game series. The first image features Orton staring down John Cena from across the ring, while the second sees Orton performing his signature pose (likely an in-game taunt.) As with the original Cena screenshot, it's obvious that a lot of work went into improving the character models for the Xbox One and PlayStation 4 console editions.
As a reminder, if you pre-order WWE 2K15 now, you get two playable Sting characters for free on launch day. 2K also announced the exclusive WWE 2K15 Hulkamania Edition, which includes a bunch of Hulk Hogan-themed extras and playable characters.
We've got one more screenshot, featuring Orton doing his signature pose, after the jump.
Click to continue reading 2 new WWE 2K15 next-gen Randy Orton screenshots released
Andru Edwards on GeekWire Radio: iPhone 6, Surface Watch, Fire Phone, and more
Posted by Andru Edwards - Categories: Apple, Cell Phones, Handhelds, Microsoft
I made another appearance on this weeks episode of GeekWire Radio here in Seattle, Washington, keeping my streak alive as the person with the most guest appearances in GeekWire Radio history! In this episode, which also features Eyewitness News reporter Essex Porter (pictured with me above, and a huge Windows Phone advocate), we talk about a couple of recent Gear Live stories, including:
- iPhone 6 4.7-inch design preview
- iPhone 6 5.5-inch design preview
- Exclusive: I used the Microsoft Surface watch
I brought in the two iPhone 6 mockups in both 4.7- and 5.5-inch varieties, which made for some good conversation. We also chat about the news of the week, which included the release of the Amazon Fire Phone, and we also had a discussion about what Microsoft needs to do to make Windows Phone more accepted by the general consumer. You can listen to the show now by grabbing the MP3 below, or hitting play in the widget.
Click to continue reading Andru Edwards on GeekWire Radio: iPhone 6, Surface Watch, Fire Phone, and more
Read More | GeekWire Radio (MP3)
A look at the next-generation 2016 Chevy Volt
Posted by Andru Edwards - Categories: Rumors, Transportation
GM is set to debut the next-generation Chevy Volt at the North American International Auto Show, which is just over five months away, taking place in Detroit in January 2015. The 2016 Chevy Volt will be the first redesign for the game-changing electric car, and details are obviously scarce since the company is going for the element of surprise. However, this morning they gave us a peek at the next design. Above you see what appears to be the rear liftgate, lit up by a sunset. My wish list? As a Chevy Volt owner, I'd like to see the 2016 model pick up a 50-mile electric range, 50 miles-per-gallon in range-extending mode, and a redesigned battery pack that will allow for three seats in the rear. We'll know more in a few months!
Read More | Chevy Volt Twitter
© Gear Live Inc. – User-posted content, unless source is quoted, is licensed under a Creative Commons Public Domain License. Gear Live graphics, logos, designs, page headers, button icons, videos, articles, blogs, forums, scripts and other service names are the trademarks of Gear Live Inc.


text:
If only Kentucky's Marquis Teague were a dancer instead of a basketball player leaving college after a single academic year, there would be no lament. He has the name for it, does he not? You could see such a name in lights out front of the Stephen Sondheim Theater, a short walk up 43rd from Broadway toward 6th. Or you could imagine a young man with that name as the principle dancer in an elite ballet company, perhaps taking on the role of the Nutcracker Prince.
Well, maybe Teague might have trouble seeing all of that, but he's got a star's name no matter what endeavor he might undertake.
"We, the U.S. society, apply fascinating double-standards to that, because if a young man or woman comes to the University of Washington, dances for a year or two, and then the New York City Ballet calls them up, we say, "Isn't that great?" We do!" NCAA president Mark Emmert said this to me roughly 16 months ago, at a dinner to introduce him to national basketball reporters.
"I don't like the notion an athlete, a young man, would come to us and see us not as being a student at a university that is playing a sport, but as a necessary step that they've got to touch that bag before they move on. I think that makes it extremely hard with a straight face to say these are student athletes." Emmert said this only a few days ago, at a session with members of the Associated Press Sports editors.
Emmert's message appears to be somewhat jumbled here. He seems to be applying the same fascinating double-standards to the case of the "one-and-done" basketball player as he mentioned on that night at St. Elmo's. However, according to the NCAA, Emmert's message merely is to underscore that those basketball players who choose to attend college, for however long that may be, need to be invested in the totality of that experience. That means attending class, doing the work.
Indeed, that idea is contained in Emmert's statement if you dig through the scenario he presents. But his scenario feeds into the preconceived notions many have developed regarding the players affected by the NBA's draft age limit, who have come to be known as "one-and-done." Those prejudices have been fed by hysterical proclamations by ESPN analyst Bob Knight, among others, who contend a basketball player can merely pass a couple of fall-term classes and still be eligible to compete in the NCAA Tournament.
Though technically that may be true, it has not been the reality of the rule.
Kentucky's APR scores reinforce John Calipari's position that four of UK's previous five one-and-done players completed their spring coursework before moving on to prepare for the draft, and the three freshmen leaving this year all publicly pledged they'll finish their current terms.
Consider the University of Texas, which has had four one-and-done players since the rule was introduced—and each completed his spring term coursework before departing. Included among those was the player who, before we all met Anthony Davis, might have been considered THE one-and-done: forward Kevin Durant.
In 2006-07, Durant became the first freshman to win the Oscar Robertson Trophy. He now is working on his third consecutive NBA scoring title. Not only did he complete his full academic year at Texas as a freshman, he since has returned to Austin in particular summers and continued taking classes. After center Tristan Thompson left the Longhorns basketball program last spring, he stuck around the university to complete his coursework—and then was encouraged by the Cleveland Cavaliers to take classes at UT during the fall term, when the NBA lockout was in force.
That's the tricky thing about a person attending one year of college. It can lead to another. And maybe another. Baylor's Quincy Miller learned there was much about the game he hadn't mastered. So he'll be back for another year. Memphis' Adonis Thomas, too, and Trey Burke at Michigan. Whether or not North Carolina's Harrison Barnes or Baylor's Perry Jones produced the sophomore seasons we imagined they might, each is now roughly halfway to a college degree and significantly more mature as he enters what remains, though less now than in the 1980s, a man's league.
It was disappointing to hear that Emmert told an assembled group of Associated Press Sports Editors, which included the Sporting News' editor in chief, that he would like the NBA to return to drafting basketball players out of high school. This runs counter not only to the NBA's best interests, and to college basketball's—it's also, for the majority, counter to the athlete's well-being.
When he was NCAA president, the late Myles Brand understood the value of the NBA's age limit rule extended far beyond the eight or so players who might wind up labeled "one-and-done." It encourages all those who might see NCAA basketball as the best preparation for the NBA to prepare academically to qualify to compete as freshmen. That means studying more in high school, as well as possibly sticking longer in college.
Remember, there's no rule that "forces" basketball players to attend college. Guard Brandon Jennings decided to play a year in Europe instead of playing college ball, and big man Jeremy Tyler went through two continents. Forward Latavious Williams took another route, playing in the D-League on the way to the draft. Though I would argue college basketball offers the best preparation for an NBA career, it is not the only way to get there.
Since before the "one-and-done" rule even was passed, NBA commissioner David Stern preferred the age limit for draft entry be placed at 20 years—and two years beyond high school graduation. Brand publicly supported that position. His was a pro-education position. Emmert could learn much from what his predecessor said, and how he said it.


text:
BALTIMORE—After failing to prevent Broncos cornerback Chris Harris from completing his 98-yard interception, Joe Flacco lay on the turf for a few moments, his head buried in plastic grass and rubber granules.
As the Broncos celebrated the longest regular-season interception return in club history, Flacco knew what it meant. In 13 seconds, Harris had turned a potential touchdown and 10-7 halftime score into a 17-0 deficit that the Ravens never seriously threatened. A third consecutive loss will lead to more questions about whether the banged-up Ravens are capable of anything more than a quick playoff exit.
Meanwhile, Harris, who had jumped the route on Anquan Boldin and read Flacco's eyes so easily, took the Broncos in the opposite direction—to their ninth consecutive win. What we learned from Sunday's game:
1. Denver's run persistence paid off.
"Balance" has been uttered so often by John Fox, Peyton Manning and offensive coordinator Mike McCoy that you could start a Broncos news conference drinking game with that word—and be passed out within 20 minutes. That meant the Broncos kept trying to run, even when it wasn't there.
In the last two weeks, the Broncos' often laborious run game finally bore fruit. Not only did Knowshon Moreno post back-to-back 100-yard games—as many as he had in the first 3 1/2 seasons of his career -- but the Broncos have a play-action game that can be taken seriously. That's why Eric Decker found himself in single coverage against Baltimore's Cary Williams.
Manning's play fake caught the Ravens off guard, and he hit Decker in stride for the 51-yard touchdown that effectively ended the game.
McCoy refers to play-action as the "third phase" of the Broncos' offense. As the playoffs near, it might be their most deadly.
2. It's as much about defense as offense in Denver.
For all the justifiable chatter about Peyton Manning's transformative effect on the Broncos, their defense entered the game ranked just as high as the offense in total yardage—fourth in the league. But as the Broncos' offense opened by going three-and-out on three of their first four possessions, Denver's defense was so dominant that it didn't allow a first down until 7:38 remained in the second quarter, by which point the Ravens were already behind 10-0.
Denver's run defense has been the league's best since Keith Brooking became the starting linebacker in Week 6, and that bore itself out against Ray Rice, who was limited to 38 yards on 12 carries and never had the chance to operate in space. Denver doesn't even have to bring safeties forward to counter the run, so they can capably guard against the pass and aren't caught off guard in play-action.
3. Baltimore has too many injuries to succeed.
Without Marshal Yanda, the right side of the Ravens' offensive line crumpled and then collapsed completely, placing Flacco under duress most of the day. Flacco was only sacked three times, but was constantly hurried into errant throws, which kept his completion percentage at 50.0. Terrell Suggs returned to the lineup, but appeared nowhere close to 100 percent. Ray Lewis' return was delayed by a week because his triceps muscle had atrophied during his extended absence on injured reserve. By Sunday's end, the Ravens had also lost wide receiver Torrey Smith to a concussion.
The finger of blame for Baltimore's struggles can be pointed in myriad directions, but it has to start with the injuries that have decimated the club and left them inert and unable to move the football consistently until the game had long been decided.