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Automating Images
Processing images can be a tedious, error-prone, and repetitive task. It may involve many moving parts, and bandwidth or processor time that you don't have (or can't easily afford). Setting up a system that allows you to process images provided by web users could bog you down if you don't have enough disk space or enough CPU to handle the demand.
We decided to create a straightforward solution that would allow users to upload an image and then process that image with Amazon Web Services (AWS). For simplicity's sake, the only processing step taken during the procedure is to thumbnail an image; however, for all practical purposes, we could have set up any number of processing steps.
The solution we created involves these pieces:
- An Amazon Elastic Cloud Computing (Beta) (EC2) instance running Apache and PHP (including PEAR and GD to support our processing needs)
- An Amazon Simple Storage Service (S3) account to hold uploaded images
- An Amazon SimpleDB™ account, to hold metadata about those images
- An Amazon Simple Query Service (SQS) account, to send and receive messages that involve those images
What Are Amazon Web Services?
Unless you've been living in a cave for the past decade, you know that Amazon.com is one of the world's leading Internet retail brands. Amazon started out selling books on the Web, then moved on to sell music, movies, power tools, and more.
Amazon isn't just about the front end; some exciting things are going on in terms of backend power. The most significant is access to AWS. These services are easy to use and relatively inexpensive, providing developers and business owners with innovative fixes for common headaches (such as backup solutions).
Why use Amazon S3? You could spend money on servers or external hard disks; spend more money to connect those machines to the network (or paying colocation fees); and then spend even more money to secure, maintain, and update those servers. Or you can pay a fraction of that money for a high-bandwidth, high-reliability service provided by Amazon.
Amazon S3 provides developers with simple, Internet-based storage that can be used with Amazon EC2 servers. Customized Amazon EC2 servers, called machine instances, are stored in Amazon S3. Developers who want to use Amazon EC2 must also have an Amazon S3 account. Like Amazon EC2, Amazon S3 is fee-based, with price dependent on the amount of storage used and data transferred in and out.
Amazon SimpleDB provides light database functions and allows developers to store metadata in simple, flat schemas that are much like spreadsheets, with rows and columns. In this article, we'll show you how we set up a very simple set of metadata for each uploaded image so that you can keep track of each job.
Amazon SQS allows developers to send and receive messages between different Amazon web services and applications. For example, one application could send a status message that is processed by another application, which could send its own messages for other applications. In this article, we'll show you how to use messages to cue up jobs on Amazon EC2.
How to Sign Up
Before you can use AWS, you'll need to sign up. The process takes about 5 to 10 minutes maximum and requires that you fill out a simple form and register a credit card to pay for services. You'll need to activate each web service that you want to work with.
Simply go to http://aws.amazon.com to sign up. To use this code, you need to have an Access Key ID and a Secret Access Key from Amazon—you'll get those through email as soon as you complete your registration.
Application Overview
The image-processing application operates in two states: first receiving and then storing processing requests. The application makes use of Amazon EC2, S3, SimpleDB, and SQS:
Amazon EC2 contains the actual PHP web application and interacts directly with the other services. When an image is uploaded for processing, it is storedtemporarily in the Amazon S3 service. Information about the processing request is stored in the Amazon SimpleDB database, and a processing request is queued in Amazon SQS.
The application periodically awakens to check the Amazon SQS queue. Any pending requests are retrieved from the Amazon SimpleDB database:
The corresponding image is retrieved from Amazon S3 storage, and the image is processed accordingly. The processed image is then emailed back to the requester.
Creating the Application
As stated earlier, the application is built on top of an Amazon EC2 instance. The application uses Amazon S3 for storage, Amazon SimpleDB for metadata tracking, and Amazon SQS for messaging between components. The Amazon EC2 instance is loaded with certain tools (such as Apache, PHP, PEAR, and GD) to make everything work.
Without further ado, let's dive into the details of each step in the process and then take a look at the code.
Setting up the Amazon EC2 Instance
The remainder of this article assumes that you have signed up for Amazon EC2 and S3 services and obtained the necessary private and public keys needed to use these services. If you haven't done this yet, please read the Amazon EC2 Getting Started Guide , which provides a step-by-step guide to getting access to Amazon EC2 and S3 services.
We chose to use the Elasticfox Firefox plugin to manage the Amazon EC2 instance. We began with the Amazon Machine Instance (AMI) ami-25b6534c, which is the basic Fedora core Linux-Apache-MySQL-PHP (LAMP) instance. To get this image up to speed, we needed to perform some updates, such as updating PHP and PEAR and enabling GD libraries in PHP.
The Les RPM de Remi has a great repository of Fedora Core 4 RPMs, compatible with our AMI. To install the Remi RPM, use the following commands:
# wget http://remi.collet.free.fr/rpms/remi-release-4.rpm # rpm -Uvh remi-release-4.rpm
Install the remi yum repository by using the following commands:
# cd /etc/yum.repos.d # wget http://remi.collet.free.fr/rpms/remi-fedora.repo
Update PHP and PEAR and install the GD library by using the following commands:
# yum --enablerepo=remi install php # yum --enablerepo=remi install php-gd
Finally, you'll need to restart the Apache web server:
# apachectl restart
Setting up the Upload Form
We set up a very simple index.php file in the web root of the Amazon EC2 instance. This index.php file contains a straightforward HTML form that allows the user to specify a file and enter his or her name and email. At the moment, the only task available is to thumbnail the uploaded image.

Thumbnailer
 <form action="upload.php" method="post" enctype="multipart/form-data"> <input type="hidden" name="MAX_FILE_SIZE" value="1000000" />
Choose image to upload <input name="userfile" id="myfile" type="file" />

Your Name <input type='text' name='fullname' id='name'/>

Your Email <input type='text' name='emailaddress' id='email'/>

<input type='checkbox' name='task' id='thumbnail' value='thumbnail' checked='checked'/>Create Thumbnail

<input type="submit" value="Upload File" />
 </form>
As you can see, the form isn't complicated at all. The form action is set to upload.php, which is where we do a lot of the heavy lifting in this application.
Working with the Uploaded Files
After a file is uploaded, it must go through various steps in a certain order. Speaking in general terms, those steps are as follows:
- Create a random string that the application will use to uniquely identify the uploaded image.
- Create an Amazon S3 bucket to hold the image; use the unique identifier as the bucket name. While you're at it, create what the necessary components for Amazon SimpleDB and SQS.
- Upload the file into the prepared bucket.
- Connect to Amazon SimpleDB.
- Create an Amazon SimpleDB domain.
- Create an entry in Amazon SimpleDB to track the uploaded image, using the random string as a key.
- Create an Amazon SQS queue and create a message (again, using the random string again).
- Send an email confirming receipt of the photo to the person who uploaded the image.
- Redirect the user to a thank you/confirmation page.
Before you can do any of that, you need to use require_once() to tie in some files that will help you complete your tasks. You also need to define some constants that will hold your AWS access key and secret password.
require_once 'Crypt/HMAC.php';
require_once 'HTTP/Request.php';
require_once('sqs.client.php'); define('AWS_ACCESS_KEY_ID', 'change-this');
define('AWS_SECRET_ACCESS_KEY', 'change-this-too');
Three classes will help you work with Amazon S3, SimpleDB, and SQS. Each class contains methods that will help you create, update, manage, and delete information on each of the services. Instead of writing each of these functions by hand, we built upon existing classes.
- The file class.s3.php is an Amazon S3 class file written by John Fronckowiak (one of the co-authors of this article) for an earlier Amazon S3 article.
- The file simpledb.class.php is an Amazon SimpleDB class file written by Alex Bosworth.
- The file sqs.client.php is an Amazon SQS class file created by Amazon.
The first step is to create a random string. This random string is important: You're going to use it as an Amazon S3 bucket name, the key for your Amazon SimpleDB entry, and the body of the message sent through Amazon SQS.
To create this random string, you'll use some built-in PHP functions, namely md5(), uniqid(), and rand():
$random = md5(uniqid(rand(), true));
Now that you have the random string saved as the variable $random, you can create some other constants:
define('BUCKET',$random); define('DOMAIN','photo_jobs'); define('SQS_Q', 'photo_q'); define('SQS_ENDPOINT', 'http://queue.amazonaws.com');
After you have a bucket, you can connect to Amazon S3, create your bucket, and then upload the file into Amazon S3. Notice that you'll stop briefly along the way to save the file into the /tmp directory of your Amazon EC2 instance. There's no need to keep this file there, but it is prudent to do so.
$s3 = new S3(); $s3->createBucket(BUCKET); move_uploaded_file( $_FILES['userfile']['tmp_name'], "/tmp/".$_FILES['userfile']['name'] ); chmod( "/tmp/".$_FILES['userfile']['name'], 0777 ); $attempt = $s3->putObject( BUCKET, $_FILES['userfile']['name'], "/tmp/".$_FILES['userfile']['name'], true);
Now that the file is uploaded to Amazon S3, it's time to connect to Amazon SimpleDB and create the domain that will hold your Amazon SimpleDB data. Please note that you are reusing the constants that contain your Amazon access key and password.
$sd = new SimpleDb(AWS_ACCESS_KEY_ID, AWS_SECRET_ACCESS_KEY); $sd->createDomain(DOMAIN);
After the Amazon SimpleDB domain has been created, you will add the data from the form as attributes, then wrap the entire thing with the domain name and random string as unique key for the job. The result is a record of the filepath stored in Amazon S3, the person's name and email, the task (in this case, thumbnail the image), and a preliminary status of "not started."
$data["fullname"] = array($_POST['fullname']); $sd->putAttributes(DOMAIN,$random,$data); $data["email"] = array($_POST['emailaddress']); $sd->putAttributes(DOMAIN,$random,$data); $data["status"] = array('not started'); $sd->putAttributes(DOMAIN,$random,$data); $data["path"] = array($_FILES['userfile']['name']); $sd->putAttributes(DOMAIN,$random,$data); $data["task"] = array($_POST['task']); $sd->putAttributes(DOMAIN,$random,$data);
After the Amazon SimpleDB record has been created, it's time to create an Amazon SQS queue and message. The message itself will be extremely simple, comprising only the random string already generated. In a few minutes, you'll create a process.php file that will grab the next message off the queue and will process the Amazon SimpleDB entry that matches the body of the message.
For now, create the queue and send a message.
$q = new SQSClient(AWS_ACCESS_KEY_ID, AWS_SECRET_ACCESS_KEY, SQS_ENDPOINT); try{ $result = $q->CreateQueue(SQS_Q); //echo 'Queue Created: ', $result, "\n
\n"; }catch(Exception $e){ throw($e); } $messageId = $q->SendMessage(urlencode($random));
You're almost finished with this step. All that remains is to send an email to the person who uploaded the file, and redirect that user to a thank you page:
$to = $_POST['emailaddress']; $from = 'firstname.lastname@example.com'; $subj = "Your image has been uploaded!"; $msg = "You will receive an email once the file has been processed.\r\n"; $msg .= "MessageID: ". $messageId. "\r\n"; $msg .= "Bucket: ". $random; mail($to, $subj,$msg, "From:$from\r\n");
The thank you page (thanks.php) is very simple, consisting only of HTML, but it could contain other items if you so desired:

Thanks!

You will receive an email soon with confirmation information. Shortly after that, you will receive another email when your file has been processed.

Processing Files
A second file, aptly named process.php, will process any jobs. For it to be effective, we've set up a crontab that runs the file once every 3 minutes. Each time the file runs, it pulls one Amazon SQS message off the queue, uses the body of the message to look up an Amazon SimpleDB entry, then uses the information in the entry to figure out which file to pull from the appropriate bucket, to process the file, and to send an email to the user.
Start the file by setting up the proper require_once() lines and defining some constants:
require_once 'Crypt/HMAC.php'; require_once 'HTTP/Request.php'; require_once('class.s3.php'); require_once('simpledb.class.php'); require_once('sqs.client.php'); define('AWS_ACCESS_KEY_ID', 'change-this'); define('AWS_SECRET_ACCESS_KEY', 'change-this-too'); define('DOMAIN','photo_jobs'); //sdb define('SQS_ENDPOINT', 'http://queue.amazonaws.com');
The first step is to log in to Amazon SQS and pull the next message off the queue. After you have that message, you can pull out the message body and the receipt handle. Notice that you're going to wrap all the code in an if(count()) statement—if there is a next message, then keep doing…otherwise, the process will stop until the next time cron calls it.
$q = new SQSClient(AWS_ACCESS_KEY_ID, AWS_SECRET_ACCESS_KEY, SQS_ENDPOINT, SQS_Q); $nextMessage = $q->ReceiveMessage(1); if (count($nextMessage)){ foreach($nextMessage as $message){ $BUCKET = urldecode($message->Body); $handle = $message->ReceiptHandle; } //more here }
Now that you've successfully retrieved the message body (which contains the random string generated in the upload.php file), you can log in to Amazon SimpleDB:
$sd = new SimpleDb(AWS_ACCESS_KEY_ID, AWS_SECRET_ACCESS_KEY);
You can now loop through the available domains in Amazon SimpleDB, match against the one you created to hold the photo messages, and then look for an item key that matches the body you pulled out of the Amazon SQS message. After you find a match, save the attributes into an object called $attr.
$domains = $sd->listDomains(); foreach ($domains->ListDomainsResult as $domains){ foreach ($domains as $id => $d_name){ if ($d_name == DOMAIN){ $mydomain = $sd->query($d_name); foreach ($mydomain->QueryResult as $items){ foreach ($items as $itemid => $_name){ if ($_name == $BUCKET){ $attr = $sd->getAttributes($d_name,$_name); } } } } } }
It's now a simple process of looping through the $attr object and pulling out what you need to keep working: an email address, a task, and a file path. You already know which bucket to work with; it will match the value pulled out of the Amazon SQS body.
foreach ($attr->GetAttributesResult as $attribute){ foreach ($attribute as $array){ if ($array->Name == "email"){ $EMAIL = $array->Value; } if ($array->Name == "path"){ $OBJECT = $array->Value; } if ($array->Name == "task"){ $TASK = $array->Value; } } }
The next steps involve logging into Amazon S3, downloading the file in question by using $OBJECT and $BUCKET, creating a thumbnail with a custom function, and uploading the thumbnail back to Amazon S3, overwriting the previously uploadedfile:
$s3 = new S3(); $s3->downloadObject($BUCKET,$OBJECT,"/tmp/".$OBJECT); createthumb('/tmp/'.$OBJECT, '/tmp/thumb_'.$OBJECT, 100,100); $upload = $s3->putObject( $BUCKET, $OBJECT, '/tmp/thumb_'.$OBJECT, true);
The createthumb() function is a simple function that takes four arguments: file to process, output file name, width of output file, and height of output file. The function makes use of GD image-manipulation tools and is adapted from Christian Heilmann's function available at http://icant.co.uk/articles/phpthumbnails/.
function createthumb($name,$filename,$new_w,$new_h){ $system=explode('.',$name); if (preg_match('/jpg|jpeg/',$system[1])){ $src_img=imagecreatefromjpeg($name); } if (preg_match('/png/',$system[1])){ $src_img=imagecreatefrompng($name); } $old_x=imageSX($src_img); $old_y=imageSY($src_img); if ($old_x > $old_y) { $thumb_w=$new_w; $thumb_h=$old_y*($new_h/$old_x); } if ($old_x < $old_y) { $thumb_w=$old_x*($new_w/$old_y); $thumb_h=$new_h; } if ($old_x == $old_y) { $thumb_w=$new_w; $thumb_h=$new_h; } $dst_img=ImageCreateTrueColor($thumb_w,$thumb_h); imagecopyresampled($dst_img,$src_img,0,0,0,0,$thumb_w,$thumb_h,$old_x,$old_y); if (preg_match("/png/",$system[1])){ imagepng($dst_img,$filename); } else { imagejpeg($dst_img,$filename); } imagedestroy($dst_img); imagedestroy($src_img); }
The next-to-last step in the process.php file sends the owner of the file an email. Inside that email is a URL that contains a link to a file called retrieve.php.
$URL = " http://your-ec2-address.amazonaws.com/retrieve.php?b=".$BUCKET."&o=".urlencode($OBJECT); $to = $EMAIL; $from = 'email@example.com'; $subj = "Image thumbnail is ready!"; $msg = "Your file (". $OBJECT . ") is ready. Please go to:\r\n $URL\r\n to retrieve the image.\r\n"; mail($to, $subj,$msg, "From:$from\r\n");
The final steps in the process are to delete the Amazon SQS message that you just processed and close out the if(count()) branch.
$q->DeleteMessage($handle); }//end if(count($nextMessage))
Retrieving the Processed Files
The email sent to the owner of the file contains a URL that points to a file called retrieve.php. The only jobs that retrieve.php has is to take the incoming GET parameters for bucket and object, and to display the file in the browser.
Along the way, you're going to save the bucket and object information in a PHP SESSION so that you can safely reuse it on a cleanup page.
session_start(); require_once 'Crypt/HMAC.php'; require_once 'HTTP/Request.php'; require_once('class.s3.php'); require_once('simpledb.class.php'); define('DOMAIN','photo_jobs'); //sdb define('AWS_ACCESS_KEY_ID', 'change-this'); define('AWS_SECRET_ACCESS_KEY', 'change-this-too'); $BUCKET = $_GET['b']; $OBJECT = $_GET['o']; //save in session for later cleanup use $_SESSION['o'] = $OBJECT; $_SESSION['b'] = $BUCKET; $s3 = new S3(); $file = $s3->getObject($BUCKET,$OBJECT); echo ''; echo "
Download the image to your desktop and then finalize the clean-up process.";
After all is said and done, you can remove the bucket and object from Amazon S3 and the item from Amazon SimpleDB.
$sd = new SimpleDb(AWS_ACCESS_KEY_ID, AWS_SECRET_ACCESS_KEY); $names = array('fullname', 'email', 'status', 'path', 'task'); $sd->deleteAttributes(DOMAIN,$BUCKET, $names);
Final Cleanup
When the user clicks the "finalize the clean-up process" link, the the cleanup.php file opens. This file pulls in two PHP SESSION variables (which hold values for bucket and object) and passes those values to functions that delete the object and bucket.
session_start(); require_once 'Crypt/HMAC.php'; require_once 'HTTP/Request.php'; require_once('class.s3.php');define('AWS_ACCESS_KEY_ID', 'change-this'); define('AWS_SECRET_ACCESS_KEY', 'change-this-too'); //1. Process GET vars $BUCKET = $_SESSION['b']; $OBJECT = $_SESSION['o']; //2. Delete Bucket and Object from S3 $s3 = new S3(); $s3->deleteObject($OBJECT); $s3->deleteBucket($BUCKET); echo "
Thank you
"; echo "
Your files have now been cleaned up.
";
This article demonstrated how developers can use Amazon EC2, S3, and SQS to build integrated and highly scalable web applications, using traditional web application development techniques. Certainly, there are many ways our image-processing application could be improved and expanded, and more features can be added. With that in mind we've made the entire source code available in a Google Code repository.
Learning More About AWS
This article highlights a few aspects of working with AWS. Here are a few more resources available to developers to help you learn more.
- The Elastic Cloud Computing Web Site
- The Elastic Cloud Computing API
- The Simple Storage Service Web Site
- The Simple Storage Service REST API
- Introduction to AWS for PHP Developers
- php-aws, a PHP library for using Amazon Web Services
About the Authors
Tom Myer (firstname.lastname@example.com) is the founder and owner of Triple Dog Dare Media, providing consulting and technical writing from his headquarters in Austin, TX. He is the author of the forthcoming WROX book Professional CodeIgniter as well as dozens of articles on PHP, web development, and small business topics.
John Fronckowiak (firstname.lastname@example.com) is the President of IDC Consulting, Inc., providing consulting and technical writing. John is also a Clinical Assistant Professor in Information Systems at the Adult Learning Program of Medaille College (http://www.medaille.edu/alp). He is also the author of several books about programming, database design and development, and networking.


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Psychologist John Gottman has spent twenty years studying what makes a marriage last. Now you can use his tested methods to evaluate, strengthen, and maintain your own long-term relationship. This breakthrough book guides you through a series of self-tests designed to help you determine what kind of marriage you have, where your strengths and weaknesses are, and what specific actions you can take to help your marriage. You'll also learn:
Dr. Gottman tells you how to recognize attitudes that doom a marriage - contempt, criticism, defensiveness, and stonewalling - and provides practical exercises, quizzes, tips, and techniques that will help you understand and make the most of your relationship. You can avoid patterns that lead to divorce, and Why Marriages Succeed or Fail will show you how.
Download the accompanying reference guide.
©1994 John Gottman (P)2012 Tantor
"There's plenty of old-fashioned, helpful, and worthwhile advice here about gender differences, realistic expectations, love, and respect." (Kirkus)
I am an engineer!
"Insightful and Easily Understood"
Cheap relationship therapy.
There were no characters.
His voice is very relatable.
Pretty much everything. The book highlights very common logic errors and character flaws that can wreak havoc on personal relationships. It also assured me that having the specific personality that I do isn't indicative that my personal relationships are doomed forever. Learning to let go of things that don't matter much and how to communicate which things are not negotiable... how mature of me!
This book requires a healthy degree of objectivity and self-reflection. Like all self-help type books, it won't change your life. But you will if you decide to internalize any of the sage advice it gives.
"Awesomely awesome"
Because this book is backed up with scientific evidence, it gives me great confidence in the information it provides. Not only does it provide solid techniques and advise, but it also gives extensive examples of the techniques and advice. I will read this again, and would recommend it to anybody.
Divorce to Happiness
"Sizing up your marriage"
Dr Gottman is wonderful about putting everyday trials of marriage into manageable struggles. If you fight with your spouse constantly, read this book. If you feel your spouse does not understand you, read this book. Don't wait till the divorce lawyers are in the picture to look for help!
"Well researched and principles are easy to apply"
This book is particularly useful because the underlying research is empirical rather than purely theoretical. Highly recommend.
"Extremely Valuable Information"
After studying the content of this book and applying its principles in our marriage, we are firmly on the path to healing.
"Required reading"
Anyone remotely considering getting married should read this book.
I wish I had read it years ago.
"Preschool stuff"
Unbelievably basic. I learned one thing. Not a lot of subject matter in here!! Not suited to audio format.
"Narrator is blah"
Great book. A couple points I don't agree with, but overall there is a lot to take away. The downfall for the audio book is the narrator. He sounds like a computer and is not the right person to narrate conversations that couples have.
"awful narration"
narrator sounds robotic, could not focus on the contentalso, the back and forth dialogue between the couples was tedious
so monotone and a slight pause after every word
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subset: commoncrawl


text:
The tourney was a lot of fun this past weekend. Finished 2nd in my division. Moved up a couple of places in my bag tag league as well. The bag worked out great aside from leaving the Wizard at home to make room for other carry-alongs which left me needing a disc that has a gentle fade inbetween the ESP Zone and opto Pure. Think Im going to pick up a pro-d Zone and beat it in to a spot between those 2 discs.
I stopped by my local shop and picked up a new S-PD that was almost as flat as my used p-pd. Flies like a beauty! Put in an order for 2 p-line's as well. Good thing I did grab the new SPD cause i went for a practice round at my local course and the domey SPD i had went for a dip in the pond(buh-bye). I also had my new glow c-pd's arrive. Same dome as the s-line i lost and they aren't plus rimmed like the c-line i currently have shelved. I like the set up thus far.


text:
Baby Frankie is born into an unusual family. Her mother is desperate to find someone to take care of her child, and she doesn't have much time. Noel doesn't seem to be the most promising of fathers but despite everything, he could well be Frankie's best hope. As for Lisa, she is prepared to give up everything for the man she loves; surely he's going to love her back? And Moira is having none of it. She knows what's right, and has the power to change the course of Frankie's life... but Moira is hiding secrets of her own.
A moving tale of unconventional families, relationships that aren't quite what they seem, and the child at the heart of everyone's lives.
Kate Binchy reads this complete, uncut story of heartbreak and hope from best-selling author Maeve Binchy.
©2010 Maeve Binchy (P)2010 Audible Ltd
"An OK Binchy"
This review is spoiler free!
This book has a lot of the features that Binchy fans love: an extended group with "make your own family" types of bonds, characters that make you want to scream but eventually get their due, and lots of fun and drama on the way. It also has one of my favourite features of her latest books: a chance to catch up with many of your favourite Binchy characters from previous books! However, the last chapter is grossly miscalculated. It introduces a wrinkle that is treated far too briefly with a facile resolution that did not sit well with me and kind of wrecked the whole book. If you are a Binchy fan, you won't want to skip this because you can catch up with all those previous characters, but try it and see if you agree with me about the last chapter.
"Minding Frankie"
How could you not love the wonderful, wholesome, emotional, real joys that Mauve Binchy continues to share with her audience. Beautifully read by Kate who honoured the words by bringing us all together to share another lovely visit with these "family members" of the Mauve Binchy world she graciously shares with us all. So enjoyable - please make yourself "feel good". Make sure this book is on your list - become part of the love and inspiration her characters share and impart on its listeners.
"Minding Frankie"
Thoroughly enjoyed this book. Kate Binchy is just wonderful and has a really beautiful voice which enhances the book
"Minding Frankie"
This book make me laugh and want to cry. This book contains a variety of characters and brings them together brilliantly. I couldn't switch it off.
"bravo to the Binchy's"
Bravo to both Maeve and Kate...maeve for a fabulous story..and kate to a fantastic narration .....one of the best books on audio ever....
"Minding Frankie"
Thoroughly enjoyable. Well portrayed characters. Held my interest all the way through.Maeve Binchy at her best.
"Easy Listen"
Yes, It was a nice story and a easy listen.
no, it was easy to pick up and put down, easy to follow, not very gripping but you wanted to know how things worked out.
"A book that envelops you with comfort"
Maeve Binchy is the absolute guru of this genre of writing. I love the way she weaves believable characters and tells stories of fairly ordinary folk. Having read a number of her books I also enjoy the glimpses we get of characters from previous novels. The lady from the social services rang so many bells. This is gentle entertainment that leaves the listener happier than at the beginning. Delightfully read by Kate Binchy who imparts real warmth and empathy.
"a story well told"
I laughed, I cried, but most of all i enjoyed a well told tale.
Who will give us such heart warming stories now? it will take someone special to fill her shoes.
"Good if you like Maeve Binchy books"
This is a fairly interesting story, although the social worker in the story is not very likeable. The only criticism I would give it is the narrating voice - makes the characters all sound quite old.
If you like Maeve Binchy stories, you will probably enjoy this.
"bland irish story"
i know that reading a meave binchy i'll get a irish story, but i felt it dragged in several parts of it.
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PHOENIX PetSmart announced the availability of an exclusive line of pet products from Martha Stewart. Martha Stewart Pets will include a wide range of pet products such as apparel, collars, leashes, bedding, feeding, grooming and bathing supplies, the company reported.
"I consider my pets members of my family and it's important to me that they're well cared for. I'm delighted to provide other pet owners with affordable, quality products that they can rely on to make their pets happy and comfortable," said Martha Stewart, founder of Martha Stewart Living Omnimedia. "Working with PetSmart was a natural choice because they are the leader in pet retail and share my desire for the happiness and healthiness of pets."


text:
Unless indicated, documents on this Web site are Adobe Acrobat files, and require the free reader software.
Welcome to the Statistical Abstract for the Florida Department of Environmental Protection. Please choose a topic from the list below.
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August 31, 2015
2012 State of Florida
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This recipe comes from Pooja Mottl of Pooja's Way. Pooja's Way is filled with recipes, fitness tips and videos for a healthy lifestyle. Her philosophy is that healthy food should be delicious and simple to cook. We hope you enjoy this recipe from her. We love it because it adds whole grains to a classic favorite. Make this gluten free by using our Gluten Free Rolled Oats.
Creamy Vegan Butternut Squash Soup
Yield: Approx. 3 ½ cups
Can creamy be healthy and delicious? Absolutely! By substituting rolled oats for butter and cream, this seasonal butternut squash soup recipe takes on a beautiful creamy consistency while staying entirely plant based. Star anise adds a beautifully sweet flavor and aroma to this hearty Fall and Winter go-to.
[Updated: 11/21/11: 9:30 am]
- 1 tsp organic Expeller Pressed Canola Oil (preferred) or Extra Virgin Olive Oil
- 1 ½ cups Yellow Onion, diced (about 1 large onion)
- 4 cups Butternut Squash, skin removed, roughly diced into ¾ inch cubes (about ¾ squash)
- 2 ½ cups organic Vegetable Broth
- 1 ¾ cup organic Apple Cider
- ½ to ¾ tsp Sea Salt
- ¼ tsp ground Black Pepper
- 1 star Anise
- ½ cup Bob's Red Mill Regular Rolled Oats
- ¼ tsp ground Cumin
- 1/8 tsp Cayenne
- ½ cup Water
- Warm oil in a large heavy bottom saucepot or dutch oven over low-medium heat. Add onions and sauté until soft and translucent, making sure not to brown.
- Add squash, stock, 1 ¼ cup cider, star anise, ½ teaspoon salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then lower to a simmer and cook, covered, for 10 minutes.
- Uncover, remove star anise, add oats, spices, and continue to simmer, covered for another ten minutes. Or until squash softens and begins to fully dissolve.
- Turn off heat. Add water and remaining apple cider and immediately transfer to a large mixing bowl to cool for a few minutes.
- Transfer to a strong blender, and blend until creamy smooth. Blend in batches if necessary. Transfer back to sauce pot, add remaining salt (optional) and warm again as desired. Ladle into your favorite bowl and enjoy!
Copyright © 2010 Pooja Mottl. All rights reserved.


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A graphic designer shares his experiences in the field
on Wednesday,April 27,2011 22:04
A West Virginia graphic designer explains how the profession has changed over the years and his personal experiences with it. Mark Wolfe started his own company once he left the corporate world 17 years ago, according to the Sunday Gazette-Mail.
The Charleston resident's speciality is logo design but he explains to the newspaper that it can be difficult because he is attempting to reflect a person's personality onto a design, and that is also the reason why he loves it.
Wolfe, who use to doodle different corporate signs as a 5-year-old, always knew he wanted to be a graphic designer. He shares that individuals in this field used to have to cut screens, create layers and put registration marks all by hand. Now that it has moved to computers, Wolfe was able to start his company from home.
"The great blessing I have is I am never bored," he said to the newspaper. "I like doing things that enhance my life and other people's lives."
Graphic designers students may run into keen competition upon graduation, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. Employment in this field is expected to increase by 13 percent between 2008 and 2018, which is just above the average for all occupations.
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Graphic Design, Bachelor of Science (Online)
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The Art Institutes system of schools , Sacramento
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Latest Articles & News
Kanye West to perform during Paris Fashion Week
It is no secret to many that music artist Kanye West is no stranger to fashion, and now he will be showing his new collection during Paris Fashion Week later this week, according to the Elle Magazine.
Second designer chosen for home decor competition
Teenlike.com, an ongoing online competition for young home decor designers, announced its second winner. Brandon Dover of Apply Valley, California, was this year's winner, as he created an abstract pen and inkwork design for a bedspread.


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Rise of the Underminer
'); var yuipath = 'clientscript/yui'; var yuicombopath = ''; var remoteyui = false; } else // Load Rest of YUI remotely (where possible) { var yuipath = 'http://yui.yahooapis.com/2.9.0/build'; var yuicombopath = 'http://yui.yahooapis.com/combo'; var remoteyui = true; if (!yuicombopath) { document.write('
Twilight Princess Wii
Man I love the Wii
Don't ask Marvin Harrison what he did during the bye week. "Batman never told where the Bat Cave is," he explained.
Fight Night Round 3 on PS3 (Console)
World of Warcraft (PC)
Battle for Middle Earth II: Rise of the Witch-King. I swear, this expansion messed everything up. The added race is way too powerful, and simultaneously they watered-down the other races.
Yeah, I first stumbled upon the Earth Tyrant at, like, level 25 or so, and it tore me apart. So I went back about 10 levels later and gave it what for. Then I didn't even get anything for it. Pfft.
Working on Cuchulainn at the moment - the Sap field effect makes it rough, though, even with Regen. Trying to kill it through Quickenings almost exclusively now - I've come really close a couple times. Got a Black Hole against Exodus, maybe I can do it against Ol' Fatty too.
Cats on Mars
I, also love the wii.
the last game i played was far cry vengance and if anyone knows how to get out of shantytown I would appreciate it.
That'll do.
That'll do.
Yeah. I'm a jackass.
Wait, is it a field that causes Sap, or a field that saps HP?
Pardon the n00b question, but if it's the former, can't you just equip an item that's immune to Sap?
I meant to say "3 Quickenings for all players".
i'm on 112 hours, trying to finish up the rare hunts for the hunt club (only have 5 more to go), the rest of the marks (i'm supposed to be going to Phros lighthouse story wise), and finding all techniques and the such.
I never thought i would reach the 100 hour mark ever again after Okami, but wow. lol thats what keeps me coming back to RPGS totaly worth it if you put the time into it.
And to be fair, I hadn't played an RPG (or really much of anything) since the original FF for NES. But I have nothing to do now that I'm just waiting for my law school apps to get back, and I'm not spending all my free time with the woman. Or talking to real people.
Would you hate me more if I told you that I had no idea what you guys were talking about and felt left out, so I copied that from some random Final Fantasy forum?
Not that I would ever do such a thing. I was just wondering.......
Erm, second one. Sorry, I can see how that was confusing, guess I shouldn't have capitalized it. But, the boss does cast Sap in addition to the field effect, so it's like one great big no HP party. I wonder if I could cast Bubble on the people with the Bubble Belts...would that give me some kind of Double Bubble...? Just need to survive for awhile to deal enough damage so I won't have to rely entirely on a barrage of Quickenings.
If it failed, I suppose it would be a Bubble Bobble
Uh, then cast Regen, Shell, Protect, and Save me Jesus before the battle?
Oh, and if I didn't buy Bubble from the Clan provider before moving up a couple more rankings, is it available anywhere else? He doesn't seem to want to sell it to me.
Star Wars: Knights of the Old Republic
It's almost 3 years old, and I've had it for a year and a 1/2. I was saving it until my son was old enough to play it. He got it for Christmas this year.
Great game.
You're caught up in the Internet / you think it's such a great asset / but you're wrong, wrong, wrong
All that fiber optic gear / still cannot take away the fear / like an island song
- Jimmy Buffett
Yeah, I have Regen, Shell, Protect, Reflect and Bravery on. Maybe if I could make myself immune to all physical attacks like so many of the bosses do...
Even if I used Penelo (who has the most MP), I think the number would still be less than what my Bubble Belts give me. I'm going to gain a couple more levels and then go back and try it again.
As far as the Clan provider goes, I don't think anything should go away once you gain a rank... Nothing has for me, anyway. I'm not sure why you can't buy it. I haven't seen it anywhere else, either, although I usually overlook anything greyed out.
I want a bubble belt.
Does the field last forever? Or does it go away after a while?
I bought one from the Clan Provisioner. They sell for about 19K... I got the other one from the Antlion hunt.
As far as I've been able to discern, it lasts the whole battle.
All I do is...dance
Just bought Shadow of the Collossus (I'm at a point where I've fallen behind enough to buy just about all my games in their $20 packaging).
I don't think I've ever beat a game in 3 days (about 4 hours each day). It was fun while it lasted (except for the next to last giant who had 2 secrect vulnerability point of which I found the 2nd one first and spent like 2 hours one day trying to get to a spot I wasn't allowed to get to). Worth the $20, definately glad I didn't buy it full price.
Anyone beat it in hard mode? Is there any reason to?
So someone give me the skinny on FFXII. Obviously you guys love it, but keep in mind I'm a hardcore FF player, and have been playing since I was...7 with the original FF. Having said that, I feel the series is going down the crapper, with every incarnation focusing more on gameplay and graphics, when I prefer they stick to a compelling storyline. I was planning on completely blowing this one off, but it's set in Ivalice, and is done by the guy that did my favorite FF of all time, FF Tactics.
So, give me a brief synopsis? Will I hate this game? Or does it have some sort of storyline to keep me interested?


text:
http://www.innovadiscs.com/home/587-atl ... roved.html
Seems quite similar to another company's technology. Discuss…
Moderators: Timko, Fritz, Solty, Booter, Blake_T, Frank Delicious
Ryen91 wrote:I am pretty sure I am more intelligent then you think and have allot more knowledge then your post might suggest.
money 21 wrote:can't believe innova copied quest like that.
Stringbean wrote:Wouldn't this cut down on the consistency problems related to PLH?
JHern wrote:If your putter isn't your favorite disc, get a new putter.
7ontheline wrote: ... I think the inner rim might make for cleaner releases than MVP's curved early release design if that rivet doesn't slice a finger
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text:
Group Booking Terms and Conditions
Because you are making a Group Booking, there are additional Terms and Conditions that apply. Please read them and click 'I Accept' below to continue with your booking
General Group Booking Terms
By making a group reservation through Hostelworld.com you agree to the following terms and conditions as set by Hostelworld.com and as set by the hostel in question.
- In order to make a group reservation on Hostelworld.com it is necessary to pay a deposit. The balance is due directly to the hostel according to their payment conditions.
- The booking deposit is non-refundable.
- Please note that any cancellations must be notified directly to the hostel at least 24 hours in advance of your scheduled arrival date, unless otherwise stated in the hostel's conditions.
- Hostelworld.com are not responsible for changes or amendments to your reservation once it has been processed. All correspondence with regard to changes to your booking need to be dealt with directly with the hostel.
- Cancellations for reservations must be made directly with the hostel and must conform with the individual hostels cancellation policy (see below)
- It is your responsibility to pay the balance of your accommodation cost to the hostel in accordance with their payment conditions (see below). Failure to do so may result in your reservation being cancelled by the hostel.
- Individual hostels may have special booking conditions relating to group stays, please read the hostel booking conditions carefully before making your reservation.
Hostel Specific Terms & Conditions
The remainder of the amount due will be charged to your credit card on arrival. Should numbers or room selection change, the per person deposit times the number of people who actually travelled will be deducted from the total accommodation charge levvied by the hostel.
Cancellation / No Show & Reduction in Numbers Policy
Cancellation of GROUP bookings
The following charges apply if a group is cancelled within 28 days: Time prior to arrival that group is cancelled
% of total booking value payable
No show or same day 75 %
1 4 days 60 %
5 7 days 50 %
8 14 days 35 %
15 21 days 20%
22 28 days 10%
Important Notes
A group constitutes 10 pax or more. For groups in excess of 100 pax we reserve the right to negotiate a separate cancellation policy at the time of booking.
Note that cancellations of confirmed bookings (both groups and individuals) should be made by fax and must be counter signed and faxed back to you by us. If you do not have a document signed by us reconfirmed a cancellation then that cancellation is not valid and charges will apply as above.
No charges will generally apply if a group is cancelled more than 28 days prior to arrival, though we reserve the right to change this agreement with individual clients if it becomes apparent that confirmed groups are regularly being cancelled just outside this deadline. Any such changes to policy would be agreed in writing with the client concerning prior to coming into effect.
Reductions in size of up to 10% of a group can be made without charge any time prior to the day of arrival. Groups arriving with fewer pax than we have been notified of will however be subject to full charges as if the whole group had stayed.
Reductions in size in excess of 10% of a group within 28 days of arrival will be treated as if they were cancellations and charges will be levied on the whole reduction, ie. There is no concession on the first 10% cancelled as applied above.
Note that even where a group is booked for a large number of nights it is the date of arrival (relative to time of cancellation) that determines the charge to be applied to all nights.
Where it is apparent that a group is unhappy with their accommodation largely because they have been misinformed about, or have misunderstood the nature of The Generator product, No Show charges will apply to any nights that the group decide not to stay with us. We advise that all prospective guests receive a copy of our 2002 brochure, available to all our clients on request.
Note that the schedule of proportional charges above already discounts factors such as variable costs we may avoid due to a cancellation, VAT, and possible revenue we might receive from reselling rooms. Where resold rooms are concerned we have obviously approximated revenue based on experience.
If individual clients wish to have an arrangement with us whereby they always compensate us (further to 28 day or less group cancellations, at a rate of 80% of room sales value) for rooms that are actually unsold after subsequent review, we reserve the right to enter into such an agreement. It should be noted however that the whole idea and spirit of our normal cancellation policy is that uncertainty is eliminated and that complex calculations need to be undertaken to resolve group cancellation situations.
As regards the above paragraph please note that hedging in isolated situations is not acceptable to The Generator (ie. Asking to pay the lower of the normal cancellation policy charges and the actual lost revenue to us from unsold rooms). This again defeats our objective of trying to create a simple, consistent and certain group cancellation policy.
In summary what we are saying to clients is either accept our policy (creating certainty), or agree to pay in full for any lost revenue we incur from unsold rooms (creating uncertainty). Each client has the choice between the two, but whichever procedure is chosen must be applied consistently.
If you have any questions or queries about our policy please give me a call as soon as possible.
Thank you!
Sabine Ranft
General Manager
Any cancellations resulting from agreement to these terms and conditions under false pretences will result in loss of deposit.
Debe aceptarlos para que podamos confirmar su reserva.
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Email firstname.lastname@example.com: 1-856-461-8883
Free Shippingon all orders $60 or more!*
You have 0 item(s) in your cart worth $0.00
The animals are all here, two by two, now as soon as the Ark is finished they can all get this wild survival cruise started!
Your bags are packed, destination set, and you've got everything you need packed in one suitcase... If you can just piece it all together.
Don't worry about plane or train tickets, boats with mechanical failures, the rising cost of gasoline or if you'll be able to fit everything into your luggage. Masterpieces has it all taken care of with their Suitcase Box puzzles! Which include their high quality jigsaws using board that contains 100% recycled post-consumer content and uses earth friendly inks and coatings.


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At the risk of wearing out my welcome in the Letters Section of the paper, I would like to commend Lance Minnis for his article in the Oct. 17 edition of the Local. The two most important statements he made were to point out that the city of Eminence is not helpless in protecting its old buildings and that "tearing down the city center to install a generic big box is not what successful communities do…" 'Progress' never means tearing down an old building just to put up a new one (but always one with "plenty of parking") in its place.
If you currently subscribe or have subscribed in the past to the Henry County, then simply find your account number on your mailing label and enter it below.
Click the question mark below to see where your account ID appears on your mailing label.
If you are new to the award winning Henry County and wish to get a subscription or simply gain access to our online content then please enter your ZIP code below and continue to setup your account.
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Note: This item is more than 12 years old. Please take the publication date into consideration for any date references.
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News Release
Media Contact: TPWD News, firstname.lastname@example.com, 512-389-8030
Oct. 11, 2004
Bighorn Success Remembered as Free Hunt Deadline Nears
MARATHON, Texas — Texas hunters are reminded that anyone who buys any type of current season resident hunting license by midnight Oct. 17 will automatically be entered into a drawing for one of two Texas bighorn sheep hunts.
Such hunts normally auction for tens of thousands of dollars, making this a chance at the hunt of a lifetime for those who otherwise might not be able to afford it. (Employees of Texas Parks and Wildlife Department, which is giving away the hunts, are not eligible.)
"Now that we've surpassed our goal of returning the bighorn sheep to historic levels, it's time to give something back to the hunters who help pay for wildlife conservation," said TPWD Executive Director Robert L. Cook. "Whoever is selected for these once-in-a- lifetime hunts owes a big debt of gratitude to private landowners and to conservation groups like the Texas Bighorn Society, who also played a vital role in the return of the desert bighorn sheep to West Texas."
Details about the bighorn hunt drawing on are on the TPWD Web site (http://tpwd.texas.gov/newsmedia/releases/?req=20040927j).
The drawing is prompting some Texans to consider for the first time the story of a wild animal most people will never see. State biologists say much of the credit for the bighorn's comeback goes to private landowners and the Texas Bighorn Society (TBS), a determined group of conservationist volunteers who have poured their time, money and energy into saving the desert sheep for more than 20 years.
Around 1905, it was estimated that there were 500 desert bighorn sheep in Texas, clambering along the arid mountains of the Trans-Pecos. By the early-1950s there were none; native bighorns were wiped out by a combination of livestock-borne disease and unregulated hunting. Today, there are nearly 700 bighorns in the state, their return made possible by hunter license dollars, landowners and groups like the TBS.
The bighorn society spearheaded the revitalization of a TPWD bighorn restoration program threatened by limited funding. Since it formed in 1981, the conservation group has generated more than $1 million for bighorn restoration, conservation, research and management.
Through the years, bighorn society volunteers have contributed a steady stream of more than 30 development projects to provide water for sheep, radio telemetry equipment for monitoring bighorns, food and supplies for all TPWD bighorn hunts, and educational programs to generate public interest in Texas bighorns, such as a Web camera at Elephant Mountain Wildlife Management Area monitored by sportsmen, schools, zoos and others via the TBS Web site (http://www.texasbighornsociety.org/).
"The Texas Bighorn Society has been involved in every aspect of bighorn restoration and management in Texas since those efforts began, and we continue to rely heavily on the organization," said Clay Brewer, TPWD bighorn sheep program coordinator. "One thing is certain; we wouldn't be where we are today without their support."
In addition to the hunts being offered in the drawing among Texas hunting license buyers, TPWD offers the chance to hunt a bighorn sheep in the rugged mountains of far West Texas through the "Big Time Texas Hunts' Grand Slam hunting package. For a $10 fee, hunters can enter in a drawing for the opportunity to hunt all four of Texas prized big game animals: the desert bighorn, white-tailed deer, mule deer and pronghorn antelope. Entries are available wherever hunting licenses are sold. Entries may also be purchased using a major credit card through the TPWD Web site or by calling (800) 895-4248. *
* Correction, Oct. 11, 2004: — The original version of this news release has been edited. (Return to corrected item.)
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(5.4.16 i)


text: Kemo, if you need someone else to look at your resume PM me. I will give you my e-mail and you can then send it to me as an attachment. I kinda/sorta handle hiring where I work, but the point is I look at a lot of resumes and know a lot of common errors that will get your resume thrown out of the pile really fast. I am a graduate student juggling three academic projects and I work full time so it may take me a little time to look at it (a week), but I will get you the quickest turnaround time possible. God bless.


text:
Have you ever dreamed of running your own horse stable? Owner looking for entrepreneurial spirited person to partner together to start a business on recently…$1,750
Delaware River Waterfront Horse Property- Great Location-(36 Sleepy Hollow Rd Port Jervis, NY) one of the few properties that has direct access to the…$259,000
Bring your horses! Bring your pets! Lovely new 2014 3 stall barn with heated tack room. Each stall has dutch doors for horses to come and go. Floors are…$779,000
FOR SALE 148+/- Acre Horse Training Center Howell Twp, Monmouth Co, NJ Price Reduced! Asking $939,000 - Well established standard bred training center…$939,000
AUCTION 144+/- Acre Preserved Farm Bethlehem Twp, Hunterdon Co, NJ September 27th - 144+/- Preserved Acres in the Famous Musconetcong River Valley…No Price Listed
mls g10234360 house with barn water and power in barn 3 stalls with tack room , 4 bdrm colonial built 1979 new roof new kitchen new master suite ceramic…$405,000
https://www.zillow.com/homedetails/172-Burlington-Rd-Harwinton-CT-06791/57799977_zpid/ 4.9 acres , private pond ,abuts state land, 3 stall barn with…$405,000
You will be proud to own this horse facility. Nicely cared for business with 25+ boxstalls in 2 large barns, with 9 cross-fenced paddocks and indoor arena…$200,000
Horse property located 6 minutes from all area amenities!!! Barn offers 4 stalls with heated waterers for horses, tack room, holds 300 bails of hay in…$429,000
Unique home located on over 10 acres of land complete with large barn, garden area, gazebo located in separate area of yard, go beyond this and there is…$280,000


text:
To try the thousands of add-ons available here, download Mozilla Firefox, a fast, free way to surf the Web!Close
Welcome to Firefox Add-ons.
Choose from thousands of extra features and styles to make Firefox your own.Close
Meet the Azerbaijani Spell Checker Developer
Why was Azerbaijani Spell Checker created?
In 2007, I created the spell checker for Brazilian Portuguese (I'm Brazilian), and have been maintaining it since then.
In August 2010, my life boomed with changes and that was the push that I needed to start a new study, which was the expansion of the spell checker into other languages.
While researching to find out what languages were not yet supported with Mozzila applications, I noticed and stood out to me 3 topics: countries' photos (images), natives' characteristics (traits, habits, behavior, culture) and their flags. So, I realized that the Azerbaijani Spell Checker would benefit a lot of foreign people (like myself), increasing their knowledge about the language and helping on daily projects.At this point, I began working on the Azerbaijani Spell Checker in order to have it available online.
From the time I made it available online until now, I've been watching the number of downloads increase, which rest assures me that the Azerbaijani Spell Checker was really needed and is helping people on their research and studies.
What's next for Azerbaijani Spell Checker
This is still the beginning, but I hope to be able to support most of the words in future versions.
Another addition will be the suggestion of new words by the user, which after being reviewed by the maintainer, could make it in the next version.
Android support is also expected.
For the Azerbaijani Spell Checker to be kept updated, it needs testing and experimentation; this is the only way for it to get better with each new version.
About the Developer
|Vinícius Della Líbera
|User since
|November 26, 2007
|Number of add-ons developed
|15 add-ons
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|Rated 5 out of 5 stars
To create your own collections, you must have a Mozilla Add-ons account.


text:
Human Papillomavirus Infection and Knowledge and Attitudes About HPV Vaccines Among Men Who Have Sex With Men (MSM)
The recruitment status of this study is unknown. The completion date has passed and the status has not been verified in more than two years.
Verified February 2011 by Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences.
Recruitment status was: Not yet recruiting
Recruitment status was: Not yet recruiting
Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences
Information provided by:
Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences
ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier:
First received: February 22, 2011
Last updated: NA
Last verified: February 2011
History: No changes posted
- Full Text View
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- No Study Results Posted
- Disclaimer
- How to Read a Study Record
This is a observational study aims to assess anal and genital human papillomavirus (HPV) infection status among men who have sex with men (MSM) in China, and their knowledge and attitude about HPV vaccine.
|HPV Infection HIV Infection Syphilis
|Study Type:
|Study Design:
|Observational Model: Ecologic or Community
Time Perspective: Cross-Sectional
Resource links provided by NLM:
Further study details as provided by Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences:
|Ages Eligible for Study:
|18 Years and older (Adult, Senior)
|Sexes Eligible for Study:
|Accepts Healthy Volunteers:
|Sampling Method:
|Probability Sample
Study Population
A total of 3,000 eligible men who have sex with men (MSM) with 300 from each city will be enrolled from ten cities (BeiJing, ShangHai, TianJin, ChongQing, GuangZhou, ZhengZhou, Harbin, ShenYang, ChengDu, and KunMing) by the local CDCs and non-government MSM organizations
Inclusion Criteria:
- ≥ 18 years old;
- Ever had homosexual behaviors in the past 12 months;
- Willing to take tests for HIV/HPV infection;
- Physically able and willing to provide written informed consent.
Contacts and Locations
Choosing to participate in a study is an important personal decision. Talk with your doctor and family members or friends about deciding to join a study. To learn more about this study, you or your doctor may contact the study research staff using the Contacts provided below. For general information, see Learn About Clinical Studies.
Please refer to this study by its ClinicalTrials.gov identifier: NCT01300689
Please refer to this study by its ClinicalTrials.gov identifier: NCT01300689
|Contact: XiangWei Li, MD
|China, Beijing
|Institute of Pathogen Biology (IPB)
|Not yet recruiting
|Beijing, Beijing, China, 100730
|Contact: Yu Yang, MD email@example.com
|Principal Investigator: Lei Gao, Ph. D.
Sponsors and Collaborators
Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences
|Principal Investigator:
|Lei Gao, Ph.D.
|Institute of Pathogen Biology (IPB), CAMS&PUMC
More Information
Keywords provided by Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences:
Additional relevant MeSH terms:
ClinicalTrials.gov processed this record on September 25, 2017
|Responsible Party:
|Lei Gao, Institute of Pathogen Biology, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College
|ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier:
|NCT01300689 History of Changes
|Other Study ID Numbers:
HPV and MSM in China
|Study First Received:
|February 22, 2011
|Last Updated:
|February 22, 2011
Keywords provided by Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences:
Additional relevant MeSH terms:
Communicable Diseases
HIV Infections
Papillomavirus Infections
Lentivirus Infections
Retroviridae Infections
RNA Virus Infections
Virus Diseases
Sexually Transmitted Diseases, Viral
Sexually Transmitted Diseases
Immunologic Deficiency Syndromes
Immune System Diseases
DNA Virus Infections
Tumor Virus Infections
Treponemal Infections
Gram-Negative Bacterial Infections
Bacterial Infections
Sexually Transmitted Diseases, Bacterial
Spirochaetales Infections
Genital Diseases, Male
Genital Diseases, Female
ClinicalTrials.gov processed this record on September 25, 2017


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Dean's Update, March 28, 2014
AACSB Accreditation Earned for Additional Five Years
The Board of Directors of the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business, International (AACSB) voted today (March 28) to extend CBA's accreditation for five years. Robert S. Sullivan, Chair, AACSB Board of Directors, informed us that the Peer Review Team's recommendation had been concurred with by the Continuous Improvement Review Committee and ratified by the Board of Directors. The CBA is one of 694 member institutions, out of 13,000 worldwide, that holds AACSB accreditation. Overall, 45 countries and territories are represented by AACSB-accredited schools. Our undergraduate degree, including all eight options, and our graduate degree, including all three MBA offerings, are both fully accredited by AACSB.
While AACSB accreditation affirms the quality of the CBA and the education we provide, receiving this positive decision is a testimony to the hard work of our faculty and staff, the guidance of AACSB staff and the Peer Review Team, and the support of the Cal State Long Beach top administration. Special thanks go to Robert Chi, Associate Dean for Accreditation, for leading our accreditation efforts over the past two and a half years. Each person in the CBA has done his or her part to make this happen, and it has been a continuous team effort. Without the support of the President and Provost, we would not have the resources to secure the accreditation extension.
It is always good to pause for a moment to celebrate and recognize the contributions of those who have made this moment possible. Thank you, everyone. And by the way, reaccreditation 2019 begins today!


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|301 Congress Ave. Suite 700
Austin, TX 78701
United States
|Full Time
|Engineering / Product Dev / Science
|Web Site:
|301 Congress Ave. Suite 700
Austin, TX 78701
United States
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President Barack Obama's National Commission on Fiscal Responsibility and Reform was given the seemingly impossible task of crafting a budgetary blueprint to head off the country's looming debt crisis in a way both Democrats and Republicans could accept. The commission's final report was therefore predictable — with elements Republicans and Democrats could both like and dislike.
Downsizing Blog
Huge Cost Overrun for FAA's NextGen
A year ago I discussed problems that the Federal Aviation Administration was having in trying to implement an overhaul of the nation's air traffic control system. The "NextGen" overhaul would replace old-fashioned radar technology with modern satellite-based GPS navigation.
Bright Spots in Fiscal Commission Report
President Obama's Fiscal Commission has produced a serious and sobering analysis of the government's budget mess, and it provides some of the needed solutions. Three of the report's main themes are on target: the need to make government leaner, the need to cut business taxes to generate economic growth, and the need to impose tighter budget rules to discipline spending.
Rep. Kingston's Spending Cut Plan
An indicator of the incoming House Republican majority's seriousness about cutting spending will be which members the party selects to head the various committees.
Disability Benefits Unsustainable
The disability insurance component of Social Security was created in 1956 to provide income support to individuals aged 50 to 64 who were permanently disabled. As is typical with government programs, eligibility and benefits were greatly expanded over the subsequent decades.
Obama Adopts Cato Pay Proposal
The Obama administration is supporting a two-year freeze on federal pay. I haven't seen the details yet, but this appears to be a good start at getting excessive government pay under control.
High-Speed Federalism Fight
In October, I speculated that the upcoming elections could be the nail in the coffin for the Obama administration's plan for a nationwide system of high-speed rail. Indeed, some notable gubernatorial candidates who ran, in part, on opposition to federal subsidies for HSR in their states proceeded to win. However, Transportation Secretary Ray LaHood made it clear in a recent speech to HSR supporters that the administration intends to push ahead.
$125 Billion in Improper Payments
The Office of Management and Budget was recently pleased to announce that the rate of improper payments made by federal agencies decreased from 5.65 percent to 5.49 percent last year. There's just one problem: the total price tag increased by $15 billion to $125 billion.
Plan to Balance the Federal Budget
Chris Edwards has released a Plan to Cut Federal Spending and Balance the Federal Budget.
Earmark Ban is Only Round One
The ban on spending earmarks adopted this past week by Republicans in the House and Senate represents a Round One victory for the tea party over a GOP establishment that took pork-barrel spending to a new high (or perhaps low) during the Bush years. Congressional Democrats – still reeling from their electoral pummeling – are about to find themselves largely alone in maintaining a practice that represents corruptive policymaking at its worst.


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The Colts can get away with high prices because they are the Colts. Their tickets have been in high demand for a decade, and people are willing to pay high concession prices because of the "big event" status that comes with a Colts game. Since there are only 8 home games a season, many people only go to one a year and therefore justify spending a high amount at the game since it is sort of a "once a year" thing. Plus all of the Colts games are played on Sundays when people are off work (unless its a Monday night obviously, which is actually in more demand because of the big event status that comes with MNF).
OTOH, the Pacers charging such high concession prices over the years is just bad business when you've been as desperate for attendance as the Pacers have in recent years. There are 41 Pacer games, most of which are on weeknights. Only a select few of them have "big event" status. Thus, charging such outlandishly high concession prices is just not smart business when you're begging people to come to games. It's probably not as big of a deal now that the team has turned the corner, but it was a dumb move for all of the dark years in which no one was coming.
Look, I understand charging a lot for beer. If you had $3 beer, then people would be getting absolutely tanked, and you don't want a bunch of drunks in the stands who then get into their cars after the game. But the food prices are just a ripoff.


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I have resently switch to throw 150 drivers. I had a 150 pro TL in the closet that i am not sure i had ever thrown so i put it in the bag and have been using it for a couple weeks now. I love the flight of the disc. the problem is the pro tl is oop and finding a replacement will be hard to find. any advise for a 150 class disc with similar flight to a pro tl.
The disc is in 8/10 shape and i throw it between 325'-350' hyzer flip to straight and flat for a gentle turn.


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Fredi holding off on opening Braves rotation
LAKE BUENA VISTA, Fla. -- It seems obvious that the Braves will tab either Tim Hudson or Kris Medlen to serve as this year's Opening Day starting pitcher. Manager Fredi Gonzalez will wait a few more weeks to make the decision and determine the best way to strategically align his starting rotation.
"We're going to see how it goes during Spring Training," Gonzalez said. "Opening Day is a special thing. It is a special start for that guy. We're going to wait a couple weeks to make sure everybody is healthy and see how everything develops. It's not just Opening Day, it's the way you're rotation sets up for the next few days."
With the Phillies coming to Atlanta to open the season, the Braves could use one of their two left-handed starters -- Mike Minor or Paul Maholm -- in the second game of the opening series. This could help against left-handed sluggers Chase Utley and Ryan Howard.
But more importantly, this would put the Braves in position to separate the right-handers and left-handers in the rotation.


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Phillies thump Nats, but Lee likely done for season
Second left elbow strain lands vet back on DL; seeing doctor Saturday
WASHINGTON -- The Phillies didn't make a single trade before Thursday's non-waiver Trade Deadline, then likely lost Cliff Lee for the remainder of the season to a recurring elbow injury at Nationals Park.
The organization has had better days.
"At this point, that's probably the case," Lee said about this season being finished following a 10-4 victory over the Nationals.
The Phillies know they need to make changes to reverse their fortunes, and they thought Lee might play a part in that in a possible trade before the Aug. 31 waiver Trade Deadline. Lee on Thursday made his third start since his return from a two-month stint on the disabled list with a strained left elbow. Everything seemed to be going well as he retired eight of the first nine batters he faced.
But then disaster struck. Lee shook his head and shouted an expletive after he threw his first pitch to Nationals center fielder Denard Span with two outs in the third inning. He motioned to the Phillies' dugout, then used his glove to point to his left elbow. Phillies head athletic trainer Scott Sheridan quickly met Lee, who appeared to tell Sheridan that he "felt it on that pitch."
He was finished.
Lee left the field. He rarely expresses emotion, good, bad or otherwise. But the frustration on his face in the dugout was painfully evident. He was upset. He knew something bad had happened. He knew his season was almost certainly finished.
"It's obviously a frustrating moment," said Lee, who said he started to feel something in his elbow during pregame warmups. "I had an arm injury that I've never had before, or anything close to it. I missed two months. I came back and on my third start, it's back. Obviously that's frustrating, especially when it was progressing well. It was all but gone. It was out of my mind. I wasn't thinking about it at all until today when I was throwing those pitches. 'Oh, there it is again.' I was hoping it was just a little twinge that would kind of go away and it hung around.
"It kind of progressively got worse as the game went on. Obviously I didn't get that deep, but my last five or six pitches, I felt like at any moment something could snap and that's the end of it. Obviously I didn't want that to happen."
The Phillies announced Lee has a strained left flexor pronator, the same injury as before. He has been placed on the 15-day disabled list with left-hander Cesar Jimenez being called up from Triple-A Lehigh Valley to take his spot on the 25-man roster.
Lee will see a doctor Saturday.
Who knows what happens after this? Surgery perhaps?
"It's obviously a possibility," Lee said. "I really don't know. I'll have to have the doctors assess it and do their tests.
"Obviously I'm worried about it. It came back, so that's not good. I don't think it's a larger problem. I think it's just the original thing. It was never fully gone. I think it's the same thing. I think it was almost gone and came back."
Lee turns 36 on Aug. 30. He is owed $37.5 million next season, which includes a $25 million salary and a $12.5 million buyout on a 2016 club option. The Phillies thought a strong month from Lee would allow them to trade him before the end of August, but that no longer is a possibility.
They just hope they have him healthy in 2015.
The Phillies played on, although it had fallen by the wayside following the team's Trade Deadline inactivity and Lee's injury. Left-hander Antonio Bastardo finished the inning as the Phillies scored five runs in the fourth to take a 5-0 lead.
Grady Sizemore's double scored the inning's first two runs as the Phillies chased Nationals left-hander Gio Gonzalez.
The Phillies scored two more runs in the sixth to take a 7-3 lead, then added three runs in the eighth.
"The bullpen was big," manager Ryne Sandberg said, referring to the innings that ate up in Lee's absence. "It was good to see the offense come alive after Cliff was taken out. It was the whole lineup."
But Thursday was about the Trade Deadline and Lee. Phillies general manager Ruben Amaro Jr. said he expected the team to be active in August, which presumably included a deal involving Lee. No more. They will have to find other ways to improve.
Todd Zolecki is a reporter for MLB.com. This story was not subject to the approval of Major League Baseball or its clubs.


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Hi, I have been trying to translate parts of the Khuddaka a.t.thakathaa.
I can't come up with a good translation for:
kaa uppatti? It occurs over and over again.
I have thought maybe, "From where does it come?"
e.g. KN-a Sn, , 1. uragavaggo, 1. uragasuttavaṇṇanā, para. 84 ⇒5. ti kā uppatti?
Thanks, geo


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NetWellness is a global, community service providing quality, unbiased health information from our partner university faculty. NetWellness is commercial-free and does not accept advertising.
Friday, September 22, 2017
Dental and Oral Health (Adults)
Lingual Nerve Damage
I suffered lingual nerve damage during a dental procedure about ten years ago. I am looking for help in finding a physician who specializes in this condition. I saw a local neurologist, who ran a batter of tests and determined no other neurological cause, so he concured that it happened during a recent dental procedure. BUT... he game me the bad news: "We don`t know enough about the brain and nervous system, so no fix." We tried anti-seizure medications, but not much change, just side affects. The pain is getting worse over time. Perhaps if I can find a physician who specializes in facial nerve pain, he or she may be able to offered more options. Thank you for any assistance you can provide.
I am sorry to hear about your problem. Your neurologist is correct that complete resolution may not be possible.
As an Oral Medicine trained dentist, I would have referred you also to either a "Pain Specialist" (usually an Anesthesiologist with specialty training in chronic pain disorders) or to either a neurologist or neurosurgeon. For acute injury, NSAIDs and steroids have been utilized, but your situation is ten years post-injury and this would not have much impact. Most pharmacologic interventions are with drugs like tricyclic antidepressants, anticonvulsant medications like tegretol, lamotrigine, gabapentin, anti-spasmodics like baclofen, and clonazepam. Recently research has also focused on another class of medications that may be useful in the treatment of nerve injury: calcitonin gene-related peptide (CGRP) agonists, but this is still in progress. Drug interventions require trial and error, and response varies with patient and severity of the lesion.
Also there have been microsurgical surgical interventions for treatment of post traumatic neuralgias.
I do not know where you are writing from; two dental pain specialists close to Ohio- Dr. Ronald Dubner, DDS, PhD, at the University of Maryland and Dr. Jeff Okeson DMD, at the University of Kentucky - come to mind. They have international reputations in the area of diagnosis and management of orofacial pain disorders.
Otherwise, I would also seek out a consultation from a chronic pain specialist at any of the large university Medical Centers near you. Most have specialty clinics that deal with post-operative pain disorders and can closely monitor the pharmacologic interventions and provide the necessary support required for these injuries.
I hope this helps.
Richard J Jurevic, DDS, PhD
Formerly, Assistant Professor of Biological Sciences
School of Dental Medicine
Case Western Reserve University


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Our Thoughts
GMAX GM11D Dual Sport Helmets are extreme helmets loaded with features! The GM11D Helmet is a dual sport double lens helmet that is lightweight to reduce neck strain. The GM11 showcases a top-quality, clear coat finish in all of the available solid colors. These include: Black, Flat Black and High VIS Yellow. They offer superior venting and removable/washable padding. Outer shells are hard coated for a durable, long life. Whichever design you chose, rest assured knowing your head will be in the best helmet you've ever worn!


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Topic: After radiation issues
My mom completed 28 IMRT radiation treatments, in addition to once a week gemzar infusion. She's been off both treatments for about 3 weeks now. Although the nausea has decreased, she's been experiencing abdominal pain and what she describes as her "stomach doing flip flops." I was wondering if anyone has gone thru these treatments and if so, what side effects did you experience and what helped??? Thanks.


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Wow - what a roller coaster this has been. I never thought anything would compare to the "Artest Year" but I was wrong. Do I complain about the team? Yeah, sometimes I do - I can do that - I'm a fan. But the important thing is the Pacers have been my team for 40 years and they will always will be.
The thing that affects me most is when the season ends, a lot of you guys disappear until training camp opens again. Being over here, there is the loss of familiar comments and rants. PD is family to me. I know I can come and visit here just about any day during the season and "visit" with family. It may be hard for some of you to understand the loss of that is significant to me.
So . . . another season ends tonight. Yes, there will be another season and we will all be together again. I do think next season will be a lot better for this team for one reason or another. Even though a break is good, it's just a damn long time to wait to be reunited.
Good luck to all of you over the spring and summer!


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Alderson anticipates quiet Trade Deadline
ATLANTA -- In an interview with CBS Sports, general manager Sandy Alderson said that the Mets do not plan to "throw everyone overboard" and sell heavily before the July 31 non-waiver Trade Deadline. Alderson added that left-hander Jon Niese, who is having an All-Star-caliber season and is under team control through 2018, is unlikely to be traded.
The justification for trading someone such as Niese would be the potential haul the Mets could receive in return. Successful starting pitchers are rarely available on the open market, left-handed starters are rarer still, and those under team control for another 4 1/2 seasons are most coveted of all. But Niese is also a significant part of the Mets' pitching plan going forward, alongside Matt Harvey, Zack Wheeler and Noah Syndergaard.
Other trade candidates should the Mets fall completely out of contention are second baseman Daniel Murphy and starting pitcher Bartolo Colon, both of whom have contracts that run only through next season. But citing a desire to remain as competitive as possible, Alderson has been hesitant to deal even obvious candidates in recent seasons, holding onto outfielder Scott Hairston two years ago and waiting until after the non-waiver deadline to deal outfielder Marlon Byrd last summer.
Similar prudence could be in order this month.
Anthony DiComo is a reporter for MLB.com. Follow him on Twitter @AnthonyDicomo. This story was not subject to the approval of Major League Baseball or its clubs.


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Contact: Karen McNulty Walsh, (631) 344-8350, or Peter Genzer, (631) 344-3174
August 20, 2008
UPTON, NY — Vigabatrin, a medication proposed as a potential treatment for drug addiction by scientists at the U.S. Department of Energy's (DOE) Brookhaven National Laboratory, also leads to rapid weight loss and reduced food intake according to a new animal study from the same research group. The study will be published online August 20, 2008 by the journal Synapse. Vigabatrin is currently undergoing U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA)-approved Phase II clinical trials against cocaine and methamphetamine addiction across the U.S.
Amy DeMarco
In the current study, animals genetically bred to be obese experienced a loss of up to 19 percent of their total weight while non-obese animals lost 12 to 20 percent following short-term vigabatrin administration.
"Our results appear to demonstrate that vigabatrin induced satiety in these animals," said Amy DeMarco, who led the study, working in the laboratory of Brookhaven Lab senior scientist Stephen Dewey. Dewey first identified vigabatrin as a potential addiction treatment and has conducted more than 20 years of preclinical research with this promising medication.
Earlier studies at Brookhaven Lab found a strong connection between obesity and addiction, including similar changes in the brains of the obese and those addicted to drugs like cocaine. Based on these connections, Dewey hypothesized that vigabatrin would quench food cravings in the lab rats.
"Given the growing obesity epidemic, we felt that examining vigabatrin's therapeutic efficacy for obesity was particularly relevant," Dewey said. A total of 50 adolescent and adult animals, both genetically bred "fat" and normal-weight animals, were assigned to either a control group or groups that received vigabatrin at various dose levels and were monitored for up to 40 days. The controls received daily salt water (saline) injections, while those in the study groups received up to 300 milligrams (mg) of vigabatrin a day. All animals received injections for two 7-13-day periods, with breaks in between.
Stephen Dewey
At the end of the 40-day period, all animals receiving vigabatrin weighed significantly less than the controls. The obese animals receiving the 300mg dose weighed far less and consumed less food than the 150 and 75mg groups. The obese animals receiving vigabatrin lost an average of 19 percent of their initial weight, while non-obese animals lost between 12 and 20 percent of their weight.
"The fact that these results occurred in genetically obese animals offers hope that this drug could potentially treat severe obesity," said Dewey. "This would appear to be true even if the obesity results from binge eating, as this disorder is characterized by eating patterns that are similar to drug-taking patterns in those with cocaine dependency."
Dewey and Jonathan Brodie, a professor of psychiatry at New York University School of Medicine, have conducted extensive studies on animals at Brookhaven Lab showing that vigabatrin attenuates or blocks neurological and behavioral changes associated with drug addiction. Vigabatrin has been tested in humans in two small open-label studies, as well as in a 103-patient double-blinded, placebo-controlled trial. Vigabatrin is now being commercialized by Catalyst Pharmaceutical Partners, which is currently conducting two FDA-approved Phase II trials. For more on Brookhaven National Laboratory's addiction treatment research, see www.bnl.gov/CTN/GVG. For more information about Catalyst Pharmaceutical Partners, see www.catalystpharma.com.
This research was funded by the National Institute on Drug Abuse at the National Institutes of Health and by the Office of Biological and Environmental Research within DOE's Office of Science. Brookhaven Lab has a world-renowned research program aimed at understanding the neurological mechanisms and consequences of drug addiction and other addictive behaviors. This program is fueled, in part, by DOE's long-standing support of brain-imaging technologies developed as a direct outgrowth of their commitment to basic physics and nuclear chemistry research.
All research involving laboratory animals at Brookhaven National Laboratory is conducted under the jurisdiction of the Lab's Institutional Animal Care and Use Committee in compliance with the Public Health Service (PHS) Policy on Humane Care and Use of Laboratory Animals, the U.S. Department of Agriculture's Animal Welfare Act, and the National Academy of Sciences' Guide for the Care and Use of Laboratory Animals. This research has enhanced understanding of a wide array of human medical conditions including cancer, drug addiction, Alzheimer's and Parkinson's diseases, and normal aging and has led to the development of several promising treatment strategies.
Pre-clinical (animal) studies have:
Clinical milestones include:
The neurobiology of eating disorders and obesity and their treatment is another major focus of research at Brookhaven Lab. Earlier studies at the Lab have:
2008-10811 | INT/EXT | Media & Communications Office


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Topic: Introducing The New patient Network Website by FDA on 4-23,2013
Hi, everyone,
I attended a FDA webinar for the patient-focused group rep. on 4/19,2013;
We were told to encourage all the patient advocates and their members to visit the new " FDA Patient Network Website" to learn more about FDA;who they are and what they are working on the forefront of medical devices , new drug development and current available clinical trials for patients.
At this early development, the FDA Patient Network Website is a one way street for information only and patients cannot log in to ask questions.
However, on May 21st, there will be a chance to log in and chat with the FDA;more or less like a town hall meeting or a Q&A session.
The benefits:
-patient can read the biweekly newsletter published by FDA at the website.
-patient can listen and learn from the recorded webinars of the issues at hand(ie: drug development,how to become involved as a FDA representative)
-patient can comment about FDA issues on the website as well as other issues.
-patient can learn about the 4 stages of clinical trials development .
-patient can learn about the new approval of new drugs and medical devices.
-patient can find out the other options of treatments like"off label use" and "expanded access "for those exhausted treatment plans.
-patient can learn more thru FDA seminars that will be presented in the late summer and fall about medical devices , new drug development and clinical trials specially designed for patients and their advocates.
-patient can get info on drugs that NOT yet approved.
The slogan for this new FDA patient Network Website is:
Get involved,Get informed,Help FDA,Help Patients have a bigger voices.
The website address will be: email@example.com and it will be announced by the FDA commissioner on the morning of April 22,2013.
God bless.