text:
hmm...ok, here we go:
3.x D&D/d20 Modern:
I wouldn't stay away for fear of combat. It's not really that overly complicated. It can be as strategic as you want or not. If you don't use a battlemap or board and just keep it abstract, then you can move it along fairly quickly. Also, as the GM you don't really have to have every statistic about a creature to run a combat; you can just wing it with a few numbers. All you really need for combat is Hit Points, attack bonus total, and Armor Class. Sure, if you tried to run a 100 person fight with individual initiatives and combats, then it bog down. However, you really don't need to do that; you could just assign group of say 25 each or all 100 and give them the same initiative and combat rolls. You can scale D&D combat up or down as much as you want. At it's core, D&D combat is fairly simple.
As far as money goes, all you really need to play is the three core books: Player's Handbook, Dungeon Master's Guide, and Monster Manual. You can usually find these used and new on eBay and Amazon for reasonable prices (half or less of original price). As it has already pointed out, you don't even really need the core books: the 3.5 D&D SRD is free online, and so is the d20 Modern SRD.
The links to the 3.5 Dungeons & Dragons SRD and the d20 Modern SRD are on this page (left side under System Reference Document):
The SRDs are all the rules for the core books, just boiled down and without fluff and pictures. All you really need to play these games are contained in the SRDs. If you are into tinkering and world building, then these are the perfect platform because you can use these SRDs to tailor your own fantasy, past, modern, or futuristic games and campaigns. The 3.5 D&D SRD is the three core books boiled down. The d20 Modern SRD is the core book, the Urban Arcana campaign book, and the d20 Future book boiled down.
Seriously, if cash is tight, then all you need is the free SRDs to start. If you are the type that needs a physical book (I'm like that too), then I would recommend buying used online. You can usually find good deals and the books will more than likely be in good condition.
GURPS 4e:
As I have said before, you cannot go wrong with GURPS as your first game system for a number of reasons. Unlike D&D, which may go through another edition change in a relatively short time, GURPS 4e remain in its current edition for years to come; if the past is any indicator. The books are hardbound and sturdy. All you really need to play GURPS is the one core book. The great thing about GURPS is the quality of the material. Whereas there have been many D&D books produced, there is a significant balance issue between the books produced after the core books. This is not the case with GURPS. Steve Jackson Games products are thoroughly playtested and researched before they are released.
As far as combat, GURPS can be as crunchy or streamlined as you like because you can tailor it to your liking with options or not. This is similiar to my take on D&D combat above: if you use a battleboard, then GURPS can bog down as well with large combats. But, you don't need to get that detailed; you just can keep it abstract and keep tracking of effective combat skill, DP/DR, Move and Hit Points. If you are focused more on role-playing and less combat, then all you really need are a few numbers for either D&D or GURPS combat. However, you can always make both systems combat more detailed if you wish.
As far as cash goes, GURPS is the better bargin for your money for several reasons. I already talked about the physical quality of GURPS books. Also, the material quality is top-notch and is regarded as the highest in the RPG industry. Any GURPS sourcebook you purchase will have a longevity in your RPG collection because it can be used as a resource for any RPG system that you have or will own. Also, the differences between 3rd and 4th editions GURPS are not all that great, which means that will very little work you can use any of the 3rd edition GURPS sourcebooks with your 4th edition GURPS game. This fact shouldn't be overlooked: 3rd GURPS has a large product line which is composed of quality material. You get the best of both worlds here: quantity of quality sourcebooks that can easily be converted to 4th edition GURPS. Again, you can easily find 3rd GURPS now used online for relatively cheap because now there is a new edition. If you are looking to maximize your spending power, then this is an avenue you should consider.
Also, with GURPS, all you really need to play the game is the Lite version, which is also free to download. It is just a streamlined version without all the myrid of choices; which could be a bonus starting out with the system. One of the most time consuming thing about GURPS is character creation due to the choices. However, this is GURPS strong point: characters are very detailed and can be tailored made to focus on role-playing and not just a bunch of combat statistics like D&D. If you are just using the Lite version, then you can reduce the number of choices at character creation which will reduce the time in creating characters for both the players and the GM's NPCs.
GURPS Lite can be downloaded here:
Both systems have merits and flaws. Both systems are good for what they were created to do as a game. It comes down to a fundamental different approach: D&D/d20 Modern are class-level based systems, and GURPS is skill-driven point assignment system. D&D/d20 Modern character creation is quick and dirty while GURPS is more detailed and character driven. Combat for either game system can be as abstract or detailed as you wish.
Considering quality, logveity, and money spent, I would say that buck for buck GURPS is the better choice. GURPS has been around since the beginning of the RPG industry, and has set the standards for quality in the industry. GURPS is one of the top 5 game systems of the industry. More RPG produced are really just a variation of a select few systems: they are either skill-driven percentile based (Basic Role-Playing), class-level based (Dungeons & Dragons), or point-based (GURPS) when boiled down.
Don't get me wrong, I love both systems for different reasons. I have been playing D&D in every edition since 1982 (well, technically: 1st and 2nd AD&D, 3.0 and 3.5 D&D). I played 3rd GURPS for almost 10 years. My group of friends gravitated back to D&D when 3.0 Dungeons & Dragons came out and we haven't gone back to GURPS. However, I would play GURPS again in heartbeat if the group would go for it.


text:
McDaniels, Clemson beat Wake Forest 60-44
Wed, 16 Jan 2013 02:17:28 GMT —
CLEMSON, S.C. (AP) - K.J. McDaniels scored 14 points and had career highs with nine rebounds and seven blocks to lead Clemson to its fourth straight win over Wake Forest 60-44 on Tuesday night.
The Tigers (10-6, 2-2 Atlantic Coast Conference) held the Demon Deacons to their lowest point total this season as McDaniels led an aggressive defensive attack that held Wake Forest's two leading scorers in C.J. Harris and Travis McKie to 20 points - 11 points below their combined average coming in.
Adonis Filer scored 13 points and Devin Booker added 12 points and eight rebounds for the Tigers. Clemson, second in the ACC in points given up, held their second straight league opponent to 44 points.
McKie led the Demon Deacons (9-7, 2-2) with 12 points, but struggled against Clemson's inside defense and was just 4-of-13 shooting. Wake Forest shot under 25 percent (15 of 61).

subset: commoncrawl


text:
19 September 2017
I subscribed to this site about 6 years ago and didn't meet anyone with whom I wanted to have a romantic relationship. I met someone instead through friends but that relationship ended in January of this year.
I finally plucked up the courage to try this site again, and subscribed about 2 months ago. I was hoping to meet someone suitable but did not have high hopes or expectations. However, within a few weeks and after many dates I finally met a soul mate. We started slowly tentatively getting to know one another, and after a month of dating we are in a relationship which is growing steadily. We feel so fortunate and happy to have met. Thank you so much,I am so grateful for this opportunity to meet someone wonderfully compatible xxxx.


text:
[Illinois] ECE 416 Next Gen Sequencing II
Published on
In this lecture, we start off with a revision of the Illumina company and their DNA sequencing technology. After that we move on to the Helicos Company and their true Single Molecule Sequencing (tSMS). It starts off with a glass surface covered by multiple a "multiT" single stranded DNA. After that the single stranded DNA is capture to be sequenced with DNA prepared with a "multiA" end, so that it will be oriented correctly. After that the the fluoro-tagged nucleotide is added one at a time. After each nucleotide, a fluorescent image is captured. The next company talked about is Pacific Biosensors and their Zero Mode Waveguides methods for reading the genetic sequences. They attach DNA polymerase to their surface and allow the DNA molecules to be set free. The nucleotide brings the fluorescent dye with it and to be detected a fluoro microscope is used and the imaging comes from below. The DNA polymerization is then directly observed with base-pair resolution. Example data from this method is then shown. Last, the ion torrent method is discussed. It requires no fluorescent tags which makes it better than the others discussed. It begins with a single strand DNA sequence and DNA polymerase that can build up a double-stranded molecule one base pair at a time. One nucleotide is flown through at a time. If the nucleotide incorporates, a current pulse is measured and if no match is incorporated, then no pulse occurs. The lecture ends off with a comparison of all the methods through the data they presented.
My research group is focused on the application of sub-wavelength optical phenomena and fabrication methods to the development of novel devices and instrumentation for the life sciences. The group is highly interdisciplinary, with expertise in the areas of microfabrication, nanotechnology, computer simulation, instrumentation, molecular biology, and cell biology. In particular, we are working on biosensors based upon photonic crystal concepts that can either be built from low-cost flexible plastic materials, or integrated with semiconductor-based active devices, such as light sources and photodetectors, for high performance integrated detection systems.
Using a combination of micrometer-scale and nanometer-scale fabrication tools, we are devising novel methods and materials for producing electro-optic devices with nanometer-scale features that can be scaled for low-cost manufacturing. Many of our techniques are geared for compatibility with flexible plastic materials, leading to applications such as low cost disposable sensors, wearable sensors, flexible electronics, and flexible displays. Because our structures manipulate light at a scale that is smaller than an optical wavelength, we rely on computer simulation tools such as Rigorous Coupled Wave Analysis (RCWA) and Finite Difference Time Doman (FDTD) to model, design, and understand optical phenomena within photonic crystals and related devices.
In addition to fabricating devices, our group is also focused on the design, prototyping, and testing of biosensor instrumentation for high sensitivity, portability, and resolution. Advanced instruments enable high resolution imaging of biochemical and cellular interactions with the ability to monitor images of biochemical interactions as a function of time. Using the sensors and instrumentation, we are exploring new applications for optical biosensor technology including protein microarrays, biosensor/mass spectrometry systems, and microfluidics-based assays using nanoliter quantities of reagents. The methods and systems developed in the laboratory are applied in the fields of life science research, drug discovery, diagnostic testing, and environmental monitoring. -From Professor Cunningham's Faculty Profile
Cite this work
Researchers should cite this work as follows:
University of Illinois, Urbana-Champaign, IL


text:
You can read Human Kinetics e-books on desktop, laptop, and various mobile devices, as long as you have authorized the device or e-reader app to read e-books protected by Adobe's digital rights management (DRM).
Format available: PDF
Costas Karageorghis is internationally recognized for his
research on the psychophysical and ergogenic effects of music. He is the
author of 40 peer-reviewed and 80 professional articles in sport and
exercise psychology. Karageorghis has also made 60 conference
presentations nationally and internationally for which he has won
several awards. His work has been featured in newspapers around the
world, including the Times (London), Independent, New York Times, Wall
Street Journal, Washington Post, and Sydney Morning Herald.
Karageorghis is a chartered member of the British Psychological Society
and a double-accredited member of the British Association of Sport and
Exercise Sciences. Since May 2007 he has been head coach of the Great
Britain student athletics team.
Peter Terry is a registered psychologist who has held
professorial positions in the United Kingdom and Australia. As an
internationally recognized sport psychologist, he has been a consultant
at almost 100 major international events, including 8 Olympic Games, 18
World Championships, 30 World Cup competitions, and 9 Wimbledon
Terry has authored three books on sport psychology and more than 150
scholarly articles. He has served two terms as president of the
Australian Psychological Society's College of Sport Psychologists and
sits on the managing council of the Asian South Pacific Association of
Sport Psychology. He has also been a member of the British Olympic
Association's psychology advisory board, a long-time advisor to the
Women's Tennis Association, and psychology coordinator for the
Queensland Academy of Sport. He is a fellow of both the British
Association of Sport and Exercise Sciences and the Australian
Psychological Society.
"I studied sport psychology under Costas and Peter in the four-year
period before I won the superheavyweight gold at the Sydney Olympics.
Since then I've enjoyed many high points and experienced a few low
points in my professional career, but the principles that those guys
taught me while I was at Brunel have always stayed with me. When I
damaged my right shoulder and came back against the odds in the 11th to
knock out Michael Sprott for the European title, I was thinking, Stay
calm, focus on the here and now, just like I was taught all those years
ago. I knew it was my time to shine again!"
Audley Harrison, MBE--Current European heavyweight boxing champion,
former Commonwealth and Olympic superheavyweight boxing champion
"While at Brunel I studied sport psychology with both authors. During
that period I learned techniques to improve my mental strength and
composure under pressure. With the advent of professionalism at the
time, those skills put me ahead of my peers. I realized that without
psychological preparation, my physical attributes were insufficient. I
realized that it was necessary to push myself toward the goals of
becoming an international player and, ultimately, of winning the World
Cup with England in 2003."
Richard Hill, MBE--Former rugby union player for the England national
team (71 caps) and British and Irish Lions (5 caps)
2003 World Cup winner with England
"I owe a lot to Peter for my success and ability to deal with the
challenges of competing at the highest level of sport. He was an
absolute rock throughout my career. He was always available at the other
end of the phone to calm my nerves, remind me of the tools and
techniques that he had taught me over the years, and strengthen my
self-belief. The mental strength that Peter helped me develop is now
also standing me in good stead for a life after sport."
Anna Hemmings, MBE-- Six-time world champion, three-time European
champion, and two-time Olympian kayaker
"Shooting is more of a mental battle than a physical sport. Within
three weeks of working with Peter, I set a world record of 193 clays out
of 200. In the Olympic shoot-off to decide between gold and silver, I
used the techniques he taught me to block everything out and won the
gold. I couldn't have done it without Peter."
Richard Faulds, MBE--2000 Olympic gold medalist in double
trap-shooting,Current world record holder,Eighteen-time world champion
and Nine-time World Cup medalist
Get the latest news, special offers, and updates on authors and products. SIGN UP NOW!
About Our Products
Book Excerpts
News and Articles
About Us
Career Opportunities
Business to Business
Author Center
HK Today Newsletter
Exam/Desk Copies
Language rights translation
Associate Program
Rights and Permissions
Certifying Organizations
Continuing Education Policies
Connect with Us
Terms & Conditions
Privacy Policy
Safe Harbor


text:
My flour gets pretty hot-is it my WonderMill?
Whenever I grind my wheat, I have to put it in the freezer,first, so that when I mill it, it won't get so hot. It can get to 120F!!
I have a Wondermill that is about 3 yrs old and it has pretty much done this from the start. I love bread made from my fresh ground flour but I have to say I am not impressed by the Wondermill. It was not cheap! It is made with a very flimsy plastic and static is a real problem when you are trying to empty the plastic receptacle. The internal cup depended on a very thin plastic to hold it in place by twisting the cup slightly and wedging it up against the thin flange. You can guess how long that lasted and I prob should have returned it but didn't.I may do a different post looking for a recommendation for an older-non-plastic grain mill.
So is this heating of the flour a typical experience? I do grind on a pretty fine setting ("pastry" on the dial) but that is how I like the flour texture.


text:
A compleat roster of liberal excuses would require many volumes, or perhaps even an open-ended architecture like Wikipedia. (Maybe Power Line will start a reader-generated WikiLiberalism?) But there are a couple of items worthy of special note at the moment.
First, James Taranto of the indispensable "Best of the Web" catches former Enron adviser Paul Krugman in an egregious instance of partisan hackery (Krugchild's normal mode):
- "Here's the world as many Republicans see it: Unemployment insurance, which generally pays eligible workers between 40 and 50 percent of their previous pay, reduces the incentive to search for a new job. As a result, the story goes, workers stay unemployed longer."–former Enron adviser Paul Krugman, New York Times, Dec. 9
- "Public policy designed to help workers who lose their jobs can lead to structural unemployment as an unintended side effect. . . . In other countries, particularly in Europe, benefits are more generous and last longer. The drawback to this generosity is that it reduces a worker's incentive to quickly find a new job. Generous unemployment benefits in some European countries are widely believed to be one of the main causes of 'Eurosclerosis,' the persistent high unemployment that affects a number of European countries."–"Macroeconomics" by Paul Krugman and Robin Wells, second edition, 2009.
Second, apparently MSNBC's Melissa Harris-Perry thinks the term "Obamacare" was coined by rich white guys as a racist slur against our sainted president. Or something. Shut up. Of course, if Obamacare worked, she might say something different. She's too young to recall Ronald Reagan remarking, after the economy started booming, that "Liberals don't call it 'Reaganomics' any more."
Third, I know the mainstream media work overtime to come up with excuses for Obama, but: Seriously?
There are plenty of reasons this is the lowest point of Barack Obama's presidency. He hasn't fulfilled a major legislative campaign promise, his signature second-term immigration initiative is paralyzed, and the administration may never entirely recover from the unforced errors surrounding the Affordable Care Act's rollout. But don't blame these problems alone for Obama's record-low 40 percent approval rating. In truth, his agenda went off the rails on a crisp December morning last year, when Adam Lanza strolled into Sandy Hook Elementary and killed 20 children and six adults. Obama hasn't gotten back on track since.
How many mass shootings have there been over the last 25 years? Yes, I know, liberals think they happen every day, and in fact they are more rare–adjusted for population–than they were 75 years ago, but you get the point. Columbine (and Waco) didn't sidetrack Bill Clinton's presidency, nor did previous shootings (Aurora) seem to deflect Obama before Sandy Hook.
JOHN adds: Ms. Harris-Perry is way behind the times. The White House's own web site calls it "Obamacare."


text:
Meet thousands of Bolingbrook singles through one of the best Bolingbrook online dating sites. Matchmaker.com has great instant messenger and live video Bolingbrook chat service for our members. Bolingbrook dating has never been easier with our show interest feature that will allow you to break the ice with attractive local singles.
Matchmaker.com has some great services for Bolingbrook singles looking for a longer term relationship. Besides our great Bolingbrook chat product with live video matchmaker users can send email messages to people in the area. The Bolingbrook dating scene can be hard to find the right person at times; however, we are here to help and our Bolingbrook online dating service is free to register.
BolingbrookJoin Now Free!
Bolingbrook Girls | Bolingbrook Men | Bolingbrook Gay | Bolingbrook Lesbians
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15
More Bolingbrook Links:
Bolingbrook Personals | Bolingbrook Speed Dating | Bolingbrook Chat | Bolingbrook Singles | Bolingbrook Love
Senior Dating | Catholic Dating | Christian Dating | Muslim Dating
Black Singles | Asian Singles | Latin Dating
Try our Bolingbrook dating service today. Matchmaker.com is one of the oldest Bolingbrook online dating services on the Internet and has brought thousands of couples together from the area. Test drive our Bolingbrook Chat room with one of the best online communities for the Bolingbrook single person. Also, keep in mind that we have a huge member base of Bolingbrook singles and that we also cater to members of the many backgrounds.
Still not convinced that matchmaker is the free Bolingbrook dating service for you? Once you've filled out the quick registration process you will be to see full size photos and profiles of thousands of Bolingbrook singles. Did you know that free Bolingbrook dating is a few clicks away? Find love and romance in Bolingbrook at matchmaker today!


text:
Looks like you're already verified.
If you still have trouble signing in, you probably need a new confirmation link email.
{* resendLink *} Please resend verification.
You're now logged in.
Are you already a home delivery subscriber for Austin360.com?
You're now logged in.
You're now logged in.
Abduction, betrayal and heroic battles. Larger-than-life stories depicted with the miniaturist's delicacy of touch and vibrant colors. This upcoming exhibition is drawn from the San Diego Museum of Art's Edwin Binney 3rd Collection of Indian paintings. The images provide a compelling introduction to classic Indian and Persian texts: Ramayana, Bhagavata Purana, Ragamala, and the Persian Book of Kings, Shahnama. Although most of the paintings depict scenes of epic adventure, images related to the Ragamala provide a change of pace; this text deals with a range of specific musical modes and the varied emotions they convey. There's something for everyone—bring the kids!
This exhibition is organized by the San Diego Museum of Art.
Generous support for this exhibition at the Blanton is provided by an anonymous donor.
Public Programs
Artist-in-Residence: Aruna Kharod
Aruna Chard is a graduate student in UT's ethnomusicology program and has studied bharatanatyam classical dance for ten years. She will perform stories and dances related to the paintings in the 'Epic Tales from Ancient India: Paintings from the San Diego Museum of Art' exhibition.
Thursdays| 11:00am - 2:00pm
Saturdays and Sundays| 1:00pm - 4:00pm
Performances in the gallery. Suitable for all ages.


text:
Trip reports, pictures and discussions of CES high-end audio and video yearly show.
Use this control to limit the display of threads to those newer than the specified time frame.
Allows you to choose the data by which the thread list will be sorted.
Order threads in...
Note: when sorting by date, 'descending order' will show the newest results first.
Forum Rules


text:
The Eligible-Bachelor Paradox
How economics and game theory explain the shortage of available, appealing men.
It is a truth universally acknowledged that the available, sociable, and genuinely attractive man is a character highly in demand in social settings. Dinner hosts are always looking for the man who fits all the criteria. When they don't find him (often), they throw up their hands and settle for the sociable but unattractive, the attractive but unsociable, and, as a last resort, for the merely available.
The shortage of appealing men is a century-plus-old commonplace of the society melodrama. The shortage—or—more exactly, the perception of a shortage—becomes evident as you hit your late 20s and more acute as you wander into the 30s. Some men explain their social fortune by believing they've become more attractive with age; many women prefer the far likelier explanation that male faults have become easier to overlook.
The problem of the eligible bachelor is one of the great riddles of social life. Shouldn't there be about as many highly eligible and appealing men as there are attractive, eligible women?
Actually, no—and here's why. Consider the classic version of the marriage proposal: A woman makes it known that she is open to a proposal, the man proposes, and the woman chooses to say yes or no. The structure of the proposal is not, "I choose you." It is, "Will you choose me?" A woman chooses to receive the question and chooses again once the question is asked.
The idea of the woman choosing expressed in the proposal is a resilient one. The woman picking among suitors is a rarely reversed archetype of romantic love that you'll find everywhere from Jane Austen to Desperate Housewives. Or take any comic wedding scene: Invariably, it'll have the man standing dazed at the altar, wondering just how it is he got there.
Obviously, this is simplified—in contemporary life, both sides get plenty of chances to be selective. But as a rough-and-ready model, it's not bad, and it contains a solution to the Eligible-Bachelor Paradox.
You can think of this traditional concept of the search for marriage partners as a kind of an auction. In this auction, some women will be more confident of their prospects, others less so. In game-theory terms, you would call the first group "strong bidders" and the second "weak bidders." Your first thought might be that the "strong bidders"—women who (whether because of looks, social ability, or any other reason) are conventionally deemed more of a catch—would consistently win this kind of auction.
But this is not true. In fact, game theory predicts, and empirical studies of auctions bear out, that auctions will often be won by "weak" bidders, who know that they can be outbid and so bid more aggressively, while the "strong" bidders will hold out for a really great deal. You can find a technical discussion of this here. (Be warned: "Bidding Behavior in Asymmetric Auctions" is not for everyone, and I certainly won't claim to have a handle on all the math.) But you can also see how this works intuitively if you just consider that with a lot at stake in getting it right in one shot, it's the women who are confident that they are holding a strong hand who are likely to hold out and wait for the perfect prospect.
This is how you come to the Eligible-Bachelor Paradox, which is no longer so paradoxical. The pool of appealing men shrinks as many are married off and taken out of the game, leaving a disproportionate number of men who are notably imperfect (perhaps they are short, socially awkward, underemployed). And at the same time, you get a pool of women weighted toward the attractive, desirable "strong bidders."
Where have all the most appealing men gone? Married young, most of them—and sometimes to women whose most salient characteristic was not their beauty, or passion, or intellect, but their decisiveness.
Evolutionary psychologists will remind us that there's a long line of writing about "female choosiness" going back to Darwin and the male peacocks competing to get noticed by "choosy" mates with their splendid plumage. But you don't have to buy that kind of reductive biological explanation (I don't) to see the force of the "women choose" model. You only have to accept that for whatever socially constructed reason, the choice of getting married is one in which the woman is usually the key player. It might be the man who's supposed to ask the official, down-on-the-knee question, but it usually comes after a woman has made the central decision. Of course, in this, as in all matters of love, your experience may vary.
There may be those who look at this and try to derive some sort of prescription, about when to "bid," when to hold out, and when (as this Atlantic story urges) to "settle." If you're inclined to do that, approach with care. Game theory deals with how best to win the prize, but it works only when you can decide what's worth winning.


text:
Everyone loves to get a good night's rest. The whole next day seems to go better and attitude is more positive. The problem is there are many obstacles to obtaining peaceful rest at night, including a number of sleep disorders.
Everydayhealth.com offers a look this common condition that could keep you from being well rested:
One key to falling asleep is being able to get comfortable and lie still, but for those who have restless leg syndrome (RLS) this is a virtual impossibility. RLS causes leg discomfort that can only be relieved by moving the leg – it can range from a tingly feeling like electricity passing through the leg, to a creeping feeling as though something was on your leg. Even if you've never suffered from this condition, you can no doubt imagine how difficult those feelings would make it to get any kind of rest.
If this sounds like you, check with your doctor for some better sleep options.


text:
The MBTA and Alternative Carriers
For most employees, public transportation is the most efficient, economical way to commute to work. Short of bicycling, it's the most-energy-efficient means of daily transportation—a way you can help reduce automobile emissions and protect our environment. And by purchasing passes through the University, you can also save money.
Does Suffolk provide passes for employees and faculty?
Employees can purchase MBTA Passes, Charlie Cards, and passes on alternative carriers and vanpools through payroll deduction.
Can I save money on passes purchased through the University?
The University offers a Transit Program to help employees pay for commuting expenses on a pre-tax basis. Employees save money on the cost of the pass because the purchase is made with pre-tax deductions on the first $230 per month.
Are other MBTA pass options available?
Monthly passes for unlimited rides are available on campus on the last 3 and first 3 weekdays of each month.
- Suffolk University Bookstore, 148 Cambridge Street (cash only)
- Suffolk University Law School Bookstore, 120 Tremont Street (cash only)
Is there a way to save on parking if I have to drive to the T?
Employees can pay for off-site parking, including MBTA lots and garages on a pre-tax basis, even when those lots don't offer receipts, through the University's Transit Program.
Which MBTA stops are closest to the campus?
The closest MBTA Rapid Transit stops:
- Blue Line: Government Center
- Green Line: Park Street
- Red Line: Park Street
- Silver Line: Temple Place
- Route 43 (Ruggles-Park and Tremont streets). This bus stops across from the Massachusetts State House, two blocks from Suffolk.
- Route 55 (Queensberry-Park Street): This bus stops across from the Massachusetts State House, two blocks from Suffolk.
- Routes 352 (Burlington), 354 (Woburn), and 355 (Woburn and Medford) stop at the State street T stop (Orange, Blue, and Red lines), about three blocks from Suffolk.
- Routes 92 and 93 (Charlestown-Downtown Crossing) stop on Washington Street three blocks from Suffolk.
- More than ten bus lines stop at the Haymarket Bus Terminal (on the Orange and Green lines) about five blocks from Suffolk.
- North Station
- South Station
Where can I get schedule and route information?
Current schedules, route planning tips and information about buying passes at T stations are available at http://www.mbta.com/


text:
Actually I think the record is about the same. Malkin just becomes more dominant when Crosby is out.Topper wrote:The playbook on the Pens hasn't changed one iota.
1) Frustrate Sid until he becomes a petulant baby and takes himself out of the game by not trusting his teammates trying do too much on his own.
2) Shoot the puck somewhere in the vicinity of the Pens net and let their goaltending do the rest.
Anyone know the Pens record with Sid out (Malkin leading) vs Sid in (Sid leading)?
Malkin is too much of a one man show right now though. He's like Kesler only more talented.....but no matter which way you look at it, one man isn't going to beat 5.


text:
Manchester considering Second Street redevelopmentBy DOUG ALDEN
New Hampshire Union Leader
February 25. 2013 12:04AM
MANCHESTER - One of the city's oldest business districts could be getting a new look.
The city is considering redevelopment options along Second Street, the West Side corridor parallel to Interstate 293 lined with restaurants, retailers and residential areas.
"It's been a while since something new has been built over there, so it's in need of a little TLC," said Alderman Phil Greazzo. He represents Ward 10, which includes the area from the intersection of Second and Granite streets south to the Manchester-Bedford line.
There are no specific plans in the works. First the city wants to hear from people who live in the area and the businesses that operate along the busy street. The first of several public meetings is scheduled for 6 p.m. tonight at St. Raphael Parish, 103 Walker St.
"This is basically the first step in the process to see what can be done down there," Greazzo said.
The Southern New Hampshire Planning Commission will conduct a study outlining the mix of commercial and residential zoning along Second Street. Executive Director David Preece said the commission will present city planners with its findings and possible strategies to revitalize Second Street.
"It is one of Manchester's oldest commercial retail corridors, dating back to 1891," Preece said. "There is a scattering of residential zoning and commercial centers along the corridor, but it's just been all brought about kind of haphazardly and now it's time to re-envision this."
The street is also dotted with a handful of vacant buildings - former homes of businesses.
There are sidewalks, but not on every block, limiting access for pedestrians. The road itself is one lane in each direction with a turn lane in-between, leading to traffic backups that can be particularly heavy near the Queen City Ave. Bridge and I-293 access ramps.
David Dion has owned the Dairy Queen at 715 Second St. since 1979. He said the only local redevelopment project he has seen since he purchased the franchise was adding the center turn lane.
"I welcome a study because I think the road is in need of widening or maybe some lighting adjustments," Dion said.
Dion is moving forward with his own redevelopment project, building a brand new DQ Grill and Chill right behind the current building. He's still waiting for final approval from city planners before he can break ground.
Overlay zoning
One option other communities have used is overlay zoning, which Preece said would ease the current restrictions and allow for a mix of residential and commercial redevelopment.
"There is a whole array of what you can do as a mixed zone," Preece said. "It's up to the developers and property owners, but if we give them the incentives to do this, I think it would happen."
But first, Preece said the people who would be affected most by changes need to say what changes they would like to see.
"The first meeting will kind of help frame the discussion on this," Preece said.
"We want to talk to businesses and residents and property owners, listen to them and see what they see as the needs that we need to address in this plan. It's their plan and it's important to listen."
Funding for the study comes from a community planning grant from the New Hampshire Housing and Finance Authority.
Greazzo said Second Street has the potential to rebound, but the public will need to be involved.
"We've see a lot of people buying and redeveloping parts of Elm Street," Greazzo said. "Second Street and South Main are much like Elm. They're the economic engine of west Manchester."
Real estate Politics Manchester Top Section Stories Business Headlines


text:
Matchmaker.com provides great new features for contact single Blountville men. Use our icebreaker feature to let Blountville guys know you are interested in getting to know them a little better. There are thousands of Blountville men in your area so create a free profile today.
BlountvilleJoin Now Free!
Blountville | Blountville Girls | Blountville Gay | Blountville Lesbians
More Blountville Links:
Senior Dating | Catholic Dating | Christian Dating | Muslim Dating
Black Singles | Asian Singles | Latin Dating
While Blountville men and women in Blountville might find dating to be more annoying than nice, it'simportant to get past this by breaking the ice. Write an introductory email that's worthy of a response, you probably find that it's easier than delivering a tired line in a darkened bar. After taking a good look at a number of local Blountville guys, you'll know that the person you are attempting to get to know will have plenty in common with you.


text:
Tuesday, March 4, 2008
Go west!
Bruce and I are arriving in Denver early to hit a few confluences on the 40th parallel. (Watch for a pic from the road.) It's always fun at SPE and gets better every year. Highlights of the schedule are sure to be Patrick Nagatani and Edward Burtynsky, as well as welcoming new board member Arno Minkkinen (who recently spoke at the PRC to a sold out crowd) and catching up with SPE friends. Yeehaw!
ABOVE IMAGE: Santa Fe Trail, from the library at my alma mater, University of Texas at Austin's PCL map collection. Hook 'em horns.
10 comments:
- Liz said...
I really enjoy your blog. I have posted a link to it on mine...thought some friends might like it too.
thanks & keep up the good work!
- March 4, 2008 at 8:44 PM
- LKB said...
Thanks Liz! So sweet! I see that you too work at a small non-profit, one of my favs! (I just sent Ariel an email, we all work late.) I said to myself last year: I will start a blog in the new year and a website. I am glad to hear folks read it.
I am very excited for the next show, the work and artists are beautiful.
I often swing through Woodstock and hope to say hi next time. I will add your blog as a link to mine. 'ppreciate it, Leslie
- March 4, 2008 at 8:56 PM
- Liz said...
I starting working at CPW about 8 months ago. It is a great organization and I am happy to be there. Beofre that, I was in graduate school in MA so I always kept up to date with the PRC- you are doing great things there.
I will be at SPE National and will try to find you to introduce myself.
Have wonderful travels.
- March 5, 2008 at 8:38 AM
- Colin Blakely said...
I sure wish I were going to both those events! I didn't make the lottery for Fotofest this year, and I just can't justify the expense for SPE since all funding for simply attending a conference has been cut by my university and I've never had much luck with my proposals to present.
I'm not sure whether those portfolio reviews are more exhausting for the reviewer, who goes straight from one meeting to the next all day lomg, or the artist, who is in a constant state of start/stop/wait with all the anticipation that goes along with it. Either way though, it's a great experience.
- March 5, 2008 at 3:44 PM
- LKB said...
I'm actually footing both personally (well, fotofest puts us up and airfare, but dinner and other such is on me). It's tough, but worth it I hope. I've gotten more involved with SPE, and it gets better and better! So I hope you give it another try. It helps that Bruce can make art out there too.
Good thought, I might post on your point while away. It is pretty grueling, as I found out at photolucida. By the 2nd day I was rolling with the punches. Total people seen: pover 50 in 4 days. I expect fotofest to be similar. we have a contigent of friend reviewers and friend reviewees and I like to think I swing both ways! I'm rooting for all!
- March 5, 2008 at 10:28 PM
- Jane Tam said...
Hi Leslie~
I briefly met you at SPE in Woodstock; which was my first SPE and so much fun! Hopefully I'll see you again in Denver.
- March 8, 2008 at 8:04 PM
- Anonymous said...
I wanted to thank you for letting me sit with you for a grueling and entirely amazing 8 hours this past Saturday. I was Googling for an email address and came across your blog. I'm always excited to find fellow bloggers. I'll send you a more formal thanks in an email here soon, but just wanted to say thanks and let you know that you made my Fotofest experience something particularly special.
- March 10, 2008 at 8:49 AM
- LKB said...
Hi Kacey! Thanks! Your visit/day was one of the highlights of the reviews for me. You were simply great and am glad you had a good time and learned a few things to do, and not to do (not that a nice person such as yourself would do the latter!). I thoroughly enjoyed your post and your summation of the day.
I look foward to reading your blog and keeping in touch via the blog-o-sphere! I will add yours as a link.
My best, Leslie
- March 13, 2008 at 2:45 PM
- Anonymous said...
- This comment has been removed by a blog administrator.
- March 16, 2008 at 12:36 PM
- Liz said...
I am so glad to be home! It was a lot of fun but it made me miss sleeping! It was so nice to meet you. You seem so great and I hope we can stay in touch.
will continue to keep up through your blog!
- March 18, 2008 at 3:55 PM


text:
The U.S. Tennis Open has just wrapped for another year, which inspired this week's blog post – the Wisconsin B&B version of common tennis terms.
Love: Score is zero. B&B version: Love is always in the air at romantic inns like Lazy Cloud B&B in Lake Geneva.
Tie-break: Determines who wins the set. B&B version: If the tie-break on deciding which B&B you'll visit is based on extras, consider amenity-laden properties like Dobranoc Inn B&B in Fond du Lac.
Ace: Serve that receiver can't touch. B&B version: Ace the holiday gift list with a gift certificate from the Wisconsin Bed & Breakfast Association – it's good at over 150 inns.
Advantage: Game point. B&B version: The advantage of staying at a B&B is often the bed, like the super comfy featherbeds at Ferg Haus Inn of Ferg's Bavarian Village in Manawa, and the breakfast, like the full gourmet a.m. meal at Inn On Maplein Sister Bay.
Overrule: Chair umpire overrules a call made by a line judge as to whether the ball was in or out. B&B version: Overrule your spouse's inclination to stay home and instead opt for a staycation at an inn near you, with this handy search-by-city function at your fingertips.
Tags: amenities, Feather Beds, Featherbeds, Love, Romance, Romantic Inns, Tennis, U.S. Open, Wisconsin B&Bs, Wisconsin Bed and Breakfasts


text:
{great love stories № 06 | audrey hepburn & robert wolders}
by joey bailey for {this is glamorous} | editing & image compilation by roséline | view previous articles
Companion : /kəmˈpanjən/ one that is closely connected with another
A waifish figure and large, brown, doe-like eyes; a tiny, cinched in waist and sweet, elfin features; a willowy dancer's body, slight but strong from years of ballet training—always graceful and ever ladylike—it is difficult to believe that this beautiful woman, both inside and out, would wait almost her entire life to find true love but—when she did find it, it was truly great . . .
Audrey had previously been married twice, both relationships formed over a common interest. Her third and greatest love, Robert Wolders, began no differently—both had experienced tragedy in their life, and both wanted to help people. They had both acted and both decided they preferred the simpler life.
Above: Audrey in her dressing room during the filming of Sabrina, 1954; her famous embellished flats are sitting on the chair on the right. Photographed by Mark Shaw.
First meeting in 1980 at a dinner party held by a mutual friend, Robert (or Robbie as Audrey so fondly called him) was suffering after the recent death of his wife, and Audrey, by her own account, was 'not in a happy place'. They immediately bonded, and realised remarkably, how much they had in common. They stayed in close contact after that night and finally, six months later, announced to the media they were an 'item'.
"We met at a time when we each had gone through trials, but we knew exactly what we wanted—togetherness."
— Robert Wolders
"Whether Audrey was in jeans and a bandana or all dolled up for the Oscars—she was so beautiful that you couldn't bear it."
March 21, 1956: (L-R) Award presenters Audrey Hepburn and Grace Kelly waiting backstage at the RKO Pantages Theatre, during the 28th Annual Academy Awards. Photographed by Allan Grant for LIFE magazine.
La Paisible, "the place of peace", the home where Audrey spent the last 30 years of her life
Moving to Audrey's estate, La Paisible, in Tolochenaz, Switzerland [a remote village in the foothills of the Alps], the pair lived a somewhat quiet & simple life -- raising Audrey's youngest son Luca, tending to the large gardens on the estate, and eventually, as Luca grew older, dedicating much of their time to UNICEF. Robert described their routine as: rising at 7:30am to a piece of toast spread with Audrey's homemade jam, until noon working in the dining room on UNICEF matters -- lunch consisted of greens from their own vegetable garden, a slice of gruyere & crusty bread -- then in the afternoon, a nap and a brisk walk through the vineyards across the street.
Fred Astaire and Audrey Hepburn rehearsing for Funny Face (1957). Photographed by Richard Avedon.
"If I'm honest I have to tell you I still read fairy-tales and I like them best of all."
At La Paisible, her home in Switzerland, Hepburn photographed with her son Luca Dotti
"The best thing to hold onto in life is each other." —Audrey Hepburn
Roman Holiday, 1953
Their life was peaceful, uncomplicated, and most importantly, they felt 'safe and hidden from the world'-- which, considering a life previously hounded by the media and paparazzi, was beyond perfect for Audrey.
Above & below: Breakfast at Tiffany's, 1961
With George Peppard, kiss in the rain in the final scene of Breakfast At Tiffany's, 1961
Despite their now trouble-free and intensely private life, the media still often speculated over the possibility of the two marrying. In 1989, in an interview with Barbara Walters, Audrey described the nine years she had spent with Robbie as the happiest years of her life, before exclaiming "Took me long enough!' Walters then proceeded to ask why they never married, to which Audrey coyly replied "We are married, just not formally".
Photographed by Bob Willoughby
In 1987, Audrey's two sons had both moved away from home, and Audrey was officially appointed a Goodwill Ambassador for UNICEF. Robbie accompanied Audrey on all of her UNICEF missions, and often documented the trips by taking numerous photographs of Audrey working tirelessly on the field trips. With most of their years spent assiduously working for children's rights the pair slowly began to tire -- Audrey's eldest son, Sean recalls how Audrey would half-heartedly vow to cut back on UNICEF then say, "but I've just got to do this one trip".
In the famous blue silk cloak, back of a taxi with Fred Astaire, Funny Face, 1957
In September 1992, after returning from relief work in Somalia, Audrey felt awful and believed she had contracted a stomach-bug. After a few days, the pain had become so intense, that Robbie rushed her to the hospital for testing . . . The results were bleak -- the doctors had discovered cancer of the appendix, which had spread through Audrey's abdominal area. Doctors immediately performed surgery, however, even after, announced she had little time left.
"I believe in manicures. I believe in overdressing. I believe in primping at leisure and wearing lipstick. I believe in pink. I believe happy girls are the prettiest girls. I believe that tomorrow is another day, and... I believe in miracles."
Photographed by Mark Shaw
Audrey's only desire was to return to La Paisible for her last few weeks, but she was too weak to fly on a commercial aircraft -- instead, Robbie arranged with Audrey's dear friend, designer Hubert De Givenchy, to borrow his private jet to transport her home. The entire jet was filled with fresh flowers, and Robbie stayed by Audrey's side the entire flight home.
At Le Paisible, white wicker filled the master bedroom & fresh sprig blue Porthault linens covered the bed
"As you grow older, you will discover that you have two hands, one for helping yourself, the other for helping others." —Audrey Hepburn
The next few weeks were spent exactly as Audrey wanted -- with her beloved Robbie and two sons by her side, short walks in her garden, and a traditional family Christmas. Robbie & Audrey talked, contemplated life and love, and came to terms with their future.
The library at La Paisible took its colors from the painting of watermelon slices by Rufino Tamayo over the pink sofa; a modern Parsons table and desk are paired with a Spanish rug in pinks, woven stools and a Windsor chair.
Audrey died on the 20th of January 1993, quietly in her sleep -- and Robbie, despite knowing it was inevitable, was heartbroken.
Funny Face, 1957
Shortly after her death, Audrey's friend and co-star, Gregory Peck recited Audrey's favourite poem, which she herself had recited to Robbie many times before:
I seem to have loved you in numberless forms, numberless times…
In life after life, in age after age, forever.
My spellbound heart has made and remade the necklace of songs,
That you take as a gift, wear round your neck in your many forms,
In life after life, in age after age, forever.
Whenever I hear old chronicles of love, it's age-old pain,
It's ancient tale of being apart or together.
As I stare on and on into the past, in the end you emerge,
Clad in the light of a pole-star piercing the darkness of time:
You become an image of what is remembered forever.
You and I have floated here on the stream that brings from the fount.
At the heart of time, love of one for another.
We have played along side millions of lovers, shared in the same
Shy sweetness of meeting, the same distressful tears of farewell-
Old love but in shapes that renew and renew forever.
Today it is heaped at your feet, it has found its end in you
The love of all man's days both past and forever:
Universal joy, universal sorrow, universal life.
The memories of all loves merging with this one love of ours –
And the songs of every poet past and forever.
The love story between Audrey Hepburn & Robert Wolders was not filled with grand gestures and showy displays of affection -- it was a companionship between two people who had experienced tragedy and heartache, and realised the most simple things in life are the most important. Their great love story was built on friendship, a gentle passion, and a deep appreciation of love in its purest form.
— Joey
* great love stories № 01 : grace kelly & prince rainer III of monaco
* great love stories № 02 : nacho figueras & delfina blaquier
* great love stories № 03 : shah jahan & mumtaz mahal
* great love stories № 04 : elizabeth taylor & richard burton
* great love stories № 05 : prince william & kate middleton
[image sources & credits : all posters via audrey /// marta ibarrondo /// image & text, all about audrey /// bio ///webring /// in love♥ with audrey hepburn /// in love♥ with audrey hepburn /// s'marvelous audrey /// moon river // audrey /// kingdom by the sea /// image & text, all about audrey /// emma tina illustration /// little augury /// elegant hepburn /// audrey /// sofeminine.co.uk /// audrey /// little augury /// journey through life /// moon river /// gif /// audrey /// audrey /// teenage wasteland /// audrey /// all about audrey /// audrey /// audrey /// lexicon-foto.euweb /// doctor macro /// penny dreadful vintage /// audrey /// audrey /// give him heart and soul /// little augury /// little augury /// yellow sofa /// adoring audrey /// chrysa serdari /// caitlin joan /// idul basut /// lauri haddock /// gina howse /// anli wang /// advantage bridal /// Stage 16, Warner Bros Burbank Studios, California, 1964: Audrey is dressed as Eliza on the ballroom set of My Fair Lady for the Embassy Ball, the shadows of aristocrats marking the wall behind her. via all about audrey]
Labels: audrey hepburn, blossoms, breakfast at tiffanys, chignon, d. porthault, george peppard, great love stories, joey, la paisible, mark shaw, pink, ponytail, quotes, richard avedon, robert wolders, wicker


text:
Conference Tools for 2018 TMS Annual Meeting & Exhibition
Register as a New User
Submit An Abstract
Propose A Symposium
Presenter/Author Tools
Organizer/Editor Tools
About this Abstract
2018 TMS Annual Meeting & Exhibition
Ultrafine-grained Materials X
Presentation Title
M-31: Possibility of Manifestation of Dynamic Strain Aging under Severe Plastic Deformation of Low-carbon Steels
Georgy I. Raab, Gennady N. Aleshin, Arseniy G. Raab, Ruslan Z. Valiev
On-Site Speaker (Planned)
Ruslan Z. Valiev
Abstract Scope
The features of manifestation of dynamic strain aging (DSA) are considered for different procedures of severe plastic deformation (SPD) of low-carbon steels, i.e. equal-channel angular pressing (ECAP), high-pressure torsion (HPT) and rolling (a conventional deformation process). Manifestation of DSA under the conditions of gradient structure formation is investigated. It is established that the action of DSA is most active under processing by ECAP and rolling, and least active under HPT processing. The role of hydrostatic pressure for the conditions of shear (ECAP and HPT) in the manifestation of DSA should be noted. The temperatures are identified for the manifestation of DSA under the deformation of the steels by rolling and ECAP. The deformation of steels in the range of DSA temperatures leads to additional structure refinement and enhancement in the strength properties of steels. Acknowledgements: Authors acknowledge financial support from the Russian Foundation for Basic Research through project No. 17-08-00720.
Proceedings Inclusion?
Planned: Supplemental Proceedings volume
A New Mathematical Framework for Simulation of Grain Growth
Accumulative Roll Bonding (ARB) for Making Bulky Metals with Ultrafine Grained Structures
Achieving Ultra-high Strengthening of A2024 Alloy through Combination of High-pressure Torsion and Subsequent Aging Treatment
Activation Volume Tensors for Atomistic Events at Grain Boundaries
Anomalous Deformation Behavior of Thermally Stable Nanocrystalline Immiscible Alloys
Are Selected Laser-melted (SLM) Alloys UFG?
Atomistic Simulation of Driven Steady States in Rolled Cu-Nb Nano-composites
Averting Plastic Flow Localization in Metal Nanocomposites by Tailoring Microstructure Morphology
Bulk Nanocrystalline Metals Cast under Slow Cooling
Comparing Grain Growth Mechanisms in Nanocrystalline FCC Metals due to Ion Irradiation, Mechanical Loading, Conductive Heating, and Laser Heating
Compositionally Tailoring the Mechanical Properties of Nanotwinned Metal Thin Films for Preliminary Micro-cantilever MEMS Devices
Corrosion Behavior of Ultrafine Grained Aluminum and Magnesium Alloys
Crystal Plasticity Modeling of Tensile and Cyclic Behavior of Ultrafine Grained Films: Effects of Crystallographic Texture
Crystal Plasticity of Microstructural Evolution via Twin Boundary Migration in Nanotwinned Metals
Development and Characterization of Nanostructured Steels for Nuclear Applications
Development of Al and Mg-based Nanostructured Alloys
Development of SPD Techniques for the Fabrication of Long-length Rods from UFG Materials
Development of Ultrafine Grain Structure with Weak Texture in New Mg-4Li-1Ca Alloy by Equal Channel Angular Pressing (ECAP)
Effect of Cu on Structure and Mechanical Properties in an Al-0.3%Cu Alloy Cold Rolled to 98%
Effect of SPD Processing Combined with Ultrasound on Structure Transformation in a Low-alloyed Chromium Bronze
Effect of Subgrain Structure on Superplasticity of Ultrafine-grained Ti-6Al-4V
Effect of Texture on Inhomogeneous Shear in ECAP
Evolution of Structural Instabilities during Cyclic Deformation of UFG Metals
Exceptional Properties by Expanding Microstructural Landscape via Friction Stir Processing
Extending the Limits of Nanostructured Metals Created by Dislocation Plasticity
Fabrication of Ultrafine Grained Plates with Low Anisotropy of Mechanical Properties
Fracture Behavior of Bulk Cu with Nanoscale Twins
Gaining New Insights into Structure/Property Relations by Mining and Analysis of Published Images
Grain Boundary Statistical Mechanics: A Disconnection Dynamics Approach
Grain Coarsening in Two-dimensional Phase-field Models with an Orientation Field
Heterogeneous Structures: The Next Hot Research Area?!
High-pressure Torsion as a Novel Technique for Processing High Strength Zn-based Alloys
High-pressure Torsion of Copper-molybdenum Composites
High Shear Deformation to Enhance Properties of a Bioabsorbable Magnesium Alloy
Historical Aspects and Future Prospects of NanoSPD Materials Research for Superior Properties
Improving Mechanical and Functional Properties of Conductive Nanostructured Aluminum Alloys
Increased Defect Densities in SPD-processed Hydrogenated Palladium and their Impact to the Macroscopic Strength
Incremental Feeding for Upsizing Severely Deformed Areas under High Pressure
Investigation of Fatigue Micro-mechanisms in Ultrafine Grained CoCrxNi Medium Entropy Alloy
Issues of Intermetallic and Precipitates Segregation inside Adiabatic Shear Bands of SPD-processed Al 6061
M-29: Effect of Microalloying Additions on the Continuous Recrystallization during Severe High Strain-rate Plastic Deformation
M-30: Manufacturing Method and Material Characterization of Nanocrystalline Nickel Coatings with Gradient Grain Size
M-31: Possibility of Manifestation of Dynamic Strain Aging under Severe Plastic Deformation of Low-carbon Steels
M-32: Study of Densification and Microstructure of Cu-C Composite Prepared by Mechanical Alloying
M-33: Aging-induced Microstructure and Texture Evolution of AA 6201 after High Shear Deformation
Manufacturing Fine-Grained Mg Rods Utilizing Multi-Pass Caliber-Rolling at Warm Temperatures
Mechanical Behavior of 304L Austenitic Stainless Steel Processed by Cryogenic Rolling
Mechanical Behavior of Bulk Mg-based Ultra-fine Layered Composites
Mechanical Behavior of UFG Titanium at Elevated Temperatures
Mechanical Properties and Microstructures of a TiZr Alloy for Dental Implants
Mechanical Properties of Mg-3%Gd with a Heterogeneous Lamella Structure
Mechanical Properties of Ultrafine Grained 2519 Aluminum Alloy
Mechano-chemical Synthesis of Nb-oxide Cu Nanocomposites
Micro-mechanical Response of Gamma-based TiAl Intermetallic Compound Processed by High-pressure Torsion
Microstructural Evolution and Mechanical Behavior of a TiC/FeCoNi Composite Fabricated through In Situ Reinforcement Formation
Microstructural Evolution and Thermal Stability of Accumulatively Roll-bonded Cu-Nb Nanolaminates
Microstructure of Refined Ti15Mo Alloy for Biomedical Use
Microstructure, Hardness, and Recrystallization of Tungsten Processed by ECAE to High Strain at Very Low Homologues Temperature
Nanocrystalline Cu Deformation Characterization Simulations
On Interfaces and Radiation Damage
Oxygen and Zirconium Clustering in Nanocrystalline Fe-Zr Alloys and its Impact on Microstructural Stability and High Temperature Mechanical Properties
Phase Transformations and Aging Behavior of Pure Ti and Ti-6Al-7Nb Processed by High-pressure Torsion
Production of Bulk Nanograined Si by High-pressure Torsion at Various Pressures
Recent Developments in the Processing of Ultrafine-grained Materials Using ECAP and HPT
Role of Alloy Properties in Forced Chemical Mixing of Cu-X-Mo Ternary Alloys (X=Ni, Ag)
Severe Deformation at Elevated Temperatures - the Key to Extremely Elongated Nanostructures
Shear Assisted Processing and Extrusion (ShAPE): Bulk Property Enhancement through Tailored Microstructure
Strategies to Improve the Fatigue Crack Growth Behavior of SPD-processed Metals
Strengthening and Toughening Effects of Twin Mesh Structures in Polycrystalline Mg
Structural Stability of Ultra-fine Grained Metastable Beta Titanium Alloys
Struggles in the Land of Opportunity: 25 Years of ECAE Adventures with Tools, Teams, Tough Times, and Triumphs
Study on the Interface of ECAP Cold-welded Cu-Al and Ni-Cu Rods
Surface Structure Transitions during Sliding Contact of Nanostructured Metals
TEM In-situ Mechanical Testing of Proton Irradiated Nanocrystalline Copper Tantalum Alloy
Tensile Characteristics of Ultrafine Grained Fe-Cr-Mn Stainless Steel Fabricated by Reverse Transformation
The Early Days of Pioneering Ultrafine Grained Metals and Alloys
The Effect of Bismuth on Microstructure Evolution in Ultrafine-grained Copper
The Impact of Severe Plastic Deformation and Subsequent Annealing on Elevated Temperature Deformation Behavior of Al-Mg Alloys
The Influence of Microstructure Characteristics on Plastic Deformation Mechanisms in Severely Deformed Aluminium
The Mechanical Properties of Cu-Ni Multilayer Composite Materials
The Path to Generating Bulk Nanocrystalline Parts for Mechanical Testing
Thermally Induced Grain Coarsening in Alpha Iron
Thermodynamical Instability of a Single-phase, Nanocrystalline TiZrNbHfTa Alloy and its Impact on the Mechanical Properties
Ultra-fine Grained Al Alloys and Composites Processed via Powder Metallurgy Route
Ultra-fine Laminated Mg/Nb Composites Produced via Accumulative Roll Bonding
Zirconia Ceramic Toughened Nanocrystalline Iron
Questions about ProgramMaster? Contact


text:
The Joan G Lovering Health Center, formerly the Feminist Health Center of Portsmouth, is located in Greenland in an historic New Hampshire farmhouse. The cozy atmosphere and the professional staff will make you feel comfortable and cared for in a confidential and supportive medical setting. We have free parking in our lot behind the health center and our entrance is privately situated at the rear of the building.
We are the local provider for medication and surgical abortion care, STD/HIV testing and follow up, family planning, morning after pill and reproductive health care. We are community based, community run and community supported. Our board, advisory council and staff are locally recruited and represent the community we serve, both geographically and philosophically. We serve patients from the Seacoast communities of Maine, New Hampshire and Northern Massachusetts.
- Bio-Identical Hormones
- Confidential HIV/AIDS counseling and testing for females and males.
- Contraception Education and Methods
- First Trimester Abortions, Surgical & by pill
- Gynecological Care (GYN)
- Menopause Health Care
- Morning After Pill (MAP)
- Pregnancy Testing & Options Counseling
- Sexually-transmitted disease (STD) clinics for men and women
Information about Services
Fee and Insurance and information can be found here
How do clients feel about services received at the Joan G. Lovering Health Center?
- "The health care staff is very friendly, understanding, comforting and informative."
- "The staff is professional. They create a calm, relaxed and supportive atmosphere."
- "Confidentiality and safety is of their utmost concern."
- "I made the decision to have an abortion and I was very nervous. The old farm house had a calming effect. The staff was sensitive and compassionate to all of my concerns."


text:
She wasn't a cyclist. She was a person.
May 21, 2012 § 42 Comments
Suzanne Rivera is dead. Contrary to comments posted in various news articles, she didn't die doing what she loved. She died trying to avoid a race support van that had parked in the middle of a fast, blind, downhill curve, obstructing part of the lane for no good reason at all.
Presumably, her last thoughts were "Oh my God, I'm going to hit the back of that van!" Presumably, she was frightened. I'd go so far as to say she was terrified beyond belief, like every other cyclist in the history of two wheels who, in that split second between realization and impact, knows that this may well be the last thing she ever sees.
No, she didn't die doing what she loved. And no, it wasn't unavoidable. And no, the fact that she was a brand new racer with brand new racer bike handling skills can't be ruled out as a factor in her death.
Amazingly, I'm not blaming anybody
I am, however, pointing out the horror and revulsion and senselessness and loss we feel when someone dies or suffers a catastrophic injury riding a bike. We feel it because it feels an awful lot like us. Whether Jorge Alvarado on a training ride, Robert Hyndman on a challenging descent, or Suzanne Rivera in a twisty road race, these deaths shake us to our core.
The dead are young men with their entire lives ahead of them. They are mothers acting as role models for their young children by practicing fitness and engaging in healthy activity. They are retirees finding pastimes that are social and fun. They are us, and their deaths remind us that when you roll out the door, happy and excited and anticipating the fun that awaits, there is a reasonable chance that you might not return. Ever.
In Suzanne's case, though, the horror and tragedy are compounded by something else: The unspoken rule of the road. Coming hard on the heels of a hospital visit last week, where I saw a cyclist and wonderful friend in the earliest stages of recovery from a broken neck, it has occurred to me that we must not let the secret go unspoken any longer.
We have a duty to remind people of it, especially the beginners, and even more especially the beginners who decide to pin on a number and lock horns. We have a duty to tell this secret, because it is a dirty one, a painful one, and also a universal truth.
If you're going to ride fast, you are going to crash.
And the rule has a corollary, almost as terrible as the secret itself: You will crash not once, but many times. And the final part of the secret? The chances are fair that at least one of your crashes will leave you with a broken bone or an injury to your head or spine.
Would you still ride if you knew?
If, before purchasing that brand new bike, you were to read a list of the injured and their injuries just from the people who regularly do the local Donut Ride, would you still decide that this is the sport for you? Some would.
If, before entering your first mass start event, you were to read a list of the people who'd been hospitalized after going down in a bike race in the last twelve months, would you still pin on the number? Some people would.
Because the life they're in pursuit of isn't a life of comfort and safety and freedom from risk.
A beautiful life
After reading the news accounts, statements by her friends and teammates, and her obituary, one thing is clear. Suzanne Rivera lived a beautiful life. Surely she fully appreciated the risks of racing a bike. The waiver says you can get seriously injured or killed. Everyone reads it. Everyone thinks about it, however briefly, before deciding that it probably won't happen to them. Everyone signs it.
Yet even more surely, she appreciated the feelings of power and strength and competition that are unique to bike racing.
Her life seemed to be about her husband, her children, and taking the challenging path rather than the safe one. When the gauntlet was thrown down, she picked it up at an age when most people are trying to find the easy groove, not test themselves against the relentlessness of the road.
Those of us who continue to push hard, knowing what's likely to follow, are following in her footsteps.
For me, and probably for you, it's because we know no other path.
With the hardness of marathons in her legs and the steel bit of the bike between her teeth, it was the only path that Suzanne knew, too. May her newfound serenity be a worthy end to such a long, hard, beautiful road.
§ 42 Responses to She wasn't a cyclist. She was a person.
wonderfully written. I intend to share the hell out of this. suzanne, her family, and her friends are in my thoughts.
I cannot help feel bad for the driver of the van. I cannot help but wonder how far out in the road he really was, given some of the eyewitness accounts I heard from people who were there. It was a tragedy no doubt. That her spirit carries on is also no doubt. I encourage healing before blaming.
"…her newfound serenity…" Are you waxing metaphysical here? Something tells me you are more Dostoevsky's Ivan than Zosima.
WOW. passionate writing. crytal clear. a sport with dangers. a person with a life, loved ones and a person who embraced life. for most that read this article no matter what sport..there is no other choice. its choosing to embrace life. her body is gone but what she loved in life will be stronger and louder and hopefully safer. Her death an example of living. Mary Spies
Truly written from the heart. You said a lot of things people are afraid to say. R.I.P. Suzanne.
Suzanne and I were friends… she was a fixture on the local group rides here in the anus of the Central Valley. A true competitor and athlete that felt the buzz of the cycling needle very quickly. Your words accurately describe Suzanne the wife, mother, daughter, friend, cyclist, and competitor. The news of her passing and the circumstances surrounding the accident continue to resonate through our community.
I, like you and your readers, am one of those who know no other way and continue to push on knowing the risk and potential consequences of ingesting our drug of choice… My wife and non-cycling friends don't understand and I don't expect them to. Last year I was hit by a truck from behind while decending on a morning group ride at 35 mph. The results for myself and the 6 others I took down with me could have been much worse than the morning spent in the ER, time off work and 6 weeks off the bike, and yet… everyone of us is back at it week-in and week-out. You see "the gun is cocked and loaded, the barrel in our mouth, and we LOVE the taste of metal".
We have been dealing with the death of Suzanne each in our own way. The "rusty blade of reality" has cut through the sun baked leather exterior of the collective cycling community to expose a nasty, festering, ignored for too long, boil of truth that needs to be lanced!
I re-posted your blog regarding the death of Robert Hyndman from Nov, 2011 shortly after I received the news about Suzanne. Your words were thoughtful, poignant, and written with a truth that most will never comprehend. This post no less brilliant and I intend to share it also. On behalf of everyone from this community looking for our next "fix"… thank you for sharing your thoughts!
Thank you for this beautifully written post. My thoughts and prayers are with Suzanne's family and friends.
I met and raced with Suzanne at the Vlees race a few weeks earlier. She was so strong and did so well in that race. We rode much of the race together in a break until finally I couldn't keep up with her any more. We were 4th and 5th at that point. I was surprised she got away from me on the descent. I had a feeling she was new to riding and racing and she confirmed that when I spoke to her. I could totally relate to her. She was about my age. I have also done the Mariposa Stage Race and I know how she must have felt going into the 4th stage of the race as I hear she was riding strong. I'm sure she felt a huge sense of accomplishment at this stage of her life. And this is how she chose to spend her mother's day. I know she was probably having the time of her life that day and that I would have seen her at many more races in the future. She was like me. She reminded me of me. I feel like we would have become friends if given the chance. Her death has hit me hard. As always Seth, thanks for your writing. It always makes me think.
Seth, Your words resonate. Two years ago I tracked my criterium crash ratio and it averaged once every 25 races. I suspect that is about normal. Its a terrible and very real part of the sport. Boxers get hit in the head and we get road rash (or worse). I often ask myself if the risk is worth it and I suppose my answer can be found pinned to the side of my jersey on most weekends.
I never feel like I'm risking my life in Criteriums but sometimes, usually while descending some twisty canyon, I become acutely aware of my mortality….and yet, at that same instant I feel incredibly ALIVE. I try to balance the thrill with a bit of wisdom and knowledge of my limits but if some car crosses the yellow line, someone like you will probably be writing about me too.
WM, thanks for so eloquently helping one rider face the music.
It's not just racers. As Wacker reminded us of Robert Hyndman, people die riding their bikes.
Saturday, I descended Cerro Noroeste Rd from Apache Saddle as part of the Heartbreak Hundred. I hit 49mph without even trying on a twisting mountain road that I had never descended. It had blind corners, it was open to traffic and it was loaded with riders of unknown skill levels. At the bottom, I was pumped and exhilarated; it was one of the most fun descents of my life.
Later on, while climbing Heartbreak Hill, it dawned on me, what was I thinking descending like that under those conditions? I had even told myself before the start to take it easy on the descents because they were unfamiliar. But once the road tilted down, the speed was like a drug I was powerless to resist.
The last ten miles of that ride were downhill and I had a chance to set a PR for a hilly century, so once again logic and reason were tossed aside for the sheer pleasure that seemingly only speed can provide.
Yesterday, after the joy of finishing had receded, after the congratulations from family and friends had faded, after I read your columns about Suzanne and Robert, I got scared. Shaking, pit in my stomach, scared. Riding a bike is not worth death or serious injury, but at the same time nothing else even comes close to the exhilaration and sense of being ALIVE that cycling provides. A life of comfort and safety and freedom from risk is not really an option. However, I know that if I do not do a better better job of managing the risks, you, WM, are going to be writing about me someday.
RIP Suzanne. My hearfelt condolences to your family and friends.
Nicely written..and yes I agree. Whether you are a beginner racer or an old pro we all share the risks of crashing and death.
I know this all to well. 9 months ago my "newlywed" husband was killed on a training ride here in Belgium. He was an accomplished cyclist and long time racer and in his case, it was clearly just being in the wrong time at the wrong place..to my knowledge it was almost an instant death and yes, I highly doubt when he saw that car come at him, he thought I am dong what I love! If he had a chance at all before the light turned out, it would be of his 3 children.
Funny thing is this does not stop me from riding my bike, however I certainly have heightened awareness of traffic and other obstacles.
And yes heartfelt condolences to the families…I can tell you they have a challenging road ahead..
There is something undervalued by deaths of people on bicycles, almost like the "she was asking for it, dressed like that" mentality, as we ask others to please consider sharing the road with us by moving their hands 2″ to give us a little room to ride our narrow little bikes. "a cyclist died …" – oh, too bad, on to the next story.
It's true, we're little, it's hard to judge our speed, etc, but the fault never seems to lie with the person who kills us. When I was very young, my family lived in France, and we understood that hitting a cyclist would mean BIG trouble.
I think those who cause our death need to at least serve a traffic remediation or something, even it was completely innocent. Other it's just another "accident". Oh, too bad.
Nice writing and excellent points.
Every senseless loss of life is a tragedy. Thank you for your commentary on cycling and life.
Sad indeed for Suzanne's loss of life. On one hand bicycle racing can be considered an inherently dangerous sport. On the other hand, I feel not enough is being done to ensure safety of riders at many cycling events. Sure racers crashing is part of the sport, but vehicle and bicycle interaction should be prevented at all costs and never happen, yet so often you hear about it. Let's hope whatever happened here can help future incidents like this from happening again.
thank you for such an eloquent post. I was at the race that weekend, spectating, and was devastated by Suzanne's death. I would have been racing with her in the 4s if I were not taking this year off. I agree with your sentiment that she did not die "doing what she loved." I have even told people, should some tragedy happen, to not say that about me but to say I died fighting for every chance to go on living. My heart goes out to her family. I can't imagine the heart ache they must be feeling. I am so sorry.
For reasons you discuss, I also do not generally recommend road racing to people without discussing that there is a likelihood of injury at some point. I had an early introduction to serious injury and came back, like so many others; and then I came back after a second serious injury. I can't tell you why except that it fills me with joy in a way that I have not found in other sports.
Good post. Though I'm curious as to the context of USA Cycling spokesman's statement about there being only "handful" of cycling deaths a year. I don't think it's an attempt to trivialize this or any other cycling death, though I could see how it could come across that way. Rather, I see it as an attempt to put the risks of cycling in perspective. Sure, cycling has its risks, but is it SO risky that we're making a reckless decision every time we get on our bike? The benefit versus risk tolerance is different for everyone: I'll pass on racing myself, but I consider the road riding I do – while not risk free – to be a reasonably safe activity. But that doesn't make it hurt any less when we lose one of our own.
One powerfully and well written take. "Yeah, he gets it totally, he goes strait to the core of cycling, being and many other things."
This is a tragedy beyond measure. I, too, was seriously injured in a bicycle crash 3 years ago, on a descent at 38 mph and was taken down by loose dogs. I broke my clavicle, scapula, seven ribs, pelvis in three places, r hand, and had a brain contusion. Hospitalized three weeks,in a wheel chair three months. I had seven surgeries in two years following and was plated and screwed together. I first got back on the bike nine months after the accident and rode 35 easy miles. It was the thrill of my life and I needed to prove to myself that fear would not rule me. The next day I had wrist surgery. I started riding again one year ago. No one who does not enjoy the sport can ever understand the shear joy that we, as cyclists enjoy. No one understands why we would put ourselves at risk. I have seen and been to places I never would have except for riding the bike. I have met countless, wonderful people who share my passion. I have enjoyed fun and fitness on the bike all of my life. I have enjoyed the rush of competition. I was bound and determined to never give it up, to risk death doing what I love. I recently had another mishap on a mountain bike this time. It was an easy slow ride on a beautiful trail that was built for biking from an old railroad. A gate we had to go through snapped shut on me, threw me and my elbow hit a rock wall, breaking it badly. I needed surgery and wear yet another three inch screw in my elbow. Going through the pain and recovery again so soon, has made me start to wonder if it is all worth the risk. Again, I say yes, but with a little more reservation this time. I am sure once the pain is gone and I fully recover, I will ride once again; but it will never be the same. Yes, I rode from my home three years ago thinking I would be back in 2 hours. I unexpectedly did not return for three weeks, and the fact is real, I literally almost did not return at all. There is something addictive to this sport that keeps drawing us back.
[…] From Cycling in the South Bay: […]
[…] From Cycling in the South Bay: […]
Well said.
I am 9 months into a recovery from going over a cliff (trying to avoid a race vehicle). The one thing I can share is that when being put into the back of the ambulance. I looked at the skid mark. It was over 60 feet long and when I went over, I went over ….fast. A bicycle travelling at speed (usually down hill) has about a quarter of the stopping power of a car. Think about it. When you hit 64 mph on a bike, you are used to doing that in a car, right? Don't fall into the trap (I did) by thinking you can stop in the same distance as a car. You can't.
You are speeding down hill, and what gives you speed (hill gradient and smooth road) work against you when you need to stop.
It's not about speed. My worst accident was a broken ankle from a fall at 10 mph on ice on my way to work. I found this blog while searching for some insight in how to deal with my wife's opposition to my road racing. It's no good to explain that racing isn't really any more dangerous than fast group rides. I don't race on the road a lot, but I don't want to swear it off either. But I don't want to make my wife crazy, even if, to me, her fear isn't well-grounded. Still trying to figure out what to do.
But you are certainly correct that we (I) don't want to talk about the dangers. Virtually every cycling buddy has had at least one, and usually several accidents with broken bones or worse. But none of us would give it up. And even the death of one of our peers doesn't do it, though it is very painful to think about it. In the end, I also feel most alive when on my bike. Even just riding to work – most days there's nothing else I'd rather do. Very odd.
"Would you still ride if you knew?"
When I read that a cyclist was killed descending Las Flores, I next weekend went to Las Flores to see that I could descend it without crashing.
In the world at large, people would regarded this as crazy.
Other cyclists would mainly, I suppose, understand.


text:
LONDON (AP) — A 4-week-old baby has been attacked by a fox in his home in London, police said Sunday.
The baby boy was admitted to a hospital Wednesday after the fox injured one of his hands, Scotland Yard said. It didn't give details about how the fox entered the home or how serious the injury was, but British media said the fox bit one of the baby's fingers.
The boy was recovering after surgery, the reports said.
Reports of urban foxes attacking humans occur infrequently in Britain. In 2010, two twin baby girls were reportedly mauled by a fox while sleeping in their cots in a London home.
Some have called for a cull of the animals, which are a common sight at night in quieter areas of the capital. Mayor Boris Johnson said more needs to be done to tackle what he called a growing problem. "They may appear cuddly and romantic, but foxes are a pest and a menace, particularly in our cities," he said.
The Royal Society for the Protection of Animals said that it is "extremely unusual" for the animals to attack anyone.


text:
Massachusetts Attorney General Martha Coakley has rejected an initiative petition to repeal the 2011 law that legalized casino gambling, saying that the petition would result in an unconstitutional taking of property.
But proponents say they plan to fight the ruling and still collect signatures for the ballot question.
In a decision written Sept. 4, state Solicitor Peter Sacks argues that the proposed law could not be certified because it would prohibit the state Gaming Commission from issuing licenses for casinos or a slots parlor under the expanded gaming law. It would therefore impair the implied contract between the commission and gaming license applicants, who have spent millions of dollars so far for the review process.
"Contract rights are considered property and may not be 'taken' by an initiative petition," Mr. Sacks wrote. "Here, the proposed law would impair and thus 'take' applicants' contract rights, without any provision for paying compensation."
While no casino license applicant has any right to the issuance of a license, he continued, under the 2011 law the applicants have an implied contractual right to Gaming Commission action on their applications.
Mr. Sacks also noted that parimutuel betting on greyhound racing, which is allowed under a state license through such simulcast facilities as Raynham Park, would become "illegal gaming" under the proposed law.
Brian Ashmankas, a Millbury selectman who serves as campaign director for the organization behind the initiative, Repeal the Casino Deal, said his group plans to file an injunction with the Supreme Judicial Court and will proceed with collecting signatures when papers are released around Sept. 15. "We think we're right," he said. "This reading is faulty and we're going to win."
He said a decision by the court would be expected in spring, in time to get the initiative on the 2014 ballot.
Mr. Ashmankas said the attorney general's reasoning, that the law's application process constituted a contract and property, was "a big stretch."
"There's nothing they own, physical or otherwise, that is deemed affected by this."
He was also stunned by the decision, because Repeal the Casino Deal representatives worked with an assistant attorney general for two months prior to submitting the initiative petition for certification.
Pointing to a SJC ruling that rejected Raynham Park's challenge to a 2008 initiative that outlawed greyhound racing, he said a gambling license is a revokable privilege.
"To me, it just motivates me," Mr. Ashamankas said about the impact of the attorney general's decision on the Repeal the Casino Deal campaign. "It isn't about the freedom to gamble; it's about government sponsoring a predatory organization against their mandate to serve the people."
Contact Susan Spencer at firstname.lastname@example.com. Follow her on Twitter @SusanSpencerTG.


text:
Our late founder Michael T. turned me onto this super sharp light weight knife. It's a Cold Steel copy of a famous South African Design.
Many Bersa Chatters have this knife and many including MT learned the hard way and cut themselves trying to close this knife.
Here is a video tutorial on just how to do it safely.
Also a demo of the opening speed of the Rajah III
Yes, that is my smartphone in the background controlling the camera functions of the GoPro4. Video shot in Narrow view.


text:
In Jeff Jackson's debut novel, Mira Corpora ("strange and unusual bodies"), questions of truth, fiction, and reality are unavoidable for two reasons. First, Jackson's narrator is named Jeff Jackson. Second, Jackson says the novel came out of journals he kept when he was a kid. Still, once you're immersed in the world of the book, those questions fade from importance. Mira Corpora tells the strange, sometimes traumatic story of a runaway boy from age 6 to 18.
If the author's name sounds familiar, it may be because he's been a music reviewer for the Advocate for more than a decade. Jackson, who lives in Charlotte, N.C., is a busy writer and teacher—he teaches film at U.N.C. Charlotte, does copywriting for a New York advertising firm, serves as an editor for psychoanalysis journals, and is arts editor for a site called Charlotte Viewpoint. He's also penned five plays for a New York troupe called Collapsible Giraffe. Mira Corpora was the work of five years, accomplished while wearing those multiple hats.
The book, published by the small press Two Dollar Radio, has hardly gone unnoticed. It made several "best of 2013" lists and boasts blurbs from writers Dennis Cooper and Don DeLillo. In a recent interview, Jackson explained that DeLillo, a writer whose work he particularly admires, got involved when Jackson sent his book to his former literature professor, who, it turned out, was friends with DeLillo.
"I got a postcard from DeLillo with basically what's written on the back of the book," Jackson says. He was so overwhelmed with its unexpected arrival that, he says, "I had to walk around the block a few times."
DeLillo's praise is not measured. It says in part: "I hope the book find the serious readers who are out there waiting for this kind of fiction to hit them in the face."
In a sense, the book does require "serious readers." It's got ready appeal, but not of a mainstream flavor. This is plainspoken yet lyrical prose, captivating, often beautiful, even when it's about brutal events. The plot moves deftly, and seems equal parts fever dream and bald reality. Events mostly seem plausible, yet they are often tinged with an air of the surreal, thanks in part to Jackson's eye for images that defy easy emotion: "I sit alone in the dining room and wait for her curtains to part. It's late afternoon. Slivers of sunlight filter into the room and gild the bookshelves surrounding the table. One beam falls on the bone china plate that holds the two oranges. I stole them from the girl's house."
That kind of straight-ahead prose allows Jackson to slip in some startling images in subtle fashion, and it's in keeping with the kind of writing he prefers. "I like stuff that doesn't have too much of an overt literary style, but has an intensity, some poetry and lyricism in it," he says.
About the unavoidable issues of truth versus fiction in Mira Corpora, Jackson says, "Early on [after publication] there were a lot of questions. I did give the narrator my name. I did call it a novel, because that's what it is. The decision to give the narrator my name came fairly late in the process. I got to the point I realized I knew the character so well he'd earned the right to my name.
"I'm a little reticent to answer too much. One of the things that gives the book its charge is that tension. It's wired for that, and I don't necessarily want to unwire it."
That tension makes sense when he talks about his old journals. Their contents were a mixed bag: "There were some things that had happened to me, there were legends, there were things that had happened to friends, daydreams, things like that. Finding this old material was sort of the jumping-off point for it, finding a way to give it a form and give it a voice."
Among the writers who've influenced him, Jackson names, among others, Denis Johnson, Don DeLillo, Bruno Schulz and Joan Didion. He adds, "Nabokov is my favorite writer, but I don't try to write prose like him because I don't think anybody can. It just goes so deep and it's so virtuosic."
Jackson's experience as a playwright, he says, aided his novel effort, but "not in a super-direct way. It helped in terms of the process. I've learned not to get freaked out, to trust that you'll eventually get there. I've been through these long processes and learned to not be afraid to take things apart."
Jackson's current efforts include an unusual theater piece he describes as "between play and art installation" that opens in New York City this May. It's called Dream of the Red Chamber, and it's made for a sleeping audience. "People can come and go as long as there's a bed open," Jackson explains.
Though he doesn't want to say a lot about his second novel, what he does say points toward his work as a music critic. "It's sort of looking at the intersection of rock and roll and violence. It's my attempt to write a rock and roll book and sort of get it out of my system."•


text:
Forensic Live CD issues
The problem
Forensic Linux Live CD distributions are widely used during computer forensic investigations. Currently, many vendors of such Live CD distributions spread false claims that their distributions "do not touch anything", "write protect everything" and so on. Community-developed distributions are not exception here, unfortunately. Finally, it turns out that many forensic Linux Live CD distributions are not tested properly and there are no suitable test cases developed.
Another side of the problem
Another side of the problem of insufficient testing of forensic Live CD distributions is that many users do not know what happens "under the hood" of such distributions and cannot adequately test them.
For example, Forensic Cop Journal (Volume 1(3), Oct 2009) describes a test case when an Ext3 file system was mounted using "-o ro" mount flag as a way to write protect the data. The article says that all tests were successful (i.e. no data modification was found after unmounting the file system), but it is known that damaged (i.e not properly unmounted) Ext3 file systems cannot be write protected using only "-o ro" mount flags (write access will be enabled during file system recovery).
And the question is: will many users test damaged Ext3 file system (together with testing the clean one) when validating their favourite forensic Live CD distribution? My answer is "no", because many users are unaware of such traits.
Here is a list of common problems of forensic Linux Live CD distributions that can be used by developers and users for testing purposes. Each problem is followed by an up to date list of distributions affected.
Journaling file systems updates
When mounting (and unmounting) several journaling file systems with only "-o ro" mount flag a different number of data writes may occur. Here is a list of such file systems:
|File system
|When data writes happen
|File system requires journal recovery
|To disable recovery: use "noload" flag, or use "ro,loop" flags, or use "ext2" file system type
|File system requires journal recovery
|To disable recovery: use "noload" flag, or use "ro,loop" flags, or use "ext2" file system type
|"nolog" flag does not work (see man mount). To disable journal updates: use "ro,loop" flags
|"norecovery" flag does not help. To disable data writes: use "ro,loop" flags. The bug was fixed in recent 2.6 kernels.
Incorrect mount flags can be used to mount a file system on evidentiary media during the boot process or during the file system preview process. As described above, this may result in modification of a file system's data. For example, several Ubuntu-based forensic Linux Live CD distributions mount Ext3/4 file systems on fixed media (e.g. hard drives) during execution of initrd scripts (these scripts mount every supported file system type on every supported media type using only "-o ro" flag in order to find a root file system image).
List of distributions that recover Ext3 (and sometimes Ext4) file systems during the boot:
|SMART Linux (Ubuntu)
|FCCU GNU/Linux Forensic Boot CD