text:
My relationship with Jack Bauer is now over!
Season 8 has been watched and concluded today…and I was a plonker who cried at the end! What am I going to do with my evenings now…maybe Breaking Bad on Netflix?
I have always loved escapism. A fantastic book is easily read by me in a day…I will stay up for hours to finish it as I can't put them down! I have shelves full of Jeffrey Deaver, Harlan Coben, Lee Child, Ian Rankin – fantastic authors. The same happens with TV stuff too – Spooks, Homeland, Lost, Person of Interest, 24…I love them.
Some of my earliest memories involve books. I had a box set of Winnie the Pooh books, and read the Anne of Green Gables collection when I was really young…along with the Famous Five and Secret Seven…damn them and their midnight feasts!
I remember reading about midnights feasts and my cousins and I were staying at my Nan and Grandad's house and decided to have one. The only problem was that my Nan used to stay up until 1am. I volunteered to stay awake, we stashed loads of biscuits, and they went to sleep with the promise that I would wake them up later. Somehow, I managed to stay awake…I tried waking them all up when Nan had gone to bed but they were having none of it, so I ate all of the biscuits myself and lay there all night with a terrible stomach ache! I should have taken some learning from that episode really!
As a teenager, I managed to freak my English Literature teacher out when she asked us to read a few paragraphs from our favourite book. I chose 'Red Dragon' and read the part where a man is superglued to a wheelchair, set on fire, and pushed down a hill. Her face was a picture!
It never crossed my mind to see this escapism as a bad habit. And it has only been over the past couple of days that I have looked at it in this way. Hiding away with a good book and getting lost in the plot is a pleasure. It can be relaxing and can help take your mind off your issues…in the same way that food can.
This might be a little bit 'out there' for some of you, and the rest will probably think that it is bollocks, but I am starting to wonder if I use TV and books in the same way that I use food…to avoid dealing with reality and my emotions. I would often put off a difficult decision by hiding away in my room with a book – I still do this now! Or I will stop my other half from asking me questions when I am watching a program…I did it today!
Putting down the books and turning off my TV is not going to happen though. I make it sound as if I am a couch potato, but I only watch a couple of hours in the evening – honestly! I enjoy my escapism, and I think it can be a great way of distracting yourself from eating…it certainly works for me.
However, replacing one method of avoidance with another is not healthy I guess. So I am turning the TV off soon and am going to have the 'chat' that my other half wanted to have earlier…but Jack Bauer and his plight was more important at the time!
We all have our 'things' that take us away from reality. My other half loves his football and his club have been going through turmoil. I keep telling him that it is not real life and that the results of his team really won't have an impact on him. This really isn't the point though…the point is that we all need a bit of escapism.
So whilst I won't be putting a halt to my reading, or my TV series, I am going to pay more attention to my emotions and whether or not I am using these things to avoid putting off decision-making. Bloody hell – this self development malarkey can be a real pain in the ass!
After all of that, I have just been watching Tom Kerridge making some wonderful food on TV whilst I have been writing. Food porn is definitely not a good way of distracting yourself…I have tried it – Man v Food, Triple D…and now this. Although it did make me chuckle…my Grandad once told me never to trust a skinny chef…he also told me never to trust a man with a coin purse!
Right then, let's get on to the usuals…
I woke up feeling a bit fuzzy-eyed…I have an opticians appointment tomorrow to see if they can tell me what is going on with my peepers! The past few days have been a little strange with blurred vision etc. My other half is off to an event in London for the next couple of days, so I took him to get his hair cut! We also went and sorted out the neddies and popped to Asda too. It has been a quiet day really. I desperately want to get on and read some of my books for university, but my eyes aren't 'right' so that's been a bit pants really. Instead, I decided to clear out my wardrobe…I have so many lovely clothes from Dawn French's 'Sixteen 47′ range that I should really put on eBay. The problem is that I have hardly worn them – some are unworn – and really don't want to part with them…but they are hanging off me now – so eBay it will have to be…unless you know anyone who wears their size 6 and is in the market for some new clobber!
Breakfast: Banana and an Alpen light (0.5 x HEB).
Lunch: Leftover chicken and butternut squash curry with a wholemeal pitta (1 x HEB).
Dinner: Thai spiced salmon and butternut squash stir fry.
Snacks: Cheese (2 x HEA, Alpen light (0.5 x HEB), Nakd bar (8 syns) and a packet of Snack a Jacks (4.5 syns).
A good food day! Brekkie was quick and simple and lunch was just leftovers stuffed into a pitta bread. Dinner was so easy and quick too – salmon sprinkled with Thai spices and microwaved, then a box of the Asda butternut squash stir fry with some added garlic, ginger, soy sauce and Thai spices…it was ready within 7 minutes! My snacks were a bit strange today…it felt like I had eaten loads but it wasn't really satisfying as I ate them during the day…so had nothing to snack on in the evening and I felt a bit hard done by!
Exercise: Not much at all today.
Thank you for reading – weigh in tomorrow…I wonder what that will bring?!


text:
Features And Add-Ons
There are many included benefits and features that come standard with your AudioVideoweb.com account. In addition, there are others that you can add on at your option. Below is the full list of features and add-ons. Please contact us if you have any questions.
Simulated Live
Schedule your On-Demand content to play at specific times.
Create online presentations with live video and audience interaction.
Real-time, branded chat between all users.
Deliver content to portable devices like iPods.
FREE Transcoding
Convert your current formats to Windows Media, Flash, Quicktime and Real — simultaneously.
Account Management System
Total control of your account, including uploads, tracking, billing, and more.
Tech Support 24/7 – Phone | E-mail
Our friendly staff answers your questions and solves your problems quickly and efficiently.
Load Balancing
Seamlessly deliver to any size audience.
Event Management
Robust tool kit allows you to plan, promote, and control access to your events.
Live Reports
Detailed statistics and tracking for all your content. Updated every 10 minutes.
Itemized Statements (via e-mail)
Exact description of what you are paying for.
Convert your Windows Media and Flash content into an instant revenue stream.
Run your own custom-branded CDN. Referrals Make money by referring customers.
No Setup Fee
No Contracts
Pay by the month
Upgrade and downgrade as needed
Secured Links – 100%
Protect your content by restricting access to certain domains, or requiring passwords.

subset: commoncrawl


text:
The holiday season is upon us! This is a time for hot cocoa and apple cider, cozy blankets, and spending time with friends and family. While you're busy with dinners, shopping and traveling in the cold winter air you don't have time to get sick.
Help prevent colds and the flu by bundling up when going outside, washing your hands, eating well and getting lots of rest.
However, if you do find yourself or your loved ones feeling sluggish and achy and you just can't shake it, hop on your phone, tablet or computer to talk to a doctor or nurse practitioner at MyEClinic.org.
This online Clinic can virtually address issues like sore throat, rashes, urinary tract infections, pink eye or allergies without having to pack up the kids and make a trip to urgent care.
For more information please visit MyEClinic.org today!


text:
ClickCash and iFriends take the subject of record keeping very seriously. We are not only in full compliance with 18 U.S.C. §2257, we have added our own requirements for the webcam models who participate on the iFriends platform to ensure that all models are at least 18 years of age or older before they appear in any adult-themed content, regardless of whether or not that content is sexually explicit.
The ClickCash Terms and Conditions requires that all affiliates who participate in the ClickCash program be in full compliance with these regulations as well. Failure to comply with 18 U.S.C. §2257 will result in the immediate termination of your account.
If you are not sure whether or not the content you use in your promotions falls under this regulation, you may wish to consult with an attorney who specializes in adult content. The information provided on this page should not take the place of legal counsel.
The easiest and safest way to be in compliance with both the ClickCash T&C and US Federal Regulations is to use content found in sites listed in the site list such as the iFriends Content Library (ICL). The ICL includes model archive and fanclub content. Each piece of content inside the ICL has a barcode embedded within it that links to the model who appears in it. This further links to that particular model's documentation on file. This barcode is tamper-proof! You can identify content that is barcoded as each image or movie bears the "Certified 18+" stamp. (For more details about this barcode and how it's used, visit our 18-2257 information page). When you use these tools to promote ClickCash participating sites, all record-keeping and 18 U.S.C. §2257 obligations are handled for you automatically! All you have to do is sit back and let SafeRecords do all the work! You don't have to mess with storing documents, verifying information or anything. All that is done for you by the iFriends age verification department. You don't have to so much as lift a finger, and you'll be in 100% compliance with all 18 U.S.C. §2257 documentation requirements!
For more information about how SafeRecords can help you with ensuring you are in compliance with 18 U.S.C. §2257, please visit SafeRecords.
Once you have completed this final course, it's time to start promoting!


text:
|Membership Vows
If you have already been baptised into the church, either as an adult or an infant, then when you join the church you will be asked the following questions. If you have not been baptised, then a baptism will also be a part of the service.These are the vows used:
You have professed with us your faith in one God, Father, Son and Holy Spirit. In your baptism God brought you into the house of faith, and in goodness and mercy has shepherded you to this day. We ask you now to pledge yourself to a life of Christian discipleship:
Do you promise to follow Jesus Christ in your daily life?
Do you promise to be a faithful member of the Christian Community?
Do you promise to take part in God's mission to the world?
The Congregation are then asked to accept the following commitment:
I charge you, the people of this congregation, to love, encourage and support these our brothers and sisters in faith, that they may continue to grow in the grace of the Lord Jesus Christ and the knowledge and love of God.


text:
Editorial: Give thanks out loud
Thanksgiving Day is upon us. Traditions and bountiful feasts aside, Americans dedicate this day to thanking God for what is good here.
We place prominently on that long list our guaranteed freedoms — especially this year the freedom of speech, including the freedom to hold tough conversations publicly.
Consider recent weeks' multitudinous headlines and social media posts about sexual harassment allegations involving everyone from icons to national leaders and even regional ones. No one really wants to talk about this, yet we're thankful that the massive outpouring of women's stories may at last bring a stop to something that the powerful in society ignored and condoned.
We also appreciate how local citizens continue to speak up in our communities. By raising their voices, they help to improve government.
When people champion a civic project, challenge a proposal or raise a new idea, they are exercising an ability to improve where and how they live — something people in most nations only dream of doing.
Red Wing residents living protected lives here through the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals program are speaking out about how this is the only home they know. They didn't ask to come here as young children, but as productive adults they wish to stay.
Across the river, residents recently convinced the Ellsworth School Board to reconsider demolishing Prairieview Elementary School. That fight is far from over, but citizens on both sides of the issue should appreciate that our free, representative system of government is working thanks to citizen involvement.
Also in Pierce County, if it weren't for freedom of speech and open records, Bay City folks and those beyond might never have heard of an ongoing eminent domain land dispute between village citizen David Meixner and the Village Board that has not only spurred legislation and court action, but people to become informed on what their local governments are up to.
Yes, we are thankful for free speech.
As you gather around the table, give thanks for all that's good. Be thankful, too, that we have the right to exercise our freedoms and, in so doing, strive to make things better.


text:
NFL and East-West Shrine Game alumni Robert Porcher III and Mark Rypien, will be honored as the newest members of the East-West Shrine Game Hall of Fame in a ceremony for the 92nd East-West Shrine Game, which will be played at Tropicana Field in St. Petersburg, Florida, on Jan. 21, 2017.
Following impressive college careers, Rypien and Porcher were selected to play in East-West Shrine Game: Rypien in 1986 for the West squad, and Porcher in 1992 for the East. During the spring of those respective years, they were both offered the chance to play in the NFL. Rypien was a sixth-round pick by Washington, and six years later, Detroit chose Porcher as a first-round pick.
Stand-Out NFL Careers
Porcher, a legendary Detroit Lion defensive-end, was the first player ever drafted from Div. 1-AA (now FCS) South Carolina State. For 13 years, Porcher was a dominant force for the Detroit Lions at his defensive end position. He led the team in sacks for eight of his years with the Lions, and recorded double-digit quarterback takedowns during four of those seasons. Porcher played his entire professional career with Detroit, retiring in 2004 as the Lions' all-time sack leader with 95.5 – especially impressive considering the team began playing in 1930. Porcher was also very durable, playing in 155 of Detroit's 162 regular-season games during his time there, and he recorded 603 career tackles. His skill at thwarting opposing offenses sent the defensive end to three NFL Pro Bowl games: 1998, 2000, and 2002.
Former Washington Redskin Rypien is the only person born outside the U.S. to ever play quarterback for a Super Bowl-winning team. He became Washington's first-team quarterback beginning the 1989 season, and led the team to a 10-6 record, improving on the previous year's 7-9 mark, and passing for 3,768 yards with 22 touchdowns. In 1990, Washington would again go 10-6 with Rypien at the helm, and the team made the playoffs. The next season the Redskins went all the way, winning Super Bowl XXVI over the Buffalo Bills. Rypien was named the game's MVP. During this championship year, Rypien passed for 3,564 yards and 28 touchdowns. He played two more seasons with Washington before stints at Cleveland, Philadelphia, Saint Louis, and Indianapolis. Rypien retired from the NFL in 2002 with 1,466 career completions (56.1 percent) for 18,473 yards with 115 TDs versus 88 INTs.
Caring About Their Communities
Following his retirement from football, Rypien moved back to the state of Washington, and now lives in Spokane. He is active with the Rypien Foundation, which assists local families who are battling childhood cancer.
Even while a player, Porcher devoted time to serving his Detroit-home community, and today he leads a foundation for cancer research and relief that has raised thousands of dollars for programs at the University of Michigan Comprehensive Cancer Center.
We are proud to welcome these two worthy individuals to the East-West Shrine Game Hall of Fame.
About the East-West Shrine Game
Originating in 1925, the East-West Shrine Game is the longest-running college all-star football game in the country and features some of the highest-rated players in the projected NFL draft ranking. While the teams are divided by East and West, the players come together for the beneficiary of the event, Shriners Hospitals for Children. Learn more at shrinegame.com.
About Shriners Hospitals for Children
Shriners Hospitals for Children is changing lives every day through innovative pediatric specialty care, world-class research and outstanding medical education. The 22 hospitals in the United States, Canada and Mexico provide advanced care for children with orthopedic conditions, burns, spinal cord injuries, and cleft lip and palate.
Shriners Hospitals for Children is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization and relies on the generosity of donors. All donations are tax deductible. To learn more about Shriners Hospitals for Children, please visit shrinershospitalsforchildren.org.


text:
Our Services
Akterra Solutions offers a unique blend of service offerings that are the result of deep experience across a host of engagements and across a host of functions. Leveraging these experiences and perspectives, Akterra Solutions can bring creative and insightful solutions to dynamic and challenging situations, and deliver results that endure.
The AKTERRA team brings deep functional experience…
- Project Management and Planning
- Process Improvement and Management
- Strategy Development and Planning
- Security and Compliance
- Cybersecurity
- Resource Planning and Management
… to find the best ways to enhance performance
The AKTERRA team brings a wealth of complementary expertise…
- Private Sector Expertise
- Non-Profit Expertise
- Federal Sector Expertise
- Technology Applications
- Industry-Based Best Practices
...to find the best ways to enhance performance


text:
I advertised to you recently another great virtual lab environment – Unified Networking Lab – with tools like that one I practiced the cool technologies of Alcatel-Lucent Service Routing platform and prepared to many certification exams. And I encourage you to go the same way, not just read the books and force the dumps, but actually build a topology and walk through interesting scenarios.
If you boot a Cisco router like 7210 one, or even Juniper vMX, you could configure some interfaces, protocols and so on right away. With Alcatel-Lucent 7750 SR this approach doomed to fail, you should know how bring to life 7750 virtual Service Router (vSR) once you booted it before any further configuration steps.
And this short post will be just about that, what should you configure on 7750 SR after the first boot to make it running with Unetlab or GNS3?


text:
Zerberus Guitars / Gorgonized Nemesis / 2016 / White Carrara / Guitar
My gorgonized Nemesis guitars now also can be pre-ordered at Red Dragon Guitars in Sparta North Carolina and also at Boxcarguitars in Encinidas California. Both shops have some of my gorgonized guitars in their showroom.
Go check ´em out and get gorgonized !!!
Today I proudly offer you something very special.
At the Anaheim NAMM show (January 2016) I debuted with my new gorgonized guitars with real stone top.
Those "gorgonized" guitars have a chambered Mahogany body with a 5 mm top made of real stone like Amethyst, Tiger´s eye, Labradorite,
Brazilian Onyx Fantastico, White Italian Carrara marble and many more.
The new guitars aroused a lot interest from the customer side and also from the media.
It is hard to believe what the real stone top does for the sound.
All I can say is that those are the best sounding guitars that I ever built.
You hit the strings and you feel how powerful and continuous the whole guitar resonates.
I have done this side by side with "normal" guitars and the gorgonized guitars still keeps ringing when a standard guitar already is quiet.
I had one guitar with me that has a top made of real 0.196" thick Italian White Carrara Arabescato and Today I am proud to offer this guitar on Reverb .
Some details:
Neck scale: 648mm (25.5" scale)
Fretboard radius: 14"
Fretboard made of Rosewood
Tuners: Schaller DaVinci
Nut: Wilkinson roller nut
Medium fret size 24 frets
Neck material: Hard Maple with Purple Heart stripes
Truss rod: Double action Truss Rod
Chambered Body: Light Pink Mahogany
Pickups: Harry Häussel / VIN N A2 Neck + VIN+ B A5 Bridge
Potiknobs: My own Zerberus Design with White Carrara caps
Controls: Master Volume / Master Tone
Both potentiometers are push-pull-types.
Each knob can split one humbucker into single coil (sounds increddible and makes the gutar extremely versatile)
Top is made of genuine White Italian Carrara Marble.
The top is 5mm (0.196") thick and stabilized with a fiberglass backing net.
The guitar come inside a luxury hard case that was built explicit for the Nemesis guitars.
Thanks to the the coil split, the gorgonized Nemesis is extremely versatile.
The pickups are made by Harry Häussel in Germany and the have a really warm and powerful tone.
You can get everything from fat humbucker sound to crunchy-percussive single-coil sounds.
I have applied a Black and holgram Gold pinstripe and the top can be backlit Blue by LED technology (see the NAMM video).
The term "Gorgonized" originates from the Greek mythology and has the meaning of "petrify".
With one look, the Medusa (one of the Gorgons) was able to petrify her enemies.
The term "Gorgonized" stands for our guitars with tops of genuine stone and gemstone.
First people find it hard to believe that the top really is made of stone and then they ask for the weight.
With only 3,5 Kilograms the gorgonized guitars are not heavier that most standard electric guitars.
And as soon as people pay the guitar they are surprised about the fast attack and long and even sustain of the gorgonized guitars.
Most people find it very surprising how strong a top made of stone can resonate.
How does such a "gorgonized" Guitar sound?
Is the stone top only an optical gag or does it have any influence on the sound?
Stone and wood have a completely different micro structure.
On a wood top the sound waves move along the wood grain much stronger than to the side.
On a stone top the sound waves spread much more even in all directions making the whole top resonate with a long and even sustain.
This is because stone has a dense molecular crystal grid structure while wood has an open cell structure.
Mounting the bridge directly on the stone top with the strings going thru the Mahogany body allows a very strong attack and continuous and even sustain.
The gorgonized guitars offer distinct acoustic volume, even unplugged.
Played through an amp, they deliver a well balanced sound that stays clear even in high gain.
Even with their chambered bodies and stone tops, they aren't prone to feedback.
The top at first touch might feel cold, but that changes after a few minutes and they don't stick with their arm on the top like they use to do on a clear coated wooden top.
Another great benefit of the stone top is the fact that it is much more scratch and damage resistant than a wooden top.
Sustain and sustainability: Often rare and exotic lumber is used for the tops of standard electric guitars.
Those tops have to be dyed and painted to give them nice colors and appeal.
Stone as a material is completely different.
There is a whole universe of colors and structures waiting to become a top on a gorgonized guitar.
No need to cut down exotic forests to make a beautiful top.
No need to apply chemical dye and paint to make the top shine.
There are possibilities that are unimaginable on wood.
Stone can have fossils, crystals, crazy colors and it can be cut in any direction or even illuminated from the backside.
And each top is absolutely unique like a fingerprint.
For most guitar players and builders it might be hard to swallow that bitter pill, but stone as a material simply is superior to wood.
But on the other hand it does not work without using wood for the body and neck material.
It is the combination of both worlds – wood and stone – that breathe life and soul into the gorgonized guitars.
The gorgonized Nemesis guitars come inside a luxury Zerberus hardcase and include a certificate.
If you want to see more guitars please visit the zerberus-guitars website.
If you have any questions, please kindly contact me by mail.
I am always glad to receive mails :)
You can find my mail address on the Zerberus-Guitars website. (the German address).
Regarding the shipment:
I do my best to protect the guitar as good as I can.
That means that I use overseas cardboard which is very sturdy.
Then I warp a lot of Red tape around the parcel with the printing "Handle with care!!!".
I really do my best to make the shipment safe and secure.
In other words, I will make the packing as safe as I can so nothing shall damage the guitar inside.
The shipment from Germany to the USA via DHL is free (for you) and the guitar is fully insured.
So if a guitar gets lost, the shipping company will pay full refund.
But I always suggest to contact me first beforehand so we can talk about other shipping options.
Zerberus Guitars, Germany
All custom guitars are completely made by only one luthier - ME.
Zerberus-Guitars is some kind of a One-Man-Show and it´s only me in the workshop.
I do all the works - drive arround to find amazing long time stored lumber - saw out the bodies and necks -shape that all by hand without using CNC machines - equipp the hardware - install the electronis - paint the guitars and so on......I also take the photos and make the website.
No step of my work is done by someone else.
That makes the guitars very unique.
Building such a handmade unique specimen takes at least 6 months.
For making my custom guitars, I don´t use computer controled CNC-machines.
I do all the routings and carvings by hand and so I am not restricted to any standard designs.
I come from a very musical family.
My grandfather played trumpet in a band and my father is a professional rock´n roll guitarist in my region.
On the other hand my ancestors have been very skilled craftsmen who worked as makers of wood cartweels (Grand-grandfather) and wood barrels (Grandfather).
My father does not have a hand for woodworking :)
But he is a lifetime Rock guitarist.
So in my person the two rows come together being a rock guitarist that also loves woodworking :)
I have inherited some woodworking tools from my grand-grandfather that I still use when building my handcrafted custom guitars.
When I was 14, I have built my first guitar with the help of an old luthier.
Later in 1992 I had my own design company and I specialised in guitar design (have played in several bands this time).
Later in 2002 I founded my very own guitar company Zerberus-Guitars and fullfiled one of my biggest childhood dreams with that.
Is it your dream to own an instrument that is the only one of its kind on the planet, as individual as you - the owner, an instrument that is lovingly handcrafted, using selected timbers and the finest hardware, to satisfy your very own aesthetics, needs and personal preferences?
In my Custom Shop, I specialize in carefully hand-building the kinds of guitars and basses that reflect the DNA of their players. I do not employ CNC-machines which mechanically churn out half-finished guitar bodies every few minutes. By contrast, all carving, assembly and finishing is performed by one skilled craftsman, so that my guitars can not be clones of any models made previously.
Each instrument leaving my Custom Shop is a unique specimen. And not being restricted to proprietary designs, I am able to develop very individual guitars and basses in response to the originality and inspiration of our clients.
If you have any questions do not hesitate to contact us.


text:
Israel's President Hosts Christian Communities for New Year Reception
by JNS.org
JNS.org – Israeli President Reuven Rivlin on Monday hosted various Christian denominations at a traditional New Years' reception.
Rivlin expressed gratitude for the Catholic Church's Nostra Aetate declaration against anti-Semitism by mirroring Pope Francis's words "A true Christian cannot be an anti-Semite."
"A faithful Jew cannot be anti-Christian or anti-Muslim," said Rivlin.
"Israel protects freedom of religion for all faiths," Rivlin added.
"Jerusalem is the center of the world. Billions of people look to this city in hope and prayer. We all have a duty – at the beginning of the New Year and every day – to stand together and show the world that the conflict in this region is not a war about religion, it is a war against hate."
The Greek Orthodox Patriarch of Jerusalem, His Beatitude Theophilos III, responded to Rivlin's seasonal greeting at the reception.
"[We] wish to express our appreciation for the strong stand you have continued to take in demonstrating respect for all religions, and your condemnation of violence from whatever side it comes.
"We join you in these affirmations and condemnations. Allow us to reiterate our commitment to education based on the principles of moral values that derive from our common heritage. This is paramount to the shaping of our social fabric."


text:
There was a definite slowdown in temp staffing during the second half of 2015 and the beginning of 2016. The slowdown was mainly in the energy and industrial sectors. The staffing business is cyclical, and would be hit hard in a recession so this is a clearly defined risk. Since I believe the economy is not headed in to a recession and the NFP numbers will remain strong, I expect staffing to firm up. Robert Half (RHI) stock price currently has a $44 handle, and it has fully priced in the staffing slowdown. I believe this level is still pricing in a decent probability of a recession, and is certainly not priced for a pickup in the staffing business. If the job market remains firm and staffing improves, Robert Half stock could recover to $50 - $60 range over the next 6-12 months.
Robert Half's financial performance has been above its industry average. Robert Half is currently growing and expected to continue to grow revenue at a rate of 7% which is the lower end of its 5-year revenue growth range of 7-15%. Over the past 5 years, Robert Half grew revenue at a 9.9% CAGR while the professional services industry grew revenue at a 9.1% CAGR. Over the past 5 years, Robert Half grew eps at a 43.6% CAGR while the professional services industry grew eps at a 17.4% CAGR.
Robert Half (RHI) is trading at a discount to fair value. At a trailing PE of 15.8x and a forward PE of 14.3x, Robert Half is trading at a discount to the S&P 500 which has a trailing and forward pe of 19.6x and 16.7x. Robert Half's average trailing PE over the past 5 year is 24.9x. The professional services industry is trading at 29.9x pe, right on top of it's 5 year average of 29.3. The industrials sector is trading at a forward pe of 16.3x with a 15-year average of 17.0x.
Although there has been a slowdown in temp staffing, the overall labor market strong which is a good environment for the staffing business. Employers put a higher premium on recruiting services in a tight labor market and this improves margins of the staffing business. The slowdown in the staffing business has not worked its way into the NFP numbers yet. Temp staffing employment, shown in the graph below, is viewed as a leading indicator of overall employment. The recent weakness in temp staffing could mean some weakness in NFP reports to come, and Robert Half's stock has priced in this weakness. If NFP stays firm or improves, then Robert Half has a lot of headroom to rally.
Protiviti is Robert Half's consulting business which competes with the big four accounting firms. Protiviti is growing faster than the staffing business with better margins. Protiviti is performing exceptionally well with strong revenue growth of 15.4% in 4Q and margin expansion. Protiviti growth has been driven by internal auditing and compliance. Protiviti operating margins are in the mid-teens. This is higher than Robert Half overall, which had an operating margin of 11.4% in 2015. Protiviti accounted for 14.9% of revenue in 4Q. The faster growing Protiviti segment is increasing as a percentage of revenue and is expanding operating margins. Protiviti also diversifies the main staffing business.
If Robert Half pe multiple were to expand to the same pe multiple as the industrial sector average, then the pe would increase from 14.3x to 16.3x. Robert Half forward eps is 2.91, so 2 turns would increase the stock price by 5.82., or 13.2%. If all goes well, I could see Robert Half above $50 in short order and approaching $60 in the next 6-12 months.
Leave a Reply.
September 2017
Michael Grove, CFA


text:
This page features online resources related to writing, editing, publishing, and other support. If you know of an online resource that has helped you strengthen your own writing, please send the website link to Board Member Kim Suhr at firstname.lastname@example.com, so the source can be shared with other writers here. Thanks!
What counts as "previously published"? This article from Writer's Digest magazine pertains to poetry in particular, but it is very helpful to all writers regarding the definition of "pre-published."
Starting and maintaining a writing group — Good advice and planning ideas from the Writing Center at the University of North Carolina.
Midwest Independent Booksellers Association
A nonprofit trade association that supports the success and growth of independent bookstores in Illinois, Iowa, Kansas, Minnesota, Missouri, Nebraska, North Dakota, South Dakota, Wisconsin, and Michigan's Upper Peninsula. Interactive map and information on events, programs, and independent publishers.
Predators and Editors: A free online site devoted to sharing resources for writers of all persuasions: fiction, nonfiction, poetry, screenwriting, etc. It offers lists of publishers (with notes of good or bad reputations), magazine publishers, contests, conferences, lists of other sites with advice and help for writers, and lots more.
The Write Life The 100 Best Websites for Writers
Grammar Girl: "Your friendly guide to the world of grammar, punctuation, usage, and fun developments in the English language." (Use the search box to find answers to your questions.)
Advice on aspects of creative writing — Fiction Writers' Mentor
Literary Magazines that Pay $$ by Betty Tuch, founding editor of The Review Review
Tax Advice for Writers from Writer's Digest
Tax Tips from Writer's Digest (podcast)
Writers and Editors — A wealth of information for writers: everything from style guides to publishing to talking about your book on the radio.
WritersWeekly.com features articles on numerous writing topics, including: paying markets, warnings about publishing/publishers, promoting your work, etc. Writers Weekly is part of the BookLocker.com, Inc. family of businesses, which includes POD and ebook publisher BookLocker.com, Abuzz Press and Pub Preppers.
Who Needs a Wisconsin Seller's Permit?
For information about selling at "temporary events" and "taxable sales of merchandise" (such as books), go to Wisconsin Sales and Use Tax Requirements, Publication #228, which covers "Temporary Events: Trade Shows, Flea Markets, Art & Craft Shows, and Fairs & Festivals" per the State of Wisconsin Department of Revenue.
This document is 17 pages long, but contains a lot of useful information. It is offered as a resource for you only; WWA does not offer tax advice. For that, please go to your tax preparer or call the numbers offered within the document posted here.


text:
Are your out of town relatives unable to make the trip for graduation? Lamar CISD will "stream" live video of the graduation ceremonies of all three high schools via the district's website.
Anyone with a computer and Internet connection will now have an opportunity to tune in to watch the complete graduation exercises of the Classes of 2012 from Foster, Lamar Consolidated and Terry high schools via the Internet.
A link will be posted on the LCISD website, www.lcisd.org. You may test your connection by clicking on the link. If your computer needs to be updated to view the live video broadcast you will be prompted with the necessary steps to do so.
All three Lamar CISD graduations will Saturday, May 26, in the Merrill Center in Katy. Foster High School's graduation will begin at 10 a.m., followed by Terry High School at 2 p.m. and Lamar Consolidated High School at 6 p.m.


text:
The National Library of Australia is pleased to announce the newspapers that are scheduled to be digitised through the Australian Newspapers Digitisation Program over the coming year:
Through Trove, the national resource discovery service, there is free online access to over 5 million pages from over 130 Australian newspapers. All of the digitised newspapers are fully text-searchable and users can enrich and enhance the data through subject tagging, text correction and annotations.
Titles have been selected by the National Library in consultation with the state and territory libraries. A number of the titles are being digitised with the generous support and funding from a range of organisations. For those libraries and organisations wishing to digitise a specific newspaper title, Contributor Guidelines and a Factsheet provide additional information. If you would like any additional information please email us at email@example.com.
David Ong,
Manager, Australian Newspapers Digitisation Program
Hilary Berthon
Coordinator, Australian Newspaper Plan


text:
First let me mention that this is not a list of the "best films of 2012". It is however a list of my favourite 10 films of the year. I missed many potentially great films during the year, and beyond that, would never claim to know objectively what the best films of the year are. These films are the ones that I enjoyed the most. These are the films that inspired me, or scared me, or affected me the most emotionally.
Just like every year before it, 2012 was a year of disappointment, surprise and great cinema. This list reflects what I found surprising, exciting and great.
10. Moonrise Kingdom
Wes Anderson is a filmmaker stuck in his ways, and that is not always a bad thing. His style is distinct and assured. This leads to him often repeating himself, both thematically and stylistically. That said, when he manages to say something new, his films are brilliant. His latest film, Moonrise Kingdom tells the somewhat familiar story of two precocious kids in love and on the run. Anderson manages to keep the film fresh, however, with a wonderful adventure, fantastic performances, and possibly his most authentically emotional film yet.
9. Sinister
Scott Derrickson's Sinister might be a rather silly horror film, and yet I felt it deserved a spot in my Top 10. While not the most pleasant film experience I've had this year, it was certainly one of the most intense. What makes Derrickson and C. Robert Cargill's script great is that it not only gives you a family that you care about, but a reason for them to stay in the potentially haunted house. Combining effective jump-scares with an incredibly unsettling atmosphere, Sinister is one of the scariest films I've ever had the pleasure of watching.
8. Django Unchained
I am not ashamed to admit that I have never liked Quentin Tarantino. His films just do not work for me. The dialogue and style usually rubs me the wrong way. And yet I still fully understand why he is such an important figure in film, and why so many love his work. With Tarantino's latest effort Django Unchained, I now have a personal understanding of why film fans worship at his feet. Tarantino's epic tribute to the spaghetti-western is a beautifully shot, acted and scored film that is occasionally hurt by some of his more self-indulgent directorial choices, such as a particularly distracting cameo. And while those hurt the film, the overall experience outweighs his few bizarre choices.
7. Beasts of the Southern Wild
Behn Zeitlin's Beasts of the Southern Wild is about as impressive a debut as you could possibly hope for. It is also a film that is clearly a first feature. Zeitlin is at once naive and confident in his directorial choices, delivering one of the freshest pieces of cinema this year. Told from the perspective of 6-year old Hushpuppy, the film tells the story of the fictional Bathtub, a part of America in danger of being washed away by a flood. Even if it weren't for the great cinematography, editing and supporting characters, the power of Quvenzhane Wallis' performance as Hushpuppy makes the film worth seeing.
6. Magic Mike
The marketing for Magic Mike was both frustrating and genius. It made the film a solid hit, but made some skeptical of the film's quality. Steven Soderbergh's name should have convinced any cynical audience members that the film was more than the trailers were selling. Soderbergh presents a realistic, funny and often-depressing look at the life of an aging male stripper, based on the experience of the film's star Channing Tatum. It is a small film, but one that shows just how much Soderbergh has perfected his cinematic approach.
5. The Comedy
While I laughed throughout Rick Alverson's The Comedy, I was never sure if I should feel bad for doing so. The film follows Swanson, an aging hipster played with great authenticity by Tim Heidecker, as he wastes his time and his family's money. No character in the film is likeable, and it is to Alverson's credit that this never becomes an issue. The film meanders and is mostly improvised, and yet it is exceptionally fascinating as you wonder just how awful these characters can become. I was shocked by how much I enjoyed the film, finding it both hilarious and depressingly honest.
4. Stories We Tell
Sarah Polley followed her directorial debut Away From Her with two of this year's best films, Take This Waltz and Stories We Tell. Both films are incredibly personal and honest films showcasing the downfalls of love. It was Stories We Tell, her documentary about her mother and discovery of her potential biological father that ended up being the stronger of the two. It is not new for filmmakers to depict their feelings, fears and memories on screen, yet it is still shocking and refreshing to see someone willing to open themselves up so entirely to their audience. Stories We Tell is a heartbreaking and beautiful film that is never self-indulgent, but simply honest.
3. Wuthering Heights
Andrea Arnold first caught my attention with her exceptional 2009 film Fish Tank. Her depiction of an angry young girl living in an English estate floored me with its authenticity. To my surprise, her adaptation of Emily Bronte's classic Wuthering Heights was just as authentic and brutal. Arnold's adaptation sets itself apart for many reasons; most controversially being the fact she cast two Black actors in the role of Heathcliff. However, more importantly, the film changes what it means to be a British costume drama. Instead of being cold and lavish, the film is intensely emotional and brutal. Arnold's Wuthering Heights was this year's biggest surprise. From the first beautiful frame of her film, Arnold had my attention, ultimately leaving me emotionally drained.
2. The Master
Much attention was given to Paul Thomas Anderson's The Master due to the misleading reports that the film would tell the story of the Church of Scientology. Instead, the film focusses on two men, played incredibly by Joaquin Phoenix and Philip Seymour Hoffman, as they become increasingly obsessed with each other. While this more personal story may have disappointed some, it was epic in its own way. Few filmmakers are as confident as Anderson, and it shows. Each shot, cut and performance is perfect. In a year when many critics announced the "death of cinema", Paul Thomas Anderson's The Master singlehandedly proves that claim wrong.
1. John Carter
No other film this year gave me as much joy as Andrew Stanton's much-maligned adventure epic John Carter. The disaster that was its marketing and release was unfortunate, however, the film itself is fantastic. As a huge fan of Edgar Rice Burroughs' John Carter series of books, I was both incredibly excited and worried sitting down for my first viewing of Stanton's adaptation. Since that day on March 7th, I have seen the film eight times. Stanton's power as a Pixar director is not lost here, as he brings just as much filmmaking skill and heart to his first live-action effort. Andrew Stanton's John Carter may never get a sequel, and did not receive the positive attention it deserved. However, I am certain in the years to come, it will become a classic.


text:
Garage Door Experts in Hampton Roads.
The Overhead Door Company of Norfolk is a locally owned and operated company based in Virginia Beach, serving coastal Virginia and Northern North Carolina since 1935. We pride ourselves on our high-quality products, skilled technicians, and custom solutions for unique jobs. Whether you need a new garage door for your home or a large hangar door at an airport, you can count on us.


text:
Turn undulating earth abounding green.
Waking land escapes the winter sleep
And the voice of earth unfolds
And calls souls who hear it.
Hands reach for boots, tie laces.
Inventories and gear and maps
Result in pack shouldered and courses set.
A unique comfort,
Welcoming the footfalls that are put there.
Moving into the green,
Folded into forest,
Sanctified by mountains.


text:
Michael Bass, 30, to VP-strategic and corporate communications, National Basketball Association Entertainment, New York, from senior director-strategic and corporate communications.
Scott Koondel, 37, to senior VP-national sales manager, Viacom's Paramount Domestic Television, Los Angeles, from VP-eastern regional manager.
Joseph Clayton, 52, to president-CEO, Sirius Satellite Radio, New York, from vice chairman, Global Crossing.
Claudia Steinhous, 42, to senior VP-group account director, Interpublic Group of Cos.' directDeutsch, New York, from independent consulting. Also: Paula Fedoris, 38, to VP-data strategy from VP-customer information management, Goldman Sachs.
Mike Willeford, 47, to VP-creative director, Omnicom Group's DDB Worldwide, Chicago, from creative director. Also: Lynn Wittekind, 43, to VP-director of production operations, from director of production operations.
Oliver Knowlton to VP-general manager, Time Inc.'s Sports Illustrated, New York, from VP-operations and interactive.
Claire Arbogast to VP-account director, agency Fine Light, Bloomington, Ind., from account director. Also: Gail McDaniel to account director from account executive.
Corinne Bellville to manager-affiliate sales Northwest region, General Electric Co.'s NBC Cable Networks, Burbank, Calif., from account executive.
Todd Burdine, 34, to chief operating officer, Trumpet Advertising, New Orleans, from account director. Also: Jamie Goldman, 29, to manager, Trumpet's New York office, from president, interactive and design firm 4 Elbows; Debbie Koppman, 40, to broadcast producer, from producer at New Orleans agency Bauerlein.
Karen Ryan, 33, to partner, WPP Group's Ogilvy & Mather, Chicago, from management supervisor-BP account.
Adam Chandler, 28, to sales executive, Yahoo!, New York, from director of integrated sales, Primedia's About.com.
Marc Gordon, 40, to Midwest manager, National Geographic Adventure magazine, New York, from VP-Midwest corporate sales, Hachette Filipacchi Magazines. Also: Lori Friesner, 40, to Detroit manager, National Geographic Adventure. Ms. Friesner previously divided that title between National Geographic Adventure and National Geographic.


text:
Updated: 1999/05/29
There's 1 characteristic of all E-gear uniform sets is:
Hong Kong S.D.U.
Now we have 2 uniform sets from this line. The Level 3 & Level 4 set. Besides the tactical vest, jumpsuit, balaclavas, pair of gloves & pouch. They are coming with helmet, MP-5, handgun, gas-mask & pair of boots. They are now at:
Level 3 at $55 each set shipped.
Level 4 at $55 each set shipped.
Click to order or further inquiry
This is an attempt to provide SWAT uniform sets with all real pockets & pouches on the strategic vest which can carry all the weapons & equipments of a SWAT guy needed in action. And we are now proudly introducing 6 different sets of them. One is for the SWAT commander & the other 5 specially for assaulters, scouts, rearguards & element leaders. Or you can customise them for your own SWAT Team!!!
They are now all at US$50 each shipped.
Click to order or further inquiry
[Home] [Dragon 12" action figures] [Dragon's Robocon action figure][Special Discount]


text:
For all you expecting moms-to-be out there struggling with complexion issues during your pregnancy, prepare to experience the relief that comes with bringing back your natural pregnancy glow with a little help from your friends at Amalou Skin®. Divine Web Marketing is excited to partner up with co-founders Kitty and Ellie to bring this fabulous pregnancy safe skin care line to women every where through organic search marketing and social media. For all you ladies who are tired of struggling with bad skin and breakouts during pregnancy, check out their site or better yet give this wonderful line of maternity safe skin care a try and let me know how it works for you!
From the founders: Our company, Amalou Skin, created a line of pregnancy safe skin care products because one of our founders experienced acne during pregnancy and until she invented Amalou Skin, could not find anything available on the market to help her bring back her natural pregnancy glow.
Leave a Reply.
Hi Level SEM brings you commentary by Zhenya Delate and team on the latest news in the SEM and internet marketing world, from our vantage point in the Hawaiian Islands.
GooglePlus Profile
March 2016


text:
Mountain trails
Do you know that feeling when you get up in the morning and go out on the trail? Houses and people are still asleep, waking up before the sun on the horizon and forest smells of pine needles and morning dew? If so, it means that this place is for you. We presented there hiking trails of varying difficulty, for tourists of varying condition and age.


text:
Illawarra is a region in the Australian state of New South Wales. It is a coastal region situated immediately south of Sydney and north of the Shoalhaven or South Coast region.
The Blue Mountains is a rugged region west of Sydney in Australia's New South Wales. Known for dramatic scenery, it encompasses steep cliffs, eucalyptus forests, waterfalls and villages dotted with guesthouses, galleries and gardens.
Brisbane, capital of Queensland, is a big, modern city set on the Brisbane River. Clustered in its South Bank cultural precinct are institutions including Queensland Museum and Sciencentre, with noted interactive exhibitions, and Queensland Gallery of Modern Art, among Australia's major contemporary art museums. Looming over the city is Mt. Coot-tha, site of sprawling Brisbane Botanic Gardens, with panoramic views from its summit.
The 74 Whitsunday Islands lie between the northeast coast of Queensland, Australia, and the Great Barrier Reef, a massive stretch of coral teeming with marine life. Most of the islands are uninhabited, characterised by dense rainforest, hiking trails and wide beaches. Skipper-yourself "bareboat" sailing is popular for island-hopping, since there are few other means of transportation.
Tropical North Queensland is the northern part of Queensland, Australia, an area from about the city of Mackay north to the tip of Cape York. The tropical region of Queensland covers 54% of the state's area some 934,600 square kilometres (360,900 sq mi), and includes the whole area above the latitude 23.5 degrees south, taking in an area from Rockhampton north. However, what is generally accepted as Tropical "North" Queensland includes the cities of Mackay, Townsville and Cairns and the Australian islands of the Torres Strait. It also includes several world heritage listed areas, such as the Great Barrier Reef and the Wet Tropics.


text:
Vitex is a favourite herbal medicine widely used by European and North American herbalists.
Vitex is most commonly used for female disorders associated with the menstrual cycle including:
- Premenstrual syndrome (PMS)
- Irregular menstruation
- Fluid retention
- Breast soreness
- Pre-menstrual dysphoric disorder
- Beneficial effects have also been seen in acne, post traumatic epilepsy, mouth ulcers, and herpes simplex (cold sores and genital herpes), which worsen before menstruation.
Breast pain is one of the specific indications for Vitex agnus-castus and a number of papers have attempted to explain the mechanism, suggesting that the prolactin-suppressive effect is likely to be due to a mixture of clerodane-type diterpenes, which bind to recombinant DA2-receptor protein, and suppress prolactin release from cultivated lactotrophs in vitro and also in vivo in animal experiments. These substances are almost identical to dopamine in their prolactin-suppressive properties.
In men, the symptoms of hyperprolactinemia include infertility, impotence, and galactorrhea.
Safety of Vitex is derived from long-standing medicinal use. Studies on acute and repeat-dose toxicity, genotoxicity and reproductive/developmental toxicity have not found anything suggesting any safety risks.
Vitex lowers prolactin levels, and is not considered to be safe during pregnancy or lactation.
Treatment with Vitex in a daily dose of 40 mg extract is well tolerated.
Preparations of Vitex intended for adults and adolescents over 12 years of age have been on the market in the Member States for more than 30 years without any indication of serious risks.
Vitex is a deciduous shrub native to European, Mediterranean and Central Asian countries.
It has slender, finger-like leaves, purple-black berries, and belongs to the Verbenaceae family.
It is a deciduous shrub of free spreading habit, young shoots covered with a fine grey down; leaves opposite, composed of five to seven radiating leaflets borne on a main stalk 1 to 2 1/2 inches long, leaflets linear, lance-shaped, toothed, dark green above, grey beneath with a very close felt; stalks of leaflets 1/4 inch or less long- flowers fragrant, produced in September or October, in whorls on slender racemes 3 to 6 inches long, sometimes branched; the berries somewhat like peppercorns, dark purple, half-covered by their sage-green calyces, yellowish within, hard, having an aromatic odour; taste warm, peculiar.
The pharmacological effects of herbal extracts are not due to an isolated component or mechanism. Therefore the whole extract must to be considered as the active principle.
Vitex agnus castus contains the following main constituents: 1-6
- Iridoid glycosides (around 1 %): aucubin andagnusid,
- Diterpenoids: halimane-type diterpenoids : vitetrifolin B and C viteagnusinsA and B, labdane-typediterpenoids:viteagnusinsC,D,E,F,G,andH, viteagnusin I.
- Lipophilic flavonoids: Casticin [5,3'-dihydroxy-3,6,7,4'-tetramethoxyflavon] (around 0.7-1.8 %), kaempferol, quercetagetin,vitexin,
- Alkaloids:viticin,
- Volatile oils with mainly monoterpenes and sesquiterpenes: bornylacetate, 1,8 cineol, limonen, α-pinen and β-pinen,
- Essential fatty acids: palmitic acid, oleic acid, linoleic acid, stearicacid.
Figure 1: Constituents of Vitex agnus-castus L., fructus: Aucubin
Figure 2: Constituents of Vitex agnus-castus L., fructus: Agnuside
Figure 3: Constituents of Vitex agnus-castus L., fructus: Casticin.
1. Hajdú Z, Hihmann J, Forgo P, et al. Diterpernoids and flavonoids from the fruits of Vitex agnus-castus and antioxidant activity of the fruit extracts and their constituents. Phytother.Res. 2007;21 391-394.
2. Ono M, Yamasaki T, Konoshita M, et al. Five new diterpenoids, viteagnusins A--E, from the fruit of Vitex agnus-castus. Chem.Pharm.Bull.(Tokyo). 2008;56(11):1621-1624.
3. Choudhary MI, Jalil S, Nawaz SA, Khan KM, Tareen RB. Antiinflammatory and lipoxygenase inhibitory compounds from Vitex agnus-castus. Phytother.Res. 2009;23(9):1336-1339.
4. ESCOP. Agni casti fructus. In: Phytotherapy ESCo, ed. ESCOP Monographs. The Scientific Foundation for Herbal Medicinal Products. Stuttgart: Thieme-Verlag; 2009.
5. Ono M, Eguchi K, Konoshita M, et al. A new diterpenoid glucoside and two new diterpenoids from the fruit of Vitex agnus-castus. Chemical & pharmaceutical bulletin. 2011;59(3):392-396.
6. Li S, Qiu S, Yao P, Sun H, Fong HH, Zhang H. Compounds from the Fruits of the Popular European Medicinal Plant Vitex agnus-castus in Chemoprevention via NADP(H):Quinone Oxidoreductase Type 1 Induction. Evidence-based complementary and alternative medicine : eCAM. 2013;2013:432829.
Vitex has been used as a medicinal plant for centuries. Hippocrates (450 BC) suggested it be used to treat injuries, inflammations, enlargement of the spleen and to help the uterus expel the afterbirth.
Others around this time used it to reduce headache and fever and to stimulate perspiration, to dispel wind and flatulence and to stop diarrhoea.
Dioscorides (50 AD) recommended Vitex for inflammation of the uterus; in Persia, it was used to cure insanity, madness and epilepsy; and Pliny (first century AD), used the berries to promote menstruation, reduce fever and headaches, to stimulate perspiration and to promote lactation in new mothers.
Vitex was also used 'to cool passions' - some said it was infallible, others claimed it had stimulating properties, but this may have depended on gender (and many of the old herbals were lacking in information on this point).
The dried fruits have a peppery taste and were used in monasteries as a condiment, supposedly to suppress libido - a common name for Vitex is monk's pepper.
In Rome, the Vestal Virgins carried twigs of it as a symbol of chastity. The eclectics in the 19th century used a tincture of berries for impotence and 'sexual melancholia', but whether this was for men, women or both sexes is unclear.
Vitex is most commonly used for female disorders associated with the menstrual cycle including:
- Premenstrual syndrome (PMS)
- Fluid retention
- Breast soreness
- Pre-menstrual dysphoric disorder
- Beneficial effects have also been noted in acne,1 post‑traumatic epilepsy,2 mouth ulcers,3 and herpes simplex (cold sores and genital herpes),4which worsen before menstruation.
Preparations of Vitex agnus castus (chaste tree) are a popular treatment for the managementof female reproductive disturbances including corpus luteum insufficiency, menopausal symptoms, and pre-menstrual syndrome (PMS).
Small randomized controlled trials indicate that vitex may be helpful in hyperprolactinemia, cyclical breast pain and PMS.
The Premenstrual Syndrome is defined as the cyclic, repeated occurrence of psychic lability accompanied by physical symptoms such as mastodynia, edema and weight gain during the luteal phase.
Depressive mood, lack of concentration, irritability and anxiety are the dominant psychic symptoms. These symptoms culminate during the premenstrual phase and disappear at the onset of menstrual bleeding. The complaints are of variable degree.
Pre-menstrual dysphoric disorder
Pre-menstrual dysphoric disorder is a severe type of pre-menstrual disorder in which mood symptoms predominate and which responds favourably to the class of antidepressants known as SSRIs.
A single blind study was undertaken to compare the efficacy of the SRI fluoxetine with Vitex agnus-castus extract because both are known to favourably influence severe PMS symptoms. After a period of two months to screen patients for suitability, 41 patients with PMDD according to DSM-IV were recruited into the study. The patients were randomised to fluoxetine or Vitex for two months. The outcome measures showed there was no statistically significant difference between the groups with respect to the rate of responders, however, while fluoxetine was more effective for psychological symptoms, the Vitex extract was more effective for physical symptoms.5
1. Amann W. Besserung der Akne vulgaris nach Agnus castus (Agnolyt). Ther.Gegenwart. 1967;106 124-126.
2. Ecker G. 'Pramenstruelles syndrom als schrittmacher einer posttraumatischen epilepsie'. Landarzt. 1964;40:872-874.
3. Hillebrand H. Die Behandlung der prämenstruellen Stomatitis aphthosa ulcerosa mit Agnolyt. Landarzt. 1964;40 1577.
4. Albus GA. Herpes simplex recidivans als fragmentäres Zeichen eines prämenstruellen Syndroms. Z.Hautkrankh.Geschlechtskrankh. 1964;36 220-223.
5. Atmaca M, Kumru S, Tezcan E. Fluoxetine versus Vitex agnus castus extract in the treatment of premenstrual dysphoric disorder. Hum.Psychopharmacol. 2003;18(3):191-195.
The HMPC assessment report (2010) supports the well established use of the dry extract (6-12:1) of whole, ripe, dried fruit Vitex agnus-castusL., extraction solvent: ethanol 60%(m/m), 20mg per day corresponding to 180 mg drug per day on average, in the treatment of premenstrual syndrome.1
The ESCOP monograph recommends preparations of Chaste tree fruits equivalent to 30- 40 mg of the drug daily or up to 240 mg of the drug daily in patients suffering from PMS for oral administration in adults. Therapeutic indications, recommend by ESCOP, comprise the premenstrual syndrome (PMS) including symptoms such as mastodynia or mastalgia, and menstrual cycle disorders such as polymenorrhoea, oligomenorrhoea or amenorrhoea.2
The Clinical Overview represents and estimates the relevant clinical data of chaste tree fruits (Agni casti fructus) dried extracts on the basis of the German Commission E monograph (Commission E, 1992), the ESCOP monograph (ESCOP, 2003), the draft of the HMPC monograph on traditional medicinal use (HMPC, 2010) and relevant literature selected by international database search (Pubmed, Embase, Cochrane, Medline).
During the peri-menopausal phase, Vitex has been observed to regulate the menstrual cycle, perhaps by initiating more regular ovulation. It can be useful for peri-menopausal women with menstrual irregularities and/or pre-menstrual symptoms, and appears to normalise elevated FSH levels, as well as menstrual cycle regularity in some cases.
Vitex should be started in the early part of the cycle, preferably prior to ovulation, and is usually given as a single dose in the morning. For full benefit, Vitex is usually prescribed between three and nine months. Longer-term administration is necessary in some cases and there are reports of women taking Vitex for up to 16 years without ill effects.3
Positive changes to the menstrual cycle are usually evident in the first month; however, some women initially report longer or shorter cycles than usual until stabilisation occurs.
1. HMPC. Assessment report on Vitex agnus-castus L., fructus London EMA; 2010.
2. ESCOP. Agni casti fructus. In: Phytotherapy ESCo, ed. ESCOP Monographs. The Scientific Foundation for Herbal Medicinal Products. Stuttgart: Thieme-Verlag; 2009.
3. Dittmar FW, Böhnert KJ, Peeters M, Albrecht M, Lamertz M, Schmidt U. Prämenstruelles Syndrom. Behandlung mit einem Phytopharmakon. TW Gynäkologie. 1992;5 60-68.
Safety of Vitex is derived from long-standing medicinal use.
Studies on acute and repeat-dose toxicity, genotoxicity and reproductive/developmental toxicity have not found anything suggesting any safety risks.
Vitex lowers prolactin levels, and is not considered to be safe during pregnancy or lactation.
Treatment with Vitex in a daily dose of 40 mg extract is well tolerated.
Preparations of Vitex intended for adults and adolescents over 12 years of age have been on the market in the Member States for more than 30 years without any indication of serious risks.
The most frequent adverse events noted were nausea, headache, gastrointestinal disturbances, menstrual disorders, acne, pruritus and erythematous rash.1 An article in a British medical journal reported that a woman on her fourth cycle of a drug-free in vitro fertilisation (IVF) program, who self-administered Vitex (dose not stated), produced increased numbers of ovarian follicles and developed symptoms suggestive of mild ovarian hyperstimulation (symptoms not stated).2
An observational study of 56 women reported the following adverse events (only those with more than one mentioning are listed here): not specified (12), nausea (8), allergy (2), diarrhoea (3), weight gain (3), stomach trouble (4), anomalies of the length of menstruation (4), acne (2), exanthema (2), erythema (2), headache (3).3,4
Herb−drug interactions
Dopamine antagonists Vitex agnus-castus appears to have dopaminergic activity.
In vitro research has found a potent binding inhibition of ethanolic Vitex agnus-castus extracts for dopamine D2 and opioid receptors.
Spiperone, a psychoactive drug which is a selective D2 dopamine receptor antagonist, has been shown to antagonise the effects of Vitex.5
Antagonistic interactions between Vitex and dopamine antagonists are thus possible. Fertility drugs Vitex is often used for improving fertility associated with elevated prolactin levels.
There has been a report of a woman on her fourth cycle of a drug-free in vitro fertilisation (IVF) program, who self-administered Vitex (dose not stated), who produced increased numbers of ovarian follicles and developed symptoms suggestive of mild ovarian hyperstimulation (symptoms not stated).2
There is a theoretical risk of hyperstimulation when Vitex is given concurrently with FSH analogues.
As a rule, a woman who has not yet been on IVF treatment should not be given Vitex until her response to the particular drug regimen has been observed. A poor response can be an indication of the need for concurrent Vitex and drug prescriptions.
If the IVF regimen is changed, the same rule applies. The use of Vitex with patients undergoing IVF treatment should be under the guidance of a qualified herbalist with experience in the concurrent treatment of women on IVF, and in particular, with experience in timing the use of herbs to coincide with the most advantageous outcomes in terms of ovum numbers.
Hormone therapy
The use of Vitex while women are taking hormonal preparations such as HT or any of the commonly prescribed progestin drugs such as medroxyprogesterone acetate (Provera), norethisterone (Primulet), dydrogesterone (Duphaston) and danazol (Danocrine) has not been studied. While no adverse effects are expected, use of Vitex with these hormone therapies should be under the guidance of the prescribing practitioner.
1. Daniele C, Thompson CJ, Pittler MH, Ernst E. Vitex agnus castus: a systematic review of adverse events. Drug Saf. 2005;28(4):319-332.
2. Cahill DJ, Fox R, Wardle PG, Harlow CR. Multiple follicular development associated with herbal medicine. Hum.Reprod. 1994;9(8):1469-1470.
3. Loch EG, Kaiser E. Diagnostik und Therapie dyshormonaler Blutungen in der Praxis. GynÑkol.Praxis. 1990;14 489-495.
4. Loch EG, Bîhnert KJ, Peeters M, Schmidt U, Lamertz M. Die Behandlung von Blutungsstîrungen mit Vitex agnus-castus-Tinktur. Frauenarzt. 1991;32 867-870.
5. Meier B, Berger D, Hoberg E, Sticher O, Schaffner W. Pharmacological activities of Vitex agnus-castus extracts in vitro. Phytomedicine. 2000;7(5):373-381.
Most pharmacological data were raised using ethanol or methanol extracts. Inhibitory influence on the prolactin release and dopaminergic (dopamine-agonistic) effects was seen by different working groups.
From the data seen there are opposite results concerning binding to oestrogen receptor (more preferential binding to β- or α-receptor) or not.
Furthermore there are some references concerning β-endorphin-like activity (via µ-opiate receptor binding).
Effects on hyperprolactaemia
Breast pain is one of the specific indications for Vitex agnus-castus and a number of papers have attempted to explain the mechanism, suggesting that the prolactin-suppressive effect is likely to be due to a mixture of clerodane-type diterpenes, which bind to recombinant DA2-receptor protein, and suppress prolactin release from cultivated lactotrophs in vitro and also in vivo in animal experiments.
These substances are almost identical to dopamine in their prolactin-suppressive properties.1
In men, the symptoms of hyperprolactinemia include infertility, impotence, andgalactorrhea.
A comparative evaluation of bromocriptine and Vitex agnus-castus concluded that Vitex performed similarly to bromocriptine with respect to lowering serum prolactin and reducing breast pain, and also offered the advantages of better patient compliance and lower cost. The authors concluded that Vitex be used as a first-line treatment option for cyclic mastalgia and mild hyperprolactinaemia.2
Dopamine receptor binding
Vitex has been shown to inhibit prolactin secretion by competitively binding to dopamine receptors, but does not appear to affect LH or FSH levels. In rat studies, an active dopamine-like principle in Vitex was shown to bind to the lactotrope cells from rat pituitary in vitro, inhibiting prolactin release.3
A potent binding inhibition for dopamine D2 and opioid receptors was observed, suggesting a dopaminergic effect of Vitex and additional pharmacological actions via opioid receptors. Vitex may improve PMS symptoms via interaction with opiate receptors and modulation of specific ß endorphins, which have been shown to declinein the pre-menstrual phase of the cycle. This decline is proportional to symptom severity such as anxiety, food cravings, and physical discomfort.4
Oestrogen receptor binding
In a receptor binding assay performed with recombinant human oestrogen receptor, an ethanol extract of Vitex agnus-castus showed a preferential binding to oestrogen receptor β over oestrogen receptor α.5 The oestrogenic compounds of this extract were identified as the flavonoids penduletin and apigenin.6
Opiate receptor binding
A later in vitro study identified agonistic activity exhibited Vitex at the mu-opiate receptor.7
Doperminergic effects
The LH secretion from the anterior pituitary of mammals is controlled by many neurotransmiters such as dopamine. Therefore, the probable effects of anhydroalcoholic Vitex agnus castus extract on the male reproductive physiology and its interaction with dopaminergic system on LH and testosterone were investigated in male mice.
The following doses of Vitex extract were used:65, 165, 265, 365 and 465 mg/kg. Bromocriptine as a dopamine receptor agonist (5, 10, 20 mg/kg and haloperidol as a dopamine receptor antagonist (1, 1.5, 2, 2.5, 3 mg/kg) were administered.
Intraperitoneal injections were applied in all experiments, once a day for 30 days. The control group remained in tact and the sham group received vehicle. LH and testosterone, showed significant decrease in bromocriptine group and haloperidol increased these hormones.
Vitex extract decreased significantly the LH and testosterone levels. The coadministration of Vitex extract and bromocriptine decreased LH and testosterone. Coadministration of Vitex extract and haloperidol decreased LH and testosterone levels. These results suggest that dopamine regulates the gonadotroph-leydig cells axis.8
Oestrogenic activity
The oestrogenic activity of ethanolic extract of Vitex agnus-castus fruits was studied in two dose levels (0.6 and 1.2 g/kg) by the vaginal smear, and uterine weight methods fornormal and ovariectomized female rats.
Vitex extract induced significant increase in th uterine weight of ovariectomized rats at two dose levels comparable to that of controlgroup.
Significant increases in plasma progesterone and total estrogens levels were shown at the two dose levels when compared to that of control group.
Further, the Vitex extractinducedsignificant reduction in luteinizing and plasma prolactin hormones.9
- Carmichael AR. Can Vitex Agnus Castus be Used for the Treatment of Mastalgia? What is the Current Evidence? Evid.Based Complement Alternat.Med. 2008;5(3):247-250.
- Kilicdag EB, Tarim E, Bagis T, et al. Fructus agni casti and bromocriptine for treatment of hyperprolactinemia and mastalgia. Int J Gynaecol Obstet. 2004;85(3):292-293.
- Jarry H, Leonhardt S, Gorkow C, Wuttke W. In vitro prolactin but not LH and FSH release is inhibited by compounds in extracts of Agnus castus: direct evidence for a dopaminergic principle by the dopamine receptor assay. Exp Clin Endocrinol. 1994;102(6):448-454.
- Meier B, Berger D, Hoberg E, Sticher O, Schaffner W. Pharmacological activities of Vitex agnus-castus extracts in vitro. Phytomedicine. 2000;7(5):373-381.
- Christoffel V, Spengler B, Jarry H, Metten M, Wuttke W. Selective estrogenic activity of extract BN 1095 from Vitex agnus-castus frutis. Arch Pharm Pharm Med. 2002;335(1):137.
- Jarry H, Sprengler B, Wuttke W, Christoffel V. In vitro assays for bioactivity-guided isolation of endocrine active compounds in Vitex agnus-castus. Maturitas. 2006;55 S26-S36.
- Webster DE, Lu J, Chen SN, Farnsworth NR, Wang ZJ. Activation of the mu-opiate receptor by Vitex agnus-castus methanol extracts: implication for its use in PMS. J.Ethnopharmacol. 2006;106(2):216-221.
- Nasri S, Oryan S, Rohani AH, Amin GR. The effects of Vitex agnus castus extract and its interaction with dopaminergic system on LH and testosterone in male mice. Pak.J.Biol.Sci. 2007;10(14):2300-2307.
- Ibrahim NA, Shalaby AS, Farag RS, Elbaroty GS, Nofal SM, Hassan EM. Gynecological efficacy and chemical investigation of Vitex agnus-castus L. fruits growing in Egypt. Nat.Prod.Res. 2008;22(6):537-546.
Clinical trials have shown that Vitex is capable of correcting a range of menstrual irregularities,1 including amenorrhoea,2 and especially when associated with cyclic changes caused by latent hyperprolactinaemia.3
Latent hyperprolactinaemia
This syndrome is characterised by lower than normal progesterone secretion and normal to mildly elevated prolactin levels and is thought to cause a spectrum of menstrual disorders ranging from the typical PMS symptoms, to altered menstrual cycle lengths, to complete absence of ovulation and menstruation. Its causative factors are not entirely understood, but seem to be related to an alteration of HPO axis activity.
In one trial, 13 women with elevated prolactin levels and irregular cycles were given Mastodynon N (a German herbal preparation containing Vitex extract). Following a decrease in prolactin levels, normal cycles returned in all cases. 3
In another study, 52 women with luteal phase defects due to latent hyperprolactinaemia took part in a double-blind, placebo-controlled study. They were given a daily dose of 20 mg of Vitex. Prolactin levels were normalised after three months, and deficits in the luteal progesterone production were corrected. There were no side effects and two of the women treated with Vitex became pregnant.4
Meczekalski et al. (2015) described a patient with mild hyperprolactinemia and menstrual disorders (oligomenorrhea) who presented with relative hypoestrogenism in laboratory tests. Magnetic resonans excluded the presence of pituitary adenoma. Because patient developed a bromocriptine intolerance, a Vitex extract was prescribed. The vitex therapy was effective, with symptoms relief and improvement of hormonal tests.5
A multicentre open trial investigated the efficacy and tolerance of Vitex in 1,634 patients suffering from PMS. A specific questionnaire was developed for determining the effect of Vitex on the four characteristic PMS symptom complexes of depression, anxiety, craving and fluid retention.
After three menstrual cycles, 93 per cent of patients reported a decrease in the number of symptoms or symptom complexes or even cessation of PMS complaints, and 85 per cent of physicians rated the treatment as good or very good. The severity and frequency of breast pain was reduced after three months.
The majority of patients assessed the tolerance of Vitex as good or very good. Adverse drug reactions were suspected in only 1.2 per cent of patients, but none were serious.6
In a prospective multicentre trial, the efficacy of a Vitex agnus-castus extract was investigated in 43 patients with PMS. The patients took 20 mg extract daily for three menstrual cycles. Symptoms in three post-treatment cycles were compared to baseline cycles before administration of the herb, using a menstrual distress questionnaire as the self-assessment tool.
At the end of the study, symptoms were reduced in the late luteal phase by 47.2 per cent. While symptoms gradually returned after treatment cessation, a difference from baseline remained for up to three cycles.7
A double-blind, placebo-controlled trial compared Vitex 20 mg with placebo in 170 women with PMS over three menstrual cycles. Women undertook self-assessment of symptoms. The study showed that Vitex was an effective and well tolerated treatment for the symptom relief of PMS for the majority of participants.8
A double-blind, placebo-controlled study of 178 women found that treatment with Vitex over three menstrual cycles significantly reduced general PMS symptoms. The dose used was one 20 mg tablet daily of a dry Vitex extract. Women in the treatment group experienced significant improvements in symptoms, including irritability, depression, headache, and breast tenderness.8
Another study enrolling 221 patients concluded that Vitex was an effective and well-tolerated treatment of moderate to severe PMS. From the 221 patients, 118 provided full data, and 109 completed the treatment phase. The severity of the PMS symptoms consistently decreased during treatment, on average from 22.8 score points during the baseline cycle to 10.2 during the third cycle. Response to treatment was found in 67.8 per cent of the women during the third treatment cycle.9
A prospective multicentre, placebo-controlled study which enrolled 217 Chinese women for treatment with Vitex 40 mg or placebo, found Vitex to be safe, well tolerated and effective for moderate to severe PMS as compared to placebo.10
Dante and Facchinetti (2011) reviewed the use of herbal preparations for the treatment of premenstrual syndrome.
Systematic literature searches were performed in electronic databases, covering the period January 1980 to September 2010. Randomised controlled clinical trials (RCTs) were included. Papers quality was evaluated with the Jadad' scale.
A further evaluation of PMS/PMDD diagnostic criteria was also done. Of 102 articles identified, 17 RCTs were eligible and 10 of them were included. The heterogeneity of population included, study design and outcome presentation refrained from a meta-analysis.
Vitex agnus-castus was the more investigated remedy (four trials, about 500 women), and it was reported to consistently ameliorate PMS better than placebo. None of the examined herbs (including Vitex) was associated with major health risks – the only adverse event mentioned for Vitex was headache in both, the study and the placebo group. 11
Breast pain (mastalgia)
Benefits were also seen in a double-blind trial that enrolled 160 women with cyclic breast pain. The women were given Vitex, a progestogen, or placebo, and were followed for at least four menstrual cycles.12
The results again suggested that Vitex was superior to placebo.
A double-blind, placebo-controlled study examined the tolerability and efficacy of Vitex agnus-castus extract for pre-menstrual mastalgia, with treatment or placebo given over three menstrual cycles. Mastalgia during at least five days of the cycle before the treatment was the strict inclusion condition. The results showed the intensity of the cyclical breast pain diminished in the Vitex group and the herb was well tolerated.13
Dinc et al. (2014) examined the efficacy of vitex compared with flurbiprofen in the treatment of cyclic mastalgia. is described as a diffuse, periodic and bilateral breast pain that can not be localized.
One hundred and fourteen premenapousal patients younger than 40 years old with a complaint of cyclic mastalgia and without any clinical, family or ultrasonography findings were analyzed prospectively. VAS scores were accepted as full recovery whit a score of zero, as significant healing when the score improved more than 50%, as mild-moderate healing when the improvement was less than 50% and as no healing in case of no improvement.
The mean age in group 1 was 28.29+/-5.81, and in group 2 was 29.09+/-4.49. The mean number of days with pain was 6.0+/-1.70 days in group 1, and was 6.3+/-1.63 in group 2. There was no significant difference in VAS scores between the two groups after treatment.14
This stduy found that both vitex and flurbiprofen significantly reduce the complaints of cyclic mastalgia and have acceptable side-effects. There is no proven superiority over each other.
Dysmenorrhoea (painful menstruation
Aksoy et al. (2014) used a case-control study to compare the efficacy of ethinyl estradiol/drospirenone and Vitex in women with severe primary dysmenorrhea by measuring uterine artery blood flow via Doppler ultrasonography.
A total of 60 women with severe primary dysmenorrhea and 30 healthy women (control) were included in this study. Thirty patients were treated with ethinyl estradiol 0.03 mg/drospirenone (group 1) and another 30 were treated with Fructus agni casti (group 2) during three menstrual cycles.
Before and at the end of third month of therapy visual analog scale (VAS) scores, pulsatility index (PI), resistance index (RI) of uterine artery were recorded before and after receiving therapy on the first day of the menstrual cycle.
- Mean PI and RI values in patients with severe primary dysmenorrhea were significantly higher than in the control groups on the first day of the menstrual cycle (P < 0.0001).
- Mean PI and RI values were significantly lower after the treatment in both groups compared to before values (P < 0.001 for both).
After using the drugs for three menstrual cycles, VAS scores were significantly dropped in both groups compared to before treatment values (P < 0.0001 for both); however, there were no significant differences in terms of Doppler findings between group 1 and 2.15
This study found that the effectiveness of Vitex was similar to that of ethinyl estradiol/drospirenone in patients with primary dysmenorrhea.
Abnormal menstrualcycles
The term"lutealinsufficiency" describes an endocrinal disorder of themenstrual cycle with a shortened progestational stage and a decreased progesterone level in blood. It is a possible cause forfemale sterility.
Numerous open studies have found a positive effect of the use of vitex in regulating the menstrual cycle.
In an open trial, 1,592 women (averageage of 32) with corpus luteum insufficiency presenting as hypermenorrhea, polymenorrhea,secondaryamenorrhea, dysmenorrhea, PMS anovulation, sterility, menorrhagia, and disturbed menstruation received Vitex (40 drops daily) for six months.
61% of the patients reported a good outcome, and physicians noted that 33% of patients were free of complaints and that there was a positive response to treatment in 51% of the patients.16
Vitex has been shown to be benefical in several different types of abnormal menstrual cycle including luteal phase defect and latent hyperprolactaemia4, Intrauterine device (IUD)-induced bleeding17, amenorrhoea, oligomenorrhoea and menorrhagia.18,19
Systemic review of the use of vitex in women's health
Van die et al. (2013) conducted a systematic review to evaluate the evidence for the efficacy and safety of Vitex extracts from randomised, controlled trials investigating women's health.
Eight databases were searched using Latin and common names for Vitex and phytotherapeutic preparations of the herb as a sole agent, together with filters for randomised, controlled trials or clinical trials.
Methodological quality was assessed according to the Cochrane risk of bias and Jadad scales, as well as the proposed elaboration of CONSORT for reporting trials on herbal interventions.
Thirteen randomised, controlled trials were identified and twelve are included in this review, of which eight investigated premenstrual syndrome, two premenstrual dysphoric disorder, and two latent hyperprolactinaemia.
For premenstrual syndrome, seven of eight trials found Vitex extracts to be superior to placebo (5 of 6 studies), pyridoxine (1), and magnesium oxide (1). In premenstrual dysphoric disorder, one study reported Vitex to be equivalent to fluoxetine, while in the other, fluoxetine outperformed Vitex.
In latent hyperprolactinaemia, one trial reported it to be superior to placebo for reducing TRH-stimulated prolactin secretion, normalising a shortened luteal phase, increasing mid-luteal progesterone and 17beta-oestradiol levels, while the other found Vitex comparable to bromocriptine for reducing serum prolactin levels and ameliorating cyclic mastalgia.
Adverse events with Vitex were mild and generally infrequent.
The methodological quality of the included studies varied, but was generally moderate-to-high. Limitations include small sample sizes in some studies, heterogeneity of conditions being treated, and a range of reference treatments.
Despite some methodological limitations, the results from randomised, controlled trials to date suggest benefits for Vitex extracts in the treatment of premenstrual syndrome, premenstrual dysphoric disorder and latent hyperprolactinaemia.20
Premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD)
Atmaca et al. (2003) compared the efficacy of fluoxetine, a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI), with that of the Vitex extract.
After a period of 2 screening months to screen the patients for suitability, 41 patients with PMDD according to DSM-IV were recruited into the study.
The patients were randomized to fluoxetine or AC for 2 months of single-blind, rater- blinded and prospective treatment period.
The outcome measures included the Penn daily symptom report (DSR), the Hamilton depression rating scale (HAM-D), and the clinical global impression-severity of illness (CGI-SI) and -improvement (CGI-I) scales.
At endpoint, using the clinical criterion for improvement, a similar percentage of patients responded to fluoxetine (68.4%, n = 13) and AC (57.9%, n = 11). There was no statistically significant difference between the groups with respect to the rate of responders.
This preliminary study suggests that patients with PMDD respond well to treatment with both fluoxetine and Vitex. However, fluoxetine was more effective for psychological symptoms while the extract diminished the physical symptoms.21
Ciotta et al. (2011) found that Vitex extract was effective in the treatment of PMDD. The effeicacy was comparable to fluoxetine. No side effects from Vitex treatment was recorded.22
- Peters-Welte C, Albrecht M. Regeltempostörungen und PMS. Vitex agnus-castus in einer Anwendungsbeobachtung. TW Gynäkologie. 1994;7 49-52.
- Amann W. Amenorrhoe - GÅnstige Wirkung von Agnus-castus (Agnolyt) auf Amenorrhoe. Z.Allg.Med. 1982;58 228-231.
- Roeder D. Therapie von Zyklus-Stîrungen mit Vitex agnus-castus. Z.Phytother. 1994;15 155-159.
- Milewicz A, Gejdel E, Sworen H, et al. Vitex agnus castus-Extrakt zur Behandlung von Regeltempoanomalien infolge latenter Hyperprolactinaemie. Ergebnisse einer randomisierten, Placebo-kontrollierten Doppelblindstudie. Arzneimittelforschung. 1993;43(7):752-756.
- Meczekalski B, Czyzyk A. [Vitex Agnus Castus in the treatment of hyperprolactinemia and menstrual disorders - a case report]. Polski merkuriusz lekarski : organ Polskiego Towarzystwa Lekarskiego. 2015;39(229):43-46.
- Loch EG, Selle H, Boblitz N. Treatment of premenstrual syndrome with a phytopharmaceutical formulation containing Vitex agnus castus. J.Womens Health Gend.Based.Med. 2000;9(3):315-320.
- Berger D, Schaffner W, Schrader E, Meier B, Brattström A. Efficacy of Vitex agnus castus L. extract Ze 440 in patients with pre-menstrual syndrome (PMS). Arch.Gynecol.Obstet. 2000;264(3):150-153.
- Schellenberg R. Treatment for the premenstrual syndrome with agnus castus fruit extract: prospective, randomised, placebo controlled study. BMJ. 2001;322(7279):134-137.
- Prilepskaya VN, Ledina AV, Tagiyeva AV, Revazova FS. Vitex agnus castus: Successful treatment of moderate to severe premenstrual syndrome. Maturitas. 2006;55 S55-S63.
- He Z, Chen R, Zhou Y, et al. Treatment for premenstrual syndrome with Vitex agnus castus: A prospective, randomized, multi-center placebo controlled study in China. Maturitas. 2009;63(1):99-103.
- Dante G, Facchinetti F. Herbal treatments for alleviating premenstrual symptoms: a systematic review. J.Psychosom.Obstet.Gynaecol. 2011;32(1):42-51.
- Kubista E, Müller G, Spona J. Behandlung der Mastopathie mit zyklischer Mastodynie: Klinische Ergebnisse und Hormonprofile. Gynakol.Rundsch. 1986;26(2):65-79.
- Halaska M, Raus K, Beles P, Martan A, Paithner KG. [Treatment of cyclical mastodynia using an extract of Vitex agnus castus: results of a double-blind comparison with a placebo]. Ceska.Gynekol. 1998;63(5):388-392.
- Dinc T, Coskun F. Comparison of fructus agni casti and flurbiprofen in the treatment of cyclic mastalgia in premenopausal women. Ulusal cerrahi dergisi. 2014;30(1):34-38.
- Aksoy AN, Gozukara I, Kabil Kucur S. Evaluation of the efficacy of Fructus agni casti in women with severe primary dysmenorrhea: a prospective comparative Doppler study. The journal of obstetrics and gynaecology research. 2014;40(3):779-784.
- Propping D, Böhnert KJ, Peeters M, Albrecht M, Lamertz M. Vitex agnus-castus. Behandlung gynäkologischer Krankheitsbilder. Therapeutikon. 1991;5 581-585.
- Yavarikia P, Shahnazi M, Hadavand Mirzaie S, Javadzadeh Y, Lutfi R. Comparing the effect of mefenamic Acid and vitex agnus on intrauterine device induced bleeding. Journal of caring sciences. 2013;2(3):245-254.
- Probst V, Roth OA. öber einen Pflanzenextrakt mit hormonartiger Wirkung. Dtsch.Med.Wschr. 1954;79:1271-1274.
- Bleier W. Therapie von Zyklus- und Blutungsstörungen und weiteren endokrin bedingten Erkrankungen der Frau mit pflanzlichen Wirkstoffen. Zentralbl.Gynäkol. 1959;81 701-709.
- van Die MD, Burger HG, Teede HJ, Bone KM. Vitex agnus-castus extracts for female reproductive disorders: a systematic review of clinical trials. Planta Med. 2013;79(7):562-575.
- Atmaca M, Kumru S, Tezcan E. Fluoxetine versus Vitex agnus castus extract in the treatment of premenstrual dysphoric disorder. Hum.Psychopharmacol. 2003;18(3):191-195.
- Ciotta L, Pagano I, Stracquadanio M, Di Leo S, Ando A, Formuso C. [Psychic aspects of the premenstrual dysphoric disorders. New therapeutic strategies: our experience with Vitex agnus castus]. Minerva ginecologica. 2011;63(3):237-245.


text:
There are enormous legends concerning cowboys. That is the exact source of CSTOWN professional designers' designing inspirations! Please rest assured that CSTOWN cowboy rhinestone transfers are all of superior quality with affordable prices.
Do you have more stories to tell through cowboy rhinestone transfers? If so, contact us to send your original ideas. We have a professional team to deliver the exact cowboy iron on transfers you desire! The custom service is free of charge!


text:
|f Share
|f Like
|Subscribe by Email
Posted on Tuesday, August 30th, 2016 at 9:57 pm
If you missed this last time around, these babies are back again! Get a free sample of Brewscuits All Natural Dog Biscuits for your house pets.
Click the link, wait for the page to show a pop-up page and fill out the free sample form. Then fill in your mailing details and submit.
|Free Samples In Your Email
|Subscribe »
Sample A Day posts samples daily that are free with no catch. We double check the offers to make sure they are real. Offers can expire quick so check back daily!
Nick Skeba helped cofound this site back in 2007. He lives in Chicago and loves free stuff! People are always asking him how he gets so many deals? He just tells them, Sample A Day! He writes coupon site as well as this website.
Scott Aaronson also helped cofound this website and even though is a lawyer by day, he's still loves his free samples. Find him eating lunch from the sample ladies at Costco!


text:
I've watched this footage extensively, so now I have a couple more observations to point out. Firstly, it looks too skinny to match up with most sighting reports of a big hulking build. I do like reading the sighting reports from all over the country on the various websites. I have noticed though, especially in reports from the east, there are a considerable amount of reports of thin, lanky subjects being observed. So , in this regard, I'm sure, just as in humans, that there are Squatches of all body types.
Secondly, the most striking thing that makes me think that this very well could be a Sasquatch, is the perceived height of the subject. The BFRO report stated that Caribou are an average of 44 inches at the shoulders. If you compare the size of the subject in the "Great North" footage, to the caribou in the foreground, the hunched over figure of the subject is comparatively much larger than the caribou several yards in front of it. Just imagine, if the subject in question, were to stand straight up, how much taller it would appear to be.
Cliff Barackman has recently posted his observations on the IMAX footage. Please go read his thoughts on the subject by CLICKING HERE.
My friend Rick, over at Bigfoot in West Virginia, had this to say, "I noticed on it at 24 seconds another head(?) pop up ever so briefly to the left of where the first object disappeared. Interesting also how all the animals were avoiding that area too." I've been unable to catch it, but maybe some of you maybe able to see what Rick pointed out. I'm waiting for my copy from Netflix to get here so I can see it on by hi def TV. Not surprising that there is a waiting list for "Great North", but hopefully it will get here soon.
Hopefully, someone in the near future will be able to re-examine the IMAX footage, and talk to the film crew, so we can get a better understanding of what, or who, the figure really is.
Sierra Tahoe Bigfoot Research
This site is dedicated to the research of bigfoot, and it's habitat, in the Tahoe and outlying Sierra region of Nevada and California. We listen to witnesses who want to talk about their experiences, and keep them confidential unless otherwise requested. Our mission is to learn as much as we can about the possible existence of the sasquatch, in the hope that we can all gather a better knowledge of the species, then ultimately, we as a race understand that it's habitat, and way of life, must be protected.
Sunday, January 10, 2010
Follow-up: Sasquatch Caught on IMAX?
Posted by Sierra Tahoe Bigfoot Research at 8:13 PM
Labels: BFRO, Bigfoot, Bigfoot IMAX, Bigfoot on HULU, bigfoot video, Cliff Barackman, Sasquatch IMAX, Sasquatch video
No comments:
Subscribe to: Post Comments (Atom)


text:
Behold Schoolboy Q Feat. Ab-Soul "Druggy's w/ Hoes" Video.
ScHoolboy Q's rap artistry continues to improve with every release, something which is most definitely evidenced on Schoolboy Q Feat. Ab-Soul "Druggy's w/ Hoes" Video. His ever - expanding catalogue is definitely better for it, and we're looking forward to the next piece of the puzzle - aren't you?
Did you enjoy Ab-Soul's contributions to this video?
How does this compare to ScHoolboy Q's previous work?
Peep the new visual for ScHoolboy Q's SchoolBoy Q Feat. Jhene Aiko "Fantasy" Video.
If you're feeling this, make sure to hit up ScHoolboy Q's profile page for the latest info, news, songs, and mixtapes. Don't forget to follow ScHoolboy Q on Facebook and Twitter.


text:
International Neonatal Medical Congress
- Posted by: TND
- Posted in Akademik Duyurular
- Tags:
The International Neonatal Medical Congress will be dedicated exclusively to covering the most pressing issues and conditions related to neonatology. It will serve as an international platform for presenting and discussing research about the diagnosis and management of neonatal diseases, sharing knowledge and exchanging ideas among neonatologists and other healthcare professionals from around the world.
The congress will bring together neonatologists, midwives, neonatal nurses, neonatal nutritionists and all the eminent researchers and experts in the field to explore the advancements in the neonatology.
The congress will also feature interactive case-studies, panel discussions, educational workshops, networking sessions and platform presentations on current issues of neonatology including neonatal respiratory care, gastroenterology, endocrinology, infectious diseases and neonatal critical care.
- When:
Thursday, 24 November, 2016 – Saturday, 26 November, 2016
08:00 – 17:30
Dubai, UAE
United Arab Emirates


text:
Kidlitosphere Conference 2017
KidLitCon 2017 will be held November 3rd and 4th in Hershey, PA. This year's primary organizer is Pam Margolis. The conference registration form for KidLitCon is now live. The KidLitCon 2017 program, developed by Charlotte Taylor, is now available.
KidLitCon is an annual gathering of people who care about, and blog about, children's and young adult books, including librarians, teachers, authors, illustrators, parents, and book reviewers. KidLitCon is a small, friendly conference, perfect for (often) introverted book lovers. Attending is a great way to turn virtual blogging friends into real world friends. Past conference topics have ranged from conquering the blogging blahs to learning to podcast to ways to support diverse books. We hope that you'll join us in 2017!
KidLitCon was due to visit the West Coast this year. However, we were unable to find a local primary organizer. When Pam stepped up ready to organize in Pennsylvania, the rest of the KidLitCon team gratefully accepted. We do hope to return to the West Coast in the future. Other members of the long-term organizing team include Charlotte Taylor (Program Chair), Sarah Stevenson and Tanita Davis, Sheila Ruth, Melissa Fox, Paula Willey, and Jen Robinson.
More information:
Please help by spreading the word! You can also be a fan on Facebook, follow us on Twitter, subscribe to our KidLitCon email list, and/or follow the KidLitCon Tumblr. If you would like to get involved with KidLitCon, please contact email@example.com.
Special thanks to Sarah Stevenson for designing the KidLitCon logo.


text:
Got numbers.
An old stool got a Paris address.
And then they all got taken to the antique mall.
I used an old shutter to make a shelf along the top of my booth. Since my booth is so small, I wanted to add more display space. The booth behind mine has Christmas all year, so I guess there will always be Christmas trees in the background. Hmmm, unless I can find a way to disguise them. Any ideas?