text:
Prevalence and morphological types of anaemia and hookworm infestation in the medical emergency ward, Mulago Hospital, Uganda
Japheth E MukayaI, *; Henry DdunguII; Francis SsaliIII; Tim O'SheaIV; Mark A CrowtherV
IMB ChB, MMed, MAC. Department of Medicine, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda
IIMB ChB, MMed. Department of Medicine, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda
IIIMB ChB, MMed, MSc. Joint Clinical Research Centre, Kampala, Uganda
IVMD. Department of Internal Medicine, MacMaster University, Ontario, Canada ]]> VMD, MSc, FRCP (C). Department of Hematology and Thromboembolism, MacMaster University
INTRODUCTION: Anaemia is common worldwide, although the burden is highest in developing countries where nutrient deficiencies and chronic infections are prevalent.
OBJECTIVE: To determine the prevalence and morphological types of anaemia and assess the hookworm burden among patients in the medical emergency ward at Mulago national referral hospital, Uganda.
METHODS: In a cross-sectional descriptive study 395 patients were recruited by systematic random sampling and their socio-demographic characteristics and clinical details collected. A complete blood count and peripheral film examination were done and stool examined for hookworm ova.
STATISTICAL ANALYSIS: Data were processed using Epi-Info version 6 and Stata version 9. The chi-square test was used for categorical variables and Student's t-test for non-categorical variables. Multiple logistic regression was used to determine factors predictive of anaemia.
RESULTS: Of the patients 255 (64.6%) had anaemia. The prevalence was higher among males (65.8%) than females (63.7%). Fatigue (odds ratio (OR) 2.1, confidence interval (CI) 1.37 - 3.24), dizziness (OR 1.64, CI 1.07 - 2.44), previous blood transfusion (OR 2.83, CI 1.32 - 6.06), lymphadenopathy (OR 2.99, CI 1.34 - 6.66) and splenomegaly (OR 5.22, CI 1.78 - 15.28) were significantly associated with anaemia. Splenomegaly, low body mass index (BMI) (<19) and being HIV positive were independently associated with anaemia. The commonest type of anaemia was hypochromic microcytic (34.1%). Only 10.6% of anaemic patients had hookworm infestation.
CONCLUSIONS: In our study the prevalence of anaemia (64.6%) was very high. Splenomegaly, HIV infection and low BMI were independently associated with anaemia. The commonest type of anaemia was microcytic hypochromic (34.1%). There was a low prevalence of hookworm infestation.
Anaemia is a common problem in Africa, with prevalences ranging from 21.1% to 64.4% 1-6 and a significant impact on morbidity and mortality.7,8 In patients with AIDS low haemoglobin levels are associated with poor outcomes.9-12 However, anaemia in Africa has multiple causes, with infectious diseases such as HIV, tuberculosis and malaria contributing significantly to the anaemia burden.13 Hookworm is a major contributor to anaemia and even light hookworm loads are associated with low haemoglobin levels,14-18 although Lewis et al. reported that hookworm was not a common cause of anaemia among medical patients in Malawi.19 In Uganda the prevalence of anaemia continues to rise despite widespread control measures for hookworm.20 There are no recent data on the prevalence of anaemia among medical patients and the burden of hookworm infestation among anaemic patients in Mulago Hospital, and the present study sought to investigate these.
Study setting
The study was conducted in the emergency medical ward of Mulago Hospital, the national referral and teaching hospital for Makerere University Medical School, Uganda. On average 40 patients are admitted on the emergency ward every day, of whom 50% have HIV∕AIDS-related conditions.
Study design
Between September 2007 and mid-January 2008, patients aged 18 years and over were recruited by systematic random sampling. Using the patient register on the emergency ward in order of admission, a number (N) was randomly selected from the first 5 patients and thereafter every fifth patient (N+5, N+10) was selected. This was done until a sample size of 400 patients was attained. Patients who required immediate resuscitation were stabilised before the questionnaire was administered, and patients too ill to undergo study procedures were excluded.
Clinical assessment]]> On enrolment, a questionnaire including demographic data, symptoms, medical history and physical examination was completed. For all 395 patients, 3 ml of blood and a stool sample were collected in an EDTA vacutainer and stool container, respectively. Even though our intention was to screen for hookworm among anaemic patients, it was easier to collect stool samples from all the patients since haemoglobin levels were not available at the time of specimen collection. In the Mulago Hospital emergency ward complete blood counts are not done routinely because of cost. Blood and stool tests were done specifically for the study and results were given to the attending physicians to enhance patient care. Patients were weighed wearing light clothing and no shoes using a calibrated Seca scale, height was measured in metres using a Seca height board, and body mass index (BMI) was calculated using the formula weight (kg)/height (m2). Records were reviewed to obtain results of HIV tests and the presumptive diagnosis made on admission.
Laboratory studies
A complete blood count was done on a Coulter counter and a Giemsa-stained thin blood film was studied to determine the blood cell morphology and anaemia type. A senior hospital laboratory technologist read the films, and samples were analysed within 1 - 2 hours of being drawn. Stool was examined for hookworm ova using the Kato Katz method21 by one laboratory technologist with experience in parasitology. The intensity of hookworm infestation was estimated from the number of eggs per gram of faeces, being classified as light, moderate or heavy according to World Health Organization criteria22 (light 1 - 1 999 eggs/gram (epg), moderate 2 000 - 4 999 epg, heavy >5 000 epg).
Statistical methods
All data were checked for completeness, sorted, coded and entered into Epi-Info version 6. Analysis was done using the STATA version 9 software package.
Univariate analysis was utilised to describe the patient population. Numerical data were expressed as means and medians and categorical variables as frequencies and percentages.
Bivariate analysis was done to determine associations with anaemia. Variables that were significant on bivariate analysis, except for the physical signs of anaemia, were selected for multivariate analysis to assess independent factors that predict anaemia by logistic regression. A p-value of <0.05 was considered statistically significant.
Ethical considerations
The study was approved by the Mulago Hospital Research Committee and the Makerere University Faculty of Medicine Research and Ethics Committee. Written or thumbprint (for patients who could not write) informed consent was obtained from all enrolled patients. Strict confidentiality was observed.
]]> Results
We evaluated 395 patients for the presence of anaemia and hookworm infestation; 400 patients were screened, but 5 were excluded because they were too sick to give informed consent and undergo study procedures (Fig.1).
Socio-demographic characteristics
The socio-demographic characteristics of the study group are set out in Table I. The median age was 37 years, with a range of 18 - 90 years and a mean of 40.7 years (standard deviation (SD) 15.8) years; 237 (60.0%) were female.
Clinical diagnoses of patients with anaemia at presentation
These were presumptive diagnoses made by attending physicians on admission of the patient. Tuberculosis was the commonest diagnosis (22.7%) in anaemic patients. One patient had a haemoglobin concentration in the normal range but was clinically misdiagnosed as anaemic (Table II).
Prevalence of anaemia
Anaemia was defined as a haemoglobin concentration <12 g/dl for males and <11 g/dl for females;23 255 patients (64.6%) were found to be anaemic.]]> Anaemia was classified as severe (haemoglobin <7 g/dl), moderate (7 - 9.9 g/dl) and mild (>10 g/dl); 82 patients (32.2%) had severe anaemia, 114 (44.7%) had moderate anaemia and 59 (23.1%) had mild anaemia. The prevalence of anaemia was higher among males (65.8%) than females (63.7%), but the difference was not significant (p=0.668). The prevalence was highest in the group 18 - 49 years of age and decreased with age. Patients aged <50 years were more likely to be anaemic than those aged 50 years and over (p=0.0018) (Fig. 2).
Morphological types of anaemia
Typing of anaemia was by morphological examination of the peripheral blood film, done by one independent senior laboratory technologist; 87 patients (34.1%) had hypochromic microcytic anaemia and 29 (11.4%) hypochromic normocytic anaemia. A total of 45.5% of the patients with anaemia therefore had some degree of hypochromasia. Eighty-one (31.8%) had normocytic normochromic anaemia, 13 (5.1%) had normochromic features with anisocytosis, 15 (5.9%) had normochromic macrocytic anaemia, 8 (3.1%) had polychromasia with anisocytosis, and 22 (8.6%) had dimorphic features.
Prevalence of hookworm infestation
Overall 36 (9.1%) of the patients had hookworm infestation. Of the anaemic patients 10.6% had hookworm infestation. All the patients had a light hookworm load (<500 epg). The majority (75%) of patients with hookworm infestation had anaemia, but the contribution of hookworm infestation to anaemia was not statistically significant (p=0.169). Of the patients 30.6% had received deworming medicine within 6 months prior to the study.
Seven patients (1.8%) had Schistosoma mansoni infestation.]]> Clinical characteristics of the study group
History. A history of fatigue, dizziness, blood transfusion and use of haematinics were more common among patients with anaemia than among those without, with statistically significant differences. Anaemic patients also more commonly reported pica, melaena and palpitations, but this was not statistically significant (Table III).
Physical signs. Lymphadenopathy, splenomegaly, koilonychia and a low BMI were significantly associated with anaemia (Table IV).
Factors independently associated with anaemia
Since we thought there might be an interaction among factors associated with anaemia, logistic regression was carried out to establish which factors were independently associated with anaemia. Splenomegaly, HIV infection and a low BMI (<19) were significantly associated with anaemia (Table V).
Prevalence and morphological types of anaemia
We demonstrated a high prevalence of anaemia (64.6%) among patients admitted to the emergency medical ward at Mulago Hospital, comparable to the 64.4% in a study among postnatal mothers in Tororo district, Uganda.6 This could be explained by the fact that both studies were carried out in clinical settings. However, the prevalence rate in this study is much higher than that reported in the Uganda Demographic and Health Survey (UDHS), where 28.4% of men and 41% of women were anaemic.20 The UDHS was population based, which may explain the lower levels of anaemia compared with our study, in which patients were ill.]]> Similarly, the prevalence rate in our study was higher than in population-based studies in Kenya and Tanzania. In Tanzania18 the prevalence of anaemia among people aged 15 - 65 years was 43.4%, while in Kenya14 the prevalence was 22% among adolescents and adults aged 16 years and over.
Generally the prevalence of anaemia was highest among younger age groups and decreased with age, in contrast to a study by Guralnik et al.,24 in which the prevalence increased with age. Our high prevalence among young people could be explained by the fact that many of them had infectious diseases that could have played a major role in causing anaemia.
In the age groups 18 - 39 years the prevalence of anaemia was higher among females than males, as would be expected because of blood loss during these reproductive years. However, after 40 years the trend reversed and more males had anaemia. The higher cut-off haemoglobin level for defining anaemia in males could explain this difference.
The commonest type of anaemia was microcytic hypochromic. A mixture of nutrient deficiency and infections is likely to have contributed to the high prevalence of microcytosis.
Clinical characteristics of patients with anaemia
The most frequent findings were fatigue, dizziness, a history of previous blood transfusion or use of haematinics, pallor, lymphadenopathy, splenomegaly, koilonychia and a low BMI. A low BMI was significantly associated with anaemia in this study, as in studies in Kenya14 and Tanzania.18,25 These patients could have had dietary deficiencies, especially of iron and vitamins, predisposing them to anaemia. Most of the patients with anaemia were diagnosed with an infectious disease, tuberculosis (22.7%) being the commonest clinical diagnosis. However, this figure is lower than that in a study in Malawi,19 where one-third of the patients with severe anaemia had tuberculosis; this may be because their patients were severely anaemic and were actively investigated for tuberculosis. In our study the diagnosis was presumptive and some cases may well have been missed.
HIV infection and anaemia
HIV infection was significantly associated with anaemia in this study, a finding similar to studies on severe anaemia in children26 and adults in Malawi,19 which were also carried out in areas of high HIV seroprevalence. The HIV itself, other HIV-associated factors such as zidovudine-containing antiretrovirals, opportunistic infections and nutrient deficiencies, or a combination of these could have contributed to anaemia in these patients. Among pregnant women with HIV in Tanzania,25 iron deficiency and infections appeared to be the predominant causes of anaemia. We did not collect data on patients' medications and level of immunosuppression, making it difficult to explain further the observed relationship between anaemia and HIV infection.
Prevalence of hookworm infestation and its association with anaemia
Hookworm ova were detected in a small number of patients (9.1%). Only 10.6% of the anaemic patients had hookworm infestation. The low prevalence could be explained by the fact that Mulago, being a referral hospital, receives patients from peripheral health units, many of whom may have been dewormed before referral in line with the National Anaemia Policy. Indeed, 30.6% of the patients in this study had received deworming medicine in the 6 months before admission.]]> The prevalence of hookworm infestation in this study is much lower than that found by Sturrock, also in Uganda, in 1966.17 This study was community based and conducted in areas where sanitation was likely to have been poor, as indicated in the UDHS. Other community-based studies14,18 have also reported higher prevalences of hookworm than we found in our study. All the hookworm loads in our study were light. Hookworm infestation was therefore probably not a major contributor to anaemia in these patients. It is likely that the anaemic patients had other factors such as nutrient deficiencies and infection contributing to their anaemia. There is a need for more studies on factors causing anaemia in areas with a high prevalence of HIV.
We found a very high prevalence of anaemia among medical patients in the Mulago Hospital emergency ward. Only 10.6% of the anaemic patients had hookworm ova in their stool. This study could not confirm causative factors, but we found that HIV infection and low BMI were significant associations with anaemia. We can therefore suggest that infections, especially HIV and tuberculosis, as well as nutritional deficiency may be causes of anaemia in this population. The high prevalence of microcytic anaemia could be explained by iron deficiency states. Only a small number of our patients had macrocytic anaemia. It is possible that even in nutritional deficiency states vitamin B12 deficiency may not be common except among strict vegetarians.
Infections such as HIV and tuberculosis are usually associated with anaemia of chronic inflammation, which is normocytic-normochromic. However, when chronic inflammation coexists with iron deficiency microcytic features predominate, as in the current study.
Given its high prevalence, clinicians need to evaluate all patients in emergency wards for anaemia, especially HIV- infected patients, and manage them accordingly. More studies to evaluate causes of anaemia in the era of HIV are needed.
Information on HIV serostatus was missing for 44 of our patients, we had only one observer for the peripheral film and stool microscopy, and the clinical diagnoses were presumptive and not confirmed by further investigations.
We thank the patients who participated in this study, Mr Andama Alfred and all the participating laboratory staff, and Mr Ouma Joseph for the statistical analysis.
]]> References
1. Adam I, Khamis AH, Elbashir MI. Prevalence and risk factors for anaemia in pregnant women of eastern Sudan. Trans R Soc Trop Med Hyg 2005; 99(10): 739-743. [ Links ]
2. Asobayire FS, Adou P, Davidsson L, Cook JD, Hurrell RF. Prevalence of iron deficiency with and without concurrent anemia in population groups with high prevalences of malaria and other infections: a study in Cote d'Ivoire. Am J Clin Nutr 2001; 74(6): 776-782. [ Links ]
3. Charlton KE, Kruger M, Labadarios D, Wolmarans P, Aronson I. Iron, folate and vitamin B12 status of an elderly South African population. Eur J Clin Nutr 1997; 51(7): 424-430. [ Links ]
4. Dicko A, Mantel C, Thera MA, et al. Risk factors for malaria infection and anemia for pregnant women in the Sahel area of Bandiagara, Mali. Acta Trop 2003; 89(1): 17-23. [ Links ]
5. Leenstra T, Kariuki SK, Kurtis JD, Oloo AJ, Kager PA, ter Kuile FO. Prevalence and severity of anemia and iron deficiency: cross-sectional studies in adolescent schoolgirls in western Kenya. Eur J Clin Nutr 2004; 58(4): 681-891. [ Links ]
6. Sserunjogi L, Scheutz F, Whyte SR. Postnatal anaemia: neglected problems and missed opportunities in Uganda. Health Policy Plan 2003; 18(2): 225-231. [ Links ]
7. Culleton BF, Manns BJ, Zhang J, Tonelli M, Klarenbach S, Hemmelgarn BR. Impact of anemia on hospitalization and mortality in older adults. Blood 2006; 107(10): 3841-3846. [ Links ]
8. Ma JZ, Ebben J, Xia H, Collins AJ. Hematocrit level and associated mortality in hemodialysis patients. J Am Soc Nephrol 1999; 10(3): 610-619. [ Links ]
9. Elliott AM, Halwiindi B, Hayes RJ, et al. The impact of human immunodeficiency virus on mortality of patients treated for tuberculosis in a cohort study in Zambia. Trans R Soc Trop Med Hyg 1995; 89(1): 78-82. [ Links ]
10. Moore RD. Human immunodeficiency virus infection, anemia, and survival. Clin Infect Dis 1999; 29(1): 44-49. [ Links ]
11. O'Brien ME, Kupka R, Msamanga GI, Saathoff E, Hunter DJ, Fawzi WW. Anemia is an independent predictor of mortality and immunologic progression of disease among women with HIV in Tanzania. J Acquir Immune Defic Syndr 2005; 40(2): 219-225. [ Links ]
12. Sullivan PS, Hanson DL, Chu SY, Jones JL, Ward JW. Epidemiology of anemia in human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)-infected persons: results from the multistate adult and adolescent spectrum of HIV disease surveillance project. Blood 1998; 91(1): 301-308. [ Links ]
13. Morris CD, Bird AR, Nell H. The haematological and biochemical changes in severe pulmonary tuberculosis. Q J Med 1989; 73(272): 1151-1159. [ Links ]
14. Akhwale WS, Lum JK, Kaneko A, et al. Anemia and malaria at different altitudes in the western highlands of Kenya. Acta Trop 2004; 91(2): 167-175. [ Links ]
15. Bates I, McKew S, Sarkinfada F. Anaemia: a useful indicator of neglected disease burden and control. PLoS Med 2007; 4(8): e231. [ Links ]
16. Stoltzfus RJ, Albonico M, Chwaya HM, et al. Hemoquant determination of hookworm-related blood loss and its role in iron deficiency in African children. Am J Trop Med Hyg 1996; 55(4): 399-404. [ Links ]
17. Sturrock RF. Hookworm studies in Uganda: investigations at Teboke in Lango District. East Afr Med J 1966; 43(10): 430-438. [ Links ]
18. Tatala S, Svanberg U, Mduma B. Low dietary iron availability is a major cause of anemia: a nutrition survey in the Lindi District of Tanzania. Am J Clin Nutr 1998; 68(1): 171-178. [ Links ]
19. Lewis DK, Whitty CJ, Walsh AL, et al. Treatable factors associated with severe anaemia in adults admitted to medical wards in Blantyre, Malawi, an area of high HIV seroprevalence. Trans R Soc Trop Med Hyg 2005; 99(8): 561-567. [ Links ]
20. Uganda Bureau of Statistics (UBOS) and Macro International Inc. Uganda Demographic and Health Survey 2006. Calverton, Md: UBOS and Macro International Inc, 2007. [ Links ]
21. Katz N, Coelho PM, Pellegrino J. Evaluation of Kato's quantitative method through the recovery of Schistosoma mansoni eggs added to human feces. J Parasitol 1970; 56(5): 1032-1033. [ Links ]
22. World Health Organization. Bench aids for diagnosis of intestinal parasites. Geneva, World Health Organization, 1994. [ Links ]
23. World Health Organization. Iron deficiency anaemia, assessment, prevention and control: a guide for programme managers. Geneva: World Health Organization, 2001. [ Links ]
24. Guralnik JM, Eisenstaedt RS, Ferrucci L, Klein HG, Woodman RC. Prevalence of anemia in persons 65 years and older in the United States: evidence for a high rate of unexplained anemia. Blood 2004; 104(8): 2263-2268. [ Links ]
25. Antelman G, Msamanga GI, Spiegelman D, et al. Nutritional factors and infectious disease contribute to anemia among pregnant women with human immunodeficiency virus in Tanzania. J Nutr 2000; 130(8): 1950-1957. [ Links ]
26. Calis JC, Phiri KS, Faragher EB, et al. Severe anemia in Malawian children. N Engl J Med 2008; 358(9): 888-899. [ Links ]
Accepted 9 July 2009.
* Corresponding author: J E Mukaya (email@example.com)]]>


text: We are one of few CNMC licensed wireless operators in the country today and offer a full range of telecoms services and products. Whether residential or business, part-time or full time, novice or IT expert, Telitec will have a service and package to suit you. With full Technical and customer support and a designated account manager you could not be in better hands. Best quality service and products at the very best prices for you. Telitec, connecting you to the internet in Spain

subset: commoncrawl


text:
Cruise is amazing experience of vacation. One place to have all the entertainment, leisure, services, activities, things to do, amenities, facilities and so much more and that is cruise. The popularity of going on cruise has increased. Ranking down below is the destinations which you must go for the cruise vacation. This ranking is based in quality rather than proximity of destination from traveller's home. Best cruise Destination for going on Cruise vacations are:
This is ultimate place for cruise well that is how it is more convenient to go to Antarctica. You will be astonished when you will see the penguin colonies. And all the time you will be in state of awe when you will see high glacier cliffs and the calving icebergs. Though the cost to cruise in Antarctica is too high, but it's worth for it. Best time is from mid December to that in late February. No cruise operates from month of March to the September as these months are of Antarctic Winter.


text:
Courtesy photo
TUBACHRISTMAS in Wolfeboro will be Saturday, December 1, 2-3 pm. Bring your family and friends and enjoy this festive, free public concert. Featuring holiday music and traditional carols performed by a low brass ensemble. TUBACHRISTMAS is a regional event, with tuba, baritone and euphonium players from various community, university and high school bands plus active and retired professionals. The concert will be at All Saint's Episcopal Church, 258 South Main Street in Wolfeboro. Monetary donations will be accepted for the L.I.F.E. Ministries Food Pantry. For more information, visit www.tubachristmas.com or contact Joe Ewing at 603-569-3861.


text:
Trendy Boutique featuring Superior Children's Clothing TURNAROUND TIME 2-3 Weeks
This adorable Printed Shirt is perfect for the Summer and is available on MANY GARMENT OPTIONS!
Make it a Set by adding on Bottoms Here: https://stitch-nola.myshopify.com/collections/accessories-2
SIZING: We use 100% combed cotton boutique high quality garments that we find are true to size (unless otherwise noted). If needed the SIZE CHARTS are available here: https://www.pinterest.com/stitchnola/size-charts/
CARE INSTRUCTIONS for Printed Garments: Wash inside out on gentle in cold water. DO NOT Bleach. Air dry or low heat setting in the dryer.
*This is a PRINT (not embroidery) meaning the design is printed directly onto the garment of your choice. The design will not crack, peel or fade when laundered and will last the lifetime of the garment.
We love to connect on social media and you can find us here:*Website: stitchnola.com*Facebook: facebook.com/stitchnola*Facebook VIP Group (exclusive SALES): facebook.com/groups/stitchnola*Instagram: @stitchnola*Twitter: twitter.com/stitchnola*Pinterest: pinterest.com/stitchnola*Email: email@example.com Shopping!


text:
WOW Air Flight Review: Boston - Reykjavik - Paris
So I recently took WOW Air, the budget airline from Iceland. They currently fly to New York, Boston, and Baltimore (and soon adding Toronto) to Europe via Iceland. They have sales with prices that will make you go "Wow!" including $99 one way to Paris, which is the one I bought.
It's not exactly $99 each way, though. I did get $99 from Boston to Paris, but the return flight is slightly more expensive. Still, on select dates they're still pretty cheap and I ended up paying $309 for a round trip flight from Boston to Paris. Not bad at all!
As with other budget airlines, there are a lot of caveats. First, you only get 1 carry on bag free, up to 5 kg (11 lbs). I was only going to Paris for 3 nights, so I actually managed to carry everything with me.
They don't provide drinks or food on board, you have to buy whatever you need, including water. They cost about the same as water at the airport, so whatever. It's still a $300 ticket to Paris, I'm not complaining.
I think because they're a newer and a budget airline, they usually taxi to a spot not directly connected to the airport buildings. Passengers had to take a shuttle bus from airport to the plane at all three airports I flew into. Just keep that in mind when you pack, because you have to be outside for a brief moment, but Iceland can be cold and raining or snowing. Pretty much all three happened to me.
I like the cheeky touches of WOW Air. The plane itself looks like a character out of Pixar's movie, with a grin on its face, wearing an aviator.
So how's the flight itself? Well, on the first leg from Boston to Reykjavik, I got really lucky! Window exit row seat, baby.
|Best seat in the house


text:
The Official Web Site
Log in to check your private messages
Log in
should i watch it w/ the rents?
MarkWahlberg.com Forum Index
Boogie Nights
View previous topic
View next topic
Joined: 25 Jul 2002
Posts: 42
Location: southold,new york, united states
Posted: Mon Jul 29, 2002 2:25 pm
Post subject: should i watch it w/ the rents?
im under the age of 17 and i was wonderin if i should tell my rents' i ordered it or if i should just sneak it ?
Back to top
City Gal
Joined: 12 Jun 2002
Posts: 2227
Location: London, England
Posted: Mon Jul 29, 2002 3:11 pm
Post subject:
That all depends on how your parents are? Where is the VCR you're going to watch it on and what rating is the film.
It's really weird cos over here (England) people don't usually pay attention to the rating of films, most kids I know watch all types of movies even the really violent ones, parents don't seem to worry about it much. My parents didn't say a thing and though didn't want me to watch porn, I could watch what I wanted.
Saying that though, if the film has an 18 rating and your parents wont let you, watch it at a friends house, I mean you are nearly 18 anyway.
Are parents in America very strict on that kind of thing? cos alot of people here say their parents wont let them watch films.
Back to top
Joined: 25 Jul 2002
Posts: 42
Location: southold,new york, united states
Posted: Mon Jul 29, 2002 3:28 pm
Post subject:
its not that they r VERY stsict but ive heard that boogie nights is very well its a move. my parents know that ive seen and they still dont like the idea of me seein this mvie.
Back to top
Joined: 17 May 2002
Posts: 603
Location: Southern California
Posted: Mon Jul 29, 2002 5:44 pm
Post subject:
How do you think they'll react? Have they allowed you to see R rated movies that had a sexual/drug theme before? If there's no chance of them finding out, i.e. you hide it and watch it when they aren't home then go ahead, but if you aren't 100% certain of that then tell them and prepare for the worse! What is the worse, they'll send it back right?!
Back to top
Joined: 17 May 2002
Posts: 603
Location: Southern California
Posted: Mon Jul 29, 2002 5:47 pm
Post subject:
I just remembered the first R rated movie my Mum let me see, I was 14, it was 'Coming Home' with Jane Fonda, apart from the 'F' words and a sex scene with J.F. and Jon Voight it bored me to tears! I watched it several years later and enjoyed it, there was no rush for this type of visual material, do you see what I mean?
Back to top
marks baby love
Joined: 13 Aug 2001
Posts: 3186
Posted: Tue Jul 30, 2002 11:05 am
Post subject:
same here city gal, kids rent anything and some parents do mind, but mine really could care less, they trust us, and think its alright.
i think it all depends on you, i mean theres nude and sex scenes in the movie are you willing to watch all of this with your parents? if not don't watch it with them and if so then go ahead!
Micha xoxox
Back to top
Joined: 25 Jul 2002
Posts: 42
Location: southold,new york, united states
Posted: Tue Jul 30, 2002 1:29 pm
Post subject:
i have seen r rated movies , its just im not sure if boogie nights is like really bad b/c ive heard that it has a lot of in it.
thanx a bunch
Back to top
City Gal
Joined: 12 Jun 2002
Posts: 2227
Location: London, England
Posted: Tue Jul 30, 2002 1:56 pm
Post subject:
Well yeah it has alot of naughty bits in it if that's what you mean but the story is a good one as is the soundtrack. If you are nearly 18 then it shouldn't be too much of a shocker! BTW what is an r rating?
Back to top
Joined: 02 Aug 2002
Posts: 496
Location: Southern California
Posted: Tue Aug 06, 2002 9:46 pm
Post subject:
OK So what did you do?!
Back to top
Joined: 23 Sep 2001
Posts: 1224
Location: Portland, OR
Posted: Sun Aug 11, 2002 11:45 pm
Post subject:
R rating means you hafta be 17 (thats what it is where i live but i think in most places its 1
to watch it. well actually u hafta be that age to watch it in a theater without your parents.
Back to top
Tommy Florida
Joined: 23 Aug 2002
Posts: 11
Location: Spring Hill Florida USA
Posted: Fri Aug 23, 2002 6:04 pm
Post subject:
I don't think you should watch this movie with your parents. It just has too many sex scenes and nasty sex talk. Unless your really close with your parents, it will just end up making everyone in the room feel embarrassed!
Back to top
Joined: 03 Sep 2002
Posts: 55
Location: North Miami Beach FL USA
Posted: Tue Sep 03, 2002 1:49 pm
Post subject:
NEVER in a million years would I have watched that flick wiht my dad.
***DROOL*** He is such a little hottie
Back to top
Joined: 28 May 2002
Posts: 121
Location: Massachusetts!!!!!!!
Posted: Tue Sep 03, 2002 4:56 pm
Post subject:
hey honestly i wouldnt watch it wit my prents...not a good idea...to lay it out its basically about sex and porno so theres alot of it lol...it is a good movie tho
"the vibrations good like a sunkist many wanna know who done this marky mark and im here to move you rounds the groove you and im here to prove to u that we can party on the positive side all positive vibes come along for the ride thinking you can feel the rythym is my occupation so feel the vibrations"~ MMatFB good vibes
"You gotta protect yourself, but when you do that, you set yourself up to miss out on unconditional love."~Mark Wahlberg
"My brother Donnie's a perfectionist when it comes to performing, but I'm a perfectionist in my own way, too. I want to perfect my own image." - Mark
23=brian daubach
18=johnny damon
12-tom brady
jus in case u planned on askin me that....
aim- JohnnyDavidDamon or NaStoRioUSbiG or jOhNnYbRiAnDoUg
Back to top
**mArKs AnGeL**
Joined: 03 Aug 2002
Posts: 346
Location: mArKs HoUsE ;)
Posted: Sat Sep 07, 2002 7:13 am
Post subject:
When I first saw the movie & I watched it with my mum and it was a little weird but not totally uncomfotable, lol
*Neva say 4eva coz 4eva isnt real*4eva's what u think & 4eva's what u feel*So if u say 4eva plz promise that u'll try*but never say 4eva cuz 4eva makes me cry*
Back to top
Joined: 17 Feb 2003
Posts: 50
Location: McKinney,tx,use
Posted: Wed Mar 26, 2003 11:35 pm
Post subject:
I love watching that show even though I have my openions on that movie that I am not going to share for a while.
Love always AndreaHerr.
Mark please keep acting on movies I am impressed by your acting.
music is helpfull.
Love always andi
Back to top
Display posts from previous:
All Posts
1 Day
7 Days
2 Weeks
1 Month
3 Months
6 Months
1 Year
Oldest First
Newest First
MarkWahlberg.com Forum Index
Boogie Nights
All times are GMT - 5 Hours
Jump to:
Select a forum
Official Announcements
Mark Wahlberg Discussion
In The News
Off-Topic Messages
The Lovely Bones
The Fighter
The Happening
Max Payne
We Own The Night
The Departed
Four Brothers
I Heart Huckabees
Three Kings
Boogie Nights
Perfect Storm
Rock Star
Planet of the Apes
The Italian Job
The Big Hit
Basketball Diaries
The Yards
Renaissance Man
The Corruptor
The Traveller
The Truth About Charlie
Other Movies
post new topics in this forum
reply to topics in this forum
edit your posts in this forum
delete your posts in this forum
vote in polls in this forum
Powered by
© 2001, 2005 phpBB Group


text:
महागठबंधन मुख्यमंत्री पद उम्मीदवार श्री तेजस्वी यादव को सिवान से लाइव सुनिए!
Rashtriya Janta Dal locates itself in the collective aspirations of people and communities striving to carve out a society based on the premises of social justice and secularism. Since its inception Rashtriya Janta Dal is relentlessly working as the voice of the socially and economically downtrodden sections of the society. The RJD believes in working on and propagating socialist politics and towrds this end the party has been developing solidarity network of landless labourers, peasants and farmers other weaker groups as well as progressive people from other sections of society. Drawing inspiration from Gandhian values as well as following in the great tradition of the socialist leaders, RJD strongly stands against communalism in any form. The party believes that the right of peaceful and democratic dissent including Satyagraha/ non-violent resistance is a fundamental right of the people.


text:
Understanding Collision Repair For Steel Components on Repair University
Video Posted on
While the industry seems to be focusing on Aluminum, still a majority of collision repair involves steel. And to tell the truth, we're not doing it well.
On this episode of Repair University we discuss the types of steel involved in vehicle construction, it's purposes, joining methods and repair replace reasoning.
Repair University: Tips For Becoming A Better Estimator
Video Posted on Updated on
Estimating damage in a collision repair facility is a critical step in not only customer satisfaction, but shop profitability.
It's important that the appraiser of the damage understand all the needed operations to completely repair the vehicle in an economical and efficient manner. When it comes down to it, the estimate will set the tone and the pace of the repair while also serving as the single source for shop compensation.
In this episode of Repair University, Jason Bartanen from I-CAR joins us to discuss the best tips for becoming a better estimator.
From insurance adjuster to Independent appraiser to shop estimator identifying damage and the needed steps to repair can be the most valuable asset to a customer.
Proper Wheel Installation HD Aug 2015
Advanced Economical Vehicles HD June 2015
PROSPOT Aluminum Welding
Video Posted on Updated on
Larry Montanez, P&L Consultants and contributing editor to ABRN and Hammer & Dolly Magazine demonstrates popular Aluminum welding techniques featuring the Pro Spot SP-5.
The SP-5 Smart MIG has three MIG torches that can be set up for three different base metals(Aluminum, Silicon Bronze and Steel). The shielding gas and weld program with the appropriate synergic curve automatically switch when pulling the trigger. The SP-5 is ideal for body shops welding stainless steel, aluminum and zinc coated steel. In synergic mode, the microprocessor controls optimal arc stability and weld quality. The SP-5 also comes equipped for TIG and MMA/stick welding. MIG and TIG welding can be done in continuous or pulse mode. Maximum power output of 200 A.
Offer a lifetime paint warranty and get paid for it.
Late last year, the Society of Collision Repair Specialists (SCRS) wrote to seven major paint manufacturers and asked for each company's recommended procedure for applying clearcoat to qualify for a lifetime refinish warranty. Specifically, SCRS wanted to know if there is an acceptable procedure to tape, melt or blend clearcoat mid-panel rather than extending it to the natural breaking point.
All of the paint companies responded in writing that you must extend clear to the natural breaking point in order to qualify for the lifetime refinish warranty. You can read all of their responses on the SCRS website by visiting ABRN.com/SCRSpaint. Then look for the link to "2014 Clearcoat Response" for each paint manufacturer).
"Applying clearcoat to the entire panel is a requirement for coverage under the Axalta Coating Systems warranty for collision repair finishes," that company's response to SCRS states. "This approach helps produce a durable repair that will not weather prematurely."
"(F)or PPG Lifetime Limited Paint Performance Guarantee purposes, the clearcoat application must extend to the nearest panel edge or break point," that company stated.
That means if you put a quarter panel on and there's a roof molding along the roof rail, you have to extend clear all the way to the natural breaking point, all the way down to the A-pillar. Or if you put a quarter panel in, you may have to clear the rocker panel all the way forward if there's not another natural breaking point. And if there's not a roof molding, for example, you have to do an "up and over," clearcoating the roof and the other quarter panel.
The paint manufacturers are not alone on this. Some auto manufacturers have issued position statements that concur.
"Ford Motor Company does not condone or recommend the procedure of clearcoat blending," the company's document states in part. "The preferred process – and the one Ford approves – is to blend the basecoat color as necessary and then clearcoat the entire panel."
Toyota and Volvo have similar published statements; other automakers do not address the issue directly but do state that the paint manufacturer procedures – which include the statements saying that not extending the clear to natural breaking point is not a warranted repairer – should always be followed when repairing their vehicles.
Yet I still hear from shops, "Mike, the insurance companies won't pay me for it." Insurers, are you trying to tell me you know something the paint companies don't? Are you saying you know something the automakers don't?
It's time to stop this nonsense.
As with other topics like this, three questions will help you demonstrate to an insurer that the process needs to be done and is therefore something for which shops should be compensated.
Question 1: Is it required to fully and properly repair the vehicle? Go to the website above and get copies of your paint company's statement showing what is required if the insurer and customer expect a lifetime refinish warranty.
Question 2: Is it included in any other labor operation? A quick review of your estimating system guide will tell you that it is not. The Mitchell International procedure pages, for example, state that, "It may be required to extend the application of clear to the nearest panel edge or breakpoint. The performance of this operation is NOT INCLUDED in the Mitchell refinish labor time."
Question 3: Do the estimating system providers provide a pre-determined time or calculation method for this procedure? Here the answer varies. If a time or formula isn't provided, I suggest you submit an inquiry at the Database Enhancement Gateway website (DEGweb.org).
And remember when you do clear the aperture all the way forward, are you charging to remove and reinstall the door weather strips at the top of the roof rail so you don't get a hardline? Are you charging to remove and reinstall the windshield molding or to precision mask the front windshield to prevent overspray?
Shops, insurers and customers all want lifetime refinish warranties, and the paint companies have been very specific about the need to extend clearcoat to the natural breakline in order to achieve a warrantable paint job. It's time for insurers to stop asking shops to do anything less.
Where It All Went Wrong – Feb 2015
Estimating the Aluminum Repair
Top 10 Ways Auto Body Shops Can Ensure a Positive Customer Experience
A successful auto body shop ensures that their customers have a quality experience. The moment customers walk into your shop, you'll want to make a positive first impression to start building a relationship and hopefully encourage repeat and referral business.
Here are some ways that auto body shops can impress customers and boost the image of their shop, the quality of the repair process, and the overall customer experience:
1. Provide unique and personalized service. Give the customer a personable and welcoming greeting when they enter an auto body shop. Be enthusiastic, stand up, and shake the customer's hand. Give a positive greeting like "Hi! How are you? How can we help you today?" and remember to smile.


text:
ODU Wins Two Final Events and One Preliminary Race in Day One at Nike Cup
By ODU Athletics
Nov. 16, 2012
NORFOLK, Va.- The Old Dominion University men's and women's swimming and diving teams both completed their first day of competition at the Nike Cup yesterday in Chapel Hill, N.C.
Old Dominion proved they belonged with some of the top swimming programs in the country including the nationally ranked host UNC as well as NC State.
ODU finished first in a total of three events including Sidni Hoxha's victory in the 50 yard freestyle final race with a time of 19.9. Hoxha pulled away from the other 51 student-athletes in the event, with second place winner Simonas Bilis of NC State finishing in 20.34.
Kimberley Rashleigh hit the wall before 39 other competitors in the 200 yard IM event. Rashleigh finished the race in 2:01 and beat second place finisher Laura Gorinski from Navy by nearly two full seconds.
Both Hoxha and Rashleigh posted times good enough for NCAA B-cuts, which means they are now eligible to be selected to compete in the NCAA Championships on March 21-23 in Indianapolis, Ind.
Yesim Giresunlu placed first and broke a school record by finishing the 500 yard preliminary freestyle in 4:52.92.
Old Dominion will be back in action today for day two of this three day event. Friday's schedule includes the 400 yard IM, 100 yard butterfly, 200 yard freestyle, 100 yard breaststroke, 100 yard backstroke, the men's 1 meter diving, and the women's 3 meter diving.


text:
Request a Registration
Pick the Registration type you would like to request.
If you are a registered contractor requesting a Registration, you should first sign in to your contractor account to ensure your Registration is associated with your account at the agency. If you are not sure if you have a registered contractor account, click here to look up contractors at this agency. If you have not yet created a login account, click here to do so now. You will need your account information that was supplied from the agency when you were registered.


text:
This study is the first to establish IAF characteristics as separate, distinct constructs that act jointly in creating IAF quality; therefore, it contributes to the overall understanding of IAF quality and the determinants of the IAF as an effective internally based financial reporting monitor.
Abbott, L. J., B. Daugherty, S. Parker and G. F. Peters. 2016. Internal Audit Quality and Financial Reporting Quality: The Joint Importance of Independence and Competence. Journal of Accounting Research 54 (1): 3-40.
This study offers insights into why internal auditing is experiencing a shortage of qualified job candidates and offers a potential solution to the problem. The authors find that external auditors have negative perceptions about internal auditing, and these negative perceptions are associated with a (1) decreased desire to apply for internal auditing positions, (2) lower likelihood of recommending an in-house internal auditing career to high-performing students, and (3) higher likelihood of recommending an in-house internal auditing career to mediocre students. Internal auditors can try solving this problem by improving perceptions about internal auditing via a media campaign that raises awareness about the true internal audit career path.
Bartlett, G.D., J. Kremin, K.K. Saunders, and D.A. Wood. 2016. Attracting Applicants for In-House and Outsourced Internal Audit Positions: Views from External Auditors. Accounting Horizons 30 (1): 143-156.
Results from this study suggest that rotating internal auditors into operational management programs reduces financial reporting quality. Companies that utilize a rotational internal audit program should be aware of these possible unintended consequences. Companies utilizing these programs should consider implementing several compensating controls (listed in the findings section), as the authors have found that these controls can reduce or even eliminate (if used together) the negative consequences of rotational internal audit programs.
Christ, M.H., A. Masli, N.Y. Sharp, and D.A. Wood. 2015. Rotational internal audit programs and financial reporting quality: Do compensating controls help? Accounting, Organizations and Society 44: 37-59.
This study's results are important to regulators thinking about requiring issuance of an internal audit report and practitioners planning how to respond to such proposals. The authors suggest that the assurance internal audit report, which leads to more conservative risk assessment when internal auditors mainly report to the audit committee, may prove rather costly and unpopular among internal auditors. Meanwhile, the descriptive internal audit report, which prior research found to be useful to investors, does not make internal auditors more conservative, but it may prove less costly and more popular among internal auditors. Ultimately, these findings suggest that regulators need to discuss any internal audit report proposals with key stakeholders, including internal auditors, before getting too far into the rule making process.
Boyle, D. M., F. T. DeZoort, and D. R. Hermanson. 2015. The Effects of Internal Audit Report Type and Reporting Relationship on Internal Auditors' Risk Judgments. Accounting Horizons 29 (3): 695-718.
These results have implications for both audit research and practice as well as policy makers and firms deciding on whether to outsource the internal audit function. From a research perspective, this study is the first to examine how external auditors view various internal audit outsourcing arrangements. Further, the results indicate a potential cost of internal audit outsourcing that has not been previously considered. That is, if outsourced internal auditors provide other services, the cost of the external audit could increase, which potentially interferes with some of the expected cost savings of AS No. 5.
Brandon, D. M. 2010. External Auditor Evaluations of Outsourced Internal Auditors. Auditing: A Journal of Practice & Theory 29 (2): 159-173.
The results suggest that internal auditors contribute to decreased reliability of disclosed amounts. It appears that the incentives of external auditors and internal auditors are closely aligned on this issue. In general, both of these parties seem to feel less responsibility for disclosed, relative to recognized amounts. The results indicate that financial reporting location has significant effects on internal auditors' decisions to correct misstatements. Specifically, internal auditors are more willing to waive disclosed misstatements relative to recognized misstatements. Contrary to expectations, the results do not indicate that increased audit committee expertise and associated increases in audit committee members' perceived powers cause internal auditors to be less willing to waive misstatements.
Norman, C. S., J. M. Rose, and I. S. Suh. 2011. The effects of disclosure type and audit committee expertise on Chief Audit Executives' tolerance for financial misstatements. Accounting, Organizations & Society 36 (2): 102-108.
The results speak to the need for regulators to consider the incentives of the various stakeholders when determining policy. Should policy makers consider expanding or restricting specific oversight roles, they should consider the concomitant effects on the internal audit function, and the differential incentives faced by the audit committee and executive management. In addition, as audit committees and managers jointly work or oversee the work of internal auditors, the results suggest that these two oversight participants should consider how their respective incentives potentially bias the focus of the internal audit department away from a mix of activities that optimally address the greater business risks of the company. Likewise, as external auditors assess the organizational status of the internal audit department, they may also wish to consider the apparent focus of internal audit as a potential indication of oversight control.
Abbott, L. J., S. Parker, and G. F. Peters. 2010. Serving Two Masters: The Association between Audit Committee Internal Audit Oversight and Internal Audit Activities. Accounting Horizons 24 (1): 1-24.
This study makes an original contribution to the development of new knowledge on internal auditing. It concludes that internal auditors tend to lack independence and audit committee members often exercise disturbingly weak power (on the internal audit function), as compared to the top managers. This points to the difficulty of applying an idealized conception of independence and purist governance principles to practice. That is, it encourages auditors to consider the appropriateness of internal auditing as a meaningful independent assurance device in operating the corporate governance "mosaic."
Roussy, M. 2015. Welcome to the day-to-day of internal auditors: How do they cope with conflict? Auditing: A Journal of Practice and Theory 34 (2): 237-264.
These findings suggest that regulators, audit committees, and other stakeholders should consider ways to improve IAF quality, specifically IAF competence, and IAFs improve corporate governance by assisting audit committees in monitoring management. This study provides empirical evidence consistent with the proposition that IAF quality and competence deter management misconduct. IAF quality and, particularly, IAF competence are important in deterring observable instances of management misconduct, both accounting- and nonaccounting-related. These findings are important because in the early 2000s, regulators responded to public outcry over observable management misconduct, yet IAF quality was largely left out of the regulatory debate and reforms that followed.
Ege, M. S. 2015. Does Internal Audit Function Quality Deter Management Misconduct? Accounting Review 90 (2): 495-527.
The primary result that audit committee involvement is significantly and positively associated with "outsourcing" is an important finding that suggests a need for management to pay close attention to the role that audit committee plays in "outsourcing" internal audit activities. The significance of value-added-activities, missing-skill-set, and audit-staff-vacancies on "outsourcing" also require management attention because collectively these three variables indicate trade-offs between acquiring the expertise in-house or "outsourcing" to external service providers.
For more information on this study, please contact Mohammad Abdolmohammadi
Abdolmohammadi, M. 2013. Correlates of Co-Sourcing/Outsourcing of Internal Audit Activities. Auditing: A Journal of Practice and Theory 32(3): 69-85.


text:
LeSean McCoy is being sued by a woman who claims the star Philadelphia Eagles running back assaulted her before kicking her off a party bus, according to CourthouseNews.com.
Jeff McLane of the Philadelphia Inquirer reported Tuesday that a source close to McCoy said he does not dispute kicking the woman off the bus, but McCoy denies the other allegations. The Eagles had no comment on the situation involving McCoy when asked by NFL.com.
New Jersey state police said Tuesday they were aware of the accusations and were investigating. Police spokesman Sgt. Brian Polite said the case remained an ongoing investigation.
The alleged incident happened the night of Dec. 18. McCoy, his bodyguard -- known as "Big John" -- and three male friends were joined by 15 women for a trip from Philadelphia to a New York nightclub.
During the ride home, "McCoy and some of the male guests began to spray the female guests, including the plaintiff, with water," the complaint stated.
The plaintiff -- identified as "Mary Roe" -- said that when she complained, McCoy ordered "Big John" to "get her." At that point, someone allegedly hit her in the face and she fell down. The hit allegedly was delivered either by McCoy, "Big John" or both men.
The woman claimed she was held down and had a beverage poured over her hair, clothes and body.
McCoy then allegedly ordered the driver of the bus to pull over. "Mary Roe" allegedly was removed from the bus and left alone on the side of the New Jersey Turnpike. She later allegedly was picked back up at the request of the other women on the bus, only to be left behind again at a turnpike rest stop.
New Jersey state police said troopers did respond that night to a call from the Thomas Edison Service Area on the turnpike. There, they met a woman who told them she had been on a Philadelphia-bound party bus when she got into a fight with a man who shoved her and made her get out of the vehicle, police said.
Troopers did not see any physical injuries on the woman, Polite said.
No other information was released by police.


text:
One of the many reasons I ride:
Still more reasons, from the American Public Transportation Association:
An individual switching to public transit can reduce his or her daily carbon emissions by 20 pounds; that's more than 4,800 pounds in a year, a figure that is more than the combined carbon emissions reduction that comes from weathering your home and using energy efficient appliances and environmentally-friendly light bulbs.
If just one commuter of a household switches from driving to using public transportation, the household's carbon footprint can be reduced by 10 percent. If a household gives up its second car altogether, a household can reduce carbon emissions up to 30 percent.
In case the future of the planet isn't enough incentive: This Earth Day, lucky transit riders in DC were given free chocolate as a reward for their efforts. (Hey, Metro: Any chance this might happen in Seattle next year?)
If you prefer a little peace on earth with your carbon reduction (and chocolate!), check out this CSM editorial (thanks for the link, Pam!) about how the bus brings out our gentler side. I can't say that all the bus rides I've taken have been so kind and gentle, but I definitely agree with the premise.
Happy Earth Day, everyone!


text:
If you're sexting with a romantic partner, it's perfectly normal, a new study says.
Sexting — texting naked or sexually suggestive photos of yourself – "is rapidly becoming part of the dating process" for young adults, according to a report by University of Michigan researchers.
The rapid spread of smart phones has increased the overall number of photos being sent by text or e-mail. But that technological advance has also increased the number of sexts, researchers said.
Sexting has mostly been linked to horror stories of photos of teenaged sexters being passed around to unintended recipients, and the practice has been associated with risky sexual behavior, depression or violence.
Then there was last year's high-profile political scandal that forced New York Congressman Anthony Weiner from office after he admitted sexting lewd photos of himself to women via Twitter and Facebook.
But the Michigan study involving 3,447 men and women aged 18 to 24 found that 30 percent had sent a sext and 41 percent had received one.
"Our results also suggest that sexting is most often a reciprocal behavior," the study said." Among those participants who had ever sent or received a sext, 66 percent reported both sending and receiving sexts. Given findings that most young men and women report sharing sexts within a dating relationship, it is likely that our findings reflect sexting between romantic partners."
Moreover, the report said, "Our findings provide evidence that sexting is prevalent among young adults, but does not appear to be related to sexual risk or psychological well-being."
However, the report did say "further research is needed to examine the association between sexting and mental health …pressure to sext and viral sexts may present mental health risks but to date, there are no studies that address these specific situations."
Jose Bauermeister, director of the university's Sexuality and Health Lab, said the study's findings contradict the public perception of sexting,
Co-author Debbie Gordon-Messer said previous negative stories about sexting involved pre-teens and teenagers.
"For younger age groups, legality is an issue," Gordon-Messer said in a news release. "They are also in a very different place in their sexual development."


text:
Filter by Topic
- People (215) Apply People filter
- Reproduction (106) Apply Reproduction filter
- Publications (102) Apply Publications filter
- Experiments (76) Apply Experiments filter
- Theories (47) Apply Theories filter
- Organizations (40) Apply Organizations filter
- Processes (40) Apply Processes filter
- Technologies (39) Apply Technologies filter
- Disorders (36) Apply Disorders filter
- Legal (36) Apply Legal filter
- Outreach (29) Apply Outreach filter
- Ethics (18) Apply Ethics filter
- Organisms (12) Apply Organisms filter
- Religion (10) Apply Religion filter
- Reproductive Health Arizona (7) Apply Reproductive Health Arizona filter
- Places (3) Apply Places filter
- RHAZ (2) Apply RHAZ filter
- Technology (1) Apply Technology filter
Filter by Format
- (-) Remove Articles filter Articles
David Wildt's Domestic Cat and Cheetah Experiments (1978-1983)
David Wildt's cheetah (Acinonyx jubatus) research from 1978-1983 became the foundation for the use of embryological techniques in endangered species breeding programs. The cheetah is a member of the cat family (Felidae), which includes thirty-seven species. According to the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES) all Felidae species are currently threatened or endangered, with the exception of the domestic cat (Felinus catus).
Format: Articles
Subject: Experiments
David Wildt's Evolving Ethics Concerning the Roles of Wildlife Reproductive Sciences in Species Conservation
David Wildt is an animal reproductive biologist who directs the Conservation Biology Institute in Fort Royal, Virginia. In 1986, Wildt argued that artificial reproductive technologies should only be used for species conservation efforts if standard techniques to aid natural reproduction are not effective. Between 1986 and 2001, Wildt revised his views and values primarily in relation to two things: which methods captive breeding programs ought to use, and how reproductive scientists ought to contribute to the larger work of conservation.
Format: Articles
Subject: Ethics
Oliver Allison Ryder III (1946– )
Oliver Allison Ryder studied chromosomal evolution and endangered species in efforts for wildlife conservation and preservation at the San Diego Zoo in San Diego, California. Throughout his career, Ryder studied breeding patterns of endangered species. He collected and preserved cells, tissues, and DNA from endangered and extinct species to store in the San Diego Frozen Zoo, a center for genetic research and development in San Diego, California.
Format: Articles
Subject: People
The First Successful Cloning of a Gaur (2000), by Advanced Cell Technology
Advanced Cell Technology (ACT), a stem cell biotechnology company in Worcester, Massachusetts, showed the potential for cloning to contribute to conservation efforts. In 2000 ACT researchers in the United States cloned a gaur (Bos gaurus), an Asian ox with a then declining wild population. The researchers used cryopreserved gaur skin cells combined with an embryo of a domestic cow (Bos taurus). A domestic cow also served as the surrogate for the developing gaur clone.
Format: Articles
Subject: Experiments
David Edwin Wildt (1950- )
David Edwin Wildt developed and applied assisted reproductive technologies to conserve rare and endangered wildlife species in the US during the twentieth and twenty-first centuries. He advocated genome resource banks to help preserve biodiversity, and he advocated for practical ethics to guide wildlife reproductive biologists when they use technology and environmental planning. Wildt often focused on the cheetah (Acinonyx jubatus), but he researched greater than fifty vertebrate species.
Format: Articles
Subject: People
The Woman Rebel (1914)
In the early twentieth
century, birth control advocate Margaret Sanger published eight
issues of a feminist magazine called The Woman Rebel. During
this time, discussion of sex education, birth control, and
abortion were illegal. The magazine featured literary pieces on
topics like women's rights, love and marriage, women in the
workplace, reproductive and sexual education, and contraception.
The Woman Rebel was one of the first magazines that discussed
issues that working class American women faced. Through the
Format: Articles
Subject: Publications
Organic Seed Growers and Trade Association's suit against Monsanto, 2012 and 2013
In March 2011 the Organic Seed Growers and Trade Association and around sixty agricultural organizations (OSGATA et al.) filed a suit against Monsanto Company and Monsanto Technology L.L.C., collectively called Monsanto. The hearings for Organic Seed Growers and Trade Association (OSGATA) et al. v. Monsanto (2012) took place at the United States District Court for the Southern District of New York in Manhattan, New York. The district court's Judge Naomi Reice Buchwald dismissed OSGATA's suit.
Format: Articles
Subject: Legal
The Southern Gastric-Brooding Frog
The Southern Gastric-Brooding Frog (Rheobatrachus silus) was an aquatic frog that lived in south-east Australia. In 2002, the International Union for Conservation of Nature Red List declared the frog extinct, although no wild specimens had been reported since 1981. As the common name alludes to, the R.
Format: Articles
Subject: Organisms
San Diego Zoo Institute for Conservation Research
The San Diego Zoo Institute for Conservation Research (SDZICR) in San Diego, California, is a research organization that works to generate, use, and share information for the conservation of wildlife and their habitats. In 1975, Kurt Benirschke, a researcher at the University of California, San Diego (UCSD) who studied human and animal reproduction, and Charles Bieler, the director of the San Diego Zoo, collaborated to form the Center for Reproduction of Endangered Species (CRES).
Format: Articles
Subject: Organizations
Robert Lanza (1956- )
During the twentieth and twenty-first centuries, Robert Paul Lanza studied embryonic stem cells, tissues,
and endangered species as chief scientific officer of Advanced Cell
Technology, Incorporated in Worcester, Massachusetts. Lanza's team cloned
the endangered species of gaur Bos gaurus.
Although the gaur did not survive long, Lanza successfully cloned
another cow-like creature, called the banteng
javanicus). Lanza also worked on cloning human embryos
to harvest stem cells, which could be used to treat dieases. While
Format: Articles
Subject: People
Kurt Benirschke (1924-)
Kurt Benirschke studied cells, placentas, and endangered species in Germany and the US during the twentieth century. Benirschke was professor at the University of California in San Diego, California, and a director of the research department at the San Diego Zoo in San Diego, California. He also helped form the research department of the San Diego Zoo and its sister organization, the Center for Reproduction of Endangered Species.
Format: Articles
Subject: People
Seed Collection and Plant Genetic Diversity, 1900-1979
Farmers have long relied on genetic diversity to breed new crops, but in the early 1900s scientists began to study the importance of plant genetic diversity for agriculture. Scientists realized that seed crops could be systematically bred with their wild relatives to incorporate specific genetic traits or to produce hybrids for more productive crop yields.
Format: Articles
Subject: Organizations
Seed Banking 1979-1994
In the early twentieth century, scientists and agriculturalists collected plants in greenhouses, botanical gardens, and fields. Seed collection efforts in the twentieth century coincided with the professionalization of plant breeding. When scientists became concerned over the loss of plant genetic diversity due to the expansion of a few agricultural crops around mid-century, countries and organizations created seed banks for long-term seed storage.
Format: Articles
Subject: Organizations
Ethics and Induced Pluripotent Stem Cells
The recent development of induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) and related technologies has caught the attention of scientists, activists, politicians, and ethicists alike. IPSCs gained immediate international attention for their apparent similarity to embryonic stem cells after their successful creation in 2006 by Shinya Yamanaka and in 2007 by James Thompson and others.
Format: Articles
Subject: Technologies, Ethics
Stazione Zoologica Anton Dohrn, Naples, Italy
The Stazione Zoologica Anton Dohrn (Anton Dohrn Zoological Station) is a public research institute focusing on biology and biodiversity. Hereafter called the Station, it was founded in Naples, Italy, in 1872 by Anton Dohrn. The type of research conducted at the Station has varied since it was created, though initial research focused on embryology. At the turn of the twentieth century, researchers at the Station established the sea urchin (Echinoidea) as a model organism for embryological research.
Format: Articles
Subject: Organizations, People, Places
Studies of Thalidomide's Effects on Rodent Embryos from 1962-2008
Thalidomide is a sedative drug introduced to European markets on 1 October 1957 after extensive testing on rodent embryos to ensure its safety. Early laboratory tests in rodent populations showed that pregnant rodents could safely use it, so doctors prescribed Thalidomide to treat morning sickness in pregnant women. However, in humans Thalidomide interfered with embryonic and fetal development in ways not observed in rodent tests.
Format: Articles
Subject: Organisms, Reproduction, Disorders
"On the Induction of Embryonic Primordia by Implantation of Organizers from Different Species" (1924), Hilde Mangold's Dissertation
Hilde Proscholdt Mangold was a doctoral student at the Zoological Institute at the University of Freiburg in Freiburg, Germany, from 1920-1923. Mangold conducted research for her dissertation 'On the Induction of Embryonic Primordia by Implantation of Organizers from Different Species' ('Ueber Induktion von Embryonanlagen durch Implantation artfremder Organisatoren'), under the guidance of Hans Spemann, a professor of zoology at the University of Freiburg.
Format: Articles
Subject: Experiments, Publications
Marie Stopes International
Marie Stopes International (MSI) is a not-for-profit organization based in the United Kingdom that promotes reproductive and sexual health. It grew from one small clinic, founded in North London in 1921, into an international provider of reproductive health care and information that operates in almost forty countries. The Mothers' Clinic, from which it grew, was created in the hopes of expanding couples' reproductive rights, and the modern organization continues to work toward the same goal today.
Format: Articles
Subject: Organizations, Reproduction
DONA International (1992– )
In 1992, five maternal-infant health researchers founded Doulas of North America, later renamed DONA International to train certified birth attendants called doulas to provide care to pregnant women both before and after the birthing process. Annie Kennedy, John Kennell, Marshall Klaus, Phyllis Klaus, and Penny Simkin used the term doula, derived from the Greek word for woman servant, to describe a female birthing aide who provides non-medical emotional and physical support to laboring pregnant women.
Format: Articles
Subject: Organizations
Anthony Comstock (1844–1915)
Anthony Comstock was a US postal inspector and politician who advocated for the suppression of obscenity and vice throughout the late nineteenth century and early twentieth century. Comstock considered any sexually explicit material like pornography and literature related to birth control and abortion as obscene. In 1873, Comstock lobbied US Congress to pass an anti-obscenity law titled An Act for the Suppression of Trade in, and Circulation of, Obscene Literature and Articles of Immoral Use, also called the Comstock Act.
Format: Articles
Subject: People
Experiments on the Reproductive Costs of a Pure Capital Breeder, the Children's Python (Antaresia childreni) (2013), by Olivier Lourdais, Sophie Lorioux, and Dale F. DeNardo
In 2013, Olivier Lourdais, Sophie Lorioux, and Dale DeNardo conducted a study on the impact of the reproductive effort on the muscle size and the constriction strength of female Children's pythons. Children's pythons are pure capital breeders, meaning that they do not eat during vitellogenesis, a process in which egg-laying or oviparous species allocate bodily resources including fat, water, and protein to follicles in the ovary that develop into eggs.
Format: Articles
Subject: Experiments
Kangaroo Mother Care
Physician researchers Edgar Rey Sanabria and Héctor Martínez-Gómez developed the Kangaroo Mother Program in Bogotá, Colombia, in 1979, as an alternative to conventional incubator treatment for low birth weight infants. As of 2018, low birth weight and its associated complications are the leading causes of infant death, especially in developing and underdeveloped countries where access to technology and skilled healthcare providers is limited. Kangaroo Mother Care is a simple and low cost method for treating low birth weight infants.
Format: Articles
Subject: Technologies
Theodora (Theo) Emily Colborn (1927-2014)
Theodora Colborn studied how chemicals affect organisms as they develop and reproduce during the twentieth and twenty first centuries in the US. By the 1940s, researchers had reported that chemicals from agricultural and industrial processes affected how wild organisms developed, but in 1991, Colborn organized the Wingspread Conference in Racine, Wisconsin, at which a group of scientists classed these chemicals as environmentally harmful substances. Colborn and her colleagues called those chemicals endocrine disruptors, as they mimic or block the body's endocrine system.
Format: Articles
Subject: People
Harvey Leroy Karman (1924–2008)
Harvey Karman was an abortionist, inventor, and activist for safe abortion techniques in the US during the twentieth century. Karman developed the Karman cannula, a flexible soft tube used for vacuum aspiration abortions. Karman traveled extensively throughout the US to educate healthcare providers on how to administer safe abortions. He also traveled to Bangladesh, India, China, and other developing nations to promote safe and simple abortion techniques that anyone could perform without previous medical training.
Format: Articles
Subject: People
The Process of Implantation of Embryos in Primates
Implantation is a process in which a developing embryo, moving as a blastocyst through a uterus, makes contact with the uterine wall and remains attached to it until birth. The lining of the uterus (endometrium) prepares for the developing blastocyst to attach to it via many internal changes. Without these changes implantation will not occur, and the embryo sloughs off during menstruation. Such implantation is unique to mammals, but not all mammals exhibit it.
Format: Articles
Subject: Processes


text:
Browsing Civil Engineering (Scholarly Articles) by Subject "Carbonaceous oxidation"
Now showing items 1-1 of 1
The efficiency of a sequencing batch reactor (SBBR) in organic carbon and phosphorus removal (Taylor & Francis, 2005)A laboratory sequencing batch biofilm reactor (SBBR), operated for a period of 158 days, was used to treat domestic-strength synthetic effluent. The biofilm. reactor comprised a bulk fluid reactor, a biofilm plastic module, ...


text:
Save 20% off any live online public course with the code LIVEONLINE20
Certificate in Corporate Credit Analysis
All Public Courses in 2020 will now be taking place in a live online format.
Live Online Training
- World-class video conferencing technology
- Fully interactive, engage and network with peers using break out rooms, quizzes and polls
- On-hand technical support team throughout
- Attend from anywhere, across four time zones
- Save time and costs on travel
Certificate Programme Objectives
This certificate program follows the same structure as the Corporate Credit Analysis course. Following this course, participants will be given three months to complete the online assessment to gain their certificate. The overall goal is to enhance analytic skills needed in the assessment of corporate borrowers or counterparties. Participants will use a structured and systematic approach to evaluate the credit standing of companies in a variety of industrial and service industries.
Key Learning Outcomes:
- Apply a structured approach to assess the creditworthiness of a borrower
- Evaluate the performance of a company based on qualitative and quantitative frameworks and tools
- Identify the key factors that drive a company's future performance and evaluate the likely impact on its credit standing
- Use a cash flow approach to ascertain a company's ability to service/refinance its debt as it comes due
- Use appropriate market indicators, where available, to understand refinancing risk and the market view on a credit
Online Assessment
Participants will be given a secure link to the assessment page after completion of the programme. The assessment consists of an untimed multiple choice test where they will be called upon to demonstrate some of the knowledge and skills that they have learned over the 4 days.
Who Should Attend
Further Learning
- Advanced Corporate Credit - Warning Signals – early warning signals of companies in financial distress
- Capital Structures and Debt Products – corporate debt origination and structuring
- Structuring Leveraged and Sponsored Buy-Outs – leveraged debt origination and structuring
Related Courses
- Fundamentals of Corporate Financial Statement Analysis – providing an introduction/refresher of key accounting and financial analysis concepts. Recommended prior to Corporate Credit Analysis.
- Corporate Rating Methodology – corporate credit risk analysis with a pure focus on the Fitch Rating Methodology.
- Leveraged Finance and High Yield Credit Risk – assessment of sub-investment grade borrowers.
- Intensive Bank Analysis – credit risk analysis of exposure to banks.
- Insurance Company Analysis – credit risk analysis of exposure to insurance companies (life and non-life).
- Credit Risk of Commodity Companies – credit risk analysis of commodity processing and trading companies.


text:
12-week Portfolio Preparation Course
Saturdays, 3 November 2012 – 2 February 2013 (12 weeks excluding Saturday 22 December and Saturday 29 December).
10.30am - 12.30pm (€180)
Led by artist Fiona King, the purpose of this 12-week course is to instruct students in the preparation and production of a portfolio of work that will cater for entry to third level art colleges. Through continual emphasis on idea generation, group discussion, evaluation and practical application, students will identify and clarify the process involved in producing a body of art work. The students will demonstrate how each of the ideas they generate is connected and influences the work to follow through a visual or conceptual association. The visual research will be presented through notebooks, worksheets and resolved pieces. For students to truly benefit from this experience, assignments will need to be completed outside of the scheduled classes.
Fee: €180. Early enrolment is advised, as numbers are limited. To book, please contact the Education and Research Department on Tel. +353 1 2225553/8 or email JLIB_HTML_CLOAKING


text:
Coachella, CA (August 17, 2012) – New for 2012, Ernie Ball introduces Everlast Coated Acoustic Strings. Everlast Acoustic Strings use groundbreaking nanotechnology that repels unwanted moisture and oils that negatively impact tone. One thousand times thinner than any other string coating on the market, this string's treatment is applied to both the inner hex core and outer wrap wire to provide ultimate protection from contaminates like dirt, grime, acid, sweat, and moisture without compromising tone or feel. Available in 80/20 and phosphor bronze alloys, this new acoustic line comes in all popular gauges from medium 13-56 to extra light 10-50 and lists for $28.99.
For more information:


text:
Important Info About Your Account
We're sorry. We cannot find a valid password which matches the E-mail address you've provided.
Emerald-Cut Birthstone Ring in 14k Gold-Plated
Emerald-Cut Birthstone 3-Stone Ring 18k Gold-Plated
Oval-Cut Birthstone Filigree Ring in Antiqued 14k Gold-Plated
Pear-Cut Birthstone and Crystal Accent Ring 18k Gold-Plated
Emerald-Cut Birthstone and Cubic Zirconia 14k Gold-Plated Ring
Marquise-Cut Birthstone Filigree Ring in 14k Gold-Plated Finish
Round Birthstone Personalized "Grandma" Family Ring in 14k Yellow Gold-Plated
Round Birthstone 14k Gold-Plated "X & O" Stackable Ring
Baguette-Cut Birthstone Eternity Stack Ring 14k Gold-Plated
Round Birthstone Heart and Name Personalized Family Ring 14k Gold-Plated
Marquise-Cut Birthstone 14k Yellow Gold-Plated Heart-Shaped Personalized Family Ring
Personalized Marquise-Cut Birthstone and Diamond Accent Family Ring 14k Gold-Plated
14k Gold-Plated Family Name & Birthstone Ring with Cubic Zirconia Accent
Princess-Cut Birthstone Halo Ring in .925 Sterling Silver
Emerald-Cut Simulated Birthstone 3-Stone Ring in Sterling Silver
Oval-Cut Open Scrollwork Birthstone Ring in Sterling Silver
Baguette Birthstone Stackable Eternity Band in .925 Sterling Silver
Round Birthstone Crystal Stackable Eternity Ring in .925 Sterling Silver
Round Simulated Birthstone and Cubic Zirconia Halo Ring in Sterling Silver
Birthstone Interlocking Stackable Eternity Heart Ring in .925 Sterling Silver
Princess-Cut Birthstone Solitaire Stack Ring in Sterling Silver
Round Birthstone Stackable Eternity Band in Sterling Silver
Cushion-Cut Birthstone Butterfly and Scroll Ring in Antiqued Sterling Silver
Sterling Silver Birthstone Heart & Name Family Ring
Oval-Cut Birthstone Scroll Ring in Sterling Silver
Marquise-Cut Birthstone Sterling Silver Personalized Family Ring
Birthstone "I Love You" Ring in Sterling Silver
Oval-Cut Birthstone Filigree Ring in 14k Gold over Sterling Silver
Marquise-Cut Personalized Birthstone and Diamond Accent Couple's Ring in .925 Sterling Silver
Round Birthstone I Love You Ring in 18k Gold over Sterling Silver
Birthstone Personalized Family Ring in Platinum-Plated Specify 2 to 6 Birthstones
Personalized Birthstone Couple's Ring in 18k Gold over Sterling Silver
Heart-Shaped Birthstone Personalized Couple's Ring in 18k Gold over Sterling Silver
Inspired by the circle of life that bonds mothers and their children, this ring is hand set with up to 7 shimmering birthstones of your choice. Create one for every mom in your life! A colorful way to honor the family. 14k gold-plated. Sizes 5-12. Birthstones are simulated gemstones.
Your password will be sent to the E-mail address you provided.


text:
Kansas' Flint Hill Gobblers Youth Essay Contest Deadline is March 8
OutdoorHub 01.18.12
Emporia, KS — Now in its tenth year, the Flint Hills Gobblers Chapter of the National Wild Turkey Federation (NWTF) Youth Essay Contest challenges youngsters to write an essay and win a two-day guided spring turkey hunt and a new turkey shotgun. This year, in 500 words or less, entrants must answer the question, "How can young hunters become involved in helping ensure our hunting heritage and traditions?"
Youth 16 years and younger from Chase, Coffey, Greenwood, Lyon, Morris, Osage, Wabaunsee, and Woodson counties are eligible to participate. Participants must have completed a hunter education course, be available to hunt during the 2012 spring turkey season, and purchase a Kansas spring turkey hunting permit if they win. Youth 16 years old will also need a valid Kansas hunting license. All past winners have harvested a gobbler.
In addition to the shotgun and guided hunt, the winner will receive a turkey hunting vest and other turkey hunting items donated by Bluestem Farm and Ranch Supply, Emporia.
Essay submissions must include name, age, address, and phone number and be sent to Gib Rhodes, 1643 360th St., Madison, KS 66860, or Shelley Sparks, 1789 Road B5, Emporia, KS 66801. The entry deadline is March 8, and the winner of the contest will be notified March 11. Lodging will be provided if the winner is not from Emporia or the surrounding area. A parent or guardian is encouraged to accompany the youth on this hunt. For more information, phone Rhodes at 620-437-2012.
The contest is co-sponsored by the Flint Hills Gobblers Chapter of the National Wild Turkey Federation, the Lyon County Hunter Education Program, Bluestem Farm and Ranch Supply of Emporia, and the Conrad Carlson Charitable Foundation.


text:
American Journalist Peter Theo Curtis Released by Captors in Syria
Peter Theo Curtis held hostage in Syria for two years.
-- American journalist Peter Theo Curtis was freed today after being held hostage for two years by Syrian terrorist group Jabhat Al-Nusrah.
Curtis was handed over to United Nations peacekeepers in Al Rafid village in the Golan Heights Sunday evening, local time, according to the U.N. Curtis received a medical check-up before he was handed over to U.S. officials.
Curtis' family had been working with the State Department over the past two years to bring Curtis home.
"My heart is full at the extraordinary, dedicated, incredible people, too many to name individually, who have become my friends and have tirelessly helped us over these many months," said Theo's mother, Nancy Curtis. "Please know that we will be eternally grateful."
"Theo's mother, whom we've known from Massachusetts and with whom we've worked during this horrific period, simply refused to give up and has worked indefatigably to keep hope alive that this day could be a reality," Secretary of State John Kerry said today in a statement.
The U.S. reached out to "more than two dozen countries," asking for "tools, influence, or leverage" to bring about Curtis' release, said Kerry.
Curtis will be reunited with his family shortly, National Security Advisor Susan E. Rice said in a statement.
President Obama was briefed on his release this morning, said White House spokesman Eric Schultz.
US, UK Closing in on Identity of Foley Executioner, Sources Say
James Foley Among Many Young, Close-Knit Freelance War Reporters
Both Kerry and Rice said that the U.S. is continually working to bring Americans captured and held hostage in Syria home.
Curtis' release comes days after American journalist James Foley was executed by the Islamic State of Iraq and Syria (ISIS), which held him captive for two years.
"We are so relieved that Theo is healthy and safe and that he is finally headed home after his ordeal, but we are also deeply saddened by the terrible, unjustified killing last week of his fellow journalist, Jim Foley, at the hands of the Islamic State in Iraq and Syria, ISIS," said Nancy Curtis.
"I have gotten to know the Foley family during these many long months of uncertainty and worry, and have seen Diane Foley's bravery and her heroic efforts firsthand, efforts that helped rally the spirits of the families of all the journalists and others being held captive. We appeal to the captors of the remaining hostages to release them in the same humanitarian spirit that prompted Theo's release. While the family is not privy to the exact terms that were negotiated, we were repeatedly told by representatives of the Qatari government that they were mediating for Theo's release on a humanitarian basis without the payment of money," she continued. "My entire focus right now is on helping the other families of those still being held in Syria, and on taking care of my son."


text:
Those who have not followed Armstrong's case will learn a great deal about it from reading this. Here you will get a good narrative of his perspective and how the events of his case are related to world happenings and market manipulations by members of the "club." There is so much here to point out that I'm not even going to try and instead just recommend that you designate a couple of hours this weekend, sit down and read it.
One aspect I really like about this paper is that he sees the need for political reform. His suggestions are close to mine in that he sees the need to separate the special interests and their money from politics. This is exactly what the political reform part of Freedom's Vision would accomplish:
We need elected posts with term limits. In other words, we elect the BUREAUCRACY and that is the head of all departments. There is a term limit to one appointment, and no election should be subject to any private contribution. The revenue of the government must pay for all elections. Stop the buying of any influence. This would (1) prevent the "Club from spinning any committee,(2) would prevent donations that buy political appointments such as Secretary of the Treasury. There would be no succession of CEOs from Goldman Sachs. And above all, we would get rid of this clever view of politicians that they exercise the NATIONAL POWER but do not answer nationally to anyone. That allows corruption to keep a particular senator in place in say Vermont and that then controls the entire Judiciary. This is a system doomed to corruption and manipulation.
… We MUST end political contributions. ALL elections should be funded by taxpayer money period. We cannot afford this nonsense anymore. We will be reduced to wearing just sackcloth unless we get political reform and fast.
Part I:
Part II:
Part III:


text:
2. Create the XML Mapping File
Visual Studio 2008 provides a LINQ-to-SQL intellisense schema located at Program Files\Microsoft Visual Studio 9.0\Xml\Schemas\LinqToSqlMapping.xsd. The schema contains a namespace of http://schemas.microsoft.com/linqtosql/mapping/2007 in it that can be used in your custom LINQ-to-SQL XML mapping files to get intellisense as you create your XML mappings. Start by creating an XML file in your Visual Studio 2008 project. Once the file is created add a Database element that defines the http://schemas.microsoft.com/linqtosql/mapping/2007 namespace on it (see the XML code below for an example). Doing this gives you intellisense for the XML mapping file as you type in additional tags. Within the Database element add one or more Table elements. Each Table element contains child Column elements that define how the individual table columns map to class properties. In addition to defining table mappings, stored procedures can also be defined using a Function tag.
Here's an example of mapping the Customer class shown earlier to the Customer table in AdventureWorksLT. Notice that the intellisense xsd schema namespace mentioned earlier is defined on the root element in the mapping file. While the namespace isn't required, having intellisense definitely speeds up the process of creating the mapping file.
<?xml version="1.0" encoding="utf-8" ?> <Database Name="AdventureWorksLT" xmlns="http://schemas.microsoft.com/linqtosql/mapping/2007"> <Table Name="SalesLT.Customer" Member="Model.Customer"> <Type Name="Model.Customer"> <Column Name="CustomerID" Member="CustomerID" IsDbGenerated="true" IsPrimaryKey="true" /> <Column Name="Title" Member="Title" /> <Column Name="FirstName" Member="FirstName" /> <Column Name="LastName" Member="LastName" /> <Column Name="ModifiedDate" Member="ModifiedDate" /> </Type> </Table> <Function Name="dbo.ap_GetCustomerByLastName" Method="GetCustomerByLastName"> <Parameter Name="lastNameLetter" Parameter="LastNameLetter" /> <ElementType Name="Model.Customer" /> </Function> </Database>
Looking through the file you'll see that the Model.Customer class is mapped to the SalesLT.Customer table and that each field is mapped as appropriate. The primary key in the table is defined using the IsPrimaryKey attribute along with the IsDbGenerated attribute. The XML mapping file also includes a reference to a stored procedure named ap_GetCustomerByLastName which looks like the following:
CREATE PROCEDURE dbo.ap_GetCustomerByLastName ( @LastNameLetter char(1) ) AS BEGIN SELECT CustomerID, Title, FirstName, LastName, ModifiedDate FROM SalesLT.Customer WHERE LastName LIKE @LastNameLetter + '%' END
The mapping file maps the stored procedure to a custom method named GetCustomerByLastName which accepts a single parameter named lastNameLetter. Data returned from the stored procedure call is automatically mapped to the Model.Customer class using the mapping file's ElementType element.
The SqlMetal.exe command-line tool can be used to automatically generate the XML mappings for a database quickly and easily (it can generate code as well if desired). Although it won't handle mapping the database fields to your custom data entity classes, it can be used to generate initial XML mapping code that can be modified quickly. To generate the mapping file you can run the following command using the Visual Studio 2008 command prompt. This command generates an XML mapping file for the entire AdventureWorksLT database and includes functions and stored procedures in the output:
sqlmetal.exe /server:YourDBServer /database:AdventureWorksLT /dbml:AdventureWorksLT.dbml /functions /sprocs /namespace:Data


text:
iOS 8 will be released this week. Among many changes to the operating system for apple mobile devices, there are a number of changes that are worthy of consideration to retailers.
Apple Pay – The moment Apple Pay was released, a flood of POS providers showed their support and ability to enable Apple Pay on their platform (my own employer among them). Apple are releasing the program in the US with support from a number of well known tier one retailers. While there is no way of knowing whether showing an apple logo on the retailer's door will get people to finally jump to a mobile wallet, it's a good strategy to keep options open in the event it becomes a commonly requested payment method.
Retailers in Canada that implemented new pinpads for EMV over the past few years enabled NFC on those pinpads as a matter of course. With that NFC capability, they should be well placed to enable Apple Pay when it becomes available in Canada. US based retailers that do not currently have NFC capability and are working through EMV certification would do well to include NFC and Apple Pay integration as part of that process. The incremental cost of enabling Apple Pay as part of an overall EMV effort is likely to be minimal. While it would be optimal to deploy quickly to take advantage of consumer interest, EMV takes time and if the devices onsite do not have NFC capability, a deployment of new devices will be necessary.
It will be important for retailers to track where and how Apple Pay gains traction. The area of focus may vary – hospitality and small transactions could be the sweet spot, but perhaps it will be popular with shoppers at luxury retailers. Retailers should watch closely and ensure that their shopper's preferences are fulfilled.
Scan Credit Card for eCommerce – While much was made of the ability of scanning scan credit cards to add them to Passbook, the ability to scan credit cards into Safari for eComm purchases is also a nice addition. As someone who makes eComm purchases on my mobile devices for items such as movie tickets, making a purchase is an effort. Shoppers must TYPE their full name, credit card number, expiration date and card security code. I have those memorized, and it's still clunky to do on a mobile. For some retailers one also must type in a verified by visa password. If that whole process can be replaced by a scan from my phone, or an autofill from my safari keychain, it saves a whole lot of typing and removes obstacles from mobile purchases. Retailers who enable this function are likely to drive more sales through their mobile channel with the removal of obstacles.
Location Based App Shortcuts – On earlier versions of iOS, Passbook provided a lock screen notification for Starbucks if you were in a store. Passbook also provided a lock screen notification for a plane or movie ticket if the time for the ticket was approaching. While this was a convenient workaround an unnecessary pin code entry, it also required some setting changes. For Starbucks, users had to identify "favourite" sites that enabled Passbook to provide the lock screen notification for Starbucks payment.
iOS8 provides a non-Passbook lock screen shortcut in the bottom left of the screen based on your GPS location. Users have noted that their iPhones with apps from Vons, Tesco, Starbucks and more show an app icon in the bottom left of the lock screen. When users swipe up on the icon at bottom left, the app is opened
with out a PIN [Update: you still need your PIN to access the full app. Passbook = no PIN). While it may appear that beacons are at play, it sounds like it may be driven by GPS as some users had no connectivity at the time. One user also indicated that a Costco icon showed at the bottom left even though they did not have a Costco app installed.
Retailers stand to benefit from reduced barriers for shoppers to use their mobiles once again. Making an app easier to access while actually at the retail location is a great idea. Providing a visual cue right on the lock screen is even better. This access sets the stage to enable retailers to bring online and stores together with some unique functionality.
Hey Siri! – The latest iteration of Siri allows users to access the personal assistant without having to push a button. iPhones can now listen for users to ask for help. Siri is also finally going back to its roots with integration to more services. Siri is able to listen to songs for you with Shazam to find and purchase the name of the song/tv show/movie you are observing.
While Siri will be a great sales tool for Shazam and iTunes to sell it doesn't help other retailers much on the surface, but it does indicate a possible door widening to integration with other services. When Siri was originally launched, it connected to 45 services, but after Apple bought them, it connected to only 12. The founders of Siri are working on another service – viv – that promises to take the personal assistant to another level – and ideally connect it to a plethora of services that can access it via natural language.
Retailers that can make their transaction engines available to channels like AI personal assistants will be exposing their products and services in a new way.
Privacy – In past iterations, mac addresses were easily harvestable from idevices by pinging them with a wifi signal. In essence, 'free' consumer tracking was possible. With iOS8, iDevices provide a pseudo MAC address until consumers actually establish a connection with the wifi network. This means that retailers and other consumer facing organizations will need to track consumers via an iBeacon option or even through accepting a wifi connection with shoppers.
Making the MAC address data private is the right thing for retailers and shoppers alike. All retail programs should be opt-in and retailers and all consumer facing organizations should be clear on data tracked, for what purpose, and allow shoppers the right to opt out of anything they are not comfortable with. Selling is a two way street and being as honest and straightforward is possible will have the best returns in the long run. Shoppers who are willing to provide their data for improved service are not hard to find, and everyone appreciates an honest trading partner.
Indoor Positioning – Apples latest offering enables indoor maps and wayfinding to be more easily implemented by shopping centres and department stores. Apple has made iPhone motion sensors available to their API. With that API update and a more powerful processor, indoor systems can access phone data to make navigating large venues simpler.
Retailers that leverage any tool possible to provide access to their products and services make themselves more readily available to shoppers.
iOS 8 looks to be a landmark release with lots of new features and functions.
Check out a longer list of deep dive functionality, and please share any retail oriented features discovered at release!


text:
Home Evaluation
Your real estate professional will be able to ensure your home is accurately evaluated before setting a listing price.
They will be able to conduct a comparative market analysis, which puts your home up against similar properties that have sold, expired, or have been recently listed for sale in your area.
This analysis also takes into consideration the features that are present or not present in your property versus the comparable properties. For instance, a home with a pool will typically sell for more than a comparable home without a pool. As well, a finished basement may also bring in a higher sale price.