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Thursday, 01 April 2010 06:59 AM EDT
After two years of secrecy, the Federal Reserve Bank of New York is disclosing key details about billions of dollars of risky investments it bought while rescuing insurance giant American International Group Inc. and supporting the sale of failed investment bank Bear Stearns.
The New York Fed on Wednesday said what investments are held by three companies it created to buy them from Bear Stearns, AIG and AIG's business partners. The New York Fed also revealed their current values.
Wednesday's disclosure marks a sharp reversal for the Fed, which has long refused to disclose many key details about the bailouts, including what assets it holds in these companies, and what assets it accepted as collateral when making low-cost loans to banks.
These "toxic" investments were at the heart of the 2008 financial crisis. Their values often are based on the values of thousands of underlying mortgage loans, which were pooled and sliced up into complex securities and other financial products.
Once homeowners started defaulting on the risky subprime mortgages that made up these pools, banks didn't know how much the investments were worth. That made it nearly impossible to sell or trade them.
When Bear Stearns teetered in March 2008, the New York Fed brokered the company's sale to JPMorgan Chase & Co. The New York Fed created Maiden Lane LLC to buy $30 billion of investments that JPMorgan was unwilling to take over.
It was the first major bailout of the financial crisis, occurring almost six months before the collapse of investment bank Lehman Bros. pushed the global financial system to the brink.
In buying those assets, the new disclosures show, the Fed took on billions of dollars worth of risky derivatives called credit-default swaps — insurance-like products that pay off when a company defaults on its debt or a bond fails to produce the expected returns. The company also holds $1.49 billion in whole residential mortgage loans, mortgage securities backed by Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac and loans for hotels and other commercial real estate.
The New York Fed created Maiden Lane II LLC and Maiden Lane III LLC to support the $182 billion AIG rescue. The former bought mortgage-backed bonds from AIG's insurance subsidiaries. The latter bought investments AIG had insured that were held by other big banks.
The New York Fed, then run by Treasury Secretary Timothy Geithner, paid banks full price for investments that already had lost much of their value. It needed to buy them so banks like Goldman Sachs Group Inc. and Societe Generale would cancel AIG's insurance obligations.
Critics have argued these "backdoor bailouts" cost taxpayers billions more than necessary because Geithner and former Treasury Secretary Henry Paulson did not demand concessions from the banks.
The holdings of Maiden Lane III were disclosed in January, over the objections of the New York Fed. Maiden Lane II holds about $34.5 billion in mortgage-backed investments that are not guaranteed by Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac.
The Fed has said its secrecy was necessary to help rebuild confidence in the financial sector and stabilize the banking system.
Critics argue for more transparency given that the bailouts could have cost taxpayers tens of billions of dollars.
Identifying the assets "would compromise the New York Fed's ability to maximize value for the taxpayer in the long-run," New York Fed President William Dudley wrote this month.
Dudley was responding to a request for the information from California Rep. Darrell Issa, the top Republican on the House Committee on Oversight and Government Reform. Issa has been a leading critic of the bailouts, and has successfully pushed the New York Fed to disclose more information about the AIG rescue.
In January, Issa released details about the holdings of Maiden Lane III. He disputed the Fed's argument that revealing details would upset financial markets and drive down the values of the investments.
Issa sent letters to the New York Fed and JPMorgan on March 3 requesting more information about the Bear Stearns bailout. He was reacting to reports that the assets held by Maiden Lane LLC had lost nearly 10 percent of their value.
JPMorgan is cooperating with the congressional probe, a bank spokeswoman said.
Issa called Wednesday's disclosures "a step in the right direction" but said they didn't go far enough.
"The ultimate goal is full transparency and accountability," Issa said in a statement. "There are still a number of outstanding requests for information that the (New York Fed) has either refused or ignored."
Asked about the New York Fed's about-face, a bank spokeswoman referred to a statement that says in part: "The Federal Reserve recognizes the importance of transparency to its financial stability efforts and will continue to review disclosure practices with the goal of making additional information publicly available when possible."
The disclosures were only possible after the New York Fed struck deals with JPMorgan and AIG about how much information it would reveal.
The disclosures omit all whole residential mortgages held by the Maiden Lane companies because describing them would violate borrowers' privacy.
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President Trump's Tax Reform Priorities Unveiled
April 27, 2017 | BY Paul Bonner
The White House on Wednesday issued President Donald Trump's goals and key features for tax reform, including slashed corporate tax rates, flattened individual marginal income tax brackets, and repeal of the estate and alternative minimum taxes.
Trump outlined his proposals in a one-page sheet of bullet points headed "2017 Tax Reform for Economic Growth and American Jobs" and "The Biggest Individual and Business Tax Cut in American History."
Speaking to reporters at the White House, Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin and Trump economic adviser Gary Cohn described the president's priorities, but repeatedly rebuffed requests for details, saying those would be hammered out in negotiations with congressional leaders in the months ahead. Most of the policies hewed to those Trump put forth last fall on the campaign trail, most prominently, cutting the corporate income tax rate from its current 35% to 15% and extending it to passthrough entities, i.e., S corporations, partnerships, and entities taxed as partnerships.
For individuals, Trump would replace the current seven graduated tiers of marginal rates (10%, 15%, 25%, 28%, 33%, 35%, and 39.6%) with three: 10%, 25%, and 35%—slightly broader than the 12%, 25%, and 33% he proposed last fall. Mnuchin and Cohn declined to say at what income levels those rates would apply. Trump also reiterated his call for repeal of the net investment income tax of 3.8% imposed on unearned income and gains of high-income taxpayers by the 2010 Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act, P.L. 111-148.
The proposal would double the standard deduction; however, it would limit itemized deductions to mortgage interest and charitable contributions. It would provide "tax relief for families with child and dependent care expenses," but neither the document nor the officials said how that might differ from the current tax credit for child and dependent care expenses available under Sec. 21.
Trump had also previously proposed repealing the alternative minimum and estate taxes. The latter currently applies only to estates larger than $5.49 million per individual. As he has previously, Trump called for ending "tax breaks that mainly benefit the wealthiest taxpayers," but did not provide details or examples. The proposal did not specifically address the tax treatment of carried interests, which are currently taxed at capital gain tax rates. Trump, along with many Democrats, has said in the past he favors curtailing this treatment.
For businesses, besides lowering the top tax rate to 15%, the proposal calls for a territorial system of taxation, which generally would exclude from taxation foreign earned income. It also would impose a "one-time tax" on corporate earnings realized and held overseas and on which tax is deferred, possibly the same as, or consistent with, a deemed repatriation tax that Trump has previously proposed at a 10% rate.
Absent from the proposal was any mention of a border-adjustment, or destination-based cash flow, tax, which has been a key feature of the congressional Republican "blueprint" for tax reform and that Trump has discussed as a possibility previously. The proposal, however, has been widely criticized as problematic for U.S. importers and others and likely to be challenged internationally under World Trade Organization rules.
The plan does not specifically mention passthrough entities, but when he was a candidate, Trump's tax plan included a provision that would allow owners of passthrough entities to be taxed at the proposed 15% business rate. When asked if this would provide an incentive for individuals to form passthrough entities to avoid the higher individual tax rates, Mnuchin answered that "we will make sure that there are rules in place to make sure wealthy people can't create passthroughs" to lower their taxes.
Mnuchin said the administration would like to "move as fast as we can and get this done this year." Congressional leaders have expressed reservations about aspects of the proposal, notably, the depth of the cuts without specifically identified revenue offsets and prospects for their passage at the intersection of budget and procedural rules. Trump claimed during the presidential campaign that his plan was revenue-neutral; it would have to be, or the cuts would have to be temporary (typically ending within a 10-year budget window), for it to advance under the reconciliation process, by which the Senate can bypass a filibuster and pass the legislation with a bare majority instead of 60 votes. Mnuchin said the proposal would "pay for itself, with economic growth and with reduction of different deductions and closing loopholes."
For more analysis, the following are two articles analyzing the president's tax plan.
Likely Winners & Losers Under The Trump Tax Plan
by Kelly Phillips Erb
Devoid Of Details, Trump's Latest Tax Plan Nothing But Empty Promises
by Tony Nitti

subset: commoncrawl


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Proteomics/Introduction to Proteomics
What is proteomics?
The focus of proteomics is a biological group called the proteome. The proteome is dynamic, defined as the set of proteins expressed in a specific cell, given a particular set of conditions. Within a given human proteome, the number of proteins can be as large as 2 million. [1]
Proteins themselves are macromolecules: long chains of amino acids. This amino acid chain is constructed when the cellular machinery of the ribosome translates RNA transcripts from DNA in the cell's nucleus. [2] The transfer of information within cells commonly follows this path, from DNA to RNA to protein.
Proteins can be organized in four structural levels:
- Primary (1°): The amino acid sequence, containing members of a (usually) twenty-unit alphabet
- Secondary (2°): Local folding of the amino acid sequence into α helices and β sheets
- Tertiary (3°): 3D conformation of the entire amino acid sequence
- Quaternary (4°): Interaction between multiple small peptides or protein subunits to create a large unit
Each level of protein structure is essential to the finished molecule's function. The primary sequence of the amino acid chain determines where secondary structures will form, as well as the overall shape of the final 3D conformation. The 3D conformation of each small peptide or subunit determines the final structure and function of a protein conglomerate. [3]
There are many different subdivisions of proteomics, including:
- Structural proteomics -- in-depth analysis of protein structure
- Expression proteomics -- analysis of expression and differential expression of proteins
- Interaction proteomics -- analysis of interactions between proteins to characterize complexes and determine function. [4]
Proteomics has both a physical laboratory component and a computational component. These two parts are often linked together; at times data derived from laboratory work can be fed directly into sequence and structure prediction algorithms. Mass spectrometry of multiple types is used most frequently for this purpose. [5]
The importance of proteomics
Proteomics is a relatively recent field; the term was coined in 1994, and the science itself had its origins in electrophoretic separation techniques of the 1970's and 1980's. [6] The study of proteins, however, has been a scientific focus for a much longer time. Studying proteins generates insight on how proteins affect cell processes. Conversely, this study also investigates how proteins themselves are affected by cell processes or the external environment.
Proteins provide intricate control of cellular machinery, and are in many cases components of that same machinery. [7] They serve a variety of functions within the cell, and there are thousands of distinct proteins and peptides in almost every organism. This great variety comes from a phenomenon known as alternative splicing, in which a particular gene in a cell's DNA can create multiple protein types, based on the demands of the cell at a given time.
The goal of proteomics is to analyze the varying proteomes of an organism at different times, in order to highlight differences between them. Put more simply, proteomics analyzes the structure and function of biological systems. [8] For example, the protein content of a cancerous cell is often different from that of a healthy cell. Certain proteins in the cancerous cell may not be present in the healthy cell, making these unique proteins good targets for anti-cancer drugs. The realization of this goal is difficult; both purification and identification of proteins in any organism can be hindered by a multitude of biological and environmental factors. [9]
Proteomics Workflows
The first step of proteomics is sample preparation. In this step, we are trying to extract protein from cells. In the second step, we use methods such as 2D electrophoresis to separate different proteins. Then we try to cut proteins into peptides since peptides are easier to detect. In the forth step, we use mass spectrometry to detect peptides and peptides fragments. Finally, we can then determine the sequence of the protein by interpreting all the data obtained.
Broad-Based Proteomics
Because Proteomics is growing at a very rapid pace, there is a shift in the field away from a specialized/focused way of conducting studies and towards a more global perspective. Broad-based proteomics presents a unique perspective on the field of proteomics because it allows for one to take on this general perspective by setting out to understand the proteome as a whole. A critical aspect to this strategy is planning ahead; and in doing so, the most appropriate plans and technologies can be implemented in the most efficient manner. By developing a strategy tailored to understanding a particular proteome, problems and setbacks can be avoided during the study.
The first step when utilizing broad-based proteomics is to develop a hypothesis specific to the proteome being studied. It is best to choose organisms that already have a great deal of genomic information available, since the genome is always a useful supplement to proteomic information. Once the a hypothesis and organism are established, the proper technologies should be chosen; and these technologies should be compatible with whatever biological factors are present (i.e. sample type). Some important and relevant proteomic methods include HPLC, Mass Spectrometry, SDS-PAGE, two-dimensional gel electrophoresis, and perhaps in silico protein modeling.
Since there are multitudes of sample type, sample preparation, and analytical technology combinations possible, it is obvious why careful planning from a broad-based proteomic perspective is critical. By planning upfront, an efficient proteomic study can be conducted. And when the efforts of many broad-based proteomic studies are taken together, understanding the proteome in its entirety becomes a realistic possibility.
- ^ American Medical Association. "Proteomics." http://www.ama-assn.org/ama/pub/category/3668.html
- ^ Hartl, Daniel L., Jones, Elizabeth W. "Genetics: Analysis of Genes and Genomes". Jones and Bartlett Publishers: Boston, 2005.
- ^ Weaver, Robert F. "Molecular Biology, 2nd Edition". McGraw Hill: Boston, 2002.
- ^ Twyman, Richard. "Proteomics." http://genome.wellcome.ac.uk/doc_wtd020767.html
- ^ Colinge, Jacques and Keiryn L. Bennett. "Introduction to Computational Proteomics". PLoS Comput Biol. 2007 July; 3(7): e114.
- ^ "History of Proteomics." Australian Proteome Analysis Facility. http://www.proteome.org.au/History-of-Proteomics/default.aspx
- ^ Graves, P. R., T. A. J. Haystead. "Molecular Biologist's Guide to Proteomics". Microbiology and Molecular Biology Reviews: Vol.66 No.1, 2002.
- ^ "Proteomics Overview." http://www.proteomicworld.org/
- ^ van Wijk, K. J. "Challenges and Prospects of Plant Proteomics". Plant Physiol. 2001 June; 126(2): 501-508.
Chapter Written by J. Reuter (Zel2008) and S. Lafergola (DieselSandwich)
Articles Summarized
Advances in Proteomic Workflows for Systems Biology
Johan Malmstrom, Hookeun Lee, and Ruedi Aebersold. Curr Opin Biotechnol 18(4):378-384 (2007)
Main Focus
The article summarizes recent improvements as well as some principal limitations of shortgun tandem mass spectrometry based proteomics. Furthermore, it also briefly introduces steps of targeted driven quantitative proteomics.
In recent years, great improvements have been made in all the parts of non targeted mass spectrometry based proteomics including sample preparation, data acquisition, data processing and analysis. In the sample preparation process, with the introduction of IEF separation method, resolution obtained from classical two dimensional chromatography peptide separation is greatly improved. Improvements are also made in the field of data quality which is increased by the development of highly reproducible capillary chromatography methods and quantitative analysis by stable isotope labeling method. High mass resolution and accuracy could be achieved now by different types of mass spectrometry such as TOF-TOF,Q-TOF in the data acquisition process. Furthermore, different types of mass analyzers and ion sources have been combined to increase the proteome coverage. With the development of database search tools, the quality of proteomics data could be more accurately assessed and estimated in the data processing and analysis process.
Despite all these improvements achieved, limitations exist in shotgun approaches. For example, shotgun MS datasets are extremely redundant which greatly affect the identification of peptides present in proteomic samples. The existence of semi-tryptic or non-tryptic peptides in samples made the sample more complex. Saturation effect greatly reduces the discovery rate of new proteins. Many peptides that detected by Mass Spectrometry could not be identified, making it difficult to compare sample to sample.
The limitations of shotgun approaches made the development of targeted driven quantitative proteomics necessary. The first step of targeted driven quantitative proteomics is protein and peptide selection. This step could be finished both experimentally and computationally. For the multiple reaction monitoring (MRM) and data analysis step, multiple reaction monitoring was applied to proteomics data analysis. Relevance to the course: this source is a brief overview of recent improvements in targeted mass spectrometry (one method of proteomics) based proteomics as well as some limitations. It also introduced another field of proteomics: targeted driven quantitative proteomics.
New Terms
- Electrospray ionization
- A technique used in mass spectrometry to produce ions.It is especially useful in producing ions from macromolecules because it overcomes the propensity of these molecules to fragment when ionized (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Electrospray_ionization)
- Matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization (MALDI)
- A soft ionization technique used in mass spectrometry, allowing the analysis of biomolecules (biopolymers such as proteins,peptides and sugars) and large organic molecules (such as polymers, dendrimers and other macromolecules), which tend to be fragile and fragment when ionized by more conventional ionization methods(http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/MALDI-TOF)
- PeptideAtlas
- A multi-organism, publicly accessible compendium of peptides identified in a large set of tandem mass spectrometry proteomics experiments(http://www.peptideatlas.org/)
- Multiple reaction monitoring
- MRM experiments, using a triple quadrupole instrument, are designed for obtaining the maximum sensitivity for detection of target compounds. This type of mass spectrometric experiment is widely used in detecting and quantifying drug and drug metabolites in the pharmaceutical industry(http://www.pubmedcentral.nih.gov/articlerender.fcgi?artid=2291721)
- FT-ICR mass spectrometry
- Fourier transform ion cyclotron resonance mass spectrometry, also known as Fourier transform mass spectrometry, is a type of mass analyzer (or mass spectrometer) for determining the mass-to-charge ratio (m/z) of ions based on the cyclotron frequency of the ions in a fixed magnetic field(http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Fourier_transform_ion_cyclotron_resonance)
Course Relevance
- This source is about non targeted mass spectrometry and targeted approaches which are important methods in the identification of proteins(an important step in proteomics).
Broad-Based Proteomic Strategies: A Practical Guide to Proteomics and Functional Screening
Graham David, Elliot Steven, Van Eyk Jennifer. "Journal of Physiology" 563: 1-9 (2005)
Main Focus
This article summarizes what broad-based proteomics is and how one can design a study using this global-view strategy. It first briefly looks at the current technology in proteomics and then discusses how these technologies can be incorporated into a study.
Proteomics as a field is becoming a very daunting one to enter because many studies are getting lost in the complicated focused details. To help assist with this challenge, a researcher can employ broad-based proteomics. Broad-based proteomics is a strategy where careful planning is employed upfront to answer a question about a proteome (for instance, comparisons between a tissue in a diseased state and a normal state) using the most appropriate and applicable technologies available. By developing a strategy at the beginning of a proteomics study, possible setbacks during the study are avoided.
The first step is to develop a general hypothesis that is specific to the problem or issue that is being studied. Since proteomics mirrors genomics, a proteomic study is increasingly difficult when the genome of the model organism isn't known. For this reason, organisms where the majority of the genome is known (80% or greater) should be chosen. Once a proper organism has been chosen for study, the next factors to consider are the type of data that will be generated and also the sample source. Some proteomic methods yield qualitative data, while others yield quantitative; so the type of data needed should be determined before a method is chosen. At the same time, the source of the sample is important in determining the extraction and purification methods. Typical sample types include: urine, blood (plasma/serum) and mucosal secretions. Protein concentration within the sample is important, and one should expect reasonable extraction if the protein can be visualized on a coomassie blue stained gel (> 300 ng). The separation technique chosen should reflect the characteristics of the protein(s) of choice (hydrophobic vs hydrophilic, molecular mass, etc).
Another major factor in the planning process is estimating the difficulty in the preparation of the fractioned sample for mass spectrometry identification. Each mass spectrometry technique requires varying degrees of preparation, and some are much more complicated than others (2DE with MS/MS analysis requires greater preparation than HPLC with MS, for instance). Since mass spectrometry is often the step where a lot of proteomic studies encounter difficulty (both in preparation and in interpretation of the results), it is very important to choose a method that is appropriate for the protein sample.
With the advent of proteomic databases in recent years, bioinformatics has had an increasing presence in proteomic studies. For this reason, almost all proteomic studies should incorporate bioinformatics; and consequently it's important for the research team to have some bioinformatics knowledge. And depending on how much data will be received at the end of the study (depending on the analysis methods chosen), the research team can determine how much bioinformatic analysis should be needed.
A final factor to consider is whether to bring in outside assistance or to attempt the study in a more self-contained way. Keeping it self-contained allows for the research team to keep its data integrated and also keeps miscommunication to a minimum. Bringing in outside help, on the other hand, could allow a researcher to tackle problems that would be large and normally not solvable with a smaller team. While bringing in outside assistance seems promising, it's important to not lose control over the data and to make sure that the team is not spread out trying to accomplish more than it can handle.
Since there are many ways to study a cell's proteome, careful planning should be implemented at all stages of a proteomics study. Through broad-based proteomics, a researcher can define a test plan before any actual study is performed. And when used appropriately, this strategy can lead to productive and efficient projects that will bring science one step closer to understanding the proteome as a whole.
New Terms
- Isoforms
- A set of different proteins that form because of single nucleotide polymorphisms in the genomic sequence. ( http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Isoform )
- Single-nucleotide polymorphism (SNP)
- a DNA sequence variation occurring when a single nucleotide in the genome differs between members of a species. ( http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Single_nucleotide_polymorphism )
- Post-translational modification (PTM)
- the chemical modification of a protein after it has been translated. It is usualy one of the last steps in protein biosynthesis for most proteins. ( http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Posttranslational_modification )
- Subproteome
- a subfractioned subset of the proteome. Often these are linked to area of the cell (organelle for instance) or by chemical properties.
- Peptide mass fingerprinting (PMF)
- an analytical technique for protein identification. The unknown protein of interest is first cleaved into smaller peptides and after mass is determined using mass spectrometry, their masses are compared to either a database containing known protein sequences or a genome. ( http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Peptide_mass_fingerprinting )
Course Relevance
- This article is relevant because a global view of proteomics is becoming more important. As the wealth of information about proteins expands, understanding the proteome from a broad viewpoint is becoming more and more useful.
Websites Summarized
The Association of Bimolecular Resource Facilities: Proteomics Research Group (PRG)
Website committee: Pamela Scott Adams, Michelle Detwiler, David Mohr James Ee, Dr. Xiaolog Yang, Dr. Len Packman, Dr. Anthony Yeung, http://www.abrf.org/index.cfm/group.show/Proteomics.34.htm#R_3 (3/25/09)
Main Focus
This web page is about how the Association of Bimolecular Resource Facilities relates to proteomics. Of particular importance is the Proteomics Research Group within the ABRF.
The Association of Bimolecular Resource Facilities (ABRF) is an international association of research facilities and laboratories that is focused on core research in Biotechnology. The association encourages the sharing of information through conferences, a quarterly journal, and group studies. The ABRF has a heavy influence on the field of proteomics, and there are five main research groups (RG) that deal with proteomics in some way: Protein Expression (PERG), Protein Sequencing (PSRG), Protein Informatics (iPRG), Proteomics (PRG), and Proteomics Standards (sPRG).
Of particular importance, the Proteomics Research Group allows for researchers throughout the world in the field of proteomics to share their protein analysis information freely. Obviously, since understanding the proteome is about bringing together information on many different proteins (which is information that requires a great amount of effort/time/money to achieve), the sharing of protein/subproteomic information is imperative to beginning to understand a proteome in its entirety. This website has numerous links to studies performed by research groups throughout the world.
New Terms
- De Novo Peptide Sequencing
- Peptide sequencing that is performed without any prior knowledge of the amino acid sequence. (http://www.ionsource.com/tutorial/DeNovo/DeNovoTOC.htm)
- Quantitative Proteomics
- Has the goal of obtaining quantitative information about all the proteins in a particular sample. This is useful because it allows for one to see the differences in protein samples. (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Quantitative_proteomics)
Course Relevance
- This is an overview of the Association of Biomolecular Resource Facilities (ABRG) and how it relates to proteomics. There is a great deal of relevant information on this website that those in proteomics will find useful.
Introduction to Proteomics
Writer/Producer: Rick Groleau,Subject Matter Expert: Hanno Steen, PhD,Designer: Peggy Recinos,Developer: Jeffrey Testa, http://www.childrenshospital.org/cfapps/research/data_admin/Site602/mainpageS602P0.html (28 March 2009)
Main Focus
This web page is about the importance and challenges in proteomics. It also introduces major steps of proteomics briefly.
Proteomics is important for us to understand biological processes since all the functions are accomplished by proteins in cell.But as the number of proteins are so large and amino acids(which are units of protein) are so small, the study is quite challenging.There are five steps to analyze protein sequences: sample preparation,separation,ionization,mass spectrometry and informatics.First of all, we obtain cells and extract proteins from the cells.Then we use methods such as 2D electrophoresis to separate proteins. Next, we use protease to cut proteins into peptides.Mass spectrometry allows us to identify individual peptides as well as peptides fragments.Finally, by interpreting the data, we are able to determine the sequence of proteins.
New Terms
- Biopsy
- A biopsy is a medical test involving the removal of cells or tissues for examination. It is the removal of tissue from a living subject to determine the presence or extent of a disease(http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Biopsy)
- The time of flight (TOF) describes the method used to measure the time that it takes for a particle, object or stream to reach a detector while traveling over a known distance(http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Time-of-flight)
- Quadrupole mass spectrometry
- The quadrupole mass analyzer is one type of mass analyzer used in mass spectrometry.It consists of 4 circular rods, set perfectly parallel to each other.In a quadrupole mass spectrometer the quadrupole mass analyzer is the component of the instrument responsible for filtering sample ions, based on their mass-to-charge ratio (m/z).Ions are separated in a quadrupole based on the stability of their trajectories in the oscillating electric fields that are applied to the rods(http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Quadrupole_mass_analyzer)
- Electronspray ionization
- Electrospray ionization (ESI) is a technique used in mass spectrometry to produce ions.It is especially useful in producing ions from macromolecules because it overcomes the propensity of these molecules to fragment when ionized(http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Electrospray_ionization)
- Dalton
- Dalton is the unit of measurement for atomic mass. One Dalton is equal to 1/12th the mass of one atom of carbon12(http://www.childrenshospital.org/cfapps/research/data_admin/Site602/mainpageS602P1.html)
Course Relevance
- This is an overview of proteomics. It summarizes the procedures and importance of proteomics very briefly.
Introduction to Proteomics
Institute of Biology and Medical Genetics of the First Faculty of Medicine of Charles University and the General Teaching Hospital,http://biol.lf1.cuni.cz/ucebnice/en/proteomics.htm (6 April 2009)
Main Focus
This website discusses the aims and definitions of proteomics. It also introduces two important methods in proteomcis studies - 2D protein electrophoresis and mass spectrometry as well as proteomics in medicine
Proteomics is a broad field which includes expression proteomics, protein distribution in subcellular compartments of the organelles,post-translational modifications of the proteins,structural proteomics and functional proteomics, clinical proteomics and so on. Even though analysis of the expression on transcripts level is possible with the introduction of RNA/cDNA microarray, proteomics is still important since not all mRNA will be translated and the processes such as RNA splicing, posttranslational protein modifications exist.
Two-dimensional (2D) protein electrophoresis is commonly used to separate proteins based on their PI and mass. Mass spectrometry is an important method in proteomics since it cannot only be used for protein identification but can also be used for protein posttranslational modification analysis.
One of the major application of proteomics in medicine is the identification of markers in all the steps to treat diseases. Other applications include drug discovery and pharmacoproteomics.
New Terms
- Human Proteome Organization(HUPO)
- The Human Proteome Organisation (HUPO) is an international scientific organization representing and promoting proteomics through international cooperation and collaborations by fostering the development of new technologies, techniques and training(http://www.hupo.org/)
- structural proteomics
- Structural proteomics is an international collaboration project for solving 3D protein structures at a proteome scale(http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Structural_proteomics)
- Swedish Human Protein Atlas
- The Swedish Human Protein Atlas program (HPA), funded by the (non-profit) Knut and Alice Wallenberg Foundation, invites submission of antibodies from both academic and commercial sources to be included in the human protein atlas (http://www.proteinatlas.org)
- Posttranslational modification (PTM)
- Posttranslational modification (PTM) is the chemical modification of a protein after its translation. It is one of the later steps in protein biosynthesis for many proteins(http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Posttranslational_modification)
- Isoelectric point
- Isoelectric point is such a pH value, where the overall protein charge equals to zero(http://biol.lf1.cuni.cz/ucebnice/en/proteomics.htm)
Course Relevance
- This website gives brief definition and aims of proteomics.It also introduces principles of 2D-electrophoresis and mass spectrometry which are important methods in proteomics.
Contact: email@example.com, firstname.lastname@example.com
- Johan Malmstrom, Hookeun Lee, and Ruedi Aebersold. "Advances in Proteomic Workflows for Systems Biology"Curr Opin Biotechnol 18(4):378-384 (2007)
- Rick Groleau,Hanno Steen,Peggy Recinos,Jeffrey Testa. "Introduction to Proteomics" http://www.childrenshospital.org/cfapps/research/data_admin/Site602/mainpageS602P0.html (28 March 2009)
- Institute of Biology and Medical Genetics of the First Faculty of Medicine of Charles University and the General Teaching Hospital. "Introduction to Proteomics" http://biol.lf1.cuni.cz/ucebnice/en/proteomics.htm (06 April 2009)


text:
Justice ministry spokesman Pierre Rance said the request was sent to European Parliament President Martin Schulz late last month.
A source close to the matter said the request was related to an ongoing judicial probe into remarks made by Ms Le Pen in a speech to supporters of her Front National party in December 2010.
Ms Le Pen seemed unconcerned by the move, saying it was only "traditional practice" after the opening of a criminal probe.
The European Parliament confirmed it had received the request, with its press service saying a commission would study it and submit a decision to the parliament for a vote within three or four months.
Denouncing the holding of Islamic prayers on the streets of France - where a dearth of mosques has forced many to pray outside - Ms Le Pen said in the speech: "For those who like to talk about World War II, to talk about occupation, we could talk about, for once, the occupation of our territory.
"This is an occupation of parts of our territory. . . . There are no armoured vehicles, no soldiers, but it is an occupation all the same and it weighs on people."
Prosecutors in Lyon, where the speech took place, opened an investigation into the remarks for "inciting racial hatred" in January 2011 following a complaint from an anti-racism group.
Like with many national parliaments, members of the European Parliament enjoy immunity from criminal and civil liability for opinions expressed as part of their duties, unless the chamber votes to lift the immunity.
Ms Le Pen took over the Front National from her father, party founder Jean-Marie Le Pen, who has several convictions for racism and anti-Semitism.
Marine Le Pen, who was first elected to the European Parliament in 2004, won 18 percent of the vote in the first round of France's presidential election in April, the party's highest-ever score.
Source: AFP


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I am using the Jeditable plugin to enable inline editing on a table inside the admin area, generated by a small plugin I've written. (http://www.appelsiini.net/projects/jeditable). Basically everything is working, but only as long as the code for updating the database field is inside the plugin's code. As soon as I copy that code into another file and try to edit something, I get this error:
Fatal error: Call to a member function update() on a non-object in XXX on line XX
I only understand partly why I get that error. Is it because $wpdb is not initialized? I tried global $wpdb without luck. That's why I think I am missing something, somewhere in the code $wpdb gets "lost" somehow, so the update method can't be found. It is really frustrating, because the code is working, but as soon as I use it in a seperate file, it's not working. If needed I can post the code, but I am hoping it's just a standard issue.
EDIT: Ok, so here is my code:
That is the Jeditable plugin in action, right after the table (Let's say it's inside the index.php):
jQuery(document).ready(function() {
jQuery('.edit').editable('../wp-content/plugins/myplugin/save.php', {
indicator : 'Saving...',
tooltip : 'Please click to edit!',
id : 'my_id',
name : 'my_value',
width : 'none',
cssclass : 'editable-input'
As you can see, I am calling the save.php which looks like this:
error_reporting (E_ALL);
$explode = explode('-', $_POST['my_id']);
$my_row = $explode[0];
$my_id = $explode[1];
$my_value = $_POST['ck_value'];
if($my_row == 'date') {
$exp = explode(' ', $my_value);
switch($exp[1]) {
case 'Jan': case 'jan': case 'Januar': case 'januar': case '01': case '1':
$month = '01';
$montha = 'Jan';
case 'Feb': case 'feb': case 'Februar': case 'februar': case '02': case '2':
$month = '02';
$montha = 'Feb';
$day = substr($exp[0], 0, 2);
$wpdb->update($table_name, array('ck_date' => $exp[2].'-'.$month.'-'.$day, 'ck_monthabbr' => $montha) , array('ck_id' => $my_id));
echo $exp[2].'-'.$month.'-'.$day.'<br />';
if($my_row == 'ogo') {
$wpdb->update($table_name, array('ck_geo' => $my_value) , array('ck_id' => $my_id));
if($my_row == 'vue') {
$wpdb->update($table_name, array('ck_venue' => $my_value) , array('ck_id' => $my_id));
Inside the index.php, I have global $wpdb and $table_name defined, but save.php doesn't recognize these variables.


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Sega has announced their full lineup of games for this year's E3 conference.
Here's the full lineup of games:
Yakuza 6: The Song of Life and Yakuza Kiwami
Visitors will be able to reacquaint themselves with the legendary Kazuma Kiryu in a double header of hard-hitting Yakuzaâ"¢ action, playable on the show floor: Yakuza 6: The Song of Life, the latest entry in the long-running series and Yakuza Kiwami, a rebuilt-from-scratch HD remake of the original 2005 PlayStation 2 hit, Yakuza. Attendees who visit the booth will also have the opportunity to receive special Yakuza-themed swag (as long as supplies last).
Sonic Mania and Sonic Forces
If breakneck speed is more your thing, we've got you covered! Booth #4312 will feature playable stations for the ultimate celebration of past and future with Sonic Mania™, an all-new 2D adventure with stunning HD retro style graphics running at smooth 60FPS and featuring all your favourite classic characters. Sonic Forces™, from the development team behind Sonic Colors™ and Sonic Generations™, will be your second dose of speedy Sonic action where you will get to experience fast-paced gameplay as Modern Sonic, thrilling platforming as Classic Sonic, and powerful gadget action as your own custom Hero Character! Those who come by to play Sonic could receive a special Sonic E3 giveaway item.
13 Sentinels: Aegis Rim (Featured above)
ATLUS will have an exclusive new trailer for the hotly anticipated Western release of Vanillaware's 13 Sentinels: Aegis Rim, a story of battle-ready youths, humanity and…giant mechs. Plus, be sure to take a photo with the 13 Sentinels mech standee to receive a gorgeous poster featuring Vanillaware's signature flair (while supplies last).
Three Highly Anticipated Nintendo 3DS Titles
Etrian Odyssey V: Beyond the Myth – Starting with the creation of your party to exploring the uncharted labyrinth of the Yggdrasil Tree, Beyond the Myth is all about choosing how your own adventure unfolds. Practice your map-making and FOE slaying skills with the playable hands-on demo on the show floor.
Radiant Historia: Perfect Chronology – Once again take the reins of Alistel operative Stocke as he unlocks the power of the White Chronicle relic and gains the ability to travel between two alternate timelines in this enhanced retelling of a JRPG classic.Watch a live demo of Radiant Historia: Perfect Chronology, only for show attendees.
Shin Megami Tensei: Strange Journey Redux – Demon aficionados can look forward to a new Redux trailer. New story content, additional endings, a new dungeon to explore and more await those who wish to brave the spatial distortion known as the Schwarzwelt! Be sure to check out the demos and trailers for a chance to get a colourful assortment of stickers!
Total War: WARHAMMER 2, Sonic Mania and Sonic Forces
In neighbouring booth #4300, Creative Assembly™ are unleashing the Lizardmen on the public for the first time in Total War™: WARHAMMER® II. The second game in the Total War: WARHAMMER trilogy is set in a whole new part of the Warhammer world, introducing four new playable races in an epic narrative campaign. In a spectacular quest battle taken from the game, E3-goers can seize control of a Lizardmen army as they march against the High Elves, who they've caught meddling in the dormant ruins of an ancient Lizardmen portal. Additionally, there will be playable stations for Sonic Forces and Sonic Mania at the booth.
This is sure to be a good show! Can't wait to see some gameplay.


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He may be headed back to Washington, but Obama's footprint remains here, with us — especially in the restaurants where he likes to chow down. While we don't need an excuse to go out to eat in this foodie town, there's something fun about checking out a spot favored by our POTUS. Some of these eateries weren't even on the map until Obama went into office in 2008. Now, they are visited by hoards of tourists and locals year-round — how's that for keeping the economy going?
While inquiring minds (us) really wanted to know what Obama was eating with his family at their Hyde Park casa last night (before heading off to McCormick Place for his victory par-tay!), these local hot spots serve up meals we can all dig into. From soul food to scallops, click through to see Barack's top picks.


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Agenda Center
View current agendas and minutes for all boards and commissions. Previous years' agendas and minutes can be found in the Document Center.Video recordings of Agendas are available at Pepperell Community Media. Town of Pepperell does not control the video content or its retention. Please contact Pepperell Community Media if you have any questions about recorded meetings


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February is Heart Health Month and heart health expert and cardiologist Dr. William Davis, M.D., talks about the importance of lowering high cholesterol naturally and reducing your chances of coronary heart disease with the use of magnesium and other nutritional strategies.
Tired of the media onslaught promoting statin drugs? What happened to the conversation about nutritional strategies that reduce cholesterol? Since February is Heart Health Month, now is a great time to highlight the importance of magnesium for the reduction of high cholesterol.
There are a number of ways to significantly reduce cholesterol using diet and nutritional supplements. Reductions in bad cholesterol, or LDL cholesterol, of 25, 30, 50, even 100 mg/dl are possible—if you have the right information.
At the top of the list of natural strategies to reduce LDL and supplement and/or sometimes replace your need for prescription medication (in consultation with your doctor) is magnesium.
Magnesium can act like a natural statin drug and lower bad cholesterol (LDL), reduce triglycerides and increase good cholesterol (HDL) (1).
In order for the body to make cholesterol, it requires a specific enzyme called HMG-CoA reductase. Magnesium regulates this enzyme so as to maintain only a proper amount of cholesterol in the body. When the body is magnesium deficient, cholesterol continues to be produced in excess, which can cause a cholesterol buildup and may lead to coronary heart disease.
The HMG-CoA reductase enzyme is the exact same enzyme that is targeted and inhibited by statin drugs. The inhibiting process is similar to magnesium's function, except that magnesium is the natural way that the body has evolved to use to control and limit cholesterol when it reaches a certain level; statin drugs are used to destroy the entire mechanism.
The term metabolic syndrome describes a set of conditions that many believe may be another name for the consequences of long-term magnesium deficiency. The list includes high cholesterol, hypertension and elevated triglycerides that lead to and promote coronary heart disease, stroke and type-2 diabetes. In a 2006 study (2) published in the American Heart Association's journal Circulation, entitled: Magnesium Intake and Incidence of Metabolic Syndrome Among Young Adults researchers concluded: "Our findings suggest that young adults with higher magnesium intake have lower risk of development of metabolic syndrome."
In an age when statins dominate conventional heart disease prevention, an important role remains for nutritional approaches. Because statin drugs are principally LDL-reducing agents and do not address other causes of heart disease, nutritional strategies add a real advantage. Nutritional approaches can be used to minimize and sometimes eliminate the use of statin drugs altogether. Perhaps it would be better to regard statin therapy as a solution only when natural, nutritional means have been exhausted.
The adherence to a healthy diet is not enough in the majority of cases. The American Heart Association's diet, for instance, yields a 7% drop in cholesterol. That's too small to make any real difference (3) and, by itself, virtually guarantees a future of heart disease. The formerly popular ultra low-fat diets (≤10% of calories from fat) yield variable drops in cholesterol, but HDL or the good cholesterol is also substantially reduced and harmful triglycerides increased (4). The net effect can be increased risk of heart disease and diabetes.
The restriction of processed carbohydrates is an effective way to lose weight and thereby reduce cholesterol, particularly for people starting with lower HDL and higher triglycerides. Reducing intake of flour products (pasta, breads, bagels, pastries, cookies, cakes, pretzels, and other processed foods) may, in fact, yield larger drops in cholesterol than now outdated low-fat diets (5).
While dietary restriction of total fat intake has only limited power to reduce cholesterol, avoidance of saturated fat (e.g., in butter, greasy meats, cured meats, fried foods) and hydrogenated fat ("trans fats" in margarine, shortening, and many processed foods) remains a well-proven means of reducing LDL cholesterol modestly. Replacing saturated fat sources with healthy monounsaturated oils (olive, canola, flaxseed) provides even greater benefits for cholesterol reduction, as well as reduced triglycerides and VLDL (6, CM Williams, et al., 1999).
Weight loss (if you're overweight) has broad effects on risk reduction: reduction of cholesterol levels (total and LDL), increased HDL, reduced triglycerides, and correction of small LDL, VLDL, and abnormal postprandial (after-eating) fat clearance (7).
Magnesium can help. Magnesium helps the body digest, absorb, and utilize proteins, fats, and carbohydrates and helps prevent obesity genes from expressing themselves.
As a practical solution, supplementation at a level of 2.3 milligrams of magnesium per pound of body weight per day (this comes to about 345 milligrams per day for a 150 lb individual) can really help. When supplementing with magnesium, start on a gradient of a low dose and gradually build up. If you get diarrhea you can lower the dose back down until you are at a comfortable level. While magnesium supplementation is generally quite safe, people on certain antibiotics should not take magnesium. If you have kidney disease (renal failure) or any kidney disorders, you should not take any magnesium supplements without consulting a physician.
In all practicality, because of magnesium's crucial role in health, its widespread deficiency in Americans, and the growing depletion of magnesium in water and foods, supplemental magnesium is necessary for nearly everyone to ensure healthy levels. Not all forms of magnesium are equally absorbed by the body. One of the most absorbable forms of nutritional magnesium is magnesium citrate in powder form. Start out slow and build up to and find your body's tolerance level.
For most people, no single supplement or diet change will reduce LDL to your target. A combination of several strategies usually yields the large drops that we need to achieve dramatic LDL reduction, but nutritional magnesium and the above diet adjustments will help.
Heart health expert and cardiologist, William Davis, M.D., is the author of "Track Your Plaque: The only heart disease prevention program that shows how the new CT heart scans can be used to detect, track, and control coronary plaque" (www.trackyourplaque.com). Dr. Davis is a member of the Nutritional Magnesium Association and invites you to get more information that will help you avoid the magnesium deficiency. Go to www.nutritionalmagnesium.org. |
The ideas, procedures and suggestions contained in this article are not intended as a substitute for consulting with your physician. All matters regarding your physical health require medical supervision. Neither the author nor the publisher shall be liable or responsible for any loss, injury or damage allegedly arising from any information or suggestion in this article. The opinions expressed in this article represent the personal views of the author and not the publisher.
- Rosanoff A, Seelig MS, "Comparison of mechanism and functional effects of magnesium and statin pharmaceuticals." J Am Coll Nutr 2004;23(5):501S-505S.
- Ka He, MD, ScD; Kiang Liu, PhD; Martha L. Daviglus, MD, PhD et al. Magnesium Intake and Incidence of Metabolic Syndrome Among Young Adults. Circulation 2006;113:1675-1682.
- Pearson TA, Blair SN, Daniels SR, Eckel RH, Fair JM, Fortmann SP, et al. AHA guidelines for primary prevention of cardiovascular disease and stroke: 2002 update. Consensus panel guide to comprehensive risk reduction for adult patients without coronary or other atherosclerotic vascular diseases. Circulation 2002;106:388–91.
- Krauss RM, Dreon DM. Low-density lipoprotein subclasses and response to a low-fat diet in healthy men. Am J. Clin Nutr 1995: 62:478S–87S.
- Krauss RM, Blanche PJ, Rawlings RS, Fernstrom HS, Williams PT. Separate effects of reduced carbohydrate intake and weight loss on atherogenic dyslipidemia. Am J Clin Nutr 2006 May;83(5):1025–31.
- Gulesserian T, Widhalm K. Effect of a rapeseed oil substituting diet on serum lipids and lipoproteins in children and adolescents with familial hypercholesterolemia. J Am Coll Nutr 2002 Apr;21(2):103–8.
- Miller WM, Nori-Janosz KE, Lillystone M, Yanez J, McCullough PA. Obesity and Lipids. Curr Cardiol Rep 2005 Nov;7(6):465–70.
Published online, Feb. 2010, WholeFoods Magazine


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Obesity May Raise Risk of Fibromyalgia
Overweight and obese women—especially those who do not exercise at all or exercise for less than an hour a week—are at higher risk for developing the widespread pain disorder fibromyalgia, according to new research in the May issue of Arthritis Care & Research.
"Being overweight or obese was associated with an increased risk of fibromyalgia, especially among women who also reported low levels of leisure time physical exercise," the researchers conclude. "Community-based measures aimed at reducing the incident of fibromyalgia should emphasize the importance of regular physical exercise and maintenance of normal body weight."
Fibromyalgia affects an estimated 10 million people in the U.S. and is marked by widespread pain and tender points along the body, extreme fatigue, sleep problems, depression, and problems with cognition, according to the National Fibromyalgia Association. Other suspected risk factors for fibromyalgia include stressful or traumatic events such as an automobile accident, family history, or the presence of rheumatic diseases such as lupus.
In the new study, Paul Mork, DPhil, and colleagues culled data from the Nord-Trondelag Health (HUNT) Study. HUNT1, the first part of the study, was conducted in 1984-1986, while HUNT 2 was conducted from 1995 to 1997. There were 380 new cases of fibromyalgia diagnosed among 15,990 women during the 11 years between the two surveys.
Women with a body mass index (BMI) greater than or equal to 25 had a 60% to 70% greater risk of developing fibromyalgia, when compared with their thinner counterparts. A BMI takes height and weight into account to measure body fat. If your BMI is greater than 25, you are considered overweight. If it is over 30, you are considered obese; a BMI over 40 is considered severely obese.
Benefits of Exercise
Exercise tended to offset the fibromyalgia risks posed by obesity, the study showed. The more that women exercised, the lower their risk of developing fibromyalgia. The protective effects of exercise on fibromyalgia risk even held among overweight or obese women.
Exactly how being overweight or obese could increase risk of developing fibromyalgia is not fully understood, but some research suggests that increased levels of certain inflammatory proteins may play a role in both fibromyalgia and obesity.
"The results of this study underline the connection between exercise, obesity, and well-being. And a person who exercises and is conscious about their weight will have better health and that may include a lower risk of developing fibromyalgia," says Eric Matteson, MD, chair of the department of rheumatology at the Mayo Clinic in Rochester, Minn.
"This study shows that exercise is helpful even if you are obese," he says. "We know that people who already have fibromyalgia and exercise do far better than those people who have the disorder and don't exercise, and this study reinforces the relationship between exercise and fibromyalgia."
"People who are obese or overweight develop fibromyalgia more frequently, and those people who are overweight or obese and exercise are a little better off than those who don't exercise at all," says Kyriakos A. Kirou, MD, a rheumatologist at Hospital for Special Surgery in New York City.
"The new study reinforces the value of a healthy lifestyle which includes regular exercise, keeping your weight down, and eating healthy," he says.
By Denise Mann
WebMD Health News
Print Version
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TUF Latin America: A Look at Team WerdumBy: Shawn smith, FIGHTLAND
"If you weren't sure whether or not the world-wide expansion of mixed martial arts was underway, this season of The Ultimate Fighter should convince you. With fighters from Colombia, Nicaragua, Chile, Argentina, Bolivia, Ecuador and Panama, this season represents the most diverse version of the show yet.
"The show features former Olympians, stifling submission artists and vicious strikers; it's the perfect combination for an explosive season."
Read the full article


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With Ties That Bind: A Broken Bonds Novel, Book One (Broken Bonds Novel #1) by Trisha Wolfe
This series is a spinoff of the Broken Bonds serial which must be read prior to beginning this first book. Contains spoilers to the Broken Bonds serial.
Detective Ethan Quinn has questions. The Arlington Slasher case is closed, the UNSUB no longer a threat—but Quinn can't quiet the suspicion he harbors toward his partner and the young, attractive M.E. Not only does he loathe his uncertainty, he's torn between doing his job and protecting his team.
But burying himself in cases no longer works. He's restless. On edge. And tired of fighting his compulsions. Quinn has always viewed the law in black and white. Only now his world is swirling with a murky gray that threatens to devour him.
When lead medical examiner Avery Johnson careens toward a dangerous path, she pulls the unwitting detective into a dark web of deception and lust, triggered by a spree of recent killings.
Is this new player linked to the Bathory murders, or is it another copycat?
Time almost took Avery from him once before. As the clock ticks, Quinn will stop at nothing to protect her, refusing to let Avery become a victim again. Against his uncompromising logic, Quinn can't deny his feelings. Avery forces him to acknowledge his darker desires, tempting his control—which weakens with every second he spends with the feisty M.E. as they hunt down the perpetrator threatening to tear them apart.
Publishes in US: February 29th 2016
Genre: adult thriller
Source: author/publicist
Disclaimer: I received this book as an ARC (advanced review copy). I am not paid for this review, and my opinions in this review are mine, and are not effected by the book being free.
** Audience alert: this is an adult book. It does contain sex scenes that aren't fade to black. If you are under 18, get your parent's advice if this is a book for you.
Trigger alert: abuse, torture and bdsm
Series? Broken Bonds Novel #1
Need to read first:
With Visions of Red
With Visions of Red Book Two
With Visions of Red, Book Three
Other books by Trisha I've reviewed:
Astarte's Wrath , The Darkest Part, Of Darkness and Crowns, Destiny's Fire , Fading Out, Fireblood, Losing Track, Of Silver and Beasts, Unveiled
Buy it:
With Ties That Bind: A Broken Bonds Novel, Book One
→ iTunes: http://apple.co/1QwCZeW
→ Google Play: http://bit.ly/1WIe1hi
→ B&N: http://bit.ly/1KJEmLa
Author stalk away: Site Facebook | Twitter | Tumblr | YouTube Channel
I wanted to read With Ties that Bind because I love Trisha's writing, and as you can see from above, I have read everything she's published and was lucky enough to even read some that wasn't since we helped each other while we were writing novels years ago. She writes characters you can't help but love, and knows how to really put the suspense and the heat into hear stories, so that you never want to put them down.
I devoured the serials of Broken Bonds (visions of red books) and they should be read before this because there are spoilers. This is no different and it gets me into the minds of secondary characters from before that I really enjoyed and was glad to see that they would get their time in the spotlight. The story is told in dual narrative from Quinn a detective that was partners with Sadie from the previous books, and Avery, the victim of torture of the serial killings from Visions, she was taken because of her friendship with Sadie and the fact that she was a member of the force, a medical examiner where Sadie worked.
Avery is still traumatized from the torture and kidnapping from the book before. She has nightmares, and PTSD. She took comfort from Quinn while she was still in the hospital where he would hold her hand and it helped to ground her. Quinn is hard core attracted to her, but tries to hide it for a lot of reasons. I liked watching their relationship and friendship continue in this one. Avery doesn't get a break and she keeps seeing everyone especially Quinn as trying to pamper her and not think that she is able to handle life. She can't see that they just care and want to protect her.
This one is fast paced, and had a lot of character exploration. Avery doesn't get a break though. She is still trying to feel more after her attack, especially sexually, and she is trying things that normally wouldn't and Quinn sees some of this and isn't sure. She is also in danger again which adds to the suspense in this one.
A third POV is added too at the very end which is not all so surprising with the Visions series as an example. It is from the one behind the attacks of the girls and shows us that things are even more complex than we could imagine, setting things up for the next book.
I read this in one sitting and can't wait for the next installment. Trisha doesn't disappoint! She brings on the emotions, the suspense, and the break neck pacing of the plot.
My question to you, my lovely readers:
Do you normally read thrillers/mysteries?


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Here's a complete tutorial on how to jailbreak iOS 6.1.3 on all A4 and pre-A4 devices, including the iPhone 4, 3GS, iPod touch 4G etc using Sn0wbreeze 2.9.14. More details can be found right after the jump.
With the release of iOS 6.1.3, the Evasi0n iOS 6.1.x untethered jailbreak was patched by Apple. But thanks to Geohot's legendary Limera1n exploit, it is still possible to jailbreak iOS 6 (and over) running devices rocking an A4 chip. We have already showed you how to jailbreak iOS 6.1.3 using Redsn0w, now we will show you how to do it using Sn0wbreeze.
Before we begin, let's go through the usual checks.
Supported devices:
- iPhone 4
- iPhone 3GS
- iPod touch 4G
What you'll need:
- A pre-A4 iOS device.
- The latest version of Sn0wbreeze. [Download link]
- A 30-pin USB cable to plug your device to your PC.
- iOS 6.1.3 [Download iOS 6.1.3 for your device]
- Windows 8 must have .NET Framework 3.5 installed to run Sn0wbreeze. [Download link]
What if I'm on a version of iOS 6 older than 6.1.3?
Skip this guide and follow our step-by-step tutorial on how to jailbreak iOS 6.1.2 untethered using Evasi0n. If you're on iOS 6.1.3 and fall within the criteria of having an A4 or older device, then carry on with this tutorial using Sn0wbreeze for a tethered jailbreak.
Important info: As mentioned at the beginning of this post, only A4 and older devices are supported, which means if you have an iPhone 5 / 4S or the latest fifth-gen iPod touch and are running iOS 6.1.3, then you're way out of luck. Since this is a tethered jailbreak, you will need to plug your device to your PC and boot tethered with iBooty every time your device reboots.
All set? Let's begin!
How to jailbreak iOS 6.1.3:
Step 1: Download the latest version of Sn0wbreeze, which is v2.9.14. You can grab it from the link given above. Also download the 6.1.3 firmware file tailored for your device.
Step 2: Launch Sn0wbreeze, click on the blue arrow on the bottom right hand-side of the display.
Step 3: Click on Browser for an IPSW and select the firmware file you downloaded in step 2.
Step 4: Once the firmware has been verified, click on the next arrow once more, and from the next screen; select Simple Mode.
Now Sn0wbreeze will ask you if you want to activate your iPhone? Select "Yes" if you plan to unlock your phone using tools such as Ultrasn0w. Select "No" if you are on an official supported carrier, or if you have a factory unlocked iPhone.
Step 5: At this point, Sn0wbreeze will start baking the custom iOS firmware file, this might take a while, so either grab yourself a cup of coffee, play Pac-Man or watch the spinner on the display, it's up to you.
Step 6: Once done, the new custom firmware will be placed on your desktop.
Step 7: Sn0wbreeze will now ask you to enter Pwned DFU mode. You can Follow the on-screen instructions on how to do so. It's quite possible that you might not get the procedure right in the first go, so you might be forced to give it another try. Don't be alarmed if it happens, and keep trying till you get it right.
Step 8: Once in Pwned DFU mode, Launch iTunes, keep your device plugged in to your PC.
Step 9: iTunes will detect your device in recovery mode. On your keyboard hold down the left SHIFT key and click on Restore. Select the custom firmware file from your desktop.
Step 10: Let your device restore, this process will take some time.
Step 11: Once complete, your device will boot with Cydia installed.
Booting tethered:
As we mentioned before, this is a tethered jailbreak, and as a part of the whole process, Sn0wbreeze will create a new folder for a utility called iBooty on your desktop. To boot your device into the jailbroken state with working Cydia, follow these steps:
Step 1: Launch iBooty from your desktop.
Step 2: Select your device from the drop-down menu, click on the Start button from within the iBooty interface, and follow on-screen instructions on how to put device in DFU mode.
Step 3: Once iBooty is done, your device will boot up and now you're all set to install tweaks and apps from Cydia.
You can follow us on Twitter, add us to your circle on Google+ or like our Facebook page to keep yourself updated on all the latest from Microsoft, Google, Apple and the web.


text: Throw Streamers are an instant classic among magicians — they're easy to conceal and make a stunning visual impact! Five coiled streamers are packed into one flat disc, unfurling into a cascade of dazzling color with just a flick of the wrist. Hand-rolled and cut by cresey.com staff, our Throw Streamers are well known for their consistent high quality. Approx. 18 feet; 24 in a pack. Color: Multi.


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Yes, this blog has been so neglected, but alas, Annee and I have lots going on in our lives, so priorities of family have taken over. No big deal. We both sew for sanity on a regular basis, and we still share pictures back and forth, but gone are the days of staged photo shoots and DSLR photos. It's iPhone pictures, bathroom mirror selfies, and nowhere near perfect shots, but sewing is still an outlet and has saved me on many occasions. To immerse myself in a pattern and project has kept my mind distracted and has kept me going through 2 moves, joblessness, living with parents (mine and my in-laws), and just the normal ups and downs of life and child rearing. I thank God daily that my hands can create, and that I have found a medium that I'm good enough at to feel successful and happy with my end products.
This is not a full years worth of projects, but pretty close. I would apologize for the not so perfect pictures, but I'm not sorry. I'm just happy that one day I can look back at some pictures of my products and remind myself of what I use to make. With no further ado…
I've strived over the past year to create the perfect t-shirt dresses. They are so comfy. I think of my dresses as equivalent to yoga pants and sweatshirt, but it looks nicer. But seriously are just as comfy as yoga pants if not more so. Who doesn't prefer dresses to pants?!
Grace got an Oliver and S Field Trip Raglan.
Perfect for a day at the beach. (We are now in Southern CA. An hour from the gorgeous beaches of Santa Monica. Maybe one day my dreams of living closer to the beach will come true. One day.)
This is the only picture I could find of another t-shirt dress I made and Grace is wearing a Bimma. I need more time to make more Bimmas because they are awesome. Hopefully it will happen soon, but it is summer time in SoCal and we hit the mid to upper 90s most days, so probably won't happen too soon.
I couldn't sew for a while after we got here (we moved last August), so instead I challenged myself to wear a weeks worth of handmade things.
T-shirt dress
Another t-shirt dress (design inspired by a Zara shirt - the back is all black)
Everyday Skirt with my 8 year old snapping a picture while we are rushing to get ready so I can take the kiddos to school and volunteer in one of their classes.
The Tappy Top. A free pattern I found on Craftsy?? I think?? Google Tappy Top. It's there. Totally easy and cute. I need to make another.
A Washi Dress
A Raglan T-shirt Dress
I made a quilt using my Anna Maria Horner scraps and an Anna Maria Horner quilt. I used only material I had on hand for the entire quilt except for the back. It turned out really scrappy and maybe too much for my liking but it's got voile on the back, so I happily cuddle with it.
I pattern tested for Hey June Patterns.
A Fall wall hanging using the modern maple pattern.
A Fall wall collage
Yarn tassels with Caravan Shoppe printable.
The finished quilt top Anna Maria Horner scrappy quilt. Sorry I don't have a finished quilt picture that I can find.
I made snow globes at Christmas time. I'm a little slow to this trend and probably the trend of snow globes are over, but I've never had a mantle to decorate, and I just HAD to have some, so I made 7. Haha!
I didn't decorate a tree this year because we are living with family. This is our ornament hangings for 2014.
I made the Purl Bee Christmas Tree Wall Hanging and then made up a Christmas wall hanging to go with it.
A Hide and Seek Oliver and S dress was made for Grace at Christmas time.
Many more banners got made in the new year. I opened an Etsy shop. More on that down below.
Love my Oh Fransson Pixel Heart Wall Hanging made for me with love from Annee. I love it so!
A Staple Dress
A SoCal winter t-shirt dress.
My Etsy Shop Made On Maple is open and ready to provide you with wall decor! Hop on over!
I made some birthday shirts for a friend.
A table runner for my sister-in-law.
I'm an hour away from the LA fabric district. I REALLY wish I lived closer!!
A Tova Dress
Another SoCal winter T-shirt Dress (our winter is WIMPY)
Caravan Shoppe St. Patrick's Day decor
A Liesl + Co. Everyday Skirt. I LOVE this pattern. I want like 20 more.
The Lola Dress
Another Tova Dress.
Another Staple Dress
I grossly underestimated how mild the SoCal winter. All these shirts were long sleeved and NEVER got worn. So I hacked off the sleeves and we've got double the short sleeved t-shirt collection now.
Ananda Yoga Pants
Parsley Pants for PJs
More Ananda Yoga Pants for my mini model and Parsley Pant for PJs for my boy who does NOT love to model.
Why should Grace have all the fun. I'm on the short side and kind of small, so I just sized up the largest size on the Ananda Yoga Pants and made my own. I've got another pair in the works. They make the best loungewear.
Oliver + S Library Dress
Another Anna Maria Horner quilt pattern in her True Color fabrics.
The Skater Dress
More Parsley Pants for PJs
A Washi Dress and Hide and Seek Dress for this twiner look.
Another Raglan Dress for me
Lastly, a Folk Song and Loominous Quilt.
These aren't all my projects, but most of them.
Til' next year! Or maybe sooner if my life settles down. Don't hold your breath!


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During distant source tsunami events, local Civil Defense officials will advise citizens to evacuate by sounding the Civil Defense sirens, making an announcement over the Emergency Alert System (EAS) or over NOAA Weather Radio or local radio broadcasts. Compliance is voluntary, but orders are given only in the most serious of circumstances.
Show All Answers
It may take hours for tsunami waves to reach the Coast of Maui County following an earthquake far out in the Pacific Ocean. The Pacific Tsunami Warning Center located on Oahu alerts local officials who may order evacuation. Some isolated areas may not receive official announcements. If you notice a sudden drop or rise in sea level, it may be a warning of impending danger. Move to high ground or inland immediately.
The waves can kill and injure people and cause great property damage where they come ashore. The first wave is often not the largest and may be spaced many miles and minutes apart. They may also continue to arrive for several hours.
The most destructive tsunami can be classified as local or regional, meaning their destructive effects are confined to coasts within 60 - 600 miles of the source -- usually an earthquake. It follows that the majority of tsunami related casualties and property damage also come from local tsunami. Between 1975 and 1998 there have been at least eighteen in the Pacific and its adjacent seas resulting in significant casualties and/or property damage
Shelters will be opened as needed. Listen to your radio for details. Pets are NOT allowed at emergency shelters so please plan ahead for their safety.
* Do not return to shore after the first wave. Wait for Emergency Management officials to give the "All Clear" before you return.
* If you see an unexpected rise or fall in the coastal water, a tsunami may be approaching. Do not wait - instead move inland or uphill as quickly as possible.
* Stay tuned to your radio, marine radio or NOAA Weather Radio during a disaster. Bulletins will be issued regularly through local Emergency Management officials and National Weather Service.
* Call 9-1-1 only for life threatening emergencies.
* As soon as the shaking is over, move to high ground or inland. Do not wait for an official warning.
* Stay away from the coast. Waves may continue to arrive for hours.
* Listen to your local radio station for an official "All Clear" notice before returning to the coastal area. * Be alert for aftershocks.
* Be familiar with local Emergency Management earthquake and tsunami plans. Know where to go to survive a tsunami.
* Be prepared to survive on your own for a minimum of three days.
* Prepare a disaster supply kit for your home, automobile and work. A list of recommended supplies for your kit can be found on this web site.
* Take a first aid course and learn survival skills. Knowledge is your greatest defense against potential disaster.


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Modern Living @ The Doorsteps Of SDSU©!
- Ready for 24/7 stress-free exciting campus life! Enjoy upscale campus living at the doorsteps of SDSU! Now pre-leasing for the 2019-2020 SDSU academic year at 5811 Lindo Paseo.
- Come to 5811 Lindo Paseo and live at the closest location to SDSU 15 feet away from campus!
- 5811 Lindo Paseo offers modern, fully furnished private bedrooms in spacious, tastefully furnished and decorated penthouse-style apartment suites.
- The South Campus Plaza Just opened -1 minute from our complex it -includes brand new Trader Joe's (Grocery Store) and numerous restaurants as well as a large park.
- The rooms rent in different price ranges from $1,065/month to $1,350/month depending on room size. Some of the rooms have private bathrooms, and all rooms come with private lock for added privacy and security.
- Viejas Arena for basketball games and concerts is only 2 minutes away!
- Guaranteed class attendance! Walk 2 minutes to class, Love Library, new SDSU student union, and Aztec Recreation Center Gym (Arc)
- 5811 Lindo Paseo is a unique, smaller community focused on academic success. Without the distractions of driving and with the super convenient location, you will be the first to attend class and boost your chances of achieving your academic goals! Save time and get ahead with your studies!
- The SDSU Transit Center /SDSU Trolley station is one minute from our central location so you can use the rapid bus system or trolley to go shopping, to the beach, downtown , or anywhere you want
No worries living! Everything is provided, so all you need is your toothbrush! Come check us out today and get into the 5811 vibe!
Quick Facts
$1,795 – $4,300
$500 – $700
Studio – 4
1 Bath – 3 Bath
Square Feet
645 – 1,159


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Hair Rules offers these curly hair rules:
- Rule #1: Wash and wear styles can be done twice a day but cannot wear for more than two or three days. For twist-out styles, cleanse, condition, rehydrate and re-twist every 5-7 days.
- Rule #2: Get a proper haircut every 3 months, with the ends being adequately cut when straight. You can't cut what you can't see on a head of hair that is tightly wound (with shrinkage and a ziz-zag pattern">. The timing of these haircuts is essential. Hair grows ¼" to ½" a month. If over a period of three months, you've gained an inch and a half, the idea is that you're only cutting less than ¼". This means you've still gained length!
- Rule #3: Condition, condition, condition! You can't over-condition naturally dry hair.
The biggest misconception about kinky hair is that it is rough and tough. On the contrary, it is the most fragile texture on the texture spectrum and should be cared for like your favorite cashmere sweater, not a tee shirt. Kinky hair—especially when worn straight—needs extreme hydration at every step of your hair care routine (cleansing, conditioning, styling and finishing"> to look its best. Kinky hair naturally tangles and locks. If your goal is to grow your hair (and not to lock it">, than preventing it from tangling is crucial. The more you rinse, condition and detangle, the more you prevent hair from drawing up, drying out, and breaking. Remember, healthy hair allows you the freedom to wear your hair however you choose, be it kinky, curly or straight.
What To Avoid:
Shampoos that dry out or strip the hair of its natural oils. Products that contain grease and wax that build up, dulling hair, and don't feel great to touch.
Products where the primary ingredient is silicone because although it can be beneficial for shine and slick-ability, too much can build up on the hair preventing any moisture from entering the hair shaft, ultimately drying out the hair.


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Voters elect new county Sheriff
There will be a new sheriff in San Juan County as Rick Eldredge won a tightly-contested race against incumbent Mike Lacy in the November 2 general election.
Eldredge, running on the Democrat ticket, relied on strong voter turnout and support in south-county precincts to pull away from Lacy. After the ballots were counted, Eldredge had 2,433 votes and Lacy had 1,612.
Eldredge, who comes to the Sheriff's office from the Utah Highway Patrol office, will take the oath of office on January 1, 2011. Lacy has served four terms as Sheriff since first being elected in 1994.
More than 100 provisional and absentee ballots are not included in the totals. They will be considered on Thursday. The final canvass will take place on November 15.
There will be two additional new faces in county government as Phil Lyman takes the Commission seat currently held by Lynn Stevens and Glenis Pearson takes the treasurer position currently held by Paul Barr. Both Lyman and Pearson were unopposed on the general election ballot.
A long list of incumbents were reelected to county offices in unopposed elections, including Commissioner Kenneth Maryboy, Assessor Howard Randall, Attorney Craig Halls, Clerk Norman Johnson, Recorder Louise Jones, and Surveyor David Bronson.
In other races, Elsie Dee was re-elected to another term on the San Juan School Board. She narrowly defeated challenger Howard H. Todachinnie, 276-232.
Nelson Yellowman was reelected to another term on the school board.
County voters followed the statewide trend in state elections, favoring Governor Gary Herbert, Senate candidate Mike Lee and Congressman Jim Matheson.
Christine Watkins was unopposed in her quest for an additional two years in the Utah State House of Representatives.
In the Sheriff's race, Eldredge won the majority of votes in 14 of the 20 precincts, including by a large majority in Oljato, Montezuma Creek and Navajo Mountain.
The northern county precincts (White Mesa and north) favored Eldredge over Lacy by a narrow 55/45 ratio. The south county precincts favored Eldredge 69/31.
Navajo Nation elections helped drive much of the voter turnout in the south county.
The 88-member Navajo Nation Council will become a 24-member Council in 2011. As a result, a number of incumbent councilmen faced one another for the pared-down nummber of seats, including three local council members running for a single seat.
In the Northern Agency, a challenge between incumbents Kenneth Maryboy and Davis Filfred ended with Maryboy receiving 61 more votes to represent Aneth, Mexican Water, Red Mesa, Teec Nos Pos and Tólikan. Incumbent Francis Redhouse also ran for the position as a write-in candidate.
In Western Navajo, incumbents Jonathan Nez and Herman Daniels Jr. vied to represent Oljato, Navajo Mountain, Shonto and Ts'ah Bii Kin, with Nez winning by 488 votes.
Ben Shelley was elected president of the Navajo Nation.
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Yola - Walk Through Fire
Walk Through Fire, the debut album from Yola, establishes her as the queen of country soul from the first note. The Dan Auerbach–produced album is a contemporary twist on a traditional sonic tapestry of orchestral strings, fiddle, steel, and shimmering tremolo guitars. Walk Through Fire is a career-defining and genre-bending release from one of the most exciting emerging British artists in music today. Yola's arresting vocals captivate with sincere tales of heartache and loves lost, forgotten, and broken.


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If you've gotten this far, you probably want to get started with setting up your own dropshipping business. You've seen how easy it can be, and you're ready for the road ahead. So in this chapter, I'll tell you what you need to start dropshipping.
Since a dropshipping retail business takes place completely online, you won't have to spend a whole lot, but you will need to plan well and think ahead.
There are some misconceptions about what one needs to start a successful dropshipping business. Many people will tell you to just find a wholesaler, get a site up, and start selling. But that's a recipe for disaster. Businesses who take this approach often crash and burn in no time at all.
Simply put, there are right and wrong ways to approach your dropshipping business. If you're trying to make money fast, your business will suffer. That's why I advocate a different perspective: the idea that dropshipping retailers should meet the needs of customers in a specific niche.
Naturally, you'll need certain tools and resources to get started, but you'll also need to learn new concepts and develop the right mindset. You'll need to put tons of thought into how you want to set up your business and what goals you want to achieve.
With that in mind, let's go over the must-haves for a successful dropshipping business. I'll delve into these in devoted chapters, but right now let's take a look at the big picture.
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Before you go looking for suppliers (and before you even choose a niche), you need to focus on value. This is something I'm going to bring up regularly throughout this guide because it's such a crucial principle.
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Frankly, many dropshipping businesses don't care about value. Dropshipping has gained a somewhat bad reputation because many dropshipping retailers are just trying to outsell their competitors by offering cheaply made products. To make matters worse, dropshippers will sometimes resort to shady tactics to sell and one-up the competition. All of this has led people to believe that it's a scammy practice, but that couldn't be further from the truth.
A dropshipping business is just like any other business, so it makes sense that you should approach dropshipping the way you'd approach another kind of business. Sadly, many individuals overlook this. Ultimately, people quit dropshipping because they don't take the time to build a sturdy foundation.
Thinking about value will help you start up a successful dropshipping business. It'll help you stand out from your competitors, and more importantly, you'll be focusing on the single most important aspect of any business, dropshipping or otherwise.
The best way to focus on value is to build it into your dropshipping business from the start. Everything you do should add value to your audience in some way.
If value is your number one priority, you'll be much more likely to get consumers' attention, and your business will last much longer than other dropshippers who just want to make a quick buck.
Wondering how you can make value your priority? Well, there are some important questions you need to ask yourself before doing anything else:
- Who are you trying to help? What type of people do you want to reach, and what do they want?
- What niche(s) could you add value to?
- What kinds of products do customers in my niche want?
- How can I put my customers first?
In short, the best way to provide value is to listen to your potential customers, find out what they want, and then give it to them. Your job is to give customers the best possible experience.
Keeping value a priority has tangible benefits for your dropshipping business. Having this attitude will help you:
- Acquire and retain customers
- Grow a loyal customer base
- Stand out from your competitors
- Make your business unique and trustworthy
Throughout this guide, you'll notice a consistent theme of adding value. It's important that you don't lose sight of this goal as you go on. It's easy to get caught up in the rush of starting a business, but you have to remember to always keep value first.
The Right Niche
Have you ever wondered why so many dropshipping businesses are unsuccessful?
Sometimes it can seem like retailers are dropping like flies, and it can be discouraging at first. But there are common mistakes that tons of dropshippers make.
One of the biggest dropshipping failures is choosing the wrong niche. That's right – one of the most common reason dropshipping retailers fail is because they chose the wrong niche.
To understand why this happens, let's consider some common dropshipping niches:
- Phone accessories (especially cases)
- Clothing
- Beauty/cosmetics products
- Books
- Entertainment (e.g., movies, music, etc.)
You've probably seen a thousand different dropshipping businesses that offer at least one of these types of items.
The problem? These niches are all extremely high competition.
Think about dropshipping retailers that sell phone cases. If you want to buy phone cases online, you can choose from thousands and thousands of businesses. From Etsy to eBay and everywhere in between, there are too many phone case stores to count.
If you want to sell phone cases, you'll have to go up against dropshipping stores who have been doing this for years. You'll have to cut through the noise, advertise like crazy, and hope people find you (and choose to buy from you).
More importantly, it's hard to add real value to a niche like that. When you dropship, you're often choosing from the same products your competitors buy. That means you have to take an entirely different approach to adding value.
The dropshipping niche you choose is a huge determining factor for value. If you choose a less popular niche, there's a good possibility you can step in and fill a need in that niche. But if you choose a niche that's super crowded, it's going to be almost impossible to differentiate yourself from your competitors (who have been around longer and are more popular).
Of course, choosing the right niche is a crucial decision for any business, but many dropshipping businesses seem to completely overlook it. Most dropshippers assume that they can just choose a hot trend and jump on the bandwagon.
When you're choosing a niche, there's a lot to consider. That's why I've dedicated Chapter 4 to helping you settle on a dropshipping niche.
The Right Products
Once you've settled on a niche, it's time to take the next step and think about the kinds of products your store will offer.
It's not as simple as choosing dropshipping products that seem popular. You need to be picky about your products. In order to establish a successful dropshipping business, you need to select your products carefully and base your choices on what your audience wants and needs.
Again, you have to think about value. While looking at bestselling products is a good place to start, it's not the be-all, end-all of product selection. You have to make sure the products you offer have significant value to your customer base. Many popular dropshipping products are only popular for a while. If you choose products that have lasting value, you'll be able to offer products that can stand the test of time.
At the same time, you want to analyze product trends and use them to your advantage. If certain products have boomed over the last few months, they'll probably sell very well. Later in this guide, I'll show you how to analyze trends and figure out which products will be best for you.
Once you start dropshipping products, you might decide to change the items you offer according to your audience's needs. Still, aim to start off strong and establish a line of products that will do well for you.
Finally, bear in mind that product selection is an ongoing process. You need to stay up-to-date with trends in your niche and change up your storefront accordingly. That's why I'm sharing specific strategies for product research. Your goal is to use these strategies on a regular basis to optimize your store for sales and overall performance.
An Incorporated Business
Most suppliers and wholesalers require any business they work with to be legally incorporated. In fact, if you're not incorporated, most wholesalers won't show you their pricing or other details. That's how important it is.
Remember, a dropshipping business is still a business. It should follow many of the same rules as a traditional business. Dropshipping may take place online, but it still needs to be conducted according to the law.
If you don't follow these important rules, you'll run into problems. The bottom line: it's best to be incorporated before you even reach out to suppliers.
I'll cover this in more detail in Chapter 6, but for now, just remember that at some point, you're going to have to take the time to make sure your business is legal and good to go.
As you might have guessed, getting suppliers and wholesalers on board is an absolute necessity. Since you'll get your products directly from suppliers, you obviously want to work with companies that have a great track record and solid communication.
You'll need to put some serious time and consideration into this part of the process. You don't want to choose the first wholesaler you see, and you also don't want to blindly go with the most popular suppliers you can find with a Google search.
You'll have to weigh your options, compare prices, and make sure you have access to the dropshipping products you need. There are also certain protocols you'll need to follow when contacting wholesalers and making arrangements with them.
Chapter 9 is entirely devoted to helping you find suppliers, so if this seems intimidating, don't worry. I'll be addressing everything you need to know about choosing the right suppliers for your business.
A Game Plan
There's one last major ingredient you need: a game plan. By 'game plan', I mean a vision for your business and actionable steps to make that vision happen.
You don't need to plan out every little thing you're going to do, but you should have an idea of how you're going to approach your new business. You want to get a sense of the big picture and then figure out the smaller details. It never hurts to be too thorough.
Here are some areas to consider:
- Getting sales
- Taking a certain angle in your niche
- Digital marketing strategies
- Optimizing your online store
This is also a good time to ask the tough questions so you can prepare yourself for them. For example, what if you're getting nowhere after 6 months? 1 year? It's not fun to think about these kinds of things, but doing so might save you from utter failure.
Another question you might want to ask yourself is, "Ideally, where do I want my business to go over the next X years?" This is a more general dropshipping FAQ that can help guide your vision.
If you know exactly what you want, you can take steps toward making it happen. The more specific you get, the better. It might help you to draft up a business plan or even a flowchart that traces the ideal trajectory of your business.
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So far, you haven't been able to actually do anything. I know it's not fun, but it's how every legendary business started out.
But now, that's all going to change. You'll soon be able to put the knowledge and strategies you've developed to work.
By now, you should know:
- The niches you're interested in
- The types of products you want to offer
- Your plan for your store's future
Now you can start setting up your business in earnest. First, I'll dive into selecting a niche for your store.