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Meet Our Team
Philadelphia Dentist
Michele Q. – Dental Assistant
Michele Q. is the longest standing member of the team. She is a dental assistant and had been in the dental profession since 1994. Michele enjoys meeting new faces every day and growing relationships with her patients. The patients are the reason she loves what she does and comes to work with a smile on her face every day.
She is married to her husband James, has a daughter Emily and two dogs, Finnigan and Madalyn (whom she calls her other children). In her free time, Michele enjoys spending time with her family and friends in her summer home in Fenwick Island, Delaware.
Alexandria M. – Expanded Function Dental Assistant
Alexandria M. is PCDE's Expanded Function Dental Assistant (EFDA or Dental PA).
She attended Penn State University and continued her education by receiving her EFDA and Associates Degree From Manor College. Alex takes pride in her profession, and is very proficient at her craft.
She currently lives in the Northeast with her husband, Dennis and their German Shepherd, Lincoln. Alex loves cinematic trivia and to read psychological thrillers.
Not only does she enjoy meeting new patients, and building long lasting friendships; Alex is also thrilled to be a part of so many smile transformations and working with the whole PCDE Team.
Rossmery H. - Dental Hygienist
Rossmery H. is a 2012 Dental Hygiene graduate of Manor College and holds a Bachelor's degree from Temple University. She is proud to be our full time dental hygienist and daily strides to provide outstanding care to our patients.
In her free time, Rossmery enjoys painting, salsa dancing and traveling to the Caribbean, but the most important thing to her is spending time with her son Ryan and her husband Milton.
Breanna T. - Office Coordinator
Breanna T. is the newest member of our team. She likes the atmosphere in the office and feels that everyone has been so welcoming to her. Breanna is our patient care coordinator and front desk receptionist. She has been in the dental field for over 9 years. She enjoys providing a comfortable environment and making a positive impact.
Breanna lives in Northeast Philadlephia with her children Keira, Bailey, and Michael. She loves spending time with her family watching movies, playing games, going to the zoo and going on family outings.
Melissa L. - Dental Assistant
Melissa has over 9 years of dental experience and has been working with Dr. Tau since 2011. She is an important member of our team, and her hard work and enthusiasm are much appreciated by staff and patients alike.
Melissa is married to her husband Tony and they have two children, Jonathan and Thomas. Also completing their family are their two dogs, Chloe and Bailey. In her spare time Melissa enjoys working out and going shopping.


text: I have uploaded some of the photos that we clicked on my birthday in this post. The guy in checked shirt is Lingesh. The guy in black shirt and blue jeans is Vivek. The guy in black t-shirt and blue jeans is Vinoth and the other guy in formals is Arul (my roommate). Thanks to these friends who made this birthday a memorable one with this celebration.

subset: commoncrawl


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Review Chair Stands Down
19th October 2000
Monica Mouat has stood down from her position as chair of the review group looking at maternity services. A new chair will be appointed. Ms Mouat is a representative on the Highland Health Council and did not feel that the two roles were compatible when she was expected to represent the views of patients.
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Help To Make A Complaint About Health Services In CaithnessHave you had problems with healthcare? Do you want to complain, but need someone to help you? Caithness Health Action Team have organised for Patient Advice and Support Service to come to Wick (am in the Norseman hotel) and Thurso (pm in the Pentland hotel) on the 17th April. Contact: firstname.lastname@example.com Private message Caithness Health Action Team on Facebook Phone:07437340146 This service is confidential and by appointment..
Caithness Health Action Team (CHAT) At Scottish ParliamentFive members of CHAT formed the delegation to meet with the health minister Shona Robison on Wednesday 7th February 2018. The team from CHAT each took different elements of health concerns in Caithness to present to those present.
Town and County Hospital, WickA candlelit vigil in support of the hospital and staff is to be held on Thursday 26th October 2017 at the hospital - bring candles or torches. Starts at 6.30pm and will not last long.
CHAT 100 Mile Helper kits READY TO GOCaithness Health Action Team (CHAT) have now put the 100 Mile Helper Kits together and wil shortly be distrubiting them to Hositals and GP practices. The 100 Mile Helper kits are good to go! First batches going to hospitals today.


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My rating: 4 of 5 stars
Brigitta MoonPLOT: 4 / 5
OVERALL: 4 STARS (I read the whole book, I just couldn't find it here in Goodreads to link)
After reading the blurb for this book I was intrigued. I don't normally pick books if I am not grabbed by the cover (sorry, I am a cover lover and this one didn't grab me). The blurb was the reason I decided to take a risk on a book genre I do not normally read.
I had my fingers crossed that the book would meet my expectations...it did, and then some!
The characters are well developed and varying parts of me connected with various emotions of the characters as I made my way through the book. This book has a healthy balance of suspense, emotion, and action. It is plot-driven, yet it does not lack in the area of character development.
The story moves a fast enough pace that you find yourself ending one chapter and fighting sleep just so that you can find out what happens in the next. The signs of a well-written page-turner.
I will warn though that there are detailed mentions of rape and even though it is not over the top in graphic violence or is explicit it does let us know just exactly what happened. This may be a trigger for some.
To sum it up...this is a well-written book about injustice, revenge, and someone getting just exactly what karma calls for.
View all my reviews


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The Atharva Inn
Beautifully located two kilometers away from the seashore rests The Atharva Inn. This hotel provides peaceful stay in 17 gracefully furnished AC/non AC rooms. Guests can take pleasure of modern hotel facilities like 24 hour front desk, healthy breakfast services every morning and laundry/dry cleaning services to add on more easiness.
Check-in time : 10:00AM
Check-out time : 10:00AM


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IIT JEE Advanced 2019 Sample Papers in Hindi: It's not just enough to study for the exams with the help of the portions and the syllabus suggested to the students. They can also use the reference books suggested to them by the experts.
IIT JEE Advanced 2019 Sample Papers
But to crack the exam easily within the given time and easily without any strains, they need to get used to the exam pattern and the question types and for this, they need to keep practicing the question papers and previous year's papers. The JEE Advanced sample papers are prepared by the experts and the senior students of the institutes and also previous year rankers of this exam.
The model papers and the IIT JEE advanced sample papers in Hindi are available as question banks and online in many websites. For students whose native language is Hindi will find it tough if they do not understand the English language or the instructions given in it. And if they are not very fluent in this language, they will find it tough and hence, the authors have set JEE Advanced 2019 sample papers in most of the major national languages. JEE Advanced is one of the well known websites and for hard copies, the students can purchase the books and question banks from book stores also.
IIT JEE Advanced 2019 Sample Papers in Hindi free pdf Download
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text: MIDDLEBURY - Fannie Ellen Miller, 62, died at 1:48 p.m. Tuesday in Goshen General Hospital. Survivors include two brothers, Marvin Miller of Indianapolis and David Miller of Middlebury. Services will be at 10 a.m. Saturday in Griner Mennonite Church, where friends may call from 6 to 8 p.m. today and 2 to 4 p.m. and 6 to 8 p.m. Friday. Miller-Stewart Funeral Home is handling arrangements.


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15. A fairytale image
World of Warcraft is often described as cartoony and looking a bit, well, fairytale-ish. Take a screenshot that makes you think of a fairytale - use Disney inspiration if you must! Feel free to edit this screenshot a bit to enhance the fairytale feel, or just get super creative with that in game camera!
I wasn't sure which way I'd post the last two that I did, but I ended up having this one as the fairytale image. I think it represents the evil side of fairytales quite well. I was instantly reminded of the view in the screenshot as I first saw the Chancel area in Amnesia: The Dark Descent.
And speaking of Amnesia, I'm definitely looking forward to A Machine for Pigs, heh. I guess it'll be a Mists of Pandaria kind of an experience - I hope it'll be as epic of a surprise from first hearing about it to actually playing it. I couldn't help thinking of Razorfen Kraul, if only a little bit.
I've actually reached the finish line with the 15 Days of Screenshots challenge. I've had a ton of fun with it, and I want to thank Saz for coming up with the idea. I've set my eyes on what will likely be the next challenge I participate in. Stay tuned!


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neoliberal is a valid word in this word list. For a definition, see the external dictionary links below.
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At Southside Honda, our challenge is to find the best ways to build strong, lasting relationships with our customers, to understand them and meet their needs so that we can move ahead together. We believe deeply in this.
But that's just the bare necessity. We are also committed to making sure every aspect of our company has a beneficial impact on our community. These activities range from offering better, more fulfilling jobs to Queenslanders, helping preserve the world's fragile environment, and ensuring strong community leadership, to giving our Australian customers products that meet or exceed their mobility needs.
Fulfilling your desires and respecting the nation's best interest is how Southside Honda has made it this far. And with a continued commitment to you, it's how we will move you into the future.
Give us a try. You'll be delighted by the responsiveness and professionalism of our team. We look forward to hearing from you and to serving you brilliantly.
We're standing by. Please tell us now how we can help you.
Here is a handy map to find us.
179 Logan Road
Woolloongabba QLD 4102


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Support Care and Medical Treatment for the Children of Vietnam Veterans
Please support this petition to treat the health problems of Vietnam veterans' children. Vietnam veterans already gave so much for this country. It's time to pay it forward.
Supporters are now helping to
Campaign closed
This page holds no purpose other than to inflict unneed pain on our service members and their loved ones. They have protected us, and now it's our turn to protect them!
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Intercon is a leading international interior architecture office, specialising in mid to large scale interior design projects. Intercon's work around the world strives to create unique spaces that meet the requirements of their customers and their markets, where beauty, aesthetics and innovation blend seamlessly with sustainable functionality.
Recent Intercon projects include; KMUD mixed use development (comprising of a shopping mall, hotel, offices and residential apartments) in Al Khobar, Hotel Blue in Fontainebleau, Hôtel Les Pléiades in Barbizon, Dostyk Hotel in Almaty, ENEC guesthouse in Abu Dhabi, Shatt Al Arab Hotel in Basra, ARAC Hotels in Al Khobar, Jeddah & Riyadh, Al Ain mixed use development in Al Ain, Hotel Ausias March in Barcelona, Jumeirah first complex hotel in Dubai and Al Rawdatain Gardens hotel & apartments in Karbala, to name but a few.


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Friday, July 21, 2017
Marilyn was one of us
Mom (looking up at large framed photo of Marilyn Monroe in her prime, hanging on the wall): That's a great photo of her! How old was she when she died?
Pedicurist: I think she was 36.
Mom: She didn't have any kids, did she? That's SO sad! (Didn't catch everything she said next, but it seemed to be something along the lines of what else gives life meaning if you don't have kids?)(Or maybe I'm just projecting...??) She was married two or three times, wasn't she? Of course, at that age... most people in those days had kids really young...
I felt myself tensing up & mentally rolling my eyes. So much for the relaxing mood...!
But she moved on to another topic -- thank goodness!!
(And also thank goodness, nobody asked me about MY kids while I was there...!)
(For the record, Marilyn was married three times, including to baseball great Joe DiMaggio and playwright Arthur Miller. And no, she didn't have any children. But she desperately wanted them, struggled to conceive, suffered from endometriosis, and endured several miscarriages, including an ectopic pregnancy.)
5 comments:
Marilyn Monroe. Julia Child. Theodor Geisel (aka Dr Seuss). Susan B. Anthony. Jennifer Aniston. And so many more. You included on this list of amazing people.ReplyDelete
- AnonymousSaturday, July 22, 2017 9:32:00 AM
Marlo Thomas. I love Marlo Thomas. I follow her on Facebook. She has a very full life with Phil and her work for her father's St Jude hospital. Her children are the children in the hospital. I so admire her. - MimiReplyDelete
what a beautiful thought... Marilyn was one of us!ReplyDelete
I have had my share of hearing random conversations about how sad it is not to have kids. It always makes me angry. Silly people, is it so difficult to keep the tongue in the mouth? (=expression from my language).
I agree with Cristy - you are included on this list of amazing people!
Argh... that is the WORST when you are out to have a relaxing time and this sort of thing happens. I agree with Cristy and Klara, you're on the list of amazing people! I saw some movie or something about Marilyn Monroe that highlighted her desire for children and her difficulties. I get so sad thinking about her, she was a beautiful, but lost soul.ReplyDelete
A classic roll-of-the-eyes situation. I don't think I'd have been able to limit myself to just doing it mentally. Well done!ReplyDelete


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Luscious Leather Fits My Boy BeautifullyI would highly recommend this harness for its functionality and sexy design. The leather is soft, comfortable, and classy. I would also like to stress that the traditionally masculine design coupled with realistic toys (with which this harness is very compatible) would be an excellent choice for trans*men seeking something of this nature for penetrative sex; my boyfriend and I purchased this as part of a set (with the O2 Adam) and are extremely pleased with the result.
Highly attractive and functional design
A little tricky to figure out the first time, but becomes easier with each use
My boyfriend and I are part of the LGBTQ spectrum and have enjoyed this harness immensely. We would recommend it for trans-men seeking a suitable harness for strap-on sex with a partner, as well as for any other member of queer community looking for a nice, comfortable and attractive harness for sexual activity.
The harness is made from quality soft leather, and as such sheds just a little as most soft leather does, but no more than I anticipated. It is comfortable for him, provides a nice texture for me, and has an attractive, sexy appearance.
Design / Craftsmanship
This harness uses the O-ring system and can be set different ways with the interchangeable rings for double-penetration and different sized/shaped toys. The straps are adjustable and stylish; they keep everything suitably stable during use for excellent control.
Size / Fit
The harness fit my boyfriend very well and stays secure for excellent control during use. However, he is quite thin, so we cannot speak for how well it might work with different body types.
Performance was wonderful, allowing excellent control and stability during use. After the first time putting the harness on, it became very easy to get on and off. The harness' straps adjust very quickly and easily, and attachment/securing of toys is simple and efficient.
Care and Maintenance
Caring for the harness is simple--I just wipe it with a soft rag and warm water after use, but a leather cleaning solution could probably be used if desired. The harness comes in a velvety bag for easy storage.
This content is the opinion of the submitting contributor and is not endorsed by EdenFantasys.com
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Thursday, 14 July 2011
INTERVIEWED: Photographer Léonie Hampton
Léonie Hampton is an incredible photographer who finds the uncanny in the everyday: a kind of (preter)naturalist, who lets her subjects get on with things while she weaves around, waiting for the moment when their unconscious self - or something purporting to be such a thing - comes out to play.
I interviewed her about her latest project, In The Shadow Of Things, which charts the clearing of the house of her mother Bron, who had "boxed out the world" due to her crippling OCD. You can read it on the arts charity website IdeasTap.
Also, if you fancy, take a look at the piece I wrote for Dazed on These New Puritans, with pictures shot on the windy marshes of Leigh on Sea by Leonie in November 2009.
Visit Léonie's website
Posted by Tim Burrows at 10:38
Labels: IdeasTap, In the Shadow Of Things, Leonie Hampton
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Greetings folks. This is my first post, even though I've been a member of this group for a little while. I've noticed this seemingly repeating trend among every Oriental Orthodox web source I've stumbled upon. There seems to be little to no activity in all of these sites, and I'm a bit confused as to why. This weblist is usually "Spiritual Words" with the odd topic every now and then. But, this isn't the only place. Christianforums.com has an entire OO forum. It gets maybe 1-5 posts a month. The OO also have their own space over at orthodoxchristianity.net as well. The same trend, little to no traffic. I don't understand it. If you look at the Eastern (Byzantine) Orthodox sections on the same sites, they have plenty of members, plenty of people who view them, and plenty of conversations going on. The OO have just as rich of a tradition as the Byzantines, but for some reason... they seem to be lacking. Keep in mind, that I'm just a new guy, and I'm not meaning to belittle this group. I'm just genuinely curious. =/ Kyrie Eleison, Gabriel
Perhaps the OO's are just better at keeping the advice of the Desert Fathers to avoid useless and vain conversation:"It was said of Abba Agathon that for three years he lived with a stone in his mouth, until he had learnt to keep silence."
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The Alliance for Useful Evidence provides a focal point for improving and extending the use of social research and evidence in the UK, and has just gone into its second year of existence. Membership is free upon registration. The website contains links to additional information and to publications. Find out more and register at http://www.alliance4usefulevidence.org/
Filed under: Research, Social policy, Social Sciences | Leave a comment »


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The deadline for the "We Believe in Growing" scholarship, Friday, Jan. 14, is rapidly approaching. World Ag Expo and E.M. Tharp Inc. have teamed up for a fifth year to provide the "We Believe in Growing" scholarship, created to further support agriculture education.
High school seniors from Madera, Fresno, Tulare, Kings and Kern counties are encouraged to apply. Two $10,000 scholarships will be awarded to students who attend a four-year university to major in an agricultural field. The scholarships will be disbursed over four years at $2,500 per year, per student.
"Last year's program brought in 34 applicants," said Vester East, E.M. Tharp, Inc. "The list of applicants was narrowed to 10 finalists and, after meeting with all of the candidates, the two winners were selected."
The E.M. Tharp scholarship currently supports eight students, four attending Cal Poly, San Luis Obispo, and four attending California State University, Fresno. "Casey Tharp created the foundation for today's scholarships," East explained. "Giving back to Valley communities by assisting agricultural students has been an important goal for E.M. Tharp Inc. We are proud to be a part of the program and, even in these economic times, E.M. Tharp is moving forward with our promise to students."
For scholarship consideration, students must submit two letters of recommendation, one copy of their high school transcripts and ACT or SAT scores by Friday, Jan. 14. Scholarship applications can be downloaded at www.worldagexpo.com/General-Info/EM-Tharp-Scholarship.htm. Please send completed applications to International Agri-Center, Inc. "We Believe in Growing Scholarship," P.O. Box 1475, Tulare, CA 93275; Attn: DeAnna Fitzgerald.
The 44rdannual World Ag Expo 2011, Tools for Agri-Business, will run Feb. 8-10 at the International Agri-Center show grounds in Tulare, Calif. An estimated 100,000 attendees from 72 countries are expected to attend World Ag Expo this year. The expo is the largest annual agricultural show of its kind with 1,500 exhibitors displaying agricultural technology on 2.6 million square feet of show grounds.


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CeCe Moore and The DNA Detectives brought back i4GG 2017 in SAN DIEGO CA December 9 and 10, 2017, 9am to 6pm. The event covered traditional Genetic Genealogy as well as Genetic Genealogy methodologies for unknown parentage. Newbie or expert, this was a great opportunity to learn from the cream of the crop. The event was in San Diego, CA. on December 09 – 10, 2017. Recording are below.
CeCe Moore is the genetic genealogy consultant for the PBS hit television series "Finding Your Roots with Henry Louis Gates, Jr." Her work has also been featured on "20/20" with Barbara Walters, "Genealogy Roadshow", Nightline", "Good Morning America", "Crime Watch Daily", "Nancy Grace", "CBS This Morning" and "The Doctors", as well as being quoted in many online and print publications. Her primary focus is promoting genetic genealogy education and sharing positive stories about the power of genetic genealogy through the media. CeCe is the founder of The DNA Detectives (including the largest genetic genalogy focused online forum, the DNA Detectives Facebok Page) and co-founder of the Institute for Genetic Genealogy (i4GG).
Blaine Bettinger,Ph.D. (biochemistry), J.D., is an intellectual property attorney, popular speaker on DNA topics, and author of the long-running blog The Genetic Genealogist.
Schelly Talalay Dardashti. A genealogist and journalist, Schelly is the US Genealogy Advisor for MyHeritage.com. She has tracked her families for three decades across Belarus, Russia, Lithuania, Spain and Iran. An early proponent of genetic genealogy, she is co-administrator of the IberianAshkenaz DNA Project, confirming Sephardic origins of some Ashkenazi families. The former genealogy columnist (Jerusalem Post: "It's All Relative") created the award-winning "Tracing the Tribe – The Jewish Genealogy Blog" in 2006, and founded "Tracing the Tribe – Jewish Genealogy on Facebook" (10,000+ global members). Affiliations: JGS of NM, Sandoval County (NM) Genealogical Society, Israel Genealogical Research Association, Society for Crypto-Judaic Studies, American Copy Editors Society. Publications: Family Tree Magazine, Avotaynu, NGS Quarterly, The Forward, JTA, etc.
Carol Isbister Rolnick earned her BS in Business from Purdue University. Bitten by the genealogy bug from an early age, Carol discovered an even greater passion for genetic genealogy beginning in the very early days of testing. The field satisfies her love of science, big data and an insatiable desire help others solve personal mysteries. In addition to her work with The DNA Detectives, Carol has an independent consulting company, Rolnick Research.
Kitty Munson Cooper is well-known blogger on genetics and genealogy. She started her blog in 2012 to keep track of her DNA and genealogy research. It includes numerous basic pictorial tutorials and several useful graphing tools she wrote. The blog currently receives several thousand unique visitors a day and earned Kitty tenth place on the rockstar genetic genealogists list in 2015
Kathy Johnston, M.D. Dr. Kathy Johnston, a retired dermatologist, has been engaged in genealogical research for over 25 years. She has been active in genetic genealogy since 2004, at which time she started collecting DNA samples from her aging parents in order to identify their Y-DNA and mitochondrial DNA lines. She has had a special interest in the X chromosome since 2008 because of its unique pattern of inheritance and the richness of its ancestry informative markers. Kathy has been active in the DNA Interest Group of the Southern California Genealogical Society (SCGS) and the International Society of Genetic Genealogy (ISOGG). As a volunteer, she helps genealogists understand their direct-to-consumer DNA test results. She is a volunteer administrator for several projects at Family Tree DNA. She was a volunteer at the very first "Family History and DNA: Genetic Genealogy in 2013" conference co-sponsored by SCGS and ISOGG and will be speaking at the same conference this year in Burbank, California on June 5, 2014. In September 2013, she along with other members of ISOGG, was invited to attend an historic ancestry inference roundtable discussion organized by the American Society of Human Genetics (ASHG). In October, 2013 in Boston, she presented a scientific poster during the Ethical, Legal, Social and Policy Issues in Genetics Session at the ASHG 63rd Annual Meeting.
Barbara Rae-Venter,J.D.,Ph.D. Originally fromNewZealand, Barbara earned a J.D. from the University of Texas at Austin LawSchool and a B.A. double major inPsychology and Biochemistry and a Ph.D.inBiology (Biochemistry) at the University of California at SanDiego Barbara is a Search Angel with DNAAdoption.com and also helps teach the autosomal DNA classes they offer to help adoptees uqsetheir DNA to find birth relatives. Barbara volunteered her time to work on project for the San Bernardino Sheriff's Department Crimes Against Children Detail to identify, successfully, the immediate family of"Lisa",a woman now in her 30s,who was abducted as a toddler and did not know either who she was or where she was from.
Dipl.-Ing. Thomas Krahn. Thomas earned his biotechnology engineering diploma from the Technical University Berlin, Germany in 1999 and has focused on DNA analysis since then. Thomas started up his own business and filed patents for DNA analysis instruments and provided the first Genealogy DNA tests in Europe. Family Tree DNA became aware of Thomas' German business and acquired his company in 2006. Together with his wife Astrid he developed all Y chromosome tests that FTDNA offers today. While at FTDNA he made Y-SNP sequencing accessible for private researchers and started the "Walk Through the Y Project" as the first large scale Y chromosome sequencing assay. Thomas designed the Y-chromosome part of the Geno2 chip and the enrichment assay for the BigY test. In 2013 Thomas and Astrid left FTDNA and founded YSEQ, a genetic company that provides on demand Y chromosome testing. As the original discoverer of haplogroup A00 Thomas has recently visited Cameroon and actively supported Bonnie Schrack's A00 project.
Michelle Trostler holds a Master's degree in Sociology from USC and is a PhD candidate at the University of Uppsala, Sweden. Previously Michelle was a database marketer, specializing in emails and combining data from disparate sources to accomplish a marketing goal. This experience has proven to be a great background for the challenges of genetic genealogy and the mounds of data that are needed to break through brick walls. In addition to her work with The DNA Detectives, Michelle has an independent consulting company, identify family.com.
Kathleen Fernandes earned her Ph.D. in Educational Psychology from Stanford University and worked as a systems analyst in designing IT systems for the Department of Defense. Since retiring ten years ago, she has been actively pursuing her Portuguese roots and became interested in genetic genealogy as a way to break through the brick walls she encountered in her research. She is particularly interested in tools and techniques for analyzing DNA data in endogamous populations. She has completed several genetic genealogy courses and has begun giving presentations on the topic to local genealogy groups.
Leah Larkin, Ph.D.
Leah Larkin holds a B.A. in biology from Swarthmore College and a Ph.D. in botany from The University of Texas at Austin, where she studied species relationships using DNA. She is a professional scientific editor as well as a genetic genealogist who finds great joy in reuniting families separated by adoption or other unknown parentage. As a Cajun from Louisiana, she is also actively researching best practices for the genetic genealogy of endogamous groups. Leah recently assumed the editorship of the Journal of Genetic Genealogy, which will resume publishing this fall.
Afton Vechery – Product Manager, 23andMe. Afton joined 23andMe in 2014 to lead the company's tools efforts to create an impactful experience and help customers get real world value from their genetic data. Prior to 23andMe, Afton was head of product development and operations at Acumen where she worked on clinical operations, product and business development. Before Acumen, she led the personalized medicine initiative at Great Point Partners. Afton also founded Kera10, a cosmecutical company utilizing licensed technology from KeraNetics, a regenerative medicine biomaterials company. She received a bachelor of science degree from Wake Forest where she studied Business and Neuroscience. Afton was also recognized as the Wake Forest Presidential Scholar for Entrepreneurship and won the KPMG Global Case Competition.
Janine Cloud – Family Tree DNA. Janine joined Family Tree DNA and the genetic genealogy community as an information specialist several years ago. She came from a long career in customer support at a large newspaper. At Family Tree DNA, Janine quickly moved up to the head of customer service. A grade-school assignment to fill out a pedigree chart ignited her passion for family history and genealogy. That passion, combined with 30+ years of customer service experience got her in the door at FTDNA with a degree in theatre where she quickly grasped the principles of genetic genealogy. In fact, her Allison cousins were among the earliest group projects. Janine is a fifth-generation Texan and a registered member of the Cherokee Nation.


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Whirlpool Cabrio WED7300DW Dryer Review
In a world of mega-capacity dryers, this regular-sized Whirlpool stands out.
Sometimes, bigger isn't always better. Such was the case with Whirlpool's new 7.0 cu. ft. Cabrio WED7300DW (MSRP $899) electric dryer, and its larger sibling, the Cabrio WED8500DC.
When we tested the 8.8-cu.-ft. WED8500DC, the first Whirlpool to feature the company's new, intuitive touch controls, we were underwhelmed. Sure, this $1,100 dryer was good, but a fancy new interface didn't seem worth the premium price.
The 7300, on the other hand, dries exceptionally well, offers a steam dry function, and is available for an average sale price of just $720. Those touch controls seem a lot more appealing when combined with great drying performance and a low price.
Design & Usability
Old school dryer, new school controls
Take away Whirlpool's innovative interface, and you're left with a fairly basic appliance. The WED7300DW's glossy white exterior won't catch anyone by surprise, nor will the matching white drum. (For this price, the lack of a stainless interior isn't surprising.)
The new control scheme, however, makes this machine feel a lot more high-tech. The touchscreen controls are designed to take the guesswork out of laundry. Going from left to right, you first pick what kind of clothing you're drying, and then how you want it dried. Settings are still customizable, but hands-off users will appreciate the streamlined nature of this interface.
That said, we found the touch-sensitive console less responsive than regular buttons, plus the glossy black surface was easily smudged. While this control scheme still has the potential to improve your laundry experience, the technology isn't perfect.
Despite the fancy controls, Whirlpool also opted to use an old-fashioned, pull-out lint trap, found on top of the dryer. It works well enough, but compared to lint screens inside the drum, the pull-out variety tends to release more lint into the air when you try to clean it. It's not a deal-breaker, just something to be aware of.
Performance & Features
Dry clothes, despite the controls
Despite the nonstandard controls, we were still able to conduct our key tests, which focus on the Normal, Delicate, Quick, and Bulky cycles. Each test we ran with this Whirlpool produced wearable clothing within a reasonable time frame, and did so using appropriate levels of heat.
Our only quibble is Whirlpool's cycle breakdown, which essentially removes a designated Quick cycle from the available repertoire (we used a shortened Timed Dry for our test). Folks we talked to at Whirlpool explained that the dryer's sensors should shorten a cycle to accommodate the size of your laundry pile, but if you only have 20 minutes to get your clothes dry, the simplified controls suddenly become a lot more complex.
Features-wise, the WED7300DW has a limited, but solid lineup. Most notable is a water hookup that lets you produce steam inside the drum, which helps remove wrinkles and funky smells. There's also a Wrinkle Shield feature, which can be used in conjunction with steam. You've also got Static Reduce mode, and a Damp Beep alert in case you want to line dry your damp clothes.
It's not a feature, exactly, but we also want to address an improvement we've noticed in this model. On some of the other new Whirlpool dryers, there were two visible temperature sensors in the back of the drum. These sensors would catch our test items, snagging threads and making us wary of drying anything delicate or easily torn. Fortunately, Whirlpool corrected this issue, and we didn't notice any torn threads or other evidence of clothing damage during our eight-cycle testing procedure.
For in-depth performance information, please visit the Science Page.
A Good Bargain
A small dryer that delivers big.
Lots of manufacturers tout the ever-expanding drums of their newest washers and dryers. However, the Whirlpool Cabrio WED7300DW makes a strong case for capability over capacity. Nearly flawless drying is already the best perk of all, but it's made even more appealing by a low in-store price of just about $720.
If you're a fan of its control scheme, want a steam dry option, and don't want to pay a lot for an effective dryer, the WED7300DW is an excellent choice.
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text:
More than half a million people made more than a million flexible withdrawals from their pensions, taking £5.7bn from their pots in 2017, figures from HMRC published today reveal.
The figures show at least 553,000 people accessed pensions flexibly in 2016, although the figure could be nearer 640,000 as the last three quarters showed a steady figure of around 160,000 people accessing pension freedoms each quarter. HMRC cautions that the numbers published for 2015-16 are not comprehensive as to manage the burden on industry reporting was optional for 2015-16 but compulsory from April 2016, explaining the significant jump in numbers from Q2 2016 onwards.
Q2 2016 saw 159,000 people make 296,000 withdrawals totalling £1.8bn, while in Q4 saw 162,000 people make 393,000 withdrawals totalling £1.6bn, suggesting the impact of a trend towards smaller, more regular withdrawals.
Zurich head of corporate funds propositions Martin Palmer says: "Nearly two years since its inception, these figures show that those taking advantage of the pension freedoms has hit an all-time high. They also demonstrate the variety of approaches that people are taking towards their retirement.
"That said, it is essential that the pension freedoms are not simply used to boost short-term spending power, and that people are empowered to make informed choices. We know that almost half of UK adults fear a lack of savings will prevent them from realising their life goals. However, we also know that those who set specific goals for life after 65 save more for the future, and could be over £30,000 better off than those who don't. It's important to make the most of the support available, including potential pension contributions from employers. Likewise, making the right investment decisions is crucial – especially as retirement approaches – and is central to an overall plan."


text:
Saturday, October 22, 2011
Stainless Steel.
It is loud. It stinks. It is dirty.
Today, she was at the University, and I HAD to make a steel frame... it's been a long time.
Steel is so much more demanding. It takes a long time to "carve" the shape out of it, and the parts get very hot, too. But in the end, you get rewards galore. Unbreakable. Shiny. Hefty. Unique.
I made this one from a 12 mm and a 30 mm stainless steel rod, drilled the handle out for the fork and welded everything shut. The angle grinder got a lot to do.
I did not polish this to a high shine, just 80 grit - looks "business", and is not slippery at all.
It has the low forks of the Howitzer, deadly effective.
39 comments:
For some reason, I think of the "Fat Boy" of atomic bombs in WW2. I like the matte finish as I think it will be better gripped in sweaty hands. Well done Joerg. I may try your low fork design in my next sling-shot but out of the simplest, multiplex wood. My newest sling-shot is just a week old as my pissed off dog chewed up my last one.ReplyDelete
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Looks STRONG.ReplyDelete
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text:
Wednesday, August 26, 2009
Poor Ellen Smith
As is the case with many Appalachian Mountain Ballads, "Poor Ellen Smith" is based on real events. In this case, the locale was Mount Airy, North Carolina. In 1894, a town drunk and ne'er-do-well named Peter DeGraff had an ill-fated love affair with Ellen Smith, who reportedly may have been mentally challenged. After a few months of the affair, Ellen Smith became pregnant by DeGraff, who then wanted nothing to do with her. It was said that Ellen could not understand his rejection of her. Their baby died at birth, and Ellen soon after took to following DeGraff around town.
After a few months of this, DeGraff sent Ellen Smith a letter that asked her to meet him in a secluded area where they could talk. The letter was worded in such a way that Smith reportedly believed that DeGraff wanted to reconcile with her, and she was elated at the prospect. However, when Ellen arrived at the designated location, DeGraff pulled out a gun, shot her through the chest and left her alone where she bled to death.
It was later reported that Degraff confessed to the crime while awaiting the gallows shortly before he was hanged for the murder of Ellen Smith. During the confession, when asked if Ellen Smith had any reaction to being shot, Degraff said that she looked stunned and that she looked at him and said, "Lord have mercy on me" and then fell to the ground where she later died.
As with most Appalachian folk ballads, there is more than one version of the song. I'll include the words to two different versions of the story.
Here are the lyrics to the first version.
Poor Ellen Smith
Poor Ellen Smith how she was found
Shot through the heart lying cold on the ground
Her clothes were all scattered and thrown on the ground
And blood marks the spot where poor Ellen was found
They picked up their rifles and hunted me down
And found me a-loafin' in Mount Airy town
They picked up the body and carried it away
And now she is sleeping in some lonesome old grave
I got a letter yesterday and I read it today
The flowers on her grave have all faded away
Some day I'll go home and say when I go
On poor Ellen's grave pretty flowers I'll sow
I've been in this prison for twenty long years
Each night I see Ellen through my bitter tears
The warden just told me that soon I'll be free
To go to her grave near that old willow tree
My days in this prison are ending at last
I'll never be free from the sins of my past
Poor Ellen Smith how she was found
Shot through the heart lying cold on the ground
And here is the second version of the ballad. As you will see, this version is more sympathetic to Degraff than the first version.
Poor Ellen Smith
Come all kind people, my story to hear,
What happen'd to me in June of last year.
It's of poor Ellen Smith and how she was found,
A ball in her heart, lyin' cold on the ground.
It's true I'm in jail, a prisoner now,
But God is here with me and hears every vow.
Before Him I promise the truth to relate
And tell all I know of poor Ellen's sad fate.
The world of my story's no longer a part,
But knows I was Ellen's own lovin' sweetheart.
They knew my intention to make her my wife,
I loved her too dearly to take her sweet life.
I saw her on Monday, before that sad day
They found her poor body and took her away;
That she had been killed never entered my mind
Till a ball through her heart they happened to find.
Oh who was so cruel, so heartless, so base
As to murder poor Ellen in such a lonesome place?
I saw her that morning so still and so cold
And heerd the wild stories the witnesses told.
I choked back my tears, for the people all said
That Peter Degraph had shot Ellen Smith dead!
My love is in her grave with her hand on her breast
The bloodhound and sheriff won't give me no rest.
They got their Winchesters and hunted me down,
But I was away in ole Mount Airy town.
I stayed off a year and I prayed all the time
That the man might be found whut committed the crime.
So I could come back in my character save
Ere the flowers had faded on poor Ellen's grave.
So I come back to Winston my trial for to stand
To live or to die as the law might command.
Ellen sleeps calm in the lonely church yard
While I look trough the bars --- God knows it is hard!
I know they will hang me --- at least, if they can,
But I know I will die as an innocent man.
My soul will be free when I stand at the bar
Where God tries his cross, then, there, like a star,
That shines in the night, will an innocent shine
Oh, I do appeal to the Justice of Time!
So which version do you like best? Do you have another version that you like better?
Here is a Youtube video of "Poor Ellen Smith" being performed by a distant cousin of mine, Wilma Lee Cooper, star of the Grand Ole Opry.
7 comments:
- Shirley Stewart Burns, Ph.D. said...
Poor Ellen Smith, indeed!
- August 26, 2009 at 6:24 PM
- August 27, 2009 at 12:00 AM
- Dave Tabler said...
Matthew, do you have any info on authors of the 2 versions?
- August 27, 2009 at 2:00 PM
- Matthew Burns said...
Dave--From what I could find, there is no certain information on who wrote the song. Some indicate that Degraff wrote the song, but according to a descendant of his, even that is very "iffy".
- August 27, 2009 at 2:06 PM
- Tipper said...
Matthew-I like both of them!
- August 30, 2009 at 9:20 AM
- Granny Sue said...
Here is a link to a lengthy discussion of this ballad on Mudcat:
It sounds like there are many versions of this song. The Wilma Cooper video is a bluegrass rendition; there must be a more traditional melody for the song if it's pre-1900.
I have a book at home that's all murder ballads. I'll have to take a look and see if Poor Ellen Smith is included.
- September 8, 2009 at 4:14 PM
- Gorbachenko said...
I've heard there was a version of the song that caused so much outrage, it wasn't allowed to be heard. I believe this may be that version, as sung by Frank Proffitt, which puts the blame on Ellen herself!
Poor Ellen Smith where was she found
Shot through the heart lying cold on the ground
Many hearts she has broken many lies she has told
It now all has ended in her bed in the snow
Poor Ellen, poor Ellen you've wasted your life
You could have made some man a very good wife
Many friends tried to warn you of your ending you were told
It all now has ended in your bed in the snow
So early this morning poor Ellen was found
Shot through the heart lying cold on the ground
The men they will mourn you, the wives will be glad
Such is the ending of a girl that is bad
Perhaps you're in heaven God only knows
The Bible plainly tells us you've gone down below
- August 21, 2013 at 10:15 PM


text:
Journal of Nanomaterials
Volume 2013, Article ID 479109, 8 pages
Water Absorption and Diffusion Characteristics of Nanohydroxyapatite (nHA) and Poly(hydroxybutyrate-co-hydroxyvalerate-) Based Composite Tissue Engineering Scaffolds and Nonporous Thin Films
1Department of Mechanical Engineering, The University of Hong Kong, Pokfulam Road, Hong Kong
2IJN-UTM Cardiovascular Engineering Centre (CEC), Faculty of Biosciences and Medical Engineering, Universiti Teknologi Malaysia, 81310 UTM Johor Bahru, Johor, Malaysia
3KALAM, Faculty of Built Environment, Universiti Teknologi Malaysia, 81310 UTM Johor Bahru, Johor, Malaysia
Received 15 March 2013; Revised 10 April 2013; Accepted 10 April 2013
Academic Editor: In-Kyu Park
Copyright © 2013 Naznin Sultana and Tareef Hayat Khan. This is an open access article distributed under the Creative Commons Attribution License, which permits unrestricted use, distribution, and reproduction in any medium, provided the original work is properly cited.
Water uptake characteristics of poly(hydroxybutyrate-co-hydroxyvalerate) (PHBV-) based composite tissue engineering (TE) scaffolds incorporating nanosized hydroxyapatite (nHA) have been investigated. The water absorption of these composite scaffolds obeyed the classical diffusion theory for the initial period of time. The diffusion coefficients of the composite scaffolds during the water absorption were much faster than those for the nonporous thin films, suggesting that the water uptake process depends on the presence of porosity and porous microstructure of the composite scaffolds. The incorporation of nHA increased the water uptake of both the composite scaffolds and thin films. It was also observed that the equilibrium uptake increased with the incorporation of nHA. This increase in the water uptake was largely due to the nHA particle aggregates in the microstructure of both composite scaffolds and thin films. The activation energy for diffusion was also determined using the Arrhenius equation for both porous scaffolds and thin films and the results suggested that the activation energy for scaffolds was lower than that for thin films.
1. Introduction
Through the combination of cell biology, biomaterials, and engineering, tissue engineering (TE) seeks to provide a solution to replace, repair, or regenerate tissues/organs [1, 2]. To overcome the limitations of the autogenous and allogenic bone graft, development of new synthetic scaffolds has received increasing interest. In TE, the biomaterial based scaffolds are the most important aspects [3, 4]. A number of approaches such as phase separation, selective laser sintering, and electrospinning are being used for fabricating scaffolds for bone regeneration. Biodegradable polymers, including poly(caprolactone), poly(l-lactic acid) (PLLA), and poly(hydroxybutyrate-co-hydroxyvalerate) (PHBV), have been processed into 3D scaffolds with the development of TE [5]. Both PLLA and PHBV possess good biocompatibility with tissue and blood and are regarded as good candidates as biodegradable polymer matrix of composite scaffolds [6]. Blending of PHBV with PLLA can shorten the degradation time and rate of PHBV which has much longer degradation time [7, 8]. Several biodegradable polymer-hydroxyapatite (HA) composites have been developed as bone substitute material or bone TE scaffolds [9–11]. As HA is a natural component of bones and possesses the osteoconductive properties, polymer-HA composite scaffold is a promising system for bone tissue regeneration as it can mimic the composition and structure with the mineral phase of the bone.
By guiding new tissue growth in vivo and in vitro, scaffolds play an important role in TE. The scaffolds possess 3D macroporous and interconnected network with the macropore diameter of a few hundreds of micrometers to allow cell invasion. The water uptake properties of composite scaffolds for tissue TE are of importance as the primary mechanism of the polymer degradation inside body is hydrolysis. The ingress of water into polymer-based scaffolds can have both adverse and beneficial effects on the properties of the scaffolds. Hydrolysis and microcrack can be formed due to water exposure. On the other hand, breakdown of three-dimensional scaffolds can occur due to excessive water uptake. Several studies have been performed for dental application to study the characteristics of polymeric systems and composites [12, 13]. However, the water uptake and diffusion characteristics of TE scaffolds have been rarely assessed and reported.
Previously, we reported the fabrication, characterization, and in vitro biological evaluation of PHBV/PLLA-based scaffolds [14]. The aim of the present study was to determine the water uptake and diffusion characteristics of 100/0 PHBV/PLLA, 50/50 PHBV/PLLA blend, and 10% nHA incorporated 50/50 PHBV/PLLA composite scaffolds. For comparison, solvent-cast thin films were also used in the study. The effect of incorporation of HA, porosity, and microstructures of the composite scaffolds on the diffusion coefficient, equilibrium uptake, and temperature dependence was also investigated.
2. Experimental
2.1. Materials and General Methods
PHBV with 6% of 3-hydroxyvalerate was purchased from Sigma-Aldrich. In order to blend with PHBV, PLLA with viscosity 1.6 dL g−1 (Medisorb 100L 1A) was purchased from Lakeshore Biomaterials (Birmingham, AL). The nHA nanoparticles were produced in-house which were used for producing composite scaffolds and composite thin films [15]. Figure 1 shows the SEM micrograph of nanosized HA. The freeze-dried HA powders used in this investigation consisted of tiny agglomerates of HA nanocrystallites. The particle size of the HA powders was found to be in the range of 20–30 nm. Chloroform and acetic acid were analytical grade.
2.2. Fabrication of Scaffolds and Solvent Cast Films
Pure 100/0 PHBV/PLLA, 50/50 PHBV/PLLA, and 10% nHA in 50/50 PHBV/PLLA tissue engineering scaffolds with 10% (w/v) polymer concentration were fabricated using the emulsion freezing/freeze-drying technique described elsewhere [16]. Briefly, to produce polymer scaffolds, 1 g polymer or polymer blend was dissolved in 5 mL chloroform and then 5 mL acetic acid was added. The emulsion was then homogenized and kept frozen at −18°C in a freezer for overnight to induce phase separation. Then the frozen emulsion was freeze-dried using a freeze-drying vessel (Labconco, USA). Similarly, to produce 10% nHA in 50/50 PHBV/PLLA composite scaffolds, 0.1 g nHA was added in the emulsion and homogenized prior to the phase-separation process. Nonporous thin films with the same compositions were fabricated using solvent casting technique.
2.3. Preparation of Polymer and Composite Specimens
Rectangular shape specimens (20 mm × 5 mm × 0.5 mm) were cut with sharp razor blade from three types of polymer and composite scaffolds, namely, PHBV scaffolds (10% w/v), 50/50 PHBV/PLLA (10% w/v) blend scaffolds, and 10% nHA in PHBV/PLLA (10% w/v) composite scaffolds. Rectangular specimens of (20 mm × 5 mm × 0.5 mm) were also prepared from solvent-cast films of the same compositions. The porous microstructure, morphology, and pore sizes of the scaffolds specimens were studied using a scanning electron microscopy (SEM; Stereoscan 440, UK). In order to determine the presence and distribution of nHA nanoparticles in composite scaffolds, energy dispersive X-ray spectrometry (EDX, INCA 300, UK) was performed. The skeletal density and the porosity of the scaffolds were measured using equations described elsewhere [16]. The wettability of the scaffolds was measured by measuring contact angles using a contact angle measuring machine (SL200B, Shanghai Salon Tech Inc., Ltd., China). With distilled water as liquid, the sessile drop method was employed. The contact angle of the water drop on the scaffold specimen was determined at room temperature using proprietary software. At least three measurements were conducted at different locations of the scaffold specimen. As the mean ± standard deviation, the contact angle was expressed.
2.4. Water Absorption
The specimens were placed in an oven at 37°C for 48 hours and then weighed to an accuracy of ±0.0001 g on a balance. The specimens were then placed into 100 mL of distilled water at 37°C. During the first day of immersion, the specimens were removed at intervals of 2, 5, 10, 15 min, and so forth, blotted dry on filter paper to remove excess water, weighed, and returned to the water. Following the first day, the samples were weighed daily, until the uptake slowed. Until there was no significant change in weight, the uptake of water was recorded. When equilibrium was attained, the samples were then transferred to a drying oven at 37°C. Similarly, the experiment was repeated at 25°C and at 50°C.
2.5. Diffusion Coefficients
For the earlier stages of uptake (usually where ), classical diffusion theory predicts [1, 17] the following: where is the mass uptake at time , is the mass uptake at equilibrium, 2 is the thickness of the specimen, is the diffusion coefficient, and is the water uptake time. A plot of against should provide a straight line for earlier stages of water uptake. Diffusion coefficients can be calculated from the slope of the straight line.
The temperature dependence of the diffusion coefficient is given by the Arrhenius equation: where is the absolute temperature (°K), is the activation energy for diffusion (J/mol or eV/atom), and is a temperature independent constant (preexponential) (m2/s), is the gas constant (8.314 J/mol-K or 8.62 × 10−5 eV/atom).
3. Results and Discussion
Several assumptions were used for this study. They were as follows.(i) Distilled water was in infinite supply.(ii) Polymer and composite films and scaffolds were surrounded by water.
3.1. Morphological Observation
Figure 2 shows the morphologies of thin films of 100/0 PHBV/PLLA, 50/50 PHBV/PLLA, and 10% nHA incorporated 50/50 PHBV/PLLA. Some micropores were observed in 50/50 PHBV/PLLA thin film due to the immiscibility of PHBV and PLLA. Figure 3 shows the morphologies of 100/0 PHBV/PLLA, 50/50 PHBV/PLLA, and 10% nHA in 50/50 PHBV/PLLA scaffolds. It was observed that highly porous scaffold specimens consisted of many micropores. Pore structure and size depended on the phase separation process used in the fabrication technique. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy showed the distribution of HA nanoparticles in the pore walls of the scaffolds, and some particle agglomeration was also observed (Figure 4). The average pore diameter of the 100/0 PHBV/PLLA scaffold was higher than that of 10% nHA incorporated 50/50 PHBV/PLLA scaffold as incorporation of nHA perturbed the phase separation process slightly (Table 1). As the scaffolds were prepared from same polymer emulsion concentration, 10% (w/v), the porosity did not change significantly in the scaffolds. The contact angle was much higher in 100/0 PHBV/PLLA scaffold than 50/50 PHBV/PLLA and 10% nHA in PHBV/PLLA scaffolds as PHBV polymer is well known for its hydrophobic nature. Blending with PLLA and incorporporation of nHA increased the hydrophilicity of the composite scaffolds.
3.2. Diffusion Study of Solvent-Cast Thin Films
Figure 5 shows the water uptake curve of 100/0 PHBV/PLLA thin film at 37°C as versus the square root of immersion time. The specimens were immersed in distilled water. The maximum uptake at equilibrium was 1.4%. The diffusion coefficients were calculated from the initial linear region of the curves.
In order to observe the temperature dependence of the diffusion coefficients of 100/0 PHBV/PLLA thin film, the experiment was performed at three different temperatures, namely, at 25°C, 37°C, and 50°C. Water uptake study was also performed for 50/50 PHBV/PLLA thin film and 10% HA in 50/50 PHBV/PLLA thin film following the same procedure mentioned above. The calculated diffusion coefficients are given in Table 2. It can be seen that diffusion coefficient is significantly higher at high temperature of 50°C than that of 25°C, 37°C.
In order to study the temperature dependence of diffusion coefficients, Arrhenius plot was constructed for 10% HA in 50/50 PHBV/PLLA thin films as shown in Figure 6. From the slope of the curve, activation energy can be calculated which is referred to as the energy required to produce the diffusive motion of one mole of atoms. The activation energy calculated from the slope of the best fit linear curve was KJ/mole with the regression coefficient, value of 0.94. The activation energy of 100/0 PHBV/PLLA and 50/50 PHBV/PLLA thin film was KJ/mole and KJ/mole, respectively.
3.3. Diffusion Study of Scaffolds
Figure 7 is the plot of water uptake as versus square root of immersion time at 37°C for 100/0 PHBV/PLLA scaffolds. The diffusion coefficients were calculated from the initial linear regions of the curves. In order to study the temperature dependence of diffusion coefficients of the scaffolds, the experiment was performed at three different temperatures, namely, at 25°C, 37°C, and 50°C.
Table 3 shows the diffusion coefficients of 100/0 PHBV/PLLA scaffolds at 25°C, 37°C, and 50°C, which were 51.75 × 10−12, 67.60 × 10−12, and 165 × 10−12 m2/s, respectively. It was observed that the initial water uptake of HA incorporated composite scaffold was much higher than that of polymer blend scaffolds, and the diffusion coefficients were also higher. The value of diffusion coefficient was lower at low temperature and relatively high at high temperature. Figure 8 shows the Arrhenius plot which represents the temperature dependence of the diffusion coefficients of 10% HA in 50/50 PHBV/PLLA scaffolds. From the slope of the best fit linear line, the activation energy was calculated, which was KJ/mole. The activation energies were found KJ/mole for 50/50 PHBV/PLLA scaffold and KJ/mole for 100/0 PHBV/PLLA scaffolds, respectively.
Table 4 shows the comparison between the amounts of water uptake (g/g) at equilibrium between the different compositions of thin films and scaffolds. Among the different compositions of thin films and scaffolds, the amount (g/g) of equilibrium water uptake of 10% nHA in 50/50 PHBV/PLLA films and scaffolds was higher than that of 100/0 PHBV/PLLA and 50/50 PHBV/PLLA thin films and scaffolds. This result was opposite to other studies where the uptake of HA/polymer composite films was slower than the pure polymeric film as the polymers were very much hydrophilic and water uptake was high for the polymer itself [12]. In the present study, it was also observed that water uptake increased significantly with the increasing porosity. The scaffolds which were more than 70% porous, absorbed more water at the same condition than that of dense films. Besides, the incorporation of HA increased the water uptake in both composite thin film and composite scaffold.
Water uptake can occur by the materials in terms of "absorbed water" that means the amount of water absorbed from media which mainly depends on the hydrophilicity of material. Capillary water is termed as liquid water that is "drawn in" through pores or capillaries of the materials. Moreover, the amount of water absorbed is related to the porosity and the amount of available liquid water at the surface of the material. For this reason, porous material can uptake and store more water whereas the nonporous (dense) material can store a limited amount of water (Table 4). It can be seen from the plots of versus square root of time (Figures 5 and 7) that the plots are almost linear for both the thin films and scaffolds in the initial period of time. As Fick's second law is applicable for both the thin films and scaffolds for the initial period of time, it can be stated that the initial stage is diffusion controlled. Similar results were obtained by several studies of polymeric composite materials for dental applications [12, 18, 19].
It was also found that the water uptake of PHBV/PLLA scaffold was lower than 10 wt% nHA incorporated PHBV/PLLA scaffold. For the scaffold specimens, when all the pores were assumed to be filled with water, the equilibrium water uptake of polymer blend scaffold and composite scaffold specimens were found to be 1.35 g/g and 2.97 (g/g), respectively (Table 4). Moreover, water uptake of composite scaffold specimen decreased after few days. The reason might be the starting of dissolution of nHA within the composite scaffold. The initial increase of water uptake of the composite films and scaffolds may be due to hydrophilic nature of the nanosized nHA particles or the inclusions of HA nanoparticle aggregates. The nHA nano-particles may appear as loosely embedded aggregates in the polymer matrix. As a result, additional amount of water at the interface between the agglomerates and the matrix can be accommodated.
The calculated diffusion coefficients expressed are given in Tables 2 and 3 during water absorption. The values of diffusion coefficients are available in the literature for other conventional composites [18, 20]. The diffusion coefficients were higher in scaffolds than thin films. This behaviour can occur during the initial uptake of water through the pores of the scaffolds which can cause the formation of water clusters. Surface area to volume ratio and thickness can also have effects on this.
Temperature and composition are the two most important factors which can affect the diffusion coefficient [21]. Between these two factors, temperature has the most profound influence on the coefficients and diffusion rates. The diffusion coefficients are related to temperature according to Arrhenius equation. From Arrhenius plots of thin film and scaffold (Figures 6 and 8), it can be seen that the plot is almost linear. These results can further confirm that water uptake of thin films is controlled by diffusion process. From the plots of versus square root of immersion time, it is also possible to estimate when a plateau region can be established and how long the diffusion phenomena can be observed. It was also found by other studies that after saturation, many other properties should be taken into account such as structure and surface chemistry.
4. Conclusions
(1) The amount of water absorption or uptake depends mainly on the hydrophilicity and porosity of the materials. For this reason, PHBV/PLLA and 10% HA in PHBV/PLLA scaffolds and thin films absorbed more water than that of 100/0 PHBV/PLLA scaffolds and thin films as PHBV is more hydrophobic than PLLA and HA. The water uptake of the scaffolds was much higher than that of thin films because the scaffolds had high porosity.(2) For thin films and scaffold, Arrhenius plot was almost linear. For the initial period of time, water uptake of the thin films was controlled by diffusion process. It was possible to estimate when a plateau region could be established and how long the diffusion phenomena could be observed.(3) After saturation, many other properties should be taken into account such as structure and surface chemistry. 10% HA in 50/50 PHBV/PLLA scaffolds showed decrease in water uptake after saturation due to dissolution of HA and also degradation of amorphous part of PLLA/PHBV polymer.(4) The diffusion coefficients were higher in porous scaffolds than thin films as the rate of diffusion increased with decreasing density of atomic packing. Porosity and surface to volume ratio had a profound effect on the water uptake of scaffolds.
Conflict of Interests
The authors, hereby, declare that they do not have any conflict of interests.
N. Sultana thanks The University of Hong Kong (HKU) for providing her with a research studentship. This work was supported by a GRF Grant (HKU 7182/05E) from the Research Grants Council of Hong Kong. Assistance provided by technical staff in the Department of Mechanical Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, is acknowledged. Authors also thank Universiti Teknologi Malaysia, Ministry of Higher Education (MOHE), RMC, IJN-UTM Cardiovascular Engineering Centre, and FRGS Grant (vot: 4F126), GUP Tier 1 (03 H13, 05H07) for financial supports.
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LG Escape ReviewLG Escape
- The package contains:
- microUSB cable
- Wall charger
- Quick Start Guide
- Product Safety and Warranty Information
The power button is on the right
Volume rocker on the left
The top houses the headphone jack
microUSB connector on the bottom
7 Comments
1. loken (Posts: 462; Member since: 09 May 2012)
horrible button icons!!
2. Raymond_htc (Posts: 430; Member since: 06 Apr 2012)
the button icons are not bad... idk why would any1 think its ugly...
3. Nathan_ingx (Posts: 4764; Member since: 07 Mar 2012)
"Chatterboxes will surely enjoy conversations with this smartphone, mainly because it delivers one immaculate call quality. Through the earpiece, it produces extremely loud and audible voices that are distinct in tone and distortion-free." finally, a phone that has the best important basic feature in a phone! :D /s
The display angle looks scary!
4. -box- (Posts: 3991; Member since: 04 Jan 2012)
Nokias have had that feature, so while I disagree with "finally", it is good to have even introductory-level smartphones have that feature as well
5. Nathan_ingx (Posts: 4764; Member since: 07 Mar 2012)
Sarcasm bro!!!
But yes, it's good to see an Android phone that going this way. I don't mind the looks but visibility under directly sunlight is a biggie for me...and this here, seems like a drag.
6. Nathan_ingx (Posts: 4764; Member since: 07 Mar 2012)
*Direct Sunlight!!
|4.3 inches, 540 x 960 pixels (256 ppi) IPS LCD
|5 megapixels
Qualcomm Snapdragon S4 Plus, Dual-core, 1200 MHz
|4.96 x 2.54 x 0.37 inches
(126 x 65 x 9 mm)
4.5 oz (128 g)
|2150 mAh, 8 hours talk time


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A Bit About Me
I am Human Being, Not a Human Doing !
That said, I am a Light Worker in Service in this Time to Assist with Human, Personal, Spiritual, Social & Global Evolution. Continuously Learning and Growing So I Can Continue Providing Energy, Crystal & Etheric Healing Services, Instruction, Feedback, Direction & Related Goods and Tools.
Over the course of this path I've had many absolutely amazingly incredible, experiences, Mentors, teachers, students, friends, loves and partners on the trail. Called Toronto, Edgeware, Dollard Des Ormeaux, Kibbutz Ein Hashofet and Newmarket Home: Lovingly appreciating each for its gifts and wonders.
Having tested and proved the Law of Attraction, I've found myself at the pinnacle of and in the inner sacred circles of Education, Music, Comedy, Domestic and International Politics and have studied at the feet of, played with and exchanged all manor of energy with many of the finest, most beautiful, elegant and gifted beings of our time. (But then, haven't we all?) I am honoured and greatful to be able include YOU as my Sibling on this path!
In What is Considered Conventional Public Education:
- South Prep (In the 1960-1970's, Forest Hill Village Schools did not grant diplomas in Primary School)
- Edgeware Secondary, A.Y. Jackson Secondary, North York Alternative & Independent Study Program
- = Ontario Secondary School Honours Graduate Diploma
In What is Considered Conventional Higher Education:
- Dale Carnegie Course
- Seneca Collage
- York University
- Bachelor of Arts Degree Double Honours in Mass Communication & Political Science: International Relations
- Graduate Program In Communication & Culture
- University of Toronto's McLuhan Institute
- York University Senate
- The Prestigious Finestone-Hoffman Marriage Certificate necessitating a return to Energy Healing to assist in healing cancer.
(As far as work in Diplomacy goes, if you needed to know…You already do!)
In What is Considered as Metaphysical Education:
- Usui Reiki Master Anita Leven
- Usui Shiki Ryoho First & Second Degree in the Usui System of Natural Healing.
In What is Considered as Graduate & Post Graduate Metaphysical Education:
- Usui Reiki Masters The Rev. Donalda Loucks, Pam Wilson, Mari Matte, Garry & Adele Malone, Judith Conroy & Ms. Eleanor Moore
- Usui Shiki Ryoho Master Degree in the Usui System of Natural Healing.
- Chikara-Reiki-Do Master/Teacher
- The Rocky Mountain / Modern Mystery School
- RM, Teacher, Business Administration.
All in All, some rather nicely arranged sheets of paper…
And A Wealth of Achemical Symbols and Sacred Geometry engraved in my Energy and Astral Bodies.
David Finestone 2013.
Oh! You're still here! That's nice, Thank you, here's a little bit more…
Like the vast majority of light workers, I was called into service. It was not my childhood dream to follow this path: Yet once I'd set foot on it, every detour, escape and diversion led me back to Reiki. I was initially told by a channeled entity "to be aware of things spiritual" and on cue, in 1988 Reiki presented itself as "that spiritual thing"!
The next time I took part in anything like the channeling session was when I was introduced to a clairvoyant named Pam Wilson. Before introducing ourselves, Pam remarked "You really are a mess!" Yes I responded, if I weren't wearing my skin I'd be spattered all over your walls! Pam had two suggestions, the first was a "spiritual thing" called Reiki: Pam never got to tell me about the other option. My first of many Reiki experiences was with an extremely gifted Chiropractor and beautiful old soul named Marie Matte.
As she placed her hands over my eyes, I began slipping deeply in to an altered state. She asked who do you see? To my surprise I was face to face with a friend "Biff" who I'd had a falling out with. He went on to tell me that we had been very good friends over several lifetimes and that I had asked him to fulfill a very difficult task in this life.
The history there,"Biff" and I became fast friends in High school, with equal passion for Radio, sports, music and food. He became a Sportscaster with an unequaled ability to gain rapport with the athletes he admired. I worked my way up the ranks in Entertainment, first in Comedy. I cut my teeth on the business side in the same space where Jim Carrey, Mike McDonald, Jeramy Hotz, Norm MacDonald and Howie Mandel all started out. Eventually my love and passion for music won over and I was assisting the best of the best in Canadian music. Bruce had become friends with Blue Jays' ace Dave Steib and I was playing "Donut" Hockey with the management and artists of Anthem records. Introducing Rush "base"ist and baseball hyper enthusiast Geddy Lee to Dave Steib was the match making of a lifetime and Bruce and my careers really began to take off. At the time my dream was to work at Anthem, lo and behold Biff revealed to me that there was a position for me there! Simply put, I'd been misinformed and by the time our friend from Anthem returned from the west coast, he was as surprised at hearing that he had employment for me as I was that he didn't, my fulltime interest and tenure in comedy were lost.
A moment of satori and epiphany, I interrupted Biff to say, "Your task was to make sure I followed my calling, Reiki and you sacrificed our friendship to insure that I did.
"Yes" he answered. Love then forgiveness and admiration swept over me and in a cascade of tears I released the anger and indignation that had been weighing me down for years.
Biff has no inclination of his role in my life and bless his soul, does nothing to aspire to understand it. He remains fulfilled to reflect the light of the personalities he cajoles: yet remains uninterested in the life lessons that underlie, begging to be mined. We met Peter Gabriel during the "So" tour. I remember talking at length with the luminary about all manor of his work and interests, yet all I remember is remarking that his third solo album (Biko) was so powerful and masterful that I felt I was cheating him if I didn't listen to the work from beginning to end. Biff's recollection was that the record company rep, was upset because we spoke so long and he didn't understand anything we spoke about! I am certain however, that the balance congregated got exactly what they needed to understand. But, back to reiki.
"Feeling better?" asked Marie, followed by 'reiki gives you what you need, not necessarily what you expect or want." Sage advice. That weekend I took the first level reiki course and initiation, followed some months later by the second level initiation. My relations with Usui Teacher Master Anita Leven never aspired to depth that I bonded with Pam and Marie, I will always be grateful for her work. Beyond Rev. Donalda Loucks, the Usui Master who performed my Master's attunements, I am most thankful for the friendship and wisdom imparted me by Eleanor F. Moore, an extraordinary healer and mentor from Peterborough, New Hampshire.
Eleanor was as pure a soul as I ever knew. When she was "at" work, her insights and vision still astound my memory. At rest, she was just a girl, as amazed and thankful for her gifts as those who worked with her, were. Explanations were given during sessions, when sprit was with her: Reflection was in admiration only, never in assumption or interpretation. She will forever be my "Scarecrow" for with the exception of my Wife Anne, all the time I've spent over the rainbow, Eleanor gave, loved and taught with out expectation and I still do miss her the most: I like to think that her fulltime job is as "Metatron", her words fell as Shakespeare's' tears –almost to beautiful to be spoken aloud.
My etheric studies, courses and practice over the past twenty five years have been many, varied and most esoteric. Reiki is the discipline by which I came to work and understand Chi, Ki and Prana, I respect and admire all the paths that lead to the deeper work of mindfulness, healing, conciseness and love: or as I like to call it "Energy, Light, Empower." Readings began with Shirley McClain, Carlos Castaneda, Seth/Jane Roberts and Richard Bach: By the time I was invited to attend Mystery School, I had already read ninety per cent of their reading list. A "Solovachic" lineage inspired studies in Kabbalah: which in turn lead to the mystic common ground shared by Islamic / Sufi / Dervish – Verdict / Hindu – Tibetan / Buddhist and Indigenous / Shaman practices. My extensive distance trials via ebay encompassed the globe and lead to deeper insights and collaborations in Quantum Physics studies.
While work in the arts waned, my protracted adolescence continued with the continuing benefits of the Steib-Lee merger. Shortly after being attuned to the second degree a close friend died. I figured then, that the soul is eternal, so I did distance on him while I sat in his unused seat for Joe Jackson. "What do you want?" was what I felt, not unlike his earthly demeanor. Well, I sent, I'm here at a concert you wanted to see and I'm here with your best friends, I just thought that you might like to experience it from our side. "Tsk" came the response, Now I'm part of the music, check it out from over here! And so I did. From that point on, every concert I went to, I did distance on the artist and asked permission to experience their performance energy. This went on for almost five years, the final six months coincided with an awakened passion for Queen. I listened to little else other than what I had to in relation to course I was taking. One day my sister asked me if I had "heard about Freddy Mercury, he has aids". The extent of my reiki was directed to performers, so selfish were my pursuits, I had no idea that anyone might want healing, let alone try to reach out to get it. I did what I did when sending, asked permission and felt the response. "Where have you been?" Is there anything I can do? "No. . .it's too late" Freddy died the next day, as did a part of me. I stopped doing Reiki and focused on my return to school and only the empirical.
On the Empirical side I hold a Double Major Honours Batchelor of Arts degree in Political Science & Mass Communications and Culture (Being a confessed Beatlemanic and NeoLennonist- I took enough Ethnomusicology courses with Grammy award winner, Dr. Rob Bowman to qualify for a third major) at York University in Toronto. I was courted by Neil Postman at NYU and Queensland U. in Australia, but decided to work for the York Think Tank, CulTec until the Joint Graduate Program in Communication & Culture at Ryerson and York Universities got under way. Following an award winning summer at the McLuhan Program at the U of Toronto, I withdrew from Grad. Studies as I was called back into Reiki service when Anne's Cancer returned. Along the way I completed and was a GA with the Dale Carnegie Course. Brief forays into politics at the Federal and International level gleaned an understanding into how the world really works and is run, while equally on the positive side a new Canadian and United Nations paradigm in the dispersing of monies to regional governments known or suspected of using said grants, bursaries or loans for purposes other than the intent and purpose for which they were awarded.
I've worked as Chef named Sous and continue to perspire as an author.
This past year the siren call began again. I'd amassed an electronic library, the content of which could not physically exist in the space I'm afforded. And thanks to online networking, I can now contact more like minded people with the click of a mouse than all those I physically encountered in all of reiki sessions, workshops and courses I've engaged in over the last quarter century. That and the perpetual reoccurrence of not being able to concentrate on anything other than energy work, the message is loud and clear: Back on the path, keep moving forward! Even my computer is in league, as it is only 100% dependable when I use it for energy / Reiki related matters! All attuned once more and looking forward to working with you.


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"Super Moon").
Thick, orgulous cloud has cloaked the heavens, knocking out the Moon and Venus and Mercury close together.
A few hopeful gaps in the cloud allowed us to go to the beach, where we stood in howling wind and drizzle crashing kites into the ground at high speed. sadly, these gaps in the cloud have not translated into anything useful astronomically.
At least I get to stay inside near the heater.
Home » unaided eye » No "Super Moon" for Me
Sunday, June 23, 2013
No "Super Moon" for Me
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Wednesday, March 8, noon–1 p.m.
Speaker: Bennis M. Blue, PhD, Veteran, US Army
In 1978 Blue, a Raleigh native, was the first female member of the 82nd Airborne Division at Fort Bragg. She will share some of her experiences—including her historic first parachute jump with the 82nd—and offer insights for women who might be considering a career in the military.
Purchase a boxed lunch—or just bring your own. Beverages provided. For information, call 919-807-7986.


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The highest court in the European Union issued a ruling Tuesday that is a legal victory of sorts for public forgiveness. It ordered that individuals can demand that Internet search engines like Google remove any links to online information about their past – even if that information is true and even if it has already been posted on a government or newspaper website.
The case was brought by a Spanish man, Mario Costeja González, who says his business reputation was being damaged because a Google search of his name brought up a 15-year-old reference to a published legal case pertaining to his personal debt. He long ago accepted his punishment and paid off the debt. But without that corrective fact on the link, potential clients might wonder if he could be trusted.
The EU court ruling will now allow more than 500 million people in 28 EU countries to challenge such Internet giants as Google, Microsoft, and Yahoo to have links with their names deleted. These companies already take down millions of unlawful postings of copyrighted materials each day. Now, at least in the EU, they face untold numbers of requests to block links to personal data.
The burden on Internet freedom could be huge. But the ruling at least highlights the need for each society, whether in Europe or elsewhere, to confront the challenge of incomplete or false information following someone across the digital universe. It begins to address a fundamental problem for Internet searches: Should links to a person's past mistakes be so easily accessible if that person has also accepted punishment, made legal restitution, and morally atoned?
The court did not rule against the Spanish government or the newspaper, La Vanguardia, that posted information about Mr. Cosetja's debt woes. It said they were acting in "public service." Google, on the other hand, by processing such links within Europe in order to draw advertising money, had violated a right to privacy.
In granting this specific right on Internet searches, the ruling implies a presumption of innocence for individuals. Yet it also places a burden on individuals requesting a removal of links to show that their personal data are "inadequate, irrelevant or no longer relevant, or excessive in relation to the purpose for which they were processed and in the light of the time that has elapsed." In other words, individuals must show a degree of reform, repentance, or other change that would serve to balance any damaging effect on their reputation from an online search.
Managing one's online identity has become a necessity for many people, especially in cases of inaccurate information. Often this is called "impression management," such as adding favorable references about one's self to overwhelm the negative ones. But for those who truly regret past errors, the current Internet can sometimes be unforgiving.
In smaller circles than the Web, such as in local government, a workplace, or a church, someone can be more easily forgiven because all the facts can be more easily discovered. After Rwanda's genocide two decades ago, for example, most cases of murder were handled in villages, not at a national or international level. A repair of relationships and reputations was achieved through fair councils of local justice. Relevant facts were easily made known. Contrition was more easily discerned, making forgiveness more forthcoming.
The Internet has yet to develop such a healing process, one that allows forgiveness in cases when punishment has served its purpose of righting a wrong. Forgiving and forgetting are intrinsically linked. Some parts of the Internet never forgot, or forget incompletely. It is a lesson still to be learned in the Digital Age.


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Acupuncture and oncology massage can benefit patients with cancer during treatment to safely alleviate side effects, and during remission to restore vitality and boost immunity. Both treatments can help reduce stress and improve sleep and overall quality of life.
Acupuncturists promote healing by using tiny needles to stimulate specific points on the body. Acupuncture can complement conventional cancer therapies such as chemotherapy, radiation, biological therapy and surgery. It can ease the effects of cancer treatment, including nausea and vomiting, anxiety, neuropathy, fatigue, pain, headaches, hot flashes, joint pain and arthritis.
Our practitioners are board-certified in acupuncture and traditional Chinese medicine with specialized training in integrative oncology.
Oncology massage is tailored to benefit patients at all states of cancer treatment and recovery, whether it's to address specific side effects or to promote comfort and relaxation. Massage therapists adapt treatment to meet patients' needs depending on where they are in their cancer journey. This kind of therapeutic massage can alleviate stress, muscle aches and tension, fatigue, insomnia and immobility, and more.
Each of our massage therapists has certification in oncology massage. They are trained to customize the massage to meet your individual needs.
Your treatment plan will determine the costs of these services, which may be covered by insurance. Contact us for more information at 844-747-0474.
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