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We know many people end up with a risky pileup of prescribed medications. Many efforts have been made, with varied success, to correct this problem. Yet we’ve usually focused on physician behavior, when there’s another powerful lever: pharmacists.
About 30 percent of older adults in the United States and Canada filled a prescription in the last few years for one of many medications that the American Geriatrics Society recommends they avoid. Such drugs can lead to more harm — like cognitive impairment or falls — than good, and often safer options are available.
“Older adults are taking an awful lot of pills these days — 66 percent take five drugs or more per day, and 27 percent take 10 or more per day — so if some of those pills are no longer necessary and may even be causing harm, why not ask if it is time to deprescribe?” said Dr. Cara Tannenbaum, a professor of medicine and pharmacy at the University of Montreal, and director of the Canadian Deprescribing Network.
It’s not easy to get patients off such drugs, though. Physicians often don’t have enough information about what patients are taking, or may lack the time to talk to patients about these medications. They fear that stopping the drugs might cause harm or make patients upset.
To explore the possible role of pharmacists, Dr. Tannenbaum conducted a large randomized controlled trial over four years in community pharmacies in Quebec. The results of the study were recently published in JAMA.
Patients 65 years or older were randomly assigned to one of two groups. In the intervention group, pharmacists gave both patients and their physicians educational materials on the specific drug that might have been inappropriately prescribed. Such brochures could be delivered by mail or in person. The control group got the usual care, with no educational materials.
Drugs that were targets for deprescribing included sedatives, first-generation antihistamines, glyburide (used to treat diabetes), and certain nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, like ibuprofen or naproxen. The main outcome of interest was the ending of a prescription for one of the four medication classes six months later.
Almost 500 patients, average age 75, participated in the trial, and about 90 percent of them completed it. The intervention made a difference. Within six months, 43 percent of the patients in the intervention group had stopped taking one of the selected medicines. The corresponding figure was 12 percent in the control group.
In medicine, we often focus on the traditional doctor/patient interaction. We tend to ignore practitioners who come into contact with patients more than physicians, who in this case could hand over brochures personally. In the study, pharmacists were also paid to send information to the patients’ doctors ($19 Canadian, equivalent to $14 American, per physician outreach).
Similar studies trying to enlist pharmacists are rare, but not unknown. In a 1996 study in the American Journal of Medicine that randomly assigned 208 patients, half of them had a pharmacist in a Veterans Affairs Medical Center review their medications and make recommendations to their physician. This resulted in improvements in prescriptions in 24 percent of patients versus 6 percent in usual care.
A 1998 study published in JAMA encouraged pharmacists to contact physicians by alerts when they were employing drugs that were not ideal in the care of older people. They were able to reach physicians just over half the time and saw changes in prescriptions about a quarter of the time. This was not a controlled trial, however.
A 2014 study in JAMA Internal Medicine focused on direct-to-consumer educational materials from pharmacists to reduce inappropriate benzodiazepine prescriptions for older people. It worked 27 percent of the time compared with 5 percent in usual care. A 2001 study in the Canadian Medical Association Journal focused on messages sent to physicians only, and found no significant changes.
Dr. Tannenbaum, author of the recent JAMA study, thought that communication was essential to her project’s results: “We first asked primary care providers what information they needed to safely deprescribe patients’ medications,” she said. “Based on the physicians’ answers, we provided pharmacists with a template on how best to communicate the evidence about deprescribing to physicians. When pharmacists equipped patients with the same information, applied specifically to medications the patient had been taking for a while, everyone was on board and keen to initiate a conversation.”
Of course, this study took place in Canada, and pharmacists’ scope of practice may differ in parts of the United States. The pharmacists were also reimbursed for physician contact, which might not occur in the United States. Pharmacists have seen increases in their scope, especially with respect to contraception in Oregon and California, which tend to be supported by patients as well.
Much like another recent study involving barbershops (and pharmacists), this study provides evidence that seemingly intractable problems can be overcome by expanding the focus of our interventions. There are many more professionals involved in health care besides physicians. They can help make health care better. | <urn:uuid:1eb5fa94-daa0-4e18-bbd9-55a5ea97f5f6> | CC-MAIN-2019-30 | https://www.nytimes.com/2019/01/28/upshot/pharmacists-drugs-health-unsung-role.html | s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2019-30/segments/1563195524503.7/warc/CC-MAIN-20190716055158-20190716081158-00245.warc.gz | en | 0.961733 | 1,055 | 2.6875 | 3 |
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Teacher Resources by Grade
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Weaving the Threads: Integrating Poetry Annotation and Web Technology
|Grades||6 – 8|
|Lesson Plan Type||Standard Lesson|
|Estimated Time||Five 50-minute sessions|
Grand Rapids, Michigan
MATERIALS AND TECHNOLOGY
- Collection of poems written by modern Native American writers
- HTML Editor
Grades 3 – 12 | Student Interactive | Organizing & Summarizing
The Webbing Tool provides a free-form graphic organizer for activities that ask students to pursue hypertextual thinking and writing.
- National Museum of the American Indian
- Example of Poetry Annotation Web
- Native American Authors Project
- The teacher needs to gather a collection of poems written by modern Native American writers such as Scott Momaday, Shirley Hill Witt, and Mary TallMountain. Some resources for finding poems include: National Museum of the American Indian and Native American Authors Project.
- Test the Webbing Tool Student Interactive on your computers to familiarize yourself with the tool and ensure that you have the Flash plug-in installed. You can download the plug-in from the technical support page. | <urn:uuid:1345d706-400b-4f1e-890f-5fd44c7dd525> | CC-MAIN-2016-22 | http://www.readwritethink.org/classroom-resources/lesson-plans/weaving-threads-integrating-poetry-36.html?tab=3 | s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2016-22/segments/1464049276567.28/warc/CC-MAIN-20160524002116-00145-ip-10-185-217-139.ec2.internal.warc.gz | en | 0.877564 | 361 | 3.484375 | 3 |
WEST LAFAYETTE, Ind. – Poor diet and lack of exercise are behind just as many cancer cases as smoking, says Dennis Savaiano, dean of Purdue's School of Consumer and Family Sciences and professor of foods and nutrition.
"Approximately one-third of cancer cases are related to smoking, one-third to poor diet and lack of exercise, and one-third to genetic or other factors," he says. "Most Americans are already aware of the detrimental effects of smoking, but the rate of obesity and poor diet in this country is cause for alarm."
Savaiano, who is chairman of the Food and Nutrition Science Alliance, or FANSA, recently worked with several of the organization's members to review scientific studies on diet and cancer. FANSA is a joint committee of the American Dietetic Association, the American Society for Nutritional Sciences, the American Society for Clinical Nutrition and the Institute of Food Technologists.
The group has issued a statement urging Americans to change their diets to help reduce the number of cancer-related deaths.
Savaiano notes that though some types of cancer are more influenced by diet than others, nutrition and food scientists agree that there are four practical diet-related ways to lower cancer risk:
• Eat plenty of fruits, vegetables, whole grains and legumes in accordance with the U.S. Department of Agriculture's Food Guide Pyramid.
• Avoid empty calories from highly processed foods that are high in fat and/or sugar.
• Choose activities that involve moderate or vigorous exercise.
• Limit or abstain from alcohol.
He says that consumers should not let fear of pesticide residues deter them from eating fruits and vegetables, because the benefits of eating these foods appear to outweigh any potential risk.
Savaiano attributes Americans' difficulty in developing a healthy lifestyle to several factors, including lack of knowledge on how to implement specific actions and a lack of marketing forces aimed at creating consumer demand for a healthy lifestyle.
"Many foods that are widely advertised tend to be high in calories and relatively low in nutrients, while few advertisements appear for less processed foods such as vegetables and fruits or whole grains and beans," he says.
Long workweeks also translate into less time for meal preparation, he says, noting that meals often are purchased as takeout or from fast-food restaurants.
Savaiano says that in order to effect a change, all food, nutrition, fitness, health and government organizations must work together to promote healthy lifestyles.
Cite This Page: | <urn:uuid:d3e93877-5508-4c63-838a-ec36e8ad73ba> | CC-MAIN-2017-09 | https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2000/02/000222065054.htm | s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2017-09/segments/1487501172156.69/warc/CC-MAIN-20170219104612-00272-ip-10-171-10-108.ec2.internal.warc.gz | en | 0.958974 | 514 | 3.125 | 3 |
It’s a convent now, not a monastery. It’s been a nunnery for much longer than it ever was a monks’ place. But it’s the word monasterium that lent its name to the town of Müstair, and to the valley it lies at the end of. It’s the easternmost municipality in Switzerland, located in the southeast corner of the canton of Grison (Graubünden in German).
Even though there’s a through road into Italy, and bikers, cyclists and sports car drivers all vie for road space further up the valley as they blast their way up the Umbrail and Stelvio passes, this place today feels like a dead end, and it’s all the better for it. A rare thing for an Alpine valley of any significance, it has no railway, and the valley stream, the Rum, or Rom, or whatever other vowels the local languages and dialects can throw at it, is left completely unchannelled and undammed.
When Charlemagne traversed this valley in 776, after defeating the Northern Italian kingdom of the Longobards, it was very much a crossroads of civilizations. To the south lay Italy, to the west Charlemagne’s traditional power base, the Frankish Empire, and to the north and east the Duchy of Bavaria – whose rulers, like the Longobards, were linked to Charlemagne by marriage, but all the same found themselves at the receiving end of his strategic planning not much later.
The founding myth of St. John’s monastery at Müstair says that Charlemagne got into trouble in a snowdrift on his descent down Umbrail pass, and when he finally made his way down to the valley floor safely, he thanked God by pleading to found an abbey. St. John’s perfectly shows the dichotomy that is Charlemagne: a brilliant and often brutal warlord, the monastery’s strategic location certainly wouldn’t have escaped him. Yet it is also a key example of the Carolingean Renaissance – the focus that King, and later Emperor, Charlemagne placed on education, unification of the Christian faith, the arts, and the rule of law.
The valley may be remote, but its beauty and significance are getting noticed. The monastery, of which church and chapel date back to the 700s, is a Unesco World Heritage site, and the whole valley, along with the Swiss National Park further up the road, has been declared a Unesco Bio Reserve.
The Swiss National Park – the country has only one, so that’s what it’s called – was created just over 100 years ago to preserve the Alpine ecosystem, not to showcase any particular bit of scenery. The authorities probably nominated this remote chunk of the country as the rest was already overtaken by mass tourism – Matterhorn was first ascended in 1865, and the opening of the narrow-gauge railway all the way inside and to the top of the Jungfrau (which ironically means virgin) in 1912 may have confirmed the decision.
The result is a pristine Alpine valley. The National Park, and areas beyond, offer great day hikes. The Müstair valley focuses on sustainable tourism and the network of postal buses that serve trailheads offers lots of one way hiking opportunities. Hiking signposts out in the woods even indicate which destinations are served by bus. The valley appears to have relatively little holiday apartments owned by absentee city dwellers, and many of its inhabitants run bio-responsible farms.
Judging by the number of “Gruezis” and “Allegras” (Allegra is the cheerful Romansh greeting) you hear on the trails and in the towns, this part of Switzerland is not yet overrun by package tours from overseas , but mainly serves the Swiss themselves. You could do worse than take their hint – the Swiss know a thing or two about natural beauty.
Added bonus in the lower part of the valley around Müstair is that all your pictures will be photo bombed by the crenelated silhouette of St. John’s monastery, and that the progress of your hiking will not only marked by the bells hung around the necks of cattle and goats, but also by those of the abbey. | <urn:uuid:536f395a-28c9-4a28-88e2-72032b526c57> | CC-MAIN-2019-30 | https://deademperorssociety.com/2015/07/ | s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2019-30/segments/1563195526560.40/warc/CC-MAIN-20190720173623-20190720195623-00126.warc.gz | en | 0.965311 | 904 | 2.765625 | 3 |
The Day of the Apostles Peter and Paul
July 12, 2011
On July 12 the Orthodox Christian Church celebrates the Day of the Apostles Peter and Paul. Jesus Christ chose Peter (who was a fisherman called Simon at that time) together with his brother Andrew as his disciples. Simon became the most devoted follower of Jesus and for his strong belief Jesus named him Peter which means “rock” in Greek.
The original name of Paul was Saul and at first he was a cruel persecutor of Christians. But after he had the vision on the way to Damascus he was baptized and became a faithful confessor of Christianity. Both Peter and Paul ended their lives in Rome. Paul was put to death by orders of Emperor Nero. He had the rights of a Roman citizen, which meant that he could be put to death by having his head cut off with a sword, rather than by crucifixion. Peter was crucified. Thinking that he was not good enough to die as Christ he asked the executioners to crucify him upside down.
In Russia people began to worship Saints Peter and Paul more than a thousand years ago. In commemoration of the service and sufferings of the Holy Apostles the Orthodox Church established the Fast of the Apostles. During this fast Orthodox believers exclude from their meals meat, eggs, milk and on some days also fish. The fast may last from eight days to six weeks depending on the date of Easter. This year the Fast was long and lasted six weeks.
There is a special message in every holiday of the Orthodox Church which tells people how they should live. The Day of Saints Peter and Paul is an appeal to missionary work. Of course, not many people nowadays set out for missionary journeys and it is not possible for everyone. Still there is one simple mission for everyone of us – try to be a little ray of sunlight for other people.
This year for the first time this feast will be celebrated on the city-wide level, at the territory of the Peter-and-Paul fortress. The special morning service at St. Peter-and-Paul cathedral will be followed with the secular festivities. The cathedral is dedicated to Saints Peter and Paul, the patron saints of the fortress (Saint Peter being the patron saint of the city). The current building, being the first stone church in St. Petersburg, was designed by Trezzini and built between 1712 and 1733. It is the second one on the site. Its golden spire reaches the height of 404 feet and features at its top an angel, holding a cross. This angel is one of the most important symbols of St. Petersburg and the Cathedral has been its one of the most sacred places for over 300 years.
The official opening ceremony of the secular part of the festivity will start at 3-00 p.m. at the Naryshkin bastion, which will become the center of the event. During the day there will be reconstructions of historic battles – and the participants will be wearing uniforms of various armies of different epochs, one can see the performances of military brass brands, concerts of classical music. Art workshops for both, kids and adults will work there. The art gallery in the open air will represent lots of works, made by St. Petersburg painters. In the water area of the Neva-river there will be a festive regatta, given by the young yachtsmen. The culmination of the event will be a huge pie, for a symbolic fee you will be able to taste it. The holiday will be completed with a carillon concert.
From now on this feast will be celebrated annually, thus introducing a new tradition in the life of St. Petersburg. | <urn:uuid:c94afe49-5fd5-4d56-a295-bdf4defa225b> | CC-MAIN-2019-47 | https://dancing-bear-tours.com/blog/day-of-peter-and-paul-in-st-petersburg/ | s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2019-47/segments/1573496668534.60/warc/CC-MAIN-20191114182304-20191114210304-00339.warc.gz | en | 0.972239 | 746 | 2.828125 | 3 |
Local park and recreation departments critical to reversing “indoor generation” trend
The National Recreation and Park Association (NRPA) has joined with National Wildlife Federation (NWF) in its unprecedented goal to get 10 million more kids to spend more time outdoors over the next three years. Working together, NRPA and NWF will combat the growing trend of “indoor childhood” and lack of “green time” among our nation’s youth. This partnership was announced today at the NRPA Annual Congress and Exposition. Public park and recreation departments in communities across the country will play a major role in accomplishing this vital goal.
Research shows children are spending long hours indoors using electronic media yet they spend only mere minutes a day in unstructured outdoor play. This is affecting the health and well-being of children and is quickly causing a generation of kids who are becoming less healthy and who are disconnected from the natural world around them.
Parks and recreation are uniquely equipped with expertise, access, programs and resources to make a significant contribution toward reversing this disturbing trend and achieving the 10 Million Kids Outdoors goal. As the largest source of open space lands in the country, parks play a critical role in the quality of life for all Americans, but especially our nation’s children. Local park and recreation agencies serve an essential role in preserving natural resources, providing open space and cultivating a connection to nature and the outdoors that can last a lifetime.
“We know that when children spend time outdoors they are more active and their overall well-being improves,” says Barbara Tulipane, President and CEO of NRPA. “Our nation’s parks and recreation areas are not just a solution for better health, but are the answer to inspiring a healthier generation of youth who appreciate and care for our open space lands and who will engage in environmental stewardship that will benefit our future.”
“National Wildlife Federation is committed to working with park and recreation departments so that children can get the outdoor time they need,” says Larry Schweiger, NWF President and CEO. “There’s a reason they call it the Great Outdoors, and we’re going to make sure kids know why. This work is too important to lose another generation before we tackle the problem.”
The 10 Million Kids Outdoors goal encourages kids to get outdoors and explore, play, and learn for 90 minutes per week. This outdoor time excludes time spent outdoors in organized sports, which while beneficial, does not provide children the same benefits as outdoor play in green spaces. By increasing outdoor time to 90 minutes per week, NRPA and NWF believe it will contribute to a significant increase in children’s connection to nature due in part to more time spent outdoors.
NRPA is calling on all park and recreation professionals and agencies to pledge their support for the 10 Million Kids Outdoors goal by signing up online to participate in the effort. NRPA and NWF are also calling on other child-serving organizations and all parents to join in this effort by committing to getting their kids to spend more time each week in outdoor activities.
To help achieve the 10 Million Kids Outdoors goal NRPA, with the support of NWF, will bolster park and recreation departments’ capabilities to connect children to nature and help them increase awareness of the benefits of connecting children to nature through local parks by providing a suite of resources and materials specifically for parks and recreation to utilize in this effort.
For more information about the 10 Million Kids Outdoors goal, or to participate, visit www.nwf.org/10Million/nrpa.
Logo courtesy National Recreation and Park Association | <urn:uuid:83e2d7f1-f65d-451a-924e-ebf30f21063a> | CC-MAIN-2017-47 | https://www.outdoorhub.com/news/2012/10/17/nrpa-and-national-wildlife-federation-join-forces-on-goal-to-connect-10-million-more-kids-to-nature/ | s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2017-47/segments/1510934806422.29/warc/CC-MAIN-20171121185236-20171121205236-00543.warc.gz | en | 0.948486 | 756 | 2.671875 | 3 |
Niccolò de' Conti Facts
The Venetian merchant-adventurer Niccolò de'Conti (ca. 1396-1469) contributed greatly to Europe's knowledge of the Eastern world.
Niccolò de'Conti was from a noble mercantile family; at an early age he decided to follow in the family tradition by establishing a lucrative trading operation in the East. Unlike most of his fellow Venetians, however, Conti did not concentrate solely on trade with Egypt. In 1419 he began a journey—reminiscent of that of Marco Polo—which lasted nearly a quarter of a century and took him to the Near and Far East. Like Marco Polo, Conti displayed a facility for language and for recording his observations for posterity.
The first phase of Conti's odyssey included a stay in Syria, where he spent enough time to learn to speak the Arabic language. He traveled overland through the desert to Baghdad; from there he moved on to Persia (modern Iran), where he founded a trading company with local merchants. In the course of his business activities, Conti added the Persian language to his repertory. With Persia as his base, Conti extended his operations into India. Sailing extensively in the Indian Ocean, Conti recorded many of his impressions as he landed at various cities. During these years he had an opportunity to experience Indian life personally, since he married an Indian woman and began to raise a family. It was probably at this time that Conti renounced Christianity. It is not clear whether this was done out of conviction or necessity.
Conti eventually extended his visit to the East Indies. His trip there included stops at Sumatra and the Malay Peninsula, a venture that proved extremely profitable. He returned with a shipload of Sumatran spices, gold, and precious stones. From the Malay Peninsula he sailed northward to Burma, which provided more cargo as well as numerous exotic stories. This part of his long travels included a stop at Java, after which he sailed for Venice.
The trip home was marked by frequent trading stops. He returned via the Red Sea and Suez and finally arrived in Venice in 1444. The reaction to his return was mixed. He was lionized because of the glamour of his long, lucrative trip, while his Indian wife and children were objects of a great deal of curiosity. But Conti's renunciation of Christianity, for whatever reasons, could not be officially condoned. Thus, as Conti's penance, Pope Eugene IV ordered him to provide a detailed, accurate account of what he had done and seen. The result was an account that remains one of the most informative narratives of southeastern Asia to emerge from the early Renaissance period. Like Marco Polo, Conti helped shape Europe's concept of the outside world.
Further Reading on Niccolò de' Conti
There is no biography of Conti. Useful background studies are Boies Penrose, Travel and Discovery in the Renaissance: 1420-1620 (1952), and J. H. Parry, The Age of Reconnaissance (1963). | <urn:uuid:1bf0ef7f-751f-4b11-ace6-9386889b2e43> | CC-MAIN-2014-35 | http://biography.yourdictionary.com/niccolo-de-conti | s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2014-35/segments/1408500822053.47/warc/CC-MAIN-20140820021342-00452-ip-10-180-136-8.ec2.internal.warc.gz | en | 0.979153 | 647 | 3.140625 | 3 |
The gold to oil ratio is an important indicator of the global economy’s health.
Because gold and crude oil are both denominated in US dollars, they are strongly linked. That is because as the US dollar rises, commodities priced in USD fall, and vice versa. As the dollar drops, commodities generally go up.
Another important link between gold and oil is inflation. Because energy comprises about one-third of the Consumer Price Index (CPI), when crude oil rises it impacts inflation. Gold being a traditional inflation hedge, it follows that as higher oil prices lead to increased inflation, the gold price goes up, as more investors buy gold to diversify out of inflation-losing assets like bonds and cash.
Gold and oil are further related in that a spike in oil prices dampens economic growth, because so many industries depend on it and its derivatives as a fuel source, i.e., natural gas, gasoline and diesel.
(Diesel fuel is a major input for gold mining operations, therefore as fuel costs rise, so does a producer’s costs per ounce, which can lead to lower output. If this happens across the industry, lower gold supply versus demand will hike prices).
A drop in global growth, particularly in the two largest economies, the United States and China, might signal a recession is coming which is almost always bullish for gold prices.
The chart below shows the historical ratio between the gold price and West Texas Intermediate (WTI) crude. Simply put, the gold to oil ratio is how many barrels of oil can be bought with an ounce of gold.
The chart is interesting for a number of reasons.
Notice that almost all of the low points in the chart, when the ratio was below the historical average of 16, correspond to recessions (gray bars). This makes sense due to the fact that crude oil declines go hand in hand with low economic growth.
In September 1990 the gold to oil ratio was 9.84, it was 9.26 in January 2001, 6.64 in June 2008 and 22.06 in January 2009. What was happening to WTI crude and spot gold during these times? For the first two data points, both WTI and gold are relatively low — oil was $29/barrel and gold was $386/oz in September 1990; in early 2001, oil was $26 and gold was $266. In June 2008 oil was $139 and gold had risen to $871, squeezing the ratio to 6.64. However six months later, in January 2009, the ratio jumps to 22.06, as a result of oil falling to $42, and gold holding its own at $905.
For what’s been happening with the gold to oil ratio recently, it helps to consult the five-year chart below. The ratio spikes to an “off the charts” 91 in April 2020, the worst month of the coronavirus pandemic, before recovering about half to 46.62 in May, from which point it continues to fall to the current December 2021 ratio of 25.5. The all-time high of 91 in April 2020 was a combination of plummeting WTI which at that time was $16.80 against a gold price of roughly $1,625. Remember oil usually falls during recessions and gold rises. However the covid-19 recession was extremely short-lived, depicted in the historical gold to oil ratio chart as a very thin gray line. As economies recovered, growth and oil demand surged, thus lowering the ratio. When gold hit its all-time high of $2,034 in August 2020, WTI was still floundering at around $32. It took a more than doubling of WTI over the next 15 months, and gold to fall around $200, for the ratio to revert back to 25, a long way from its historic high of 91 but still higher than its average 16.
Energy prices going ballistic
This year China and Europe experienced an energy crisis.
Flooding across China’s key coal-producing provinces, resurgent demand for Chinese goods in the wake of pandemic easing, and market distortions including power rationing and price controls, were behind an energy shortage that pushed coal and natural gas prices to record highs.
In Europe, a colder-than normal last winter depleted natural gas inventories, causing electricity prices to soar, as demand from rebounding economies surged too fast for supplies to match, BNN Bloomberg reported.
Natural gas futures hit a record earlier this year, climbing several times from their May 2020 lows, as the graph below by Sunshine Profits shows.
The price rise was not only due to last year’s depleted inventories and a cold autumn, but a faster than expected recovery from the pandemic, ultra-low interest rates and record-level government spending on pandemic relief that boosted spending and increased demand for energy.
More fundamentally, the decline in energy prices in response to the economic crisis of 2020 prompted many producers to stop drilling and later supply simply didn’t catch up with surging demand, Sunshine Profits states.
Oil reportedly extended gains to the highest in three weeks, last Thursday, as US crude stockpiles dropped the most since September.
The usual energy market dynamics are being overshadowed by the global transition from fossil-fueled energy generation to renewable power sources namely wind, solar and hydro.
As governments and institutional investors divest themselves of funds that traditionally flowed into fossil fuels, i.e. coal/ oil & gas producers, or pipeline infrastructure, they are trying to bring on renewables to replace the lost output. Read more here
However, with this year’s calm conditions in Europe generating little wind energy, and with no easy way to store the energy generated from renewables, utilities are finding they must continue to utilize “dirty” coal and NG, despite commitments to lessen their dependence on fossil fuels to fight climate change.
In fact according to new data from the International Energy Agency (IEA), global power generation from coal this year is forecast to soar 9%, to an all-time high of 10,350 terawatt-hours. Coal use is being driven by a huge increase in natural gas prices, with power plants sourcing coal as a cheaper alternative.
“The rebound is being driven by this year’s rapid economic recovery, which has pushed up electricity demand much faster than low-carbon supplies can keep up,” the IEA said, via Mining Weekly.
The organization notes that energy-intensive industries like cement and steel are expected to increase coal demand by 6% in 2021, and says a new record high could be set in 2022.
Asia dominates the global coal market with China and India accounting for two-thirds of demand.
“Coal is the single-largest source of global carbon emissions, and this year’s historically high level of coal power generation is a worrying sign of how far off track the world is in its efforts to put emissions into decline towards net zero,” said IEA executive director Faith Birol.
“Without strong and immediate actions by governments to tackle coal emissions — in a way that is fair, affordable and secure for those affected — we will have little chance, if any at all, of limiting global warming to 1.5 °C.”
In Europe, all eyes are on the weather as the northern hemisphere winter sets in, and how the cold could affect energy demand and supply.
Natural gas prices in Germany and France are already at record highs while the weather is relatively mild; the forecast calls for colder than normal for the rest of December and into January.
Zero Hedge reports benchmark natural gas prices surged to a new high last week. German “day-ahead” electricity prices are at a record-high 431 euros per megawatt hour, while in France, power prices are at decade highs.
Bloomberg reports Surging energy prices are driving inflation and forcing gas-hungry industries to curb output. If it’s cold too, then rolling blackouts could be a last resort.
Analysts say it would only take a few degrees colder to trigger a market meltdown. The worry is that, while there is currently enough natural gas capacity to see the region through the winter, it could run out before the weather warms up.
Geopolitical tensions are also playing into the energy crisis. There is the potential for Russian gas destined for Europe to be curbed or halted completely if Russia invades Ukraine. A conflict could also further delay the start of the Nord Stream 2 pipeline linking Russia and Germany.
Commodities consultant Wood Mackenzie says if Russian gas exports stay at current levels, Europe’s storage sites will be 15% less full at the end of March, the lowest on record.
“We believe there is a high likelihood of both prolonged and even higher prices through winter with after-effects that could stretch beyond the next two years,” Bloomberg quoted Nathan Piper, head of oil and gas research at Investec Bank Ltd.
Making matters worse, a third of France’s nuclear capacity will be halted in January and three of Germany’s nuclear plants will be shut by the end of this month.
A wildcard is whether the surge in the omicron variant of covid-19 triggers lockdowns and curbs energy output.
For now higher energy prices are having an effect on European inflation. The European Central Bank is projecting 3.2% inflation in 2022 with 66% of that increase due to energy price gains. Persistent inflation in Britain was behind a decision last week to raise interest rates for the first time in three years.
Oil demand outstripping supply
At AOTH, we don’t see energy inflation stopping, due to what was mentioned previously — the lack of exploration spending on finding new sources of oil supply.
Trouble is, we’ve been so focused on expanding renewable energy, before it can actually replace fossil fuels, that we have virtually guaranteed oil (and natural gas) prices will stay high for the foreseeable future.
A very interesting Washington Post article has Saudi Arabia’s Oil Minister, Abdulaziz bin Salman, warning of a collapse in oil supply due to falling investment in fossil fuels:
The prince warned that worldwide oil production could fall by 30 million barrels a day by the end of the decade because there is not enough being spent on the exploration for and development of new resources. That implies production of less than 70 million barrels a day.
If Saudi Arabia is right, and stats by the IEA suggest it is, the article goes on to explain that the world’s affordable oil isn’t going to disappear anytime soon; and that despite its vast oil reserves, Saudi can’t supply the market all by itself.
Notwithstanding the global movement to electrification and decarbonization, Saudi Arabia does not see much of a reduction in oil demand — only around 9 million barrels of oil a day, or 9%. Even with COP26, the Saudi minister says the world will need about 90 million bod by 2030, leaving a shortfall of 22Mbod, more oil than was consumed by the US in 2019.
Where will this new supply come from? According to the article, Saudi Arabia, holder of the world’s largest oil reserves, only plans on adding another 1Mbod in the next few years. There are plans to bring on other big projects in places like Kazakhstan, Azerbaijan and Brazil, but with output from all the fields currently in production declining, at an average rate of anywhere from 4% to 8% a year depending whose estimates you take, you need a lot of investment just to stand still.
US shale oil producers will continue to frack away at their reserves, but by the end of next year, the United States is expected to be 760,000 bod below its pre-pandemic production peak:
The heady days of the first and second shale booms have passed.
Global expenditure on oil and gas projects slumped 30% to $309 billion in 2020 and has only recovered slightly this year. It needs to get back to near pre-pandemic levels of $525 billion a year for the rest of the decade to meet demand growth, according to Riyadh-based think tank the International Energy Forum and consultants IHS Markit…
We ignore those warnings at our peril. A 30-million barrel a day drop in oil supply might seem like a victory to the most short-sighted of environmental campaigners, but without an accompanying fall in oil demand, it will come with a price tag none of us can afford — oil prices at levels never before imagined.
(At AOTH, we have already written the real story of fracked gas. The US ‘Sultans of Shale’ have had it good for a long time, but the party in the Permian and other US oil shale basins is coming to an end. Not right away, but at most, the fast-depleting shale oil fields which produce via hydraulic fracturing and horizontal directional drilling, are likely to last another few years. 2020, Reuters reported that output from seven major shale formations is expected to decline by about 68,000 bopd, to 7.6 million bopd.
This is because shale oil wells are gushers in their first year, then deplete rapidly. Shale companies are therefore money losers because they have to keep ploughing more money into production just to keep output flat, a phenomenon known as “The Red Queen Syndrome.” Shale wells typically bleed off 70 to 90% in their first three years, and drop by 20 to 40% a year without new drilling.)
A recent report by earth scientist David Hughes confirms these findings. His Shale Reality Check 2021 rejects forecasts made by the US Energy Information Administration’s forecasts counting on shale for 69% of US oil production from 2020-50 and 77% of all US natural gas production in the same period. Of the 13 major plays he evaluated, Hughes rated the EIA’s production forecast for five as “moderately optimistic,” five as “highly optimistic” and three as “extremely optimistic”.
Energy inflation and gold
As for what surging oil and natural gas prices might mean for gold, Sunshine Profits notes that energy shortages will be a drag on GDP, with a slowdown in economic growth being positive for the precious metal especially if it brings us closer to stagflation, defined as low growth plus high inflation.
The publication also says higher natural gas prices could support high producer and consumer inflation. As we reported last week, US CPI was up 6.8% in November compared to a year earlier, while the latest PPI data point clocked in at 9.6% for November, year over year — close to double-digit inflation.
Another inflationary factor is power shortages in China as they will add to current supply disruptions, Sunshine Profits asserts, before concluding:
So far, gold has rather ignored the unfolding energy crisis, but we’ve already seen that market narratives can change quickly. It’s therefore possible that prolonged supply disruption and high inflation could change investors’ attitude toward the yellow metal at some point.
Last week a majority of the Federal Open Market Committee (FOMC) forecasted three quarter-point rate increases in 2022, a tightening of monetary policy after holding borrowing costs near 0% since March 2020.
The Fed is reacting to higher-than-expected inflation which officials previously argued would fade as supply chain pressures owing to covid-19 eased. Instead inflation has soared, with the US Consumer Price Index reaching a 40-year high fanned by a continuation of the pandemic, supply chain bottlenecks and strong demand for goods and services amid unprecedented fiscal and monetary policy support.
But, raising rates by <1% will not stop food inflation. Skyrocketing prices of everything from meat and eggs to dairy and pasta, both in Canada and the United States, is only partially due to supply chain disruptions. Food inflation is also being driven by record-high fertilizer prices and climate change.
The fertilizer market has been pummeled this year due to extreme weather, plant shutdowns and the soaring cost of natural gas, the main feedstock for nitrogen fertilizer.
As for climate change, we know that higher temperatures lower crop production, droughts like we experienced this past summer ruin crops and cause feed prices to soar, leaving ranchers no choice but to cull their herds. The prices of staple crops like corn, wheat and soybeans have all tracked higher.
The costs of shelter and transportation have also risen dramatically. From a year ago this past June lumber prices rocketed 377%, partly due to high demand for renovations by covid-bound homeowners. Lumber prices will likely be pressured in coming years with regular forest fires, along with a shorter logging season.
Wolf Street reports “actual home prices have spiked by historic amounts,” with the Case-Schiller Home Price Index which tracks price changes of the same house over time, soaring 20% year over year. The “owner’s equivalent of rent” which measures the costs of home ownership is also tracking higher.
Interest rates are staying at zero for now and we have a very modest set of increases next year that will do next to nothing to reduce inflation. How can a 1% increase at the high end of the range possibly do anything to stop the 9% increase in goods prices and the 7% inflation in services?
Is it any wonder that spot gold shot up immediately following the Fed announcement, two days later hitting $1,812?
In our opinion we see nothing but positives for gold going forward, given the Federal Reserve’s inadequate response to rising inflation which is not longer seen as temporary, or transitory, but a more “sticky” feature of the economy.
The longer that energy, food and transportation prices, three main components of the CPI, remain elevated, the better it is for gold, the oldest and arguably the most successful hedge against inflation.
Inflation erodes the purchasing power of fiat currencies and eventually they become worthless.
The dollar has lost 90% of its purchasing power since 1950. By contrast, since 1972 gold has gone from $35/oz to $1,800.
Earlier on we discussed the gold to oil ratio, finding that while the ratio hit a record 91 in April 2020, it has since fallen to about 25, due mostly to the phenomenal rise in oil prices built on the economic recovery from the pandemic.
That is still higher than the ratio’s historical average of 16, suggesting it could tighten further. For that to happen either gold prices need to rise or oil prices need to fall.
Our research has found a lot of evidence to suggest that oil prices will keep going up.
We believe the Saudis are right in saying that, without a major increase in oil exploration, global oil production could fall by 30 million barrels a day by the end of the decade.
This is being allowed to happen because governments around the world wish to see a shift to renewable energy. A lot of oil and gas investment is being moved to renewables, at least partly driven by ESG concerns; we’re rushing pell mell into “green” everything without adequately replacing our fossil-fuel resources. That means not looking for enough oil, not pumping enough oil, and not putting enough into key energy infrastructure projects like pipelines.
We only have to look at what’s happening in Europe, which is hitting record energy prices that are being foisted on a populace who most certainly didn’t vote for that.
Unfortunately, Europe’s energy crisis could soon reach across the Atlantic. American shale oil production has reached its peak and is in decline, due to the “Red Queen Syndrome” of depleted reservoirs. Output from other big fields currently in production are also declining, anywhere from 4 to 8% a year, meaning it’s going to take a lot of investment “just to stand still”. Again, the Red Queen Syndrome.
Without this investment materializing, and we don’t think it will, after all, investing in oil and gas is now seen by a lot of people as regressive, we can’t see any other scenario than for oil and NG prices to keep moving higher, and for gold to follow suit, as the reality of inflation is brought home to investors and they look to gold bullion and/or junior gold stocks as a smart way to hedge their bets.
Richard (Rick) Mills
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Offering a unique blend of solid theoretical content and student accessibility, this text stands apart with its emphasis on intriguing applications that convey the prevalence of economics in everyday life. By applying economics to phenomenon that students are familiar with and interested in, this book demonstrates like no other text how economic analysis can be applied to virtually anything of interest, thus helping students develop true economic intuition. Additional student-oriented features include a unique active-learning format, an emphasis on developing economic analysis skills, and an outstanding visual program for exhibits and graphs. Content highlights include balanced presentation of major macro theories; a micro presentation that centers around the trilogy of objectives, constraints, and choices; thorough integration of international topics; and fully-integrated Internet features that offer hands-on exercises for exploring economics on-line. Microeconomics, 5e is also available in a macro split and both micro/macro are in the principles text.
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Dr. Roger A. Arnold is Professor of Economics at California State University San Marcos, where his fields of specialization include general microeconomic theory and monetary theory. A widely respected authority on economic issues, Dr. Arnold is a regularly featured expert on talk radio discussing the state of the economy. He is also a proven author, who has written numerous academic articles, hundreds of newspaper columns, as well as the popular ECONOMICS: NEW WAYS OF THINKING and principles of macroeconomics supplementary text, HOW TO THINK LIKE AN ECONOMIST. Dr. Arnold has been a member of the economics faculty at California State University Northridge, University of Oklahoma, Hillsdale College, University of Nevada Las Vegas, and California State University San Marcos. He served as chair of the economics department for two years at University of Nevada Las Vegas and for seven years at California State University San Marcos. He is currently chair of the economics department at California State University San Marcos. During his tenure at UNLV he was regularly one of the top five finalists for the teacher of the year honor (in the College of Business and Economics), and in 1987 he received the best researcher of the year award. Dr. Arnold earned a B.S. in Economics in 1974 from the University of Birmingham in England and received his M.A. in 1976 and his Ph.D. in 1979 from Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University.Review:
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There are many situations in combinatorics in which one is running some sort of iteration algorithm to continually “improve” some object ; each loop of the algorithm replaces with some better version of itself, until some desired property of is attained and the algorithm halts. In order for such arguments to yield a useful conclusion, it is often necessary that the algorithm halts in a finite amount of time, or (even better), in a bounded amount of time. (In general, one cannot use infinitary iteration tools, such as transfinite induction or Zorn’s lemma, in combinatorial settings, because the iteration processes used to improve some target object often degrade some other finitary quantity in the process, and an infinite iteration would then have the undesirable effect of making infinite.)
A basic strategy to ensure termination of an algorithm is to exploit a monotonicity property, or more precisely to show that some key quantity keeps increasing (or keeps decreasing) with each loop of the algorithm, while simultaneously staying bounded. (Or, as the economist Herbert Stein was fond of saying, “If something cannot go on forever, it must stop.”)
Here are four common flavours of this monotonicity strategy:
- The mass increment argument. This is perhaps the most familiar way to ensure termination: make each improved object “heavier” than the previous one by some non-trivial amount (e.g. by ensuring that the cardinality of is strictly greater than that of , thus ). Dually, one can try to force the amount of “mass” remaining “outside” of in some sense to decrease at every stage of the iteration. If there is a good upper bound on the “mass” of that stays essentially fixed throughout the iteration process, and a lower bound on the mass increment at each stage, then the argument terminates. Many “greedy algorithm” arguments are of this type. The proof of the Hahn decomposition theorem in measure theory also falls into this category. The general strategy here is to keep looking for useful pieces of mass outside of , and add them to to form , thus exploiting the additivity properties of mass. Eventually no further usable mass remains to be added (i.e. is maximal in some sense), and this should force some desirable property on .
- The density increment argument. This is a variant of the mass increment argument, in which one increments the “density” of rather than the “mass”. For instance, might be contained in some ambient space , and one seeks to improve to (and to ) in such a way that the density of the new object in the new ambient space is better than that of the previous object (e.g. for some ). On the other hand, the density of is clearly bounded above by . As long as one has a sufficiently good lower bound on the density increment at each stage, one can conclude an upper bound on the number of iterations in the algorithm. The prototypical example of this is Roth’s proof of his theorem that every set of integers of positive upper density contains an arithmetic progression of length three. The general strategy here is to keep looking for useful density fluctuations inside , and then “zoom in” to a region of increased density by reducing and appropriately. Eventually no further usable density fluctuation remains (i.e. is uniformly distributed), and this should force some desirable property on .
- The energy increment argument. This is an “” analogue of the ““-based mass increment argument (or the ““-based density increment argument), in which one seeks to increments the amount of “energy” that captures from some reference object , or (equivalently) to decrement the amount of energy of which is still “orthogonal” to . Here and are related somehow to a Hilbert space, and the energy involves the norm on that space. A classic example of this type of argument is the existence of orthogonal projections onto closed subspaces of a Hilbert space; this leads among other things to the construction of conditional expectation in measure theory, which then underlies a number of arguments in ergodic theory, as discussed for instance in this earlier blog post. Another basic example is the standard proof of the Szemerédi regularity lemma (where the “energy” is often referred to as the “index”). These examples are related; see this blog post for further discussion. The general strategy here is to keep looking for useful pieces of energy orthogonal to , and add them to to form , thus exploiting square-additivity properties of energy, such as Pythagoras’ theorem. Eventually, no further usable energy outside of remains to be added (i.e. is maximal in some sense), and this should force some desirable property on .
- The rank reduction argument. Here, one seeks to make each new object to have a lower “rank”, “dimension”, or “order” than the previous one. A classic example here is the proof of the linear algebra fact that given any finite set of vectors, there exists a linearly independent subset which spans the same subspace; the proof of the more general Steinitz exchange lemma is in the same spirit. The general strategy here is to keep looking for “collisions” or “dependencies” within , and use them to collapse to an object of lower rank. Eventually, no further usable collisions within remain, and this should force some desirable property on .
Much of my own work in additive combinatorics relies heavily on at least one of these types of arguments (and, in some cases, on a nested combination of two or more of them). Many arguments in nonlinear partial differential equations also have a similar flavour, relying on various monotonicity formulae for solutions to such equations, though the objective in PDE is usually slightly different, in that one wants to keep control of a solution as one approaches a singularity (or as some time or space coordinate goes off to infinity), rather than to ensure termination of an algorithm. (On the other hand, many arguments in the theory of concentration compactness, which is used heavily in PDE, does have the same algorithm-terminating flavour as the combinatorial arguments; see this earlier blog post for more discussion.)
Recently, a new species of monotonicity argument was introduced by Moser, as the primary tool in his elegant new proof of the Lovász local lemma. This argument could be dubbed an entropy compression argument, and only applies to probabilistic algorithms which require a certain collection of random “bits” or other random choices as part of the input, thus each loop of the algorithm takes an object (which may also have been generated randomly) and some portion of the random string to (deterministically) create a better object (and a shorter random string , formed by throwing away those bits of that were used in the loop). The key point is to design the algorithm to be partially reversible, in the sense that given and and some additional data that logs the cumulative history of the algorithm up to this point, one can reconstruct together with the remaining portion not already contained in . Thus, each stage of the argument compresses the information-theoretic content of the string into the string in a lossless fashion. However, a random variable such as cannot be compressed losslessly into a string of expected size smaller than the Shannon entropy of that variable. Thus, if one has a good lower bound on the entropy of , and if the length of is significantly less than that of (i.e. we need the marginal growth in the length of the history file per iteration to be less than the marginal amount of randomness used per iteration), then there is a limit as to how many times the algorithm can be run, much as there is a limit as to how many times a random data file can be compressed before no further length reduction occurs.
It is interesting to compare this method with the ones discussed earlier. In the previous methods, the failure of the algorithm to halt led to a new iteration of the object which was “heavier”, “denser”, captured more “energy”, or “lower rank” than the previous instance of . Here, the failure of the algorithm to halt leads to new information that can be used to “compress” (or more precisely, the full state ) into a smaller amount of space. I don’t know yet of any application of this new type of termination strategy to the fields I work in, but one could imagine that it could eventually be of use (perhaps to show that solutions to PDE with sufficiently “random” initial data can avoid singularity formation?), so I thought I would discuss it here.
Below the fold I give a special case of Moser’s argument, based on a blog post of Lance Fortnow on this topic.
Rather than deal with the Lovász local lemma in full generality, I will follow Fortnow and work with a special case of this lemma involving the -satisfiability problem (in conjunctive normal form). Here, one is given a set of boolean variables together with their negations ; we refer to the variables and their negations collectively as literals. We fix an integer , and define a (length ) clause to be a disjunction of literals, for instance
is a clause of length three, which is true unless is false, is true, and is false. We define the support of a clause to be the set of variables that are involved in the clause, thus for instance has support . To avoid degeneracy we assume that no clause uses a variable more than once (or equivalently, all supports have cardinality exactly ), thus for instance we do not consider or to be clauses.
Note that the failure of a clause reveals complete information about all of the boolean variables in the support; this will be an important fact later on.
The -satisfiability problem is the following: given a set of clauses of length involving boolean variables , is there a way to assign truth values to each of the , so that all of the clauses are simultaneously satisfied?
For general , this problem is easy for (essentially equivalent to the problem of -colouring a graph), but NP-complete for (this is the famous Cook-Levin theorem). But the problem becomes simpler if one makes some more assumptions on the set of clauses. For instance, if the clauses in have disjoint supports, then they can be satisfied independently of each other, and so one easily has a positive answer to the satisfiability problem in this case. (Indeed, one only needs each clause in to have one variable in its support that is disjoint from all the other supports in order to make this argument work.)
Now suppose that the clauses are not completely disjoint, but have a limited amount of overlap; thus most clauses in have disjoint supports, but not all. With too much overlap, of course, one expects satisfability to fail (e.g. if is the set of all length clauses). But with a sufficiently small amount of overlap, one still has satisfiability:
Theorem 1 (Lovász local lemma, special case) Suppose that is a set of length clauses, such that the support of each clause in intersects at most supports of clauses in (including itself), where is a sufficiently large absolute constant. Then the clauses in are simultaneously satisfiable.
One of the reasons that this result is powerful is that the bounds here are uniform in the number of variables. Apart from the loss of , this result is sharp; consider for instance the set of all clauses with support , which is clearly unsatisfiable.
The standard proof of this theorem proceeds by assigning each of the boolean variables a truth value independently at random (with each truth value occurring with an equal probability of ); then each of the clauses in has a positive zero probability of holding (in fact, the probability is ). Furthermore, if denotes the event that a clause is satisfied, then the are mostly independent of each other; indeed, each event is independent of all but most other events . Applying the Lovász local lemma, one concludes that the simultaneously hold with positive probability (if is a little bit larger than ), and the claim follows.
The textbook proof of the Lovász local lemma is short but nonconstructive; in particular, it does not easily offer any quick way to compute an actual satisfying assignment for , only saying that such an assignment exists. Moser’s argument, by contrast, gives a simple and natural algorithm to locate such an assignment (and thus prove Theorem 1). (The constant becomes rather than , although the bound has since been recovered in a paper of Moser and Tardos.)
As with the usual proof, one begins by randomly assigning truth values to ; call this random assignment . If satisfied all the clauses in , we would be done. However, it is likely that there will be some non-empty subset of clauses in which are not satisfied by .
We would now like to modify in such a manner to reduce the number of violated clauses. If, for instance, we could always find a modification of whose set of violated clauses was strictly smaller than (assuming of course that is non-empty), then we could iterate and be done (this is basically a mass decrement argument). One obvious way to try to achieve this is to pick a clause in that is violated by , and modify the values of on the support of to create a modified set that satisfies , which is easily accomplished; in fact, any non-trivial modification of on the support will work here. In order to maximize the amount of entropy in the system (which is what one wants to do for an entropy compression argument), we will choose this modification of randomly; in particular, we will use fresh random bits to replace the bits of in the support of . (By doing so, there is a small probability () that we in fact do not change at all, but the argument is (very) slightly simpler if we do not bother to try to eliminate this case.)
If all the clauses had disjoint supports, then this strategy would work without difficulty. But when the supports are not disjoint, one has a problem: every time one modifies to “fix” a clause by modifying the variables on the support of , one may cause other clauses whose supports overlap those of to fail, thus potentially increasing the size of by as much as . One could then try fixing all the clauses which were broken by the first fix, but it appears that the number of clauses needed to repair could grow indefinitely with this procedure, and one might never terminate in a state in which all clauses are simultaneously satisfied.
The key observation of Moser, as alluded earlier, is that each failure of a clause for an assignment reveals bits of information about , namely that the exact values that assigns to the support of . The plan is then to use each failure of a clause as a part of a compression protocol that compresses (plus some other data) losslessly into a smaller amount of space. A crucial point is that at each stage of the process, the clause one is trying to fix is almost always going to be one that overlapped the clause that one had just previously fixed. Thus the total number of possibilities for each clause, given the previous clauses, is basically , which requires only bits of storage, compared with the bits of entropy that have been eliminated. This is what is going to force the algorithm to terminate in finite time (with positive probability).
Let’s make the details more precise. We will need the following objects:
- A truth assignment of truth values , which is initially assigned randomly, but which will be modified as the algorithm progresses;
- A long random string of bits, from which we will make future random choices, with each random bit being removed from as it is read.
We also need a recursive algorithm , which modifies the string to satisfy a clause in (and, as a bonus, may also make obey some other clauses in that it did not previously satisfy). It is defined recursively:
- Step 1. If already satisfies , do nothing (i.e. leave unchanged).
- Step 2. Otherwise, read off random bits from (thus shortening by bits), and use these to replace the bits of on the support of in the obvious manner (ordering the support of by some fixed ordering, and assigning the bit from to the variable in the support for ).
- Step 3. Next, find all the clauses in whose supports intersect , and which now violates; this is a collection of at most clauses, possibly including itself. Order these clauses in some arbitrary fashion, and then apply to each such clause in turn. (Thus the original algorithm is put “on hold” on some CPU stack while all the child processes are executed; once all of the child processes are complete, then terminates also.)
An easy induction shows that if terminates, then the resulting modification of will satisfy ; and furthermore, any other clause in which was already satisfied by before was called, will continue to be satisfied by after is called. Thus, can only serve to decrease the number of unsatisfied clauses in , and so one can fix all the clauses by calling once for each clause in – provided that these algorithms all terminate.
Each time Step 2 of the Fix algorithm is called, the assignment changes to a new assignment , and the random string changes to a shorter string . Is this process reversible? Yes – provided that one knows what clause was being fixed by this instance of the algorithm. Indeed, if are known, then can be recovered by changing the assignment of on the support of to the only set of choices that violates , while can be recovered from by appending to the bits of on the support of .
This type of reversibility does not seem very useful for an entropy compression argument, because while is shorter than by bits, it requires about bits to store the clause . So the map is only a compression if , which is not what is being assumed here (and in any case the satisfiability of in the case is trivial from the union bound).
The key trick is that while it does indeed take bits to store any given clause , there is an economy of scale: after many recursive applications of the fix algorithm, the marginal amount of bits needed to store drops to merely , which is less than if is large enough, and which will therefore make the entropy compression argument work.
Let’s see why this is the case. Observe that the clauses for which the above algorithm is called come in two categories. Firstly, there are those which came from the original list of failed clauses. Each of these will require bits to store – but there are only of them. Since , the net amount of storage space required for these clauses is at most. Actually, one can just store the subset of using bits (one for each element of , to record whether it lies in or not).
Of more interest is the other category of clauses , in which is called recursively from some previously invoked call to the fix algorithm. But then is one of the at most clauses in whose support intersects that of . Thus one can encode using and a number between and , representing the position of (with respect to some arbitrarily chosen fixed ordering of ) in the list of all clauses in whose supports intersect that of . Let us call this number the index of the call .
Now imagine that while the Fix routine is called, a running log file (or history) of the routine is kept, which records each time one of the original calls with is invoked, and also records the index of any other call made during the recursive procedure. Finally, we assume that this log file records a termination symbol whenever a routine terminates. By performing a stack trace, one sees that whenever a Fix routine is called, the clause that is being repaired by that routine can be deduced from an inspection of the log file up to that point.
As a consequence, at any intermediate stage in the process of all these fix calls, the original state of the assignment and the random string of bits can be deduced from the current state of these objects, plus the history up to that point.
Now suppose for contradiction that is not satisfiable; thus the stack of fix calls can never completely terminate. We trace through this stack for steps, where is some large number to be chosen later. After these steps, the random string has shortened by an amount of ; if we set to initially have length , then the string is now completely empty, . On the other hand, the history has size at most , since it takes bits to store the initial clauses in , bits to record all the instances when Step 1 occurs, and every subsequent call to Fix generates a -bit number, plus possibly a termination symbol of size . Thus we have a lossless compression algorithm from completely random bits to bits (recall that and were chosen randomly, and independently of each other). But since random bits cannot be compressed losslessly into any smaller space, we have the entropy bound
which leads to a contradiction if is large enough (and if is larger than an absolute constant). This proves Theorem 1.
which leads to a contradiction if is large enough (and if is larger than an absolute constant). This proves Theorem 1.
Remark 1 Observe that the above argument in fact gives an explicit bound on , and with a small bit of additional effort, it can be converted into a probabilistic algorithm that (with high probability) computes a satisfying assignment for in time polynomial in and .
Remark 2 One can replace the usage of randomness and Shannon entropy in the above argument with Kolmogorov complexity instead; thus, one sets to be a string of bits which cannot be computed by any algorithm of length , the existence of which is guaranteed as soon as (1) is violated; the proof now becomes deterministic, except of course for the problem of building the high-complexity string, which by their definition can only be constructed quickly by probabilistic methods. This is the approach taken by Fortnow. | <urn:uuid:2cfe9e20-c015-493c-bf51-5875fffae236> | CC-MAIN-2016-40 | https://terrytao.wordpress.com/2009/08/05/mosers-entropy-compression-argument/ | s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2016-40/segments/1474738662527.91/warc/CC-MAIN-20160924173742-00083-ip-10-143-35-109.ec2.internal.warc.gz | en | 0.948855 | 4,602 | 2.5625 | 3 |
NRS News Release
Forest Data Show How a Fading Tropical Storm Irene Triggered Historic Flooding
DURHAM, NH, October 5, 2011 - In the days after Tropical Storm Irene, scientists at the U.S. Forest Service’s Hubbard Brook Experimental Forestused data from monitoring points throughout the forest to demonstrate not only how the fading storm triggered record-breaking flooding, but what flood waters carried with them.
Part of the Forest Service’s Northern Research Station, Hubbard Brook Experimental Forest has been important to studies of forest hydrology, precipitation, and ecological studies for more than half a century.
“Experimental forests are famous for the decades of data they provide, and that insight is truly priceless,” according to Lindsey Rustad, a research ecologist with the Northern Research Station. “This is an example of how experimental forests give us more than history; they also provide essential data that help us understand events as immediate and large as a tropical storm.”
Water samples taken by Hubbard Brook Experimental Forest scientists show that by the time storm waters had rushed past the Plymouth gauging station on the main branch of the Pemigewasset River, the flood had carried over 59 million tons of sediment, 23,000 lbs of phosphorus, and 82,000 lbs of aluminum. That is equivalent to 454 freight train cars filled to the top with sediment, 43,500 50-pound bags of 5-10-5 fertilizer, and 2.3 million empty 12-ounce aluminum soda cans in just one storm event.
Data collected on the experimental forest shows that two storms earlier in August set the stage for the flooding triggered by Tropical Storm Irene. The standard measurement of soil’s capacity for holding water is called “soil water deficits.” At the beginning of August, an automated soil water sensor maintained by the Natural Resources Conservation Service showed soil water deficits of 1.3 to 4.7 inches, indicating that the soil could hold a substantial amount of water.
And then it started raining. In the two weeks before Tropical Storm Irene, storms on August 14-16 and again on August 21-22 reduced the soil deficits to just a quarter of an inch or less, meaning that any additional rain over a quarter of an inch would become stream flow and flood very quickly. Measurements varied by location, but Tropical Storm Irene dropped an average of 5.9 inches of rain on Hubbard Brook Experimental Forest.
Waters drained out of the Hubbard Brook Valley quickly, joining water from other nearby catchments and converging on the main branch of the Pemigewasset River. U.S. Geological Survey gauging stations started to pick up rising waters in the early morning on Sunday, August 28. The Pemigewasset River peaked at close to 1:00 p.m. on August 28 in Woodstock and at 2:00 a.m. on August 29 downstream in Plymouth. Total discharge from these gauging stations were 3.0, 4.6, and 3.3 inches respectively in Lincoln, Woodstock, and Plymouth, resulting in the largest August flood on record and ninth largest flood overall in Plymouth.
The Hubbard Brook Experimental Forest is a 7,200-acre, bowl-shaped valley located in the southern part of the White Mountains, New Hampshire. One of 80 experimental forests within the U.S. Forest Service’s Research and Development arm, Hubbard Brook Experimental Forest has served as an outdoor laboratory for ecological study since 1955. Forest Service scientists as well as scientists from agencies and universities throughout the world have studied the quantity and chemistry of water going into the forest in precipitation and out of the forest in stream water at Hubbard Brook Experimental Forest.
The mission of the U.S. Forest Service is to sustain the health, diversity, and productivity of the nation’s forests and grasslands to meet the needs of present and future generations. The agency manages 193 million acres of public land, provides assistance to state and private landowners, and maintains the largest forestry research organization in the world. The mission of the Forest Service’s Northern Research Station is to improve people’s lives and help sustain the natural resources in the Northeast and Midwest through leading-edge science and effective information delivery. | <urn:uuid:5c9ae18c-61e6-444d-a451-6473b4591705> | CC-MAIN-2013-48 | http://www.nrs.fs.fed.us/news/release/Hubbard-Brook-EF-Irene-flooding | s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2013-48/segments/1386163995757/warc/CC-MAIN-20131204133315-00095-ip-10-33-133-15.ec2.internal.warc.gz | en | 0.935013 | 874 | 3.125 | 3 |
IJRC | Vol. 02 No. 01 (2013) | Articles | POLITIDOU
Aristotle University of Thessaloniki
School of English
American Literature Department
Aristotle University of Thessaloniki
School of English
American Literature Department
This article explores the way Sonia Sanchez portrays black women in her poetry. It aims at demonstrating that Sanchez depicts black women as being in touch with their roots and aware of their history and tradition making this the source of their empowerment. The present article will also argue that Sanchez promoted women’s’ liberation in her writing by employing unconventional techniques in her poems. Sanchez is a revolutionary who breaks the syntactical grammatical and stylistic conventions of poetry writing. In doing so she intends to demonstrate that the emancipation of black women and women in general will allow them to hold many different roles within society moving away from conventional roles and to be perceived differently than before. Sanchez makes use of specific techniques and poetic forms in order to point out the need for a variety of roles to be ascribed to black women as free and equal-to-men members of American society.
This article examines the portrayal of African-American women in Sonia Sanchez’s coeytry collection titled I’ve Been a Woman (1978). Through a close reading of the poems “Woman,” “Earth Mother,” “Present” and “Rebirth”, it shall be argued that the portrayal of black females in her poetry is multifaceted and does not limit women only to one role. She portrays black females as being self-confident drawing power by the knowledge of their history, being as delicate and beautiful as white women, but at the same time champions of black women’s struggle against racism, sexism and oppression.
African-American people have a rich cultural and political history that has always affected the way they perceived themselves and the world around them. While they were still slaves in the plantations in the American South during the fifteenth century they would see themselves through the eyes of their oppressors. They had what was called second sight of themselves. They were the inferior race, their life had no value and the only thing they could do was to accept their fate as slaves. Even though they wanted their lives to be different, they knew that the situation was not an easy one to change. One of the people who influenced the most the way African-Americans should be viewed in a white world was W.E.B. Du Bois who in his essay collection The Souls Of Black Folk (1903) described how African-Americans felt in a dominantly white America when he said that
[a]fter the Egyptian and Indian, the Greek and Roman, the Teuton and Mongolian, the Negro is a sort of a seventh son, born with a veil, and gifted with second-sight in this American world- a world which yields him no true self-consciousness, but only lets him see himself through the revelation of the other world. It is a peculiar sensation, this double-consciousness, this sense of always looking at one’s self through the eyes of others, of measuring one’s soul by the tape of a world that looks on in amused contempt and pity. One ever feels his two-ness –an American, a Negro; two souls, two thoughts, two unreconciled strivings; two warring ideals in one dark body, whose dogged strength alone keeps it from being torn asunder. (896)
As far as women are concerned during that period, they were seen as women of no honor and value. Women were perceived as sexual objects men could enforce their sexual drives upon. They were also those who would produce more laboring hands since their progenitors were born slaves as well. Women had to face the double discrimination of being black as well as women. It was this kind of treatment that caused black people to see themselves though the veil, that is, through the eyes of their oppressors.
This maltreatment they experienced in the early years of slavery caused black people to believe that they could never ameliorate their lives and that they did not have a right to education or freedom. Soon things began to change with the Emancipation proclamation in 1863 after which they were considered to be free men. But this was not the case broadly speaking. Even though there was a law proclaiming them free, many counties refused to implement it. In the Northern States, African-Americans were actually treated close to equal with white people. They could find decent jobs and have a salary, the women were respected by white people and they could work as well. However, they were not equal to white people yet. In the South things did not seem to have noted any progress; they disregarded the Emancipation Proclamation and it was several years after it was signed that the Emancipation Proclamation was actually taken into consideration.
It was not until 1964 when the Civil Rights Act was passed in the U.S. that gave African-Americans freedom and equal rights in their lives and the workplace. However, this document talked about free men and people thought it referred only to male African-Americans. Thus black women had not yet obtained freedom and equality. This came later after the many struggles of the feminist movement. The Civil Rights Movement period was also a period of artistic productivity when a plethora of African-American artists made their appearance in the arts scene because the Movement stimulated a feeling of empowerment throughout the African-American arts community. Black artists were gathered in groups and started to produce artistic works, for example in literature, painting, and music which led to the formation of the Black Arts Movement. There were two central themes in the writings of both male and female writers: one was the Civil Rights Movement and the other one was the breaking down of the stereotypes about African-Americans by claiming that “Black is beautiful”(Georgoudaki, “African American Female Poetry: An important side to American Poetry almost unknown in Greece” 39).
The first works of African-American literature were autobiographical dealing with the period of slavery. Black female writers and poets felt the need to write about the hardships of slavery years, the things they had to endure, the issue of rape, their children being taken away from them and being sold to another plantation and their daily struggle for survival. One such example is Incidents in the Life of A Slave Girl (1861) by Harriet Jacobs where using the pen name “Linda Brent” she narrates a story of struggles focusing on the birth of her two illegitimate children, escape and final reunion with them. Even though this may seem to us a farfetched story, it is not much different from the reality of some women who had to deal with such situations. Thus, one can realize the reason why African-American females dealt with the writing of autobiographies first. Most of the black female writers published their work under a pseudo-name, because it was not very common back then for women to engage in the writing of novels. Being black as well as women was even more difficult for the female writers to reveal their true identity, but there were some of them who used their real names right from the beginning.
What is more, during and after the Civil Rights Movement being inspired by the fighting spirit of the period, African-American writers, both male and female, began to write about their personal experiences of the struggle. They also wrote about their participation in the marches and sit-ins which were held in many cities in the South. Martin Luther King Jr. and Malcolm X were the two dominant personalities of the period that affected African-American fiction writers and poets the most. The dominant themes of this period were those of black empowerment and black intellect. In particular, Black female writers focused on the image of a black woman who is always in touch with her roots something which is empowering and self-strengthening. Black women were represented as being very powerful and beautiful in most of the literary works of the female African-American writers that appeared in the 1950s and 1960s.
The image of the black mother is also very important and dominant in the works of that period as well as her parallelism with nature, with mother earth. The issue of birth and rebirth, of the creation of new life is also quite eminent in these writings due to their socio-political connotations. When African-American people established their freedom and equality they felt that it was time for a new beginning, as if they were reborn, ready to create a new history for their race and start a new life.
Political vigor characterizes the work of African-American female writers. All of them in their works incite people to act and to participate in the struggle for equality, because even though they have obtained equal rights, safety and freedom, still they are not respected the way they should, so they feel this struggle has not ended yet. African-American women did not receive the respect and valorization they should have, not even from men of their own race. At first it was because they were black, now it is because they are black and female as well. This led to the emergence of a different type of feminism, as African-American feminists maintained that their issues were different from those of the white women’s. As Patricia Hills Collins points out in her essay concerning the construction of the Black feminist thought that
[f]irst, Black women’s political and economic status provides them with a distinctive set of experiences that offers them a different view of material reality than that available to other groups. The unpaid and paid work that Black women perform, the types of communities in which they live, and the kinds of relationships they have with others suggest that African-American women, as a group, experience a different world than those who are not Black and female. Second, these experiences stimulate a distinctive Black feminist consciousness concerning that material reality. (299-300)
Thus all African-American women are called to act. Both Sanchez and Giovanni being part of the Black Arts Movement discuss in their poems taboo and socio-political issues as well as attempt to raise the awareness and the fighting spirit of other African-American people in general but black women in particular as the next two sections will attempt to show.
Sonia Sanchez’s perspective of the black female
The image of the African-American woman as a mother is an issue that Sonia Sanchez intensely explores in her poems entitled “Woman,” “Earth Mother,” “Present” and “Rebirth,” which originate from her collection A Blues Book For Blue Black Magical Women (1974). Sanchez played a very influential part in the Civil Rights Movement and the Black Arts Movement which emerged from the Black Power Movement in the 1960s. After she was informed about the beliefs of Malcolm X and those of the Nation Of Islam, a group Malcolm X belonged to, she was very much influenced by their ideas and this caused her to focus more on her black heritage in her writings as being something separate from what white Americans produced.
Sanchez was quite emotionally attached to her grandmother, her “Mama,” who raised her after her mother died, passing on to her the ideas about spirituality in relation to the kind of knowledge we inherit form our ancestors. In an interview to Zala Chandler, she argues that in the 1960s African-Americans realized they were black and it was a good thing to be black, while in the 1970s African-American people started talking about engaging in action and the importance of education for their people (357-361). She believed that a combination of spirituality and politics was crucial for their advancement, a kind of spirituality deriving from knowledge about their ancestors and their contribution to the world (343). In the same interview, Sanchez discussed how the spiritual and the political are intertwined to offer black people a complete view of themselves by stating that
I wrote a book A Blues Book for Blue Black Magical Women in 1973 and I realized that the book was really about the use of “memories.” I believe that’s very important to us. We can find lessons in the memories. Through writing the book, I began to go back and look at some of the things that had happened to me. And I offered that book as something to be informative for Black women. […]That book was a blues book. I attempted to speak about both the political part of us and the personal. I wanted to show that they are so intertwined. I wanted us to know that in order for us to be effective political people, we must be in control of the personal. (359)
With these lines Sanchez argues that it is important for African-Americans to remember what happened to them in the past, both as individuals and as a group, in order to embrace the future and engage in actions. Thus, to be spiritual, that is to have knowledge of one’s history and be able to remember it at all times, is what makes people to be political, that is, to become active.
To begin with, in her poem “Woman” Sanchez calls for “earth mother” (1) to come and tell a black woman her history. The persona makes an invocation to mother earth to come and teach her her history because she does not know it. Sanchez’s beliefs about tradition and history and their role towards self-awareness are evident in this poem where she writes:
Come ride my birth, earth mother
tell me how i have become, became,
this woman with razor blades between
Sing me my history O earth mother
about tongues multiplying memories
about breaths contained in straw (1-7).
The poem is a request for help on the part of the persona. The persona is in a quest for self-awareness and she believes that the only one who can help her is “Earth mother”. Thus she asks her to tell her her history, to tell her what is her past in order for the persona to define herself in the present. Even though the title of the poem is “Woman,” one can understand that the persona is female only by the context of the poem. The poem offers neither a definition of womanhood nor a description of a woman, but it is about a woman who appeals to “earth mother” (1) for help. A brief analysis of the poem on the level of its form brings forth one of the many interpretations of the poem. First of all, some of the techniques that highlight the breath pattern of the poet are the shifting size of stanzas, the length of the lines and the gaps that exist between the stanzas as well as between the words inside the lines, as in “for i want to rediscover me. the secret of me” (16). Another signification of the gaps between the sentences is the intention of the poet to highlight particular meanings. The line “sing me my history O earth mother” (5), which is an invocation to earth mother and a personification of earth mother, is indented for emphasis as well. The verbs used to refer to earth mother are in the vocative case as the persona is calling for earth mother, such as “Come” (1), “sing me” (5), “tell me” (12), and there are a few verbs that refer to the persona’s past put into the Past tense as well like “became” (2) and “held” (12). As far as punctuation is concerned, there are commas and full-stops which manifest the progression of the thinking process of the poet. The poem is written in low case letters, a characteristic of Sanchez’s writing and the only capital letter is that appearing at the beginning of the poem. The poem is close-ended as it finishes with a full-stop which signifies the end of the thinking process.
A deeper analysis of the poem guides the readers towards many more interpretations. The persona calls for earth mother to tell her “… how i have become, became/this woman with razor blades between/ her teeth” (2-4). This image of a woman with razor blades between her teeth works as a metaphor here. This woman talks about issues that are as sharp as razors. Thus, she dares to challenge people and ideas with her words. Consequently, this woman depicted in these lines is a woman who dares to speak openly even about issues which are taboo. Sanchez believed that in order for black women to be empowered and their movement to be successful they had to be both spiritual and political, and to know their history and their origins in order to grow up as complete personalities. Thus, the persona asks for earth mother to tell her and describe to her how she has become the woman she is today since her birth. Sanchez believed that we are defined by our past and we need to be aware of it in order to move on to the future. More specifically, Chandler in her interview with Sanchez informs the readers that
Sonia speaks of the many women made visible in her dreams, unsung women, nameless women who hold her up, who propel her to want to be “correct,” “righteous.” She projects the belief that any movement for change, if it is to be a successful movement must embrace both the spiritual and the political, must rely upon the people of ancient and current yesterdays who remain spiritually in Black people’s lives as they move forward. (343)
The woman in the poem continues to ask to be told her history and then she talks “about tongues multiplying memories” (Sanchez, “Woman” 6) which is a denotation of the tradition of storytelling that pertained history throughout the years before people started using writing in order to record history. Storytelling though is more about the history of tradition and not so much about global history. The tradition of storytelling refers to the oral tradition of African-American people. It is not about global history but history that comprises of personal experiences of the everyday life of people. Even in the modern western world, there are women who continue to tell stories to their grandchildren in the form of fairy tales. In lines 8 to 10, the persona makes a strange request to earth mother when she says, “pull me from the throat of mankind /where worms eat, O earth mother.” (8). It seems to me that this is also a political comment. As I mentioned earlier in this paper, Sanchez believed that one has to be both political and spiritual in order to feel complete and be able to act against discrimination. Thus, one must know his or, in this case, her own history in order to know herself and be able to evolve. This request to earth mother works as a political comment on the part of the poet. The persona lies in “the throat of mankind/where worms eat” (8-9) and she wants to pull her out of there. Thus, she is like African-American people who are still not acknowledged by society; however, if African-Americans learn their history and where they come from they will also be able to change their condition.
Furthermore, the woman depicted in the poem is the one who has given birth to five children and she “still [has] the thirst of the beginning sip” (14), that is she wants to be pregnant again. The persona wants to rediscover herself and her lost dynamism because it is only then that her words will become like wild rivers and will burst out so that the world will listen to what African-American women have to say. Once more, the poet’s beliefs about history empowering women become evident in the following lines: “tell me. tellLLLLLL me. earth mother/for i want to rediscover me. the secret of me /the river of me. the morning ease of me./i want my body to carry my words like aqueducts/I want to make the world my diary/and speak rivers.” (15-20). It is as if Sanchez is asking persistently the reader to give an answer to her question, adding to the directness of the poem and to the creation of a sound effect as the reader can hear the perpetuating sound /l/. This printing of “tellLLLLLL” (15) is an allusion to the stuttering problem Sanchez had as a child. The fact that she is not afraid to use it in her poetry indicates that she is an empowered woman herself who wants to influence other women for their benefit. Through the knowledge of her history she feels strong and she is not afraid to speak openly about taboo subjects concerning herself.
Moreover, in the last stanza the persona asks the earth mother for empowerment and inspiration in order for the persona to create a history for herself that will be “brighter than the sun” (29). There is a sense of dynamism all over the poem but it becomes more intense in the last stanza. In 1972, when the poem was written, Sanchez joined the activist organization Nation of Islam and this event influenced her writing style as is evident in this poem. Sanchez wrote poetry to tackle subjects concerning social and political activism. Therefore, Sanchez believes that only through the knowledge of one’s history one can be inspired to make a new and better history for himself/herself. It is only when African-Americans learn the complete history of their own people that they will be inspired to create a new and ameliorated history for themselves.
In her poem “Woman,” Sanchez depicts two kinds of women with one asking for help and inspiration from the other. The personification of “earth mother” (1), as is evident in the invocation “Come ride my birth, earth mother” (1), generates the impression that she is the woman the title of the poem refers to. Out of the two women depicted in this poem it is only one, the earth mother, who is aware of her history both as an African-American and as a woman, while the other is still in the dark as regards these issues. There is thus a parallel between the woman who has and the woman who lacks knowledge. The one who lacks it desires to acquire it through information by the one who holds it. The comment the poet wishes to make by this depiction is that women will be empowered by solidarity and knowledge of their history and tradition in favor of a common cause. A combination of the spiritual and the political cause is the only successful policy for the feminist movement towards progress and effectiveness as it becomes evident in the analysis of the next poem.
The poem to be discussed is “Earth Mother.” In this poem, Sanchez depicts in great detail an African-American woman giving birth to a baby girl. In 1972, when the poem was written, Sanchez had already given birth to three children, a girl and twin sons. Thus Sanchez is aware of such an experience and she might even be describing her own experience in this poem as well. What distinguishes this poem from the ones already commented on is the “stage directions” that it contains, working as instructions as to how the poem can be read. Sanchez used to perform her poetry under the sound of chants or low drum sounds. Performance poetry is not solely about what is written on the page. The poem is also enhanced by the performance of the poet himself/herself. The reader, just by reading the poem, can contribute to the experience it attempts to evoke and the thinking process that triggers it by drawing his or her own conclusions and coming thus to different realizations. Every reader brings his or her own different interpretations to the poem. In this way, meaning is not preordained or fixed but it has to do with the perspective each reader brings to the poem when he or she reads it.
To begin with, this poem has to do with earth mother, a mother of nature, who is connected with everything around her—people, nature, buildings and all the things that have history inscribed on them— as she is part of them and they are part of her. The title of the poem is “Earth Mother” who is there to help and advise the younger generations. Later on in the poem, the persona becomes the earth mother herself calling the girl who is being born to come close to her. Earth mother has transmitted her knowledge to her and now it is time for her to become the “earth mother” herself and pass on her knowledge to the next generation. The uneven length of the lines in the poem and size of the stanzas enable the readers to follow the voice of the poet. The gaps in the middle of the sentences as in “was that hungry once. for knowledge” (17), are put there by the poet in order to demonstrate the way the poet’s breath fluctuates and place emphasis on certain words, such as “knowledge” (17). Moreover, the punctuation marks employed in the poem are full-stops and a few commas. Sanchez uses capital letters in her poem in order to highlight certain ideas and intensify the effect of the experience she describes, which is that of giving birth. So the words in capital letters create the impression that the persona is shouting due to the pain she feels from the pains of childbirth. The poem is close-ended which means that the thinking process comes to an end along with the articulation of the poem.
In addition, sound and rhythm are two prevailing elements in this poem according to the directions Sanchez provides. In her poem “Earth Mother,” the intensity of the experience described can be perceived as a low singing sound which can be heard when the poem is performed. Also there is the constant repetition of the word “Bells. bells. bells.” (1), which is also repeated in lines 2, 3 and 4 further intensifying the sound effects this poem creates. In the third line, “BELLS. BELLS. BELLS.” is written in capital letters creating the feeling of a loud sound. The repetition of the word throughout the poem also communicates to the readers the gradual increase of the sound. Another characteristic of Sanchez’s writing style being represented in this poem is the use of colloquial and conversational language, such as “ah” (18) and “butt” (28). The kind of language a poet uses indicates the audience he or she addresses and the effect he or she intends to create. In this case, Sanchez addresses everyday people from all backgrounds, since colloquial language is easy to be understood by both upper and middle-class people, educated or not.
Sanchez in this poem introduces three kinds of female images: that of a woman giving birth, that of a woman helping her and that of a newborn baby girl. It is as if three generations of women come together. Sanchez uses interesting symbolic images to argue on issues of social and political activism. Giving birth to a child is a toilsome procedure that does not take place within a predetermined temporal framework. When the movement came to an end with the passing of the Civil Rights Act in 1964, African-Americans were like newborn babies that did not know anything about the new world they were coming to and someone had to show them how to proceed from that point onwards. Thus, Sanchez tackles the issue of racial equality through this very interesting metaphor by bridging civil rights struggle together with a childbirth experience. The pains of child birth are compared to the pains of the African-American people. After the Civil Rights Movement, African-American people had to adjust to a new reality and find their place in it. According to Sanchez, in order to do that, they had to know their history and that of their ancestors, as she claims in her poem: “yes. there you are. i have stuffed /your whole history in my mouth/ i. your earth mother was that hungry once. “for knowledge” (14-17). There are three generations of women in this poem representing the past, the present and the future of African-American history. Sanchez believes that in order for one to move to the future, one has to be aware of his or her past. Consequently, “earth mother” (2), bearing the role of the past in the poem, will teach the newborn child its history in order to strive in this new world she is now entering. So tradition is calling this baby girl to “COME CLOSER” (13) to her, in order to come to the world, to be part of the world. According to Zala Chandler, Sanchez believed that “… you cannot ‘be’ unless you understand your history…the history of all the ‘Mamas’ of the world who always wanted something better for you…” (354).
The newborn child coming to this new world in the poem is a “little girl” (Sanchez, “Earth Mother” 21). Sanchez in an interview stated: “I don’t speak singularly-for myself. I speak for the many, many women who, though physically dead, remain spiritually alive through me. And I speak for those women here on earth with me, like me. And I speak for the women yet to be born” (Chandler 354). This is exactly what she does in this poem, she writes for the women yet to be born. She writes this poem in order to inform the next generations of women about the importance of tradition and spirituality which she believed were basic constituents in the formation of well-developed individuals. Sanchez’s persistence in young children learning their history is rooted in her own personal beliefs about education. In an interview to Chandler, Sanchez has argued about the education of young African-Americans by saying:
[…] you must begin to take over schools. You must begin to make the churches be responsive to new times. You must go to school and get more of an education so that you can then go into our community public schools and teach or go into the universities and teach. You must continue to struggle and make sure that African-American history is taught, that African-American culture is taught, that Black Studies is taught, that Black Women’s Studies is taught-so that we don’t have another generation of black students coming through life thinking that their people have contributed nothing to the world. (359)
Thus, Sanchez believed that in order for the new generations to be aware and proud of their origin they had to know the cultural and socio-political contribution of their ancestors to the world. In her opinion the only way to achieve such a thing is to educate as best as possible those who are going to transmit knowledge to the next generations.
Consequently, in this poem, Sanchez depicts different types of females. First of all, she portrays in full detail a woman giving birth:
ring the bells to announce
this your earth mother.
For the day is turning
In my thighs And you are born
BLACK GIRL. (4-8)
This is a typical image of childbirth, featuring a woman in labor pains probably yelling due to the pain she feels. The second image is that of an older woman paralleled to mother earth. This is a woman who possesses the knowledge of history and tradition, and she is the one helping the woman in labor like a midwife would do. The last female or woman-to-be portrayed in this poem is the newborn baby. Her portrayal is a more detailed one, since the poem records her history from birth to adulthood “running from seven to thirty-five/ in one day” (22-23). One can picture her as a child “girl made of black braids” (25) also playing with other children the “double dutch” (28) and then entering the “arena of youth” (27). This little girl turns into a woman quite quickly if one judges form the length of the poem. Thus, Sanchez argues that time passes by very quickly and if women wish to bring about change by transmitting their knowledge to the next generations, they should start engaging in action immediately. Children grow up very quickly like the child in this poem, so women have to hasten because, by loosing valuable time they may end up with another generation of women who are ignorant about their history and do not have the means to change it as the discussion of the next poem points out.
In the next poem to be analyzed here entitled “Present,” Sanchez constructs yet another female image but this image is somehow different from the one appearing in the previous poem. In this poem, as its title “Present” suggests, Sanchez provides the reader with feedback on the present status of African-American women. She outlines the progression of the lives of African-American women from the past till their present struggle of establishing themselves as equal social beings in society. It seems to me that this poem is an account of what African-American women have experienced in the past. Sanchez’s strong beliefs as regards history and tradition in relation to black people are expressed in this poem as were in the previous poems touched upon in this paper.
To begin with, there are not clear stanza forms here; the poem is structured in free verse and the varying length of the lines denotes the way the poet’s voice fluctuates. There are three different kinds of punctuation marks. These are commas, full-stops and slashes. Commas in the poem indicate the breathing pattern of the poet and allow the reader to pause for a while so as to elaborate on the ideas he or she comes across in it. The use of full-stops highlights the poet’s firmness with regards to her beliefs. Slashes are usually used to show the potential of various choices the reader can make on the mode of interpretation and reading of the poem. In “Present,” Sanchez employs slashes to emphasize certain ideas and in some cases a different reading of the poem as in “drink my woman/coconut/ milks” (42). Sanchez chooses to write the poem in low case letters, uses slashes and hyphens as well as coins a new word “honeycoatedalabamian” (8) in order to question the notion of proper language use. Her father was a schoolteacher and, as a result, she and her siblings spoke Standard English instead of a southern or black dialect. It was not until she and her brother rejoined her father in Harlem, New York, when she was nine years old, that Sanchez learned the speech of the streets that would later become so important to her poetry.
Furthermore, Sanchez in this poem depicts the woman of the present as the title of the poem suggests. This is a woman who has been “forgotten/before memory came” (3-4). The woman of the present wishes to talk about her experiences using intense words or expressions, such as “bursting forth/ like coltrane’s melodies all mouth” (5-6). The reference to John Coltrane is not accidental here. Being an African-American jazz saxophonist and composer, Coltrane’s music was very spiritual and had a profound impact on the audience. He was known for his revolutionary use of multi-phonic systems in his music. In general, when playing a wind instrument, the tone that comes out consists of the fundamental—the pitch usually identified as the note being played—as well as pitches with frequencies that are integer multiples of the frequency of the fundamental. Normally, it is only the fundamental pitch that one perceives when hearing an instrument playing. By controlling the air flow through the instrument and the shape of the column (by changing fingering or valve position), a player may produce two distinct tones not part of the same harmonic series, and thus perceive them independently. This is exactly what Coltrane was doing while playing the saxophone. Accordingly to this multi-phonic system in music, it could be suggested that there is a “multi-phonic” system in society where marginalised groups, such as African-Americans, will move from the periphery to the centre of attention without losing their distinct characteristics. Sanchez was quite influenced by jazz music and music has always been a leading element in her poetry. In her poem “Present,” Sanchez alludes to Coltrane’s work in order to comment on the importance of spirituality in the development of black people’s voice. Sanchez forms a parallel of Coltrane’s use of a multi-tonic system in his music to a potential construction of a multilingual and multi-racial society according to Sanchez’s activist beliefs.
As for the word “honeycoatedalabamian” (8), this is a compound one consisting of three words, those of honey, coated, and Alabamian. Thus, the woman this word refers to is sweet like honey, is sweet and beautiful as if she were coated with Alabamian honey. Sanchez’s reference to Alabama is not accidental either. It is known that Sanchez herself originates from Alabama so she knows firsthand about the riots that took place there during the Civil Rights Movement. Thus, Sanchez may be referring to such events with her use of “honeycoatedalabamian” (8) that probably took place in Alabama as well. Another reference she maybe making is to the various lynchings of black people that took place there as well: with honey being a glutinous substance, she may be alluding to the tar that was used in lynching. Furthermore, there were a lot of court challenges taking place there dating to “one man, one vote” and the Voting Rights Act of 1965 which finally provided the groundwork for Federal court action. It also led to the creation of a stateside redistricting plan in 1972 which together with the renewal of the voters rights enabled hundreds of thousands of Alabama citizens to participate for the first time in the political system.
In order for Sanchez to define black women like the one in the poem, she needs to employ complex words because the definition of African-American women is a complex one. Andrée Nicola McLaughlin seems to share beliefs with Sanchez as regards this issue and argues that,
while the condition of most women’s lives has been attributed to economic class oppression based upon race (racialism) or nationality (colonialism and imperialism) and gender (sexism and patriarchy), such a view is too simplified. Women’s lives–as they experience them–are far more complex. (151)
This kind of complexity is evident when Sanchez presents this woman as acquiring a “rhythm of blue/black/smiles” (9). The blues songs and jazz music are closely related to the African-American people as they are considered to be part of their folk culture and the continuation of slavery songs. She is a woman who could not make her voice be heard up to now but now she can speak up by revealing to the reader her secrets and memories, as the poet reports in lines 1 to 18. The woman presented in this poem is not afraid to talk about her past experiences and her history since she wishes to make her experiences known to the world. While the woman is narrating her history, she is “reviving the beauty of forests and winds” (15), so her beauty is natural but still not acknowledged by those surrounding her. Sanchez claims that “there is no place/for a soft/black/woman” (19-20) in society taking into consideration the feelings black women experienced due to their exclusion from society. She describes women of her race as “soft/black/women” (20). The slash denotes that they can bear all these three characteristics at once or separately being just soft or women or black. Thus according to Sanchez, African-American women can be delicate like white women and part of the African culture at the same time. Being aware of and in touch with her history and tradition, this woman celebrates her birth and embraces her African identity as being something beautiful and special.
Therefore, Sanchez offers the reader the image of a woman who by visiting her roots she is ready to face her present and shape it according to her own liking either for herself or the generations to follow. This retrospection to her past empowers this woman and enables her to face her present. Coming to terms with the realization that she is a black woman, she is able to appreciate and love herself for what she really is. In this way, it is as if Sanchez attempts to encourage African-American women to embrace their identity and heritage as well as love themselves for what they are. If they cannot accept themselves, they will never convince the rest of the world to do so. She claims that “[t]he realization of who you are, I believe, is necessary for any artist–or anyone else for that matter–who is concerned and involved with liberation” (354).
For this reason, it is quite important to focus on the commentary of Sanchez’s “Rebirth.” In this poem, Sanchez talks about the experience of a woman who goes back to her place of birth and the emotions this place evokes for her. The title of the poem informs the reader about its context and works like a headline to the poem. This woman is reborn after she visits the place of her origin where her foremothers lived and fought for her generation to be free. The poem is structured in stanzas and their varying sizes along with the sometimes short and other times long lines highlight the energy of the poetic voice. Furthermore, as far as punctuation marks are concerned, Sanchez employs commas, full-stops and slashes once again to allow the reader to reflect on what he or she is reading and she employs slashes “warm/blue/green seas” (25)for the creation of a sea effect. The poem ends in a full-stop and is therefore close-ended, which indicates firmness with which the thinking process evolves. The use of capital letters, such as “LOOK” (86), make the word stand out and immediately connect to the voice of the persona. This mother is asking or maybe ordering the world to look at her newborn son as a savior because it is young people the ones who keep on struggling on a daily basis. Her son, as well as all the African-American sons, is the one who will become the “savior” of the African-American people and change the world.
In this poem, Sanchez resorts to the African-American dialect using words such as “’gainst” (38) and “nite” (53). Generally she uses conversational language and an abbreviation sign “&” (30), instead of the word “and” so as to highlight the conversational and arbitrary tone of the poem. Once more, Sanchez writes the poem in low case letters and there are no capital letters except for the word “LOOK” (86), the times she refers to the newborn boy as “Black Man” (84), and the part where the persona appears to be singing:
arch me softly
O summery winds, I am
strict as the sun.
rock me O pulse
i knock all over.
sing. sing. sing. you
sister waves. i shall paint
his silence with seeds. (41-47)
In these lines she invokes the winds of summer to give her the pulse of nature so as to feel closer to her ancestors who lived in it; in this invocation Giovanni employs capital letters to emphasize the desire of the persona to commune with her ancestors.
To begin with, Sanchez in her poem “Rebirth” narrates step by step the history of a woman who, while being pregnant, returns to her birthplace to give birth to her son. Her son assumes the role of a “savior” (86) as he helps her start a new life knowing her tradition. In this journey back to her roots, she recollects her entire life from her birth to that of her son’s in an attempt to be reborn. Sanchez comments on the need of the African-Americans to be aware of their history and tradition. She achieves this by capturing the feeling of awe the persona experiences when she steps on the land of her foremothers:
When i stepped off the plane i knew i was home.
had been here before. had been away
roaming the cold climate of my mind where
winter and summer hold the same temperature
of need. (1-5)
Thus when she arrives at her place of origin she feels as If she had lived there her whole life. In the 1970s, it was popular for African-American people to visit Africa and experience the tribal life of their ancestors. Georgoudaki claims that due to the rejection African-Americans felt on the part of their Americaness they turned to Africa. Black people sought their ancestral roots in Africa, travelling and learning the history, tradition and the mythology of its various people as well as the historical course of millions of African people who were sold as slaves in the New World. Thus Africa became a source of racial pride and artistic inspiration, and formed a new way of living for black Americans many of whom defined themselves as African-Americans by adopting African names, hairdos and clothing style while listening to African music (Georgoudaki 39-40). Black people were not afraid of letting others know about their African origin so they would often visit the place of their ancestors in an attempt to experience tribal life similarly to what the persona in the poem does. Being in her “place/of birth” (Sanchez, “Rebirth” 24-25), she feels as if she is swimming in the “warm/blue/green sea” (25), which creates a feeling of warmth and lightheartedness.
So what Sanchez has her persona do in this poem is much like what Malcolm X upheld that African-American people should do, make a pilgrimage to their place of origin. In an interview to Chandler, Sanchez talked about her influence by Malcom X and said the following:
Yes, Malcom kept saying that we’re Black men, we’re Black women, we’re Black people. And that really stirred the imagination in the same fashion that Marcus Garvey did when he asserted that Black people are Black, are African. Malcolm made the same impact on writers in the sixties that Garvey made on writers in the Harlem Renaissance period. Garvey made poets say, “What is Africa to me?” He made people begin to talk about “my Black self.” People really began to respond to him-many people who might never have responded before. (358)
Likewise writers who were much influenced by Malcolm X and his beliefs, like Sanchez was, emphasized in their writings the importance of visiting Africa and experiencing firsthand the daily routine of their ancestors.
The persona moves on to describe her feelings when she sees the place of her birth. At this moment, the chants of her ancestors come to her mind:
The persona moves on to describe her feelings when she sees the place of her birth. At this moment, the chants of her ancestors come to her mind:
arch me softly
O summery winds, i am
strict as the sun.
rock me O pulse
i knock all over.
sing. sing. sing. you.
sister waves. i shall paint
his silence with seeds. (Sanchez, “Rebirth” 40-47)
The persona upon coming in touch with the place of her origin feels serene and the sound of the waves she is hearing resembles a lullaby. Furthermore, if the waves are her sisters and they are singing, one may realize that she is listening to the voices of her foremothers singing songs to her so as to help her relax and absorb everything about this experience of being in touch with one’s roots. Next in the poem Sanchez moves on to ascribe to the sea motherly characteristics. The persona longs for the touch of the sea while the sea acquires a cleansing and liberating quality. The persona is cleansed by the mistakes of her past and she feels redeemed of the hardships and sufferings she had to endure up to now. In this process, water is the prevailing element. It resembles a christening after which the baby is cleansed of the sins of its ancestors (Adam and Eve in Christian religion) and is ready to enter the world anew. Therefore, this process leads the persona to the beginning of a new life free of the burden of her past.
Sanchez challenges the male belief that women can never become something other than mothers and housewives by placing her persona beyond her foremothers: “one day/you’ll be taller than i.” (64-65). It is as if Sanchez urges women to dare and do more than their predecessors did by gradually moving beyond subordination. Knowing their past, they can make new meaning of their present. This idea relates to the progression of black feminist thinking. In particular, Patricia Hills Collins states that
Thus Sanchez’ intention is to make African-American women aware of the fact that they already possess the strength they need in order to change their status quo in contemporary society.
[b]lack feminist thought’s potential significance goes far beyond demonstrating that Black women can produce independent, specialized knowledge. Such thought can encourage collective identity by offering Black women a different view of themselves and their world than offered by the established social order. This different view encourages African-American women to value their own subjective knowledge base. By taking elements and themes of Black women’s culture and traditions and infusing them with new meaning, Black feminist thought rearticulates a consciousness that already exists. More important, this rearticulated consciousness gives African-American women another tool of resistance to all forms of their subordination. (302)
In the poem, Sanchez visualizes the persona as a pregnant woman who gives birth to a child. This child is to be paralleled to her reborn self, one that is now aware of the fact that when one has “forgotten tribal life” (50) is not able to fulfill all his needs but only “a small part” (56) of them. The sea in this case acts as a cleansing element, one that brings the persona in touch with tribal life. Sanchez describes the feeling the persona experiences upon the sensing of the sea on her body as follows:
i remembered the first time I made love
in a room on seventh avenue
on a street of forgotten tribal life
and as the sea entered my pores and
made me stretch and open to be filled
I remember a nite we stretched our
Bodies and poured our juices into each other.
it was summer and you called me little one
for my body was filled only a small part
of your need. (48-57)
In these lines, Sanchez describes two people exchanging fluids. This depiction relegates to the exchanging of fluids of sexual intercourse. Thus, the persona, as soon as she comes to touch with the sea, experiences a feeling of pleasure similar to that of making love.
The experience of giving birth is not presented as something painful and the woman is not screaming as in Giovanni’s “Poem (for Nina)” where the pregnant woman feels entrapped due to her painful labor. In this poem, the experience of giving birth has a soothing effect upon the persona. Throughout the poem the persona is experiencing, what is called, a laying on of hands experience. According to Joanne V. Gabbin,
[t]he term signifies an ancient practice of using hands in a symbolical act of blessing, healing and ordination. By its very act it appears to bestow some gift. […] Others see the practice as central to the African concept that the body and spirit are one. “The sensuality is essential to the process of healing and rebirth of the spirit.” For the purpose of this discussion, the practice represents the transmission of a miraculous power that heals, restores, and transforms all that it touches. However mystical the practice appears, the existence of such power is readily accepted by initiates who have experienced a laying on of hands. (247)
According to Sanchez, this miraculous power that heals the persona is her son who is presented in the poem as a savior. The persona feels redeemed after giving birth to this boy. She has an opportunity to teach this boy his history and tradition, giving him thus better opportunities in life than the ones her parents had given her. Through the birth of her son the persona feels reborn, as the title of the poem declares.
Finally, Sanchez’s poetry brings forth a fighting spirit since she focuses on the depiction of African-American female history from the past to the present. In Sanchez’s poetry, history, tradition and self-awareness play a leading role. In her poetry, Sanchez outlines the history of African-American women from the years of slavery to the present. Sanchez through her writing style offers the reader powerful female images and uses punctuation marks such as full-stops, commas and slashes. She also writes in low case letters but she also employs capital letters to achieve certain effects as she address in her poems prominent African-American artists who are also activists, such as Stevie Wonder and John Coltrane. As a result, her poems reach a much wider audience since these artists are well-known and liked by people who belong to various cultures and social groups.
To conclude, African-American people in the turbulent decades of the 1950s and the 1960s were struggling to win equal rights through the Civil Rights Movement in an effort to redefine themselves within the American society as equals, giving them the opportunity to be reborn as well as find their place within a new reality. The contribution of people of the Arts and Literature in this effort was of great importance. In the 1970s, after two decades of struggles African-Americans had achieved their goal of equality and they had to adjust to the new order of things so as to discover their place in a mainly white society. In this decade, African-Americans were celebrating blackness and they started organisations for the advancement of black people. During this time there was an emergence of various African-American Studies programs throughout American universities.
Artists, fiction writers and poets, such as Sonia Sanchez attempted through their art to make African-American people realize that they had to coil up to a common cause in order to achieve equality. They attempted to awaken people’s consciousness and fighting spirit and urged them to engage in action. Naturally, being female Sanchez viewed this struggle through a female perspective and focused more on the liberation of women. In her poetry, she alluded to female images of the past and the present in order to support her argument for self-appreciation and self-awareness that would in extension lead to that of society in its whole.
What I have attempted to explore in this article is how Sanchez portrays black women in her poetry. I tried to prove that she depicts black women as being in touch with their roots and aware of their history and tradition making this the source of their empowerment. What is impressing about Sanchez’s writing is that she promoted women’s’ liberation in her writing by employing unconventional techniques in her poems. She is thus a revolutionary breaking the conventions of poetic writing symbolizing the breaking of societal conventions of the time and signalling a new era of change. Sanchez’s poems have a particular sound quality, while opening up to different readings. She writes in free verse breaking the restrictions stanzas impose on poems, encouraging thus the reader to generate various interpretations. By breaking the syntactical grammatical and stylistic conventions of poetry writing, Sanchez intends to demonstrate that the emancipation of women will allow them to hold many different roles within society and to be perceived differently than before. What is impressing about Sanchez’s poetry is the fighting spirit that they emit inspiring the reader to engage in action. Thus, Sanchez by using specific techniques and poetic forms points out the need for a variety of roles to be ascribed to black women as free and equal individuals in society.
In the 1970s, African-Americans were trying to form a new identity without having to reject their past. It was thus, a decade of memory and this was also conveyed in the literature of the period. Sonia Sanchez, writing during this period, undertakes the effort to promote the development of self-awareness of African-Americans emphasising the reliance on the knowledge of history and tradition for the attainment of self-awareness. In her poems “Woman,” “Earth mother,” “Present,” and “Rebirth,” she highlights the importance of the role of history in the life of African-American people and especially women. Sanchez portrays black women as carriers of knowledge and power deriving from their ancestors. She emphasizes the need for one to be in touch with her roots and claims that this can be the primary source of empowerment. Her main belief is that in order for one to move on to the future one has to be aware of her past maintaining that, to be spiritual is to be also political and vice versa. Thus, Sanchez underlined the importance of education for the present generations and the generation to come.
Sanchez did not cease to promote female African-American culture. After the 1970s she continued to produce works regarding this subject. Her continuous efforts to create a female tradition within the African-American tradition have been successful. Sanchez’ literary work has been taught to many African-American culture programs of various universities in America and Europe opening up new horizons for the African-American culture in general, and the female African-American culture specifically. The development of various programs of African studies, African-American studies and Black Women’s studies in Universities throughout the world has projected her work, among that of other writers, promoting the teaching, research and studying of African-American literature and culture. Sanchez has been awarded several literature awards and honorary doctorates for her contribution to the advancement of Black female literature and culture. Sanchez has been the founder of Black Female Studies programs in the several Universities she has taught and she has also organized Black female poetry Workshops as part of her teaching program. Sanchez, still continues to give talks in book clubs and other events as is evident by her forthcoming speeches to be held in Birmingham, Alabama on June 12, 2010. What all these highlight is that in the hands of Giovanni and Sanchez poetry transforms into a means by which they transmit their message to the readers and promote the Black female culture as well as self-acknowledgement and self-respect.
One of them relating to this word is described in Thulani Davis’s novel 1959 (2001). This novel narrates a shop boycotting that takes place in Turner, Virginia, in order to stop school integration because people fear for the safety of their children if the integration is realized. One day during a sit-in of eight college students in the counter of Woolworth’s shop some white customers tried to make these students leave by tossing on them ketchup, sugar, cigarettes and anything else they could find in the store. This story narrates the real events that took place in Greensboro, North Carolina.
For more information about the relation of slavery songs to blues songs see Steber “African –American Music from the Mississippi Hill Country : ‘They Say the Drum was a-Calling’.”
Chandler , Zala. "Voices beyond the Veil: An Interview with Toni Cade Bambara and Sonia Sanchez." Wild Women in the Whirlwind :Afra-American culture and the contemporary Literary Renaissance. Ed. Joanne M. Braxton and Andrée Nicola McLaughlin. New Brunswick. New Jersey: Rutgers University Press, 1990. 342-62. Print.
Du Bois, W.E.B. “From the Souls of Black Folks: The Forethought.” The Norton Anthology of American Literature. Vol. C.7th ed. Ed. Jeanne Campbell Reesman and Arnold Krupart. London and New York: W.W. Norton&Company, 1979. 894-910. Print.
Hills Collins, Patricia. “The social construction of black feminist thought”. Black Women in America: Social Science Perspectives. Ed. Micheline R. Malson, Elisabeth Mundimbe-Boyi, Jean F. O’Barr and Mary Wyer. Chicago: University Chicago Press.1977. 297-325. Print.
Gabbin, Joanne V. “A Laying On of Hands: Black Women Writers Exploring the Roots of Their Folk and Cultural Tradition.” Wild Women in the Whirlwind :Afra-American culture and the contemporary Literary Renaissance. Ed. Joanne M. Braxton and Andrée Nicola McLaughlin. New Brunswick, New Jersey: Rutgers University Press, 1990. 246-62. Print.
Georgoudaki, Ekaterini. «Ποίηση Αφρο-Αμερικανίδων: Μια σημαντική πλευρά της Αμερικάνικης ποίησης σχεδόν άγνωστη στην Ελλάδα». [“African American Female Poetry: An important side to American Poetry almost unknown in Greece”]. Η Αμερικάνικη Ποίηση Στην Ελλάδα American Poetry in Greece. Ed. Tatiani G. Rapatzikou. Thessaloniki: Hellenic Association for American Studies, 2006. 35-48. Print.
McLaughlin , Andrée Nicola. “Black Woman in the Quest for Humanhood and Wholeness: Wild Women in the Whirlwind.” Wild Women in the Whirlwind: Afra-American culture and the contemporary Literary Renaissance. Ed. Joanne M. Braxton and Andrée Nicola McLaughlin. New Brunswick, New Jersey: Rutgers University Press, 1990. 147-77. Print.
Palmer, R. Roderic. “The Poetry of Three Revolutionists: Don L. Lee, Sonia Sanchez, and Nikki Giovanni.” Modern Black Poets: A collection of Critical Essays. Ed. Donald B.Gibson. New Jersey: Prentice-Hall Inc, Eaglewood Cliffs.1973. 135-46. Print.
Sanchez, Sonia. I’ve Been a Woman. Chicago: Third World Press,1978. Print.
Steber, Bill. “African-American Music from the Mississippi Hill Country: ‘They say the Drum was a-Calling’.” The ARF Reporter. Vol. 19, No. 2, 1999
Sofia Politidou is an MA candidate at the MA program of American Literature and Culture, School of English Aristotle University of Thessaloniki. Her research interests are African-American poetry and culture, race studies and electronic literature. She has published articles on poetry and race studies in ECHOES online journal and the journal American Studies Today On Line. She is currently doing research in electronic literature and race studies for the completion of her MA thesis (to be submitted in February). Politidou is also a peer reviewer for several academic journals. | <urn:uuid:74d06537-8e0f-4755-8c9a-554b37755aac> | CC-MAIN-2017-13 | http://www.radicalcritique.org/2013/01/the-portrayal-of-african-american-women.html | s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2017-13/segments/1490218189472.3/warc/CC-MAIN-20170322212949-00556-ip-10-233-31-227.ec2.internal.warc.gz | en | 0.97327 | 13,243 | 3.09375 | 3 |
Incidence of features:
Banana banana bunchy top disease, commonly known as the public and banana shrimp, green onions banana, the disease is a serious disease worldwide. The banana my district, to the more serious the old banana zone. Banana bunchy top disease symptoms typical of the new pumping more smaller leaves, and into a beam, so that bunchy top disease, incidence of late dwarf plants. Diseased leaves more vertical small easy to break hard and brittle, leaf chlorosis obvious edge,after the change. Petiole or base of the rib stripes appear dark green, commonly known as , which is caused by other reasons, the difference between the leaves of the main features of Cong. Live in the general slow-growing disease, dwarf, not the result of smoking bud. When the incidence of smoking bud out of the banana plant fruit bud malformation small, non-sweet fruit, non-economic value. Periapical change plant purple, dull, the majority of root rot or become purple, not a new plant last withered root.
Incidence of the law:
Banana bunchy top disease is a pathogen of banana bunchy top virus, the virus is a diameter of 18 nm diameter virus. The virus mainly by the spread of the banana aphid settlement pulse. Banana bunchy top disease in banana incidence of various developmental stages can be generally Shengfa 3-5 month period. Damage depends on the banana plant in the banana aphid number and the density and the occurrence of normal winter last year when a serious chilling injury incidence March to May the following year, more serious. In addition, the incidence of more general banana, plantain, banana powder, banana Agrimonia less morbidity.
(1) choice of the ventilation space, the use of reasonable methods and planting density, fertilizer management strengthening. Easily lead to different aphid species breeding vegetables, raise the plant's resistance to disease.
(2) the use of tissue culture as a disease-free seedlings. Banana heel Miller to do a good job during the relevant measures of anti-aphid
(3) spraying to kill aphids, especially in the 9-11 month and 9-4 months is necessary to strengthen prevention and control of aphids.
(4) the timely removal of infected plant, cutting off the spread of the source. There are aphids should be spraying the plant to kill aphids, and then excavated plant and soil disease dry hole, fill in the new territories, adding 50-100 grams Xinmiao resow carbofuran after mixing.
(5) high incidence of the best banana and rice paddy field crop rotation, etc., can greatly reduce the following year the incidence of bunchy top disease. | <urn:uuid:0af25af4-97d2-4beb-8b93-b9985558846a> | CC-MAIN-2020-24 | http://conceptpack.com/Gift%20Supplier/gift132.html | s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2020-24/segments/1590347399820.9/warc/CC-MAIN-20200528135528-20200528165528-00293.warc.gz | en | 0.910791 | 560 | 2.984375 | 3 |
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Fossil fuels are known hazards to our environment and they are not sustainable. One possible front-runner for the car of the future is the Hydrogen Fuel Cell car. How is hydrogen used as a fuel? How do we make and find hydrogen? How can drivers fuel up with the H-fuel cell? Melissa Chi looks under the hood.
- Views: 264 It Can’t Hold a Candle to…Comparing the effectiveness of alternative forms of energy
How much energy generation from coal, wind, or solar power does it take to power an appliance, a whole house, a town? People hear about alternative energy all the time, but not the power-full details. Can we gain the energy we need in a cost effective way, and save our environment at the same time? Plugged-In meets people who are bringing new energy to the average home.
- Views: 821 Critical Mass: Is biomass the answer to our energy needs?
The burning of fossil fuels is currently the way we make most of our electricity, but the extraction of these materials can be costly and their supply is limited. Plant cellulose is the most abundant biological material on Earth; is there a way we can harness this biomass material to fulfill our energy needs? What plants are the most likely providers of energy? How is the burning of this material less harmful than traditional fossil fuels? Erica Baker gets some burning questions answered.
- Views: 494 Taking the LEED: Integrating energy conservation into construction
What is L.E.E.D. certification? Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design. (L.E.E.D.) Green Building Rating System is a third-party certification program and the nationally accepted benchmark for the design, construction and operation of high performance green buildings. esley Mathern consults with experts in the future of green design and technology.
- Views: 530 Green Goes Green: Alternative energy sources turn greenhouses eco-friendly
Midwestern growers are creating a local network of grower businesses, buyers and sellers that make locally grown plants viable and affordable. They are also concentrating their energy on energy savings for the environment, and to bring down their reliance on fossil fuels.
- Views: 453 Green-Collar Economy: Jobs that move technology out of the lab and onto the rooftop
We explore solar panel installation as a new ‘green-collar’ career. Also, how technology is taken from idea stage to marketable product - featuring Al Compaan on PhotoVoltaics; Xunming Deng and Matt Longthorne at Xunlight Corp. We focus on the installation and assess ease of the technology for home utility.
- Views: 819 Thinking Global and Buying Local: Eco-Friendly Products
When we buy local, we rein in the effects each of us has on our environment, especially when those local products are also bio-based green products. We visit with Rebecca Singer, Assistant Director of the Center for Innovative Food Technology (CIFT) and Program Coordinator for the Northwest Ohio Green Products Center. A business perspective is enhanced by with Dr. Kevin J. Egan, Assistant Professor of Economics at UT as he explains the environmental impact of green purchase power. David Davis goes in search of the story and some good shopping.
- Views: 464 Fueling Our Future
Whether you are looking to save the planet from greenhouse gases or just looking to save money at the pump, there are many reasons to shed reliance on fossil fuels. One way is to invest in the manufacture of Bio Fuels. Roquel Cunningham explores the future of ethanol manufacturing. Can it be a real alternative source of energy? What other non-food-producing plant material can be used instead of food produce? Academic and business experts weigh in. | <urn:uuid:271d2b7a-5ade-4aab-84f9-70e688985bb9> | CC-MAIN-2014-49 | http://www.wgte.org/wgte/watch/index.asp?page_id=734 | s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2014-49/segments/1416931009751.93/warc/CC-MAIN-20141125155649-00047-ip-10-235-23-156.ec2.internal.warc.gz | en | 0.9124 | 1,288 | 3.1875 | 3 |
Keeping your teeth healthy begins with at-home care and regular visits to the dentist, but it doesn’t end there. Maintaining your overall health with a good diet also contributes to a bright, beautiful smile.
How Does My Diet Affect My Teeth?
A healthy diet contributes to more than your overall health. What you eat can also affect the health and look of your teeth. Just like the rest of your body, your teeth need certain vitamins and minerals in order to stay healthy. For example, minerals like calcium and potassium can help remineralize your teeth in the very early stages of tooth decay. The fluoride in your toothpaste, and the professional strength fluoride applied by your dentist, also contribute to this process, which can actually reverse early cavities.
Avoiding sugary, sticky, or very acidic foods also helps prevent major problems with your teeth. The bacteria that cause tooth decay feed on the sugars in candy, cakes, and other forms of junk food. The sugar provides an excellent environment for them to grow and multiply. Highly acidic foods like sour candies and even citrus fruits like oranges and lemons can erode the enamel on the surfaces of your teeth. Very hard foods, if you bite into them, can chip your teeth.
The Importance of Good Dental Health
Maintaining good dental health can also help you maintain a good diet. If you have lost teeth, it can be hard to eat healthy foods like fruits and vegetables. Many people who have lost numerous teeth eat soft foods and therefore do not get all the necessary nutrients for good health. In addition, allowing cavities and gum disease to develop can lead to severe problems such as extensive decay and tooth loss, and can even increase your risk of heart attack and stroke.
In addition to diligent at-home care, you should visit your dentist regularly. The prompt treatment of cavities, gum disease, and other issues such as oral cancer help ensure long-term oral health. If you have any questions about proper at home care, an effective diet to keep your teeth healthy, or other issues be sure to talk to our dentist.
Contact our office today for more tips! | <urn:uuid:6a946c65-1ab8-42d7-bb51-df0e90d6b0d9> | CC-MAIN-2021-25 | https://lakecastledentistry.com/a-well-balanced-diet-helps-keep-teeth-bright-and-healthy/ | s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2021-25/segments/1623487600396.21/warc/CC-MAIN-20210613041713-20210613071713-00519.warc.gz | en | 0.947183 | 443 | 3.265625 | 3 |
On May 30, 1889, the world’s first bra was invented.
Breasts are more than just moving diner for the young, however. On humans at least, they also have valuable recreational value. Nothing else has the nutrition, entertainment, and sheer jiggle value of the human breast (although Jell-O™ does come close).
Naturally, men couldn't leave anything with the power, appeal, and nutritive value of breasts in the hands of women, literally or metaphorically. From the very dawn of human history, therefore, breasts have been in men's hands.
In 2500 BC, the Minoan women of Crete were believed to have worn a special garment that lifted their breasts entirely out of their clothing. (Like another popular story of ancient Minos, this is believed to be half bull.) By the rise of the Hellenic (Greek) and Roman (Roman) civilizations, however, women were wearing tightly bound breast bands to reduce their busts. This style persisted until 476 AD, rightly referred to by historians as the Fall of Rome.
The strain was unbearable. Something had to give.
On May 30, 1889, the world’s first bra was invented. To tell you the truth, I’ve lost all track of where I found that date but I do know, however, that corset maker Herminie Cadolle invented the Bien-être in 1889, and that this “health aid” was the first garment to support breasts from the shoulder down instead of squeezing them up from below.
The US War Industries Board encouraged the assimilation of the bra in 1917 by encouraging women to stop buying corsets, thereby freeing up nearly 60 million pounds of the metal used in them. (That was a lot of girded loins.)
During the 1920s, a Russian immigrant by the name of Ida Rosenthal founded Maidenform with her husband William. The Rosenthals grouped breasts into cup sizes and developed bras for women of every age.
Now you know.
May 30, 1956 -
RKO Radio Pictures released Fritz Lang's late period film-noir classic, While The City Sleeps, starring Dana Andrews, Vincent Price and Ida Lupino (with whom you don't fuck with) on this date.
The sequence depicting the New York subway was actually filmed in the Los Angeles subway.
Today in History:
May 30, 1431 -
Convicted of heresy by the English (see May 23), 19-year-old Joan of Arc got an extreme hot foot as her punishment in Rouen, France, on this date.
Pope Benedict XV canonized her in 1920.
May 30, 1593 -
Noted English dramatist, spy and buggerer (a famed time of English and Irish playwrights), Christopher Marlowe was either -
a: murdered in a tavern brawl on this date, or,
b: faked his death and assumed a new identity as William Shakespeare, noted English dramatist, spy and buggerer.
May 30, 1806 -
Andrew Jackson couldn't wait to marry his wife, Rachel Donelson Robards. He was so impatient that he had married her before she could obtain a legal divorce from her first husband, Captain Lewis Robards - so technically she was a bigamist and an adulteress. His political opponents made much of this fact. Dueling over a horse racing wager and his wife's honor, the future President takes a bullet in the chest from fellow lawyer Charles Dickinson on this date in 1806. The slug shatters two ribs and buries itself near his heart. Then it is Jackson's turn to fire, which manages to sever an artery, technically breaking the rules of the duel. Dickinson died a few hours later, the only man Jackson ever killed in any of his 103 duels.
I suppose that's what love was like in the 19th Century.
May 30, 1908 -
Melvin Jerome Blanc, the prolific American voice actor, performing on radio, in television commercials, and most famously, in hundreds of cartoon shorts for Warner Bros. and Hanna-Barbera during the Golden Age of American animation was born on this date. He is often regarded as one of the most gifted and influential persons in his field, providing the definitive voices for iconic characters such as Bugs Bunny, Daffy Duck, Porky Pig and Barney Rubble among hundreds of others. His talents earned him the nickname, The Man of a Thousand Voices.
On January 24, 1961, Blanc was involved in a near-fatal auto accident on Sunset Boulevard in Hollywood, California. Hit head-on, Blanc suffered a triple skull fracture that left him in a coma for three weeks, along with fractures of both legs and the pelvis.
The accident prompted over 15,000 get-well cards from anxious fans, including some addressed only to "Bugs Bunny, Hollywood, USA", according to Blanc's autobiography. One newspaper falsely reported that he had died. After his recovery, Blanc reported in TV interviews, and later in his autobiography, that a clever doctor had helped him to come out of his coma by talking to Bugs Bunny, after futile efforts to talk directly to Blanc. Although he had no actual recollection of this, Blanc learned that when the doctor was inspired to ask him, "How are you today, Bugs Bunny?", Blanc answered in Bugs' voice. Blanc thus credited Bugs with saving his life.
May 30, 1922 -
The Lincoln Memorial, a neo-classical monument, was dedicated on this date, by former President William Taft who was serving as a Supreme Court Justice at the time.
May 30, 1989 -
Chinese students erected a giant statue called "The Goddess of Democracy" in Tiananmen Square on this date.
And so it goes. | <urn:uuid:9db8f833-3049-4128-acf1-ebe021bbfe91> | CC-MAIN-2018-22 | http://dcaligari.blogspot.com/2014/05/the-history-of-over-shoulder.html | s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2018-22/segments/1526794868316.29/warc/CC-MAIN-20180527131037-20180527151037-00060.warc.gz | en | 0.979296 | 1,201 | 2.515625 | 3 |
NASA Satellite Sends Back Most Detailed View of CO2
SAN FRANCISCO — It’s been a busy five months for NASA’s newest carbon dioxide-monitoring satellite, snapping up to 1 million measurements a day of how carbon dioxide moves across the planet. Now NASA scientists have shared the first global maps created using that data, showing one of the most detailed views of CO2 ever created.
CO2 concentrations around the world in early November.
Click image to enlarge. Credit: NASA Jet Propulsion Laboratory
The satellite — known as OCO-2 — has been in orbit since July. While it’s returned some preliminary data, NASA showed off its global reach for the first time on Thursday at the annual American Geophysical Union meeting.
According to deputy project science Annmarie Eldering, previous CO2-monitoring satellites were returning just 1-2 percent of the data that OCO-2 is sending back to Earth. And while the satellite can’t peer through clouds, it has still provided scientists with a staggering amount of information to create comprehensive maps of CO2 and plant growth.
“Measuring an atmospheric gas to a fraction of a percent makes OCO-2 one of the most challenging remote sensing missions that have ever been attempted,” Paul Wennberg, a professor at Caltech, said.
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And yet all systems appear to be go and if preliminary results are anything to judge by, the data should be fascinating. NASA showed off two maps that are an amalgamation of 600,000 measurements taken over 12 days from the end of October.
The first map shows CO2 concentrations in the atmosphere. Hot spots over the Eastern Seaboard and parts of China are clearly visible, a sign of the heavy industry on the ground. South America and parts of Africa also show high CO2 levels, which scientists said is most likely due to burning fields and forest to clear them for agriculture. There are also subtle differences between the view OCO-2 has returned and what NASA’s most advance computer models currently simulate, which is at the heart of why the satellite exists in the first place.
Chlorophyll concentrations around for August-October.
Credit: NASA Jet Propulsion Laboratory
A second sensor on the satellite also measures levels of chlorophyll fluorescence, a measure of plant productivity, in finer detail than other satellites as well. NASA has previously used other satellites to show how the U.S. Corn Belt is the most productive place on the planet, and the new data from OCO-2 will further help refine the measurement of plant growth and how it relates to CO2 absorption.
With such a wealth of data, it would be a shame if NASA kept it all under lock and key but luckily that’s not the case. Eldering said the initial round of data would be available to the public on December 30 and the full set of CO2 data would likely be available in March for scientists and public to download and explore.
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Acidic Oceans Could Quiet Coral Reefs | <urn:uuid:929dc7fa-3753-471a-8475-775256895f1a> | CC-MAIN-2016-40 | http://www.climatecentral.org/news/nasa-satellite-most-detailed-view-co2-18459 | s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2016-40/segments/1474738660158.61/warc/CC-MAIN-20160924173740-00285-ip-10-143-35-109.ec2.internal.warc.gz | en | 0.919169 | 705 | 3.6875 | 4 |
A recent case where an Otago University employee slipped and fell on wet tiles had serious repercussions for the woman involved (she broke her pelvis and back) and her employer. The employer pleaded guilty to a private health and safety prosecution and paid her $60,000 in reparation.
From time to time we get enquiries on slip resistance ratings; what slip rating is required where? What is the difference between wet and dry slip resistance? What products do we offer that have slip ratings available?
To begin, the relevant building code for slip resistance is Clause D1 — Access Routes. The principal objective for this code is to safeguard people from injury during movement into, within, and out of buildings. The specific clause relevant to slip resistance in D1 is 1.3.3(d) and relates to access routes having adequate slip resistance walking surfaces under all conditions of normal use.
An acceptable solution follows (D1/AS1) and indicates that for level access routes to which the public has access, including level accessible routes, shall have a mean coefficient of friction μ, of not less than 0.4 when tested in accordance with AS/NZS 3661.1 (see D1/VM1). In addition, requirements for ramps and stairways are required to be consistent with the Table 2 of D1/AS1.
To determine what the minimum required slip resistance value is for a ramp or sloped surface (gradient not less than 2%), the following equation can be used:
μm = 100μ + M / 100 - Mμ
- μm = coefficient of friction required for a sloped surface
- μ = coefficient of friction obtained on a horizontal surface
- M = maximum gradient of slope in percent.
Overall, compliance with the slip resistance performance of NZBC D1.3.3(d) may be verified by confirming that the walking surface under the expected conditions of use has a coefficient of friction (μ) of no less than:
μ = 0.4 + 0.0125S where S is the slope of the walking surface expressed as a percentage.
You will note that in regards to NZBC D1.3.3(d), the required coefficient of friction value is not based on wet or dry conditions. So, if for a level surface you are required to have a slip resistance coating that meets the NZBC in wet conditions, the coefficient of friction values doesn't change, but your surface coating may, in order to provide a wet slip resistance rating of no less than 0.4.
As alluded to in the NZBC, slip resistance ratings are obtained using AS/NZS 3661.1. Using this standard, you can elect to either test for dry slip or wet slip. It is generally expected that surfaces that have been shown to comply with the wet requirement would also comply with the dry requirement.
In addition, this table details acceptable solutions for walking surfaces. For coated surfaces, this means that on level and sloping surfaces the coating must have sand or grit impregnated to meet an acceptable wet slip resistance. Wet tiles need to be tested, and as we saw from Otago University, they can be unsuitable for walking on in the wet. | <urn:uuid:828643fd-4853-4e72-bd67-c2ab8040f943> | CC-MAIN-2019-51 | https://www.eboss.co.nz/detailed/heather-goode/slip-resistance-ratings-surface-coatings | s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2019-51/segments/1575541310866.82/warc/CC-MAIN-20191215201305-20191215225305-00072.warc.gz | en | 0.939095 | 658 | 2.53125 | 3 |
By Brooks Clark
The president of the Seattle chapter of the NAACP, the nation’s oldest civil rights organization, made headlines recently when it was revealed she had been born to white parents. Ultimately she lost her job.
In her defense, Rachel Dolezal claimed she had started identifying as black at an early age. She graduated from historically black Howard University, was married to a black man, and taught Africana studies at Eastern Washington University. Dolezal’s argument—that her racial identity is genuine, although not based on biology or ancestry—raised a lot of eyebrows.
Today we tend to think of race as a fixed, internal, and inherited biophysical category. But in the eighteenth century, race was commonly perceived as an exterior bodily trait, incrementally produced by environmental factors and subject to change.
English Professor Katy Chiles first noticed this view of “transformable race” as she read works by enslaved poet Phillis Wheatley and other eighteenth-century Americans. Intrigued, Chiles then delved into the writings of natural historians from that period and found evidence of this predominant scientific view.
For example, French naturalist Georges-Louis Leclerc, Comte de Buffon, believed in monogenesis—the concept that all races have a single origin. Since he also believed humans had been around for only 6,000 years, he concluded skin color could change in a generation.
“For Buffon, Africa is hot, so the skin is darker,” Chiles recounts. “The northern climes are less hot, so the skin color is lighter.” Under the school of thought known as environmentalism, bodies were continuously changing and identities were shaped by one’s potential to transform from one race to another.
“Natural historians thought individuals could ‘improve’ themselves and become more white, or ‘degenerate’ and become more Native American or ‘Negro,’ but the transformation was considered to be real, and not only at a superficial level,” Chiles adds.
When she tried to find a book of criticism on how these views informed early American literature, she couldn’t locate one. That’s when Chiles realized she needed to write the book.
“To understand Wheatley, we have to look at her works in the context of the world she lived in,” Chiles says. In her book Transformable Race: Surprising Metamorphoses in the Literature of Early America, Chiles explores how early concepts of race inform the figurative language in the literature of the period.
On Becoming Colored
Chiles argues that the notion of “becoming colored” through environmental factors in early America forces us to rethink previous interpretations of works by Wheatley and Samson Occom.
A member of the Mohegan nation in southeastern Connecticut, Occom converted to Christianity during the Great Awakening and is recognized as one of the first Native Americans to publish works in English.
“Occom believed not only in transformable race but also in a communal equality among all peoples,” Chiles says.
“I am a poor Indian. I can’t help that God made me so; I did not make my self so,” wrote Occom, in contrast to a nativist philosophy purporting Native Americans, whites, and Africans were created separately.
“By that way of thinking, held by many indigenous nations,” Chiles says, “Native Americans should not take up white ways because Native American ways were more pleasing to the Great Spirit.”
On the other hand, Wheatley “views the process of ‘becoming colored’ as part of God’s plan to vary the progeny of a single creation,” Chiles explains. Only when blackness is used to justify slavery, for example, does it become a problem.
On Becoming Indian
Chiles also cites several literary instances of someone transforming into being a Native American—not just “passing” as one.
In Letters from an American Farmer, J. Hector Saint John de Crèvecoeur described the ways Americans are changed by the new world and interactions with Native Americans.
John Marrant wrote of his experiences as a free black man captured by Cherokees in A Narrative of the Lord’s Wonderful Dealings with John Marrant, A Black. “He learned their language and his habits were changed,” Chiles says. “He transformed so much into a Cherokee that it rendered him unrecognizable to most of his family once he returned home.”
In the Gothic mystery Edgar Huntly; or, Memoirs of a Sleep-Walker, Charles Brockden Brown—often called America’s first novelist—described a character whose interactions with Native Americans on the Pennsylvania frontier included the rescue of a white girl from a native tribe.
“All three of these texts,” Chiles says, “reflect the natural historical idea that race was a condition one managed to sustain rather than a fixed or immutable bodily fact.”
Addressing the late eighteenth century on its own terms—not ours—shows race is a construction and an idea with a history. Compared to more recent definitions of race as biological and unchangeable—often used to justify slavery, imperialism, and segregation—the earlier ideas seem almost benign. “Understanding that history will bring us and our students closer to understanding race in our own world and alleviate some of the horrendous affects of it,” Chiles says. | <urn:uuid:5941234d-cef1-48e2-8a2c-5fa7949c1101> | CC-MAIN-2018-13 | https://quest.utk.edu/2016/transformable-race-2/ | s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2018-13/segments/1521257647003.0/warc/CC-MAIN-20180319155754-20180319175754-00093.warc.gz | en | 0.965292 | 1,158 | 3.734375 | 4 |
The Humanitarian Impact of Israeli Settlements in Hebron City | November 2013
Pursuant to a 1997 agreement with the Palestine Liberation Organization (PLO), Israel has continued to exercise full control over 20% of Hebron City, known as H2.
The population of H2 includes approximately 40,000 Palestinians living alongside several hundred Israeli settlers, who reside in four separate settlements.
Current legal proceedings may lead to the establishment of a fifth settlement (the “Rajabi House”) in one of the most sensitive areas of H2.
Over 6,000 Palestinians live in neighbourhoods adjacent to the five settlements, including the bulk of Hebron’s Old City (hereafter: the restricted areas).
There are over 120 physical obstacles, deployed by the Israeli military, which segregate the restricted areas from the rest of the city, including 18 permanently staffed checkpoints.
Several streets in the restricted areas that lead to the Israeli settlements are prohibited for Palestinian traffic and some also for pedestrian movement.
512 Palestinian businesses in the restricted areas have been closed by Israeli military orders and at least 1,100 others have shut down due to restricted access for customers and suppliers (Hebron Rehabilitation Committee).
More than 1,000 Palestinian homes in the restricted areas, over 40% of the area’s residences, had been abandoned, according to a survey (B’Tselem & ACRI).
Since the beginning of 2012, approximately 700 Palestinians have been injured by Israeli forces or Israeli settlers in Hebron city, and 44 Israelis were injured by Palestinians.
To learn more about OCHA's activities, please visit http://unocha.org/. | <urn:uuid:17954d3b-ddda-463e-9e0f-ab1737fa8717> | CC-MAIN-2017-09 | http://reliefweb.int/report/occupied-palestinian-territory/humanitarian-impact-israeli-settlements-hebron-city-november | s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2017-09/segments/1487501173761.96/warc/CC-MAIN-20170219104613-00021-ip-10-171-10-108.ec2.internal.warc.gz | en | 0.958365 | 342 | 2.53125 | 3 |
Canada is a country where pay slips are an essential part of employment. A paycheck, and often spelled pay slip or pay cheque, is a paper account issued by an employer to pay a worker for specific services rendered. If you adored this short article in addition to you wish to be given more info relating to pay stub example generously stop by our my webpage. It does NOT include the daily wages of employees. It is simply a record of what items are included, as agreed on between the employer-employee. Paystubs can be used to record information about salary and other financial transactions. They are also used by employees to keep track of their own personal finances, such as what types of expenditures they made during a pay period.
Paystubs come in various forms. Paystubs can be printed, which allows for better tracking and accounting. Paper paystubs often record only basic information, such as day-off amounts, hours worked, and holidays paid. A comprehensive payroll system that includes electronic transactions and health savings accounts is more efficient and gives better accountability for income taxes and deductions. With electronic health savings accounts, electronic transactions are quicker and easier to process. With electronic methods, it is possible to file tax returns and take deductions electronically.Most common in Canada, paystubs follow the employment contract, which outlines the compensation and terms of employment for both parties. Once a pay statement is generated, it can be converted into a tax-based scale. The employee’s deductions and any government mandated deductions are added to this amount. Finally, the pay is mailed to him. Federal law also applies to pay stubs. Federal law defines gross income as the total amount of wages an employee actually receives, including tips. Employers are required by federal law to calculate their gross earnings. They must also take into account any additional taxes required by state taxation. This includes Medicare and Medicaid. Paystubs are different from traditional social security and disability income calculations. Under federal law, the computation of an employee’s gross earnings takes into consideration only those employee benefits that are discretionary. These include vacation pay, child care benefits, and insurance premiums and expenses. Disability compensation and medical underwrites are not considered. Employees are therefore less likely to choose additional coverage. Paystubs have many disadvantages. Traditional social security and disability benefits offer certain advantages. Paystubs typically do not include important deductions such as those for medical expenses, taxes, and child support. These are all items that are considered income for tax purposes. This means that employees will get less money than if they don’t have paystubs. There are a few ways an individual can get additional deductions from their paychecks. The first is to adjust the definition of gross earnings. This could mean removing some of the pre-tax assets such as retirement plans and mutual funds. The second way to take advantage of pre-tax funds is to invest them in a non-qualified IRA account. Both of these strategies are considered extensions of existing pension plans and can produce significant boosts to a worker’s net pay. Calculate Ytd Net pay by taking the sum total of all taxes eligible and adding the amount of any deductions. The resulting number is subtracted off your gross pay. This is your Ytd net pay. You can transfer your accounts to another company if you have plans to change insurance companies. You may also be eligible to receive employer match contributions. You can significantly increase your gross income by using a combination of all these strategies.
Here’s more info about pay stub example visit our own web page. | <urn:uuid:930500e7-5d65-4c2a-9358-60da50341b8a> | CC-MAIN-2022-05 | https://999answers.com/understanding-paystubs-and-tax-rates/ | s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2022-05/segments/1642320304287.0/warc/CC-MAIN-20220123141754-20220123171754-00027.warc.gz | en | 0.968491 | 725 | 2.75 | 3 |
I covet the gift of hospitality. The ability to tangibly meet natural needs for food, clothing, and shelter in such a way that the person or persons being served feel honored and valued. And to do it without looking like you're trying, that's really a gift!
Hospitality has never been a strength for me. I'm too introverted, too self-conscious, and maybe just plain too selfish to be good at it. If I have overnight guests, I don't sleep. If people come over for supper, I freak out before they arrive and collapse in exhaustion when they leave.
So when I read about First Lady Dolley Madison, I'm especially awed by the way she took a "woman's gift," one that's often overlooked or ignored, and used it to make a mark on history.
Born to settlers John and Mary Payne in North Carolina on May 20, 1768, Dolley Payne grew up under the strict discipline of the Society of Friends, also known as the Quakers. As was the norm for women in that era, she received no formal education. In 1790 she married John Todd, Jr., a Philadelphia lawyer and fellow Quaker.
By this time in the nation's history, Philadelphia was operating as the nation's capitol, and Dolley became involved in various social functions. It's as though she found her niche, her place, in the process of entertaining. After the untimely death of her husband and one young son to yellow fever in 1893, she continued to participate in the social functions of Philadelphia.
At one of these events, family friend and New York senator Aaron Burr introduced Dolley to the man credited as "the architect of the Constitution," Representative James Madison of Virginia. Madison was 43, Dolley was 26. The couple were soon engaged, and exchanged vows in 1794. Because Madison was an Episcopalian, Dolley was ostracized from the church of her childhood for marrying outside her denomination. She became an Episcopalian like her husband, and laid aside the somber clothing and customs of her upbringing.
When Thomas Jefferson was elected president, he asked Madison to become his Secretary of State. While in Washington, Dolley found a need and filled it. The bachelor president needed a woman to organize and orchestrate the social functions required of a national leader. He asked Dolley to serve as hostess, and she fell quite naturally into the role.
It's said that her charm, grace, and extraordinary ability to remember names and faces were responsible for quelling the tensions often present in political meetings. Her extroverted personality brought life and cheer to the bachelor administration. Her gift didn't go unnoticed, and by the end of her first eight years in Washington, Dolley had claimed the place of social queen of the nation's capitol. When her husband was elected to the presidency in 1808, her actions as First Lady set a precedent other First Ladies have sought to follow ever since. Her widespread popularity as a hostess was held at least partly responsible for Madison's re-election to a second term in office.
Her dinner parties were lavish affairs and an invitation to one of her parties, or her Wednesday night receptions, were highly desired among diplomats, politicians, and citizens. The White House, under Dolley's hand, was an open house, made gracious and welcoming by Dolley's gracious personality and generosity.
She continued to entertain into the last days of her life, even after Madison's death (they were married 42 years). When her son from her first marriage mismanaged the family property, she was forced to sell everything. She simply moved back to Washington and continued to be a vibrant part of the social whirl up until her death in 1849.
Nothing, it seems, could quench Dolley's zest for living and love of people. She had numerous opportunities to become disappointed, discouraged, and bitter. But she maintained her joie de vivre. How? I believe it's because she continually gave herself to her gift - hospitality - and by letting that God-given gift pour through her, she kept herself full of life and joy even in the midst of difficult times.
I've gotten better about the practice of hospitality over the years, but it will probably never come "naturally" to me. I'm a bit more "Dolly Madison" (open a box of Zingers and hide behind it during the party) than I am Dolley Madison, hostess extraordinaire. But I have other gifts, and when I yield to them and let them flow, not for my benefit but for others, I step over into a place of peace and joy that's above and beyond what I could ask or think.
My gifts - my passions - are a fountain of the life of God in my soul. Have you found yours? | <urn:uuid:84ad9859-5463-4da0-a80b-5dbd9619ccc5> | CC-MAIN-2021-49 | https://www.inkwellinspirations.com/2009/11/thats-dolley-with-e.html | s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2021-49/segments/1637964358560.75/warc/CC-MAIN-20211128134516-20211128164516-00475.warc.gz | en | 0.984362 | 994 | 2.625 | 3 |
Halitosis, also known as bad breath, is an unpleasant odor that arises from the oral cavity. Many people have halitosis and are not aware of it. This problem is common and can lead to unpleasant situations. Poor oral hygiene is the most common cause of halitosis
Symptoms of Halitosis
The odor of your breath can vary depending on the underlying cause. For example, fruit-like odor occurs in the case of diabetes mellitus, foul odor occurs in the case of poor oral hygiene, and urine odor occurs in the case of abnormal kidney function. If you suspect you have halitosis, ask a family member, close friend, or your dentist.
Causes of Halitosis
Poor oral hygiene is the most common cause of halitosis. Bacteria in the mouth decompose food particles and produce sulfur-containing metabolites, causing a foul odor. Also, inadequate oral hygiene will lead to the formation of dental plaque, a sticky film of bacteria that accumulates on teeth surfaces. Dental plaque can cause dental caries and gum disease. With time, dental plaque can harden into tartar that can’t be removed by a toothbrush, causing persistent halitosis.
Halitosis bacteria prefer to nest in places with little oxygen or can’t be reached by a toothbrush, For example, interdental spaces, periodontal pockets, cavities, under dental prosthesis, and orthodontic appliances. Also, the tongue surface is one of the favorite places of bacteria. Dentists suggest that more than two-thirds of all halitosis cases are due to tongue bacteria. So, you should clean your tongue daily with a tongue scraper or toothbrush.
Other Causes of Halitosis
- Eating certain foods such as garlic, onion, and spices can cause an unpleasant odor.
- Drinking coffee and alcohol.
- Smoking and tobacco chewing.
- Poorly fitting dentures.
- Dental diseases such as cavities and gum disease.
- Dry mouth condition.
- Some medications may cause halitosis as a side effect such as medications of heart disease and allergies.
- Infection or inflammation
ofin the nose, sinuses, and throat can also lead to bad odor.
- Diets such as intermittent fasting, low-carb, and ketogenic diet can cause bad breath. This is due to elevated ketone levels as a result of the breakdown of fats. The ketone exits from your body in breath and urine.
- Medical conditions such as:
- Salivary gland disease.
- Respiratory Diseases.
- Gastroesophageal reflux disease.
- Tumors in the oral cavity and throat.
- Diabetes mellitus: the breath smells like acetone.
- Kidney failure: The breath smells like ammonia or urine.
- Liver failure: the breath has a strong, musty smell.
Treatment of Halitosis
The treatment of halitosis depends on the underlying cause. In most cases, poor oral hygiene is the cause of bad breath. So, improving your oral hygiene and visiting your dentist regularly for a professional dental cleaning may solve the problem. If breath odor is caused by plaque, cavities, or gum disease, you should visit your dentist to treat the problem. Your dentist may refer you to a specialist if he/she suspects that your halitosis is caused by a medical condition.
Home Remedies for Halitosis
To reduce or prevent halitosis:
- Brush your teeth with a soft-bristled toothbrush for 3-5 minutes.
- Change your toothbrush when becoming frayed or every 3 months.
- Clean the interdental spaces with an interdental brush or dental floss.
- Clean your tongue with a tongue scraper or toothbrush.
- Use a mouthwash with anti-bacterial ingredients such as chlorhexidine for 2 weeks maximum. Dentists don’t recommend the prolonged use of these mouthwashes because they can disturb the balance of oral flora and cause more harm.
- Drink plenty of water to keep your mouth moist.
- Chew sugar-free gum to stimulate the salivary flow if you have a dry mouth.
- Clean dental prosthesis and braces at least once a day.
- Eat a balanced diet with plenty of vegetables and fruits.
- Stop smoking.
- Have a professional dental cleaning at least twice a year to remove plaque and tartar. | <urn:uuid:51f32a29-cf08-462d-8920-4b04b8bd6d85> | CC-MAIN-2020-10 | https://sharedentalcare.com/halitosis/ | s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2020-10/segments/1581875145316.8/warc/CC-MAIN-20200220224059-20200221014059-00365.warc.gz | en | 0.893542 | 931 | 3.390625 | 3 |
If you’re concerned with your family’s safety, then you’re going to prioritize the idea that you would never want them to suffer from an accidental injury. And these types of injuries occur all over the place. That’s why you want to teach your partners, your children, and your extended family what kinds of things to avoid, and set up habits and behaviors that will keep them from hurting themselves as well.
You can help your family members stay fit. You can give them advice to protect them on the road. You can show them how to ensure that they work in a safe environment. And you can teach them situational awareness depending on context.
A lot of accidental injuries occur because people aren’t physically fit. Think about things like ankle sprains or pinched nerves in your neck or back. Those are far less likely to happen if you regularly work on your range of motion. So, by having a nice, comfortable stretching routine that you go through every day, a lot of those physical injuries can be prevented. Teaching your family how to customize this stretching routine from themselves is a good step in the right direction.
Protecting Them On the Road
Another place that accidental injuries occur all the time is on the road. Car accidents can and do happen, though they can often be avoided. If anyone in your family rides a motorcycle, there are several pieces of advice that you can follow to prevent the worst possible scenarios. Obviously, safety belts should always be used. And regular car maintenance will help to prevent car accidents as well. Knowing that you’re driving in a car where something could break or go bad in a high-speed situation is always something to be concerned with.
Ensuring Workplace Safety
If anyone in your family works in a risky environment, you want to make sure that they understand how to create the safest workspace possible. For example, at construction sites, hardhats and steel-toed boots are always required. Anywhere there are chemicals in the air, the correct respiratory devices should be in use. Teach your family that they always need to demand from their employers that these safety devices are present.
Teaching Situational Awareness
In the end, teaching your family situational awareness will go a long way to preventing accidental injuries. You can’t just assume that the world around you is a safe cushion for you to live in. Situational awareness means that your senses are constantly scanning your environment for anything that may pose a risk. Things that are hot, heavy, sharp, or even unfamiliar should put you in a state where you are prepared to react to keep yourself safe. | <urn:uuid:a9026f93-67ea-424e-8ed0-e7dbca535eca> | CC-MAIN-2021-17 | https://raising-reagan.com/2018/05/26/protecting-your-family-members-from-accidental-injury/ | s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2021-17/segments/1618038069133.25/warc/CC-MAIN-20210412175257-20210412205257-00628.warc.gz | en | 0.958068 | 541 | 2.65625 | 3 |
A market is a unique phenomenon comprising of several features and characteristics based on its differentiation. It is essential to understand these markets to have a better glimpse of the economy. Markets may be unpredictable, volatile, and sometimes much more than your analysis. Hence read and understand these types of markets before you dig in further into the economy.
Infinite Buyers and Sellers
A market which consists of many small firms competing against each other may be known as perfect competition. It may be hard to find such markets in this day and time, but that does not mean they don’t exist. These firms do not have power over another as they do not possess the capability of controlling the prices. An excellent example of this kind of market is our very own stock market, a large number of groups which do not have the power to control the prices. Hence that sums up the perfect competition.
Any economic grad can sit you down and explain what a monopolistic competition is. A market where a vast number of firms compete against each other with the only difference being, they sell slightly different products. This technology provides them with the power to control the prices depending upon their product and its quality. At a market like this, consumers are the deciding factor as they are left with a list of choices. This market is similar to the automobile industry, as the industry manufactures a considerable number of cars with various features belonging to different companies, but at the end of the day, they are all cars and are used for transportation.
This market refers to a true king. A market where a single firm rules them all or a market where an individual controls the entire market is known as monopolistic competition. At this stage, the consumers are forced to come to the single manufacturer present, and hence, the firm has the upper hand. So these firms increase their prices without causing any changes to their level of output. An easy way to understand this kind of market is when you assume that only a single restaurant operates in your street and is the only one available in a 10km radius. Hence you are typically forced to go to these restaurants to satisfy your needs, giving the restaurant an advantage.
Oligopoly talks about a market structure which is controlled by a small number of firms facing limited competition. History has taught us that these firms either compete or collaborate to earn better profits. For example, consider the cable television services. It is a market which consists of very few players who operate within a particular area and does not cross each others paths. | <urn:uuid:9de5a952-4a58-4c1a-9a41-36f36fdd152e> | CC-MAIN-2019-30 | https://www.portaldekassegui.com/types-of-markets/ | s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2019-30/segments/1563195527396.78/warc/CC-MAIN-20190721225759-20190722011759-00062.warc.gz | en | 0.972784 | 506 | 2.875 | 3 |
Most children and workers exposed to radioactive fallout from the Fukushima Dai-Ichi nuclear disaster on 11 March last year received reassuringly low doses of radiation, but some highly-exposed workers will need close monitoring for health problems in the future.
That's the main conclusion of an interim report on the health impacts of fallout from Fukushima issued yesterday in Vienna by the UN Scientific Committee on the Effects of Atomic Radiation (UNSCEAR).
"For the time being, we don't see anything of major concern," says Wolfgang Weiss, chairman of the committee of 70 scientists. "The levels of exposure are much lower than what we saw at Chernobyl."
The committee evaluated data on how much radiation was released from the stricken plant, how much has been absorbed by plant workers, and how much reached the general public – especially children. They also looked at contamination levels among wildlife on land and in the sea.
The report reveals that children in villages with the heaviest fallout received relatively modest doses, although most exceeded the 20 millisieverts considered an acceptably safe annual cumulative dose for workers in the radiation industry.
The biggest risk faced by the children in closest proximity to the plant was accumulation of radioactive iodine in their thyroid glands, which can lead to cancer. Among those living near the site of the Chernobyl nuclear disaster there have been 6000 cases of thyroid cancer since 1986, although most have been successfully treated.
In the hotspots around Fukushima, thyroid radioactivity monitoring of 1080 children under 15 revealed that none received doses higher than 100 millisieverts, an amount 10 times smaller than the typical exposure levels of children around Chernobyl. Measurements outside the "hotspot" zones in Fukushima prefecture suggested that the maximum thyroid dose for children was around 35 millisieverts.
The committee has demanded more information and data on how the doses were assessed, and UNSCEAR should have detailed ultrasound thyroid scans on 300,000 children from the hotspots around Fukushima within the coming weeks. But Weiss says, "The data we've seen for the children is reassuring."
For some of the 20,000 workers who've been labouring to bring the four stricken reactors at Fukushima under control, the outlook is less certain.
Reassuringly, two-thirds of the workers received total radiation doses lower than 10 millisieverts. But 167 workers received doses exceeding 100 millisieverts. Of these, six received doses exceeding 250 millisieverts. "That's equivalent to 12 years of receiving a full dose that's considered acceptable within the industry," says Weiss.
Most in danger
Two workers received exceptional doses of around 680 millisieverts. "That gets towards the range where you see acute effects that can kill you," says Weiss. "At Chernobyl, 28 workers more or less died on the spot, or within a couple of days, from acute radiation syndrome."
"The levels we saw in those two workers are substantial, and we need to keep a very close watch on them," says Weiss.
The committee has also demanded more information on how worker doses and exposures have been established, and what assumptions were made in calculating them. For instance, Weiss says that in the early days of the disaster, some workers may have been exposed to high-energy neutrons as fuel melted and went critical, but there's no exposure data because their dosimeters can't detect neutrons.
For the population as a whole, Weiss says the risks from radioactive iodine have long passed, as most of it decayed away within a month of the disaster. But the potential risks from two radioactive caesium isotopes remain. Half of any amount of caesium-134 decays away within two years, for caesium-137 it is 30 years.
The committee is due to deliver its final report to the UN next May, after incorporating additional data from the Japanese authorities, US military and navy vessels exposed to fallout from Fukushima, and local surveys of sediments, fish and other marine life. Also, to assess the risks from food, the committee will analyse 130,000 samples of produce from around Fukushima gathered since the disaster by the UN Food and Agriculture Organization.
If you would like to reuse any content from New Scientist, either in print or online, please contact the syndication department first for permission. New Scientist does not own rights to photos, but there are a variety of licensing options available for use of articles and graphics we own the copyright to. | <urn:uuid:f341ff6a-c8b6-46c1-8b8d-45eba60502eb> | CC-MAIN-2015-27 | http://www.newscientist.com/article/dn21849-fukushimaexposed-children-and-workers-ok-for-now.html | s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2015-27/segments/1435375097710.32/warc/CC-MAIN-20150627031817-00136-ip-10-179-60-89.ec2.internal.warc.gz | en | 0.962166 | 905 | 3.234375 | 3 |
What does this look like in practice?
Learning Concepts are planned into small, progressive steps which draw upon wider connections within the mathematics curriculum.
Prior learning is explicitly linked to new learning to further enhance coherence and to develop understanding of the mathematical journey, professionally questioning decisions regarding coherence (representation use/order of learning/consistent vocabulary use).
Throughout the planning process, misconceptions are discussed and deliberately planned into sequences to promote mathematical reasoning by pupils.
Teachers are expected to know why they have chosen particular questions within their lessons and how these support concept development or mathematical thinking.
Whole School Practices
Underpinning our whole school practice is the belief that all children can achieve in mathematics
All staff understand the importance of recognising a child’s pre-requisite understanding and building from this.
Teachers are expected to assess formatively within each lesson, ensuring all children have kept up with the learning.
Specifically planned in ‘catch up’ time is available every day. Where possible, teachers may decide to pre-teach in order to build pupil’s confidence for the lesson ahead.
Staff understand that developing concepts often requires additional practice. Therefore recording of work is simply to allow the teacher to understand whether a child has grasped a concept. Feedback for learning takes place within the lessons verbally or through immediate intervention.
Explicit sessions focussed on number/multiplication facts as well as calculations are taught to develop both accuracy and efficiency.
Prior to teaching new content, prior content is made explicit in a recap which is then linked to new learning linked to last lesson, last week, last term and last year activating prior learning in the long term memory.
Retrieval opportunities are found across all learning. This may be at the beginning of a lesson through our retrieval grids or through prior concepts being built into questions during a pupil’s independent practice.
Lessons will include short episodes of teaching followed by opportunities for students to ‘do’ within a guided environment. These are known as learning opportunities.
Opportunities for children to dive deeper into content are provided throughout.
Depth of understanding is promoted through high levels of discussion within the classroom, ensuring children articulate their mathematical thinking as well as considering alternative approaches towards a problem. A range of Independent Practice opportunities are provided for a specific purpose
Teachers use a range of questions to promote mathematical thinking. This may be in the form of verbal discussion ‘What do you notice?’ ‘What is the same? What is different?’ or through more formal written questions.
A series of pre-requisite assessments and end of block assessments are used in order to ensure all children are keeping up with the content.
Rigorous formative assessment is in place within lessons to ensure all children keep up within the lesson. Should a child not keep up with the lesson’s content, immediate intervention opportunities across the school are in place to enable the child to be ready for the next lesson.
Where pre-requisite or End of Block assessment identifies any gaps, teachers cater for this in their planning by either: planning a longer learning sequence to ensure pre-requisite understanding is secured or lesson time is made available post block for teachers to work with pupils who need further support to keep up, whilst children who are ready to progress spend time deepening understanding or previously taught content.
It is ensured that SEND children have an ambitious curriculum. Where a SEND pupil is maintaining pace with the class’s learning journey, they would continue with appropriate in class support where necessary.
Should a child be significantly behind the class’s curriculum, small group work outside of the lesson would take place to allow the pupil to move on from their starting point. This teaching would take place by a highly-trained teaching assistant where the focus would be aiming for the child to meet each year’s ‘ready to progress’ criteria. | <urn:uuid:771f1d8c-ef4f-45ac-b592-d0bdfd5237a3> | CC-MAIN-2023-23 | https://www.gatehouse.devon.sch.uk/maths-mastery/ | s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2023-23/segments/1685224654016.91/warc/CC-MAIN-20230607211505-20230608001505-00483.warc.gz | en | 0.949757 | 816 | 4.1875 | 4 |
By Sandra Kerbler
PhD Candidate at the ARC Centre of Excellence in Plant Energy Biology,
The University of Western Australia
If you could change one thing in the world today, what would it be? I’m sure many of you reading this will be thinking of certain political leaders right now, but what about the issues a little closer to home? The ones you face each and every day? What about those that are long engrained, such that we don’t even realise they are there sometimes? Seeing so many of my talented female colleagues leave science because it was just “too competitive” and that they “didn’t have what it takes,” the answer to this question was simple. For me, I would change the gender inequality in science and that’s why I took part in Homeward Bound.
Homeward Bound is a leadership and strategy program for women scientists, set against the backdrop of Antarctica. Created by Australian leadership expert Fabian Dattner in collaboration with Dr Jessica Melbourne-Thomas of the Australian Antarctic Division, the program aims to equip a 1000-strong global collaboration of women scientists with the ability to lead, influence and contribute to policy and decision making, over the next 10 years. Homeward Bound was an incredible experience for me. Not only did has it helped me develop the skills needed to succeed in the upper echelons of science, but being part of a larger collaborative of women, all with a science background and all at very different stages of their careers has been truly inspiring.
If you would similarly like to improve the gender inequality in science and enhance your ability to lead constructively, plan strategically and communicate effectively to both scientists and non-scientists alike, please consider applying for the next Homeward Bound voyage in 2018. Applications close on the 20th February, 2017. For more information, please visit: https://homewardboundprojects.com.au or alternatively contact me directly at: [email protected] | <urn:uuid:b1a158d4-37e5-4bea-8c48-2e065b57f5e0> | CC-MAIN-2017-30 | https://www.asps.org.au/archives/3381 | s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2017-30/segments/1500549427766.28/warc/CC-MAIN-20170729112938-20170729132938-00136.warc.gz | en | 0.954941 | 415 | 2.796875 | 3 |
Stanene is a type of topological insulator where the body of the material is an insulator but the surface and edges are electrically conductive. As electrons move around in the surfaces and edges of topological insulators, their spin axis aligns with their direction of flow. This effect (known as the quantum spin Hall state) means that electrons can't easily reverse direction. In normal conductors when they hit an impurity they scatter and dissipate energy.
Although Stanene and superconductors can both exhibit zero resistance, Zhang emphasized that Stanene is not a superconductor. While the edges of Stanene act as a zero resistance path for electrons, they still encounter contact resistance at their junctions with normal conductors. In superconductors however, electrons travel in pairs, a phenomenon that eliminates contact resistance so that normal conductors effectively act like superconductors when in contact with a superconductor. | <urn:uuid:cc172398-444b-4d54-b21c-d97d893bee89> | CC-MAIN-2019-13 | https://www.elektormagazine.com/news/zero-resistance-but-not-superconducting- | s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2019-13/segments/1552912205600.75/warc/CC-MAIN-20190326180238-20190326202238-00272.warc.gz | en | 0.940338 | 186 | 3.34375 | 3 |
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‘Fingerprinting’ breakthrough offers improved brain tumour diagnosis
19 September 2012
UK scientists have made a breakthrough in a new method of brain tumour diagnosis, offering hope to tens of thousands of people.
Researchers, led by Professor Francis Martin of Lancaster University, have shown that infrared and Raman spectroscopy – coupled with statistical analysis – can be used to tell the difference between normal brain tissue and the different tumour types that may arise in this tissue, based on its individual biochemical-cell ‘fingerprint’.
Spectroscopy is a technique that allows us to analyse light by breaking it into its component parts and studying the resulting pattern or spectrum.
Currently, when surgeons are operating to remove a brain tumour it can be difficult to spot where the tumour ends and normal tissue begins.
But new research published online in Analytical Methods this month has shown it is possible to spot the difference between diseased and normal tissue using Raman spectroscopy – a type of spectroscopy which works effectively on living tissue, giving accurate results in seconds.
This is a key development which means it is now theoretically possible to test living tissue during surgery, helping doctors to remove the complete tumour whilst preserving intact adjacent healthy tissue.
The fingerprinting technique was also able to identify whether the tumours arose in the brain or whether they were secondary cancers arising from an unknown primary site. This is a key development which could help reveal previously undetected cancer elsewhere in the body, improving patient outcomes.
Professor Francis Martin said: “These are really exciting developments which could lead to significant improvements for individual patients diagnosed with brain tumours.
We and other research teams are now working towards a sensor which can be used during brain surgery to give surgeons precise information about the tumour and tissue type that they are operating on.”
The information obtained by this method can be combined with conventional methods, for example immunohistochemistry, to diagnose and grade brain tumours to allow for more accurate planning and execution of surgery and/or radiation therapy.
This offers more potential for individualised treatment and better long-term survival. | <urn:uuid:ac75117a-5d0b-4a7c-b995-09cb5c0238d9> | CC-MAIN-2015-18 | http://www.alphagalileo.org/ViewItem.aspx?ItemId=124182&CultureCode=en | s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2015-18/segments/1429246654264.98/warc/CC-MAIN-20150417045734-00281-ip-10-235-10-82.ec2.internal.warc.gz | en | 0.941895 | 441 | 2.921875 | 3 |
The Removable Storage Devices folder on desktop is commonly caused by incorrectly configured system settings or irregular entries in the Windows Registry. … It also may be caused by virus or malware attack, improper shutdown due to power failure or other factors, mistaken deletion of the system files or registry entries.
- 1 How do I get rid of removable storage on my desktop?
- 2 What is removable storage devices folder?
- 3 Which is removable storage device?
- 4 What is a removable storage device that connects to a USB port?
- 5 How do I enable removable storage devices in Windows 10?
- 6 How do I get rid of removable storage devices folder?
- 7 What is non removable storage device?
- 8 How can we protect removable media?
- 9 What is removable media scan?
- 10 What is the storage device that uses a removable 3.5 inch disk?
- 11 What are examples of removable media?
- 12 What are the steps in creating a bootable flash drive?
- 13 What will happen if storage device are removed from computer?
How do I get rid of removable storage on my desktop?
This is the simplest and most commonsensical solution that many users applied to get rid of the folder. Namely, with a right-click on your desktop and selecting the Refresh option, the temporary files should be deleted. This solution removed the folder, but only for a certain time.
What is removable storage devices folder?
What is it? A removable storage drive is used for storing and transporting data from one computer to another. It will allow you to read (open), write (make changes and save), copy, add, and delete files. It connects to a computer through a USB port.
Which is removable storage device?
Removable media is any type of storage device that can be removed from a computer while the system is running. Examples of removable media include CDs, DVDs and Blu-Ray disks, as well as diskettes and USB drives. Removable media makes it easy for a user to move data from one computer to another.
What is a removable storage device that connects to a USB port?
Answer. USB memory drives, also called flash drives, memory sticks or thumb drives, are one of the most popular forms of portable data storage. USB flash drives are only about the size of a pack of gum and have a USB plug built in to the end of the device, allowing the drive itself to plug directly into a USB port.
How do I enable removable storage devices in Windows 10?
Enabling & Disabling USB Storage
In the left field, open Computer Configuration > Administrator Templates > System > Removable Storage Access.
How do I get rid of removable storage devices folder?
The Removable Storage Devices folder on Desktop is a temporary folder and can be removed by a simple fresh in most cases. All you have to do is to right-click on a space on your Desktop, and from the contextual menu, click on Refresh.
What is non removable storage device?
USB Flash Drive Non-removable Storage Non- removable storage can be a hard drive that is connected externally. External hard drives have become very popular for backups, shared drives among many computers, and simply expand ing the amount of hard drive space you have from your internal hard drive.
How can we protect removable media?
To ensure that company data is safe and secure, employees should follow the below guidelines when handling removable media:
- Limit the use of all removable media devices except when specifically authorised.
- Apply password protection. …
- Encrypt information held on removable media.
12 дек. 2018 г.
What is removable media scan?
ESET Cyber Security can run an on-demand scan of inserted removable memory devices (CD, DVD, USB, etc.). To allow access to external CD-ROM drive connected to your computer via USB cable, deselect the CD-ROM option. …
What is the storage device that uses a removable 3.5 inch disk?
A floppy drive, or floppy disk drive, is a storage device that uses removable 3.5-inch floppy disks. These magnetic floppy disks can store 720 KB or 1.44 MB of data. In a computer, the floppy drive is usually configured as the A: drive.
What are examples of removable media?
Removable media and devices include:
- Optical Discs (Blu-Ray discs, DVDS, CD-ROMs)
- Memory Cards (Compact Flash card, Secure Digital card, Memory Stick)
- Zip Disks/ Floppy disks.
- USB flash drives.
- External hard drives (DE, EIDE, SCSSI, and SSD)
- Digital cameras.
- Smart phones.
What are the steps in creating a bootable flash drive?
Operation of the tool is simple:
- Open the program with a double-click.
- Select your USB drive in “Device”
- Select “Create a bootable disk using” and the option “ISO Image”
- Right-click on the CD-ROM symbol and select the ISO file.
- Under “New volume label”, you can enter whatever name you like for your USB drive.
2 авг. 2019 г.
What will happen if storage device are removed from computer?
Removing storage devices from a computer is akin to removing tires or wheels from a car. The car can be started and its engine will run at full throttle but you won’t be able to drive it around. Similarly, when there is no storage device, the computer will not boot an operating system to get you to the login screen. | <urn:uuid:06da9e1b-cd32-400c-9b1d-6f8ea37a0a5d> | CC-MAIN-2021-17 | https://defmean.com/why-is-removable-storage-devices-on-my-desktop/ | s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2021-17/segments/1618039379601.74/warc/CC-MAIN-20210420060507-20210420090507-00406.warc.gz | en | 0.904288 | 1,180 | 2.5625 | 3 |
This article gives broad information of “Virtual Memory” of operating system. The concept of Virtual Memory is the separation of user logical memory from physical memory and it is commonly implementation by demand paging. In this way a very large virtual memory can be provided for programmers on a smaller physical memory. Because of virtual memory the programming task becomes easy. The large amount physical memory gets available to the user. One case of virtual memory has been virtual disappearance of overlay.
Virtual memory can be implemented in one system called as segmentation system. Demand segmentation system can be used to provide virtual memory. Computer system have used demand segmentation. However, segment replacement concepts are more complex than page replacement algorithm because of the variable size, nature of segments. The major advantages of this system is that programmer can be larger than physical memory. The virtual memory abstracts main memory into in extremely large; uniform array of storage separating logical memory as viewed by the user from the physical memory.
It also allows a process to easily share files and address space and it provide an efficient mechanism for process creation. Though the actual work of swapping was problem in and out was done by the system, then how to split the program into pieces had to done by the programmer. The basic concept behind the virtual memory is that the combined size of the program, data, and stack may exceed memory the amount of physical memory available for it. The system keeps those parts of the program simultaneously in use in main memory or random access memory and the remaining part on disk.
Consider the example a 512 MB program can run on 256 MB machine by cautiously choosing which 256 MB to keep in memory at each instance, with pieces of the program begin changed between disk. That means storage devices and main memory as needed. In case of multiprogramming the Virtual memory is applicable, with bits and pieces of many programs in memory at the same time, In short when a program is waiting for its parts to get in, it is waiting for I/O and cannot run so the CPU can be given to another process the same thing can happen as in any other multiprogramming system.
In short splitting up large program into small modular pieces was time consuming .It did not take long time before someone though of a way to turn the whole job over to the computer. The sample method for this is “ Virtual Memory ”. Most virtual memory system uses a technique and that technique is called as paging, which we will now describe. On any system, there exit a set of memory address that programs can produce. Theses program generated address called virtual address and from the virtual address space. On computer system virtual memory concepts put the virtual address directly onto the memory bus and causes the physical memory word with the same address to be read or written. | <urn:uuid:e5029b0a-1872-4b6c-8344-e3ee17ea209b> | CC-MAIN-2018-26 | https://techliebe.com/do-you-know-what-is-virtual-memory/ | s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2018-26/segments/1529267860089.13/warc/CC-MAIN-20180618070542-20180618090542-00105.warc.gz | en | 0.943849 | 562 | 4.125 | 4 |
|All Images from Wikimedia Commons|
Consequently, we're encouraged to an unwarranted smugness about our system. Examples are the supposed advantages we have over a parliamentary system, or the superiority of a two party system over a multi-party system.
And in fact, there are some advantages to doing things in our idiosyncratic way. A parliamentary system usually eliminates the checks and balances inherent in separation of powers. A two-party system is inherently more stable than a multi-party system, which typically forces the formation of fragile, hard to sustain coalitions. And elections focused on a candidate rather than on his party may theoretically provide better representation at the constituency level.
But there are disadvantages to the way we do things, too. No doubt some will occur to you now, at the climax of a Presidential election. The gerrymandered district is an abomination. Campaign finance is more corrupt than at any time since Watergate. And don't even get me started on the filibuster...
|Senate Majority Leader John C. Calhoun|
I get why it's there. I used to teach American government, and so I get impatient with all the citizen experts that look at me with pity and explain, as though to a small child...
"It's a republic, not a democracy".
First of all, republics are a type of democracy. But thanks for establishing your complete unfamiliarity with basic Political Science..
More importantly, let me remind you; the Founding Fathers were steeped in Livy, and Thucydides, Machiavelli and Plato. Their education consisted largely of reading authors whose idea of democracy was drawn entirely from observing the worst excesses of Athenian direct democracy, and contrasting it to the best moments of the Roman Republic.
In the time of the Founders, only 1/2 to 3/4 of the American populace could read (it varied with urbanization). The logistics of a national election were completely different. The Founding Fathers' greatest fear was that the unruly and uneducated mass of the people were going to rise up and equalize property, probably after appointing a dictator. Until the election of Andrew Jackson, in most states you HAD TO OWN PROPERTY before they'd let you vote.
You couldn't even vote for your Senator. State Legislatures elected the Senate until 1913, with the passage of the 17th Amendment. Willard Romney's anxieties about the 47% of takers who think they're entitled to food and healthcare were an important part of the Founder's political paradigm.
I'd like to think we've made some progress since then. Democracy has expanded to include women. Democracy has expanded (fitfully) to include people of color. Hell, you don't even have to own property to vote anymore, although (incredibly) some Tea Party authoritarians advocate a return to just such a tyrannical measure. Chris Hayes nails it in his "Forward" spot on MSNBC, "it (democratization) is the defining feature of the moments we now view with the greatest pride."
The Electoral College was devised as a measure to weaken the influence of the people on the selection of the President. The Framers believed that the selection of the nation's Chief Executive was best discussed in quiet rooms, away from an angry rabble that might demand some of the good things to which refined gentlemen were entitled.
On that basis alone the Electoral College needs to be replaced with direct popular election of the President. Democratization and progress are exactly synonymous.
But the effect of the Electoral College on American politics is less abstract, and much more pathological than it's anachronistic elitism. There are practical political consequences that go beyond mere considerations of Political Theory.
The Electoral College systematically gives greater political power and influence to rural citizens, to the detriment of urban citizens. All men may be created equal, but if you live in North Dakota, your vote counts for more than if you live in California. This is because of the way in which Electors are apportioned to the College. Each state sends a number of Electors to the college equal to the state's entire congressional delegation; that's congressmen + senators. Not all congressional districts are the same size. Montana has a single Congressman representing 905,000. Wyoming's single Congressman represents 560,000.
That's not even the biggest inequity. Wyoming has exactly the same number of senators as California, and that magnifies it's power in the Electoral College. A presidential voter in Wyoming is about 3 times as influential as one in California. One can find people who staunchly defend the importance of giving rural voters a disproportionate say in who should run the country...
just look in rural areas.
I should also point out that there is no constitutional requirement for an Elector to vote for the presidential candidate who won the popular vote in their state. About half the states DO have laws requiring Electors to vote for the candidate who wins their state, but 24 states do not. It's generally not a problem, but "faithless electors" do sometimes pop up.
Finally, the Electoral College is not guaranteed to elect the candidate who won the popular vote. This has profound and disturbing implications for the health of our democracy. In 2000, George W. Bush did not win the popular vote. The President who took us into the Iraq War, who squandered the surplus, who threw us into the worst economic collapse since the Great Depression...
had fewer votes than the other guy. In fairness, my countrymen DID vote him in the 2nd time. That's the kind of democratic outcome that wakes me up in a cold sweat, some nights.
Getting rid of the Electoral College by amending the Constitution is probably impossible. It would require 3/4 of all the state legislatures to ratify the amendment...
states like Wyoming and Montana. Hell, we couldn't get 3/4 of the states to ratify the ERA.
A better shot is the National Popular Vote Interstate Compact. That's an easier lift than a Constitutional Amendment, but still awfully dicey. As long as one party sees an advantage for itself in the current system, they'll oppose the compact. But we SHOULD get rid of the
Electoral College. It would be good public policy, and good governance. It would be more democratic. It would be progress. | <urn:uuid:e2aee415-e968-4545-b43f-45a2f909d8d5> | CC-MAIN-2016-30 | http://jdvanlaningham.blogspot.com/2012/10/the-electoral-college-has-got-to-go.html | s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2016-30/segments/1469258943369.84/warc/CC-MAIN-20160723072903-00280-ip-10-185-27-174.ec2.internal.warc.gz | en | 0.96476 | 1,297 | 2.78125 | 3 |
When we think of Indians we picture a warrior with a spear or bow and arrow sitting on a horse. But, the Indians did not always have horses. In fact, they did not always have bows and arrows, but that is a different story. This page is about horses and Indians.
The Indians got their first horses from the Spanish. When the Spanish explorers Coronado and DeSoto came into America they brought horses with them. This was in the year of 1540. Some horses got away and went wild. But, the Indians did not seem to have done much with these wild horses. They did not start to ride or use horses until much later.
In the 1600s there were a lot of Spanish missions and settlers in New Mexico just to the west of Texas. This is where the Pueblo and Navaho Indians live. The Spanish in New Mexico used Indians as slaves and workers. These Indian slaves and workers learned about horses working on the Spanish ranches. The Spanish had a law that made it a crime for an Indian to own a horse or a gun. Still these Indians learned how to train a horse and they learned how to ride a horse. They also learned how to use horses to carry packs.
In the year of 1680 the Pueblo Indians revolted against the Spanish and drove the Spanish out of their land and back down into Old Mexico. The Spanish were forced to leave so fast they left behind many horses. The Pueblo Indians took these horses and used them. The Spanish did not come back until the year of 1694. While the Spanish were gone the Pueblo Indians raised large herds of horses. They began selling and trading them to other Indians such as the Kiowa and Comanche. The Pueblo Indians also taught the other Indian tribes how to ride and how to raise horses.
Horses spread across the Southern Plains pretty quickly. French traders reported that the Cheyenne Indians in Kansas got their first horses in the year of 1745. Horses changed life for the plains Indians. Plains Indians, including Texas Plains Indians, hunted buffalo on foot before they had horses. Buffalo are not easy to hunt on foot. They can run away faster than a hunter can run after them. With a horse, a hunter can chase after the buffalo and keep up with them. A group of hunters can ride horses up to a heard of buffalo and get close enough to shoot arrows at them before the buffalo run away.
Plains Indians are nomads. Nomads means they are always moving from place to place looking for food. Nomads have to carry everything they own with them every time they move. Before they had horses, the Indians would have to carry everything on foot or use dogs to carry things. Yes they used dogs with packs like saddlebags and with travois to carry stuff.
This is a travois. They are carrying a child and a baby on this one!! That is probably a woman sitting on the horse.
Why not make a horse or dog with a travois for a project? Use a toy Horse or dog and tie sticks or pipe cleaners together to make the travois. Put some stuff on it and your done.
When the first horses arrived they looked like very wonderful and magical dogs that could carry a lot of stuff. That is why many Plains Indians called horses "sacred dogs".
In a very short time Plains Indians learned to be expert riders. Along with hunting they learned to use the horses to make war and go on raids. They could go much farther than they ever could on foot and arrive rested and able to fight. The tribes who learned how to use horses first and fast had a huge advantage over other tribes. They quickly pushed other tribes out of their former territories and expanded their territories. Tribes like the Comanche and Cheyenne who had horses and knew how to use them first pushed other tribes like the Apache, Wichita and Tonkawa south and west off the plains. The Apache who now live in New Mexico and in Old Mexico used to live way up in the Texas panhandle and north of Texas. Bands of Comanche warriors on horseback were powerful and feared by everyone Indians and Europeans.
Next time you see a picture of a Indian on a horse, stop and remember what Indian life must have been like before the sacred dogs came along.
Back to the Texas Indians home page
Copyright by Rolf E. Moore and Texarch Associates, all rights reserved. Graphics may not be used or reproduced without prior permission. Short parts of text may be quoted in school reports. Longer quotes require prior written permission. | <urn:uuid:25fa6fff-af83-4f4c-898d-803a7ae0288f> | CC-MAIN-2018-34 | http://texasindians.com/horse.htm | s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2018-34/segments/1534221210615.10/warc/CC-MAIN-20180816093631-20180816113631-00328.warc.gz | en | 0.97597 | 942 | 3.90625 | 4 |
Displacement ventilation is characterized by naturally generated stratification in density (thermal) and scalar concentration (pollutant). It discharges supply air of low velocity near the floor and cool supplied air spreads over the floor and forms pool of conditioned air. When this cool air meets a heat source, because of the temperature difference and resulting buoyant force, convection plume is generated through which warmed and polluted air goes upwards to the ceiling where it exits through the exhaust.
Due to entrainment phenomena, the volumetric flow rate of the plume gets bigger as it goes upwards. When the volumetric flow rate of hot and polluted air generated by heat sources (like human body, electrical equipment, non-isothermal wall) is the same with that of supplied air, a thermal and contamination boundary level forms through which the upper level and the lower level are distinguished. This does not mean that there is no interaction between two levels, however itís momentum and thermal interaction is very small compared to overall convection flow field. Therefore most of time it is generally accepted to view the boundary level (stratification level) as no interaction level between two regions in the analysis.
This aspect is one of the most beneficial factors in thermal displacement ventilation over the conventional mixing type ventilation in that only heating/cooling loads affecting the lower part of the space (i.e. occupied zone) is taken care of and more importantly it can improve air quality in the occupied zone. This leads naturally to the fact that energy saving as well as indoor air quality can be enhanced in the displacement ventilation. Many researchers have been tried to prove those aspects of the displacement ventilation theoretically and experimentally. George Dunham claimed in his interoffice memorandum that for 100,000 ft2 office, cooling load can be saved by 25 ~ 30 % in displacement ventilation, therefore reduction in supply air volumetric flow rate is 70% of that in mixing ventilation if it were used in the same situation.
Despite many advantages of displacement ventilation, however, there are several criteria that have to be carefully considered when it is designed. Since diffusers are usually placed near or on the floor, the supply air velocity has to be low enough to avoid uncomfortable draft (Table 1). And this low velocity air stream forms gravity current which has different features from jet formed by mixing type ventilation diffuser. The behavior of gravity current is strongly dependent upon the temperature difference between supplied air and room air. Itís flow pattern is governed by Archimedes number. To locate diffusers in the proper locations, designer needs a deep understanding on the draft and flow pattern of the gravity current.
Another attentions have to be paid to temperature gradient, temperatures at knee and at head level and temperature difference between supply and exhaust since these are all important comfort parameters. As the plume ascends, hot air in the plume warms the air in the occupied zone and due to low entrainment very stable stratification around the plume forms. And this results in temperature gradient in the occupied zone. These parameters are subjected to some form of regulation for a comfortable HVAC system.
Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) plays very promising role in verifying and designing new displacement ventilation system. Because of its extensive capability predicting velocity, temperature, any scalar quantity over the computational domain. From the last 10 years, researchers have employ CFD to their displacement ventilation research and its usage is getting more attention recently. | <urn:uuid:bf3dbbdd-f834-48aa-9bdd-e54fedb8d64b> | CC-MAIN-2016-36 | http://www.flonomix.com/thermal_displacement_ventilation.htm | s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2016-36/segments/1471983578600.94/warc/CC-MAIN-20160823201938-00020-ip-10-153-172-175.ec2.internal.warc.gz | en | 0.938507 | 700 | 3.15625 | 3 |
An Ecological Examination of Ego and Ethnic Identity Formation Within Second Generation Korean-Americans
Im, Janice H.
MetadataShow full item record
Investigation of first and second generation Korean-American ego and ethnic identity formation was explored through semi-structured, in-depth interviews. Seventeen self-identified Korean-American young adults, aged twenty-one to twenty-nine, were asked to describe their identity development within Bronfenbrennerâ s five ecological realms. Grounded theory methodology was used to link Eriksonâ s theory of identity formation (1968) with Bronfenbrennerâ s Theory of Ecology (1979). Unlike Eriksonâ s prescribed identity crisis for adolescents, Korean-Americans were found to delay their identity exploration until college or young adulthood when they were able to gain geographical and emotional distance from their parents. This was found to be primarily due to Korean cultureâ s emphasis on three main areas--importance of family, respect for elders, and strive for excellence--which served to reinforce collective identity with oneâ s family along with strong parental authority, which inhibited deviation from parental expectations. Subsequently, Korean-American ego identity was found to be significantly influenced by parental adherence to Korean culture. Furthermore, Korean-Americans during adolescence were found to marginalization their Korean culture, due to experiences of discrimination and prejudice from American peers. Depending on the degree of experienced prejudice and discrimination from American peers along with degree of socialization and exposure to other Koreans, Korean-Americansâ ethnic identity either proceeded in stages or became fluid, where their ethnic identity changed depending on the environment .
- Masters Theses
Showing items related by title, author, creator and subject.
Ayers, Michael D. (Virginia Tech, 2001-06-08)This study examines collective identity, a concept that is used in social movement theory to understand why people are motivated to participate in social movements and social movement groups. Collective identity is a ...
Exploring the interaction among undergraduates' boundaries and the identity status and identity style constructs Lile, Jesse Jacob (Virginia Tech, 2012-03-29)This dissertation focuses on the process of identity development and the role of boundaries in that process. Toward this end a study was conducted to explore the interaction between Hartmanâ s (1991) boundaries, Marciaâ ...
Sharp, Matthew R (Virginia Tech, 2013-06-11)This dissertation explores how various versions of a university\'s identity"including the leadership-sponsored brand as well as alternate rhetorics of organizational identity"shape the policies and practices of the university ... | <urn:uuid:23541fdf-fac3-43d0-bd68-562468042e04> | CC-MAIN-2017-30 | https://vtechworks.lib.vt.edu/handle/10919/33390 | s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2017-30/segments/1500550967030.98/warc/CC-MAIN-20170728123647-20170728143647-00318.warc.gz | en | 0.938692 | 530 | 2.609375 | 3 |
Early months of the COVID-19 pandemic brought an 18% increase nationwide in substance use overdoses compared with the same months in 2019. A year after the initial outbreak, substance use has continued to increase due to pandemic-related stress including financial instability, job loss, homelessness, and isolation. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) found 13% of Americans reported starting or increasing substance use to cope with stress or emotions related to COVID-19.
A WalletHub study examining national drug abuse, rehab, and arrest data scored Missouri with the overall worst drug problem. The study considered 22 metrics and focused on three main data categories: drug use and addiction, law enforcement issues, and drug health issues and rehab. In these areas, Missouri scored 18th in drug use and addiction, 1st in law enforcement issues, and 16th in lack of health support and rehab opportunities. The Pitch KC has a breakdown of the study here.
Along with substance use concerns, Missouri has seen a rise in symptoms of anxiety and depressive order in adults. In October 2020, 38.6% of adults in Missouri reported these symptoms compared to 37.7% of adults nationally. These Missouri adults (27.3%) also reported needing counseling or therapy but not receiving it within the last month, compared to the U.S. average (22.5%). As Americans nationwide are desperately searching for mental health services and emotional relief, providers are becoming overwhelmed and are struggling to keep up with demand.
The rise of substance use and the opioid epidemic, as well as increased reports of mental health symptoms, are national health concerns. However, these sensitive topics carry stigmas which can interfere with the motivation to seek or receive treatment. Individuals struggling with substance use disorder (SUD) and addiction face negative judgements regarding their circumstance, behavior, or appearance. However, these factors are often a product of or influenced by their struggle with substances. SUD and addiction also cooccur with mental health issues; if someone needs treatment for one, they will likely require treatment for the other. For people who use substances or face mental health issues, harsh judgements or assumptions from family, peers, providers, and others can cause shame and distrust and may prevent someone from seeking help or continuing treatment. Understanding substance use and addiction as a disease, rather than a personal failure, is necessary to breaking down stigmas surrounding substance use in health care.
The Toll Substance Use Takes
I lost my oldest sister to complications from opioid use seven years ago. Because of the stigma surrounding drug use in our rural hometown and the strains put on our family due to her addiction, I have only just begun to grapple with my grief surrounding her loss. Throughout her hospitalization, hospice stay, and even for years after her death I held animosity towards her for the harm she caused me and our family. I was furious with her for hurting herself and putting our family in danger. I was angry at her for stealing, lying, sneaking around, and taking advantage of our parents’ generosity. I was disheartened by her lack of presence in her children’s lives and disappointed by her seemingly unwillingness to meet her full potential. She had recently returned to school to become a surgical technician; I had never felt prouder of her and more hopeful for her recovery until I discovered a bag of syringes she snuck home from work to use recreationally.
My mother, a far more compassionate and spiritual woman, took a different route processing her grief. Throughout my sister’s addiction, our mom played the role of authoritarian, refusing to enable my sister nearly to a restrictive and cold fault. Her desperation to intervene and save my sister meant drawing firm boundaries and learning to say no. She feared every late phone call we received, anxious it would be the call letting us know about an overdose, and refused to play a part in allowing that to happen. Cutting off access to certain resources seemed like an act of love, such as refusing to send money believing it would be spent on drugs and only worsen the problem. To my sister, though, that money was a necessity, even if it was for another dose – especially one to stop painful withdrawal symptoms from settling in.
During my sister’s final weeks and after her death, our mother transformed from a confused, frustrated, heartbroken parent to an empowering advocate for addicts and their support systems. She immersed herself in Nar-Anon meetings and programs, the support group counterpart to Narcotics Anonymous (NA) for family and loved ones, and eventually climbed the volunteer ranks to become the head of her local Kansas chapter. Through her advocacy work helping families understand the nature of addiction as a disease and navigate how to show compassion for addicts without perpetuating the problem, I learned how to let go of the anger towards my sister.
In one of many back-and-forth trips to the hospice room, I walked in on my mother speaking to my sister in one of her last lucid moments. My mom softly whispered a gentle mantra reminding her that the addict self is not the same as the self and that while one physical body may be perishing, the disease and all its problems would with it. The spiritual being within my sister, the true self, full of personality and light and free of addiction or guilt, would continue in another form. Though spirituality differs between everyone, the recognition of a stark difference between the addict identity and the true identity of a loved one is vital to understanding addiction, breaking down stigma, and supporting those struggling with substance use in their journey to recovery.
The Danger of Stigmas
The combination of pandemic-related stress, increased substance use, and worsened mental health issues can be fatal. According to the American Psychological Association, those with substance use disorder (SUD) are more likely to develop COVID-19 and experience worse outcomes including higher risk of hospitalization and mortality. The American Medical Association reports SUD as deadly with more than 40 states seeing increases in opioid-related mortality in December 2020. Because these issues co-occur, treatment and recovery must prioritize whole-person care.
Stigmas surrounding substance use and mental health often alienate or shame individuals who are struggling rather than motivate them to seek help. Intense negative feelings like shame and guilt often increase the urge to self-medicate as a coping mechanism, furthering the cycle of substance dependence. While navigating relationships of any kind with someone who is struggling with these issues may bring negative interactions and emotions, it’s important to remember that they are also a victim. Part of stigma reduction for those serving as support systems is to seek outlets for these difficult feelings and help navigate changes in relationship dynamics.
As someone who has lost a family member to substance use, I constantly questioned why someone would continue to put themselves and others through the pain of addiction and its consequences and eventually assumed it to be personal. Unlearning the stigmas I knew surrounding substance use and addiction, particularly opioid use in my experience, was necessary to my own grieving and healing process as well as eventually assisting others in their recovery.
In my experience speaking at outpatient recovery clinics, including First Step in Lawrence, Kansas where my sister was treated, the most common feedback I heard was the lack of support and understanding among family and friends. Addicts often felt ashamed to ask for help because they were raised to be strong enough to never need it, or were taught that substance use, even to a severe extent, was normal and to not be in control was a personal failure to be ashamed of. On weekly visitor nights, families and loved ones would attend meetings to celebrate the addicts’ progress and learn more about addiction and mental health’s toll on an addict as well as their support system. Education and support groups work in tandem to break down how addiction develops, how mental health intersects, how relationships and behaviors change, and how to overcome these challenges to develop new, healthier habits and behaviors.
How Does Addiction Develop?
According to the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA), SUD occurs when recurrent use of alcohol and/or drugs causes clinically significant impairment, including health problems, disability, and failure to meet major responsibilities at work, school, or home. SUD often coexists with mental health issues which can worsen health symptoms and cause challenges in recovery. The Mayo clinic underscores that substance addiction is a disease affecting the brain, and that an addict may continue using a substance despite the harm it causes.
Substance use can start with experimental or recreational use in social situations, such as vaping among youth or binge drinking and taking party drugs among young adults in college. Peer pressure or social culture, especially among teens and young adults, contribute to developing SUD. Opioids are often abused after someone obtains them through a prescription, usually for a relative or themselves. People who experience a serious injury and receive opioid painkillers are prone to becoming addicted after prolonged use leads to increased tolerance. Over time, more use means a higher tolerance and increased usage to gain the same effect or any effect at all. Because of this, opioid painkillers have a higher risk and cause addiction more quickly than some other substances.
As someone develops SUD, their symptoms make it clear: maintaining the high is the priority. When an addict abruptly stops using a substance, they may become severely ill, lose consciousness, experience seizures, among other withdrawal symptoms. To avoid this, the disease wires the body and brain to prioritize the substance. An addict experiences intense urges and cravings for the feeling of being high or drunk, prioritizes maintaining the substance even if it is unaffordable, and fails to meet social and work obligations because of substance use. People with SUD continue to use despite physical, psychological, or financial issues and may even act out of character such as steal or do other risky activities to obtain the substance. Someone has severe SUD if they fail attempts to stop using and experience withdrawal symptoms when they do.
People experiencing problems with substance use may miss school or work or show a drop in their performance and appearance. Physical health problems, besides withdrawal symptoms, include lack of energy or motivation, significant weight loss or gain, red eyes, bruises especially along veins, and poor dental hygiene. Changes in behavior are especially common, including being secretive about their location or belongings, drastic changes in relationships, and money issues including requests for money without explanation, stealing money, or stealing items to pawn. A full list of symptoms and signs of substance use is available here.
Everyone Plays a Role in Recovery
I vividly remember the night my sister stumbled into our childhood home, speech slurred more than usual. She always looked a bit disheveled, like her makeup had been slept in for a night or two, but her skin was gray and her eyes were glazed far worse than usual. As she tripped into the doorway and out of her shoes, she muttered over and over how cold she was, begging me in barely-English to grab her some socks, eventually melting to the kitchen floor where she began to seize and eventually became unresponsive. Terrified, I hollered for my parents to come. As she was rushed to the hospital, I tearfully scribbled a letter begging her to get clean so I never had to fear losing her again. When I discovered her still using opioids months after an ambitious promise to make good on my request, and especially after continuing to steal from and lie to our family, any fear of losing her became anger and resentment toward her decision to inflict pain.
The mistrust created a strain in our relationship that was too difficult to mend before I lost her. Substance use disrupts the dynamic of a support system and can turn anyone into a villain. One of the most dangerous stigmas surrounding addicts, especially due to the behavioral changes, is that they are inherently bad and do these things intentionally. It is crucial to understand that those struggling with SUD are suffering from a disease they cannot overpower, and more importantly, that they cannot change until they are ready. No amount of shaming or guilting an addict about their actions will motivate them to pursue recovery.
No one chooses to be an addict, no one wants to be an addict, and anyone can become an addict. Addiction is born from several factors and circumstances and is perpetuated by necessary increased use over time, social pressures, and emotional triggers. It’s no surprise we are seeing increased rates of substance use during a pandemic where so many people are struggling at various intersections of financial instability, emotional stress, and lack of support.
Harmful stigmas surrounding addiction prevent people from seeking care, trusting providers, and feeling supported. Addicts often internalize stigmas and blame themselves for their addiction-driven actions and may need help working through these feelings to better understand their disease. The more they feel supported by trustworthy people, the more likely they are to find the motivation to continue seeking recovery.
Honest but judgment-free conversations about risks of addiction are necessary while navigating opioid use to work towards preventing substance abuse. Support systems as a whole – providers, family, friends, therapists – have a responsibility to educate themselves about substance use and its consequences to better the chances of intervention, prevention, and reduction of SUD.
Recovery Is Not One Size Fits All
Substance use recovery often takes a multifaceted approach that combines various methods including guided support programs, such as the 12-step program used in Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) and Narcotics Anonymous (NA), and peer support, such as group counseling meetings, with lifestyle changes. Changes may include healthier eating habits, increased exercise, introduction of new hobbies to replace habits related to substance use, new social environments to replace ones that may have triggers (such as bars), and therapy or other mindfulness work. In some cases, Medication Assisted Treatment (MAT) is necessary.
The Health Care Collaborative (HCC) of Rural Missouri and its Live Well Community Health Centers offers a grant-funded Rural Community Opioid Response Program (RCORP) with peer counselors who work locally with support groups including NA, AA, Celebration Recovery, and more. Kayla Schmidt, risk management coordinator for HCC and supervisor of RCORP, said that the peer counselors have the firsthand experience to best help those who are struggling. “I will never be able to understand someone’s story like they do,” she said. “They’re able to get patients resources they need because they’ve walked in their shoes.”
For individuals struggling with substance use or for more information, contact HCC at 660.259.2440 and ask to be transferred to an RCORP peer counselor. Peer counselors can also be contacted directly for support or more information about group counseling; Will Jordan (660.251.3793) oversees NA group meetings and Tamara Lane (660.251.8016) oversees the women’s small group for Celebration Recovery. For immediate or emergency support regarding substance use and mental health, call the SAMHSA 24/7 hotline at 1.800.662.HELP (4357).
Recovery is possible. Though I lost my oldest sister to opioid addiction, I watched another sister recover from the same disease to live a happy, healthy, fulfilled life. Through support groups, recovery programs, NA sponsorship, and consistent personal lifestyle changes, I have watched her become a self-sufficient entrepreneur, a loving wife to a supportive partner, and a radiant mother to a healthy baby boy. My oldest sister’s death nearly tore our family apart at times but through understanding her disease and journey and by advocating for others, it has also brought us back together even stronger. Once I and the rest of my family educated ourselves about addiction, found our own support for the frustrations, pain, and mistrust we felt, and showed compassion for the addicts in our lives, recovery became much easier – for everyone. | <urn:uuid:f6d5b991-4f5e-4a3f-b6b7-f153fb45db88> | CC-MAIN-2021-39 | https://accesshealthnews.com/road-to-recovery-requires-erasing-the-stigma/ | s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2021-39/segments/1631780053493.41/warc/CC-MAIN-20210916094919-20210916124919-00529.warc.gz | en | 0.964758 | 3,253 | 2.765625 | 3 |
Only One Country Offers Universal Health Care To All Migrants
Last year, a record number of migrants and refugees — more than 1 million — crossed into Europe, sparking a crisis as countries struggle to cope with the influx of more and more people.
And one element of the crisis is health care.
Migrants often have trouble getting medical care in the country in which they resettle. Those who are in the country illegally have an even harder time.
While many countries struggle with whether — and how — to provide health care for their migrant populations, one country seems to stand out in its policy to provide equitable coverage for migrants and refugees, regardless of their legal status: Thailand.
In Thailand, migrants — who account for more than 6 percent of the country's 67.1 million population — are able to immediately buy and access the country's universal health care.
It's the only country in the world where migrants there illegally have the same health care rights as nationals. This policy has been in place since August 2013, when Thailand's Ministry of Public Health extended the country's extant universal health care policy — which has been in place for Thai nationals since 2002 — to include migrants.
"Most countries have existing mechanisms for providing universal health coverage for their citizens, but this may not necessarily mean extending coverage to migrants, mobile populations, and other vulnerable groups in their countries," says Nenette Motus, the health adviser for the International Office of Migration in Asia and the Pacific. "Migrants and marginalized populations, too, have the right to health care and must have access to equitable health care coverage. Thailand, in particular, has health insurance schemes for both documented and undocumented migrants."
This plan also includes medicine to manage chronic illnesses such as HIV, which is critical for patients who need constant and consistent treatment with antiretrovirals.
A combination of factors led the Thai government to contemplate a system that gave migrants equal health care. By 2005, migrant workers from Myanmar, Laos and Cambodia accounted for 5 percent of all labor forces within Thailand, according to the International Labour Organization. The government recognized the migrants' contribution to the economy, considered access to health care a human right and was concerned that the lack of proper care for this vulnerable population would allow for communicable diseases that had already been controlled in Thailand to spread once again.
According to the UNAIDS 2014 Gap Report, HIV prevalence among migrants to Thailand from neighboring countries is up to four times the rate of HIV prevalence found among the general Thai population. Migrants in Thailand are also more likely to suffer from and seek treatment for communicable diseases like tuberculosis, syphilis, leprosy, malaria and elephantiasis.
In the decade leading up to the change in policy, many organizations had already set up health projects in migrant-heavy communities in Thailand. So when the policy expanded, "there was no big controversy among health care officials whether or not to provide basic health care and life-threatening treatment to migrants, regardless of their legal status," says Aree Moungsookjareoun, the border and migrant health officer at the World Health Organization in Thailand.
"It's really amazing what Thailand did," says Tatiana Shoumilina, the UNAIDS representative for Thailand. "They said any migrant — documented or undocumented, legal or illegal — can buy a health insurance card."
Initially, migrants would pay 2,800 THB (about $78) for an annual health insurance card. After the program successfully enrolled its starting target of 300,000 migrant subscribers, the yearly premium dropped to 2,100 THB ($58). Today, more than 1.3 million migrants — approximately a third of Thailand's migrant population — are enrolled in the health care system, according to the Ministry of Public Health. The majority live in Bangkok and adjacent provinces, where thriving fishing and construction industries depend on migrant labor.
But the two-year-old policy has some gaps in the coverage it provides. In certain areas — such as Mae Sot, a town in Thailand adjacent to Myanmar with a large population of Myanmarese migrants — those who are there illegally still have trouble buying health care without the proper paperwork. For instance, hospitals can turn migrants away if they are not healthy, which could mean high costs for treating the patients. And some hospitals in more remote regions lack the medical and financial resources to provide adequate care.
Although Mae Sot is home to many Myanmarese migrants, "it's still in a very remote place, which makes it hard to send supplies and medicines from Bangkok," says Pornpet Panjapiyakul, the director of Thailand's Bureau of Health Administration. Mae Sot Hospital has paid more than $1.6 million out of pocket to provide care for Myanmarese migrants.
"In reality, many hospitals refuse to sell migrants health care because taking care of all these sick migrant workers could make the hospitals go bankrupt," says Chatwut Wangon, Thailand's program manager of AIDS Healthcare Foundation, an international nonprofit that provides resources for people living with HIV/AIDS.
But Thailand's policy is still far more generous than other countries that are now home to growing migrant populations.
While the 28 countries of the European Union provide universal health coverage for nationals, few offer migrants equal coverage. In Germany or Sweden, for instance, migrants in the country illegally can only access emergency services.
"No EU country has exactly Thailand's policy of full access to all services on equal basis as citizens on payment of fee," says Lilana Keith, the program officer at the Platform for International Cooperation on Undocumented Migrants, a nonprofit that helps provide health care and other services to migrants in the country illegally.
A few countries, like France and Portugal, do provide equal access for migrants there illegally — though only if they have resided in the state for more than three months. Only 10 countries (a little more than a third) in the EU allow such migrants to get treated for HIV; indeed, many countries already have reduced spending for public health programs for nationals. In Portugal, Italy and the U.K., however, migrants there illegally can procure antiretroviral medications even when they do not have the same health care rights as nationals.
Meanwhile, Thailand is trying to improve its system. The Ministry of Public Health, the Cabinet and nonprofit groups are working together to find ways to better implement the migrant health care policy, but time is running out. The Global Fund, an international foundation that supplies medicines for HIV, tuberculosis and malaria, allocates its resources based on the income of countries in need — and now that Thailand is considered to be an upper-middle-income country, the Global Fund will phase out the country's support by January 2017. To date, the Global Fund has helped more than 2,500 migrants receive treatment for HIV/AIDS in Thailand. In other words, Thailand has less than a year to find and secure domestic funds for not only those who are currently covered by the Global Fund but also the many other migrants who have yet to receive treatment for HIV/AIDS.
In the coming months, the Ministry of Public Health plans to work with the Cabinet to develop funding models to ensure a smooth transition.
"One of the biggest problems we are trying to solve is how to get the government to reimburse the hospitals," says Surasak Thanaisawanyangkoon, chief of the AIDS, TB and Sexually Transmitted Infection bureau within Thailand's Ministry of Public Health.
Some hospitals currently have to wait three to four months before they are reimbursed for their migrant-related expenditures by the government, according to Wangon of the AIDS Healthcare Foundation. Others are not reimbursed in full if they provide costly care for sick migrants in the country illegally who have an insurance card.
"It's always a challenge to get undocumented migrants health care, but we intend on keeping the policy," Thanaisawanyangkoon says.
And the millions of migrants in Thailand already on the health care plan are grateful.
Minh Tun, a Myanmarese migrant, and his wife learned they were HIV-positive more than 15 years ago when his wife had her prenatal checkup. They then moved from Myanmar to Mae Sot for easier access to treatment. Minh Tun currently receives his supply of ARVs from the Global Fund at Mae Sot Hospital.
"What am I most scared of? Being cut off from treatment," he says.
Copyright 2021 NPR. To see more, visit https://www.npr.org. | <urn:uuid:0b2893ac-1042-4442-bc60-e1a887f9ec7d> | CC-MAIN-2022-05 | https://www.wmot.org/2016-03-31/only-one-country-offers-universal-health-care-to-all-migrants | s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2022-05/segments/1642320304217.55/warc/CC-MAIN-20220123081226-20220123111226-00419.warc.gz | en | 0.960233 | 1,740 | 3 | 3 |
zoOceanarium, specialists in a new generation of aquarium and zoological facilities, have created three new educational Biodomes in a Dubai school. The Arbor School is now enjoying a tropical rainforest dome, a crop forest and a hands-on activity dome.
The Arbor School in Dubai approached the zoOceanarium group to develop a project which could help students understand different environments within their school. The school was inspired by zoOceanarium’s work on Dubai’s Green Planet project. A small team of zoOceanarium staff worked on the school project, including animal, plant and landscape specialists, under Project Manager Richard Champion. A second team of design and construction professionals assisted the school team in creating the project.
The project took place in phases. The Domes themselves were purchased in the UK and transported to Dubai by Solardome. The team worked closely with the school to develop the concept and decide on the plant and animal collection. The next phase was to plan the environmental requirements for the Biodomes to keep the plants and animals healthy. The project also took into account the needs of the students, allowing for health and safety requirements and an effective learning environment.
The project was fast-tracked and took less than six months to complete. The Biodomes are now open and being enjoyed by students at the school. The plant collection will continue to be developed during the coming year, and animals are starting to be introduced into their new habitats. The Biodomes already include chameleons, tortoises and terrapins.
The Biodomes have a natural theme, developed with theming specialists Sim Leisure. Local landscape professionals Expressions helped to coordinate the planting plans for the habitats.
The company enjoyed being a part of this educational project and said “The zoOaceanrium team is delighted to have been able to help deliver the project and play a major role in creating this specialist facility. The team continues to support the School through training and advice and ensuring its long-term success.”
Nina Swann is the Marketing Director of Arbor School. She says that the Biodomes are proving popular with students, as well as staff and parents, and will have a positive impact on their education, “These biodomes are central in our mission to deliver our ecological place-based education. We wanted to develop varied learning spaces for our students, and to give them access to varied ecoliteracy opportunities. Awe, wonder and play in environments they wouldn’t usually have access to as a child growing up in the Gulf.”
zoOceanarium has been working on an ambitious new project, transforming a 19th Century historic building into a modern, 21st Century aquarium. The St. Louis Aquarium at Union Station is set to open later in 2019. | <urn:uuid:000f51cf-246d-4937-81e4-7ff217c67dbf> | CC-MAIN-2021-17 | https://blooloop.com/animals/news/zooceanarium-school-biomes/ | s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2021-17/segments/1618038057476.6/warc/CC-MAIN-20210410181215-20210410211215-00451.warc.gz | en | 0.973778 | 573 | 2.515625 | 3 |
We're back with another Black History Month edition of Saving Stories. Today we remember a native Kentuckian who championed racial and economic equality by working within the white power structure. As director of the National Urban League Whitney Young had the ear of three US Presidents, as well as top CEO's in the business community. Hear rare audio from the man himself describing the mission and vision of the Urban League and how that sometimes ran counter to the approaches of Martin Luther King and Malcolm X.
Whitney Young led the Urban League for ten years. President Nixon spoke at his funeral in Lexington in 1971. | <urn:uuid:a3f14363-8530-4d53-b0f3-98c0be400c06> | CC-MAIN-2019-22 | https://www.wuky.org/post/saving-stories-native-kentuckian-whitney-young-unsung-civil-rights-pioneer | s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2019-22/segments/1558232257514.68/warc/CC-MAIN-20190524044320-20190524070320-00105.warc.gz | en | 0.962638 | 119 | 2.59375 | 3 |
Today’s blog from the editor of our House of Commons 1832-68 section, Dr Philip Salmon, is the first of many pieces in which we will discuss the Peterloo Massacre that took place in St Peter’s Field, Manchester on 16th August 1819. He outlines the political climate within which this infamous episode occurred and provides context for the blogs that are to follow in the series.
The economic depression that crippled Britain after the end of French wars was the main trigger for the growth of radical protest after 1815. The wars with France had dragged on for almost 22 years. Britain emerged victorious, narrowly defeating Napoleon with German help at Waterloo, but with massive government debts and its economy totally unprepared for peace. Almost 300,000 soldiers returned home in search of work, including many disabled veterans. Orders for military supplies quickly dried up, causing mass closures and layoffs in the industrial centres of the Midlands and North. In the countryside unprofitable farm land forced into cultivation to feed the nation during naval blockades was abandoned. Unemployment began to soar.
The initial response of the Tory government, led by Lord Liverpool, was to try and prevent a crisis in British agriculture by taxing imports of cheaper foreign grain. Their 1815 Corn Law benefitted the landowning classes, but at the cost of keeping bread prices artificially high. This in turn reduced disposable incomes and the scope for foreign trade, restricting the post-war market for manufactured goods. In the same year the eruption of Mount Tambora in Indonesia created a global dust cloud that caused catastrophic crop failures throughout the world. Many working people in Britain, quite literally, began to starve.
Staging any kind of public protest at this time, however, was far from easy. During the wars the British state, fearing a French style revolution, had clamped down hard on all forms of protest. Campaigners seeking reforms to the way the country was governed were persecuted as unpatriotic French ‘Jacobins’. Seditious meetings inciting rebellion or demanding reforms were banned. Habeas Corpus was suspended, allowing the authorities to imprison critics without charge. Nevertheless, rioting and ‘Luddite’ vandalism of industrial machinery eventually became common. In 1816 Arthur Thistlewood and his fellow ‘Spenceans’, a revolutionary group seeking the shared ownership of land, staged an abortive armed insurrection in London. The following year a violent mob attacked the Prince Regent’s coach as he opened Parliament, prompting the Tory government to again suspend Habeas Corpus, this time for a year.
The first post-war general election of 1818 showed just how out of touch Britain’s political system had become. Despite the population of England having reached 10 million, less than 320,000 English electors could vote for MPs. With most (but not necessarily all) women unable to meet the property owner franchises, the English electorate represented just 13% of adult males. Many of these electors though never got the chance to cast a vote. Two-thirds of constituencies lacked opposition candidates in 1818 and therefore did not need to hold a poll. Half of these were so-called ‘rotten’ or ‘pocket’ boroughs completely under the control of a local aristocratic patron.
It was against this background that a group of radical campaigners in Manchester, a major industrial town with no elected MPs of its own, tried to stage a mock election for a workers’ representative in 1819, in order to highlight the need for parliamentary reform. The well-known radical orator Henry Hunt was invited to ‘stand’. The local magistrates, however, banned the event as ‘unconstitutional’ and a threat to Parliamentary sovereignty after seeking legal advice from the Home Secretary Lord Sidmouth.
A less provocative pro-reform rally, without a mock election, was then arranged at St Peter’s Field, Manchester, on 16 August. Determined to prove their respectability, local workers arrived in ‘contingents’ from surrounding areas wearing their best clothes. Around 60,000 people eventually assembled, including many women and children. Members of the Manchester Female Reform Society, led by Mary Fildes, escorted Hunt to the platform.
What occurred next remains one of the most infamous episodes in British political history. Overawed by the size of the crowd, the magistrate William Hulton tried to get people to disperse by reading the Riot Act. He then ordered the arrest of Hunt. The inexperienced Manchester and Salford Yeomanry were summoned to help, but lost control of their horses in the crowd. Fearing for their safety, Hulton ordered the 15th Hussars, a British army cavalry regiment, to charge and disperse the meeting. At least 15 men and three women were killed. Over 600 were badly injured.
The Parliament & Peterloo exhibition, coordinated by the Parliamentary Archives in collaboration with the History of Parliament Trust and the Citizens Project, Royal Holloway UoL, is now open in Westminster Hall. It’s free and open to all until 26 September 2019, please click here for further information. | <urn:uuid:bdba5295-3abd-4914-af6f-0b6449efda4a> | CC-MAIN-2020-10 | https://thehistoryofparliament.wordpress.com/2019/07/09/political-protest-in-the-age-of-peterloo/ | s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2020-10/segments/1581875145960.92/warc/CC-MAIN-20200224132646-20200224162646-00540.warc.gz | en | 0.966102 | 1,048 | 3.640625 | 4 |
A photo of the heavily invasive European buckthorn.
Invasive plants and terrestrial food webs
Date : January 18, 2018 By Dr Matthew A McCary
The proliferation of invasive plants into local ecosystems is a major threat to biodiversity and ecosystem functioning on a global scale, which is a disturbance that is predicted to become even more severe in the 21st century. To offset the adverse effects of invasive plants on ecosystem function and overall health, a fundamental understanding of the mechanisms by which plant invaders alter ecological communities and networks is essential. This research examined the effects of invasive plants on soil food webs in urban woodlands. Here, I adopted a multidisciplinary framework, which included a combination of meta-analyses, field experimentation, and Next-Generation DNA sequencing to profile soil microbial communities. In short, my research findings show that invasive plants can severely alter the function and structure of woodland food webs, with the effect weakening as you move up the food chain.
McCary, M.A., R. Mores, M. Farfan, and D.H. Wise. 2016. Invasive plants have different effects on trophic structure of green and brown food webs in terrestrial ecosystems: a meta-analysis. Ecology Letters 19: 328-335.
McCary, M.A. 2016. Evaluating the Impacts of Invasive Plants on the Forest-floor Food Web (Ph.D. Thesis). The University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, IL. | <urn:uuid:e914e975-d524-4192-ad8c-eecfc8c107a7> | CC-MAIN-2018-17 | http://mattmccary.com/invasive-plants-and-terrestrial-food-webs/ | s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2018-17/segments/1524125945484.58/warc/CC-MAIN-20180422022057-20180422042057-00310.warc.gz | en | 0.891472 | 299 | 3.109375 | 3 |
Keeping yourself, your loved ones and public spaces clean is top priority to fight the ongoing coronavirus outbreak that has hit countries around the world and all 50 states.
Transmission of the coronavirus occurs commonly through respiratory droplets, but evidence suggests it may remain viable for hours to days on surfaces made from a variety of materials.
Cleaning of visibly dirty surfaces every day followed by disinfection is a best practice measure for prevention of COVID-19.
The Environmental Protection Agency has updated its coronavirus disinfectant list, which includes ammonia, hydrogen peroxide, lactic acid, sodium chlorite, bleach and, as most experts are urging, soap. If you do use bleach, dilute it, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention instructs.
“Clean and disinfect frequently touched surfaces daily. This includes tables, doorknobs, light switches, countertops, handles, desks, phones, keyboards, toilets, faucets, and sinks. If surfaces are dirty, clean them: Use detergent or soap and water prior to disinfection,” the CDC adds.
The CDC recommends taking the following steps to squash coronavirus germs before they can reach you or your family.
Recommendations for your home or work space:
- Routine cleaning of frequently touched surfaces such as tables, doorknobs, light switches, handles, desks, toilets, faucets and sinks
- Use household cleaners and EPA-registered disinfectants that are appropriate for the surface
- To make your own cleaner, use 5 tablespoons of bleach per gallon of water
- Wear disposable gloves when cleaning and disinfecting surfaces
- If surfaces are visibly dirty, they should be cleaned using a detergent or soap and water prior to disinfection
Recommendations for personal hygiene:
- Household members should clean hands often, including immediately after removing gloves
- Hand-washing with soap and water for 20 seconds is preferred
- If soap and water are not available, an alcohol-based hand sanitizer that contains at least 60% alcohol may be used
- Wash hands after touching one’s face, using the restroom, touching pets or animals, coughing and before and after eating | <urn:uuid:da41458b-f799-419d-9b13-39daf1f7d0f8> | CC-MAIN-2020-16 | https://www.sentinelandenterprise.com/2020/03/19/how-to-kill-coronavirus-at-home-on-surfaces-and-on-your-hands/ | s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2020-16/segments/1585370528224.61/warc/CC-MAIN-20200405022138-20200405052138-00031.warc.gz | en | 0.91828 | 450 | 3.0625 | 3 |
Dec 8, 2013
The False Idol of Unfettered Capitalism
Posted on Mar 16, 2009
By Chris Hedges
The commandments include the most severe violations and moral dilemmas in human life, although these violations often lie beyond the scope of the law. They were for the ancients, and are for us, the core rules that, when honored, hold us together, and when dishonored lead to alienation, discord and violence. When our lives are shattered by tragedy, suffering and pain, or when we express or feel the ethereal and overwhelming power of love, we confront the mystery of good and evil. Voices across time and cultures have struggled to transmit and pay homage to this mystery, what it means for our lives and our place in the cosmos. These voices, whether in the teachings of the Buddha, the writings of the Latin poets or the pages of the Koran, are part of our common struggle as human beings to acknowledge the eternal and the sacred, to create an ethical system to sustain life.
The commandments retain their power because they express something fundamental about the human condition. This is why they are important. The commandments choose us. We are rarely able to choose them. We do not, however hard we work to insulate ourselves, ultimately control our fate. We cannot save ourselves from betrayal, theft, envy, greed, deception and murder, nor always from the impulses that propel us to commit these acts. These violations, which can strike us or be committed without warning, can leave deep, often lifelong wounds. There are few of us who do not wrestle deeply with at least one of these violations.
We all stray. We all violate some commandments and do not adequately honor others. We are human. But moral laws bind us together and make it possible to build a society based on the common good. They keep us from honoring the false covenants of greed, celebrity and power that destroy us. These false covenants have a powerful appeal. They offer feelings of strength, status and a false sense of belonging. They tempt us to be God. They tell us the things we want to hear and believe. They appear to make us the center of the universe. But these false covenants, covenants built around exclusive communities of race, gender, class, religion and nation, inevitably carry within them the denigration and abuse of others. These false covenants divide us. A moral covenant recognizes that all life is sacred and love alone is the force that makes life possible.
It is the unmentioned fear of death, the one that rattles with the wind through the heavy branches of the trees outside, which frightens us the most, even as we do not name this fear. It is death we are trying to flee. The smallness of our lives, the transitory nature of existence, the inevitable road to old age, are what the idols of power, celebrity and wealth tell us we can escape. They are tempting and seductive. They assure us that we need not endure the pain and suffering of being human. We follow the idol and barter away our freedom. We place our identity and our hopes in the hands of the idol. We need the idol to define ourselves, to determine our status and place. We invest in the idol. We sell ourselves into bondage.
Moral laws were not written so they could be practiced by some and not by others. They call on all of us to curb our worst instincts so we can live together, to refrain from committing acts of egregious exploitation that spread suffering. Moral teachings are guideposts. They keep us, even when we stray, as we all do, on the right path.
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New and Improved Comments | <urn:uuid:e110f813-fadd-4d31-9033-c63fcac8c628> | CC-MAIN-2013-48 | http://www.truthdig.com/report/page2/20090316_the_false_idol_of_unfettered_capitalism | s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2013-48/segments/1386163922753/warc/CC-MAIN-20131204133202-00025-ip-10-33-133-15.ec2.internal.warc.gz | en | 0.950924 | 778 | 2.65625 | 3 |
1851, the House Order of Hohenzollern always had a
special position among the Prussian orders. The highest
grade was awarded to the recipients of the Prussian Black
Eagle Order only. The knights cross with swords is
considered to be equivalent to the German Cross in gold
(III.Reich). Being so dominant within the regular grades
the Eagle decorations, the second tier of the order, seems almost forgotten.
Yet, they are much
more interesting and definitely more rare than the "regular"
crosses. They have almost only been awarded to either
citizen in teaching positions or priests during their
entire award period. Not enough with this. The lowest grade eagle
weas mostly given to retirees for their dedicated
and honorable service to the Prussian state.
Besides the Eagle of the
Bearers (Adler der Inhaber), a plain silver eagle badge with enameled
Hohenzollern coat of arms, there are the Eagle
decorations for the Knights and Commanders.
I like to take the
opportunity to write a few words about the Eagle of the
Knights, since I just bought one for my collection. I
actually bought the Eagle decoration together with a Red
Eagle Order 4th class last model including their
matching miniatures. All pieces came right out of
Germany from a widow named Mrs. Ziegler (maiden name:
Lauffer, born in 1904). The heirs unfortunately
weren't able to tell me anything about those decorations. We
can only speculate about the history of these pieces,
but do know that the Red Eagle Order was given for long
service as well as the Eagle of the Knight. In this case
maybe a teacher, maybe director of a school, was lucky
enough to be awarded the Red Eagle during his time in service,
and received the Eagle of the Knight decoration going into retirement, following the general practice.
The early Eagle badges
were made by Hossauer and crafted in an elaborate,
3-dimensional manner and are only enameled on the front. The Hossauer makers mark is easily to
be found on
the reverse of those decorations. Pieces made after the Hossauer period are
generally flat and enameled on both sides. Original
decorations made before 1916 are made form real gold and
crafted from two pieces, front and back, to create a
hollow construction. The resulting weight is
rather lightweight - normally between 7 and 9 grams. Those
badges show an incredible workmanship as shown on the
Only 485 pieces were
awarded between 1851 and 1918, equal to only 7 badges
per year. Since the recipients were mostly men belonging
lower to mid income bracket the likelihood of acquiring a piece
for commemorative purposes for 81 Mark is doubtful. The
heirs were normally not able to afford a piece like
this either. Most eagles were therefor returned to the Prussian Orders Commission
as the law at the time demanded.
The eagle badges are
certainly a highlight of any Prussian collection and
extremely hard to find.
comparison a Eagle of the Bearers (Equivalent size to
the Eagle of the Knights):
© A. Schulze Ising, VI/02 | <urn:uuid:28d7690e-c5e5-4776-a19d-6bc8cb64c1ff> | CC-MAIN-2022-27 | https://medalnetservices.com/articles/the-eagle-of-the-knights | s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2022-27/segments/1656104375714.75/warc/CC-MAIN-20220704111005-20220704141005-00771.warc.gz | en | 0.95765 | 712 | 2.609375 | 3 |
How a new generation of clean energy workers can help us build back better
As a native Floridian, I start my mornings with a freshly-squeezed glass of orange juice. And thanks to a distribution network, millions outside of Florida enjoy the same at kitchen tables across America. Now, as we strive to rebuild our economy amid the COVID-19 pandemic, we should make it just as easy for households to access another essential commodity: renewable energy.
America has abundant sources of wind and solar energy, including in the Sunshine State. Thanks to decades of innovation, solar and wind power are the most affordable ways to power homes and businesses. Clean energy generates zero-emission electricity, which means it can reduce carbon pollution and help us solve the climate crisis, but the lack of infrastructure is holding us back. We can change that, and power our homes and businesses on abundant, lower-cost renewables.
Just as a generation of workers built the interstate highway system, a new generation of clean energy workers can rebuild our economy by expanding renewable energy and creating a national macro grid. According to new research by Americans for a Clean Energy Grid, these efforts would benefit consumers, workers, and the environment in tangible ways, as we help Florida and the rest of America achieve its climate goals. By investing in the grid and enacting strong carbon policy, the new report shows that Florida could see an increase of over 900 percent in electric sector jobs over the next 30 years.
Clean energy has enormous potential beyond the Sunshine State. In fact, 15 states between the Rocky Mountains and the Mississippi River account for 88 percent of America’s wind potential — and more than half of America’s large-scale solar photovoltaic potential. Building a macro grid can help rural communities boost their local economies and create much-needed jobs, as they export wind and solar energy to bigger cities.
Building out the macro grid east of the Rocky Mountains would unleash up to $7.8 trillion for investment, save consumers over $100 billion in energy bills, and create more than 6 million domestic jobs, according to this new research. Through the right investments and solutions, we could reliably generate over 80 percent of our electricity from wind and solar by 2050, which would go a long way in providing every American with cleaner air.
The new research also shows how transmission infrastructure makes the grid more reliable, which can allow wind and solar to meet electricity demand in every five-minute period of the year, even as they provide 82 percent of our electricity in 2050. Don’t believe the critics who claim renewable energy is not reliable; with improved transmission, we can couple wind and solar to meet the vast majority of America’s needs.
Increasing wind and solar generation is also a win for Americans and their pocketbooks, as it can lower the average electric bill by more than one-third and save a typical household more than $25 every month. Homes and businesses can expect even more savings if electricity consumption increases due to growth in electric vehicles and electric heating.
Beyond the economic opportunities, investing in clean energy will also protect existing industries, including our citrus industry in Florida. For the past several years, Florida’s agricultural sector has been hit hard by climate-fueled extreme weather, which puts workers and local businesses at risk. The changing climate has also exacerbated the spread of diseases that lead to major crop losses. Solving the climate crisis can help these industries and improve public health for all Floridians, by reducing or even eliminating harmful air pollutants like sulfur dioxide, nitrogen oxides and particulate matter. Some of these pollutants have been linked to an increased risk of death from COVID-19, especially in economically-disadvantaged communities and communities of color. A clean energy future can help remedy this.
As chair of the House Select Committee on the Climate Crisis, I’m passionate about finding common-sense climate solutions to help our country move forward. We can create the jobs we need to bounce back and leave a better planet for future generations, all while saving families money on their bills and protecting small businesses. Building a clean and resilient macro grid is at the center of our plan for solving the climate crisis. Over the coming decades, we can make renewable energy available to every American household — just like the juice of the delicious Florida orange.
Castor is chairwoman of the House Select Committee on the Climate Crisis. | <urn:uuid:059be7c2-11c7-4b64-99cc-327a694e403c> | CC-MAIN-2022-49 | https://thehill.com/blogs/congress-blog/energy-environment/523413-how-a-new-generation-of-clean-energy-workers-can-help/ | s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2022-49/segments/1669446709929.63/warc/CC-MAIN-20221126212945-20221127002945-00123.warc.gz | en | 0.938437 | 896 | 2.953125 | 3 |
The Popo Agie watershed is approximately 522,350 acres with land ownership divided among
federal (67%), private (26%), and state (7%). The watershed includes three primary river systems,
the North Fork of the Popo Agie, Middle Fork of the Popo Agie, and the Little Popo Agie River.
The conservation District would like to look at several variables within the watershed. District
constituents have concerns based on things such as consistent water flow, conveyance losses in
irrigation ditches, impacts from subdivisions, and a study of the fluvial health of the watershed. This
information would provide baseline information, which the district could evaluate and continue to
expand upon for watershed planning.
The project was initiated during July 2001. Field work and data collection was conducted during the
summer and fall. Baseline information was collected and GIS coverages were built. The irrigation
systems with the watershed were inventoried and evaluated. Level 1 geomorphic mapping was
completed and level 2 field surveys were initiated. This study is continuing, with data analysis being
conducted during the winter, additional field work will be conducted in summer 2002, and the final
report to be submitted at the end of October 2002.
RECOMMENDED LEGISLATIVE ACTION:
No legislative action is required. | <urn:uuid:1c5d3e64-f8f4-4a0e-99cb-8a045e07e576> | CC-MAIN-2018-34 | http://wwdc.state.wy.us/legreport/2002/proj095.html | s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2018-34/segments/1534221214691.99/warc/CC-MAIN-20180819031801-20180819051801-00108.warc.gz | en | 0.969369 | 281 | 2.921875 | 3 |
The United Nations Associations are non-governmental organizations that work in various countries to enhance the relationship between the people of member states and the United Nations, to raise public awareness of the UN and its work, and to promote the general goals of the UN.
Their long-term concerns are:
- The implementation of the Millennium Development Goals
- Peace, security and disarmament
- Human rights and humanitarian affairs
There are currently over 120 UNAs around the world and the World Federation of United Nations Associations (WFUNA) is a global nonprofit organization representing and coordinating them.
- To promote and spread UN culture.
- To promote human rights, protection of human dignity and political freedoms in the world.
- Establishing links with national and international organizations that follow the same objectives as UNA-IRAN, for the purpose of the expansion of UN objectives.
- Promotion of understanding, unity and cooperation between men, women and children for the elimination of all forms of discrimination.
- Participation for the elimination of obstacles in the way of peace, and cooperation for the establishment justice, security and disarmament.
- To achieve economic and social development for the realisation of a better life.
- Research, information provision, and education on the United Nations Charter and the UN system. | <urn:uuid:ec36ade1-5cb8-4237-a545-f87201f4e4ed> | CC-MAIN-2020-40 | http://www.unairan.org/about-una/ | s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2020-40/segments/1600400198942.13/warc/CC-MAIN-20200921050331-20200921080331-00234.warc.gz | en | 0.908003 | 264 | 3.1875 | 3 |
An algorithm is, in general, a procedure for solving a particular problem (or set of problems). Today, however, they are most often thought about in the context of computers, and, as such, this tag will frequently appear alongside the Machine Learning category.
The above image is a visual depiction of a Merge Sort, an efficient and popular algorithm for general-purpose sorting. Here, the boxes are sorted by brightness, with the lightest boxes appearing at the top.
- Fri 24 May 2019No Free Lunch and Neural Network Architecture
Machine learning must always balance flexibility and prior assumptions about the data. In neural networks, the network architecture codifies these prior assumptions, yet the precise relationship between them is opaque. Deep learning solutions are therefore difficult to build without a lot of trial and error, and neural nets are far from an out-of-the-box solution for most applications.
- Sun 16 Dec 2018DeepMind's AlphaZero and The Real World
Using DeepMind's AlphaZero AI to solve real problems will require a change in the way computers represent and think about the world. In this post, we discuss how abstract models of the world can be used for better AI decision making and discuss recent work of ours that proposes such a model for the task of navigation.
- Sat 1 Dec 2018The Importance of Simulation in the Age of Deep Learning
An overview of the significance of simulation tools in the field of robotics and the promise and limitations of photorealistic simulators.
- Sun 2 Sep 2018For AI, translation is about more than language
Translation is about expressing the same underlying information in different ways, and modern machine learning is making incredibly rapid progress in this space.
- Thu 31 Mar 2016Have You Tried Using a 'Nearest Neighbor Search'?
More complicated ≠ better. In many circumstances, using the most sophisticated approaches to Machine Learning (like deep learning) may not be worthwhile. | <urn:uuid:75252464-e6d7-4f93-a22f-b566e164b608> | CC-MAIN-2020-16 | http://cachestocaches.com/tag/algorithms/ | s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2020-16/segments/1585371700247.99/warc/CC-MAIN-20200407085717-20200407120217-00232.warc.gz | en | 0.907369 | 389 | 2.796875 | 3 |
Thirty-five years ago today, Howard Hughes died, somewhat fittingly, on an airplane en route to a hospital for treatment. Eccentric reclusion in later life — as well as his reputation as a playboy — would somewhat darken his legacy as an entrepreneur, aviator, filmmaker and billionaire.
His biography is a fascinating one, and Life is telling it in pictures. Here are a few.
With an inherited fortune from his father, who patented a drill bit used in oil and gas drilling, Hughes financed some of the era's biggest Hollywood blockbusters, including Hell's Angels, Scarface, and The Outlaws, which put actress Jane Russell on the screen for the first time. Incidentally, Hughes was romantically involved with a great number of Hollywood stars.
In addition to Hollywood pursuits, Hughes became a pilot in 1928. He designed, built and flew record-breaking aircraft, founded the Hughes Aircraft Company and was inducted into the Aviation Hall of Fame in 1973. One of his most memorable projects was known as "The Spruce Goose" — the largest flying boat ever, made out of wood, which made its only flight in 1947.
Needless to say, there's a lot more to his biography. More of it can be see at Life. | <urn:uuid:0c0e6c36-1b6f-40f8-b5b3-f7c51d4150b6> | CC-MAIN-2014-35 | http://www.npr.org/blogs/pictureshow/2011/04/05/135144153/the-life-of-howard-hughes-in-photos?ft=1&f=135145407 | s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2014-35/segments/1408500832738.80/warc/CC-MAIN-20140820021352-00418-ip-10-180-136-8.ec2.internal.warc.gz | en | 0.985688 | 259 | 2.53125 | 3 |
Safety and injury prevention
Unintentional injury sends thousands of children and adolescents seeking emergency medical care each day. However, unintentional injuries are preventable. With proper education, improvements to the environment, enforcement of certain safety legislation and regulations, and community involvement, many injuries can be prevented. In fact, up to 90 percent of unintentional injuries can be prevented.
Listed in the directory below you will find some additional information regarding safety and injury prevention for adolescents, for which we have provided a brief overview. | <urn:uuid:313ef6a0-1b87-472a-b15d-9311d8e8932a> | CC-MAIN-2016-44 | http://www.chw.org/medical-care/adolescent-health-and-medicine/issues-and-concerns/safety-and-injury-prevention/ | s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2016-44/segments/1476988719646.50/warc/CC-MAIN-20161020183839-00508-ip-10-171-6-4.ec2.internal.warc.gz | en | 0.937197 | 101 | 3.046875 | 3 |
Esperanto, an artificial international language that never caught on, and Yiddish, the language of generations of Eastern European Jews, have been combined in an Esperanto Yiddish-Yiddish Esperanto dictionary published here by Harry Fineman. The author noted in his introduction that the root areas of the Yiddish language were destroyed by the slaughter of six million Jews by the Nazis in Europe, and use of the language today is confined to the immigrant generation in the free world. Esperanto, invented by the late Dr. Ludwig Zamenhoff, a Polish Jew, was intended to be a world language that would become universal when a global society without national barriers was achieved. Some Yiddishists today see a revived interest in the language among Jewish youth and the note of the many Yiddish words and expressions that have become part of the English language. Esperanto, however, has never been spoken by more than a scattered few. The Esperanto-Yiddish section of the dictionary comprises 149 pages and the Yiddish-Esperanto section, 317 pages.
The Archive of the Jewish Telegraphic Agency includes articles published from 1923 to 2008. Archive stories reflect the journalistic standards and practices of the time they were published. | <urn:uuid:74dabbbc-55e6-4257-ac4a-15027922e243> | CC-MAIN-2018-51 | https://www.jta.org/1969/01/21/archive/esperanto-yiddish-yiddish-esperanto-dictionary-is-published-in-montreal | s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2018-51/segments/1544376823183.3/warc/CC-MAIN-20181209210843-20181209232843-00031.warc.gz | en | 0.959473 | 251 | 3.359375 | 3 |
IIT Madras Engineers Built 3D Printer Technology For Building A 320 Sq Ft House In Just 3 Days
Yesterday, we talked about how a team from IIT Madras have built India's first locally-designed microprocessor. It turns out they have another first under their belt.
Another team of alumni from the university made India's very first 3D printed construction, using a printer of their design.
Santhosh Kumar V, Adithya VS, Vidyashankar C Iyer, and Parivarthan Reddy B, are alumni IIT Madras. They're also the founders of Tvasta Manufacturing Solutions, a new startup in the 3D printing construction technology. Together with the college's civil engineering department at, they've set up the IIT Madras Printability Lab, a 3D printing lab focused on developing ideas and technology to apply to the large scale construction industry.
The four youth want to take development to the point where construction can be automated, right from placing foundation stones to finishing exteriors. As a proof-of-concept, they decide to "print" a 320 square foot single storey hut.
They did it in just three days.
It's far too small to accommodate anyone of course, and doesn't have basic facilities, but that doesn't matter. It's just a prototype after all. Now that the four have proven how relatively easily it can be done, the sky is the limit for Tvasta. From here on out, they're accelerating development in order to in future be able to build affordable sanitation and housing, all with 3D printing.
Professor Koshy Varghese, from the Department of Civil Engineering at IIT Madras, says his team have been working on developing 3D printing technology for construction since 2016. Now, part of the plan is to work with government agencies to spread their knowledge, and establish build processes and safety standards to take the technology mainstream.
It's not the first time, 3D printing has been used for constructing cheap housing, but it is a significant development, being the first Indian group to do so. There are major benefits to printing a house as opposed to traditional construction methods. For one, aside from an initial investment cost for the machines, the process is cheaper than employing only human labour, as well as much faster. Additionally, with the right kind of concrete mixture, 3D printers can produce much more complex shapes and styles of buildings, which could help with providing more residential space from limited build area.
Adithya, one of Tvasta's founders, says the next major goal for the group is to build India's first 3D printed house within the next year. After that, who knows how many of India's street dwellers could have their very own 3D printed homes? | <urn:uuid:d9399882-a274-4af7-8079-903b47eac5ff> | CC-MAIN-2023-50 | https://www.indiatimes.com/technology/science-and-future/iit-madras-engineers-built-3d-printer-technology-for-building-a-320-sq-ft-house-in-just-3-days-355731.html | s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2023-50/segments/1700679100912.91/warc/CC-MAIN-20231209134916-20231209164916-00804.warc.gz | en | 0.964986 | 576 | 2.625 | 3 |
Definition of duplication in English:
1The action or process of duplicating something.
- That would simply lead to a proliferation of bodies, unnecessary duplication of costs and effort, and coordination problems.
- Now, the idea there, as I understand it, is to avoid unnecessary duplication between submissions.
- All parties were permitted to be represented at the various phases in a manner designed to avoid unnecessary duplication.
1.2 Genetics A DNA segment in a chromosome that is a copy of another segment.
- The screen that generated these new sc alleles also produced autosomal duplications.
- This homolog maps on chromosome 10L and is part of the most recent set of segmental duplications in the maize genome.
- Why are there so many segmental duplications in the human genome?
What do you find interesting about this word or phrase?
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Most popular in Pakistan | <urn:uuid:af5a41a6-7db2-4dec-bc96-b5d9e4f02b8f> | CC-MAIN-2015-06 | http://www.oxforddictionaries.com/us/definition/american_english/duplication | s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2015-06/segments/1422122233086.24/warc/CC-MAIN-20150124175713-00057-ip-10-180-212-252.ec2.internal.warc.gz | en | 0.914342 | 230 | 3.234375 | 3 |
|Damaging stages:||nymph and adult|
Trialeurodes vaporariorum, commonly known as the glasshouse or greenhouse whitefly inhabits the world’s temperate regions. It is a primary insect pest of many fruit, vegetable and ornamental crops, frequently being found in glasshouses and other protected horticultural environments. Adults are 1-2 mm in length, with yellowish bodies and four wax-coated wings held near parallel to the leaf surface.
Symptoms and Signs
All life-stages apart from eggs and pupae cause crop damage through direct feeding, inserting their stylet into leaf veins and extracting nourishment from the phloem sap. As a by-product of feeding, honeydew is excreted and that alone can be a second, major source of damage. The third and potentially most harmful characteristic is the ability of adults to transmit several plant viruses. The crop hosts principally affected are vegetables such as cucurbits, potatoes and tomatoes, although a range of other crop and non-crop plants including weed species are susceptible, and can therefore harbour the infection.
Females are capable of mating less than 24 hours after emergence and most frequently lay their eggs on the undersides of leaves. Eggs are pale yellow in colour, before turning grey prior to hatching. Newly hatched larvae, often known as crawlers, are the only mobile immature life-stage. During the first and second larval instars, the appearance is that of a pale yellow/translucent, flat scale which can be difficult to distinguish with the naked eye. During the fourth and final immature life-stage (the pupa), compound eyes and other body tissues become visible as the larvae thicken and rise from the leaf-surface.
Greenhouse whiteflies feed on a wide range of plants, including plants in the following genera:
- Ilex (Holly)
- Lactuca (Lettuce)
- Rhododendron (Rhododendron, Azalea)
- Salvia (Sage)
Effective control has been provided for many years through the release of beneficial insects, such as the w:aphelinid parasitoid, Encarsia formosa. If required, integrated pest management strategies can incorporate applications of selective chemical insecticides that complement these natural enemies. For the majority of outdoor crops chemicals are still the most widely used method of control. | <urn:uuid:2e9a788e-866d-406e-a481-cdd77adee450> | CC-MAIN-2019-26 | https://en.wikibooks.org/wiki/Horticulture/Trialeurodes_vaporariorum | s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2019-26/segments/1560628001089.83/warc/CC-MAIN-20190627095649-20190627121649-00373.warc.gz | en | 0.907644 | 497 | 3.484375 | 3 |
thyroxine(redirected from free thyroxine)
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thyroxine(thīrŏk`sēn), substance secreted by the thyroid glandthyroid gland,
endocrine gland, situated in the neck, that secretes hormones necessary for growth and proper metabolism. It consists of two lobes connected by a narrow segment called the isthmus. The lobes lie on either side of the trachea, the isthmus in front of it.
..... Click the link for more information. . The hormone thyroxine forms by combining the amino acid tyrosinetyrosine
, organic compound, one of the 20 amino acids commonly found in animal proteins. Only the l-stereoisomer appears in mammalian protein.
..... Click the link for more information. with iodine. Complexed to a protein, it is stored in the follicle stems between thyroid cells. Thyroxine enters into the bloodstream complexed to another protein, plasma globulin. Thyroxine increases the number and activity of mitochondria in cells by binding to the cells' DNA, increasing the basal metabolic rate. Administration of thyroid hormones, such as thyroxine, causes an increase in the rate of carbohydrate metabolism and a rise in the rate of protein synthesis and breakdown. The hormone, which excites the nervous system and leads to increased activity of the endocrine systemendocrine system
, body control system composed of a group of glands that maintain a stable internal environment by producing chemical regulatory substances called hormones.
..... Click the link for more information. , remains active in the body for more than a month. Thyroxine activity is controlled by thyrotropinthyrotropin
or thyroid-stimulating hormone
(TSH), hormone released by the anterior pituitary gland that stimulates the thyroid gland to release thyroxine. The release of thyrotropin is triggered by the action of thyrotropin-releasing factor (TRF), a substance found in
..... Click the link for more information. , a substance released from the pituitary glandpituitary gland,
small oval endocrine gland that lies at the base of the brain. It is sometimes called the master gland of the body because all the other endocrine glands depend on its secretions for stimulation (see endocrine system).
..... Click the link for more information. . Conversely, thyroxine regulates the effect of thyrotropin by feedback inhibition, i.e., high levels of thyroxine depress the rate of thyrotropin secretion. Synthetically prepared thyroxine is used clinically in the treatment of thyroid gland deficiency diseases in adults and in the treatment of cretinismcretinism
, condition produced in infants and children due to lack of thyroid hormone. It usually results from a congenital defect (e.g., absence of the thyroid, presence of only a rudimentary gland, inability of the gland to produce thyroxine).
..... Click the link for more information. in children.
A hormone secreted by the thyroid gland. Thyroxine (structure 1 ) is quite similar chemically and in biological activity to triiodothyronine ( 2 ).Both are derivatives of the amino acid tyrosine and are unique in being the only iodine-containing compounds of importance in the economy of all higher forms of animal life. The thyroid gland avidly accumulates the small amount of iodine in the diet. This iodine is oxidized to iodide ion in the gland and then reacts with tryosine to form mono- and diiodotyrosine. These latter are then coupled to form either thyroxine or triiodothyronine. See Thyroid gland
The maintenance of a normal level of thyroxine is critically important for normal growth and development as well as for proper bodily function in the adult. Its absence leads to delayed or arrested development. It is one of the few hormones with general effects upon all tissues. Its lack leads to a decrease in the general metabolism of all cells, most characteristically measured as a decrease in nucleic acid and protein synthesis, and a slowing down of all major metabolic processes.
(3,5,3’,5’,-tetraiodothyronine), the principal thyroid hormone in vertebrate animals and man, produced by the thyroid follicles. Thyroxine is synthesized by iodination of the amino acid tyrosine and the oxidative condensation of two diiodotyrosine molecules with the splitting off of alanine. Like the other thyroid hormone, triiodothyronine, thyroxine is liberated during the enzymic breakdown of the complex it forms with the protein thyroglobulin. It combines with plasma proteins after entering the blood. Bound thyroxine is in a state of dynamic equilibrium with free thyroxine, which diffuses into the peripheral cells, where it performs its physiological functions.
In amphibians and some bony fishes, such as eels and flatfishes, thyroxine stimulates metamorphosis. In warm-blooded animals and man, it raises basal metabolism, thereby increasing heat production and affecting the growth and differentiation of tissues. The injection of thyroxine into the organism raises basal metabolism within 24 hours, increases oxygen consumption, accelerates the pulse rate, and increases the excitability of the nervous system.
High concentrations of thyroxine have been shown to disrupt oxidative phosphorylation in isolated mitochondria. Consequently, the energy of electron transfer in the respiratory chain is not stored in the form of high-energy compounds, such as ATP, but is released in the form of heat. The action of thyroxine on the enzymes of oxidative phosphorylation accounts for the hormone’s capacity to bind the metal ions needed for the activity of these enzymes.
The synthesis and secretion of thyroxine by the thyroid gland are regulated by thyrotropin, which is produced by the hypophysis. The production of thyroxine and thyrotropin is regulated by negative feedback. A rise in blood thyroxine levels inhibits the secretion of thyrotropin and thus decreases the secretion of thyroxine; a decrease in the concentration of thyroxine increases the secretion of thyrotropin, which restores the thyroxine balance. The secretion of thyroxine is also affected by environmental factors, such as temperature and stress, the presence of iodine in food, and the condition of the other endocrine glands. Disruption of the thyroxine and triiodothyronine balances in man gives rise to a variety of diseases.
REFERENCESClegg, P., and A. Clegg. Gormony, kletki, organizm. Moscow, 1971. Chapter 9. (Translated from English.)
Tireoidnyegormony. Tashkent, 1972.
Kandror, V. I. “Nekotorye aktual’nye problemy mekhanizma dei-stviia tireoidnykh gormonov.” In Itogi nauki i tekhniki, vol. 11: Fiziologiia endokrinnoi sistemy. Moscow, 1973.
Hoch, F. L. “Biochemical Actions of Thyroid Hormones.” Physiological Reviews, 1962, vol. 42, no. 4.
I. V. KRIUKOVA | <urn:uuid:22aa4854-570a-4415-adb3-772a1ebf3996> | CC-MAIN-2018-34 | https://encyclopedia2.thefreedictionary.com/free+thyroxine | s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2018-34/segments/1534221218391.84/warc/CC-MAIN-20180821171406-20180821191406-00528.warc.gz | en | 0.896828 | 1,540 | 3.15625 | 3 |
Directions: Use the digits 0 to 9, at most one time each, to fill in the boxes and make a true statement.
How does choosing the digit for the ones’ place affect the least common multiple?
One answer is LCM 28 and 35 is 140. There may be others.
Source: Wendy Taylor | <urn:uuid:a468c4fe-0204-4954-88d1-34faa0d57f08> | CC-MAIN-2022-40 | https://www.openmiddle.com/least-common-multiple/ | s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2022-40/segments/1664030335573.50/warc/CC-MAIN-20221001070422-20221001100422-00759.warc.gz | en | 0.84753 | 72 | 2.84375 | 3 |
‘Know that the subject of history is a noble science that can be very beneficial only if it gives us a proper understanding of:
1- Previous nations’s morals and character
2- The stories of the Prophets
3- Government and politics
For whoever embarks on the study of history, they will end up in a beneficial imitation of the mindset of previous peoples in the subjects of religion and worldly matters.This subject is dependent on studying numerous sources, understanding diverse subjects, having the best insight and analysis, and being able to verify the truth of sources as they can deviate and be filled with mistakes. Historical research must not be dependent on bare copying of all reports. It should instead be based on an understanding of local customs, politics, the nature of civilization, and the local conditions of where humans live. You must also be able to compare primary and secondary sources, as they can help you differentiate between the truth and falsehood, helping derive conclusions that are believable and honest.’
Knowledge initiated when Adam alayhi salam was created. Allah subhanahu wa taala taught him the names of everything, how to reason and make decisions.
“He taught Adam all the names of everything.” (Quran 2:31)
“And He gave you hearing, sight, and hearts, that you might give thanks (to God).” (Quran 16:78)
In addition, the first word that was revealed from Quran was ‘Iqra’ meaning to read. The angel, Jibraeel squeezed the Prophet Muhammad salla allahu alayhi wa salam’s heart and ordered that he must read and the Prophet’s response was ‘I cannot read.’ As he could not read or write just like many at the time.
“Read! In the Name of your Lord, Who has created (all that exists). He has created man from a clot (a piece of thick coagulated blood). Read! And your Lord is the Most Generous, Who has taught by the pen, He has taught man that which he knew not.” (Quran 96:1-5)
The problem with reading and writing was resolved after the battle of Badr where the Muslims took tens of prisoners. The Prophet salla allahu alayhi wa salam knew some of the prisoners were literate and gave them the opportunity to teach Muslims to read and write. Many began to understand the importance of implementing the words of Allah subhanahu wa taala into their lives and increasing their closeness to Allah subhanahu wa taala. By seeking knowledge; it strengthened their imaan (faith)
“And that those who have been given knowledge may know that it (this Quran) is the truth from your Lord, so that they may believe therein, and their hearts may submit to it with humility. And verily, God is the Guide of those who believe, to the Straight Path.” (22:54)
Seeking knowledge is a key aspect of Islam and throughout the Islamic history many Muslims have played many roles in medicine, art, literation and education. They have even founded many schools, universities and libraries.
Below are some websites I recommend you to visit:
To conclude; it is vital one studies the Islamic history to know how much the Muslims intervened in all aspects in society. I and two dear friends of mines have setup a project called ‘LHS’ ‘Lost History Speaks’. The first letter is an initial of our first names. ‘L’ for Lamya who has a passion for Art; ‘H’ for myself Hafsa; ‘S’ for Sabiha who is a pressed accredited photojournalist. We will mix our love for Art and Islamic History via our talents in Art and photography to create art pieces of Islamic historical sites and artefacts around the world to revive the Islamic History to both Muslims and Non-Muslims; our target audience. Lamya will focus on Europe and Asia. I will focus on North, South America and the Pacific. Sabiha will focus on Africa. After a number of art pieces created we aim to do an exhibition in sha Allah in 2015/16. Facebook page coming soon in sha Allah. Watch this space! | <urn:uuid:0fb557e3-e51a-4bc4-bd0f-8e491d682d0e> | CC-MAIN-2018-34 | http://www.hafsaabbas.com/monthly-articles/the-magnitude-of-islamic-history | s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2018-34/segments/1534221209884.38/warc/CC-MAIN-20180815043905-20180815063905-00168.warc.gz | en | 0.951965 | 895 | 2.9375 | 3 |
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Babel occurs in the Vulgate only in Genesis 11:9; the form Babylonia is found in Baruch 1:1-4; 2:22; 6:1-3; 1 Maccabbees 6:4; 2 Maccabbees 8:20; everywhere else the Vulgate uses the form Babylon. The word is derived from the Babylonian bab-ilu, meaning "gate of God". Genesis 11:9, suggests a different meaning based on the derivation of the name from the Hebrew batál, to confound. The city of Babylon had various names among its inhabitants, e.g. Ka-dingir, Babi-dingir, Tintir, Shu-an-na, etc. The prophets call it "daughter of the Chaldeans" (Isaiah 47:1), and Sesach or Sesac (Jeremiah 25:26; 51:41), a word variously explained by commentators. It was built on the site of the modern village of Hille. According to Herodotus, a double or perhaps a triple wall, 50 cubits in width and 200 cubits in height, surrounded the town, forming a square of 120 stadia. The square of the interior wall was 90 stadia long and 360 stadia in circumference. Both the Bible and the cuneiform inscriptions assign a very great age to the city, and the Biblical data (Genesis 11:1-9) concerning the material of the walls are confirmed by the testimony of the ruins. "Let us make brick, and bake them with fire. And they had brick instead of stones, and slime instead of mortar."
The ancient city possessed marvelous temples, splendid palaces, and curious gardens. Among the temples, two deserve special attention, E-sagila, the temple of Bel Merodach, on the eastern bank of the Euphrates, and E-zida, the temple of Nebo, west of the river. The ruins of these sanctuaries are probably identical with those of Babil and Birs Nimrud, though opinions differ concerning Babil. The buildings were pyramidal in form and rose in several, usually seven, step-like sections. The storied tower of Birs Nimrud counts seven of these quadrangular platforms painted in seven colors, black, white, yellow, blue, scarlet, silver, and gold, and in the same order sacred to the stellar gods, Adar (Saturn), Ishtar (Venus), Merodach (Jupiter), Nebo (Mercury), Nergal (Mars), Sin (the Moon), Shamash (the Sun). It has been learned in the excavations at Nippur that the pyramidal tower or ziggurrat did not constitute the whole of the Babylonian Temple. This latter had an inner and an outer court, both nearly square and nearly of the same dimensions; the tower occupied about one-third of the area of the inner court, and near to it stood the temple proper where the sacrifices were offered. We may infer from the discoveries made in Nippur and in Sippara that a library and a school will be found to have been connected with the Babylonian temples. In the light of these discoveries the story of the Tower of Babel (Genesis 11:4) assumes a new importance, whether we identify its remains with the runes of Birs Nimrud or with those of the Bel temple at Nippur, or again with those of Babil. No doubt, it was its temples not less than its royal palaces and its hanging gardens that rendered the city of Babylon "glorious among kingdoms, the famous pride of the Chaldeans" (Isaiah 13:19). We meet with the city at the earliest dawn of history, and it flourishes, in spite of its temporary reverses, till it is finally destroyed by Seleucus Nicator; even then Jews kept on inhabiting some of the mounds of Babylon till about A.D. 1000, after which time the country was given up to the roaming tribes of Arabs, in accordance with the words of the prophet: "wild beast shall rest there, and their houses shall be filled with serpents, and ostriches shall dwell there, and the hairy ones shall dance there, and owls shall answer one another there, in the houses thereof, and sirens in the temples of pleasure" (Isaiah 13:21-22). (See TOWER OF BABEL, BABYLONIA)
RAWLINSON, The Five Great Monarchies of the Ancient Eastern World (London, 1879); KING, The Letters and Inscriptions of Hammurabi, King of Babylon (London, 1898); DELATTRE, Les Chaldéens jusqu' à la formation de l'empire de Nabuchodonosor (Louvain, 1877); NIKEL, Genesis und Keilschriftforschung (Freiburg, 1903); ZIMERN, ed., SCHRADER, Die Keilinschriften und das Alte Testament (Berlin, 1903); KAULEN, Assyrien und Babylonien nach den neuesten Entdeckungen (Freiburg, 1899); HILPRECHT, Exploration in Bible Lands during the Nineteenth Century (Philadelphia, 1903); PETERS, Nippur or Explorations and Adventures on the Euphrates (New York, 1897); BEZOLD, Ninive und Bablyon (2nd ed. Bielefeld, 1903); cf. also HAGEN, Lex. Bibl. (Paris, 1905); PANNIER and LEVESQUE in VIG., Dict. de la Bible.
APA citation. (1907). Babel. In The Catholic Encyclopedia. New York: Robert Appleton Company. http://www.newadvent.org/cathen/02177b.htm
MLA citation. "Babel." The Catholic Encyclopedia. Vol. 2. New York: Robert Appleton Company, 1907. <http://www.newadvent.org/cathen/02177b.htm>.
Transcription. This article was transcribed for New Advent by the Cloistered Dominican Nuns, Monastery of the Infant Jesus, Lufkin, Texas. Dedicated to the Most Holy Trinity.
Ecclesiastical approbation. Nihil Obstat. 1907. Remy Lafort, S.T.D., Censor. Imprimatur. +John M. Farley, Archbishop of New York.
Contact information. The editor of New Advent is Kevin Knight. My email address is webmaster at newadvent.org. Regrettably, I can't reply to every letter, but I greatly appreciate your feedback — especially notifications about typographical errors and inappropriate ads. | <urn:uuid:84b88cd6-903c-4499-9cfe-f4192d344205> | CC-MAIN-2015-35 | http://www.newadvent.org/cathen/02177b.htm | s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2015-35/segments/1440644060103.8/warc/CC-MAIN-20150827025420-00351-ip-10-171-96-226.ec2.internal.warc.gz | en | 0.893451 | 1,469 | 3.21875 | 3 |
Saif bin Sultan
|Saif bin Sultan|
|Imam of Oman|
|Predecessor||Bil'arab bin Sultan|
|Successor||Sultan bin Saif II|
Saif bin Sultan (Arabic: سيف بن سلطان) was the fourth of the Yaruba dynasty Imams of Oman, a member of the Ibadi sect. He ruled from 1692 to 1711. His navy achieved important victories over the Portuguese in East Africa, where Omani presence became firmly established on the coast.
Saif bin Sultan was the son of the second Yaruba Imam, Sultan bin Saif. On his father's death his brother Bil'arab bin Sultan became Imam in 1679. Later Saif bin Sultan fell out with his brother, built up his forces and besieged Bil'arab in Jabrin. After Bil'arab died there in 1692/93 Saif bin Sultan became Imam.
Saif bin Sultan invested in improving agriculture, building aflaj in many parts of the interior to provide water, and planting date palms in the Al Batinah Region to encourage Arabs to move from the interior and settle along the coast. He built new schools. He made the castle of Rustaq his residence, adding the Burj al Riah wind tower.
Saif bin Sultan continued the struggle against the Portuguese on the East African coast. In 1696 his forces attacked Mombasa, besieging 2,500 people who had taken refuge in Fort Jesus. The Siege of Fort Jesus ended after 33 months when the thirteen survivors of famine and smallpox surrendered. Soon after the Omanis took Pemba Island, Kilwa and Zanzibar. They now became the dominant power on the coast.
The expansion of Omani power included the first large-scale settlement of Zanzibar by Omani migrants. Saif bin Sultan appointed Arab governors to the city states of the coast before he returned to Oman. Later, many of these were to come under the control of Muhammed bin Uthman al-Mazrui, governor of Mombasa, and his descendants, the Mazrui, who made only nominal acknowledgement of the suzerainty of Oman. Saif bin Sultan also encouraged piracy against the merchant trade of India, Persia and even of Europe.
Death and legacy
Saif bin Sultan died on 4 October 1711. He was buried in the castle of Rustaq in a handsome tomb, later destroyed by a Wahhabi general. At his death he had great wealth, said to include 28 ships, 700 male slaves and one third of Oman's date trees. He was succeeded by his son Sultan bin Saif II. Saif bin Sultan earned the title "the Earth's bond" or "the chain of the Earth" for the benefits he had brought to the people of Oman. According to Samuel Barrett Miles,
The Imam Saif bin Sultan was the greatest of the Yaareba Princes, and at no time before or since has Oman been so renowned, powerful or prosperous as under his sway. Ambition and love of glory, combine with a lust for wealth, were his ruling passions, and in pursuit of these objects he was as unscrupulous and unswerving as he was capable and energetic. ... We hear but little in the local historians of internal troubles and wars during his reign; we may therefore infer that the Imam had the skill and tact to divert the more restless and ambitious spirits from tribal broils, jealousies and dissensions by employing them in piratical and other expeditions, and in encouraging them to venture their trading operations in distant regions, for it is beyond question that under his auspices the commerce of Oman greatly extended and developed.
- Beck, Sanderson (2004). "East Africa, Portuguese, and Arabs". Middle East & Africa to 1875. Retrieved 2013-11-11.CS1 maint: ref=harv (link)
- Limbert, Mandana (2010-06-07). In the Time of Oil: Piety, Memory, and Social Life in an Omani Town. Stanford University Press. ISBN 978-0-8047-7460-4. Retrieved 2013-11-11.CS1 maint: ref=harv (link)
- Miles, Samuel Barrett (1919). The Countries and Tribes of the Persian Gulf. Garnet & Ithaca Press. ISBN 978-1-873938-56-0. Retrieved 2013-11-11.CS1 maint: ref=harv (link)
- Miller, Norman N. (1994). Kenya: The Quest for Prosperity. Westview Press. p. 9. ISBN 978-0-8133-8202-9. Retrieved 2013-11-11.CS1 maint: ref=harv (link)
- Ochs, Peter J. (1999-11-01). Maverick Guide to Oman. Pelican Publishing. ISBN 978-1-4556-0865-2. Retrieved 2013-11-11.CS1 maint: ref=harv (link)
- Plekhanov, Sergey (2004). A Reformer on the Throne: Sultan Qaboos Bin Said Al Said. Trident Press Ltd. p. 49. ISBN 978-1-900724-70-8. Retrieved 2013-11-11.CS1 maint: ref=harv (link)
- Thomas, Gavin (2011-11-01). The Rough Guide to Oman. Penguin. ISBN 978-1-4053-8935-8. Retrieved 2013-11-11.CS1 maint: ref=harv (link) | <urn:uuid:358fc37f-ad12-48fb-9298-b143634173a8> | CC-MAIN-2021-10 | https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Saif_bin_Sultan | s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2021-10/segments/1614178362513.50/warc/CC-MAIN-20210301121225-20210301151225-00635.warc.gz | en | 0.909866 | 1,184 | 2.671875 | 3 |
Australia Day History
Australia Day commemorates the arrival of the First Fleet of 11 convict ships from Britain. On this day in 1788, Captain Arthur Phillip first raised the British flag at Sydney Cove, marking the British occupation of Australia which has been claimed 8 years earlier by the arrival of Captain James Cook in 1770.
Australia Day Facts & Quotes
Australia Day Top Events and Things to Do
Australia Day References and Related SitesAustralian Government: It's an Honour Website Australiaday.org.au - Australia Day History | <urn:uuid:2ba14f3f-c6b1-40bf-8ed1-9b3cc843d8ee> | CC-MAIN-2018-30 | https://www.wincalendar.com/Australia-Day | s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2018-30/segments/1531676592650.53/warc/CC-MAIN-20180721164755-20180721184755-00198.warc.gz | en | 0.891436 | 106 | 3.1875 | 3 |
HCM (Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy) in Cats
- Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy (HCM) is the most common type of heart disease found in cats.
- HCM causes the heart muscle to become abnormally thick, which can stop it working properly and lead to heart failure.
- If it’s caught early, HCM can often be well managed with medication, but, in many cases, it doesn’t cause symptoms (and goes undetected) until it is advanced and severely affecting the rest of the body.
HCM makes it difficult for the heart to pump blood properly, and often leads to:
- An irregular heartbeat
- High blood pressure
- Blood clots (aortic thromboembolism/saddle thrombus) - unfortunately a very common complication of HCM
- Problems with the heart valves
- Heart failure (when the heart can’t compensate anymore)
- Sudden death
HCM often goes undetected for years because it’s a condition that develops gradually. Once symptoms develop (usually at around 5-6 years old), they tend to include:
- Lethargy (low energy)
- Breathlessness or a sudden difficulty breathing
- Fainting or collapse
- Eating less or not eating
- A fast, ‘galloping’ heart rate
- A heart murmur (not always present)
- Paralysis in one or both back legs due to an aortic thromboembolism/saddle thrombus (one of the most common complications of HCM)
- Sudden death - sadly, some cats die from HCM without warning.
If your vet suspects your cat has HCM, they may suggest the following tests:
- X-rays of the heart and lungs
- An ultrasound scan of the heart
- Blood tests to check for raised heart ‘biomarkers’ (a chemical called pro-BNP rises when the heart muscle is damaged or stretched)
- ECG (a trace of the heart rhythm)
- Blood pressure measurements
If your cat has HCM, their treatment plan will depend on their how severely they are affected:
Treatment for cats without symptoms - to begin with, if your cat doesn’t have any symptoms, and is at a low risk of complications (such as blood clots), they may not need any treatment. Instead, you will need to monitor them at home, and have them checked by your vet every 6-12 months. They may also need further checks (such as heart scans), to make sure their HCM isn’t getting any worse. Even without symptoms, some cats are at high risk of complications such as blood clots/aortic thromboembolism, and can benefit from anti-clotting medication.
Cats with symptoms - if your cat’s HCM is causing signs and symptoms, they may benefit from heart medication. This is likely to include:
- Diuretics such as ‘furosemide’ and ‘spirinolactone’. These help remove fluid build-up from the lungs and abdomen (common if the heart is struggling).
- Inodilators such as ‘pimobendan’, which help the heart pump more effectively.
- ACE inhibitors such as ‘benazepril’, to make it easier for the heart to pump blood around the body.
- Anti-coagulants/anti-clotting mediation such as ‘clopridogrel/plavix’ to reduce the risk of blood clots.
- Beta-blockers to slow the heart rate and help it pump blood more effectively.
Cats with severe symptoms - if your cat has severe symptoms of HCM, such as late-stage heart failure, or a blood clot, they will need emergency treatment from your vet. Sadly, at this stage, they will have a slim chance of survival (especially if they don’t respond to treatment), which means you may need to consider putting them to sleep if they are suffering or in pain.
Home care and monitoring
Breathing rate: if your cat has HCM, one of the most helpful things you can do at home is monitor their ‘resting respiratory rate’/ ‘RRR’ (how many breaths they take each minute while sleeping). Your cat’s RRR should be less than 35 breaths per minute, any higher could be a sign that their heart is struggling to cope. Try to take your cat’s RRR every week, and keep a log of your results. Tell your vet about any rise in your cat’s RRR and show them your log at each check-up.
Body weight: it’s important to keep your cat a healthy bodyweight by feeding them the right amount of a good quality food. Read more about feeding your cat and keeping them the correct weight.
Outlook and life expectancy
It’s very difficult for your vet to predict how long your cat will live with HCM because each case is so different. Although we know that average survival time is 6-9 months once symptoms of heart failure develop, some cats live for many years before developing symptoms, some never develop symptoms, and some sadly, die suddenly without warning.
We know that some breeds of cat are at a higher risk of developing HCM due to their genetics. These breeds include:
There are HCM-testing schemes available, which involve genetic testing and/or regular heart scanning. However, it’s important to be aware that genetic tests aren’t 100% accurate, and many cats with HCM don’t develop any changes that are detectable on ultrasound scan until later in life. Before choosing a cat, it’s important to research the breed to make sure you’re getting a kitten with the best chance at a happy, healthy life.
Treatment for HCM can be very expensive. It’s important to speak openly to your vet about your finances, the cost of treatment, as well as what you think is right for your cat. There is often more than one treatment option, so if one doesn’t work for you and your cat then your vet may be able to offer another.
Consider insuring your cat as soon as you get them, before any signs of illness start. This will ensure you have all the support you need to care for them.
Published: April 2021
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Illustrations by Samantha Elmhurst | <urn:uuid:c0d8db7e-3576-4ffd-b973-e78bfd285eca> | CC-MAIN-2022-21 | https://www.pdsa.org.uk/pet-help-and-advice/pet-health-hub/conditions/hcm-hypertrophic-cardiomyopathy-in-cats | s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2022-21/segments/1652662595559.80/warc/CC-MAIN-20220526004200-20220526034200-00659.warc.gz | en | 0.940703 | 1,510 | 2.8125 | 3 |
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Let’s examine the advantages and disadvantages of Catholic cremation and what the Church says about it. | <urn:uuid:29b5eeea-588b-4085-a2b4-1931c6a144c7> | CC-MAIN-2017-47 | http://blog.catholicfaithstore.com/category/news/ | s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2017-47/segments/1510934805708.41/warc/CC-MAIN-20171119172232-20171119192232-00420.warc.gz | en | 0.971983 | 2,035 | 2.984375 | 3 |
New research suggests that it is possible to suppress emotional autobiographical memories. The study published this month by psychologists at the University of St Andrews reveals that individuals can be trained to forget particular details associated with emotional memories.
The important findings may offer exciting new potential for therapeutic interventions for individuals suffering from emotional disorders, such as depression and post-traumatic stress disorder.
The research showed that although individuals could still accurately recall the cause of the event, they could be trained to forget the consequences and personal meaning associated with the memory.
The work was carried out by researchers Dr Saima Noreen and Professor Malcolm MacLeod of the University’s School of Psychology. Lead author Dr Noreen explained, “The ability to remember and interpret emotional events from our personal past forms the basic foundation of who we are as individuals.
“These novel findings show that individuals can be trained to not think about memories that have personal relevance and significance to them and provide the most direct evidence to date that we possess some kind of control over autobiographical memory.”
The research involved participants generating emotional memories in response to generic cue words, such as theatre, barbecue, wildlife etc. Participants were asked to recall the cause of the event, the consequence of the event and the personal meaning they derived from the event.
Subjects were then asked to provide a single word that was personal to them which reminded them of the memory. In a subsequent session, participants were shown the cue and personal word pairings and were asked to either recall the memory associated with the word pair or to not think about the associated memory.
Interestingly, the findings revealed that whilst the entire autobiographical episode was not forgotten, the details associated with the memory were. Specifically, individuals could remember what caused the event, but were able to forget what happened and how it made them feel.
Co-author Professor MacLeod commented, “The capacity to engage in this kind of intentional forgetting may be critical to our ability to maintain coherent images about who we are and what we are like”.
Notes about this autobiographical memory research and article
The research, which was funded by the British Academy, is published in the Journal of Experimental Psychology: Learning, Memory and Cognition.
Contact: Dr. Saima Noreen – University of St. Andrews
Source: University of St. Andrews press release
Image Source: Neuroscience News image adapted from Wikimedia Commons public domain image. Original painting is credited to Alfred Stevens. I offer up apologies for the horrible destruction of art for science news.
Original Research: Abstract for “It’s All in the Detail: Intentional Forgetting of Autobiographical Memories Using the Autobiographical Think/No-Think Task.” by Noreen, Saima and MacLeod, Malcolm D. Journal of Experimental Psychology: Learning, Memory, and Cognition Jun 11 , 2012 doi: 10.1037/a0028888 | <urn:uuid:04e61cab-e9c8-4e8c-aa4e-43ef45ce1c98> | CC-MAIN-2016-22 | http://neurosciencenews.com/remembering-to-forget-autobiographical-memories-ptsd-negative-emotions/ | s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2016-22/segments/1464049275835.98/warc/CC-MAIN-20160524002115-00231-ip-10-185-217-139.ec2.internal.warc.gz | en | 0.948364 | 601 | 3.359375 | 3 |
(Original Title: Maine Coon Cat Breed Facts)
|A Maine Coon cat. (Photo credit: Wikipedia)|
Maine Coon History
Their origins are unknown though several popular stories have been passed along the years. One story involves Capt. Charles Coon, an English captain who frequently traveled to New England with long-haired cats aboard his ship. Upon docking, the cats mated with local feral cats and produced lots of offspring. Townspeople referred to the strays as "Coon's cats".
Another folktale involves Queen of France, Marie Antoinette, who attempted an escape with Capt. Samuel Clough in 1793. Her prized possessions, including six beloved cats, were stashed on Clough's ship. Though she didn't escape her beheading, her cats arrived safely in Massachusetts. The cats were described with similar characteristics to the cooncat. Breeders consider the cats' ancestry to go back to the 11th century with the Vikings. History shows the breed existed in the 1800s as a hunting and domestic cats.
In 1967, the breed was officially recognized as a unique breed of domestic cat.
Maine Coon Weight and Size
Maine Coon cats can weigh between 9 to 18 pounds. Males typically weight between 13 to 18 pounds, while females average 9 to 12 pounds. Their large, body shape, rectangle-build, and long hair make them look even larger. They are not full-grown until they reach 3 to 5 years of age. Adults can reach 10 to 16 inches in height.
Their length can be up to 40 inches, including their tails which can be 14 inches long.
Maine Coon Personality
They have several distinctive features, including their long, bushy tail; tufted ears; large, expressive eyes; and ruff around their neck (like a lion). Their eyes are green, gold, green-gold, or copper colors. Their coat is soft and comes in every color and pattern, except pointed patterns, like the Siamese. Their thick fur is shorter on their front legs and shoulders and longer on their back, perches, stomach, and tail. Their tail is often as long as their body.
They have a squared muzzle. They are nicknamed "Gentle Giants" for their affectionate, loving behavior. They are not lapping cats, though they enjoy following family members to offer help with any projects. Their playful nature continues in adulthood. Their distinctive meow -- a chirping sound -- lets owners know when they want their attention, to play, or to mate. They are great pets for families. Generally, they are indoor cats, and they enjoy interacting with people. | <urn:uuid:d89ecc7d-bb36-4a38-8f40-ae7509802aae> | CC-MAIN-2020-05 | https://dogs-and-cats-at-home.blogspot.com/search/label/Maine%20Coon | s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2020-05/segments/1579251700988.64/warc/CC-MAIN-20200127143516-20200127173516-00213.warc.gz | en | 0.971806 | 549 | 3 | 3 |
This is the first of three lesson plans called Jesus is my Good Shepherd and intended for preschool children (ages 2-5). It is designed for a children’s church or Sunday School, but can be adapted to meet your particular ministry setting.
There are over 600 references to sheep, lamb, shepherds, and ewe in the Bible. Sheep are a consistent animal used in scripture to teach Biblical truths. Yet if we do not live in an agrarian society, it can be difficult to understand the principles God is teaching us. This lesson plan sets a foundation for understanding and teaches students that they are like sheep, loved by a Shepherd. The second lesson (Sheep SAVED by a Shepherd) teaches them that Jesus saves his sheep. We have also posted a third lesson (Sheep PROTECTED by a Shepherd.)
Objectives: To recognize Jesus as the Good Shepherd, who is both provider and protector. To identify the importance of listening to Jesus’ voice through God’s Word.
Materials: large sheep cutout, cotton balls, glue, Bible
Welcome Activity/Art Project: Have a large cutout of a sheep (or maybe two, depending on the size of your class) on the table when your students arrive. The cutout can be fashioned out of white poster board or butcher paper, whatever you have available. Provide cotton balls at each student’s seat. When the students arrive, demonstrate how to spread out the cotton balls. Have the students glue the cotton balls on the sheep to create a fleece. Fill in areas as needed. This group art project can later be utilized on a bulletin board that might read, “EWE are LOVED by a SHEPHERD.”
1. “Can you guess by our art project what we’re going to talk about today? Why in the world are we going to learn about sheep? How funny to come to church and learn about a farm animal! Well, sheep are very important in God’s word. So are shepherds, the people who take care of the sheep. They are so important that God talks about them over 600 times in the Bible. Wow! That’s a lot of sheep talk!”
2. “Today, we’re going to learn about sheep and shepherds. You will each get a chance to do lots of pretending today! Are you ready to play and learn? If you are, let me hear a ‘BAAAA!!!!’”
3. “The first thing we’ll do is listen for sheep and shepherds in God’s word. So take your fingers, wiggle your ears to make sure they’re listening, and let’s get started! When you hear the word ‘Sheep,’ I need you to, ‘Baaa.’ When you hear the word ‘Shepherd’, I need you to cross your arms in front of your chest to make the sign of love. Shepherds really love their sheep and we need to remember that!” Repeat the directions again.
4. Read John 10:7-16, with energy and enthusiasm, pausing after each mention of sheep and shepherds.
5. Applaud the sheep and shepherds for good listening. Then say, “God calls us His sheep, so when you hear the word sheep, it’s actually talking about you! How funny! The Bible also tells us that Jesus is our Good Shepherd, who takes care of us. We’re going to read God’s Word one more time. Except this time, when you hear the word sheep, point to yourself. When you hear the word shepherd, make the sign for Jesus (or have students point upwards to God.) It’s so important to hear our Shepherd’s voice.” (Repeat directions again.)
6. Repeat John 10:7-16, pausing again after the words ‘shepherd’ and ‘sheep’.
7. Applaud the sheep and shepherds again.
8. Ask the following review questions:
- What kind of animal does God say we are like sometimes? (Sheep)
- What does a Shepherd do? (He takes care of his sheep.)
- Who is our Good Shepherd? Who takes care of us? (Jesus)
- Whose voice should we learn to listen to? (The Good Shepherd or Jesus)
- How do we hear His voice? (God’s word.)
Game: The Sheep, The Shepherd, and The Wolf
- Tell the children that a shepherd knows his sheep by name. Every sheep has a name, just like each child does. When the shepherd calls the sheep, “Martha, Gracie, Fleece,” the sheep come running. Sheep know and love their shepherd’s voice. They will not run to a stranger. In fact, they will run away from a stranger.
- Draw a parallel by saying that Jesus knows each of us by name also. We are so special to Him, that He died on the cross for each one of us. He loves us. It’s important that we learn to hear our Jesus’ voice. He is the Good Shepherd. We learn to hear his voice by praying, reading the Bible, and coming to church. It’s also important to run away from strangers, sin, and danger.
- Appoint one child to be the wolf and one to be the shepherd. (The teacher can also opt to be the shepherd, especially if the children are not familiar with one another’s names.) The rest of the children will be sheep. Have the sheep stand at one end of the playing area (a larger space is best), the shepherd at the opposite end, and the wolf in the middle. Tell the students that the shepherd will call each of them by name. Once they hear their name, they are to try to reach the shepherd, without getting tagged by the wolf. If they get tagged, they need to take a sheep nap and sit down. If they don’t get tagged, they are safe with the shepherd.
- Continue play until all students’ names have been called. For additional games, switch the roles of shepherd, wolf, and sheep.
Accompanying Song: “One Little Two Little Three Little Sheep”
(to the tune of “Ten Little Indians”)
One little, two little, three little sheep
Four little, five little, six little sheep
Seven little, eight little, nine little sheep
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Why is the Eagle County Schools Board of Education placing a Mill Levy Override Bond on the 2020 Ballot?
- 5B continues the funding from 3A passed in 2016 that is critical to keeping Eagle County Schools financially secure and viable. 3A originally helped backfill state budget cuts stemming from the 2008 recession. The district had not yet rebounded to pre-recession funding levels when COVID-19 happened, causing a new recession that is projected to cut ECS funding by 8 to 9 million dollars a year for another decade.
- Combined with equally unpredictable enrollment projections as the community recovers from COVID-19, it is more urgent than ever to continue the funding stability that 5B provides.
- State legislators have proven time and again that educational funding has to come from local support. Local taxpayers directly see the benefit investment in local schools provide, and are thus more supportive of local solutions as compared to state-level initiatives.
Was this helpful? | <urn:uuid:16311599-f583-4410-9c99-d418d566e041> | CC-MAIN-2021-31 | https://www.yesforecs.org/why_the_mlo_and_bond_in_nov | s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2021-31/segments/1627046154214.63/warc/CC-MAIN-20210801154943-20210801184943-00590.warc.gz | en | 0.94732 | 194 | 2.578125 | 3 |
The growth of certification standards – creating confusion or options?
There are in excess of 800 million consumers between America, the EU and China (based on number of households). Manufacturing and selling products to consumers globally is therefore a massive industry, split broadly into goods and services. Fast moving consumer goods are one of the largest consumer goods groups and contains sectors such as food and drink, electronic items, cosmetics, cleaning products, clothing and toys. In order to communicate specific advantages and aspects of their products, companies will often opt for, or may be required to comply with, certification of their products.
Compulsory safety testing is required of all consumer products, in order to ensure that they are safe for use by the consumer. In the EU, each product should carry a CE mark to demonstrate that their product has passed this mandatory safety testing. In USA, similar certification is required, but is administered in a more sector specific way, all under the aegis of the Consumer Product Safety Act; Electronic devices are required to comply with the FCC Declaration of Conformity, toys are required to comply with ASTM F963-16, cosmetics are required to comply with the Food, drug and cosmetic act, and so on. In order to determine whether products comply with these requirements, specific and transparent testing methods, together with acceptable limit levels are developed, and these constitute the certification testing standards. The limit levels set, that a product must be measured against, are normally based on established and proven medical information, for example chemical exposure limits. The importance of this is that consumers can be confident that products that carry the CE mark, for example, have been tested to ensure that they are safe to use.
Many certifications that products carry are voluntary, in that they are not legally required to carry the certification, but do so in order to communicate certain attributes of their product. These can include such claims as organic, vegan, Allergies are caused by the body being hyper-sensitive to a particular molecule or particle. The particles which cause an allergic reaction are called allergens. Common... tested, cruelty free, green and so on. The veracity of these claims or certifications can sometimes be questionable due to the voluntary nature of the certification, and limit levels that are used (if any) that a product is measured against. In addition, due to the perceived market opportunity for ‘green’ products over the past decade, the number of certifications related to this have increased significantly, with varying consumer impacts. This has led to the practice of ‘green-washing’ – using spin to make green credential claims where perhaps none actually exist, or do to a significantly lesser extent – this is where the importance of strong certification lies.
The phrase ‘hypoallergenic’ has been used for decades to imply ‘less allergenic’, but where does this level of less allergenic lie, and do all manufacturers interpret this same level of ‘less allergenic’ and how is it measured? The answer is of course that there is no specific level and all manufacturers will have a different interpretation of this. This can happen because there is no certification or standard to measure ‘hypoallergenic’ against. Indeed, companies do not actually need to carry out any testing at all to make the claim ‘hypoallergenic’ on their product. In a similar way, saying a product is 100% natural can also be mis-interpreted. In essence anything that is made on earth is natural, even if a chemical is synthesised. In addition, some of the most dangerous compounds on earth could be described as natural – snake venom, radioactive material, etc. And so the importance is in what may be included in the standard, and a commitment in the sector to all adopt the same standard, rather than having a number of different standards, all certifying a product as ‘natural’, with all different interpretations of this, leading ultimately to confusion with the consumer.
The importance of strong certification programs
Even where well accepted, widely adopted certifications are in place, sufficient oversight and testing must be part of the process, or negative impacts will occur. Energy Star is a globally accepted measure of the energy efficiency of a range of consumer electrical appliances. Consumers trust this logo as being representative of a product that has been tested to be energy efficient. In addition, due to government commitments to be more energy efficient, the public sector are often required to only purchase Energy Star rated products, there is therefore a financial incentive to be certified.
In 2009 and 2010, the Government Accountability Office in the USA carried out an audit to determine how effective this certification standard was. They submitted 15 fake products to Energy Star to be reviewed for certification. Of the 15 fake products (with associated non-existent companies and fake websites), 10 were given Energy Star certifications, and 4 of these were qualified by Energy Star and listed on the website within 1 day! There was clearly a lack of oversight and testing and the EPA and DOE have committed to strengthening this program, however this is an excellent example of how strong oversight and actual physical testing of a product is required for voluntary certification programs, rather than ‘self-certification’ by an applicant company.
The asthma & allergy friendly®certification program, run by Allergy Standards, addresses some of these challenges by carrying out the physical testing themselves or in properly accredited laboratories, and partnering with non-governmental organisations in their country of operation in order to provide more objective oversight (for example, the Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America). Test standards are developed by experienced scientists and are reviewed by an external panel of scientific experts, assigned by the NGO, and not ASL. In this way, independent verification of the veracity and appropriateness of the testing standards, and specifically the limit levels associated with the testing, is carried out. This ensures that products, once they pass the standards, are indeed more suitable for those suffering from asthma and allergies. All testing is carried out in laboratories that are accredited by the International Standards Organisation (International Organization of Standards provides protocols and guidelines that ensures products or materials are fit for purpose. They may be used by independent laboratories such...) for testing to specific standards and so testing that is performed is done to the highest standards.
So, the challenge to an extent is not in having too many certification marks, but in identifying which certification marks you should trust and why. If you are basing your purchase of products on specific claims or certifications that that product has, it is perhaps a good idea to dig a little deeper into how that product gets certified. Is there any actual testing performed on the product, and if so what is this testing? If it is important enough for you to purchase a product based on a particular certification mark, it should also be important enough for you to spend a little time determining just how good that certification standard is!
About the Author
Thanks to Dr. Tim Yeomans for this insightful article.
Dr. Tim Yeomans is the Centre Manager for Shannon Applied Biotechnology Centre, a collaboration between two third level colleges in Ireland. Tim holds a PhD in Microbiology is the study of micro-organisms, and broadly includes virology, mycology, bacteriology and other branches.... and postgraduate qualifications in Technology Commercialisation and Innovation Management. Tim has worked in research and development for 20 years, both in industry and academia. In his role in Shannon ABC, Tim is responsible for the scientific direction of the Centre, intellectual property management and business and technology development.”
certification, asthma, allergy, asthma & allergy friendly®, allergy insights, allergy standards, regulations, science, testing
- List of countries by number of households
- “Hypoallergenic” Cosmetics, FDA
- A Guide to United States Cosmetic Products Compliance Requirements
- Covert Testing Shows the Energy Star Program Certification Process Is Vulnerable to Fraud and Abuse, GAO
- The strange story of how a completely fake gas-powered clock radio got its Energy Star certification | <urn:uuid:05a9099a-f76f-48d5-a820-9b2ef1590e27> | CC-MAIN-2017-47 | https://www.allergystandards.com/the-growth-of-certification-standards-creating-confusion-or-options.html | s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2017-47/segments/1510934806543.24/warc/CC-MAIN-20171122084446-20171122104446-00671.warc.gz | en | 0.952086 | 1,647 | 2.671875 | 3 |
Churchill by Himself Churchill (1874-1965) was one of the 20th century's most charismatic and controversial figures. He escaped from capture as a prisoner of war in the Boer War, was a Nobel Prize-winning author and twice prime minister. This book presents a collection of Churchill's words, thematically arranged. Full description
Les informations fournies dans la section « Synopsis » peuvent faire référence à une autre édition de ce titre.
Churchill (1874-1965) was one of the 20th century's most charismatic and controversial figures. He escaped from capture as a prisoner of war in the Boer War, was a Nobel Prize-winning author and twice prime minister. He is best remembered as the astute and powerful orator who inspired a battered Britain to victory and led the post-war, shattered nation to recovery.
Richard Langworth, co-chairman and editor of The Churchill Centre, has spent over 20 years researching Churchill's written and spoken words. In Churchill by Himself, which is fully authorised by the Churchill Estate, Langworth has edited and annotated this library to make the definitive collection of Churchill's words, thematically arranged. He also highlights the myriad quotations commonly mis-attributed to Churchill.
From his meetings with world leaders such as Roosevelt, de Gaulle and Stalin, his verbal engagements with Hitler and the Third Reich, to his wit and oratory on the floor of the Commons, every facet of Churchill's life and times is explored with his own pragmatic intelligence, sharp humour and legendary wisdom.Biographie de l'auteur :
Richard M Langworth has been editor since 1982 of The Churchill Centre's journal Finest Hour and its other publications, and author of A Connoisseur's Guide to the Books of Sir Winston Churchill. He founded The Churchill Centre in 1968, was its president from 1990 to 1999, and has been chairman of its Board of Trustees since 2000. Using computer technology, he draws upon a groundbreaking database of Churchill quotes and literature. He currently lives in Moultonborough, New Hampshire and Eleuthera, Bahamas. In 1998 he was invested by the Queen as a Commander of the Order of the British Empire for his contributions to Anglo-American understanding.
Les informations fournies dans la section « A propos du livre » peuvent faire référence à une autre édition de ce titre.
Description du livre Ebury Press, 2008. Hardcover. État : New. N° de réf. du libraire P110091918529 | <urn:uuid:750d9038-6d35-4265-9f02-0c1be0c7d24e> | CC-MAIN-2017-13 | https://www.abebooks.fr/9780091918521/0091918529/plp | s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2017-13/segments/1490218189083.86/warc/CC-MAIN-20170322212949-00055-ip-10-233-31-227.ec2.internal.warc.gz | en | 0.885432 | 542 | 2.515625 | 3 |
A trolley system once provided Tylerites with entertainment and access to a variety of activities.
The electric street car system was in place during the early 20th century, coming after a mule-powered transportation system that was in place during the late 1800s.
Local historian and attorney Randy Gilbert said neither lasted long.
According to an article by former Smith County Historical Society President Morris S. Burton, interest in the trolley came from James Postell Douglas, who served as senator in the 12th Texas Legislature, as well as his associates. They obtained a franchise for the Tyler Street Railway Company in 1889, and by 1891, about 3 miles of track operated with four cars.
“They were pulled by nine head of mules, not withstanding the franchise stipulation of ‘operation by horse-power,’” Burton writes. “The tracks extended from the depot of the (Kansas and Gulf Short Line Railroad) … on West Erwin Street, due south of Oakwood Cemetery, running east along Erwin Street to pass the south side of the County Courthouse Square and continuing east on Erwin Street to Fleishel Street, turning south on Fleishel to Scott’s Park…”
“A branch line extended along Spring (Street) from Erwin to the depot of the St. Louis and Southwestern Railway Company, the Cotton Belt Railroad. The two depots were now connected by one mule street car-Tyler’s first!”
Still, Gilbert said the mule-powered system did not last long, and he believes it’s possible that the Panic of 1893 could have played a role.
Track, cars, mules and a stable on West Erwin Street were sold in 1893, and although operations started again in 1894, it was only for a brief period of time, according to Burton’s article.
It wasn’t until 1911 that a franchise was awarded for the trolley system, according to the article.
But “within less than a year, this first street car line failed, with only one mile of track built — on North Bois D’Arc (Avenue) — … and without any ‘Car No. 5’ making a single run. Even the special spike driving ceremony at the First Baptist Church corner was for naught!” Burton writes.
A second street car franchise was granted in 1913 “but much more extensive than the earlier 1911 version,” according to Burton’s article, and in Sept. 1913, nine passengers were aboard as Car No. 6 left West Elm Street and the Short Line Railroad tracks.
“It started the first trip to the East Texas fairgrounds, traveling along West Elm … south on Peach (Street) and then west on Front (Street),” Burton wrote.
According to the article, policemen and firemen were not to be charged fare if they were in uniform, per a franchise provision.
Gilbert said the electric street car system was more than utilitarian.
By 1914, residents were able to ride to the fairgrounds, Bergfeld Park, Hill’s Natatorium, where people could swim and canoe, a route ending at Winona Street, the site of the Riviere Mineral Water Bottling Works and to the Car Barns and Machine Shop, near the current site of Tyler City Hall, according to Burton’s article. Dean’s Store, north of where Marvin United Methodist Church currently sits, was the transfer station for branch lines, the article reads.
“The eight passenger cars were of the single-truck style, painted dark green, and were constructed new in Chicago,” Burton writes. “They were shipped on flat railroad cars direct to Tyler. Each trolley car was about 35 feet long. It would seat 32 passengers with standing room in the center aisle for 18 others, a peak capacity of 50 passengers.”
According to Burton’s article, passengers included youth and those attending events.
“All night lighting was electrical, both inside the car, and outside for a single headlight. This feature gave Tyler youths much night amusement. They could sneak up at the rear of a car and seize the control rope and pull the trolley pole from its wire. The car, in sudden complete darkness, would come to a complete stop!” Burton writes. “For special occasions or celebrations, the cars were available for charter trips. With natatoriums and city parks at track’s end, many Sunday School picnics or school closing ceremonies were started from the city to the outskirts of Tyler.”
Lois Fitzgerald, a child at the time, describes an incident with the street cars in a diary entry that is part of the Chronicles of Smith County, Texas, published by the Smith County Historical Society.
“The street cars started to run from Mrs. Rivere’s to the fairgrounds Monday, on Sept. 30, and they made the first trip all right but in the afternoon two got off the track and two collided breaking the glass out of one of them but I don’t think there was anybody hurt,” she writes in her Oct. 7, 1913 entry.
She also writes in her Oct. 11, 1913 entry that she went to the fairgrounds on Oct. 9, 1913 via the street car.
Tyler resident and historian Mary Jane McNamara said Lois Fitzgerald and her good friend, for entertainment, would sometimes ride the street car all afternoon and continue transferring to different routes. She said they also particularly loved to go to Hill’s Natatorium.
But in the end, the trolley did not sustain enough riders and needed financial support to continue successfully, according to an article provided by the Smith County Historical Society.
“By 1917, the trolley line had fallen on financial hard times and even a campaign by The Tyler Courier-Times to garner support for the system failed to halt its demise,” according to the article.
Gilbert said there may have been a significant increase in the number of cars in the county and town in 1913 compared to 1917.
According to Burton’s article, Henry Ford’s 1914 Model “T” came to Tyler, and there were more than 300 registered automobiles in Smith County by 1916 “and each new auto reduced the passenger potential of the Tyler Traction Company.”
Additionally, the Dixie Overland Highway was developed in 1915, and the fact that a federal highway came through Tyler around that time indicates that there was enough traffic in Tyler to have one of the earliest federal highways, Gilbert said.
He said, once the electric street car system folded, there wasn’t a public transportation system in Tyler for years afterward.
Ms. McNamara said she could tell where the street car system used to be when she moved to Tyler with her family in 1931. At the time, she said she was disappointed that Tyler didn’t have street cars because she had been accustomed to riding them in Dallas.
“I’m sorry the street car vanished before my time” (in Tyler), Ms. McNamara said.
This story contains excerpted information from an article provided by the Smith County County Historical Society, as well as excerpted information from an article by Morris S. Burton, former president of the Smith County Historical Society. | <urn:uuid:f8b4c257-ae2f-4925-a520-96e9ede469ab> | CC-MAIN-2015-27 | http://www.tylerpaper.com/TP-News%20Local/201628/east-texas-tales-first-street-cars-mule-powered | s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2015-27/segments/1435375095373.99/warc/CC-MAIN-20150627031815-00136-ip-10-179-60-89.ec2.internal.warc.gz | en | 0.974759 | 1,530 | 2.5625 | 3 |
Inside: How to build preschool literacy skills with games: 10 fun, hands on activities!
You are ready to introduce the alphabet to your young preschoolers. You hang the chart. You find some alphabet songs.
But then what?
You could take the route of flashcards and worksheets.
You can get them engaged in playful learning through games. Fun, playful literacy games that young children love!
(P.S. It works!)
This post contains affiliate links for your convenience.
How to Build Preschool Literacy Skills with Games
Please note that some of these games might be more suitable for children who have stronger letter recognition skills. Choose the games you feel will be most fun for your child or group of children.
Learn the letters in your name with a simple name puzzle game.
Make a fun and engaging early literacy game for kids using alphabet ping pong balls and letter tubes. (The Imagination Tree)
Use the provided free printables to make a literacy activity to “I Know an Old Lady Who Swallowed a Fly”. (Lalymom)
Throw pretend snowballs at letters while learning letter sounds. (Mom Inspired Life)
Write the letters of the alphabet using a black Sharpie marker to create a set of alphabet beans for literacy play games. (The Imagination Tree)
Add letter stickers to shaving cream to play a letter squish game. (I Can Teach My Child)
Find letters in flour while playing a simple letter matching game. (How Wee Learn)
When your child is ready to learn upper and lowercase letters, play the ABC ice cream game. (Coffee Cups and Crayons)
Move your body while playing the alphabet knock down game. (Toddler Approved)
Use magnetic letters to play the runaway letter game. (Growing Book by Book)
Add some alphabet finger plays to your circle time, too!
A collection of 40 finger plays to help you support the development of important skills in your classroom.
More information: Fingerplays from A-Z
More literacy activities for young children:
Make sure to follow my literacy board on Pinterest, too!
FREE CIRCLE TIME PLANNER!
Get your FREE circle time planner as a gift when you subscribe to my free weekly newsletters. | <urn:uuid:6263769c-5835-4e88-979b-433326a1f941> | CC-MAIN-2018-51 | https://teaching2and3yearolds.com/how-to-build-preschool-literacy-skills-with-games/ | s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2018-51/segments/1544376826856.91/warc/CC-MAIN-20181215131038-20181215153038-00508.warc.gz | en | 0.868198 | 472 | 3.78125 | 4 |
I remember when video cassette players were the new tech toys in teaching. Schools wanted teachers to use videos in class in order to provide an edge in attracting students. Teachers wanted to use videos because they were a new and exciting way to teach. The problem was, no one really knew how to use the things to do anything but watch passively. It took time for teachers to move beyond watching movies in class to using video as a tool to improve teaching practice.
Technology –in whatever form –is just one of many resources available to me as a teacher. Since I only see my students for short time each week, I want to make the best use of that time. A bit part of this is using my resources in the most effective way possible, whether I’m deciding to include a card game or an interactive website in a lesson. When I evaluate lesson resources, I always ask two questions: Is this appropriate for my students? Does it improve on what I’m already doing in class?
Is it appropriate?
Sometimes it’s easy to tell if a something is appropriate for your students. You don’t give young learners unsupervised access to social networks, or you don’t ask students who haven’t learned the English alphabet to input large amounts of text. Tools can be appropriate or inappropriate because of the ages and skill levels of your students.
Sometimes, the decision about which tool is most appropriate depends more on which one makes the best use of your preparation time and your students’ class time. I’m a digital immigrant (who often feels more like a tourist than an immigrant) so every technology tool I consider has a learning curve. Before I can use something in class, I need to learn how to use it myself. I want to focus on tools that are simple to use, and rich enough that I can use them again and again. Generally, I want use tools to support the skills I’m trying to reinforce, rather than tools that become the focus of our lesson.
Finally, appropriate can refer to which tools are the best for a specific teaching context or group of learners. For example, I teach a few classes for senior citizens at a local community center. There’s no Internet available, and most of my students haven’t even applied for a tourist visa to the digital realm. However, they all have mobile phones, and most have electronic dictionaries. In this case, the tools they have available and are comfortable using are the most appropriate. Students can send English messages with their phones, we can compare English translations of Japanese words between different dictionaries (or compare pronunciation, or even check the built in encyclopedia). I can use my smart phone to find photos on Flickr to illustrate something we’re talking about, or do an online search to answer a question in class. I can bring in a digital recorder and my computer and we can use Power Point to create a narrated digital book. Or I can bring in a camcorder and we can record a video that I can upload from home. Rather than lamenting what I don’t have, it’s fun to figure out how to make the most of what is available.
Does it improve on what I’m already doing in class?
Pedagogy comes before tools. Teachers can and do have great lessons without technology. If my students are already speaking, and listening, and reading, and writing, and thinking, it makes sense to include a technology tool only if it will enhance what’s already going on. On the other hand, it would beequally silly to overlook any available resource that would help me do my job better. I’ve found that including even small amounts of technology can significantly improve my students’ learning experience.
Being able to create a digital comic strip as a final writing project makes the revision process complaint-free for my young teens. When my young learners see a camcorder, practice becomes rehearsal rather than repetition. Self-introductions become performance rather than speaking practice. Creating digital books makes writing fun for my emergent and reluctant writers. Putting book reports in blog posts gives students a real audience. Creating a collaborative alphabet book teaches my kindergarteners that English comes in many accents, and that children around the world are learning the same things.
In every case, adding a touch of technology improved on what I was already doing in class. And, because digital projects are online, they’re easy to share with parents, grandparents, and other teachers. If you’d like to see examples some of my students’ projects, please explore the workshop pages on the Teaching Village wiki [http://teachingvillage.net] or on our class blog, My Corner of the World. [http://mycorneroftheworld.edublogs.org]. If you’ve used a technology tool to enhance your lessons, please share your experience in comments. I’d love to learn how you’ve incorporated technology in your own lessons! | <urn:uuid:8a483572-ff00-4e3f-9107-fc4877107d72> | CC-MAIN-2013-20 | http://itdi.pro/blog/2012/06/11/technology-in-your-classes-barbara-sakamoto/ | s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2013-20/segments/1368708664942/warc/CC-MAIN-20130516125104-00072-ip-10-60-113-184.ec2.internal.warc.gz | en | 0.945768 | 1,035 | 3.390625 | 3 |
Grapes and the vines they grow on are quite the versatile fruit. They can be used to make just about anything from jams and jellies to plump, juicy raisins. The leaves can be used as a wrapper for dolmades, and the vines can be woven to create beautiful wreaths and rustic garden décor. Growing grapes is fairly easy as long as there’s plenty of sunlight for the ripening process and well-draining soil. Here are the basics (and more!) on growing grapes to become raisins, plus a recipe to celebrate April 5th as National Raisin and Spice Bar Day. That’s an oddly specific holiday, but it sure got us thinking…
Planting the vines
Plant grapes in the fall or early winter in a sunny spot. The vines will need support, so use a trellis or train them against a wall or fence. Avoid planting your grapes in a corner because proper air flow is essential to ward off disease. The soil must be well-draining and deep to accommodate grape plants. If space is an issue in your yard, you can grow grapes in a deep container and use stakes or a metal trellis to support the vines. Avoid using a plastic container as it heats up too quickly.
Picking the grapes
Around midsummer, when you begin to notice bunches of grapes forming on the vines, clip the leaves back covering the bunches. This allows for plenty of sunlight to ripen the fruit. Cover the plants with bird netting so you don’t have to share your crop with hungry birds. The best way to tell if your grapes are ripe is by tasting. Keep in mind that the more sun and heat they receive, the sweeter they will be. Sugar content changes rapidly throughout the harvesting season, so tasting the crop will give you the best idea of when they are ripe.
Since raisins are simply dried grapes, they are simple to make. All you need is the sun to produce plump, juicy raisins, and if you’ve picked them at the right time, they will be sugary-sweet. Pick the bunches off the vine and bring them into the house. Pull the grapes off the bunches and rinse and dry them. Place them on trays in a single layer not touching each other and find a sunny warm spot for the grapes to dry. It will take two to four weeks of soaking up the sun to completely dry the grapes into raisins.
Raisin and Spice Bar Recipe
And your raisins will have you all set to celebrate next year’s National Raisin and Spice Bar Day. With summer on its way soon, this is a good recipe to take to a potluck or picnic.
- 1 cup raisins, golden or dark
- 1 cup water
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil
- 1 cup sugar
- 1 egg, slightly beaten
- 1 3/4 cups sifted all-purpose flour
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon soda
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1 teaspoon ground allspice
- dash ground cloves
- 1/2 cup chopped pecans or walnuts
Combine raisins and water in a medium saucepan; bring to a boil. Remove from heat and stir in oil; cool to lukewarm. Stir in the sugar and beaten egg. Sift together dry ingredients; with a wooden spoon beat into the raisin mixture. Stir in chopped nuts. Pour into a greased and floured 13x9x2-inch baking pan. Bake at 375° for 18 to 24 minutes. Cool in pan then cut into bars. If desired, dust with confectioners’ sugar.
Cook Time: 24 minutes
Makes about 24 bars | <urn:uuid:62e81bc3-db9a-4993-8ac8-fa8e12ee831d> | CC-MAIN-2019-43 | https://www.graciousgardening.com/how-to-grow-grapes-for-raisins-and-a-recipe-for-national-raisin-and-spice-bar-day/ | s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2019-43/segments/1570987763641.74/warc/CC-MAIN-20191021070341-20191021093841-00546.warc.gz | en | 0.9124 | 796 | 2.625 | 3 |
Frank Lloyd Wright is known for many things one of the most famous being his idea of organic structure. This idea entails designing structures that work in conjunction with humanity and its environment. This philosophy was really best typified by Wright’s interpretation of Fallingwater (1935) known as such (pictured above). It has been called “the best all-time work of American architecture.” It was once a private home and is now a historic landmark.
This organic style truly defined his work and ushered in a new, exciting era for modern architecture. His work is still highly prized and sought after. It is harmonious and integrated with the animate and living. Nature takes precedent instead of the reverse. Naturally. | <urn:uuid:ffc6fb7b-5c4f-4fc1-b52b-aa74c7302179> | CC-MAIN-2021-31 | https://delacroisette.com/2015/03/11/american-architect/ | s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2021-31/segments/1627046154897.82/warc/CC-MAIN-20210804174229-20210804204229-00303.warc.gz | en | 0.981739 | 145 | 2.5625 | 3 |
Taro (pronounced /ˈtɑroʊ/) is a tropical plant grown primarily as a vegetable food for its edible corm, and secondarily as a leaf vegetable. It is considered a staple in oceanic cultures. It is believed to be one of the earliest cultivated plants. In its raw form the plant is toxic due to the presence of calcium oxalate, although the toxin is destroyed by cooking or can be removed by steeping taro roots in cold water overnight. Taro is closely related to Xanthosoma and Caladium, plants commonly grown as ornamentals, and like them it is sometimes loosely called elephant ear. The name “taro” is from Tahitian or other Polynesian languages; the plant is also called kalo (from Hawaiian), gabi in The Philippines, dalo in Fiji, seppankizhangu in Tamil, Arvee in Hindi and Karkalo in Nepali.
Names and Origin
Taro was probably first native to the lowland wetlands of Indonesia (talas). Estimates are that taro was in cultivation in wet tropical India before 5000 B.C., presumably coming from Malaysia, and from India further transported westward to ancient Egypt, where it was described by Greek and Roman historians as an important crop.
Taro’s scientific name is Colocasia esculenta (synonym C. antiquorum); esculent is an English word taken directly from Latin and means edible. The Xanthosoma genus is closely related, and several common names including callaloo and coco or cocoyam are used to refer to either Taro or domesticated Xanthosoma species which share substantially the same uses. Taro may be distinguished as “taro cocoyam” or “old cocoyam”, with the term “new cocoyam” referring to species of Xanthosoma.
In Kenya, taro root is referred to as arrow root, or by the Kikuyu or Kamba word ndŭma. In the Maldives this root or yam is referred as Ala. Varieties that grows in muddy ponds are called Olhu Ala . Olhu means a muddy pond. In South Africa, it referred to by the Zulu word amaDumbe or the anglicised madumbi. In some Caribbean countries, it is sometimes known as dasheen, a name said to be derived from the French de Chine which means from China and evokes the plant’s Asian origins. The leaves are used to make a soup popular in the West Indies, called callaloo soup. In Cyprus it is known as kolokassi, which is similar to the name the Romans used: colocasia, and it is known as “Qolqass” in Egypt. In Lebanon it is known as kilkass. Taro is also known as dalo In the Fijian Islands and in Japan as satoimo. Eddoe is another name for taro, although this one seems to be preferentially used to designate small corm varieties.
The small round variety is peeled and boiled, sold either frozen, bagged in its own liquids, or canned. The plant is actually inedible when raw because of needle-shaped raphides (calcium oxalate) in the plant cells.
Typical of leaf vegetables, taro leaves are rich in vitamins and minerals. They are a good source of thiamin, riboflavin, iron, phosphorus, and zinc, and a very good source of vitamin B6, vitamin C, niacin, potassium, copper, and manganese. Taro corms are very high in starch, and are a good source of dietary fiber. Oxalic acid may be present in the corm and especially in the leaf, and these foods should be eaten with milk or other foods rich in calcium so as to remove the risks posed by ingesting the oxalate ion, especially for people with kidney disorders, gout, or rheumatoid arthritis.
Calcium reacts with the oxalate to form calcium oxalate, which is highly insoluble and is suspected to cause kidney stones.
In North India, it is called Arvi or Arbi. In Assamese it is called Kosu. In Bengali it is called Kochu(কচু). It is a very common dish and may be served with or without gravy. The leaves are rolled along with gram flour batter and then fried or steamed to make a dish called Patode which is finshed by tempering with red chiilies and carrom seeds.
In himachal pardesh its roots is known as Ghandyaly in mandi distt. The dish called patrodu.patrodu pata+rodu. pata means the leaves of the Ghandyali and the dish which made by pata (leaves) is called patrodu.
A tree-growing variety of taro is extensively used in the western coast of India to make patrade or patrada, literally “leaf-pancake”. These are either made like fritters, or are steamed and eaten. In the state of Maharashtra, it is called Alu in Marathi. The leaves, called ‘Alu che Paana’, are de-veined, rolled with a paste of gram flour, tamarind paste, red chilli powder, turmeric, coriander, asoefotida, salt and steamed. These can be cut into pieces, eaten as such or shallow fried and eaten as a snack known as alu chi wadi. ‘Alu chya panan chi patal bhaji’, a lentil and colocasia leaves curry is also popular. In the Indian state of Gujarat it is used to make patra, a dish with the leaves of the plant prepared with tamarind and other spices. Sindhis call it ‘Kachaloo’; They fry it, smash it and re-fry it to make a dish called ‘Took’ which compliments Sindhi Curry.
In Kerala, a state in southern India, taro corms are known as Chembu-kizhangu. It is used as a staple food, as a side dish, or as a component in various side dishes. As a staple food it is steamed, and eaten with a chutney of green pepper and shallot onions. The leaves and stems of certain varieties of taro are used as a vegetable in Kerala.
In other Indian states, Tamil Nadu & Andhra Pradesh, taro corms are known as Sivapan-kizhangu ‘chamagadda’ or in coastal Andhra districts as ‘Chaama dumpa’ in Telugu, and can be cooked in many ways, deep fried in oil for a side item with rice, or cooked in a tangy tamarind sauce with spices, onion and tomato.
In Dakshin Kannada district in the state of Karnataka, Taro is used in morning breakfast dish as Patrode.
In the Indian state of Uttarakhand and neighbouring Nepal, it is considered a health food with a variety of cooking styles. The most common style is boiling it in salty water in iron cooking pots until it becomes like porridge. Another style is to steam the young leaves called ‘gava’, sun-dry and then store it for later use. For another variety, the taro leaves and stems are used raw as an ingredient for pickles. The leaves and stems are mixed with black lentils and then dried as small balls called badi and used later on. The stems are also sun-dried and stored for later use. On one special day, women worship saptarshi (seven sages) and have rice with taro leaf vegetable only.
Care must be taken to oil one’s hands before handling the leaves, as some leaves are acidic and cause scratching. The leaves are completely safe and delicious after cooking.
Taro is grown in the hilly regions of [Nepal]. The modified stem (corm) of Taro is known as ‘Pindalu’ and petioles with leaves are known as ‘Karkalo’. Almost all parts are eaten by making different dishes. Large leaves of Taro are use as an alternative to umbrella when unexpected rain occurs. Boiled corm of Taro is commonly served with salt, spices and chillies. It is popular among hill people. Chopped and dried leaf petioles are used to make cake called ‘Maseura’.
In Bangladesh it is known as Mookhi Kochu. It is cooked with small prawn into thick curry.
Taro was used by the early Romans in much the same way the potato would later be used by Europeans. They called this root vegetable colocasia. Apicius mentions several methods for preparing taro. The text of Apicius seems to imply that the usual cooking method was to boil taro in water. Apicius suggests that a sauce be made from pepper, cumin, rue, vinegar, oil and liquamen to be served with chopped pieces of boiled taro. Apicius also mentions recipes in which pieces of taro are cooked along with meat or fowl, similar to the manner in which potatoes are now used in European meat dishes. After the fall of the Roman Empire, the use of taro gradually ceased in Europe. This was largely due to the decline of trade and commerce, as most of the taro used throughout the Roman Empire had been grown and exported from Egypt.
Taro root is called ñame in Spanish and is largely cultivated in the Autonomous Community of the Canary Islands (Canary Islands, Spain).
Taro is extensively used in South Asia. In Kerala, a state in southern India, it is used as a staple food, as a side dish, or as a component in various side dishes. As a staple food it is steamed, and eaten with a chutney of green pepper and shallot onions. The leaves and stems of certain varieties of taro are used as a vegetable in Kerala. A tree-growing variety of taro is extensively used in the western coast of India to make patrade or patrada, literally “leaf-pancake”. These are either made like fritters, or are steamed and eaten. In another Indian state, Andhra Pradesh, taro corms are known as ‘chamagadda’ or in coastal districts as ‘Chaama dumpa’ and can be cooked in many ways, deep fried in oil for a side item with rice, or cooked in a tangy tamarind sauce with spices, onion and tomato. In the Indian state of Gujarat it is used to make patra, a dish with the leaves of the plant prepared with tamarind and other spices.
Ala was widely grown southern atolls, Addu, Fuvammulah, Huvadhu, and Haddhunmathi, . They considered it a stable food even after rice was introduced. Ala and Olhu Ala is still widely eaten all over maldives. It is cooked or steamed with salt to taste and eaten with grated coconut along with chili paste and fish soup. it is also prepared as a curry. The roots are sliced and fried to make chips and also used to prepare varieties of sweets.
Taro (called yutou, 芋头 or yunai, 芋艿 in China; 芋頭, wuh táu? in Hong Kong) is commonly used within Chinese cuisine in a variety of styles, mainly as a flavor enhancing ingredient. It is commonly braised with pork or beef. It is used in the dim sum cuisine of southern China to make a small plated dish called taro dumpling, as well as a pan-fried dish called taro cake. It is also woven to form a seafood birdsnest. The taro cake is also a delicacy traditionally eaten during the Chinese New Year. In desserts it is used in tong sui, bubble tea, as a flavoring in ice cream and other deserts in the China(f. ex. Sweet Taro Pie). McDonald’s sells Taro flavored pies at their stores in China.
Considered the staple starch of traditional Polynesian cuisine, taro is both a common and prestigious food item that was first introduced to the Polynesian islands by prehistoric seafarers of Southeast Asian derivation. The tuber itself is prepared in various methods including baking, steaming in earth ovens (umu or imu), boiling, and frying. The famous Hawaiian staple poi is made by mashing steamed taro roots with water. Taro also features in traditional desserts such as Samoan “fa’ausi,” which consists of grated, cooked taro mixed with coconut milk and brown sugar. The leaves of the taro plant also feature prominently in Polynesian cooking, especially as edible wrappings for dishes such as Hawaiian laulau, Fijian & Samoan “palusami” (wrapped coconut milk and onions), and Tongan “lupulu” (wrapped corned beef). Ceremonial presentations on occasion of chiefly rites or communal events (weddings, funerals, etc.) traditionally included ritual presentation of raw and cooked taro roots/plants. The Hawaiian laulau traditionally contains pork, fish, and lu’au (cooked taro leaf). The wrapping is with inedible ti leaves (Hawaiian: lau ki). The cooked taro leaf has the consistency of cooked spinach and would be unsuitable for use as a wrapping.
Taro is consumed as a staple crop in West Africa, particularly in Nigeria and Cameroon. It is called cocoyam in Nigeria, Ghana and Anglophone Cameroon. It is called macabo in Francophone Cameroon.
In Taiwan, supermarket varieties range from about the size and shape of a brussels sprout to longer, larger varieties the size of an adult male’s fist. Taro chips are often used as a potato-chip-like snack. Compared to potato chips, taro chips are harder and have a more assertive nutty flavor. They are generally made from upland taro because of their lower moisture.
Excavated Japanese satoimo root (stems are cut before the plant is dug up): (1) Remaining stem from parent or seed satoimo, (2) Parent or seed satoimo, (3) Remaining stem from child satoimo, (4) Child satoimo, (5) Grandchild satoimoIn Japan, it is called satoimo (サトイモ, satoimo?), (kanji: 里芋) “village potato”. The “child” (satoimo) and “grandchild” (satoimo), referring to the corms, are called imonoko (芋の子, imonoko?). Satoimo is has been propagated in Southeast Asia since the late Jōmon period. It was a regional staple food before rice became predominant.
The tuber, satoimo, is often prepared through simmering, but occasionally grated and eaten raw or steamed. The stalk, zuiki, can also be prepared a number of ways, depending on its variety.
In South Korea, it is called toran (Korean: 토란: “egg from earth”), and the corm is stewed and the leaf stem is stir-fried. Taro roots can be used for medicinal purposes, particularly for treating insect bites.
In Vietnam, where taro is called khoai môn, it is used as a filling in spring rolls, cakes, puddings, soups and other desserts.
In Hawaii, taro is a traditional staple, as in many tropical areas of the world, and is the base for making poi. In Chinatowns, people often use taro in Chinese cuisine, though it is not consumed or popularized nearly as much as in Asian and Pacific nations. Since the late 20th century, taro chips have been available in many supermarkets and natural food stores. In the 1920s, dasheen, as it was known, was highly touted by the Secretary of the Florida Department of Agriculture as a valuable crop for growth in muck fields. Fellsmere, Florida, near the east coast, was a farming area deemed perfect for growing dasheen. It was used in place of potatoes and dried to make flour. Dasheen flour was said to make excellent pancakes when mixed with wheat flour. In areas with large Spanish speaking communities (especially from of the Spanish West Indies like Puerto Rico, Cuba, Domican Republic,etc..) it is called ñame.
In the Philippines, taro is called gabi. A popular rendition of the taro is Laing (pronounced /lah – ing/) which originates from the Bicol region in Southern Luzon. The dish’s main ingredients are taro stem and leaf cooked in coconut milk, salted with fermented shrimp or fish bagoong. It is also heavily spiced with red hot chilies called sili’ng labuyo (“wild pepper”)
Another dish where taro finds common use in the Filipino kitchen is the Philippine national stew, called sinigang. This sour stew may be made with pork and beef, shrimp, or fish. Peeled and diced taro is a basic ingredient of pork sinigang.
Finally, the third most common use of taro in the Filipino diet is in ginataan, literally meaning “cooked with coconut milk.” This form of dessert, where coconut milk and taro are combined along with indigenous ingredients such as sago and jackfruit, is shared throughout most Southeast Asian cuisines.
Taro is called “dasheen”, with a smaller corm species being called “eddo” in the English speaking countries of the West Indies, and is cultivated and consumed as a staple crop in the region. In the Spanish speaking countries of the Spanish West Indies it is called ñame.
Taro is grown in the south coast of Turkey, especially in Mersin and Antalya. It is boiled in a tomato sauce or cooked with meat, beans and chickpeas.
In Cyprus, taro has been in use since the time of the Roman Empire. Today it is known as “kolokassi” which is similar to the name the Romans used: colocasia. It is usually stewed with celery (and sometimes meat) in a tomato sauce. Taro also grows on Ikaria island; Ikarians credit the taro for saving them from famine during World War II.
In Lebanon, taro is known as “Kilkass” and is mainly grown along the Mediterranean coast. The leaves and stems are not consumed in Lebanon and the variety grown produces round to slightly oblong tubers that vary in size from a tennis ball to a small cantaloupe. Kilkass is a very popular winter dish in Lebanon and is prepared in 2 ways: “Kilkass with lentils” which is a stew flavored with crushed garlic and lemon juice and “kilkass in tahini” (tahini is a sesame seed paste).
In Suriname the taro root is called “aroei” by the Indians and is commonly known as “chinese tayer”. The closely related Xanthosoma species is the base for the popular Surinamese dish pom.
Will Be updates soon. | <urn:uuid:a641f31c-839e-4a12-9c39-5008d4603b69> | CC-MAIN-2016-36 | https://ayeshahaq.com/2009/09/06/vegetable-of-the-week-taro/ | s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2016-36/segments/1471982948216.97/warc/CC-MAIN-20160823200908-00192-ip-10-153-172-175.ec2.internal.warc.gz | en | 0.965885 | 4,184 | 3.328125 | 3 |
A rare blood disorder called myelodysplastic syndrome (MDS) has received some public attention lately after news broke that Robin Roberts, 51, anchor for "Good Morning America", was diagnosed with the disease and Nora Ephron, the celebrated author and screen writer ("Sleepless in Seattle", "You’ve Got Mail"), died at age 71 from complications of leukemia that had transformed from MDS.
MDS is a group of disorders associated with dysfunctional and ineffective bone marrow that leads to decreased production of one or more types of blood cells. MDS can lead to anemia, recurrent infections, and/or excessive bruising and bleeding and can develop spontaneously or after exposure to certain drugs, chemicals, and toxins.
MDS can vary greatly in how it manifests. Some cases go undetected for many years and may not be diagnosed until significant blood cell shortages develop and/or until the disease begins to progress quickly. Other cases of MDS are more aggressive and advance rapidly. Depending on the types of blood cell affected, symptoms can include fatigue, shortness of breath, weakness, pale skin, recurrent infections, fever, excessive bleeding, easy bruising, and/or tiny reddish spots on the skin.
According to the American Cancer Society, there are about 12,000 new cases of MDS each year, and the number of cases is increasing as the population ages. MDS is more common in men than women, and more than 80% of cases occur in people over 60.
A variety of laboratory tests are used to diagnose and classify MDS and to determine appropriate managements, which include bone marrow transplants (the only cure for the disorder) and drug treatment.
Below are links to several resources that can provide background information on MDS, including current and emerging tests and treatments.
On this site
Elsewhere on the web
MedlinePlus Interactive Health Tutorial: Understanding the Different Types of MDS
National Marrow Donor Program: Myelodysplastic Syndromes (MDS)
Leukemia & Lymphoma Society: Myelodysplastic Syndromes
The Myelodysplastic Syndromes Foundation
NOTE: This article is based on research that utilizes the sources cited here as well as the collective experience of the Lab Tests Online Editorial Review Board. This article is periodically reviewed by the Editorial Board and may be updated as a result of the review. Any new sources cited will be added to the list and distinguished from the original sources used.
(Revised 2012 January 12). American Cancer Society. Myelodysplastic Syndromes Detailed Guide. Available online at http://www.cancer.org/Cancer/MyelodysplasticSyndrome/DetailedGuide/index through http://www.cancer.org. Accessed June 2012.
(June 11, 2012) Yvonne Villareal. Good Morning America’s Robin Roberts battling blood disorder. Los Angeles Times. Available online at http://www.latimes.com/entertainment/tv/showtracker/la-et-st-robin-roberts-20120611,0,198936.story through http://www.latimes.com. Accessed June 2012.
(June 26, 2012) Adam Bernstein. Nora Ephron, prolific author and screenwriter, dies at age 71. Washington Post. Available online at http://www.washingtonpost.com/local/obituaries/nora-ephron-prolific-author-and-screenwriter-dies-at-age-71/2012/06/26/gJQAMOtN5V_story.html?hpid=z5 through http://www.washingtonpost.com. Accessed June 2012.
(June 27, 2012) The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society. The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society Mourns the Loss of Author and Filmmaker Nora Ephron. Available online at http://www.kltv.com/story/18894845/the-leukemia-lymphoma-society-mourns-the-loss-of-author-and-filmmaker-nora-ephron?clienttype=printable through http://www.kltv.com. Accessed June 2012. | <urn:uuid:17ac28fc-0a08-4737-832c-10046f8dbb6f> | CC-MAIN-2015-40 | https://labtestsonline.org/news/mds120718/ | s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2015-40/segments/1443737940789.96/warc/CC-MAIN-20151001221900-00110-ip-10-137-6-227.ec2.internal.warc.gz | en | 0.90179 | 894 | 2.625 | 3 |
Be careful what you wish for
A time when the West clamoured for free trade with China
The Opium War: Drugs, Dreams, and the Making of China. By Julia Lovell. Picador; 480 pages; £25. Buy from Amazon.co.uk
HISTORY, it turns out, is not just written by the winners. In documenting the historical crapshoot of the last 200 years, there have been few losers more assiduous than the Chinese. So, apart from adapting first Karl Marx and now Adam Smith, what have they been writing? Rather a lot, it seems. A topic of choice is the Opium Wars, those 19th-century skirmishes on the far-eastern fringe of the British empire. They are largely unknown by British schoolchildren, but successive Chinese governments have made sure the same cannot be said for their overachieving students in the Middle Kingdom.
Julia Lovell's excellent new book explores why this period of history is so emotionally important for the Chinese. Drawing on original sources in Chinese and English, she recounts the events of the period in fascinating detail. More importantly, she explains how China has turned the Opium Wars into a founding myth of its struggle for modernity.
Ms Lovell weaves this story into the historical brocade of the early 19th century, when European demand for Chinese silk, tea and porcelain was insatiable. To save their silver, the British began to pay for these luxuries with opium from India, and many Chinese were soon addicted. The Chinese emperor tried to stop the trade, and hoped to slam the door completely on the outside world. Between 1839 and 1842, the British manufactured a nasty little war in which they smashed the Chinese military, and justified it all in the name of free trade. The Western powers, hungry for more markets, then prised China open.
Westerners have good reason to be ashamed of their treatment of China in the 19th century. Yet Ms Lovell contends that they administered only the final blows to an empire that was already on the brink. That is hardly how it has been portrayed in China, however, where manipulating memory is an important tool of government propaganda. In the 1920s Chinese nationalists began spinning the arrival of Western gunboats as the cause of all the country's problems—the start of China's “century of humiliation”. Chairman Mao also blamed Western aggression at the time of the Opium Wars for China's decline. And so emerged the narrative of China as victim that can still be heard today, even as the country casts off its loser status.
Despite China's growing strength, Ms Lovell sees worrying similarities between China's weaknesses today and those of the Chinese empire of 1838, describing both as “an impressive but improbable high-wire act, unified by ambition, bluff, pomp and pragmatism”. She finds parallels too in how the West sees China. Foreign policy hawks in 1840 repeated loudly that violence against China “was honourable and inevitable until, in the popular imagination, it became so.” Demonisation of China today, especially in America, can sometimes seem almost as shrill.
Westerners interested in why China behaves the way it does should read “The Opium War”. So should Chinese readers, who could gain a more balanced view of their own history than they receive in school. In 2006, for example, China's government shut down a leading liberal weekly over an article that challenged national orthodoxy on the Opium Wars. The Communist Party's propaganda bureau accused the author of attempting “to vindicate criminal acts by the imperialist powers in invading China”. An internet post by a nationalist suggested the author should be “drowned in rotten eggs and spit”.
Ms Lovell reassures her readers that not all Chinese buy into tired government propaganda. But the Opium Wars are always there, lurking in the Chinese subconscious, perpetuating the tension between pride and victimhood. Tellingly, Ms Lovell quotes George Orwell: “Who controls the past controls the future. Who controls the present controls the past.”
This article appeared in the Culture section of the print edition under the headline "Be careful what you wish for"
From the October 29th 2011 edition
Discover stories from this section and more in the list of contentsExplore the edition
Cyclists’ epic three weeks of pain can be a TV viewer’s delight
Olesia Vorotnyk danced with the national ballet. Then Russia invaded
Guadalupe Nettel’s new novel evokes the value of kindness and the unpredictability of life | <urn:uuid:f001cb62-e123-495e-811f-5539ddaf8041> | CC-MAIN-2022-27 | https://www.economist.com/books-and-arts/2011/10/29/be-careful-what-you-wish-for?frsc=dg%7Ca | s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2022-27/segments/1656103920118.49/warc/CC-MAIN-20220701034437-20220701064437-00763.warc.gz | en | 0.949829 | 955 | 2.65625 | 3 |
Network System Design
The Network System Design course will provide students with an understanding of computer networks and how they operate, as well as a basic understanding of how to manage and maintain computer networks. These skills will provide students with theability to design, configure, and troubleshoot networks of all sizes.Students will learn the basics of network design, including how to identify network requirements and determine the proper network architecture. They will be instructed on the requirements of network models, as well as be introduced to local area networks. Students will also learn about Internet Protocol and the basics of routing data on a network.Students will be introduced to wide area networks and network security issues. In addition, students will learn about networkmanagement, including monitoring and troubleshooting. Last, students will learn about network operating systems and their role in connecting computers and facilitating communications.
- Understand computer networks and their functions, as well as know how to analyze business and technical goals of a network to effectively meet customer needs.
- Identify requirements to successfully support network users, applications, and devices. They will also understand network architecture and topology, protocols, and services of local and wide area networks.
- Identify principles and operation of equipment like wire and circuits, as well as of standards such as open system interconnection, TCP/IP, and high-speed networking.
- Demonstrate knowledge of security requirements and data protection on a network, as well as the role of security tools such as routers, firewalls, and virtual private networks.
- Understand network operating systems and be able to support computer networks.
For topics in this course, it is helpful for students to be familiar with the basics of computer hardware (desktop and laptop), as well as desktop operating systems.
If students are not familiar with these topics, it is recommended, though not required, that they be introduced to computer hardware and desktop or workstation operating systems before starting this course. That includes examining hardware devices such as motherboards, hard drives, and processing chips and exploring the features and functions of a workstation operating system. | <urn:uuid:b1d11528-e4e3-4ced-972a-2a204677beaa> | CC-MAIN-2020-10 | https://www.odysseyware.com/courses/network-system-design | s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2020-10/segments/1581875145729.69/warc/CC-MAIN-20200222211056-20200223001056-00056.warc.gz | en | 0.957821 | 419 | 3.75 | 4 |
How many bamboo in 1 pied de roi?
The answer is 0.1015126875.
We assume you are converting between bamboo and pied de roi.
You can view more details on each measurement unit:
bamboo or pied de roi
The SI base unit for length is the metre.
1 metre is equal to 0.3125 bamboo, or 3.0784329298739 pied de roi.
Note that rounding errors may occur, so always check the results.
Use this page to learn how to convert between bamboo and pied de roi.
Type in your own numbers in the form to convert the units!
1 bamboo to pied de roi = 9.85099 pied de roi
5 bamboo to pied de roi = 49.25493 pied de roi
10 bamboo to pied de roi = 98.50985 pied de roi
15 bamboo to pied de roi = 147.76478 pied de roi
20 bamboo to pied de roi = 197.01971 pied de roi
25 bamboo to pied de roi = 246.27463 pied de roi
30 bamboo to pied de roi = 295.52956 pied de roi
40 bamboo to pied de roi = 394.03942 pied de roi
50 bamboo to pied de roi = 492.54927 pied de roi
You can do the reverse unit conversion from pied de roi to bamboo, or enter any two units below:
ConvertUnits.com provides an online conversion calculator for all types of measurement units. You can find metric conversion tables for SI units, as well as English units, currency, and other data. Type in unit symbols, abbreviations, or full names for units of length, area, mass, pressure, and other types. Examples include mm, inch, 100 kg, US fluid ounce, 6'3", 10 stone 4, cubic cm, metres squared, grams, moles, feet per second, and many more! | <urn:uuid:68ed6144-3764-4a60-881d-0efca77f1d91> | CC-MAIN-2021-25 | https://www.convertunits.com/from/bamboo/to/pied+de+roi | s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2021-25/segments/1623487621273.31/warc/CC-MAIN-20210615114909-20210615144909-00464.warc.gz | en | 0.721038 | 448 | 2.671875 | 3 |
- App Store Info
DescriptionA fun and exciting way to learn how to write the alphabet.
The magic chalkboard comes to life, teaching children their ABCs.
The magic chalkboard draws amazing pictures by itself that become real, springing from the screen as each letter is completed.
Connor is your child's guide, cheering your child's progression as he or she learns effortlessly.
For added fun, the chalkboard can be used for doodling enhancing the child's creativity. White, Yellow, Red, Green, and Blue chalk colors can be picked and they are spoken. This also helps your child learn their colors.
As a reward for learning their ABCs, a picture of a train comes to life and a magic parade of letters begins! | <urn:uuid:939884a1-7d0b-4f18-87b5-2fa2f6006e2d> | CC-MAIN-2015-35 | http://www.appspy.com/app/192490/abc-tutor | s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2015-35/segments/1440644065828.38/warc/CC-MAIN-20150827025425-00111-ip-10-171-96-226.ec2.internal.warc.gz | en | 0.94173 | 155 | 2.859375 | 3 |
Sicily is one of the most beautiful islands on the planet and it’s also one of the most dramatic due to the presence of Mount Etna, which is one of the world’s most active volcanoes. If you’d like to get a close up look at this famous lava-spewing icon, you’ll be able to find it smack dab in the middle of Italy’s Etna National Park.
The park’s approximately 225 square miles in total size and was officially established back in 1987. This fascinating mountain has been in a state of constant eruption for close to 500,000 thousand years now. However, even though there have been numerous eruptions you’ll still find the area covered over by beautiful birch, beech, and pine forests.
(photo by Jonathan Edgecombe)
Mount Etna is Europe’s tallest active volcano as it reaches about 10,925 feet into the sky. The actual height of the volcano actually varies when the volcanic materials accumulate when it erupts and parts of the crater walls begin to collapse. It’s believed the mountain was named by using Greek and Latin translation which means ‘to burn.’ However, some linguists feel Etna may be named after the word athana, which means furnace in Phoenician.
The history of Mount Etna has been recorded like no other volcano. The first recorded data about the erupting mountain date all the way back to 1500 B.C. Since then historians have recorded about 200 more eruptions. Luckily, most of them have been pretty tame when it comes to resulting in destruction and death.
In fact, it’s believed the volcano has been responsible for just 100 deaths over the years. It’s been a bit worse where destruction is concerned though since the nearby township of Mascali was destroyed by Etna back in 1928.
The mountain possesses some very rich soil which is in local apple groves and vineyards. When visiting Etna National Park you’ll also find the lava has carved out over 200 caves in the surrounding area. These caves have been used by local Sicilians for several purposes over the years, such as food storage cellars and sacred burial grounds.
Centuries ago, large mammals used to roam the area, but these days you’ll likely run into wild cats, martens, foxes, mice, and rabbits. However, these small animals need to keep their eyes open at all times as they’re often the dinner of some of the area’s birds of prey such as golden eagles and peregrines.
One of the most popular scenic sites in the park is the Bove Valley, which is shaped like a horseshoe. This area consists of gullies, lava formations, and cliffs and spreads out for 14 square miles. The basin’s walls are close to 3,300 feet high. You can reach the park by train from Catania, which is the second-largest city in Sicily and lies in the shadow of the mountain, and get off at Rifugio Sapienza.
If you’re lucky, the best time to visit the park is when the mountain’s erupting. It’s quite a spectacle to see the red-hot lava shoot into the air and down the mountainside. However, it’s hard to predict when these eruptions are going to take place. Once the mountain starts to erupt though, the show can go on for days or even weeks and months.
You can get a great view of the park from the train that leaves Catania’s Borgo Station as it travels around Mount Etna. Many people also explore the park by booking jeep tours. The park’s headquarters are located in Nicolosi, and buses run here from local communities. Cable cars take you close to the summit and climbers can take guided tours. You’ll also find several campgrounds available in the local area. | <urn:uuid:bcc261c0-0576-43d9-885f-154e9c17440a> | CC-MAIN-2021-39 | http://www.campingtourist.com/camping-spots/sicilys-etna-national-park/ | s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2021-39/segments/1631780057417.92/warc/CC-MAIN-20210923074537-20210923104537-00437.warc.gz | en | 0.963097 | 829 | 3.5 | 4 |
The Japanese earthquake and tsunami last march left thousands of people dead and hundreds of thousands homeless. The devastation inspired a tech company called TES NewEnergy to develop a new device to generate emergency power during such catastrophes.
The company already specializes in thermoelectric generation where heat is converted into usable electricity using various thermo-electric materials. They have now developed a cooking pot called the ‘Hatsuden-Nabe Thermo-Electric Cookpot’ that's embedded with such materials. When the pot is placed on a fire the temperature difference between the bottom of the pot (around 900 degrees F) and the relatively cooler boiling water (212 degrees F) creates an energy potential that is captured in a thermo-electric device and converted to produce 2 Watts of power. A user can tap into that energy via a USB port on the pot.
Kazuhiro Fujito, the CEO of TES NewEnergy tells PhysOrg how the idea came to him “When I saw the TV footage of the quake victims making a fire to keep themselves warm, I came up with the idea of helping them to charge their mobile phones at the same time.”
The thermo-electric cookpot may also have a wider application than just for disaster situations. In many developing countries, the electric grid is incomplete and people often need to travel out of their way to access electrical power. The device — one of many to be sure — will allow these people to charge their electronics from anywhere.
The pot is on sale in Japan as of this month for 24,150 Yen or about $300. Co-developer Ryoji Funahashi expects the cookpot to be competitive: “Unlike a solar power generator, our pot can be used regardless of time of day and weather while its small size allows people to easily carry it in a bag in case of evacuation.”
Credit: TES Energy | <urn:uuid:67380bb8-b019-419c-aadc-ed766e9bcbb1> | CC-MAIN-2015-35 | http://news.discovery.com/tech/alternative-power-sources/camping-pot-lets-you-cook-up-some-electricity-110622.htm | s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2015-35/segments/1440644064919.24/warc/CC-MAIN-20150827025424-00059-ip-10-171-96-226.ec2.internal.warc.gz | en | 0.953695 | 391 | 3.265625 | 3 |
An overview of the regulation of complementary medicines in Australia
What complementary medicines are
In Australia, medicinal products containing such ingredients as herbs, vitamins, minerals, nutritional supplements, homoeopathic and certain aromatherapy preparations are referred to as 'complementary medicines' and are regulated as medicines under the Therapeutic Goods Act 1989 (the Act).
A complementary medicine is defined in the Therapeutic Goods Regulations 1990 as a therapeutic good consisting principally of one or more designated active ingredients mentioned in Schedule 14 of the Regulations, each of which has a clearly established identity and traditional use:
Designated active ingredients
- an amino acid
- a choline salt
- an essential oil
- plant or herbal material (or a synthetically produced substitute for material of that kind), including plant fibres, enzymes, algae, fungi, cellulose and derivatives of cellulose and chlorophyll
- a homeopathic preparation
- a microorganism, whole or extracted, except a vaccine
- a mineral including a mineral salt and a naturally occurring mineral
- a mucopolysaccharide
- non human animal material (or a synthetically produced substitute for material of that kind) including dried material, bone and cartilage, fats and oils and other extracts or concentrates
- a lipid, including an essential fatty acid or phospholipid
- a substance produced by or obtained from bees, including royal jelly, bee pollen and propolis
- a sugar, polysaccharide or carbohydrate
- a vitamin or provitamin
How complementary medicines are regulated in Australia
Australia has a risk-based approach with a two-tiered system for the regulation of all medicines, including complementary medicines:
- Lower risk medicines can be listed on the Australian Register of Therapeutic Goods (ARTG).
- Higher risk medicines must be registered on the ARTG.
Some complementary medicines are exempt from the requirement to be included on the ARTG, such as certain preparations of homoeopathic medicines.
The Australian Regulatory Guidelines for Complementary Medicines (ARGCM) provides detail on the regulation of complementary medicines and assist sponsors to meet their legislative obligations.
TGA post market regulatory activity of complementary medicines
TGA post-market regulatory activities relate to the monitoring of the continuing safety, quality and efficacy of listed, registered and included therapeutic goods once they are on the market. Information on the TGA's approach to managing compliance risk is available at: TGA regulatory framework. The TGA Manufacturing Quality Branch inspects manufacturers on an ongoing basis for compliance with good manufacturing practice.
The TGA also undertakes Listed complementary medicine compliance reviews.
Adverse events to complementary medicines
Sometimes medicines, including complementary medicines, have unexpected and undesirable effects. The TGA has a strong pharmacovigilance program, which involves the assessment of adverse events that are reported to the TGA by consumers, health professionals, the pharmaceutical industry, international medicines regulators or by the medical and scientific experts on TGA advisory committees.
If you experience an adverse event to a complementary medicine, you should seek advice from a health professional and then report the adverse event to the TGA.
Sponsors of medicines are required to report to the TGA suspected adverse reactions for their medicines that they are aware of. Guidance for sponsors is provided in 'Australian requirements and recommendations for pharmacovigilance responsibilities of sponsors of medicines'.
Advertising of complementary medicines
The marketing and advertising of therapeutic goods, including complementary medicines, is to be conducted in a manner that promotes the quality use of the product, is socially responsible and does not mislead or deceive the consumer.
The advertising of therapeutic goods in Australia is subject to the advertising requirements of the Therapeutic Goods Act, which adopts the Therapeutic Goods Advertising Code (TGAC) and the supporting Regulations, the Trade Practices Act 1975 and other relevant laws.
Anyone may lodge a complaint about an advertisement for therapeutic goods and all complaints are treated in confidence. Refer to 'Making a complaint about the advertising of a therapeutic product'.
Purchasing complementary medicines over the Internet
Products available on international websites are not regulated by the TGA. The TGA advises that consumers do not order medicines, including dietary supplements and herbal preparations, over the Internet unless you know exactly what is in the preparation and have checked the legal requirements for importation and use in Australia. For more information refer to: Buying medicines and medical devices over the Internet. | <urn:uuid:317637eb-525c-485a-a246-1cc108322afa> | CC-MAIN-2016-50 | http://www.tga.gov.au/overview-regulation-complementary-medicines-australia | s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2016-50/segments/1480698542455.45/warc/CC-MAIN-20161202170902-00031-ip-10-31-129-80.ec2.internal.warc.gz | en | 0.919925 | 904 | 2.734375 | 3 |
It is rather rare to hear a speaker pronounce vowels like this, so I would like to know where it comes from. I live in North America, so my only experience is with American English.
Most notably, I have heard /ɑ/ in "got" pronounced as /æ/. As well, "no" as "nɛ". And come to think of it, "actually" which should use /æ/ is being pronounced as /ɛ/.
A more common occurrence may be the /e/ in "okay" substituted for /ə/, /ɪ/, or /i/.
I have found a couple of examples from this video, such as "end" as [ɪ]nd. It's not necessary to watch but may help. It's not the prominent accent that I've heard, as in the first example.
But my question is where did this begin, and where in the US does it occur most? | <urn:uuid:3ec0b5fb-3d56-4204-99a7-a632d9a52e22> | CC-MAIN-2020-10 | https://english.stackexchange.com/questions/342107/where-in-the-us-are-these-vowels-mispronounced-got-gat/342122 | s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2020-10/segments/1581875145282.57/warc/CC-MAIN-20200220193228-20200220223228-00549.warc.gz | en | 0.986696 | 197 | 2.71875 | 3 |
Singapore team creates artificial skin with 'feel'
Singapore researchers have developed “electronic skin” capable of recreating a sense of touch, an innovation they hope will allow people with prosthetic limbs to detect objects, as well as feel texture, or even temperature and pain.
The device, dubbed ACES, or Asynchronous Coded Electronic Skin, is made up of 100 small sensors and is about 1 square centimeters.
The researchers at the National University of Singapore say it can process information faster than the human nervous system, is able to recognize 20 to 30 different textures and can read Braille with more than 90 percent accuracy.
“So humans need to slide to feel texture, but in this case the skin, with just a single touch, is able to detect textures of different roughness,” said research team leader Benjamin Tee, adding that artificial intelligence algorithms let the device learn quickly.
A demonstration showed the device could detect that a squishy stress ball was soft, and determine that a solid plastic ball was hard.
“When you lose your sense of touch, you essentially become numb ... and prosthetic users face that problem,” said Tee.
“So by recreating an artificial version of the skin, for their prosthetic devices, they can hold a hand and feel the warmth and feel that it is soft, how hard are they holding the hand.”
The technology is still in the experimental stage, but there had been “tremendous interest,” especially from the medical community, Tee said. | <urn:uuid:e2db14a1-07e4-42ca-8f64-d5c9da3c7962> | CC-MAIN-2021-43 | https://www.shine.cn/news/world/2008043517/ | s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2021-43/segments/1634323585405.74/warc/CC-MAIN-20211021102435-20211021132435-00270.warc.gz | en | 0.953917 | 321 | 2.8125 | 3 |
Europe Reshaped: 1848-1878
Wiley, 20.12.1999 - 384 Seiten
In the new edition of this popular book, Professor Grenville provides a lucid and sympathetic guide to the great political and international changes of the thirty years between 1848 and 1878. For this edition the author has included coverage of the experience of Britain within his discussion of continental Europe.
During this period, Europe underwent a rapid succession of political and social changes. The revolutions of 1848 signaled a massive breakdown of social coherence and government, on a scale not witnessed before. The era that followed was one of authoritarian reform from above and the transformation of government, in all but Russia, from autocratic to constitutional rule. The period was dominated by the divisive force of nationalism whilst the map of Europe was redrawn by the unification of Italy and of Germany.
The author examines social conflicts in relation to the regions in which they occurred but also considers movements from a European as well as a local perspective. Yet these events were not merely the outcome of inevitable forces - personal ambitions also played an important role, and Professor Grenville provides readers with fascinating insights into the characters behind the events, including Napoleon III, Cavour, Garibaldi and the master-statesman Bismarck.
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Diaspora Merchants in the Black Sea: The Greeks in Southern Russia, 1775-1861
Vasilēs A. Kardasēs
Eingeschränkte Leseprobe - 2001
Alle Ergebnisse von Google Books »
German Diplomatic Relations 1871-1945: The Wilhelmstrasse And The ...
Eingeschränkte Leseprobe - 2006 | <urn:uuid:888c60d1-3f96-42bc-baac-ece84767d816> | CC-MAIN-2015-11 | http://books.google.de/books?id=wVpTQuES0P8C&pg=PA252&dq=alvensleben+convention&lr=&as_drrb_is=q&as_minm_is=0&as_miny_is=&as_maxm_is=0&as_maxy_is=&as_brr=3&cd=56 | s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2015-11/segments/1424936461266.22/warc/CC-MAIN-20150226074101-00323-ip-10-28-5-156.ec2.internal.warc.gz | en | 0.879753 | 381 | 3.328125 | 3 |
A commemorative postage stamp on the Birth Centenary of Pablo Picasso :
Issued on Mar 15, 1982
Issued for : Indian Posts & Telegraphs Department feels honoured to issue a commemorative stamp in honour of Pablo Picasso.
Design : The stamp depicts Picasso’s ‘Three Musicians’ available at the Museum of Modern Art, New York.
Type : Stamp, Mint Condition
Watermark : No
Colour : Multicolored
Denomination : 2.85 Rupee
Overall Size : 4.83 x 4.06 cms.
Printing Size : 4.40 x 3.60 cms.
Perforation : 14
Stamps Printed : 2 Million in sheets of 50
Printing Process : Photogravure
Printers : India Security Press
Name : Pablo Ruiz y Picasso
Born on Oct 25, 1881 at Málaga, Spain
Died on Apr 8, 1973 at Mougins, France
- Doubtless, Picasso was one of the greatest artists of all times. Like Leonardo–da–Vinci, Michelangelo, Rembrandt and Rubens, he was a creator par excellence. He excelled as a pioneer not only in paintings, but also in sculptures, graphics, ceramics and in designing the stage decor. In one respect, Picasso was even unique in that “probably no painter in history has been so much written about – attacked and defended, explained and obscured, slandered and honoured by so many writers with so many words – at least during his life time“.
- Pablo Ruiz Picasso was born on October 25, 1881, in Malaga, Spain. After his initial training in Spain, he went to Paris. He showed his professional talents in the works usually painted during late 1901 to early 1904. This is commonly called the ‘Blue Period’. During this period, more or less, he abandoned painting of the landscapes, street scenes, dance halls and flower pieces, etc. in order to concentrate only on the human figures. From 1905 onwards, a more natural style developed emphasising a kind of sweetness in the series of Circus people. His paintings began to reveal the ‘Classic’ characteristics, more objective in feelings and full of freshness, repose and tranquility. In order to paint his new classic forms, Picasso usually used colours such as pinks and tans, at times, contrasting them with ochres and olives or pale blue which were often dominated by a reddish monochromatic effect. This effect was so obvious that this period i.e., between later part of 1905-1906, is usually called as the “Rose Period”.
- Along with George Braque, Picasso evolved “Cubism” and became its dominating force. Cubist artists broke up natural forms such as figures, draperies, landscapes and still life etc. into planes which are tilted, shifted and compressed into the limited defined space. The emphasis was on semi-abstract and other formal elements. From 1907 onwards, Cubism had at least three principal variations. First, ‘Analytical Cubism’ which requires that, motivated by the spirit of analysis and investigation, the artist dissects natural forms, reducing them to semi-geometrical shapes. These are then again broken, dislocated or flattened in to rectangular or semi-circular segments. Second, ‘Synthetic Cubism’ which emphasizes the conceptual approach and a synthesis of the varying views of the object or their semblances on the picture plan, and also permits the use of arbitrary and varied texture, materials, colours and a free combination of quasi-geometric shapes-extremely remote in character from the original image. Third, ‘Curvilinear Cubism’ according to which cubist or semi-cubist abstract pictures are produced through curves which along with other elements later paved the way for the ‘Convulsive’ and ‘Disquieting’ works, resembling certain elements of Surrealism. During the 1920s even when Picasso was involved in Cubism and was attracted toward certain manifestations of Surrealism, simultaneously he also painted in the ‘Neoclassical’ style. Picasso also believed that, at times, an artist is also a ‘Political being’ and a painting is not done merely to decorate the apartment but ‘is also an instrument of war for attack and defence against the enemy’. This is amply demonstrated by his greatest master-piece ‘Guernica, 1937‘. The painting ‘Three Musicians‘ done at Fontainebleau during the summer of 1921 is certainly the high point of Synthetic Cubism, at least among those which accentuate the rectilinear phase. | <urn:uuid:42e4f005-f4c0-4e67-b858-cc6914eb5e01> | CC-MAIN-2018-09 | http://www.istampgallery.com/picasso/ | s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2018-09/segments/1518891813088.82/warc/CC-MAIN-20180220185145-20180220205145-00643.warc.gz | en | 0.965266 | 1,005 | 3.140625 | 3 |
Find informative articles on Muscle Mass, related to health. Stay updated with the latest and most comprehensive information related to Muscle Mass.
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We often hear about the metabolic rate. But do you really know what it is and how it affects our body? The metabolic rate is the minimum calorie requirement to sustain basic functioning of a human body. A person’s BMR (Basal Metabolic Rate) is the biggest factor in determining their overall metabolic rate, as well...Read More
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Gone are the days of bulking up and looking like Arnold schwarzenegger. Now Edward Pattison’s (Star of the twilight Series) body is the new rage. Getting lean and having the definition is still not as easy as it sounds. In fact it is still more difficult to get lean than bulk up. People and bodybuilders usally...Read More | <urn:uuid:2647e238-d430-445a-b5a7-95c8909c7bbc> | CC-MAIN-2015-14 | http://www.fitho.in/tag/muscle-mass/ | s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2015-14/segments/1427131298080.28/warc/CC-MAIN-20150323172138-00224-ip-10-168-14-71.ec2.internal.warc.gz | en | 0.950153 | 504 | 2.6875 | 3 |
LENGTH: 10-15 minutes
TOPIC: talking about Czech Easter traditions
Show students 2 pictures of Czech traditions (down below – pomlázka and splashing water) and let them work in pairs or groups and brainstorm ideas about what Czech traditions celebrating Easter are they displaying.
Then go around the class and share your ideas and write them on the board. Try to come up with reasonings for why it is celebrated this way.
Then take a vote and choose 1 theory for each picture that the majority of people vote for.
After deciding, what the traditions stand for, reveal the not so pretty meaning behind both of those pictures. You can let them do it on their own using Google and hear the gasps as they are finding out or you can do it as a class (for example here or here).
Discuss the pros and cons of celebrating Easter like this. You can use the PowerPoint presentation (uploaded as a video in this post) to give them some pointers.
Finish the discussion by pairing up girls and boys and having them defend the opposite sides of these traditions (one being pro, one being against). | <urn:uuid:3b7f162d-d303-4554-b83a-3227b6f132c7> | CC-MAIN-2023-23 | https://mill.gymka.cz/act/spact/czech-easter-traditions/ | s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2023-23/segments/1685224655244.74/warc/CC-MAIN-20230609000217-20230609030217-00607.warc.gz | en | 0.938461 | 251 | 3.90625 | 4 |
- slide 1 of 7
A major drawback of renewable energy sources such as wind, solar, and tidal power is the limitations of effective storage for later use and integration to the power grid. For instance, when winds blow powerfully wind turbines generate more electricity than a power grid can absorb. This situation either forces many wind turbines to shut down and remain underutilized or results in negative electricity prices for the renewables operator as they pay to get their power onto the grid.
German and Austrian researchers from the Center for Solar Energy and Hydrogen Research at Baden-Württemberg (ZSW) and the Fraunhofer Institute for Wind Energy and Energy System Technology (IWES) are on the verge of a path breaking invention that makes possible storage of excess energy generated by renewable sources such as wind turbines and solar panels. The process aims at producing synthetic methane from water using the surplus energy. Methane is a carbon neutral gas that fits in with the existing natural gas network.
Image Credit: geograph.org.uk/bluespacecat
- slide 2 of 7
The process of storing wind and solar power as synthetic natural gas combines the technology for electrolysis with methanisation.
Passing the surplus energy generated by wind turbines or solar panels through water decomposes the water into oxygen and hydrogen.
2H2O → 2H2 + O2
One option after the electrolysis is to store the hydrogen for use in fuel cells. The storage, transportation, and combustion of hydrogen however raise several technical challenges and remain a costly option. The new technology follows a different approach of using a simple chemical reaction to produce methane out of hydrogen.
The pure oxygen generated out of the electrolysis is stored for combustion of the to-be-generated methane, to produce electricity at a later stage.
2. Sabatier Process:
The hydrogen resultant from the electrolysis process is subject to the sabatier process. Sabatier process is the reaction of hydrogen with carbon dioxide using a nickel catalyst at high temperature and pressure to methane and water.
CO2 + 4H2 → CH4 + 2H2O
The water resultant from the Sabatier process is recycled for further electrolysis, making the sourcing of pure water for this process a one-time affair.
A prototype of this system is already operational at Stuttgart, and a substantially larger system capable of processing 10 megawatts is poised to become operational by 2012.
- slide 3 of 7
The combustion of methane for producing electricity generates carbon dioxide and water.
CH4 + 2O2 → CO2 + 2H2O
The carbon dioxide is recycled back to boost the Sabatier process. In the absence of recycling, the Sabaiter process pulls back from the atmosphere the carbon dioxide emitted to the air. The water is recycled back to the electrolysis stage. This cycle of methane to carbon dioxide to methane makes this a carbon neutral process, producing no greenhouse gases.
- slide 4 of 7
The efficiency of the process aimed at storing wind and solar power as synthetic natural gas is presently more than sixty percent. Pumped storage of natural gas supply presently has a better efficiency ratio of seventy percent. The net potential loss owing to non-utilization of excess power available from renewable energy sources however from far exceeds the marginal efficiency loss of this new process.
The storing of pure oxygen resultant from electrolysis eliminates the need of nitrous oxides while burning methane to produce electricity.
Image Credit: Wikimedia Commons/Fernando Tomas
- slide 5 of 7
The primary advantage of this new process is the stocking of green energy for future use. The storage of renewable energy at synthetic natural gas as a backup option contributes to the robustness of the smart grid technology.
Synthetic methane is compatible with the existing storage facilities, pipelines and supply network of natural gas network grid, and countries like Germany and UK that already have such robust infrastructure can readily store enough renewable energy in gas form to last through extended days of midwinter calm in volumes that pumped storage could probably never cope with.
The application of this process also contributes to energy self-sufficiency in a big way, and allows doing away with unstable imports of natural gas.
- slide 6 of 7
While the synthetic methane produced through this process integrates with the existing storage facilities, pipelines, and supply network for natural gas supply, the primary challenge is identifying storage systems with sufficient capacity for large-scale storage based on fluctuating renewable energy production trends. Countries without adequate gas network grid would have to set up such infrastructure from scratch.
A secondary challenge is physical infrastructure. Expanding the prototype to real-life conditions would invariably create several challenges in setting up a facility to perform the electrolysis and the sabatier process.
The primary challenge is however on the cost front. The cost-efficiency of this process vis-à-vis piped distribution of natural gas could make or break this innovation in the coming years.
- slide 7 of 7
- Fraunhofer-Gesellschaft (2010, May 5). Storing green electricity as natural gas. ScienceDaily. Retrieved July 19, 2010, from http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2010/05/100505113227.htm
- Dillow, Clay. System Stores Wind and Solar Power in the Form of Natural Gas, to Fit Neatly Into Existing Infrastructure. Retrieved from http://www.popsci.com/science/article/2010-05/carbon-neutral-natural-gas-made-wind-and-solar-could-power-existing-infrastructures
- Page, Lewis. Germans plan to make 'synthetic natural' gas from CO2. Retrieved from http://www.theregister.co.uk/2010/05/06/german_synthetic_natural_gas/ | <urn:uuid:30cdaddf-0244-4e6f-827f-5cca5c51cc7a> | CC-MAIN-2018-17 | https://www.brighthub.com/environment/renewable-energy/articles/78303.aspx | s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2018-17/segments/1524125944982.32/warc/CC-MAIN-20180421032230-20180421052230-00104.warc.gz | en | 0.900246 | 1,207 | 3.578125 | 4 |
Skills to Develop
- Identify the basic structures of sentences.
- Determine ways to turn sentences into questions.
- Define adjectives and how they are used.
If your first language is not English, you will most likely need some extra help when writing in Standard, or formal, English. New students of Standard English often make similar kinds of errors. Even if you have been speaking English for a long time, you may not feel as confident in your written English skills. This chapter covers the most common errors made by English language learners and helps you avoid similar mistakes in your writing.
Basic Sentence Structures
The most basic sentence structure in English is a subject plus a verb. A subject performs the action in the sentence, and the verb identifies the action. Keep in mind that in some languages, such as Spanish and Italian, an obvious subject does not always perform the action in a sentence; the subject is often implied by the verb. However, every sentence in English must have a subject and a verb to express a complete thought.
subject + verb
Not all sentences are as simple as a subject plus a verb. To form more complex sentences, writers build upon this basic structure. Adding a prepositional phrase to the basic sentence creates a more complex sentence. A preposition is a part of speech that relates a noun or a pronoun to another word in a sentence. It also introduces a prepositional phrase. If you can identify a preposition, you will be able to identify a prepositional phrase.
subject + verb + prepositional phrase
Samantha sleeps on the couch.
On is the preposition. On the couch is the prepositional phrase.
Copy the following sentences onto your own sheet of paper and underline the prepositional phrases.
- Linda and Javier danced under the stars.
- Each person has an opinion about the topic.
- The fans walked through the gates.
- Jamyra ran around the track.
- Maria celebrated her birthday in January.
Another sentence structure that is important to understand is subject + verb + object. There are two types of objects: direct objects and indirect objects.
A direct object receives the action of the verb.
subject + verb + direct object
Janice writes a letter.
The letter directly receives the action of the verb writes.
A quick way to find the direct object is to ask what? or who?
Sentence: Maurice kicked the ball.
What did Maurice kick? The direct object, ball.
Sentence: Maurice kicked Tom by accident.
Who did Maurice kick? The direct object, Tom.
An indirect object does not receive the action of the verb.
subject + verb + indirect object
Janice writes me a letter
The action (writes) is performed for or to the indirect object (me).
Even though the indirect object is not found after a preposition in English, it can be discovered by asking to whom? or for whom? after the verb.
Sentence: Dad baked the children some cookies.
For whom did Dad bake the cookies? The indirect object, children.
On a separate sheet of paper, identify the subject, verb, direct object, and indirect object in the following sentences.
- Captain Kirk told the crew a story.
- Jermaine gave his girlfriend a dozen yellow tulips.
- That hospital offers nurses better pay.
- Dad served Grandma a delicious dinner.
- Mom bought herself a new car.
On a separate sheet of paper, rewrite the sentences in the correct order. If the sentence is correct as it is, write OK.
- The pizza Jeannine burnt.
- To the Mexican restaurant we had to go for dinner.
- Jeannine loved the food.
- So full were we during the walk home.
- I will make the pizza next time.
English speakers rely on the following two common ways to turn sentences into questions:
- Move the helping verb and add a question mark.
- Add the verb do, does, or did and add a question mark.
Move the helping verb and add a question mark.
Sentence: Sierra can pack these boxes.
Question: Can Sierra pack these boxes?
Add the verb do, does, or did, and add a question mark:
Sentence: Jolene skated across the pond.
Question: Did Jolene skate across the pond?
On a separate sheet of paper, create questions from the following sentences.
- Slumdog Millionaire is a film directed by Danny Boyle.
- The story centers on a character named Jamal Malik.
- He and his older brother find different ways to escape the slums.
- His brother, Salim, pursues a life of crime.
- Jamal ends up on the game show Who Wants to Be a Millionaire?
An adjective is a kind of descriptive word that describes a noun or a pronoun. It tells which one, what kind, and how many. Adjectives make your writing more lively and interesting. Keep in mind, a common error that English language learners make is misplacing the adjectives in a sentence. It is important to know where to place the adjective in a sentence so that readers are not confused.
If you are using more than one adjective to describe a noun, place the adjectives in the following order before the noun:
- Opinion: an interesting book, a boring movie, a fun ride
- Size: a large box, a tiny turtle, a tall woman
- Shape: a round ball, a long hose, a square field
- Age: a new day, an old horse, a modern building
- Color: an orange sunset, a green jacket, a red bug
- Ethnicity: Italian cheese, French wine, Chinese tea
- Material: silk shirt, wool socks, a cotton dress
Adjectives can also be placed at the end of a sentence if they describe the subject of a sentence and appear after the verb.
Sentence: My English teacher is excellent.
On a separate sheet of paper, place the following sets of adjectives in the correct order before the noun. The first one has been done for you.
book: old, small, Spanish
a small old Spanish book (age, size, ethnicity)
- photograph: new, strange
- suit: wool, green, funny
- opinion: refreshing, new
- dress: fashionable, purple
- The most basic sentence structure is a subject plus a verb that expresses a complete thought.
- Adding a prepositional phrase or a direct or indirect object to a sentence makes it more complex.
- English speakers change a sentence into a question in one of the following two ways: moving the helping verb and adding a question mark or adding the verb do, does, or did and adding a question mark.
- Adjectives follow a particular order before the noun they describe. The order is opinion, size, shape, age, color, ethnicity, and material.
Write a paragraph about a memorable family trip. Use at least two adjectives to describe each noun in your paragraph. Proofread your paragraph, and then exchange papers with a classmate. Check your classmate’s use of adjectives to make sure they are correct. | <urn:uuid:14b231f0-fed3-4f8b-88b8-d76dd4772e93> | CC-MAIN-2019-13 | https://human.libretexts.org/Bookshelves/Composition/Book%3A_Writing_for_Success/5%3A_Help_for_English_Language_Learners/5.1%3A_Word_Order | s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2019-13/segments/1552912203378.92/warc/CC-MAIN-20190324063449-20190324085449-00252.warc.gz | en | 0.91186 | 1,511 | 4.5 | 4 |
(For veterinary information only)
The size of the tablet/medication is NOT an indication of a proper dose. Never administer any drug without your veterinarian's input. Serious side effects or death can occur if you use drugs on your pet without your veterinarian's advice.
It is our policy not to give dosing information over the Internet.
Available in 10, 20, and 40 mg tablets, and injectable
Brand Names: Pepcid, Pepcid AC, Pepcid RPD
Stomach ulceration in humans is a prominent medical condition, and there has long been pressure to develop effective and convenient ways to control it. Until relatively recently, we relied on simply neutralizing stomach acid by pouring alkaline solutions (i.e., Alka Seltzer, Tums, Rolaids, etc.) into the stomach. In fact, ulceration is a complicated process and not so easily solved.
Control of stomach acidity is a very important factor in the treatment of stomach ulcers. The acid we need to digest food contributes to the creation of ulcers and perpetuates them. Stomach acid secretion is controlled mainly by three biochemicals: gastrin (a hormone secreted when food is perceived in the stomach), acetylcholine (a neurotransmitter), and histamine (the same substance responsible for the unpleasant effects of allergy). Any of these substances will instruct the glands of the stomach to release acid, which we would like to prevent if ulcers are in question.
Famotidine is a special antihistamine, as are its cousins cimetidine (Tagamet HB) and ranitidine (Zantac). This class of antihistamines is not useful in combating familiar allergic symptoms (itching, sneezing, stuffy nose, etc.) In allergy, histamine causes unpleasant effects by binding so-called H1 receptors. Famotidine, ranitidine, and cimetidine instead bind to histamine receptors in the stomach called H2 receptors.
Cimetidine was the first such H2 blocker available, and each generation has brought about improvements in terms of fewer drug interactions and stronger effects. Famotidine is the longest-lasting of the H2 blockers (usually, one dose lasts 12-24 hours). Famotidine is 32 times stronger in its ability to inhibit stomach acid than cimetidine and is nine times stronger than ranitidine. A newer H2 blocker called nizatidine is now available that offers the additional advantages of especially rapid onset of action and some effect on normalizing stomach contractions as well.
Famotidine is currently available in an over-the-counter formulation, making it highly convenient for pet owners to obtain (though obviously, you should not consider using medications licensed for human consumption without specific instructions from your pet's veterinarian). Famotidine is especially useful for pets with acute vomiting, though as technology has advanced, H2 receptor blockers are gradually becoming supplanted by proton pump inhibitors (such as omeprazole), which are even stronger antacids. Famotidine has reduced effectiveness after about two weeks of use and is best used for conditions expected to resolve within that time frame.
How this Medication is Used
Famotidine is useful in any situation where stomach irritation is an issue and ulceration is a concern. It is often used in the treatment of canine parvovirus, after ingestion of a toxin that could be ulcerating (overdose of aspirin, for example), any disease involving protracted vomiting, or in combination with other medications that may have stomach irritating properties so as to mitigate those properties.
In diseases involving frequent vomiting or regurgitation, the esophagus (tube connecting the mouth and stomach) can be ulcerated by continuing exposure to vomit/stomach acid. Antacids are also helpful in this type of situation to reduce damage to the esophagus. Megaesophagus would be a condition where a long-acting antacid such as famotidine could be helpful in mitigating injury to the esophagus; however, there is a trade-off in protection against aspiration pneumonia, in that stomach acid hampers bacterial growth should stomach contents enter the lung.
Famotidine is directly helpful in managing nausea in species where there are H1 receptors in the brain's chemoreceptor trigger zone (an area involved in stimulating vomiting). In other words, famotidine is not only an antacid but also an antinauseal for dogs, but for cats is only an antacid.
Famotidine is given once or twice daily. If a dose is accidentally skipped, simply give it when you remember. Do not double up on the next dose, but the broad safety range of this medication allows for leeway in the spacing of doses.
Famotidine works best when given before the first meal of the day but can be given with or without food.
The H2 blockers as a group have a limited potential for side effects, hence their recent release to over-the-counter status.
Interactions with Other Drugs
Antibiotics of the cephalosporin class (particularly cefpodoxime) may not work as well when given with famotidine. It is best to separate their administration by at least 2 hours.
There are some drugs that are absorbed better in the presence of stomach acid (examples: itraconazole, ketoconazole, fluconazole, and oral iron supplements). These drugs should be given at least an hour apart from famotidine.
Cefpodoxime does not absorb as well in the presence of famotidine. This effect is reduced by giving both medications with food.
Oral iron supplements do not absorb into the body as well in the presence of famotidine. Stagger their administration by at least an hour.
Concerns and Cautions
It appears that famotidine is safe for use in pregnancy.
Famotidine tablets should be stored at room temperature and protected from light. | <urn:uuid:9496ee32-b372-4eb6-be48-d071d11749ce> | CC-MAIN-2023-50 | https://veterinarypartner.vin.com/default.aspxpid=19239&catid=102899&id=4952484/mark.html/default.aspxpid=19239&catid=102896&id=10134873&ind=1611&objtypeid=10/default.aspx?pid=19239&catId=102894&id=4951496&ind=1768&objTypeID=1007 | s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2023-50/segments/1700679100227.61/warc/CC-MAIN-20231130130218-20231130160218-00713.warc.gz | en | 0.92767 | 1,243 | 2.625 | 3 |
The music program at Shepherd Elementary School covers music history and culture, a wide variety of types of music (from Bach to blues), note-reading and beat-counting, and even composing lyrics to a blues or rap song. We sing, we play instruments, we listen to recordings and live performances, and we learn about the connections between music and our cultural history. We support the International Baccalaureate program by singing in many languages and learning about music from around the world. Occasionally, we become activists and write letters urging that Paul Robeson be included in the next D.C. Public Schools music textbook.
Here’s a brief list of music activities:
- Concerts: We sing and play violin and recorder for our annual holiday concert in December. In February, we do a concert with a historical or cultural theme, such as “Songs of Freedom and Justice: 150 Years of American History in Song” (which we performed in 2012). Finally, on June 1, our guitarists and violinists perform and the BWL rhythm-and-blues band rocks!
LISTEN to Shepherd students talk about “Songs of Freedom and Justice” on WPFW!
- “The blues is the roots… everything else is the fruits”: This quote by Willie Dixon helps us understand how important the 12-bar blues is to almost all of the modern music we listen to, including jazz, R&B, rock, gospel, hip-hop, and other genres. Students get a broad exposure to the world of music.
- Violin, guitar, and recorder: Our 1st, 2nd, 3rd, 4th, and 5th grade violinists give up recess once a week to play violin. Guitar is taught in aftercare, and recorder is taught in beforecare.
- Music outside the school: Each year, we take our 5th graders to the Kennedy Center to hear an orchestra concert or excerpts from an opera. A few students (and families) make the monthly trip to Levine School of Music to the “Community Sing” with Ysaye Barnwell of Sweet Honey in the Rock. The D.C. Labor Chorus rehearses at Shepherd Elementary School every Monday night, and several students and alumnae have joined the chorus. The D.C. Labor Chorus sings with our students at the February concert at the school. Several Shepherd students play their instruments at the D.C. Youth Orchestra. The D.C. Youth Orchestra (now meeting at the newly renovated Eastern High School) is a wonderful opportunity to learn to play instruments in a very positive educational environment.
- Our campaign to get Paul Robeson into the DCPS textbooks: After studying about Paul Robeson each year (for which we find outside resources since Robeson is not in our music textbook), our students write letters to the DCPS director of music or to textbook publishers urging that Paul Robeson be included in the next book. Some of our students have been interviewed about this campaign on WAMU-FM Radio and on WPFW-FM Radio. | <urn:uuid:d6c40fdc-2397-470a-973f-cf7300f9a2e5> | CC-MAIN-2021-10 | https://www.shepherd-elementary.org/program-overview/music-program/ | s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2021-10/segments/1614178385378.96/warc/CC-MAIN-20210308143535-20210308173535-00490.warc.gz | en | 0.953827 | 635 | 2.640625 | 3 |
J U L Y 6 : W O R L D T I B E T D A Y
World Tibet Day (WTD) was initiated in Chicago in 1997 at an informal meeting between Tendzin Choegyal, the Dalai Lama’s younger brother and Richard Rosenkranz, a Pulitzer Prize nominee in history and a former correspondent from the US Senate. Rosenkranz proposed the concept of WTD, saying it could become an annual worldwide event, designed to help the Tibetan people regain essential freedoms. He also suggested this event could be a way to showcase and celebrate the unique value of Tibetan culture and thought. Enthusiastic about the idea, Tendzin Choegyal suggested WTD should be held in July, linked to his brother's birthday - in order to increase potential support among Tibetans. Believing that the proposed event held great promise, they offered the idea to His Holiness – who gave them his blessing and his warm support.
World Tibet Day was created with three main goals: first to create an annual worldwide event to help restore essential freedoms for those living in Chinese-occupied Tibet; second to increase awareness of the genocidal threats to the Tibetan people; and third, to celebrate the unique beauty and value of Tibetan culture and thought. Founded in 1998, World Tibet Day has grown into one of the most important events on the Tibetan calendar. | <urn:uuid:33c6198c-4d8e-48fb-93bf-e88a7742ca19> | CC-MAIN-2015-18 | http://worldtibetday.org/ | s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2015-18/segments/1429246641054.14/warc/CC-MAIN-20150417045721-00002-ip-10-235-10-82.ec2.internal.warc.gz | en | 0.965203 | 281 | 3.015625 | 3 |
Researchers at UC San Francisco have taken science a step closer to creating stem cells that are effectively “invisible” to the immune system. This may ultimately lead to the production of “off-the-shelf” stem cell therapies that do not need to be patient matched.
The immune system is a double-edged sword
One of the big challenges in creating effective stem cell therapies is how the immune system responds to cells from other donors and sources. This complex, multilayered system is designed to defend our bodies from the constant onslaught of invading pathogens that we encounter in our daily lives.
While it lets us survive in what would otherwise be a hostile environment, it also presents a problem when we try to introduce cells or organs from an outside source. The immune system is highly aggressive in how it reacts to anything it considers foreign and potentially harmful, which includes not only pathogens but also cells and organs from other people; this often leads to organ rejection.
Currently, doctors treat organ transplant patients with drugs such as rapamycin that suppress the immune system and reduce the chance of organ rejection, but these come with various side effects and leave patients vulnerable to cancer and other diseases, as the immune system is no longer able to respond to danger.
The rejection problem
The stem cell field has struggled in previous years with the problem of rejection. It was originally hoped that the issue had been solved back in 2006 when Yamanaka and other researchers discovered how to create induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs), which are capable of specializing into any other kind of cell in the body, by reprogramming adult skin and fat cells . Effectively, Yamanaka and his team were able to take adult cells that had specialized into specific cell types and reset them, which also reset various aging markers in the process. The hope was that these cells, being taken from the patient, would solve the rejection problem.
Unfortunately, even though there were many subsequent attempts to reprogram cells from a patient’s own body to avoid rejection, using them effectively proved to be a challenge. In reality, the success of iPSCs has proven elusive, with results being often being erratic and unpredictable due to some patients’ cells being resistant to reprogramming. It is not currently fully understood why certain cells resist reprogramming and others do not, but the end result is that the reliability, quality, and production of iPSCs is less than ideal.
Moving towards universal stem cells
With this in mind, Dr. Sonja Schrepfer and her team wondered if it is possible to create universal iPSCs that do not have the problem of immune rejection and so can be used in any patient. Their new study details how they used CRISPR-Cas9 gene editing to create pluripotent “universal” stem cells that were not rejected by the host’s immune system when transplanted .
The researchers deleted two of the genes responsible for a family of proteins called major histocompatibility complex (MHC) class I and II. These MHC proteins are present in almost all of our cells, which use these proteins to show patrolling immune cells that they are our own cells and not foreign matter. Cells that lack these MHC proteins are targeted by the immune system, which sends in natural killer (NK) cells to destroy them.
The team then discovered that CD47, a different cell surface protein that signals the garbage-gobbling immune cells called macrophages not to consume our own cells, also appeared to encourage NK cells not to attack. The researchers wondered if CD47 might be the answer to preventing rejection and the resulting immune response, so they used a viral vector to deliver additional copies of the CD47 gene to mouse and human cells that were engineered to lack the MHC surface proteins.
Then, they transplanted these modified mouse stem cells into different, healthy mice, and there was no reaction from their immune systems. The researchers repeated this with human stem cells transplanted into mice that were engineered to have immune systems closer to our own, and, again, there was no immune reaction. This confirmed that the CD47 protein offers a solution to the immune rejection issue.
As a final step, the research team transplanted human heart cells, which were reprogrammed from other cell types, into the engineered mice. They observed that the heart cells were able to survive, attach, and form blood vessels with no immune response from the hosts.
Autologous induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) constitute an unlimited cell source for patient-specific cell-based organ repair strategies. However, their generation and subsequent differentiation into specific cells or tissues entail cell line-specific manufacturing challenges and form a lengthy process that precludes acute treatment modalities. These shortcomings could be overcome by using prefabricated allogeneic cell or tissue products, but the vigorous immune response against histo-incompatible cells has prevented the successful implementation of this approach. Here we show that both mouse and human iPSCs lose their immunogenicity when major histocompatibility complex (MHC) class I and II genes are inactivated and CD47 is over-expressed. These hypoimmunogenic iPSCs retain their pluripotent stem cell potential and differentiation capacity. Endothelial cells, smooth muscle cells, and cardiomyocytes derived from hypoimmunogenic mouse or human iPSCs reliably evade immune rejection in fully MHC-mismatched allogeneic recipients and survive long-term without the use of immunosuppression. These findings suggest that hypoimmunogenic cell grafts can be engineered for universal transplantation.
These universal stem cells have the potential to be far more cost-effective than ordinary iPSCs, as they can be manufactured en masse without the need to create cells specific to each patient, thus eliminating the higher costs of doing so. This brings the reality of off-the-shelf stem cells one step closer to the clinic as well as potentially solving the issue of immune rejection, which has plagued the stem cell field for decades. Given that stem cell reprogramming and replacement are cornerstones of repair-based approaches to aging, this new research is a considerable step forwards.
Takahashi, K., & Yamanaka, S. (2006). Induction of pluripotent stem cells from mouse embryonic and adult fibroblast cultures by defined factors. cell, 126(4), 663-676.
Deuse, T., Hu, X., Gravina, A., Wang, D., Tediashvili, G., De, C., … & Davis, M. M. (2019). Hypoimmunogenic derivatives of induced pluripotent stem cells evade immune rejection in fully immunocompetent allogeneic recipients. Nature Biotechnology, 1. | <urn:uuid:58fee9e7-e2e6-4787-9920-bc617f52f793> | CC-MAIN-2020-34 | https://www.lifespan.io/news/a-step-closer-to-universal-stem-cells/ | s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2020-34/segments/1596439739211.34/warc/CC-MAIN-20200814100602-20200814130602-00416.warc.gz | en | 0.95074 | 1,397 | 3.421875 | 3 |
Fecha registrada: May 19 2015
Duration: 47 minutes 14 seconds
Additive Manufacturing, colloquially referred to as 3D Printing, is being purported as the next industrial revolution. What many don’t realize is that this technology has been under development for over 20 years and has found application in a diverse range of industrial sectors. This webinar will outline what Additive Manufacturing really is and highlight the measurement requirements that are inherent in turning this technology into reliable and repeatable manufacturing equipment. | <urn:uuid:7103d426-1a00-4b4e-bcd6-63ed90a3290c> | CC-MAIN-2021-04 | https://www.malvernpanalytical.com/es/learn/events-and-training/webinars/W150519-3D-Printing-Revolution | s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2021-04/segments/1610703497681.4/warc/CC-MAIN-20210115224908-20210116014908-00137.warc.gz | en | 0.957374 | 103 | 2.78125 | 3 |
Today, the meals processing industry uses a multitude of hi-tech equipment within the processing and manufacture of food and beverages. The advantages of using homogenizers are broadly known through the food industry. The entire process of converting two separate immiscible fluids into an emulsion, or of reducing how big the tiny droplets inside a preexisting emulsion, is called homogenization. Homogenizers give a more stable product, reduce using additives, give a better shelf existence, and provide manufacturers the opportunity to perfect the composition of the products.
The entire process of homogenization enables the reduction and standardization from the particle size fluid products for example in the building of sauces, fruit drinks, beverages, flavors and much more, under conditions of intense pressure, shear, turbulence, and acceleration to ensure they are more stable and also have a better taste and texture. This method is achieved by forcing the merchandise via a homogenizing valve at extreme pressure. With respect to the application, liquid products with suspended particles of different sizes are processed via a ruthless homogenizer to acquire homogeneous micronized particles that normally vary from .4 to at least one micron.
High-pressure homogenization is a vital sanitary process stage in treating dairy, food, food ingredients, dietary products, plus much more. The mechanical devices referred to as homogenizers give manufacturers the technological support for dynamic ruthless homogenization. Within the food industry, this method subjects the liquid to intense mechanical agitation. Manufacturers have custom engineered solutions and special versions for particular applications at hand which will meet their specific product needs. Too, these Homogenizers satisfy the needs for just about any industry application.
Homogenization is frequently crucial in preparing foods and it is quite frequently utilized in producing dairy and foods for example pastes, oils, animal fats, syrups, milk concentrates, puddings, purees, butters, baby foods, plus much more. The particular composition from the product will be different based on the quantity of pressure and the kind of product. The overall guideline may be the greater the processing pressure, the smaller sized the particles which are created.
The fluid mechanical process referred to as homogenization involves using mechanical device homogenizers for that subdivision of tiny droplets or particles into micron sizes to make a stable emulsion or dispersion for more processing. After the entire process of homogenization is finished, the particles really are a uniform size which normally varies from .2 to two micron, with respect to the operating pressure. Homogenizers possess a reliable and proven design. For example, they’ve accessible packing for easier and faster maintenance plus they offer pneumatically controlled homogenizing valves.
Homogenizers are built to be completely reliable to reduce maintenance servicing and lower time. Homogenizers are essential to the manufacturer within the food industry that needs the decrease in particle size for manufacturing of the foods and beverages. These units really are a critical a part of any food processing plant and represent an essential capital investment for that food and beverage processing markets. Fortunately, you will find firms that sell highly efficient homogenizers and shear mixers which will meet the requirements and needs from the food processing and manufacturing industries. | <urn:uuid:ffa97c9e-344d-4bce-b3ef-a24204a2c62e> | CC-MAIN-2022-40 | http://techbusinessloan.com/using-homogenizers-within-the-food-industry/ | s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2022-40/segments/1664030334515.14/warc/CC-MAIN-20220925070216-20220925100216-00335.warc.gz | en | 0.935708 | 658 | 3.078125 | 3 |
In Robotics and Materials Handling 2, students work with RoboCell, a 3D-solid modeling robotic simulation software, to program and operate the robot.
The activities challenge students to design solutions for industrial robotic applications, with emphasis on real industrial concerns, such as recording accurate positions, complicated
movements, interfacing with peripherals, working with sensors, optimizing programming and increasing productivity.
Activity 2: Manipulating Blocks Project
Activity 3: Programming the Robot to Execute Circular Movements
Activity 4: Drawing a House
Activity 5: Roll and Pitch
Activity 6: Block Alignment Project
Activity 7: Feeders and Templates
Activity 8: Peripheral Devices
Activity 9: Linear Slidebase Project
Activity 10: Programming Using Encoder Values
Activity 11: Conditional Branching
Activity 12: Programming with Conditional Branching
Activity 13: Analog Inputs and Outputs
Activity 14: Programming a Sorting System Project | <urn:uuid:644df500-f557-4c1d-808e-79de92d2c9a4> | CC-MAIN-2018-39 | https://www.intelitek.com/robots/curriculum/robotics-materials-handling-2/ | s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2018-39/segments/1537267160923.61/warc/CC-MAIN-20180925024239-20180925044639-00512.warc.gz | en | 0.786466 | 193 | 3.6875 | 4 |
The American Health Care Act (AHCA) may reduce the availability of mental health, substance use, and behavioral health treatment and services. AHCA provisions will allow states and businesses to opt out of providing these services at an affordable cost, leaving many Americans to go without coverage for their mental and behavioral health needs. Mental health-related issues have been found to account for more than 217 million work days lost, as well as cost society $193.2 billion annually in lost earnings alone. Spending money on mental health, substance use, and behavioral health treatment and services is an economically sound strategy, essential for creating a thriving workforce, economy, and society for all Americans.
We’ve all read the headlines: the American Health Care Act (AHCA), which is now in the hands of the Senate, is the administration’s vision for healthcare in the United States. While the AHCA has implications across all types of health conditions, we will focus here on one area in particular: mental health. Before we dive into what the AHCA proposes about mental health care, let’s quickly review what our coverage under the Affordable Care Act (ACA) currently grants us.
The current state of mental health coverage under the ACA
It’s estimated that 11 million Americans whose incomes are 138% below the federal poverty level (FPL; 2017 FPL $12,060 for individuals) can now receive coverage for mental health and substance use disorders (SUDs). This substantial increase in coverage is due in part to the Medicaid expansions provided by the ACA, which the Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) called “one of the largest expansions of mental health and substance use disorder coverage in a generation”. In brief, this expansion re-categorized mental health and SUDs in the Health Insurance Marketplace, moving them to the “Essential Health Benefits” category. Under the ACA, this category requires state coverage on all Qualified Health Plans for those health benefits deemed “essential”. Insurance jargon aside, what does this mean? The quick answer – the Essential Health Benefits category allows millions of Americans access to affordable mental health, SUDs, and behavioral health services.
Mental health coverage under the AHCA
The AHCA would remove the very federal requirement discussed above; under the AHCA, mental health, SUDs, and behavioral health services would be removed from the list of Essential Health Benefits. What would be the consequences of this removal? In terms of Medicaid and individual market coverage, health plans could completely drop coverage related to these services. For employer-sponsored plans, larger corporations could also decrease benefits in these areas, providing only the minimum required. Under another AHCA provision, Medicaid would be restructured to have per capita caps by state, meaning payments to states would be capped based on the number of people enrolled in their Medicaid programs. The Congressional Budget Office estimates that $882 billion will be stripped from the Medicaid program over the next 10 years under the AHCA.
Taken together, how will these cuts in coverage impact Americans? Serious mental illness and SUDs are very costly (e.g., estimated $131 billion spending on those with behavioral health diagnosis, close to half of Medicaid spending in 2011). Those with schizophrenia and bipolar disorder alone have a per capita spending of greater than $35,000 per year. In Washington state, intensive outpatient evidence-based practices cost an average of $5,679 per client, ranging from $1,238 per client for Dialectical Behavioral Therapy to $15,788 per client for Multisystemic Therapy. Ask yourself, with the proposed changes to mental health, SUDs, and behavioral health services coverage, can the clinical needs of all Americans still be met under the AHCA?
What are the consequences of no coverage for mental health?
Now that we have a clear picture of the differences in how mental health and SUDs will be (or not be) covered under the AHCA, we can discuss the societal impact of these changes. Specifically, what is the economic impact of NOT covering these kinds of services? There are various levels used to assess the economic impact of illness. The first we have already discussed: the direct costs, which involve the actual medical expenditures produced by the illness. There are also indirect costs associated with illness, which encompass individual or societal costs incurred due to reduced or lost productivity. Under the AHCA, employers are able to reduce enrollment and/or benefits, which will produce indirect effects on the economy and society at large. Next, we will explore what those indirect costs are specific to mental health and SUDs.
How will the AHCA change the American workforce?
What comes to mind when you begin to think about the indirect costs of health care? We will focus here on two of the most salient costs: productivity loss (i.e., hours worked) and lost earnings. According to the National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA), those with alcohol or drug abuse accounted for an estimated $80.9 billion in lost productivity alone. Add workplace accidents and increased health-care and insurance costs to the mix and this number spikes to $276 billion lost. The Center for Prevention and Health Services estimates 217 million work days lost annually due to mental health and SUDs. Furthermore, mental illness and SUDs are the third leading cause of long-term disability in the United States. A study conducted by the National Institutes of Mental Health found that serious mental illness costs society $193.2 billion annually solely in lost earnings. When looking at both productivity and earning losses, the numbers speak for themselves – not investing in mental health has clear indirect costs on the capacity of the American workforce.
How can spending now save later?
We know that not investing in mental health and SUDs is costly to our society, but do we know that investing now can save money down the road? The answer to this question is easy: yes. The Institute of Medicine and the National Research Council found that for each dollar invested in early treatment and prevention programs, a range of $2 to $10 in savings is observed across health, criminal, juvenile justice, and education costs, as well as productivity. To provide a real-world example, when the Massachusetts Department of Mental Health implemented a jail diversion program they observed an initial cost $400,000 offset by $1.3 million savings in emergency health services and jail costs due to program implementation.
In sum, we have explored both the financial and human toll of not investing in mental health, substance use, and behavioral health treatment and services. We have quantified the cost of not caring. Can we as Americans afford to move toward a country where these services are not considered essential?
How can you help?
Are you concerned with how the AHCA will impact the healthcare of all Americans? It is crucial that our senators hear our concerns. Please use this tool developed by Families USA to email your Senators and contact them by phone: http://salsa4.salsalabs.com/o/50902/p/dia/action4/common/public/?action_KEY=22118
Volunteer: The WA Science-Based Policy Center is a non-partisan, statewide organization started by the March for Science – Seattle, whose mission includes using a scientific framework to identify areas in need of policy interventions and taking a pragmatic, non-ideological, science-based approach to policy solutions. Other activities will involve increasing the scientific literacy of legislators, creating educational material to help increase literacy of the legislative process among scientists, and helping facilitate interactions between scientists and legislators so that we can achieve evidence-based policies.Click Here to sign-up to join the WA Science-Based Policy Center
About the Author: This weeks blog was written by WA Science-Based Policy Center member Caitlin Dorsey.
Caitlin N. Dorsey is a Midwestern transplant, nearing her first year of living in the PNW. She is a graduate of Indiana University, where she earned a Bachelor of Arts with Distinction in Psychology (with Departmental honors) and Sociology, and a minor in Counseling. Caitlin is an implementation scientist who is passionate about promoting the adoption and integration of evidence-based practices, interventions, and policies. She is a volunteer for the WA Science-Based Policy Center and a member of the Social Issues Policy Group.
1. APA Voices Concerns with American Health Care Act: http://www.apa.org/news/press/releases/2017/03/health-care-act.aspx
2. Federal Poverty Level (FPL): https://www.healthcare.gov/glossary/federal-poverty-level-FPL/
3. Affordable Care Act Expands Mental Health And Substance Use Disorder Benefits And Federal Parity Protections For 62 Million Americans: https://aspe.hhs.gov/report/affordable-care-act-expands-mental-health-and-substance-use-disorder-benefits-and-federal-parity-protections-62-million-americans
4. Implementation of the Mental Health Parity and Addiction Equity Act (MHPAEA): https://www.samhsa.gov/health-financing/implementation-mental-health-parity-addiction-equity-act
5. House Passes AHCA, Puts Mental Health and Addiction Care in Jeopardy: https://www.thenationalcouncil.org/capitol-connector/2017/05/3216/
6. Obamacare Repeal Seen As Weakening Mental Health Protections: http://www.politico.com/story/2017/03/obamacare-repeal-mental-health-protections-235825
7. Research and Evidence-Based Practices for Children and Youth in Washington State: https://www.dshs.wa.gov/sites/default/files/BHSIA/dbh/Mental%20Health/EBT%20Cost%20Study%20report%20FINAL2.0.pdf
8. Economic Impact: http://www.mentalmenace.com/economicimpact.php
9. The Impact of Mental Health and Addiction on Economic Well-Being: http://www.fedcap.org/sites/default/files/fedcap_solution_series_-_a_conversation_with_patrick_kennedy.pdf
10. The Cost of Not Caring: Nowhere to Go: https://www.usatoday.com/story/news/nation/2014/05/12/mental-health-system-crisis/7746535/
11. The Economic Costs of Alcohol and Drug Abuse in the United States: https://archives.drugabuse.gov/EconomicCosts/Index.html
12. Is Substance Abuse Costing Your Company?: https://www.summitholdings.com/wc/News/2011/3/31/Is+Substance+Abuse+Costing+Your+Company%3F
13. May Is Mental Health Awareness Month -- Here's Why Companies Should Care: https://www.forbes.com/sites/amymorin/2015/05/20/may-is-mental-health-awareness-month-heres-why-companies-should-care/#37a2e71b27c0 | <urn:uuid:e76bc9f4-5f21-4e98-b35d-8f4c7f9a97da> | CC-MAIN-2019-26 | https://www.marchforscienceseattle.org/blog/2017/5/23/no-longer-essential-what-does-this-mean-for-the-mental-and-behavioral-health-of-americans | s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2019-26/segments/1560627999130.98/warc/CC-MAIN-20190620024754-20190620050754-00543.warc.gz | en | 0.920311 | 2,357 | 2.546875 | 3 |
What is a hernia?
A hernia is a hole or weakness of the inner lining of the abdominal wall. This layer of the abdomen is lined with a layer called the peritoneum. This makes up what is called the hernia sac.
Are all hernia's the same?
No. There are many types of hernias. Some are more problematic than others.
What causes a hernia?
Some hernias are congenital or “you are born with them”, while others are acquired. The acquired hernias come from a range of activities that increase the pressure in the abdomen such as coughing, sneezing, strenuous bowel movements or heavy lifting.
Why should I fix my hernia?
Hernias can cause symptoms in the form of pain, but the majority of patients have a painless lump or bulge. Intra-abdominal organs (such as fatty tissue, intestines, bladder etc.) can incarcerate within the hernia defect or get stuck which is considered an emergency. Pain and a non-reducible bulge indicate a problem and should prompt an immediate Emergency Room or office visit.
What happens to the hernia if I do not have surgery?
Generally, the hernia gets bigger with time and will not go away without surgery. Sometimes, it may turn into an emergency due to incarceration and if left untreated could lead to serious complications including death.
How is a hernia fixed?
The goal of hernia surgery is to close the hole. This is done either with or without a “Mesh”. A Mesh is stronger, but if it gets infected, it will have to be removed. A hernia can be fixed with either an open or laparoscopic (small incisions and camera) technique.
What is a “Mesh”?
A “Mesh” is a plastic material (usually polypropylene) that looks just like a window screen. It helps reinforce hernia repairs as tissue grows into it and it promotes scar tissue which helps solidifying the repair. It significantly reduces the chance for recurrence or failure.
Do women get hernias?
Yes, women get all the same types of hernias with varying frequencies that men do.
How much pain will I have after surgery?
Pain is different for everyone. Local anesthesia may be used during surgery which mayhave last for several hours. Pain usually peaks within 24 hours after surgery but then gets better with time.
Do I need a dressing or gauze on the wound or incision?
The incision is usually covered with surgical glue. You may cover with clean dry gauze and change daily or as needed if it is draining fluid.
Why do I feel a thick area under the incision?
It is normal to feel a thick ridge of tissue at the incision site. This is healing tissue stimulated by the mesh.
Why is the area swollen?
Tissue trauma from surgery will cause swelling that can take months before it resolves completely. If the swelling continues to persist after several months, please call our office for a follow-up visit.
Why do I have scrotal / penile swelling?
Blood or fluid from surgery can pool down in the scrotum area which, sometimes can produce bruising marks in this area.
Why is fluid draining from the wound?
Occasionally fluid will drain from the surgical wound. If this happens, cover the wound with a clean dry gauze and change daily or as needed. Do not get it wet. If there is significant redness on the wound, pain or fever, call the office to be seen as soon as possible.
What diet should I be on?
Occasionally anesthesia from surgery can cause nausea or vomiting. We recommend starting with a clear liquid diet. This means any food or liquid from which you can see newspaper print through. If this is well tolerated, then advance to your regular diet. Sometimes this nausea and vomiting can last up to 1 or 2 days. If that happens, drink plenty of liquids until you see improvement. If this does not improve in 1 or 2 days, please call our office or go to the Emergency Room.
What activity can I do after surgery?
If your hernia was repaired with an open procedure we recommend no strenuous activity which can put undo tension to the wound and no heavy lifting – do not lift anything weighing more than 10 pounds for 2-4 weeks depending on your tissues. But if you had a laparoscopic (keyhole incision) or robotic assisted hernia repair you may resume your normal activities when the post surgical pain is well tolerated. For all hernia operations, patients can walk the same day. Ask Dr. Klause for details and specifics for your situation.
When should I follow up?
You should have a follow-up visit with Dr. Klause about 7-10 days after your surgery if everything seems normal. If you experience any fevers of over 101, redness, fluid draining, please call immediately or go to the Emergency Room.
What should I do if I have problems urinating?
Some people will develop urinary retention or the inability to urinate after their surgery. If you have not urinated in over 8 hours, and you feel that you need to but can’t, you should contact our office immediately or go to the Emergency Room.
What are the risks of surgery?
Some risks include but are not limited to bleeding, infection, injury to other bodily structures or organs, need for additional surgery, recurrence of the hernia, heart attack, stroke, chronic pain, changing size and location of testicle in the scrotum, anesthesia risks and death. For more information in regards to your case in particular, please contact Dr. Klause.
What are the risks of not having the surgery?
The contents in the hernia could get incarcerated, which could eventually cut off the blood supply to certain bodily structures or organs resulting in severe complications and even death.
How long does the skin glue last?
If the surgical area is kept clean, dry and unscrubbed, it can last for weeks. If it is still on after two weeks, then you can be more aggressive removing it. If it comes off early, it is OK because the surgical sutures are under the skin.
What type of anesthesia will be used during the surgery?
The majority of the time, a general anesthesia is used. Sometimes, though, sedation with local anesthesia is used based on medical circumstances.
Should I take any medications after the surgery?
Yes, a stool softener is recommended and you may use pain medications as necessary.
Should I shave the area before surgery?
No, the team will prep you by shaving the area on the day of surgery. In fact, sometimes shaving at home before the surgery may increase infections risks.
How long is the operation?
Most hernia surgeries take about 30 minutes if everything goes well. Time in the Recovery Room is about 30 minutes and most patients go home the same day of surgery. Complicated abdominal wall hernias or recurrent hernias can take longer - up to several hours in the operating room.
When can I shower?
If Dr. Klause used skin glue, you can shower the same day, but if there are steri-strips or staples, you may shower in about 3 or 4 days. Usually, the glue will fall off in 1-2 weeks. You can remove it in three weeks if it is still there.
When can I work or drive?
Most people can drive and work in about a week. The criteria for driving is that the patient should not be taking any narcotic pain medication and the patient can move around comfortably enough to drive safely.
Is bruising normal?
Yes, some bruising and swelling is expected and is considered normal. If the bruising or swelling is getting larger or expanding, call Dr. Klause’s office or go to the Emergency Room.
Do I need to have my stitches removed?
No, almost all the stitches are under the skin and will absorb in time. They do not need to be removed.
How will I know if I have an infection?
Infections are rare but do happen nonetheless. They generally present with expanding wound redness a few days after surgery and can present even weeks later. Redness following surgery is normal and usually resolves in a few days. A purple pink wound is a normal – healing wound. If it does not clear up or goes away but then comes back again, contact Dr. Klause’s office to get instructions or go to the Emergency Room.
What should I do if I am constipated?
Constipation can happen after surgery and often does to many people. Several options for treatment include milk of magnesia, fleet enemas, Miralax, prune juice, mineral oil. Also, please drink plenty of water and consume a high fiber diet; Metamucil, Citrucel or Benefiber can also be helpful to treat and prevent constipation. If these treatments are not working, please call the office as soon as possible. Dr. Klause commonly will prescribe a stool softener to be started the day of surgery. | <urn:uuid:683b125a-f508-45f3-b295-b5689e4150be> | CC-MAIN-2022-27 | https://www.drklause.com/contents/frequently-asked-questions/hernia-faqs | s3://commoncrawl/crawl-data/CC-MAIN-2022-27/segments/1656104204514.62/warc/CC-MAIN-20220702192528-20220702222528-00229.warc.gz | en | 0.942922 | 1,907 | 2.546875 | 3 |
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