Since the 1990s, scientists have detected thousands of exoplanets orbiting distant stars, but the discovery of baby protoplanets embedded within stellar expanses of gas and dust has proven to be a challenge. An international team of astronomers has used a new technique to finally discover not one, but three infant planets around a newborn star—an incredible finding that’s affirming long-held assumptions about planet formation.
Normally, exoplanets are detected when they move in front of their host star, resulting in a brief dimming effect, or when their gravity causes a host star to jiggle ever so slightly. But these techniques don’t lend themselves very well to the study of protoplanetary disks—murky expanses filled with rocks, dust, and gas. This is a problem because scientists would very much like to detect protoplanets; the going theory is that planets form within these disks, but astronomers have never actually seen this process in action, nor have they ever detected an infant planet within these dusty incubators. But that’s now changed, thanks to two new papers published today in Astrophysical Journal Letters.
Using the Atacama Large Millimeter/submillimeter Array (ALMA) in Chile, two teams of astronomers have detected three infant planets around HD 163296, a young star located about 330 light-years from Earth. This star is twice the size of our own Sun, but at four million years old, it’s a mere one-thousandth the Sun’s age. To detect the new planets, the astronomers used a new technique that detects anomalous patterns of flowing gas within planet-forming disks.
The team, led by Richard Teague, an astronomer at the University of Michigan, found a pair of Jupiter-massed protoplanets located 7.4 billion miles (12 billion km) and 13 billion miles (21 million km) from the host star—that’s 80 and 140 times the distance from the Earth to the Sun (AU), respectively.
Independently, astronomer Christopher Pinte and his team from Monash University in Clayton, Australia, found a planet a bit further out, around 24 billion miles (39 billion km) from the host star, or 260 AU. All three planets were firmly embedded within HD 163296’s protoplanetary disk.
ALMA has been used before to study protoplanetary disks, but this time around the telescope was used to take a much closer look, specifically at the way carbon monoxide (CO) gas flows within this planet-forming region. Carbon monoxide molecules give off a distinctive millimeter-wavelength light signature, which ALMA is able to detect. Astronomers use the Doppler shift to see how this gas moves within the disk. All things being equal—at least from a gravitational perspective—the gas should flow in a steady, predictable pattern. But that’s not what the astronomers saw. At three specific regions within the protoplanetary disk, the gas makes dramatic movements in the form of shifting carbon monoxide wavelengths. These movements, the astronomers argue, are being caused by massive objects, which they interpret to be the three protoplanets. The effect can be compared to the way water eddies form in a river around large rocks.
Previous studies (also using ALMA) highlighted the presence of large gaps within protoplanetary disks. These gaps, it was theorized, were caused by forming planets. That may very well be the case, but the evidence was circumstantial at best, and the data used in these studies couldn’t be used to estimate the size of the suspected planets. The new technique can do exactly that, while providing a superior way of peering inside these planet-forming disks to see what’s actually going on inside.
It’s an exciting result that showcases ALMA’s ability to sniff out baby planets. The success of this new technique also means other protoplanetary disks should be studied in a similar way. And indeed, both teams are planning to do exactly that.


DNA Tests & Whole Genome Sequencing | Sequencing.com
Order whole genome sequencing and DNA test kits or upload DNA data to get free reports. World's largest DNA App Store for Ancestry + Health.
Sequencing: перевод, произношение, транскрипция
Перевод слова sequencing, американское и британское произношение, транскрипция logical sequencing — логическое упорядочение time sequencing — упорядочение во времени parallel...
sequencing: 1243 фразы в 73 тематиках.
SEQUENCING | meaning in the Cambridge English Dictionary
sequencing definition: 1. the process of combining things in a particular order, or discovering the order in which they…. Meaning of sequencing in English.
#sequencing - YouTube
Sequencing tips for medical coding. SEQUENCING ACTIVITY FOR PRESCHOOL & KINDERGARTEN / Free Printables by Totschooling.
Sequencing - Home | Facebook
Sequencing, Los Angeles, California. 30,241 likes · 569 talking about this. Use your DNA to live healthier, happier and longer. Sequencing transforms...
Sequencing - definition of sequencing by The Free Dictionary
Define sequencing. sequencing synonyms, sequencing pronunciation, sequencing translation, English dictionary definition of sequencing. n. 1. A following of one thing after another; succession.
Sequencing | Key methods and uses
Illumina sequencing allows researchers to ask virtually any question related to the genome, transcriptome, or epigenome of any organism.
sequencing - определение - английский
sequencing. Definitions. en.wiktionary.org. the order of amino acids in the polypeptide chain of a protein (protein sequencing) or of nucleotides in a DNA section comprising a gene (gene sequencing).
Sequencing For the sense of "sequencing" used in electronic music, see the music sequencer article. In genetics and biochemistry, sequencing means to determine.
SCORM Sequencing: Learn more about SCORM Sequencing
In SCORM, sequencing is what happens between SCOs and outside of SCOs. Sequencing orchestrates the flow and status of the course as a whole. Learn more here.
Sequencing (@SequencingCom) | Твиттер
Последние твиты от Sequencing (@SequencingCom). Use your DNA to live healthier, happier and longer. Order DNA tests & get your whole genome sequenced. Free DNA reports for 23andMe...
The next-generation sequencing market is expanding.
The pace of sequencing progress has quickened since then, with Illumina last year unveiling the NovaSeq, trumpeting Below is a list of 10 top sequencing companies, ranked by revenue—either...
Roche Next-Gen Sequencing | Home
From sample collection to library quantification, we offer sample prep solutions for different sample types and sequencing applications that are proven, simple, and complete.
RNA Sequencing (RNA-Seq) | Thermo Fisher Scientific - US
Ion Torrent next-generation sequencing systems, combined with Invitrogen Whole transcriptome sequencing is great for discovery, but overly complex for traditional gene expression studies.
100+ Sequencing ideas | speech and language, sequencing activities...
Sequencing Mats for practicing sequencing skills. Teach life skills, sequencing, transitional words, following directions, language skills, and listening skills All-in-One with these Life Skills Sequencing...
Sequencing - Genome Technology Core (GTC) wiki - Sequencing...
The GTC offers Next-Generation sequencing on the Illumina platform. We have 3 HiSeq 2500 systems with Rapid mode capabilities. There are two options for Illumina sequencing. HiSeq "Standard" and HiSeq "Rapid". More details on the pricing page.
Next generation sequencing
Sanger sequencing and Next-generation sequencing. The principle behind Next Generation Sequencing (NGS) is similar to that of Sanger sequencing, which relies on capillary electrophoresis.
Sequencing.com review - 7 facts you should know [JANUARY 2021]
Sequencing.com is the largest marketplace of DNA apps for ancestry, traits, health and much more. Read more in our Sequencing.com review!
GitHub - sequencing-dev/sequencing: Simulate realistic quantum...
sequencing is a Python package for simulating realistic quantum control sequences using QuTiP. The documentation for sequencing is available at: sequencing.readthedocs.io.
Illumina High Throughput Sequencing | DNA Technologies Core
Illumina High Throughput Sequencing. HiSeq 4000 Sequencing. The Illumina sequencing platforms generate up to 100 gigabases of high quality sequence data per lane (HiSeq 4000) or up to...


Mt Hood Trivia
On October 29th, 1792, Wy’East, as it was originally called by the Native Americans was given its current name by Lt. William Broughton who was a member of Captain George Vancouver’s discovery expedition. Broughton named the mountain Mt. Hood, in honor of Samuel Hood who was a British Admiral.
The elevation at Whispering Woods Resort, located in Welches, Oregon is 1,320 feet above sea level.
The summit of majestic Mt. Hood is about 17 miles west of the Resort and rises 11,239 feet — tallest point in Oregon. Government Camp is at the 4,000 foot elevation and the 6 mile drive up Timberline Road takes you to 6000 feet at the lodge. Traveling from Whispering Woods Resort to Timberline Lodge is a rather steep trek…4,680 feet in 13 miles.
Timberline Lodge is a mountain lodge on the south side of Mount Hood in Oregon, about 60 miles east of Portland and about 30 minutes from Whispering Woods Resort.
The lodge was constructed between 1936 and 1938 as a Works Progress Administration (WPA) project during the Great Depression. Workers used large timbers and local stone, and placed intricately carved decorative elements throughout the building. Tours are available on weekends at 11 AM, 1PM and 2 PM and are free.
President Franklin D. Roosevelt dedicated the Lodge on September 28, 1937. In his remarks, he commented on the reasons for the project:
“Here, to Mount Hood, will come thousands and thousands of visitors in the coming years. Looking east toward eastern Oregon with its great livestock raising areas, these visitors are going to visualize the relationship between the cattle ranches and the summer ranges in the forests. Looking westward and northward toward Portland and the Columbia River, with their great lumber and other wood using industries, they will understand the part which National Forest timber will play in the support of this important element of northwestern prosperity. Those who will follow us to Timberline Lodge on their holidays and vacations will represent the enjoyment of new opportunities for play in every season of the year. I mention specially every season of the year because we, as a nation, I think, are coming to realize that the summer is not the only time for play. I look forward to the day when many, many people from this region of the Nation are going to come here for skiing and tobogganing and various other forms of winter sports.”
Visit the Timberling Lodge website for current information and weather conditions.


In Salinas Valley, the future of farming is already here.
In the field, self-propelling harvesters lop off the heads of cabbages, then funnel the 8-pound goliaths to workers who trim and sort them. Inside a nearby Taylor Farms packing plant, a three-armed robot pivots and turns to maneuver bagged salads squarely into packing boxes.
Taylor Farms is a prime example of changes to come in the valley. When harvesting 1.5 million to 1.6 million pounds of iceberg lettuce a day, as the Salinas producer of bagged salads and fresh-cut vegetables does, automation starts to make sense.
Although one of the biggest players in Salinas Valley, which produces so many greens and other vegetables that it has been dubbed America’s Salad Bowl, Taylor Farms is not alone in its move toward automation. Two major factors have driven technology in the region. One is food safety, a major priority ever since the deadly 2006 e. coli outbreak that was traced back to locally grown spinach. Robotic arms are less likely to transmit pathogens than humans are, decreasing food safety risk. The bigger and more recent push for ag tech, however, has come from rising wages coupled with a labor shortage.
“It’s creating a sustainable solution for 10 years down the road,” says Chris Rotticci, the company’s director of automated harvest equipment. “People are not consuming less salad; they’re consuming more.”
Industry and labor insiders say automation and robotics will only increase in the next five to 10 years, with California’s minimum wage due to rise to $15 per hour by 2023, and the passage of AB1066, which calls for stricter overtime pay rules for agricultural workers. And while agricultural workers are in short supply now, the labor balance could always shift toward a surplus, in which case any jobs replaced by machines could be gone forever.
“In the end, I think technology is going to really change the shape of this valley,” says Cesar Lara, executive director of the Monterey Bay Central Labor Council.
Taylor Farms contracts with farmers who plant and grow their greens and vegetables. At harvest time, it brings crews into the fields and then delivers the produce to its 14 plants for trimming, washing and packaging. The company’s salads, vegetable snack trays, stir-fry kits and other products go to both retail stores and food-service companies. With a weekly output of 120 million servings per week, it’s one of North America’s largest producers of fresh-cut fruits and vegetables.
Last year, Taylor Farms became an investor in the company Soft Robotics, which designs grippers that can be used for handling bruisable produce, and has worked with UC Davis and others to develop its technology.
Future of Food
Tracing the next generation of farms, restaurants and kitchens in the Bay Area and beyond
With produce coming in at a constant stream, its plant in Gonzales (Monterey County) stays in production six days a week, from 5:30 a.m. to 12:30 a.m., when a night crew hoses it down. But finding enough workers is difficult, says Jerrett Stoffel, vice president of operations at Taylor Farms, especially for less popular and physically demanding positions like packing boxes.
“Typically it’s impacted the manufacturing plants less than field work,” says Stoffel of the labor shortage. “That’s not the case today. It’s impacted us tremendously.”
While fieldworkers have to deal with sun and heat, plant workers have the opposite problem because the plant is kept between 34 and 38 degrees Fahrenheit. Workers wear scarves under their hard hats to cover their ears and bulky parkas under their work coats. They put on a pair of thin gloves under their blue latex ones to keep their hands from going stiff.
In one large room, produce gets washed and then run through huge salad spinners the size of an industrial washing machine, but with an opening on top. Workers attach the inner spinner holding the broccoli or greens to a line that pulls it over to a veggie elevator that takes it to another part of the plant.
In a smaller room devoted to a product line called Chef Crafted Salads, a robot weighs greens and then deposits them into clam-shell containers. As the filled containers come swiftly down the conveyor belt, workers add precise handfuls of beet strips, snow peas and shaved radishes more quickly than seems humanly possible.
With the robot, they can assemble 60 to 80 salads a minute, double the output when humans weighed and packed the greens. Stoffel says the other assembly work is lighter, and now laborers who aren’t packing greens have the option of being trained for better-paying jobs in quality control or machine operation.
The same goes in the field, says Rotticci. For more than eight years, the company has used automatic harvesters with water jets that cut and harvest romaine lettuce; two years ago it started to use one with steel blades that cut heads of celery from the ground.
Since automation, a typical romaine crew has dropped from around 30 workers to 16. Productivity has increased from 400 pounds per hour to 700 or 800 pounds per hour, says Rotticci, who emphasizes that the jobs have improved and that the pay is higher.
In the past, “You’d have cutters bending over several thousand times a day, eight to nine hours. It’s brutal, brutal work,” he says. Now, they stand on a platform and inspect, trim and pack the romaine.
His dream project is to do the same for iceberg, but it’s more of a challenge. It lies on the ground at odd angles, making it hard to automate cutting, and it’s more delicate.
“If we tried to utilize the technology we have for cabbage, we would destroy the iceberg,” Rotticci says.
Robotics could eventually use optics and sensory detectors to select heads and then harvest the iceberg. That prospect has become more lucrative as the price of robotics has dropped to around one-tenth of its initial roll-out, which was as much as $1 million an arm, Rotticci says.
Farmworker advocate Lara is concerned at the rate that mechanization has displaced ag jobs in Salinas Valley, where agricultural workers earn an average of $28,000 a year.
“The job of us in the labor union is to help the workers that are left behind to earn as much money as possible,” he says.
Lara has seen peaks and valleys in the labor force many times before. In the 1980s, the valley used to have jobs in canneries, which have since all shut down.
“We have to figure out how we pivot from this industry needing less workers to something new,” he says.
Tara Duggan is a San Francisco Chronicle staff writer. Email: email@example.com Twitter: @taraduggan


Zarqa, Jordan's second largest city, is an industrial center with more than one million residents. At a time of America's ongoing "Global War on Terrorism," the everyday conversations of its citizens revolve around not only the local economy or the lack of freedom of expression, but also on the need for pan-Arab unity, the rise of political Islam, and whether or not a faithful Muslim has a religious duty to engage in jihad.
The latter debates are particularly topical since Zarqa is also the birthplace of Ahmad Fadeel, better known as Abu Musab al-Zarqawi, the notorious leader of Al Qaeda in Iraq until his death in a U.S. bombing in June 2006. Many in the city knew Zarqawi, his relatives still live there, and it remains a source of new recruits for the global jihad.
Topics: City, Economic, Freedom, Muslim, Religion, Al Qaeda, Terrorism, Jihad, Islam, Leader


Before you start, please read those articles and watch those film first. “Shot in Watts: Film and State Violence in the 1970s P213-226, 233-244Required Screening: Bush Mama , 1976 (Haile Gerima, 97 min)Required Screening: Killer of Sheep , 1978 (Charles Burnett, 80 min)1. In this week’s lecture, the question and concept of violence was discussed and theorized (in the lecture video, in the reading, in the films). With this expanded discussion on different types and understandings of violence, please answer the following question: how is violence depicted in the film Bush Mama, and why is this significant? Make sure to use specific examples from the film to construct your answer (strong answers will also pull from the various course materials–i.e. the reading and the lecture videos–in constructing your answer).2. Compare the two featured films this week: Bush Mama and Killer of Sheep. Pick one or two points from both films to construct an argument about their relationship to one another. This can be a relationship based on differences, similarities, or some mix of both. The goal, however, is to construct a specific argument where you make claims about their relationship and back these claims ups with evidence (from the film and course materials).
Written clearly, proofread, organized in a clear and effective way (no more than 300 words per question)Addresses the questions directly and completely (especially, if there are multiple parts to the question)Demonstrates (even highlights) knowledge of the course materials, especially by constructing answers with examples that connect readings, lectures, and filmsIntegrates quotations from textbook, readings, lecture videos, or films (needs to be cited correctly, MLA style (Links to an external site.), and appropriately—not too much quotation, addressed in your own words after citing)Demonstrates deep analytical and critical thinkingAttentive to the political and historical context of the period, film, filmmaker, movement, etc. being written aboutWhen appropriate, develops a strong argument that is proven through well-chosen evidence that is vividly described in your answer
User generated content is uploaded by users for the purposes of learning and should be used following Studypool’s honor code & terms of service.
Reviews, comments, and love from our customers and community:


Noun(1) an attitude of defensiveness (especially in the phrase `on the defensive'
Adjective(1) intended or appropriate for defending against or deterring aggression or attack(2) attempting to justify or defend in speech or writing
(1) The mammals swam in tight circles to create a defensive barrier as the great white lurked under the surface.(2) At the time when he was forced into suspension United sat top of the table, with the best defensive record in the league.(3) Unsurprisingly, he is defensive and does not take criticism very well.(4) On the other hand, the Austrians enjoyed a strong defensive position that could be maintained at a relatively low cost.(5) Their gazes met, held, and the defensive expression in her eyes shattered.(6) The defensive players were boisterous and energetic and were taking it to the offense.(7) A great defensive performance kept the score line blank at half time.(8) Host Alan Kohler quite nicely brought out this defensive side with some telling jabs.(9) However, the Soviet forces quickly managed to construct new defensive positions and bring up fresh forces.(10) You are the dominant defensive player in the game, yet rarely do you run into foul trouble.(11) Those involved in the ambush said a trap had been laid, and that the area was marked with defensive earth berms and firing positions.(12) Perhaps we should cut out the defensive attitudes and actually read what was posted?(13) They were left to rue one awful defensive blunder which enabled full back Simon Verbickas to race in for a try.(14) He was never frightened, but was easily defensive , and yet he also had a gentle side.(15) Yet when challenged they got ever so defensive and the story quickly unravelled.(16) Most said they were met with a defensive and legalistic attitude by the organisation.
(1) defensive midfielder :: midfielder puipui
(2) on the defensive :: i luga o le puipui
(3) defensive power :: mana puipui
2. self-justifying ::
3. justificatory ::
1. offensive ::
defensive, defensively, defensiveness
Word Example from TV Shows
The best way to learn proper English is to read news report, and watch news on TV. Watching TV shows is a great way to learn casual English, slang words, understand culture reference and humor. If you have already watched these shows then you may recall the words used in the following dialogs.
I mean, you start, you know,
Breaking Bad Season 5, Episode 10
A smart commander does not
abandon a DEFENSIVE advantage.
Game of Thrones Season 5, Episode 8
Well, now don't get DEFENSIVE.
The Big Bang Theory Season 8, Episode 7
English to Samoan Dictionary: defensive
Meaning and definitions of defensive, translation in Samoan language for defensive with similar and opposite words. Also find spoken
pronunciation of defensive in Samoan and in English
Tags for the entry "defensive"
What defensive means in Samoan, defensive meaning
in Samoan, defensive definition, examples and pronunciation
of defensive in Samoan language.


Galileo's first attempt at observing Saturn led him to the belief that Saturn was really a conglomerate of 3 planets. One large center with two smaller lateral bodies. It wass not until several years later that Galileo realized that Saturn was really surround by rings, not planets.
There are two major problems with observing Saturn. The most important being Saturn's distance and brightness. Saturn is very faint and very far away, which makes observation with our replica telescopes very difficult. It is easy to locate the assumed position of Saturn. In the Spring of 1995, it follows Venus very closely, and is visible at approximately the same times. Weather, once again, made viewing Saturn very difficult.
Here are some very useful links for images and other information:
We appreciate any comments or suggestions.


U.S. DEPARTMENT OF THE INTERIORBUREAU OF LAND MANAGEMENT
There are about 45 million acres of public rangelands in Nevada. These rangelands are divided into 745 grazing allotments. There are 550 operators, or permittees, with a total of 635 permits to graze livestock.
Public land grazing is managed to achieve the fundamentals of rangeland health as indicated by soil and site stability, hydrologic function and biotic integrity.
Among the challenges to successfully manage public land grazing are:
Grazing/Allotment Information websites:


Dishwashers are surprisingly energy efficient. You might think energy bills skyrocket because these dish-cleaning devices run on electricity. However, using these machines can be a greener option than manually washing dishes. Besides dishwashers draining electricity, a lot of myths exist. Here are five misconceptions about dishwashers that we’ll debunk.
Dishwashers Use up Excessive Amounts of Water
Newer dishwasher models use less water. Many sources show that handwashing takes between 6-27 gallons of water. However, newer Energy Star dishwasher models can take as little as three gallons to wash dishes. With that in mind, you can save thousands of gallons of water each year.
How does this work? Dishwashers have heaters that heat water faster. However, faucets take a moment or two to run hot water. While waiting for the water heater to do its thing, you waste more energy and water than an energy-efficient device.
It Doesn’t Matter How You Load Dishwashers
It matters how you load a dishwasher. Typically, your plates should face inward so as not to block the spray arms inside the device. Also, large and bulky cookware should only go on the bottom rack. It’s also best to repeatedly pay attention to which materials can withstand hot temperatures. If you’re unaware of best loading practices, read the manual. Also, when in doubt, traditional handwashing is best.
You Have to Rinse Your Dishes Before Loading Them
The job of a dishwasher is to make your life simpler. Plus, the detergent needs something to look onto during the cleaning cycle. Of course, discarding large scraps of food is still a good idea, but there isn’t a need to rinse.
You Don’t Have to Clean Your Appliance
The appliances we use to clean, well, need to be clean themselves. It’s best to sanitize washing and drying machines as well as dishwashers. Now and then, use a cup of white vinegar to clean your dishwasher. However, instead of inserting it into the detergent compartment, you can place it in a dishwasher-safe bowl on top of the rack. Otherwise, you could cause damage to the gaskets. It’s also best to wipe out the detergent door and utensil baskets and check the filter to ensure there isn’t anything trapped or clogged.
Too Much Detergent Isn’t a Thing
We understand that you want your dishes to be as clean as possible. However, using too much dish detergent wastes money and leaves a murky buildup on dishes. Using the appropriate amount of detergent ensures that it lasts twice as long and your dishes aren’t cloudy.
Call Mahon Plumbing Today
If you still have more questions regarding your plumbing, we here at Mahon Plumbing are here to help. We have been serving the wider Baltimore area since 1994, so we have 25 years of experience to back up our fantastic service! Call us at our Baltimore location at 410-766-8566 or our Pasadena location at 410-636-7944. Be sure to keep up with us on social media by following us on Facebook or Twitter.


Roll a Rainbow is a free printable activity to practice counting and develop number sense.
This Roll a Rainbow printable from KidsCount1234 is a great way to introduce and practice addition and/or counting from 1-12. B doesn’t necessarily know he is adding, but he is being exposed to it in a fun way.
How to Play:
Roll 2 dice. Color in the number you rolled. When the rainbow is colored in, you win!


Life in the usa land, history and language american history differences between great britain and the colonies over the course of most of the eighteenth century, a distinctive culture began to emerge in america. There are very few grammar differences between american and british english certainly, the words we choose might be different at times however, generally speaking, we follow the same grammar rules. Comparing and contrasting american and britain goverment essays: over 180,000 comparing and contrasting american and britain goverment essays, comparing and contrasting american and britain goverment term papers, comparing and contrasting american and britain goverment research paper, book reports 184 990 essays, term and research papers available for unlimited access. Despite the supremacy of the british navy in the 18th century, the colonial naval forces won many battles this picture depicts the naval engagement of july 7, 1777, between the american frigates hancock, boston, and hms fox, and the british frigates flora and rainbow.
The first world war (wwi) was fought from 1914 to 1918 and the second world war (or wwii) was fought from 1939 to 1945 they were the largest military conflicts in human history both wars involved military alliances between different groups of countries world war i (aka the first world war, the. Compare and contrast british media and american media essay the role of the media has always brought controversy with some people feeling that the media does not perform upto the expected standard when it comes to the delivery of news - compare and contrast british media and american media essay introduction. Similarities and differences between british and american militaries american military (differences) very unorganized started off in shambles barely had men who could walk in a formation. Colonization and settlement (1585-1763) english, french, and spanish colonies: a comparison © media projects incorporated published by facts on file inc.
Compare and the contrast the american constitution and the french declaration of the rights of man (1789) compare american and french politics of the 18 th and 19 th centuries. As americans, we frequently find ourselves comparing our country to our ally, the united kingdom as you step into the world of healthcare and allied health careers, you may wonder how our system in the united states measures up to the united kingdom's. Comparing american and british (uk) english the two languages are very similar, so much that it is very easy to understand between the two countries the languages do not need translation due to writing in what is called standard english. The us and the uk's imperial histories and modern influence over the world have changed the english language forever because it was exported to countries all over the world, it has been forced to accept different. Comparing & contrast groups in religious, and cultural similarities and differences among the groups of people present in the early north american colonies a comparison between the british and american empires.
Both the american and french revolutions were focused around liberty and equality both countries were trying to gain freedom america was trying to gain freedom from the rules and taxes put upon them by great britain. - in comparing and contrasting the french and american revolutions, are notable differences but there are similarities as well of course, each was fought for a different cause the american revolution was a break from the mother country, great britain. Major differences between the us and uk legal systems april 07, 2014 by piyali syam attorneys probably already know legal systems in both the uk and the us share the same historical common law roots, and are for that reason quite similar. Read this american history essay and over 88,000 other research documents comparing and contrasting american and britain goverment after america declared their independence from britain in 1776 they had no governance system. 24 compare contrast britain and france ruled their colonies compare- france had direct rule by sending soldiers to colonies contrast- britain indirect rule with local rulers but would send the military if needed to regain control.
Home rome and america - comparing to the ancient roman empire , may 25, 2009 october 7, 2014 kerby anderson looks at the comparisons between modern america and ancient rome, ie the roman empire. It might be argued that british culture has always viewed theatre as central in a way american culture does not the british (and i say this as an american) are more literate and verbal and. The americans, in contrast, did not envy the british they wanted to be left alone, to chart their own political destiny in contrast to the american symbol of liberty, the liberty bell, we have the french symbol of liberty, the guillotine.
Like australia, the american system is based on principles of political equality, majority rule and the preservation of minority rights the united states is the oldest continuing democracy in the world today and one of the first to embrace the idea of popular sovereignty. The american bill of rights is specifically aimed at the individual civil liberties enjoyed by the people it protects the freedom of speech, press, and religion it protects the right to bear arms. In britain, the prime minister appoints the members of the government and members of the cabinet each appoint a couple of special advisers all the most senior appointments in the united states are subjected to confirmation hearings and votes in the senate. Compare and contrast he american and british views regarding the french and indian war 604 words | 3 pages started out badly for great britain, about 2,000 british and colonial troops were defeated by the french and native americans.


2 Answers | Add Yours
The cerebrum is the part of the brain that most of us think of as the brain. As the spinal column goes up into the base of the skull, there is a piece of the brain that appears to be attached to the back of it which is the cerebellum. Above this, forming the different hemispheres and again, most of the parts of the brain we think of as the brain, is the cerebrum.
The cerebrum controls and directs some movement and most of the senses including smell, touch, etc. as well as controlling most of speech and memory functions.
The cerebellum controls most motor functions and some nervous response functions as well including fear and some other emotions.
Cerebrum and cerebellum are two of the three main parts of human brain the third one being the brain stem. The cerebrum is the biggest of the three parts of the brain that makes up about 85 per cent of the weight of the human brain. It is situated above the other two parts of the brain. It is the thinking part of the human brain that controls all voluntary actions. It is also responsible for logical thinking, and memory.
Cerebellum is situated at the back of the brain below cerebrum. At makes up about 1/8th of the total weight of human brain. It controls, balance, movement and coordination in the body.
We’ve answered 317,624 questions. We can answer yours, too.Ask a question


Wayne Rosing’s plan for a series of telescopes to connect schoolchildren and astrophysicists on every continent with the universe is barreling forward with the intensity of a flaming meteor.
By remotely linking groups of small and medium-sized telescopes around the world, an uninterrupted 24-hour view of the night sky will facilitate the mission of the nonprofit he founded for research and outreach education.
The telescopes will have sophisticated electronic detector arrays for deep-space imaging and will be distributed in groups at five or six sites around the world. Most important, they will be robotic, with control available from any Internet-accessible
“There is nothing in existence that compares with what we’re doing,” Rosing said. While scientists use the infrastructure already in place, his engineers build and install more telescopes and the enclosures to house them.
The programmable telescopes collect immense amounts of data. Should something occur — a near-planet asteroid, for example — they can be steered to the event within 20 seconds. And with robotic telescopes around the world, an observation that starts in one location can continue elsewhere, increasing the viewing time from eight hours to around the clock. As the nonprofit’s slogan puts it, “We will always keep you in the dark.”
Scaling the Heights
A pivotal figure in the development of the Internet and in particular the technology base for Java, Wayne Rosing has been fostering his “notion” of universal connectivity for 20 years. He’s been interested in astronomy his whole life — he’d planned to study math, physics and astronomy in college before diverting to computer science — and in 2005, after retiring as vice
president of engineering at Google, he decided to devote himself full-time to his “hobby/effort.”
Rosing founded a nonprofit — Las Cumbres Observatory Global Telescope Network, or LCOGT — to make this dream happen. (The name comes from a California neighborhood, Las Cumbres, which means “the heights.”)
The central project is to build 12 to 15 one-meter telescopes. One meter — about the diameter of an exercise trampoline — refers to the size of the mirror in each telescope, and the size of the mirror determines how much light the telescope will gather. (By comparison, the primary mirror in the Hubble Space Telescope is 2.4 meters, while the Keck Observatory at Hawaii’s Mauna Kea has 10-meter scopes.)
Projected to be finished in four years, “the one-meter telescopes will become the workhorse backbone of our scientific network,” Rosing said. But they’re not the only scopes in the stable — two-meter telescopes (think old-style satellite dish) have been acquired and sit atop mountains in Hawaii and Australia, while smaller 0.4- to 0.8-meter telescopes will be “peppered around the world.”
The telescopes will automatically collect information about stars, galaxies, nebulae and planets and run 30 to 40 scientific programs nightly. Working closely with astrophysics researchers in the physics department at the University of California, Santa Barbara, and with scientists around the world, the telescopes are already acquiring and analyzing data for research purposes.
One researcher, Rachel Street, a postdoctoral fellow at LCOGT, is using cameras mounted at sites at La Palma on the Canary Islands (in the Northern Hemisphere) and in Sutherland, South Africa (in the Southern Hemisphere), to hunt for extrasolar planets. Because orbiting planets block some of the light intensity in the stars they circle, astronomers can determine the presence of a planet by monitoring changes in a star’s brightness.
“We use this technique so we can find these planets to follow up on using the telescopes at LCOGT. There must be millions of planets just around the stars we can see,” Street said.
This method has enabled her and her colleagues to discover 10 new planets in one six-month period, an astounding achievement in the field.
Deploying the Network
Before heading to the Canary Islands — “to crawl around on top of two volcanoes” in search of telescope sites — Rosing brought the staff together to discuss the goals and constraints of the project.
“We’re going to push our way through to complete these deployments. We’re going to make this project happen,” he said.
While the telescopes are scattered across the planet, most activity occurs in offices and in an expansive workshop in Goleta, Calif., a suburban city next to UCSB. It was here that engineer Annie Hjelstrom spent a year refurbishing Rainwater before the telescope (named for the Mississippi observatory where it resides) made its way home.
Rainwater was the first installation in LCOGT’s network and, symbolically, Rosing’s first astronomy project. Its history reflects the progression of Rosing’s vision to connect the planet with the universe and to couple research with education.
In the ’90s, Rosing — “as sort of a hobby thing at that time” — built a telescope for a retired doctor in Colorado. The doctor eventually resumed work in Tennessee and donated the telescope to a century-old Presbyterian boarding school in Mississippi that wanted to expand their observatory. “I thought that was a worthy cause, so I volunteered LCO to refurbish that telescope — we’d come back and upgrade it and modernize it,” he explained.
So it came to pass that under the orange glow of parking lot street lamps in California, Hjelstrom maneuvered a forklift’s metal levers to support Rainwater. Finally assembled and ready to view the night sky, Rainwater was lowered for testing. Mechanical and computer issues had to be resolved before installation.
The project is not without challenges. Outside of her welder’s hood, sparks flew as Hjelstrom added the finishing touches to Rainwater. Torch in hand, she molded metal beads with the uniformity of stitches to seam the edges. Once assembled and functioning optimally, the telescope was packaged in a container larger than some apartments and shipped across the nation to the observatory.
In Mississippi, Hjelstrom, 50 amateur astronomers and the director of Rainwater Observatory, Jim Hill, trudged up a grassy hill to see the final product. In the large domed observatory, Rosing operated Rainwater and then passed the control paddle to Hill.
“It feels fabulous. If all the other installations can go this smoothly, we’ll be in good shape with deploying our network,” Hjelstrom said.
While the Rainwater telescope will immediately affect students at the boarding school with which it is affiliated, it also can be used remotely by scientists. But LCOGT also reaches students in remote locations who might never have access to a telescope. Pupils in schools all over the world will be able to view deep-space phenomena in real time using the Internet.
Schoolchildren in London are already pushing computer keys to maneuver the large telescope atop Mount Haleakala in Hawaii. Rosing’s goal in promoting interest in science is an essential element to the project. “If we can help another generation — the upcoming generation of young people —appreciate the notion of a scientific way of looking at the world, we will have made an important contribution.”
Are you on Facebook? Click here to become our fan.


The Siege of Yorktown
On September 28, the allied armies arrived at Yorktown and the siege began. The artillery, aboard a sloop stuck on a sandbank, did not arrive until the first day of October. The First Parallel was dug on October 6, and the allied armies opened fire on the British.
The planned Second Parallel was partially blocked by British outer works, called Redoubts 9 and 10. The redoubts were only 400 yards from the main British line. The only way for the allied armies to complete the Second Parallel was to attack and overtake the British redoubts. On October 14, the artillery bombarded Redoubts 9 and 10 in preparation for attack. That night, Continental soldiers attacked Redoubt 10 and French soldiers attacked Redoubt 9. The Continental and French both prevailed.
The Second Parallel could then be completed, creating the Grand American Battery. Combined with the French batteries, the allied armies formed a continuous line within point-blank range of the British defense line.
Four days later, on October 18, two British officers, an American officer, and a French officer met to negotiate surrender terms. On October 19, 1781, the British troops along with American loyalists, marched out of Yorktown to lay down their arms. Cornwallis had surrendered and the allied armies were victorious.
While a great blow to the British, their defeat did not immediately end the war. Admiral de Grasse’s fleet sailed back to the Caribbean. The Continental Army headed north, back to winter quarters in New York, New Jersey, and Pennsylvania. The French spent the winter of 1781-82 mostly at sites in and around Williamsburg, Virginia.
In July, the French Army began their return march north. Rochambeau’s march north provided Americans an opportunity to give thanks to their country’s ally. The Continental Army reassembled at an encampment near Crompond (Yorktown Heights), New York in August, awaiting the French Army. The French arrived on September 17, kicking off a week-long celebration of the Franco-American brotherhood-in-arms forged at Yorktown. The French Army then made their way north, sailing out from Boston Harbor on December 25, 1782.
On February 4, 1783, King George III issued a Proclamation of Cessation of Hostilities, ending all fighting. The Second Treaty of Paris was signed on September 3, 1783, officially ending the Revolutionary War.


By Reef Check Executive Director Dr. Gregor Hodgson
A team of eight Reef Check scientists surveyed 50 reefs in the vicinity of Sharm El Sheikh, Egypt in May 2010 to determine what condition the reefs were in with respect to ecological health and carrying capacity. Carrying capacity has been defined in a couple of ways: ecological and social. Ecological carrying capacity is exceeded when additional visits by divers damage the ecology of the reefs whereas social carrying capacity is exceeded when additional visits by divers produce a reduced quality of the experience for the visitors to an area.
This area of the Red Sea has been high on the list of “must see” diving sites since the 1970s. At that time, Sharm was advertized with a “money-back” guarantee to see a shark on every dive. But the demographic has shifted from a few thousand highly trained scuba divers in those early years to over 3 million sun and fun snorkelers and inexperienced divers in 2009. Almost 400 dive boats carrying up to 60 passengers each target about 40 official dive sites. Over ten years ago, scientists familiar with the area predicted serious damage to the reefs as tourism ramped up. But based on the Reef Check surveys, other than sharks and most large predatory fish missing in action, the reefs are healthy. In fact, Sharm is one of the few places in the world where a Napoleon (Humphead) Wrasse – a key Reef Check indicator species – can be seen on almost every dive. The clear water, colorful corals and walls that drop down 100s of meters are sensational. Given the lack of predators, the populations of brilliant red-orange Anthias are probably the highest in the world. The low populations of large giant clams were a puzzle until a local biologist pointed out that they are a favored target of free diving Bedouin tribes who still live along the coast (Fig 1).
As it turns out, the homogeneous structure and composition of the reefs of Sharm El-Sheikh provide some natural protection that is not found elsewhere and that has allowed a huge flow of tourist swimmers, snorkelers and divers to coexist with the reefs without destroying them. Three main features explain this:
- The shallow reef flats are so shallow that snorkelers realize that they are likely to be “scraping bottom” if they try to squeeze in over the reef (Fig 2).
- The reef flat ends in a 90 degree drop off that is covered in branching Millepora fire coral so snorkelers who bump up against it get a nasty sting if they are not completely covered (Fig 3).
- The drop off is typically so steep and covered with sharp appearing corals, that snorkelers and divers can maneuver to avoid it.
Aside from some occasional broken corals and the lack of large predators due to regular fishing, the reefs are still in amazingly good condition when one considers that some individual reefs are visited by more than 1000 people per day. Reef Check will be continuing to work with the authorities in Sharm El Sheikh to come up with plans to help spread some of these impacts and reduce the number of visitors to some reefs and control fishing. But at a time of lots of bad environmental news, the situation in Sharm was a pleasant surprise. Reef Check would like to thank biologists Christian Alter of Red Sea Environmental Centre, Dahab, Melanie Koch, Nina Milton, Dr. Moshira Hassan, Pascal Kriwy, and Anna Roik, as well as Petra Röglin and Rolf Schmidt of Sinai Divers, the crew of the Ghazala boats and to Stephan for photos during the successful survey week.
|Figure 2. The reef flat is extremely shallow and flat, and then drops abruptly in a vertical wall that normally reaches 15 to 20 m depth. The coral living on the reef flat must be highly resistant to extreme environmental changes in salinity, temperature, and even exposure to the air during extreme low tides.|
Figure 3. The reef flat is extremely shallow and flat, and then drops abruptly in a vertical wall that normally reaches 15 to 20 m depth. The coral living on the reef flat must be highly resistant to extreme environmental changes in salinity, temperature, and even exposure to the air during extreme low tides.


The forest fires of 2018 were devastating in many parts of the world, with the ones in Paradise, California particularly terrifying. Portugal suffered too in 2018, with Monchique in the western Algarve one of the worst hit areas. More than 27,000 hectares were destroyed in a fire that lasted just over a week. Once a fire gets a hold it can be days or even weeks before they are back under control. Fortunately there were few fires in the east Algarve last year, and those that did occur were brought under control relatively quickly. The impact however on lives and the environment is still dreadful, and when you see the pictures of the aftermath of some fires you wonder if anyone or anything can ever recover.
And yet some how it does, sometimes in fact a fire can bring more life to a forest as the dead trees provide homes for wildlife and enable more sunlight to reach the forest floor, spurring new growth. What seems to be critical is the severity and duration of fire. If the soil is not too damaged then life can quickly return as it has here in the hills around Azinhal.
The fire here was in early August and already nature is recovering. And just a few metres away from the hillside damaged by the fire you wouldn’t even know a fire had passed through the area. In fact you wouldn’t even know it was 25th December in the northern hemisphere. On our traditional Christmas Day walk we were surrounded by birds, birdsong, butterflies and bees. I even spotted almond blossom!
Whilst it was wonderful to see firsthand how nature heals itself, it is worrying to learn that thanks to climate change (and an increasingly number of careless humans) wildfires are now occurring five times more often. But we can change this if we all help reduce the risk of fires and climate change, even the smallest of steps will make a difference. Given the statistics though, we should be aware what to do if caught in a fire. If you are planning to hike or go camping this year please do read this excellent article brought to my attention by Denzil. It may save your life.


In Tanzania most goat production is extensive and aimed at selling live animals with limited direct impact on food security and nutrition.
The Crop and Goat Project (CGP), implemented in Kongwa and Mvomero districts, aimed at improving income, food security and nutrition of poor households by promoting dairy goat production integrated with cassava and sweet potatoes. Within the project area, village leaders generated a list of 70 potential goat recipients in each of the 4 intervention villages, based on resources and capacity. Out of these, 108 households received a total of 229 dairy goats over the project period.
This poster, produced for the Tropentag 2016 conference, highlights findings from an evaluation of the impacts of introducing dairy goats on income, assets and food consumption in the two districts in Morogoro region.


The main house at Eastwell Park was built in Neo-Elizabethan style between 1793 and 1799 for George Finch-Hatton, 9th Earl of Winchilsea, and remodelled in 1843 by William Burn. In the mid-1860s the 11th Earl suffered financial difficulties forcing him to leave and the estate was let to the Duke of Abercorn for 5 years. (Winchilsea was declared bankrupt in 1870). The house was then tenanted by Prince Alfred, Duke of Edinburgh, the second son of Queen Victoria. Eastwell Park was bought by the 2nd Lord Gerard in 1894 and it passed to his son in 1902. Frederic John Gerard had gained the rank of Captain in the Lancashire Hussars Imperial Yeomanry and achieved a similar rank with the Royal Horse Guards. He also held the office of Justice of the Peace and Deputy Lieutenant for the County of Lancashire.
In 1920 Eastwell Park was put up for sale and the eventual buyer was Mr Osborn Dan who never lived here but chose to remain in his house at Wateringbury. He sold the estate in 1924 and it was reported that the new owner intended to reduce the size of the mansion. This was Sir John de Fonblanqua Pennefather (1856-1933), a British cotton merchant and Conservative politician, who’d just been created a Baronet, of Golden in the County of Tipperary. Some experts suggest he was more interested in architecture rather than the estate. He demolished the existing mansion and in 1926, using much of the old materials, rebuilt the house as it now stands, but significantly reducing its size. He was overtaken by blindness and never lived in the new house. In 1930, Madeline Cecilia Carlyle Brodrick, 2nd wife of the 1st Earl of Midleton, later Countess Midleton, bought the estate but lived in London. Her son, Captain George Brodrick, managed the estate on modern and efficient lines. The 1920s house survives as Eastwell Manor, a Champneys Spa Hotel. All that remains of the old house is Eastwell Towers, built in 1848, the original gatehouse.
Built: c.1765-1768 Architect: James Paine Owner: Earl of Scarbrough Country House Grade I listed
“Dickon Scarbrough was much appreciated in the Sandbeck neighbourhood, and miners from the nearby Maltby pit were happy to act as beaters at his pheasant shoots. During the miners’ strike of 1984 there was a sudden lull during a drive, explained when a beater emerged from behind a bush. ‘Sorry, my lord,’ he said, ‘but we’ll have to scarper. There’s some snoopers from the DHSS over there in a van.'” (Obituary for the 12th Earl of Scarbrough, The Telegraph, 17 April 2004)
The former mining town of Maltby might not be the obvious place for a grand old country house. Many locals consider it down-at-heel yet, not far from its centre, is Sandbeck Park, the family seat of the Earl of Scarbrough since the 18th century, and to whom many residents of this small South Yorkshire town still pay their ground rent to.
Today Sandbeck Park is relatively unknown but it has seen its fair share of noble visitors. It’s close location to Doncaster Racecourse firmly placed the house into the diaries of landed gentry as well as Kings and Queens, including our present one. If all this is forgotten then Maltby’s inhabitants delight in speculation that former model, actress and author Joanna Lumley might somehow be related to the present occupants of the house!
This Grade I listed house dates to the 17th century with extensive remodelling in the 18th and 19th centuries. It lies close to the ruins of the better-known Roche Abbey, founded in 1147 by Cistercian monks.
The 1st recorded house at Sandbeck was built-in 1626 for Sir Nicholas Saunderson, 1st Viscount Castleton. Sandbeck passed to Thomas Lumley later 3rd Earl of Scarbrough who died in 1752.
Sandbeck remained in the hands of the Castletons until 1723, when the sixth viscount, who was granted an earldom in 1720, died without an heir. He willed Sandbeck to his cousin, Thomas Lumley, the 3rd Earl of Scarbrough.
In 1760 the fourth earl hired Neoclassical architect James Paine to considerably rebuild and extend the 17th century house in the fashionable Palladian style. Paine had a favourable reputation in Yorkshire including his work at Nostell Priory, Hickleton Hall, Cusworth Hall and the Mansion House in Doncaster. He was also responsible for the huge stable block at Chatsworth House in Derbyshire.
Between 1763 and 1768 he enlarged the main building with a new Grecian front and added several outbuildings, including gatehouses and the limestone stables. Paine allegedly used stones from Roche Abbey during the construction of the house.
If the Dissolution of the Monasteries and the later handiwork of James Paine hadn’t robbed Roche Abbey of its contents then much worse was to come.
In 1774, the fourth earl commissioned Capability Brown to completely landscape the area, signing a contract to pay him £2,800 for work to last through 1777. It appears that Brown had little regard for the historical value of the abbey and systematically destroyed much of it to satisfy contemporary tastes. When finished the abbey was little more than a romantic folly.
‘Brown engineered a lake and islands over Roche’s southern buildings, substituted a river for the medieval water channels, contrived a waterfall to cascade from the Laughton Pond, and composed irregular tree groupings in surrounding fields. He also levelled the ruins’ irregular walls to provide a uniform grassed foreground for a banqueting lodge’.
In 1857, the 9th Earl of Scarbrough turned to the Scottish architect William Burn to further remodel and improve the house. This resulted in significant internal alterations and in 1869 Benjamin Ferrey, an ecclesiastical architect and pupil of Augustus Charles Pugin, built a private chapel for the earl. A 19th-century service wing that linked the house to Sandbeck Chapel was demolished in 1954.
There might have been a steady decline in its social status, not helped by its close proximity to Maltby Colliery, one of Britain’s largest deep coal mines that closed in 2013. Sandbeck Park is now the home of Richard Osbert Lumley, 13th Earl of Scarbrough (b.1973). They still own the former family seat at Lumley Castle which now functions as a hotel. The 13th Earl has continued the good work started by his father (who was a godson of Queen Elizabeth the Queen Mother and of the 1st Earl of Halifax) by helping charities, with the Dinnington-based Safe@Last being one of his top priorities. He is a patron of the charity which provides refuge and help for runaway youngsters or those in danger at home.


The file .pgpass in a user's home directory or the file referenced by PGPASSFILE can contain passwords to be used if the connection requires a password (and no password has been specified otherwise). On Microsoft Windows the file is named %APPDATA%\postgresql\pgpass.conf (where %APPDATA% refers to the Application Data subdirectory in the user's profile).
This file should contain lines of the following format:
(You can add a reminder comment to the file by copying the line above and preceding it with #.) Each of the first four fields can be a literal value, or *, which matches anything. The password field from the first line that matches the current connection parameters will be used. (Therefore, put more-specific entries first when you are using wildcards.) If an entry needs to contain : or \, escape this character with \. A host name of localhost matches both TCP (host name localhost) and Unix domain socket (pghost empty or the default socket directory) connections coming from the local machine. In a standby server, a database name of replication matches streaming replication connections made to the master server. The database field is of limited usefulness because users have the same password for all databases in the same cluster.
On Unix systems, the permissions on .pgpass must disallow any access to world or group; achieve this by the command chmod 0600 ~/.pgpass. If the permissions are less strict than this, the file will be ignored. On Microsoft Windows, it is assumed that the file is stored in a directory that is secure, so no special permissions check is made.


Subhas Chandra Bose or ‘Netaji’ as he was lovingly called, was born on 23rd January 1897 in Cuttack, Orrisa. After initially studying there, he moved to Calcutta for his college education. He then got through the Civil Services Examinations in England but left it to get his country’s freedom.
He fought along with other great leaders like Mahatma Gandhi, Jawaharlal Nehru and Vallabbhai Patel though he did not agree with their way of getting freedom. He was often put in jail, or house arrest as he led many protests and rallies against the British.
Netaji had to spend a lot of his time away from India because of his health but he continued to fight for the country’s freedom. He met a lot of country heads to ask them for their help in India’s fight. He also asked for help from Hitler during the Second World War.
With the help of Japan, he also formed the Azad Hind Fauj with Indian prisoners of war. His popular message to the Indians during the freedom
struggle was, “Give me blood and I will give you freedom.” He also used the slogan “Jai Hind” in many of his rallies.
He died in 1945 in a plane crash in Japan, before India could win her independence. Many people did not believe that he actually died and hoped that he would return.
His story is very inspiring and shows the sacrifice he made for his country, his family and what he believed in. He did not want anything less than complete independence and died fighting for it.


It was only in 1857 that the first commercial oil well drilled in Romania. Two years later, the United States petroleum industry was established with a drilling station in Titusville, PA. In those days, most of the demand for oil was for the use of kerosene and oil lamps. In 1901 the first commercial well that mass produced oil was drilled at a place called Spindletop in southeastern Texas. This site alone produced over 10,000 barrels of oil each day, which was more than all of the other oil wells in the United States put together.
Many people believe that this is when the modern oil era began, as oil started to replace coal as the main source of fuel for the world. Today it continues to be that main source of fuel and is considered the most in-demand commodity throughout the world.
Since oil is such a popular high-demand commodity, inevitably there are and will always be significant price fluctuations, which play a major economic role. The two main factors that affect the price of oil are supply and demand, as well as market sentiment.
The idea of supply and demand is rather simple in basic economics for most mass produced products – the more demand increases (or supply increases), the prices are intended to go down. If more is being sold, then the seller can not only afford to lower their costs, but actually has to in order to keep up as the market as it becomes more competitive.
However when it comes to oil, this economic nearly faultless equation is not quite as simple. Oil is actually priced at the predicted cost in the future market. An oil futures contract is an agreement that allows one the ability to purchase oil at a predefined price, on a predefined date in the future. Under this contract, the buyer and seller together must complete their end of the agreement on the date chosen.
The two types of future traders are hedgers and speculators. A hedger future trader, for example, could be an airline purchasing oil futures in order to protect themselves over the possibility of price increases.
A speculator on the other hand could be someone who is merely estimating where they see the price going, but have no plans of actually buying the oil in both the present or the future. The Chicago Mercantile Exchange’s research suggests that most of future trading is actually done by speculators since less than 3% of the transactions in fact end up with the buyer of oil futures contract taking the traded commodity.
The other main determiner of oil prices is sentiment. Simply believing that oil demand will significantly increase at a specific time in the future can lead to a massive increase in the price of oil at the present time. Speculators and hedgers together quickly sign oil futures contracts.
However, the opposite is true as well. The mere belief itself that oil demand will go down at a certain time in the future can also lead to a large price decrease for oil in the present within the framework of oil futures contracts.
In addition, when looking back throughout history, it seems as though there is potential for a 29 year price cycle, give or take a few years, in which the overall commodity prices shift. Ever since oil rose as a high-demand commodity in the early 1990’s, there have been major growths in the overall commodities index, occurring in 1920, 1951, as well as 1980.
It should be taken into account that both supply, demand and sentiment together are more significant than cycles. Prices cycles are merely guidelines, and are not rules.
Oil is very different than most products. Oil prices are not determined completely by supply, demand and market sentiment about the product itself. The real determinant of oil prices is the supply, demand, and sentiment of oil futures contracts. These contracts, which are mostly traded between speculators are the real factor. Trends within cycles of the commodities of course play a certain role as well.
However, all things being said, regardless of how oil price is determined in the end, it seems as though no matter what, oil will always continue to be a high demand commodity in the future.


Three times, in 2006, 2007, and 2008, SpaceX tried to launch a Falcon 1 rocket from Omelek Island in the Pacific Ocean, a coral shelf perhaps a meter above sea level and the size of three soccer fields. Less than two months after the last failure, the money was running out. SpaceX had just one final rocket to launch, with only some spare components left over in its California factory.Omelek was a temporary facility; so small it's uninhabitable during a launch. Omelek was a place where they lived dormitory style and worked tirelessly in preparation for the launch (as have generations of other folks at NASA, in Russia and the rest of the launch industry). Before launch, everyone evacuated the smaller Omelek to go the control center on nearby Kwajalein - "Kwaj" - one of the best-known pieces of "downrange test facility" in the Pacific.
“We all knew that the stakes were incredibly high,” Zach Dunn recalled of that feverish period in 2008. This time, the Falcon 1 had to work. And the kids knew it. Barely a year out of graduate school and just 26, Dunn nonetheless was a senior engineer over the rocket’s first stage. “It was tense. There was a lot of pressure.”
The pressure was intense.
They bunked in a double-wide trailer, cramming inside on cots and sleeping bags, as many as a dozen at a time. In the mornings, they feasted on steaming plates of scrambled eggs. At night, beneath some of the darkest skies on Earth, they grilled steaks and wondered if the heavens above were beyond their reach. Kids, most of them, existed alone on a tiny speck of an island in the middle of the Pacific Ocean. It was the middle of nowhere, really.The video of the first successful flight in SpaceX history is still on YouTube, along with videos of less successful flights, like the oh-so-close third launch.
And they worked. They worked desperately—tinkering, testing, and fixing—hoping that nothing would go wrong this time. Already, their small rocket had failed three times. One more launch anomaly likely meant the end of Space Exploration Technologies.
Today, it is difficult to imagine the world of aerospace without SpaceX. United Launch Alliance, Arianespace, the Russians, and the Chinese likely would still dominate the launch industry, with their prices a closely guarded secret. A decade ago, these industry titans saw in Elon Musk just another gnat to be swatted aside like so many who had come before. The idea of reusing an orbital rocket to lower the cost of access to space? Laughable. Mars?!? This funny sounding guy from South Africa couldn't even put a small, single-engine rocket into orbit.
This, and more, lay on the line September 28, 2008, when SpaceX sought to finally become the first company to privately develop a rocket that successfully reached orbit.
“That's something that only nations had done before, because the barriers to entry were so high,” Chad Anderson, of the Space Angels investment group, said about privately developing an orbital rocket. “Going from zero to one is really, really difficult. And that’s what SpaceX did. That guy and that company have been swimming upstream, and fighting, for so long to get that ball rolling.”
Falcon 1, vehicle 4, just prior to the first launch, on the pad on Omelek island.
It's hard to overestimate the importance of this successful launch. Every engineer on the team was literally betting their futures on being able to do it. Even Musk says that if they hadn't succeeded, it probably would have been the end. Instead, they got a contract to launch the Malaysian RazakSAT satellite into orbit on the Falcon 1 in 2009. Chad Anderson, of the Space Angels investment group, says that turned the launch business, which he termed "essentially a cartel", upside down.
“To launch a satellite before SpaceX, money had to be no object,” Anderson said. “It could be $90 million, or $170 million, or whatever they happened to want that day. These are incredibly formidable barriers to entry for a new venture.”Today, SpaceX is flying the 5th version of the Falcon 9, so named because it uses 9 of the Merlin engines that carried the Falcon 1 into orbit. Many, though not all, Falcon 9 boosters can be recovered - it depends on the launch energy requirements (essentially the weight of the payload to orbit and the exact orbit required). Just as it took them a few tries to get their first successful launches, it took a few before they successfully landed boosters. Now they're making the recovery of the booster seem pretty routine. Flying a recovered booster is cheaper for the customer, so several have flown and been recovered more than once.
Price transparency, and SpaceX’s introduction of the Falcon 9 rocket in 2010 at a price of $60 million, helped bring down these barriers to entry. Over time, this unleashed a wave of innovation in satellites and brought spaceflight into the realm of wider entrepreneurship.
Anderson said that, before SpaceX began flying the Falcon 1 rocket, there were a few dozen privately funded companies, globally, engaged in spaceflight activities. Today, there are 350, and they have raised $15 billion in private capital.
Engineer Zach Dunn with the Merlin first stage engine that later carried the Falcon 1 into orbit. At the time, Dunn was 26 and just out of graduate school. Within a year, he was in charge of the first stage.


- An electric network with four terminals, two for input and two for output. The input terminals are paired to form the input port, while the output port is formed by the output terminals. Examples include O-networks and H-networks. Its abbreviation is 2-port network. Also called two-terminal pair, two-terminal pair network, four-terminal network, or quadripole.
- abbreviation2-port network
- synonymtwo-terminal pair
- synonymtwo-terminal pair network


The flag of Angola is unique in its design and has a simplistic, yet aesthetically pleasing symmetry to it.
The current flag of Angola has been in use since the Republic of Angola’s independence in 1975 from Portugal. After more than a decade of anti-colonial struggle during the Angolan War of Independence, the country adopted a flag based on the ruling party’s flag.
The flag is divided into two equally divided red and black stripes just as in the ruling party MPLA flag. The main difference is that the MPLA’s yellow star is replaced with a smaller star, half a gear, and a machete. This design is supposed to echo the Soviet flag’s influence as the MPLA had to pay homage to the Soviets for their support.
The vexillology of the flag tells the story of national liberation. Black stands for Africa. Red stands for the blood that was shed for independence. Yellow stands for prosperity. Now we can see how the symbols in the center model the Soviet pattern: the gear for the industrial workers, and machete for the agrarian peasantry. The yellow star on top does not stand for the party though, it stands for international solidarity. We can see this pattern through history as many countries modeled their flags off of Soviet symbols and themes; all of these paying homage to the industrial proletariat as well as the peasantry.
As we can see below, the flag of the National Liberation Front of South Vietnam–known as the Viet Cong– has a similar design. It’s up to debate whether the Viet Cong design influenced the MPLA’s flag.
History of the Flag of Angola
The Popular Movement for the Liberation of Angola—Movimento Popular de Libertação de Angola— (MPLA), became the ruling party and established a Marxist-Leninist one-party state after victory. Remember, this all happened at the height of the Cold War, so you had the typical proxy war drama occurring here, as you did everywhere. The Soviet Union and Cuba supported the MPLA, while the United States and South Africa both supported the National Union for the Total Independence of Angola (UNITA) União Nacional para a Independência Total de Angola. The US also supported the MPLA’s other rival, the National Liberation Front of Angola, or, Frente Nacional de Libertação de Angola. These movements have quite long names don’t they? One more interesting note, the People’s Republic of China temporarily supported the UNITA, until the US eventually replaced their aid. I guess the PRC was still feeling a bit salty after the Sino-Soviet split in 1956. These factions also fought each other once the Portuguese were gone in the ongoing civil war that ended in 2002.
After the fall of the Soviet Union, the MPLA moved itself ideologically away from Marxism-Leninism and more towards social democracy and center-left politics. It still retains the traditional MPLA imagery, as it is still the dominant party in Angola’s legislature.
There have been several proposals to have a new flag which is void of any ideological symbolism. One of the proposals consists of the black, green, and red pan-African colors. This design was rejected for not being creative enough. The intent was to create a flag that represents the unique struggle and story of the Angolan people’s independence and the following civil war.
Next, we have a design that consists of blue, white, and red stripes. They stand for freedom, peace, and solidarity respectively. A sun is present in the center as shown in the picture. This flag was not adapted due to internal politics about mentioning flag symbolism in a new constitution. As we all know, politics makes things sticky no matter what country you’re in. That’s why the flag of Angola remains the same. Well there you have it! I hope to one day visit the country so I can fly an Angolan flag as part of my personal collection. I hope you can too.
By the way, the best way to visit the country is part of our Angola Carnival Tour here.
Here’s a link to the MPLA website itself!


“National Anthem of El Salvador” is the National Anthem of El Salvador. The lyrics of National Anthem were written by General Juan José Cañas in 1856, with music composed by the Italian Juan Aberle in 1879.
The anthem was adopted on September 15, 1879, and officially approved by the regime on December 11, 1953.
English Translation of National Anthem:
Let us salute, the Motherland,
proud to be called its children,
And let us spiritedly swear our lives
to consecrate its good without rest! (2x,).


Psychology of colors is the study of how our brain perceives what it visualizes. It aims to determine how color affects our everyday decisions and the impact that they have on our brains. This impact is used to manipulate our decision making through multiple views of society.
“Colors, like features, follow the changes of the emotions,” Pablo Picasso
Psychology of Colors – Color Symbolism
It attracts attention more than any other color.
Red color increases the respiration rate and raises the pressure of the blood.
Associated with danger, energy, strength, power, as well as love and passion.
It represents fascination, happiness, enthusiasm, creativity, determination, success, attraction, and stimulation.
Orange combines the energy of red color and the happiness of yellow color.
Associated with, sunshine, joy, and tropics.
Yellow color creates a warming effect, awakens cheerfulness and excites mental activity.
Indicates honor and loyalty. Later the meaning of yellow was connected with lack of braveness.
It is associated with joy and energy.
Bright yellow is an attention-getter (that’s the reason taxicabs are yellow).
Babies cry more in yellow rooms.
When overused, it may have a disturbing effect.
Green is the color of nature. It symbolizes freshness, growth, and fertility.
It suggests stability and endurance
Dark green is also commonly associated with money.
It has great healing power.
As the color of the sea, it is often associated with depth and stability.
It symbolizes, loyalty, wisdom, trust, intelligence, truth, and faith.
Considered beneficial to body and mind.
Used to symbolize piousness and sincereness.
The green color is also associated with calmness.
Unique and authentic
Idealistic, spiritual and sincere
Peaceful, flexible and imaginative
It is the natural color for the seawater and the sky
It is embraced as the color of heaven.
It is cold, wet, and slow (opposed to red)
Blue has more complex and contradictory meanings than any other color.
Dark blue: dignity, intelligence, trust, and authority
Bright blue: strength, dependability, coolness, and cleanliness.
Light blue: serenity, spiritual, ethereal, infinity, and peace.
Blue also evolved as a symbol of depression in American culture. “Feeling blue” and “Singing the blues” are good examples of how color symbolism has been evolved in different cultures.
Purple associated with royalty.
It symbolizes power, luxury, nobility, and ambition.
Combines the energy of the red and the stability of blue.
Transmit wealth and extravagance.
Associated with dignity, creativity, wisdom, mystery, and magic.


Should rabbits be kept around other animals?
Rabbit's need to be kept with at least one other friendly rabbit. Rabbit's who are new to each other need to be introduced gradually and under supervision. In terms of human company, handling your rabbit gently from an early age is important as little handling early on, or rough handling can cause distress. Normally, rabbits will be scared of cats and dogs as they are natural predators, however, if pets are introduced with care in early life, friendships can be forged.
- Rabbits are naturally sociable preferring other rabbit company and kept together form a 'pecking order'. Some animals become more dominant than others.
- Rabbits can develop abnormal behaviours and may suffer if left alone and with nothing to do for long periods.
- Neutering unless intended for breeding and provisions made to care for parents and offspring. Neutering reduces the likelihood of fighting in both sexes.
Handling gently daily from an early age.
- Rabbits that are well handled by people from a young age can learn that humans are friends and companions.
- Rabbits receiving little handling early in life, or roughly handled at any age, may find human contact distressing. This can be expressed as fearfulness/escape behaviour/aggression.
- Rabbit's living indoors can see humans as important companions. If your rabbit has to be kept alone, you must provide them with companionship by interacting with them daily.
Places to go to get away from companions if they want to. Provide enough resources (e.g. shelter/food/water/hiding places) for every rabbit at all times.
- Rabbits can be bullied if they cannot get away from other rabbits they don't like.
Introducing to new rabbits gradually and under supervision, preferably in a space new to both rabbits.
- Rabbits brought up together will usually get along, but if introduced for the first time as adults may fight.
- Talk to a qualified animal behaviourist if you're unsure/have problems.
- Caring for by a responsible person when you're away to meet all their welfare needs.
Constant supervision when they are with another animal or person who may deliberately/accidentally harm/frighten them or with a cat or dog, even if you know they are good friends.


In the last decade, scientists have identified a period of prolonged — and vital — brain development in adolescence. Learn what the experts now know, and what child welfare workers need to know, about applying these findings to youths in foster care.
The profile of older youths and adults in foster care.
The unique needs of adolescents in foster care.
The latest science on adolescent brain development.
The concept of emerging adulthood.
5 research-driven ways to improve foster care services for adolescents.
Findings & Stats
Becoming an Adult
Conventional wisdom — and now science — tells us that young people do not automatically and abruptly turn into full-fledged adults in their late teens.
30 is the New 20
Forget the maturity milestones of 18 and 21. According to experts, the journey toward adulthood is so long and complex that some individuals may not attain a full-fledged adult status or skill set until age 30.
Neuroscientists now have a deeper, clearer understanding of what happens to the brain during adolescence: (1) Girls mature 8 to 9 years earlier than boys; (2) Unused connections in the brain are lost—both in early childhood and adolescence; (3) Levels of dopamine can shift; (4) Trauma can disrupt and slow brain development; (5) The brain is not fixed and can be rewired after trauma.
Experts have identified 9 essential elements to trauma-informed child welfare practice, including maximizing an adolescent’s sense of safety and helping them manage personal and emotional stress.
Experts offer 5 tips to enhance services for youth in foster care. They are: 1. Embrace a positive youth development approach; 2. Provide services that connect young people to families and adults; 3. Engage youth in decision-making and planning; 4. Be trauma-informed; 5. Extend developmentally-appropriate care to age 21.
Painting the Picture
Readers will learn what each recommendation — in action — looks like. For instance, tip no. 3 (engage youth in decision making and planning) involves encouraging youth to take healthy risks, participate in discussions and lead meetings while also forging connections in family-based settings and with responsible adults.
Positive youth development is essential to adolescent development. This approach empowers youth with information, skills and supports so that they can be involved in their own case planning and decisions.
Child development experts now stress interdependence — the ability to connect with and depend on others — as a critical step in moving toward adulthood.
Statements & Quotations
Adolescents must take on distinct developmental tasks in order to move through emerging adulthood and become healthy, connected, and productive adults—and young people in foster care often lack the supports needed to complete these tasks.
Developmentally, adolescence is as critical as the first few years of life.


America’s growing trade deficits and dwindling manufacturing base led Congress to inquire into what the nation should do to remain competitive in the future global economy. The Commerce Department was given with the challenge and, last week, Secretary John Bryson delivered the “COMPETES” report at the Center for American Progress. According to the report, in order for the U.S. to reclaim its economic dominance, public policies must focus on basic research, education, and infrastructure.
During the last decade, the U.S. placed second to last in research and development (R&D) funding among advanced nations. With private sector investment spending limited in recent years, the Commerce Department believes that it is pertinent for the government to increase financing for basic research via grants given to universities and tax credits to businesses.
With regards to America’s growing education issues, the Commerce Department wants to use Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math (STEM) programs at college campuses to provide solutions. The Secretary firmly believes that future economic progress lies in green technology, and an increase in STEM spending will help provide an adequate workforce to meet future employer demands.
Lastly, infrastructure spending should not just encompass roads and bridges, but broad band internet access, according to the Commerce Department. Internet innovations over the last two decades have done wonders in disseminating information and allowing businesses to become more efficient. Therefore, if the government wants to bolster America’s competitiveness, broad band must become a focal point. Secretary Bryson argued that the government was responsible for much of the wealth created during the 19th and 20th centuries, and reminded the audience that countries who lack in investments and innovation, inevitably fall behind.
There’s no doubt that investments and innovation play a vital role in increasing living standards. Though the Commerce Department fails to understand that who does the investment spending and innovating is a significant distinction in the analysis. In contrast to the Secretary’s historical implications, the massive wealth generated during the industrial revolution was orchestrated by private savings and private investments.
When it came to Thomas Edison’s marvelous industrial research lab in Menlo Park and Henry Ford’s massive auto plant in River Rounge, it was private, not public dollars that financed these unprecedented facilities. Consequently, investments like these paid off in creating thousands of valuable inventions and innovations that we take for granted today. When private money is at stake, it’s more likely that value will be created for society, because few would risk their own money without a chance to profit. In light of Occupy Wall Street, the word profit has acquired a bad reputation. In absence of all the government subsidies and bailouts that now exist, profit making would simply mean that entrepreneurs were able to combine scarce resources in such a way that the value of what’s created outweighs the ingredients. Whereas government investments are likely to be politicized, unprofitable, and wasteful, i.e., Solyndra.
The Secretary stands correct in that private investment spending is lagging, but current policies are the cause and increasing government’s role will only worsen the situation. For some reason, when politicians speak of handing out money to finance pet projects, they neglect to mention that they have no money. In order for the government to give, it must first take away. With government spending at $3.6 trillion, the government consumes a great deal of money and resources that would have been saved and invested on profitable ventures. Before the existence of expensive entitlement programs like Social Security and the taxes that finance them, Americans had more money to save. Consequently, investment spending flourished and the middle class boomed.
Secretary Bryson concluded his speech by stating, “This administration does not have all the answers, but it has a role to play.” Unfortunately, the Secretary doesn’t realize that his first point negates the second. Two centuries ago, nobody could have imagined that wood and whale oil would be replaced by coal and petroleum. Conversely, it’s impossible to predict what will replace coal and petroleum and when. There has never been an era without scarcity and energy problems, but the solutions have and will always rest with the free market. In a sense, the government does have a role to play and it’s not to intervene in the free market, but to protect the life, liberty, and property of each individual.


A couple of years ago while at an IMFAR meeting I happened to attend a lecture on animal models in autism. The lecturer, a distinguished neuroscientist, made a point that similarities in brain parcellation and circuitry across species justified studies of autism in animal models. As I sat and watched the PowerPoint presentation it became quite clear to me that most of the analogies presented as facts were wrong.
Is the brain of a mouse similar to that of a human? Besides the obvious difference in size, the brain of mice lacks complexity in terms of gyrification. Some people even refer to the same as being “lissencephalic”, or relatively flat, especially when compared to the rich convolutional pattern of humans. The difference is of great importance when considering the blueprint of connectivity within our white matter. Below are examples of human (left) and mouse (right) brains, though not scaled to size.
The surface expansion of the human cortex is the product of supernumerary divisions of germinal cells that surround the cavities of the brain (ventricles). These germinal divisions in turn provide for an increased number of cell modules (minicolumns) within the cortex. In order for these minicolumns to function they need to contact a large number of adjacent modules. These connections are made through the white matter. Just to say that during encephalization (brain growth as compared to body size across species) the increase in white matter has surpassed that of gray matter. Here is a cross-section of cortex displaying the vertical alignments of cells known as minicolumns:
The increase in white matter during encephalization is the product of short connections linking adjacent parts of the cortex through so-called arcuate fibers, i.e., projections which form an arch between gyri. Otherwise larger connections, which are metabolically expensive to maintain, have been reduced in numbers. When making comparisons across species, larger brains usually have an increased number of short connections at the expense of longer ones. This disparity in connectivity has given rise to the phenomenon of cerebral dominance. In larger brain species, the two hemispheres do not connect their homologous areas through long -range connections. This allows them to behave independently and acquire different functions. The left hemisphere may therefore be responsible for language functions while the right hemisphere may be of better use for spatial reasoning.
The smaller brains of mice have a different pattern of white matter connectivity as compared to humans. However, anatomical differences do not end here. Mice also have a reduced number of brain parcellations as compared to humans. In effect, an area of the brain called the dorsolateral prefrontal cortex, repeatedly involved in the pathophysiology of autism, is completely absent in rodents! This area is responsible, in part, for executive functions.
At the microscopic level, there are many differences between the brains of mice and humans. When examining glass slides with brain slices cut at 35 microns, the cortex of mice is extremely cellular. The density in such slices may be approximately twice that seen in humans (approximating the density seen in our own visual cortex). There is a great deal of cellular overlap when examining the brains of mice and there is great difficulty in identifying elementary features of modularity, like minicolumns. This point is of importance as minicolumns have been involved in the pathophysiology of autism [1, 2].
It may be that an investigator may try to overcome the cellular morass observed in the brains of mice by using specialized stains. Immunocytochemistry may help identify individual cell types. Using a silver impregnation method Cajal was the first investigator to suggests that smaller neurons increased in proportion in larger brain species. These smaller neurons (interneurons) are inhibitory cells that appear to be reduced or malfunctioning in the brains of some autistic individuals. Abnormalities in these cells appear to account for the high prevalence of seizures among this patient population. Some of the interneurons implicated in the pathophysiology of autism (creating an excitatory-inhibitory imbalance), i.e., double bouquet cells, are completely absent in rodents!
The anatomical differences between the brains of mice and men are so fundamental that they should readily disqualify the use of this species for animal models. However, there are other reasons that minimize the importance of animal models in autism. One of them is that present day diagnostic criteria for autism rely exclusively in screening behavioral traits. Such a diagnosis is too crude to be used in animal models.
I often say jokingly in lectures that I have developed my own animal model of autism. Affected mice avoid social interactions, are grumpy, suffer from sparse communication, clumsy gait, and lack exploratory behaviors. The mouse model has social, communication, and motor abnormalities that could suggest the diagnosis of autism. In reality they all have a leg fracture. The example, naive and overly simplistic, calls into question a diagnosis of a human condition in animals based solely on behavioral criteria.
The significance of an animal model for autism should rely on a Turing test. I would suggest using a blinded examiner who would perform all sorts of behavioral tests in animals and then try to diagnose the condition it was meant to imitate. I doubt whether any single of the presently used animal models would pass such a test. Just to say that animal models copy a limited range of behaviors but seldom a human condition.
It is our obligation to examine how many of the research approaches we are funding actually provide for meaningful information. How do they provide a difference to our patients now, rather than enrich the imagination of researchers? Animal research in autism has thus far been based on a house of cards. It provides for potentially meaningless results that are easily discredited as long as our diagnostic definition lacks in terms of construct validity. It is of importance that we recognize the limitations of this approach. Thus far animal models have raised more questions as to their significance than provided answers of clinical significance to the conditions they imitate.
[Addendum 5/18/13 A recent article indicates that most studies on animal models are underpowered and statistically flawed. For the VPA animal model of autism about 91% of them have reported invalid findings. Stanley E Lazic and Laurent Essioux: Improving basic and translational science by accounting for litter-to-litter variation in animal models. BMC Neuroscience 2013, 14:37 or the following link http://www.biomedcentral.com/1471-2202/14/37/abstract ]
1.Casanova MF, Buxhoeveden D, Switala A, Roy E: Minicolumnar pathology in autism. Neurology, 58:428-432, 2002.
2. Casanova MF, van Kooten IAJ, Switala AE, van Engeland H, Heinsen H, Steinbusch HWM, Hof PR, Trippe J, Stone J, Schmitz C. Minicolumnar abnormalities in autism. Acta Neuropathologica 112(3):287-303, 2006.