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Opinion Column CBSA doesn’t deserve blame for in-custody death of Mexican national Pressure to conduct a full review and independent investigation into the apparent suicide of Lucia Jimenez in Canada Border Services Agency grew Wednesday as the BC Coroner confirmed the Mexican national was found hanging in a holding cell at YVR. (FOTOLIA) Topics Columnists Laila Yuile and Brent Stafford battle over the issues of the day. The winner of last week’s duel on the transit referendum was Laila with 64%. This week’s topic: Should the Canadian Border Services Agency be held responsible for the death of Lucia Vega Jimenez? Last Friday night, outside the Canadian Border Services Agency’s downtown Vancouver office, an estimated 100 people gathered to protest the death of Lucia Vega Jimenez while in CBSA custody. Jimenez, a Mexican national, was working illegally in Vancouver as a hotel cleaner. She had previously applied for refugee status, which was denied in 2010. After being deported to Mexico, she returned to Vancouver — living underground to avoid being deported again. In December, she was arrested by Transit Police for an unpaid fare. When her immigration status was discovered, she was detained and transferred to the CBSA facility at YVR to be deported. While in custody, Jimenez hung herself and she died eight days later in hospital. Who is to blame for the Jimenez death? In a discussion with a colleague of mine, it was suggested that Jimenez’s alleged boyfriend is culpable. It’s alleged this person stole her savings while she was in custody and failed to heed her request to bail her out before Christmas. Others point to what they describe as cruel and punitive conditions at immigration detention centres. Finally, some lay the blame directly at the feet of Citizenship and Immigration Canada and the CBSA. According to the website for No One Is Illegal Vancouver — the self-described radical group which organized Friday’s protest — Jimenez’s death is the latest in a series of suicides as a result of violent and exclusionary immigration and refugee policies. The CBSA is under direct fire for the death because Jimenez was in its custody. I don’t accept any of these arguments. Unless we learn different from the coroners service investigation, I don’t believe the CBSA should be held responsible for the death. Richmond RCMP investigated the incident and found there to be no criminal conduct. From what we now know, Jimenez was considered a short-term detainee and not on suicide watch. And according to Claudia Franco Hijuelos from the Mexican consulate, Jimenez was not alone and isolated, as the consulate ensured Jimenez had legal counsel and staff by her side from the beginning, attending to her requests and offering help and support. We should stop trying to assign blame when it comes to suicide. A person who commits such an act takes violence upon themselves. It’s impossible to understand what goes on in the mind of someone who attempts to take their own life. Brent Stafford is a veteran television news-documentary producer and marketing specialist. You can watch his show at ShakyPolitics.com. Poll Who wins this week's duel on CBSA's role on the death of Lucia Vega Jimenez? | Low | [
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Use of catalytic fluoride under neutral conditions for cleaving silicon-oxygen bonds. This Article describes the development of conditions for cleaving silicon-oxygen bonds using catalytic quantities of fluoride at neutral pH in mixed organic-aqueous solutions that contain buffer. A variety of silicon protecting groups can be removed under these conditions, which show tolerance for acid- and base-sensitive groups. A modified procedure also is presented using catalytic fluoride in anhydrous dimethyl sulfoxide-methanol, which generates primarily volatile silicon byproducts. | High | [
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Q: What is a "mysql client"? Ok, this might be a very stupid question, but please, explain what does mysql client mean? For example a PHP file, which connects to a MySQL database, is this a mysql client? or PHPMyAdmin, is this also a mysql client? A: MySQL client is something that connects to a database and does smth with it. E.g. you have a php code which connects to a database and retrieves information about users. So technically this code is a client because it creates mysql queries. | High | [
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Q: heightForRowAtIndexPath not displaying multiline heightForRowAtIndexPath is never displaying multiline when the text is longer than usual. Here is my code: #define FONT_SIZE 14.0f #define CELL_CONTENT_WIDTH 320.0f #define CELL_CONTENT_MARGIN 10.0f - (CGFloat)tableView:(UITableView *)tableView heightForRowAtIndexPath:(NSIndexPath *)indexPath { CGFloat result = 44.0f; CGFloat width = 0; CGFloat tableViewWidth; CGRect bounds = [UIScreen mainScreen].bounds; if (UIInterfaceOrientationIsPortrait(self.interfaceOrientation)) tableViewWidth = bounds.size.width; else tableViewWidth = bounds.size.height; width = tableViewWidth - 110; // fudge factor, 115 isn't quite right NSUInteger index = [indexPath row]; id doc = [[self displayedObjects] objectAtIndex:index]; NSString *title = [doc title]; if (title) { // The notes can be of any height // This needs to work for both portrait and landscape orientations. // Calls to the table view to get the current cell and the rect for the // current row are recursive and call back this method. CGSize textSize = { width, 20000.0f }; // width and height of text area CGSize size = [title sizeWithFont:[UIFont systemFontOfSize:14.0f] constrainedToSize:textSize lineBreakMode:UILineBreakModeWordWrap]; size.height += 29.0f; // top and bottom margin result = MAX(size.height, 44.0f); // at least one row } return result; } Any help will be really appreciated. Thanks! A: To make label show multiline text you must set its numberOfLines property to a maximum allowed number of lines (or to 0 for arbitrary lines number). So in cellForRowAtIndexPath: method when setup your cell add: ... cell.textLabel.numberOfLines = 0; ... | Mid | [
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Lane Alexander is the school guidance counselor at Hollywood Arts High School. Lane is a good guidance counselor, as he is seen often helping students with their problems and resolving their arguments, although he did question the students coming to him for help in The Great Ping Pong Scam. He is usually the one making the big announcements at school. He hates dry skin and can be seen in his office frequently applying lotion on his hands, which most fans call an obsession. Lane is the one who made the producers of The Wood leave because he thought it was becoming an issue with the students and disrupting the learning environment. Lane is often seen being very reluctant to help out the students most of the time as seen in an extended scene from Tori and Jade's Playdate when he wanted Cat and Robbie to tell a student that he was expelled from school. Lane is portrayed by Lane Napper. He has an account on TheSlap, which is where his last name was revealed. Trivia Lane Napper, who plays Lane (same name), is no stranger to Dan Schneider shows. He was seen in the iCarly episode iWas a Pageant Girl, as Sam's dance teacher Ernie and Drake & Josh in a deleted scene from Really Big Shrimp. Towards the end of Really Big Shrimp, he is seen dancing with Megan. He also appeared as the host of the Academic Bowl that Drake participated in during the episode Smart Girl. He has the same name as himself in real life. His name is Lane Napper. He is in the "Lotion of the Month Club." He makes cookies with extra gluten as mentioned in Beck's Big Break and happily allows Robbie to eat it after standing up to Rex... before Robbie revealed that he was allergic to gluten. According to André in a picture on TheSlap, he loves using excessive amounts of hand lotion, which he sprayed on Robbie and Trina in The Wood. He also uses many different scents, including bacon, pickle, cookies and cream, and sour cream and onion potato chip. According to The Bird Scene, Lane's office is repeatedly inhabited by a squirrel that he has Robbie and André remove with nuts and a net. The only one who has yet to have any type of interaction with Lane is Beck. He reveals on TheSlap that he has a brother who is a chiropractor that he hasn't spoken to in years. He originally wanted to be a Guy Dance Counselor or a weatherman. He drives a convertible, according to TheSlap. He appeared in 10 Season One episodes, 6 episodes in Season 2 (including the iCarly crossover, which is, in fact, only an episode of iCarly, but is in Victorious' Season 2 time-frame), 4 episodes in Season Three, and just one episode of Season Four. | Mid | [
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Q: Application crashes on different similator I know it sound stilly but this is what happening with my code, On simulator; application works on iPhone SE, iPhone 7 but all other device gives me an error. I don't understand. If the code is wrong then why it works on my different device on simulator func startTimer (){ timer = Timer.scheduledTimer(timeInterval:TimeInterval(timerBetweenNumbers) , target: self, selector: (#selector(PlayViewController.randomInt)), userInfo: nil, repeats: true) } ERROR : 2017-03-23 14:27:15.984926 Anzan[3249:129679] [aqme] 255: AQDefaultDevice (1): skipping input stream 0 0 0x0 fatal error: unexpectedly found nil while unwrapping an Optional value I am using Xcode 8 and Swift 3 Thanks in advance for help A: Thanks a lot for help Also I found the issue with my App. "TimerBetweenNumbers" value was suppose to be read from DataCore. I didn't know that in Xcode, each simulator device has his own DataCore. I thought DataCore was similar to SQL DataBase and no matter what device you use, they all read the same Database. | Mid | [
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Vac-Ex Designers, Contractors, and operatives endure a daily struggle in both locating and safely exposing Buried utilities. Whilst traditional shovel & excavator excavation techniques are still used daily to expose utilities we believe a healthy mix of Vac-Ex equipment can be introduced to minimise and eradicate the potential for strikes. We at Vac-Ex Ltd are committed to the development of a full range of Safe Excavation Equipment. There are many advantages of utilising the Vac-Ex technique over hand dig, but many are dependent on the type of work undertaking. | Mid | [
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Q: How to backup Lenovo Password Manager? I just configured some Tasks to backup my Notebook daylie. Now I'd like to include my Lenovo Password Manager. I took a look into the Help but I couldn't find anything besides exporting my data. I automated my backups so it would be a mess to have to export this manually. So my question is, if there is a file/profile which I can simply backup? If not, is there a way to do this via command-line? So far, thanks in advice. Best Regards. A: A solution using the Command Line: "...\Lenovo\Password Manager\pwm_utility.exe" /e filepath="somepath.pwm" password="somepassword" | Mid | [
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940 P.2d 695 (1997) 87 Wash.App. 144 Andrew MOFFITT, Appellant, v. CITY OF BELLEVUE, Respondent. No. 37456-7-I. Court of Appeals of Washington, Division 1. July 28, 1997. *696 Douglas L. Cowan, Jr., and Cowan, Hayne & Fox, Bellevue, for Appellant. Richard L. Andrews, City Atty., Jerome Yoshio Roache, Susan Rae Irwin, Bellevue City Atty., Bellevue, for Respondent. BECKER, Judge. The appellant, convicted of driving while intoxicated, argues the implied consent warnings he was given were defective. We conclude the warnings, which tracked the pertinent statutory language, were neither inaccurate nor misleading. In 1993 Andrew Moffitt was arrested for DWI. The arresting officer took Moffitt to the Bellevue Police Station for a breath test and gave him the implied consent warnings. Among the warnings, the officer told Moffitt that he had a right to additional tests "as provided in RCW 46.61.506." The officer also gave Moffitt a copy of that statute and read it aloud to him.[1] Moffitt moved to suppress the breath test results, claiming the implied consent warning was improper, inaccurate and misleading because it referred to the statute. The district court denied his motion. In a 1994 stipulated trial, the district court found Moffitt guilty of DWI. Moffitt appealed to the King County Superior Court, which affirmed his conviction. This court granted Moffitt's motion for discretionary review. The validity of implied consent warnings is a question of law. We review it de novo. Any person who operates a motor vehicle in Washington is deemed to have given consent to a test of his or her breath or blood to determine alcohol concentration.[2] That consent can be withdrawn before submitting to a test, on pain of forfeiting driving privileges. Before conducting a blood or breath test, a police officer must advise a DWI suspect of certain rights so that the driver can make an informed decision whether to submit to the test. Among other things, the officer must say: "if you take the breath or blood test, you have the right to additional tests administered by any qualified person of your own choosing."[3] It is reversible error if the officer modifies this warning by telling the arrestee the additional tests are "at your own expense".[4] Moffitt contends State v. Bartels sets forth a bright line rule, and any deviation from the rule requires suppression of the test results. That argument was rejected in Town of *697 Clyde Hill v. Rodriguez.[5] The officers of Clyde Hill informed the defendants they had the right to "one or more" tests rather than "additional" tests as stated in Bartels and RCW 46.20.308; and the officers did not preface the advisement with the language "if you take the breath or blood test" as written in Bartels.[6] Defendants argued the advice they received was confusing as to what type of tests they could take. The district court, agreeing, granted defendants' motions to suppress because the warning did not conform to the precise language of either RCW 46.61.506(5) or Bartels. The State appealed. The defendants argued Bartels set forth a bright line rule requiring the exact words to be used in a warning. They also argued the warning they received was invalid because it failed to refer to RCW 46.61.506. This court rejected both arguments, and reversed the suppression order. The court held a simple reference to one or more tests sufficiently informs the suspect that he may inquire further.[7] The Rodriguez court was concerned about confusing intoxicated persons by statutory references, but recognized that Bellevue's policy of supplying arrestees with a copy of RCW 46.61.506 was more meaningful than merely citing the statute.[8]Rodriguez suggests it is a "better approach" to wait for the arrestee to ask for more detailed information, but does not hold it is error to supply the additional information even when it is not requested. Under Rodriguez, the significant inquiry is whether the police supplied the arrestee with information that was not inaccurate or misleading. Warnings which are inaccurate or misleading "contravene the purpose of the implied consent warning and thus require suppression of the test results.... Where no different meaning is implied or conveyed, the defendant is not misled."[9] Moffitt contends the officer's reference to RCW 46.61.506 misleadingly suggested a limitation on the tests allowed because subsections three and four of the statute refer only to breath tests and blood tests, but not urine tests. But subsection five, addressing the arrestee's right to additional tests, clearly states a person may have one or more tests administered by a qualified person of his or her own choosing, in addition to any test administered by an officer. And subsection five provides, in part, "The foregoing provisions of this section shall not be construed as limiting the introduction of any other competent evidence bearing upon the question whether the person was under the influence of intoxicating liquor or any drug." The statute cannot reasonably be read as a limitation on the tests available. The warning Moffitt received does not track the language of Bartels verbatim, but it does track the language of RCW 46.20.308: "The officer shall inform the person of his or her right to ... have additional tests administered by any qualified person of his or her choosing as provided in RCW 46.61.506." The reference to RCW 46.61.506 is not inaccurateit is indeed the statute controlling the right to additional tests used to impeach a test conducted at the direction of the police. The arrestee gets the benefit of the exact words of the statute. This information may be boring or meaningless to a DWI arrestee under the circumstances, but it is neither inaccurate nor misleading. Moffitt's argument fails under Rodriguez. We agree it is important to retain statewide consistency in the implied consent warnings. Police are "not free to graft onto the implied consent statute any additional warnings not contained in the plain language of that statute."[10] But the necessary *698 consistency is not thwarted if some officers provide suspects a copy of the statute and others do not. We hold, consistent with Rodriguez, that reading RCW 49.61.506 and providing a copy to an arrestee is neither required nor prohibited. Affirmed. COLEMAN, J., and KENNEDY, Acting C.J., concur. NOTES [1] The implied consent statute, RCW 46.20.308, was amended in 1994. The City of Bellevue represents that it now gives the warnings as set forth in the amended statute rather than the warnings given in this case. [2] RCW 46.20.308. [3] State v. Bartels, 112 Wash.2d 882, 886, 774 P.2d 1183 (1989). [4] State v. Bartels, 112 Wash.2d at 888, 774 P.2d 1183. [5] Town of Clyde Hill v. Rodriguez, 65 Wash.App. 778, 831 P.2d 149 (1992). [6] Compare State v. Bartels, 112 Wash.2d at 886, 774 P.2d 1183, with Rodriguez, 65 Wash.App. at 779, 831 P.2d 149. [7] Rodriguez, 65 Wash.App. at 784 n. 4, 831 P.2d 149. [8] Rodriguez, 65 Wash.App. at 787 n. 7, 831 P.2d 149. [9] Rodriguez, 65 Wash.App. at 785, 831 P.2d 149. [10] State v. Bostrom, 127 Wash.2d 580, 587, 902 P.2d 157 (1995). | Mid | [
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LVX LVX System of Companies is the inventor of Visible Light Communication and Light Fidelity market. The LVX system is a collection of LED light bulbs and specialized equipment which allow the transmission of data through light photons- pulse width modulation (PWM) of the LED. The current speed at which the data is able to be transmitted is 3 Mbit/s. The goal of the LVX system is to free up wireless Wi-Fi spectrum which LVX asserts can be quite congested in some business areas. The 3 Mbit/s speed is slower than existing Wi-Fi technology, but the company is working on an improved LED which will be able to match the speeds of current Wi-Fi networks. The lights also have ability to transmit any specific colour along the spectrum. Because the lights are also communication devices, they could be directed through the LVX network to turn a certain colour to lead the way out of a building during emergencies or to a specific office. As well, lights could be directed to turn on and off as an energy savings measure. The communication and networking capabilities are marketed as an add-on or "bonus" to the energy savings and maintenance inherited by LED lights in general as compared to fluorescent or incandescent light bulbs. LVX sells maintenance contracts in which LVX will be responsible for the 24/7 maintenance of the lights. External links References Category:Technology companies of the United States Category:Light-emitting diode manufacturers Category:Year of establishment missing Category:Companies based in Minnesota | High | [
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/* Capstone Disassembler Engine */ /* By Nguyen Anh Quynh <[email protected]>, 2018 */ #include <stdio.h> #include <stdlib.h> #include <capstone/platform.h> #include <capstone/capstone.h> static csh handle; struct platform { cs_arch arch; cs_mode mode; unsigned char *code; size_t size; const char *comment; }; static void print_string_hex(const char *comment, unsigned char *str, size_t len) { unsigned char *c; printf("%s", comment); for (c = str; c < str + len; c++) { printf("0x%02x ", *c & 0xff); } printf("\n"); } static void print_insn_detail(csh cs_handle, cs_insn *ins) { cs_evm *evm; // detail can be NULL on "data" instruction if SKIPDATA option is turned ON if (ins->detail == NULL) return; evm = &(ins->detail->evm); if (evm->pop) printf("\tPop: %u\n", evm->pop); if (evm->push) printf("\tPush: %u\n", evm->push); if (evm->fee) printf("\tGas fee: %u\n", evm->fee); if (ins->detail->groups_count) { int j; printf("\tGroups: "); for(j = 0; j < ins->detail->groups_count; j++) { printf("%s ", cs_group_name(handle, ins->detail->groups[j])); } printf("\n"); } } static void test() { #define EVM_CODE "\x60\x61\x50" struct platform platforms[] = { { CS_ARCH_EVM, 0, (unsigned char *)EVM_CODE, sizeof(EVM_CODE) - 1, "EVM" }, }; uint64_t address = 0x80001000; cs_insn *insn; int i; size_t count; for (i = 0; i < sizeof(platforms)/sizeof(platforms[0]); i++) { cs_err err = cs_open(platforms[i].arch, platforms[i].mode, &handle); if (err) { printf("Failed on cs_open() with error returned: %u\n", err); abort(); } cs_option(handle, CS_OPT_DETAIL, CS_OPT_ON); count = cs_disasm(handle, platforms[i].code, platforms[i].size, address, 0, &insn); if (count) { size_t j; printf("****************\n"); printf("Platform: %s\n", platforms[i].comment); print_string_hex("Code:", platforms[i].code, platforms[i].size); printf("Disasm:\n"); for (j = 0; j < count; j++) { printf("0x%" PRIx64 ":\t%s\t%s\n", insn[j].address, insn[j].mnemonic, insn[j].op_str); print_insn_detail(handle, &insn[j]); } printf("0x%" PRIx64 ":\n", insn[j-1].address + insn[j-1].size); // free memory allocated by cs_disasm() cs_free(insn, count); } else { printf("****************\n"); printf("Platform: %s\n", platforms[i].comment); print_string_hex("Code:", platforms[i].code, platforms[i].size); printf("ERROR: Failed to disasm given code!\n"); abort(); } printf("\n"); cs_close(&handle); } } int main() { test(); return 0; } | Mid | [
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using SharpBgfx; using System; using System.Collections.Generic; using System.IO; using System.Reflection; using System.Runtime.CompilerServices; using System.Runtime.InteropServices; namespace Common { public static class ResourceLoader { static readonly string ExePath = Path.GetDirectoryName(Assembly.GetEntryAssembly().Location); static readonly string RootPath = Path.Combine(ExePath, "../../../../Assets/"); static string GetShaderPath() { switch (Bgfx.GetCurrentBackend()) { case RendererBackend.Direct3D11: case RendererBackend.Direct3D12: return Path.Combine(ExePath, "bin", "dx11"); case RendererBackend.OpenGL: return Path.Combine(ExePath, "bin", "glsl"); default: throw new InvalidOperationException("Unsupported renderer backend."); } } public static Shader LoadShader(string name) { var path = Path.Combine(GetShaderPath(), name) + ".bin"; var mem = MemoryBlock.FromArray(File.ReadAllBytes(path)); return new Shader(mem); } public static Program LoadProgram(string vsName, string fsName) { var vsh = LoadShader(vsName); var fsh = LoadShader(fsName); return new Program(vsh, fsh, true); } public static Program LoadProgram(string csName) { var csh = LoadShader(csName); return new Program(csh, true); } public static Texture LoadTexture(string name) { var path = Path.Combine(RootPath, "textures/", name); var mem = MemoryBlock.FromArray(File.ReadAllBytes(path)); return Texture.FromFile(mem, TextureFlags.None, 0); } public unsafe static Mesh LoadMesh(string fileName) { var path = Path.Combine(RootPath, "meshes/", fileName); var groups = new List<MeshGroup>(); var group = new MeshGroup(); VertexLayout layout = null; using (var reader = new MemoryReader(File.ReadAllBytes(path))) { while (!reader.Done) { var tag = reader.Read<uint>(); if (tag == ChunkTagVB) { // skip bounding volume info reader.Skip(BoundingVolumeSize); layout = ReadVertexLayout(reader); var vertexCount = reader.Read<ushort>(); var vertexData = reader.ReadArray<byte>(vertexCount * layout.Stride); group.VertexBuffer = new VertexBuffer(MemoryBlock.FromArray(vertexData), layout); } else if (tag == ChunkTagIB) { var indexCount = reader.Read<uint>(); var indexData = reader.ReadArray<ushort>((int)indexCount); group.IndexBuffer = new IndexBuffer(MemoryBlock.FromArray(indexData)); } else if (tag == ChunkTagPri) { // skip material name var len = reader.Read<ushort>(); reader.Skip(len); // read primitive data var count = reader.Read<ushort>(); for (int i = 0; i < count; i++) { // skip name len = reader.Read<ushort>(); reader.Skip(len); var prim = reader.Read<Primitive>(); group.Primitives.Add(prim); // skip bounding volumes reader.Skip(BoundingVolumeSize); } groups.Add(group); group = new MeshGroup(); } } } return new Mesh(layout, groups); } static VertexLayout ReadVertexLayout(MemoryReader reader) { var layout = new VertexLayout(); layout.Begin(); var attributeCount = reader.Read<byte>(); var stride = reader.Read<ushort>(); for (int i = 0; i < attributeCount; i++) { var e = reader.Read<VertexElement>(); var usage = attributeUsageMap[e.Attrib]; layout.Add(usage, e.Count, attributeTypeMap[e.AttribType], e.Normalized != 0, e.AsInt != 0); if (layout.GetOffset(usage) != e.Offset) throw new InvalidOperationException("Invalid mesh data; vertex attribute offset mismatch."); } layout.End(); if (layout.Stride != stride) throw new InvalidOperationException("Invalid mesh data; vertex layout stride mismatch."); return layout; } static uint MakeFourCC(char a, char b, char c, char d) { return a | ((uint)b << 8) | ((uint)c << 16) | ((uint)d << 24); } const int BoundingVolumeSize = 26 * sizeof(float); static readonly uint ChunkTagVB = MakeFourCC('V', 'B', ' ', '\x1'); static readonly uint ChunkTagIB = MakeFourCC('I', 'B', ' ', '\0'); static readonly uint ChunkTagPri = MakeFourCC('P', 'R', 'I', '\0'); [StructLayout(LayoutKind.Sequential, Pack = 1)] struct VertexElement { public ushort Offset; public ushort Attrib; public byte Count; public ushort AttribType; public byte Normalized; public byte AsInt; } static readonly Dictionary<ushort, VertexAttributeType> attributeTypeMap = new Dictionary<ushort, VertexAttributeType> { { 0x1, VertexAttributeType.UInt8 }, { 0x2, VertexAttributeType.Int16 }, { 0x3, VertexAttributeType.Half }, { 0x4, VertexAttributeType.Float } }; static readonly Dictionary<ushort, VertexAttributeUsage> attributeUsageMap = new Dictionary<ushort, VertexAttributeUsage> { { 0x1, VertexAttributeUsage.Position }, { 0x2, VertexAttributeUsage.Normal }, { 0x3, VertexAttributeUsage.Tangent }, { 0x4, VertexAttributeUsage.Bitangent }, { 0x5, VertexAttributeUsage.Color0 }, { 0x6, VertexAttributeUsage.Color1 }, { 0x18, VertexAttributeUsage.Color2 }, { 0x19, VertexAttributeUsage.Color3 }, { 0xe, VertexAttributeUsage.Indices }, { 0xf, VertexAttributeUsage.Weight }, { 0x10, VertexAttributeUsage.TexCoord0 }, { 0x11, VertexAttributeUsage.TexCoord1 }, { 0x12, VertexAttributeUsage.TexCoord2 }, { 0x13, VertexAttributeUsage.TexCoord3 }, { 0x14, VertexAttributeUsage.TexCoord4 }, { 0x15, VertexAttributeUsage.TexCoord5 }, { 0x16, VertexAttributeUsage.TexCoord6 }, { 0x17, VertexAttributeUsage.TexCoord7 } }; } unsafe class MemoryReader : IDisposable { GCHandle handle; byte* ptr; byte* end; public bool Done { get { return ptr >= end; } } public MemoryReader(byte[] memory) { handle = GCHandle.Alloc(memory, GCHandleType.Pinned); ptr = (byte*)handle.AddrOfPinnedObject(); end = ptr + memory.Length; } public T Read<T>() { T result = Unsafe.Read<T>(ptr); ptr += Unsafe.SizeOf<T>(); return result; } public T[] ReadArray<T>(int count) { var result = new T[count]; var asBytes = Unsafe.As<byte[]>(result); int byteCount = count * Unsafe.SizeOf<T>(); fixed (void* dest = asBytes) Unsafe.CopyBlock(dest, ptr, (uint)byteCount); ptr += byteCount; return result; } public void Skip(int bytes) { ptr += bytes; } public void Dispose() { handle.Free(); } } } | Mid | [
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Characteristics of a group of adolescents undergoing loop electrical excision procedure (LEEP). To describe the sociodemographic characteristics of a cohort of adolescents undergoing loop electrosurgical excision procedure (LEEP) of the cervix, and to determine if LEEP is a safe and effective procedure for evaluation and treatment of high-grade squamous intraepithelial lesions (HSIL) of the cervix in adolescents. Case series of all adolescents who underwent LEEP between 1995 and 1997 at Children's Hospital, Boston, MA. Medical and laboratory records were reviewed to assess baseline characteristics and the following outcomes: (1) LEEP pathology results, (2) postoperative complications, (3) pregnancy outcomes, (4) compliance with follow-up appointments, and (5) recurrence of disease over a 12- to 37-month period. Thirty-five adolescents underwent LEEP. The mean age of the adolescents at the time of LEEP was 17.9 +/- 1.5 yrs. The mean interval between coitarche and LEEP was 3.69 +/- 2.09 yrs. On preoperative colposcopy, 28 (80%) had HSIL on biopsy, 3 (8.6%) had HSIL on Pap smear with a discordant biopsy demonstrating low-grade squamous intraepithelial lesion (LSIL), 1 (2.9%) had a persistent LSIL, 2 (5.6%) had diffuse LSIL with an unsatisfactory colposcopy, and 1 (2.9%) had a HSIL Pap smear with a normal biopsy. LEEP specimen histopathology results were: HSIL in 19 (54%), LSIL in 10 (29%), SIL difficult to grade in 3 (9%), and no residual disease in 3 (9.0%). Postoperative complications were bleeding in 2 (5.7%), pain in 1 (2.9%), vaginal discharge in 1 (2.9%), cervicitis in 3 (8.6%), and endometritis in 2 (5.7%). Fourteen pregnancies were diagnosed after LEEP; no spontaneous abortions occurred. Mean follow-up period was 21.1 +/- 9.4 months. Compliance with follow-up appointments was 51% in the first 12 months post-LEEP and 26% in the second 12 months post-LEEP. Of the 28 patients followed for 12 months or more, there was one recurrence of HSIL confirmed by colposcopy and biopsy. Outcome and complications of LEEP in adolescent females are similar to those reported in larger series of adult women. LEEP appears to be a safe and effective procedure for the evaluation and treatment of HSIL of the cervix in adolescents, but additional long-term data are needed. | Mid | [
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Crystal Ball: Team showed it could play without Big man Nathan Holz other players must step up to fill the void this team led by Mindy Minhas are serious challengers to take that Vancouver title away from reigning champs Kitsilano Crystal Ball: WRCA has yet to play a top team in the province but with the roster depth at hand their starting 5 is tough to match up with at all positions add in PG Tyus Allan to the mix and WRCA should be a force in the Valley first real test RCMP tournament. Crystal Ball: This team on some nights can shoot the other team right out of the gym there uptempo style and smooth shooting have kept them at the top of their league and still one of the premier teams in the province despite the absence of last years MVP Luka Bazooka. Crystal Ball: This team has the size and the outside shooting to beat anyone on any given night when this team is hot they are extremely tough to beat look for them come playoffs 6) SMUS Overview: Winner of SMUS Playday Key wins: VC, Oak Bay Key Losses: Burnaby South Crystal Ball: This team is a great shooting team and can really stroke the ball from the outside they lack an elite big man but have the guards to make up for it led by Mark Yorath smart squad don’t make many mistakes and really work hard as a unit look for them to continue to be the top team off the Island Crystal Ball: This team continues to impress a team with great scoring guards and tough team defines have become the Dark horse to win it all out of the Valley don’t sleep on this team or you will get burned could be the province’s hardest working team 8) Kelowna Overview: 2nd Place finishers Emerald Tournament Key wins: Oak Bay, Pitt Key Losses: VC Crystal Ball: This team will be the top team coming out of their region and will be the tough team to beat come provincials team proved they could play by beating a top team in Pitt Meadows and holding their own against Vancouver college This is a a team to keep an eye on. 9) Burnaby South Overview: 5th Place Drive classic, 3rd Place Emerald Tournament Key wins: VC, Kits, SMUS Key Losses: Churchill, McMath Crystal Ball: This young squad continues to show they can compete with the best of the best. They have had some very big wins as well as some suspect losses this team needs to develop consistency but they are showing the have what it takes to be near the top Crystal Ball: This uptempo team continues to work hard and have found a lot of early success after a meltdown at the Drive classic have really bounced back strong and hope to continue to move up the ladder and overtake Burnett as the City champions come playoff time. | Mid | [
0.5870646766169151,
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Q: how to append tags in xml in android? and how save that xml file? i would like to append a new tag with some attributes with those values in to xml file and save that xml file through my application.i have written a method for append a new tag as child to xml file which is available in sdcard of android emulator.the following method for append a new tag as follows public void appendTag(){ try{ DocumentBuilderFactory docBuilderFactory = DocumentBuilderFactory.newInstance(); DocumentBuilder docBuilder = docBuilderFactory.newDocumentBuilder(); Document doc = docBuilder.parse (new File("/sdcard/sample.xml")); Node node = doc.getElementsByTagName("earth").item(0); //append a new node to earth Element newelmnt = doc.createElement("new"); newelmnt.appendChild(doc.createTextNode("this is a text")); node.appendChild(newelmnt); } catch (Exception e) { e.printStackTrace(); } } after execution of this method i can't able to find a new tag in xml file. could please any one help on how to append new tag as child in xml file and how save the modification? if i uses TransformerFactory i am getting error as ERROR/AndroidRuntime(13479): java.lang.VerifyError: com.sample.xmlapp.DOMClass i have used as follows TransformerFactory factory = TransformerFactory.newInstance(); Transformer transformer = factory.newTransformer(); DOMSource source = new DOMSource(doc); StreamResult result = new StreamResult(new File("/sdcard/sample.xml")); transformer.transform(source, result); A: Your in memory document will be changed, but you will need to write it to a file again. Try adding this for writing the document to the file again: TransformerFactory factory = TransformerFactory.newInstance(); Transformer transformer = factory.newTransformer(); DOMSource source = new DOMSource(doc); StreamResult result = new StreamResult(new File("/sdcard/sample.xml")); transformer.transform(source, result); | Mid | [
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We are trying to increase populations of the berry bee, Osmia aglaia, for pollination of cane fruit in the Pacific Northwest. Follow our progress... Thursday, June 23, 2011 Bees in the field, May 10, 2011 Rosie sent me an e-mail on May 10 with this message: Hi KarenPut some out yesterday and the rest today. Everybody wants out so I hope ok. Black rasp. not in bloom yet. Blues real real close nice day would do it I was standing at shelter when I took the pictures of the fields close by. Some dandelions by shelter they are thick this year. Need to put out rest of nests for them also.Rosie Both Osmialignaria and O. aglaia were coming out of their cocoons despite the lousy weather and lack of raspberry bloom, so it was time to get them into the field. The photos are from her cell phone. At the top are two images from the shelters in the raspberry fields showing the nests and emergence containers with bees coming out. Below is a close up of the O. aglaia cocoons and adults in one emergence container (actually, a cottage cheese container with an emergence hole). Rosie saw blue orchard bees on the dandelions in bloom near the shelter. Here's a male O. lignaria.The black raspberries that were in the field east of our main bee shelter, where the webcam is located, were pulled out last fall. Don Sturm is planning to plant blueberries in this field, although he says he will plant some black raspberries close to the bee shelter so we can see them from the webcam. Some blueberries have already been planted at the far east end of the field, and 100 yards southeast of the bee shelter. The rectangle of lighter colored soil on the right side of this picture is the closest blueberry field. As you can see, there was plenty of mud available for the orchard bees that day. The blueberry plants were in bloom in May, along with the dandelion. I think there is an orchard bee in one of the flowers on the right side of the plant, an inflorescence under the dandelions. It would be nice if the orchard bees proved to be good blueberry pollinators. | Mid | [
0.5985576923076921,
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Q: Media Source Extensions appendBuffer of WebM stream in random order I am trying to achieve video downloading in parallel from multiple sources. However MSE appendBuffer method always fails when not following sequence order of video file. I would like to append parts in random order and play video "as soon as possible". I was exploring SourceBuffer mode property as well as timestampOffset. None of those were helpful. I am wondering if source webm file i have could be in "not supported format" for such a task (sequential approach works fine). source video file Thank you for any advices. UPDATE: I tried to analyse well known example video file and i figured out that it is possible to append parts of it out of order. Seems like it is necessary to follow Cluster byte ranges: <Cluster type="list" offset="4357"> <Timecode type="uint" value="0"/> <SimpleBlock type="binary" size="7723" trackNum="1" timecode="0" presentationTimecode="0" flags="80"/> <SimpleBlock type="binary" size="5" trackNum="2" timecode="0" presentationTimecode="0" flags="80"/> ... </Cluster> <Cluster type="list" offset="16187"> <Timecode type="uint" value="385"/> <SimpleBlock type="binary" size="5" trackNum="2" timecode="0" presentationTimecode="385" flags="80"/> <SimpleBlock type="binary" size="4968" trackNum="1" timecode="13" presentationTimecode="398" flags="80"/> ... </Cluster> A: After digging into webm format specification, compiling libwebm tools and studying DASH i finally figured out how to make MSE appendBuffer working in any order! ffmpeg -i result.webm -g 10 -c:v libvpx resultClusters.webm (you can also use libvpx-vp9) mkvmuxer_sample -i resultClusters.webm -o resultRepaired.webm mse_json_manifest resultRepaired.webm >> manifest.json You will get on stdout something like: { "type": "video/webm; codecs=\"vp8\"", "duration": 27771.000000, "init": { "offset": 0, "size": 258}, "media": [ { "offset": 258, "size": 54761, "timecode": 0.000000 }, { "offset": 55019, "size": 166431, "timecode": 2.048000 }, { "offset": 221450, "size": 49258, "timecode": 4.130000 }, { "offset": 270708, "size": 29677, "timecode": 6.148000 }, { "offset": 300385, "size": 219929, "timecode": 8.232000 }, { "offset": 520314, "size": 25132, "timecode": 10.335000 }, { "offset": 545446, "size": 180777, "timecode": 12.440000 }, { "offset": 726223, "size": 76107, "timecode": 14.471000 }, { "offset": 802330, "size": 376557, "timecode": 14.794000 }, { "offset": 1178887, "size": 247138, "timecode": 16.877000 }, { "offset": 1426025, "size": 78468, "timecode": 18.915000 }, { "offset": 1504493, "size": 25614, "timecode": 20.991000 }, { "offset": 1530107, "size": 368277, "timecode": 23.093000 }, { "offset": 1898384, "size": 382847, "timecode": 25.097000 }, { "offset": 2281231, "size": 10808, "timecode": 27.135000 } ] } Now all you have to do is firstly load metadata xhr.setRequestHeader("Range", "bytes=0-257"); and then in ANY ORDER all other segments. E.g. second segment range is 55019-221449 bytes. Explanation: The most important thing is ffmpeg reencoding with group of frames set to the size of cluster you would like to have. In this example i choose pretty low threshold (each 10 frames) but you can choose higher causing fewer clusters are generated (less items in "media" array). After that you have to fix cues in the classic way (using sample_muxer from libwebm) and you are ready to go. Tested on: Chrome 51, Firefox 47. | Mid | [
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30.25,
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**Abstract** One of the main symptoms of major depressive disorder is an inability to experience pleasure, anhedonia. Dopaminergic neurons projecting from the ventral tegmental area (VTA) to the nucleus accumbens (NAc) constitute the brain reward system. Various kinds of rewards and drugs of abuse elevate the dopamine (DA) release in the NAc, which is considered to be important to generate pleasant emotion. In the animal models of depression, sucrose preference is reported to be reduced, and this reduction is thought to be due to the suppression of VTA dopaminergic neurons. In this study, using a chronic mild stress (CMS) model which is one of the animal models of depression, we examined the influence of CMS on reward-induced DA release in the NAc and the effect of SSRI treatment on the alteration of DA release induced by CMS. Male Sprague-Dawley rats (4 week old at the start of CMS) were exposed to CMS for 4 weeks. Then, escitalopram (10 mg/kg/day) or vehicle was intraperitoneally administered for 3 weeks. Extracellular DA levels in the NAc were measured using an *in vivo* microdialysis technique, and reward (30% sucrose water)-induced DA release was examined. In the non-CMS groups, the reward elevated extracellular DA levels regardless of presence or absence of SSRI treatment. In the CMS group without SSRI treatment, the reward-induced DA release disappeared. Chronic treatment with escitalopram recovered the reward-induced DA release in the CMS group. These results suggest the possibility that the reward-induced DA release in the NAc is useful for an index to quantitatively evaluate the anhedonic condition and the effect of SSRI treatment. | High | [
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Q: Strength of doweled miter joint I am looking to build a TV stand like this: but I have been trying to find a way to hide the end grain. I found this stand on Crate & Barrel with dovetail joints, but I am not nearly skilled enough to cut all those dovetails! Could the dovetailed joints on the C&B stand be replaced with doweled miter joints like: I would keep the other two butt jointed vertical supports as well (and maybe route shallow grooves in the horizontal boards for the vertical supports to fit in). I could also include a board on the back of the stand like the C&B model. I plan to use 1x8 (joined into 1x16) pine for the boards and something like this walnut dowel rod. There is a relevant discussion here as well. I don't have great access to a table saw, but this joint looks like a good contender: Also I found this table: with a quick search, so it looks like there is precedence for this design, but I am concerned about the integrity of the joint considering there will be a TV on top of this stand. Will these joints, along with the other support pieces, be strong enough? A: I have been trying to find a way to hide the end grain. I found this stand on Crate & Barrel with dovetail joints, but I am not nearly skilled enough to cut all those dovetails! Dovetails don't hide end grain anyway, they make a feature of it so if you don't want to see any end grain they aren't the right choice. And by the same token neither would a box joint or finger/comb joint. Could the dovetailed joints on the C&B stand be replaced with doweled miter joints In theory yes, but in practice perhaps not. The main problem here as I see it is not the joint you propose but that it's in pine. I regularly sing the praises of softwood and remind people that it can be surprisingly strong, but use in this design could well be expecting too much of it. This isn't because it's pine, but because of the specific pine you're likely intending to buy. In addition to there being numerous subspecies of pine, which vary widely in strength, the faster you grow any softwood the weaker it is. And pine sold for building (2x material) is grown as fast as possible and is therefore often the poorest example of the species. While more utilitarian furniture designs built using it can be plenty strong, once you get into more experimental territory like this you're really pushing what the wood is capable of, both in terms of strength and in stability*. and maybe route shallow grooves in the horizontal boards for the vertical supports to fit in Yes, do that. Regardless of what wood you used it would be a good idea. Housing the uprights like this will add a significant amount of stiffness to the overall structure, far more than you may realise. *In addition to its innate weakness it is often not dried well (both too quickly and not taken down far enough as a rule, simply because neither are required for its intended purpose) and then on top of this it is frequently stored poorly where it's sold. | Mid | [
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While I think it’s pretty dumb to wear fur at this point, I also think it’s kind of mean to pick on poor Queen Elizabeth II. QEII wore some kind of (fox?) fur hat on Christmas day, plus a coat with a matching fur trim. And now PETA and various British animal rights groups are all up in arms. QEII is really old, though – my point being that she probably still thinks she’s living in a time when fur trimmings are considered the height of fashion. Plus, it’s really cold. What is she supposed to wear to church, polar fleece? Eh. Here’s more from The Daily Mail: The Queen and the Duchess of Cornwall came under fire from animal rights campaigners yesterday after they both wore fur hats on Christmas Day. The Russian-style hats they wore to attend a church service in Sandringham with other members of the Royal Family were made from fur from different types of fox, claimed experts. The Cossack-style hat worn by Camilla was made from ‘vintage fur’, by designer milliner Philip Treacy, using a piece of fur which had previously belonged to the duchess’s mother. A spokesman for the Queen said she could not confirm if Her Majesty’s cream-coloured hat and matching coat trim were made from real fur but experts said they were convinced it was. Many fashion designers continue to use fur in their collections, and campaigners have expressed fears that it has come back into style. They have called on celebrities and members of the Royal Family to ‘set a good example’ by choosing not to wear animal pelts. The Queen has worn fur in the past and her official robes for State occasions are trimmed with ermine, the winter coat of the stoat. Camilla faced anger from animal rights organisations last year, when she wore fur twice during an official visit to Canada. First she wore a grey rabbit stole when she visited Newfoundland, together with a hat trimmed with fake fur. She then donned a calf-length cape lined with grey fox fur. Both pieces were said to have been ‘refashioned’ from vintage fur that had belonged to her grandmother, Sonia Cubitt, Baroness Ashcombe, whose mother, Alice Keppel, was a mistress of Edward VII. The ethical question of ‘recycling’ vintage fur has split opinion, but Mr Tyler said: ‘It doesn’t matter when the animal was killed, it’s a body part and a product of cruelty.’ In 2000 Prince Edward’s wife Sophie apologised after she was seen wearing a fox fur hat. The Countess of Wessex said her decision to wear the hat on a skiing holiday in St Moritz, Switzerland, was ‘an error of judgment’. Legislation to ban fur farming in Britain was passed that same year following a lengthy campaign highlighting the physical and psychological distress suffered by animals in some fur farms. However, it remains legal to import fur and in China, now the world’s leading fur exporter, millions of animals who are killed for their fur are often skinned alive, according to the campaign group People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals. A Peta spokesman said: ‘Britain is a nation of animal lovers and more than 90 per cent of Britons refuse to wear fur. We hope that Her Majesty will choose to wear something more humane in future, that better reflects the values of the British people.’ Should the Queen “set a good example”? Sure. They’re doing great things with faux fur (I have a faux snow leopard hoodie that the Queen can borrow!), and it would be cool to see the Queen embrace faux fur. Also – we have no proof that she’s wearing real fur, you know? Sure, it looks like real fur, and it probably is. But I await the Queen’s official statement, I’m just saying. I know she’s old & the queen so she can do whatever, but that’s really no excuse for wearing fur (if it is real fur). She’s on facebook, has more than a few tvs(I’m sure), so she should be aware of how offensive this is to most people. People get way too up in arms about fur. There are loads of people who go nuts over someone wearing fur and yet they never say anything about leather shoes or people eating meat. I say, if the animal is going to be killed anyway, it’s better to use all the parts. And, besides, it’s fox fur, not white tiger. PETA should give props to the Queen for wearing vintage fur that’s actually recycling. I really hate PETA because instead of educating people about animal torture and real abuses they go after public figuires in the nastiest way meanwhile Pamela Anderson one of their spokespeople is driving around in a car with leather seats oh well. I don’t get it. Unless you are vegan, why is fur any different than wearing leather or eating steak? Should we only eat animals and not wear them? Is wearing them extra barbaric? Does that somehow cross the line? The whole anti-fur thing is so irrational. Unless you’re willing to live the vegan lifestyle, you’re being a tad disingenuous. @Giddified I get what you’re saying but in most cases these animals were not going to be killed anyway… after all I don’t think many people eat fox or stoat. That’s the difference between fur and leather IMO. Also, the majority of fur these days comes from China, where animal welfare standards are pretty much non-existent. The animals are raised in conditions that would not be accepted if they were being bred for meat in any western country. I’m not a PETA supporter but I think the whole business is pretty nasty and perhaps those who choose to wear fur should find out a bit more about its origins before making that decision. Fur farming is particularly cruel, especially in China where most fur imports come from these days and there are no guidelines for ensuring animals are 100% dead prior to skinning. Get your facts straight before you say it’s not a big deal. It is to a lot of living creatures… Maybe just not to you.. Just because you find PETA annoying doesn’t mean we should all jump on the “fur is fine” bandwagon either. My daughter gets disgusted by fur (she threw away an old rabbit coat given to her by her aunt a few years ago because she couldn’t sleep with it in her closet). When she cried and asked why people kill bunnies and minks to wear as coats, I told her that fur is really only worn by old ladies and the clueless at this point and I guess the old queen fits that bill about right. Be careful about faux fur, especially if the garmet is made in China. Most of Chinese “faux” fur is actually racoon dog that is passed off as fake. There was a big story last year about Diddy and JayZ’s clothing lines containing racoon dog that was falsely labeled as fake fur. The designers weren’t even aware, or more likely pretended not to know when the story broke. The animals are treated horribly in the fur industry and some raccoon dogs in China are skinned alive, just like animals are abused on factory farms, which is why we use neither fur or factory farmed meat. Not a PETA member or supporter, but there is no reason to torture animals and cause them pain. It shows a complete lack of humanity and feeling that is just disgusting. There is NO reason for animal cruelity, even if the animal will ultimately be used for food or clothing. To me, killing an animal just for clothing is tantamount to “hunters” who shoot animals in the forest and leave the animal to rot or just take the head to hang on the wall without using the meat. No reason for it. At all. This isn’t 1000 years ago when there were no other warm fabrics and people could only stay warm wearing a bear’s hide. Poster 17: One thing I can guarantee you is that people in PETA are not gobbling hamburgers. Second, the fur in question is from an animal killed purely for its pelt, not for food. If you knew how some of those animals are killed to preserve the pelt, you might see a point to the anti fur statements. All that being said, I think recycling vintage fur is a great idea rather than killing now. There’s a ton of old coats, stoles, hats, blah blah that could be reworked. So you could wear fur and still get props for not killing an animal for it. BUT, what I’m really blown away by . . . (the Queen in fur? That’s like Prince in platorm boots; you expect it!) is she’s wearing BOOTS!! And not wellies either. I don’t necesserily like that people wear real fur but out of curiosity, is faux fur as soft and warm as real fur? I would think not. For some reason, I forgive the Queen for wearing fur. What is she supposed to do with all the existing luxurious fur she already has in her closet? Throw it out or let it collect dust? I don’t think so. I’m sure that is not a brand new fur coat… the Queen is not that insensitive.. she is from a time when fur was worn ALL THE TIME. At least she’s not wasting the beauty of the coat because she’s afraid of the back lash. I think she looks awesome and I also love her boots Old people have had their furs for who knows how long and they probably don’t know or care that it’s not really the fashion anymore. I don’t wear fur because it’s hot and itchy-in my opinion. But I don’t begrudge old people who have taken care of their furs and still wear them. Especially in colder climates. She’s 80+ and wearing some fur she’s probably had re-purposed. first of all, i am amazed at people ‘forgiving’ the queen for wearing fur. Excuse me, but were you the one suffering in the fur farms? gosh this is ridicululous. second, there is a huge difference in wearing leather and fur. the same difference between eating meat or veal. I dont wear or eat any, but I can understand that it is difficult to find shoes that are not leather, or that people do not want to give up meat, even though i think people should take responsability for all the environmental consequences involved. fur and veal involve extreme levels of cruelty and pain towards animals, and there is not need for that, because they can be easily substituted. Ifyou dont care about all the suffering of animals just so that you can wear a little softer fur or eat a little tender meat, so i honestly think you are extremely egocentric and cruel. third, stop the idiotic comments about peta people eating hamburgers, i am sure all these people involved in animal rights organizations are deeply concerned about the issue and live accordingly. and if peta kill animals it is because unfortunately many people still prefer to buy pets rather than adopting them, so how do you hold one organization responsable for all those abandoned dogs and cats? it is nit even logical. they have to kill becuase there is no way they can keep all of them. at least i believe they dont employ cruel methods. grazi: “they have to kill becuase there is no way they can keep all of them.” No they don’t actually. They could spend the millions they give to celebrities to pose nude for their ridiculous campaigns to sheltering and feeding the animals at no-kill shelters. That is, if they really did care about the thousands upon thousands of dogs and cats they “humanely” put down every year. Dogs and cats that, had they REALLY cared, they would have attempted to find homes for instead of euthanizing them and tossing them in garbage cans. When I was little (I’m 46 now), my mom (who was born in 1925-I was”the mistake”) had this hard core mink and sable coat. I have no idea what it cost (a bundle?), but that was irrelevant to me. I got on her case about it from the time I was about six years old. She finally sold it for nothing to some opportunistic “friend” of hers to get me off her back. Wish the money had gone to charity (it was 1985 by then, might have been hard to put up for auction), but at least she respected my dedication to my cause. I was very proud. i’m not being sarcastic, but i’m wondering if it’s more acceptable to wear a fur that IS recycled (old). my mother gave me her full length mink from 1980 (not as much ‘awareness’ back then) and it’s just a regular classic style. can i wear it? I’m not supportive of the fur factories in China, for any of the animal rights or quality reasons that people mentioned above. However, it cracks me up when you have greenies against fur and support synthetic fabrics that require large amounts of (duh dah!) petrochemicals… not very environmental friendly. Many of those older fur garments are from animals that were properly trapped and killed, and those natural fibers are some of the warmest you can find. Plus, nowadays you CAN find fur garments that ecologically and environmentally friendly. In New Zealand, possums (more like stoats than American possums) are desimating the country, destroying habitats and fodder for native birds and livestock, plus they carry TB. Their pelts are highly prized and when combined with merino wool make amazing warm and soft garments. So don’t swallow all the crap that PETA tries to stick down your throat. (And I have no idea what sort of fur the Queen is wearing, but I’m guessing it’s vintage and not from China) REALLY? Ok first, its VINTAGE, not fresh for fresh, royal fashion. I think that should be considered recycling. Second, it IS possible that she’s rocking faux, isn’t it? Third, I’m using my touch and accidentally touched this article instead of another. I didn’t see/read the headline but started scrolling to see if the pictures piqued my interest first. Am I the only one that had to do a double-take of the 2nd pic and thought she was rocking a ‘fro? As a lifelong environmentalist and animal rights advocate, I say it’s perfectly fine to wear vintage fur. VINTAGE. Because it’s- A- Already dead. Vintage fur was harvested at a time when there was no notion of environmental management or animal welfare; setting fire to it or throwing it in a landfill is NOT going to change that. An animal died for it, so wasting it is unethical and just plain dumb. It is beautiful and fit for purpose and when I wear my vintage fur, I am always conscious of it’s origin and deeply appreciative of it’s status as a taonga or treasure. B-more environmentally friendly than the modern petrochemical derived alternatives. C- the modern fur industry hates you wearing and advocating vintage fur and nothing undermines it’s overpriced obscenity more than appreciating and using the fur we already have. Of course I don’t condone factory farmed industrial fur; to buy a new fur item is cruel and disgusting and Im the first person to rip the shit out of someone flaunting a new fur. But the knee jerk ‘fur is murder’ stance is thoughtless, misguided, reactionary and hypocritical. If you’ve driven a car all your life and popped out a string of kids, you don’t need to be telling anyone else about their ethical responsibilities. di butler, it depends on the faux fur. There are some very realistic ones these days that look just like the real thing. Besides, why would you want to look like a dead animal’s skin, anyway, since it was only beautiful when it was on the animal. You know Camilla is trying her hardest to be like the Queen in her fur. Try hard. Eh, The Queens old give her a break. She has all those children who are complete f- ups (exceot Andrew, he seems alright) and now has a Camilla jr on the way in the form of Katie Middleton. Plus she looks cute. Pardon me folks but it was Camilla who was wearing the vintage fur not the Queen, no one knows if the Queen’s was new fur or vintage. This fur thing is a bit like the abortion question, I say let people make up their own mind, no one needs some total stranger shoving their own brand of morality down someone else’s throat, I would never have an abortion and I would never wear real fur but that doesn’t mean I wish to take away some else’s right to make their own choices. If everyone is really so concerned about the cruelty to animals aspect of this which is being cited as the number one reason for getting all righteous and outraged perhaps your priority should be the animal testing facilities and calling out anyone who buys products tested on animals. How about picketing all the supermarkets and malls and pointing out just what torture animals go through to provide you with that cheap bottle of shampoo or the latest celebrity endorsed perfume. Also keeping in mind these testing facilities are not in China but all over the USA and Europe. @observer I have seen very high end faux furs. They do not begin to compare to real fur. They also don’t offer near the warmth. I grew up in the country, animals have a different purpose than for those who think meat comes in little plastic trays. I hold those people in the same regard as those who think they are so important they are saving the world by doing away with one little plastic bag at a time. They amaze me with their sheer narcisism. When I found out I would be moving to Canada and Europe for two years, I bought a vintage fur from Toronto online. It is the warmest thing ever. I have faux, I have many other coats, but when it is -20, fur is the warmest ever. It’s vintage-those animals were probably trapped and wasting it would be a shame. BTW, both of the furs in the pic are REAL. You can tell. In Canada I saw many wearing real fur, not so much in Holland, but since being in the UK for the last week, I have seen lots of real fur. It’s freaking freezing here! I like my leather coats and boots too. No, I wouldn’t buy a new fur, but see no issue with vintage. This makes me want to go out and buy some fur. Not because Queenie is a trend setter, but to piss off self righteous people like grazi. You have your ethical stance on food and leather goods. Good for you. But don’t presume that you have any right to judge or dictate what the rest of us do. I’m changing my plans for lunch today, in honour of you grazi. I’m off to buy some veal, and will be thinking of you with every bite. Yum yum. (I’ll also be looking out for a dog to kick on my way to the shop). Just think, grazi, if you had been less self righteous, you could have saved two animals from cruelty today. Also, no one is endorsing plastic shoes. Or polyester anything. Just not fur. @Kiska – I’m from the Great White North as well. You’d be surprised at how much of the fur and fur trimmed items on sale here actually comes from China….. It’s just not obtained the same way you would expect… Half the fur items in Old Montreal are sourced from China, as are almost all the fur trimmings of our winter coats. It really sucks…. “If everyone is really so concerned about the cruelty to animals aspect of this which is being cited as the number one reason for getting all righteous and outraged perhaps your priority should be the animal testing facilities and calling out anyone who buys products tested on animals.” Actually, with all due respect, at least in America, it is illegal to market anything with ingredients that have not been tested on animals. ANYTHING. If they tell you ‘not tested on animals’ than they simply bought a formula from another manufacturer who has tested it. On animals. Jesus H she is the queen and she is old! Can you tell your grandfather or grandmother to change? Its fur, not the tanned skins of little Asian Babies! And on another note, CAN YOU LADIES STOP WRITING NOVELS IN THE COMMENTS? I hate to disappoint you but nobody cares what you have to say for six paragraphs. to people who don’t see the problem with wearing fur: do you eat fox? Mink? Ermine? No. You don’t. Noone does. Killing an animals specifically for its fur, for FASHION, is disgusting and just wrong. You can’t compare killing a cow and using all its parts w killing a fox only for its fur. If the entire animal is used… Good. Thats ok. But if its not, and if it was cruelly kept or killed… Then that us wrong. Its not ok for humans to treat non human animals like that. Everyone needs to watch the documentary Earthlings… Its on youtube in 3 parts. Hard to watch and a bit propagandaish but its NOT by PETA and its ALL TRUE. I wish one of those PETA nut jobs would approach me about wearing fur, or worse, try some of fake blood tossing crap. After I finishing “taking names and numbers”, I’m going to make at least one of them eat his/her vegan leather shoes. I don’t know what is worse. The fact that people still care about defunct Kings and Queens or the fact that the hippies are still crying for animal rights. Hey hippies, we are animals too. If I get blood on my fur coat it’s because I like my seal-pup extra raw when eating. The Queen looks warm in the fur outfit. Really should be respectful to her & that is the important thing. We are so fortunate to have her civilized example. She does much good for animals & really cares about them. Apparently, there are many among us who would have been going naked in primitive times (millions of years) and, up through modern history, were we to include American Indians and Eskimos. I don’t think that any substitute for leather shoes will be found in the future, unless you want plastic that isn’t biodegradable. So I would like a logical explanation as to which is better: real leather, or non-biodegradable products, including synthetic fabrics. To take it further, isn’t it therefore mean to ‘hurt’ those cotton plants, or shearing sheep of their virgin coats? Now then, what about all of you men who have that nasty habit of shaving your beards, of those among you who have the disgusting habit of shearing or shaving your body hair? What about you women and men that continue to be ‘mean’ about cutting your head hair? You really are ‘mean. | Low | [
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Bought it after a nice end of year bonus when I was on crap apprentice wages. Was meant to be the start of getting into XC racing as I'd just past my driving test. Unforunatley driving meant the fun of cars, nightclubs and women, and I ended up not doing much riding after that. Heres the next MTB I bought and current bike. Bought it Nov ish last year after starting riding again. Its pretty amazing to ride after coming from the Kona, but its in bits at the moment having the rear shock fixed. Last edited by Deanj on Sat Feb 09, 2008 10:56 am, edited 1 time in total. Richard! Thats awesome! Ive never used one before but I reckon it would be something else! Graeme, I indeed read all about your Epic! Great build! Epic in fact! I was particularly interested by the steering damper. A pretty handy addition. I can related to your efforts entirly as my NRS was built up from the componets on my Yukon...but by that staged, the only things remaining from the Yukon was the handle bars and the frame. 'Upgrade itis'...annoying eh? needsapush, like Graemes, your Epic is beautiful! Yours would be the newer M5 frame right? (I think the differences were that the M5 has more travel in the rear and can accept 100mm forks.) Although, thats said, I know a guy who built up an M4 frame with 130mm Rock Shox Revelations and some of the best components around. Beautiful never the less! Like I said earlier, Ill post up mine when I can link the pictures through... Here's my Gitane T1 and me riding it at the Scott 24 Hour I got some air over this little lip on my next lap of the Red Loop - toolonglegs probably flew 10 metres! Just for fun, here's our site at the Scott 24 Hour and a couple of views down the hill in front of it. LuckyPierre, I cant believe you got an 8" rotor onto the back of that! Looks awesome! Bet your braking is up there! leximack, I have the NRS-2 of that year....could you maybe compare it for me to the Anthem...how they both ride? The NRS isnt the most active set up in the world but it works...kinda quirky to the way the chain locks the rear...Giant's Maestro works the same too. I can imagine the Anthem would be a huge improvement though...the other question was regarding the seat tube on the NRS...whats with the tape? crack it? Whitz End wrote:LuckyPierre, I cant believe you got an 8" rotor onto the back of that! Looks awesome! Bet your braking is up there! leximack, I have the NRS-2 of that year....could you maybe compare it for me to the Anthem...how they both ride? The NRS isnt the most active set up in the world but it works...kinda quirky to the way the chain locks the rear...Giant's Maestro works the same too. I can imagine the Anthem would be a huge improvement though...the other question was regarding the seat tube on the NRS...whats with the tape? crack it? Awesome bikes never the less... Keep em comming! i know what you mean about the "chain lock" my nrs does that also, the anthem does also but not as easily. The difference between the 2 is not alot but it does make a difference in the quality of the ride and also speed. The Anthem is alot smoother over the bumps, the suspension sems to work a lot better than the nrs. The anthem is more comfortable over longer rides, ie less fatigue. Over a 10km xc course the anthem is approx 2mins faster, i have tested this at a few events. Brakes are better and have better feel, its a bit lighter (anthem 12kg, nrs 13kg) so it climbs better. Overall its not a huge deal better but it is slightly better in every area, hence its quicker and more comfortable. I only use the nrs now for towing a kiddie trailer and my wife uses it occasionally and also as a wet weather commuter sometimes, the sticky tape on the seat tube of the nrs is just to make the seat tube wider so a mudgurad can clamp properly to it, no cracks. If your thinking of upgrading do it, you wont regret it. Don Components wise, my NRS is very simialr to your Anthem...I use a full XT drivechain bar LX cranks, Avid Juicy Five brakes and the XM-317/DT hubs...so id probably be after just a frame...alas, the ol' Giant is going ace for now...got a camera to pay off which is a little pricey so bikes will take a back seat for a while. I quite like the WTB Velociraptor front/rear tyre combo. Good directional control and the rear doesn't often spin on steep ascents. No idea how they go for rolling resistance, I suspect the rear would be a bit ordinary, but that's les important than outright grip where I ride. j.r.hawkins, Im a big fan of the lefty! Always wanted to try it out...although I always fear it will break or something. Apparently stiffness/stength is equal to/better then standard forks! Fantastic bike you have there anyways! Whitz End wrote:j.r.hawkins, Im a big fan of the lefty! Always wanted to try it out...although I always fear it will break or something. Apparently stiffness/stength is equal to/better then standard forks! Fantastic bike you have there anyways! I get lots of funny looks, and once when I was a bit slow coming though a trail section 'cause I stuffed it and went back and did it over, my mate thought I'd had a stack. He took one look at the bike and said "Maaate! What happened to your FORK??:shock:" They're unbeleivably smooth and supple. I love riding it offroad - it's like a Cadillac. Yet it's very stiff and responsive to steering inputs. I cringe a bit on the rare occacions I take the Mongoose off road now. Those skinny Cro-Mo stanchions flex so much by comparison I feel like I'm gonna break them off. Whitz End wrote:LuckyPierre, I cant believe you got an 8" rotor onto the back of that! Looks awesome! Bet your braking is up there! I didn't do anything - it came like that. The bike is a bit 'over-braked' for me - I'm a pretty gentle mtb rider. It is good to never need more than one finger on the brakes though. I've had a bit of trouble getting the brakes settled. The rear can be noisy and vibrate under braking. but it's transient (like all good problems) so it's had to get sorted out. The 'put a business card each side of the rotor and cable tie the brakes hard on overnight' trick from the mtbr forum helped a lot, but it still pops up from time to time. there really is nothing special about him, apart from how much i enjoy taking him out whenever i can. the only upgrade was replacing the welgo pedals with candy crank brothers. i would like to upgrade him but money is tight. Well, now that im no longer considered 'spam' on this site, I guess I can post links now. Here is my bicycles... In the red corner, is my pride and joy, a 2003 Giant NRS. I bought the frame second hand and switched across all the parts from my Yukon. By that stage, the only 'stock' Yukon parts were just the bars, brakes and wheels. This has fallen back to just the bars. Shes currently in the wars at the moment. Leaky rear brake. Oh well... The forks are an interesting feature. I got them cheap off eBay (2003 Manitou Black Comps) and they were a pretty good buy. Alas, they had their limitations. The stock seals were...crud..let alot of crap through. Plus, the fork is an older microlube type and isnt semi-bath lubricated. I intend on sealing them properly (ie. Enduro oil/wiper seals up the top and teflon tape/washers in the lowers to convert them across to semi-bath. )Should work out alright I think. Also, when my bike shop was cutting down the steerer to an acceptable height, they managed to knock the steerer right through the crowns...alas, this was rectified by the wonderful Grip Sport so yeah, not your average Blacks! In the black corner is my Yukon. First real mountain bike, thing has seen it all from XC racing to some sweet decending as a 'All Mountain' hardtail. Its now reduced to just commuter duties but once I get the funding in order, it will be fitted with a chain guide and a set of RS Psylos for some real fun! I live in a fairly hilly area...Singlespeeding just wasnt for me. Who is online About the Australian Cycling Forums The largest cycling discussion forum in Australia for all things bike; from new riders to seasoned bike nuts, the Australian Cycling Forums are a welcoming community where you can ask questions and talk about the type of bikes and cycling topics you like. | Mid | [
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Running AngularJS paired up with RequireJS involves configuring few tweaks and hacks, especially if trying to preserve testability of Angular app. This seed project has been created to setup the entire front-end stack correctly and help developers get started with their projects. Simple web-based app that allows you to team up, organize and prepare for online, competetive gameplay. Implemented only to an MVP stage in order to test it with a small group of gamers, it has turned out to be impractical. Build with AngularJS and Semantic UI. Spellstack is a web-based toolset for Magic: The Gathering players. Using Spellstack users can put together a well-balanced, powerful deck for your next casual or tournament game. Additional tools such as random hand, statistics etc. help users evaluate deck's potential and performance. PhD Student - Sorbonne Université, LIP6, INRIA(Jan 2017 - Present) Provide mechanisms, within the Linux kernel, to properly and efficiently size the cache that a container has, by proposing different heuristics whose purpose is to improve the approximation of the age of the pages, at acceptable cost. | Mid | [
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Central nervous system Hodgkin lymphoma: case report and review of the literature. Central nervous system (CNS) involvement by Hodgkin lymphoma (HL) is extremely rare, accounting for 0.5% or less of HL cases. In contrast, CNS involvement can occur in 5-30% of patients with non-Hodgkin lymphoma. CNS HL can present at any point in the course of HL, most commonly during relapsing disease, and has been described in both immunocompromised and immunocompetent patients. We describe a case of HL affecting the CNS and bone marrow on initial presentation in a 79-year-old immunocompetent female with a prior history of squamous cell carcinoma of the larynx and adenocarcinoma of the lung. Following the case report, a review of the literature on CNS HL is presented. | High | [
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ms-vcpp-2005-sp1-mfc-redist_x64: '8.0.61000': full_name: 'Microsoft Visual C++ 2005 Redistributable (x64)' installer: 'http://download.microsoft.com/download/8/B/4/8B42259F-5D70-43F4-AC2E-4B208FD8D66A/vcredist_x64.EXE' install_flags: '/q' uninstaller: 'msiexec.exe' uninstall_flags: '/qn /x {ad8a2fa1-06e7-4b0d-927d-6e54b3d31028} /norestart' msiexec: False locale: en_US reboot: False | Mid | [
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5 things you need to know in Australian tech today It felt like a bit of an anti-climax yesterday, but Amazon still dominates the tech news today: 1. Amazon Australia will be taking losses to play the long game. Industry analyst IBISWorld estimates the US giant will undercut local retailers by 30% initially to gain quick market share, which means great news for Christmas shoppers in Australia but not so much for all the retailers. The strategy reminds Business Insider of the leaked quote from a Amazon staffer a year ago that it’s coming here to “destroy” the local scene. Experts, however, have warned Australia’s long distances and sparse population will prove a challenge for Amazon – but one academic says robots could be the answer. 2. Australian shoppers probably don’t have much sympathy for incumbent retailers though. A customer experience expert told Business Insider local retailers that want to survive the post-Amazon era have to match the US company’s “true customer obsession” – by treating them as individuals and waking up to the fact they “want to buy what they want, when they want”. Read more on that here. 3. Amazon’s impact on the Australian economy will take a few years to show. That’s the opinion of a senior Westpac economist, who notes that “general consumer backdrop remains downbeat leading into year end”, so the launch of the website will likely “cannibalise” sales that would have gone to local players – rather than have people buying more. Meanwhile, speculation is swirling around which Australian companies Amazon might partner with – for access to customer databases, cross-promotions and the like. 4. Tesla has finished building the world’s biggest lithium ion battery in South Australia. Elon Musk had a December 1 deadline to get it going or he promised the state would receive it for free. But it looks like South Australia will be invoiced after all, with charging to start at the French energy business Neoen’s Hornsdale wind farm north of Adelaide. Read more. 5. Looking for a new smartphone for Christmas? The market is now super-competitive but Business Insider US has put together a list of the 20 best phones to help you wade through the options. NOW WATCH: Tech Insider videos Want to read a more in-depth view on the trends influencing Australian business and the global economy? BI / Research is designed to help executives and industry leaders understand the major challenges and opportunities for industry, technology, strategy and the economy in the future. Sign up for free at research.businessinsider.com.au. | Mid | [
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Ur Not A Hero, but you are a badass in this cover-based 2D action shooter I have high hopes for Ur Not A Hero , a 2D action shooter that developers Peanut Butter Fingers describe as a mix of Elevator Action and Gears of War, but I think leans closer towards Stranglehold or Vanquish - i.e. insanely stylish, and with lots and lots of sliding around on the floor. (There's also a hint of Hotline Miami, I feel.) Picking from a bunch of guys with different abilities (Suit Guy dual-wields pistols, for example, while the dude dressed as a superhero is a dab hand at the old punch-slide combo), your job is to clear a building of hostiles, while defusing bombs, rescuing hostages, or assassinating a key target. There's a brilliant video below, and a playable, early alpha version to whet your appetite. This is obviously a rough draft, but the fundamentals appear to be in place: quick, stylish, satisfying combat, with superb animation, and a killer hook in the form of the slide move. (Sliding into cover feels so wonderfully fresh in a 2D game.) With some form of multiplayer in the game - co-op or versus, but hopefully both - I could see this really taking off. However, even in it's current, rough form I can't see myself deleting Ur Not A Hero from my hard drive any time soon. Make sure you give it a go . But not before watching this tremendous video: | High | [
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/** * Copyright (c) Facebook, Inc. and its affiliates. * * This source code is licensed under the MIT license found in the * LICENSE file in the root directory of this source tree. */ import SyntheticUIEvent from './SyntheticUIEvent'; import getEventModifierState from './getEventModifierState'; let previousScreenX = 0; let previousScreenY = 0; // Use flags to signal movementX/Y has already been set let isMovementXSet = false; let isMovementYSet = false; /** * @interface MouseEvent * @see http://www.w3.org/TR/DOM-Level-3-Events/ */ const SyntheticMouseEvent = SyntheticUIEvent.extend({ screenX: null, screenY: null, clientX: null, clientY: null, pageX: null, pageY: null, ctrlKey: null, shiftKey: null, altKey: null, metaKey: null, getModifierState: getEventModifierState, button: null, buttons: null, relatedTarget: function(event) { return ( event.relatedTarget || (event.fromElement === event.srcElement ? event.toElement : event.fromElement) ); }, movementX: function(event) { if ('movementX' in event) { return event.movementX; } const screenX = previousScreenX; previousScreenX = event.screenX; if (!isMovementXSet) { isMovementXSet = true; return 0; } return event.type === 'mousemove' ? event.screenX - screenX : 0; }, movementY: function(event) { if ('movementY' in event) { return event.movementY; } const screenY = previousScreenY; previousScreenY = event.screenY; if (!isMovementYSet) { isMovementYSet = true; return 0; } return event.type === 'mousemove' ? event.screenY - screenY : 0; }, }); export default SyntheticMouseEvent; | Low | [
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Note: Because some of the information in this article may be outdated, it has been archived. In the mid-1980’s scientists began to extol the promises of gene-therapy. Conceptually (and if you consider the world only at the sub-microscopic level), gene therapy is a logical, straightforward solution to genetic disease: if a gene seems to be causing a disease, then to cure the disease scientists must remove the “bad” gene, and substitute or add a “good” gene. The reality is much more complex. Though more than three hundred gene therapy protocols, involving more than four thousand patients, have been approved for human trials in the United States, gene therapy has yet to fulfill its promise of curing any genetic disease. Researchers propose that this new polymer is as effective as viruses for gene therapy. Part of the polymer, which has been tested in mice with ovarian cancer, is pictured here. Credit: Jordan Green - MIT Jesse died because of a gene therapy experiment. Jesse: gene therapy gone wrong On September 17th, 1999, eighteen-year-old Jesse Gelsinger died as a result of his voluntary participation in a gene-therapy experiment, becoming the first known human victim of this technology. Jesse’s experience illuminates important elements in gene therapy that should make government agencies, scientists, and the public take the need to regulate and oversee this technology very seriously. Jesse had a rare genetic disease, known as ornithine transcarbamylase (OTC) deficiency, which affected his ability to rid his body of ammonia, a usual, but toxic, breakdown product of protein. Half of children with OTC die in their first month of life, and half die before their fifth birthday. Jesse had a mild form of the disease because some of his enzymes were functioning normally. He was therefore able to control the disease with diet and drugs, though he needed to take 32 pills a day. Ironically, Jesse would not have benefited from the experiment. The therapy was intended to help babies with a rare genetic disease. The experimental protocol for which Jesse volunteered had no chance of providing him, or any of the other volunteers, with any benefit. It was designed only to test the safety of a treatment that would be used on babies with the fatal form of OTC. The scientists who designed the protocol at the University of Pennsylvania’s Institute for Gene Therapy, Dr. James Wilson and Dr. Mark Batshaw, believed that OTC could be surmounted with gene therapy. They hoped to infuse babies who had OTC with genes that would help them produce the missing enzymes. In order to get these genes into the patient’s cells, Dr. Wilson developed a weakened cold virus (known as adenovirus) which was designed to enter the cells as any virus would, but, instead of delivering disease, it was supposed to deliver the corrective OTC gene. Wilson and Batshaw hoped that the infusion of adenovirus and corrective genes could be used to reduce infant fatalities by controlling the high levels of ammonia in babies with OTC immediately after birth. Wilson and Batshaw worked together to develop the OTC protocol and, in 1995, they submitted it to the National Institute of Health’s (NIH) Recombinant DNA Advisory Committee (RAC) and the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for review and approval, as is required for all human experiments involving gene therapy. Doctors did not foresee serious side effects or fatality. Jesse was deemed eligible for the study and assigned to the final test subject group—the group that would receive the highest dose of adenovirus. At the time, the researchers believed that in the worst case, the trial might result in an inflamed liver. On September 13, 1999 Dr. Raper injected 30 milliliters of the adenovirus with the corrective OTC gene into Jesse’s bloodstream. According to the physicians, Jesse’s severe immune system reaction led to multiple-organ-system failure and he died on September 17th, 1999, four days after the gene-therapy injection. The safety of gene therapy Human gene therapy trials raise the questions: Some test animals died before human trials. How safe must an experiment be before it is ethical to try it on humans? Prior to the human protocol, Batshaw and Wilson had done animal studies to help prove that OTC gene therapy was ready for human trial. They cited more than 20 experiments on mice to prove the efficacy of the treatment, and 12 safety studies in mice, Rhesus monkeys and baboons [several Rhesus monkeys died after intense immune system reactions like Jesse’s to high doses of adenovirus]. Some reviewers were concerned but the FDA approved the trials. Is the review process efficient? The mandatory review of human gene therapy experiments by the FDA and RAC is supposed to add another level of precaution. However, critics of this process have often stated that the current regulatory framework — review by the NIH’s RAC and approval by the FDA — creates an ineffectual review process. When Wilson and Batshaw first presented their protocol for review by the RAC, both of the RAC scientists reviewing the protocol had reservations about approving it. However, continued negotiations between the federal reviewers (including RAC and FDA officials) and the University of Pennsylvania scientists resulted in approval of the protocol. Following the report of Jesse Gelsinger’s death, and subsequent revelations of six other deaths in gene therapy experiments in New York and Massachusetts, the National Institute of Health (NIH) RAC convened a three-day public inquiry into Jesse’s death, the conduct of gene therapy research, and the safety of using adenovirus. The FDA argued that After Jesse’s death, problems were found with the trial process. Jesse’s liver was not functioning well enough at the time of the infusion of adenovirus, and he should not have been eligible for the study. Pennsylvania scientists had violated FDA regulations by failing to report information about patients who had experienced serious side effects that could have ended the trial. The informed consent document that Jesse signed deviated from the one approved by the agency when it reviewed the protocol (the new consent form had made no mention of the severe immune system responses to adenovirus that led to the deaths of the monkeys). On January 21, 2000, the FDA indefinitely shut down human gene therapy experiments at the University of Pennsylvania. The trials will remain “on-hold” until the Institute responds formally to the FDA’s report, and convinces the FDA that it can properly follow the federal rules designed to ensure the safety of study volunteers. Since the news of Jesse’s death was first brought to the attention of government regulators and the public in September 1999, further evidence of serious risks to patient safety in other gene therapy experiments has come to light. The NIH received 691 reports of “serious adverse events” in gene therapy experiments. Though the current regulatory structure requires researchers to promptly notify the NIH as problems arise, 652 of these reports had never been presented to the NIH. At least two gene therapy experiments reported patient deaths. Though in both cases researchers decided that the deaths were not related to the gene therapy treatment, their reports indicate that, in fact, researchers cannot conclusively say what caused some of the patient deaths. Corporate interests in gene therapy In addition to questions of safety, the massive amount of corporate interest in the development of gene therapy technology raises questions that can only be addressed with diligence. Intense commercial interest in gene therapy may create conflicts between business decisions and medical decisions. In the case of the gene therapy trial that led to Jesse’s death: Concerns about conflict of interest were raised. Dr. James Wilson, the head of the Institute for Gene Therapy at the University of Pennsylvania, also owns a private company called Genovo Inc, which he founded in 1992. Genovo has the rights to any discoveries made by Wilson at his University of Pennsylvania lab. Through this arrangement, Genovo has access to Wilson’s discoveries, at the same time minimizing its business risks as the company can let the lab run the clinical trials prior to deciding to invest. The NIH, further reduced Genovo’s risk and maximized the company’s benefits by funding the OTC trial in which Jesse took part. Genovo also has a financial stake in the adenovirus variation Wilson developed and tested on Jesse in the human gene therapy trial, which would have been very marketable if it had been successful. In addition, BIOGEN, a Cambridge-based biotechnology company, has paid Genovo thirty-seven million dollars since 1995 for the right to eventually market any liver and lung related therapies developed by Genovo. Genovo shares the money from BIOGEN with Dr. Wilson’s Institute at U. Penn, and in fact the Biogen money accounts for twenty percent of the Institute’s budget. The Genovo-Biogen deal (which is up for renewal this year) calls for Genovo to make progress in moving gene therapy towards a marketable product. Willing and able volunteers People with genetic disorders are vulnerable to medical scams or promises. The intense corporate interest in human gene therapy becomes even more disturbing when considered in conjunction with the fact that people are literally lining up to be test subjects for clinical trials. Gene therapy gives promise to people who are desperately searching for hope. It is a technology marketed as a cure for genetic disease — diseases that often lead to suffering which is entirely unjustifiable. If a friend or a family member had a genetic disease, and you watched him or her suffer without respite or chance of cure, wouldn’t you jump at any opportunity to end that? This scenario raises serious concerns since it puts a most vulnerable and well-meaning group of people at serious risk without adequate protections. Initially, Wilson and Batshaw believed that the protocol should be tried on infants with severe OTC, as the therapy was designed specifically for these babies. But Arthur Caplan, the resident bioethics expert at the University of Pennsylvania disagreed. He stated that it would be unethical to experiment with sick babies because the parents of dying infants are too stressed to be able to give informed consent. Consequently, Wilson and Batshaw decided to use stable adults for the protocol-men like Jesse who had the disease but were surviving with drugs and diet, and women who carry the gene linked to OTC. This shift from dying infants to stable adults meant that people who were living with their disease and benefiting from conventional treatments were put at risk in situations which would not produce any benefit for them. Some participants had been coerced into the gene therapy trial. The NIH/RAC hearings after Jesse’s death also made public the fact that some of the volunteers for this study were recruited in a coercive manner — using internet sites and newsletters which detailed the promise of the therapy if it worked and which stressed the need for human subjects. This type of information, placed where it would be seen by a population sensitive to the problems of living with a genetic disease, raises further issues about getting truly informed, voluntary subjects for human experimentation. Conclusion: Gene therapy trial procedures and the review process need to be reevaluated. Conclusion Human gene therapy experimentation raises many issues. The promise of the technology is represented as very great and the reality of it is very dangerous. Human gene therapy must be seriously and cautiously evaluated. Without increased and more effective oversight, Jesse’s death could be the first of many in gene therapy. Though Jesse’s participation in the human trial did not provide him or the infants with OTC with any benefit, it did perhaps lead to something even more important in this field. Jesse’s death has forced researchers and government officials to reappraise the current framework and structure of gene therapy research, to reexamine informed consent procedures, and to take public responsibility for their actions. Actionbioscience.org Editor’s Update: In early October 2002, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) halted several gene therapy trials in the U.S. after a boy in France developed a leukemia-like disease almost three years after undergoing gene therapy. The boy was one of four who were given the therapy for a rare immune system disorder. The FDA did not cancel another 150 or so gene therapy trials because these trials targeted disorders other than severe combined immunodeficiency. (Source: FDA’s Division of Cellular and Gene Therapies and Los Angeles Times) Sophia M. Kolehmainen, J.D., is the Director of Programs for the Council for Responsible Genetics and an editorial board member of their bimonthly newsletter, GeneWatch. She has authored articles on the social, ethical, and legal implications of human and agricultural genetics, and is licensed to practice law in Massachusetts. http://www.gene-watch.org/programs/privacy/insurance.html 5/6/09: No longer available.5/6/09: Sophia M. Kolehmainen, J.D., is now the Deputy Director of The Cedar Tree Foundation. http://www.cedartreefound.org/staff.html Public information on gene therapy Read a book Altered Fates : Gene Therapy and the Retooling of Human Life by Jeff Lyon, Peter Gorner (contributor), [W.W. Norton & Co., 1996]. Lyon and Gorner, a pair of Chicago Tribune reporters, present the science, scientists, and ethics of a technology that may have a greater impact on humanity’s fate than nuclear weapons: genetic manipulation. They reveal the possibility of curing thousands of inherited diseases in addition to viral ones, such as AIDS. educatorresources Teaching Resources from the Northwest Association for Biomedical Research (NWABR) The Northwest Association for Biomedical Research (NWABR) strengthens public trust in research through education and dialogue. Its diverse membership spans academic, industry, non-profit research institutes, health care, and voluntary health organizations. Through membership and extensive education programs, it fosters a shared commitment to the ethical conduct of research and ensures the vitality of the life sciences community. Ethics Primer The Ethics Primer provides engaging, interactive, and classroom-friendly lesson ideas for integrating ethical issues into a science classroom. It also provides basic background on ethics as a discipline, with straightforward descriptions of major ethical theories. Several decision-making frameworks are included to help students apply reasoned analysis to ethical issues. http://www.nwabr.org/curriculum/ethics-primerIntroductory Bioinformatics: Genetic Testing The curriculum unit explores how bioinformatics is applied to genetic testing. Students are also introduced to principles-based bioethics in order to support their thoughtful consideration of the many social and ethical implications of genetic testing. Throughout the unit, students are presented with a number of career options in which the tools of bioinformatics are used. http://www.nwabr.org/curriculum/introductory-bioinformatics-genetic-testingBioethics 101 Bioethics 101 provides a systematic, five-lesson introductory course to support educators in incorporating bioethics into the classroom through the use of sequential, day-to-day lesson plans. This curriculum is designed to help science teachers in guiding their students to analyze issues using scientific facts, ethical principles, and reasoned judgment. http://www.nwabr.org/curriculum/bioethics-101For the Greater Good The “For the Greater Good” series is composed of five featured articles. Each article portrays one author’s personal stories of people and animals whose lives have been improved or saved by medical breakthroughs made possible by animal research. The Curriculum Guide includes a 5-lesson unit outlining the use of models in both science and ethics, and provides resources for exploring the use of animals in research. http://www.nwabr.org/curriculum/greater-goodHIV Vaccines Our HIV Vaccine Curriculum Unit focuses on engaging students in considering the elements of a vaccine trial. Students explore the life cycle and structure of HIV, different vaccine types, ethical issues related to research studies with human participants, and global contexts of vaccine trials. http://www.nwabr.org/curriculum/hiv-vaccines The Dolan DNA Learning Center Case Studies in Genetic Screening The following is a simplified simulation of genetic screening for four specific mutations and a suggested format for exploring the different ethical issues that might result from such genetic testing. This activity is appropriate for advanced and AP biology students after some explanation and study of DNA biotechnology techniques, specifically restriction enzyme digests, gel electrophoresis, blotting, hybridization with probes, and autoradiography. http://www.accessexcellence.org/AE/AEPC/WWC/1992/gen_screen2.php | Mid | [
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Q: Opengl 64 bit windows I am trying to install opengl on windows 8 64 bit machine I did not find any libraries containing gl.h glu.h files I found glut libraries/headers...,Through some stack overflow posts I came to know that opengl is a part of windows then where is it found.help A: OpenGL-1.1 has been part of the Win32 ABI (ABI = Application Binary Interface, i.e. the set of functions guaranteed to be available and specification how these are to be called by the compiler (calling conventions)) since Windows-NT4 (and got included retroactively into Windows 95-B). As such every compiler toolchain that targets the Win32 API (which BTW also covers 64 bit versions) must include the necessary symbol declarations (headers in C) and API linkage stubs. Or in other words: There's no need to download or install anything to develop for OpenGL. Never(!), I repeat, never(!), download anything named opengl32.dll, opengl32.lib, gl.h, wgl.h or similar and don't even think about replacing the perfectly fine files you already have with them; doing so will just break your system (either the operating system or the compiler toolchain). It's unnecessary and actually harmful to do so. Hence the page you thought giving you good information is in fact very harmful. Completely disregard its information. OpenGL itself is not a library, but a specification which so called implementations follow. The OpenGL implementations for Windows are part of the graphics cards' drivers! There's also a software rasterizer fallback that covers OpenGL-1.1 in case no graphics card support is available. Note that modern OpenGL support is not included in the drivers installed through Windows Update; GPU drivers with OpenGL support must be downloaded directly from the GPU vendor's website and installed manually. Functionality that goes beyond OpenGL-1.1 in Windows must be loaded at runtime through the so called "extension mechanism". Since this is a tedious process there are several 3rd party libraries that get this job done. The most popular is probably GLEW but it has a number of issues. (EDIT for further clarification:) It is notable, that nothing beyond the functions already provided by the Windows OpenGL-1.1 ABI (i.e. the WGL API as it was specified for Windows-NT4) is required to get access to even the most modern OpenGL features. Of course newly introduced function pointer types and numeric token values must be defined somehow so that they can be used in source code, but there is no "mandated" way (i.e. library) to do it. This makes it possible that a program which makes use of – for example – pure modern OpenGL-4 core profile that could be built with Visual C++ 4 (VC++ 4 got released in 1995), assuming it uses only language features and OS APIs that were available back then. The actual steps to create modern OpenGL contexts in Windows are pretty well documented at the OpenGL Wiki and the reader is referred to this resource as elaborating on the details here would largely leave the scope of this answer. Also OpenGL itself does not deal with creating windows, handling user input and the likes. You can of course program against the native OS API for doing that. But often you just want to use some framework. Popular choices for OpenGL development are GLFW, FreeGLUT, SDL2 and SMFL. | High | [
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Saturday, 9 January 2010 Not Knowing How To Find The Open Air, But Toiling Desperately To Find It Out. Seekers of something other than what is are convinced there must be some extraordinary difference in the quality of experience other than that which is already known; the flavour of reality must change, and subsequently, the motives for all apparent actions. The very timbre of what is heard must be sweeter; what is felt must feel more whole; what is seen must seem to be more crystalline and defined, the very essence of reality contained in each apprehended atom of the appearance that shows up for us. Whatever is known now is disregarded as incomplete, is perceived as lacking in some way. All of us seek to imbue some greater consequence to experience than what is already experienced. Imagination intervenes to provide an expectation of a world imbued with more: more meaning, more light, more love, more sensation, more appreciation. Whatever simply is, is not enough. Whatever simply is, is judged to be lacking. Whatever the sights, sounds, feelings, sensations of the world that appears to show up for us is not enough; there must be more. These expectations are what keeps the apprehended world from being, to our perception, something other than the miraculous whole it is. And yet, the expectations and judgements themselves are part of the tapestry of wholeness, sensible and appropriate, and are merely humanity's facility for exploration and self-consciousness at play. There is no better way, in the story of seeking meaning, to find meaning other than by feeling that everything is meaningless; there is no better way to find wholeness than to feel that life is incomplete. We are constructed flawlessly for the purpose of exploration and being, looking at itself. Far from being dismissed out of hand, the appearance of the world and our seeming interaction with it is the point. It doesn't matter what that interaction is. There is no perfect blueprint for being other than what is apparently presented. The questioning, the anger, the resistance are fitting and could not be any other than what they are. Yet it can be seen that the most mundane actions, judged to be dreary and ineffectual, are in fact simply the miracle of consciousness in whatever guise seems to be presented. This, this life, showing up just as it does, is perfect, complete and whole just as it is. It is so ironic that we agonise and question and seek and judge lacking and struggle, hoping to find what is exactly what is. Even when this is accepted, there seems to be the need for some act of will or intervention from beyond to make whatever is more than it is. Awakening, enlightenment, or whatever we're calling it today, is simply seeing that what is, is what is sought. What was sought was the very seeking. What was lacking was appreciation of lack. There is nothing different, in some nonexistent future, that will bring you to what you already are. You are life; and there is no time beyond this now, this moment, this seamless reality that is always here, and never to be more than it already is. So read with interest about the ego, and its false assumptions, and its taking on of a role bigger than it is, and its case of cosmic mistaken identity. It is the reading that is the point, not the content. It is life, this very moment, that is the answer. And if it seems to help to conceptualise that you are awareness, and everything arises in this awareness, including the ego-construct, that's fine too. It is the thinking of these things that is life, not the conclusions. Here is everything. There is nowhere, no when, and no one but here and now and this. i love sf and jc. it´s the reading that´s the point, not the content, reminded me of:ich bin der weg, die wahrheit und das leben,and i looked up john 14.it goes on: nobody gets to the father but by me. I,MINE,ME.my,my,my,i like it physical. So maybe we could take appreciating lack a step further and appreciate everything in life. The "good" and the "bad" and everything in between. It would be interesting to see what kind of perspective would would evolve from that after enough practice. See, you make me think. :) «Awakening, enlightenment, or whatever we're calling it today, is simply seeing that what is, is what is sought. What was sought was the very seeking. What was lacking was appreciation of lack. There is nothing different, in some nonexistent future, that will bring you to what you already are.»Great post, Suzanne.(Tengo la impresión de que te dirigieras a 'mí', que golpearas exactamente donde lo necesito.)Un millón de graciaslovefernando Hahaha. I noticed that some pointers don't like when others (as if there is such a thing) point to oneness by using the word love instead. Quite silly really, nonduality pointers pointing out the duality that appears to "them". Hahaha. Doesn't matter though because nondaulity, love, oneness or whatever label; is still this one inseparable space and there is no way to talk or point out of it by using some "wrong words". Hahaha. Great fun. Plus there is no goal because oneness can't evolve into something else other than what it already is. It can only appear to evolve but it never changes, even the appearances are it. Hi Suzanne, This is my first post even though I've been reading your blog,watched you on Conscious tv and at Richard's house.Thank you for sharing the simplicity of just "this." Last month my dearest, sweet 12 year old dog died. Her death penetrated my heart with such a grief.At such times the intensity of feelings is just so deep.At such times, all of this spiritual path stuff seems ridiculous. In this post you refer to the wholeness of things and I just wonder how you see or feel grief in the wholeness? I get so put off by all of the advaita crap that nothing matters, there is no one, etc. etc. I seem to feel a lot and feel deeply-and usually beat myself up to no end for it all. Anyway, I shall ramble no more. Thank you for sharing! Thank you for this wonderful post, Suzanne! I especially responded to this line: "There is no better way, in the story of seeking meaning, to find meaning other than by feeling that everything is meaningless; there is no better way to find wholeness than to feel that life is incomplete." In the Zen tradition, we refer to this kind of "seeking" and "finding" as "don't know" mind. It's the mind of profound curiosity about how things actually are in *this* moment. Hi Judeann, well, whatever is happening is wholeness...even feelings of emptiness...or loss. Pain is just another guise of oneness, if you want to put it that way. Pain is bearable, and even common sense says that pain is a part of life. If there is no one to bear it - no ego, at least not one that takes on the burden of everything - then there is just pain. Pain becomes unbearable (by the ego) when resisted. Life seems hard, no question. But maybe it's supposed to be, from "time" to "time". "There is no better way, in the story of seeking meaning, to find meaning other than by feeling that everything is meaningless; there is no better way to find wholeness than to feel that life is incomplete." Followers Visitors (since March 2009) All words and pictures are copyright 2008-2011 Suzanne Foxton. Please do not use any material from this site, especially artwork, without permission from the author. Just ask, she'll probably say yes! Disclaimer. This website is for educational purposes only and is not intended in any way to be a replacement for, or a substitute to, qualified medical advice, diagnosis or treatment, or as a replacement for, or a substitute to, psychological advice, diaognosis or treatment, or therapy from a fully qualified person. If you think you are suffering from a medical or psychological condition, consult your doctor or other appropriately qualified professional person or service immediately. We are not responsible or liable for any action made by a user based on the content of this website. We are not liable for the contents of any external websites listed, or for any actions made by a user based on the contents of these extermal sites, nor do we necessarily endorse any product or service mentioned or advised on any of these external sites. Any data or information is provided for informational purposes only, and is not intended for any other commercial or non-commercial purposes. We will not be liable for any errors or delays in the content of this website, or for any actions taken in reliance thereon. By accessing our web site, you agree not to redistribute the material found therein, unless appropriate rights have been granted. We provide links to select sites for your convenience only. We do not necessarily endorse or recommend the services of any company. We shall not be liable for any damages or costs of any type arising out of or in any way connected with your use of our website. We are not lawyers, but we sure are guided by litigiousness! By using the site, you fully agree to these terms, you naughty, naughty possible miscreants! Thank you. | Mid | [
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[Baking method of Platycladi Cacumen Carbonisatum based on similarity of UPLC fingerprints]. To establish a baking method of Platycladi Cacumen Carbonisatum for providing a new idea to Carbonic Herbs' research. Samples were prepared in an oven for different time at different temperatures separately. Then the fingerprints of the samples were determined by UPLC. According to the standard fingerprint, the similarities of the samples' fingerprints were compared. The similarities of 3 samples, which were baked at 230 degrees C for 20 min, 30 min and at 240 degrees C for 20 min, were above 0.96. According to the similarities of the fingerprints and in view of the appearances, Platycladi Cacumen Carbonizing should be baked at 230 degrees C for 20 min. | Mid | [
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Liquid crystal display (LCD) devices are well known and are useful in a number of applications where light weight, low power and a flat panel displays are desired. Typically, these devices comprise a pair of sheet-like, glass substrate elements, or "half-cells," overlying one another with liquid crystal material confined between the glass substrates. The substrates are sealed at their periphery with a sealant to form the cell or device. Transparent electrodes are generally applied to the interior surface of the substrates to allow the application of an electric field at various points on the substrates thereby forming addressable pixel areas on the display. Examples of useful liquid crystal materials are twisted nematic, super twisted nematic and ferroelectric liquid crystal mixtures. It is desirable to manufacture large area displays of relatively light weight for use in portable devices such as computers, overhead projectors and the like. Certain organic, polymeric substrates are much lighter than glass and are therefore preferred for use over glass in large area, lightweight displays. However, these substrates tend to be more flexible than glass and must be separated by a dense population of spacers to maintain uniform separation between the closely spaced half cells forming the LCD device. This problem is even more severe with surface stabilized ferroelectric liquid crystal displays which require a nominal 2 .mu.m spacing controlled to within 0.1 .mu.m for good results to produce a uniform electric field at low voltages and show uniform contrast across the entire display area. This uniform spacing is required to provide precise control of the shallow cavity containing the liquid crystal material. Means for achieving the required spacing uniformity include using either precisely dimensioned, short-length polymeric fibers or spheres as in U.S. Pat. No 4,501,471 or spacing members made of photoresist material bonded to the substrate as in U.S. Pat. No. 4,720,173. Each of these methods has deficiencies. Fiber and spheroidal spacing particles are not easily placed uniformly on the substrate to maintain even spacing over the entire area and fibers may overlap to increase the spacer height. Moreover, when the device flexes or is otherwise physically stressed, the spacers may shift or migrate to cause starved areas in the display cell. Bonded structural members must be precisely positioned on each substrate with exactly the same height, a feat that is difficult given the dimensions and tolerances required for effective liquid crystal displays. If members have different chemical composition from the substrate, differential thermal expansion may occur, which causes possible fracture of the bond at the interface and shifting of the spacing member. Many of these deficiencies were addressed by imparting polymeric substrates with a microstructure comprising uniform height ridges to maintain uniform cell gaps as disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 5,268,782 (Wenz), which is incorporated herein by reference. The microstructured substrate disclosed by Wenz provided spacers that would not shift or fracture because the microstructure was physically and chemically integral with the substrate. Therefore, no bonding was required between the spacers and the substrate with which they were integral. In addition, the fabrication of the microstructured substrate could be controlled well within a 0.1 .mu.m or less tolerance even over large areas (tens and hundreds of square centimeters), making it possible to construct large area, light weight displays while preserving uniform contrast across the display. One primary difficulty with the Wenz approach is that all currently available thermoplastic polymer materials suitable for the formation of the microstructured ridges and having the desired optical properties tend to be soluble in or to absorb either the liquid crystal mixtures or alignment layer solvents during processing, operation, and storage of the devices. Such reactions with the substrate polymer adversely affect the optical properties of the substrate, which may cause problems ranging from aberrations in the LCD to failure of the device. To prevent interactions between the LCD material and the spacing members, the microstructured surface may be coated with a thin layer (about 500 to 2000 Angstrom) of silicon dioxide by vacuum deposition prior to contact with the liquid crystal or alignment layer materials. While the silicon dioxide layer provides an adequate barrier as deposited, formation of a complete LCD requires exposure of the substrate to elevated temperatures during, for example, alignment layer processing, storage, and post-fill annealing. Exposure to these elevated temperatures causes the silicon dioxide coating to fracture, particularly at high stress points, due to the large difference in coefficients of thermal expansion between the silicon dioxide coating and the polymer substrate. The fractures in the silicon dioxide layer provide areas of contact between the liquid crystal and the substrate. This may result in absorption of the liquid crystal by the substrate at these fracture points, causing local swelling of the substrate. The local swelling leads to failure of the display due to the uncontrolled optical retardation and disruption of the uniform spacing gap caused by the absorbed liquid crystal in the substrate. Polymers that are impervious to liquid crystal mixtures and to alignment layer solvents may also be applied to the spacer members to form a barrier. These polymers can be chosen or formulated to have coefficients of thermal expansion that closely match that of the substrate polymer. Polymer coatings may be applied over the microstructured substrates disclosed by Wenz using methods such as coating and subsequent cross-linking of a thin liquid resin, or evaporation coating of a polymer layer, over the existing microstructure. However, such polymer coating methods are inadequate to simultaneously provide the required protection of the substrate and the required level of cell gap uniformity between the microstructured ridges. Thin coatings (<0.1 .mu.m) do not provide an adequate barrier, whereas thicker coatings (>0.1 .mu.m) do not replicate the microstructure within tolerances and thus cause display non-uniformities. Another shortcoming with the Wenz approach is that it is not transferable to glass substrates or to substrates other than those that can be imparted with the microstructure. For such substrates, less reliable spacer means, such as fibers, glass beads, and photoresist ribs would need to be employed. A major driving force for the advancement of electronic display technology is the ability to provide larger displays having higher resolution. Such advances cannot be made without the development of substrate materials and materials combinations that may be adapted to large area display applications and allow precise control of sub-micrometer dimensions. | Mid | [
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<?xml version="1.0" encoding="utf-8"?> <!-- ~ Copyright (c) 2016 JustWayward Team ~ ~ Licensed under the Apache License, Version 2.0 (the "License"); ~ you may not use this file except in compliance with the License. ~ You may obtain a copy of the License at ~ ~ http://www.apache.org/licenses/LICENSE-2.0 ~ ~ Unless required by applicable law or agreed to in writing, software ~ distributed under the License is distributed on an "AS IS" BASIS, ~ WITHOUT WARRANTIES OR CONDITIONS OF ANY KIND, either express or implied. ~ See the License for the specific language governing permissions and ~ limitations under the License. --> <resources> <string name="book_read_mode_day">日间</string> <string name="menu_main_night_mode">日间模式</string> </resources> | Low | [
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// // AppDelegate.h // TextXcodeColors // // CocoaLumberjack Demos // #import <UIKit/UIKit.h> @class ViewController; @interface AppDelegate : UIResponder <UIApplicationDelegate> @property (strong, nonatomic) UIWindow *window; @property (strong, nonatomic) ViewController *viewController; @end | Low | [
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Testicular lymphoma. Testicular tumor in the sixty- to eighty-year age group is mostly lymphoma. It is usually a manifestation of a generalized lymphoma, even though it may appear localized. Prognosis is uniformly poor. A combined approach of radiation and chemotherapy gives the best results. Chemotherapy is used sequentially in multiple doses. Two cases are reported. | Mid | [
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"You're listening to FM 93.8," "Member-supported WPKV." "Up next, a special edition of "Downtown Local"" "Stories of life in the city with Isaac Knott." "This is P.R.N.Y." "Public Radio New York." "From W.P.K.V. In New York" "It's "Downtown Local." I'm Isaac Knott." "I don't remember any of what I'm about to tell you." "I only know what the police and coroner's reports say" "That on the morning of April 5th, 1989, a high-speed car crash occurred on a rural highway in Upstate New York." "There were two fatalities:" "My mother died on impact, my father died of hemorrhaging from a torn pulmonary vein and massive internal injuries." "I'm listed as "male survivor, approximately eight years of age."" "We were going down a road." "Nobody'd said much of anything yet." "The road was supposed to have been longer." "I did a story a while back about a kid who thought something his father had left him was magically making him run faster." "He shows me the patch and my first thought is, it doesn't look like magic." "It's black." "The edges are frayed... and I have to confess, I thought I was" "A little crazy myself." "But then I made two discoveries." "The first had to do with the way people looked at me." "I'd always gotten the stares" "You know, the ones people give you, or avoid giving you?" "But once in a while, wheeling in and out of the current of people," "I'd catch someone looking at me" "And I'd see something else in their eyes" "Jealousy." "They were jealous of me, jealous that I got to sit down and they didn't." "Does that sound crazy to you?" "Because the second thing I found was a pair of magic shoes." "But I'm ahead of myself." "P.R.N.Y. is a small operation." "The whole office has to share one production assistant." "But I got around that by moving my desk next to hers." " Hey, I got you a date." " No, thanks." "Listen to me, forget Raine." "Raine is over." "Charlene kicks Raine's ass." "Is this Charlene A.B.?" "Is she Able-Bodied?" "Yeah." "She's also H.B." " Hot-Bodied." "And she's a lawyer." "She's H.B.L." " Hot-Bodied Lawyer." "Hey, Isaac..." "Does Charlene know about the wheels?" "What, are you Frankenstein?" "You're hot." "Tonight." "I'm calling her right now." "Last week a man apparently walked into Bayside Hospital and bribed a doctor into chopping off his leg." "What was wrong with his leg?" "Nothing." "It's weird." "I can't look away." "It's the kind of story I like." "But the caller has a specific request." "Well, they always do." "She wants to meet Isaac." "Lady, if they're chopping off good legs for money, that's hard news." "She wants to meet Isaac." "This is my purview, Edie." "I'll check it out." "If it's true, if it really happened, I'll call her back." "I know a guy can find anything on anybody." "I also know someone in pathology over there." "So call him, see who gets the story first." "A man walks into a hospital and asks a doctor to chop off his leg." "The caller who gave us this tip left her email address" ""ancient chinese girl."" "I know it all sounded like some elaborate joke." "My contact at Bayside was on duty that night and I was half hoping she'd tell me nothing had happened." "Then the doctor came in and the guy goes to him," ""I want you to amputate my left leg."" "And the doctor goes, "why?"" "Sounds like a joke, right?" "So the guy goes, "because I'll give you $250,000 if you do."" "Candy, no one will know you're my source." "Nothing happened, okay?" "We said no and the guy ran out-- like, literally ran." "Are you telling me a first-year Resident turned down a quarter million dollars?" "It's not easy to cut off a leg, you know." "It takes more than two people." "Does this happen a lot" "People coming in complaining they've got legs?" "This guy was creepy, said, uh..." ""I want a transtibial amputation just below my left knee,"" "like he was ordering off a menu or something, like he knew exactly what part was him and what part wasn't, and the part that wasn't he wanted gone." "Well, if any doctor ever does take the money, call me." "Whoa whoa, Tommy." "Come on." " It's okay." " You gotta watch out." "Hey, it's okay." "All right, so the first time I saw these shoes" "I thought they belonged on Fred Astaire stepping out of a 1950 Desoto-- brown-on-black, wingtip, cartouche." "They used to call them "spectators."" "My ex-girlfriend is a P.W.D.," "Which stands for "a Person With Disability."" "She broke up with me because I was too." "Blind dates can get dicey between A.B.S and P.W.D.S, but I was assured that this blind date didn't care about the chair." "And if you're wondering-- yes, I can have sex." "I just can't catch a cab." "Need some help?" "No, I'm fine." "Don't worry, I'll be your girlfriend." " Sorry?" " My parents used to hitchhike Upstate before they were married." "He'd hide in the bushes and she'd thumb the rides." "Sounds like something my parents would do." "Don't worry about it." "I'd rather be late than give these hacks a dime." "Don't run anybody over." "Thank you." "I'm expecting one more." "Her name is Charlene Coke." "Thanks." "Hello, Charlene Coke." "Oh, here comes the look... followed by the triple-axel- someday-I'll-be- a-better-person shrug." "Very nice." "Not an easy maneuver to pull off." "You can clear this." "I'll be dining alone tonight." "Thanks." ""It was supposed to go straight to the incinerator, comma, but an orderly found the unmarked leg..."" "I'll let you catch up." ""...in the freezer and sent it to pathology instead."" "She lied to you, your contact." "You think that can be a problem?" "'Cause I can see how it can be a problem." "Seriously, is it hard to get people to take you seriously when you interview them?" "Oh, Janice, write me a different intro-- something, uh, icky... and sexy." "I mean, don't blame me." "You had your shot." "He has a crush on me." "That's why he hates you." "He thinks I like you." "Do me a favor, set him up with Charlene." "Don't to me about her." "I'm never speaking to her again." "Yes, is Candy Reed working in the E.R. Today?" "You can" "So this email was from the same caller who'd given me the tip on the amputation story." "I got there and I remember thinking," ""somewhere in this building there are others-- not one, but others who want it to be amputated."" "It never occurred to me that "others" could mean something else entirely." "Last week you were talking about hurting yourself." "I came out to my therapist." "Well, that's-- it might have been a mistake." "She told me when I use my chair" "I stay the same height as a child." "You don't need a therapist to tell you that." "What I need is Ginger Jake." "Then I wouldn't need therapy." "I'd be perfect." "Ginger Jake will kill you." "You think because you came out to your therapist" " you're ready for Ginger Jake?" "Have you found us?" "I hope so." "Ask him how he found us." "Uh, I got an email- "ancient chinese girl."" " That's her." "That's her email." "She is not here, but since you are, why don't you tell us how you describe yourself, your relationship with your chair?" "Well, I have a paraplegic injury so I guess you could say my chair and I are pretty tight." "It's all right." "It's okay." "You know we're wannabes?" "I don't know what that is." "We want to be like you." "I'm not comfortable using around him..." "Not until I find out why she sent him." "Tell us what you think of us." "What's it like to spend all your time in a chair?" "They don't say "in a chair."" "Sit "on a chair."" "We just want people to accept us, especially people like you." "I'm happy to answer any questions that you have." "Tell us what it feels like not to feel." "Well, I have pretty good sensation, actually, not too much atrophy." "My last running dream was 1992." "I don't believe in hope but I hope to walk again someday, if that makes any sense." "I work out every day" "Orthotron, stim machine." "I swim." "I stay strong so I know when the day comes my legs will be there." "You are perfect." "I have to say, uh... my name is Isaac Knott and I work for Public Radio New York." " What?" " Isaac Knott." "He tells stories on the radio." "Yes, it's true." "I want to tell your stories, all of you." "No, please... please." "Just please" "You said you want acceptance, right?" "Let me put you on the radio." "You can make your case." "This is what I remember:" "We are on our way home, returning from a little league game." "My team lost." "We're going by the tulip farms because my dad hopes the drive will cheer me up." "The weather conditions are normal for a spring day in Upstate New York-- cloudy with showers on the way." "My mother's eating hard candy she keeps in a bag in a glove compartment." "She kisses my father." "She turns to me." "She throws me a piece of candy." "This is where I stop remembering." "Wake up." "Did I tell you I'm having my housewarming party" " and that you're invited?" "If you pity me, Musslewhite, I will kill you." "Okay." "Isaac Knott's desk." "One moment, please." " This is Isaac." " Isaac Knott?" "Right." "Hello?" "Hi." "It's ancient chinese girl." "You never called me back." "Uh, sorry about that." "I-- we get a lot of anonymous calls around here." "I got your email." "I've been studying these people for a long time." " Anonymity is everything to them." " Are you a psychologist?" "No, I study them because, uh," "I want to understand why." "Why?" "Why what?" "Why they want to be paralyzed." "Do you want to understand why, Isaac?" "Listen, can we-- can we meet sometime-- like say, now?" " Hi." " Hi." "I've never actually seen one of these up close." "Is it hard to get a cab around here?" "For me it is." "Hop in." "I'm Fiona." " Isaac." "Mind if I record?" "Why record me?" "Have you eaten lunch?" "There's a great place nearby." "Really?" "Um, well, why don't we go someplace neither of us has ever been?" "I thought you said you'd never been here." "I haven't." "I love the culture." "I specialize in Chinese art and Chinese ice cream." "Oh, man," "I recommend ginger." "It's very good." "Now last night they were talking about someone named Ginger Jake." "Is she Chinese?" "Uh, Jamaican, I think." "What's the deal?" "People go to her to get paralyzed?" "As I understand it, yes." "What does she do to them?" "You know what, pal?" "I'm not the case study here." "Okay?" "You talk first." "What do you want to know?" "Tell me how you became paralyzed." "I was eight." "My parents were driving." "They died." "I lived." "The other driver was underage, so the records were sealed." "I call her "the pompom girl"" "Because I remember seeing these pompoms." "Paralyzed by a cheerleader." "Your turn." "So talk about your friend." "What makes him want to be like me?" "You know, I've never talked about this to anyone." "So why do you think someone would want to be paralyzed who isn't?" "Give me your working theory." "I can't believe I'm talking to you." " About this?" " Yes." "No." "Yes." "No no no no, I mean, it's you, you know?" "I mean, you're, like, the radio guy." "Say whatever you want." "Whoever your friend is, they'll never know I'm quoting you." "Okay okay, um... it's just-- it's harder than I thought it would be." " Why?" " Okay, all right, all right." "Here's the deal, all right?" "I want to know why my friend wants to be a paraplegic, okay?" "So this for me is all about understanding you." "And, you know, then I'll tell you whatever you want." "So, Quid Pro Quo." "I want your life, pal, as a paraplegic, in detail." "You want my life?" "All right." "At my work I have this guy who hates me." "Because you're paraplegic?" "No, because he's a dick." "I have one of those at my job." "Where do you work?" "Um..." "I'm a conservator." "I freelance." "Right now I'm doing the new collection" " at the van Platt Museum." " There you go." "I'm sure Al Qaeda has someone who comes to the cave every morning and somebody whispers," ""that guy has no self-awareness whatsoever."" "Well, maybe he thinks you're a dick." "No, he thinks I'm a gimp." "What is that?" "Is that, like, a reporter thing where later you'll say," ""mentioned the word 'gimp' and she laughs."" " Yes." " Yes?" "I'm painfully aware, okay?" "I'm too aware." "Well, then you know I like you." "Uh-oh, that means you are weird." "No, I'm easy." "I like anybody who likes me, so..." "Okay." "What if I introduced you to my friend?" "Then I'd like that." "Then the question is, what will you do for me?" "Oh, right." "It's always Quid Pro Quo with this girl." "Don't touch that vase." "It's worth more than this building." "Offended?" "I want to know more." "You know how you have apartment fantasies when you're a teenager?" "Mine was to get a place so I could shut the curtains all day and walk around in my Milwaukee brace." "And you know what?" "It's better than I ever imagined." "So this is a sexual thing for you mainly." "People who get off on braces and wheelchairs are called devotees." "They're a joke." "They're the bottom rung." "Above them are the pretenders." "They wear the braces, they push the wheels, but they don't belong to their chairs." "Still, if they want to fantasize, that's their choice." "Then there are the wannabes." "You saw how crazy they are." "What makes you different than a wannabe or a pretender?" "I'm a unique case." "I don't want to be paralyzed." "You don't?" "I already am paralyzed." "I'm just trapped in a walking person's body." "You make me so nervous." "The other day I decided that nervousness is shame someone catches you feeling." "And I ask myself, why am I ashamed?" "And if you are, why do you continue to do this?" "I can't." "I can't." "I guessed you were a T12 or a T11 incomplete." " What was it, a lumbar lesion?" " Not that." "Listen, that's not the problem." "I can have sex." "The problem is, there's someone else." "Who?" "She's paraplegic." "I don't know why I just said that." "I don't describe people by their injuries." "She's-- her name is Raine." "Is she your girlfriend?" "Sort of." "I asked her to marry me." "I don't know if that counts." "She said no." "She has this idea that one person in every marriage should be able to walk." "So that doesn't really-- that doesn't really count." "This is good news." "I'm sure she'll change her mind." "I hope so." "And if she doesn't, she's crazier than I am, and how crazy is that?" "It's not you, Fiona." "You probably think I'd jump anything in a wheelchair." "No, I don't." "I'm just trying to understand." "I've never shown any of this to any living soul, ever." "There are some things you're not supposed to show." "Oh, well." "I don't have to go." "You can talk to me." "I need to use my chair right now and I can't do that in front of you." "You can trust me." "I've been completely honest with you." "Tomorrow I'm gonna use my chair in public for the first time and you, pal, are cordially invited." "And now I want to thank you for a wonderful, so wonderful day." "there are not hundreds but thousands, all of them invisible, unlike the pretenders, the fetishists, the perverts." "Even the amputee wannabes get a name" ""body integrity identity disorder,"" "but for paralysis wannabes there is no known pathology." "The disorder is order." "This is a strange new American dream" "A way to improve yourself a few dead limbs at a time." "But why?" "What makes someone want to be paralyzed who isn't?" "Oh, good shot." "My friend Dave and I met at a Jesuit seminary where I landed after a long series of foster homes." "I think we never really figured out if he was a brother or a father figure," "But he's the only family that I really have." "Dave fell asleep at the wheel of his car when he was 17." "You haven't mentioned Raine." "I haven't seen her in six weeks." "Mm-hmm." "Did you two have a fight?" "Sort of." "I asked her to marry me." " What did she say?" " She broke up with me." "Apparently, I'm not husband material." "You'll never guess why." "You ever have anyone confess they wanted to be an amputee or paralyzed?" "You'd be surprised what some people want to do to themselves." "I'm doing this story..." "I can't discuss what I hear in confession, not even with you." "No, I wouldn't presume" "Uh-huh." "There's a lot of mixed-up people in this world." "Raine is only one of them." "Um..." "Yes, there he is." "Okay, thank you." "Thank you." "Hi." "Whoo." "Are people staring?" "I can't tell if it's just me." "Probably a little of both." "Yeah, well, this was a good suggestion." "Thank you." "Oh My God, that woman is staring at me." "This is an incredible feeling." "Oh, God." "This is so incredible." "You know, I have dreamed about this moment for so long." "It felt like 20 years just to get a cab." "Welcome to hell." "I'll introduce you to the staff." "I want you to stop me if I'm doing anything wrong, okay?" " You're doing fine." " No, seriously," "I want you to tell me if there's anything" "I should be doing differently or shouldn't be doing at all." " Hi." " Hi." "Fiona, this is-- this is Raine." " Who?" " Raine." "Oh." "Oh!" " Hello." " Hi!" "Isaac has told me so much about you." "He talks about you all the time." "This is my friend Fiona." "Hi." "I'm the ex." " Hi." " Apparently, we haven't decided who gets to keep the restaurant yet." " Fiona: right." " Nice chair." "Thank you." "It's a good ride, eh?" "We were just leaving." " Who was leaving?" " Oh, Scott and I." "Who's Scott?" "Yeah, he's just finishing." "Hi, Scott." "Raine, you have to help me." "Isaac and I were just talking about flying to Nevis." "It's a wonderful island." "Have you been?" " No, I haven't." " Oh, well, he won't budge." "I really want to get out of the city, but he just won't do it." "Encourage him." " What the hell, you should do it." " He should." " Yeah, we'll see." " Yeah, he won't budge." "Raine, it's a real pleasure to meet you" "Finally." "Good to meet you, Fiona." "It was good to see you." "Oh My God." "Was I okay?" "What?" "I said something wrong, didn't I?" "You didn't feel me kicking you under the table?" "No." "Just hold on one second." "Raine!" "Hi." "You forgot this." " I'm so sorry." " Don't be." "I've had the most incredible day." "Same here." "Unbelievable." "Isaac, I finally stopped worrying and just started being." "And I found out that I can do anything." "Oops." "Oops." "You know what?" "I got stuck in a building that had the power door in front but no ramp and then a ramp in back with no power door and it pissed me off." "I yelled at some city guy for more curb cuts." "You know what?" "I was just heading out." "Where are you going?" "Uh..." "I was gonna go talk to the door guy or brooster." "You were gonna go talk to the door guy or brooster?" "About what?" "I just didn't want to be alone." "Wake up." "My first thought is," ""there's something in my shoe besides my foot."" "Then I feel a pin dart, then waves of hot pins traveling up my legs." "The urge to stand is overwhelming." "Should I call 911?" "But what would I say?" ""come quickly, I'm being healed"?" "And then it hits me-- maybe I'm not." "When I take the shoes off the hot pins turn to ice and then disappear." "I might as well be trying to move mountains." "This is fucked up." "Holy shit." "You have to trust yourself." "Don't worry about it." "Where can I find Fiona Ankany?" "It's a surprise." "Hey." "Oh, God." "Hello." "I have the coolest news." "I have some pretty cool news myself." "Um..." "I don't know if I should tell you." " What?" " Okay, you first." "You scratch mine, I scratch yours." "Okay." "Well..." "I have decided to come out about my wheelchair." "I'm going to tell my mother." "Yeah, I'm going to tell her and then I'm going to tell everybody." "I'm going to be in my wheelchair 24/7." "Oh, God, that would be heaven." "That would be so heaven, but I'm so nervous and you have to come with me." "I wouldn't miss it." "You wouldn't?" " Do you want to hear mine?" " Yes." "Okay, but it's kind of... visual." "Really?" "Uh-huh." "Should I be scared?" "No." "Oh, God." "I'm so sorry." "I'm sorry." "I'm sorry." "I shouldn't have surprised you like that." " I just couldn't resist." " Oh My God, no." "Wait wait wait wait wait." "What?" "How?" " It was our sex last night." " Shut up." "I don't know how it happened." "The point is, I can walk." "Oh My God, oh My God." "I'm shaking." "Look, you're making me shake." "Look what you're doing to me." " Look at your hands." " No." "Okay, you are weirding me out." "And that is not easy to do." "It's like, did you ever sneeze and feel like it was a second chance?" "You know, I'm walking," "I'm seeing a drunk puke his ass and then three steps later I'm standing in front of a Van Gogh, and I don't know which one is more beautiful." "What?" "I've never used my chair at work." "Oh, that's fantastic." "It was a scene of perfect symmetric insanity-- the walking paraplegic pushing the paralyzed pedestrian." "It was also one of the happiest moments of my life." "I can't move." "I can't move." "Her mother's house was on Long Island." "The plan was to get the chair out as soon as we arrived." "Hi!" "No, not yet, not yet." "Hi, Mama." "Hi, Fiona." "I've just filled the barbeque." "I needed to see her face" "When she found out why we were there." "Let's slide in." "So Isaac is doing a piece on me for Public Radio." "I don't know what made me think of a barbeque." "I'm glad." "I almost stopped to buy some beer." "No, Isaac, I've been sober for almost 16 years." "Congratulations." "Fiona, how's work?" "Oh, I am conserving the most beautiful porcelain elephant, Mama." "It is turning out beautifully, so beautiful." "You know what?" "I should do more sculpting." " I didn't know you sculpt." " Oh, yeah." "I've been thinking of making a porcelain elephant like the one I'm working on." "You don't really sculpt." "I could be that good if I had the time." "You're comparing yourself to the master sculptors?" "Why not?" "There are steps to everything." "I can just follow the steps and in, like, 10 years" "I can be that good." "It's easy." "Anybody could." "It's one thing to scrape the dirt off someone else's work." "I would think you would at least need to take a drawing class." "Okay, I will." "And then I'll take a sculpture class." "And then I'll take whatever class is necessary and eventually I will be at least that good." "You can be whatever you want to be." "But..." "But what?" "Why are we even arguing about this?" "You know what, Mother?" "Who are you to tell me that I can't make a beautiful porcelain elephant, as beautiful or even more beautiful than anyone else can make a porcelain elephant, hmm?" "Who died and made you final arbiter of who can and cannot be a fine sculptor of beautiful porcelain elephants?" " Not one single drawing class." " That's not fair." "Fiona, you never said you wanted to be a fine artist," " not once." " so?" "I mean, wh-- why do I have to say it?" "What if I'm saying it now?" "Is it too late?" "Did I miss the cutoff?" "I don't understand." "It's better to list your accomplishments after you've done them." "Don't you agree, Isaac?" " Don't bring him into this." " I'm just stating the obvi" "Well, it's not fair!" "If you want to walk, people expect you to hurry." "I'm doing my best." "I don't feel like driving." "I've never used a foot break." "You really want to cap this day off with a car accident?" "Just give it." "You know what?" "I'm a joke." "I'm a wannabe just like everyone else in that pathetic group, so pathetic." "Why don't you do a story on yourself?" "I'm not the story." "Oh, you're not the story?" "Oh, that's right." "That's right" ""Why Fiona Wants To Be Paralyzed"" "by Isaac Knott." "Is that funny?" "No." "No, it's not." "You just said "wants to be paralyzed,"" "But you used to say that you thought you already were." "Oh, come on, Isaac, do I look paralyzed to you?" "Why do you care so much what your mother thinks about you?" "Fiona." "I'm just thinking how easy it is to get used to a miracle." "I shouldn't have come up." "You can use my chair." "We both know how this is going to end." " We don't know what's going to hap" " Oh, here it comes." "Listen, pal, you can feel sorry for me." "Let's not pretend that's caring." "I don't feel sorry for you." "No, I know how you feel about me-- "she's not normal."" "What's normal?" ""Normal" is a setting on a washing machine." "No, I don't think it's a setting on a washing machine." "I think we all know how to point and say," ""See?" "That's normal."" "And I don't want anyone pointing at me because I'm normal." "I mean, I-- I mean, I do." "Fiona, I think you have the right to be whatever you want to be." "I don't want to be a wannabe anymore." "You think I don't know what it's like to pretend?" "I'm pretending right now." "Look, I could sit down right now, take off my shoes and my legs would be gone." "What?" "These shoes are making me walk even though I know they can't any more than a patch can make a kid run faster." "Shut up." "What does it feel like when you take them off?" "Like you've just taken a deep breath, but before you can exhale somebody steals it away." "Oh, Isaac." "Please don't." "Shh, it's okay." " I wonder what they'll do to me." " I asked you, please don't" "Shh, it's okay." "Are you making this up?" "Or do you have to wear them both?" " Nothin'." " Please take them off now." "Do you think maybe they pinch a nerve in your foot or stimulate something?" "Now you know." "What?" "If you can just toss me my shoes, I can dry off here." "It's the worst" "Handling my own wet legs." "It's like trying to nail jell-o to the ceiling." "Hey." "Come on." "Are you gonna make me crawl?" "I thought it would go away when I met you, but it didn't." "And then when I saw that you weren't paralyzed and you were so happy it made me want to be happy walking." "And I almost was." "You know, I mean, I tried." " I really did, I tried." " Can you just toss me my shoes?" "I will..." "After you help me become a T12 paraplegic." "Like you're ordering off a menu." "It's important to be an authentic person if at all possible." "Paralyze yourself." "No, it has to be you." "Why does it have to be me?" ""Why Fiona Wants To Be Paralyzed by Isaac Knott."" "Okay?" " Wait." " So do we have a deal?" "Why would someone want to be paralyzed who isn't?" "I can't answer that." "You think I choose to be this way?" "Do you have any idea how many people in my life" "I've lost because I revealed myself to them?" "I'll tell you why as soon as you tell me where those people went." "I need to find Ginger Jake." "Why would you need Ginger Jake?" "Making arrangements for a friend." "Ginger Jake's effectiveness is variable." "Look, it's not me asking, so let's say it's not you telling." "I just need to know where to find her." ""I can't eat." "I can't talk." "Been drinking Mean Jake, Lord, now I can't walk." "Ain't got nothing left to lose, a Jake-Walking Papa with the Jake Walk Blues."" "#..." "I can't eat, I can't talk # # been drinking Mean Jake, Lord, now I can't walk # # ain't got nothing now to lose # # 'cause I'm a Jake-Walking Papa with the Jake Walk Blues... #" "a true wannabe knows every possible way to become paralyzed." "Auto accidents are thought to be too unpredictable." "There are drugs to render your bones so brittle that a wrong twist getting out of your chair will do the trick." "Or you can puncture your vertebrae with a four-inch spinal needle." "But there's one path to paralysis that excites a wannabe's imagination above all others." "It's called TriOrthoCresyl Phosphate." "They use it to soften plastic." "This is Ginger Jake." "It'll paralyze your legs, your arms." "If you wanna fuck yourself up, you be my guest." "Okay, I'm not being a bitch, but I will give you back your shoes in little cut-up pieces of leather if you don't help me." " I'm not helping you." " You will." "Come to my apartment." "We'll do it there together." "Fiona, whatever fucked-up thing happened to you, you don't deserve to be paralyzed." "Oh, but you do?" "You still have no idea, do you?" "I never talked about this." "So why do you think someone would want to be paralyzed?" "Give me your working theory." "I can't believe I'm talking to you." " About this?" "No." "Yes." "No, it's you." "No." "Yes." "No." "You know, it's you." "...It's you, right?" "I mean" "Driving by the tulip farms." "The flowers are red." "The pompoms are... red and white." "Wake up." "You said you knew a guy who could get anything on anybody, right?" "Yeah." "Me." "Look, I need to know if Fiona Ankany is the girl who crashed into my parents' car" "18 years ago." "The records were sealed." "Well, did you ask her?" "I don't think she'd tell me." " What did she tell you?" " I didn't ask her anything about that." "Well, you know, I don't want to lecture here, but it's kind of question-and-answer." "You know, you have to ask the questions, unless you really don't want to know the answer." "Are you okay?" "You think I'm fucked in the head." "No, I think you're gangbanged in the head." "Okay, you are wigging." "You hurt me and I hurt you-- that's what this is about." "I've tried to imagine what it must have looked like to you in the back seat." "At the police station my mother told me you had survived." "She said that you'd be stuck in a wheelchair the rest of your life." "But I was glad, because when I left you, you were lying on the road and I thought you were dead." "You keep the shoes." " You're hysterical." " I'm about to be hilarious." "Hysterical blindness, hysterical pregnancy" "You have hysterical paralysis." "Isaac, how many doctors have you let examine you in your life?" "What makes a person want to be paralyzed who isn't?" "I used to think if aliens landed and they saw all the able-bodied people and then they saw the people on their wheelchairs, they would say that those must be the Kings and Queens because they have special ramps and they never have to get up." "I have this fantasy that maybe someday after we haven't seen each other in some time..." "I'll hear you say that you forgive me like, on the radio-- you know, say my name maybe." "That was the last time I saw her." "I went back to her apartment, but she'd moved out almost overnight." "There was no forwarding address." "I know a guy who can find anything on anybody, and even he doesn't know where she went." "Her mother doesn't know either." "I went to see her and we talked about that day, the morning it happened." ""Do you feel any responsibility for the crash?"" "She just stares off, contemplating the fairness of a question she will never answer." "Now it's November, two months since I've seen her." "This is the second time in my life she's crashed into me and then vanished." "I find myself going back to places we'd been together" "Not in the way you do when you can't get over someone," "I just go to think about her and to feel... restored." "Isaac Knott," "Public Radio New York." "Subtitles by LeapinLar" | Low | [
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INTRODUCTION {#sec1-1} ============ Detection of atypical squamous cells of undetermined significance (ASC-US) is by far the most common abnormal cervicovaginal Pap test interpretation in any cytology laboratory. Recently published reports have demonstrated that the introduction of the ThinPrep Imaging System (Imager) to the cytology screening services has increased the detection rate of high-grade squamous intraepithelial lesions (HSILs) and low-grade lesions (LSILs).\[[@CIT1]--[@CIT5]\] Lozano\[[@CIT4]\] reported that the ThinPrep® Imager System (TIS) has increased the detection of HSILs by 38%, LSILs by 46%, and ASC-US by 46% compared to manual screening. The ASC:SIL ratio during the study period did not change. Similarly, Papillo *et al*. reported an increase in ASC-US, atypical sqinamous cells cannot exclude HSIL (ASC-H), and LSIL rates by 34, 48 and 29% after the implementation of ThinPrep Imager.\[[@CIT5]\] Use of the TIS has led to increased detection of ASC-H as reported in multiple studies.\[[@CIT6][@CIT7]\] However, other studies have found that the sensitivity and specificity of the imager technology are equivalent to those of manual primary screening.\[[@CIT8]\] The authors however, recommended the use of automated imager for rapid screening of negative cases allowing for an increased productivity of the laboratory. The reports on ASC-US are somewhat less clear. Laboratories have observed no appreciable change in ASC-US rates or follow-up reflex HPV test results.\[[@CIT9]\] Other Laboratories have reported an increase in the ASC-US rate of detection,\[[@CIT10]\] while another study reported a decrease.\[[@CIT11]\] Report on the impact of TIS in detecting glandular lesions is relatively sparse. A study published in 2008 by Friedlander has shown that TIS is effective in identifying atypical glandular cells.\[[@CIT12]\] ThinPrep® Imaging System (TIS) (HOLOGIC, Marlborough, MA) was approved by the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in June of 2003. The clinical trial carried out between December 2000 and November 2001 prior to approval demonstrated that the efficiency of the instrument was at least equivalent to the manual screening in all Bethesda System recommended categories.\[[@CIT13]\] The TIS is a widely used system in the country, and we implemented the system in our high-volume academic medical center laboratory in May 2005. In accordance with recent clinical treatment guidelines, patients with atypical squamous or glandular cells of undetermined significance (ASC-US or AGUS) are often tested for high-risk HPV infection using the Hybrid Capture HPV DNA test.\[[@CIT14]\] Our high-volume cytology laboratory, which serves a relatively stable population of patients with excellent clinical follow-up, introduced the Imager approximately 2 years ago. Our pathology and cytotechnology staff has undergone no major change in personnel, providing relatively stable continuity in diagnostic criteria, and our clinicians follow standard guidelines for reflex HPV testing. So far, the performance of TIS has been evaluated only in a very few high-volume laboratories of an academic medical center.\[[@CIT3]\] Therefore, we took the opportunity to investigate whether the Imager had resulted in any significant differences in our diagnostic categories, as well as whether the Imager increased the detection of high-risk HPV-DNA-positive (HRHPV+) ASC-US or AGUS. MATERIALS AND METHODS {#sec1-2} ===================== The Cytology Laboratory of Women and Infants Hospital processes over 100,000 cases a year. Our laboratory introduced ThinPrep® Pap Test (TPPT) in late 90s, and since then almost 100% of our Pap tests are ThinPrep. Only a rare conventional smear is occasionally encountered here. The ThinPrep 3000 Processor (HOLOGIC) instrument is used to prepare ThinPrep Slides following manufacturer\'s instructions. TIS was introduced in our Laboratory on May 01, 2005 and since then 100% cases are screened by TIS. The cytotechnologists, cytopathologists, and the patient population did not change during the study period. We did not open up any new account with any large physician group, and no previous large physician group disaffiliated its practice with our laboratory during the entire time period of study. Cytology cases with the diagnosis of ASC (ASC-US) and AGUS were retrieved from the archival files of our institution during periods of 11 months prior to and 11 months after the introduction of the Imager. All AGUS diagnoses were correlated with the subsequent follow-up. All cytology materials were examined by the same staff of cytopathologists and cytotechnologists during the study period. The total number of cases in each category was correlated with results of reflex high-risk HPV DNA testing when the latter were available. Reflex HPV testing was performed by using Hybrid Capture 2 method (Digene, Gaithesburg, MD) using a cocktail of probes for all 13 high-risk HPV viruses. The test was done by the Microbiology Department following the manufacturer\'s guidelines. Statistical analyses were performed using the chi-square test with Yate\'s Correction and Fisher\'s Exact test. RESULTS {#sec1-3} ======= A total of 108,371 cases were reviewed during the 11-month period of manual screening of ThinPrep Pap smear prior to the introduction of TIS. A total of 104,555 cases were screened in the following 11 months after implementation of the TIS. Of these cases, during the manual screening period of 11 months, 5,884 (5.4%) cases were reported as ASC-US. HPV DNA test was performed on 5,536 cases (94%). In comparison, during the 11 - month period after the TIS introduction, 5,559 (5.3%) cases were reported as ASC-US, and HPV DNA test was done on 5,515 (99%) cases. The rate of high-risk HPV positivity detected in ASC-US was 38% versus 34% pre- and post-TIS introduction in our laboratory. The detection rate of high-risk HPV pre- and post-TIS was not significantly different (*P* = 0.124). In contrast, 158 (0.14%) cases of AGUS were reported during the pre-TIS and 126 (0.12%) during the post-TIS period. Of these, HPV DNA test was performed on 116 (73%) during the pre-TIS and on 102 (81%) during the post-TIS period. The high-risk detection rate pre- and post-TIS was 14% versus 23% respectively. The rate of increased detection of HPV-positive AGUS during post-TIS period was higher in our laboratory, although not statistically significant (*P* = 0.1690). Our rate of HSILs during same pre- and post-TIS periods were 249 (0.23%) versus 260 (0.25%). The difference was statistically not significant (*P*\>0.05). The ASCUS/SIL ratio was 1.9 and 1.6 respectively during the pre- and post-TIS period. [Table 1](#T0001){ref-type="table"} outlines the findings and statistical analysis. The cases were followed for period of 4--53 months (median 42 months for the pre-Imager group and 35 months for the post-Imager group). The follow-up data and statistical analysis are presented in [Table 2](#T0002){ref-type="table"}. ###### Summary of findings *Pre-imager* *Post-imager* *P-value* ------------------- ---------------- -------------- --------------- ----------- -- Total cases 108,371 104,555 No. of ASC-US (%) 5,884 (5.4) 5,559 (5.3) 0.2789 Reflex HPV DNA testing 5,536 5,515 0.1025 HPV+ 38% 34% 0.124 No. of AGUS (%) 158 (0.14) 126 (0.12) Reflex HPVDNA testing 116 102 0.6527 HPV+ 14% 23% 0.1690 ASCUS/SIL ratio 1.9 1.6 Chi-square test with Yate\'s Correction ###### Follow-up data *Pre-imager* *Post-imager* *P-value* ---------------------------------- -------------- --------------- ----------- TNo. of AGUS 158 126 Abnormal follow-up Bx 33 (20.9) 39 (31.0) 0.1471 LSIL 12 (7.6) 18 (14.3) 0.6645 HSIL 8 (5.1) 7 (5.6) 0.7771 Adenocarcinoma in-situ (AIS) 4 (2.5) 4 (3.2) 1.000 Invasive cervical adenocarcinoma 1 (0.6) 2 (1.6) 1.000 Endometrial adenocarcinoma 8 (5.1) 8 (6.4) 0.7884 Benign follow-up Bx 114 (72.1) 76 (60.3) 0.8938 No follow-up 11 (7.0) 11 (8.7) 0.6601 Fisher\'s Exact test; Figures in parentheses are in percentages DISCUSSION {#sec1-4} ========== Much has been changed in cervical cancer screening since its first introduction in 1946, mostly in last 12 years. The FDA approved the liquid-based screening in 1996, and then TIS was approved by FDA in 2003. Recently, the "2006 Consensus guidelines for the management of women with abnormal cervical cancer screening tests" were published in 2007.\[[@CIT14]\] Biscotti *et al*.\[[@CIT13]\] reported that the sensitivity of the Imager-assisted screening system equals or exceeds the sensitivity of manual primary screening without a decreasing specificity. The comparison of high-risk HPV-positive ASC-US before and after the introduction of TIS in our laboratory shows that the change is not statistically significant. The ASC-US:SIL ratio for this time during the study period also did not change significantly. Our findings support Thrall *et al*.\[[@CIT9]\] who did not find an increase in the ASC-US detection rate after using TIS. Compared to cervical squamous lesions, reports on the impact of TIS in detecting glandular lesions are relatively fewer. The published reports are mainly in the form of abstracts.\[[@CIT15][@CIT16]\] A recent study published in 2008 by Friedlander has shown that TIS is effective in identifying atypical glandular lesions.\[[@CIT12]\] In the current study, the findings on AGUS appear similar to what Friedlander *et al*. has reported.\[[@CIT12]\] TIS did pick up higher number of high-risk HPV positive atypical glandular cells (AGUS) compared to the period of manual screening in the present series. However, the changes are not statistically significant (*P* = 0.1690) The abnormal biopsy follow-up rate in the AGUS category was increased from 20.9% in the pre-Imager period to 31% in the post-Imager period. Although a percentage-wise increase in detection is seen in all categories, a significant increase is seen in the LSIL category (from 7.6 to 14.3%). As expected, the benign follow-up percentage, in the AGUS diagnosis category, is decreased (60.3 from 72.1%) in the post-Imager period compared to the pre-Imager period respectively. Since our laboratory serves a relatively stable population and the laboratory personnel (cytotechnologists and pathologists) were the same during the study period, we can conclude that the increased detection rate of high-risk HPV-positive AGUS is authentic and can be attributed to TIS. It is often stated that comparison of cervical cancer screening methodologies should include the detection rate of HSILs. Our rate of HSILs during same pre- and post-TIS periods were 249 (0.23%) versus 260 (0.25%). The difference was statistically not significant (*P*\>0.05). CONCLUSIONS {#sec1-5} =========== The ASC-US and AGUS rates did not change statistically before and after the introduction of the Imager in our cytology laboratory. Although use of the Imager did not increase the detection of HPV+ ASC-US, it did appear to increase the detection rate of HPV+ AGUS. The biopsy follow-up of AGUS also confirms an increased detection of all category lesions by TIS. The current study appears to show that when AGUS is detected by TIS, an improvement in all categories of disease detection is likely. However, the increase in the detection rate is not statistically significantly different from the pre-Imager period yet. The full benefits of standardizing screening with imaging may be difficult to measure and quantify, since women with negative screening tests are usually not biopsied and most screening studies are therefore subject to the limitation of verification bias. COMPETING INTEREST STATEMENT BY ALL AUTHORS {#sec1-6} =========================================== No competing interest to declare by any of the authors. AUTHORSHIP STATEMENT BY ALL AUTHORS {#sec1-7} =================================== All authors of this article declare that we qualify for authorship as defined by ICMJE <http://www.icmje.org/#author>. Each author has participated sufficiently in the work and take public responsibility for appropriate portions of the content of this article. Each author acknowledges that this final version was read and approved. ETHICS STATEMENT BY ALL AUTHORS {#sec1-8} =============================== This study was conducted with approval from Institutional Review Board (IRB) (or its equivalent) of all the institutions associated with this study. Authors take responsibility to maintain relevant documentation in this respect. EDITORIAL/PEER-REVIEW STATEMENT {#sec1-9} =============================== To ensure integrity and highest quality of CytoJournal publications, the review process of this manuscript was conducted under a double blind model (authors are blinded for reviewers and reviewers are blinded for authors) through automatic online system. Available FREE in open access from: <http://www.cytojournal.com/text.asp?2009/6/1/15/54917> | Mid | [
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Q: Rename Lightning Components Is there an easy way to rename a Lightning component or at least change the label so that in Community Builder / Lightning Builder the desired component name shows up? A: The answer is very simple. You can set a label attribute in the design resource | High | [
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Q: htaccess browser caching specific domains How do I specify browser caching for images, css, js, etc but ONLY for certain domains? We have our own basic CDN and would like images from subdomains cached separately from images on the primary domian. A: You should just be able to add this to an .htaccess in the root of the desired domain/subdomain <FilesMatch ".(js|css|gif|jpg|jpeg|png|ico)$"> Header set Cache-Control "max-age=604800" </FilesMatch> | High | [
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With the day now upon us, I wanted to lay out some points on impeachment which seem to me essential and definitional. The signature reality of the Trump Era is confusion. False stories crowd out real ones – false stories driven less by ignorance than as a mode of attack. We hear endlessly about ‘two realities’, in which partisans on either side of the political divide see the same things and come away with radically different understandings of them. This is mainly false. We see and understand the same things but simply react differently. The great threat we face as a country isn’t poor logical reasoning but the growth of authoritarianism and leader-worship. Here are three points that, for me, function as a sort of north star through this addled and chaotic process. One: The President is accused of using extortion to coerce a foreign power to intervene in a US presidential election on his behalf. Two: There is no one in US politics who would ever find that behavior remotely acceptable in a President of the opposite party. Three: The evidence that the President did what he is accused of doing is simply overwhelming. The documentary evidence points overwhelmingly to guilt. His sometimes unwilling accomplices say he is guilty. His own words prove his guilt. He continues to justify what he is accused of and continues to do the same things again and again in plain sight. This process has been so clotted with tantrums, goalpost-moving and dissimulation that it can be hard to keep one’s bearings. For me, those three essential points clarify the matter and drown out the yelling and stomping. Another observation. Ordinary venal corruption can be impeachable. Some serious crimes that are not tied to a President’s official duties might be impeachable. But the crimes Trump is accused of – and of which he is clearly guilty – are definitional examples of the kind of wrongdoing impeachment was designed to combat. If we step back from signature phrases like “high crimes and misdemeanors” and look at the document in its totality, foreign subversion is a central, paramount concern in erecting a robust presidential power. The president is the only person who can never have had a foreign allegiance. He or she is specifically prohibited from accepting any thing of value or any power or title from a foreign power. The impetus to creating the constitution was the perceived need to create a more robust central government with a more powerful executive. The other signature, structural element of the document is the fear that this empowered executive will use these powers to perpetuate their own power and break free of the republican system of government on behalf of which and for which they hold these powers. Both of these central fears about presidential power are directly implicated in Trump’s criminal behavior. For most of the last century these embedded fears of foreign subversion (certainly monetary rather than ideological subversion) have seemed archaic or quaint. In 1787, the United States was a marginal, weak republic contending in a world of rich kings. In the 20th century, US power and wealth were too vast and overwhelming for this to seem much of a concern. Trump and the plutocratic, strongman era have brought this reality back with a vengeance. Far more than Watergate, certainly more than the frivolous impeachment of Bill Clinton, crimes like Trump has committed are precisely, uniquely what the constitution writers created impeachment to prevent. It’s true that there are a lot of other bad things Trump has done which likely merit impeachment. But the vast majority of them are similar in kind to this, welcoming subversion by foreign powers and the use of the powers given to a President for just administration to corruptly perpetuate his or her own power. How this all turns out I don’t know. But these points, I believe, clarify the situation and wash away the muddiness the President’s defenders have sought to create. | High | [
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Trifluoroacetyl chloride is a known commercially useful compound that can be used to synthesize important industrial products. For example, it can be hydrolyzed according to known techniques to obtain trifluoroacetic acid which then can be used either as a dimerization catalyst of unsaturated aliphatic hydrocarbons in the production of pharmaceutical products or as the active ingredient in pesticide formulations. It is known that trifluoroacetyl chloride can be synthesized by noncatalytic processes. French Pat. No. 2,226,380 describes the synthesis of trifluoroacetyl chloride by subjecting 1,1-dichlorotrifluoroethane and oxygen in the gaseous phase to ultraviolet radiation. This process requires extensive safety measures to avoid the danger of explosion, highly complex photochemical equipment, and large amounts of light and caloric energy. In addition to these drawbacks, the process produces a relatively low yield of trifluoroacetyl chloride. French Pat. No. 1,385,111 discloses a process for photochemical chlorination of pure liquid fluoral at about -30.degree. C. in the presence of ultraviolet light. This method cannot be used commercially because fluoral polymerizes so rapidly that storage of this material is difficult. Also, the process of the French patent does not provide a satisfactory reaction rate or a sufficiently high yield. It is also known that trifluoracetyl chloride can be synthesized catalytically from compounds other than fluoral. For example, French Pat. No. 2,038,257 describes the catalytic oxidation of 1,1,1-trichlorotrifluoroethane with sulfur trioxide. This process has two disadvantages; the use of toxic catalysts with a mercuric sulfate base and the formation of a troublesome sulfuryl chloride byproduct. French Pat. No. 2,169,221 relates to a process for preparing trifluoroacetic acid, one step of which consists of catalytically transforming trifluoroacetyl fluoride into trifluoroacetyl chloride in the presence of carbon tetrachloride, chloroform, or trichlorofluoro methane. This method has the disadvantage of inevitably forming byproducts such as, for example, trichlorofluoro methane when carbon tetrachloride is used. | Mid | [
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Central blood pressure measurements-an opportunity for efficacy and safety in drug development? Over a century of experience with brachial blood pressure has produced a substantial amount of information on the role of blood pressure as a factor in heart disease, stroke and kidney failure. Successful interventions lowering blood pressure and reducing damage to vital organs testify further to the importance of this vital sign. In recent years attempts to probe deeper into the value of knowledge of blood pressure levels closer to the heart (central blood pressures) suggest that noninvasive measurement of central aortic blood pressure may improve further efforts directed at both understanding drug benefit and uncovering potential drug safety issues. This commentary is a summary of a one-day meeting with the FDA in which the role of central blood pressure measurements as an adjunct to drug efficacy and safety were addressed. | High | [
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// This source file is part of the Swift.org open source project // Copyright (c) 2014 - 2017 Apple Inc. and the Swift project authors // Licensed under Apache License v2.0 with Runtime Library Exception // // See https://swift.org/LICENSE.txt for license information // See https://swift.org/CONTRIBUTORS.txt for the list of Swift project authors // RUN: not %target-swift-frontend %s -typecheck 0 protocol A { typealias e : B) { } func a(n: A { func g: e)"A? { typealias B | Low | [
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A cost analysis of a tele-oncology practice in the United States. Oncology services have been provided by telemedicine from the University of Kansas Medical Center (KUMC) for almost 10 years. We have analysed the costs associated with providing tele-oncology clinics to a rural Kansas town for two fiscal years, 1995 and 2000. The aim was to compare recent tele-oncology costs with those of the first year of tele-oncology practice. A study conducted in 1995 showed that the average cost was $812 per telemedicine consultation. Data from fiscal year 2000 showed that the average cost was $410 per telemedicine consultation, a decrease of almost 50%. As the tele-oncology practice in Kansas continues to grow, it can be expected that the costs associated with providing tele-oncology services will continue to decline. | Mid | [
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Q: Retrieve MIME type from Base64 encoded String Let' say a file (e.g. myfile.jpeg) encoded in Base64 String and given to me. There is no way I know what the file type was. I'd like to decode the string into a file (an image in this example). How do I know the type of the file (e.g jpeg)? A: In general, a base 64-encoded string could contain absolutely any data, so there is no way to know its file type. To determine if it is an instance of a JPEG image, you'd need to base64-decode it, and then do something like checking its magic number, which is useful in telling you what the file isn't. You'd still need to do more work to determine if it is a valid JPEG image. | Mid | [
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--- abstract: 'We investigate how to minimize the work dissipated during nonequilibrium processes. To this end, we employ methods from linear response theory to describe slowly varying processes, i.e., processes operating within the linear regime around quasistatic driving. As a main result we find that the irreversible work can be written as a functional that depends only on the correlation time and the fluctuations of the generalized force conjugated to the driving parameter. To deepen the physical insight of our approach we discuss various self-consistent expressions for the response function, and derive the correlation time in closed form. Finally, our findings are illustrated with several analytically solvable examples.' author: - 'Marcus V. S. Bonança' - Sebastian Deffner title: Optimal driving of isothermal processes close to equilibrium --- Introduction \[sec:intro\] ========================== All physical devices operate in finite time, and, hence, inevitably dissipate energy. This observation is what lies beneath the various formulations of the second law of thermodynamics. A particular elucidating statement of this *law* is the maximum work theorem, that predicts that the maximally extractable work during isothermal processes is given by the free energy difference $\Delta F$ [@callen_85]. Thus, the amount of energy that is lost during any real, physical process, i.e., the work dissipated into the environment is given by $W_{\mathrm{irr}}\equiv W-\Delta F$, where $W=\int{\mathrm{d}}{\mathcal{W}}\, {\mathcal{P}}({\mathcal{W}}) {\mathcal{W}}$ is the total work averaged over many realizations of the same nonequilibrium process. Common formulations of the second law only state that $W_{\mathrm{irr}}\geq 0$ where the equality sign is attained for quasistatic, infinitely slow processes. For *finite-time* processes the irreversible work is strictly positive, and thus the natural quest for the optimal process arises, that is to identify the process that dissipates the least amount of work. To this end, three general avenues of research were pursued during the last three decades. One approach stipulated the field of finite-time thermodynamics [@salamon_1982; @salamon_1983; @andresen_1984], while a second one focuses on accurate estimates of free energy differences in computer simulations [@reinhardt_1993; @dekoning_1997; @zuckerman_2004; @dellago_2010]. More recently the study of so-called fluctuation theorems has attracted a lot of attention. In particular, the theorems of Jarzynski [@jarzynski_1997; @jarzynski_1997_PRE] and Crooks [@crooks_1998; @crooks_1999] found wide-spread prominence in virtually all areas of research in classical and quantum thermodynamics [@bustamante_2005; @campisi_2011], as for instance, in biophysics [@liphardt_2002; @collin_2005], in chemical physics [@zimanyi_2009], in linear response theory [@andrieux_2004; @andrieux_2008], and also to improve numerical algorithms [@sun_2004; @jarzynski_2008; @ballard_2012; @sivak_2013]. The present paper proposes an approach within the paradigm of finite-time thermodynamics. Imagine a thermodynamic system with Hamiltonian $H(\lambda)$, where $\lambda$ is an external control parameter. Then we ask for the optimal protocol $\lambda^*_t$ that drives the system from $H(\lambda_0)$ to $H(\lambda_\tau)$ such that the least amount of work is dissipated during finite time $\tau$. In previous works this question has been addressed within two independent approaches: If full information about the microscopic properties of the system is available the dynamics can be described by a Langevin equation [@seifert_2007; @seifert_2008; @then_2008; @aurell_2011], whereas phenomenological treatments rely on methods of linear response theory [@dekoning_2005; @lindberg_2009; @crooks_2012; @crooks_2012_PRE]. Generally, solutions obtained within the microscopic treatment are exact and valid for any kind of driving, fast and slow, strong and weak, whereas phenomenological treatments have been restricted to weak, slow driving. Nevertheless, linear response results have been more promising as only very few examples can be treated analytically in the microscopic description. In addition, descriptions by methods of linear response theory led to the discovery of new effects, as for instance geometric magnetism [@campisi_2012; @thinga_2014]. In the following we will derive an analytical and tractable expression for the irreversible work for slow, but not necessarily weak driving. To this end, we will show how common tools of linear response theory can be applied to *slowly driven systems*. These are systems, whose driving is much slower than the relaxation induced by the thermal environment. As main results, we not only obtain an integral expression for $W_{\mathrm{irr}}$, but also show how the optimal driving protocols $\lambda^*_t$ can be obtained from variational calculus. It will turn out that our approach significantly broadens the scope of previous treatments. #### Outline {#outline .unnumbered} The paper is organized as follows: In Sec. \[sec:slow\] we motivate our approach and then derive an expression for $W_{\mathrm{irr}}$ within a generalized linear response theory. Section \[sec:corr\] is dedicated to obtaining an analytical expression for the correlation time. Finally, in Sec. \[sec:example\] we present various examples for which the optimal protocols can be obtained analytically, before we conclude the analysis with a few remarks in Sec. \[sec:con\]. The regime of slowly varying processes \[sec:slow\] =================================================== The only processes that are fully describable by means of classical thermodynamics are quasistatic processes [@callen_85]. Such processes, however, are only of limited relevance for practical purposes as they are infinitely slow. Moreover, they only describe situations, in which the state of a thermodynamic system evolves as a succession of *equilibrium* states. All real physical processes operate in finite time and are described by a temporal succession of *equilibrium* and *nonequilibrium* states. Physical motivation – Biomolecule experiments --------------------------------------------- Almost 20 years ago Jarzynski achieved a major breakthrough by relating real, finite-time processes with their quasistatic counterpart. In particular he showed [@jarzynski_1997] that $$\label{q01} \overline{{\exp{\left(-\beta {\mathcal{W}}\right)}}}={\exp{\left(-\beta \Delta F\right)}}$$ where ${\mathcal{W}}$ is the work performed in a single realization of a nonequilibrium process, $\beta$ is the inverse temperature, and $\Delta F$ the free energy difference. The bar denotes here an average over an ensemble of realizations weighted by the probability distribution ${\mathcal{P}}({\mathcal{W}})$. In essence, the Jarzynski equality allows to determine the work performed during a quasistatic process, the free energy difference, from an average over an ensemble of finite-time realizations of the same process. The Jarzynski equality was verified in a conceptually simple biomolecule experiment [@liphardt_2002]. The ends of an RNA molecule are attached to microscopic beads, which allow to ’pull the molecule’ apart. Due to the internal structure of RNA one observes folding and unfolding behavior. To study Eq. the following experiment is performed: The RNA molecule is brought into contact with the beads, and let to relax into its equilibrium state. Then, the molecule is pulled apart, while the applied force and the length of the molecule are recorded. The thermodynamic work ${\mathcal{W}}$ can be determined by basically evaluating ’force $\times$ displacement’. The left side of Eq. is then simply obtained by running the same experiment many times. For the right side, however, one has to identify the quasistatic process. To this end, it is useful to notice that every reversible process coincides with a quasistatic process [@callen_85]. In the RNA pulling experiment [@liphardt_2002] a reversible process is identified if the force-displacement graph recorded during the unfolding process coincides with the graph recorded during the re-folding process. Nonequilibrium, irreversible processes show a significant hysteresis in the unfolding-folding graph [@liphardt_2002]. Nevertheless, these experiments were run in finite-time, and even during the apparently reversible process small amounts of work dissipated into the environment. In the following, our aim is to quantify these irreversible contributions. To this end, we will introduce and analyze the notion of a *slowly varying process*, i.e., processes that are within *the linear regime* around the quasistatic process, cf. the sketch in Fig. \[fig00\]. ![(color online) **Schematic representation of a slowly varying process:** The purple, soild line represents a slowly varying process in the vicinity of the quasistatic process (blue, dashed line). The shaded area illustrates the *linear regime*. A *slowly varying process* drives the system only slightly out of equilibrium so that at all instants the system rapidly relaxes back to equilibrum; this is illustrated by the oscillations around the quasistatic path. \[fig00\]](fig0.eps){width="48.00000%"} Irreversible work from linear response theory --------------------------------------------- Imagine a thermodynamic system of interest that is in contact with a thermal environment. Then its equilibrium state is given by the Boltzmann-Gibbs distribution, $$\label{q02} p_{\mathrm{eq}}({\mbox{\boldmath$\Gamma$}};\,\lambda)={\exp{\left(-\beta H({\mbox{\boldmath$\Gamma$}};\,\lambda)\right)}}/Z(\beta,\lambda)\,,$$ where $Z(\beta,\lambda)$ is the partition function, $Z(\beta,\lambda) = \int {\mathrm{d}}{\mbox{\boldmath$\Gamma$}}\,{\exp{\left(-\beta H({\mbox{\boldmath$\Gamma$}};\,\lambda)\right)}}$, and ${\mbox{\boldmath$\Gamma$}}$ denotes a point in phase space. Note that generally $H({\mbox{\boldmath$\Gamma$}};\,\lambda)$ describes the total system, which consists of system of interest and thermal reservoir. However, for the present analysis we only need that for all $\lambda$ there is a well-defined equilibrium state , where $\beta$ is the (inverse) temperature of the heat bath. By $\lambda$ we denote an external control parameter, as for instance volume, pressure, magnetic field, etc. Work is performed by the system under study if $\lambda$ is changed according to an externally predefined protocol, $\lambda(t)$. It will prove convenient to write, $$\label{q03} \lambda(t)\equiv\lambda_0+\delta\lambda\,g(t)\,,$$ where $g(t)$ obeys $g(0)=0$ and $g(\tau)=1$. Thus, $\lambda(t)$ is varied from $\lambda(0)=\lambda_0$ to $\lambda(\tau)=\lambda_0+\delta\lambda$ during time $\tau$. For infinitely slow variation, i.e., in the limit $\tau\rightarrow \infty$ the work performed by the system is given by the free energy difference, $$\label{q04} \Delta F \equiv F(\beta;\lambda_0+\delta\lambda) - F(\beta;\lambda_{0})$$ where we additionally have, $F(\beta;\lambda)=-1/\beta\,\ln Z(\beta,\lambda)$. The maximum work theorem, or more fundamentally the Jarzynski equality now predicts that for all finite values of $\tau$ we have $$\label{q05} W_{\mathrm{irr}}=W-\Delta F\geq 0\,,$$ which means that for all realistic processes irreversible work $W_{\mathrm{irr}}$ is dissipated into the environment. It is worth emphasizing that $W=\overline{{\mathcal{W}}}$ is an average over an ensemble of realizations of the same process. The probability for a single realization is given by, ${\mathcal{P}}({\mathcal{W}})={\left\langle}{\delta\left({\mathcal{W}}-{\mathcal{W}}[{\mbox{\boldmath$\Gamma$}}_t]\right)}{\right\rangle}$, where ${\mbox{\boldmath$\Gamma$}}_t$ is a trajectory in phase space [@chernyak_2005; @deffner_2011]. This means that ${\mathcal{P}}({\mathcal{W}}) $ can be obtained from an average over all possible paths, i.e., by a path integral average [@chernyak_2005; @deffner_2011]. It was shown that the average thermodynamic work $W$ can also be written as [@jarzynski_1997_PRE] $$\label{q06} W = \int_{0}^{\tau} {\mathrm{d}}t\,\frac{{\mathrm{d}}\lambda}{{\mathrm{d}}t} \,\overline{\frac{\partial H}{\partial\lambda}}\,.$$ In the latter equation we introduced the notation $\overline{X}$ to denote the nonequilibrium average, i.e., the average over all paths of the observable $X\equiv{\partial}H/{\partial}\lambda$. Note that Eq. is true for any kind of driving, slow and fast, weak and strong. For the latter analysis we call $X=\partial H/\partial\lambda$ the generalized force. Note, that this definition of a *generalized* force is actually minus the *mechanical* force given by $-\partial H/\partial\lambda$. This choice of sign is motivated by thermodynamic considerations. The work as defined by Eq. is equal to the variation of the internal energy of the total system composed of system of interest plus heat bath, i.e., using Hamilton’s equations, Eq. reads [@deffner_jarzynski_2013] $$W = \int_{0}^{\tau} {\mathrm{d}}t\,\overline{\frac{{\mathrm{d}}H}{{\mathrm{d}}t}} = \Delta U_{tot}\,.$$ Therefore, when $\Delta U_{tot} > 0$ the external agent has performed work and hence $W > 0$, which agrees with the sign convention we adopt in the expression (\[q05\]) for the second law. ![(color online) **Typical protocol and piecewise linear approximation:** Schematic representation of a typical protocol (blue, solid line) and a piecewise linear approximation (orange, dashed line) similar to the one used to obtain the linear approximation for $W_{\mathrm{irr}}$ in Eq. . \[fig0\]](fig9.eps){width=".48\textwidth"} In the remainder of this section we want to find an approximation of $W_{\mathrm{irr}}$ for processes that are close to the corresponding quasistatic process. Thus, mathematically we will have to find approximations, which express the state of the system being close to the equilibrium state corresponding to the instantaneous value of $\lambda(t)$. To this end, imagine that we can separate the process of length $\tau$ into $N$ time steps of length $\delta t\equiv\tau/N$. During each of these time steps the time evolution of the protocol, described by $\lambda_n(t)=\lambda_n+\delta\lambda_n\,g_n(t)$, is then only allowed to change by $\delta\lambda_n$ for $n\in\{0,1,\dots,N\}$, where $\delta \lambda_{n}$ has to be small enough to employ methods of linear response theory for each interval. In complete analogy to the total process, $g_n(t)$ interpolates between $\lambda_n$ and $\lambda_n+\delta\lambda_n$, and therefore fulfills the boundary conditions $g_n(n\, \delta t)=0$ and $g_n((n+1)\,\delta t)=1$. Without loss of generality let us consider the first time interval, $0\leq t\leq\delta t$. In this case we can expand the Hamiltonian for times $t\geq 0$ in orders of $\delta\lambda_0$ and we have, $$\label{q07} H(\lambda(t)) \simeq H(\lambda_{0}) + \delta\lambda_{0}\,g_{0}(t)\,\frac{\partial H}{\partial\lambda}\bigg|_{\lambda=\lambda_{0}} + {\mathcal{O}}\left(\delta\lambda_0^2\right)\,.$$ In the latter equation we suppressed the explicit dependence of the Hamilton on ${\mbox{\boldmath$\Gamma$}}$ for the sake of simplicity of notation. We further had to implicitly assume that $H(\lambda(t))$ is a regular enough function in $\lambda(t)$, so that the latter expansion is mathematically well-behaved. It has been recently shown that dissipation originates in the lag of the dynamical state behind its corresponding equilibrium state [@suri_2009]. In this context ’lag’ refers to the notion that nonequilibrium states generically relax into equilibrium states, if the driving is turned off. Thus, nonequilibrium states can be understood ’to lag in relaxation’ behind equilibrium states. If the Hamiltonian is modulated only weakly the real nonequilibrium state lags only ’slightly’ behind the instantaneous equilibrium state, and we can express the nonequilibrium average of Eq. by means of linear response theory [@kubo_1957; @kubo_1985; @andrieux_2004; @andrieux_2008], $$\label{q08} \overline{\frac{\partial H}{\partial \lambda}} ={\left\langle}\frac{\partial H}{\partial \lambda}{\right\rangle}_0 + \chi^{\infty}_{0}\, \delta\lambda_{0}\,g_{0}(t) - \delta\lambda_{0}\,\int_{0}^{t}{\mathrm{d}}s\,\phi_{0}(t-s)\, g_{0}(s)\,.$$ The angular brackets, ${\left\langle}X{\right\rangle}_n$ denote an average of an observable $X$ over the equilibrium state for the $n$th time step, $$\label{q09} {\left\langle}X{\right\rangle}_{n}=\int d\mathbf{\Gamma}\,X(\mathbf{\Gamma},\lambda_{n})\exp{(-\beta H(\mathbf{\Gamma};\,\lambda_{n}))}/Z(\beta;\lambda_{n})\,.$$ Equation has a clear physical interpretation: The second term describes the *instantaneous* response, which is due to the observable $X=\partial H/\partial\lambda$ being a function of the external control[@kubo_1985]. In particular, we have $$\label{q10} \chi^{\infty}_{0} = {\left\langle}\frac{\partial^{2}H}{\partial\lambda^{2}}{\right\rangle}_{0}\,.$$ The third is the so-called after-effect contribution, the *delayed* response. It is governed by the *response function* [@kubo_1985], $$\label{q11} \phi_{0}(t) = {\left\langle}\{X(0),X(t)\}{\right\rangle}_{0}\,,$$ where $\{A,B\} = \partial_qA\cdot\partial_pB - \partial_pA\cdot\partial_qB$ is the Poisson bracket. Employing Kubo’s formula we have $\phi_{0}(t) = -\dot{\Psi}_{0}(t)$, where $\Psi_{0}(t)$ is the *relaxation function* [@kubo_1985], and $$\label{q12} \Psi_{0}(t) = \beta\left( {\left\langle}X(0)X(t){\right\rangle}_{0} - {\left\langle}X(0){\right\rangle}^{2}_{0}\right)\,.$$ Therefore, Eq. can be re-written after an integration by parts as $$\label{q13} \begin{split} \overline{\frac{\partial H}{\partial \lambda}} &={\left\langle}\frac{\partial H}{\partial \lambda}{\right\rangle}_{0} - \tilde{\Psi}_{0}\, \delta\lambda_{0}\,g_{0}(t) \\ &+ \delta\lambda_{0} \int_{0}^{t}{\mathrm{d}}u\,\Psi_{0}(u)\,\frac{{\mathrm{d}}g_{0}}{{\mathrm{d}}t'}\bigg|_{t'=t-u}, \end{split}$$ where $\tilde{\Psi}_{0} \equiv \Psi_{0}(0) - \chi^{\infty}_{0}$. So far we have only assumed that $\delta\lambda_0$ is small enough, so that the linear expansion of the Hamiltonian in Eq. is a good approximation. To simplify the treatment let us further assume that $g_0(t)$ can be approximated by a linear function in $t$, which is justified for sufficiently small $\delta t$. Therefore, we have with ${\mathrm{d}}g_0/{\mathrm{d}}t\simeq \mathrm{const}$ $$\label{q14} \delta\lambda_{0} \int_{0}^{t}{\mathrm{d}}u\,\Psi_{0}(u)\,\frac{{\mathrm{d}}g_{0}}{{\mathrm{d}}t'}\bigg|_{t'=t-u}\simeq\delta\lambda_{0}\,\,\frac{{\mathrm{d}}g_{0}}{{\mathrm{d}}t}\, \int_{0}^{t}{\mathrm{d}}u\,\Psi_{0}(u)\,.$$ Furthermore, we assume that the relaxation function decays on time scales much shorter than $\delta t$. This is nothing else but an expression of the process under consideration remaining close to the quasistatic process at all times. A similar assumption is commonly employed in thermodynamics [@deffner_jarzynski_2013], for any systems which is only weakly perturbed. Hence, we can write, $$\label{q15} \int^{t}_{0}{\mathrm{d}}u\,\Psi_{0}(u) \simeq \int_{0}^{\infty}{\mathrm{d}}u\,\Psi_{0}(u) \equiv \Psi_{0}(0) \,\tau^{c}_{0}\,,$$ where $\tau^{c}_{0}$ is the [*correlation time*]{}, whose detailed discussion we postpone to Sec. \[sec:corr\]. Essentially, $ \tau^{c}_{0}$ determines the time scale over which the response vanishes, i.e., the system relaxes back to equilibrium. Substituting Eq. with the expression into the integral for the work we obtain that during the first time step the work $$\label{q16} \begin{split} \delta W_{0} &\simeq \delta\lambda_{0} {\left\langle}\frac{\partial H}{\partial \lambda}{\right\rangle}_{\lambda_{0}} -\frac{(\delta\lambda_{0})^{2}}{2} \tilde{\Psi}_{0} \\ & + \delta t\,(\delta\lambda_{0})^{2} \left(\frac{{\mathrm{d}}g_{0}}{{\mathrm{d}}t}\right)^{2} \tau^{c}_{0}\, \Psi_{0}(0) \end{split}$$ is performed (where the integral in Eq. was calculated assuming $\delta t$ very small). Note that for the latter equation we approximated $g_0(t)$ as a linear function, cf. Eq. . The task is now to identify reversible and irreversible contributions. It is easy to see that the first two terms can have either sign. In particular, reversing the arrow of time also changes the sign of the first two terms, but their absolute value remains invariant. One easily convinces oneself, that the first two terms also coincide with the free energy difference for the first time step. Therefore, we identify the first two terms in Eq. as reversible contribution. The third term, on the other hand is always non-negative, and thus the irreversible work reads $$\label{q17} (\delta W_{0})_{\mathrm{irr}} = \delta t\,(\delta\lambda_{0})^{2} \left(\frac{{\mathrm{d}}g_{0}}{{\mathrm{d}}t}\right)^{2}\tau^{c}_{0}\, \Psi_{0}(0)\,.$$ The latter result readily generalizes to the $n$th time step, and the general expression reads, $$\label{q18} (\delta W_{n})_{\mathrm{irr}} = \delta t\,(\delta\lambda_{n})^{2} \left(\frac{{\mathrm{d}}g_{n}}{{\mathrm{d}}t}\right)^{2}\tau^{c}_{n}\, \Psi_{n}(0)\,.$$ It is worth emphasizing that the equilibrium state is ’updated’ for each time step, and that therefore the equilibrium averages in Eq. are taken with respect to the *instantaneous* equilibrium distributions. In another words, we start each time step with an equilibrium probability distribution corresponding to a value $\lambda_{n}$. This can be understood as a consequence of the time-scale separation introduced in Eq. . See also Nulton [*et al.*]{} [@nulton_1985] for similar assumptions. The total irreversible work is then given by $$\label{q19} W_{\mathrm{irr}}\simeq \sum_{n=0}^{N} (\delta W_{n})_{\mathrm{irr}} = \delta t \sum_{n=0}^{N} \left(\frac{{\mathrm{d}}\lambda_{n}}{{\mathrm{d}}t}\right)^{2} \tau^{c}_{n}\,\Psi_{n}(0)\,,$$ where $\lambda_{n}(t)$ approximates the protocol $\lambda(t)$ during the $n$th time step, see also the illustration in Fig. \[fig0\]. In the limit of infinitesimally small $\delta t$ we can write $$\label{q20} W_{\mathrm{irr}} = \beta\int_{0}^{\tau}{\mathrm{d}}t\,\left(\frac{{\mathrm{d}}\lambda}{{\mathrm{d}}t}\right)^{2} \tau^{c}[\lambda(t)]\,\mathcal{X}[\lambda(t)]\,,$$ where, due to $\Psi_{\lambda}(0) = \beta ( {\left\langle}X^{2}(0) {\right\rangle}_{\lambda} - {\left\langle}X(0) {\right\rangle}_{\lambda}^{2} )$ (see Eq. ), we introduced the variance $$\label{q21} \mathcal{X}[\lambda(t)] = \left\langle \left( \frac{\partial H}{\partial\lambda}\right)^{2} \right\rangle_{\lambda(t)} - \left\langle \frac{\partial H}{\partial\lambda}\right\rangle_{\lambda(t)}^{2}\,.$$ Equation constitutes our first main result. The irreversible work during a process within the linear regime around a quasistatic process is determined by the correlation time, $\tau^{c}[\lambda(t)]$, and the variance, $\mathcal{X}[\lambda(t)]$, of the generalized force as properties of the instantaneous equilibrium state. It will prove convenient to re-write the total irreversible work in analogy to the work per time step as a functional of $g(t)$ and we have $$\label{q22} W_{\mathrm{irr}} = \frac{\beta}{\tau} (\delta\lambda)^{2} \int_{0}^{1}ds\,\left(\frac{dg}{ds}\right)^{2} \tau^{c}[g(s)]\,\mathcal{X}[g(s)]\,,$$ which coincides with expressions derived in previous works [@tsao_1994; @dekoning_1997; @crooks_2012]. Since the functional in the previous expression [*does not*]{} depend on the switching time $\tau$, the optimal protocols will be independent of $\tau$, as well. Moreover, Sivak and Crooks [@crooks_2012] obtained an analogous expression with the ’friction tensor’ being here given by $\tau^{c}[g(s)]\mathcal{X}[g(s)]$. As in their case, the optimal protocols obtained from are such that the power spent in the process is constant (see appendix \[ap3\]). Equation expresses $W_{\mathrm{irr}}$ as a functional of $g(s)$ whose extrema can be found using the methods of calculus of variations [@gelfand]. Numerically this functional was studied previously by de Koning [@dekoning_2005], where, however, the correlation time, $\tau^{c}(\lambda) $, and the variance, $\mathcal{X}(\lambda) $, were only obtained numerically. Generally, it is rather straight forward to determine analytical expressions for $\mathcal{X}(\lambda) $ , whereas treating the correlation time is more involved. In particular, we will see in the next section that to determine $\tau^{c}(\lambda)$ knowledge about the microscopic properties of the system of interest becomes necessary. #### Range of validity {#range-of-validity .unnumbered} As we argued earlier Eq. implies that the work performed on the system in each time step is given by an irreversible contribution plus the free energy difference $\delta F_{n}$ between the equilibrium states for $\lambda_{n}$ and $\lambda_{n}+\delta\lambda_{n}$, $$\delta W_{n} \simeq \delta F_{n} + (\delta W_{n})_{\mathrm{irr}}\,. \label{qq23}$$ We know that for quasistatic processes the irreversible contribution has to vanish and the work is identical to $\delta F_{n}$. Therefore, we expect $(\delta W_{n})_{\mathrm{irr}}$ to be very small as the actual process deviates only slightly from the quasistatic one. It seems then natural to have the ratio $(\delta W_{n})_{\mathrm{irr}}/\delta F_{n}$ as a measure of deviations from the quasistatic limit. We investigate in the following how this limit is achieved within our approach. Intuitively the notion of a quasistatic process implies that the time derivative of the driving function has to be very small. Equation indicates that if ${\mathrm{d}}g_{n}/{\mathrm{d}}t$ is negligible, i.e., if the process is quasistatic, the work performed by the generalized force is simply the free energy difference. Hence we have to demand not only $\delta\lambda_{n}$ but also ${\mathrm{d}}g_{n}/{\mathrm{d}}t$ to be small in order to stay close to the quasistatic limit after each time step. The question is how small ${\mathrm{d}}g_{n}/{\mathrm{d}}t$ has to be in order to fulfill these conditions. Equation , after approximations and , can be considered as an expansion in powers of both $\delta\lambda_{0}$ and ${\mathrm{d}}g_{0}/{\mathrm{d}}t$. Then, a very simple upper bound for ${\mathrm{d}}g_{0}/{\mathrm{d}}t$ can be obtained from comparing the terms of order $\delta\lambda_{0}$ with each other when $t=\delta t$. We then obtain $\tau^{c}_{0}/\delta t\ll \gamma$ and analogously $\tau^{c}_{n}/\delta t\ll \gamma$ for the $n$th time step, where $\gamma\equiv |\tilde{\Psi}_{\lambda}/\Psi_{\lambda}(0)|$ is a constant. On the other hand, the applicability of linear response theory for each time step requires that $$\frac{\lambda(t_{n}+\delta t) - \lambda(t_{n})}{\lambda(t_{n})} \simeq \delta t \frac{({\mathrm{d}}\lambda/{\mathrm{d}}t)|_{t=t_{n}}}{\lambda(t_{n})} \ll 1\,,$$ which combined with $\tau^{c}_{n}/\gamma \ll \delta t$ leads to $$\left| \frac{{\mathrm{d}}\lambda/{\mathrm{d}}t}{\lambda(t)} \right| \ll \frac{\gamma}{\tau^{c}[\lambda(t)]} , \label{qq24}$$ in the limit where $\delta t\to 0$. This inequality determines the class of processes for which Eq. is valid. It mainly quantifies the time-scale separation in which Eq. is meaningful. Early derivations invoking endoreversibility [@tsao_1994] and linear response [@dekoning_1997] did not address this point before. The same is true for the recent derivation by Sivak and Crooks[@crooks_2012]. Although the authors explicitly mention the range of validity of their approximations in Ref.[@crooks_2012], they did not combine them to quantify how fast the system can be driven keeping Eq. valid. Finally, it is worth emphasizing that a similar separation of time scales was discussed earlier in the context of finite-time thermodynamics [@salamon_1983]. Analogously, a *generalized thermodynamic length* can be defined, which allows to ’measure’ the range of validity of the linear approximation more rigorously [@deffner_2014_letter]. Correlation time from linear response \[sec:corr\] ================================================== Linear response theory provides a phenomenological description surpassing the potentially involved determination of nonequilibrium states. Instead, the thermodynamic properties of a system are described by the dynamical properties of correlation functions. For all systems, that are sufficiently coupled to a thermal environment, it is plausible to assume that correlations decay rapidly. This assumption expresses our expectation that thermodynamic observables evolve independently after short transients. More mathematically this assumption is supported by considering Markovian dynamics, for which it can be shown rigorously that all correlation functions decay exponentially [@vankampen_2007]. Therefore, one commonly models correlation functions within linear response theory by interpolations between short time transients, the initial behavior, and an exponential decay. Exponential ansatz ------------------ In the present case the crucial correlation function turns out to be an autocorrelation function , whose symmetries play an important role. To illustrate the importance of such symmetries in the phenomenological treatments, let us start with a commonly used model of simple exponential decay, $$\label{q23} \Psi_{\lambda}(t) := \Psi_{\lambda}(0)\,{\exp{\left(-a |t|\right)}}\,.$$ Inspecting Eq. , however, it is easy to see that we have to demand that $\lim_{t\to 0^{+}} \phi_{\lambda}(t) = 0$, since Eq. implies that $\Psi_{\lambda}(-t) = \Psi_{\lambda}(t)$. In addition, with Kubo’s formula we also have $\phi_{\lambda}(-t) = -\phi_{\lambda}(t)$. We immediately observe that the ansatz does not fulfill this property, namely $\lim_{t\to 0^{+}} \phi_{\lambda}(t) \neq 0$, and hence a more careful analysis becomes necessary. Here $\phi_{\lambda}(t)$ and $\Psi_{\lambda}(t)$ are given by Eqs. and but with $\lambda_{0}$ replaced by a different value $\lambda$. Self-consistent phenomenology ----------------------------- More insight can be obtained by considering the Fourier transform of the response function [@kubo_1972]. We have, $$\label{q24} \chi(\omega) = \chi^{\prime}(\omega) -i \chi^{\prime\prime}(\omega) \equiv \int_{0}^{\infty}{\mathrm{d}}t\, {\exp{\left(-i \omega t\right)}}\,\phi_{\lambda}(t),$$ where $\chi^{\prime}(\omega)$ and $\chi^{\prime\prime}(\omega)$ denote the real and imaginary parts, respectively. Furthermore, due to causality the integration is chosen to start at $t=0$. The latter equation can be re-written by integration by parts to read, $$\label{q25} \int_{0}^{\infty}{\mathrm{d}}t\,{\exp{\left(-i \omega t\right)}}\,\dot{\phi}_{\lambda}(t) = i \omega \chi(\omega) - \phi_{\lambda}(0)\,.$$ Now, taking the inverse Fourier transform we obtain with $\chi^{\prime}(-\omega) = \chi^{\prime}(\omega)$ and $\chi^{\prime\prime}(-\omega) = -\chi^{\prime\prime}(\omega)$, $$\label{q26} \dot{\phi}_{\lambda}(0) = \frac{2}{\pi}\int_{0}^{\infty}{\mathrm{d}}\omega\,\left(\omega \chi^{\prime\prime}(\omega) - \phi_{\lambda}(0)\right).$$ From the definition of the response function we conclude $\phi_{\lambda}(0) = 0$, and we also have $$\label{q27} \begin{split} \dot{\phi}_{\lambda}(t) &= \frac{{\mathrm{d}}}{{\mathrm{d}}t}{\left\langle}\{X(0),X(t)\}{\right\rangle}_{\lambda} = {\left\langle}\{X(0),\dot{X}(t)\}{\right\rangle}_{\lambda} \\ &={\left\langle}\{X(0),\{X(t),H\}\}{\right\rangle}_{\lambda}\,, \end{split}$$ where we used that the system evolves under the Hamiltonian $H({\mbox{\boldmath$\Gamma$}};\,\lambda)$. Comparing Eqs. and we observe that the initial value $\dot{\phi}_{\lambda}(0)$ is determined by an equilibrium average. Therefore, $\omega \chi^{\prime\prime}(\omega)$ has to decay sufficiently rapidly to ensure convergence of the integral in . One easily convinces oneself that the exponential ansatz does not fulfill this condition, as well. The lesson to learn from this analysis is that only those phenomenological ansätze for $\Psi_{\lambda}(t)$ are allowed, whose short time behavior fulfills Eq. . Equation together with the initial value $\phi_{\lambda}(0)=0$ belong to a hierarchy of sum rules that can be obtained by systematically integrating Eq. [@kubo_1972]. In Sec. \[sec:example\] we will discuss various illustrative examples, and we will see that qualitative short time behavior of $\phi_{\lambda}(t)$ crucially depends on the underlying Hamiltonian. Furthermore, they provide means to self-consistently determine phenomenological expressions for $\phi_{\lambda}(t)$. For our present purposes they allow to find analytical expressions for the correlation time . For short times the response function can be studied in terms of its Taylor expansion, $$\label{q28} \phi_{\lambda}(t) = \phi^{(0)}_{\lambda}(0) + \phi^{(1)}_{\lambda}(0) t + \phi^{(2)}_{\lambda}(0) \frac{t^{2}}{2!} +{\mathcal{O}}(t^3),$$ where the coefficients $\phi^{(n)}_{\lambda}(0)$ are given by the equilibrium average values. We have with Eq. \[q29\] $$\begin{aligned} \phi^{(0)}_{\lambda}(0)& = {\left\langle}\{ X(0), X(0) \} {\right\rangle}_{\lambda} = 0 , \\ \phi^{(1)}_{\lambda}(0) &= {\left\langle}\{ X(0), \{ X(0), H \} \} {\right\rangle}_{\lambda}, \\ \phi^{(2)}_{\lambda}(0) &= {\left\langle}\{ X(0), \{ \{ X(0), H \}, H\} \} {\right\rangle}_{\lambda}.\end{aligned}$$ As noted earlier, symmetries become useful. In particular, we have $\phi_{\lambda}(-t) = -\phi_{\lambda}(t)$, and thus the coefficients $\phi^{(n)}_{\lambda}(0)$, with $n$ even, vanish. Now imagine that we have a certain phenomenological expression for $\phi_{\lambda}(t)$, with free parameters to be determined. Then, its short time behavior has to match Eq. with coefficients . Generally, infinitely many parameters are necessary to capture the dynamics of $\phi_{\lambda}(t) $ for all times. For sufficiently small times, however, the short time behavior is well described, for instance, by (see appendix \[ap0\]) $$\label{q30} \Psi_{1,\lambda}(t) \equiv \Psi_{\lambda}(0)\, {\exp{\left(-a_{1} t\right)}}(1+ b_{1} t)^{2},$$ for $t>0$ (for $t < 0$ one has of course to take the absolute value of $t$) and with $a_{1}$ and $b_{1}$ being free parameters. From the latter we obtain the response function with the help of Kubo’s formula, $\phi_{\lambda}(t) = -\dot{\Psi}_{\lambda}(t)$. Then, expanding $\phi_{\lambda}(t)$ up to second order and comparing the coefficients with Eq. we obtain \[q31\] $$\begin{aligned} \phi^{(0)}_{\lambda}(0) &= (a_{1} - 2 b_{1})\,\Psi_{\lambda}(0)=0, \\ \phi^{(1)}_{\lambda}(0) &= (-a_{1}^{2} + 4 a_{1} b_{1} -2 b_{1}^{2})\,\Psi_{\lambda}(0).\end{aligned}$$ It is easy to see that with $\Psi_{\lambda}(0)\neq 0$ Eq. can be solved for $ a_1$ and $b_1$ as a function of $\lambda$. Finally, an expression for the correlation time is given by $$\label{q32} \tau^{c}(\lambda) = \frac{\alpha_{1}}{a_{1}(\lambda)} = \alpha_{1} \left( \frac{\Psi_{\lambda}(0)}{2\phi^{(1)}_{\lambda}(0)}\right)^{1/2}\,,$$ where $\alpha_{1} = 5/2$ is numerical constant. Thus, given any particular system $\tau^{c}(\lambda) $ can be determined by first calculating the equilibrium averages governing $\Psi_{\lambda}(0)$ and $\phi^{(1)}_{\lambda}(0)$ and then following the above developed ’recipe’. Other examples will be shortly presented in Sec. \[sec:example\] and appendix \[ap2\]. It is worth emphasizing that the microscopic properties of the Hamiltonian $H({\mbox{\boldmath$\Gamma$}};\,\lambda)$ enter the correlation time via the equilibrium averages. In the upper discussion we restricted ourselves to the simplest case, namely to an ansatz of only two free parameters . This ansatz approximates the dynamics of the response function sufficiently well for short enough times. By sufficiently well we mean that Eq. fulfills Eqs. up to second order. In appendix \[ap2\] we discuss various other ansätze that include higher order corrections. As linear response theory is a phenomenological description, it allows for a certain ’freedom of choice’. The exponential ansatz is motivated by the study of Markovian processes. The ansatz in Eq. is slightly more general as it, in addition, takes into account a transient short time behavior. Its monotonic decay may correspond to a situation where the system is in a critical or overdamped regime (see appendix \[ap0\]). If we wanted to describe underdamped motion, we would have to include an oscillatory component, see also appendix \[ap2\]. In general, the choice of the phenomenological expression for $\Psi_{\lambda}(t)$ is motivated by the available information about the relaxation dynamics of the system of interest. On the other hand, it is clear from appendix \[ap2\] that, apart from example $d$, different ansätze can lead to the same dependence of $\tau^{c}$ on $\lambda$ as long as they agree with Eq. only upto first order. For the sake of simplicity, however, we will work with the ’simplest’ ansatz, that is consistent with Eqs. and , namely Eq. . Before we move on illustrating our findings with the help of analytically solvable examples, let us briefly comment on the significance of the nature of the thermal environment. Generally, the total Hamiltonian can be separated into system of interest and rest of the universe $ H(\lambda) = H_{S}(\lambda) + H_{\mathrm{heat}}$, where the control $\lambda$ acts only on the system. It has been discussed at length in the literature that then the equilibrium averages of an arbitrary observable, ${\left\langle}O{\right\rangle}$, only depend on the system of interest, and the bath degrees of freedom are irrelevant in this respect [@zwanzig_2001]. However, we will show in appendix \[ap1\] that the nature of heat bath does manifest itself in the expression for $\phi^{(3)}_{\lambda}(0)$. Thus, the nature of the bath enters the analysis as higher order corrections. Illustrative examples \[sec:example\] ===================================== The remainder of this paper is dedicated to the explicit discussion of analytically solvable examples. We will start with harmonic potentials, before we generalize the analysis to anharmonic cases. Throughout this section, we restrict ourselves to the ansatz . However, as we show in appendix \[ap2\], non-exponential behavior as described by Bessel and Gaussian functions can also lead to the same dependence of the correlation time $\tau^{c}$ on $\lambda$. Therefore, the only reason to focus on is its simplicity compared to other expressions (see appendix \[ap0\] for its physical motivation). Example I: harmonic trap ------------------------ In this case the control parameter $\lambda(t)$ will either represent a time-dependent minimum or a time-dependent stiffness. #### Time-dependent minimum {#time-dependent-minimum .unnumbered} For a harmonic oscillator transported along a fixed direction the Hamiltonian is given by $$H = \frac{p^{2}}{2m} + \frac{k}{2}(q - \lambda(t))^{2}, \label{q33}$$ and we have $\partial H/\partial\lambda = -k(q-\lambda)$. Therefore, the variance simply reads $$\mathcal{X}(\lambda) = k^{2}\left(\langle(q-\lambda)^{2}\rangle_{\lambda}-\langle(q-\lambda)\rangle_{\lambda}^{2}\right) = k/\beta. \label{q34}$$ whereas the response function coefficient becomes $\phi^{(1)}_{\lambda}(0) = \langle\left\{X(0),\left\{X(0),H\right\}\right\} \rangle_{\lambda} = k^{2}/m$. With the phenomenological ansatz for the relaxation function we obtain for the correlation time $$\tau^{c}(\lambda) = \alpha_{1}\left( \frac{\Psi_\lambda(0)}{2 \phi^{(1)}_{\lambda}(0)} \right)^{1/2}= \alpha_{1}\sqrt{\frac{m}{2k}}. \label{q35}$$ Inspecting Eqs. (\[q34\]) and (\[q35\]) we observe that neither $\mathcal{X}$ nor $\tau^{c}$ depend explicitly on $\lambda$. Moreover, the reversible part of the work vanishes as the partition function remains invariant when $\lambda$ is changed. Therefore, we obtain for the irreversible work $$W_{\mathrm{irr}} = \alpha_{1}\sqrt{\frac{k m}{2}}\, \frac{(\delta\lambda)^{2}}{\tau} \int_{0}^{1}{\mathrm{d}}s\,\left(\frac{{\mathrm{d}}g}{{\mathrm{d}}s}\right)^{2}. \label{q36}$$ It is easily shown that the extremum of the functional above simply reads $g^{*}(s) = s$. This result coincides with the results obtained previously [@seifert_2007; @seifert_2008], apart from initial and final steps and delta peaks. In appendix \[ap2\] we show that any phenomenological ansatz for $\Psi_{\lambda}(t)$ compatible with Eq. yields the same results apart from a numerical prefactor $\alpha_{1}$. #### Time-dependent stiffness {#time-dependent-stiffness .unnumbered} As a second example we consider a harmonic oscillator with time-dependent spring constant. Hence, the Hamiltonian can be written as $$H = \frac{p^{2}}{2m} + \lambda(t)\frac{q^{2}}{2}, \label{q37}$$ and we have $\partial H/\partial\lambda = q^{2}/2$. In this case, the variance reads $$\mathcal{X}(\lambda) =\frac{1}{4}\left(\langle q^{4}\rangle_{\lambda} - \langle q^{2}\rangle_{\lambda}^{2}\right) = \frac{1}{2}\left(\beta \lambda \right)^{-2} , \label{q38}$$ and the response function coefficient becomes $\phi^{(1)}_{\lambda}(0) = \langle q^{2} \rangle_{\lambda}/m = 1/\beta m\lambda $. Then, the correlation time is $$\tau^{c}(\lambda) = (\alpha_{1}/2) \sqrt{m/\lambda}. \label{q38.1}$$ This can be understood intuitively: in the case of the driven harmonic oscillator the characteristic time scale is determined by the period of the harmonic motion for a given $\lambda$. In appendix \[ap2\] we argue that we obtain qualitatively the same behavior for [color[red]{} different]{} phenomenological ansatz for the relaxation function. ![(color online) Comparison between (\[q40\]) (blue, solid line) for $\lambda_{0}=4.0$ and $\delta\lambda=-3.5$, a linear (orange, dotted line) and a quadratic (purple, dashed line) protocol, $g(s)=-s^{2}+2 s$.\[fig1\]](fig1.eps){width=".48\textwidth"} ![(color online) Optimal protocols $\lambda^{*}(s)=\lambda_{0} + \delta\lambda g^{*}(s)$, with $g^{*}(s)$ given by (\[q40\]), for different values of ($\lambda_{0}$, $\delta\lambda$): (1.5, 1.5) (blue, solid line), (1.0, 3.0) (purple, dashed line), ($3.0$, $-1.5$) (ocher, dotted-dashed line) and (4.0, $-3.0$) (green, dotted line). \[fig2\]](fig2.eps){width=".48\textwidth"} The irreversible work $W_{\mathrm{irr}}$ becomes $$\begin{split} W_{\mathrm{irr}} = \frac{\alpha_{1}\,\sqrt{m}}{4\,\sqrt{\lambda_{0}}\beta\tau} \frac{(\delta\lambda)^2}{\lambda_{0}^2}\int_{0}^{1}{\mathrm{d}}s\,\left(\frac{{\mathrm{d}}g}{{\mathrm{d}}s}\right)^{2} \left(1 + \frac{\delta\lambda}{\lambda_{0}} g(s)\right)^{-5/2}, \label{q39} \end{split}$$ According to appendix \[ap3\], the minimum is found for the protocol $$g^{*}(s) = -\frac{\lambda_{0}}{\delta\lambda} + \frac{1}{A (s+B)^{4}}, \label{q40}$$ where $A$ and $B$ are free constants to be determined by the boundary conditions $g^{*}(0)=0$ and $g^{*}(1) = 1$. Choosing $\delta\lambda = -3.5$ and $\lambda_{0} = 4.0$ as used by de Koning[@dekoning_2005] our analytical result qualitatively agree with the numerical outcome published earlier. As in Fig. 5 of Ref. [@dekoning_2005], Figure \[fig1\] shows the optimal protocol in terms of $g(s)$ although there it was called $\lambda(s)$ (see Eq. (13) there). By qualitative agreement we mean that both curves increase monotonically with $s$ (although de Koning’s result seems to increase faster than ours) and have the same concavity. Figure \[fig1\] also shows a linear and a quadratic protocol that fulfill the same boundary conditions. The comparison between $W_{\mathrm{irr}}^{*}$ along $g^{*}(s)$ and $W_{\mathrm{irr}}^{\mathrm{lin}}$ and $W_{\mathrm{irr}}^{\mathrm{quad}}$ along the linear and quadratic protocols leads to $W_{\mathrm{irr}}^{*}/W_{\mathrm{irr}}^{\mathrm{lin}}\approx 0.59$ and $W_{\mathrm{irr}}^{*}/W_{\mathrm{irr}}^{\mathrm{quad}}\approx 0.91$. Finally, Fig. \[fig2\] illustrates (\[q40\]) for various values of $\lambda_{0}$ and $\delta\lambda$. Again, apart from initial and final jumps, these optimal protocols agree qualitavely with those of Schmiedl and Seifert[@seifert_2007] obtained in the overdamped regime (see Fig. 1(a) there). Example II: anharmonic trap --------------------------- We continue with the simplest anharmonic potential. For these situations earlier approaches lead to exact nonlinear integro-differential equations [@seifert_2007; @seifert_2008], whereas here it is still feasible to solve the Euler-Lagrange equation analytically. #### Time-dependent minimum {#time-dependent-minimum-1 .unnumbered} In complete analogy with the harmonic case we start with a transport process. Thus, we have $$H = \frac{p^{2}}{2m} + \frac{k}{4}(q - \lambda(t))^{4}, \label{q41}$$ that yields $\partial H/\partial\lambda = -k(q-\lambda)^{3}$. Accordingly, the variance reduces to $$\mathcal{X}(\lambda) = 6\frac{\Gamma(3/4)}{\Gamma(1/4)} \left(\frac{k}{\beta^{3}}\right)^{1/2}, \label{q42}$$ where $\Gamma$ is the Gamma function, and the response function coefficient reads $$\phi^{(1)}_{\lambda}(0) = \frac{9 k}{\beta m}\,. \label{q43}$$ Therefore, the correlation time can be written as $$\tau^{c}(\lambda) = \alpha_{1} \left(\frac{\Gamma(3/4)}{3 \Gamma(1/4)}\right)^{1/2} m^{1/2}\left(\frac{\beta}{k}\right)^{1/4}\,. \label{q44}$$ In contrast to the previous examples, $\tau^{c}$ depends on the temperature, which to be expected as the system is nonlinear. Nevertheless, in complete analogy with the harmonic potential, $\mathcal{X}$ and $\tau^{c}$ do not depend on $\lambda$, and $\Delta F = 0$. Similarly, we show in the appendix \[ap2\] that different choices of $\Psi_{\lambda}(t)$ yield the same dependence in $\beta$, $k$ and $\lambda$ as long as they fulfill Eq. . Collecting terms we obtain for the irreversible work $$W_{\mathrm{irr}} = \tilde{\alpha_{1}} (\delta\lambda)^{2}\, \frac{\sqrt{m}}{\tau} \left( \frac{k}{\beta} \right)^{1/4} \int_{0}^{1}{\mathrm{d}}s\, \left( \frac{{\mathrm{d}}g}{{\mathrm{d}}s} \right)^{2}, \label{q45}$$ where $\tilde{\alpha_{1}} = \frac{6\alpha_{1}}{\sqrt{3}} \left(\frac{\Gamma(3/4)}{\Gamma(1/4)}\right)^{3/2}$. As before the minimum is simply given by $g^{*}(s) = s$. #### Time-dependent stiffness {#time-dependent-stiffness-1 .unnumbered} Analogously to the previous example, we also investigate the Hamiltonian $$H = \frac{p^{2}}{2m} + \lambda(t) \frac{q^{4}}{4}, \label{q46}$$ where we have $\partial H/\partial\lambda = q^{4}/4$. Therefore, the variance becomes $\mathcal{X}(\lambda) = \left(2\beta\lambda\right)^{-2}$ and the response function coefficient reads $$\phi^{(1)}(0) = \frac{\Gamma(7/4)}{\Gamma(1/4)}\frac{1}{m}\left(\frac{4}{\beta\lambda}\right)^{3/2}\,. \label{q47}$$ Accordingly, the correlation time becomes $$\tau^{c}(\lambda) = \frac{\alpha_{1}}{8} \left(\frac{\Gamma(1/4)}{\Gamma(7/4)}\right)^{1/2} m^{1/2} \left(\frac{\beta}{\lambda}\right)^{1/4}. \label{q48}$$ In contrast to the harmonic case $\tau^{c}$ shows two distinct features: a power law dependence on $\lambda$, which clearly reflects the shape of the potential and a temperature dependence. ![(color online) Comparison between (\[q50\]) (blue, solid line) for $\lambda_{0}=4.0$ and $\delta\lambda=-3.5$, a linear (organe,dotted line) and a quadratic (purple, dashed line) protocol, $g(s)=-s^{2}+2 s$.\[fig3\]](fig3.eps){width=".48\textwidth"} ![(color online) Optimal protocols $\lambda^{*}(s)=\lambda_{o} + \delta\lambda g^{*}(s)$, with $g^{*}(s)$ given by (\[q50\]), for different values of ($\lambda_{0}$, $\delta\lambda$): (4.0, $-2.5$) (blue, solid line), (1.0, 3.0) (purple, dashed line), (3.0, $-2.0$) (ocher, dotted-dashed line) and (1.5, 2.0) (green, dotted line). \[fig4\]](fig4.eps){width=".48\textwidth"} As before, collecting expressions yields for the irreversible work $$\begin{split} W_{\mathrm{irr}} = \bar{\alpha_{1}} \frac{(\delta\lambda)^2}{\lambda_{0}^{9/4}} \frac{m^{1/2}}{\beta^{3/4}\tau} \int_{0}^{1}{\mathrm{d}}s\,\left( \frac{{\mathrm{d}}g}{{\mathrm{d}}s} \right)^{2} \left( 1 + \frac{\delta\lambda}{\lambda_{0}} g(s)\right)^{-9/4}, \end{split} \label{q49}$$ where $\bar{\alpha_{1}} = \frac{\alpha_{1}}{32}\left( \frac{\Gamma(1/4)}{\Gamma(7/4)} \right)^{1/2}$. The minimum of Eq. (\[q49\]) is again obtained from the Euler-Lagrange equation and reads (see appendix \[ap3\]) $$g^{*}(s) = -\frac{\lambda_{0}}{\delta\lambda} + \frac{1}{A (s+B)^{8}}, \label{q50}$$ where $A$ and $B$ are constants to be determined using the boundary conditions $g^{*}(0)=0$ and $g^{*}(1)=1$. In Fig. \[fig3\] we illustrate Eq. (\[q50\]) for $\delta\lambda = -3.5$ and $\lambda_{0} = 4.0$. It also shows a linear and a quadratic protocol that fulfill the same boundary conditions. The comparison between $W^{*}_{\mathrm{irr}}$ along (\[q50\]) and $W^{\mathrm{lin}}_{\mathrm{irr}}$ and $W^{\mathrm{quad}}_{\mathrm{irr}}$ along, respectively, the linear and quadratic paths furnish $W^{*}_{\mathrm{irr}}/W^{\mathrm{lin}}_{\mathrm{irr}} \approx 0.65$ and $W^{*}_{\mathrm{irr}}/W^{\mathrm{quad}}_{\mathrm{irr}} \approx 0.92$. If we compare $W^{\mathrm{harm}}_{\mathrm{irr}}$ computed from using (\[q40\]) in (\[q49\]) and $W^{*}_{\mathrm{irr}}$, we obtain $W^{*}_{\mathrm{irr}}/W^{\mathrm{harm}}_{\mathrm{irr}}\approx 0.99$. Figure \[fig4\] shows (\[q50\]) for different values of $\lambda_{0}$ and $\delta\lambda$. Discussion ---------- For the latter examples we worked with the phenomenological ansatz for the relaxation function introduced above in Eq. . In appendices \[ap1\] and \[ap2\] we show that choosing another ansatz for $\Psi_{\lambda}(t)$ seems to lead to the same qualitative results. Consequently, optimal driving for underdamped and overdamped dynamics are identical within our approximations. Therefore, a comparison with the exact results [@seifert_2007; @seifert_2008] is not immediate. However, we do observe that our results, cf. Fig. \[fig2\], are in qualitative agreement with optimal driving protocols obtained from numerical analyses [@dekoning_2005]. ![(color online) Comparison of the correlation time for the harmonic oscillator for two response functions. $\tau_c=\alpha_1\sqrt{m/\lambda}$ for Eq. (purple, dashed line) and Eq. (\[q52\]) (blue, solid line) in logarithmic scale for decreasing $\lambda$. $\omega_{0}\equiv (\lambda_{0}/m)^{1/2}$ and $\lambda(x)\equiv \lambda_{o} + \delta\lambda\, x$ with $\lambda_{0}=10.0$ and $\delta\lambda=-9.0$.\[fig5\]](fig5.eps){width="48.00000%"} #### Quantitative comparison with exact results {#quantitative-comparison-with-exact-results .unnumbered} To gain further insight a quantitative comparison of our results with the analytically exact study of Schmiedl and Seifert [@seifert_2007] is instructive. As a case study let us return to the harmonic trap with time-dependent stiffness . In this case the exact expression for irreversible work reads [@seifert_2007], $$\label{quant1} W_{\mathrm{exact}}=\frac{1}{2}\int_0^\tau{\mathrm{d}}t\, \dot{\lambda}(t)\,w(t)+\frac{1}{2\beta}\,{\ln{\left(\frac{\lambda_0}{\lambda_0+\delta\lambda}\right)}}\,.$$ In the latter equation $w(t)$ denotes the mean square displacement, $w(t)={\left\langle}q^2(t){\right\rangle}$. For the remainder of this paragraph we will work in units where $\beta=1$. It has been shown by Schmiedl and Seifert [@seifert_2007] that for optimal driving we have $$\label{quant2} w^*(t)=\left(1+ c\, t\right)^2/\lambda_0\,,$$ where $c$ is a constant that depends on the initial stiffness, $\lambda_0$, the variation, $\delta\lambda$, and the switching time $\tau$, $$\label{quant3} c=\frac{1}{\tau}\,\frac{-1-\tau\,(\lambda_0+\delta\lambda)+\sqrt{1+2\lambda_0\,\tau+\lambda_0(\lambda_0+\delta\lambda)\tau^2}}{2+\tau\,(\lambda_0+\delta\lambda)}\,.$$ Accordingly, the exact optimal protocol is given by, $$\label{quant4} \lambda^*_{\mathrm{exact}}(t)=\left\{ \begin{aligned} &\lambda_0 &\forall\, t\leq 0\\ &\frac{\lambda_0-c\,(1+c\,t)}{(1+c\,t)^2} &\quad\forall\, 0<t<\tau \\ &\lambda_0+\delta\lambda &\forall\, t\geq \tau \end{aligned} \right.\,.$$ The purpose of this quantitative comparison is now two-fold. On the one hand, we will compare the exact protocol with our result from linear response theory . ![\[fig:compare\_fast\] (color online) Exact optimal protocol (dashed line) together with the linear response result (solid line) illustrating a fast process, $\lambda_0\tau=2$; parameters are set to $\lambda_0/(\lambda_0+\delta\lambda)=2$.](fast){width=".48\textwidth"} ![\[fig:compare\_slow\] (color online) Exact optimal protocol (dashed line) together with the linear response result (solid line) illustrating a slow process, $\lambda_0\tau=50$; parameters are set to $\lambda_0/(\lambda_0+\delta\lambda)=2$.](slow){width=".48\textwidth"} On the other hand, we will check how well our protocols perform in the general case. In Figs. \[fig:compare\_fast\] and \[fig:compare\_slow\] we plot the exact protocol together with our result for a fast and a slow process as quantified by the magnitude of $\lambda_0\tau$. We observe that for the slow process exact and approximate results are in very good agreement. For the fast process the exact result shows the characteristic jump behavior, which is beyond the scope of any linear response theory.  Ratio of the resulting irreversible work computed for the exact protocol , $W^*_{\mathrm{exact}}$, and from linear response , $W^*_{\mathrm{irr}}$ as a function of the slowness parameter $\lambda_0\tau$ for $\lambda_0/(\lambda_0+\delta\lambda)=2$ (red, solid line) and $\lambda_0/(\lambda_0+\delta\lambda)=0.5$ (blue, dashed line).](ratio.eps){width=".49\textwidth"} In order to check how well the linear response results perform in the general case we computed the exact irreversible work for exact and approximate protocols. In Fig. \[fig:ratio\] we plot the ratio of the resulting values as a function of the ’slowness’ parameter $\lambda_0\tau$. We observe that for slow processes, $\lambda_0\tau\gg 1$, linear response and exact results are in very good agreement, as expect from Figs. \[fig:compare\_fast\] and \[fig:compare\_slow\]. Deviations are observed for fast processes, which cannot be described as ’slowly varying processes’. #### Higher order corrections {#higher-order-corrections .unnumbered} Now, let us briefly discuss the effect of higher order corrections in the correlation time. If $\Psi_{\lambda}(t)$ is demanded to fulfill Eqs. - up to third order the nature of the heat bath becomes important. To this end, we analyze a few examples in appendix \[ap2\]. In particular, if we allow for the underdamped behavior (see also Eq. ), $$\label{q51} \Psi_{5,\lambda}(t)=\Psi_{\lambda}(0)\,{\exp{\left(-a_{5} t^{2}\right)}}\, \cos{(b_{5} t)}\,,$$ we obtain for the harmonic oscillator with time-dependent frequency $$\label{q52} \tau^{c}(\lambda) = \sqrt{\frac{\pi m}{2\lambda\,(1-f(\lambda))}} \, {\exp{\left( -\frac{f(\lambda)}{2(1-f(\lambda))}\right)}},$$ with $f(\lambda) \equiv \sqrt{2 - \eta\omega_{D}/\lambda}/2$. In Fig. \[fig5\] we plot Eq. together with the simple result obtained earlier, $\tau_c=(\alpha_1/2)\sqrt{m/\lambda}$. We observe that accounting for the bath degrees of freedom yields a slightly stronger dependence of the correlation time on the control. In another words, Figure \[fig5\] shows that the correlation times and (and their derivatives) both grow in a similar way as $\lambda$ decreases. Finally, we point out that the heuristic arguments used to derive Eq. need to be discussed more carefully for the examples where $\lambda(t)$ describes a time-dependent minimum. The reason is simply that the partition function $Z(\beta,\lambda)$, and therefore the free energy, does not depend on $\lambda$. In this cases the ratio $(\delta W_{n})_{\mathrm{irr}}/\delta F_{n}$ is meaningless since $\delta F_{n} = 0$. However ${\mathrm{d}}g/{\mathrm{d}}t$ still controls the amount of irreversible work performed along the process. We consider then for these cases the inequality $$W_{\mathrm{irr}}/\langle H \rangle_{0} \ll 1, \label{qq53}$$ where $\langle H \rangle_{0}$ is the initial internal energy, as a criteria for staying near the quasistatic regime. We saw in section \[sec:example\] that the optimal protocols for time-dependent minima are linear functions. Therefore, ${\mathrm{d}}g/{\mathrm{d}}t$ is simply given by the inverse of the switching time $\tau$. Using and $g^{*}(s) = s$ in we obtain $$\tau \gg \alpha_{1} \beta (\delta\lambda)^{2} \sqrt{k m/2}, \label{qq54}$$ for the harmonic trap. Analogously, using and $g^{*}(s)=s$ in leads to $$\tau \gg \frac{4}{3}\tilde{\alpha}_{1} \beta (\delta\lambda)^{2} \sqrt{m} \left(\frac{k}{\beta}\right)^{1/4}, \label{qq55}$$ for the anharmonic trap. Concluding remarks \[sec:con\] ============================== In the present analysis we used methods of linear response theory to describe slowly varying processes, i.e., processes that operate in the linear regime around the quasistatic process. This allowed us to derive a mathematically simple functional for the irreversible work, from which optimal processes can be identified. It turns out that the irreversible work is governed by the correlation time and the fluctuations of the generalized force conjugated to the control parameter. In contrast to previous work we were also able to derive analytical, closed form expressions for the correlation time. To this end, we developed a self-consistent phenomenology to obtain the relaxation function. It is worth emphasizing that our novel approach allows to determine analytical expressions for the correlation time of nonlinear systems, where the description in terms of Langevin or Fokker-Planck equations is very limited. As illustrative examples we further studied harmonic and anharmonic oscillators. For these we found that the optimal control, i.e., the control that minimizes the irreversible work, are in qualitative agreement with results from the literature. The optimal protocols turn out to be independent of the total switching time and the temperature. Nevertheless, it still poses an open problem to reconcile the ’jump’ processes reported for systems described by Langevin dynamics [@seifert_2007; @seifert_2008], and the completely continuous protocols from our linear response theory. It is a pleasure to thank M. de Koning for valuable discussions and suggestions and C. Jarzynski for the hospitality during M.B.’s visit to the University of Maryland, College Park. S.D. acknowledges financial support from the National Science Foundation (USA) under grant DMR-1206971 and M.B. support from the Brazilian research agency FAPESP under the contract 2012/07429-0. Heat bath influence {#ap1} =================== In this appendix we have a closer look at the importance of the nature of the heat bath in our analysis. As before we consider the generalized force, $X \equiv \partial H/\partial\lambda$, which is only a function of the particle coordinate $q$, i.e., $X = X(q)$. Therefore, its Poisson bracket with any other observable $O$ reads, $$\begin{split} \label{b1} \{ X, O\}& \equiv \frac{\partial X}{\partial q}\frac{\partial O}{\partial p} - \frac{\partial X}{\partial q}\frac{\partial O}{\partial p} \\ &+\sum_{k=1}^{N}\left( \frac{\partial X}{\partial q_{k}}\frac{\partial O}{\partial p_{k}} - \frac{\partial X}{\partial q_{k}}\frac{\partial O}{\partial p_{k}} \right)\\ &=\frac{\partial X}{\partial q} \frac{\partial O}{\partial p} \end{split}$$ where we denote here by $(q,p)$ and by $(q_{k},p_{k})$ the phase space coordinates of the system of interest and heat bath, respectively. Let us now define $$\label{b2} B^{(1)} \equiv \{X,H\} = \frac{p}{m} \frac{\partial X}{\partial q} ,$$ where $H=H_S+H_{\mathrm{heat}}$ the total Hamiltonian, consisting of system of interest, $H_S$, and thermal reservoir, $H_{\mathrm{heat}}$. We also have $$\label{b3} \{ X, B^{(1)} \} = \frac{1}{m} \left( \frac{\partial X}{\partial q} \right)^{2},$$ and we can write with Eq. , $$\label{b4} \phi^{(1)}_{\lambda}(0) = \langle \{ X, B^{(1)} \} \rangle_{\lambda} = \frac{1}{m} {\left\langle}\left( \frac{\partial X}{\partial q} \right)^{2} {\right\rangle}_{\lambda}.$$ Now let us assume that the thermal reservoir can be written as an ensemble of harmonic oscillators, $$\label{b5} H_{\mathrm{heat}} = \sum_{k=1}^{N} \left[ \frac{p_{k}^{2}}{2 m_{k}} + \frac{m_{k}\omega_{k}^{2}}{2}(q_{k} - q)^{2} \right]\,,$$ then we can define $$\label{b6} \begin{split} B^{(2)} &\equiv \{ B^{(1)}, H \} \\ &= \frac{p^{2}}{m^{2}} \frac{\partial^{2}X}{\partial q^{2}} - \frac{1}{m}\frac{\partial X}{\partial q} \left[ \frac{\partial H_{S}}{\partial q} - \sum_{k=1}^{N} m_{k} \omega_{k}^{2} (q_{k} - q) \right]. \end{split}$$ Therefore, we also have $$\label{b7} \{ X, B^{(2)} \} = \frac{2 p}{m^{2}} \frac{\partial X}{\partial q} \frac{\partial^{2} X}{\partial q^{2}},$$ which, together with Eq. , leads to $$\label{b8} \phi^{(2)}_{\lambda}(0) = \langle \{ X, B^{(2)} \} \rangle_{\lambda} = \frac{2 {\left\langle}p {\right\rangle}_{\lambda}}{m^{2}} {\left\langle}\frac{\partial X}{\partial q} \frac{\partial^{2} X}{\partial q^{2}} {\right\rangle}_{\lambda} = 0,$$ since there is no coupling between $p$ and $q$ in $H$ and ${\left\langle}p {\right\rangle}_{\lambda} = 0$. In the remainder of this appendix we will now show that the nature of the heat bath comes in third order in our treatment. To this end, let us further define $$\label{b9} \begin{split} B^{(3)} &\equiv \{ B^{(2)}, H \} \\ & = \frac{\partial B^{(2)}}{\partial q} \frac{\partial H}{\partial p} - \frac{\partial B^{(2)}}{\partial p} \frac{\partial H}{\partial q} + \sum_{k=1}^{N} \frac{\partial B^{(2)}}{\partial q_{k}} \frac{\partial H}{\partial p_{k}}. \end{split}$$ The latter can be rearranged to read $$\begin{aligned} \label{b10} B^{(3)} &=& \frac{p^{3}}{m^{3}} \frac{\partial^{3} X}{\partial q^{3}} + \frac{1}{m} \frac{\partial X}{\partial q} \sum_{k=1}^{N} \omega_{k}^{2} p_{k} \nonumber \\ &-& \frac{3 p}{m^{2}} \frac{\partial^{2} X}{\partial q^{2}} \left[ \frac{\partial H_{S}}{\partial q} - \sum_{k=1}^{N} m_{k}\omega_{k}^{2} (q_{k} - q) \right] \nonumber \\ &-& \frac{p}{m^{2}} \frac{\partial X}{\partial q} \left[ \frac{\partial^{2} H_{S}}{\partial q^{2}} + \sum_{k=1}^{N} m_{k}\omega_{k}^{2} \right].\end{aligned}$$ Thus we finally obtain $$\begin{aligned} \label{b11} \{ X , B^{(3)} \} &=& \frac{3 p^{2}}{m^{3}}\frac{\partial X}{\partial q} \frac{\partial^{3} X}{\partial q^{3}} \nonumber \\ &-&\frac{3}{m^{2}} \frac{\partial X}{\partial q} \frac{\partial^{2} X}{\partial q^{2}} \left[ \frac{\partial H_{S}}{\partial q} - \sum_{k=1}^{N} m_{k}\omega_{k}^{2} (q_{k} - q) \right] \nonumber \\ &-& \frac{1}{m^{2}} \left( \frac{\partial X}{\partial q} \right)^{2} \left[ \frac{\partial^{2} H_{S}}{\partial q^{2}} + \sum_{k=1}^{N} m_{k}\omega_{k}^{2} \right].\end{aligned}$$ The microscopic parameters of the Hamiltonian can be expressed in terms of the spectral density $J(\omega)$ in the following way [@zwanzig_2001] $$\sum_{k=1}^{N} m_{k}\omega_{k}^{2} = \frac{2}{\pi}\int_{0}^{\infty} d\omega\,\frac{J(\omega)}{\omega}. \label{bb1}$$ In the Ohmic regime, $J(\omega)$ is given by $$J(\omega) = \eta\omega \frac{\omega_{D}^{2}}{\omega^{2} + \omega_{D}^{2}}, \label{bb2}$$ where $\eta$ is the friction constant and $\omega_{D}$ is a cutoff frequency. It can be shown [@zwanzig_2001] that this expression for $J(\omega)$ leads to an effective equation of motion for $q$ with a friction term $\eta \dot{q}$ in the limit $\omega_{D}\to\infty$. In the case of the harmonic oscillator with time-dependent frequency we hence can write $$\begin{aligned} \label{b12} \lefteqn{\phi^{(3)}_{\lambda}(0) = \langle \{ X, B^{(3)} \} \rangle_{\lambda} } \nonumber \\ &=& -\frac{4}{m^{2}} \langle q^{2}\rangle_{\lambda} \left( \lambda + \sum_{k=1}^{N} m_{k}\omega_{k}^{2} \right) + \frac{3}{m^{2}} \sum_{k=1}^{N} m_{k} \omega_{k}^{2} \langle q_{k} q \rangle_{\lambda} \nonumber \\ &=& -\frac{4}{m^{2}\beta} \left( 1 + \sum_{k=1}^{N} \frac{m_{k}\omega_{k}^{2}}{4\lambda} \right) \nonumber \\ &=& -\frac{4}{m^{2}\beta} \left( 1 + \frac{\eta\omega_{D}}{4\lambda} \right),\end{aligned}$$ where, from the second to the third line, we used $$\label{b13} \langle q^{2} \rangle_{\lambda} = 1/\beta\lambda, \quad{\mathrm{and}}\quad \langle q_{k} q \rangle_{\lambda} = 1/\beta\lambda\,,$$ and from the third to the fourth line, we used (\[bb1\]) and (\[bb2\]). The parameter $\eta\omega_{D}/\lambda$ determines the regimes of weak ($\eta\omega_{D}/\lambda\ll 1$) and strong ($\eta\omega_{D}/\lambda\gg 1$) coupling. Relaxation function from Brownian motion {#ap0} ======================================== In this appendix we show an example where a very simple relaxation function can be obtained exactly. Let us consider the following Langevin equation $$\ddot{q}(t) + 2\eta\,\dot{q}(t) + \omega_{o}^{2}\,q(t) = f(t)/m\,, \label{n0}$$ describing the motion of a particle with mass $m$ in the presence of a harmonic potential whose characteristic frequency is $\omega_{o}$. The friction constant is $\eta$ and $f(t)$ is the usual noise with mean value $$\overline{f(t)} = 0\,, \label{n1}$$ and correlation function given by $$\overline{f(t)f(t')} = 4m\eta k_{B}T\,\delta(t-t')\,, \label{n2}$$ where $k_{B}$ is Boltzmann constant and $T$ is the temperature of the heat bath. To simplify the analysis, we restrict ourselves to the situation of [*critical*]{} damping where $\eta = \omega_{o}$. In this case, the solution of Eq. reads $$\begin{aligned} q(t) &=& q(0)\,(1+\eta t)\,{\exp{\left(-\eta t\right)}} + \dot{q}(0) t\, {\exp{\left(-\eta t\right)}} \nonumber \\ &+& \int_{0}^{t} {\mathrm{d}}t'\,{\exp{\left(-\eta(t-t')\right)}} (t-t') \frac{f(t')}{m}\,, \label{n3} \end{aligned}$$ where $q(0)$ and $\dot{q}(0)$ are the position and velocity of the particle at $t=0$. From Eqs. , and , it is straightforward to obtain, for $t > 0$, $$\begin{aligned} \overline{q^{2}(t)} &=& q^{2}(0) (1+\eta t)\, {\exp{\left(-2\eta t\right)}} + \dot{q}^{2}(0)\,t^{2}\,{\exp{\left(-2\eta t\right)}} \nonumber\\ &+& 2 q(0) \dot{q}(0) (1+\eta t) t\,{\exp{\left(-2\eta t\right)}} \nonumber \\ &+& \frac{4\eta k_{B}T}{m}\int_{0}^{t} {\mathrm{d}}t'\,{\exp{\left(-2\eta(t-t')\right)}}\,(t-t')^{2}\,,\end{aligned}$$ where, as before, the overline denotes an average over different noise realizations [@vankampen_2007]. Thus, the correlation function of $q^{2}(t)$ reads $$\left\langle q^{2}(0)\,\overline{q^{2}(t)} \right\rangle - \langle q^{2}(0) \rangle^{2} = var\left( q^{2} \right)\,{\exp{\left(-2\eta t\right)}}(1+\eta t)^{2}\,, \label{n4}$$ where $\langle\cdot\rangle$ denotes an average over initial conditions using a canonical distribution and $var(q^{2}) \equiv \langle q^{4}(0)\rangle - \langle q^{2}(0)\rangle^{2}$. Equation then tells us that the relaxation function $\Psi(t)$ with $X = q^{2}/2$ would be exactly proportional to . Motivated by the simplicity of , we show in section \[sec:corr\] that although not exact in general the ansatz describes approximately well the relaxation function in some situations of interest. Phenomenological expressions for the relaxation function {#ap2} ======================================================== This appendix is dedicated to the study of various phenomenological ansätze for $\Psi_{\lambda}(t)$. In particular we will see that $\tau^{c}(\lambda)$ does not change qualitatively, if $\Psi_{\lambda}(t)$ is to fulfill Eqs. - up to first order. In another words, the details of the relaxation dynamics are irrelevant if (\[q29\]) is the only sum rule (apart from $\phi_{\lambda}(0)=0$, of course) that has to be satisfied. In this regard, from all the expressions we present in the following, only the final one, $\Psi_{5,\lambda}(t)$, really yields different results. It is also important here to recall that not only $\phi_{\lambda}(0)=0$, but also $\phi^{(n)}_{\lambda}(0) = 0$ if $n$ is even (see comment after (\[q29\])). #### Bessel functions Let us start with an ansatz in terms $J_0(x)$, the Bessel function of first kind. $$\label{a1} \Psi_{2,\lambda}(t) \equiv \Psi_{\lambda}(0) J_{0}(a_{2} t),$$ This expression may describe a nonexponential relaxation in an underdamped regime. From (\[a1\]), we obtain $$\label{a2} \begin{split} \phi_{2,\lambda}(t)& = -\frac{{\mathrm{d}}}{{\mathrm{d}}t} \Psi_{2,\lambda}(t) = \Psi_{\lambda}(0)\,\left[ \frac{a_{2}^{2} t}{2} + {\mathcal{O}}(t^3) \right] \\ &= \phi_{\lambda}^{(1)}(0)\, t + {\mathcal{O}}(t^3). \end{split}$$ Thus, the correlation time can be written with $a_{2} = \sqrt{2 \phi_{\lambda}^{(1)}(0)/\Psi_{\lambda}(0)} $ as $$\label{a3} \tau^{c}_{2} = \frac{1}{a_{2}} = \left( \frac{\Psi_{\lambda}(0)}{2 \phi_{\lambda}^{(1)}(0)} \right)^{1/2}.$$ #### Oscillatory behavior I Let us now consider exponential relaxation in an underdamped regime, which is phenomenologically described by $$\label{a4} \Psi_{3,\lambda}(t) \equiv \Psi_{\lambda}(0)\,{\exp{\left(-a_{3} t\right)}}\, \left[ \cos{(b_{3} t)} + \frac{a_{3}}{b_{3}} \sin{(b_{3} t)} \right]\,,$$ for $t > 0$. Therefore, we have $$\label{a5} \begin{split} \phi_{3,\lambda}(t) &= -\frac{{\mathrm{d}}}{{\mathrm{d}}t} \Psi_{3,\lambda}(t) \\ &= \Psi_{\lambda}(0) \left[ (a_{3}^{2} + b_{3}^{2}) t - a_{3}(a_{3}^{2}+b_{3}^{2}) t^{2} + {\mathcal{O}}(t^3) \right] \\ &= \phi_{\lambda}^{(1)}(0) \,t + {\mathcal{O}}(t^3), \end{split}$$ which leads to the following system of equations \[a7\] $$\begin{aligned} \phi_{\lambda}^{(1)}(0) &= \Psi_{\lambda}(0) (a_{3}^{2} + b_{3}^{2}), \label{a7a}\\ \phi_{\lambda}^{(2)}(0) &= 0 = 2 \Psi_{\lambda}(0) a_{3} (a_{3}^{2} + b_{3}^{2}). \label{a7b}\end{aligned}$$ In general, we have $\phi_{\lambda}^{(1)}(0) \neq 0$, and Eqs. (\[a7\]) imply that $a_{3} = 0$. However, this is not admissible since no relaxation would occur. Therefore, we conclude that (\[a4\]) is a good description only up to first order in the expansion (\[a5\]). This means we will ignore (\[a7b\]) and consider only (\[a7a\]). Thus, the relation between $a_{3}$ and $b_{3}$ has to be introduced by hand from the knowledge about the relaxation dynamics of the system under study. For instance, if we take $b_{3} = 2 a_{3}$, we obtain $a_{2} = \sqrt{\phi_{\lambda}^{(1)}(0)/5 \Psi_{\lambda}(0)} $, and the corresponding correlation time becomes $$\label{a8} \tau^{c}_{3} = \frac{2}{5 a_{3}} = \frac{2}{5}\left( \frac{\Psi_{\lambda}(0)}{5 \phi_{\lambda}^{(1)}(0)} \right)^{1/2}.$$ #### Gaussian response Now, we turn to overdamped Gaussian relaxation $$\label{a10} \Psi_{4,\lambda}(t) \equiv \Psi_{\lambda}(0)\,{\exp{\left(-a_{4} t^{2}\right)}},$$ and we have $$\label{a11} \begin{split} \phi_{4,\lambda}(t) &= -\frac{{\mathrm{d}}}{{\mathrm{d}}t} \Psi_{4,\lambda}(t) = \Psi_{\lambda}(0) \left[ 2 a_{4} t - 2 a_{4}^{2} t^{3} + {\mathcal{O}}(t^5) \right] \\ &= \phi_{\lambda}^{(1)}(0) t + \phi_{\lambda}^{(3)}(0)\frac{t^{3}}{3!} + {\mathcal{O}}(t^5)\,. \end{split}$$ We immediately observe that while the ansatz works up to second order we cannot match the first and third order coefficients simultaneously. Therefore we conclude $a_{4} = \phi_{\lambda}^{(1)}(0)/2 \Psi_{\lambda}(0) $, and the corresponding correlation time becomes $$\label{a12} \tau^{c}_{4} = \frac{1}{2} \left(\frac{\pi}{a_{3}}\right)^{1/2} = \frac{\sqrt{\pi}}{2} \left( \frac{2 \Psi_{\lambda}(0)}{\phi_{\lambda}^{(1)}(0)} \right)^{1/2}.$$ #### Oscillatory behavior II As a final example, let us consider underdamped Gaussian relaxation. Therefore, we choose the phenomenological ansatz $$\label{a13} \Psi_{5,\lambda}(t) \equiv \Psi_{\lambda}(0)\,{\exp{\left(-a_{5} t^{2}\right)}}\, \cos{(b_{5} t)}\,.$$ In complete analogy to the previous examples we have $$\label{a14} \begin{split} &\phi_{5,\lambda}(t) = -\frac{{\mathrm{d}}}{{\mathrm{d}}t} \Psi_{5,\lambda}(t)\\ &= \Psi_{\lambda}(0) \left[ (2 a_{5} + b_{5}^{2}) t - \left(2 a_{5}^{2} + 2 a_{5} b_{5}^{2} + \frac{b_{5}^{4}}{6}\right) t^{3} + {\mathcal{O}}(t^5) \right] \\ &= \phi_{\lambda}^{(1)}(0) t + \phi_{\lambda}^{(3)}(0)\frac{t^{3}}{3!} + {\mathcal{O}}(t^5), \end{split}$$ which leads to the following system of equations \[a15\] $$\begin{aligned} \phi_{\lambda}^{(1)}(0) &= \Psi_{\lambda}(0) (2 a_{5} + b_{5}^{2}), \\ \phi_{\lambda}^{(3)}(0) &= -6 \Psi_{\lambda}(0) \left(2 a_{5}^{2} + 2 a_{5} b_{5}^{2} + \frac{b_{5}^{4}}{6}\right). \end{aligned}$$ To gain further insight into the physical meaning of Eq. let us consider the Hamiltonian (\[b5\]) together with Eq. (\[q37\]) and the related result (\[b11\]) for weak coupling, namely $\eta\omega_{D}/\lambda < 1$. In this case, the solution of (\[a15\]) can be written as \[a16\] $$\begin{aligned} a_{5} &= \frac{\lambda}{m}\left[ 1 - \frac{\sqrt{2}}{2}\left(1 - \frac{\eta\omega_{D}}{2\lambda}\right)^{1/2} \right], \\ b_{5} &= 2^{1/4} \left(\frac{\lambda}{m}\right)^{1/2} \left(1 - \frac{\eta\omega_{D}}{2\lambda} \right)^{1/4}.\end{aligned}$$ The corresponding correlation time becomes $$\label{a18} \tau^{c}_{5} = \sqrt{\frac{\pi m}{2\lambda\,(1-f(\lambda))}} \, {\exp{\left( -\frac{f(\lambda)}{2(1-f(\lambda))}\right)}}$$ with $f(\lambda) \equiv \sqrt{2 - \eta\omega_{D}/\lambda}/2$. Obtaining the extrema through variational calculus {#ap3} ================================================== In this appendix we show how the extrema of section \[sec:example\] can be obtained using calculus of variations. The functional (\[q22\]) for $W_{\mathrm{irr}}$ is of the form $$J[g(s)] = \int_{0}^{1}{\mathrm{d}}s\, F(g(s),\dot{g}(s)), \label{c.1}$$ where $\dot{g}(s)\equiv {\mathrm{d}}g/{\mathrm{d}}s$. The necessary condition for an extrema of (\[c.1\]) is given by the Euler-Lagrange equation [@gelfand] $$\frac{{\mathrm{d}}}{{\mathrm{d}}s}\frac{\partial F}{\partial \dot{g}} - \frac{\partial F}{\partial g} = 0, \label{c.2}$$ together with the fixed end points boundary conditions $g(0) = 0$ and $g(1)=1$. When $F$ does not depend on $s$ explicitly, (\[c.2\]) becomes [@gelfand] $$\frac{{\mathrm{d}}}{{\mathrm{d}}s}\left( F - \dot{g} \frac{\partial F}{\partial \dot{g}} \right) = 0, \label{c.4}$$ or equivalently $$F - \dot{g} \frac{\partial F}{\partial\dot{g}} = \mathrm{const}. \label{c.5}$$ If $F$ is also independent on $g(s)$, as in Eqs. (\[q36\]) and (\[q45\]), Eq. (\[c.2\]) simply reads $$\frac{{\mathrm{d}}}{{\mathrm{d}}s} \frac{\partial F}{\partial \dot{g}} = 0, \label{c.6}$$ which, for $F = \dot{g}^{2}(s)$, yields $\dot{g}(s) = \mathrm{const}$. Therefore, we finally obtain the extremum $$g^{*}(s) = s. \label{c.8}$$ For Eqs. (\[q39\]) and (\[q49\]), $F$ has the form $$F(g,\dot{g}) = \dot{g}^{2}(s)\left(1 + \mu\, g(s) \right)^{-l}, \label{c.9}$$ with $l > 1$ and $\mu > -1$. Equations (\[c.5\]) and (\[c.9\]) then yield $$-\dot{g}^{2}(s) \left( 1+\mu\,g(s) \right)^{-l} = \kappa, \label{c.10}$$ or, equivalently, $$\dot{g}^{2}(s) + \kappa \left(1 + \mu\,g(s) \right)^{l} = 0, \label{c.11}$$ where $\kappa$ is a constant to be determined by the boundary conditions. In the case of the harmonic trap, $l = 5/2$ and the solution $g^{*}(s)$ of (\[c.11\]) is given by $$g^{*}(s) = -\frac{1}{\mu} + \frac{1}{A (s+B)^{4}}, \label{c.12}$$ where $A = \kappa^{2}\mu^{5}/4^{4}$. Demanding (\[c.12\]) to fulfill the boundary conditions, one obtains $A^{-1} = B^{4}/\mu$ and $$B = \left\{ \begin{aligned} \left[ (1 + \mu)^{-1/4} - 1 \right]^{-1},&\;\mathrm{for}\, (1 + \mu) < 1\\ -\left[ 1 - (1 + \mu)^{-1/4} \right]^{-1},&\;\mathrm{for}\, (1 + \mu) > 1. \end{aligned} \right. \label{c.13}$$ In the case of the anharmonic trap, $l = 9/4$ and the solution $g^{*}(s)$ of (\[c.11\]) is given by $$g^{*}(s) = -\frac{1}{\mu} + \frac{1}{A (s + B)^{8}}, \label{c.14}$$ where $A = \kappa^{4}\mu^{9}/4$. Demanding (\[c.14\]) to fulfill the boundary conditions, one obtains $A^{-1} = B^{8}/\mu$ and $$B = \left\{ \begin{aligned} \left[ (1 + \mu)^{-1/8} - 1 \right]^{-1},&\;\mathrm{for}\, (1 + \mu) < 1\\ -\left[ 1 - (1 + \mu)^{-1/8} \right]^{-1},&\;\mathrm{for}\, (1 + \mu) > 1. \end{aligned} \right. \label{c.15}$$ [46]{}ifxundefined \[1\][ ifx[\#1]{} ]{}ifnum \[1\][ \#1firstoftwo secondoftwo ]{}ifx \[1\][ \#1firstoftwo secondoftwo ]{}““\#1””@noop \[0\][secondoftwo]{}sanitize@url \[0\][‘\ 12‘\$12 ‘&12‘\#12‘12‘\_12‘%12]{}@startlink\[1\]@endlink\[0\]@bib@innerbibempty @noop [**]{} (, , ) [****, ()](http://scitation.aip.org/content/aip/journal/jap/53/1/10.1063/1.329960) [****, ()](http://link.aps.org/doi/10.1103/PhysRevLett.51.1127) [****, ()](http://link.aip.org/link/PHTOAD/v37/i9/p62/s1&Agg=doi) [****, ()](http://scitation.aip.org/content/aip/journal/jcp/99/9/10.1063/1.465830) [****, ()](https://journals.aps.org/prb/abstract/10.1103/PhysRevB.55.735) [****, ()](http://scitation.aip.org/content/aip/journal/jcp/120/23/10.1063/1.1760511) [****, ()](http://journals.aps.org/pre/abstract/10.1103/PhysRevE.81.021127) [****, ()](http://link.aps.org/doi/10.1103/PhysRevLett.78.2690) [****, ()](http://link.aps.org/doi/10.1103/PhysRevE.56.5018) [****, ()](http://link.springer.com/article/10.1023%2FA%3A1023208217925?LI=true) [****, ()](http://link.aps.org/doi/10.1103/PhysRevE.60.2721) [****, ()](http://link.aip.org/link/PHTOAD/v58/i7/p43/s1&Agg=doi) [****, ()](http://journals.aps.org/rmp/abstract/10.1103/RevModPhys.83.771) [****, ()](http://www.sciencemag.org/content/296/5574/1832.full.html) [****, ()](http://www.nature.com/nature/journal/v437/n7056/full/nature04061.html) [****, ()](http://scitation.aip.org/content/aip/journal/jcp/130/17/10.1063/1.3132747) [****, ()](http://scitation.aip.org/content/aip/journal/jcp/121/13/10.1063/1.1782391?ver=pdfcov) [****, ()](http://link.aps.org/doi/10.1103/PhysRevLett.100.230404) [****, ()](http://scitation.aip.org/content/aip/journal/jcp/121/21/10.1063/1.1813434) [****, ()](http://journals.aps.org/prl/abstract/10.1103/PhysRevLett.100.190601) [****, ()](http://scitation.aip.org/content/aip/journal/jcp/136/19/10.1063/1.4712028) [****, ()](http://link.aps.org/doi/10.1103/PhysRevX.3.011007) [****, ()](http://journals.aps.org/prl/abstract/10.1103/PhysRevLett.98.108301) [****, ()](http://scitation.aip.org/content/aip/journal/jcp/129/2/10.1063/1.2948948) [****, ()](http://journals.aps.org/pre/abstract/10.1103/PhysRevE.77.041105) [****, ()](http://journals.aps.org/prl/abstract/10.1103/PhysRevLett.106.250601) [****, ()](http://scitation.aip.org/content/aip/journal/jcp/122/10/10.1063/1.1860556) [****, ()](http://scitation.aip.org/content/aip/journal/jcp/130/17/10.1063/1.3126602) [****, ()](http://link.aps.org/doi/10.1103/PhysRevLett.108.190602) [****, ()](http://link.aps.org/doi/10.1103/PhysRevE.86.041148) [****, ()](\doibase 10.1103/PhysRevA.86.032114) [ ()](http://arxiv.org/abs/1403.3523) [****, ()](http://stacks.iop.org/1742-5468/2006/i=08/a=P08001) [****, ()](http://iopscience.iop.org/0295-5075/94/3/30001/) [****, ()](http://stacks.iop.org/0295-5075/87/i=6/a=60005) [****, ()](http://journals.jps.jp/doi/abs/10.1143/JPSJ.12.570) @noop [**]{} (, , ) [****, ()](http://scitation.aip.org/content/aip/journal/jcp/83/1/10.1063/1.449774) [****, ()](http://journals.aps.org/prx/abstract/10.1103/PhysRevX.3.041003) [****, ()](http://scitation.aip.org/content/aip/journal/jcp/101/3/10.1063/1.467670) @noop [**]{} (, , ) @noop [ ()]{} @noop [**]{} (, , ) [****, ()](http://scitation.aip.org/content/aip/journal/jmp/13/10/10.1063/1.1665862) @noop [**]{} (, , ) | Mid | [
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1. Introduction {#sec1-life-07-00040} =============== Although the Earth is the only body known to host life, the number of stars and planets in the Universe encourages us to believe that life appeared elsewhere. The discovery of life arising independently elsewhere would have important consequences for science and, indeed, for humanity. In particular, it would permit better understanding of the origin of life on an Earth whose early geological record has been lost due to crustal recycling and plate tectonics. This quest, the basis of astrobiology \[[@B1-life-07-00040]\], is thus one of the most important objectives in the exploration of the Universe. Astrobiology gathers together scientists from various domains, from astronomers to biologists via geologists, through chemists, physicists and philosophers. Due to this very wide and interdisciplinary coverage, and due to the fundamental nature of the discoveries in this domain, astrobiologists are often requested to communicate with the general public through conferences, interviews, or training courses. However, discussing extraterrestrial life with people not directly involved in the domain can rapidly become challenging, largely due to the influence of science fiction in films, books or on the internet upon popular culture. Questions about UFOs, the Roswell Incident and other conspiracy theories are common during these kinds of discourses. It is, therefore, necessary to replace astrobiology in a rigorous scientific framework and to find a simple way to explain the difference between looking for microbial life and looking for extraterrestrial intelligence, without neglecting the possibility of the latter. Here, we present a simple statistical approach permitting us to put into perspective this astrobiological challenge. Based on the Darwinian theory of evolution, it is logical to suppose that the first life was simple microbial life. From this, to reach the stage of intelligent organisms, several consecutive important stages are needed, such as the evolution of photosynthesis, the development of nucleus- and mitochondria-like structures, multicellularity, etc. many stages that require particular environmental conditions. Implicitly, it is thus easy to conceive that simple microbial life would be statistically more common in the Universe than any type of advanced extraterrestrial intelligence. Consequently, considering that inhabited bodies are distributed randomly in space in the Universe, it is implied that highly sophisticated forms of life are statistically further from the Earth than microbial forms of life. On the other hand, if the probability of finding extraterrestrial life and intelligence increases with the distance from the Earth, the number of detectable biosignatures decreases due to technical limitations. This competition between probability and detectability constitutes the main challenge in astrobiology. In this study, we attempt to illustrate this fact using a statistical approach based on our knowledge of the Milky Way, the Solar System and the evolution of life on Earth. We propose an equation permitting us to obtain the order of magnitude of the probability of life at different stages of evolution and the distance between Earth and the associated bodies in our galaxy. The consequences on the detection of the associated biosignatures are then discussed. This approach allows us to easily explain why it is very improbable that we will be able to detect a signal of extraterrestrial intelligence while, at the same time, it is justified to send space probes dedicated to the search for microbial life in the Solar System. This approach is also an effective way in which to tackle other subjects and notions with general public, among them the vastness of the Universe, the distances in astronomy, the definition of life, and space exploration. 2. General Overview and Probabilistic Concept {#sec2-life-07-00040} ============================================= 2.1. On the Conditions Required for Life to Appear {#sec2dot1-life-07-00040} -------------------------------------------------- There are many definitions of life (see R. Popa, 2004, for a discussion of more than 100 definitions \[[@B2-life-07-00040]\]), but the one we use here is the following. Schematically, a living system can be defined as a self-replicating open system capable of (Darwinian) evolution \[[@B3-life-07-00040],[@B4-life-07-00040]\]. However, when searching for life elsewhere in the Universe, scientists must focus their investigations on detectable forms of life, i.e., life forms that are not too different to us. For chemical and physical reasons (tetravalence, hybridisation, bond energy, etc.), it can be considered that only carbon permits the formation of molecules complex and varied enough to constitute living systems. It is thus generally admitted that most forms of life would be based on organic chemistry and comprised of the elements C, H, N and O, as well as P and S \[[@B5-life-07-00040]\]. Before evolution may occur, life must appear. The first hypothesis suggesting the origin of life as a complexification of chemical molecules in the atmosphere of the primitive Earth was proposed by Alexander Oparin in 1924 and then reinforced by the famous experiment of Stanley Miller and Harold Urey in 1953, the latter experiment obtaining amino acids from a gas mixture traversed by an electric arc to simulate lightning \[[@B6-life-07-00040],[@B7-life-07-00040]\]. Since then, it has been shown that the compositions and concentrations of the gases used were not perfectly relevant to the primitive Earth and that the production of amino acids by this method would have been less efficient. Nevertheless, this particular experiment is the basis of prebiotic chemistry and of exobiology in general. Organic molecules may also form near sea floor hot springs by Fisher-Tropsch reactions \[[@B8-life-07-00040]\]. Finally, many molecules have been detected in space \[[@B9-life-07-00040]\] and laboratory experiments have shown that a large variety of organic molecules can be formed in ice \[[@B10-life-07-00040],[@B11-life-07-00040]\]. They are also found in comets, as recently shown by the Rosetta mission \[[@B12-life-07-00040]\], and in meteorites \[[@B13-life-07-00040]\]. The Murchison meteorite contains several thousands of different organic molecules, in particular 70 amino acids of which 8 are proteinogenic \[[@B14-life-07-00040]\]. That so many pivotal organic molecules exist and survive in space has given credence to the Panspermia hypothesis, and further fuels postulation that life may be able to undergo transport through space on scales larger than that of a single planet \[[@B15-life-07-00040]\]. Chemists considered that the first 'living systems' were formed on Earth by a suite of chemical reactions involving these different molecules. For these reactions to occur, liquid water played a key role, in particular due to its exceptional properties, for instance of allowing for the stability of key chemical bonds to create and maintain chiral macrostructures while favouring the breakup of other bonds to permit chemical interchange \[[@B5-life-07-00040],[@B16-life-07-00040],[@B17-life-07-00040]\]. Indeed, all known living organisms on Earth are assemblages of carbon molecules containing liquid water. Prebiotic chemistry experimentation and modelling is continuously increasing our understanding of the reactions leading to the formation of the building blocks of life: nucleic acids and bases, amino acids, and lipids \[[@B18-life-07-00040]\]. In particular, present studies in this domain now focus their investigations on the reaction of organic molecules in liquid water in contact with mineral surfaces sensu lato, in what is commonly called the primordial soup (see e.g., \[[@B17-life-07-00040],[@B19-life-07-00040]\]). The energy source needed for the reactions to occur could have been light from the Sun, a geological heat source (thermal gradient associated with hydrothermal systems, and stemming from the heat flux of the cooling Earth), radioactivity (now-extinct radionuclides responsible for much heat flux on the early Earth), or another, unknown, cause. Considering all of the above, one can conclude that a rocky body hosting liquid water that can be sown with organic molecules by meteoritic input and/or Fischer-Tropch type reactions, and where these products can be reprocessed in chemical reactors in a presence of a source of energy, is needed for life to appear and to develop. These conditions may appear to be relatively strict but are in reality common in the Universe. Moreover, they apply to life forms with which we are familiar (i.e., Terrestrial life) and thus for life as we seek it. Note, however, that astrobiologists do not exclude the possibility of unexpected types of life \[[@B20-life-07-00040]\]. 2.2. On the Probability of the Occurrence of Extraterrestrial Life {#sec2dot2-life-07-00040} ------------------------------------------------------------------ The statistical approach is the best way to estimate the probability of extraterrestrial life. Thus, Frank Drake tried to estimate the number of civilisations in the Milky Way capable of emitting a detectable sign into space, and willing to communicate, using his now-famous equation \[[@B21-life-07-00040]\]. The Drake equation is the product of several probabilistic terms, most of them difficult to evaluate \[[@B22-life-07-00040]\]. Depending on the specificities of the approach, the number of extant intelligent civilisations capable of communication in the Milky Way may be lower than one, meaning that the existence of intelligent life forms is very unlikely and that the number of extraterrestrial civilisations is lower than the number of galaxies in the Universe; alternatively, it may be of the order of several tens of thousands. Many studies attempting to solve this equation have been published, some with specific focus on particular terms of the equation or the use of new approaches based on different mathematical models (e.g., \[[@B23-life-07-00040],[@B24-life-07-00040],[@B25-life-07-00040],[@B26-life-07-00040],[@B27-life-07-00040],[@B28-life-07-00040],[@B29-life-07-00040]\]). The Ozma project (1960) and the Frank Drake study (1961) are at the origin of the Search for Extra-Terrestrial Intelligence (SETI) programme looking for intelligent signals using, in particular, the Arecibo telescope to collect data for the seti\@home project (<http://setiathome.berkeley.edu/>). Nevertheless, in astrobiology, the search for extraterrestrial life is not limited to intelligent civilisations. On the contrary, research in this domain mostly focuses on microbial life, particularly with respect to the Solar System. Thus, S. Seager undertook a broader approach to investigate the detectability of life on exoplanets located in the habitable zone of their star \[[@B30-life-07-00040],[@B31-life-07-00040]\]. In her study, the author attempted to calculate the number of planets upon which life emerged and developed sufficiently to change the atmosphere by the emission of biogases, yet still near enough to be detected from the Earth. More recently, D. Waltham estimated the probability of reaching more or less evolved life on habitable Earth-like exoplanets \[[@B32-life-07-00040]\]. Note, however, that it is theoretically possible for microbial life to appear even if the host body is not globally habitable \[[@B33-life-07-00040]\]. At the microbial scale, recent exploration of the Solar System has shown that environments compatible with the existence of life may be relatively common in the Universe and it is widely believed that life may have appeared on other bodies in the Solar System, for example below the icy crust of the moons of Saturn and Jupiter, or on Mars \[[@B34-life-07-00040],[@B35-life-07-00040],[@B36-life-07-00040]\]. Detecting potential remains or traces of life will be one of the aims of in situ investigations of the Martian surface made by the future ESA/Roscosmos ExoMars 2020 rover, and by the NASA Mars 2020 mission. If life appeared on a solid body other than the Earth in the Solar System, this should mean that life is very common in the Universe, statistically leading to a strong increase in the number of potential civilisations estimated by the Drake equation. Concomitantly, the absence of traces of life on another 'habitable' body in the Solar System does not mean that life is unique to the Earth, but it does mean that it is potentially rarer in the Universe. Here, we extend the statistical approach used by F. Drake, S. Seager and D. Waltham \[[@B21-life-07-00040],[@B30-life-07-00040],[@B31-life-07-00040],[@B32-life-07-00040]\] to the concept of life in general in order to include the search for past or present microbial life in the Solar System. 2.3. The More Complex, the Less Probable {#sec2dot3-life-07-00040} ---------------------------------------- Defining the complexity of an organism is not obvious. Indeed complex, self-organising structures and organisms do not require complex mechanisms of formation \[[@B37-life-07-00040]\], nor should simple structures and organisms be the expected results of simpler processes. Darwinian evolution is a continuous process that leads equally to the diversity of life, as well as to its complexity. However, for general public outreach, it is useful to illustrate the complexity of life by using particular forms of life that are representative of chronological stages of evolution. We choose : (1) microbial life forms similar to unicellular prokaryotes, (2) macroscopic multicellular organisms as defined by J. Kasting \[[@B38-life-07-00040]\], i.e., similar to those of the Ediacaran biota, and (3) intelligent forms of life (civilisations). Throughout this study, after each calculated term, the stage of evolution to which that term applies will be indicated in brackets by $\left( Mic. \right)$, $\left( Mac. \right)$ and $\left( Civ. \right)$ respectively. The global approach to estimate the probability of extraterrestrial life consists of solving an equation composed of several terms that are: (i) a number of particular stars or planets of interest in our galaxy or in the Universe, (ii) a proportion of these stars or planets meeting particular criteria, or (iii) a probability that a particular event occurred, such as the appearance of life. With increasing astronomical knowledge, it is now possible to make a reasonable estimation of the value of the numerical and proportional terms regarding other stars and exoplanets. The Solar System can also be used as a model to estimate some proportional terms related to bodies too small to be observed in other stellar systems. 3. Equations for Life in the Universe {#sec3-life-07-00040} ===================================== 3.1. Probability Equation for Life in the Universe {#sec3dot1-life-07-00040} -------------------------------------------------- We define the proportion of bodies presently hosting one of the three stages of life $P_{Life}$ as a product of different terms:$$P_{Life} = p_{S} \times p_{B} \times p_{C} \times p_{L} \times p_{R} \times p_{P}$$ with:$p_{S}$: the proportion of stellar systems having a star compatible with the occurrence of the considered stage of life.$p_{B}$: the proportion of these stellar systems having at least one rocky body located at a distance from the star compatible with the considered stage of life, i.e., within its habitable zone.$p_{C}$: the proportion of these bodies compatible with the emergence of life.$p_{L}$: the probability that life appeared on these bodies.$p_{R}$: the probability that life reached the considered evolutionary stage on these bodies.$p_{P}$: the probability that life at this evolutionary stage is still active on these bodies. This is equivalent to the probability of co-existence occurrence of this stage of life on several bodies simultaneously. The resolution of Equation ([1](#FD1-life-07-00040){ref-type="disp-formula"}) is fully dependent on the considered evolutionary stage of life (microbial, complex, or intelligent); the values attributed to the different terms are not the same for intelligent forms of life and for microbial life. 3.2. Converting Probabilities into Distances {#sec3dot2-life-07-00040} -------------------------------------------- There are about 200 billion stars in the Milky Way. The number $N_{Life}$ of bodies in our galaxy hosting the considered stage of life is given by:$$N_{Life} = P_{Life} \times 200 \times 10^{9}$$ Using the value of $N_{Life}$ given by Equation ([2](#FD2-life-07-00040){ref-type="disp-formula"}), it is possible to deduce the average distance $D_{Life}$ between two of the considered bodies. The Milky Way is a flattened disk approximately 100,000 light years (ly) in diameter and 6000 ly in thickness. Its volume is thus equal to:$$V_{M.W.} = 4.7 \times 10^{13}{ly}^{3}$$ The average distance $D_{Life}$ between two potentially inhabited planets is therefore:$$D_{Life} = \sqrt[3]{\frac{V_{M.W.}}{N_{Life}}}$$ It is important to note that this distance may vary due to the inhomogeneity of the galaxy. Indeed, the density of stars is, for instance, higher in the arms of the galaxy and globally increases with the decreasing radial distance from the centre of the galaxy. The distance $D_{Life}$ would thus be lower in these parts of the galaxy and most of the habitable planets are expected to be located in the inner Galaxy \[[@B39-life-07-00040]\]. On the other hand, our Solar System is located at an average distance from the centre of the Milky Way, in the arm of Orion. The distance given by Equation ([4](#FD4-life-07-00040){ref-type="disp-formula"}) can thus be considered as representative of the average distance between the Earth and other considered inhabited planets. In the following, the values of $P_{Life}$, $N_{Life}$ and $D_{Life}$ are estimated for the three considered stages of life. 4. Solving the Equations {#sec4-life-07-00040} ======================== 4.1. Astronomical Terms {#sec4dot1-life-07-00040} ----------------------- The three first terms in Equation ([1](#FD1-life-07-00040){ref-type="disp-formula"}) are representative of astronomical parameters. They can be estimated with a relatively good accuracy based on our knowledge of the Universe and data coming from various telescopes. $p_{s}$ is the proportion of stellar systems having a star compatible with the occurrence of the considered stage of life. The essential requirements of prokaryote-like unicellular life are relatively simple; this kind of life form does not require as much energy or nutrients as macroscopic multicellular organisms in order to flourish. While being broadly globally distributed on Earth, certain strains of microbes can also develop patchily, for instance in ecological niches at the sub-millimetre scale \[[@B33-life-07-00040]\]. Therefore, it is expected that prokaryote-like life could develop at the surface or subsurface of planets or satellites. Most stars are thought to have at least one planet \[[@B40-life-07-00040]\], and many planets are thought to have satellite(s) \[[@B41-life-07-00040]\]. Even if the presence of extraterrestrial life is not probable around massive blue giants due to their very short lifetime, exoplanets have been found around them \[[@B42-life-07-00040]\] and these systems can thus potentially host habitable niches without requiring that life had the time to appear. Thus, we can consider that more or less all stellar systems have bodies compatible with prokaryote-like unicellular life and $p_{S}\left( Mic. \right)$ can be approximated to 100%. In contrast to this, multicellular macroscopic organisms only appeared on Earth after several billion years of evolution, and only after the rise of atmospheric oxygen in the Great Oxygenation Event \[[@B43-life-07-00040],[@B44-life-07-00040]\], implying that photosynthetic organisms played a key role in the rise of multicellularity. Using a restrictive approach, it is thus possible to consider that multicellular macroscopic organisms may only develop under the influence of a star small enough to be stable for several billions of years, but large enough to produce the energy required, i.e., 'Sun-like stars' \[[@B45-life-07-00040]\]. This is ever truer for extraterrestrial civilisations. In the Milky Way, with the proportion of 'Sun-like stars' being around 10%, it is possible to set $p_{S}\left( Mac. \right) = p_{S}\left( Civ. \right) = 10\%$. $p_{B}$ is the proportion of previous stellar systems having at least a rocky body located at a distance from the star compatible with the considered stage of life. To be habitable at the global scale, a planet must be located in the habitable zone of its star, i.e., where the liquid water can be stable at the surface \[[@B46-life-07-00040],[@B47-life-07-00040]\]. Petigura et al., howed that about 22% of Sun-like stars would have a planet located in the habitable zone \[[@B45-life-07-00040]\]. The term $p_{B}$ for macroscopic life and intelligent civilisations can thus be set $p_{B}\left( Mac. \right) = p_{B}\left( Civ. \right) = 22\%$. In contrast, for unicellular prokaryote-like organisms that can develop in ecological niches in subsurface of any rocky body (planets or icy moons) where there is liquid water, the concept of a habitable zone around a star being restricted to bodies with stable liquid water at the surface is no longer valid. The habitable zone becomes so vastly extended that $p_{B}\left( Mic. \right)$ can be set at $p_{B}\left( Mic. \right) = 100\%$. $p_{C}$ is the proportion of the previous bodies compatible with the emergence of life. In the Solar System, the smallest body upon which life may have appeared is Enceladus, a moon of Saturn \[[@B36-life-07-00040]\]. There are 8 planets and 19 moons larger than or equal in size to Enceladus in the Solar System and six of them (the Earth, Mars, Enceladus, Europa, Ganymede, and Titan) have, or had, environmental conditions compatible with the emergence of life, i.e., 22% of them. Using the Solar System as an example, we can set $p_{C}\left( Mic. \right) = 22\%$. The planets located in the habitable zone of their star are not necessarily compatible with complex life. In particular, atmospheric evolution would play a key role in the habitability of a planet through time. For instance, a planet could lose its atmosphere with the consequence that liquid water would no longer be stable at its surface (similar to Mars), or a planet may have environmental conditions that are incompatible with the emergence of life (Venus, for instance). The observation of exoplanets located in the habitable zone of their star is still relatively limited and the proportion of planets located in the habitable zone of Sun-like stars that are truly habitable is difficult to determine. However, of the confirmed exoplanets located in the habitable zone of their star, only 'mesoplanets', i.e., planets where the temperature at the surface is potentially between 0 and 50 °C, are compatible with complex life. Our knowledge about surface properties of exoplanets is very limited, however, following [https://fr.wikipedia.org/wiki/Liste_d'exoplanètes_potentiellement_habitables](https://fr.wikipedia.org/wiki/Liste_d’exoplanètes_potentiellement_habitables), we can roughly estimate this proportion to be 75%. The terms $p_{C}\left( Mac. \right)$ and $p_{c}\left( Civ. \right)$ can thus be set to 75%. This term appears to be higher for macroscopic multicellular life and extraterrestrial civilisations than for prokaryote-like organisms but this can be explained by the fact that it applies to planets located in the habitable zone in the case of complex and intelligent life, while for it applies to any rocky bodies in the case of prokaryotic life. 4.2. Empirical Terms {#sec4dot2-life-07-00040} -------------------- The main problem of astrobiology is the fact that the only known life is life on Earth. This unique example engenders the biggest challenge of our approach, which is to estimate the order of magnitude of the probabilistic terms related to life itself corresponding to the last three terms in Equation ([1](#FD1-life-07-00040){ref-type="disp-formula"}). What is the probability for life to appear on a habitable planet? What is the probability that life evolves into macroscopic multicellular organisms? And into intelligent organisms? C. Maccone described Darwinian Evolution as an exponential growth of evolution with time, leading to an increase in the probability of extraterrestrial civilisations with time \[[@B26-life-07-00040],[@B27-life-07-00040],[@B28-life-07-00040],[@B29-life-07-00040]\]. In the present model, less mathematically developed than that of C. Maccone, we also based our approach on the fact that, with increasing time, there is more possibility for life to evolve. Using life on Earth as a reference, we thus considered that the probability to reach each of the three considered stages of evolution is inversely proportional to the ratio of the time they spent to appear on Earth over the time in which they could have appeared. This approach, which consists in considering that the time span between when conditions are required for an event to occur and the moment when it effectively occurs provides a metric of the probability of this event, has been used before to evaluate the probability of abiogenesis based on the history of life on Earth and has been discussed by Spiegel and Turner (2012) \[[@B48-life-07-00040]\]. Similarly, we also considered that the probability of coexistence of a given stage of evolution corresponds to the ratio of the time it would have been present on the Earth over the total existing time of the Earth. This approach is illustrated in [Figure 1](#life-07-00040-f001){ref-type="fig"}. In order to estimate probability using this method, several examples would normally be required. Indeed, our approach amounts to saying that life on Earth is the paragon of life in the Universe, which is extremely hypothetical, and even optimistic. Furthermore, if the chemical processes leading to abiogenesis can be considered as relatively 'simple', evolution of life is very sensitive to the environment and the different stages of evolution considered in this study are the consequences of very specific properties and events that occurred during the history of the Earth such as the formation of the Moon, plate tectonics, major extinction events, etc. Our approach thus demands more speculation as the stage of evolution increases. In any case, it is an easy way to obtain orders of magnitudes that can be discussed later. $p_{L}$ is the probability that life appeared on the bodies where the considered stage of life could appear. For habitable planets, if we look at the Earth, we could be tempted to set the probability of appearance of life to 100%. However, as explained by C.S. Cockell, a habitable planet does not necessarily mean an inhabited planet \[[@B49-life-07-00040],[@B50-life-07-00040]\]. The proportion $p_{L}$ of habitable planets where life indeed appeared is thus not necessarily equal to 100%. If we look at the Solar System, there is presently only one planet in the habitable zone and it was inhabited about 300 million years after its formation 4.543 Ga ago. It is also well established that there was surface liquid water 4.3 Ga ago \[[@B51-life-07-00040]\]. Moreover, it was showed that the Earth will remain in the habitable zone of the Sun for a further 1 billion years \[[@B52-life-07-00040]\]. Ergo, life appeared after 300 million years during the total 5.3 billion years of Earth habitability, i.e., approximately at 6% of that duration. Using our approach, since the probability of occurrence of that event is considered to be inversely proportional to the time it took to occur, we consider that the probability of appearance of life of any type on a habitable planet is $p_{L}\left( Mac. \right) = p_{L}\left( Civ. \right) = 94\%$. Due to our approach itself, the rapid appearance of life on Earth leads to this very high value of $p_{L}$ for habitable planets. However, and as stated previously by \[[@B48-life-07-00040]\], the rapid appearance of life on Earth does not necessarily mean that the same process of abiogenesis occurred with equal rapidity elsewhere. For prokaryote-like life potentially inhabiting ecological niches, life on Earth cannot be used as a model since, even it is chemically plausible, we do not know if life actually appeared, for example in the deep sea of Europa. It is thus preferable to advocate a conservative view saying that out of the six bodies of the Solar System where life could have appeared, it only appeared on the Earth; we thus set $p_{L}\left( Mic. \right) =$ 17%. $p_{R}$ is the probability that life reached the considered stage on the considered bodies. For prokaryote-like life it is thus 100% (if life emerged, it emerged as prokaryotic life, as per our model) and $p_{R}\left( Mic. \right) = 100\%$. On Earth, the first occurrence of proposed macroscopic multicellular life has been described from 2.1 Ga old black shales in Gabon \[[@B53-life-07-00040]\]. This is debated but we can consider that multicellular life began to undeniably proliferate during the Ediacaran, 600 Ma ago, i.e., after 3.8 billion years out of the 5.3 billion years of Earth's habitability, i.e., approximately after 72% of that duration. Following the same reasoning as above, we can thus set $p_{R}\left( Mac. \right) = 28\%$. Finally, Homo sapiens, which developed the first intelligent civilisation on Earth, appeared 200 000 years ago, i.e., after 4.3 billion years out of the 5.3 billion years of Earth's habitability, i.e., approximately at 81% of that duration. Following the same reasoning as above, we can thus set $p_{R}\left( Civ. \right) = 19\%$. $p_{P}$ is the probability that the considered life is still presently active on the bodies in question. As stated previously, it is equivalent to the probability of life having reached a given stage of evolution on two bodies simultaneously. Prokaryotes are known to be very resistant and to have a very great capacity for adaptation to environmental stresses at both the local and regional scale. Only a global change affecting the whole considered body, both at the surface and in the subsurface, would lead to the disappearance of prokaryote-like unicellular life. We can thus consider that microbial life could survive until the end of the life of the stellar system in which they developed. On Earth they would then have been present during about 9 billion years over the estimated 10 billion years of life time of the Solar System, before the Sun becomes a Red Giant. We can thus set $p_{P}\left( Mic. \right) = 90\%$. Similarly, since it appeared on Earth, macroscopic multicellular life never completely disappears despite catastrophic events, but rather changes its distribution, mode and faunal hierarchy \[[@B54-life-07-00040],[@B55-life-07-00040]\]. If we consider that macroscopic life will remain on the Earth until it remains habitable at its surface, for another further 1 billion years, the Earth's surface would have been inhabited by macroscopic multicellular life during about 1.6 billion years out of the 10 billion year lifetime of the Solar System. We can thus set $p_{P}\left( Mac. \right) = 16\%$. The duration of a civilisation is difficult to evaluate. If we decide to be very conservative (or even pessimistic) and state that humanity might disappear today, from the emergence of Homo sapiens, it would have existed during 2 × $10^{- 3}$% of the life time of the Solar System. We can thus set $p_{P}\left( Civ. \right) = 0.002\%$. 4.3. Results {#sec4dot3-life-07-00040} ------------ ### 4.3.1. Prokaryote-Like Unicellular Life {#sec4dot3dot1-life-07-00040} From Equation ([1](#FD1-life-07-00040){ref-type="disp-formula"}), the proportion of stellar system hosting prokaryote-like unicellular life is given by:$$P_{Life}\left( Mic. \right) = 1 \times 1 \times 0.22 \times 0.17 \times 1 \times 0.9 = 3.37\%$$ The corresponding number of bodies inhabited by prokaryote-like unicellular life in the Milky Way is estimated using Equations ([2](#FD2-life-07-00040){ref-type="disp-formula"}) and ([5](#FD5-life-07-00040){ref-type="disp-formula"}):$$N_{Life}\left( Mic. \right) = 6.73 \times 10^{9}$$ The associated average distance between two stellar systems inhabited by prokaryote-like unicellular life is given by Equations ([4](#FD4-life-07-00040){ref-type="disp-formula"}) and ([6](#FD6-life-07-00040){ref-type="disp-formula"}): $$D_{Life}\left( Mic. \right) = 19{ly}$$ ### 4.3.2. Macroscopic Multicellular Life {#sec4dot3dot2-life-07-00040} From Equation ([1](#FD1-life-07-00040){ref-type="disp-formula"}), the proportion of stellar systems hosting macroscopic multicellular life is given by:$$P_{Life}\left( Mac. \right) = 0.1 \times 0.22 \times 0.75 \times 0.94 \times 0.28 \times 0.16 = 0.07\%$$ The corresponding number of planets inhabited by macroscopic multicellular life in the Milky Way is estimated from Equations ([2](#FD2-life-07-00040){ref-type="disp-formula"}) to ([8](#FD8-life-07-00040){ref-type="disp-formula"}):$$N_{Life}\left( Mac. \right) = 1.39 \times 10^{8}$$ Equations ([4](#FD4-life-07-00040){ref-type="disp-formula"}) and ([9](#FD9-life-07-00040){ref-type="disp-formula"}) permit us to deduce the average distance between two planets inhabited by macroscopic multicellular life:$$D_{Life}\left( Mac. \right) = 70{ly}$$ ### 4.3.3. Intelligent Civilisations {#sec4dot3dot3-life-07-00040} Finally, the proportion of stellar systems hosting intelligent civilisations is given by:$$P_{Life}\left( Civ. \right) = 0.1 \times 0.22 \times 0.75 \times 0.94 \times 0.19 \times 0.00002 = 6 \times 10^{- 6}\%$$ Thus, after Equations ([2](#FD2-life-07-00040){ref-type="disp-formula"}) and ([11](#FD11-life-07-00040){ref-type="disp-formula"}), the estimated number of present civilisations in our galaxy is:$$N_{Life}\left( Civ. \right) = {11,788}$$ This number is in the upper estimate of the value found by solving the Drake equation. However, in our model we considered intelligent civilisation to be approximated as 'humanity since the appearance of *Homo sapiens*', whereas the Drake equation considered 'humanity since its ability to communicate by radio signal'. We made this calculation only for the Milky Way but there are ≈350 billion galaxies in the Universe, each containing approximately the same number of stars. The number of intelligent civilisations in the Universe could thus reach several thousand billion. Using Equations ([4](#FD4-life-07-00040){ref-type="disp-formula"}) and ([12](#FD12-life-07-00040){ref-type="disp-formula"}), it is possible to deduce the average distance between two intelligent civilisations in the Milky Way, that is to say the average distance from the Earth:$$D_{Life}\left( Civ. \right) = 1586{ly}$$ ### 4.3.4. Considering Past Life {#sec4dot3dot4-life-07-00040} Multicellular organisms may disappear but their traces may survive until the end of the life of the stellar system in which they developed. On Earth these traces would therefore have been present and available for detection over about 5.6 billion years out of the estimated 10 billion year lifetime of the Solar System. We can thus set $p_{P}\left( Mac. \right)_{Past} = 56\%$. The proportion of stellar systems hosting past macroscopic multicellular life is then given by:$$P_{Life}\left( Mac. \right)_{Past} = 0.1 \times 0.22 \times 0.75 \times 0.94 \times 0.28 \times 0.56 = 0.24\%$$ The corresponding number of planets in the Milky Way from Equations ([2](#FD2-life-07-00040){ref-type="disp-formula"}) to ([14](#FD14-life-07-00040){ref-type="disp-formula"}) is:$$N_{Life}\left( Mac. \right)_{Past} = 4.86 \times 10^{8}$$ Equations ([4](#FD4-life-07-00040){ref-type="disp-formula"}) and ([15](#FD15-life-07-00040){ref-type="disp-formula"}) permit us to deduce the average distance between two planets that are or have been inhabited by macroscopic multicellular life: $$D_{Life}\left( Mac. \right)_{Past} = 46{ly}$$ Similarly, civilisations could have also disappeared. On Earth these traces would then have been present during about 5 billion years over the estimated 10 billion years of life time of the Solar System. The probability that past traces of civilisation exist around a star is then given by setting $p_{P}\left( Civ. \right)_{past} = 0.5$ in Equation ([1](#FD1-life-07-00040){ref-type="disp-formula"}). This leads to:$$P_{Life}\left( Civ. \right)_{Past} = 0.1 \times 0.22 \times 0.75 \times 0.94 \times 0.19 \times 0.5 = 0.15\%$$ Equations ([2](#FD2-life-07-00040){ref-type="disp-formula"}) and ([17](#FD17-life-07-00040){ref-type="disp-formula"}) lead to the estimated number of past civilisations in our galaxy:$$N_{Life}\left( Civ. \right)_{Past} = 2.95 \times 10^{8}$$ Traces of past civilisations could thus be present relatively 'close' to the Solar System since the average distance between two past civilisations is, using Equations ([4](#FD4-life-07-00040){ref-type="disp-formula"}) and ([18](#FD18-life-07-00040){ref-type="disp-formula"}):$$D_{Life}\left( Civ. \right)_{Past} = 54{ly}$$ This value is very low meaning that, potentially, traces of more or less developed past civilisations could be common in the Milky Way. 4.4. Summary {#sec4dot4-life-07-00040} ------------ The results of Equations ([5](#FD5-life-07-00040){ref-type="disp-formula"})--([19](#FD19-life-07-00040){ref-type="disp-formula"}) are compiled in [Table 1](#life-07-00040-t001){ref-type="table"}. Of course, these values must be considered with caution and not as 'true' values. The key point here is to compare the order of magnitude of the different probabilities. The probability that there is prokaryote-like life around a star is about 48 times higher than the probability that there is active macroscopic multicellular life and 571,000 times higher than the probability that there is an active civilisation. On the contrary, the probability of finding relics of a past civilisation on an exoplanet is only 23 times lower than the probability to find microbial life. This is intuitively sensible from what we know of the terrestrial fossil records of bacteria versus the fossil records of animals, versus the archaeological records of humans. [Figure 2](#life-07-00040-f002){ref-type="fig"} describes the schematic evolution of life on a habitable planet from its origin to the disappearance of its stellar system. The green arrows emphasise that, for life of a higher evolutionary stage, the timescale for which it exists decreases dramatically. On the other hand, the yellow arrows show that the duration of existence of the associated traces of past life could, in all cases, potentially exist for a long time. 5. On the Detection of Extraterrestrial Life {#sec5-life-07-00040} ============================================ The search for life in the Universe is driven by the detection of biosignatures. Biosignatures are either more or less obvious depending on the life form that produces these signatures. For example, life is axiomatic on Earth because of the full range that exists from simple microbial to complex intelligent life, and their plethora of activities at the global scale. On the contrary, given the inclement habitable conditions, potential life on Mars would be prokaryote-like and would not have evolved sufficiently to have left a global signature, for example atmospheric oxygen produced by photosynthetisers \[[@B33-life-07-00040],[@B56-life-07-00040]\]. Finally, biosignatures associated with past traces of life can be altered or even destroyed with time, in particular those associated with microbial life, which have been vastly reduced following the rise of the benthic biome at the Cambrian Explosion of animal life. The techniques involved in the detection of biosignatures are thus all the more 'sophisticated' since they are concerned with detecting primitive life forms. The use of sophisticated, lab-based equipment is increasingly necessary to demonstrate the biogenicity of fossilised traces of microbial life. Importantly, with increasing distance from the Earth the number of techniques that can be used for biosignature detection rapidly decreases and, for those that are compatible with planetary exploration, their resolution and capabilities are generally decreased. These technical limitations have important consequences on the detection of extraterrestrial life. 5.1. Search for Extraterrestrial Prokaryote-Like Life {#sec5dot1-life-07-00040} ----------------------------------------------------- While the probability that prokaryote-like life exists elsewhere in the Milky Way is very high, microbes, particularly the most primitive chemosynthetic forms, are associated with subtle biosignatures. The search for extraterrestrial microbial life outside the Solar System is limited to life forms that have evolved enough to change the atmosphere of the planet in order to be detected by spectroscopy. The simultaneous presence of gases forming an unstable mixture (H~2~O, O~2~, O~3~, CH~4~, N~2~O, etc.) may be a good indicator of life \[[@B57-life-07-00040]\]. In particular, large amounts of O~2~ and O~3~ can be considered as a signature of oxygenic photosynthetic activity \[[@B58-life-07-00040]\] noting, at the same time, that small amounts of these gases can be produced abiotically \[[@B59-life-07-00040]\]. The probability of such a kind of life is therefore that of an intermediate stage between microbial unicellular and macroscopic multicellular life ([Figure 2](#life-07-00040-f002){ref-type="fig"}). The appearance of oxygenic photosynthetic life capable of changing the whole atmosphere of a planet sufficiently to be detected from the Earth requires that the surface of the planet is habitable, i.e., a planet located in the traditional habitable zone. It is then necessary to recalculate the different terms in Equation ([1](#FD1-life-07-00040){ref-type="disp-formula"}). The first terms $p_{S}$, $p_{B}$, $p_{C}$ and $p_{L}$ in Equation ([1](#FD1-life-07-00040){ref-type="disp-formula"}) are the same for surface photosynthetic microbial life and macroscopic multicellular life, i.e., 10%, 22%, 75% and 94% respectively. Although it probably appeared much earlier \[[@B60-life-07-00040],[@B61-life-07-00040]\], oxygenic photosynthetic life of Earth induced detectable changes in the atmosphere about 2.4 Ga ago with the Great Oxygenation Event, i.e., after 1.9 billion years out of the 5.3 billion years of Earth's habitability, i.e., approximately at 36% of that duration. Following the same reasoning as before, we can thus set $p_{R}\left( Mic. \right)_{Photo} = 64\%$. Similarly, if we consider that surface photosynthetic microbial life will remain on the Earth until it is no longer habitable at its surface, we can estimate $p_{P}\left( Mac. \right)_{Photo} = 34\%$. The proportion of stellar systems potentially hosting detectable photosynthetic life is then:$$P_{Life}\left( Mic. \right)_{Photo} = 0.1 \times 0.22 \times 0.75 \times 0.94 \times 0.64 \times 0.34 = 0.34\%$$ The corresponding number of planets is:$$N_{Life}\left( Mic. \right)_{Photo} = 6.75 \times 10^{8}$$ Using this value, we can deduce the corresponding average distance $D_{Life}\left( Mic. \right)_{Photo}$:$$D_{Life}\left( Mic. \right)_{Photo} = 41{ly}$$ At this distance, it is possible to detect putatively biologically produced gases in the atmosphere of an exoplanet \[[@B62-life-07-00040]\]. If we look for microbes that are only detectable by in situ exploration, our investigations are limited to the Solar System. Of particular interest are the icy moons of Jupiter and Saturn, and the Martian subsurface. The proportion of stellar systems statistically inhabited by prokaryote-like life, given by Equation ([5](#FD5-life-07-00040){ref-type="disp-formula"}), is equal to 3.37%. This value can also be seen as the probability for a stellar system to host life. Since life appeared on Earth, it is thus necessary to consider the probability of a second origin of life in the same stellar system, corresponding to the square of Equation ([5](#FD5-life-07-00040){ref-type="disp-formula"}). The probability that life appeared on another body in the Solar System is thus only $P_{Life}\left( Mic. \right)_{SS} = 0.11\%$. This probability is relatively low. Moreover, if it exists, active life is expected to be present below the icy crust of the moons of Jupiter and Saturn, or several hundred meters deep in the subsurface of Mars \[[@B63-life-07-00040]\]. The exploration of the interior of these bodies to search for microbial life is very complicated and will not be possible in the near future. Presently, the investigations focus on the search for past traces of microbial life at the Martian surface. The existence of prokaryote-like microfossils on the surface of Mars necessarily presupposes the presence of microbial life at its surface in the past. This restriction modifies the value of $p_{C}$ (the proportion of the considered bodies compatible with the emergence of life at their surface). The conditions necessary for the emergence of life on the Martian surface were present during the Noachian \[[@B56-life-07-00040],[@B63-life-07-00040]\]. The first terms $p_{S}$, $p_{B}$, $p_{C}$ and $p_{L}$ in Equation ([1](#FD1-life-07-00040){ref-type="disp-formula"}) are the same for surface microbial life and macroscopic multicellular life, i.e., 10%, 22%, 75% and 94% respectively and $p_{R}\left( Mic. \right)_{Surf} = 100\%$, as previously determined for microbial life. On Earth, traces of prokaryote-like life would have been present during about 9.5 billion years over the estimated 10 billion year lifetime of the Solar System. We can thus set $p_{P}\left( Mic. \right)_{Surf} = 95\%$. As for potential active microbial life in the subsurface of icy moons, we therefore need to consider the probability for a second appearance of life in the Solar System. Consequently, the probability that there are microfossils at the surface of Mars is given by:$$P_{Life}\left( Mic \right)_{Mars - Past - Surf.} = 0.1 \times 0.22 \times 0.75 \times 0.94 \times 1 \times 0.95 \times 0.337 = 0.05\%$$ This probability is not very high but can justify the launch of instruments dedicated to the search for traces of past prokaryote-like life on Mars surface. 5.2. Search for Macroscopic Multicellular Life {#sec5dot2-life-07-00040} ---------------------------------------------- Planets potentially inhabited by macroscopic multicellular life could be very common in the Milky Way. However, their distance from the Earth could be large: 70 ly as estimated by Equation ([10](#FD10-life-07-00040){ref-type="disp-formula"}). At this distance, direct observation is totally impossible and the only way to detect this kind of life is to search for modifications of the atmosphere of the planet using IR spectroscopy. The presence of forests (i.e., photosynthesising vegetation on exposed land masses) could also be confirmed using IR spectroscopy by the vegetation's Red Edge due to chlorophyll \[[@B64-life-07-00040]\], even if this signature is not unambiguous \[[@B65-life-07-00040]\] and if this kind of surface feature would be even more challenging to detect than atmospheric signatures. On Earth, we know that vegetation has covered much of the exposed landmass for approximately 400 Ma, since the Devonian, i.e., after 4.1 billion years over the 5.3 billion years of Earth habitability, i.e., after approximately 77% of that duration. Following the same reasoning as before, we can thus set $p_{R}\left( Mac. \right)_{Veg} = 23\%$. Similarly, $p_{P}\left( Mac. \right)_{Veg} = 14\%$. The proportion of stellar systems hosting vegetation is then:$$P_{Life}\left( Mac. \right)_{Veg} = 0.1 \times 0.22 \times 0.75 \times 0.94 \times 0.23 \times 0.14 = 0.05\%$$ The corresponding number of planets inhabited by vegetation in the Milky Way is, from Equations ([2](#FD2-life-07-00040){ref-type="disp-formula"}) to ([24](#FD24-life-07-00040){ref-type="disp-formula"}):$$N_{Life}\left( Mac. \right)_{Veg} = 10 \times 10^{7}$$ Equations ([4](#FD4-life-07-00040){ref-type="disp-formula"}) and ([25](#FD25-life-07-00040){ref-type="disp-formula"}) permit us to estimate the average distance between two planets whose exposed crust is colonised by vegetation:$$D_{Life}\left( Mac. \right)_{Photo} = 78{ly}$$ Direct imaging of exoplanets will be needed to detect surface signatures like vegetation's Red Edge. Limited direct imaging of the surfaces of nearby rocky planets may be possible with the James Webb Space Telescope. However, even if the distance of 78 ly given by Equation ([26](#FD26-life-07-00040){ref-type="disp-formula"}) is reasonable for detection, it is probable that more powerful telescopes would be needed to really open the door to such observations. 5.3. Search for Extraterrestrial Civilisations {#sec5dot3-life-07-00040} ---------------------------------------------- Equation ([13](#FD13-life-07-00040){ref-type="disp-formula"}) results in an average distance between two extant extraterrestrial civilisations of 1586 ly. At this distance, the only detectable biosignature would be a radio signal, as previously envisaged by Cocconi and Morrison in 1959 \[[@B66-life-07-00040]\] and independently by F. Drake in 1965 \[[@B21-life-07-00040]\], or an optical signal, as proposed by Schwartz and Towne in 1961 \[[@B67-life-07-00040]\]. In order to be detected, intelligent life must thus have reached a higher echelon of evolution within 'intelligent life', corresponding to space communicating life. SETI research is now looking for signals in a large part of the electromagnetic spectrum, from gamma ray to radiowave. Moreover, the detection of exoplanets and the possibility to analyse their atmospheres permit envisaging the detection of new indirect 'technomarkers' associated with extraterrestrial civilisations not necessarily capable of and/or willing to communicating in space, such as pollutant molecules in atmospheres \[[@B68-life-07-00040]\], or in the aberration of light curves due to megastructures \[[@B69-life-07-00040]\]. Finally, recent works also envisaged the detection of life as we do not know it, thus increasing of the potential biosignatures associated with extraterrestrial life \[[@B70-life-07-00040]\]. The proportion of stellar systems inhabited by detectable civilisations is thus lower than the number previously calculated, since the terms $p_{R}$ and $p_{P}$ were determined by considering a definition of intelligent life from the appearance of *Homo sapiens*, and not from the appearance of radio communication. On Earth, intelligent life has been able to communicate at distance for only 100 years. With respect to the age of the Earth, the difference in time between the appearance of *Homo sapiens* and the 19th century is too small to change the term $p_{R}$ significantly. On the other hand, with respect to the timescale of human evolution up to the modern day, the time taken for an intelligent civilisation to be able to communicate in space strongly decreases the term $p_{p}$ giving the probability of simultaneity. Taking a pessimistic standpoint, we can set $p_{p}\left( Civ. \right)_{Com.} = 1 \times 10^{- 6}\%$ and finally the proportion of stellar systems hosting extant intelligent civilisations able to communicate by radio signal at the same time is:$$P_{Life}\left( Civ. \right)_{Com} = 0.1 \times 0.22 \times 0.75 \times 0.94 \times 0.19 \times 0.00000001 = 2.9 \times 10^{- 9}\%$$ Following Equations ([2](#FD2-life-07-00040){ref-type="disp-formula"}) and ([27](#FD27-life-07-00040){ref-type="disp-formula"}), the associated number of civilisations in the Milky Way is thus:$$N_{Life}\left( Civ. \right)_{Com} = 6$$ The average distance between two civilisations able to communicate in the Milky Way is then given by Equation ([4](#FD4-life-07-00040){ref-type="disp-formula"}) and ([28](#FD28-life-07-00040){ref-type="disp-formula"}):$$D_{Life}\left( Civ. \right)_{Com} = {19,979}{ly}$$ This distance is very large. With signal travelling at the speed of light, it would take 39,958 years for a civilisation to receive an answer from another civilisation, a time frame much greater than the 100 years of duration of the radio communicating civilisation considered in the model. Thus, the probability to detect a radio-signal is very low and if one is detected one day it is possible that the emitting civilisation has since disappeared. This result could explain the Fermi paradox: even if the probability of the existence of extraterrestrial civilisations is relatively high, due to the distance between them, it is more or less impossible for them to communicate with one another. Using our model, an intelligent civilisation must be able to communicate in space for at least about 8937 years to have a chance to receive an answer from another civilisation; $D_{Life}\left( Civ. \right)_{Com}$ would then be approximately equal to 4468.5 ly. 5.4. Search for Past Extraterrestrial Civilisations {#sec5dot4-life-07-00040} --------------------------------------------------- Even if traces of past civilisations could be relatively common in the Milky Way, as indicated by Equation ([18](#FD18-life-07-00040){ref-type="disp-formula"}), unless they reached a high stage of evolution associated with large signatures such as those described in \[[@B71-life-07-00040]\], the only way to detect such relics would be in situ exploration, which is totally incompatible with the distance of 54 ly given by Equation ([19](#FD19-life-07-00040){ref-type="disp-formula"}). We have thus to consider the biosignatures associated with self-destructive civilisations envisaged by \[[@B71-life-07-00040]\] (e.g., nuclear detonation, stellar pollution or total planetary destruction). Indeed, some of these biosignatures may remain and be detectable by spectroscopic techniques for more than 100,000 years. In this case we can set $p_{p}\left( Civ. \right)_{S - D} = 1 \times 10^{- 3}\%$ and finally the proportion of stellar systems presently hosting detectable remains of self-destructive civilisations is:$$P_{Life}\left( Civ. \right)_{S - D} = 0.1 \times 0.22 \times 0.75 \times 0.94 \times 0.19 \times 0.00001 = 2.9 \times 10^{- 6}\%$$ Following Equations ([2](#FD2-life-07-00040){ref-type="disp-formula"}) and ([30](#FD30-life-07-00040){ref-type="disp-formula"}), the associated number of self-destructive civilisations in the Milky Way is thus:$$N_{Life}\left( Civ. \right)_{S - D} = 5894$$ The average distance between signature of self-destructive civilisations in the Milky Way is then given by Equations ([4](#FD4-life-07-00040){ref-type="disp-formula"}) and ([28](#FD28-life-07-00040){ref-type="disp-formula"}):$$D_{Life}\left( Civ. \right)_{S - D} = 1998{ly}$$ This distance is relatively large but some of the biosignatures described in \[[@B71-life-07-00040]\] could be detected. 5.5. Summary {#sec5dot5-life-07-00040} ------------ The results of Equations ([20](#FD20-life-07-00040){ref-type="disp-formula"})--([32](#FD32-life-07-00040){ref-type="disp-formula"}) are reported in [Table 2](#life-07-00040-t002){ref-type="table"}. Once again, these values must be treated with caution but they provide an indication of the type of extraterrestrial life that could be detected, its frequency, and the limitations engendered by the available detection techniques. 6. From Complex Modeling to General Public Outreach {#sec6-life-07-00040} =================================================== 6.1. Describing Important Astronomical Notions {#sec6dot1-life-07-00040} ---------------------------------------------- When engaging with general public, it is first necessary to illustrate astronomical distances. An effective way of so doing is to use a model at scale. For instance, using a tennis ball as the Sun, it is possible to represent both the size of the planets and their distances from the Sun as displayed in [Table 3](#life-07-00040-t003){ref-type="table"}. It is shown that, at this scale, Earth corresponds to a dot of half a millimetre located 7 meters from the Sun. More interestingly, it is shown that at this scale the closest star from the Sun (Proxima Centauri) corresponds to a 9 mm sphere located 1977 km far from the Sun, i.e., the distance from Algiers to Dublin or from Chicago to Miami. Thus, even if the distance between each planet of the Solar System appears high, they are very small in comparison with the distance separating stellar systems. This has a strong consequence on the exploration of space using in situ probes. Indeed, the order of magnitude of the speed of present spacecraft is about 20 km·s^−1^. At that speed, taking a straight line, and in the best trajectory configuration, it requires 5 h and 30 min to reach the Moon, 45 days for Mars, 1 year for Jupiter, 6 years and 326 days for Neptune and 67,272 years for Proxima Centauri. This short demonstration clearly illustrates that the in situ exploration of extraterrestrial bodies by humans is presently limited to the Solar System. The notion of spacetime is also very important. The speed of light in vacuum *c* is constant and equal to approximately 300,000 km·s^−1^. By constant, one means that the simple velocity vector addition formula does not apply: whatever the referential frame, the speed of light remains the same. The only way to explain this phenomenon is to introduce the notion of time dilatation, expressed by Albert Einstein. This time dilatation is associated with a contraction of lengths and an increase of energy in such a way that no body with mass can approach the speed of light. Moreover, any electromagnetic wave, including light as well as radio waves, cannot exceed the speed of light. At minimum, to reach the Earth, a radio message would require 1.3 s from the Moon, 4 min 20 s from Mars, 35 min from Jupiter, 4 h from Neptune and finally 4 years, 88 days, 16 h 40 min from Proxima Centauri. Since the speed of light is constant, it is useful to define the light-year unit corresponding to the distance travelled by light in vacuum in one year (365.25 days). It is approximately equal to 10,000 billion km. Proxima Centauri is thus 4.243 ly from the Sun. 6.2. Introducing the Probabilistic Approach {#sec6dot2-life-07-00040} ------------------------------------------- The initial goal of this paper was to illustrate the challenge of astrobiology to general public. The model outlined previously is too complex to be described in its entirety and is above all very speculative. However, it permits the introduction of notions pertaining to the origin of life and evolution, the major dichotomy existing between microbial and macroscopic multicellular life in terms of habitability requirements, life detection methods and their limits for space exploration due to technical limitation and/or astronomical distances. At the centre of this reflection is the fact that life is characterised by evolutionary processes, starting from auto-replicating organic molecules and finishing by becoming intelligent life (even artificial intelligence). It is now accepted that the theory of spontaneous generation is totally obsolete. Thus, it is possible to explain that, to reach the stage of intelligent organisms, life must necessarily pass through important stages that are development of cells (compartmentalisation), photosynthesis (metabolism), and multi-cellularity (complexity). Implicitly, this chronology implies that the further advanced an organism is from the origin of life, the less it is probable in the Universe. 6.3. From Intelligent to Microbial E.T. {#sec6dot3-life-07-00040} --------------------------------------- It is obvious that the general public is more interested by extraterrestrial intelligence than by extraterrestrial microbes. When approaching the notion of extraterrestrial life with the public, it is thus better to start with 'intelligence'. Firstly, it is important to say that science considers extraterrestrial intelligence as a possibility. One can highlight the Pioneer Plaque and the Voyager Golden Record. One may focus on two ideas: that (i) the more life is evolved, the less it is probable in the Universe, and (ii) that to reach the stage of intelligent life, it is necessary that the surface of the planet upon which it developed was located in the habitable zone of its star for several billion years. Consequently, from these ideas, we can state that, if they exist, intelligent civilisations are certainly very rare in the Universe, and statistically far from each other. The only way to detect them is thus to search for a radio or light signal, as hypothesised by Frank Drake and developed by the SETI institute with the Arecibo radiotelescope. However, using Drake's equation, or Equation ([27](#FD27-life-07-00040){ref-type="disp-formula"}) herein, we can hope that there are presently circa six intelligent civilisations in the Milky Way and, since there are approximately 350 billion galaxies, several hundred billion intelligent civilisations in the Universe. Assuming that these civilisations are homogeneously spread within our galaxy means that they are separated by approx. 20,000 ly (Equation ([29](#FD29-life-07-00040){ref-type="disp-formula"})). Taking into account Einstein's special relativity as described above, this means that physical contact between these civilisations is virtually impossible. Moreover, this also means that a message send into space will require 20,000 years to reach a planet inhabited by intelligent E.T. life and that this message would receive an answer not less than 40,000 years after it was sent. Over such a timescale, it is possible that the civilisation which sent the initial message would have disappeared before the answer arrives. Exchange with an extraterrestrial civilisation using radio communication is thus also very unlikely. On the other hand, the number of civilisations in the Milky Way reaches about 12,000 when considering intelligent civilisations not sufficiently developed to communicate in space, and more than several tens of millions when considering past civilisations (Equations ([11](#FD11-life-07-00040){ref-type="disp-formula"}) and ([17](#FD17-life-07-00040){ref-type="disp-formula"})). This means that planets inhabited by 'primitive' civilisations could exist at distances of only 1,586 ly (Equation [13](#FD13-life-07-00040){ref-type="disp-formula"}) and that traces of past civilisations could be present at only 54 ly (Equation ([19](#FD19-life-07-00040){ref-type="disp-formula"})), i.e., over 'human timescales'. However, the associated biosignatures would require in situ exploration to be detected, and they are too distant to be examined during human lifetimes. Even if less probable, a solution may be to detect past self-destructing civilisations due to the potentially long time duration for which their detectable remnants may endure \[[@B71-life-07-00040]\]. It is therefore necessary to consider what we can detect from Earth. We can now study the atmosphere of an exoplanet and attempt to detect the spectral signature of life's activity at its surface (biologically produced gases, for instance). Using our model, we obtained an average distance between the Earth and a planet inhabited by photosynthetic life of 41 ly, and of 78 ly for a planet colonised by vegetation (Equations ([22](#FD22-life-07-00040){ref-type="disp-formula"}) and ([26](#FD26-life-07-00040){ref-type="disp-formula"})). These distances are compatible with present and near-future instruments such as the Kepler or PLATO space telescopes. Microbial life does not have the same habitability requirement to develop. The notion of the traditional habitable zone is not applicable in this case, since habitable environments where microbial life may exist at depths of several kilometres in the ocean or in the crust. This means that the subsurface of Mars and the icy moons of Jupiter and Saturn could be inhabited. The problem in this case is that exploring these subsurface environments requires the kind of deep drilling very difficult to make in the near future. Finally, it is also possible to look for past traces of life at the surface of Mars. This is the aim of the future ESA-Roscosmos mission ExoMars 2020 and NASA Mars 2020 mission. Indeed, during the Noachian (≈3.5 Ga ago), the surface of Mars was habitable, with the presence of liquid water demonstrated by numerous previous missions. So life may have appeared and developed in certain particular areas at the surface before disappearing and/or migrating into the deep aquifer. Plate tectonics appears to have been very limited on Mars, and non-existent at present. We can thus expect that, if microbes were present at the surface of Mars several billion years ago, their remains would have been preserved from tectonic metamorphism and that microfossils could still be found at the surface. By analogy, we can expect to find structures relatively similar to those found in Archaean terrestrial rocks: micrometric cells of simple morphology (coccoidal, rod-shaped, filamentous) made of kerogen (insoluble carbonaceous matter). The difficulty is that, even on Earth using laboratory equipment, demonstrating the biotic origin of these structures is very challenging. It requires complementary geological, mineralogical and elemental evidence obtained using a wide range of techniques, including high-resolution and sophisticated instrumentation currently incompatible with the very limited payloads of in situ space probes. The NASA Mars 2020 mission therefore has the explicit objective of caching samples in preparation for a future sample return mission in order to analyse them in terrestrial laboratories around 2035. [Figure 3](#life-07-00040-f003){ref-type="fig"} shows the distribution of the number of biosignature detection techniques available and the increasing probability of extraterrestrial life versus its distance from the Earth. Note that the probability of extraterrestrial life and the stage of evolution that can be reached versus the distance from the Earth follow a similar evolution. The strong decrease observed in the number of available techniques is due to the impossibility of carrying out in situ exploration outside the Solar System. [Figure 3](#life-07-00040-f003){ref-type="fig"} permits us to illustrate how the concept of detectability constitutes the main challenge for proving the existence of the extraterrestrial life. While it is technically possible to detect microbial life in the Solar System, the probability of existence of this life is very low. On the other hand, if the probability of existence of evolved life out of the Solar system is very high, the detection techniques available to identify these biosignatures are very limited. The limiting criterion for the detection of extraterrestrial life is thus the low probability of the existence of such life at short distances and the restricted number of available detection techniques far from the Earth. Finally, [Figure 3](#life-07-00040-f003){ref-type="fig"} explains the fact that, in our study, photosynthetic life appears to be the form of life that is the most probable to be detected; the average distance from the Earth being statistically compatible with the associated detection techniques ([Table 2](#life-07-00040-t002){ref-type="table"}). 6.4. Testing the Approach with Teachers {#sec6dot4-life-07-00040} --------------------------------------- In the framework of the Maison Pour La Science, in Orléans, France, the Exobiology team of the CBM has organised 2 days of training courses about exobiology for teachers from primary schools and secondary schools (the French 'collège'). During these two days, all the aspects of the domain of astrobiology were tackled, from prebiotic chemistry, Earth-life evolution, the conditions of the primitive Earth, micropalaeontology, space instrumentation, exploration and search for extraterrestrial life. The aim of the training course is to give to the teachers a general background on the subject and to present them with easy tasks and projects that can be performed at school with their students (aged 6--15). For the courses concerning the search for extraterrestrial life, we used the approach proposed in [Section 6.1](#sec6dot1-life-07-00040){ref-type="sec"}, [Section 6.2](#sec6dot2-life-07-00040){ref-type="sec"} and [Section 6.3](#sec6dot3-life-07-00040){ref-type="sec"} of this paper. Then, in order to illustrate the consequences of the different points we proposed a task in which the students have at their disposal: \(i\) an information sheet containing practical information (the speed of light, the definition of a lightyear, the size of the Milky Way, the speed of present spacecraft and the different ingredients necessary for life); \(ii\) several information sheets describing different celestial bodies (the Moon, Mars, Enceladus, Gliese 667 Cc, Kepler-438b, and a fictional planet X28-42), types of mission (rover, sample return, satellite, optical telescope, and radiotelescope), and types of life (microfossils, microbes, photosynthetic organisms, complex multicellular organisms, ruins of a past intelligent civilisation, and a present extraterrestrial civilisation able of telecommunication). Each celestial body is described by its distance from the Earth, its surface temperature and pressure, and its habitability conditions. For the fictional planet X28-42, fictional values and complementary information are used (e.g., it is located at 20,000 ly from the Earth and has an intelligent civilisation at its surface, which has been capable of telecommunication for more than 10,000 years). Each type of mission is described, including the types of biosignatures that can be detected with that mission, and the distance of detection is given. Additionally, for each stage of life, the minimal requirement for its appearance and preservation is given, as well as its size, the associated biosignatures and the probability of its existence in the Milky Way (from very likely to almost zero). Finally, using this information, the students must complete a chart in which, for each body, they must identify the usable types of mission, the possible traces of life, the required type of mission, and the detectable traces of life (corresponding to the result of the three first parameters). They have then to make a conclusion for each body. In our exercise, it was concluded (i) that microfossils could be detected at the surface of Mars but that it will probably require a sample return mission, (ii) that we could detect photosynthetic life by analysing the atmosphere of Kepler-438b, and (iii) that the detection of traces of life is not possible on any of the other bodies, either for technical and/or astronomical reasons or because life could not appear. For instance, life is not possible on the Moon, and the exploration of Enceladus' subsurface ocean is not possible at present. Moreover, despite the fact that photosynthetic life is implied on Gliese 667Cc, within its fictitious construct in the task, the planet does not transit in front of its star, and therefore the signal of oxygenic gases will not be remotely detected. Finally, the radio signal coming from X28-42 will arrive on the Earth in no less than 10,000 years, making its detection on human timescales unfeasible. The reception from the teachers on the approach and on the exercise was very high. The survey filled by the participants at the end of the 2 days gave a satisfaction rate of 95%. 7. Conclusions {#sec7-life-07-00040} ============== We have used a more or less empirical statistical approach to evaluate the probability of the existence of extraterrestrial life as a function of its stage of evolution. The results permit determination of the order of magnitude of the distance separating these forms of life from the Earth. Depending on this distance, we discussed the potential of detectable biosignatures. Finally, we have shown that the more extraterrestrial life has evolved, the greater its likely distance from the Earth, and thus the lower the possibility of its detection. Consequently, if extraterrestrial civilisations are possible, we could only detect them at present if they are able to communicate in space using a radio or a light signal. Similarly, even if the probability of microbial life in other stellar systems is relatively high, we could only detect it on habitable planets if it has reached a sufficient stage of evolution to release gases that modify the atmosphere of the planet. Finally, even if we are now able to make in situ investigations on several potentially inhabited bodies of the Solar System, these investigations are still limited to surface exploration. The only current target on which we can search for extra-terrestrial life is thus Mars. Despite these apparently discouraging conclusions for the possibility to detect extraterrestrial life, this study also demonstrates that life is probably common in the Universe. Moreover, even if the probability to detect extraterrestrial intelligence is close to zero, the probability to detect photosynthetic life on exoplanets is not at all negligible. The probability to find active microbial life on a body other than Earth in the Solar System is also high enough to justify future projects involving investigation of the icy moons of Saturn and Jupiter, as well as the present and future missions to Mars. The approach outlined herein has been used to simply and successfully explain the challenge of astrobiology to the general public, in particular during a two day training course for teachers, and appeared to be very useful and well-understood. We thank the CNES for funding. We thank Allain-Gérald Faux and his colleagues from the Maison Pour La Science, Orléans, and Arnaud Lepot for their help and participation to the training course on Astrobiology organized at CBM since 2016. We thank the reviewers for their useful comments. Frédéric Foucher proposed the model and wrote the paper. Keyron Hickman-Lewis, André Brack, and Frances Westall contributed in the reflection and discussion about the model and in the the writing of the paper. The authors declare no conflict of interest. {#life-07-00040-f001} {#life-07-00040-f002} {#life-07-00040-f003} life-07-00040-t001_Table 1 ###### Values of the different parameters pi used for the solving of Equation ([1](#FD1-life-07-00040){ref-type="disp-formula"}), for the different 'stages' of life considered (see main text). $P_{Life}$ is the probability that a stellar system hosts the associated traces of life and $N_{Life}$ is the corresponding number of bodies in the Milky Way. Finally, $D_{Life}$ is the average distance in light years between two of these bodies (i.e., average distance from the Earth). Type of Life $\mathbf{\mathbf{p}_{\mathbf{S}}}$ $\mathbf{\mathbf{p}_{\mathbf{B}}}$ $\mathbf{\mathbf{p}_{\mathbf{C}}}$ $\mathbf{\mathbf{p}_{\mathbf{L}}}$ $\mathbf{\mathbf{p}_{\mathbf{R}}}$ $\mathbf{\mathbf{p}_{\mathbf{P}}}$ $\mathbf{\mathbf{p}_{\mathbf{Life}}}$ (%) $\mathbf{\mathbf{N}_{\mathbf{Life}}}$ $\mathbf{\mathbf{D}_{\mathbf{Life}}}$ (ly) ------------------------------------- ------------------------------------ ------------------------------------ ------------------------------------ ------------------------------------ ------------------------------------ ------------------------------------ ------------------------------------------- --------------------------------------- -------------------------------------------- Prokaryote-like life 1.00 1.00 0.22 0.17 1.00 0.90 3.36% 6.73 × 10^9^ 19 Macroscopic multicellular life 0.10 0.22 0.75 0.94 0.28 0.16 0.07% 1.39 × 10^8^ 70 Present civilisation 0.10 0.22 0.75 0.94 0.19 0.00002 0.000006% 11,788 1586 Past macroscopic multicellular life 0.10 0.22 0.75 0.94 0.28 0.56 0.24% 4.86 × 10^8^ 46 Past civilisation 0.10 0.22 0.75 0.94 0.19 0.50 0.15% 2.95 × 10^8^ 54 life-07-00040-t002_Table 2 ###### Values of the different parameters $p_{i}$ used for the solving of Equation ([1](#FD1-life-07-00040){ref-type="disp-formula"}), for the different kinds of life considered, taking into account their detectability from the Earth or by using in situ investigation (see main text). $P_{Life}$ is the probability that a stellar system or the considered body hosts the considered traces of extra-terrestrial life. Finally, $N_{Life}$ is the corresponding number of bodies in the Milky Way and $D_{Life}$ is the average distance in light years between these bodies (i.e., average distance from the Earth). Type of Life $\mathbf{\mathbf{p}_{\mathbf{S}}}$ $\mathbf{\mathbf{p}_{\mathbf{B}}}$ *$\mathbf{\mathbf{p}_{\mathbf{C}}}$* $\mathbf{\mathbf{p}_{\mathbf{L}}}$ $\mathbf{\mathbf{p}_{\mathbf{R}}}$ $\mathbf{\mathbf{p}_{\mathbf{P}}}$ $\mathbf{\mathbf{p}_{\mathbf{Life}}^{2\mathbf{nd}}}$ $\mathbf{\mathbf{p}_{\mathbf{Life}}}$ (%) $\mathbf{\mathbf{N}_{\mathbf{Life}}}$ $\mathbf{\mathbf{D}_{\mathbf{Life}}}$ (ly) ------------------------- ------------------------------------ ------------------------------------ -------------------------------------- ------------------------------------ ------------------------------------ ------------------------------------ ------------------------------------------------------ ------------------------------------------- --------------------------------------- -------------------------------------------- Extant extraterrestrial radio-communicating 0.10 0.22 0.75 0.94 0.19 1 × 10^8^ N.A. 2.9 $\times 10^{- 9}\%$ 6 19,979 life Past extraterrestrial self-destructing 0.10 0.22 0.75 0.94 0.19 1 × 10^5^ N.A. 2.9 × 10^−6^% 5894 1998 civilisation Vegetation 0.10 0.22 0.75 0.94 0.23 0.14 N.A. 0.05% 10 × 10^7^ 78 Photosynthetic life 0.10 0.22 0.75 0.94 0.64 0.34 N.A. 0.34% 6.75 × 10^8^ 41 Extraterrestrial microbial life 1.00 1.00 0.22 0.17 1.00 0.90 0.337 0.11% N.A. N.A. in the Solar System Microfossils on Mars 1.00 0.22 0.75 0.94 1.00 0.95 0.337 0.05% N.A. N.A. life-07-00040-t003_Table 3 ###### Illustrating the astronomical distances using a tennis ball to represent the Sun. If the Sun Had the Size of True Distance If the Sun Had the Size of ------------------ ----------- ---------------------------- -------------------- ---------------------------- Sun 1,395,200 65 0 0.0 Mercury 4900 0.23 58,000,000 2.7 Venus 12,000 0.56 108,000,000 5.0 The Earth 12,800 0.60 150,000,000 7.0 The Moon 3474 0.16 150,000,000 7.0 Mars 6800 0.32 228,000,000 10.6 Jupiter 140,000 6.52 780,000,000 36.3 Saturn 120,000 5.59 1,430,000,000 66.6 Uranus 52,000 2.42 2,880,000,000 134.2 Neptune 50,000 2.33 4,497,000,000 209.5 Proxima Centauri 200,000 9.32 42,430,000,000,000 1977 km | High | [
0.6716417910447761,
33.75,
16.5
] |
What a unique setting for Sunday Brunch! My husband & I have eaten at other hotel restaurants for Sunday brunch, but none features an expansive buffet area under skylights in a rain forest-like climate (thanks to the hint of humidity generated by an indoor swimming pool) like this one. And it was only about a 10 minute drive from where we live in Uptown New Westminster. It wasn't very busy when we arrived shortly after 10 a.m. for our first visit this Sunday, but tables steadily filled as the minutes passed. Our server was attentive, refilling our glasses of water as needed and removing our empty plates. Even with just a partial spoonful of a buffet item your plate fills up fast. You'll have to make a minimum of two trips to the food to try 'everything': salads, cheeses/fruits, hot entrées, carving/omelette station, desserts. For the luxury of food choices and custom portions we paid just $24.95 each. Good, solid value. Period. I saw a coupon in the Burnaby newspaper and that was all the incentive I needed to take Mrs. C and another couple out for prime rib. This place is conveniently located south of Lougheed Hwy on North Road. The ambience was nice and comfortable, and the server we had was very good. We presented our coupon with no fuss. I ordered a glass of wine which was a little steep at 6 bucks, and one of the party had a beer, also a little pricey. In fact even the lowly iced tea was a little more expensive than it ought to be. The prime rib arrived and it was artistically presented with the veggies lined up on an interesting pattern, and the whipped potato also artfully arranged. It came au jus. The prime rib piece itself was a little on the small side compared to other places, but it was well-prepared. My friends and I are hearty but not excessive eaters and we all came away wanting a little more. Whether that is a tribute to the food, or an indictment of the small portions is a debate I leave to another day. We had a birthday to celebrate recently (late-Feb '09), and decided to re-visit Rockwell's, to do another Sunday brunch in "her" honour. We were not disappointed!! The long and varied 'cold table' of breads, buns, salads, fish, seafoods, cold cuts, cheeses, and the like, was as good as we had remembered, and more - with fine selections of everything. We especially enjoyed the salad makings, fish, and seafoods!!! We were not very impressed by the food offered via the 'steam-trays' during our last visit (much over-cooked food), but it looked and tasted much better this time -- maybe it was our upbeat mood, or maybe the food really was better prepared this time -- whatever, we found, sampled, and enjoyed a good many of the offerings, especially those items related more to 'lunch' - like the various fish dishes, lasagna, and the like - than the more typically breakfast fare. The "can I make you a omelette, waffle, pancake, or the like" table, was as good as ever!! With very friendly service and tasty offerings!! Overall, a much-enjoyed birthday brunch!! This has to be one of my fav restaurants, for a lot of reasons. Its attached to a beautiful hotel and offers amazing food deals, exceptional service and the food is amazing. The patio feeling out back which overlooks out into the hotel pool area is beautiful. Sunday brunch which looks amazing is a little pricey but as one employee offered, just have a lite meal the day before and make it worth the value. We had the prime rib special, it was beautiful. 2 full prime rib meals any choice of an appetizer and a shared dessert for 45 bucks. Although this is a bit pricey for us commonly, the treat was well worth it. The steak was amazing, and we were pleasantly full. The server was hilarious, with a great sense of humour and pleasant conversation. This place is so much better then the keg, more value, better atmosphere, friendly staff, full bar and ambience you just cant find anywhere else. Its a top fav of mine for an enjoyable evening out and good value. Its also nice having a good hotel nearby incase you drink too much, or you really want a bit of a vacation in town. Its wonderful!!! Had dinner there about a month ago. I was not impressed with the Prime Rib and my wife was equally unimpressed with the fish. Their 'special' prime rib small and not so tender. It was actually very difficult to chew. Overall, not very enjoyable. Will not go back and do not recommend this restaurant. Spend your hard earned money somewhere else. | Mid | [
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NKorean threat prompts nuclear evacuation drills in Japan MOSCOW: Echoing a post-World War II climate of fear that the world was meant to forget, a small Japanese fishing village has reinstituted early-warning evacuation drills, only too aware of how close North Korean ballistic missiles await. About 500 miles from Pyongyang, residents in the tiny western Japanese village of Abu have, on Tokyo’s recommendation, begun holding evacuation drills, training themselves to hunker down at a signal, in the event that the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea (DPRK) makes good on its continual threat to fire off nuclear weapons at its numerous enemies, real and imagined. Japanese children and their parents, grandparents and other village dwellers, after hearing the singsong siren alert, quickly congregated at the school gymnasium in the coastal village, assembling everyone in a remarkable three minutes, while town elders made a head count. Locals commented on the new directives, with one 10-year-old student remarking that the siren “rang all of a sudden while we were picking grass, so that scared me,” according to Deutsche Welle. An aboveground gymnasium may not provide adequate protection from a nuclear warhead delivered by a ballistic missile, according to one local parent, who observed that while the drill “didn’t feel very realistic, it was a good way to understand how to evacuate.” Located on the southwest coast of Japan, Abu is close to the Korean Peninsula. Military observers calculate about 10 minutes for a missile launched by Pyongyang to strike the Japanese coast — a figure that does not account for several minutes that would be required by the government to become aware of the attack and to initiate the alert system. “We will not flinch from the road to build up nuclear forces,” Pyongyang’s Foreign Ministry declared in a statement cited by DW.com, as the country declared that it “will move forward towards the final victory.” Although decried by the entire global community, ballistic missile tests by the DPRK continue, with at least twelve launched since January, most falling into the Sea of Japan. The missiles and Pyongyang’s expanded underground nuclear weapons detonations have created a quiet panic in the region. Government officials in Japan have published a series of protective measures that citizens should take in the event of a missile strike by the DPRK, suggesting that residents quickly “take shelter in a robust building nearby,” “move away from windows or, if possible, move to a room without windows,” cited by DW.com. In a stark reminder of another war, most of the western Japanese towns and prefectures, including nearby Fukuoka, have been urged by Tokyo to create similar alert systems to that in use in Abu. PNA/Sputnik | Mid | [
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import { stat as statCb } from 'fs'; import { join } from 'path'; import { homedir } from 'os'; import { promisify } from 'util'; import timeLimit from 'time-limit-promise'; import del from 'del'; import delay from '../../../../../../lib/utils/delay'; const DOWNLOADED_JSON_FILE_PATH = join(homedir(), 'Downloads', 'package.json'); const DOWNLOADED_ZIP_FILE_PATH = join(homedir(), 'Downloads', 'dummy.zip'); const DOWNLOADED_PDF_FILE_PATH = join(homedir(), 'Downloads', 'dummy.pdf'); const FILE_CHECK_INTERVAL = 3000; const stat = promisify(statCb); async function isFile (path) { try { const stats = await stat(path); return stats.isFile(); } catch (e) { return false; } } async function waitForFile (path) { while (!await isFile(path)) await delay(FILE_CHECK_INTERVAL); } async function waitForFileWithTimeout (path, ms) { await timeLimit(waitForFile(path), ms, { rejectWith: new Error('Timed out when waiting for a file') }); } function deleteFiles () { del(DOWNLOADED_JSON_FILE_PATH, { force: true }); del(DOWNLOADED_ZIP_FILE_PATH, { force: true }); del(DOWNLOADED_PDF_FILE_PATH, { force: true }); } fixture `gh3127` .page `http://localhost:3000/fixtures/regression/gh-3127/pages/index.html` .beforeEach(deleteFiles) .after(deleteFiles); test('JSON', async t => { await t.click('#json'); await waitForFileWithTimeout(DOWNLOADED_JSON_FILE_PATH, 20000); }); test('ZIP', async t => { await t.click('#zip'); await waitForFileWithTimeout(DOWNLOADED_ZIP_FILE_PATH, 20000); }); test('PDF', async t => { await t.click('#pdf'); await waitForFileWithTimeout(DOWNLOADED_PDF_FILE_PATH, 20000); }); | Mid | [
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Colombian gov't, rebels to seek new ceasefire accord Xinhua,February 14, 2018 Adjust font size: BOGOTA, Jan. 21 (Xinhua) -- Colombian President Juan Manuel Santos on Sunday said his government would strive to negotiate a second ceasefire agreement with the National Liberation Army (ELN) guerrilla group. In response to a United Nations call for continued dialogue between the two warring sides, he said he instructed Gustavo Bell, the head government negotiator in peace talks with the rebels, to return to Quito, Ecuador, where the talks are being held. "In keeping with the call by the United Nations (UN), Gustavo Bell will travel to Quito to explore the possibility of a new ceasefire that will allow us to continue to negotiate for peace with the ELN," Santos tweeted. On Saturday, the UN urged both sides not to abandon efforts to put an end to five decades of fighting. The ELN also expressed its willingness to continue the talks, issuing a statement saying "we agree to take part in a meeting between the heads of the delegations ... to examine the prompt start of the fifth round of talks to discuss all pending matters." A bilateral ceasefire, which took effect Oct. 1, 2017 as a way to promote good will during the talks, expired on Jan. 9, after which the ELN immediately resumed its attacks against state targets, especially oil pipelines. The attacks led Santos to recall Bell to Bogota for consultation as to what steps the government should take next. Enditem | Mid | [
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######################################################################## # # Copyright (c) 2020, STEREOLABS. # # All rights reserved. # # THIS SOFTWARE IS PROVIDED BY THE COPYRIGHT HOLDERS AND CONTRIBUTORS # "AS IS" AND ANY EXPRESS OR IMPLIED WARRANTIES, INCLUDING, BUT NOT # LIMITED TO, THE IMPLIED WARRANTIES OF MERCHANTABILITY AND FITNESS FOR # A PARTICULAR PURPOSE ARE DISCLAIMED. IN NO EVENT SHALL THE COPYRIGHT # OWNER OR CONTRIBUTORS BE LIABLE FOR ANY DIRECT, INDIRECT, INCIDENTAL, # SPECIAL, EXEMPLARY, OR CONSEQUENTIAL DAMAGES (INCLUDING, BUT NOT # LIMITED TO, PROCUREMENT OF SUBSTITUTE GOODS OR SERVICES; LOSS OF USE, # DATA, OR PROFITS; OR BUSINESS INTERRUPTION) HOWEVER CAUSED AND ON ANY # THEORY OF LIABILITY, WHETHER IN CONTRACT, STRICT LIABILITY, OR TORT # (INCLUDING NEGLIGENCE OR OTHERWISE) ARISING IN ANY WAY OUT OF THE USE # OF THIS SOFTWARE, EVEN IF ADVISED OF THE POSSIBILITY OF SUCH DAMAGE. # ######################################################################## import sys import pyzed.sl as sl import numpy as np import cv2 from pathlib import Path import enum class AppType(enum.Enum): LEFT_AND_RIGHT = 1 LEFT_AND_DEPTH = 2 LEFT_AND_DEPTH_16 = 3 def progress_bar(percent_done, bar_length=50): done_length = int(bar_length * percent_done / 100) bar = '=' * done_length + '-' * (bar_length - done_length) sys.stdout.write('[%s] %f%s\r' % (bar, percent_done, '%')) sys.stdout.flush() def main(): if not sys.argv or len(sys.argv) != 4: sys.stdout.write("Usage: \n\n") sys.stdout.write(" ZED_SVO_Export A B C \n\n") sys.stdout.write("Please use the following parameters from the command line:\n") sys.stdout.write(" A - SVO file path (input) : \"path/to/file.svo\"\n") sys.stdout.write(" B - AVI file path (output) or image sequence folder(output) :\n") sys.stdout.write(" \"path/to/output/file.avi\" or \"path/to/output/folder\"\n") sys.stdout.write(" C - Export mode: 0=Export LEFT+RIGHT AVI.\n") sys.stdout.write(" 1=Export LEFT+DEPTH_VIEW AVI.\n") sys.stdout.write(" 2=Export LEFT+RIGHT image sequence.\n") sys.stdout.write(" 3=Export LEFT+DEPTH_VIEW image sequence.\n") sys.stdout.write(" 4=Export LEFT+DEPTH_16Bit image sequence.\n") sys.stdout.write(" A and B need to end with '/' or '\\'\n\n") sys.stdout.write("Examples: \n") sys.stdout.write(" (AVI LEFT+RIGHT): ZED_SVO_Export \"path/to/file.svo\" \"path/to/output/file.avi\" 0\n") sys.stdout.write(" (AVI LEFT+DEPTH): ZED_SVO_Export \"path/to/file.svo\" \"path/to/output/file.avi\" 1\n") sys.stdout.write(" (SEQUENCE LEFT+RIGHT): ZED_SVO_Export \"path/to/file.svo\" \"path/to/output/folder\" 2\n") sys.stdout.write(" (SEQUENCE LEFT+DEPTH): ZED_SVO_Export \"path/to/file.svo\" \"path/to/output/folder\" 3\n") sys.stdout.write(" (SEQUENCE LEFT+DEPTH_16Bit): ZED_SVO_Export \"path/to/file.svo\" \"path/to/output/folder\"" " 4\n") exit() # Get input parameters svo_input_path = Path(sys.argv[1]) output_path = Path(sys.argv[2]) output_as_video = True app_type = AppType.LEFT_AND_RIGHT if sys.argv[3] == "1" or sys.argv[3] == "3": app_type = AppType.LEFT_AND_DEPTH if sys.argv[3] == "4": app_type = AppType.LEFT_AND_DEPTH_16 # Check if exporting to AVI or SEQUENCE if sys.argv[3] != "0" and sys.argv[3] != "1": output_as_video = False if not output_as_video and not output_path.is_dir(): sys.stdout.write("Input directory doesn't exist. Check permissions or create it.\n", output_path, "\n") exit() # Specify SVO path parameter init_params = sl.InitParameters() init_params.set_from_svo_file(str(svo_input_path)) init_params.svo_real_time_mode = False # Don't convert in realtime init_params.coordinate_units = sl.UNIT.MILLIMETER # Use milliliter units (for depth measurements) # Create ZED objects zed = sl.Camera() # Open the SVO file specified as a parameter err = zed.open(init_params) if err != sl.ERROR_CODE.SUCCESS: sys.stdout.write(repr(err)) zed.close() exit() # Get image size image_size = zed.get_camera_information().camera_resolution width = image_size.width height = image_size.height width_sbs = width * 2 # Prepare side by side image container equivalent to CV_8UC4 svo_image_sbs_rgba = np.zeros((height, width_sbs, 4), dtype=np.uint8) # Prepare single image containers left_image = sl.Mat() right_image = sl.Mat() depth_image = sl.Mat() video_writer = None if output_as_video: # Create video writer with MPEG-4 part 2 codec video_writer = cv2.VideoWriter(str(output_path), cv2.VideoWriter_fourcc('M', '4', 'S', '2'), max(zed.get_camera_information().camera_fps, 25), (width_sbs, height)) if not video_writer.isOpened(): sys.stdout.write("OpenCV video writer cannot be opened. Please check the .avi file path and write " "permissions.\n") zed.close() exit() rt_param = sl.RuntimeParameters() rt_param.sensing_mode = sl.SENSING_MODE.FILL # Start SVO conversion to AVI/SEQUENCE sys.stdout.write("Converting SVO... Use Ctrl-C to interrupt conversion.\n") nb_frames = zed.get_svo_number_of_frames() while True: if zed.grab(rt_param) == sl.ERROR_CODE.SUCCESS: svo_position = zed.get_svo_position() # Retrieve SVO images zed.retrieve_image(left_image, sl.VIEW.LEFT) if app_type == AppType.LEFT_AND_RIGHT: zed.retrieve_image(right_image, sl.VIEW.RIGHT) elif app_type == AppType.LEFT_AND_DEPTH: zed.retrieve_image(right_image, sl.VIEW.DEPTH) elif app_type == AppType.LEFT_AND_DEPTH_16: zed.retrieve_measure(depth_image, sl.MEASURE.DEPTH) if output_as_video: # Copy the left image to the left side of SBS image svo_image_sbs_rgba[0:height, 0:width, :] = left_image.get_data() # Copy the right image to the right side of SBS image svo_image_sbs_rgba[0:, width:, :] = right_image.get_data() # Convert SVO image from RGBA to RGB ocv_image_sbs_rgb = cv2.cvtColor(svo_image_sbs_rgba, cv2.COLOR_RGBA2RGB) # Write the RGB image in the video video_writer.write(ocv_image_sbs_rgb) else: # Generate file names filename1 = output_path / ("left%s.png" % str(svo_position).zfill(6)) filename2 = output_path / (("right%s.png" if app_type == AppType.LEFT_AND_RIGHT else "depth%s.png") % str(svo_position).zfill(6)) # Save Left images cv2.imwrite(str(filename1), left_image.get_data()) if app_type != AppType.LEFT_AND_DEPTH_16: # Save right images cv2.imwrite(str(filename2), right_image.get_data()) else: # Save depth images (convert to uint16) cv2.imwrite(str(filename2), depth_image.get_data().astype(np.uint16)) # Display progress progress_bar((svo_position + 1) / nb_frames * 100, 30) # Check if we have reached the end of the video if svo_position >= (nb_frames - 1): # End of SVO sys.stdout.write("\nSVO end has been reached. Exiting now.\n") break if output_as_video: # Close the video writer video_writer.release() zed.close() return 0 if __name__ == "__main__": main() | Low | [
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Processes for the production of microporous films are well known in the art. For example, U.S. Pat. No. 3,870,593 (which is incorporated herein by reference) describes a process wherein a microporous film is produced by: (1) dispersing finely divided particles of a non-hygroscopic inorganic salt such as calcium carbonate in a polymer; (2) forming a film from the polymer; and (3) stretching the film to provide microporosity. Methods of making composites of a microporous film and a nonwoven fabric are also known in the art. Such composites have been prepared by, for example, extrusion-coating a polymer film onto a nonwoven fabric. Prepared films and fabrics have also been bonded directly by a variety of means, including adhesive, thermal, and ultrasonic bonding. It may also be desirable to stretch microporous film/fabric composites, however, stretching has its drawbacks. For instance, for microporous films, typical positive effects of stretching include higher vapor breathability and improved surface aesthetics. Vapor breathability (or water vapor transmission ratexe2x80x94xe2x80x9cWVTRxe2x80x9d) can be estimated by laboratory test methods, and is a function of the size and frequency of micropores in the film. Additional stretching of an already microporous film is known to increase the size of existing pores and create new pores. Therefore, highly stretched microporous films and microporous film/fabric composites generally have higher vapor breathability as compared to similar materials which have been stretched to a lesser degree. Likewise, surface feel and drapability are known to be improved by stretching processes. Films and fabrics, when combined with one another, tend to be more stiff and harsh than either of the individual components alone. Stretching such composites tends to break down the rigid structure, thereby providing a softer surface feel and improved drapability. On the other hand, stretching microporous film/fabric composites can result in decreased bond strength and increased pinholing. Stretching improves the softness and drapability by destroying the connection between film and fabric. This results in decreased bond strength in the laminate. Stretching can also cause undesirable damage to the laminate, such as pinholing, tearing, or shredding of the film, the fabric, or the composite as a whole. The bonding of a film and fabric may be carefully controlled to avoid creating other functional and aesthetic problems. For example, in the case of extrusion coating a polyethylene film onto a spunbond polypropylene web, process conditions such as melt temperature and nip pressure determine the intrusion of the fibers into the film structure. At the maximum level of intrusion, the film and fabric essentially mold together and become one. Such a laminate, however, acquires the worst properties of the two components and tends to be both rigid and fragile. At the minimum level of intrusion, however, the film and fabric have little or no bond, and therefore tend to delaminate. Too much bond strength is also known to limit the amount of stretching which may be performed due to pinhole formation. Simply stated, if the bond between film and fabric is too large, the stretched film will sometimes fracture prior to delaminating, leaving a pinhole. Rather than bonding a microporous film to a fabric, it is also possible to first bond a non-porous film to a fabric, and then stretch the resulting composite in order to render the film microporous. Previous attempts to first bond and then stretch film/fabric composites, such as that disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 5,910,225 (which is incorporated herein by reference) have been only partially successful due to damage to the composite by the stretching process. Damage includes, but is not limited to, pinholes, tears, and other functional and aesthetic defects. U.S. Pat. No. 6,066,221 describes a method of providing increased bonding between a film and nonwoven by applying lanes of hot air to the surface of laminates in the machine direction. Although this zoned hot air knife treatment increases the structural integrity of the laminate, stretching of the treated laminate results in debonding of the film and nonwoven. U.S. Pat. No. 6,248,195 is another example of a bonding technique that is unable to prevent debonding of the film and nonwoven during post-stretching. Schmitz teaches that heated fluid or air can be used to bond webs at localized points forming a broken lane in the machine direction of the film. U.S. Pat. No. 5,424,025 describes zone stretching of a film in the machine direction through the use of interpenetrating male and female rolls. Variations in the depth of engagement by the male roll creates an alternating pattern of heavy and lightly stretched sections. U.S. Pat. No. 6,013,151 (which is incorporated herein by reference) teaches that a film/nonwoven fabric laminate can be made microporous and breathable upon incremental stretching at high speeds. The resulting microporous laminates have a high water vapor transmission rate (WVTR). It has been found that a flat film/nonwoven laminate can be incrementally stretched more uniformly than an embossed film/nonwoven laminate. More uniform stretching provides higher WVTR and fewer pinholes. There is a continuing need for improvements in the performance and appearance of composites of polymer films and nonwoven fabrics. In particular, improvements are desired for producing microporous film/fabric composites with higher breathability, while avoiding pin holes and other functional and aesthetic defects. The present invention relates to film/fabric composites and methods of producing the same which exhibit improved physical and aesthetic properties. A fabric structure is laminated to a film in a novel manner and then stretched so as to produce a breathable composite satisfactory for many end uses as a liquid barrier having high water vapor permeability. The film and fabric layers are bonded in lanes running in the machine direction. The composite then passes through a special stretching device designed so that all of the web except the highly bonded lanes are stretched. This invention is suitable for hygiene applications, such as producing diaper backsheets, which require composites that do not delaminate, provide high WVTR (water vapor transmission rate), and are soft and cloth-like. This invention is able to utilize the positive aspects described above and avoid the negative after effects. The fabric is attached to the film with two levels of bond strength. The majority of the bond may be extremely weak, thereby allowing the majority of the composite to be stretched to the maximum degree, thus obtaining the desired high WVTR readings and aesthetic properties (e.g., surface softness and drapability). Since there are zones where the bond is high, the total material will not be subject to delamination. The areas where the bond is high are not stretched or are only partially stretched and, therefore, the product will not suffer the problem of pinholes which are caused by stretching areas tightly bonded. The films and fabrics described here can be composited in many different ways including, but not limited to, extrusion coating, adhesive lamination, and thermal point bonding. The composite once formed is then subjected to stretching using a variety of techniques including, but not limited to, CD intermeshing ring rolls. The process of stretching highly-filled thermoplastic polymer films using techniques such as ring rolls is known in the art. One example of this method is described in U.S. Pat. No. 4,350,655. The film/fabric composite may be made, for example, by first attaching a fabric to a film during production of that film. The fabric can be bonded to the film at the nip point in a cast operation via extrusion coating. Other methods of bonding before or after the cast station nip include hot melt adhesive and thermal or ultrasonic point bonding. Any of these three methods, as well as many other methods not mentioned but well known in the art, can be used in accordance with the process described herein. The only requirement on bonding technique is that the locations where the fabric is highly bonded to the film can be avoided during the stretching process. One method that meets the above criteria is where increased bonding in certain regions of the composite is accomplished by a sonic sealer that thermally bonds fabric to film in lanes running in the machine direction. The sealer can be located anywhere after the cast station nip point. In either case, the increased bonding results in lanes where the fabric cannot be delaminated from the fabric with less than 150 grams per linear inch of peeling force. The other criteria of avoiding or reducing stretching activation can be accomplished by using CD intermeshing ring rolls with spaces where the bonding lanes fall. | Low | [
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(b) + 8*p(b). b**3 - 2*b**2 - 2 Suppose 6*z + z + 7 = 0. Let q(p) = p**2 - p - 1. Let v(b) = 2*b**2 + b - 3. Suppose 2*c - 4 = -2*c. Determine c*q(g) + z*v(g). -g**2 - 2*g + 2 Let c(l) = -134*l**2 + 10*l. Let b(i) = 45*i**2 - 3*i. What is 14*b(q) + 4*c(q)? 94*q**2 - 2*q Let h(q) be the first derivative of -q**2/2 + 3*q + 26. Let p(m) = 2*m - 7. Give -7*h(k) - 3*p(k). k Let i(j) = j**2 + j + 1. Let x(t) = 12*t + 11. Let w(p) = 16*p + 13. Let k(m) = 2*w(m) - 3*x(m). Give 4*i(g) + k(g). 4*g**2 - 3 Let g(d) = 2*d + 5. Let t be g(6). Let b be (-14)/63 + (-194)/18. Let k = b + t. Let f(c) = 2*c - 3. Let h(s) = 5*s - 7. What is k*h(j) - 14*f(j)? 2*j Let q(t) be the third derivative of t**4/24 + t**2. Let k be 164/656*(-28 - 0). Let v(y) = -2*y. What is k*q(i) - 2*v(i)? -3*i Let x(f) be the second derivative of f**4/6 - f**3 - 2*f + 90. Let t(i) = i. Give -3*t(r) - x(r). -2*r**2 + 3*r Let h(s) = -s**3 - 4 + s - s**3 + 0*s**3. Suppose -3*d + 5*k + 15 = 0, -8*d + 3*k - 10 = -10*d. Let j(i) = 3*i**3 - i + 5. Determine d*h(u) + 4*j(u). 2*u**3 + u Let d(y) = 2*y**2 - 3*y - 4. Let b(i) = -9*i + 4*i + 15*i**2 - 3*i**2 + 0*i - 9*i**2 - 7. Suppose 7 = 2*m + 1. Determine m*b(p) - 5*d(p). -p**2 - 1 Let d be 2 + (-64)/34 - 416/68. Let w(b) = 5*b + 5. Let j(c) = -6*c - 6. Determine d*j(s) - 7*w(s). s + 1 Let i(n) = -1. Suppose 2*t = 3*z + 5, -27 = -4*t - 5*z - 28. Let l(h) = 4*h - 1. Give t*l(b) - 2*i(b). 4*b + 1 Let f(x) = 2*x + 2. Let b(z) = 2*z + 7. Let t(u) = u + 3. Let a(g) = 2*b(g) - 5*t(g). Give -5*a(l) - 2*f(l). l + 1 Let x = -4 + 9. Let f(j) = -2*j**3 + 4*j**2 + 4*j + 6. Suppose -2*p + 8 = -6. Let q(b) = 3*b**3 - b**2 - p - 5*b - b**2 - 3*b**2. What is x*f(z) + 4*q(z)? 2*z**3 + 2 Let u(p) = -7*p**2 - 6*p - 2. Let w(h) be the first derivative of 20*h**3/3 + 17*h**2/2 + 6*h - 54. Calculate -11*u(i) - 4*w(i). -3*i**2 - 2*i - 2 Let a(v) = 53*v + 121. Let w(h) = -25*h - 60. Determine -6*a(g) - 13*w(g). 7*g + 54 Let n(y) = 7*y**2 + 7. Let i(w) = 61 - 11 + 8*w**2 - 21 - 21. What is 5*i(s) - 6*n(s)? -2*s**2 - 2 Let p(n) = 3*n - 4*n + 3*n**3 - n. Let l(f) be the third derivative of f**6/10 - 3*f**4/8 - 3*f**2 - 21. Calculate -2*l(k) + 9*p(k). 3*k**3 Let r(h) = 2*h**2 + h + 5. Let j be 45/(-6) - (-18)/(-12). Let x be 6/j*(-12)/2. Let i(m) = -2*m**2 - m - 6. Determine x*r(c) + 3*i(c). 2*c**2 + c + 2 Let c(x) = 83*x**3 + 6*x**2. Let m(o) = -o**3 - 2*o**2. Give c(h) + 3*m(h). 80*h**3 Let m(r) = 15 - 4*r + 10 - 8. Suppose -5*b + 178 - 93 = 4*j, -3*j + 2 = -b. Let s(u) = 2*u - 8. Determine b*s(d) + 6*m(d). 2*d - 2 Let c(b) = b**3 - b**2 + b - 1. Let n(w) = 2*w**3 - 3*w**2 + 210*w - 1. Determine 3*c(p) - n(p). p**3 - 207*p - 2 Let k(c) = 4. Let y(p) be the first derivative of 2*p**2 + 56*p + 444. Determine -56*k(t) + 4*y(t). 16*t Suppose 3*s - s = 6. Let c(j) = s - 1 - 2 + 3*j**3. Let t = 7 + -11. Let h(b) = -6*b**3. Give t*h(g) - 9*c(g). -3*g**3 Let b(t) = -8*t - 9. Let x(q) = q + 1. Suppose -3*z - 8 = -26. Determine z*x(r) + b(r). -2*r - 3 Let w(k) = -2*k + 11. Let i be -2*(-3)/((-3)/(-2)). Let r(h) = -275*h + 1932. Let s be r(7). Let b(y) = y - 6. Calculate i*w(v) + s*b(v). -v + 2 Let h(m) = -43*m**3 - 5*m**2 + 7*m + 5. Let z(s) = -s**2 + s + 1. Calculate h(l) - 5*z(l). -43*l**3 + 2*l Let b(t) = -53*t + 2. Let y(q) = -53*q + 2. What is -7*b(l) + 6*y(l)? 53*l - 2 Let g(w) = -8*w**2 + 1. Let p(z) = z**2 - 2*z. Give g(b) + 2*p(b). -6*b**2 - 4*b + 1 Let a = 9 + 0. Let l = 3 - a. Let j(b) = 8*b - 5. Let u(v) = -15*v + 9. Let h(t) = -5*j(t) - 3*u(t). Let o(p) = 4*p - 2. What is l*o(f) + 5*h(f)? f + 2 Let r = -225 + 231. Let k(w) = 22*w**3 + 34*w + 34. Let t(v) = -2*v**3 - 3*v - 3. Determine r*k(b) + 68*t(b). -4*b**3 Let r(l) = -l**3 - l**2 - l - 1. Let w(n) = 10*n**3 + 7*n**2 + 7*n + 7. Let a(f) = -24*f - 533. Let z be a(-22). Calculate z*w(m) - 35*r(m). -15*m**3 Let q(n) = -7 + 155*n + 4 - 11 - 71. Let g(h) = 11*h - 6. Suppose 3226 = -39*r - 89. What is r*g(f) + 6*q(f)? -5*f Let v(a) = a**3 - 4*a**2 - 3*a. Let p(u) = 5*u**3 + 12*u - 4*u**3 - 4*u**3 - 2*u**3 + 23*u**2 + 5*u. What is 6*p(s) + 34*v(s)? 4*s**3 + 2*s**2 Let x(y) = 11*y**3 + 5*y + 16. Let s(i) = -4*i**3 - 2*i - 5. Determine 7*s(q) + 2*x(q). -6*q**3 - 4*q - 3 Let d(g) = -10*g**2 + 51*g + 8. Let i(a) = -2*a**2 + 2*a + 1. Give d(o) - 6*i(o). 2*o**2 + 39*o + 2 Let g(l) = 5*l**2 + 73*l - 45*l - 3*l**3 - 34*l + 6. Let b(v) = v**2 - v + 1. Calculate 5*b(o) - g(o). 3*o**3 + o - 1 Let d(b) = b**3 - b**2 - b + 4. Let a(r) = 8*r**3 - 5*r**2 - 7*r + 22. Let y(x) = a(x) - 6*d(x). Let f(m) = -m**3 + m**2 - m. Determine f(t) - y(t). -3*t**3 + 2 Let o(l) = -3*l + 5. Suppose 4*t + a = 23, 5*t + 0*a = 4*a + 13. Let g(w) = -5*w + 8. Give t*g(x) - 8*o(x). -x Let v(p) = -595*p**3 + 596*p**3 + p**2 - p**2. Let c(h) = 89 - 89 - 2*h**3. Suppose 6 = 6*q - 3*q. Give q*c(x) + 5*v(x). x**3 Let i(w) = -125*w. Let u(g) = -9*g. Suppose 0 = 5*m - 4*s + 80, -3*m + 5*s - 51 = 10. Let q be m/18*(-18)/(-4) + 58. Determine q*u(v) - 4*i(v). 5*v Let g(p) = 26*p**2 - 923*p - 6. Let c(o) = -5*o**2 + 185*o + 1. Calculate -11*c(y) - 2*g(y). 3*y**2 - 189*y + 1 Let b(p) = -2*p - 84. Let i(n) = -4*n - 166. What is -11*b(y) + 6*i(y)? -2*y - 72 Let l(g) be the third derivative of g**4/3 - 129*g**2. Let p(f) = -25*f. Calculate 17*l(n) + 6*p(n). -14*n Let u(r) = -15*r - 23. Let f(i) be the first derivative of 7*i**2/2 + 11*i - 5. Let q(w) = -11*f(w) - 6*u(w). Let s(l) = -3*l - 4. Calculate 2*q(g) + 9*s(g). -g - 2 Let c(d) = -11*d + 4. Let v(j) = -21*j + 5. Let w(p) = 3*c(p) - 2*v(p). Let h(x) = -x - 1. Determine -4*h(k) - 2*w(k). -14*k Suppose 7 + 1 = -4*r. Let x(u) = -u**3 + 4*u**2 + 2*u - 5. Let p be x(4). Let i(l) = -l + p - 1 + 0. Let c(a) = 3*a - 4. Determine r*c(b) - 5*i(b). -b - 2 Let i(b) = -b**3 - 11*b**2 + 16*b + 6. Let l be i(-12). Let z(n) = 10*n**2 - 14*n - 14. Let h(v) = -v**2 + v + 1. Calculate l*h(k) - 3*z(k). 12*k**2 Let f(o) = -56 + 3*o**2 - 47 + 166 - 11*o**2 - 19. Let a(r) = 1. Determine -88*a(i) + 2*f(i). -16*i**2 Let j(i) be the third derivative of -7*i**4/24 - 5*i**3/6 + 13*i**2. Let x(v) = -3*v - 2*v - 5*v - 11 - 5*v. Give 13*j(m) - 6*x(m). -m + 1 Let v be 6 - (-40)/(30/6). Let x(w) = -24*w**2 + 6. Let l(p) = -5*p**2 + 1. Determine v*l(z) - 3*x(z). 2*z**2 - 4 Let n(g) be the third derivative of -g**4/24 - g**3/6 + 25*g**2 + 3*g. Let j(h) = -6*h. Calculate j(a) - 4*n(a). -2*a + 4 Let q(k) = -7412*k**2. Let n(v) = -130*v**2. Calculate 340*n(c) - 6*q(c). 272*c**2 Let i(d) = -89*d**2 - 2*d + 2. Let u(r) = 177*r**2 + 5*r - 5. Give -5*i(v) - 2*u(v). 91*v**2 Let w(n) = 3*n + 3. Let c be w(2). Let q(u) = -c*u**2 + 4 - 7 + 7*u + 3. Let j(z) = 4*z**2 - 3*z. Give 7*j(g) + 3*q(g). g**2 Let c(a) = -3*a + 4. Let w(d) = -42 - 97*d - 121*d + 101 + 171*d. Let u(s) = 117*s - 147. Let j(b) = 5*u(b) + 12*w(b). Give 27*c(v) + 4*j(v). 3*v Let h be 2/2*8/56*-7. Let i(j) = 10*j. Let c(f) = -f. Give h*i(y) + 4*c(y). -14*y Let a(x) = x**2 - 32*x - 4. Let i(r) = -4*r**2 + 130*r + 16. Calculate 9*a(h) + 2*i(h). h**2 - 28*h - 4 Suppose 7*t = -39 + 102. Let x(c) = 5*c**2. Let f(p) = 9*p**2. What is t*x(z) - 4*f(z)? 9*z**2 Let v(f) = 9*f**3 - 19*f**2 - 5*f + 6. Let g(w) = -8*w**3 + 18*w**2 + 5*w - 5. What is -6*g(s) - 5*v(s)? 3*s**3 - 13*s**2 - 5*s Let y(q) = -6*q**3 + q**2 + 6*q + 8. Let g(k) = 17*k**3 - 2*k**2 - 17*k - 23. Give -4*g(n) - 11*y(n). -2*n**3 - 3*n**2 + 2*n + 4 Let v(h) = 2*h**2 + 5*h + 8. Let n(r) = -r**2 - 3*r - 5. Let y(j) = j**2 + 21*j + 5. Let x be y(0). Calculate x*v(w) + 8*n(w). 2*w**2 + w Let v(t) = 36*t + 21. Let s(q) = -7*q - 4. Let a be (-45)/39 - 2/(-13). Let m be 2 - (a - 0) - 0. Suppose 4*r = m*r - 21. What is r*s(n) - 4*v(n)? 3*n Let f(x) = 2*x - 7. Let b(a) = a - 3. Let v(m) = -7*b(m) + 3*f(m). Suppose -24 = -0*w - 4*w. Let l(z) = w*z**2 - 3*z + 1 + 0*z**2 - 7*z**2. Give l(q) - 2*v(q). -q**2 - q + 1 Let h(p) be the second derivative of -p**3/6 + p**2/2 + 13*p. Let g = -102 + 108. Let i(v) = -v + 6. Calculate g*h(r) - i(r). -5*r Let a(o) = -o**3 - o**2 + o + 2. Let h(d) = -2*d**3 + 23*d**2 + 3*d + 6. Calculate 3*a(q) - h(q). -q**3 - 26*q**2 Let k(h) = 52*h**2 - 2*h + 2. Let m(t) = t - 1. Calculate -2*k(r) - 4*m(r). -104*r**2 Suppose -2 = 2*k + 3*u + 14, 2*u = -3*k - 19. Let h(n) = -3*n + 3. Let r(x) = 1. What is k*h(d) + 15*r(d)? 15*d | Low | [
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Matt Wagner Matt Wagner (born October 9, 1961) is an American comics artist and writer who is best known as the creator of the series Mage and Grendel. Career Matt Wagner's first published comic book work was Comico Primer #2 (1982), which was the first appearance of Grendel. In addition to his creator-owned series Mage and Grendel, he has worked on comics featuring the Demon and Batman as well as such titles as Sandman Mystery Theatre. In 1991, he illustrated part of the "Season of Mists" story arc in Neil Gaiman's The Sandman series. He wrote and drew Batman/Superman/Wonder Woman: Trinity a limited series featuring DC's three major heroes in 2003. He followed it with Batman and the Monster Men and Batman and the Mad Monk in 2006. His other projects include Madame Xanadu for Vertigo, with artist Amy Reeder Hadley. He has produced numerous comics covers, including painted ones for Green Arrow and has written several Green Hornet limited series for Dynamite Entertainment. Outside comics, Wagner provided art for the 1984 Villains & Vigilantes adventure Battle Above the Earth written by Steven Crow. Personal life Wagner currently resides in Portland, Oregon with his wife Barbara Schutz (Diana Schutz's sister). Wagner is an atheist. Awards and nominations 1988: Nominated for "Best Writer" Eisner Award, for Grendel Won an Inkpot Award 1993: Won "Best Finite Series/Limited Series" Eisner Award, for Grendel: War Child Nominated for "Best Writer/Artist" Eisner Award, for Batman: Legends of the Dark Knight: "Faces" Nominated for "Best Cover Artist" Eisner Award, for Batman: Legends of the Dark Knight: "Faces" Nominated for "Best Inker" Eisner Award, for Grendel: War Child 1995: Nominated for "Best Writer" Eisner Award, for Sandman Mystery Theatre 1999: Won "Best Anthology" Eisner Award, for Grendel: Black, White, and Red Won "Best Short Story" Eisner Award, for "Devil's Advocate" in Grendel: Black, White, and Red #1 Nominated for "Best Writer" Eisner Award, for Grendel: Black, White, and Red Bibliography Atomeka Press A1 #2 (1989) Comic Legends Legal Defense Fund The True North #1 (1988) The True North II #1 (1991) Comico Grendel #1–3 (1983–1984) Grendel vol. 2 #1–40 (1986–1990) Mage #1–15 (1984–1986) Magebook #1–2 (1985) Primer #2, 5 (1982–1983) Silverback #1–3 (1989) Dark Horse Comics Dark Horse Presents #40, 45 (1990) Dark Horse Presents Fifth Anniversary Special #1 (1991) Grendel Tales: Devil's Choices #1 (1995) Grendel Tales: Devils and Deaths #1 (1994) Grendel Tales: Homecoming #1–3 (1994–1995) Grendel Tales: The Devil's Hammer #1–2 (1994) Grendel: Behold the Devil #0, #1–8 (2007–2008) Grendel: Black, White, and Red #1–4 (1998–1999) Grendel: Devil's Legacy #1–5 (2000) Grendel: War Child #1–10 (1992–1993) The Terminator: One Shot #1 (1991) DC Comics Batman vol. 3 #54 (2018) The Batman Adventures Annual #1 (1994) Batman and the Mad Monk #1–6 (2006–2007) Batman and the Monster Men #1–6 (2006) Batman Black and White #3 (1996) Batman/Grendel #1–2 (1993) Batman/Grendel vol. 2 #1–2 (1996) Batman: Legends of the Dark Knight #28–30 (1992) Batman/Riddler: The Riddle Factory #1 (1995) Batman/Superman/Wonder Woman: Trinity #1–3 (2003) The Demon vol. 2 #1–4 (1987) The Demon vol. 3 #22 (1992) Doctor Mid-Nite #1–3 (1999) The Sandman #25 (1991) Secret Origins Special #1 (Riddler story) (1989) Who's Who in the DC Universe #4–6, 8, 16 (1990–1992) Who's Who: The Definitive Directory of the DC Universe #6 (1985) Vertigo House of Mystery Halloween Annual #1–2 (2009–2010) Madame Xanadu #1–29 (2008–2011) Sandman Midnight Theatre #1 (1995) Sandman Mystery Theatre #1–60, Annual #1 (1993–1998) Vertigo: Winter's Edge #1 (1998) Dynamite Entertainment Django/Zorro #1–7 (2014–2015) Green Hornet: Year One #1–12 (2010–2011) Grendel vs. The Shadow (2014) The Shadow #100 (2015) The Shadow: Year One #1–10 (2013–2014) The Spirit #1–13 (2015–2016) Zorro #1–20 (2008–2010) Zorro Rides Again #1–12 (2011–2012) Image Comics Mage: The Hero Defined #0–15 (1997–1999) Mage: The Hero Denied #0–15 (2017–2019) Legendary Comics The Tower Chronicles: Dreadstalker #1–10 (2014–2015) The Tower Chronicles: Geisthawk #1–4 (2012–2013) Marvel Comics Savage Hulk #1 (1996) Ultimate Marvel Team-Up #1 (2001) Wolverine vol. 2 #9 (one page) (1989) References External links Matt Wagner at Mike's Amazing World of Comics Matt Wagner at the Unofficial Handbook of Marvel Comics Creators Matt and Brennan Wagner on the Super Hero Speak podcast from NYCC. Category:1961 births Category:20th-century American artists Category:21st-century American artists Category:20th-century atheists Category:21st-century atheists Category:American atheists Category:American comics artists Category:American comics writers Category:Artists from Portland, Oregon Category:Comic book letterers Category:Comics colorists Category:Comics inkers Category:DC Comics people Category:Inkpot Award winners Category:Living people Category:Role-playing game artists Category:Writers from Portland, Oregon | Mid | [
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Q: Get actual value of a variable in another variable For example, in below code, I want to set @XYZ with value of @ABC and value of @DEF i.e. @XYZ should be PQRSTU. DECLARE @ABC VARCHAR(MAX)='PQR', @DEF VARCHAR(MAX)='STU', @XYZ VARCHAR(MAX); A: If you meant concatenation, you can use DECLARE @ABC VARCHAR(MAX)='PQR', @DEF VARCHAR(MAX)='STU', @XYZ VARCHAR(MAX); SET @XYZ = CONCAT(@ABC,@DEF) --or SET @XYZ = @ABC + @DEF +--------+ | PQRSTU | +--------+ The advantage of CONCAT is, if the value of the variable is null also, it will return empty string of VARCHAR(1) for that. So, your concatenation will be successful SET @DEF = NULL SET @XYZ = CONCAT(@ABC,@DEF) SELECT @XYZ +--------+ | PQR | +--------+ If you want to set value for a variable, you can do two ways: SET @xyz = value -- ANSI standard. works across RDBMS systems SELECT @XYZ = value | High | [
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A debate is brewing in the Chinese social media about whether or not China should take in Middle Eastern refugees fleeing unrest in their homelands, after the tragic death of a Syrian boy helped open doors for refugees to European countries. Netizens on multiple mainland online discussion forums have so far been overwhelmingly against the idea, saying China is not responsible for turbulence in the Middle East, many Chinese people are still living in poverty and that the refugees won’t want to come to China anyway. However, supporters of the idea said China needs to build up a “responsible world power” image and actively take part in solving the Syrian refugee crisis. https://twitter.com/adimuliapradana/status/639385592090918912 Last week, an image of a three-year-old Syrian refugee lying lifeless by the Mediterranean Sea made headlines around the world, touching many and prompting calls for more to be done to help tens of thousands escaping the war in Syria and unrest in other Middle East countries. The boy, Alan Kurdi, and his family were trying to reach Greece when their overloaded boat capsized on September 2. Illustrations by Egyptian cartoonist Islam Gawish. Following the tragedy, some European Union countries announced plans to offer new settlements for refugees, including Germany and the UK. China has not made any comments regarding the Syrian refugee crisis since the death of Kurdi. A user called “opec” on Canadian Chinese forum comefromchina.com said on Saturday the Chinese government made a vow to contribute to world peace and prosperity during last week’s World War Two victory day parade and now it’s time to deliver on that promise. Netizen “frankkee” on the popular Tianya Forum echoed that point, saying refugees will do more good than harm. He suggested Beijing nurture pro-China voices among the refugees and have them speak for Chinese interests when they go back to their home countries. Discussion on Tianya Forum on whether China should take in Mideast refugees. Photo: tianya.cn Comments on both websites were mostly negative. Some said Western countries, especially the United States were responsible for escalations in the Syrian civil war. “When the US proposed sanctions against Syria in the United Nations, China and Russia voted against it, meaning they foresaw this would lead to severe consequences,” a user on comefromchina.com said. “The US helped caused the trouble in Syria, leading to the rise of ISIS, therefore US should take the refugees,” another said. Meanwhile, many pointed out that the refugees would prefer welfare states in the West over China. “Don’t overworry yourself, even if we say yes, they wouldn’t want to come,” one user on Tianya said. Many others on the Twitter-like Weibo made the same point. “The refugees want to go to Germany… who wants to come to China?” One said. “China cannot provide refuge…because we the Chinese look more like refugees,” another said. Writer Zhang Yi’an says he is against China taking in Mideast refugees. Photo: Weibo The comments were made under a post by Beijing-based writer Zhang Yi’an. Zhang said he is against taking in refugees because China has not solved its own poverty issue. “Many compatriots still lack social insurance, many children are still going to school in shabby classrooms,” Zhang said. His post, made Monday morning, received hundreds of comments and shares in just two hours. Similar conversations also appeared on Zhihu.com and other forums over the past three days. The semi-official Global Times newspaper ran a commentary saying that the West was to blame for sponsoring “color revolutions” and must now face the consequences. “If huge social unrest takes place, the outside world is unlikely to allow waves of Chinese refugees in”, the paper added. State news agency Xinhua reported on Monday that the US has no plans to take in Syrian refugees. | Mid | [
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Kholo Gardens Trails Kholo Gardens is one of the best kept secrets in Ipswich. Established in 1988 on a historically significant site, it is today one of the most welcoming and beautiful parks in Ipswich. Featuring almost 40 hectares of stunning grounds, walking tracks and boardwalks meander along creek lines, through sub-tropical rainforest and even down to the banks of the Brisbane River. Giant Kauri and Hoop Pine trees planted by early settlers tower over the gardens, while a nearby soothing waterfall cascades into the still coolness of the lily pond. Some rarely seen species of local flora and fauna can be found at Kholo. It is a haven for plant-lovers and bird watchers alike. Those with a love of Nature will enjoy the chance of seeing a Grease Nut Tree (Hernandia bivalvis), or the possibility of spotting a Tusked Frog, Great Crested Grebe, or maybe even a large Powerful Owl. Remnant vine thicket merges into rehabilitated dry rainforest, a palm grove, Eucalypt forest and expansive open areas to provide an assortment of habitats for our local fauna. There is also a charming waterlily pond, complete with its own resident family of ducks. The Best Western Ipswich Heritage Motor Inn is situated one kilometre from the centre of town on the road to Warwick and Boonah, and is set in peaceful surroundings with delightful sub-tropical gardens. They offer you fresh, spotlessly clean motel rooms, self-catering apartments, and friendly hospitality. There is a sparkling pool and a free barbecue. It is an excellent venue for small events and within walking distance of the Central Business District, hospitals, showgrounds and university. There is an excellent restaurant and piano bar on-site. Providing excellent short or long term accommodation to both business travellers and visitors, Oaks Aspire sets a new benchmark for contemporary studio, one and two bedroom apartment accommodation. This modern apartment hotel's facilities include a gym, lap pool, sauna and spa, meeting and business facilities, broadband access, and more. Ideally located in the centre of Ipswich's eclectic Central Business District and close to the city's burgeoning corporate hub, Aspire combines contemporary style and technology with spectacular views of the parklands and the river. Whether you are visiting for business or leisure, you are perfectly positioned to access all that Ipswich has to offer. Quest Ipswich is a modern apartment complex featuring Studio rooms, One, Two and Three bedroom Serviced Apartments. Studio rooms offer kitchenette facilities with hotplate whilst all apartments feature private balcony, full kitchen and laundry facilities, separate living and dining areas and shower over bath bathrooms. The property features Wi-Fi, flat screen LCD televisions and safes in all rooms. With friendly reception personnel to assist with your reservations Quest Ipswich is suitable for leisure and business travellers alike with overnight stays through to long stay project accommodation rates. Quest Ipswich is a short stroll from the Ipswich Central Business District, University of Queensland, Ipswich Showgrounds and Ipswich Hospital and approximately 10 minutes drive from RAAF Base Amberley and the Motor Sport precinct at Willowbank. The property also boasts a unique heritage style conference room leading out to an outdoor pool and barbecue area with complimentary on site open air parking. For bed and breakfast accommodation in South East Queensland, Parkview Colonials in Ipswich is located close to Brisbane, the Gold Coast and numerous local, city and country attractions. Since 1994, the comfortable colonial homes with ensuites and twin share rooms, have welcomed thousands of guests to an enjoyable stay, whether overnight or long term. Located on Limestone Hill opposite beautiful Queen's Park with its flora and fauna, Nature Centre, playgrounds and Japanese Garden, Parkview is easy to find and adjacent to a variety of restaurants, fast food, shops, and the central business district. Parkview is often chosen for garden weddings, as a photo venue for wedding guests during their stay. A bridal suite is also available. Overseas conference delegates also add an international excitement during occasional events. Business people, tradesmen and service personnel are welcome. The host's flexible policy and local knowledge often help to make your stay easier and successful. Hosts Elaine and Bruce Glass are readily available to help make your visit enjoyable, but respect your privacy and will not impose. Wood fires, air-conditioning, cable and remote controlled television, kitchen, laundry and facsimile are available for your comfort and enjoyment. Explore the Region Note: Information on listed products and services are provided by the operator and were correct at the time of publishing. Rates are indicative based on the minimum and maximum available prices of products and services. Please visit the operator’s website for further information. All prices quoted are in Australian dollars (AUD). | Mid | [
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124 F.3d 205 NOTICE: Seventh Circuit Rule 53(b)(2) states unpublished orders shall not be cited or used as precedent except to support a claim of res judicata, collateral estoppel or law of the case in any federal court within the circuit.United STATES of America, Plaintiff-Appellee,v.Charles Baldwin, Defendant-Appellant. No. 94-1025. United States Court of Appeals, Seventh Circuit. Aug. 14, 1997. 1 Appeal from the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Wisconsin. 2 Before Hon. Richard A. Posner, Chief Judge Hon. Thomas E. Fairchild, Circuit Judge Hon. Michael S. Kanne, Circuit Judge 3 Our decision upholding Baldwin's conviction, 60 F.3d 363 (7th Cir.1995), was va-cated by the Supreme Court, and the case remanded to this court for reconsideration in light of Ornelas v. United States, 116 S.Ct. 1657 (1996). Ornelas held that the issue of prob-able cause is to be determined by the appellate court de novo. Our Baldwin decision had held that the similar issue of the voluntariness of a confession or other incriminating statement is to be reviewed only for clear error. Recently we held, in United States v. D.F., 115 F.3d 413 (7th Cir.1997), that in light of Ornelas the issue of voluntariness should also be determined de novo. 4 In its 7th Cir. R. 54 statement in the present case, following the remand by the Supreme Court, the Department of Justice argued, anticipating D.F., that the de novo standard was the correct one to apply here but that, so applied, it required affirmance of the conviction. We construed the Department's statement as a motion for summary affirmance and asked the defendant to respond. He has done so. His response ac-knowledges that the only statement made to him in an effort to induce him to make a statement was that the interrogator would bring Baldwin's cooperation to the attention of the prosecutor. (Baldwin testified that the interrogator made an express promise of leniency, but the question what words were used presented a mere issue of credibility that the district court resolved against him.) He further acknowledges that in United States v. Pace, 898 F.2d 1218 (7th Cir.1990), this court held that such a statement is not coercive and does not render a confession elicited by it involuntary. Baldwin asks us to overrule Pace, but does not state any reasons for why we should. We decline to do so; we point out that Pace is buttressed by other decisions, such as United States v. Rut-ledge, 900 F.2d 1127, 1130 (7th Cir.1990); and we reaffirm the judgment. 5 AFFIRMED. | Mid | [
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The family of a teenager missing for 11 years finally learned what happened to him this month, when they heard of his arrest for allegedly killing the father who kidnapped him, according to reports. Relatives of Anthony Templet searched for him for more than a decade after he was snatched from his Houston, Texas, home at 5 years old by his dad, Burt Templet, the family told WAFB 9 this week. “After 11 years of waiting to hear if my brother was still alive, he is found,” his sister Natasha Templet told local outlet. “He has been secluded and abused all these years by his own father,” she said. “My brave brother had to defend himself for the last time against that evil man.” The now-17-year-old told investigators that his father was drunk and started a fight prior to the incident earlier this month. The teen grabbed two guns to protect himself and eventually shot his dad in the head and torso and then called 911, deputies said. The elder Templet died from his injuries days later. Court records obtained by KHOU show that Burt was charged with assault three times between 2001 and 2002. Two of the cases were dismissed. His ex-wife had filed a protective order just two months before the family last saw Anthony, the outlet reported. “Burt and my mom were together for about 10 years and it was extremely violent,” Natasha said. “I can only imagine what Anthony’s been through.” Their father eventually remarried, but that woman left him earlier this year. She had also reportedly filed a protective order against Burt and alleged that he knocked out several of her teeth. Anthony remains incarcerated at a juvenile facility in north Louisiana but has spoken to his sister and his 80-year-old grandmother on the phone. District Attorney Hillar Moore said his office has been in contact with several of Anthony’s relatives since the teen’s arrest and will review “whatever information anyone has before deciding what action to take.” | Mid | [
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The present invention relates to tubular belt conveyors and, in particular, to a prestressed, self-closing tubular conveyor belt and to the components and to the overall construction of a high speed conveyor system which uses such a tubular belt. In general, the term tubular belt or tubular conveyor belt refers to a belt which typically has a relatively narrow width compared to its length and which is rolled or formed along its width into a closed tube with overlapping longitudinal edges. Preferably, when used in material transporting systems, such tubular belts are formed as endless conveyors in which pourable material is loaded at one point and dispensed at a second point. For a number of reasons, conventional tubular conveyor belts have not fulfilled their potential for use in material transport. First, conventional tubular belts require cumbersome external guides, such as radially arranged rollers or funnels or stiff outer tubes, to form and maintain their tubular configuration and to keep the belt edges closed. In addition, these tubular belt conveyors are subject to twisting, despite the use of external shaping devices. If the joint formed by the overlapped belt edges is twisted from the preferred vertical position to a downward-facing position on the lower half of the tube, the belt edges may separate, allowing spillage of the bulk material carried by the conveyor. Conventional tubular belt conveyor systems use a lumped drive system comprising a cylindrical drive pulley at one end of the conveyor belt, a second cylindrical stretching pulley at the opposite end of the belt, and a set of supporting pulleys or other supports along the lines of the system. This construction has many of the known disadvantages of flat belt conveyor systems. That is, the use of the single, lumped drive to pull the entire conveyor line results in extremely high longitudinal tensions in the belt, especially on ascending slopes. The maximum conveyor length is limited by the tensile strength of the conveyor belt. The high tensile stresses in the belt require heavy reinforcement, and any attempt to lengthen the conveying lines requires even greater, heavier and typically more rigid and expensive reinforcement. In addition, the high torque capacities required of lumped drive systems to pull such heavy and perhaps heavily reinforced conveyor lines usually requires the installation of a speed reduction transmission, which results in additional energy losses. Furthermore, high speed loading and unloading of a normally closed high speed tubular belt conveyor is difficult. The normally closed belt must be opened and closed for both loading and unloading. In addition, efficiency in the conveying process requires high conveyor belt speeds and requires that the material be loaded through the opening onto the fast moving conveyor belt, transported by the belt, and off-loaded, all without spillage of material. In short, the construction of conventional tubular belt conveyor systems limits their speed and length, limits the number and degree of turns in such systems, and makes difficult high speed efficient loading of such systems. | Mid | [
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to generate these files, run zxcvbn/scripts/*.py | Low | [
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1In the beginning was the Word [Logos.] and the Word [Logos] was with God and the Word [Logos] was God.2He was in the beginning with God.3All things came into being by Him, and apart from Him nothing came into being that has come into being14And the Word [Logos] became flesh, and dwelt among us, and we beheld His glory, glory as of the only begotten from the Father, full of grace and truth. [John 1:1-3,14 NASB] The prologue to the Gospel of John is among the most beautiful passages in all of Scripture. It is also one of the most theologically brilliant. Not only does John assert that the Logos was WITH God in the creation account of Genesis by paralleling the first few verses with those that begin the canon of Scripture, John states the LogosWAS God. He is illustrating the plurality of the Godhead, i.e. that God is monotheistic yet more than one ‘Person’ (John would describe the Person of the Holy Spirit later in 14:15-16:15). The Gospel writer makes it clear that God the Word/Logos became flesh, yet He was fully God in the flesh and not ‘merely’ human. However, other groups claimed that John had different thoughts in mind for the Logos. Some Gnostics in the 2nd century (and later) claimed John’s Gospel has a dualistic Gnostic backdrop with his contrasts of light and darkness (v 1:5) and other dichotomies, and they interpreted John’s Christology as congruent with Gnostic redeemer myths117 (redemption through autosoterism, or self-salvation). Some have claimed Hellenistic (ancient Greek) influence. According to NT scholar Craig Keener, Heraclitus, a Greek philosopher of the 6th century BC, “reportedly spoke of ‘Thought’ as guiding and ordering the universe” and his work refers to the Logos as being “eternal, omnipresent, the divine cause”.118 The Stoics took this further as Zeno “identified Socrates’ logos, or rational principle, with that of Heraclitus” calling this “the common law” or “natural law”.119 Apparently, these groups believed the Logos was present in all of creation, i.e. they had a panentheistic (God is in all) worldview. Others asserted that it was Philo’s Logos that John had in mind. Philo combined aspects of Stoicism (including the Logos as the divine mind, or nous120) with his own theology which was influenced by Platonism (from the philosophy of Plato): In Philo’s scheme, the Logos is directly below God and directly above the powers through which God rules creation; the powers appear as angels when related to OT imagery, but Philo elsewhere identifies them with Platonic ideas. The Logos, as God’s archangel and eldest offspring, functions as ambassador to humanity and separates the creature from the Creator; as such it is a mediator of God’s activity in the world and of revelation. The Logos is God’s image, through whom the universe was formed. In Platonic thought the sensory world is merely a copy of the real world of ideas, of eternal forms. The Stoics, by contrast, saw the Logos as immanent in the world of matter. Philo combines these strands of thought, following the syncretistic lead of middle Platonism in his day.121 Still others claim that John had in mind the Wisdom literature in Scripture [Proverbs 8, 9, etc] and extra-Biblical writings of the time including the Apocrypha (the Deuterocanonical books in the Catholic Bible including “Wisdom of Solomon”, “Wisdom of Ben Sira”, etc.) and the Pseudepigrapha (literary works circa 200 BC to 200AD). This position asserts that John had envisioned Jesus as Wisdom personified given the many seeming parallels between his use of Logos and the way Sophia, the Greek word for Wisdom, is used in the Wisdom literature. Yet the Gospel writer never actually uses Sophia in reference to Jesus. Therefore, some scholars claim reliance on this motif while others may affirm perhaps partial influence.122 Andreas Kostenberger sees John’s intent more in line with personifying the Word of God in the OT noting the strong parallel of John 1 with Genesis 1, the parallels of John 1:14-18 with Exodus 33-34, and the Logos concept in Isaiah 55:9-11 (and other passages in Isaiah).123 In addition, Kostenberger seems to suggest the Logos concept was used as an apologetic against prevailing Greek thought: …Though John does not elaborate on the precise way in which Jesus was made flesh, his contention that deity assumed human nature in Jesus would have been anathema for Greeks who held to a spirit/matter dualism and could hardly have imagined immaterial Reason becoming a physical being.124 It seems quite plausible that the Gospel writer, being well aware of current philosophical and religious thought, wrote the prologue and parts of the rest of the Gospel with a dual purpose – as both a Gospel and an apologetic against these threats. This is especially possible if one assumes a late date of authorship as do most scholars (between 90AD and 100AD).125 In fact, Irenaeus, in his Adversus Haereses (Against Heresies), circa 180AD, makes the claim that the Gospel of John is an apologetic against the burgeoning Gnostic (or proto-Gnostic) threat of John’s day.126 John’s Gospel (and, of course, his epistles, especially 1 John which contains elements of the Gospel’s prologue) can function as an apologetic against current Christological heresies as well since some of the concepts above are being perpetuated in slightly different forms today. The Word Becoming Flesh Christian orthodoxy affirms that Jesus Christ was/is the Word made flesh; i.e., the Word/Logos, the second Person of the eternal Triune God, added human flesh to Himself and became the unique God-man in the womb of the Virgin Mary. This hypostatic union retains throughout eternity, for Jesus Christ is yet still both human (with a glorified body) and divine as He sits at the Father’s right hand. However, Bill Johnson explicitly denies the uniqueness of the Word made flesh: …It’s the Spirit of God that makes this thing [the Bible] come alive to where we actually have the privilege of the Word becoming flesh in us again, where we become the living illustration and manifestation of what God is saying.127 What does he mean by “the Word becoming flesh in us again”? Are we to be just like Jesus, i.e. divine? Or was Jesus not the second person the Trinity made flesh in the first place? Is this what Johnson means by “Jesus emptied Himself of divinity and became man”?128 Perhaps this is speaking of the false parousia as mentioned in part II? Or, is this a combination of some or all of these? In yet another sermon, titled “Jesus is Our Model” – the same from which is the blasphemous ‘born again Jesus’ statement – we have Johnson speaking on the word Word yet again: …Look at verse 3 [of Luke 4], “And, the devil said to Him, ‘IF you are the Son of God command this stone to become bread.’” Jesus answered Him saying, “It is written: Man shall not live by bread alone but by every WORD of God.” What was the first temptation? It wasn’t to turn stone into bread, it was to question who He was…129 Not many theologians would agree with Johnson that the first temptation was “to question who He was” by emphasizing if. The majority of scholars assert it was a test to satisfy His hunger by miraculous power rather than relying on the Father for provision.130 But, more importantly, Johnson stresses Word having in mind the Word of Faith (WoF) “rhema” Word, i.e., ‘new revelation’ – NOT that Jesus is Himself the unique, second Person of the Trinity Word/Logos made flesh, although that is how it may appear at first. This will be evident as we continue on with Johnson: …Jesus explains this later to the disciples in Matthew 13; I’ll just read the one phrase to you that’ll help that concept to make sense. He was talking about people who had no root in themselves; they hear the Word but there’s no depth in their person. They’ve not been prepared for what God is saying and doing…131 In applying Matthew 13 to both Jesus and mankind rather than just mankind, Johnson has reduced Jesus to a man who Himself is indwelt by (NOT in hypostatic union with) the “rhema” Word. Simultaneously, he’s reinterpreted this Scripture to pertain to those who either accept or reject the WoF “rhema” Word. [The Greek words rhema and logos are used interchangeably in the Bible although the Apostle John specifically refers to Jesus as the Logos made flesh (John 1:1,14).] Continuing on: …It says, “for when tribulation or persecution arises because of the WORD [3 second pause for emphasis] immediately they stumble. Persecution, difficulty, conflict arises because of the Word. The WORD of the Lord attracts CONFLICT. It’s not punishment. It’s not to humiliate. It’s for two basic reasons: it’s because the Lord wants to give reward and He wants to honor character. Character is not formed in the absence of options. There has to be two trees in the Garden where I am honored for a decision. Do I honor what God has declared over my life or not? Do I consider other options, other possibilities?132 Please note that the Scripture in Matthew 13 [13:21-22] refers to the Gospel message, not the “rhema” Word as Johnson would have us believe. Scripturally, either one accepts the Gospel message and stays true to the Faith (the true convert) or one drifts away when trials and tribulations arise, when persecution comes, or the message is choked out by the concerns of life (the false convert). At this point we’ll compare to more text from Levi Dowling’s New Age book which was referenced in part IIIa: The Christ is son, the only son begotten by Almighty God, the God of Force and God omniscient, the God of thought; and Christ is God, the God of Love. …Through Christ all life was manifest; and so through him all things were done, and naught was done in forming worlds or peopling worlds without the Christ. Christ is the Logos of Infinities and through the Word alone are Thought and Force made manifest.133 This is obviously a perversion of the prologue in John’s Gospel. Both “Thought” and “Force” are capitalized in the original [“thought” is not capitalized the first time though]. This sure reads like WoF doctrine with “faith” as a ‘force’ and the “rhema” Word, ‘new, ongoing revelation’, coming into our thoughts. “Christ” here is in reference to a member of this false Trinity who also “pervades all spaces of infinity”134, as in panentheism, meaning that all matter contains a “seed” of “Christ”, including man, and it takes the “Christ Spirit” to activate these “seeds”: Into the soil…these seeds, which were the Thoughts of God, were cast…and they who sowed the seeds, through Christ, ordained that they should grow…and each to be a perfection of its kind.135 To reiterate, this “Christ” is the occult version of “Christ in you, the hope of glory” [Col 1:27] with “Christ” being the dormant, non-activated seed as well as a member of this false Trinity who permeates all matter. This is evident in the following words of Levi’s “Jesus”: …Look to the Christ within who will be formed in every one of you, as he is formed in me.136 Now, let’s pick up where we left off in the sermon of Johnson: …This story in Matthew 13, the parable of the seed and the sower actually gives this picture of soil; and the seed of God’s Word, the sperma of God, is released into the seed, through His Word, into the soil. And, then it says, but other things grow and they choke out the life of that seed of God. Think about it: the Word of God, the most powerful thing in the universe, is put into an environment that if we give attention to other IDEALS, other VOICES, other WORDS, we actually give them a place in our heart to take root and they choke out the Word of God, the most powerful thing in the universe. For a season, the Lord has allowed our choices to affect the power, the effect of the most powerful thing in the universe. It’s stunning…137 We’ll elaborate more on the “sperma of God” in the section below on “spiritual DNA”; but, it seems obvious that it’s analogous to Bob Jones’ “God sperm seed” from part II. This “sperma of God” compares remarkably well with Levi’s “seeds” account above, does it not? In addition, Levi’s statement “through the Word alone are Thought and Force made manifest” seems akin to Johnson’s “rhema” Word made manifest in both Jesus and ‘believers’ as we consider Johnson’s words, “we actually have the privilege of the Word becoming flesh in us again, where we become the living illustration and manifestation of what God is saying.” Also, note Johnson’s negative emphasis on ideals, voices, and words – is this a knock against Christian theological orthodoxy? Perhaps so, since later Johnson speaks of ‘religion’ as, “mowing down the seeds so that they all look the same”.138 Bill Johnson continues to make more parallels to Levi’s doctrine: …The most powerful thing in the universe, the Word of God – that created the world, that spoke things into being, that Word has been planted in your heart.139 You’ve got to know the mind of the Lord if you’re gonna stand strong.140 Overall, Johnson appears to be making the point that to be strong, to grow in the faith, one must become more and more attuned to the ‘continuing revelation’ of the “rhema” word. This is instead of the Christian orthodox view of sanctification by submitting to the Holy Spirit’s leading rather than our own flesh, carnality. Levi’s teachings are not unique to him as these are also common in Gnostic literature (as stated earlier, Gnosticism also informs New Age doctrine). In Benjamin Walker’s Gnosticism: Its History and Influence, he uses this same “seed” concept referencing Matthew 13 like Johnson. Walker notes how man may either “identify with the upper realm and be transformed by it, or with the lower and perish as a result.”141 This type of man hears the call, but whether he listens and responds, or not, lies entirely within himself. He is capable of receiving the seed sown by the sower. But he is fertile ground for both tares and wheat (Matt. 13:25). He must take care that the thorns of intellectualism and disbelief do not grow and choke the seed. He has free will and tends both to good and evil, and must make up his own mind in which direction he will move…142 Biblically, the parable of the wheat and the tares/weeds [Matt 13:24-30] is about true Christians and false Christians. The false Christians (tares/weeds) will be intertwined with the true (wheat) until the eschaton, the consummation, the end of all things. This same false teaching is also in the Unity Church doctrine. The following is a portion of the Unity Church’s definition for “kingdom of God” in their Metaphysical Bible Dictionary which compares favorably with both the Gnostic account above and Johnson’s version of Matthew 13: …Jesus likened the kingdom to a seed because a seed has unexpressed capacities, and needs to be planted in the soil best suited, and when planted in a receptive mind it brings forth the fruits of the Spirit. The life of the word is the spiritual idea it contains. The kingdom of heaven is attained, first, by one’s establishing in one’s mind the consciousness of the truth of Being; second, by one’s outer life to Truth. Jesus used many commonplace things to illustrate the establishing of the kingdom of heaven in consciousness in order that we might the more easily adjust all our thoughts and acts in harmony with the ideas that make heaven. Jesus likened heaven to a man that sowed good seed in his field, but when he slept an enemy sowed tares there (Matt. 13:24-30). The explanation is this: The field is consciousness; the good seed are our true thoughts, which are sown when we express our mind positively. The tares are the error thoughts that drift in when the consciousness is negative or ignorant…143 For further comparison, here are two quotes from Constance Cumbey’s September, 1988 New Age Monitor in which are transcriptions of question and answer sessions with David Spangler and Michael Lindfield, both of Findhorn Foundation, an openly New Age organization (which has been around for 50 years and counting). Both individuals were taped at Boulder Episcopalian Church in Boulder, CO on October 26, 1987144 the day following an important series of meetings with Evangelicals and New Agers over the weekend. First is Spangler: …Even today, you know, in meeting with people who are leaders of the evangelical and pentecostal community, it was quite evident they were saying, ‘you know, the Spirit of Christ is in the world.’ It is in all people. That is in scripture and as a consequence, people who have never encountered Christianity can still encounter Christ. And a number of these evangelicals came up with examples of this in their travels around the world, and pointed to scriptural passages to substantiate this…145 Spangler makes the claim that both Evangelical and Pentecostal leaders stated that ‘Christ’ is “in all people” such that even non-Christians can “encounter Christ.” Lindfield makes a similar claim about himself having his “own essential Christhood” and then makes a further claim about the “word made flesh”: …I claim my right to freely explore my relationship with God and with Christ. And if that makes me a New Ager, I will proudly wear that label, if that makes me a fundamental Christian, I will proudly wear that label. Whatever it is that allows me to freely explore my relationship with God – my own essential Christhood – I will gladly take that on…There are many books and many writings purporting to express ‘this is the New Age.’ But in essence what I feel we are searching for is the word made flesh – not just the word made paper…146 Levi Dowling makes this concluding statement with respect to the “Word made flesh”: …[A]fter thirty years of strenuous life the man [Jesus] made his body fit to be the temple of the holy breath [Holy Spirit] and Love [Christ] took full possession, and John well said when he declared: ‘And the Word was made flesh and dwelt among us and we beheld the glory of the only begotten of the Father, full of grace and truth.’147 Dowling’s point is that Jesus of Nazareth so demonstrated His worthiness to become ‘the Christ’, the World Teacher of the Piscean Age, that He was fully possessed by ‘the Christ’, the member of the false Trinity. That is, Jesus, like all others, had the seed within Him (‘Christ within’, the “Thoughts of God” which pervade “all spaces of infinity”) which was then activated by ‘the Christ’, the Son of the false Trinitarian Father, who eventually “took full possession” of Him. Once ‘the Christ’, the Logos of Infinities, the false Trinitarian Christ, took full possession of Jesus of Nazareth, Jesus then became ‘the Word made flesh’. The now ascended Master Jesus, the “World Teacher” for the Age of Pisces, is now our example to follow towards our own ascension to godhood. To that end, we ourselves must also become “the Word made flesh”. Given the earlier comparison (in part IIIa) of some Christological quotes of Bill Johnson to those of Levi and the comparisons in this particular section, it is entirely plausible that Johnson intends the same meaning as Levi with respect to “the Word made flesh”. Interestingly, later in the “Jesus is our Model” sermon, Johnson comes close to correctly explaining Jesus’ first temptation as Him not succumbing to the Devil’s temptation to turn stone into bread: “He could have used the anointing that the Father had given Him through the Holy Spirit to turn the stone into bread. But, He would not prostitute the favor, the anointing, the power, for personal gain…He faced it; He quoted Scripture; He brought the Word back into focus.”148 However, note that He refrained from using “the anointing that the Father had given Him” rather than His own inherent divinity. Yet, Johnson follows this up conflating Scripture with the “rhema” Word, then he proceeds to use an example of a personal predictive prophecy which purportedly came to pass years later thereby emphasizing the “rhema” Word and, hence, coming full circle. Subsequently, he closes his sermon and restates his original wrong exposition on Jesus’ first temptation.149 So, initially, Johnson goes to great lengths to show that Jesus’ first temptation was to question who He was as the “rhema” Word made flesh; yet, he later claims that Jesus first temptation was to get Him to use the power of ‘the anointing’ “for personal gain” thereby contradicting his first interpretation. However, he asserts once again that Jesus’ first temptation was to “question His identity” near the very end of this sermon.150 This aptly illustrates Johnson’s duplicity. The Word Becoming Spirit In the following is another example of Johnson proclaiming Jesus as the “rhema” Word made flesh in yet another sermon. However, Bill Johnson goes a bit further. In this first bit, Johnson is making the point that most don’t have the full reality of what God ‘has already imparted into us’. By this, he apparently means we’ve not yet fully actualized the seed implanted in us: …We take such small risks because we live with such ignorance of what we possess. I pray…that the ongoing revelation of God would come upon us as a people to discover what He has already been imparted to us; so that we can reasonably pursue the increase in what we’re lacking, what we’re missing…the real issue is that we live in ignorance of what has already been deposited into our lives.151 This “ongoing revelation”, this “rhema” Word, activated by “the sperma of God” will help us to literally release ‘the Word’ into the atmosphere – as it did for Jesus: …Jesus said the Kingdom is within you. Now that Kingdom is released in many different ways. It is released through touch, it is released through the prophetic act, it is released through word. In John chapter 6, Jesus said, “My words to you are spirit and they are life.” Whenever Jesus spoke, He spoke what the Father was saying; so, nothing originated [from Him]…152 Johnson goes on with his usual kenotic motif of ‘Jesus did nothing of Himself being totally reliant on the Father in order to model a Spirit-filled life for the believer’. Then he continues, claiming that when Jesus, “the Word made flesh”, spoke, His Words literally became Spirit by taking John 6:63 out of context. He expounds on this proof-text by taking Romans 14:17 out of context as well which is followed by more Scripture twisting in order to make his esoteric point: …So Jesus makes this declaration: “My words to you are spirit and they are life…Jesus is the Word of God made flesh; but, every time He spoke, the Word of God became Spirit – Word made flesh; Word made Spirit… Why is that important? …Paul said this in Romans, that the Kingdom of God is not meat or drink, but it is righteousness, peace and joy IN the Holy Spirit. The Kingdom of God is not meat or drink, it’s righteousness, peace and joy IN the Holy Spirit. The Kingdom of God is IN the Holy Spirit. When words become Spirit, the realms of God’s dominion are released over humanity. When we say what the Father is saying then we literally impart Presence through speech. It is not the volume. It is not the profundity. It is the source: Was it from the heart of the Father? If we tap the heart of the Father and we speak, then something is released and it is the person of the Holy Spirit who Himself contains the realm of the King-dom – King’s domain. The realm of God is contained in the realm of the Spirit. When we say what the Father is saying, we change the options of every hearer… When Jesus said, “Repent for the Kingdom of heaven is at hand” He was letting them know ‘when I talk to you, a reality is released over you that changed your options’. And your answer is within reach. It’s at HAND.153 Is this Levi’s (God of) Force ‘made manifest’ “through the Word”? The similarities are striking indeed. Later in this same monologue, Johnson tells the audience the entire purpose of “all ministry” which is to literally “impart the Person of the Spirit of Christ”. Which “Spirit of Christ” is being imparted? …It’s my conviction that all ministry can be summed up…can be boiled down to one thing: All ministry is actually imparting the Person of the Spirit of Christ into the atmosphere, into a situation. It’s actually imparting [ED: Johnson here points to his mouth] the person. “Freely you have received, freely give.” What have you received? Him.154 This doctrine is not found anywhere in the pages of the Holy Bible; however, this concept is remarkably similar to an occult teaching regarding the etheric realm. In Alice Bailey’s Telepathy and the Etheric Vehicle, she describes the etheric realm as the panentheistic realm – that substance of ‘god’ which is within all matter. She uses the term omnipresence to describe its nature: …Omnipresence has its basis in the substance of the universe, and in what the scientists call the ether; this word “ether” is a generic term covering the ocean of energies which are all inter-related and which constitute that one synthetic energy body of our planet.155 In panentheism, God is both transcendent (outside the cosmos) while simultaneously immanent, within all matter. This immanence is the ‘god within’ (or “Christ within”, seed, divine spark) which inter-connects with all others; i.e., the ‘god within’ one person or thing is of the same essence as the ‘god within’ another. This ‘divine immanence’ is the etheric realm, and omnipresence characterizes the nature of the entire etheric body. This then makes omniscience possible to all: It is a fact that omnipresence, which is a law in nature and based on the fact that the etheric bodies of all forms constitute the world etheric body, makes omniscience possible. The etheric body of the planetary Logos is swept into activity by His directed will; energy is the result of His thoughtform playing in and through His energy body.156 Bailey asserts that this inter-connectness of the panentheistic, etheric realm makes collective omniscience possible since “divine thought” permeates this realm.157 Through “concentration and meditation”, individuals become “inspired Thinkers” with the power to direct this energy thereby acquiring “the clue to ultimate world salvation”:158 The thought-directing energy has for its source a Thinker Who can enter into the divine Mind, owing to His having transcended human limitation; the thought-directed receiver is the man, in exoteric expression, who has aligned his brain, his mind, and his soul.159 …Advanced humanity, the mystics and the knowers, are becoming increasingly aware of the mind which directs the evolutionary process. When this awareness is cultivated and the individual mind is brought consciously into contact with the mind of God as it expresses itself through the illumined mind of the Hierarchy of adepts, we shall have the steady growth of omniscience. This is the whole story of telepathic interplay in the true sense; it portrays the growth of that oligarchy of elect souls who will eventually rule the world, who will be chosen so to rule…160 Going back to Johnson, “The realm of God is contained in the realm of the Spirit”. And, “If we tap the heart of the Father and we speak, then something is released and it is the person of the Holy Spirit who Himself contains the realm of the King-dom – King’s domain”. So, in speaking the “rhema” Word (or through touch or the “prophetic act”), we release the “person of the Holy Spirit”, or, in other words of Johnson, we impart “the person of the Spirit of Christinto the atmosphere, into a situation”. This is the purpose of “all ministry” as per Johnson. In comparing to the Bailey concept above, it seems plausible that Johnson is releasing the ‘etheric realm’ into the atmosphere through the spoken “Word of God” via the omnipresence inherent in the ether. Let’s compare this to more words of Bailey from another book: Instruction is being given at this time to a special group of people who have come into incarnation at this critical period of world’s history. They have come in, all at the same time, throughout the world, to do the work of linking up the two planes, the physical and the astral, via the etheric.161 It would be instructive to point out that occult / New Age / New Spirituality teachings are also expecting a “kingdom of god” as illustrated in Alice Bailey’s From Bethlehem to Calvary: The Initiations of Jesus, her 1937 work explaining how Jesus is ‘our model’: It is time that the Church woke up to its true mission, which is to materialise the kingdom of God on earth, today, here and now…162 …A new kingdom is coming into being: the fifth kingdom in nature [ED: kingdom of God] is materialising, and already has a nucleus functioning on earth in physical bodies.163 Bailey explains this concept of bringing in the “kingdom of god” in yet another book, The Externalisation of the Hierarchy, with the book’s title about the intent of ‘externalizing’ the “Spiritual Hierarchy” (of demons) onto the physical plane (the earth): Hovering today within the aura of our planet are certain great spiritual Forces and Entities, awaiting the opportunity to participate actively in the work of world redemption, re-adjustment and reconstruction. Their Presence is sensed at times by the spiritually-minded people of the world, and Their reality is recognised by the mystics and occultists working in every land. Men and women express this recognition according to the trend of their religious and psychological training and the particular mental or emotional bias…164 The book goes on to note how the different religions await various messianic figures each according to its own particular religious views and how this can create a powerful “thoughtform”. This collusion of thought can hasten an event: …[W]hen a thoughtform has been constructed of sufficient potency and has been built over a long period of time by the people of the world, a further and final stage becomes ever possible. The form can be rendered so magnetic that it can attract an Energy which will inform it and give it active potency; it can then become a vital link between the subjective world of energy and the objective world of forces and a thing of power, of impelling and guiding activity, and therefore the expression of a Life. This thoughtform, duly informed, becomes a mediating factor, constructed by humanity but animated by the will-to-good of some great and spiritual Entity… 165 Is this the method Johnson has in mind “to impart Presence through speech”? Is this what is meant by his conviction that the ultimate goal of ministry is “actually imparting the Person of the Spirit of Christ into the atmosphere, into a situation”? While Johnson does not make any explicit or implicit claims of omniscience in believers with his words above, he implies it in the following section (while Bob Jones does so explicitly). We’ll close this section with additional words of Alice Bailey stating fairly concisely the intents and purposes of the “Spiritual Hierarchy” of which she communed indicating the needed cooperation of humanity: Emphasis should be laid on the evolution of humanity with peculiar attention to its goal, perfection…man in incarnation, by the indwelling and over-shadowing soul…The relation of the individual soul to all souls should be taught, and with it the long-awaited kingdom of God is simply the appearance of soul-controlled men on earth in everyday life and at all stages of that control…The fact will appear that the Kingdom has always been present but has remained unrecognized, owing to the relatively few people who express, as yet, its quality….166 Getting Down to the DNA of Spiritual DNA In his Shepherd’s Rod 2005, Bob Jones used this same concept of the ‘Word becoming flesh in us again’ with the ‘Word’ being the WoF “rhema” word, i.e. new, ongoing revelation, in referencing spiritual DNA: The Living Word or Bread of life once again desires to be made flesh through a body of people joined with Him in a holy consummation. As we live not by natural bread alone but by the living Word proceeding from the mouth of God, the bread of abundant life, even so the hidden truth of godliness will become part of our spiritual DNA. …Mysteries reserved deep in the heart of the Father, locked away in the mind of Christ, and dispersed by the Spirit who searches the deep things, await the passionate embrace of a latter-day company of overcoming, holy, victorious ones…167 Since Jesus identified Himself as the “Bread of Life” [John 6:35, 48], it is clear Jones is claiming that some believers will, at some point, be just like Jesus as “the Word made flesh”, thus mirroring Johnson above. Apparently, in living by the “living Word proceeding from the mouth of God” the spiritual DNA is expanded. In part II it was shown how Bob Jones differentiated between the physical body which contains our DNA as compared to “His [God’s] genetics” / conscience / spirit within each person that has “authority over DNA”. This is subsequently added to the human body (clay). Jones’ teaching appears to be a ‘Christianized’ version of the esoteric/occult doctrine of reincarnation. Apparently, “spiritual DNA” provides the means with which one can attain the literal mind of Christ (omniscience) as Jones also mentions in his teaching at the 2011 Piercing the Darkness prophetic conference: …But there are Christians who are maturin’ now in their mind to where they’ll have the mind of Christ, and they’ll have the answers…168 This presumably occurs when one taps into “the Wisdom of the Ages” [see part II and below]. It is entirely possible, if not probable, that Jones has in mind ‘the Christ’ which is part of the false Trinity of Levi, i.e. the one which “took full possession” of Jesus of Nazareth (or a similar teaching). This then would mean that when Jones speaks of ‘Christ’ “coming IN my people” [see part II] – referencing the false parousia – he’s referring to this same false Christ. To reiterate, and perhaps make clearer, here’s additional context of Jones’ “God sperm seed” statement in which his claim is that this “spirit of God” comes into everyone at conception: …Everyone of you, when you were conceived in your mother’s womb, a spirit of God came into you. It’s your human spirit which is your conscience. When this came into you, this spirit was as mature as it’ll ever be because this spirit came from God. And, this is what’s been guiding your life – your conscience, your human spirit. Man is six things. He’s mind, will, and emotions. He is human spirit, Holy Spirit and Wisdom of the Ages. What happens if you begin to tap into the Wisdom of the Ages? In that little bitty God sperm seed – 1st Peter 1:23 is all the Wisdom of the Ages. That genetic thing – you have authority over DNA…169 When Jones speaks of those Christians “who are maturing’ now in their mind” he’s speaking of those who are in tune with this ‘spirit’ which has “been guiding your life”, a “spiritual guide” which is providing these ‘new revelations’. For those not familiar with New Age or esoteric/occult terminology, “spiritual guide” is the term used most commonly for a disincarnate spirit which guides the individual (which can seem like a ‘god within’). Jones adds more to the above (quoted in part II): But what He put in here [ED: the body] was not DNA. It was His [God’s] genetics that has authority over DNA… For this conscience of yours is really your spiritual guide. God gave this to you to guide your lives. Don’t violate your conscience. In certain places it’s called your spirit. Especially in 2nd Corinthians 7:1 it’s called spirit and flesh.170 Jones is reiterating that it’s the spirit which is “as mature as it will ever be” which was “put in here [the body]” at conception. It seems Jones’ “God sperm seed” is the agent which activates “His [God’s] genetics”, “your conscience”, which allows one to “tap into the Wisdom of the Ages”. This “God sperm seed” is apparently what activates the “spiritual DNA” which “has authority over DNA”. This appears to be very similar to, if not the same as, Johnson’s teaching on the “sperma of God”. Johnson sets up his account of the “sperma of God” by explaining that ‘God’s Word’ brings conflict; however, again, Johnson is not speaking of Scripture. He is referring to the “rhema” word as in the Word of Faith teachings as noted above: …This story in Matthew 13, the parable of the seed and the sower actually gives this picture of soil; and the seed of God’s Word, the sperma of God, is released into the seed, through His Word, into the soil. And, then it says, but other things grow and they choke out the life of that seed of God…171 Johnson’s point is essentially that other concerns “choke out” the ‘rhema Word’ preventing the “seed of God’s Word”, which is the “sperma of God”, from growing in the soil of the human. With this teaching, he may well be promoting, in a more subtle way, the same doctrine of reincarnation that Jones has explained a bit more explicitly in part II. The following quotes will help explain this a bit more. In his book When Heaven Invades Earth, Bill Johnson speaks of “spiritual DNA” in two different passages. Bracketed comments are inserted for explanation: God is our Father, and we inherit His genetic code[at conception]. Every believer has written into his or her spiritual DNA [activated by the “sperma of God”] the desire for the supernatural….172 It is abnormal for a Christian not to have an appetite for the impossible. It has been written into our spiritual DNA[activated by the “sperma of God”] to hunger for the impossibilities around us to bow at the name of Jesus.173 God’s “genetic code” is the not yet activated “spiritual DNA” that all receive at conception. This “spiritual DNA” is activated when one begins to listen to the ‘Word of God’, or “conscience” / ‘spirit’ as Jones would put it, thus beginning the ‘born again’ experience. Here are some additional quotes: …Exposure to the supernatural works of God changes the capacity of leaders to lead, thereby changing the bent of the people of God to pursue Him. Such exposure is the equivalent of a spiritual change of DNA. Something is altered in that person that enables him or her to lead in a way that the people of God inherit a heart for God through the leader’s influence.174 It is said that when a kernel of corn is planted, every kernel that grows has the exact same DNA as the original kernel in the ground. Jesus became the ultimate seed that was planted in death, and we were born again by the same Spirit that raised Him from the dead. Every born-again believer has the DNA of Christ. That is amazing! This DNA of Christ in us is practical in that it enables the Godlike capacity to dream…He [Jesus] was planted to redeem people unto something. And that unto something involves accurately and fully representing who Jesus is on earth as in Heaven. We have His DNA and therefore manifest His face to the world…175 In this context, ‘born again’ refers to the point at which the ‘spiritual DNA’ is activated. Once again, Johnson stresses how Jesus was raised by the Spirit rather than by the Father AND Christ Himself as per orthodoxy. And this same ‘Spirit’ provides the ‘born again’ experience of every ‘believer’. Johnson stresses this elsewhere in the same book: “The Holy Spirit in us is the same Holy Spirit who raised Jesus from the dead. He is the Spirit of the resurrected Christ.”176 Johnson emphasizes ‘the Spirit’. Could Johnson be referring to the same “Christ Spirit” that Benjamin Crème had in mind as indicated at the end of part IIIa? Also, his assertion that we should be “accurately and fully representing who Jesus is on earth as in Heaven” in this context has overtones of the heretical Manifested Sons of God (MSoG) teaching. And the ‘kernel of corn’ comparison reads much like the “seed of God’s Word”, “sperma of God” teaching above. Johnson reiterates this teaching in a Charisma piece from last year’s special issue featuring Bethel Church: When the Spirit of the resurrected Christ took up residence in our bodies, all of heaven positioned itself to see what we would conquer in His name. Resurrection power is in our nature, in our spiritual DNA. When we were born again, we received the same spiritual DNA as Jesus. His resurrection power now is to dwell in us through the Holy Spirit…177 This “resurrection power” described above was discussed in Bill Johnson’s ‘Born Again’ Jesus, Part II illustrating likely roots in MSoG teaching which has a parallel teaching in the occult / New Age / New Spirituality which itself is predicated on the false doctrine of reincarnation. Let’s compare Johnson’s teachings with those of Eternal Vision Ministries which adheres to the following creed: “We believe that all of creation was designed and set forth to fulfill God’s Eternal Purpose”.178 Their teachings are reminiscent of other hyper-charismatic ministries with a decidedly New Age bent. There’s no explicit mention of the Gospel while there’s a vague “Gospel of Eternity” promoted. The following is from their teaching “The Function of the Bride”: It is clear that growth cannot be accurately measured by the number of doctrines we learn or the amount of knowledge we achieve. Spiritual growth is measured by the spiritual life we have received from Him. This is the Zoe Life that IS Christ in us. This is the Life that comes into us as the sperma of God when we are born again. This “sperma” is the living and abiding word of God. It is also called the Spirit of Christ or the Spirit of His Son. The same “sperma” that was impregnated into Mary to develop into the Man Christ Jesus also comes into us. The growth of that “sperma” was the incarnation of God in a human body. God’s goal for the church is the incarnation of Christ IN His body now on earth. For that reason God begins by infusing the “sperma” of God which is the living and abiding Word of God into each of us individually. Then individual “members” are assembled into a local body called the church. The corporate church is said to be the fullness of Him that fills all in all. In other words this church is the manifestation of Christ. Jesus said if you have seen Me you have seen the Father because He was the manifestation of the Father on earth. Hopefully we will be able to say if you have seen me you have seen Christ, at least if we see His fulness we will see the “corporate Christ”. A “body with many members”.179 This looks a LOT like Bill Johnson’s teachings. Not surprisingly, Eternal Vision asserts that Jesus was formed from the same “sperma” that ‘infuses’ “each of us individually”. This correlates to Johnson’s teaching of Jesus as explained above regarding Jesus as the “rhema” Word made flesh by this “living and abiding word” indwelling Jesus rather than Jesus as the second Person of the Trinity made flesh via the hypostatic union. Of course, this also correlates with the teaching of Levi above. In an article titled Creating Heaven on Earth, is an interview of New Ager Jean Adrienne by Asa Wulfe in which they discuss bodily ascension as a way of creating Heaven on Earth in the here and now. Note the similarity in title as compared with Johnson’s When Heaven Invades Earth. In the Adrienne/Wulfe interview, Adrienne describes the process of ascension as being “started by activating additional strands of DNA – the spiritual DNA”: …[I]f additional strands are activated, we awaken new abilities, gifts, and powers that have been dormant…Perhaps our DNA could be a ladder into the Fifth Dimension…180 This “Fifth Dimension” is analogous to Bailey’s “Fifth Kingdom,” also known as the “Kingdom of God”, which is only accessed by achieving the fourth (and higher) initiations with the fourth initiation resulting in the attainment of a manifested son of God. [see “Christ” in the New Age article on this site]: Certainly, everything that we are physically is encoded in the DNA. We have physical DNA in our cells, and spiritual DNA that is in our energy field.These two energies have to be connected, just as the left and right hemispheres of the brain must become integrated and balanced as we move into the Fifth Dimension. All of our inner knowledge is stored in the DNA…When we become authentic, we no longer search outside ourselves for ‘true knowledge.’ It is within us.181 Bill Johnson’s friend Che Ahn of HRock Church has clearly defined spiritual DNA in an old Ministry Today article: While no two of us are exactly alike physically, it would appear we have the same spiritual DNA, according to the Scriptures. Like Adam and all of humanity to follow him, the image of the Godhead has been passed down… …[C]an we fathom the untold significance of having our Father’s DNA? I no longer merely confess that I am the righteousness of Christ. I realize that with His DNA in me through His blood, I could be nothing else. I realize the attributes of His DNA reside in me—whether dormant or active. No longer do I see the fruit of the Spirit as something we “will” by self-effort or following the law. Rather, I see that in my DNA, God has already placed genes of love, peace, longsuffering, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control. They are waiting to be activated by the Holy Spirit.182 This sounds much like what Bill Johnson is stating although it explains some aspects a bit more clearly. From another New Age / New Spirituality site we see, once again, the same concepts: In our current DNA structure, we have two visible strands, which are called backbone DNA, but all the other 10 other strands are present…According to Esoteric teachings, the first two strands are Physical DNA, the other ten strands are Spiritual DNA. …Activating your dormant DNA, which in time will also give you access to the secrets and mysteries of which you are and what your life-purpose is, will allow you to realize your full potential here on Earth.183 Divine Nature Activated Bill Johnson’s friend Todd Bentley defined “DNA” as “Divine Nature Activated” under the Supernatural Training Center tab on his old Fresh Fire Canada site. This seems an apt way to define the activation of the “spiritual DNA”: Christ wants us to know Him intimately by the power of the Holy Spirit and to catch His vision for our lives. His desire is to build godly character into our DNA – Divine Nature Activated….184 Also, his now-defunct Fresh Fire Canada site featured his “Joel’s Army Internship” in which was found the following quote from Jerame Nelson of Living at His Feet Ministries: …I have experienced a true impartation of the Fire of God, as well as faith to see the divine nature of Jesus Christ manifest in the earth today…185 Do we have a divine nature? Scripture shows we have a fallen, sinful human nature but never does the Bible say or even allude to humans having a divine nature. Yes, the Holy Spirit is in the true believer which makes us “partakers of the divine nature” [2nd Peter 1:4 NKJV] but only through Him. The word partake does not mean become. Yes, we can say “Christ in us, the hope of glory” [Col 1:27]; but, this does not mean we become Christ or divine. Only the Trinitarian Godhead is divine. However, as explained earlier, esoteric/occult teaching is such that man has a dual nature – one human and one inherent but latent divine nature which must be actualized through self-effort. Once an individual acknowledges their inherent divinity, then they can work towards actualizing it. This seems like the best explanation for Bill Johnson’s concepts of the “sperma of God”, “Word made flesh”, “spiritual DNA” and the other material brought forth in this article. The significance of “Divine Nature Activated” is explained quite well by New Ager John Lewis of Age to Age Ministries: Citizens of planet Earth, you have been incarnated in your present physical form at this time to witness and participate in the Transformation of human kind. This phase of human evolution is to bring him into full manifestation of his Divineness… You are not here by accident, chance, or coincident. Your parents were only convenient for you arriving in the physical 3 dimensional existence you now experience. You came through your mother, but you came from God. Parents gave you the physical and biological stuff to house who you really are until the appointed time of the Divine Nature Activated. You are being summoned and wooed to an experience that transcends what is known as the human experience. Therefore, arise and shine because the Light within is coming to full expression and the glory of God will become more visible on your physical being.186 Once again, one can almost hear the refrain of the popular song by the soul/rock group The 5th Dimension “Aquarius/Let the Sunshine In”. Clearly, this is very similar, if not the same as, Manifest Sons of God teaching. Continuing with Lewis in his subsection titled, “DIVINE NATURE ACTIVATED”: ‘We are partakers of his divine nature.’ 97% of our DNA is unused, not active; therefore, the science communities don’t understand it. I believe that the discovery of DNA at the time it was discovered was carefully orchestrated by God in man…. …The 97% of your DNA that’s not activated is GOD waiting to be activated in man. You have the information and intelligence of the Adam the son of God encoded in your DNA. Access and activation to this information will cause you to live as Adam the God-man in the Garden of your Be-ing…. One will only be able to fulfill the Divine purpose when he is walking in awareness of his own divinity. It is our belief system that hinders us from being the Gods we are…187 John Lewis’ teachings sure do resemble those of Johnson, Jones, Ahn and Bentley, do they not? Part IV will discuss how some other teachings of Johnson resemble those of occult / New Age / New Spirituality and will conclude this series. …Cosmic humanism forms the basis of the New Age Movement and related religious expressions, particularly Eastern mysticism. It says that man is evolving toward a state of higher consciousness that will result in the attainment of godhood… …Many have…adopted a form of cosmic humanism, believing that they are capable of achieving the same anointing of Christhood that Jesus had. Their beliefs are predicated upon a new Gnosticism which appears so very Christian as to deceive even the elect if possible. Through close examination, however, they are found in an error so serious that it threatens the stability of the churches in which these people fellowship and, in some cases hold positions of leadership. – Albert James Dager, Vengeance Is Ours85 Occultists / esotericists cannot deny that there was a historical Jesus of Nazareth (and maintain any real credibility) as the evidence for His earthy life is insurmountable. Instead, He is humanized at the expense of His deity and proclaimed a righteous teacher, a model to emulate. As noted in part II, a belief in reincarnation is integral to New Age / New Spirituality teachings. In New Age Christology, Jesus of Nazareth was merely human and His life as the son of a carpenter was one of a number of incarnations. For example, one of his previous incarnations was as Joshua son of Nun. In fact, He was incarnated once more following His crucifixion and resurrection.86 In the New Age / New Spirituality and some other occult teachings, there is a false Trinity made up of The Father, the Holy Spirit (Holy Breath, sometimes Wisdom Sophia), and The Son (the Christ, the Logos, the Word): The Christ is son, the only son begotten by Almighty God, the God of Force and God omniscient, the God of thought; and Christ is God, the God of Love.87 In His incarnation as Jesus of Nazareth, the man Jesus overcame many tests and trials through much effort during the first 30 years of His life. Because of this, He proved worthy to manifest ‘the Christ’. Therefore, He was chosen to be the new world teacher (the Christ) of the Age of Pisces to succeed Gautama Buddha, the Christ of the Age of Aries, once Jesus would perfect Himself at Ascension. Thus, Jesus was “christed” in a ceremony occurring just after His water baptism in the Jordan by John when the Holy Spirit (Holy Breath) descended upon Him as a dove. It was at this point Jesus was deemed “the Christ”.88 This ‘christing’ resulted in Jesus becoming the temple of the Holy Breath (Holy Spirit) thus providing the power for His miracles, while “the Christ” completely overshadowed Him, taking full possession.89 This “Christ Spirit” stayed with Him until some time before the Crucifixion so that it was only the man Jesus who died.90 It was the “Christ Spirit” which raised Jesus’ dead body at the Resurrection while Jesus of Nazareth went on to be reincarnated as Apollonius of Tyana who subsequently ascended thereby becoming Master Jesus and world teacher as “the Christ” for the Piscean Age.91 Jesus’ life became a symbolic pattern for all to follow toward their own salvation – just as the man Jesus procured His own. Before going further in explaining New Age Christology and comparing this to Bill Johnson’s, it’s important to keep in mind the intention as explained earlier by Alice Bailey. As stated in part I, in order for Christianity to be “transcended” the goal is in preserving the outer appearance in order to reach the many who are accustomed to church usages. In other words, the doctrines must seem to be orthodox while actually teaching unorthodoxy. By implication, a certain amount of duplicity and inherently contradictory statements would be part of the plan. For example, in the kenosis theories claiming Jesus emptied Himself of some or all divine attributes to become a man, there is the implication of Jesus’ pre-existence as God rather than the New Age view that Jesus was previously incarnated as a man. Certainly, no one can deny Jesus Christ’s pre-existence as God and remain in a Christian pulpit (at least not generally). However, as noted in part II, claiming Jesus was/is eternally God yet He “emptied Himself of divinity” during the Incarnation is an inherent contradiction. The point is, ‘Christianized’ New Age will not completely parallel New Age / occult theology. Comparing Specific Christological Statements Many prominent authors and conference speakers add fuel to the fire of fear assuming that because the new age movement promotes it, its origins must be from the devil…92 Given Bill Johnson’s words above, obviously, he sees no trouble with at least some New Age concepts or practices. And, of course, this illustrates that Johnson acknowledges there is a New Age movement. As explained earlier, in New Age Christology, Jesus pre-existed as a human who had been reincarnated. Once “christed”, He was en route to becoming “the new World Teacher”.93 Conversely, “Christ” is God’s son who pre-existed as “God”. Here in the following is “Christ” as defined by a well-known New Age book by Levi Dowling first printed in 1907 (and presumably still in print) titled The Aquarian Gospel of Jesus the Christ: We recognise the facts that Jesus was man and that Christ was God; so that in very truth Jesus the Christ was the God-man of the ages.94 Central to most all (if not all) occult doctrine is the belief that all humans have two natures – one human nature and one latent divine nature. This divine nature is known as the “divine spark”, “seed”95 and/or the “Christ within” which must be awakened to begin “the Path” to self-salvation.96 The point at which one realizes and begins to actualize this inherent divinity is known as the ‘virgin birth’.97 This inherent dual nature in all humans makes us potentially the same as Jesus. Since the term “Christ” is used in many different ways in New Age / New Spirituality teaching, it is confusing and sometimes difficult to interpret meaning which is ultimately determined by context. In the following, in a book by Alice Bailey most likely originally written in the mid to late 1940’s, she is referring specifically to the person of the Incarnate historic Jesus at first; she then uses the term more generally in the second. That is, in the second case Bailey is indicating that anyone can expand their “Christ consciousness” by following Jesus’ example. By “the keynote of the Gospel story” Bailey means the so-called ‘good news’ that everyone can save him/herself and relate to the Father by our inherent divinity (awakened by the “Christ anointing” or, being “Christed”) and to humanity by our human nature: …the keynote of the Gospel story [is] the human-divine nature of the [person of Jesus] Christ, relating Him to the Father through His essential divinity and also to man through His essential humanity. The Christian Church gave a wrong slant to the teaching by making Christ appear as unique, though the higher criticism (deemed so shocking fifty years ago) has done much to correct this false impression.98 It seems quite possible that this “higher criticism” to which Bailey refers includes the kenosis theories at the turn of the twentieth century. Also from Dowling’s book, who is usually affectionately referred to as simply “Levi”, is the New Age / New Spirituality teaching on two different aspects of “Christ”: the first is general, meaning “anointed” (or “christed”), while the second refers to a member of the false “Trinity” as indicated earlier: The word Christ is derived from the Greek word Kristos [ED: actually Christos] and means anointed. It is identical with the Hebrew word Messiah. The word Christ, in itself, does not refer to any particular person; every anointed person is christed. When the definitive article ‘the’ is placed before the word Christ, a definite personality is indicated, and this personality is none other than a member of the Trinity, the Son…99 Notice in the first three sentences the similarities between them and Bill Johnson’s teaching in the following: Christ is not Jesus’ last name. The word Christ means “Anointed One” or “Messiah.” It [Christ] is a title that points to an experience. It was not sufficient that Jesus be sent from heaven to earth with a title[Christ]. He had to receive the anointing in an experience to accomplish what the Father desired.100 …The outpouring of the Spirit comes to anoint the church with the same Christ anointing that rested upon Jesus in His ministry so that we might be imitators of Him…101 Per Levi, “every anointed person is ‘christed’” or receives “the anointing” or, “Christ anointing”, as Johnson calls it. As previously pointed out in the CrossWise article The Christ Anointing and the Antichrist Spirit, Bill Johnson redefines Christ to “the anointing” and he subsequently redefines antichrist (spirit) to ‘anti-anointing’ in the same chapter of this particular book. Confusingly, there is yet another aspect to the term ‘Christ’ in New Age Christology. It is also an ‘office’ or ‘title’ for the “Christ” of the current age. As noted above, there have been many “Christs” (or “World Teachers”) down the ages and, as previously stated, Jesus of Nazareth – more accurately, the now ascended “Master Jesus” – is the one for the Piscean Age, our current era/aeon102 having earned this ‘title’ and receiving His coronation at His “baptism in the Holy Breath (Holy Spirit)”. This is explained in the Introduction to the book by Levi: The word Christ means “the anointed one,” and then it is an official title. It means, The Master of Love. When we say ‘Jesus, the Christ’ we refer to the man and to his office; just as we do when we say…Lincoln, the President…Lincoln was not always President, and Jesus was not always Christ. Jesus won his Christship by a strenuous life…we have a record of the events of his christing, or receiving the degree Christ. Here is where he was coronated…103 With the exception of the introduction, Levi’s book is written in chapter/verse format as if it were a Bible. Here is how the (fictional) account is presented: …and now you stand ready to take the last degree. 6 Upon your brow I place this diadem, and in the Great Lodge of the heavens and earth you are THE CHRIST. 7 This is your great Passover rite. You are a neophyte no more; but now a master mind. 8 Now, man can do no more; but God himself will speak, and will confirm your title and degree. 9 Go on your way, for you must preach the gospel of good will to men and peace on earth; must open up the prison doors and set the captives free. 10 And while the hierophant yet spoke the temple bells rang out; a pure white dove descended from above and sat on Jesus’ head. 11 And then a voice that shook the very temple said, THIS IS THE CHRIST…104 Now let’s look at one more Bill Johnson quote we’ve used previously in part I to compare with the immediately preceding: The outpouring of the Spirit also needed to happen to Jesus for Him to be fully qualified. This was His quest. Receiving this anointing qualified Him to be called the Christ, which means “anointed one.” Without the experience there could be no title.105 To reiterate, following is the latter part of the previous Johnson quote with additional context provided: …It was not sufficient that Jesus be sent from heaven to earth with a title [Christ]. He had to receive the anointing in an experience to accomplish what the Father desired. The word anointing means “to smear.” The Holy Spirit is the oil of God that was smeared all over Jesus at His water baptism. The name Jesus Christ implies that Jesus is the One smeared with the Holy Spirit.106 As pointed out in part I, as per Johnson, logically Jesus was not Christ prior to this experience as this title was given only at the point when the Spirit descended upon Him as a dove [Luke 3:16; John 1:32]. Hence, He was merely Jesus of Nazareth until this anointing. This sure resembles the teaching of Levi above, does it not? One other important thing to consider which is best illustrated by picking out a bit of one of Levi’s quotes above: …When we say ‘Jesus, the Christ’ we refer to the man and to his office; just as we do when we say…Lincoln, the President…Lincoln was not always President, and Jesus was not always Christ…107 If one has this in mind, one could use Luke 2:11, “Today in the town of David a Savior has been born to you; he is Christ the Lord” [NIV 1984], to mean that Jesus is the future Christ and NOT that Jesus was born as the Christ. This would be similar to stating, “On February 12, 1809 President Lincoln was born.” – certainly, Lincoln wasn’t born President for he was elected to the office of the President later. In the same way, occult / New Age / New Spirituality teachings assert Jesus wasn’t born the Christ for he wasn’t coronated until He was around thirty years of age. Of course, Christian orthodoxy affirms that Jesus was the Christ, our Lord and Savior at birth. In the Apocryphal/Gnostic The Gospel of Philip from the 2nd century is a similar idea. In the following, there is a specific distinguishing between water baptism and ‘anointing’ [chrisma is the Greek transliterated word meaning anointing]. The “anointing” here is identified as the mark of a Christian rather than true Christian conversion upon which one receives the Holy Spirit indwelling: The chrism is superior to baptism. For from the chrism we were called ‘Christians’, not from baptism. Christ also was (so) called because of the anointing. For the Father anointed the Son. But the Son anointed the apostles. And the apostles anointed us. He who is anointed possesses all things. He has the resurrection, the light, the cross.108 This reads like an “ongoing incarnation”. Alice Bailey, in her 1937 Theosophical / New Age book From Bethlehem to Calvary: the Initiations of Jesus, quotes Luke 3:16, then describes the two steps in baptism, the first by John the Baptist in water and the second by Jesus Christ “which is that of the Holy Ghost and of fire.”109 She further describes this second baptism: …The baptism which Christ gives His followers concerns the purification of the mind by fire. Fire, under the universal symbolism of religion, is ever symbolic of the mind nature. This baptism by fire is the baptism of the Holy Spirit.110 Those who are or were involved with the so called ‘Third Wave’ have undoubtedly heard the word “fire” used to describe those “under the anointing” (especially from Todd Bentley at Lakeland). Bailey’s use here is referring to the transformation of the mind (continued transformation by Transcendental Meditation / contemplative prayer / centering prayer / soaking, etc.) to expand one’s “Christ consciousness”.111 [See “Christ consciousness” section of ‘Christ’ in the New Age article.] This is a process that continues until one, hopefully, ascends to Master, becoming a god oneself. In the following is Johnson as he explains the “baptism in the Holy Spirit”112 distinguishing between the Holy Spirit “that was already in Jesus’s life” and what transpired just after His baptism by John. After quoting John 1:32, “I saw the Spirit descending from heaven like a dove, and He remained upon Him” [NKJV], a parallel passage to Luke 3:16 (as Bailey uses above), Johnson explains this baptism: …Certainly this is not talking about the indwelling presence of the Holy Spirit that was already in Jesus’s life. This was the inauguration of Jesus’s ministry, and the Holy Spirit came to rest upon Him[baptism in the Holy Spirit / “Christ anointing”] as a mantle of power and authority for that specific purpose. But the fact that the Holy Spirit came to rest on Him is evidence of Jesus’s faithfulness to be perfectly trustworthy with the presence of God. The same principle is true for us. The Holy Spirit lives in every believer, but He rests upon very few…113 Here’s one more quote from Face to Face with God, the same Johnson book cited above: …The baptism in the Spirit, a profound encounter with the face of God, adds the power of heaven to bring transformation to planet Earth…114 Does this not resemble the same basic teaching as the New Age / New Spirituality with respect to the ‘baptism of/in the Holy Spirit’ / “the anointing” / the “Christ anointing”? “Transformation to planet Earth” sure has a New Age-y ring to it. As noted in part I, Johnson claims that Jesus did not raise Himself from the dead contrary to John 2:19/10:17-18. …Jesus GAVE Himself to be crucified. He DID NOT raise Himself from the dead…His job was to give His life to die. The Father raised Him by the Spirit…115 Of course, it was the entire Trinity who raised Jesus’ body from the dead as other Scripture attests [Holy Spirit – Romans 1:4/8:11; Father – Acts 5:29-31/Galatians 1:1/Ephesians 1:17-20; God – Acts 2:24/Romans 4:24]. However, Johnson’s phraseology is not that far from the words of well-known New Ager Benjamin Crème: Jesus was raised from the dead by his teacher the Christ who entered his body 3 days after his death. Jesus was no longer in that body and it was the Christ whose personal name Lord Maitreya lived in that body for the 41 days after the resurrection.116 In essence, Crème is stating that it was the “Christ Spirit” which raised Jesus’ body and remained in Him at the instruction of the Father of the false Trinity. The difference in the Crème version is that Jesus’ immortal Spirit came back into the body of Apollonius of Tyana; and, upon his death, Jesus’ Spirit ascended and He became ‘Master Jesus’ and the “World Teacher” of the Age of Pisces. One has to wonder why Johnson would emphatically violate Scripture in stating that Jesus DID NOT raise Himself from the dead especially when this is not much different than the occult / New Age / New Spirituality account. [T]he church movement, like all else, is but a temporary expedient and serves but as a transient resting place for the evolving life. Eventually, there will appear the Church Universal, and its definite outlines will appear towards the close of this [20th] century…This Church will be nurtured into activity by the Christ [ED: actually Satan/antichrist] and His disciples when the outpouring of the Christ principle, the true second Coming, has been accomplished. No date for the advent do I set, but the time will not be long. -Alice A. Bailey, 191939 As noted in part I, Bailey’s words were channeled through her by a demon known variously as “Djwhal Khul”, “the Tibetan”, or “Master D. K.”. Bailey was essentially a disciple of H. P. Blavatsky, one of the founders of Theosophy. Formed in 1875, Theosophy itself is an amalgamation (uniting) of occult doctrines with some roots in 1st/2nd century Gnosticism. These Theosophical teachings form much of the basis of the New Age / New Spirituality. As both the Bailey quote from part I and the one above illustrate, the goal was to infiltrate the Christian Church in order to transform it into part of one large universal esoteric Aquarian Age / New Age ‘church’. The Apostle Paul warned in 2nd Thessalonians 2:9 about this fake ‘second coming’ of which Bailey refers, which is an attempt at mimicking Jesus Christ’s Second Coming. Paul even applies the same Greek word (parousia) to both Jesus’ Second Coming [2nd Thes 2:1, 8] and the coming of the antichrist in his warning: 7For the secret power of lawlessness is already at work; but the one who restrains him will continue to do so till he is taken out of the way. 8And then the lawless one will be revealed, whom the Lord Jesus will overthrow with the breath of his mouth and destroy by the splendor of his coming [parousia]. 9The coming [parousia] of the lawless one will be in accordance with the work of Satan displayed in all kinds of miracles, signs and wonders, 10and in every sort of evil that deceives those who are perishing. They perish because they refused to love the truth and so be saved. 11For this reason God sends them a powerful delusion so that they will believe the lie [pseudos (counterfeit)] 12and so that all will be condemned who have not believed the truth but have delighted in wickedness.[2 Thess 2:7-12, NIV 1984] Parousia is defined: “arrival as the first stage in presence, coming, advent”.40 By the complete context it’s clear that once the ‘lawless one’ is revealed there will be “all kinds of [false, counterfeit (pseudos)] miracles, signs and wonders”. These will be absolutely real, but they will be false in the sense that they are coming from Satan. Ultimately, the power comes from God as He allows Satan the use of this power for His own purposes (v 11). However, note that “the secret power of lawlessness is already at work” during the time Paul wrote this epistle which is obviously well before the ‘lawless one’s’ revealing (v 8). These counterfeit/false signs and wonders will be in evidence before the arrival of the antichrist. He may not yet be ‘revealed’ but his works are already made manifest. It seems to make sense that these counterfeit signs and wonders would be increasing in both quantity and intensity in the time immediately preceding this false parousia. Promoter of New Age / New Spirituality teachings Matthew Fox expressed the need for global mysticism in his 1988 book The Coming of the Cosmic Christ in order to bring forth this “Church Universal” of which Bailey speaks above: Without mysticism there will be no “deep ecumenism,” no unleashing of the power of wisdom from all the world’s religious traditions…The promise of ecumenism, the coming together of religions has been thwarted because world religions have not been relating at the level of mysticism. The Western tradition appears to have nothing to offer on a mystical level because its religious traditions are unaware of their mystical heritage…41 Perhaps Fox wasn’t aware of the mysticism already growing in the Western church primarily in the hyper-charismatic wing of Christianity. No doubt hyper-charismaticism has grown since the time his book was written. At last year’s Piercing the Darkness “prophetic conference” held at Bill Johnson’s Bethel Church in Redding, CA, “prophet” Bob Jones told the audience they were “called to be a mystic generation”.42 …Man is six things. He’s mind, will, and emotions. He is human spirit, Holy Spirit and Wisdom of the Ages. What happens if you begin to tap into the Wisdom of the Ages? In that little bitty God sperm seed – 1st Peter 1:23 is all the Wisdom of the Ages. That genetic thing – you have authority over DNA… 43 For the record, 1st Peter 1:23 is referring to the Holy Spirit indwelling upon conversion, “For you have been born again, not of perishable seed, but of imperishable, through the living and enduring word of God” [NIV 1984]. All of mankind does not have the Holy Spirit; only true Christians will be indwelt by the Holy Spirit. Of course, what Jones is teaching here is not Biblical; but, what does he mean? More on this in a bit. “Wisdom of the Ages” is analogous to the ‘Ancient Wisdom’, or occult teachings,44 or “the power of wisdom from all the world’s religious traditions” as Fox states above. Jones continues later in his ‘sermon’ with even more alarming words: …Man was created all at oncet [sic: “once”]. Bang. And God finished it and He made man out of the clay. The DNA. What He put in here [ED: the body] was not DNA. It was His genetics that has authority over DNA. And, you’re gonna have to begin to get a-hold of this. For this conscience of yours is really your spiritual guide. God gave this to you to guide your lives. Don’t violate your conscience. In certain places it’s called your spirit. Especially in 2nd Corinthians 7:1 it’s called spirit and flesh….45 Clearly, Jones is making a distinction between the creation of the spirit / conscience / “His (God’s) genetics” which was “made all at oncet”, and the physical human body (clay) containing DNA which was made subsequent to this, indicating a two-step process. Yet, Scripture describes the creation of man a bit differently, “the Lord God formed man from the dust of the ground and breathed into his nostrils the breath of life, and the man became a living being” [Genesis 2:7, NIV 1984]. However, Jones words work well as a ‘Christianized’ explanation of the esoteric/occult/New Age doctrine of reincarnation. To explain this doctrine, we’ll elicit help from some enthusiasts of the esoteric/occult. In Annie Besant’s Theosophical/occult book The Ancient Wisdom from 1897 (Theosophy forms much of the basis of the New Age / New Spirituality teachings, as note above) she describes how the individual souls (spirits) await “the opportunity of incarnation” in human bodies: …As the [human] race evolved, the human tabernacles improved, and myriads of souls [spirits] that were awaiting the opportunity of incarnation, that they might continue their evolution, took birth among its children….46 One time leader of the Theosophical Society Pasadena, Gottfried de Purucker, in his book Fundamentals of the Esoteric Philosophy, a “Commentary and Elucidation of H. P. Blavatsky’s The Secret Doctrine”, explains that the spirit is immortal: …The spirit is the immortal element in us, the deathless flame within us which dies never, which never was born, and which retains throughout…its own quality, essence, and life, sending down into our own being and into our various planes, certain of its rays or garments or souls which we are; and furthermore, that these rays, in descending, constituted the life-essences of a hierarchy, whether we treat of our own selves as individual human beings, or whether we think of the atom, or the solar system, or of the universal cosmos. 47 De Purucker may seem a bit confusing here (and his run-on sentences do not help in clarifying); but, what he’s stating is that in the doctrine of reincarnation all spirits are part of the one “god” who is within all things – a doctrine known as panentheism. These spirits are immortal, eternal. De Purucker differentiates between spirit and “soul” with the latter referring to any vehicle containing the spirit. Each entity has its own “soul”. That is, the descending spirit has its own “soul”, its vehicle, which enables it to descend and it, in turn, inhabits the soul/vehicle of the human body.48 Besant above is speaking of the soul as vehicle containing this immortal spirit which is “awaiting the opportunity of incarnation”. According to this occult doctrine, the human being can function without acknowledging this descended spirit; however, once one acknowledges the ‘god spirit’ inside, one can begin the path to “godhood”. After explaining how the immortal spirits emanate from the transcendent “God”, and that each spirit remains fully “God”, yet the transcendent “God” is in no way diminished, de Purucker provides a helpful analogy: A perfect analogy is found in the intrauterine development of man and his descent into incarnation. His [immortal] spiritual nature does not come down and become his actual body; it remains always his spiritual nature…[T]he physical man, the body, is in very truth the ‘temple of the living God,’ which is itself the glory thereof, hence a part of the temple; the temple, verily, is the lowest manifestation of the living God within.49 In the doctrine of reincarnation, the immortal, disembodied spirit must inhabit a new body at conception as de Purucker and Besant illustrate. Going back to the first Jones quote: his teaching about “God sperm” works well when put into the context of reincarnation in which the immortal spirits ‘take birth’ in the ‘temple of the living God’. Combining this with Jones’ second quote, he is claiming that the “God sperm seed” [immortal spirit] provides the “authority” over your DNA (your body) since this “God sperm seed” is, as he calls it, the spirit / conscience or, ‘God’s genetics’, which is placed into the “clay” (body) containing your DNA. So, once you “tap into the Wisdom of the Ages”, according to Jones, you will gain authority over your DNA. Apparently this is the basis for the “spiritual DNA” teachings which are becoming more prevalent both in the hyper-charismatic and “Emergent” streams of Christendom. More on this “spiritual DNA” in part III. Jones continues with more esoteric teaching, this time sounding decidedly New Age: But, you’re getting ready to wake up for the night is far spent and the dawn is at hand. And we’re getting ready for one of the greatest awakenings of all time – no revival but a’ awakening that never ends…50 One can almost hear the refrain of the 1969 hit by The 5th Dimension “Aquarius/Let the Sunshine In” at this point: “This is the dawning of the Age of Aquarius…” According to the New Age / New Spirituality, we are currently in the latter stages of the Age of Pisces and the dawning of the Age of Aquarius is imminent. But, Jones is far from through [the remainder will be the subject of a future post]. He even speaks of Christ coming in His people, a reference to the anti-biblical doctrine known as the “birth of the man-child” which is part of the heretical manifested sons of God (MSoG) teaching (MSoG is also an occult / New Age teaching): …Recently, the Lord spoke to me and said, “I’m coming IN my people. Christ in you, the hope of glory. I’m comin’ IN my people.”51 This is not dissimilar to his August 08, 2008 monologue at a conference hosted by Heritage International Ministries and distributed by Rick Joyner’s MorningStar Ministries: As you begin to grow into the likeness of Christ you’re gonna begin to partake of the divine nature. And, once you begin to grow up in that-away you’ll continue to mature until you look like Christ all over the world. Jesus was one person. Now get ready for Jesuses [sic; plural of “Jesus”] all over the world.52 Esoteric/occult/New Age literature has long proof-texted Colossians 1:27, “Christ in you, the hope of glory” to indicate the god within which needs to be first realized then actualized. As but one example of Alice Bailey, “There is a growing and developing belief that Christ is in us, as He was in the Master Jesus…”53 Here Jones seemingly has yet another application in mind. Is he speaking of the fake parousia, the false second coming of which both the Apostle Paul and Alice Bailey spoke? Actually, Bob Jones has been speaking these sorts of things for about 25 years now. To help further explain the preceding Jones material, here’s a more direct, concise quote from the late Earl Paulk which should help shed some light (actually dark): …‘Christ in us’ is God’s continuing incarnation…The Church is Christ’s body, the incarnation of Christ today. The mystery which has been hidden but is now revealed to His saints is ‘Christ in you, the hope of glory.’ The mystery of this generation is Christ in us. We never understood that mystery fully. We pray to a ‘God beyond the clouds in heavenly places’ when Christ is in us. The hope of glory is not in the heavenlies – the ‘hope of the heavenlies’ is on earth! Every departed saint is gathered, waiting to see how many of us are going to receive understanding and bring Christ from the heavenlies. They are waiting for total redemption as we are. If God’s love is going to be manifested on planet earth, who is going to demonstrate it? Christ in us, the hope of glory. God has no other place to show His love except through His body.54 Satan and his demons need our cooperation to do their bidding (“the hope of the heavenlies is on earth”). Following is the New Age / New Spirituality teaching on the false parousia as Bailey calls it, “the outpouring of the Christ principle, the true second Coming”. According to New Age / New Spirituality, when “the Christ” (antichrist, the new ‘World Teacher’) “reappears”, he will also have the ability to manifest through many people at one time: The Christ, when He comes into incarnation, will most likely project himself into many parts and be where he wants to be. This is called the Law of Divisibility, a term used in Agni Yoga that means a highly developed spirit—one who is able to contact, simultaneously, various people in various locations.55 Does this not seem uncomfortably close to the Jones/Paulk version above? Continuing: For example, a Master can be seen in various groups at the same time. He can even be in different planes serving and teaching on different levels to meet various needs of the people. He can do different jobs in different places at one time. He impresses the space with his images, and so forth.56 Certainly, Bill Johnson bears some responsibility for Bob Jones’ teaching since this “prophetic conference” was hosted at his Bethel Church. Presumably, he’ll likely revert back to his words here: …As a pastor I sometimes invite speakers who come in a rough package but carry a great anointing. I do this to train my congregation to recognize the anointing and to celebrate who people are, not who they aren’t. People want to be doctrinally safe, not relationally safe. Often people expect me to publicly rebuke a previous speaker for teaching against what we believe. I will do that only if it’s actual heresy.57 One has to wonder what Johnson’s definition of heresy is. Certainly, refusing to rebuke a specific unbiblical or anti-biblical teaching by an individual who has spoken at his church amounts to tacit approval despite his statement above. However, given that the Bob Jones material cited in this section (excepting the MorningStar monologue) is sold in both audio and video format at Bethel, this connotes not just tacit but explicit endorsement. And for this, Johnson should be held responsible. With this endorsement from Bethel, one may be led to believe Jones’ teachings (at the least his words on this DVD/cd) are part of the Johnson / Bethel belief system. Are they? Bob Jones “The Coming Kingdom”Piercing the Darkness, 2011 Bob Jones lurks in the background of much of hyper-charismaticism. He is lauded as a true ‘prophet of God’. Do his esoteric teachings form the backdrop for the movement as a whole? “Apostles” in the New Apostolic Reformation, the very ones who claim authority, do nothing to correct any of Jones’ strange teachings. Since Bill Johnson himself is a recognized ‘Apostle’ within his own sphere of influence, he certainly has the authority. Will he correct any of Jones’ teachings? Has he yet? Bill Johnson: Deceived Deceiver or Deceiving Deceiver? While we cannot know for certain an individual’s true heart or motives, we are to ‘know them by their fruit’ [Matthew 7:15-23], i.e. their doctrines and practices. Following is a list of things showing redefinition of key Christian terms and concepts, apparent deceit, questionable associations and endorsements, a dubious ‘healing’, and other concerns: — It has been demonstrated that Bill Johnson has redefined repentance and, even worse, Christ and antichrist spirit, some of this in mid-paragraph. It is very difficult to view this as other than deliberate. Given that Johnson has changed Christ to “anointing” and antichrist spirit to ‘anti-anointing’, and that he’s termed our present era the “post-denominational era”,58 is it any wonder that Johnson would want the anointing of William Branham, the one who called all Protestant denominations antichrist?59 …That antichrist spirit that we’re studying, in denominationalism, and proven that denominationalism is antichrist….60 — The circumstances surrounding the acquisition of the Roberts Liardon library indicate apparent deceit. Of note also: Liardon’s book God’s Generals is highly endorsed by Johnson.61 This book contains historical snapshots of a number of “past revival leaders” including Branham. While Liardon doesn’t shy away from some of the problems with Branham in the latter part of his days including that denominationalism was “the mark of the beast”,62 he attributes these doctrinal aberrations to be caused by Branham moving away from his ‘gift of healing’63 which he claims God “couldn’t take back”.64 Liardon mentions the fact that Branham could only heal if his ‘angel’ was “standing at his right side”.65 Apparently, according to Kurt Koch, in his book Occult A-B-C, Branham’s ‘angel’ would not appear when Christians were in the audience praying thus rendering Branham powerless: There are disturbing powers here. I can do nothing.66 Since when is God constrained by “disturbing powers”? — He clearly borrows from Word of Faith (WoF) theology. As stated in a previous article, some of his doctrines follow Kenneth E. Hagin, Sr. in the way he moves from one Biblical proof-text to the next to make his theological points. One such example is the ‘born again Jesus’ teaching in which he moves from Hebrews 1:4-5 to Acts 13:33 although Johnson stops short of Hagin’s claim that Jesus went to hell, took on Satan’s nature and was subsequently ‘born again’. Here’s one Johnson quote illustrating the WoF ‘prosperity gospel’: …Jesus destroyed the power of sin, sickness, and poverty through His redemptive work on the cross. In Adam and Eve’s commission to subdue the earth, they were without sickness, poverty, and sin. Now that we are restored to His original purpose, should we expect anything less? After all, this is the better covenant!67 Moreover, it has been demonstrated that there’s a strong possibility Johnson has even adopted the same (re)definition as E.W. Kenyon for the word reality (the spiritual realm as opposed to the physical). Kenyon, from whom Hagin borrowed heavily, was the originator of Word of Faith doctrine. Kenyon very likely borrowed this redefinition from Theosophy (H. P. Blavatsky) who apparently had in mind the Dualism of 1st/2nd century Gnosticism. — Johnson has friends who have propounded and continue to promote unorthodox and heretical doctrines including Bob Jones (as noted in the previous section), Todd Bentley and others. Conferences of which Johnson both hosts and speaks feature individuals with unbiblical and anti-biblical doctrines and some with questionable practices. He specifically backed Todd Bentley both at the Lakeland “Revival” and in its aftermath, and he even wrote a letter last year in support of him recommending him for ‘ministry’. — There is at least one recorded dubious (or worse) healing. The following probably says it all: “What have I done? This guy thinks he hobbled in here…wait until he tries to walk out!”68 The Biblical witness does not once show God making an individual worse en route to divine healing. In essence, Johnson states that God subsequently ‘covered him’ for his initial mistake in this ‘healing’.69 — Johnson promotes contradicting concepts. Johnson states one thing one time then contradicts this very thing the next. One example is his definitive statement, “sin and its nature have been yanked out by its roots”.70 This, of course, is not Biblical as we never get rid of our sin nature until we receive our imperishable bodies [1 Cor 15] at the resurrection of the saints. Johnson will make statements seemingly affirming our ability to remain sinless71 (a view in common with New Age / New Spirituality) yet, at other times Johnson will make statements about our sin.72 In addition, Johnson’s followers sometimes understand his teachings in an unorthodox manner while Johnson rarely makes any attempts to correct these ‘misunderstandings’. With all the preceding in mind, let’s look at a few statements which seem to contain orthodox statements at least in part: Jesus was (and is) God. Eternally God. That never changed. But he chose to live with self imposed restriction while living on earth in the flesh – as a man. In doing so He defeated sin, temptation, the powers of darkness as a man. We inherit His victory – it was for us. He never sinned!” [Facebook 3/21/2011] The first three sentences in and of themselves are entirely orthodox. Adding the fourth, some have understood Johnson to be teaching what is known as functional(ist) kenosis (see here for a full discussion on kenosis, or self-emptying), i.e. that Jesus retained all His divine attributes yet chose not to use his omnipresence, omnipotence and omniscience (and possibly other traits) during His earthly ministry relying instead on the Holy Spirit. [This view violates some key Scripture in any case: Heb 1:3/Col 1:17; John 5:21, 24-25.] However, this narrow view fails to look at the rest of Johnson’s explicit statements as shown in part I and this article which prove the contrary. Moreover, “self imposed restriction” can also be understood such that the Word voluntarily divested Himself of some or all divine attributes at the moment of the virginal conception/birth resulting in this restriction. This would indicate a stronger form of kenosis (or worse) known as ontological kenosis. In fact, this seems more likely given Johnson’s next sentence that Jesus defeated “the powers of darkness as a man”. In addition, the emphatic last sentence seems to drive home that it was His sinlessness as a man which provided “His victory”. According to orthodox Christianity, to provide effective Atonement Jesus had to be both fully God and fully man on the Cross. In addition, it’s important to note that all modern (mid 19th century to today) kenosis theorists proclaim Jesus Christ’s eternal deity yet many effectively deny this in their theory by asserting He lacked some or all divine attributes while incarnate creating an inherent contradiction. Here’s another quote which backs up the assertion that it’s both the stronger kenosis (or worse) and Jesus Christ’s lack of sin that is Johnson’s focus. The following even suggests that if one were to follow Jesus’ example one could be sinless (again, this is not unlike New Age / New Spirituality teaching): Jesus modeled what life could be like for any person that had no sin and was filled with the Spirit of God. He’s eternally God; He’s not a created being – He’s eternally God, but He set aside divinity and chose to live with the same set of restrictions that a human being would have. Why? To set an example for us. Now if He did what He did as God, I’m still impressed; but, I’m not inclined to follow. But when I find out He did it as a man with the same limitations I have, suddenly I’m no longer content to stay where I’m at.73 In the following, a statement in an article in the March 2012 Charisma, Johnson states quite explicitly that Jesus no longer had any deity/divinity during the Incarnation: While Jesus is eternally God, He emptied Himself of His divinity and became a man (see Phil. 2:7). It’s vital to note that He did all His miracles as a man, not as God. If He did them as God I would still be impressed. But because He did them as a man yielded to God, I am now unsatisfied with my life, being compelled to follow the example He has given us. Jesus is the only model for us to follow.74 The Charisma article states that this quote was adapted from his book (co-authored with Randy Clark) The Essential Guide to Healing. Here’s the quote from the book which is much the same as above: …Jesus emptied Himself of divinity and became man (see Philippians 2:7). While He is eternally God, He chose to live within the restrictions of a man who had no sin and was empowered by the Holy Spirit. In doing this, He provided a compelling model for us to follow.75 Each of these suggests not ‘merely’ kenosis but metamorphosis instead, i.e. the Word literally became a man transforming Himself into a human devoid of any deity/divinity.76 Perhaps Johnson was not very careful with his words (and Charisma as well as Chosen Books, the publisher of his book, were equally careless in editing); however, when taken together with the other two statements above and the rest of his Christological statements, something is definitely amiss. This reconfirms the analysis of Johnson’s Christology in part I. Moreover, in looking over all the other evidence noted in this section one may wonder if he is not deliberately making these seemingly confusing and contradictory statements. However, Johnson does proclaim Christ’s eternal deity in most of these statements, doesn’t he? As regards this ‘affirmation’ issue, this proclamation of Christ, we must look at some Scripture such as 1st Corinthians 12:3, “…and no one can say ‘Jesus is Lord’ except by the Holy Spirit”. Gordon Fee, in his commentary on 1st Corinthians, does not see this as a “means of ‘testing the spirits’…” because “…it would seem possible for anyone to say these words at will“.77 The presence of the Spirit in power and gifts makes it easy for God’s people to think of the power and gifts as the real evidence of the Spirit’s presence. Not so for Paul. The ultimate criterion of the Spirit’s activity is the exaltation of Jesus as Lord. Whatever takes away from that, even if they be legitimate expressions of the Spirit, begins to move away from Christ to a more pagan fascination with spiritual activity as an end in itself.78 Following is Craig Blomberg expounding on Matthew 7:15-23: Jesus now explicitly addresses the situation in which greater numbers profess Christ than actually follow him. He describes some of the pretenders as “false prophets,” those who claim to be God’s spokespersons but are not. Yet, like wolves in sheep’s clothing, they give all external appearances of promoting authentic Christianity in both word and work. “Prophets” as in the Old Testament, refer to those who either foretell or “forthtell” God’s word. Verses 21-22 enumerate some of the ways in which individuals can masquerade as Christians. They may verbally affirm that Jesus is their Master, perhaps with great joy and enthusiasm…some [may] work various kinds of miracles…We are reminded that signs and wonders can come from other sources other than God…It is worth emphasizing, however, that one can never know with absolute certainty the spiritual state of any other individual.79 Blomberg’s last statement works both ways: one cannot affirm with absolute certainty whether another is a Christian and one cannot affirm with absolute certainty that s/he is not. We must look at their ‘fruit’. Johnson’s ‘fruit’, as outlined above, should give us cause for concern. Keeping in mind the goal as specified by Alice Bailey in part I of this article in “ preserving the outer appearance in order to reach the many who are accustomed to church usages”,80 the kenosis/metamorphosis teachings may be a way to ‘Christianize’ the concept of reincarnation, i.e. by superimposing this on the subject of the person of Christ in a way that seemingly remains ‘Christian’. From a Christian perspective one cannot state, “Jesus is eternally God” yet claim, “He emptied Himself of His divinity and became a man”, as this is a logical contradiction. However, in the esoteric doctrine of reincarnation all spirits are immortal. “Immortal” can be synonymous with “eternal”. And according to the Theosophical doctrine of reincarnation all of these immortal spirits are a part of the one transcendent “God”, so one could say these are “gods” as well. Therefore, one could claim that not only is Jesus “eternally God”, we are also gods, for we all, including Jesus, have these immortal spirits within us!81 Essentially, Bill Johnson, like much, if not all, of the rest of hyper-charismaticism, humanizes Jesus at the expense of His deity. This makes Jesus just like we are, and makes us just like Jesus. Once the playing field is leveled in this way, the door is opened to deify ourselves, to make ourselves into gods. Consider the following Johnson statement with this in mind: …And the whole issue of Jesus going to the Father was that He would be going as the Resurrected, Ascended, glorified Son of God, and, in that condition would set the stage for what you and I would become. It’s an amazing part of the Gospel. Did you know that Jesus gave up everything to become a man? He owned everything. He and His Father owned everything…But when He became a man – He forfeited everything to become a man. One of the most amazing truths in the Bible…in John 16 is that Jesus re-inherited everything…He’s talking to His disciples…‘The Father’s given me everything.’ Now think about this. He gave it all up; He forfeited His right to everything to take on a human body and be murdered to take upon Himself what you and I deserve so that we could take upon ourselves what only He deserves. Stunning. The Father so honored Him for His perfect obedience that He now re-inherited everything; but, now not as God. Don’t misunderstand me, Jesus is not an ascended being; He’s not, uh, He didn’t work His way up into divinity. He is eternally God, eternally God. But, when He re-inherited everything, He inherited it as a man without sin. Why? Because He became our elder brother. He became the one who inherited everything. Why? So, that you and I could be positioned to inherit everything with Him. He forfeited all so that He could re-inherit in a way that would include us.82 Note the disclaimer in the last paragraph, “Jesus is not an ascended being…He didn’t work his way up into divinity” and his stammering in the middle. It appears Johnson is well aware of the Christological contradiction inherent in his teaching: Christ cannot be eternally God yet temporally (in our time-space continuum) merely a man during His earthly ministry. But more importantly, he’s obviously aware of New Age teaching which he seems to be trying hard to convince the audience he is not teaching.83 Most importantly, this quote begs the question: what did Jesus relinquish when He “forfeited everything to become a man”, and what did he subsequently “re-inherit in a way that includes us”? Did He become wholly a man complete with the human sin nature yet successfully remain sinless, thereby (re)attaining His salvation and becoming the model for the rest of mankind to follow in order to attain their own salvation in the same fashion? Or, did He forfeit His divinity and subsequently regain it thereby paving the way for mankind to attain deity? Considering all the Christological quotes above, one or both of these seem to be quite logical conclusions to Johnson’s teaching, for it seems Jesus gave up His divinity at the beginning of the Incarnation and reacquired it some time before or at Ascension. This is not inconsistent with WoF doctrine.84 No matter how all this is meant, any interpretation seems not to approach Christian orthodoxy. Part IIIa will take specific quotes of Bill Johnson and compare these to various quotes from New Age material. In addition, Part IIIb we’ll take a closer look at the “spiritual DNA” teaching and will discuss “the Word made flesh”. All this should prove quite ‘illuminating’. | Mid | [
0.654731457800511,
32,
16.875
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package io.github.viscent.mtpattern.ch11.stc.example;
import java.io.BufferedOutputStream;
import java.io.FileOutputStream;
import java.io.OutputStream;
import java.util.concurrent.ArrayBlockingQueue;
import java.util.concurrent.BlockingQueue;
import org.apache.commons.net.ftp.FTP;
import org.apache.commons.net.ftp.FTPClient;
import org.apache.commons.net.ftp.FTPClientConfig;
import org.apache.commons.net.ftp.FTPReply;
import io.github.viscent.mtpattern.ch5.tpt.AbstractTerminatableThread;
import io.github.viscent.util.Debug;
//模式角色：SerialThreadConfinement.WorkerThread
public class WorkerThread extends AbstractTerminatableThread {
// 模式角色：SerialThreadConfinement.Queue
protected final BlockingQueue<String> workQueue;
private final FTPClient ftpClient;
private final String outputDir;
private String servWorkingDir;
public WorkerThread(String outputDir, final String ftpServer,
final String userName, final String password, String servWorkingDir)
throws Exception {
this.workQueue = new ArrayBlockingQueue<String>(100);
this.outputDir = outputDir + '/';
this.servWorkingDir = servWorkingDir;
this.ftpClient = initFTPClient(ftpServer, userName, password);
}
public void download(String file) {
try {
workQueue.put(file);
terminationToken.reservations.incrementAndGet();
} catch (InterruptedException e) {
;
}
}
protected FTPClient initFTPClient(String ftpServer, String userName,
String password) throws Exception {
FTPClient ftpClient = new FTPClient();
FTPClientConfig config = new FTPClientConfig();
ftpClient.configure(config);
int reply;
ftpClient.connect(ftpServer);
System.out.print(ftpClient.getReplyString());
reply = ftpClient.getReplyCode();
if (!FTPReply.isPositiveCompletion(reply)) {
ftpClient.disconnect();
throw new RuntimeException("FTP server refused connection.");
}
boolean isOK = ftpClient.login(userName, password);
if (isOK) {
System.out.println(ftpClient.getReplyString());
} else {
throw new RuntimeException(
"Failed to login." + ftpClient.getReplyString());
}
reply = ftpClient.cwd(servWorkingDir);
if (!FTPReply.isPositiveCompletion(reply)) {
ftpClient.disconnect();
throw new RuntimeException(
"Failed to change working directory.reply:" + reply);
} else {
System.out.println(ftpClient.getReplyString());
}
ftpClient.setFileType(FTP.ASCII_FILE_TYPE);
return ftpClient;
}
@Override
protected void doRun() throws Exception {
String file = workQueue.take();
Debug.info("Downloading %s", file);
boolean isOK;
try (OutputStream os = new BufferedOutputStream(
new FileOutputStream(outputDir + file))) {
isOK = ftpClient.retrieveFile(file, os);
if (!isOK) {
Debug.error("Failed to download %s", file);
}
} finally {
terminationToken.reservations.decrementAndGet();
}
}
@Override
protected void doCleanup(Exception cause) {
try {
ftpClient.disconnect();
} catch (Exception e) {
e.printStackTrace();
}
}
}
| Mid | [
0.553014553014553,
33.25,
26.875
] |
USS Petrita (1846) USS Petrita was a steamer that served in the United States Navy from 1846 to 1848. She saw service in the Mexican War. Petrita was a small, swift, screw steamer built in the United States and in Mexican service when the Mexican War broke out in 1846. She was one of two steamers and various other vessels in the Grijalva River at the town of Frontera when a U.S. Navy squadron commanded by Commodore Matthew C. Perry surprised Mexican forces there and captured her along with the other Mexican vessels. She was added to the American squadron. Early the next morning, Perry sailed farther up the Grijalva River to attack the town of San Juan Bautista. At 9:00 a.m. the squadron passed the abandoned Fort Acacchappa, where it stopped long enough to spike the guns. It was noon when Perrys squadron arrived at San Juan Bautista, where it captured five more Mexican vessels and bombarded the town. Unable to garrison the town because of a lack of men, Perry withdrew to Antón Lizardo, an island just south of Veracruz, Mexico. Petrita was inactive for the remainder of 1846 and the first part of 1847 due to a coal shortage and violent storms called “northers” which occur during the winter months. On 7 March 1847, Commodore David Conner and General Winfield Scott made a reconnaissance of Veracruz in Petrita. She ran close to the Castle of San Juan de Ulúa and was straddled by gunfire, but sustained no damage. The Siege of Veracruz began two days later. Petrita later participated in the amphibious assault on Veracruz. Commodore Conners plan was to have his large warships tow landing craft from Anton Lizardo to Isla de Sacrificios, a distance of a few miles (kilometers). Small steamers would then pick up the tow and run the landing craft in to shore. The sloop-of-war transferred her tow to Petrita, and Petrita towed them in safely. By 10:00 p.m., more than 10,000 American troops had landed, and the operation was a complete success. Suffering from engine defects, Petrita was inactive for the remainder of the Mexican War. She was lost off Alvarado, Mexico before 6 March 1848. All hands were saved. References Category:Steamships of the United States Navy Category:Mexican–American War ships of the United States Category:1846 ships Category:Maritime incidents in 1848 | Mid | [
0.608585858585858,
30.125,
19.375
] |
const object = new (f())(); expect((await object.testThis())).toBe(object); | Low | [
0.41191709844559504,
19.875,
28.375
] |
I want to Hide my Tummy ... When women come into our store they often tell us the parts of the body they would like to emphasise or hide/minimise. We therefore wanted to try and replicate the in store styling advice online for our clients with our unique ‘Find Your Fit’ section. Every season Maria curates and edits the collection with this in mind, so we hope you enjoy this unique and personal approach. If you would like further styling or sizing advice, please do not hesitate to call one of our stylists. | Low | [
0.48565573770491804,
29.625,
31.375
] |
Epigenetic Regulator Signatures in Regenerative Capacity. Regeneration is the process by which body parts lost as a result of injury are replaced, as observed in certain animal species. The root of regenerative differences between organisms is still not very well understood; if regeneration merely recycles developmental pathways in the adult form, why can some animals regrow organs whereas others cannot? In the regulation of the regeneration process as well as other biological phenomena, epigenetics plays an essential role. This review aims to demonstrate the role of epigenetic regulators in determining regenerative capacity. In this review, we discuss the basis of regenerative differences between organisms. In addition, we present the current knowledge on the role of epigenetic regulation in regeneration, including DNA methylation, histone modification, lysine methylation, lysine methyltransferases, and the SET1 family. An improved understanding of the regeneration process and the epigenetic regulation thereof through the study of regeneration in highly regenerative species will help in the field of regenerative medicine in future. | High | [
0.669926650366748,
34.25,
16.875
] |
Parental smoking and pretend smoking in young children. To investigate whether parental smoking was associated with smoking-related play behaviour in young children. Children were asked to pretend that they were grown-ups having dinner. They were invited to act out this situation in a play corner with a toy kitchen and a child-sized dining area, including a package of fake cigarettes on the table. Children were tested individually at their school during regular school hours. The sample consisted of 100 children between 4 and 8 years of age (mean=5.28, SD=0.94) of which 57% were boys. The majority of the children were born in The Netherlands (99%). The main outcome measure was whether or not a child pretended to be smoking a cigarette. Child and parent reports were used to assess parental smoking. Findings revealed that 37% of the children had at least one 'puff' during their play. Children were more likely to pretend to smoke if they reported having smoking parents (OR=3.16, p=0.02; 95% CI=1.22 to 8.18). Analyses for the model with parent reports on parental smoking did not yield any direct association. Children's explicit attitudes were unrelated to their smoking-related play behaviour. These findings indicate that young children, who reported having parents who smoke, already associate having dinner with a (after-dinner) cigarette. | Mid | [
0.6461538461538461,
31.5,
17.25
] |
Q: XAML Button not garbage collected after eliminating references I wrote a test program wherein a single Button is defined in XAML as the content of a Window. Upon the window's loading, the Button is programmatically replaced as the window's content, and the field referring to it is also replaced, both by another Button which I created programmatically. I thereafter track both Button objects using weak references, and poll at 1/10th second intervals the IsAlive property of each. Before the first check of IsAlive in the first call to the polling method, I wipe out rooting references to the programmatically-defined Button as well. The expectation in running this code would be that, despite nondeterminism in the timing of C# garbage collection, both Button objects would eventually be reported as garbage collected. Although the programmatically-defined Button shows this behavior, typically within a 1/2 minute, the XAML Button is never collected. I've left the program running for more than ten minutes seeing this behavior. Can anyone tell me why the XAML Button object isn't collected? In particular, I'd like to know where the garbage collection-blocking reference is, whether it is in my code or it is in the WPF implementation. Perhaps it's in a XAML loading object. Am I looking at some sort of memory leak? The program described above is included below for reference. MainWindow.xaml : <Window x:Class="Test.MainWindow" xmlns="http://schemas.microsoft.com/winfx/2006/xaml/presentation" xmlns:x="http://schemas.microsoft.com/winfx/2006/xaml" Width="300" Height="150" Loaded="Window_Loaded"> <Button Name="btn" /> </Window> MainWindow.xaml.cs : namespace Test { public partial class MainWindow : System.Windows.Window { private System.WeakReference wr_xamlBtn, wr_programmaticBtn; public MainWindow() { InitializeComponent(); } private void Window_Loaded(object sender, System.Windows.RoutedEventArgs e) { // Immediately upon the window's loading, create a weak reference to the // button %btn defined in XAML. wr_xamlBtn = new System.WeakReference(btn); // Replace references in %btn and this.Content to the XAML button with // references to a programmatically-defined button. This would be // expected to free the XAML button for garbage collection. btn = new System.Windows.Controls.Button(); Content = btn; // Create a weak reference to the programmatically-defined button, so that // when (strong) references to it are removed, it will be eligible for // garbage collection. wr_programmaticBtn = new System.WeakReference(btn); // Provides a polling mechanism to see whether either the XAML button or // the programmatically-defined button has been collected. var dt = new System.Windows.Threading.DispatcherTimer(); dt.Tick += Poll; dt.Interval = System.TimeSpan.FromMilliseconds(100); dt.Start(); } void Poll(object sender, System.EventArgs e) { // If the programmatically-defined button hasn't had its references // removed yet, this does so. This makes it eligible for garbage // collection. if (btn != null) Content = btn = null; // Uses the console to show a timestamp and the state of collection of the // XAML button and the programmatically-defined button. System.Console.WriteLine( string.Format( "XAML button {0}, Programmatically-defined button {1} @ {2}", wr_xamlBtn.IsAlive ? "Alive" : "Collected", wr_programmaticBtn.IsAlive ? "Alive" : "Collected", System.DateTimeOffset.Now)); } } } App.xaml : <Application x:Class="Test.App" xmlns="http://schemas.microsoft.com/winfx/2006/xaml/presentation" xmlns:x="http://schemas.microsoft.com/winfx/2006/xaml" StartupUri="MainWindow.xaml" /> A: The button is not collected because it was strongly referenced within the Window namescope: But it shouldn't be recognized as memory leak, because you should reregister your new button within the scope: //... INameScope scope = NameScope.GetNameScope(this); scope.UnregisterName("btn"); btn = new System.Windows.Controls.Button(); Content = btn; scope.RegisterName("btn", btn); //... | Low | [
0.491525423728813,
25.375,
26.25
] |
<?xml version="1.0" encoding = "Windows-1252"?> <VisualStudioProject ProjectType="Visual C++" Version="9.00" Name="qtest" ProjectGUID="{2204E68C-5C1F-440E-8CE6-7E273D4F6AD1}" Keyword="Win32Proj"> <Platforms> <Platform Name="Win32"/> </Platforms> <Configurations> <Configuration Name="Debug|Win32" OutputDirectory="Debug" IntermediateDirectory="qtest.dir\Debug" ConfigurationType="1" UseOfMFC="0" ATLMinimizesCRunTimeLibraryUsage="FALSE" CharacterSet="2"> <Tool Name="VCCLCompilerTool" AdditionalOptions=" /Zm1000" AdditionalIncludeDirectories="..\pm_common;..\porttime;" BasicRuntimeChecks="3" CompileAs="1" DebugInformationFormat="3" ExceptionHandling="0" InlineFunctionExpansion="0" Optimization="0" RuntimeLibrary="1" WarningLevel="3" PreprocessorDefinitions="WIN32,_WINDOWS,_DEBUG,PM_CHECK_ERRORS=1,DEBUG,CMAKE_INTDIR=\"Debug\"" AssemblerListingLocation="Debug" ObjectFile="$(IntDir)\" ProgramDataBaseFileName="../pm_test/Debug/qtest.pdb" /> <Tool Name="VCCustomBuildTool"/> <Tool Name="VCResourceCompilerTool" AdditionalIncludeDirectories="..\pm_common;..\porttime;" PreprocessorDefinitions="WIN32,_WINDOWS,_DEBUG,PM_CHECK_ERRORS=1,DEBUG,CMAKE_INTDIR=\"Debug\""/> <Tool Name="VCMIDLTool" PreprocessorDefinitions="WIN32,_WINDOWS,_DEBUG,PM_CHECK_ERRORS=1,DEBUG,CMAKE_INTDIR=\"Debug\"" MkTypLibCompatible="FALSE" TargetEnvironment="1" GenerateStublessProxies="TRUE" TypeLibraryName="$(InputName).tlb" OutputDirectory="$(IntDir)" HeaderFileName="$(InputName).h" DLLDataFileName="" InterfaceIdentifierFileName="$(InputName)_i.c" ProxyFileName="$(InputName)_p.c"/> <Tool Name="VCPreBuildEventTool"/> <Tool Name="VCPreLinkEventTool"/> <Tool Name="VCPostBuildEventTool"/> <Tool Name="VCLinkerTool" AdditionalOptions=" /STACK:10000000 /machine:I386 /debug" AdditionalDependencies="$(NOINHERIT) kernel32.lib user32.lib gdi32.lib winspool.lib shell32.lib ole32.lib oleaut32.lib uuid.lib comdlg32.lib advapi32.lib ..\Debug\portmidi_s.lib winmm.lib " OutputFile="..\pm_test\Debug\qtest.exe" Version="0.0" GenerateManifest="TRUE" LinkIncremental="2" AdditionalLibraryDirectories="" ProgramDataBaseFile="../pm_test/Debug/qtest.pdb" GenerateDebugInformation="TRUE" SubSystem="1" ImportLibrary="..\pm_test\Debug\qtest.lib"/> </Configuration> <Configuration Name="Release|Win32" OutputDirectory="Release" IntermediateDirectory="qtest.dir\Release" ConfigurationType="1" UseOfMFC="0" ATLMinimizesCRunTimeLibraryUsage="FALSE" CharacterSet="2"> <Tool Name="VCCLCompilerTool" AdditionalOptions=" /Zm1000" AdditionalIncludeDirectories="..\pm_common;..\porttime;" CompileAs="1" ExceptionHandling="0" InlineFunctionExpansion="2" Optimization="2" RuntimeLibrary="0" WarningLevel="3" PreprocessorDefinitions="WIN32,_WINDOWS,NDEBUG,CMAKE_INTDIR=\"Release\"" AssemblerListingLocation="Release" ObjectFile="$(IntDir)\" ProgramDataBaseFileName="../pm_test/Release/qtest.pdb" /> <Tool Name="VCCustomBuildTool"/> <Tool Name="VCResourceCompilerTool" AdditionalIncludeDirectories="..\pm_common;..\porttime;" PreprocessorDefinitions="WIN32,_WINDOWS,NDEBUG,CMAKE_INTDIR=\"Release\""/> <Tool Name="VCMIDLTool" PreprocessorDefinitions="WIN32,_WINDOWS,NDEBUG,CMAKE_INTDIR=\"Release\"" MkTypLibCompatible="FALSE" TargetEnvironment="1" GenerateStublessProxies="TRUE" TypeLibraryName="$(InputName).tlb" OutputDirectory="$(IntDir)" HeaderFileName="$(InputName).h" DLLDataFileName="" InterfaceIdentifierFileName="$(InputName)_i.c" ProxyFileName="$(InputName)_p.c"/> <Tool Name="VCPreBuildEventTool"/> <Tool Name="VCPreLinkEventTool"/> <Tool Name="VCPostBuildEventTool"/> <Tool Name="VCLinkerTool" AdditionalOptions=" /STACK:10000000 /machine:I386" AdditionalDependencies="$(NOINHERIT) kernel32.lib user32.lib gdi32.lib winspool.lib shell32.lib ole32.lib oleaut32.lib uuid.lib comdlg32.lib advapi32.lib ..\Release\portmidi_s.lib winmm.lib " OutputFile="..\pm_test\Release\qtest.exe" Version="0.0" GenerateManifest="TRUE" LinkIncremental="1" AdditionalLibraryDirectories="" ProgramDataBaseFile="../pm_test/Release/qtest.pdb" SubSystem="1" ImportLibrary="..\pm_test\Release\qtest.lib"/> </Configuration> </Configurations> <Files> <Filter Name="Source Files" Filter=""> <File RelativePath="..\pm_test\qtest.c"> </File> </Filter> </Files> <Globals> </Globals> </VisualStudioProject> | Mid | [
0.553571428571428,
27.125,
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] |
Roebling Sporting Club Welcome to the Roebling Sporting Club, Williamsburg’s best sports bar and night spot. We feature all major sports packages on 7 large HD screens. With a full menu of artisanal bar fare, an extensive whiskey selection and late night dance parties, RSC has established itself as a premier Brooklyn destination. | Low | [
0.282312925170068,
10.375,
26.375
] |
package org.protege.editor.owl.ui.inference; import org.eclipse.core.runtime.IExtension; import org.protege.editor.core.plugin.AbstractPluginLoader; import org.protege.editor.owl.OWLEditorKit; import org.protege.editor.owl.ProtegeOWL; public class InferencePreferencePluginLoader extends AbstractPluginLoader<InferencePreferencePlugin> { private OWLEditorKit editorKit; public InferencePreferencePluginLoader(OWLEditorKit editorKit) { super(ProtegeOWL.ID, InferencePreferencePlugin.ID); this.editorKit = editorKit; } @Override protected InferencePreferencePlugin createInstance(IExtension extension) { return new InferencePreferencePlugin(editorKit, extension); } } | Low | [
0.506493506493506,
29.25,
28.5
] |
‘Hail Trump’ salute recalls a powerful message of hate Author Adjunct Professor of Professional Writing, Regis College, Regis College Disclosure statement Stephanie Schorow does not work for, consult, own shares in or receive funding from any company or organization that would benefit from this article, and has disclosed no relevant affiliations beyond their academic appointment. Partners During a Nov. 22 celebration of Donald Trump’s election triumph, members of a far-right organization, the National Policy Institute, were filmed extending a stiff arm in the iconic “Heil Hitler” salute of Nazi Germany. Ensuring there would be no mistaking the gesture, National Policy Institute President Richard Spencer shouted, “Hail Trump, hail our people, hail victory!” The video echoed, on a very small scale, mass rallies that were once held in Nazi Germany. Huge crowds with their arms raised “were an essential part of Nazi propaganda, designed to demonstrate public solidarity with the policies of the Nazi Party,” write Garth S. Jowett and Victoria O’Donnell in “Propaganda & Persuasion.” Two years ago, when I prepared slides on the Nazi salute for my rhetoric class on “The Art of Argument,” I had no idea that I would soon see that gesture reborn in the America political landscape. Before the Nov. 8 election, the use of the Nazi salute by a fringe group might have been dismissed as a “Springtime for Hitler” moment, something too outrageous to be taken seriously, as satirized in “The Producers” movie and Tony-winning Broadway musical. Post-election, the gesture represents something that demands serious attention. Historically, hand and arm gestures have had as powerful an impact as slogans or symbols. That Nazi salute should be considered in that context. History of gestures Consider a common two-finger salute. During World War II, the two-finger salute of “V for Victory” gave courage to Allied troops. A similar gesture morphed into the peace sign, a gesture of resistance and solidarity during the 1960s protests against the Vietnam War. Turn the V-sign palm facing in, and you have a gesture that is considered rude in the United Kingdom. The Vulcan salute, adopted by actor Leonard Nimoy for the original “Star Trek” series, came from a Jewish blessing, and has become part of the American lexicon of gesture. After Nimoy’s death, NASA astronaut Terry Virts made the “Live Long and Prosper” sign while aboard the International Space Station and sent it to Earth via Twitter. U.S. athletes raise firsts during the playing of the Star Spangled Banner, 1968 Olympics.AP Photo/FILE The current uproar over athletes kneeling during the National Anthem pales beside the outrage that greeted athletes Tommie Smith and John Carlos when they each held aloft a black-gloved fist clenched in the “Black Power” salute during their medal ceremony at the 1968 Summer Olympics in Mexico City. A three-fingered salute plays a key role in the book series “The Hunger Games.” According to narrator Katniss Everdeen, raising a hand with three fingers extended is “an old and rarely used gesture [that] means thanks, it means admiration, it means good-bye to someone you love.” In the book, the gesture becomes a sign of resistance. Fiction became reality in May 2014, when three Thailand political activists protesting a coup held their hands up in a three-finger salute and were detained. Thai authorities likely never heard of Katniss Everdeen, yet they knew a sign of rebellion when they saw it. As old as politics “Gestures are as old as politics itself,” writes Nathaniel Zelinsky in a Foreign Affairs article that probes the use of gestures employed by radical Islamists and other groups in Middle East. Zelinsky argues that we must pay attention to these hand signals as they “communicate complex political messages that Western observers have largely ignored.” Gestures, he notes, including the Nazi salute, became especially important with the advent of mass media in the 20th century: “Consider what is perhaps the best-known example: Adolf Hitler’s fascist salute. In a single gesture, Hitler communicated the power of National Socialism, the obedience of German crowds, and his own role as a supreme leader. And because pictures of him saluting were printed in newspapers around the world, the symbol reached billions.” In Europe, the Nazi salute is so potent it can be considered hate speech. To get around these laws, a controversial French comedian created an inverted Nazi salute called the “quenelle,” in which a stiff arm is held down, rather than up, and is interpreted as support of anti-Zionism. The gesture has spread across the internet through selfies, as Gavriel Rosenfeld explores in his book “Hi Hitler: How the Nazi Past Is Normalized in Contemporary Culture.” Unlike in France, gestures may fall under First Amendment protection in the United States, affording protection to even Nazi salutes. The National Policy Institute may have taken advantage of this protection in that November meeting. Whether deliberate or not, Trump supporters have displayed a Heil Hitler-like gesture at more than one Trump rally. The stiff-arm salute is not a trivial gesture. It is not alt-right so much as it is Third Reich redux, a revival of a dangerous ideology. Just consider the message from the National Policy Institute’s website, which declares it is “dedicated to the heritage, identity, and future of people of European descent in the United States, and around the world.” It is not a stretch to compare this to the Nazi veneration of the supposed “Aryan” or “ethnically pure” race. Thus far, the president-elect has expressed more outrage over the cast of “Hamilton” addressing Mike Pence at the theater than neo-Nazis saluting in his name. | High | [
0.681520314547837,
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--- abstract: | Lomonaco and Kauffman developed a knot mosaic system to introduce a precise and workable definition of a quantum knot system. This definition is intended to represent an actual physical quantum system. A knot $(m,n)$-mosaic is an $m \times n$ matrix of mosaic tiles ($T_0$ through $T_{10}$ depicted in the introduction) representing a knot or a link by adjoining properly that is called suitably connected. $D^{(m,n)}$ is the total number of all knot $(m,n)$-mosaics. This value indicates the dimension of the Hilbert space of these quantum knot system. $D^{(m,n)}$ is already found for $m,n \leq 6$ by the authors. In this paper, we construct an algorithm producing the precise value of $D^{(m,n)}$ for $m,n \geq 2$ that uses recurrence relations of state matrices that turn out to be remarkably efficient to count knot mosaics. $$D^{(m,n)} = 2 \, \| (X_{m-2}+O_{m-2})^{n-2} \|$$ where $2^{m-2} \times 2^{m-2}$ matrices $X_{m-2}$ and $O_{m-2}$ are defined by $$X_{k+1} = \begin{bmatrix} X_k & O_k \\ O_k & X_k \end{bmatrix} \ \mbox{and } \ O_{k+1} = \begin{bmatrix} O_k & X_k \\ X_k & 4 \, O_k \end{bmatrix}$$ for $k=0,1, \cdots, m-3$, with $1 \times 1$ matrices $X_0 = \begin{bmatrix} 1 \end{bmatrix}$ and $O_0 = \begin{bmatrix} 1 \end{bmatrix}$. Here $\|N\|$ denotes the sum of all entries of a matrix $N$. For $n=2$, $(X_{m-2}+O_{m-2})^0$ means the identity matrix of size $2^{m-2} \times 2^{m-2}$. address: - 'Department of Mathematics, Korea University, Anam-dong, Sungbuk-ku, Seoul 136-701, Korea' - 'Department of Mathematics, Korea University, Anam-dong, Sungbuk-ku, Seoul 136-701, Korea' - 'Department of Mathematical Sciences, KAIST, 291 Daehak-ro, Yuseong-gu, Daejeon 305-701, Korea' - 'Department of Mathematical Sciences, KAIST, 291 Daehak-ro, Yuseong-gu, Daejeon 305-701, Korea' author: - Seungsang Oh - Kyungpyo Hong - Ho Lee - Hwa Jeong Lee title: Quantum knots and the number of knot mosaics --- [^1] [^2] [^3] Introduction {#sec:intro} ============ During the last three decades, much of the theory of knots has been applied in quantum physics. One of remarkable discovery in the theory of knots is the Jones polynomial, and it turned out that the explanation of the Jones polynomial has to do with quantum theory [@J1; @J2; @K1; @K2; @L; @LK2; @SJ]. Lomonaco and Kauffman introduced quantum knots to explain how to make quantum information versions of mathematical structures in the series of papers [@LK1; @LK3; @LK4; @LK5]. They build a knot mosaic system to set the foundation for a quantum knot system, which can be viewed as a blueprint for the construction of an actual physical quantum system. Their definition of quantum knots was based on the planar projections of knots and the Reidemeister moves. They model the topological information in a knot by a state vector in a Hilbert space that is directly constructed from knot mosaics. This paper is a sequel to the research program on finding the total number of knot mosaics announced in [@HLLO1; @HLLO2]. This counting is very important because the total number of knot mosaics is indeed the dimension of the Hilbert space of these quantum knot mosaics. In [@HLLO2], a partition matrix argument was developed by the authors to count small knot mosaics. In this sequel, we generalize this argument to give an algorithm for counting all knot mosaics that uses recurrence relations of matrices that are called state matrices. This algorithm using state matrices turns out to be remarkably efficient to count knot mosaics. Throughout this paper, the term “knot" means either a knot or a link. We begin by explaining the basic notion of knot mosaics. Let $\mathbb{T}$ denote the set of the following eleven symbols that are called [*mosaic tiles*]{};\  $$\ T_0 \hspace{8mm} T_1 \hspace{8mm} T_2 \hspace{8mm} T_3 \hspace{8mm} T_4 \hspace{8mm} T_5 \hspace{8mm} T_6 \hspace{8mm} T_7 \hspace{8mm} T_8 \hspace{8mm} T_9 \hspace{8mm} T_{10}$$ \[fi1\] For positive integers $m$ and $n$, an [*$(m,n)$-mosaic*]{} is an $m \times n$ matrix $M=(M_{ij})$ of mosaic tiles. We denote the set of all $(m,n)$-mosaics by $\mathbb{M}^{(m,n)}$. Note that $\mathbb{M}^{(m,n)}$ has $11^{mn}$ elements. This definition is an extended version of the definition of an [*$n$-mosaic*]{} as an $n \times n$ matrix of mosaic tiles in [@LK3]. A [*connection point*]{} of a mosaic tile is defined as the midpoint of a mosaic tile edge that is also the endpoint of a curve drawn on the tile. Then each tile has zero, two or four connection points as follows;  \[fi2\] We say that two tiles in a mosaic are [*contiguous*]{} if they lie immediately next to each other in either the same row or the same column. A mosaic is said to be [*suitably connected*]{} if any pair of contiguous mosaic tiles have or do not have connection points simultaneously on their common edge. A [*knot $(m,n)$-mosaic*]{} is a suitably connected $(m,n)$-mosaic whose boundary edges do not have connection points. Then this knot $(m,n)$-mosaic represents a specific knot. $\mathbb{K}^{(m,n)}$ denotes the subset of $\mathbb{M}^{(m,n)}$ of all knot $(m,n)$-mosaics. A knot $(n,n)$-mosaic is simply specified by a [*knot $n$-mosaic*]{}. The examples of mosaics in Figure \[fig1\] are a non-knot $(4,5)$-mosaic and the trefoil knot 4-mosaic. Also the reader finds a complete list of all 22 knot 3-mosaics in Appendix A in [@LK3]. ![Examples of mosaics[]{data-label="fig1"}](fig1.eps) As an analog to the planar isotopy moves and the Reidemeister moves for standard knot diagrams, Lomonaco and Kauffman [@LK3] created the $11$ mosaic planar isotopy moves and the mosaic Reidemeister moves on knot mosaics. They conjectured that for any two tame knots $K_1$ and $K_2$, and their arbitrary chosen mosaic representatives $M_1$ and $M_2$, respectively, $K_1$ and $K_2$ are of the same knot type if and only if $M_1$ and $M_2$ are of the same knot mosaic type, which is defined in [@LK3]. This means that knot mosaic type is a complete invariant of tame knots. Kuriya and Shehab [@KS] verified Lomonaco–Kauffman conjecture. Lomonaco and Kauffman also proposed several questions related to knot mosaics. $D^{(m,n)}$ denotes the total number of elements of $\mathbb{K}^{(m,n)}$. In the series of recent papers [@HLLO1; @HLLO2], the authors found some results about $D^{(m,n)}$. They showed that $D^{(1,n)}=1$, $D^{(2,n)}=2^{n-1}$ and $D^{(3,n)}=\frac{2}{5}(9 \cdot 6^{n-2} + 1)$ for a positive integer $n$, and found a table of the precise values of $D^{(m,n)}$ for $m,n = 4,5,6$ (note that $D^{(m,n)} = D^{(n,m)}$); $D^{(m,n)}$ $n=4$ $n=5$ $n=6$ ------------- -------- ------------- ------------------- $m=4$ $2594$ $54,226$ $1,144,526$ $m=5$ $4,183,954$ $331,745,962$ $m=6$ $101,393,411,126$ Furthermore a lower and an upper bounds on $D^{(m,n)}$ for $m,n \geq 3$ were established; $$2^{(m-3)(n-3)} \leq \frac{275}{2(9 \cdot 6^{m-2} + 1)(9 \cdot 6^{n-2} + 1)} \cdot D^{(m,n)} \leq 4.4^{(m-3)(n-3)}.$$ In this paper, we construct an algorithm producing the precise value of $D^{(m,n)}$ in general. \[thm:main\] For integers $m,n \geq 2$, the total number $D^{(m,n)}$ of all knot $(m,n)$-mosaics is the following; $$D^{(m,n)} = 2 \, \| (X_{m-2}+O_{m-2})^{n-2} \|$$ where $2^{m-2} \times 2^{m-2}$ matrices $X_{m-2}$ and $O_{m-2}$ are defined by $$X_{k+1} = \begin{bmatrix} X_k & O_k \\ O_k & X_k \end{bmatrix} \ \mbox{and } \ O_{k+1} = \begin{bmatrix} O_k & X_k \\ X_k & 4 \, O_k \end{bmatrix}$$ for $k=0,1, \dots, m-3$, with $1 \times 1$ matrices $X_0 = \begin{bmatrix} 1 \end{bmatrix}$ and $O_0 = \begin{bmatrix} 1 \end{bmatrix}$. Here $\| N \|$ denotes the sum of all entries of a matrix $N$. For $n=2$, $(X_{m-2}+O_{m-2})^0$ means the identity matrix of size $2^{m-2} \times 2^{m-2}$. We have calculated $D^{(n,n)}$ for $m=n=1,2, \dots, 13$ as given in the following table. $n$ $D^{(n,n)}$ --------- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------ 1 1 2 2 3 22 4 2594 5 4183954 6 101393411126 7 38572794946976688 8 234855052870954480828416 9 23054099362200399656046175453184 10 36564627559441092217310409777161751756800 11 937273142571326423641676956468995920021677311787008 12 388216021519370806221346434513102393133985590844312961759051776 13 2597619491722287317211028202262384724016872304209163446959826047706385612800 Indeed $D^{(n,n)}$ grows in a quadratic exponential rate. The growth constant $\lim_{n \rightarrow \infty} (D^{(n,n)})^{\ \frac{1}{n^2}}$ exists and lies between $4$ and $\frac{5+ \sqrt{13}}{2} \ (\approx 4.303)$. This result was proved recently by Oh [@Oh]. Other issues for knot mosaics involve considering mosaic representations on the torus rather than in the plane. A knot toroidal $(m,n)$-mosaic is a suitably connected $(m,n)$-mosaic constructed on a torus by identifying their boundaries properly. Recently the authors and Yeon [@OHLLY] improved this state matrix algorithm to find the total number of knot toroidal $(m,n)$-mosaics for positive co-prime integers $m$ and $n$. Another result about knot toroidal mosaics is found in [@CL]. Also a result about mosaic representations of graphs with at most 4 valencies is considered in [@OH]. Mirror-curve representations of knots that are similar to mosaic representations were treated in [@JRSZ]. Another interesting question related to knot mosaics is the mosaic number of knots. Define the [*mosaic number*]{} $m(K)$ of a knot $K$ as the smallest integer $n$ for which $K$ is representable as a knot $n$-mosaic. For example, the mosaic number of the trefoil is 4 as illustrated in Figure \[fig1\]. One question is the following: [*Is this mosaic number related to the crossing number of a knot?*]{} The authors [@LHLO] found an upper bound on the mosaic number as follows; If $K$ is a nontrivial knot or a non-split link except the Hopf link, then $m(K) \leq c(K) + 1$. Moreover if $K$ is prime and non-alternating except the $6^3_3$ link, then $m(K) \leq c(K) - 1$. Note that the mosaic numbers of the Hopf link and the $6^3_3$ link are 4 and 6, respectively. Suitably connected mosaics and state matrices ============================================= Let $p$ and $q$ be positive integers. $\mathbb{S}^{(p,q)}$ denotes the set of all suitably connected $(p,q)$-mosaics that possibly have connection points on their boundary edges. A suitably connected (5,3)-mosaic is depicted in Figure \[fig2\] as an example. This is a submosaic of a knot mosaic in Lomonaco and Kauffman’s definition. ![Suitably connected (5,3)-mosaic $S^{5,3}$[]{data-label="fig2"}](fig2.eps) For simplicity of exposition, a mosaic tile is called [*$l$-, $r$-, $t$-*]{} and [*$b$-cp*]{} if it has a connection point on its left, right, top and bottom, respectively. Sometimes we use two or more letters such as $lt$-cp for the case of both $l$-cp and $t$-cp. Also we use the sign $\hat{}$ for negation such as $\hat{l}$-cp means not $l$-cp, $\hat{l} \hat{t}$-cp means both $\hat{l}$-cp and $\hat{t}$-cp, and $\widehat{lt}$-cp (which is differ from $\hat{l} \hat{t}$-cp) means the negation of $lt$-cp, i.e., $\hat{l} t$-, $l \hat{t}$- or $\hat{l} \hat{t}$-cp. [**Choice rule.**]{} Each $M_{ij}$ in a suitably connected mosaic has four choices of mosaic tiles as $T_7$, $T_8$, $T_9$ and $T_{10}$ if it is $lrb$-cp (so automatically $t$-cp), and unique choice if it is $\widehat{lrb}$-cp. For a suitably connected $(p,q)$-mosaic $S^{p,q} = (M_{ij})$ where $i=1,\dots,p$ and $j=1,\dots,q$, an [*$l$-state*]{} of $S^{p,q}$ indicates the presence of connection points of $p$ mosaic tile edges on the leftmost boundary, and we denote that $s_l(S^{p,q}) = s_l(M_{11}) s_l(M_{21}) \dots s_l(M_{p1})$ where each $s_l(M_{i1})$ denotes “x” if $M_{i1}$ is $\hat{l}$-cp and “o” if $M_{i1}$ is $l$-cp. Similarly we define an [*$r$-state*]{} of $S^{p,q}$ which indicates the presence of connection points of $p$ mosaic tile edges on the rightmost boundary. For $(5,3)$-mosaic $S^{5,3}$ drawn in the figure, $$s_l(S^{5,3}) = \mbox{oxxox \ and } s_r(S^{5,3}) = \mbox{oxoxo.}$$ Note that $\mathbb{S}^{(p,q)}$ has possibly $2^p$ kinds of $l$-states and also $2^p$ kinds of $r$-states. We arrange the elements of the set of all states in the backward of lexicographical order such as xxx, oxx, xox, oox, xxo, oxo, xoo and ooo for $p=3$. Now we are ready to define a state matrix which turns out to be remarkably efficient to count the number of suitably connected mosaics. A [*state matrix*]{} for $\mathbb{S}^{(p,q)}$ is a $2^p \times 2^p$ matrix $N^{(p,q)} = (N_{ij})$ where $N_{ij}$ is the number of all suitably connected $(p,q)$-mosaics that have the $i$-th $l$-state and the $j$-th $r$-state in the set of $2^p$ states of the order arranged above. Furthermore, we split the state matrix $N^{(p,1)}$, only when $q=1$, into two $2^p \times 2^p$ matrices, namely $X_p$ and $O_p$ as follows. Each $(i,j)$-entry of $X_p$ (or $O_p$) indicates the number of all suitably connected $(p,1)$-mosaics that have the $i$-th $l$-state and the $j$-th $r$-state, and additionally whose bottom mosaic tiles are $\hat{b}$-cp (or $b$-cp, respectively). Obviously $N^{(p,1)} = X_p + O_p$. [*Direct construction of the state matrix $N^{(1,1)}$.*]{}\ From eleven mosaic tiles in Figure \[fig3\], we get the following state matrices; $$X_1 = \begin{bmatrix} 1 & 1 \\ 1 & 1 \end{bmatrix}, \ \ O_1 = \begin{bmatrix} 1 & 1 \\ 1 & 4 \end{bmatrix} \ \ \mbox{and} \ \ N^{(1,1)} = \begin{bmatrix} 2 & 2 \\ 2 & 5 \end{bmatrix}.$$ Each of four suitably connected $(1,1)$-mosaics on the first line in the figure represents each entry 1 of $X_1$, each of left three mosaics on the second line represents each entry 1 of $O_1$, and the remaining four mosaics represent $(2,2)$-entry 4 of $O_1$. Note that the sum of all entries of $N^{(1,1)}$ is the total number of elements of $\mathbb{S}^{(1,1)}$ which is obviously 11. ![Finding the state matrix $N^{(1,1)}$[]{data-label="fig3"}](fig3.eps) Note that each element of $\mathbb{S}^{(1,1)}$ can be extended to exactly two knot 3-mosaics because we have two choices of adjoining eight mosaic tiles surrounding it, satisfying that all mosaic tiles are suitably connected. This implies $D^{(3,3)} = 22$. We can easily extend this argument to each element of $\mathbb{S}^{(m-2,n-2)}$ by adjoining $2m+2n-4$ proper mosaic tiles surrounding it. Since each mosaic tile has even number of connection points, a suitably connected $(m-2,n-2)$-mosaic has exactly even number of connection points on its boundary. To make a knot $(m,n)$-mosaic, all these connection points must be connected pairwise via mutually disjoint arcs when we adjoin new mosaic tiles. There are exactly two ways to do as illustrated in Figure \[fig4\]. Note that if it has no connection point on the boundary, then we may add empty tiles or encircle the mosaic with a new circle. [**Twofold rule.**]{} A suitably connected $(m-2,n-2)$-mosaic can be extended to exactly two different knot $(m,n)$-mosaics by augmenting the four sides with a row/column of tiles. ![The twofold rule[]{data-label="fig4"}](fig4.eps) State matrix $N^{(p,1)}$ ======================== In this section, we establish the state matrix $N^{(p,1)}$ for $\mathbb{S}^{(p,1)}$. For a $2^{k+1} \times 2^{k+1}$ matrix $N = (N_{ij})$, the 11-quadrant (similarly 12-, 21- or 22-quadrant) of $N$ denotes the $2^k \times 2^k$ submatrix $(N_{ij})$ where $1 \leq i, j \leq 2^k$ ($1 \leq i \leq 2^k$ and $2^k+1 \leq j \leq 2^{k+1}$, $2^k+1 \leq i \leq 2^{k+1}$ and $1 \leq j \leq 2^k$, or $2^k+1 \leq i, j \leq 2^{k+1}$, respectively). \[prop:np1\] For the set $\mathbb{S}^{(p,1)}$ of all suitably connected $(p,1)$-mosaics, the associated state matrix $N^{(p,1)}$ can be obtained as follows; $$N^{(p,1)} = X_p + O_p$$ where matrices $X_p$ and $O_p$ are defined by $$X_{k+1} = \begin{bmatrix} X_k & O_k \\ O_k & X_k \end{bmatrix} \ \mbox{and } \ O_{k+1} = \begin{bmatrix} O_k & X_k \\ X_k & 4 \, O_k \end{bmatrix}$$ for $k=1, \dots, p-1$, starting with $X_1 = \begin{bmatrix} 1 & 1 \\ 1 & 1 \end{bmatrix}$ and $O_1 = \begin{bmatrix} 1 & 1 \\ 1 & 4 \end{bmatrix}$. The identity $N^{(p,1)} = X_p + O_p$ follows immediately from the definition of $X_p$ and $O_p$. We will use the induction on $p$. Matrices $X_1$ and $O_1$ are already found in the previous section. Assume that matrices $X_k$ and $O_k$ satisfy the statement. Let $S^{k+1,1} = (M_{i,1})$ be a suitably connected $(k+1,1)$-mosaic of $\mathbb{S}^{(k+1,1)}$. Consider the bottom mosaic tile $M_{k+1,1}$. If it is $\hat{l} \hat{r} \hat{b}$-cp, for example, then $S^{k+1,1}$ should be counted in an entry of the 11-quadrant of $X_{k+1}$. This is because of the backwardness of lexicographical order of $2^{k+1}$ states. In this case, $M_{k+1,1}$ has unique choice $T_0$ of mosaic tiles because of Choice rule. Let $S^{k,1}$ be the associated suitably connected $(k,1)$-mosaic obtained from $S^{k+1,1}$ by ignoring $M_{k+1,1}$. Then the bottom mosaic tile of $S^{k,1}$ must be $\hat{b}$-cp, so the associated state matrix for all possible $S^{k,1}$ is $X_k$. The eight figures in Figure \[fig5\] and the table below explain all eight cases according to the presence of connection points of $M_{k+1,1}$. Notice that only when $M_{k+1,1}$ is $lrb$-cp, it has four choices of mosaic tiles $T_7$, $T_8$, $T_9$ and $T_{10}$. Thus the associated submatrix must be $4 \, O_k$ instead of $O_k$. Now we complete the proof. ![Suitably connected $(k+1,1)$-mosaics[]{data-label="fig5"}](fig5.eps) [*quadrants*]{} [*submatrix*]{} -- ----------------- ------------------------------ ------------------------------- ------------ 11-quadrant $\hat{l} \hat{r} \hat{b}$-cp $T_0$ $X_k$ 12-quadrant $\hat{l} r \hat{b}$-cp $T_3$ $O_k$ 21-quadrant $l \hat{r} \hat{b}$-cp $T_4$ $O_k$ 22-quadrant $l r \hat{b}$-cp $T_5$ $X_k$ 11-quadrant $\hat{l} \hat{r} b$-cp $T_6$ $O_k$ 12-quadrant $\hat{l} r b$-cp $T_2$ $X_k$ 21-quadrant $l \hat{r} b$-cp $T_1$ $X_k$ 22-quadrant $l r b$-cp $T_7$, $T_8$, $T_9$, $T_{10}$ $4 \, O_k$ For example, let us try to find $(10,11)$-entry of $O_4$. This entry can be written as $(2^3 + 0 \cdot 2^2 + 2^1 + 0 \cdot 2^0, 2^3 + 0 \cdot 2^2 + 2^1 + 2^0)$-entry, and so counts the total number of all suitably connected $(4,1)$-mosaics with xoxo $l$-state and ooxo $r$-state, and additionally whose bottom mosaic tiles are $b$-cp as shown in Figure \[fig6\]. In this case, $M_{41}$ is $l r b$-cp, so has 4 choices of mosaic tiles. Thus $M_{31}$ is $\hat{l} \hat{r} b$-cp, so it must be unique choice $T_6$. Similarly $M_{21}$ and $M_{11}$ have 4 choices and unique choice, respectively. Thus the entry is $4^2$. ![Finding $(10,11)$-entry of $O_4$[]{data-label="fig6"}](fig6.eps) State matrix $N^{(p,q)}$ and the proof of Theorem \[thm:main\] ============================================================== In this section, we find the state matrix $N^{(p,q)}$ for $\mathbb{S}^{(p,q)}$ and prove Theorem \[thm:main\]. \[prop:npq\] For the set $\mathbb{S}^{(p,q)}$ of all suitably connected $(p,q)$-mosaics, the associated state matrix $N^{(p,q)}$ is the following; $$N^{(p,q)} = (N^{(p,1)})^q.$$ We use the induction on $q$. Assume that $N^{(p,k)} = (N^{(p,1)})^k$. Let $S^{p,k+1}$ be a suitably connected $(p,k+1)$-mosaic in $\mathbb{S}^{(p,k+1)}$. Also let $S^{p,k}$ and $S^{p,1}$ be the suitably connected $(p,k)$-mosaic obtained by ignoring the rightmost column of $S^{p,k+1}$ and the suitably connected $(p,1)$-mosaic which is just the rightmost column of $S^{p,k+1}$, respectively. Then $r$-state of $S^{p,k}$ is the same as $l$-state of $S^{p,1}$ as shown in Figure \[fig7\]. Remark that $N^{(p,k+1)} = (N^{(k+1)}_{ij})$ is the state matrix for $\mathbb{S}^{(p,k+1)}$ where each entry $N^{(k+1)}_{ij}$ counts the number of all suitably connected $(p,k+1)$-mosaics that have the $i$-th $l$-state and the $j$-th $r$-state in the set of $2^p$ states. Also consider the state matrices $N^{(p,k)} = (N^{(k)}_{is})$ and $N^{(p,1)} = (N^{(1)}_{sj})$ defined similarly. Among these suitably connected $(p,k+1)$-mosaics counted in each entry $N^{(k+1)}_{ij}$, the number of all mosaics whose $r$-state of the $k$-th column (or equally $l$-state of the $(k+1)$-th column) is the $s$-th state in the set of $2^p$ states is the product of $N^{(k)}_{is}$ and $N^{(1)}_{sj}$. Since all $2^p$ states can be appeared as states of connection points where $S^{p,k}$ and $S^{p,1}$ meet, we get $$N^{(k+1)}_{ij} = \sum^{2^p}_{s=1} N^{(k)}_{is} N^{(1)}_{sj}.$$ This implies that $$N^{(p,k+1)} = N^{(p,k)} N^{(p,1)} = (N^{(p,1)})^{k+1}.$$ ![Adjoining two suitably connected mosaics[]{data-label="fig7"}](fig7.eps) Now we are ready to prove the main theorem. First assume that $m$ and $n$ are any integers at least 3. Consider the set $\mathbb{S}^{(m-2,n-2)}$ of all suitably connected $(m-2,n-2)$-mosaics and the associated state matrix $N^{(m-2,n-2)}$. By the definition of the state matrix, all rows represent all $2^{m-2}$ $l$-states and all columns represent all $2^{m-2}$ $r$-states of mosaics of $\mathbb{S}^{(m-2,n-2)}$. And each entry of the matrix counts the number of all suitably connected $(m-2,n-2)$-mosaics having specific $l$-state and $r$-state. Thus the total number of elements of $\mathbb{S}^{(m-2,n-2)}$ is the sum of all entries of the state matrix, which is $\| N^{(m-2,n-2)} \|$. Each suitably connected mosaic in $\mathbb{S}^{(m-2,n-2)}$ can be extended to exactly two knot $(m,n)$-mosaics by Twofold rule. Thus the total number of all knot $(m,n)$-mosaics $D^{(m,n)}$ is twice of $\| N^{(m-2,n-2)} \|$. This fact combined with Proposition \[prop:np1\] and \[prop:npq\] completes the proof except for the case that $m$ or $n$ is 2. For the case of $m=2$, we denote two $1 \times 1$ matrices $X_0 = \begin{bmatrix} 1 \end{bmatrix}$ and $O_0 = \begin{bmatrix} 1 \end{bmatrix}$. Then the same matrices $X_1$ and $O_1$ are obtained from the recurrence relations in Proposition \[prop:np1\], and also $D^{(2,n)} = 2 \, \| (X_0+O_0)^{n-2} \| = 2^{n-1}$ which is already known. For the case of $n=2$, $ D^{(m,2)} = 2 \, \| (X_{m-2}+O_{m-2})^0 \| = 2^{m-1}$ because $(X_{m-2}+O_{m-2})^0$ is the $2^{m-2} \times 2^{m-2}$ identity matrix. [AA]{} M. J. Carlisle and M. S. Laufer, [*On upper bounds for toroidal mosaic numbers*]{}, Quantum Inf. Process. **12** (2013) 2935–2945. K. Hong, H. Lee, H. J. Lee and S. Oh, [*Upper bound on the total number of knot $n$-mosaics*]{}, J. Knot Theory Ramifications (in the press). K. Hong, H. Lee, H. J. Lee and S. Oh, [*Small knot mosaics and partition matrices*]{}, J. Phys. A: Math. Theor. **47** (2014) 435201. V. Jones, [*A polynomial invariant for links via von Neumann algebras*]{}, Bull. Amer. Math. Soc. **129** (1985) 103–112. V. Jones, [*Hecke algebra representations of braid groups and link polynomials*]{}, Ann. Math. **126** (1987) 335–338. S. Jablan, L. Radovic, R. Sazdanovic and A. Zekovic, [*Mirror-curves and knot mosaics*]{}, Comput. Math. Appl. **64** (2012) 527–543. L. Kauffman, Knots and Physics, 3rd edn (World Scientific, Singapore) (2001). L. Kauffman, [*Quantum computing and the Jones polynomial*]{}, Quantum Computation and Information, AMS CONM **305** (2002) 101–137. T. Kuriya and O. Shehab, [*The Lomonaco–Kauffman conjecture*]{}, J. Knot Theory Ramifications **23** (2014) 1450003. H. J. Lee, K. Hong, H. Lee and S. Oh, [*Mosaic number of knots*]{}, J. Knot Theory Ramifications (in the press). S. Lomonaco, [*Quantum computation*]{}, Proc. Symp. Appl. Math. **58** (2002) 358 pp. S. Lomonaco and L. Kauffman, [*Quantum knots*]{}, Quantum Information and Computation II, Proc. SPIE **5436** (2004) 268–284. S. Lomonaco and L. Kauffman, [*A 3-stranded quantum algorithm for the Jones polynomial*]{}, Proc. SPIE **6573** (2007) 1–13. S. Lomonaco and L. Kauffman, [*Quantum knots and mosaics*]{}, Quantum Inf. Process. **7** (2008) 85–115. S. Lomonaco and L. Kauffman, [*Quantum knots and lattices, or a blueprint for quantum systems that do rope tricks*]{}, Proc. Symp. Appl. Math. **68** (2010) 209–276. S. Lomonaco and L. Kauffman, [*Quantizing knots and beyond*]{}, Quantum Information and Computation IX, Proc. SPIE **8057** (2011) 1–14. S. Oh, [*Quantum knot mosaics and the growth constant*]{}, (preprint). S. Oh and K. Hong, [*Enumeration of graph mosaics*]{}, (preprint). S. Oh, K. Hong, H. Lee, H. J. Lee and M. J. Yeon, [*Quantum knots and toroidal mosaics*]{}, (preprint). P. Shor and S. Jordan, [*Estimating Jones polynomials is a complete problem for one clean qubit*]{}, Quantum Inf. Comput. **8** (2008) 681–714. [^1]: 2010 Mathematics Subject Classification: 57M25, 57M27, 81P15, 81P68 [^2]: The corresponding author(Seungsang Oh) was supported by Basic Science Research Program through the National Research Foundation of Korea(NRF) funded by the Ministry of Science, ICT & Future Planning(MSIP) (No. 2011-0021795). [^3]: This work was supported by the National Research Foundation of Korea(NRF) grant funded by the Korea government(MEST) (No. 2011-0027989). | Mid | [
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When the Get A Clue With Nancy Drew collection arrived, we found each print to be a delightful throwback to childhood memories of reading about Nancy's super sleuth skills. The vintage appeal and utter uniqueness of these fabrics are hard to ignore! When Barbara (our wonderful friend at Denise who helps with the creation of each Limited Edition Denise2Go) proposed a Nancy Drew2Go last month, we knew there was only one option for March. The Girl Detective is a daring case paired with bright yellow cords (to match all those yellow hard-cover volumes of our youth) that easily fits in any knitting bag, project bag, pocket or purse. Ideal for knitting on the go, Denise2Go sets include the 6 most popular needle tip sizes, 3 different cord lengths, end buttons and extender, plus a crochet hook. All that knitting potential rolls up to fit in the palm of your hand! Be sure to grab one of these limited edition sets while you can - once they're gone, they are gone for good! The Game of Thrones Mystery KAL is all set to take the knitting world by storm... A Storm of Swords that is! Season 3 of the popular HBO series is about to begin and we couldn't be more excited to host another fun knit-along to go with it. If you haven't ordered your Lorna's Laces Haymarket yarn in Winter is Coming (our limited edition color inspired by the series), be sure to grab some before it's gone! You'll need just two skeins for the KAL project; and what we are knitting is a mystery... Be sure to check out the Mystery KAL on Ravelry as well as the discussion on the Jimmy Beans Wool Group page! And, if you are still working on your Downton Abbey KAL project, you'll be delighted to know that the pattern for Lady Violet's Dinner Gauntlets is now available as a FREE PDF on our website! If you are still working on your Gauntlets or haven't even begun yet, be sure to download your copy for the complete pattern with photos, charts, and written instructions. Thanks so much to everyone who participated in the Downton Abbey Mystery KAL - it was such a blast and we hope you'll all join us again for future KALs! We love Shibui for their ingenious patterns, but even more for their unique and luxurious yarns! Now we have one more to fawn over: Shibui Cima, a sumptuous blend of "superbaby" alpaca and fine merino in a plied lace weight. This delicious creation is spun from the finest natural fibers available, and the quality shows in its springy but delicate hand and dreamy-soft feel. It is perfect for shawls, lightweight but warm accessories, and weightless spring sweaters. Not to mention the colors are just gorgeous - exactly what you'd expect from Shibui! Speaking of colors, one of Shibui's best attributes is their ability to match colors across yarn lines, meaning that a particular color in Shibui Silk Cloud will be nearly identical in Shibui Linen. It's a feat that is not only nearly impossible to achieve with natural fibers, but also incredibly useful! It allows you to combine vastly different yarn types in the same project to achieve myriad textures and stunning effects. Shibui capitalized on this yarn-matching feature with their Shibui Mix line of patterns: each pattern utilizes a combination of yarns to create a garment with a one-of-a-kind look and feel. Take Shibui Mix No. 16, for example: alpaca-rich Cima and haloed Silk Cloud are carried together in this subtly color-blocked cardigan to make a rich, buttery-soft fabric you'll never want to stop touching! Mix No. 17 also uses Cima, but to a totally different effect: combined with Linen, this deep V-neck pullover has an incredible texture and beautiful drape. Pick your favorite Shibui color (ours is UV!) and get to knitting! Rowan Knitting Magazine always emulates current British fashion perfectly, and this Spring Issue #53 is no exception! Bold floral color work, color blocking, and feminine crochet pieces grace the pages of this issue. You are sure to find something delightfully knit-worthy among the wide breadth of fashions, along with Rowan's compelling storytelling. Among our favorite designs are the Symi Wrap (Kristen's favorite), the asymmetrical Samos top, and the beautiful Tutti Fruitti Crocheted Top, which are all available now as kits. We hope you enjoy this issue as much as we do! Incomparably soft and fuzzy, HiKoo's faux fur Caribou yarn is an instant shop hit! This versatile nylon yarn is perfect for fuzzy toys (it would make such a cute teddy bear!), cozy baby blankets, and trims on garments and accessories. Each bulky skein has 93 yards of fluffiness to meet your creative needs. Available in five neutral shades, this yarn could be your new favorite fun fur in your stash! Alana Dakos of Never Not Knitting has just released her latest collection, and it's AMAZING! Although it is currently available only as an e-book, we have now begun taking Pre-orders for the printed version of Botanical Knits, which is due out in May. All pre-orders will automatically ship as soon as we have the books in our hot little hands, and we can't wait! Complete with 11 professionally edited and beautifully photographed patterns, we think this book is a real treat for both our eyes and our needles. Fans of Never Not Knitting patterns and Coastal Knits are sure to love this latest installment from Alana Dakos! Silk Essence, the newest yarn from Artyarns, is nothing short of divine with its delectable blend of silk, silk, and more silk! This stunning lace weight yarn boasts a gorgeous sheen, amazing color range, and 400 yards of dreaminess that is wonderful for lightweight garments and shawls. Each single ply strand appears to have its own unique depth that adds texture and interest to your knitting. You'll feel like you are floating on air when you adorn yourself with the luxury of Silk Essence! Never suffer from untidy tangled yarn again! The Pippa Yarn Dispenser from Della Q is a cute and stylish new way to keep your yarn in check: The poly-silk interior allows yarn to glide easily out from the top of bag, while keeping your skein neatly intact inside. Not only that, but for small projects, you can easily open the bag up and store your latest WIP (work in progress) inside when you are knitting or crocheting! Don't you just love bags that make your creative life that much easier? We definitely do! Alpaca Sport, the latest offering from Wolf Creek Wools, is truly a treat for all of us! The color depth and softness of these skeins are unbeatable. When this yarn arrived to our warehouse, word slowly spread to all of the Beans and we came running from every corner of the building to see it in person. Needless to say this yarn has caused quite a stir! Each skein boasts 260 yards of finger-pleasing deliciousness -enough for a hat or fingerless mitts. Two skeins would make a generous cowl or shawl. All in all, we think you'll love the look and feel of this amazing hand-dyed alpaca yarn! The inspiration for this cowl came to me a while back on a road trip to Chico, CA, to see my husband's favorite band in concert, The Hold Steady. The cowl itself isn't really inspired by the band, but more by my love for color blocking, chevrons, and those awesome hand-knit afghans of the '60s and '70s. I had one of these on my bed as a kid and I will always remember wrapping up in its warmth on chilly days. My husband and I keep blankets similar to these in our cars at all times, because you never know when you are going to get chilly on a drive or need to use it as a pillow. On that particular trip, I happened to glance at one of these blankets out of the corner of my eye, and the idea for the Hold Steady Cowl was born. To make it, you need just three skeins of Classic Elite Toboggan in three different colors. The cozy, chunky Toboggan yarn is the perfect blend of softness and warmth - making this easily one of my all-time favorite knits. And as a bonus, you'll have just enough yarn left over to make a matching hat! Be sure to check out the Hold Steady Cowl on Ravelry as well and add it to your queue! There are several methods for working short rows, but I believe the wrap and turn is the most common. What is a short row? This is perhaps the most boggling part when a knitter first encounters the term. Short rows are methods of knitting part of the stitches in a row. Why do this? To create edges that are wider than the center (think potato chip scarf) or to create a curve in our knitting (like darts in sewing). To create a wrap and turn short row: 1. Knit the designated number of stitches in your pattern 2. Bring the yarn to the front of your work 3. Slip the next stitch from your left needle to the right needle 4. Take the yarn to the back of your work 5. Return the slipped stitch to the left needle 6. Turn. The order in which you perform steps 4-6 is not as important. The main thing is to make sure that the slipped stitch is wrapped around its base by the working yarn, and has returned to a proper position from which to knit. That is all there is too making a wrap and turn! Next time, I'll talk about how to pick up the wraps when you work across the wrapped stitches. We have so many wonderful yarns are sale, but here are just a few of our favorites... Lorna's Laces Black Sheep:50% Off! This hard-wearing wool and viscose blend is a Jimmy Beans exclusive, dyed especially for us by Lorna's Laces in some of your favorite colorways. This unique yarn has a subtle thick-thin texture and features 2 plies, one solid black, the other colorfully dyed for a sharp contrast of colors that works up into a one-of-a-kind fabric of depth and distinction. Use Black Sheep for hats, cardigans, mitts or a simple cowl! We love it for Knitting Pure and Simple's Trapeze Pullover, or the Churchmouse Ferryboat Mitts. Filatura di Crosa Fiocchetto and Tahki Boulder:50% Off! It's a party for your needles! Filatura di Crosa's Fiocchetto yarn has spunk and character, not to mention it's plain old fun to work with! Fiocchetto boasts a creative construction that knits up quickly on US 10 needles. Surprisingly lightweight, this yarn is great for stylish tanks, summery scarves or adding pizzazz to knitted accessories and decor. Looking for something a little chunkier? Well, if it is still winter where you are, Boulder is the way to go. This soft, thick yarn from Tahki comes in 5 dark marled colorways in 200 gram balls of 77 yards. Boulder is super bulky and knits up on US 36 needles - perfect for instant gratification projects or quick gifts. Also great for finger-knitting! Filatura di Crosa Moda, Moda Lame and Moda Lame Long Print: Starting at 25% Off! Get your ruffle on, the coveted Moda ruffle yarns from Filatura di Crosa are now on sale! Two skeins of Moda or Moda Lame - or just one skein of Moda Lame Long Print - are all you need for a stylishly flouncy scarf. If you haven't yet given ruffle yarns a try, now is a great time (and a great price). Whether you prefer the glitz and glam of the Lame, splashes of color, or elegant solids to go with your everyday attire, there is a Moda ruffle yarn for you! Louisa Harding Merletto and Sirdar Smiley Stripes: Starting at 43% Off! Start getting ready for summer with these lightweight yarns from Louisa Harding and Sirdar! Merletto is a dual texture yarn that combines the sleek shine of viscose with the softness of linen; it gets softer the more you wear it. A DK weight yarn that knits up on US 5 needles, Merletto makes beautiful shawls and wraps, lacy tanks and swishy skirts. For those who would like a bigger splash of color, Smiley Stripes will do the trick. These lively print colorways are ideal for kids' clothes and accessories. Machine washable and easy to care for, this bamboo and wool blend is as fun to knit with as it is to wear! Emily, one of our newest Beans who works on our programming team and helps maintain our website, came to work wearing this little gem last week and we had to snap a pic right away! The pattern is FREE on Ravelry--the Melofors Tam by Susan James, and it's absolutely adorable! Emily used Malabrigo Worsted Merino in Sauterne, a super bright and sunny yellow which is perfect for this design. Nice work, Emily! Marilyn knit this amazing shawl last spring, and we finally were able to snag a photo! It's a simply stunning, knit in Hand Maiden Casbah colors Pewter and Straw. We also love that this pattern is a Romi Hill design, from her 7 Small Shawls Year Two collection :The Muses, which is available for purchase on Ravelry as a download. The pattern name is Kleio. Happy knitting! This cute hat was knit by Bethany for her darling daughter Penelope, aka Penne. She knit this hat loosely based off of our knit version of Swans Island Hats for the Whole Family , with a few modifications. We really love that she used Black Sheep, our exclusive yarn from Lorna's Laces. Bethany enjoyed the slightly thick-thin texture and found this yarn looks like it has more black in it when in hanks than it does when knit. We are so glad Jenny shared her latest FO, this little graceful shawlette is super pretty! The pattern is called Romance by Susanna IC and can be found on Ravelry. Jenny used just one skein of Madelinetosh Merino Light for her version, and we think it's just gorgeous! Jeanne had to jump in and participate in the Downton Abbey Mystery KAL! She went stash diving and found two skeins of Lorna's Laces Sport in the Huron Color (one we don't carry any longer) and decided it would be perfect! The KAL called for Sportmate (1 skein), but the Sport works just fine, too! We think they turned out so cool! Erika is someone you may have already met over the computer or by phone - her sweet voice is often the one answering your calls! She's also one of the people on the other end of your chats when you use the LiveChat program through the JBW website! An indispensable member of our E-Commerce Team, she's been part of the JBW family for over two years. Erika is our early-bird Bean: she's often here as early as 6 am, getting a head start on the emails that came in overnight and organizing ALL the things! She makes E-Com run smoothly and we don't know what we'd do without her - we love you, Erika! When she's not at Jimmy Beans, Erika is practicing to be a mad scientist...well, not really, but she is studying to be a pharmacist! You can often catch her poring over a textbook on her lunch hour (she and Chemistry are BFFs) or puzzling over homework that looks like secret code. After school, she'd like to work in Psychiatric or Nuclear Pharmacy at a hospital, or do research. Erika's other main focus is her adorable dog, Fiona, an almost 2-year old West Highland Terrier. Like her mom, Fiona has a penchant for pretty yarn - but unlike Erika, who makes gorgeous shawls with it, Fiona likes to eat it! And it's hard to keep it away from her when she's somehow able to scale counters, tables, the TV stand - you name it, Fiona can get on top of it, giving some truth to the rumor that Westies can fly... She likes to burn off some of that energy at the dog park, where she can run around while Erika works on yet another beautiful creation out of her favorite Tosh Merino Light yarn. This coming Tuesday, March 19th, we are thrilled to announce that Laura (aka Jimmy) is going to be giving a talk at the Reno/Tahoe AMA Luncheon. If you live in the Reno area, you can come hear Laura speak about going the extra "yardage" for customers - creating superb and memorable customer service interactions- as well as the other tools she has used to create such a unique company. For details, visit the AMA website. | Mid | [
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I've tried many brands of tracing paper and this is the best for reasons stated above. It doesn't wrinkle or crease unless you want it to. It has no obvious grain. Works equally well with pencils, markers, fountain pens and technical pens.Great for tracing. You could also use it for patterns or paper models.It has aesthetic value too - it's beautiful paper and satisfying to use. "Write your Opinion" Question & Answer No questions have been posted for this product. Have a question about this product? Please click the button below to get started. Once you have posted your question we will submit it to our community of customers and with our own staff who have recent experience with the same product for their open and honest feedback. | Mid | [
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How about a little good news on this rainy day in Sacramento, Kings fans? DeMarcus Cousins is almost back! Jason Jones reports that the current plan is for Cousins to be back in the lineup for Thursday's home game against the Milwaukee Bucks and that he will be under a minutes restriction for that game. Cousins has been out the last 9 games with a bout of viral meningitis. Cousins has yet to speak out about Michael Malone's firing, and as Jones points out, there's no reason to suggest that Cousins is happy with it. I can't imagine DeMarcus Cousins is happy today. He's about loyalty and believed Michael Malone his back like no other coach. — Jason Jones (@mr_jasonjones) December 15, 2014 The only players to have said anything at all as of yet have been Jason Thompson and former King Isaiah Thomas. Cold World....... — Jason Thompson (@jtthekid) December 15, 2014 Damn now that seems weird — Isaiah Thomas (@Isaiah_Thomas) December 15, 2014 Regardless of what you think about the firing (and the general consensus is shock), it will be good to see Cousins back on the court and soon. Sacramento was 9-6 with Cousins before he fell ill and will hopefully be able to recapture some of the momentum they had earlier this season as he gets back into game shape. | Mid | [
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Janna Seysener (Facebook, Twitter) I spent year seeing tracersHad double vision and blurred sightDidn't know I had the choiceTo put an end to my plightI tried many optometristsI had eye tests galoreWas once told I was lazyTo just "focus more"I was diagnosed as short sightedGiven a spectacle prescriptionLater I was told of a conditionThe symptoms matched my descriptionKnowing this thing had a nameDidn't come as a bonusIt couldn’t change the factI have keratoconusI researched the diagnosisTo learn the how's and the why'sOf why I'd been cursedWith these two faulty eyesUsually starting in the teen yearsMost agree it's progressiveIt can take years to worsenOr can be quite aggressiveThe key feature's the corneaGenerally rounded for mostIt's more conical for patientsWhere this disease takes up hostI was sent to Marketown OpticalTo meet yet another optomAt first I was quite skepticalOf meeting Heidi or DomI booked a meeting with HeidiAnd soon all my fears diedShe specialized in my problemThere was someone on my sideI said I hate RGP lenses"They're just not for me"She said it would be worth itWhen I could finally seeI pushed past the discomfortAnd now I know she was rightI can't thank Heidi enoughFor restoring my sightNow my KeratoconusNo longer dictates what I seeIt's only part of my lifeThis disease won't define me | Mid | [
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17 This soft piece of fat shit who looks like the hardest he's ever worked is getting off his fat ass to go get another Twinkie is Kevin Williamson, you know, the NRO guy who says poor whites are lazy drug addicts https://mobile.twitter.com/texascr/status/715393419288285184 Pfft, that's so pre-Obama!Hillary want's your property, your privacy. She wants you traveling where she wants you to go in Google-provided driverless cars, serf! Don't even think about eating a steak!!! We must eat bugs to save mother nature from cow farts, and no bacon out of deference to our new Muslim neighbors, and.... 28IDF and Boder Police on Wednesday destroyed the house of the terrorist who carried out a stabbing attack in Hebron killing one in December of last year. Good. Poor guy was waiting for bus and was attacked and killed. Posted by: Bruce With a Wang! at March 31, 2016 10:51 AM (iQIUe) 29 Just wanted to thank all the 'rons and 'ettes--and especially Votermom--for taking a chance on my book in the book thread last Sunday. Wow, you are all so open and generous! I looked at the sales spike and had to retreat to my fainting couch, pearls clutched in my tiny little hands. You made my day! 53 'You can vote For (kill him or let him go) You have one houer to vote We will post his fate after one houer Tag your friends and take your right take your reveng from isis right now. Please we dont have the time just one houer so tag your friends,' the post reads. The image that followed the vote said that it had concluded in the death of the ISIS fighter. ---- 55 I don't know if that's a song or not. But it did remind me of a T-shirt I saw not long ago on a raven-haired hottie: Goth Moms Do It Spookier I have a t shirt that says, " I $upport Single Moms" with a pic of a pole dancer. Posted by: rickb223 at March 31, 2016 10:57 AM (lADRM) 56 There's one of those Facebook things getting passed around where you take a test and it tells you how liberal/conservative you are. This one dude I know who is a fucking flaming liberal posted that he got 40% conservative, 60% liberal. And he's all like, see I'm totes a moderate, it's just all you rabid right wingers who are extreme. That test is designed to do this. The results are skewed to make the extreme liberal position seem moderate. This is how the left operates. They're good at it. And the right never has a response. 62I saw Jesus and the Moneychangers open for Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers at the Cow Palace back in '88. Posted by: IllTemperedCur at March 31, 2016 11:00 AM (ur5uN) 63 The residents are fleeing to the countryside to escape the invaders. U-Haul-ey Toledo!!!! Posted by: Seamus Muldoon at March 31, 2016 11:00 AM (NeFrd) 64 What is the picture of, CBD. I know it's El Greco, but the title of the work? On another note, the school is posting some pictures of the school orchestra and choir in Europe. One Facebook comment asked, "Is it just me or are their 40 girls and 10 boys? (It's a little hard to tell the gender of all the participants from the little photo) FenelonSpouse said, 40 girls?; I'd want to go too! He was thinking of himself as a teen boy, not as a 60 plus old guy. ;^) Since our son doesn't speak to anyone a lot, the fact that he's outnumbered by girls won't do him much good, not that I'd want his first sexual experience to be as a 16 year old on a school trip when they're supposed to be behaving themselves!! it'd look a lot like Jesus and the Moneychangers. Posted by: sven10077 at March 31, 2016 10:59 AM (g8Hfr) __ I meant response as in coming up with ideas like this to subconsciously push ideas in people without them realizing it. All the right does is scream "HE'S A SOCIALIST!!!" which gets tiresome and ignored pretty fast. A humorous mystery (cozy) set at a convention of zombie fans. Link to my dusty and neglected web page in nic, link to Kindle page: http://www.amazon.com/Gone-Zombies-Snazzy-Stitches-Book-ebook/dp/B00YLRP1T8 9229 Just wanted to thank all the 'rons and 'ettes--and especially Votermom--for taking a chance on my book in the book thread last Sunday. Wow, you are all so open and generous! I looked at the sales spike and had to retreat to my fainting couch, pearls clutched in my tiny little hands. You made my day! 100 The Horde is very good at giving you a nice sales spike. They rock. http://astore.amazon.com/aoshq-20/detail/B014BTSEYO Posted by: Anna Puma at March 31, 2016 11:07 AM (harh/) 101 2nd morning in a row I've received a call from Virginia area code CVS pharmacy calling about a prescription for "Jennifer." Didn't answer; they left a message. Weird. When I tried to get the voice mail, somehow it started calling my mom, which was all right, wanted to confirm she wasn't hit by the twister last night, which she wasn't. But I don't know how I managed to dial her. ("Dial" - isn't that a funny anachronism.) Then when I hung up on her, music started - a cut that I had last played half a year ago. (Rarely listen to music on the cell.) What was all that about? Smart phones are dumb; or getting too smart for their own good? Pair this with the as posted for the "Hamilton" musical specifying non-white people between the ages of 20-30. Seriously, this is so freakin' illegal and just plain wrong. It violates everything the HR department drills into you about *not* discriminating by age, race, or gender. How is it that it is now OK - no, preferable - to announce these criteria for a university president, SCOTUS nominee, entertainer? Posted by: Lizzy at March 31, 2016 11:07 AM (NOIQH) 103 I meant response as in coming up with ideas like this to subconsciously pushideas in people without them realizing it. All the right does is scream "HE'S ASOCIALIST!!!" which gets tiresome and ignored pretty fast.Posted by: Monsieur Moo Moo at March 31, 2016 11:01 AM (0LHZx) Someone who takes seriously a test being passed around on Facebook is unlikely to be susceptible to reasoned argument. The real question is why we let people like this rule over us. I didn't...looked like an 1800s thunderstorm coming in off Erie to me.... "art" Posted by: sven10077 at March 31, 2016 11:08 AM (g8Hfr) 105 El Greco's paintings always look like they've been painted on a rubber sheet and stretched out on a frame. One theory I heard was that he had a massive astigmatism and his paintings looked just fine to him. No idea how realistic that is. 106 What was all that about? Smart phones are dumb; or getting too smart for their own good? ***** THE CALL IS COMING FROM INSIDE YOUR OWN PHONE!!!! Posted by: Seamus Muldoon at March 31, 2016 11:08 AM (NeFrd) 107 The only thing missing from that picture is a fuzzy headed guy whispering soothingly, "...and we'll just put a pretty little rock right over here. You can just see that this is where that pretty little rock wants to be... right here next to this beautiful tree..." 114 I've grown weary of this "If you won't vote for Trump, it's a vote for Hillary"-crap. The only one who has voted for Hillary IS Donald Trump. And contributed to her campaign. And her Foundation. And her fellow Democrats. Hell, his vote for Hillary is one of the reasons I can't support him. Besides, he basically is a Clinton. Sex-crazed, money-crazed, power-crazed, self-crazed. No thanks. 116 won't be around for a few days. off to sin city today. back sunday god willing. Posted by: chavez the hugo at March 31, 2016 11:14 AM (ucDmr) 117 Seriously, this is so freakin' illegal and just plain wrong. It violates everything the HR department drills into you about *not* discriminating by age, race, or gender. How is it that it is now OK - no, preferable - to announce these criteria for a university president, SCOTUS nominee, entertainer? Your response is exactly what I'm talking about. The right always dismisses this sort of stuff as unserious. Same with Hollywood, music, etc. Oh whatever, who cares what some dumb Hollywood bimbo says? Well millions of people care. They are LIVs for a reason remember. And the left owns the LIV market almost exclusively. Yeah those FB tests are stupid. But millions and millions of people take them and talk about them and post their scores for their friends to see. And if even a tiny fraction of those people are influenced even a little bit by the tests....it helps the left. Now add up all the FB tests, the Holywood bimbos telling the rubes how to vote and every other instance that the right dismisses as unserious, and it adds up over time. Posted by: Monsieur Moo Moo at March 31, 2016 11:16 AM (0LHZx) 120 Okay I don't really need to know what exactly CBD has done with rdbrewer, but did you grind his bones afterward? Those pesky bones are hard to dissolve in acid if you don't grind them first. Oh, and your little rant makes no sense, within its own framework. The annoying but endlessly repeated "if you don't vote for X you're voting for Y" thing is a legitimate conundrum. But a given candidate's flaws are, logically, a separate issue. Just think, if you'd posted that on the ONT, both of our comments would be replaced with [no primary stuff]. Not as good as a MUMR replacement comment, but possibly still better than this, and yours ..... Posted by: rhomboid at March 31, 2016 11:16 AM (QDnY+) 122reading up I see somebody already mentioned Condi. Gotta be fast around here... or just say stuff before reading as is the custom. My favorite was the Facebook IQ test. I couldn't stop myself from wasting, what, half an hour going through that...got to the end and they wanted 20 dollars for the results so I closed the page. So my result is: GENIUS. I've heard of that as well about El Greco. I think it's a beautiful piece. On another note, joncelli I posted earlier this week (I don't know if you saw it) that I went to an evening liturgy at the local Orthodox Church Saturday evening. they were nice. The priest had been a military chaplain for 25 years before he transitioned back to the local church. An elderly woman who greeted me warmly is sending me by e-mail the Orthodox prayers for Great Lent, because of course Easter doesn't happen for the Orthodox for about four more weeks. So it's just goes to show that it's important for church folks to great visitors warmly when they come; It makes a difference. I've heard of that as well about El Greco. I think it's a beautiful piece. On another note, joncelli I posted earlier this week (I don't know if you saw it) that I went to an evening liturgy at the local Orthodox Church Saturday evening. they were nice. The priest had been a military chaplain for 25 years before he transitioned back to the local church. An elderly woman who greeted me warmly is sending me by e-mail the Orthodox prayers for Great Lent, because of course Easter doesn't happen for the Orthodox for about four more weeks. So it's just goes to show that it's important for church folks to great visitors warmly when they come; It makes a difference. Posted by: FenelonSpoke at March 31, 2016 11:20 AM (w4NZ Fenelon, visiting an orthodox church is on my list of things to do. Right now I'm slogging my way through an ESV study bible and praying, from time to time. Baby steps, I guess. 163 So it's just goes to show that it's important for church folks to great visitors warmly when they come; It makes a difference. Posted by: FenelonSpoke at March 31, 2016 11:20 AM (w4NZ Amen. If we are the body of Christ, we need to be welcoming others in, and helping them understand why its important and wonderful to be a part of the family of God. Too often, we withdraw into our comfort zones, and are unwilling to let anyone else in. I have certainly been guilty of this. So this is a good reminder for me as well. Our last church, in Florida, was awesome at this. I really miss it. The church we go to here in NoVA is pretty good, but not quite the same. Posted by: Monsieur Moo Moo at March 31, 2016 11:16 AM (0LHZx)Yes, we know that LIVs are part of the structure by which the Left perpetuates and strengthens its control. Competing for LIVs using the Left's own mechanisms, of which Facebook is one, is not a solution. It's merely becoming a Republican-style show opposition. The hilarious thing is that like Fellow "HELP! HAY_ALLLP!" activist Michelle Fields Jackie is being attacked by her "ally" in trying to get her way. Trump didn't Dox Stumpy Birdfeed and Fox did... UVA is the one nutpunching Jackie not the "evil hetero Cis-Normative" fella she accused. Posted by: sven10077 at March 31, 2016 11:28 AM (g8Hfr) 167 148 141: i could but, i'm usuallly distracted. o'sheas is a helluva place. crazy. -------------- I love O'sheas! I haven't been in a few years, they were attempting a remodel the last time I was there. I have to admit I'm enjoying immensely the specter of these nominal adult college administrators getting skewered on their own petards by the SJW team - who have show they are quite the effective little brown-shirts (I know, microaggression, I ritually denounce myself). I, for one, am having equally as much fun torturing the folks who call me up from my former universities crying poor-mouth and asking for money - with my best sarcasm for the folks calling from the Hippy-Ivy in Providence RI. The college admin cartel knows who butters their bread and what side it's buttered on. Until the butter (donations from alumni, parents, etc.) stops showing up they have precisely zero incentive to do anything other than following the path of least leftist resistance. Still fun to watch them twist themselves into little logic pretzels tho. 184 >> If Jackie were smart, her de f ense would be, "UVA taught me to lie, especially about the patriarchy and rape culture. I did just what they said. How are they the victim?" IIRC, Jackie was brought to Rolling Stone's attention by an Obama staffer who was heading up the WH's push for doing something about the campus "rape epidemic." Jackie had gotten to the big leagues with her rape victimization status, as her case was cited as a prime example of the terrible, rapey men on campus today. I hope that Jackie's WH contact is snagged in all of this lawsuit business, too. 189 "While the right-wing politician conceded that Belgium has a problem with jihadism, he also asserted that profiling does not work as a countermeasure. According to JTA, Jambon said that Islamists can be found among diverse groups including doctors, lawyers, and common criminals. Only one in six Belgian jihadists grew up in poor homes, he said. =========== They all have one thing in common... Posted by: Bruce With a Wang! at March 31, 2016 11:34 AM (iQIUe) 190 Vegetarianism over generations can result in genetic mutations which increase the risk of heart disease and cancer. Researchers found a long-term vegetarian diet means populations are more likely to carry DNA that makes them vulnerable to inflammation. The mutation is believed to make it easier for vegetarians to absorb necessary fatty acids from plants, but also boosts their production of arachidonic acid, which increases inflammatory disease and cancer. Reminder, today is the last day to vote for Hugo nominees! If you got a membership last year you can vote, but has to be done by midnight. Both the sad and rabid puppy slates are online to peruse. Even if you don't vote, is an EXCELLENT reading list! And the SJW tears of hurt prelims over the lists have been typically loltastic. Posted by: LizLem at March 31, 2016 11:37 AM (hvf9s) That is actually my current fave pizza: chicken and mushroom (sometimes onions added) with a garlic parmesean white sauce. Yum. But then I also like Hawaiian pizza so... Posted by: LizLem at March 31, 2016 11:39 AM (hvf9s) 203 The way Kasich apparently eats a pizza is in some circles a crime however. --- Wait, he eats it in a circle? Has he never heard of a pizza cutter? Posted by: Vashta Nerada at March 31, 2016 11:39 AM (Qvgg/) 204Fenelon, visiting an orthodox church is on my list of things to do. Right now I'm slogging my way through an ESV study bible and praying, from time to time. Baby steps, I guess. Posted by: joncelli, Bridge Troll and Crossbow Afficianado at March 31, 2016 11:23 AM (PjWy4) I was very, very privileged to attend Easter services in the main Orthodox church in Athens, Greece. From the Good Friday march in Syntagma Square, to Saturday's midnight mass, and then Easter Sunday's sunrise service. It was absolutely breathtaking. My dad was Russian Orthodox growing up, but converted to Southern Baptist upon marrying my mom. So it was interesting so see a bit of how he grew up. Definitely visit on a holy day-it's worth it. 212 204 Fenelon, visiting an orthodox church is on my list of things to do. Right now I'm slogging my way through an ESV study bible and praying, from time to time. Baby steps, I guess. Posted by: joncelli, Bridge Troll and Crossbow Afficianado at March 31, 2016 11:23 AM (PjWy4) I was very, very privileged to attend Easter services in the main Orthodox church in Athens, Greece. From the Good Friday march in Syntagma Square, to Saturday's midnight mass, and then Easter Sunday's sunrise service. It was absolutely breathtaking. My dad was Russian Orthodox growing up, but converted to Southern Baptist upon marrying my mom. So it was interesting so see a bit of how he grew up. Definitely visit on a holy day-it's worth it. Posted by: Moki at March 31, 2016 11:39 AM (7q2ch) The wife and I toured some Orthodox churches in Moscow when we visited. I've always admired icons and the Russian Orthodox church icons were breathtaking. 214IIRC, Jackie was brought to Rolling Stone's attention by an Obama staffer who was heading up the WH's push for doing something about the campus "rape epidemic." Jackie had gotten to the big leagues with her rape victimization status, as her case was cited as a prime example of the terrible, rapey men on campus today. I hope that Jackie's WH contact is snagged in all of this lawsuit business, too. Posted by: Lizzy at March 31, 2016 11:33 AM (NOIQH) Every time there's a story about this criminal and her phony rape charges,I think her full name should be used: Coakley. Her name is Jackie Coakley. She no longer deserves the protection of anonymity. Her full name should be broadcast far and wide. While I sympathize I think "Jackie" alone gets to the "I am Spartacus" nature of the batshit crazy SJW Harpy phenom better. "I AM JACKIE!"(which trended on Twatter for a bit) You mean you fake rape charges b/c of your neuroses? Posted by: sven10077 at March 31, 2016 11:44 AM (g8Hfr) 226 Noticed upthread that some brilliant moron noticed that Kasich looks like a gray alien. I think that Kasich and Koskinen are 'separated at birth' types-- both physically and mentally. Arrogant aliens both. Heh piss off Ministry next "save Islam from itself" Vacation and play "reload" on a Convoy... I'm certain you'll see why 2ACR liked it. https://youtu.be/O475deK_xEE Ministry-reload "In a world full of shit, you're still an asshole to me." Posted by: sven10077 at March 31, 2016 11:47 AM (g8Hfr) 239 219 well, peeps, time to check the weather and pack. Posted by: chavez the hugo at March 31, 2016 11:43 AM (ucDmr) Safe travels! Posted by: rickb223 at March 31, 2016 11:47 AM (lADRM) 240 I recall Trump and Palin eating a pizza with a knife and fork when she went on her "Is she running?" tour of the country and she came to NYC. Posted by: Serenity Now! at March 31, 2016 11:47 AM (BDZWU) 241 Every time there's a story about this criminal and her phony rape charges,I think her full name should be used: Coakley. Her name is Jackie Coakley. She no longer deserves the protection of anonymity. Her full name should be broadcast far and wide. 250I eat there once a year when I am up there. They ship to the lower 48. Posted by: rickb223 at March 31, 2016 11:46 AM (lADRM) I prefer thin but damn I could indulge in that once in awhile. http://tinyurl.com/zzww5d7This Posted by: RWC - Team BOHICA at March 31, 2016 11:50 AM (/D5Lf) 251 Fenelon, visiting an orthodox church is on my list of things to do. Right now I'm slogging my way through an ESV study bible and praying, from time to time. Baby steps, I guess. Posted by: joncelli, Bridge Troll and Crossbow Afficianado at March 31, 2016 11:23 AM (PjWy4) Brother, any step you take towards the Lord is a good one in my completely unbiased opinion. Besides ,Jesus said that we must become as little children so baby steps are good. :^) However, if you feel like you're "slogging": and you're starting with the OT, don't do that. It's all the Bible and it all has truth, but if you're slogged down in Deuteronomy or Leviticus, for instance that can be rough going. If I may make a suggestion-start with the Psalms and the Gospel of John. I am glad that you have a study Bible. The Orthodox Church is very different-even from the RCC which I had been to. They stand up the entire time although there were seats and there's no kneeling but a lot of bowing and crossing themselves-but Orthodox do it from right to left and not left to right. There's also a lot on incense and they entire service is chanted or sung. I got a good sense of the awesome majesty of God. Obviously I can't go on Sunday mornings (which is when the "big" service is) but I told the nice woman that I would be back next Saturday evening. Posted by: FenelonSpoke at March 31, 2016 11:50 AM (w4NZ8) 252 Cruz to Kimmel: "If I was in my car getting ready to reverse and I saw Donald in the back-up camera, I'm not sure which pedal I would push." - You think Cruz is immune to the Trump treatment if he is the nominee? He is not. He'll be the dangerous, uncivilized thug if he gets the nod. Actually, Milady has been experimenting with different crust recipes on her pizzas lately - and a few of them turned out less-than-sturdy. Required utensils to eat. But that was experimentation - doesn't count. New Yorkers' ideas of pizza are stupid. They have a foldy crust thing that you're supposed to fold in half and eat by hand. They're so greasy that the grease spills off on your shirt and tie. They get all judgy if you don't eat pizza their way, which is to say with cheese falling out after you take a bite and all the good pepperoni and sausage sliding about on the crust and falling on the floor. Italians in Italy eat pizza with a knife and fork. Discuss. Posted by: Bandersnatch at March 31, 2016 11:51 AM (1xUj/) 257 Several years ago, my husband and mother and I went on a trip that included a day in Naples. Part of the tour was pizza for lunch. Since there were three in our party, the tour guide sat with us as we were served our pizzas. My mother has always eaten pizza with a knife and fork, which hubby (from Brooklyn!!) mocked her for every time. But Mom got her revenge that day, as the tour guide took up knife and fork to tackle the pizza. 258 Fenelon, I attended a baptism of a Russian friend's baby at a Russian Orthodox church years ago and it was amazing. Almost the entire service is sung in Russian, they repeat every thing three times (so the god parents had to make their pledge three times, circle the baby three times, etc.), and instead of just a little holy water on the forehead, the priest held the naked babe high over his head and then dunked her into the baptismal font - three times. I'm sure that will produce the perfect nominee as the GOPe will gladly hand over their power." Posted by: naturalfake at March 31, 2016 11:20 AM (0cMkb) Count me as being onboard. I'm tired of this shoot-from-the-hip approach. I want a practiced politician reading polled and focus-group tested canned responses to questions. Let's pick a candidate who doesn't cause any controversy or attract any crowds. With the help of our New York based right wing writers, we'll be able to choose the correct person who will promise the changes all the past presidents have failed to deliver on. But this time they will. It just goes to show what a bad idea this entire primary thing was in the first place. Our betters know who should be in charge and if we would have listened, Jeb! would have already been the nominee. I read an an article, I forget where, a few months back that established that this was her real name and proved it by tracing her through social media sites. It was obvious that this Jackie Coakley person was the 'Jackie' who made the fake rape allegations against the UVA fraternity. I prefer Philadelphia style to genuine Al-NYC style if it comes to brass tacks. When we lived in Maryland we used to drive up 95 to Geno's... This last trip had Pac10077 not Comrade Hammered me into driving North we would have stopped in St Louis for a pie. Once she retires and I am on the road full time I plan to pen a book on "America's best Pizzas" Posted by: sven10077 at March 31, 2016 11:55 AM (g8Hfr) 273 >>They get all judgy if you don't eat pizza their way, which is to say with cheese falling out after you take a bite and all the good pepperoni and sausage sliding about on the crust and falling on the floor. You are doing it wrong. Probably taking a poor grip and then changing it as you go. My ex-wife had this problem. Drove her crazy whenever we went to NY... Posted by: garrett at March 31, 2016 11:55 AM (mEs7I) 274New Yorkers' ideas of pizza are stupid. They have a foldy crust thing that you're supposed to fold in half and eat by hand. They're so greasy that the grease spills off on your shirt and tie. They get all judgy if you don't eat pizza their way, which is to say with cheese falling out after you take a bite and all the good pepperoni and sausage sliding about on the crust and falling on the floor. Posted by: Bandersnatch at March 31, 2016 11:51 AM (1xUj/) I must say this sounds like my kind of pizza. Only I'd wear a bib, and hold my head over the table so all of the pepperoni and sausage land there instead of the floor. 275 Actually, Milady has been experimenting with different crust recipes on her pizzas lately - and a few of them turned out less-than-sturdy. Required utensils to eat. But that was experimentation - doesn't count. Depends on certain thin crusts and how they are sliced. Sometimes there isn't enough dough to hold it up. 281I must say this sounds like my kind of pizza. Only I'd wear a bib, and hold my head over the table so all of the pepperoni and sausage land there instead of the floor. Posted by: OregonMuse at March 31, 2016 11:55 AM (wZfYc) The Italians look at Pizza as anything from a quick portable meal to a near dessert depending on region. A genuine Sicilian Pizza is hardly recognizable to US eyes as a Pizza. Pizza is an interaction between dough, sauce, topping and bake style... I have seen it stress varying portions of each as the vector for the caloric content. Posted by: sven10077 at March 31, 2016 11:58 AM (g8Hfr) 283 >>Once she retires and I am on the road full time I plan to pen a book on "America's best Pizzas" Well, you can skip 95% of America. Posted by: garrett at March 31, 2016 11:58 AM (mEs7I) 284 Bandersnatch, so have I. Bella Napoli is really an Italian pizza chain. Ate there once in a little seaside town called Vieste which is across the boot from Naples. Posted by: Anna Puma at March 31, 2016 11:58 AM (harh/) 285Again the only thing the GOPe does is shrug and say "garsh that Zuckerfucker shore is wise" and tack left. I am past caring, let the bodies hit the floor.Posted by: sven10077 at March 31, 2016 11:18 AM (g8Hfr)Very true, sven, but moo moo does have a valid point about politics being downstream from culture. Leftist control in the face of rightist apathy results in Nixon being considered the worst president in history for his fumbling a third-rate burglary (which, IMO, was absolutely justified against the DNC nickelfuckers) and Scankles' outright violation of national security protocols being dismissed as part of the VRWC. I have never seen an Orthodox baptism but the entire dunking is a big thing and I think they have a ceremony/prayers about all the clothing they put on the baby. Sorry to get all "preachy" here but that's what I love about the church universal. You can go to an Evangelical church and have lively singing and clapping, You can go to a Orthodox Church and have lots of prayer. You can go to a Non denominational church and have great preaching. You can go to a Roman Catholic Church and as long as you're a RC who is in a state of grace you can have the Eucharist every week. You can go a Methodist church and have great hymns of the faith. We serve a big God who can be faithfully worshipped in a variety of ways. As long as we're focused on Jesus and founded on his death and resurrection and the word of Scripture any good worship service can bring us closer to Christ and to others which-IS what discipleship is all about. Thus endeth the lesson. ;^) Posted by: FenelonSpoke at March 31, 2016 12:01 PM (w4NZ8) 297Most chain pizza places never put enough sauce on even when you ask them too. I guess that extra 5 cents of sauce is a bridge too far. I prefer the indies, although little ceasers $5 hot and ready has saved dinner a few times. Posted by: Guy Mohawk at March 31, 2016 12:02 PM (ODxAs) 298 283. Well, you can skip 95% of America There is only one city which makes a pizza worth eating of course We all know which one 301I read an an article, I forget where, a few months back that established that this was her real name and proved it by tracing her through social media sites. It was obvious that this Jackie Coakley person was the 'Jackie' who made the fake rape allegations against the UVA fraternity.Posted by: OregonMuse at March 31, 2016 11:53 AM (wZfYc) 310 I think BeauJo's has been living off their reputation for a long time. Used to be the go-to place coming back to Denver from skiing. I haven't eaten there in a lonnnggggg time, and haven't heard much good from my sons who live in Denver. Posted by: Seamus Muldoon at March 31, 2016 12:04 PM (NeFrd) 311 Considering some of the other wars we've had around here, this one could be educational Just about 20 years ago, in the Toledo not pictured above, one yoot slew another over the last slice of pizza. And the prevailing opinion was, The one who paid for the pizza, gets the last slice of pizza. There was no sense of emotionalism whatever over the slaying part; everyone, regardless of ethnicity, cut to the chase. You often see the bigger pie/more slices economic allegories, by that was my first experience of the truly existential ethical aspect. Posted by: Stringer Davis at March 31, 2016 12:09 PM (xq1UY) 325 >>>64 What is the picture of, CBD. I know it's El Greco, but the title of the work? Posted by: FenelonSpoke at March 31, 2016 11:00 AM (w4NZ (I'm not CBD, but) hover your cursor over the image, or click the image, and you'll get the painting's title, "View of Toledo." authentic wanna-bes hung around and played on their softball team including Joey Merlino. Posted by: sven10077 at March 31, 2016 12:10 PM (g8Hfr) 327 >>America has very distinct regional preferences in Pizza cuisine amongst the mom and pops.... They even made a movie based on this concept, Mystic Pizza. I love pizza and travel a lot so I've tried a lot of different pizzas. Best I ever had was a small pop (no mom) shop on the south shore of MA. I don't know what he put in his sauce and he refused to tell anyone but damn it was awesome. I was just there (if we are talking about Idaho Springs, since they now have multiple locations). It's taken over the whole block practically and it was chaos. The pizza is still OK, not great. My kids like it, but then they like all pizza, the Philistines. Posted by: MTF at March 31, 2016 12:11 PM (/m8T6) 335 "Just about 20 years ago, in the Toledo not pictured above, one yoot slew another over the last slice of pizza..." If it was from the Cloverleaf Bar on the east side of Detroit, it would be justifiable homicide. Posted by: jwest at March 31, 2016 12:11 PM (Zs4uk) 336 >> As long as we're focused on Jesus and founded on his death and resurrection and the word of Scripture any good worship service can bring us closer to Christ and to others which-IS what discipleship is all about. 342 My family and I are big-time deep dish lovers. At some of the local places you have to eat with cutlery. My favorite local place has somehow crisped the thicker crust so you can eat with hands -- crust, cheese, toppings, then diced tomatoes and sauce. Mmmmmm. I grew up with sugar in tomato sauce (cuts the acidity), so my preferences go with that as well as the sturdier crust to hold more goodies. Posted by: mustbequantum at March 31, 2016 12:14 PM (MIKMs) 343 Who eats Pizza at a cheesesteak place? That's crazy. I didn't even know you could buy pizza there, and I lived a block away for a year (20 years ago, but still...). Posted by: MTF at March 31, 2016 12:14 PM (/m8T6) 344 Somebody might have linked this one above, dunno. Don't read the guy regularly, but do see him linked here some times, always seemed OK. But Heninger's WSJ piece on Bambi's great political victory, and esp. the summary of what's happened the last few years to the GOP - wow. Ridiculous. Thought this guy was one of the few substantive columnists (sort of absorbed that impression from others' reactions). Now, back to pizza ..... Posted by: rhomboid at March 31, 2016 12:14 PM (QDnY+) 345 Anyone else see this interview of Hilary! by the FBI director as a prelude to a decision not to indict? 348 >>I think BeauJo's has been living off their reputation for a long time. Sadly, I think that is true. Just have happy childhood memories of stopping there on the way home from the mountains. Posted by: Lizzy at March 31, 2016 12:15 PM (NOIQH) 349 "Statistics" is the mathematical term for what was once called "lying."Which reminds me, pizza-wise, the Pie Chart was invented by the founder of the Red Cross. Conspiracy? I had a more-or-less genuine Italian pizza once in Cleveland, as a child. Then followed 25 years of ketchup on crackers, as pizza took the nation by storm. Pizza is now a world phenomenon, and it little profits to compare it to its real progenitor. Imo's is similar in spirit to Cassano's and I was looking forward to flipping off Ferguson in passing. St Louis mob. It was supposedly enforced with a wink and a nod that no pizza joint would try to duplicate or use provel. Not while old man Imo was alive. Since he passed, the kids could care less. Hell, you can buy all of the ingredients at Schnucks grocery stores. My aunt is bringing a 5 lb block next time she comes down. Posted by: rickb223 at March 31, 2016 12:15 PM (lADRM) 351Muldoon and I hitting on all cylinders. Posted by: Guy MohawkUsing a Swedish-made penis enlarger pump? 358 MP4, if you are still around - I was wondering if you saw the Hail Caesar movie, and if so, what you thought of it. Most of the reviews I saw were meh, except that Sonny Bunch loved it, and Mark Steyn LOVED it. That makes me think I would like it too. Just wondering your thoughts, given your background and knowledge. Yep. Deep dish pizza is for tourists. When I lived in Chicago, I didn't know a single native who ate it. Most of the local pizza places (not the chains) did a thin crust, heavy on the toppings. Very good. However, if you've never had a stuffed pizza, that is kind of like a giant calzone made in a pan and is pretty good. There's a place on the north side called Piero's that does a really good job with those. 412 BBQ? Dry or wet, both good. Which is why I do one rack dry-rubbed (my own mix), one rack just salt ampersand pepper, sauce it at the very end, when I do my amazing, improbably excellent baby backs on the gas grill. I do plan to get a smoker before long, but I have learned that, against the conventional wisdom, one can in fact do ribs low-and-slow (around 220) on a gas grill. And to push further into heretical territory, a pork shoulder in the slow cooker produces pulled pork that I'd rank with anything "real" done the right way, as far as flavor. Current favorite is a bourbon-mango version. Posted by: rhomboid at March 31, 2016 12:28 PM (QDnY+) 413 MW, I'm not surprised. A real Pizza Margherita is just about an appetizer. A form of bread, with just cheese and sauce. But oh, what cheese and sauce. I'm in kind of a pizza town by modern definition, two national chains from here, one I can throw a rock to the original site, and almost every shop has dropped anchovies from the ingredient list. This is certainly a break from the Roman tradition. Romans used fermented-anchovy sauce on almost everything. Garum. Before you gag, that's the basic ingredient of Worcestershire. I can only surmise that the ewww-factor of the weak and squeamish finally triumphed. I've known those who couldn't be in the same room with it. Posted by: Stringer Davis at March 31, 2016 12:28 PM (xq1UY) 414 >>The director, if he questions her, makes himself a witness in the case. I have no idea what's up with this, but it *could* be that he wants to put the full weight of the FBI into the interview since Hills has long had a reputation of treating people of lower levels (aides, SS agents, etc.) like sh#t. Not saying she won't treat Comey like sh#t, but having the CIA Director does convey that they will not be intimidated by her highness. 416 My Mom grew up with Jean Totino of the Totino Pizza family. Used to eat their REAL pizza at their shop in NE Mpls. I must admit, i do like the Totino's frozen Pizzas... I am not sure what is wrong with me I tried to find the place in Missoula and wound up declaring defeat.... We found a place by accident in Bozeman (home of the warp drive) that wife wants to go back and try... (they were closed for Easter on our way in) Posted by: sven10077 at March 31, 2016 12:30 PM (g8Hfr) 423 It corresponds to baron in rank;[2] a Freiherr is sometimes also referred to as "Baron"; he is always addressed as "Herr Baron" or (more familiarly) "Baron". If he belongs to the Uradel, he enjoys the predicate High Born; otherwise, he is High-Well Born together with all proper nobility. 424 >>but decided if we settle here permanent we will likely live North of Helena along the Misery River. Let me know if you do, I'll wave when I float by! Posted by: garrett at March 31, 2016 12:30 PM (mEs7I) 425 Are other agents going to be in the room? Is it gonna be filmed? What if he says she said X, and she says she said Y? Who is going to testify to what she said earlier? Is she going to be under oath? 437 The first time I ever laid eyes on the yet-to-be Missus Muldoon I was working at a Shakey's Pizza Parlor in Broomfield, CO and she was a customer. Sadly I didn't actually meet her until several years later. Posted by: Seamus Muldoon at March 31, 2016 12:34 PM (NeFrd) 438 Are other agents going to be in the room? Is it gonna be filmed? What if he says she said X, and she says she said Y? Who is going to testify to what she said earlier? Is she going to be under oath? Nah after this trip to see dad I think wife wants to go home when she hangs up her guns. I am not going to argue, my favorite sister has Alzheimer's and I have nightmares about nobody being there when I go back... but home is home. Posted by: sven10077 at March 31, 2016 12:34 PM (g8Hfr) 440 So ol' Ted Cruz is indulging in some good, old fashion GOPe-MSM-Leftwing Trump-hating. Now some see Cruz as some sort of Knight of the Right. He ain't. He's a gomer who is perfectly willing to stand at the border with Glenn Beck handing out toys to kids as they wade the Rio Grande and gas on with late-night hosts with dreams of running Donald Trump over with a car. A real class act. I used to think a Ted Cruz administration would be something like a third-term GW Bush deal. Now I think he's a lot closer to Clinton. Posted by: mrp at March 31, 2016 12:34 PM (JBggj) 441 When you are too big to jail, you get a private interview, no cameras, no tapes, no witnesses. When you are a chump, you get handcuffed to the steel table, everything is recorded, and the whole crowd watches the drama through the one-way mirror. When was the last time this director ever. Inducted a criminal interview Posted by: ThunderB at March 31, 2016 12:35 PM (zOTsN) 443 So Stringer, you're telling us that fish sauce was/is a Roman delicacy, not just southeast Asian? I use it a few V'mese and Thai dishes, it's great when used properly. But it was, how to say, a full olfactory experience when passing through the section of Mui Ne (small resort area, coast of southern Vietnam) where the fish sauce factories were. Wow. I suppose workers there get used to it. 459 If he does the interview this is all show, guts the substance, and fucks up the case Posted by: ThunderB at March 31, 2016 12:39 PM (zOTsN) 460 When you are too big to jail, you get a private interview, no cameras, no tapes, no witnesses. When you are a chump, you get handcuffed to the steel table, everything is recorded, and the whole crowd watches the drama through the one-way mirror. Posted by: the littl shyning man When you're a patsy, the media is tipped off and you are dragged off by over fifty cops for a nonviolent "parole violation". Mighty mo you tube video. Posted by: Haven Monahan at March 31, 2016 12:39 PM (326rv) 461Can you imagine, in our time, how much energy it must take to keep a deception like N. Korea going. I must be a massive drain on their economy. Nah, people are generally openly happy to be manipulated and lied to. Look how easy it is for the regime here to do it. At some point it's a self sustaining system. In the US now I think we've passed that point and it is nominally stable. Us morons are just bumps along the way that occasionally perturbates the leftist machine for a moment until it automatically steers back on course. We could shove it good and hard to see what happens but lacking that minimal effort on the part of the statists is really required any more. 463 Red Baron pizza is from the same company as Schwan's delivery service.So, you can get frozen pizza, delivered. I had so many poor memories of it from motels and such that in years of Scwan's patronage I never got one. People say they are the better frozen pizza, but, what would I know. I am frequently dismayed at the grocery store, currently expanding to be more Whole Foodie, at the one entire Kroger-length aisle freezer bank with nothing.but.frozen.pizzas. My town. A fond memory of Tombstone, even though I've found them crummy. Many years ago they were a sponsor of the Novi racing team. It takes one hell of a man to climb into an 800-hp Indy car with a widow-maker reputation that also says "Tombstone" in great big letters right on the aerodynamic fin behind your head. You're forgetting he knows the answer to this one, Brian Pagliano. And he has been talking for months ever since being given immunity. Nobody knows how much he has given up but he may have already given enough information that Hillary has to either lie or take the 5th. I'm not holding my breath on an indictment but if anyone in this administration is going to go after Hillary it's Comey. I used an encoded non-ASCII in my nic above. As usual, it screws with the Pixy cookie. Name field came back with the character (not encoded), plus my email, and the email field came back blank. How to confuse the hamsters, lesson #435. BTW, Pixy announced the other night that there would be new comment software rolling out "in the next few days," and linked to a sample website with it. I noted that the "comments" link on the main page required javascript. Siiiigh. Who knows what else will be munged? I admit I liked Tony's AND Red baron's "Double Topping" Pizzas back in the 80s. Posted by: sven10077 at March 31, 2016 12:41 PM (g8Hfr) 467 Exactly, ThunderB. They will not. I just do not believe it will ever be allowed for a group of agents to grill Her Regalness like they would a normal person. I see a quiet person to person meeting where he has a somewhat deferential tone. Then he reports that he had a long interview with her and is satisfied that after exhaustive review (1) there simply is not enough evidence to indict; (2) she realizes things were done carelessly and she assumed full responsibility and will correct the problem; and (3) in any case, he is personally satisfied that she has told the truth and that there was no intent to deceive. Posted by: RM at March 31, 2016 12:43 PM (U3LtS) 468 We used to put Totino's frozen pizza rolls on flat glass going into the tempering furnace, 1400F. You pulled them at door 4, and they were done to a turn.Very expensive pizza oven. Posted by: Stringer Davis at March 31, 2016 12:45 PM (xq1UY) 469 306 How to eat pizza. Is this the Yankee version of beans or no beans in chili? Posted by: Duke Lowell at March 31, 2016 12:04 PM (kTF2Z) Thanks, MP4. I will put it on our Netflix queue as well. I thought it sounded great - and the fact that the MSM didn't care much for it but two conservative writers did just makes is that much more appealing to me. Here's the thing though. I was born in El Paso, but only spent the first couple of months of life there. Then I spent most of my life in Calif. Until I moved to TX about a year ago. So TECHNICALLY you might call me a natural-born Texan, but I hesitate to claim that title. 483 So, today's adventure in Aiming High, after the boss left (boss is actually very good)...brought to you by the man who is the ringleader in the newguy beatdown program, the guy who has most set the tone of "you don't get to be thought smart until I've had my fun with you. About a year from now." (and who hasn't appreciated not being able to do it--my cell phone locker key disappeared off my desk today): "Holocaust Remembrance...what's the Holocaust...oh yeah, a good start." "Remember the "beers, no bitches" parties?" ("beers, no bitches" said about five more times the next three minutes) "Yeah, he was a homo. Homo...Homo...every model has a homo in it" (Homo said like ten times over the next five minutes). At some point, I begin to consider he just might be a jackass. Posted by: The Most Dangerous Game at March 31, 2016 06:11 PM (J3UIw) 484 Oh, I forgot about the "hand-holding" everybody else needed today. He forgets that is actually why he is still employed, because he's the only guy who understands the thing. Except for the junior guy who's up and coming. As opposed to the guy who is going. | Low | [
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Q: Demonstration that two distances aren't equivalent. I'd like to find an example that shows that the following distances aren't equivalent in $X=C([0,1])$: $$d_\infty(f,g)=\sup_{x\in [0,1]}|f(x)-g(x)|$$ $$d_1(f,g)=\int_0^1|f(x)-g(x)|dx$$ Someone can help me? A: Consider two functions that are equal at "most" locations, but are different on a very small set. Then the $d_1$ distance will be small, where the $d_\infty$ distance will be relatively larger - this distance second doesn't care that the functions are close most of the time, it just looks for the biggest difference. Concretely, you could try $f(x) \equiv 0$ and $$ g_n(x) = \begin{cases} 1 - n x &: 0 \leq x \leq \frac{1}{n}, \\ 0 &: \frac{1}{n} < x \leq 1. \end{cases} $$ Then $d_\infty(f,g_n) = 1$, while $d_1(f,g_n) = 1/2n$. Now, let's assume these metrics are equivalent. Then, among other things$^*$, there needs to be a constant such that $$ C d_\infty(f,g) \leq d_1(f,g) $$ for all $f,g$. But, as we have seen $$ d_\infty(f,g_n) = 1 \\ d_1(f,g_n) = \frac{1}{2n} $$ and there is no positive constant so that $$ C \leq \frac{1}{2n} $$ for all $n$. *: of course, the other thing that would have to hold is $$ \widetilde C d_1(f,g) \leq d_\infty(f,g) $$ for some other constant $\widetilde C$ and all $f,g$. But, this is true: $$ d_1(f,g) = \int_0^1 |f(x) - g(x)| \,dx \leq \int_0^1 \sup_{x \in [0,1]} |f(x) - g(x)|\,dx = \int_0^1 d_\infty(f,g) \,dx = d_\infty(f,g) $$ | High | [
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Internship Intern developer A little about us We are Pirate Studios, a rapidly expanding music rehearsal studio company, currently based in 8 cities in the UK. We're planning on at least doubling that by the end of this year. A big part of our business is our online booking system, however we're also working to integrate technology into more aspects of the business, such as automatic power on/off, light controls, video/audio streaming etc. About the Job We're looking for an enthusiastic developer who is willing to learn new things, throw around ideas, and work as part of our small development team on various projects. It will start as a 3 month, paid part-time internship (3 days a week), with the view to taking a full-time permanent role. Our current web stack is built in Ruby (Rails, Postgres, Redis), but anyone willing to learn new languages is welcome. We are working on rebuilding our main application into a separate API and client parts to allow us to build for new platforms more easily, such as a mobile application and integrated components inside our studios. We're looking for someone to work in our London office in Dalston. We sometimes do R&D and testing on-site in the studios, and we work alongside a large team of people who design and build the studios. As we'll be expanding our team we will be revising how we plan out our projects, especially as we are now moving into long-term rebuilds. Everyone's opinion is welcome and you can get stuck in with a variety of different projects straight away. Our Current Systems Main Application Ruby, Ruby on Rails, PostgreSQL, Redis, memcached. Embedded Systems We currently have a beta system for switching power on and off in rooms written in Rust and deployed on Raspberry Pi units. Management of these devices is currently something we want to research better, as existing solutions are both limited and expensive. Future Systems API Implemented in Rails 5 as an API-only application. Web Client Most likely implemented in React. Embedded Client Certain functionality will be available in the studios themselves. Most likely implemented in React and Electron. Mobile Clients Something we will be planning again once we have more people on board. Admin and Support Systems Current solutions don't really work for us, help us design something better for our support team. What we’re looking for: A good understanding of the primary frontend languages (HTML, CSS, Javascript) Experience with any backend language An understanding of responsive development and cross browser compatibility Good communication and personal skills Enthusiastic about technology, code and learning Bonus skills: Experience with build tools and Sass Ruby and Git Understand at least one javascript pattern and its importance Varied database experience (we currently use PostgreSQL and Redis, with an experiment using RethinkDB for one project) Experience in some form of project-management system, such as Agile or Scrum Music As a music startup we obviously have a lot of staff who are excited about music, performance, or production. It's not a requirement but if that's your sorta thing then our project may be more exciting for you! Benefits Competitive salary based on experience 22 days of holiday leave (not including public holidays) Company laptop if needed Working in a young friendly environment Interested? Send us your details and any questions. Give us an outline of who you are, what you do, what you enjoy, and any examples of your work or open-source projects you have/contribute to. | Mid | [
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Ecce Homo (Theme From Mr Bean) Video: Ecce homo qui est faba.Ecce homo qui est faba.Vale homo qui est faba, qui est faba, qui est fabaVale homo qui est fabaVale homo qui est faba, qui est fabaTRANSLATION:Behold the man who is a bean.Farewell the man who is a bean | Low | [
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Correction appended: August 11, 2015. The body of a rugby player who represented Sri Lanka was exhumed by authorities in the capital, Colombo, on Monday in order to check for signs of torture, as part of an investigation into his death three years ago, the BBC reports. Wasim Thajudeen was found dead inside a burning car in Colombo in May 2012. The case was initially ruled an accident, the BBC says, but reopened this year over allegations that former President Mahinda Rajapaksa’s youngest son Yoshitha — with whom Thajudeen was reportedly in a dispute over a mutual love interest — had him killed. Thajudeen’s body was unearthed from a Muslim burial ground on the outskirts of Colombo in the presence of a judge as protesters gathered outside to shout anti-Rajapaksa slogans. New evidence shows that the car used in the abduction belonged to the Sri Lanka Red Cross Society, but was being used at the time by a charity of then First Lady Shiranti Rajapaksa, the BBC says. Police cited medical examination reports that said Thajudeen’s body bore torture marks along with broken bones and teeth. “The body had been wrapped in a plastic bag so it is well preserved, and we hope to be able to finish our work very soon,” chief judicial medical officer Ajith Thennakoon said. The Rajapaksa family strongly refutes the allegations and says the investigation is a politically motivated attempted to smear the former President in the run-up to next week’s parliamentary elections. The former President is seeking a political comeback as the small island nation’s Prime Minister after being ousted in this year’s presidential election following almost a decade in power, but continues to be under scrutiny for alleged corruption during his two terms at the country’s helm. “We totally deny this. Even without doing a proper investigation they are pointing the fingers at the Rajapaksas,” his eldest son Namal told the BBC. “They began this investigation just ahead of the election so we all know it’s politically motivated to target us.” Correction: The original version of this story misstated the suspected role of a car belonging to the Sri Lankan Red Cross Society. New evidence suggests it was used to abduct Wasim Thajudeen. Get The Brief. Sign up to receive the top stories you need to know right now. Please enter a valid email address. Sign Up Now Check the box if you do not wish to receive promotional offers via email from TIME. You can unsubscribe at any time. By signing up you are agreeing to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy . This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply. Thank you! For your security, we've sent a confirmation email to the address you entered. Click the link to confirm your subscription and begin receiving our newsletters. If you don't get the confirmation within 10 minutes, please check your spam folder. Write to Rishi Iyengar at [email protected]. | Low | [
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1. Introduction {#sec1} =============== Bouveret\'s syndrome is a rare cause of gastric outlet obstruction owing to the impaction of a large gall stone in the duodenal bulb after migration through a bilioduodenal fistula. It is a rare variant of a relatively rare disease (gall stone ileus) with an overall incidence of 1--3% [@bib1]. It was first described in 1896 by a French physician, Leon Bouveret, who reported two cases of gastric outlet obstruction due to gall stones in\[his\]- "Revue Medicale" [@bib2]. Since then, only few cases of Bouveret\'s syndrome have been reported in the worldwide medical literature. Owing to its uncommon and unpredictable symptomatology, Bouveret\'s syndrome can pose as a diagnostic and therapeutic challenge for clinicians. The aim of reporting this case is to increase clinical awareness which will ultimately lead to early diagnosis and timely management of this rare syndrome. 2. Presentation of case {#sec2} ======================= A 45 year old woman presented with complaints of recurrent mild pain in the upper abdomen for the last 8 years, often associated with multiple episodes of nausea and non-bilious vomiting. Pain started in epigastrium and spread to right hypochondrium, and it was not associated with fever. Patient did not have any history of jaundice or prior surgery. She did not have any other abdominal complaints. The patient also did not reveal any other significant personal or family history. On examination, all the vital signs were within normal limits and the patient was afebrile and non icteric. Mild tenderness ellicited in epigastrium and right hypochondrium, however there was no guarding or rigidity. No lump or organomegaly was present and the bowel sounds were normal. Laboratory investigations were all within normal limits including the liver function test. An ultrasonography of the abdomen revealed a partially distended thick walled gal-bladder with multiple calculi in the lumen suggestive of chronic cholecystitis. The patient was treated conservatively as a case of calculous cholecystitis and was planned for elective cholecystectomy. Patient returned after 15 days with complaints of abdominal pain and distension post meals associated with recurrent episodes of vomiting. On examination, the patient had distension over the epigastrium with tenderness. There was no rebound tenderness or guarding. Succussion splash was positive and bowel sounds were sluggish. Digital rectal examination did not reveal any abnormality. An upper Gastro-Intestinal endoscopy was performed which revealed duodenal ulceration with a stony hard lesion in first part of duodenum. The scope could not be negotiated beyond first part of duodenum. Multiple Biopsies were taken from the ulceration site and histopathological examination revealed only inflammatory changes. A contrast enhanced computed tomographic (CECT) scan of abdomen depicted a cholecystoduodenal fistula (in the first part of duodenum) with a gall stone in proximal jejunal loop, sludge and concretions in the gall-bladder with a distended fluid filled stomach with pneumobilia ([Figs. 1 and 2](#fig1 fig2){ref-type="fig"}). Exploratory laparotomy was planned with a working diagnosis of gastric outlet obstruction (GOO). Operative findings were: a pulled up pylorus densely plastered at porta-hepatis with no palpable mass or scarring in duodenum or pylorus. A 5 × 4 cm calculus extracted from jejunum, 15 cm distal to duodeno-jejunal junction ([Figs. 3--5](#fig3 fig4 fig5){ref-type="fig"}). Gall bladder was contracted with sludge and concretions and a fistulous tract from gall bladder to first part of duodenum. Cholecystectomy with enterolithotomy and closure of the fistulous tract with gastro-jejunostomy was performed under general anesthesia. Post operative period was uneventful and the patient was discharged on 7th day. The patient is on a regular follow up. Patient had an uneventful recovery. 3. Discussion {#sec3} ============= Bouveret\'s syndrome is an uncommon cause of GOO owing to intraluminal duodenal obstruction by gall stone which has migrated through a bilio-enteric fistula. Gall stone ileus is the more commonly heard complication of cholelithiasis (0.3--4%) [@bib3]. The most common level of obstruction is the terminal ileum (60--70%), followed by the proximal ileum (25%), distal ileum (10%), jejunum (9%), colon (4%), rectum (2%), and lastly the duodenum (1--3%) [@bib3]. This syndrome was first described by Beaussier in 1770 but it has been named after the French physician Leon Bouveret after his publication of 2 case reports in the Revue Medicale in 1896^2^. Around 1% of gall stone cases develop bilio-enteric fistulas [@bib4]. Types of bilio-enteric fistulas include cholecystoduodenal (60%), cholecystocolic (17%), cholecystogastric (5%), choledochoduodenal (5%) [@bib4]. Fistula formation is thought to occur as a result of adhesions between the gall bladder and the bowel wall secondary to chronic inflammation, impaired arterial blood supply and decreased venous drainage [@bib5]. Ensuing fistula formation can occur from pressure necrosis and compression of the gall stone against the gall bladder wall. The subsequent passage of the gall stones can occur via the fistula and the stone may get enlarged due to accumulation of salts and fecal matter on its surface. Risk Factors for Bouveret\'s syndrome are age more than 70 years, female gender, gall stones more than 2.5 cm in size, post surgical altered GI anatomy [@bib6]. Symptoms include vomiting (87%), abdominal pain (71%), hematemesis (15%), recent weight loss (14%), anorexia (13%) [@bib7]. Common signs encompass abdominal tenderness (44%), signs of dehydration (31%), abdominal distension (26%) [@bib7]. Extrinsic duodenal compression by a massively enlarged gall bladder containing multiple calculi may also cause GOO (pseudo-Bouveret\'s syndrome) [@bib8]. Bouveret\'s syndrome results in complications such as duodenal perforation, hematemesis (Mallory-Weiss tear), distal oesophageal rupture (Boerhaave\'s syndrome), gastric bezoar [@bib7]. Abdominal X-ray can show Rigler\'s triad (pneumobilia, small bowel obstruction and gall stones) in 30--35% cases [@bib9]. Ultrasonography abdomen is helpful in 60% of cases and can reveal fluid filled distended stomach, features suggestive of cholecystitis, ectopic gall stone, pneumobilia. CECT abdomen has a sensitivity of 93%, specificity of 100% and diagnostic accuracy of 99% [@bib10]. It can demonstrate the exact site of obstruction, fistula and gall bladder status [@bib11]. MRCP has main utility in patients intolerant to oral contrast. It can differentiate between gall stone and surrounding bile (CT scan cannot in 15--25% cases) [@bib11]. UGI endoscopy is both diagnostic and therapeutic. The common findings are stone causing obstruction (69%), obstruction without visualized stone or fistula (31%), partially visualized through duodenal wall (\<1%), inflammation, edema or ulcer at impacted site, retained food or fluid in stomach [@bib7]. Treatment options available are Endoscopic, Open Surgery and Laparoscopic Approach. Endoscopic approaches include endoscopic extraction, endoscopic laser lithotripsy, extracorporeal shockwave lithotripsy and intracorporeal electrohydraulic lithotripsy. The first successful endoscopic extraction has been described in 1985 by Bedogni et al. [@bib12]. Subsequently, a number of case reports have been published describing successful endoscopic management of Bouveret\'s syndrome [@bib3]. Endoscopic management often requires the use of different sized and shaped snares, grasping forceps, retrieval baskets and nets, biliary balloons, and sometimes even a side-viewing endoscope and hence can be technically challenging, time-consuming, and success rates in case series have been previously reportedly to be less than 10% [@bib3]. While the majority of patients tolerate attempted endoscopic treatment, pulseless electrical activity (PEA) can occur during mechanical retrieval due to the gall stone getting lodged in the esophagus. The PEA abruptly resolved when the stone was pushed back into the stomach [@bib13]. Indications for open surgery [@bib3; @bib14] are stone size greater than 2.5 cm, residual stones in GB, multiple stones in intestinal lumen, sepsis, perforation, stricture and failure of endoscopic approach. Open surgery involves enterolithotomy with cholecystectomy with fistula repair. Different authors have recommended different approaches for management of Bouveret\'s syndrome as shown in [Table 1](#tbl1){ref-type="table"}. Laparoscopy is also an additional option for surgical treatment. However it is difficult and has a long learning curve. Sica et al. reported, in 2005, the first case of uneventful stone removal and cholecystectomy by laparoscopy [@bib15]. Usually enterolithotomy is performed at the site of impaction. A study by Capell & Davis in 2006 showed bile leak and duodenal leak in patients underwent enterolithotomy alone or enterolithotomy + cholecystectomy. Keeping this in mind, instead of doing enterotomy at the site of impaction which may have underlying mucosal ischemia, certain case reports mention milking the stone down along the jejunum and enterolithotomy or milking proximally into the stomach [@bib16]. In our case, an open enterolithotomy with cholecystectomy with fistula repair and gastro-jejunostomy was done as the pylorus was pulled up and plastered at the porta hepatis. This resulted in an alteration in the normal anatomic outflow of gastric contents and would have eventually led to gastroparesis. The ulcer noted in first part of duodenum could have led to stricture formation. In order to spare the patient from a future surgery for GOO (this time due to a different cause) which would significantly increase his morbidity, we did a pyloric bypass via gastro-jejunostomy. As the patient was young and vitally stable with no comorbidities, enterolithotomy with cholecystectomy with fistula repair was done in single sitting. 4. Conclusion {#sec4} ============= •High degree of suspicion is required to diagnose Bouveret syndrome pre-operatively. Deviation from the classical presentation of cholelithiasis with a tilt towards GOO should be taken as a red flag sign for Bouveret\'s syndrome which definitely has a high incidence with the following features if present:○gall stone more than 2.5 cms in size.○pneumobilia and fluid filled distended stomach in ultrasonogram.○incidental endoscopic finding of obstruction in later part of duodenum & proximal jejunum.•GOO can encompasse a band of etiologies varying from benign to malignant tumors to the rarer Bouveret\'s syndrome and gall stone ileus. A case of cholelithiasis with presentation of GOO must raise a high index of suspicion towards Bouveret\'s syndrome. There is no gold standard principle laid down for the management of Bouveret\'s syndrome as it depends on the site of lodgement of stone, the pathological outcome attributed to the presence of the stone and the anatomical distortion. The most common treatment offered is enterolithotomy with cholecystectomy with fistula repair in a stable patient, whereas in this particular case report the operative findings warranted a deviation, which included incorporation of added gastro-jejunostomy. Hence, this case report not only presents red flags but also this sort of anatomical presentation, requiring a variance of operative management from the standard. Ethical approval {#sec5} ================ As this is not a research study but a case reporting with no mention of patient\'s personal details anywhere in the report, ethical approval has not been sought. Sources of funding {#sec6} ================== None. Author contribution {#sec7} =================== Conception and Design of case report -- Dr. S.V. Arya, Dr. Dheer Singh Kalwaniya. Drafting of article and revising it for important intellectual content -- Dr. Soumya Guha. Dr. Manigandan G. Other contributors -- Dr. Ralte, Dr. Jasneet, Dr. Ashok Sharma, Dr. Rajkumar Chejara. Conflicts of interest {#sec8} ===================== None. Guarantor {#sec9} ========= Dr. Dheer Singh Kalwaniya. Dr. Soumya Guha. Consent {#sec10} ======= Written informed consent was obtained from the patient for publication of this case report and accompanying images. A copy of the written consent is available for review by the Editor-in-Chief of this journal on request. {#fig1} {#fig2} {#fig3} {#fig4} {#fig5} ###### Different surgical procedures used to treat Bouveret\'s syndrome. S.no. Study group Yr. No. of cases Management ------- -------------------------- ------ -------------- ------------------------------------------------------------------------ 1 Masannat Yazan A. et al. 2006 1 Enterolithotomy 2 Cappell and Davis 2006 37 Enterolithotomy 3 Cappell and Davis 2006 28 Enterolithotomy + Cholecystectomy + Fistula repair 4 Tanwar S. et al. 2008 1 Endoscopic stone extraction 5 O′ Neill C. et al. 2009 2 Enterolithotomy 6 Giese A. et al. 2010 1 Enterolithotomy + cholecystectomy + fistula repair 7 Baloyiannis I. et al. 2012 1 Enterolithotomy + cholecystectomy + fistula repair + gastrojejunostomy 8 Mavroeidis V.K. et al. 2013 1 Enterolithotomy 9 Calvo Espino P. et al. 2014 1 Enterolithotomy 10 Case by S5 at SJH 2014 1 Enterolithotomy + cholecystectomy + fistula repair + gastrojejunostomy | Mid | [
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Retinoid agonist activities of synthetic geranyl geranoic acid derivatives. Micromolar concentrations of 4,5- didehydro geranyl geranoic acid (GGA) were able to induce up-regulation of retinoic acid receptor-beta gene expression in human hepatoma-derived cell line, HuH-7, to the same extent as all-trans RA. In chloramphenicol acetyl transferase (CAT) assay with retinoic acid response element-beta, GGA and 4,5-didehydro GGA were both positive, but 2,3-dihydro GGA was negative, even though these GGA derivatives have been reported to be all potent ligands for cellular retinoic-acid-binding protein(CRABP). However, 10,11,14,15- tetrahydro- 4,5- didehydro GGA, a compound without any affinity for CRABP, transactivated CAT gene expression. On the other hand, only GGA and 4,5-didehydro GGA were active to induce CAT gene expression through retinoid X response element of cellular retinol binding protein, type II gene. We show for the first time that chemically synthesized acyclic organic acids are potential agonists of natural retinoids. | High | [
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{ "name": "@cloudcomponents/cdk-codepipeline-anchore-inline-scan-action", "version": "1.0.26", "description": "CodePipeline action to integrate Anchore Engine into your pipeline", "license": "MIT", "author": { "name": "hupe1980", "url": "https://github.com/hupe1980" }, "awscdkio": { "twitter": "hupe1980" }, "repository": { "type": "git", "url": "https://github.com/cloudcomponents/cdk-components.git", "directory": "packages/cdk-codepipeline-anchore-inline-scan-action" }, "homepage": "https://github.com/cloudcomponents/cdk-components", "keywords": [ "aws", "cdk", "docker", "sast", "anchore", "cve", "security", "@cloudcomponents" ], "main": "lib/index.js", "types": "lib/index.d.ts", "files": [ "lib", ".jsii" ], "scripts": { "build": "cdkdx build", "watch": "cdkdx build -w", "test": "cdkdx test", "lint": "cdkdx lint", "upgrade:cdk": "cdkdx upgrade-cdk", "package": "cdkdx package", "docgen": "cdkdx docgen", "release:npm": "cdkdx release npm", "release:pypi": "cdkdx release pypi" }, "jsii": { "outdir": "dist", "tsc": { "outDir": "lib", "rootDir": "src" }, "excludeTypescript": [ "src/lambdas", "src/**/__tests__" ], "targets": { "python": { "distName": "cloudcomponents.cdk-codepipeline-anchore-inline-scan-action", "module": "cloudcomponents.cdk_codepipeline_anchore_inline_scan_action" } } }, "peerDependencies": { "@aws-cdk/aws-codebuild": "^1.64.0", "@aws-cdk/aws-codepipeline": "^1.64.0", "@aws-cdk/aws-codepipeline-actions": "^1.64.0", "@aws-cdk/aws-iam": "^1.64.0", "@aws-cdk/core": "^1.64.0", "constructs": "^3.0.4" }, "dependencies": { "@aws-cdk/aws-codebuild": "^1.64.0", "@aws-cdk/aws-codepipeline": "^1.64.0", "@aws-cdk/aws-codepipeline-actions": "^1.64.0", "@aws-cdk/aws-iam": "^1.64.0", "@aws-cdk/core": "^1.64.0" }, "devDependencies": { "@aws-cdk/assert": "^1.64.0", "@aws-cdk/aws-codecommit": "^1.64.0", "jest-cdk-snapshot": "^1.4.0" }, "gitHead": "b1ac0776c6169c1ca4a1434cad09d99c0ecb41ab" } | Mid | [
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The invention relates to a hair roller used for setting hair into a predetermined pattern of curls and waves, by winding strands of hair around the heated cylindrical body. These rollers are heated by being placed on heated metal posts forming part of an electric hair setter unit, which is usually in the form of a metal plate carrying from 5 to 30 posts, each post heating one curler. Upon the rollers reaching the suitable temperature, they are taken off the posts, one by one, and placed into the correct position in a woman's head hair. The existing rollers comprise a cylindrical hollow body of a thermo-plastic material, provided on its outer surface with a plurality of radial teeth and, optionally, with co-axial rings at one or both ends. The cylindrical hollow portion of the plastics body is provided with a tubular insert which is generally pressed into the body and which is adapted to transfer heat from the heated metal post on which it is placed, to the outer surface of the roller, and to the hair wound around it. The metal posts of the existing hair setter units are either cylindrical or frusto-conical, and it will be readily understood that the contact area between metal insert and post is only along a line or a narrow strip; in the case of a conical post, contact is along the circular lower edge of the tubular insert, and in the case of a cylindrical post, contact is along a straight longitudinal line on the cylinder surface. Only this small contact area serves to transfer heat by conduction, and most of the heat is, therefore transmitted by convection through interposed air, resulting in rather slow heat transfer. Another drawback of the existing rollers is the frequent loosening of the insert caused by different coefficients of expansion of the metal and the plastics, further reducing heat transfer between these components. A further drawback of the cylindrical insert is frequent wedging or jamming of the roller, but on a cylindrical and a frusto-conical post. With a view to obviate these drawbacks, it is a primary object of the present invention to provide a hair roller wherein a tubular metal insert is elastically pressed against the inner walls of the plastics curler body. A second object is to provide intimate contact between frusto-conical or conical posts and the insert over a large portion of the entire insert surface. Still another object is to prevent the rollers from wedging on the posts and hindering their ready removal therefrom. | Mid | [
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I've searched around a bit and my question seems a bit more specific than my searching skills yield. Long story short I'm building a pair of fonken floorstander MKII's for a good friend. I'm wanting to streamline the build and make the finishing process much less time consuming, but not sacrifice long term durabilty. Is it generally considered structurally acceptable to use just butt joints (no dado, dowels, biscuits, etc.), pva glue, and obviously sufficient clamping when assembling a speaker cabinet of suitable engineered materials (ply, mdf, etc.)? I'm really trying to avoid using screws, and adversely having to fill and sand holes to the tune of 50 per cab. Thoughts? Any advice/input appreciated. I've made many cabs like this, you just need to make sure you have enough clamps! __________________ Rick: Oh Cliff / Sometimes it must be difficult not to feel as if / You really are a cliff / when fascists keep trying to push you over it! / Are they the lemmings / Or are you, Cliff? / Or are you Cliff? Apart from the first couple of boxes I built I've always just used butt joints and glue (first PVA now always Cascamite) and never had a problem. Adding a rebate makes it a lot easier to keep the panels aligned though. I like dowels, with the right jig it makes assembly a lot easier. I aso use polyurethene glue, it will fill any gaps, so guaranteeing a good air tight seal. But using butt joints only can be done, I find it awkward if glueing large things, which is why I ended up bying a couple of doweling jigs. Tried biscuits, but found dowels more accurate. To stop stuff sliding around on a film of glue whilst clamping, just sprinkle a tiny bit of sand on the joints, it'll cut through the glue, yet compress into the wood and not hold it apart. Oh and I'm not saying there aren't many ways of building cabs, I have dado blades for the tablesaw, biscuit and dowel cutters, as well as my favourite, the air nailer, but glue and clamps does work. __________________ Rick: Oh Cliff / Sometimes it must be difficult not to feel as if / You really are a cliff / when fascists keep trying to push you over it! / Are they the lemmings / Or are you, Cliff? / Or are you Cliff? | Mid | [
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Comments:I am married (1992) and have a son (1995). After discovering computers while on my mission, I have been in the computer industry ever since. Over the years I have reflected back on my missionary experiences. It was a crossroads in my life that set me on a different path. There were several Elders that have had an impact on me while serving: Rob Christensen, Gene Yates, Lance Jesperson. If anyone knows where they are please drop me a line. Everyone feel free to contact me. Would love to catch up. | Low | [
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938 So.2d 74 (2006) Pearlie Bell, Wife of/and Timothy HARRIS v. Betty C. POCHE, GBS Properties, L.L.C., d/b/a Prudential Gardner, Realtors, Glenn M. Mediamolle and English Turn Limited Partnership. No. 2006-C-1113. Supreme Court of Louisiana. October 6, 2006. *75 Denied. CALOGERO, C.J., would grant. KIMBALL, J., would grant. VICTORY, J., would grant. | Low | [
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Nagarbhavi Nagarabhavi is a residential area of Bangalore, Karnataka, India. Located in West Bangalore, Naagarabhaavi is located between Mysore road and Magadi road. It is surrounded by Vijaynagar on the north, Bangalore University and Chandra Layout on the east, Magadi road on the west and Sir.M.V.Layout on the south. Naagarabhaavi is broadly divided into two areas, called Naagarabhaavi 1st stage and Naagarabhaavi 2nd stage. Traditionally known as the home of Bangalore University, this area also houses the prestigious National Law School of India University. This area also houses Dr. Ambedkar Institute of Technology. And KLE Institute in Nagarabhavi 2nd stage. Naagarabhaavi 1st stage comprises localities like Kalyana Nagara, Naagarabhaavi Village, Canara bank Colony, Bhairaveshwara Nagar and Moodala Palya amongst others. These areas are very thickly populated and have a lot of commercial activity along the Naagarabhaavi main road. These areas have smaller roads and a rough terrain. Naagarabhaavi 2nd stage is in complete contrast to the 1st stage. While the 1st stage is very old, the 2nd stage is a relatively new area. The latter is very well planned and most of the areas have wide roads and the road connectivity is laudable. Most of the roads here are now tarred, ending the age old woes of the people residing here. The BDA has divided Naagarabhaavi 2nd stage into blocks 1-12. In addition, well planned residential localities like Annapoorneshwari Nagara, Vinayaka Layout, ITI Layout, MPM Layout, NGEF Layout and Papareddy Palya form a part of this area. Nagarabhavi has famous restaurants like Mane Ruchi, Swathi Restaurant and Nandana Palace. It also has access to good reading libraries like JustBooks and Central and Namma hotelsy. History In Kannada, the language of a majority of the inhabitants of the city of Bangalore, Naagarabhaavi means literally "a well of snakes". It is not conclusively known, however, why it is called so. One school of thought is that the name is due to the high number of snakes present in the area. Also, some believe that it is called a "well" because of the surrounding hillocks that are no longer present due to urbanization. Nagarbhavi got its prime importance due to the establishment of Institute for Social and Economic Change (ISEC) in 1973. The site was chosen by Late Professor VKRV Rao for ISEC. A road was laid and that changed the culture of Naagarabhaavi, with professors from all over the country coming and settling down in this locality. Local youth community Jai Maruthi Naagarabhaavi Yuvakara Sangha actively involving in the social work activities and won the prestigious Karnataka State Youth Award in 2004. Track and Trail by Livenup Concepts a bicycle store helps you rediscover the many interesting places in and around Naagarabhaavi, Bangalore University through its Rent a bicycle initiative. Areas in Southwest Bangalore include Naagarabhaavi, Vijaya Nagar, Nayandahalli, Raja Rajeshwari Nagar and Banashankri. Starting from Banashankri in the south to Vijaya Nagar in the north. Avakaash(https://avakaash.com), an Ed Tech company is also based here Things to do in Naagarabhaavi Naagarabhaavi is blessed to be close to the Bangalore University campus, fondly known as Jnana Bharathi. The Bangalore University also houses the National Law School of India University, Sports Authority of India, The National Assessment and Accreditation Council, Sri Ganesh Juice Junction and the Atomic Mineral Department. The campus is plush with trees and has the tributary Vrushubhavathi flowing by it. Gandhi Bhavan is the meditation center located at the center of the campus. Students and children flock to the various playgrounds and fields to enjoy playing their favorite sports and games. Naagarabhaavi has some famous eateries like Namma Oora Thindi which serves mouth watering South Indian snacks such as Mangalore Buns, Rava Idli and Chowchow baath. Close to it is the Malanad Mess, which is famous for its non vegetarian spread and is also very frugal on the wallet. Manikantha Chats is popular among the college goers as it serves some exquisite chaats and juice. Don't forget to eat the famous churmuri chaat while you are there. Apart from these, there are the chains of restaurant such as Swathi and Nandana. Besides there are cafes for the college goer's like Poppins and Lassi shop the food station. Nagarbhavi also has a branch of reputed educational institute, Padmashree Group of Institutions' reputed Padmashree college of Hospital Administration and Public Health. Category:Neighbourhoods in Bangalore | High | [
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#10 - On raganuga-bhakti Topics covered in this episode: • Sequence of smarana – On the sequence of remembering the pastimes of Krishna. • Radha as Shyamaa – A description of Radha as the shyama-heroine. • Sakhis and nayikas – On the descriptions of the eight sakhis in Dhyanachandra's manual. • On lila-smarana – On remembering the pastimes of Gaura and Govinda; memorizing Vilapa-kusumanjali. • The glory of the manjaris – In praise of the services of the divine handmaidens of Sri Radha. | Mid | [
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Garage Door Repair Garland Tx - Through the thousands of photos on-line with regards to Garage Door Repair Garland Tx , we all selects the very best series along with best resolution just for you all, and now this pictures is actually one of graphics collections in your greatest photographs gallery concerning Garage Door Repair Garland Tx. I really hope you can think it's great. This kind of image (Garage Door Repair Garland Tx 4501 Hanover Dr Garland Tx Realtor) previously mentioned is usually branded together with: put up by simply Gerrald Hullier in 2019-03-12 03:24:02. To determine just about all images with Garage Door Repair Garland Tx photos gallery you should adhere to that web page link. | Low | [
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/* Copyright 2017 Caicloud Authors Licensed under the Apache License, Version 2.0 (the "License"); you may not use this file except in compliance with the License. You may obtain a copy of the License at http://www.apache.org/licenses/LICENSE-2.0 Unless required by applicable law or agreed to in writing, software distributed under the License is distributed on an "AS IS" BASIS, WITHOUT WARRANTIES OR CONDITIONS OF ANY KIND, either express or implied. See the License for the specific language governing permissions and limitations under the License. */ package v1 import ( "github.com/caicloud/nirvana/definition" ) var descriptors = []definition.Descriptor{} func register(ds ...definition.Descriptor) { descriptors = append(descriptors, ds...) } func Descriptor() definition.Descriptor { return definition.Descriptor{ Path: "/api/v1", Description: "It contains all APIs in v1", Consumes: []string{definition.MIMEAll}, Produces: []string{definition.MIMEJSON}, Children: descriptors, } } | Mid | [
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Q: setup xen on two phisical interfaces does anybody know how to setup XEN to use 2 interfaces? I have a subnet of local IPs on eth0 and subnet of external IPs on eth1. I want containers to be as on a dom0: eth0 and eth1 routed respectivly. Thanks in advance A: I found solution by myself. I'll discribe it in case of someone need it So far I had eth0 interface and br0 configured. On dom0 I add additinal bridge. I call it br1 addbr addbr br1 Then I bind it to physical interface eth1 addif br1 eth1 Next, I am on Debaian, I configure /etc/network as follows # The loopback network interface auto lo iface lo inet loopback The primary network interface auto br0 iface br0 inet static address 172.16.15.240 netmask 255.255.255.0 network 172.16.15.0 gateway 172.16.15.1 broadcast 172.16.15.255 bridge_ports eth0 bridge_stp on bridge_maxwait 0 bridge_fd 0 auto br1 iface br1 inet static address 91.135.xxx.xxx netmask 255.255.255.240 network 91.135.xxx.xxx broadcast 91.135.xxx.xxx gateway 91.135.xxx.xxx bridge_ports eth1 bridge_stp on bridge_maxwait 0 bridge_fd 0 dns-nameservers 8.8.8.8 Then in config file for container add virtual interface as follows vif = [ 'ip=172.16.15.243 ,mac=00:16:3E:18:AF:C3,bridge=br0', 'ip=91.135.xxx.xxx ,mac=00:16:3E:DD:2D:00,bridge=br1' ] That's it. After reboot both dom0 and domN, you will have container connected to phisical interfaces | High | [
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# uncompyle6 version 2.9.10 # Python bytecode 2.7 (62211) # Decompiled from: Python 2.7.10 (default, Feb 6 2017, 23:53:20) # [GCC 4.2.1 Compatible Apple LLVM 8.0.0 (clang-800.0.34)] # Embedded file name: type_Result.py from types import * import mcl.object.IpAddr RESULT_FLAG_LOOPBACK = 1 RESULT_FLAG_AUTOCONFIG = 2 RESULT_FLAG_PERMANENT = 4 RESULT_FLAG_PUBLISH = 8 RESULT_ORIGIN_UNKNOWN = 0 RESULT_ORIGIN_MANUAL = 1 RESULT_ORIGIN_WELLKNOWN = 2 RESULT_ORIGIN_DHCP = 3 RESULT_ORIGIN_ROUTER_AD = 4 RESULT_ORIGIN_6_TO_4 = 5 class Result: def __init__(self): self.__dict__['dest'] = mcl.object.IpAddr.IpAddr() self.__dict__['netmask'] = 0 self.__dict__['gateway'] = mcl.object.IpAddr.IpAddr() self.__dict__['metric'] = 0 self.__dict__['iface'] = '' self.__dict__['flags'] = 0 self.__dict__['origin'] = RESULT_ORIGIN_UNKNOWN def __getattr__(self, name): if name == 'dest': return self.__dict__['dest'] if name == 'netmask': return self.__dict__['netmask'] if name == 'gateway': return self.__dict__['gateway'] if name == 'metric': return self.__dict__['metric'] if name == 'iface': return self.__dict__['iface'] if name == 'flags': return self.__dict__['flags'] if name == 'origin': return self.__dict__['origin'] raise AttributeError("Attribute '%s' not found" % name) def __setattr__(self, name, value): if name == 'dest': self.__dict__['dest'] = value elif name == 'netmask': self.__dict__['netmask'] = value elif name == 'gateway': self.__dict__['gateway'] = value elif name == 'metric': self.__dict__['metric'] = value elif name == 'iface': self.__dict__['iface'] = value elif name == 'flags': self.__dict__['flags'] = value elif name == 'origin': self.__dict__['origin'] = value else: raise AttributeError("Attribute '%s' not found" % name) def Marshal(self, mmsg): from mcl.object.Message import MarshalMessage submsg = MarshalMessage() submsg.AddIpAddr(MSG_KEY_RESULT_DESTINATION, self.__dict__['dest']) submsg.AddU32(MSG_KEY_RESULT_NETMASK, self.__dict__['netmask']) submsg.AddIpAddr(MSG_KEY_RESULT_GATEWAY, self.__dict__['gateway']) submsg.AddU32(MSG_KEY_RESULT_METRIC, self.__dict__['metric']) submsg.AddStringUtf8(MSG_KEY_RESULT_INTERFACE, self.__dict__['iface']) submsg.AddU32(MSG_KEY_RESULT_FLAGS, self.__dict__['flags']) submsg.AddU8(MSG_KEY_RESULT_ORIGIN, self.__dict__['origin']) mmsg.AddMessage(MSG_KEY_RESULT, submsg) def Demarshal(self, dmsg, instance=-1): import mcl.object.Message msgData = dmsg.FindData(MSG_KEY_RESULT, mcl.object.Message.MSG_TYPE_MSG, instance) submsg = mcl.object.Message.DemarshalMessage(msgData) self.__dict__['dest'] = submsg.FindIpAddr(MSG_KEY_RESULT_DESTINATION) self.__dict__['netmask'] = submsg.FindU32(MSG_KEY_RESULT_NETMASK) self.__dict__['gateway'] = submsg.FindIpAddr(MSG_KEY_RESULT_GATEWAY) self.__dict__['metric'] = submsg.FindU32(MSG_KEY_RESULT_METRIC) self.__dict__['iface'] = submsg.FindString(MSG_KEY_RESULT_INTERFACE) self.__dict__['flags'] = submsg.FindU32(MSG_KEY_RESULT_FLAGS) self.__dict__['origin'] = submsg.FindU8(MSG_KEY_RESULT_ORIGIN) | Low | [
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Photo by Diane Chiddister Superintendent Tony Armocida and Craig Conrad, head of maintenance for the Yellow Springs school district, standing in the new atrium at Mills Lawn School. Scheduled to be completed by beginning of next school year— Construction project winding down Sometimes when he walks through the newly constructed parts of Yellow Springs High School and Mills Lawn School, Superintendent Tony Armocida thinks of cathedrals. Not, he quickly clarifies to a visitor, that he compares the high school’s architecture to that of cathedrals of the Middle Ages. Rather, he believes the newly remodeled schools, like the cathedrals, will enhance students’ feelings of hopefulness, of excitement about learning. “It’s a positive thing,” he said during a tour of the construction sites Monday. “It’s a positive way of looking at the future.” For YSHS physics teacher Phil Lemkau, the new physics classroom, which is five times the size of his current room, means that he’ll no longer have to crawl beneath tables to set up a demonstration. For McKinney and YSHS art teacher Carla Steiger-Meister, her new classroom — about four times the size of her current room — means that, when an art project calls for water, she’ll no longer have to carry it into her room in buckets. For Craig Conrad, head of maintenance for the district, the project means seeing the excitement on teachers’ faces as the project nears completion. For both Conrad and Armocida, the project means expanding horizons for Yellow Springs children. “I really hope that when people see the new construction they’ll be proud of what they’ve done,” said Armocida. “It’s a great learning space for kids.” Begun last summer, the yearlong, $4.5 million construction project, which is the largest construction project the school district has undertaken in about 30 years, is winding to a close. At YSHS and the McKinney School, only “lots of odds and ends” remain to be completed in the newly constructed area before workers begin renovating existing classrooms, according to Conrad. Although more work remains at Mills Lawn, contractors plan to finish the entire project by the beginning of school next fall. All signs indicate that the project will be completed on schedule and on budget, according to Armocida. Funding for the project came from a special bond issue, which voters passed in 2000. As well as extensive room renovations at the high school, the project has added 28,000 square feet to the three schools, with the space about equally divided between the buildings. The main contractor, Mulhall Becker of Cincinnati, has performed its work well and with few delays, said Armocida, who gives much of the credit for the project’s success to Conrad, who is overseeing the project for the district. “Not only is Craig technically sharp so that he understands what’s happening,” said Armocida, “but he’s tremendous at building relationships with the contractors.” New science classrooms topped the list of needs at McKinney School and Yellow Springs High School, and the recent construction includes a new physics classroom along with a new McKinney science classroom. The new rooms are located behind the current school gymnasium. The large physics classroom features lots of counter space for experiments, plus abundant storage space in oak cabinets and drawers. Currently, said Lemkau, he has to store class items in the McKinney science room, so that he must wait for class breaks to retrieve his materials. The small size of his current room also necessitates his tearing down each experiment between classes, and in his new room there’s plenty of room to leave experiments up for days at a time. “This will make a huge difference” in the physics program, said Lemkau, who has taught at the school for 22 years and who sponsors the school’s award-winning physics team. “It will make everything much more comfortable.” Both science classrooms are spacious and light-filled, equipped with high-quality furniture. “Our science labs will be as good as any high school labs anywhere,” said Armocida. Space, light and good-quality furniture were priorities during the construction project, Armocida said. Planners kept costs down by using low-cost building materials, such as cement-block walls, metal window frames and sheet flooring, and chose the project’s architects, the SEM Architects of Columbus, because the firm has a reputation for “doing creative stuff with basic materials,” Armocida said. “There’s nothing fancy here.” The new construction at YSHS also features a state-of-the-art video classroom, complete with a production area, three video editing rooms and a darkroom. Other YSHS additions, all along what was previously the gym’s back wall, are a faculty lounge and work room, a double classroom to be used for health classes as well as larger class needs and a fitness room. The project also enclosed the walkway between the high school and the McKinney School, which had previously been open-air, and added a courtyard with an amphitheater for student activities. Renovation of existing classrooms will result in a new music practice room and an expanded and updated art classroom. The art classroom will include a kiln, more space for bigger projects and improved access to water, electricity and computers. “Everything about the room is a huge improvement,” said art teacher Carla Steiger-Meister. “It will enhance the students’ learning environment enormously.” At Mills Lawn School, the construction project’s most obvious change is the new gymnasium, which is about two and a half times the size of the school’s old gym. The expansion allows the school to use the gym, which doubles as a lunchroom, for both lunch and gym activities at the same time, and will also allow for more room during all-school activities. The gym also includes an expanded stage area. A high-ceiling entrance with a skylight stands adjacent to the gym, which, Armocida emphasized, will also be available for community activities. The walkway south of the gym to the school’s library and some classrooms has been enclosed, so that children will no longer have to brave the elements as they walk to class. New Mills Lawn rooms, which are located on the school’s south side, include a new music room, a classroom for multi-handicapped students and one for the school’s ILE, or gifted, program, which all students take part in. All of the rooms are spacious and light-filled, and light fills the adjacent atrium hallway, due to the translucent window panels used in the roof. The construction project also includes a new large meeting room, adjacent to the school’s current offices, which will be used for school board meetings and will also be available for community meetings, according to Armocida. A challenge for planners and contractors during the Mills Lawn construction has been the school system’s desire to not disturb the existing trees on the property, said Armocida, explaining that a detailed survey of the property’s trees helped planners design the new structure. “We wanted something respectful of the area,” he said. “It’s one of the sacred places in the village.” The newly expanded high school and elementary school will be displayed to the public next fall, after the school year begins and students get settled into their new space. After a year of the stress of construction, Armocida plans to enjoy showing off the new schools to the community. “We’re looking forward to it,” he said. —Diane Chiddister | High | [
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Lovely Valentine’s Day Crafts Wooden Spool Heart Use your empty wooden spools to create a heartwarming wall decoration. Spray-paint a wooden heart plaque your desired color. Determine the various diameters of your wooden spool tops. Punch circles from patterned paper in sizes to match the spool tops and glue them in place. Adhere spools to the plaque with the tallest at the top and shortest at the bottom. Add patterned paper to thin wooden dowels to fill the spaces between spools. Sophisticated Card Make a valentine that's both subtle and sophisticated by stitching around layered gray cardstock blocks. Trim around the card's sides with decorative-edge scissors, and finish the Valentine's Day card with pretty ribbon, rickrack, and paper trims. Valentine’s Wall Art These cute craft projects make great shelf decorations for Valentine's Day. To craft the collage, cut out repeating shapes from fabric (we used birds and hearts in various sizes) and use spray adhesive to mount them on white cardstock, then frame the embellished cardstock. For the small embroidery project, trace a design on a store-bought canvas, then backstitch the design. Folded Heart Card Fold patterned-paper rectangles in half and cut out simple symmetrical hearts. Stitch along the folds to secure the hearts to the card. Keep layered paper accents and stitching them in place using decorating stitches. Add a sticker message and ribbon accent. Handmade Heart Card Hot Valentine’s Card Tell your valentine that you have the hots for him with this clever candy card. Attach a square of notebook paper to the middle of a square card. Cut the words "you're hot" from a magazine or newspaper page and glue them to a circle punched from white paper. Attach the embellished circle to the notebook paper. Place cinnamon-flavored candy pieces on the notebook paper square and cover with a thin plastic sheet. Topstitch the plastic to the card with red thread, overlapping stitches. Heartfelt Garland To make a garland of hearts, cut an even number of heart shapes from fabric scraps. Layer the hearts in pairs and attach pairs of hearts together with fusible web. Punch small holes in the sides of the hearts and tie them together with ribbon. Sweet Cupcake Card Add a sweet fabric cupcake to a Valentine’s card. To create the cupcake, cut a circle from cream felt, then cut the circle in half with pinking shears or rotary cutter with a scalloped blade. Stitch a half circle with the pinked edge overlapping a piece of crimped pink paper. Adhere the cupcake to a card, top with a paper heart, and add a special message underneath. | Mid | [
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