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The New York Times A groundbreaking settlement between the U.S. Justice Department and Shelby County, Tennessee, which encompasses Memphis, may serve as a template for reformers seeking to fix a broken and punitive juvenile justice system that is disproportionately locking up Black teenagers. As The Times reports: Federal investigators in 2009 began investigating juvenile justice in the county, which includes Memphis. They found that black teenagers were twice as likely as white teenagers to be detained and were sent to adult criminal court for minor infractions far more often than whites. “What we saw was an assembly line with very little quality assurance,” said Tom Perez, an assistant attorney general in the Justice Department’s civil rights division. The agreement is an important step for the juvenile justice reform movement. The hope is that this case leads to the directing of more resources toward community-based programs that focus on rehabilitation rather than severe punishment. The U.S. Supreme Court has set February 27, 2013, as the day it will hear oral arguments in a major voting rights case, Shelby County v. Holder. The case is a challenge to Section 5 of the Voting Rights Acts (VRA) which requires some states and counties to receive federal approval before they can enact changes to voting laws. Section 5 has been applied mostly in southern states where there has been a history of voter suppression and intimidation. The VRA currently provides a bailout process that can lift the Section 5 pre-approval requirement. The New York Times Following a study showing that Black scientists were receiving significantly less funding than their White peers, the National Institutes of Health (NIH) is undertaking a $50 million initiative to increase minority representation in the field of biological research. As The Times reports, “The N.I.H. program will provide research opportunities for undergraduate students, financial support for undergraduate and graduate students, and set up a mentoring program to help students and researchers beginning their careers.”
What do Sylvester Stallone, Cher and Diane Keaton have in common, other than fame? They’re among the first wave of baby boomers to become “senior boomers.” This year, more than 10,000 baby boomers a day will turn 65 – that’s one every eight seconds, a pattern expected to continue for the next 19 years. Aging is different now than it was for our parents and grandparents. More people are living longer than at any other time in history. “Our generation is associated with social change, and we need to become activists in promoting healthful behaviors,” says baby boomer Carole Gardner, M.D., a geriatrician and chief of elder care for Kaiser Permanente of Georgia. “Adopting a healthy and active lifestyle is especially important for seniors with chronic medical conditions. Physical activity can be an effective treatment for some. However, you should consult a physician before starting an exercise regimen.” Dr. Gardner recommends 5 easy tips to help baby boomers be healthy and thrive! 1) Keep active Do something to keep fit each day—something you enjoy that maintains strength, balance, flexibility, and promotes cardiovascular health. Physical activity such as walking helps you stay at a healthy weight, prevent or control illness, sleep better, reduce stress, avoid falls, and look and feel better too. Learn more about the benefits of a walking regimen at www.everybodywalk.org. 2) Eat well Combined with physical activity, eating nutritious foods in the right amounts can help keep you healthy. Many illnesses—such as heart disease, obesity, high blood pressure, type 2 diabetes and osteoporosis—can be prevented or controlled with dietary changes and exercise. Calcium and vitamin D supplements can help women prevent osteoporosis. 3) Maintain a healthy weight Extra weight increases your risk for heart disease, diabetes and high blood pressure. Use our BMI (body mass index) calculator to find out what you should weigh for your height. Get to your healthy weight and stay there by eating right and keeping active. Replace sugary drinks with water. Water is calorie free! 4) Get regular check-ups Check-ups for older men and women - Vision. Every year get your eyes checked for glaucoma and other age-related eye problems. - Osteoporosis. Ask your doctor if you need a bone density test to find out if you have thinning or brittle bones. Also ask your doctor about calcium and vitamin D supplements to help your bones. - Colon cancer tests. Get checked for colon cancer as often as your doctor recommends. Ask your doctor which test is best for you. - Skin cancer. Do a skin self-exam every three months, to look for any changes in your skin. Check-ups for women only - Pap test and pelvic exam. Ask your doctor how often you should have a Pap test. As you get older, you may not need to have a Pap test as often. - Breast exam and mammogram. Have a doctor check your breasts every year. Ask how often you should have a mammogram, which is an X-ray of your breasts. A mammogram can spot breast cancer before it can be felt and when it is easier to treat. - Check-ups for men only - Prostate exam. Talk to your doctor about whether you should have a blood test (called a PSA test) for prostate cancer. Talk about the benefits and risks of the test with your doctor. - Abdominal aortic aneurysm. Ask your doctor if you need a test to check for an aneurysm. An abdominal aortic aneurysm is the bulging or ballooning of the large artery in your stomach. It is caused by weakening of the artery’s walls. You may need a test if you ever smoked or if your parent, brother, sister, or child has had an aneurysm. 5) Manage stress Try exercise or relaxation techniques – perhaps meditation or yoga – as a means of coping. Make time for friends and social contacts and fun. Successful coping can affect our health and how we feel. Learn the role of positive thinking. Carole Gardner, MD is a board-certified geriatrician and chief of elder care for Kaiser Permanente of Georgia. A graduate of the Bowman Gray School of Medicine at Wake Forest University, Gardner completed a fellowship in geriatric medicine at the V.A. Medical Center in Lexington, KY. Kaiser Permanente of Georgia Glenlake Medical Center
Social Creed Methodist The American Methodist Episcopal Church was the first denomination in Christendom to adopt an official Social Creed. Influenced by the Social Gospel movement and the Progressive politics of early 20th century America, the church wrote and adopted the creed in 1908. It has been altered through the years, and still appears in The United Methodist Book of Discipline. While it is not a part of official United Methodist doctrine, congregations are encouraged to reflect upon the creed and utilize it in worship. The Social Creed The creed as it appears in paragraph 166 of the 2000 edition of the Book of Discipline: We believe in God, Creator of the world; and in Jesus Christ, the Redeemer of creation. We believe in the Holy Spirit, through whom we acknowledge God’s gifts, and we repent of our sin in misusing these gifts to idolatrous ends. We affirm the natural world as God’s handiwork and dedicate ourselves to its preservation, enhancement, and faithful use by humankind. We joyfully receive for ourselves and others the blessings of community, sexuality, marriage, and the family. We commit ourselves to the rights of men, women, children, youth, young adults, the aging, and people with disabilities; to improvement of the quality of life; and to the rights and dignity of racial, ethnic, and religious minorities. We believe in the right and duty of persons to work for the glory of God and the good of themselves and others and in the protection of their welfare in so doing; in the rights to property as a trust from God, collective bargaining, and responsible consumption; and in the elimination of economic and social distress. We dedicate ourselves to peace throughout the world, to the rule of justice and law among nations, and to individual freedom for all people of the world. We believe in the present and final triumph of God’s Word in human affairs and gladly accept our commission to manifest the life of the gospel in the world. Amen.
A steel cable dragging a fallen tree. A burst of wind moving through the forest. These seemingly inconsequential events sparked the first in a series of wildfires that burned a combined total of 355,000 acres and transformed the northern Coast Range Mountains of Oregon into ashy wasteland. The fires occurred during the Depression, during the collapse of the logging industry. One every six years. According to Introduction to Wildland Fires, they occurred “every six years with eerie regularity,” though no evidence of arson was found. The true legacy of the fires in the Tillamook Burn is that they eventually led to one of the largest reforestation efforts in the world. The Gales Creek Canyon Fire of 1933 It was a hot, dry afternoon in Oregon, mid-August, 1933, and a lumbering operation was in progress in Gales Creek Canyon 60 miles west of Portland. According to information obtained from the Oregon Department of State Forestry, the loggers planned to quit early due to increased fire danger. In fact, it is believed that the last tree felled was the tree that started the fire. A logger’s steel cable was dragging a Douglas fir through the dust. The tree rubbed against the dried bark of a nearby snag—a dead tree–and the snag exploded into flames. A plume of smoke drifted upward, was spotted at the nearby Saddle Mountain tower, and forest crews were sent to assist the lumbermen in extinguishing the blaze. Damage Assessments of the Gales Creek Canyon Blaze The fire spread quickly and smoke and ash filled the air, carried by the wind, and fell on ships as far as 500 miles away. The fire burned out of control for weeks and on one afternoon, fire conditions were so severe that the blaze simply exploded in a firestorm, taking on a life of its own. On that day alone, 200,000 acres were destroyed. According to Tillamook County Online statistics, 239,695 acres of forest land were destroyed in the Gales Creek Canyon Blaze; an estimated 11,828,712,000 board feet of timber. Processed, the lumber would have been valued at 442.4 million dollars. Although nearly 3000 volunteers worked on the blaze, it is believed that only one life was lost, that of a young man working with the Civilian Conservation Corp. It is impossible to calculate the loss of wildlife. Subsequent Fires Contribute to the Destruction Six years later, in 1939, a second fire broke out not far from the location of the first. This fire was also started by a logging operation. Before it was extinguished, the fire traveled over 190,000 acres, some already burned from the first fire. Exactly six years later, on July 9, 1945, the third fire started, spurring rumors that there was a six year curse on the area. This was a rather mysterious fire that broke out near Salmonberry River and many of the local residents, having already suffered through years of World War II, speculated that the source of the fire might have been a Japanese incendiary balloon carried up from the coast by the wind. That same day, a discarded cigarette sparked a second fire near Wilson River and the two fires joined, burning a total of 180,000 acres. The devastation from this fire was still visible along roadsides well into the 1970s. Six years later, in 1951, the final fire started, leaving 32,700 acres of forest land destroyed. The World’s Largest Reforestation Project A total of 355,000 acres of forest land was lost to the four fires now called the Tillamook Burn. Many landowners simply abandoned their properties, unable to afford the cost of restoring acres of ashes. When the land was abandoned or taxes unpaid, ownership reverted back to the counties. In 1939, the Forest Acquisition Act was passed with the goal of encouraging counties to allow the Oregon Department of Forestry to control the land in exchange for timber revenue. In 1948, Oregon residents voted to rehabilitate the land, authorizing $12 million in bonds. The reforestation project was started the following year using helicopters for the first-ever aerial reseeding. There was also a tremendous ground effort by forestry employees, prison inmates and even schoolchildren who worked together to hand-plant 72 millions seedlings. The Tillamook State Forest Today In 1973, Oregon’s Governor Tom McCall dedicated the land as the Tillamook State Forest. Today, it is maintained by the Oregon Department of Forestry, which oversees habitat, water quality, and timber harvesting used to help fund local schools and county projects. The Tillamook State Forest also has eight campgrounds dedicated to public use. - “1913 Tillamook Fire.” Tillamook State Forest Website. Oregon Department of Forestry. Retrieved March 16, 2010. - Pyne, Stephen J., Andrews, Patricia L., Laven, Richard D. Introduction to Wildland Fire. Second Edition. New York: John Wiley & Sons, 1996. - “The Tillamook Story. ” Oregon.Gov. Oregon Department of Forestry. Retrieved March 16, 2010. - Williams, Richard L. The Old West: The Loggers. Time Life Books. Canada: 1976.
Catholic Encyclopedia (1913)/Thomas Augustine Arne English composer, b. 12 March 1710, at London; d. 5 March, 1778. Although of Catholic parentage, he was educated at Eton, and was apprenticed in a solicitor's office for three years. In 1740 he married Cecilia Young, oldest daughter of Charles Young, organist of All Hallows, Barking, a pupil of Geminiani and one of the best singers of her day. Arne wrote the music for Thomson and Mallet's masque of "Alfred", to celebrate the anniversary of the accession of the House of Hanover. It is in this work the well known "Rule Britannia" occurs. In 1742 Arne went to Ireland, and during his sojourn there produced his oratorio "Able" and his operas "Britannia" and "Comus" with great success. On his return, he was engaged again as composer at Drury Lane, and in 1745, in the same capacity at Vauxhall, Ranelagh, and Marylebone Gardens. The University of Oxford conferred the degree of Doctor of Music on Arne, 6 July, 1759. Three years after this, he wrote "Artaxerxes", an opera in the Italian manner, with recitative but no spoken dialogue, taking the text of Metastasio's "Artaserese". In 1764, Doctor Arne produced his second oratorio, "Judith". His latter productions were the music for Mason's tragedies of "Elfrida" and "Caractacus", additions to Purcell's music for "King Arthur", and some music for Garrick's ode for the Shakespeare Jubilee in 1769. Arne was buried in the Church of St. Paul, in Covent Garden. He was the first to introduce female voices into the choruses of oratorios. Grove, Dict. of Music and Musicians; Gillow, Bibl. Dict. of English Catholics, I, 59, 62. JOHN J. A' BECKET
(bc.1240; d Pisa, ?1302). Florentine painter. His nickname means ‘Ox-head’ or ‘De-horner of oxen’, perhaps indicating that he had an abrasive temperament. He was a contemporary of Dante, who in The Divine Comedy (Purg. xi. 94–6) describes him as an artist who was ‘believed to hold the field in painting’ only to be eclipsed by Giotto's fame. This passage, meant to illustrate the brevity of earthly glory, has ironically become the basis for Cimabue's reputation, for, embroidering on it, later writers made him into the discoverer and teacher of Giotto and regarded him as the first in the long line of great Italian painters, the pioneer of the movement from Byzantine stylization towards Renaissance realism. Vasari, for example, places Cimabue's biography at the very beginning of his Lives and says that he gave ‘the first light to the art of painting’. There is little solid evidence against which to test this estimate, only one surviving work being securely documented as Cimabue's, a St John forming part of a larger mosaic in Pisa Cathedral (1301–2). However, tradition has tended to attribute to him many works of outstanding quality from the end of the 13th century, such as the S. Trinità Madonna (Uffizi, Florence), a cycle of frescos in the Upper Church of S. Francesco in Assisi, and a majestic Crucifix in S. Croce, Florence (badly damaged in the Florence flood of 1966). If these highly plausible attributions are correct, Cimabue was indeed the leading master of the generation before Giotto. The movement towards greater naturalism, however, may owe more to contemporary Roman artists (Cavallini, Torriti) than to him; he is documented in Rome in 1272 and could have known their work.
See what questions a doctor would ask. Pili annulati (medical condition): A rare hair disorder where some or all of the hair shafts have...more » These medical condition or symptom topics may be relevant to medical information for Pili annulati: Pili annulati is listed as a "rare disease" by the Office of Rare Diseases (ORD) of the National Institutes of Health (NIH). This means that Pili annulati, or a subtype of Pili annulati, affects less than 200,000 people in the US population. Source - National Institutes of Health (NIH) Ophanet, a consortium of European partners, currently defines a condition rare when if affects 1 person per 2,000. They list Pili annulati as a "rare disease". Source - Orphanet Pili annulati: Pili annulati is listed as a type of (or associated with) the following medical conditions in our database: These medical disease topics may be related to Pili annulati: Source - NIH Search to find out more about Pili annulati: Search Specialists by State and City
CCD image taken with a ST-6 CCD camera thru Kopernik’s 20 inch F/8 telescope. The exposure was 10 minutes. The field of view is approximately 5x7 arc minutes, with north at top. NGC 6309 was discovered in the mid 19th Century by Tempel but it was first identified as a planetary nebula by Pickering in 1882. Our exposure is too short to show the very faint outer parts of the nebula. Planetary Nebulae: To learn more about them, click here. Click below to George Normandin, KAS September 17th, 2000
Use the back button to select a different record. African American Schools in Boyd County, KY Start Year : 1866 End Year : 1956 One of the earliest schools for African Americans in Boyd County was the American Missionary Association School, which was supported by the U. S. Bureau of Refugees, Freedmen, and Abandoned Lands [see NKAA entry Freedmen Schools, Kentucky]. The school was established between 1866-1870. The Catlettsburg Colored Common School District was established by the Kentucky General Assembly in 1873 [source: Common School Laws of Kentucky: 1922 by the Kentucky Department of Education]. The colored school in Ashland was established in 1874. According to W. B. Jackson in his thesis, the colored school districts were established in 1874; there were no school houses, yet school classes were held for two months at an unspecified location in Catlettsburg and in Ashland [source: The History of Education in Boyd County, by W. B. Jackson, pp. 56-60 & 128-133]. The following comes from W. B. Jackson's thesis: In 1877, there were 99 students in the two colored schools with an average attendance of 100%. There were two male teachers who earned $18.63 per month. The school records for the Ashland colored school start with the year 1881 when the school classes were held in the Methodist Church on Central Avenue. The school was supported by donations from the African American community. The teacher's salary had increased to $20-$25 per month. There were three African American trustees who were appointed by the County Commissioner of Education. Both the Catlettsburg and Ashland colored schools operated independently until about 1894 when the schools came under the City Board of Education. William Reynolds was the school principal at Ashland, and there was one teacher. The school classes were held in a rented building at the corner of Fourteenth Street and Winchester Avenue. A school building was later built at Nineteenth Street and Greenup Avenue. In 1903, a new brick building, Booker T. Washington School, was constructed in Ashland at Seventh Street and Central Avenue, with J. J. Rogers as principal. The teacher was Effie Carter, who was joined by a second teacher. The Booker T. Washington School and the Catlettsburg School had grades 1-8. The two school districts were merged in 1912 when the Acts of 1912 by the Kentucky Legislature established the act to repeal the act that had established the Colored Common School District in Catlettsburg. The district was dissolved, but the school continued. In 1922, Principal Rogers, at Booker T. Washington School, was replaced by C. B. Nuchols, who had been a teacher at the Taylor County Industrial High School for Negroes. Nuchols added an industrial department to the Booker T. Washington School, along with a two year high school. In order to accommodate the new courses, two additional rooms were added to the Booker T. Washington School in 1923, and two more teachers were hired. The first high school graduation was held in 1925. Catlettsburg students in the 8th grade could go on to high school at Ashland at a cost of $30 per semester. In 1927, a teacher/football coach/voice teacher was hired at the Booker T. Washington School. In 1931, the two year high school became a four year high school, one of the 16 approved Negro high schools in eastern Kentucky [see NKAA entry High Schools, Eastern Kentucky, 1948]. There were 179 students at the Booker T. Washington School in 1932, and 28 of the students were in high school. The school staff members were C. B. Nuchols, principal; J. H. Cooper, teacher and coach; Emma B. Horton, teacher; Georgia B. Richmond, teacher; R. W. Ross, teacher; and Sue M. Thomas, teacher and home economics instructor. In 1932, a modern school building was constructed in Catlettsburg on the east side of the city. There were 18 students the first year. Mrs. Daisy Keeton was the teacher, and she was succeeded by Willa Lee Preston. [See also the NKAA entry Catlettsburg Colored Common School District.] The Negro teachers in Boyd County in 1940 were Decora Asher, John D. Cooper, Helen L. Daniels, Robert W. Ross, Sue Thomas, and Alice Thomas [source: U.S. Federal Census]. The first schools to be listed as integrated in the Kentucky Public School Directory, 1956-57, p.421, were Ashland Independent Schools at Bayless, Crabbe, Means, Wylie, Ashland Sr. High, and Holy Family. The Boyd County schools were fully integrated in 1962. - American Missionary School supported by the Bureau - Catlettsburg School - Methodist Church School - Ashland School - Booker T. Washington School See photo image of Booker T. Washington school and additional information on p. 104 in Images of America: Ashland, by J. Powers and T. Baldridge. See Kentucky Historical Marker for Ashland Booker T. Washington School, a Waymarking.com website. Subjects: Education and Educators, Grade Schools & High Schools in Kentucky, African American Schools in Kentucky (Counties A-Z) Geographic Region: Boyd County, Kentucky
Problem Solving: The Secret Key You Should Know About Quick! Before you read any more of this article, take a look around your desk. Do you have a pencil and a piece of paper nearby? If you’re like most, you probably don’t. You rely completely on digital products now. You use your Google calendar to keep track of dates and you use Notepad for logging ideas or important information you don’t want to lose. But the key to solving any problem is a map. And the best way to draw a map is with a pencil and paper. It’s a fact: The shortest distance between two points is a straight line. But we all know it’s not always possible to draw a perfectly straight line between Point A and Point B. Just look at a road map for example. Plot any road trip and you’re going to have to make turns and follow winding roads. You may know that Philadelphia, where your aunt lives, lies directly to the North but without a road map you won’t make it to her house because there is no completely straight route from your house to hers. You’ll have to change interstates, make turns once you hit the downtown traffic, and find your way through the interconnecting streets in her neighborhood. You’d be lost without a map. Sometimes it can seem like there’s no solution to your problem, just like it might seem impossible to find Aunt Martha’s house without a map. Oh, you can go to bed and sleep on your problem and hope that your an answer will pop into your head once you’ve had a little rest. But does the route to Aunt Martha’s house just pop into your head? Not likely. You can ask other people, too, to help you find a solution to your problem but we all know what happens when you stop and ask someone else for directions. You might end up in Timbuktu. Most people don’t have your unique perspective on your problem and even if they did, not everyone had advice worth listening to. In the end, the best way to solve any problem is to use a map. Point A is where you are now and Point B is where you want to be. The course you plot takes into consideration all the obstacles in your path and shows you which direction you need to go to get around them. Don’t believe me? Try this. You probably have at least some little financial concern you’re worried about, most people do. You keep hoping a solution will pop into your head but so far that’s not happening. Have you tried putting a pencil to it? Most people don’t realize just how much of their money leaks away on small things like Starbucks coffee and a crueller every morning. They don’t think about things like combining errands to help save gas. They don’t think about how much money they spend on fast food when they don’t feel like cooking, but all of these little things add up. And it’s not until you use a pencil and paper and start analyzing every single little expenditure that you suddenly realize the solution is out there. All you need to do is start brewing your own coffee in the morning and carpool to work. When you have problems with your blog the solutions are out there, too. But when’s the last time you actually sat down, with pencil and paper, and really analyzed your statistics. Sure, you can look at them online and you can flip back and forth, but that’s distracting. Sometimes if get back to basics and draw yourself a good, old-fashioned map and you’ll be surprised at how easy you can solve a problem.
The Black Pullet, Red Dragon, and the Black Screech Owl are all examples of magickal texts, grimoires, or instructional books. Although the term grimoire is used by some Pagans interchangeably with Book of Shadows, the flavor of this term is somewhat more specific, and not exactly Pagan, due to its historical roots. Grimoires became very popular from the 1600's to the 1800's and these three examples probably date from then. The Black Pullet was most likely written in Rome in the late 18th century and contains instructions on the creation of magickal talismans, amulets, and jewelry. It was also published under the title Black Screech Owl with only slight alterations. These texts were often used by ceremonial magicians to conjure and control demons, angels, spirits, etc. Grimoires contain elaborate rituals, many of which are echoed in modern Witchcraft rites such as consecrations and quarter calls. The Key of Solomon is a famous grimoire that contains the most correlations with Witchcraft rites. Doreen Valiente and the Farrars (Janet & Stewart) suggest that the material was adopted by Gerald Gardner to fill the missing gaps in some rituals. It has also been suggested that Aleister Crowley aided or encouraged these adaptations. Red Dragon is another 'black book' that is also entitled Grand Grimoire and was published in 1822. It allegedly dates back to 1522, however there is little evidence to substantiate this. Sources for the information in the various Grimoires include Greek and Egyptian magical texts from 100-400 A.D. and Hebrew & Latin sources. The Key of Solomon The Lemegeton (or Lesser Key of Solomon) Grimorium Verum (based on The Key of Solomon) Grimoire of Honorius The Book of Sacred Magic of Abra-Melin the Mage The Book of Black Magic and of Pacts True Black Magic (or The Secrets of Secrets, draws on The Key of Solomon) Grand Grimoire (or Red Dragon) The Magus by Francis Barrett The Black Pullet (or Treasure of the Old Man of the Pyramids or Black Screech Owl) Verus Jesuitarum Libellus (or True Magical Works of the Jesuits) Not so 'true', this one is A FAKE For more information about Grimoires, see The Encyclopedia of Witches and Witchcraft, Rosemary Ellen Guiley -highly recommended
P.A.U.S.E. stands for Pedaling Across America Everyday. For the last couple of months, my students have been pedaling an exercise bike to various states. We left Atlanta several weeks ago on our way to South Carolina. Each day we PAUSE to hear a story or students read silently as a child pedals on the bike. The number of miles, the number of pages read, and the time are recorded on chart paper. In addition, students go to the computer to find out the weather for that day. As we PAUSE during the day, we come across words that we think would work well with our daily journal. The journal must include the target words for that day. The chart is placed in the writing center for students to practice cursive writing or they may type it on the computer or typewriter. We discuss places of interest and incorporate the curriculum objectives for all academic areas. Right now, we are eighty miles from South Carolina.
If you have ever wondered about using the word "Maya" vs "Mayan", here is a brief explanation of the correct usage.... Inevitably, the subject of Mel Gibson's new movie, Apocalypto, will arise at the dinner table. Here's a short primer on how to be Mesoamerican chic with your adjectives and nouns. I haven't seen the movie yet, but will when opportunity arises. I have nothing to say about the plot, except that a group of hunter-gatherers who speak Yucateca is highly improbable. Yucateca is a Mayan language, and any group speaking it would be farmers, cultivating maize. No matter, it's Hollywood. The annoyances thus far stem from the seemingly random decisions by reviewers about when to use the words "Maya" and "Mayan." This morning's Washington Post provides an example: Our hero is no city Maya, however. He is one Jaguar Paw (brilliant, supple, expressive Rudy Youngblood), of an indigenous forest people. So far, so good. The protagonist is a Maya. But, the reviewer inexplicably changes the plural to Mayans: One morning -- the portents have been over-dramatic -- the Mayans arrive in force. One is a Maya, two or more are Mayans? Well, no. Here's the convention used by Mesoamerican archaeologists. Always choose "Maya" unless referring to a language, in which case the word is "Mayan" (there are at least two dozen living Mayan languages.) The people are Maya, not Mayans. Our reviewer writes of "a Mayan urban center." Those in the know would say "a Maya urban center." He speaks of "Mayan culture." Nope. Say "Maya culture." You'll find that academics who've written popular works on the Maya adhere to this convention (Michael Coe who wrote Breaking the Maya Code, Linda Schele who authored Maya Cosmos, etc.) The word "Mayan," improperly used, will grate on the ears of anyone who's read much at all about this civilization. You can't go wrong with "Maya."
Muscicapa Vertice Nigro: The Cat-Bird. This Bird is about the size of, or somewhat bigger than a Lark. The Crown of the Head is black; the Upper-part of the Body, Wings and Tail, dark brown; particularly the Tail approaches nearest to black. The Neck, Breast, and Belly, are of a lighter brown. From the Vent, under the Tail, shoot forth some Feathers, of a dirty red. This Bird is not seen on lofty Trees; but frequents Bushes and Thickets; and feeds on Insects. It has but one Note, which resembles the Mewing of a Cat, and which has given it its Name. It lays a blue Egg; and retires from Virginia in Winter. Alni, folia Americana Serrata, floribus pentapetalis albis, in This Shrub grows in moist Places, and sometimes in Water, from which it rises, with many slender Stems, to the Height of ten or fourteen Feet. The Leaves are somewhat rough, placed alternately, serrated, and in Shape not unlike Those of the White Thorn. In July there shoots from the Ends of the Branches, Spikes of white Flowers, four or five Inches long. Each Flower consists of five Petals and a Tuft of small Stamina. These Flowers are thick set on Foostalks a Quarter of an Inch long; and are succeeded by small oval pointed Capsu1a's, containing many chaffy Seeds. This Plant endures our Climate in the open Air; and flourishes at Mr. Christ. Gray's
How do you define home? Is it defined by people, music, places, culture, memories, the land, a country? By Mirna Santana How do you define homeland, your country/Patria or your region? This question is more about the large context of the qualities that define our countries or regions. It is about what unifies us. It is about what are the things that matter to us and why? It is about the qualities you apply to places you connect to...emotionally. It is where your family, friends or long-term memories are rooted. It does not need to be the place you were born. Do you have a country or is the whole world your country? Do you have several places you can call home? Do you have a way to carry home or your Patria or your place within you? If you were to give a two minute elevator speech to convince someone to visit your place, what would you say about that place? Does the existence of such a concept Patria bothers you because it brings to you Patriotism or nationalism, concepts that may be responsible for many wars? Or is your accepted definition of patria or nation a good reason to fight to defend it. What is included in you definition: the geographical context, emotions, memories, symbols (a flag, currency), culture (food, music, language, accents, national/regional custom), power issues, political boundaries or frontiers, physical structures, race or other identity binding issues such as religion? A friend once said "This place is home, because of my friends." She has two homes because she feels officially accepted in her adopted home while keeping her identity and connection to the place where she was born. In a way I find a parallel in that. Home has always been and will always be a little place bathed by ocean waters. Yet through time, I have been known for adopting-- and being adopted at places where I have lived elsewhere. My definition of home is now more global more like Virginia Wolf, home is the world. Yet home is also a beautiful lake or the smile of a local child. Home is as always the memories of the oceans, my friends and family. One of the most beautiful ways to define Patria, came to me through a song by Ruben Blades--the song is call Patria. Blades definition of what home is, can be summarized like this: Patria are many beautiful things. "A while ago, a little kid asked me for the meaning of the word Patria. He surprised me with the question and with my soul in my throat, I answered: Beautiful creature of my neighborhood, little brother, Patria are so many beautiful things." Blades continued saying "Patria are the walls of the buildings in our neighborhood; Patria is hope--the dark skinned people hopes. Patria are also the memories that travel in the minds of those who leave their places... Patria is a feeling..and it is the looks in the eyes of an old man. It is the eternal spring. It is the smiles of your new baby sister.. I tell you little brother Patria are so many beautiful things!" What Patria is not he added, "Patria are not the people who oppress others ." Perhaps Wendel Berry may see Patria as the land and as freedom. He has written about wars--and he seems to understand how that concept makes people goes to fight (see views of Wendell Berry). Wendell Berry embraces the humanitarian global as well of a local view of home. Wendell Berry quotes "Love the world. Work for nothing. Take all that you have and be poor. Love someone who does not deserve it. Denounce the government and embrace the flag."... the flag here represents that homely place and it is not any government. "As a woman I have no country. As a woman I want no country. As a woman, my country is the whole world. " Virgina Wolf. She was from Britain yet this quote tells a lot about her global perspective. This is a feature of most humanitarians and of most world trotters. She was indeed a traveler. Some people see these words as empty, in reality the contrary is true. When someone has been exposed to a broad spectrum of people and their cultures, the image of what is home blurs and expands. It becomes the world, the planet, the Universe--yet somehow perhaps as a survival and primitive mechanism it reminds connected to the land and to the close friends that help to connect the dots and keep oneself anchored. The concept of family becomes humanity, likeness, and not just blood ties. Of course Patria is also defined by leaders to convince others to fight for their territories. Those definitions are quite different from the above descriptions and I will not discuss them here. G. Julius Caesar said of patriotism "Beware of the leader,who strikes the war drum in order to transfer the citizens into panic patriotic glow. Patriotism is a double-side sword. It makes the blood so boldly, like it constricts the intellect." Blades song was a hymn for places that were looking from freedom from colonialism, yet it was also a definition of what makes a country and its people hold together. I found some reactions to Blades songs in you tube and brought them here as a ''starter" to help you express your own homey definition. "Wherever I go this song connects me with the land where I was born"--Millenium 2007 "What a feeling! What a beautiful song. My soul breaks when I listen to this song yet at the same time, it is part of me" sappstuf For me this song is a Latin American Hymn. It is the most beautiful definition of what makes a country hold together. It says a lot about the things we love. It is about how we put those pieces together and save then in our long-term memories. War is perhaps the fear to lose some of those things that bring us together as humans/the things that give us a sense of place. Comments 1 comment Ruben Blades Music More by this Author The Little Prince is a classic that was written in 1943 by Antoine the Saint Exupery. It is an important resource to learn about relationships and what matters the most. It teaches us to appreciate the essence of life. ... Birds help humans providing ecosystem services such as beauty (joy/$ through bird watchers and ecotourism), participation in nutrient cycling, pollination, and seed dispersal. Their contribution to the economy is in the... How can you help nature by supporting land conservation, national parks,or by volunteering educating others. In addition fundraising, gardening and other ways to help nature.
Germany has been a late bloomer in the development of equal rights politics for women. The simple fact that women were banned from political organizations and university study until the twentieth century indicates the initial lack of legal rights given to women in this country. In 1918, however, women in Germany were granted equal rights. This was a year prior to the initiation of women's equal rights laws in United States, where the women's movement was later growing by leaps and bounds by the 1960's. In Germany during the 1960's, women were being shuffled back into traditional roles after a stint of "freedom" during the war. This shift to pre-WWII women's roles created a backlog of advancement for women's right in Germany - a backlog that did not much obtain relief until the 1990's. Germany experienced a surge of new mandates and laws positively favoring women's rights after the reunification of the country in the late twentieth century. Law reforms shaped the position of women further, in 1997 for instance, with the removal of the final stronghold of the "housewife marriage" condition (Lemke, 2001). As a consequence of this change and numerous others, women rose to a progressive, independent status in Germany. These changes are not, however, welcomed without difficulties. Women were faced with hurdles in the form of institutional barriers, economic social gaps, and discrimination during this time of change. While Germany battles with the European Court of Justice over equal opportunity laws for the private sector even today, German women strive to overcome obstacles placed in their way. These problems are the obvious result of the adjustment period of law development, during which Germany must incorporate newer, fairer rulings into the old, out-of-date laws and legal regulations. For women in Germany, advancement in large political parties presents a...
Learn about this topic in these articles: ...book were practiced by the Dead Sea sect; in connection with the solar calendar of 52 weeks, one of the Dead Sea Scrolls even mentions the Book of Jubilees as the source. The (unpublished) Temple Scroll, a book of sectarian prescriptions that paraphrases—also as divine revelation—a part of the Mosaic Law and was composed by the Dead Sea sect before 100 bce... Dead Sea Scrolls ...recovered from Cave 11, including a large scroll with canonical, apocryphal, and unknown psalms. There was also a copy of Leviticus (dated to the 3rd century bce) as well as the very important Temple Scroll. Its 66 preserved columns give details for the construction of the ideal Temple of Jerusalem.
Books & Music Food & Wine Health & Fitness Hobbies & Crafts Home & Garden News & Politics Religion & Spirituality Travel & Culture TV & Movies Care of Historic Garments Consider ALL historic garments as artifacts and fragile. Whether it is apparent to the naked eye or not, all costumes have become weakened by normal wear and long exposure to the elements. Always wear clean gloves or wash hands frequently when handling costumes. Handle costume items as infrequently as possible. Avoid folding. Creases produced by folding tend to remain and break the fibers more easily. If necessary, crumple acid-free tissue and insert in folds to prevent creases. Most historic garments were made to fit an individual's unique body. Even a wearer who is smaller than the garment or who is wearing a corset cannot exactly reproduce the original wearer's silhouette and will stress some part of the garment. Wearing historic clothes thus produces enormous tensions on fabric and seams. The wearer's body temperature and perspiration serve as an oven that acts as a catalyst in the deterioration process. Sweating also releases components that attack fibers and can discolor fabrics. All garments entering a museum collection are never to be worn again. Special display forms are used to show garments in a three-dimensional manner. Mounting historic garments requires special knowledge to reduce strain on the object. We have become accustomed to frequent washing of clothing. Stress from washing can damage fabrics. Garments with no or few visible stains should be left as they are. In the case of museum garments and all other garments that are being saved for posterity, cleaning often can cause damage. If the garments have a musty smell, simply air them away from direct sunlight. To remove dust, vacuum at low speed, covering the vacuum end. If the garments have noticeable stains, the best thing to do is to consult a textile conservator. Stories abound about people who, unaware of the fragile nature of certain dyes, attempted to wash printed cotton dresses in water and detergent to ruinous end. Dry cleaning also is dangerous for it applies considerable strain to the fabric and seams and can dissolve some fabrics and trims such as early cellulose-based sequins. Select an area with minimal fluctuations in temperature and humidity, good air circulation and a minimum of light. Heat accelerates the acidic deterioration of cellulose fibers. Low humidity, often activated by high temperatures, can remove the natural moisture content from fibers and cause fabrics to become brittle and further weakened. High relative humidity allows the growth of molds. Fluctuations in temperatures and humidity can cause the fibers to expand and contract, resulting in internal wear. There are two ways to store a garment: hanging or boxed. Each garment is unique and should be considered individually. To avoid a sharp crease at the shoulder, pad the hanger by winding strips of polyester batting around it to shape and cushion the shoulder area. Cover the padded hanger with a cloth cover. Because wood and plastics (such as polyester) release acids that create yellow stains on the fabrics they touch, it is better to use an inert shield over them. Undyed, washed and unbleached cotton muslin is safe and can be used for hanger shields as well as garment covers. Make a cotton cover that completely encases the gown or costume, protecting it from light and dust. Avoid covers of synthetic fibers which create static electricity and attract dust. Do not use plastic garment bags for storage for they create an atmosphere with little or no ventilation in which condensation can occur. These conditions can also encourage the growth of mold and insects. If the garment is too delicate at the shoulder area or if the weight of the skirt or train is heavy the garment should be boxed. The box should be made of acid-free materials without a cellophane window; acid-free tissue paper can be placed between the window and the garment if necessary. Molds and mildew grow more easily where the fabric touches plastic, cellophane or glass. Assemble new acid-free tissue paper, clean cotton fabric and a sturdy acid-free cardboard box, large enough so that the garment will require few folds and deep enough. If you have a choice between types of acid-free tissue available for archival storage, use the acid-free paper that will best suit the fabric in the garment: buffered acid-free paper remains acid-free for a longer period of time and is used for cotton and linens. Unbuffered acid-free paper is used for silks and woolens. Line the box with undyed and washed cotton muslin so that the cotton fabric completely envelops the garment. Arrange the costume to minimize folds. Place crumpled tissue along major folds to prevent formation of hard creases. Do not use plastic bags inside the box. Plastics are chemically unstable and trap moisture, allowing mold and mildew to grow. Take extra care when storing a garment or costume for posterity. Sew happy, sew inspired. \| Related Articles \| Editor's Picks Articles \| Top Ten Articles \| Previous Features \| Site Map Content copyright © 2015 by Cheryl Ellex. All rights reserved. This content was written by Cheryl Ellex. If you wish to use this content in any manner, you need written permission. Contact Cheryl Ellex for details. Website copyright © 2016 Minerva WebWorks LLC. All rights reserved.
1 Answer \| Add Yours The original position is the perspective that a hypothetical creator of a society must adopt in order to ensure that the society will be just. Rawls argues that a just society would be one that was devised by someone who was in the original position. This person would have to set up the society without knowing what position he or she would have in it. Such a person would set up a society where even the poorest and least privileged people would have basic rights and would have enough to live on. The person in the original position would do this because he/she might potentially end up with the lowest status in the society. The original position, then, is the perspective of the hypothetical person who is creating a society but does not know what place he or she will hold in that society. Of course, this is not meant as a description of something that has actually happened in human history. Instead, it is meant as a way of evaluating the justice of a given society's basic systems. We’ve answered 318,925 questions. We can answer yours, too.Ask a question
Puzzle Directions: Click on a puzzle piece and drag it where you want it. When you connect two pieces correctly, they will join together. This is an extra hard double-sided puzzle. The same map is printed on both sides the pieces. Some of the pieces are turned over to the wrong side. To flip a piece over, hold down the "T" key and click on the puzzle piece. Mix up the pieces again. View finished map in pop-up window. Title: Great Circle Outline Chart of Florida Projection: Gnomonic, Source Bounding Coordinates: W: E: N: S: Description: US Coast and Geodetic Survey chart of Florida showing great circle outlines. Since the eye of the constructor is assumed to be at the center of the terrestrial globe, every great circle appears projected on the chart as a straight line. The meridians, being parts of great circles, appear on the chart as straight lines and the parallels as conic sections. Map also includes military air fields, commercial and municipal airports, CAA intermediate fields, and lines of equal magnetic variation. Key to NOAA maps. Source: US Coast and Geodetic Survey, Great Circle Outline Charts: Aeronautical Edition (Washington, DC: US Coast and Geodetic Survey, 1941) Map Credit: Courtesy the U.S. National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration
This video provides context for open data. - [Teacher] Let's begin by briefly exploring…the role of open government in the 21st century.…Before defining open government, I'd like to address…the state and needs of our communities.…Governing and government has never been more complex.…It's also more vital than ever.…Communities have increased needs and expectations.…Over half the population of the world…now lives in an urban environment,…and the United Nations says that up to 3,000,000…more people will join them every week.… By the middle of the century, over 70 percent…of humanity will live, work, and play in a city.…With this kind of change, enormous pressure…is being exerted on existing systems.…These include the ability for cities…to provide adequate public safety,…for clean and low-cost energy to be provided…to everyone who wants it, for transportations…to support the needs of communities,…and for existing infrastructure…to be maintained and expanded.…These are just some of the challenges…today and ahead of us all.… For our communities to have a chance… Dr. Jonathan Reichental introduces real-world use cases for open data, as well as the steps you need to take to develop and operationalize an open data program. He also explains how data scientists use open data to tell stories and drive data visualizations. Along the way, he provides numerous examples of open data in action: improving government, empowering citizens, creating opportunity, and solving public problems. - Understanding what open data really is - Current open data efforts around the globe - Open data in action - Designing an open data governance process, including policies - Monetizing open data - Storytelling with open data - Selling the value of open data - Measuring the value of open data
Number four on my list of five types of mobile learning is the use of mobile devices (smart phones, tablets, and such) as platforms for delivery course content. Frankly, I find that educational technology people often focus too much on this type of mobile learning, and I’ve argued that mobile learning involves much more than just content delivery. So as I continue my #EDUSprint blog series on mobile learning, I’m hesitant to give too much attention to “mobile learning type 4.” However, I think I’ve got an angle on this topic that will add something useful to the conversation… I first heard about what some call the inverted classroom from Harvard physics professor Eric Mazur. He’s the one who coined the term peer instruction to describe a certain kind of in-class small group work that involves having students discuss and answer clicker questions. How does Mazur make time for this kind of active learning when there’s so much physics material to cover? He shifts the “transfer” of information from an in-class lecture to a pre-class reading assignment. This frees time in class for the “assimilation” of that information through peer instruction. Traditionally, the assimilation step occurs after class, as students struggle on their own with homework. Since the textbook does such a great job of introducing the course material, why not move the more-difficult assimilation step to the classroom where other students and the instructor are available to help? (See Mazur’s 2009 Science article, “Farewell, Lecture,” for more on his experience with this idea.) Mazur’s approach made a lot of sense to me, and I’ve been using it in my math courses for years now. It’s a common one in the humanities, where students are expected to “do the reading” before class (although not all of them do, of course) and discuss that reading during class. But in the science, engineering, and mathematics–not so much. The inverted classroom model is gaining ground, however, particularly through the use of pre-class assignments that don’t just involve reading one’s textbook. That’s where the mobile learning angle comes in: I’m all for delivering content on mobile devices before class to enhance the learning that happens during class. Here are two examples of mobile-friendly inverted classrooms: Robert Talbert, soon to be teaching math at Grand Valley State University, has used the inverted classroom approach for his linear algebra course. Robert creates screencasts that introduce important topics (either using a virtual whiteboard or capturing his computer screen as he demos a piece of software) that he posts to YouTube. Here’s an example: See Robert’s YouTube channel for more screencasts. Robert’s students watch these videos before class, equipping them to come to class prepared to roll their sleeves up and start solving problems. I don’t know where and how Robert’s students watch these videos, but I do know that they’re mobile friendly. Point your smart phone’s QR code scanner here to see for yourself: (I’m assuming here that you’re not already reading this blog post on a mobile device!) For more on how Robert uses the inverted classroom approach, check out his blog posts on the topic. Keene State College math professor Dick Jardine also uses the inverted classroom approach, although he calls it “flipping” a class. (The “flip” terminology is also used by Daniel Pink, author of Drive: The Surprising Truth about What Motivates Us.) Jardine has his students access a variety of resources before class, including an online textbook and a collection of resources from the University of South Florida’s Holistical Numerical Methods Institute. That USF site has a mobile version featuring YouTube lectures, PDFs of PowerPoint presentations, and multiple-choice quizzes for self-testing. See for yourself: Watch Dick Jardine talk about how he uses the inverted classroom in this series of short videos from the academic technology unit at Keene State College. As with Robert Talbert’s course, I can see Dick Jardine’s students “consuming” these pre-class resources through their mobile devices whenever they have a spare moment–at the gym, waiting in line somewhere, whatever. That’s a great way to leverage the mobile content delivery idea. Interested in more on the inverted classroom? Check out the slides from a presentation Robert Talbert recently gave on the topic: And here’s a Prezi I put together for a talk titled “Class Time Reconsidered” that addresses the inverted classroom idea: See also Salman Khan (of the Khan Academy) on the inverted classroom in this TED talk he gave recently: And finally, check out this short presentation from UC-Santa Barbara physics professor Roger Freedman on his use of lecture-capture software to invert his classroom. What about you? What’s your experience with the inverted classroom? Do you see potential for this approach to work well with mobile content delivery?
If Magna Carta is the cornerstone of liberty, why did the Levellers, democratic radicals of the 17th century, reject it as 'containing many marks of intolerable bondage'? That in 2015, we still commemorate an agreement between the king and the barons of England reached 800 years ago, probably on the 15th June 1215, is a cause for wonder. Magna Carta, the Great Charter, as that agreement has come to be known, is held to be a milestone in the course of western constitutional thought. Its place in English jurisprudence is secure, but, while prominent, hardly matches the reverence it is shown on the other side of the Atlantic. Among the range of subjects covered by Magna Carta, three stand out for their constitutional importance: liberty, the rule of law and due process in the administration of justice, and taxation. On liberty: Chapters 39 is most famous in protecting liberty from arbitrary arrest and related prejudice ‘save by the law of the land’. Property rights are associated with liberty and attract various forms of protection. The rule of law, from which due process of law follows, is also the subject of Chapter 39, as well as numerous other provisions. Taxation, the power of the government to tax, which is always central to constitutional thought, appears in several chapters, of which 12 and 14, being general limitations on the taxing power, are the most important. The anniversary has prompted a fresh round of examination of Magna Carta and its influence not only in the UK and the USA but in many other places. My purpose here is different. It is prompted by a passage from a manifesto written in July 1646 by a group of Levellers. Called Remonstrance of Many Thousand Citizens, the manifesto, addressed to the House of Commons, describes the many grievances of the common people and proposes remedies. Freedom of conscience is foremost, followed closely by equality before the law, deprecating the ability of grandees and members of the House of Commons to avoid the normal sanctions of law. Additional concerns were imprisonment for debt and being pressed-into-military service. Instead of invoking and applying Magna Carta to the situation, as we might have expected, the manifesto takes a surprising turn: Ye know the laws of this country are unworthy a free people., and deserve from first to last to be considered and — reduced to an agreement with common equity and right reason, — Magna Carta itself being a beggarly thing, containing many marks of intolerable bondage. The manifesto goes on to say why Magna Carta is such a ‘beggarly thing’, why it contains marks of ‘intolerable bondage’. Who are the Levellers? They appeared on the political scene in 1645 when questions were asked about the imprisonment of John Lilburne their leader for refusing to answer the charges of a parliamentary committee. Lilburne had been in trouble years before in Star Chamber for criticizing the role of the bishops in government and then refusing to recognize the legality of the court. Although he spent much of the next and last eight years of his life in and out of prison, often on order of the House of Commons, sometimes the Lords, and finally Cromwell’s Council of State, he nevertheless started a political movement which became a major source of constitutional ideas and a popular reforming movement. By 1647, with the king in captivity and the parliament discredited, the future of English government and the constitution was in jeopardy. At first they made common cause with Oliver Cromwell and the New Model Army. They were prominent in the debates in Putney Church in 1647, an event that comes as close to being a constitutional convention as English history allows. But as Cromwell’s star rose and as he proved to be guilty of the same abuses as king and parliament before him, relations soured and the Levellers were harassed and persecuted, until by the late 1650s both Lilburne and the movement were dead. At the time they were cast as dangerous populists who wished to overthrow the constitution and to ‘level’ society to render all equal. Neither was ever their intention. Over time they came to be presented as visionaries, harbingers of modern ideas of constitutions and constitutionalism, liberals and democrats before their time. A beggarly thing Why then was Magna Carta a ‘beggarly thing’, ‘a mess of pottage’? There exists an etching from 1649 that shows John Lilburne on trial for treason. Treason was a capital offence, the penalty for which was the grisly fate of being hung, drawn, and quartered. Lilburne is defending himself before a specially constituted court of forty, including grandees, notables, and a dozen judges. Despite repeated requests, he is denied counsel, not told the exact charge against him (it related to a publication critical of Cromwell’s government), and is not allowed to call witnesses. The saving grace is that there is a jury to decide guilt or innocence. Indeed, in the top right hand corner, the names of the ‘Jury of Life and Death’ are listed. Lilburne was acquitted. Now you may presume a man, unrepresented, on trial for his life before a dubiously constituted court, would naturally turn to Magna Carta. After all, Magna Carta addresses these very issues of law and the due process of law. But laws are not the preserve of the grandees or the lawyers: nor are they just what the grandee and lawyers decide they are. The very concept of law has a deeper meaning. Laws, to be laws, must ‘be agreeable to the law Eternal and Natural — for whatsoever laws, usages, and customes, not thus qualified, are not the laws of the land’. Natural law is the key: natural law means natural reason, and natural reason is ‘invested in the breast of all men, regardless of their position in society, and ‘however mean his intellect’. Parliamentarians have no privileged access to natural reason. Bur what is the criterion of natural reason, the guiding beacon: it is the welfare and safety of all men. It follows that laws, usages, and customs not reasonably advancing the safety and welfare of the society are not true laws. Magna Carta, or parts of it, at first sight might seem compatible with this vision. Why then is it rejected? The clue is the words quoted above: Magna Carta ‘contains many marks of intolerable bondage’. Magna Carta emerges from a society based on the bondage of the common people to their masters. It is neither a free nor a just society. The purpose of the Charter is to secure peace among the elite, and hence maintain and strengthen the structure of bondage, not change it. In addition, Magna Carta had proved to be of no use in practical reality. Lilburne is on trial in a manner that violates its letter and spirit in the most blatant way. Due process of law is wholly absent. The Levellers’ point is that the very parliamentarians who were attacking the king for arbitrary practices, once in power do exactly the same. The parallels Coke drew between King Charles and King John would apply to his parliamentary colleagues. The Levellers had a different social model to draw on: they harked back to law and society as it existed before the Conquest. Anglo-Saxon Society, in their view, was constituted by free-men who were respected as juridically equal and who were entitled to participate in the political process. It was constituted by a system of law and usage based on that sense of equal respect. Justice was administered by local courts whose judges were familiar with local customs and practices. On the Levellers’ view, the Common Law had its origins in that society and, over centuries, developed the laws, customs, and usages that natural reason and social conditions dictated. It is only by casting-off the Norman Yoke, whose legacy continued to the seventeenth century, and restoring the essential elements of the earlier constitutional order, that law and liberty can flourish. Lessons from Magna Carta I will finish by asking whether there are cautionary lessons to be learnt from this case study. Does it teach us anything about constitutions as the modern equivalents of Magna Carta? The most obvious is that constitutional standards, of which Magna Carta is an early example, depend for their efficacy on the social and political context in which they occur. While this may seem too obvious to be worth stating, it is remarkable how many contemporary constitution-makers and drafters, politicians, and international bodies, seem not to realize that declaring a standard in a text does not guarantee it will have any practical effect. A second and related point is that standards, of the kind set by Magna Carta, require an institutional structure suitable for, capable of, and committed to, their proper implementation. In seventeenth-century England, an adequate institutional structure was absent. In the face of John Lilburne’s requests for his own counsel, the judges, eminent and experienced though they were, kept replying that they would be his counsel and that was enough. Edward Coke, the great defender of the Common Law and champion of liberty, when Attorney-General apparently had no scruples in ordering and overseeing the torture of suspects to obtain evidence. Reasons of state security trump all else, an idea still seemingly alive in parts of the Anglo-American world. The final lesson of enduring importance is brought out by considering a statement by Marshall CJ in Marbury v. Madison, where he wrote: Certainly all those who have framed written constitutions contemplate them as forming the fundamental and permanent law of the nation. If by that he means the text is the whole constitution, the claim cannot stand. The case of the Levellers, to which numerous others could be added, shows that a constitution has deeper roots than the text and that the text has to be read and rendered in line with deeper understandings, expectations, and conventions. What was true of the seventeenth century remains so in the twenty-first century. To that we should add a final and no less salient point: the people themselves have a sense of that deeper constitution and are its guardians. Denis Galligan is Professor of Socio-Legal Studies at the University of Oxford, and Director of Programmes of the Foundation for Law, Justice and Society. This Opinion Piece was first published on the Opinion pages of the Foundation for Law Justice and Society website, following its presentation to a meeting of the American Bar Association to mark the 800th anniversary of the signing of the Magna Carta. Article courtesy of Open Democracy
Reading comprehension is much more than just seeing words on a page. It refers to getting the right information from and thinking about those words. Your teen might know how to read, but comprehension might not come as easily to him. By setting him up for reading success, you can ensure that he's getting the most out of his reading assignments and understanding more than just a collection of words on the pages of a book. With cell phones, computers and TVs nearby, it's no wonder your teen doesn't retain everything she reads -- especially when she's texting a friend when she's supposed to be learning about book themes. Help your teen comprehend what she reads by providing her a space in your home completely free of distractions. It should be a room that is comfortable and quiet, with her phone in another room. It may also help for your teen to listen to music while she reads. Experiment and come up with an environment that is more conducive to reading and concentrating. If you notice that your teen is having a hard time concentrating on and understanding what he's reading, form your own book club. Make a commitment to read whatever book he's currently reading for school or pleasure so that when he does have questions about what he's reading, you're on the same page -- literally and figuratively. It also gives you an opportunity to ask questions about the book and discuss various themes and characters so your teen absorbs even more. Use The 5 Ws Who, what, where, when and why -- five important questions that are answered by each and every book that your teen reads. Create a worksheet for your teen where the basics are answered for each story. While you may have to coax your teen to think about the basic questions for each book she reads, the exercise should help her to make it a habit, according to Peggy Gisler and Marge Eberts in an article for FamilyEducation.com. Soon, deciphering what is happening in a book will come more naturally. Find a Connection One way to help your teen comprehend more of what he reads is to help him find a personal connection with one of the characters or theme, suggests the Association for Supervision and Curriculum Development. A disconnect between your teen and what he's reading can cause him to lose interest or read without really thinking about the book. Ask your teen questions about which character he likes the best or which theme he thinks is the most important to help create that personal connection and get even more out of reading time. - Jupiterimages/Brand X Pictures/Getty Images
NASA’s Innovative Advanced Concepts (NIAC) program has started a Phase I effort to explore the overall viability and advance the Technology Readiness Level (TRL) for an orbital power station project called “SPS Alpha”, or Solar Power Satellite – Alpha. Last August, Artemis Innovation Management Solutions was selected for a NASA NIAC award to dive into the details of what Artemis leader John C. Mankins callls “the first practical solar-power satellite concept.” Mankins published his pdf report March 27th and we’re now able to download the file. It runs 24 pages and is quite graphic rich. SPS-Alpha Artists Rendition. After the first few pages of what and who plus a couple historical views of graphics of old ideas Mankins gets to work on the state of the art as his firm sees it. SPS-Alpha is a new idea inspired by biology similar to a hive of bees. This idea brings together a large number of modules assembled to form an enormous satellite. The advantage is there is no single point of failure. In orbit, at great cost and costly access, a near failsafe operation is key to the project being able to stand for financing. Modular also offers individual elements, where no part is over 150kg in weight and manufacturability at scale and en mass. Perhaps of even more import is SPS-Alpha uses a new optical configuration. In the new iteration no large mirrors are needed, eliminating weight and points of failure. Each element is intelligent, being its own local solar power generator using local power management and distribution, with a Wireless Power Transmission (WPT) system based on the ‘retro-directive’ phased array approach, local thermal management and built with a small ‘flat’ spacecraft bus formed in a hexagon to interconnect the modules. The point of the Phase I study is to establish the technical and economic viability the SPS-Alpha idea to bring it up to a point where an analytical proof of concept can start to provide a framework for further study and develop technology. Next common sense, in a bureaucratic sort of way, is applied. Analyse the system end-to-end to see if it’s feasible, identify and assess in more detail the key technology challenges needed with a measure of the critical technologies, get some selected technology into research and development, conduct a starting economic evaluation for viability and get a preliminary ‘roadmap’ for the research and development. It seems NASA has thought this out. The Phase I project has eleven steps and some have substeps. Over three graphic representations, the report shows how over three stages the bureaucratic process can arrive and concluding analysis. The report also looks at the main parts of the Solar Power Satellite including the hexagonal bus, a boom for the structure, the solar energy harvesting reflector, the interconnects, a power generation module, the WPT unit, plus a “PushMe-PullYou robot and ultimately the propulsion and attitude control system. There’s a lot to do. NASA has already started assessing the risk. So far NASA has held two workshops already this year with no ‘Show-Stoppers” in evidence. The principle technologies issues centre on the wireless power transmission, end-to-end power, thermal, and system intelligence. It’s now clear the hexagonal bus and the interconnects are the key systems. The work is underway for mass estimates of refined systems and technologies and that has started the technology roadmap. SPS-Alpha Operation Concept Graphic. Early results show that a SPS-Alpha could be built using the modular design, a one thousand meter array would need 80,000 modules at a mass between 10 to 12,000 mt. At this early date, the modelling shows that to size a system the time between refuelling platform propulsion and attitude control is a key parameter. The new NASA study shows as have other private work that the technology risks are not significant and orbital stations are feasible. The open questions remain, what does it cost and how much net power gets to the surface of the earth? These are questions that are going to need demonstrations. Those alone are very costly enterprises. At the end what will ratepayers have to pay? Orbital power is a fantastic idea and the new NASA report is as interesting as many already seen. Still that cost for power to consumers is an elusive number that has to come soon for credibility. Have a look at the report. Page 23 looks at some stunning cost to revenue numbers. By. Brian Westenhaus
A study which has pinpointed the moment 'intelligence' evolved suggests it may have happened by accident. The genetic 'fluke' which led to the evolution of our ability to reason may have also sown the seeds of mental illness, the researchers claim. The study claims that the genes which led to complex behaviour evolved 500 million years ago, when our 'ancestors' were invertebrates living in the sea. A mutation which led to the number of brain genes in our ancestors multiplying set life on Earth on the path towards complex thought, and our ability to analyse situations. But the researchers claim that mental illness may be the 'price' we pay for intelligence. Their conclusions are based on studying 'complex behaviours' in mice and humans, in experiments which involved identifying objects on touch screens - then tracing the genetic origins of these behaviours. [Related: Riddle of missing Pacific Island 'is solved'] Professor Seth Grant, of the University of Edinburgh, who led the research, said: "One of the greatest scientific problems is to explain how intelligence and complex behaviours arose during evolution." The research, detailed in two papers in Nature Neuroscience, also shows a direct link between the evolution of 'complex behaviour' and the origins of brain diseases. Scientists believe that the same genes that improved our mental capacity are also responsible for a number of brain disorders. "This ground breaking work has implications for how we understand the emergence of psychiatric disorders and will offer new avenues for the development of new treatments," said John Williams, Head of Neuroscience and Mental Health at the Wellcome Trust, one of the study funders. The study shows that intelligence in humans developed as the result of an increase in the number of brain genes in our evolutionary ancestors. The researchers suggest that a simple invertebrate animal living in the sea 500 million years ago experienced a 'genetic accident', which resulted in extra copies of these genes being made. This animal's descendants benefited from these extra genes, leading to behaviourally sophisticated vertebrates – including humans. The research team studied the mental abilities of mice and humans, using comparative tasks that involved identifying objects on touch-screen computers. Researchers then combined results of these behavioural tests with information from the genetic codes of various species to work out when different behaviours evolved. They found that higher mental functions in humans and mice were controlled by the same genes. The study also showed that when these genes were mutated or damaged, they impaired higher mental functions. "Our work shows that the price of higher intelligence and more complex behaviours is more mental illness," said Professor Grant. The researchers had previously shown that more than 100 childhood and adult brain diseases are caused by gene mutations. "We can now apply genetics and behavioural testing to help patients with these diseases", said Dr Tim Bussey from Cambridge University, which was also involved in
Carter B. Horsley auction of American Paintings at Phillips de Pury & Luxembourg is highlighted by several important early Western works by such artists as Peter Rindisbacher (1806-1834), Seth Eastman (1808-1875), and Alfred Jacob Miller (1810-1874). include good works by Albert Bierstadt (1830-1902), John James Audubon (1875-1851), Victor de Grailly (1804-1889), Homer Dodge Martin (1836-1897), Francis Augustus Silva (1835-1886), Ralph Albert Blakelock (1847-1919), Elliot Dangerfield (1859-1932), Joseph Decker (1853-1924), John Singer Sargent (1856-1925), Mary Cassatt (1844-1926), Robert Henri (1865-1929) and Emil Carlsen works in the auction are by Joseph Otis Minnot (d. 1909) and Alfred Rindisbacher are very rare on the auction market and Lot 64, shown above, is a fine example of his work. Entitled "Buffalo Hunt," it is a pen, black ink and watercolor on paper that measures 8 1/4 by 16 7/8 inches. Executed circa 1822-4, it has a conservative estimate of $100,000 to $150,000. It failed to sell and was "bought in" for $75,000. Its provenance includes Harry Webb of Shelburne, Vt., and the Gerald Peters Gallery of settled in the Earl of Selkirk's Red River colony near what is now Winnipeg in 1821. Other versions of this scene are in the National Archives of Canada in Ottawa, the United States Military Academy Museum at West Point and the Hudson's Bay Company in Winnipeg. "As later artists' depictions of the western frontier attest," the catalogue noted, "the theme of the buffalo hunt was to become endemic throughout 19th Century American art. None, however, would depict the majesty of the buffalo and the vision of the West which it represented more poignantly than Rindisbacher. The Buffalo Hunt services as one of the earliest of the white man's exploration of this frontier. "Worship of the Sun, Dakota Dancers," is a 6-by-9-inch watercolor, shown above, by Seth Eastman that is dated 1852 and has a conservative estimate of $80,000 to $120,000. It sold for $120,000, not including the buyer's premium. studied drawing while at West Point before being assigned to Fort Crawford on the Mississippi River where for four years he documented tribal gatherings and in 1830 he was transferred to Fort Snelling in Minnesota, now Minneapolis, and then served from 1831-3 as the artist for a topographical reconnaissance mission of frontier forts. From 1841 to 1848, he returned to Fort Snelling and sketched both Dakota and Chippewa subjects. The Sun Dance depicted in this lot was performed by two young men who would dance with whistles in their mouths for several days while fasting. provides the additional following commentary: such as these in Eastman's collections were received with great acclaim by artists' circles. In 1848 he exhibited a number of them at the National Academy of Design and Cincinnati's Western Art Union. A critic from the St. Louis Republican noted 'Since we have known something of Eastman's pictures, and of Indians, we have ranked him as out of sight the best painter of Indian life the country has produced; a superior artist to Catlin - he has lived and painted for years among the Indians, where Catlin has spent months; his gallery now, is far more complete in all that relates to Indian character, than is Catlin's; and there is in the latter, an effort at effect, as apparent as in the truth of Eastman, to any one who has really seen Indians.' As a result of Eastman's success and the positive reception of his work, he and his family were moved to Washington, D.C., in 1851 to work for the Bureau of Indian Affairs. He had been chosen as the official illustrator for a five-year, Congress-approved publication to record all of the Indian tribes of the United States, authored by Henry Rowe Schoolcraft. The result was the six-volume Historical and Statistical Information Respecting the History, Condition, and Prospects of the Indian Tribes of the United States (1851-1857). The illustrations for these volumes were etchings based upon original works executed by Eastman while at Fort Snelling. Published on November 30, 1852, Worship of the Sun, Dakota Dancers appears as an engraving executed by R. Hinshelwood in volume III as plate "Mirage on the Prairie," is a 8 3/4-by-13 1/2-inch watercolor on paper by Alfred Jacob Miller, shown above. Painted circa 1840, it has an estimate of $200,000 to $300,000. It sold for not including the buyer's premium. The work has been widely exhibited and published. contains an extensive quotation from Miller's notes of his 1837 expedition with Captain William Drummond Stewart for the American Fur Company that documents the "mirage" depicted in this lot. "In itself," the catalogue entry observes, Mirage on the Prairie is a beautiful and romantic document of expedition life depicting the caravan of men, horses and supplies in the midst of the prairie. Wagons and mules laden with supplies, and men on horseback and on foot, all converge and proceed out into the wide expanse of the western plains. The vivid foreground colors of pristine white in the covered wagon, and the brilliant red of the front man on horseback, coupled with the movement away from the viewer, entices one to travel with the group out into the expanse. This and similar watercolors convey an intense and immediate experience of miler's trip, whose beauty, but harsh reality, is brought to attention by Miller's narrative relating to the image." Eastman and Miller were, along with Catlin and Karl Bodmer, the first generation of fine artists who documented the early forays by whites of the West. generation of great artists of the West included Thomas Moran and Albert Bierstadt and Lot 69, "Mount Hood, Oregon," an 11-by-20-inch oil on paper laid down on canvas is a fine example of his majestic vistas. It is dated 1863 and has a conservative estimate of $150,000 to $200,000. It sold for $140,000 not including the buyer's premium. "Bierstadt's genius," the catalogue noted, "was his ability to summarize the spirit of Manifest Destiny in such spectacular and rich lands of the West as seen in Mount Hood, Oregon." Lot 6, "White Breasted Hawk," is a rare pastel, pencil and chalk on paper by John James Audubon. It measures 20 1/4 by 16 1/2 inches and has a conservative estimate of $100,000 to $150,000. It sold for $230,000 not including the buyer's premium. Between 1827 and 1838, Audubon published his four-volume "Birds of America" that contained 1,055 life-sized birds printed and hand-colored on 435 elephant folio sheets, of which White Breasted Hawk is one. "It is a fine example of Audubon's ability to observe delicate nuances of color and form while giving life to the bird he delineates," the catalogue observed. includes some fine Eastern landscapes. "Majestic View at Day's End - view of Lake Winnipesaukee from Red Hill, New Hampshire," is a good oil on canvas laid down on board, 26 1/2 by 35 7/8 inches, painted circa 1850s by Victor de Grailly. The artist achieved wide acclaim for his painted versions of engravings by William Henry Bartlett that were published in American Scenery in 1840. This work is based on Bartlett engraving and has a conservative estimate of $8,000 to $12,000. It sold for $9,000 not including the buyer's premium. Lot 22 is a beautiful view of "Silver Lake" with streaks of sunlight breaking through the clouds above a mountain by Homer Dodge Martin. The 24 1/2-by-40 1/4-inch oil on canvas has a conservative estimate of $10,000 to $15,000 and was once in the collection of Newhouse Galleries in New York. It sold for $20,000 not including the Lot 30 is a strong work notable for its reddish hues by Francis Augustus Silva, entitled "Sunset, New York Harbor." The 9-by-18-inch oil on canvas was painted circa 1876 and was once in the collection of Alexander Galleries in New York. It has a conservative estimate of $60,000 to $80,000. It was "passed" at $55,000. The catalogue notes that Silva was a leading force along Fitz Hugh Lane (1804-1865) and Martin Johnson Heade (1819-1904) of the Luminist movement and that "it was under Silva that the Luminist's serene and fluid treatment of light reached its apex," adding that this work is "a brilliant evocation "Schroon Lake, New York (Five Figures in a Landscape)," is a very nice oil on canvas, 17 by 31 inches, by Ralph Albert Blakelock. The painting was executed circa 1875 to 1880 and has an estimate of $150,000 to $200,000. It was "passed" at $75,000. Blakelock is best known for his moonlit night scenes of forests and Indian encampments that are very painterly and poetic and were quite different from his earlier "Hudson River School style" landscapes of which this is a fine example. who stylistically was influenced by Blakelock was Elliott Daingerfield and Lot 54, "Bringing Home Firewood," a 20 1/8-by-14 1/8-inch oil on canvas, is a superb and vibrant impressionist work by him. Dated 1890, it has an estimate of $20,000 to $30,000. It was "passed" at $17,000. "Still Life with Grapes and Peaches," is a lush and magnificent work by Joseph Decker that was painted circa 1880-90. One of the artist's largest still lifes, the oil on canvas measures 16 by 29 1/2 inches and has an estimate of $150,000 to $200,000. It was "passed" at $95,000. "A Spanish Woman (Gigia)," is a 22-by-18-inch oil on canvas by John Singer Sargent that is bold and absorbing. Painted circa 1879-1882, it has an estimate of $700,000 to $900,000. It failed to sell and was "bought in" at $525,000. Sargent studied with Carlos-Duran, the portrait painter, who urged his students to study Velasquez and Sargent traveled to Madrid in 1879 and copied works by the master. provides the following commentary: present work clearly derives its restrained palette from Velasquez's example. Here Sargent has limited himself to velvety blacks, a rich cocoa brown, and a subtle range of gold to describe the sitter's exposed body. A Spanish Woman (Gigia) also shares the radically simplified composition of Velasquez's work, placing a single figure against a shallow, neutral background. Also notable is Sargent's use of tenebristic shadows. Eschewing crisp, linear contours, the artist crates convincing anatomical volume with dramatic patches of dark and light. Although strikingly beautiful, this woman is not idealized. Her distinctive facial features, unkempt hair, and modest, unassuming garments betray a model of common, everyday origins. Indeed, this quality of the present work raises perplexing questions about the sitter's precise identity. Many of Sargent's works from the early 1880s feature Gigia Viani, an Italian woman whom Sargent met while in Venice. She become the artist's favorite model....While the word 'Gigia' is inscribed on the stretcher of the present work, and apparently written in the artist's own hand, the sitter's appearance ultimately renders this identification questionable.Despite her possible anonymity, the sitter of the present work remains a fully conceived individual. Sargent has endowed this portrait with a striking psychological presence. The woman appears rather anxious, as through startled by a movement beyond the picture frame." and more certain of identity is Lot 102, "Mrs. Harris Whittemore and Baby Helen," a 23-by-19-inch pastel on paper by Mary Cassatt that is the cover illustration of the catalogue and is shown at the top of this article. The very beautiful pastel was executed in 1898 and has an estimate of $2,000,000 to $3,000,000. It failed to sell and was "bought in" at $1,200,000. is a delightful work by Robert Henri. Entitled "Little Dreamer," it is an oil on board that measures 23 3/4 by 18 3/4 inches and has a conservative estimate of $10,000 to $15,000. It sold for $26,000 not including the buyer's premium. Lot 95 is an excellent oil on canvas, 20 by 24 inches, by Emil Carlsen that is luminous and abstract. Entitled "The South Strand, Skagen," it has a conservative estimate of $10,000 to $15,000. It sold for $31,000 not including the buyer's premium. "The Launching of the 'Defender," is a very nice watercolor and pencil on paper, 19 1/4 by 26 1/4 inches, by Joseph Otis Minott. Dated 1895, it has a conservative estimate of $6,000 to $8,000. It sold for $7,500 not including the buyer's premium. The Defender was a yacht financed by William K. Oliver Iselin and Edwin Morgan and got stuck on some bolts from the ways at its launching and, according to the catalogue, took two days to "unstick." It went own to defeat the British Valkyrie III in the ninth challenge for the One of the finest works in this auction is Lot 61, "Tattered and Torn," shown above, by Alfred Kappes. Dated 1886, the 40-by-32-inch oil on canvas has an estimate of $75,000 to $100,000 and is in the great tradition of the best paintings by Thomas Eakins. It sold for $75,000 not including the buyer's premium. a genre painter in New York City in the late 19th century, Alfred Kappes was elected an Associate member of the National Academy of Design in 1887. This same year, he exhibited Tattered and Torn at the Boston Art Club. Kappes was renowned during his career for his sensitive portrayal of the lives of the African-American community, and was recognized as such in art reviews of the day. Kappes was also known for his illustration work, specifically the sketches of the homes and tombs of Thomas Jefferson and James 142 offered lots, 42 did not sell.
Search The Library's Lexicon An established principle or proposition. A principle of law universally admitted as being just and consonant with reason.Maxims in law are somewhat like axioms in geometry. They are principles and authorities, and part of the general customs or common law of the land; and are of the same strength as acts of parliament, when the judges have determined what is a maxim; which belongs to the judges and not the jury. Maxims of the law are holden for law, and all other cases that may be applied to them shall be taken for granted.The application of the maxim to the case before the court is generally the only difficulty. The true method of making the application is to ascertain how the maxim arose, and to consider whether the case to which it is applied is of the same character, or whether it is an exception to an apparently general rule.The alterations of any of the maxims of the common law are dangerous.
Berger Ditch discharges to the marina at Maumee Bay State Park (MBSP), just east of the MBSP bathing beach. Recent studies by U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) and University of Toledo researchers have identified the ditch as a source of Escherichia coli (E. coli), an indicator bacterium that is used to assess recreational water quality. An automatic sampler was installed at a USGS streamgage on Berger Ditch. Samples were collected as a function of streamflow, including negative flow conditions. Instantaneous discharges of E. coli and suspended sediment from Berger Ditch were calculated. When samples were collected, streamflow ranged from -21 to 227 cubic feet per second (ft3/s) and over the entire time period, streamflow ranged from -23 to 243 ft3/s. Discharges of E. coli ranged from 2.5 ? 108 to greater than 2.6 ? 1010 colony-forming units per second (cfu/s), and suspended-sediment discharges ranged from 0.01 to 2.2 kilograms per second (kg/s). One sample was collected during negative flow conditions, and discharges of E. coli and suspended sediment in this sample were -4.3 ? 108 cfu/s and -0.015 kg/s, respectively. Additional publication details USGS Numbered Series Escherichia coli and Suspended Sediment in Berger Ditch at Maumee Bay State Park, Oregon, Ohio, 2006
Medical Transportation Is a Big Industry That Services a Large Number of People Naming a Number of the Industries That Are Related To Medical Transportation and Provide Services To list a few of the industries that provide medical services, there are medical transportation service to the elderly, medical transportation services for the disabled, medical transportation services for patients going to doctors for appointments with doctors, and air ambulance transportation services for those persons who have to be transported to a distant area, and medical transportation services to areas that go beyond 200 miles, and there are a number of other reasons for medical transportation that are guaranteed under the umbrella of the law. Naming A Number of The Jobs That Are Provided By The Medical Transportation Industry: There are a number of jobs that are related to the medical transportation industry. These medical transportation jobs includes the following: non emergency medical transportation jobs for medical transportation companies like drivers of the medical transportation vans; there is a need for medical van transportation jobs to be filled and there is always a need for trained and qualified drivers or attendants; there is a need for long distance medical transportation drivers who are thoroughly trained by the company provider; there is a demand for drivers to fill jobs that provide free transportation services; there is a need for drivers to fill jobs for persons who need to be taken for medical appointments on a regular basis; there is a growing need for drivers to fill jobs and to train for air medivac medical transportation driver jobs that assist the infirm and transport them to the place where they can receive the best care. Information on Medical Transportation for Persons with Disabilities and For the Elderly Persons with disabilities and the elderly who need transportation and are unable to transport them are guaranteed access to public transportation by The Americans for Disabilities Act, which guarantees equal access to public transportation facilities and this includes the use of medical transportation. Public transportation is provided to the elderly persons who qualify through a medical examination and for persons with disabilities who qualify with a medical exam by a professional physician. Medical transportation for the elderly and the disabled is guaranteed for taking these persons to medical visits to the physicians of their choice. Medical transportation services are guaranteed for discharge from a hospital stay. Medical transportation are guaranteed and provided for what is categorized as not emergency situations to a hospital facility of this person’s choice. Medical transportation is guaranteed for any person with kidney disease who has been prescribed dialysis for treatment. Medical transportation is provided by public facilities for the use or medical treatment for cancer radiation treatments. Medical transportation services are provided for those individuals who suffer from cardiac disease and have been prescribed treatment for cardiac rehabilitation. Medical transportation is guaranteed for individuals who have been prescribed medication and treatment for diagnosed neurological diseases. Medical transportation is available to those individuals who have been diagnosed with mental disease by a qualified physician and are under treatment for the mental disease by the physician.
The Afro-American Newspapers have perhaps the largest single source of African-American history on the planet Baltimore, MD (PRWEB) May 23, 2012 In partnership with the Afro-American Newspapers, Project Gado launched Gado Images in March, 2012. Selected photographs of the estimated 1.5 million photographs from the newspaper’s rich archives are being made available online with a growing digital collection. Scholars have called the Afro-American’s materials one of the best black history collections in the world. Historians, writers, filmmakers, journalists, and community members alike will appreciate the accessibility of this growing historical resource with images dating back to 1920. Featuring images from World War II, the Great Depression, and the civil rights era, visitors may view and license photos of national celebrities, military units, landmarks, and Baltimore weddings, graduations, and community history. “We are excited about launching the image licensing website that will enable a broader audience access to the Afro-American’s images,” says Tom Smith, project manager of Project Gado. "The Afro-American Newspapers have perhaps the largest single source of African-American history on the planet," stated President and Publisher John Oliver, Jr. "We've long recognized the value of our archives and have made some progress not only in chronicling our items, but also in using our archives to provide assistance to researchers, students and history enthusiasts." Scholars and community members who are interested in African American history and heritage may visit http://www.gadoimages.com to view the Afro’s images and purchase licenses or prints for their own use. About Project Gado Project Gado has created an autonomous open source archival scanning robot which small archives can use to digitize their photographic collections. This project grew out of the Johns Hopkins University Center for Africana Studies, and now includes the JHU Sheridan Libraries and the Baltimore Afro-American Newspaper. For more information about Project Gado, please contact Amy Smith at amy(at)esdallc(dot)com or visit http://www.projectgado.org. About Gado Images Gado Images provides historical photo licenses and prints. Currently, the collection contains selections from the archives of the Afro-American Newspapers. Many images are newly digitized, and many have never been published previously. All images are digitized using revolutionary scanning technology developed by Project Gado. Images are property of the Afro- American Newspapers unless otherwise noted. For more information, please visit http://www.gadoimages.com. About The Afro-American The Afro-American is one of the oldest, family-owned, continuously publishing newspapers in the country. It was founded in 1892 by John H. Murphy Sr., a former slave, and continues to provide world-class news coverage to this day. For more information, visit http://www.afro.com.
Protect your heart during dental work Don't stop taking aspirin, Plavix, or any other antiplatelet before dental work without asking your cardiologist. The physical, emotional, and psychological stresses of surgery create conditions inside arteries that sometimes lead to a heart attack or stroke. This has long been known for coronary artery bypass grafting, hip replacement, and other major operations. Now it appears that tooth extraction and other oral surgeries also temporarily — but slightly — increase the risk of a heart attack or stroke. Researchers in England created a bit of a ruckus when they reported that people were 1.5 times as likely to have a heart attack or stroke within four weeks of undergoing invasive dental treatment, such as tooth extraction or planing and scaling to clean the teeth and gums, than they were at any other time during the six months after the dental procedure. Scary media headlines followed, such as "Dental work can give you a heart attack."
Sorry, the eBook that you are looking for is not available right now. We did a search for other eBooks with a similar title, however there were no matches. You can try selecting from a similar category, click on the author's name, or use the search box above to find your eBook. Some children are prone to a particular kind of aggression when they are with their peers. For these children, any harm done to them--even something as inconsequential as a jostle in the lunch line--is perceived as intentional. Their style of social information processing, termed "hostile attributional bias," increases the likelihood of retaliating with excessive and inappropriate physical aggression. In this valuable book, parents and professionals who work with children will learn what can be done to better understand and control children's aggression. Beginning with a reader-friendly review of the literature, Cynthia Hudley underscores the substantial risks of long-term problems for elementary-school-age children who demonstrate aggressive behavior. Then, drawing on her work as founder of a successful school intervention program, the BrainPower Program, Hudley describes methods for reducing children's peer-directed aggression. She concludes with a discussion of the importance of broad social contexts in supporting nonaggressive behavior. "In a lively, highly readable volume, Dr. Hudley brings together theory and research on solutions to the problem of childhood aggression. She provides a clear and compelling explanation of the common errors in thinking that encourage aggression."--Karin Frey, University of Washington \|A Look at Children's Aggression\|\|p. 1\| \|Understanding Intent: One Source of Childhood Aggression\|\|p. 22\| \|The BrainPower Program: A Strategy for Changing Attributions\|\|p. 36\| \|Research on the BrainPower Program: How Effective Is It?\|\|p. 54\| \|Looking Beyond the Individual Child: What Schools Can Do\|\|p. 83\| \|Childhood Aggression in the Family and the Community\|\|p. 104\| \|Public Policy for Children's Well-Being\|\|p. 129\| \|Table of Contents provided by Blackwell. All Rights Reserved.\| Number Of Pages: 192 Published: 9th September 2008 Publisher: Yale University Press Country of Publication: US
Six Types of Cardiovascular Disease Cardiovascular disease is a term that refers to more than one disease of the circulatory system including the heart and blood vessels, whether the blood vessels are affecting the lungs, the brain, kidneys or other parts of the body. Cardiovascular diseases are the leading cause of death in adult Canadian men and women. The following six types of cardiovascular disease are highlighted below: - Ischemic heart disease is the most common type of cardiovascular disease in Canada and other industrialized countries around the world. It refers to problems with the circulation of blood to the heart muscle. A partial blockage of one or more of the coronary arteries can result in a lack of enough oxygenated blood (ischemia) thus causing symptoms such as angina (chest pain) and dyspnea (shortness of breath). A complete blockage of an artery causes necrosis (damage to the tissues) or a myocardial infarction, commonly known as a heart attack. - Cerebrovascular disease (Stroke) refers to a problem with the circulation of blood in the blood vessels of the brain. A blockage with effects lasting less than 24 hours is referred to as a transient ischemic attack. A complete blockage with long-term effects is referred to as a cerebrovascular thrombosis (clot) or accident or a stroke. Sometimes, a blood vessel in the brain can burst resulting in long term effects. - Peripheral vascular disease affects the circulation primarily in the legs]. Patients with this disease typically complain of pain in their calves especially when walking. - Heart failure occurs when the pumping action of the heart cannot provide enough blood to the rest of the body as it is needed. This can happen as a result of damage to the heart muscle, for example from a heart attack, or from excessive consumption of alcohol, or because of a heart muscle disease also called a cardiomyopathy. Patients with heart failure usually suffer from shortness of breath and swelling of the legs. - Rheumatic heart disease once common in Canada is a major problem in many poor countries. This disease begins with a bacterial infection in childhood, affecting joints and heart valves. The heart problems appear many years later. Often the valves have to be replaced by an operation. Other infections can occur attacking the inner tissues of the heart including the valves (endocarditis) and the outer tissue overlying the heart (pericarditis). - Congenital heart disease is a problem with the structure of the heart arising because of a birth defect. These anatomical defects can be as simple as a small hole in one of the inside walls of the heart or they can be very complex, affecting the way blood flows through the heart and lungs. Some congenital heart problems result in death unless immediately corrected by surgical intervention. Others cause disability to varying degrees and are treated by surgery later in life with correction of the problem sometimes requiring more than a single operation.
10 Best C# Books To Learn Programming C# language and .NET are very popular with developers all over the world for programming C# applications which are used in daily life. It is known fact that books are the best friends of people and are used for education as well as for the entertainment. C# programming books are very popular with the experienced and newbie’s alike, as they offer important information regarding the development of C applications. Here, we offer a list and information about the best C# language books which are useful for learning the language as well as they can also be used for reference by new and experienced programmers during development of any application. (By: Joseph Albahari, Ben Albahari ) This is one of the best book to learn c#. If you want to get information from immediate to advance knowledge about C programming, this is one of the best books. The book offers concise information but also offers lots of discussion about in-depth knowledge about C. But, to get full advantage, the reader should have some basic knowledge about C language. Since its beginning, the book offers useful knowledge in a sequence for the benefit of the reader. The book starts with a concise but useful background of C language development which then jumps into the datatypes groundwork. From there, it builds up information in a methodical way and expressively takes up the programming from there. You can practice the code samples which are given in book with LINQPAD, which can be downloaded from the internet free. (By: Jennifer Greene, Andrew Stellman ) When you want to learn new programming languages, the best method is to learn through various examples. As this book offers learning with hands-on projects which are continuously elaborated this is the best choice for readers. This book offers various hands-on projects which are easy to recall, engaging and are extended to suit the reader’s perception. Take an example, the beehive management system project offers lots of information regarding the use of interfaces and inheritances for improvement in code organization as well avoidance of duplication of efforts. The writer also has enlivened the book with a sprinkling of crossword, quirky humor and pool puzzles throughout the book. The index of the book is one of the best, which includes the correlation of concepts with projects so that it becomes very easy to locate required content quickly. (By: Andrew Troelsen ) If you want to learn C# language, this book is one of the best resource which is currently available in the market. The writing style of the author is very easy to follow and the examples given in this book are completely error-free. This book is not intended for the people, who does not have any or limited programming experience. For that, you need to consult other books first. But, if you have good experience, this is the best resource for you. The author starts every topic with a long drawn out method to program for any task. Then, he ends the topic with shorthand syntax offered by C# language for the same task. In this way, he provides information about the versatility of this language. The author also offers lots of examples throughout the book. (By: Jon Skeet ) This book mainly caters for those readers and developers who have some experience of programming in C# language. The structure of this book is very simple but innovative, when compared with other C# programming manuals. The first chapter of this book starts with basics of C# language which refers to C#1 version. The chapter 2 refers to the changes which have been introduced with C #2 versions. The chapter 3 covers the changes made in C # 3 versions. The list goes on. This way, the reader or the developer gets a good opportunity to understand the evolution in language. The writer has treated some topics in successive chapters due to some change in language elements in different versions of C# language. (By: Ian Griffiths ) This is one of the best books which have been ever written on the C# programming for the benefit of the developers and other readers. The book has written very well and is pragmatic regarding the programming of the language. The author has paced the book very well for the target group, which are experienced programmers who are new to.NET and C# programming. This is an exhaustive, informative and meticulous book about programming. The writer explains each concept very clearly and then offers examples of that particular concept. The book offers detailed and thorough information for the developers who are working with this language. It also covers a vast range of concepts in this language which is completely suitable for serious developers in this language. (By: Gary McLean Hall ) This is the best c# book which is primarily targeted towards the programmers who have basic skills in this language. It offers to teach you the habits and patterns which you should follow for getting the best use of tools in the right way. The book offers step by step method to educate you, but if you want to know the logic behind those steps, this book also provides that information. As per many readers, this book should be on every programmer’s bookshelf as even skilled programmers can get lots of information and ideas from this book. The book also offers information about real life interaction between some developers in a group who are developing a new program in this language. The reader gets a good idea about how a program is developed and what is the process. (By: Bart De Smet ) This book offers a comprehensive and exhaustive account of each facet of any given technology topic. The writer completely understands the challenges faced by C# developers on each day in any corporate enterprise. Whether you are a new C# programmer, who have some experience with other languages or a.NET developer, this book is the best choice for anyone who wants to do programming for any platforms such as mobile, web or desktop. The publisher has made this book available in various formats such as PDF, EPUB and MOBI for convenience of the readers. The author of this book starts with history of the .NET platform in an interesting and entertaining fashion. Then he offers a thorough coverage of useful tools including a brief overview of differences between the various versions, which can be found in Visual Studio 2012. (By: RB Whitaker ) This is one of the c# best books which have been written in C# language and its uses in programming. The author writes extensively about resources and functions of this language and offers a solid understanding about this language. With this book, you can learn a lot about creating games with C# language. As the author is experienced with the format of tutorials, he has used that experience fruitfully in writing his first book about C# language. The book is very readable and condensed which is a very pleasant experience. This book can be used by everyone to delve into the mystery of this language, whether it is a new programmer or an experienced one. This is one of the best books which should be in every one’s programming book library. (By: Tiberiu Covaci, Rod Stephens (Author), Vincent Varallo, Gerry O'Brien ) If you are a C# beginner, this is the best book to learn c# in a very easy way. This book covers every important aspect of C# language fundamental which is important for a good programming in the language. This book explains various important concepts in C#, which includes anonymous method, delegation, LinQ, Lamba expression and so on. As the writer have written this book in a very easy and user-friendly language, the reader does not feel that he or she is reading a reference book for a technical subject. The writer has also given many code samples which can be followed easily and can be incorporated into any live code projects. This is because the writer has flushed out the code samples. (By: Joel Murach, Anne Boehm ) This is the best book to learn C# Programming with basics of software development by using Microsoft Technologies. It can be a daunting experience to learn a development language, but this book offers information and answers in a comprehensive manner which is easy to follow and understand. It covers every aspect of Microsoft development from the beginning. The book does not offer in-depth knowledge of various aspects in Microsoft but it teaches the basics, which should be known to every programmer and developer. The main focus of this book is on the development of business programs with C# language for both new and experienced developers. It also offers lots of information about C# language inside details. This is a great book for intermediate level C# developers, who want to increase their knowledge. These are some of the best C# language books which are devoted to teaching various aspects of the language and development of C# applications. There are many other books which you can buy, read and use for reference in your work. These books can be used by both beginners and experienced programmers to enhance the level of their knowledge and apply it during their work in any software environment.
The Real Danger Zone For Women & Heart Disease? Before Menopause Heart disease risk factors — such as abnormal cholesterol levels and high blood pressure — appear to increase before a woman goes through menopause, not after, new research finds. “These risk factors related to heart disease and stroke appear to worsen rapidly in the years leading up to menopause, and during the postmenopausal period they progress less rapidly,” said Dr. Mark DeBoer, the study’s senior author. He’s an associate professor of pediatric endocrinology at the University of Virginia. In the past, he said, experts believed that a rapid increase in heart disease and stroke risk factors took place in women after menopause. They thought this was when women “catch up” to men’s risk. However, the new research finds the rapid increase in risk factors starts well before the last menstrual period. The real danger zone, DeBoer’s team concluded, was before and during menopause. And, the transition began even sooner and progressed faster for black women, the researchers found. For the study, the researchers evaluated the medical records of nearly 1,500 women enrolled in a national study looking at the causes and effects of hardening of the arteries. The women were studied over a 10-year period as they transitioned through menopause. The researchers looked specifically for five risk factors for heart disease and stroke. These included a large waistline, high blood fat levels (triglycerides), low “good” cholesterol or HDL, high blood sugar and high blood pressure. Together, these risk factors are called “metabolic syndrome,” the researchers said. Metabolic syndrome significantly raises the risk of type 2 diabetes, heart disease and other health problems.
The Kongolese Saint Anthony: Dona Beatriz Kimpa Vita and the Antonian Movement, 1684–1706, by John Thornton Note: Supplemental materials are not guaranteed with Rental or Used book purchases. - ISBN: 9780521596497 \| 0521596491 - Cover: Paperback - Copyright: 5/13/1998 This book tells the story of the Christian religious movement led by Dona Beatriz Kimpa Vita in the Kingdom of Kongo from 1704 until her death, by burning at the stake, in 1706. Beatriz, a young woman, claimed to be possessed by St Anthony, argued that Jesus was a Kongolese, and criticized Italian Capuchin missionaries in her country for not supporting black saints. The movement was largely a peace movement, with a following among the common people, attempting to stop the devastating cycle of civil wars between contenders for the Kongolese throne. Thornton supplies background information on the Kingdom, the development of Catholicism in Kongo since 1491, the nature and role of local warfare in the Atlantic slave trade, and contemporary everyday life, as well as sketching the lives of some local personalities.
The measurement of soil water content in situ is not straightforward. Capacitance methods such as Time Domain Reflectometry (TDR) can be used to estimate the volumetric water content in situ using a passive “probe” which is embedded in a soil and connected via a cable to a signal processor/recorder. In this study, a systematic series of laboratory measurements was undertaken to determine the relationship between true volumetric water content, gravimetric water content and TDR measured water content in uncracked Maryland clay. The results show not only that the TDR measured water contents differ from the true volumetric water contents, but that the TDR is potentially relatively insensitive over a significant interval of mid-range water contents in uncracked clay. Tests to estimate the effect on measurements from the presence of cracks of different width found that errors increase steadily as crack width increases. The study also determined that the measurements are relatively insensitive to misalignment of the waveguide prongs. 5th International Conference on Unsaturated Soils. Proceedings of the Fifth International Conference on Unsaturated Soils (Barcelona, Spain 6-8 September, 2010 ) p. 653-657
This article touches on a subject that's quite sensitive to many people: body odor. Here, we explore the link between the foods you choose to consume and the odor produced by your body (there is a direct correlation). With all the hundreds of millions of dollars spent each year on personal care products and deodorants, I'm amazed there's almost no discussion about reducing body odor by changing your diet. In fact, when I've mentioned this subject to some people, they look at me in bewilderment. They ask questions like "What do you mean, your foods control your body odor? Body odor is genetic!" -- or some other nonsense. What they need is a crash course in the underlying causes of body odor. We'll call it The Fundamentals of Offensive Personal Odors, or just Body Odor 101, for short. Lesson number one in Body Odor 101 is that what comes out of your body reflects what you put in. Body odor is something that's strongly affected by what's being emitted by your sweat glands. And remember, armpits are designed to sweat. I know that may sound insanely simple, because everybody knows that armpits sweat, but I'm saying that armpits are supposed to perspire. Yet people go to great lengths to prevent their armpits from sweating using deodorant products containing toxic chemicals and derivatives of heavy metals like aluminum. But there's more to it than just cooling your body temperature through perspiration -- another function of the sweat glands in your armpits is to excrete toxins from your body. That's why sweating is an important part of maintaining optimum physical health. You have to give your body a chance to get rid of various toxins through a variety of metabolic processes. Those include urination, passing fecal matter, exhaling carbon dioxide and other toxins through the lungs, and, of course, eliminating toxins through the skin. The skin, remember, is your body's largest organ. Your armpits, then, actually have an important health function in getting rid of toxins. That's why you need to keep them open and unclogged by deodorant products. Sweating is good for you. But what about the odor? Where does that really come from? Conventional doctors like to say it's due to bacteria living in your armpits. But that's ridiculous: our entire bodies are covered with bacteria, not just our armpits. And if the bacteria alone were the cause of the odor, you could eliminate body odor by sterilizing your armpits with rubbing alcohol or iodine tincture. (Try it, if you like: it still won't eliminate the odor.) The real cause of armpit odor is the intentional excretion of horrible toxins that your body is trying to get rid of. And by using deodorant products, you block the exit door and force those toxins to stay in your system! The way to eliminate body odor, then, is not to mask it with unhealthful deodorant products, but rather to clean up your body from the inside out. In other words, if your armpits have a horrible raunchy smell, that's an indication your diet needs some adjusting. I'm embarrassed to say that I know this from personal experience. My own body odor used to be rather disgusting when I followed the standard American diet like most people do. I had to use massive doses of brand name deodorant products just to try to cover up the odor. Only later did I learn that those products are made with cancer-causing chemical fragrances that are absorbed directly into your bloodstream, through your armpits, where they enter your liver and promote liver disease, cancer, and a variety of other disorders. Many deodorants and antiperspirants are made with aluminum in order to halt the perspiration of your sweat glands, and this aluminum is suspected of accumulating in the nervous system and ultimately contributing to nervous system disorders such as Alzheimer's disease. That's why I no longer use any brand name deodorants or antiperspirants. After giving up red meat, junk foods, fast foods and other dietary atrocities, I no longer needed deodorants anyway. Foods that make you stink Let's take a closer look at the causes of body odor. What foods really cause body odor in the first place? Red meat is the number one cause of body odor. Red meat causes stagnation in the body; it putrefies in the digestive tract and releases all sorts of toxins into the bloodstream through the large intestine. I've noticed that people who consume a large quantity of red meat on a regular basis tend to have much stronger body odor than those who avoid it. Some people tell me just the opposite -- they say it's vegetarians who stink because they run around wearing no deodorant whatsoever. But my experience is that if a vegetarian stinks, they aren't following a healthy diet even though they are avoiding meat. (You can be vegetarian and extremely unhealthy if you consume a lot of processed foods.) Overall, though, if you find a healthful vegetarian and put them side by side with a heavy meat eater in a sniff test, I'm confident your nose will lead you to the conclusion that the meat eater is the most offensive of the two. It's weird science, yes, but we are talking about a strange subject to begin with. As far as other foods that cause body odor, manufactured foods -- those lacking fiber and made with refined white flour, added sugars, hydrogenated oils and other processed ingredients -- are the big culprits. When you eliminate these from your diet and shift to a 100% healthful diet made of whole grains, massive quantities of leafy vegetables, fresh fruits, soy products, supergreens, lots of sprouts, raw nuts and seeds, healthy oils and other similar healthful ingredients, your body odor will all but disappear in a matter of weeks. That's because a plant-based diet is an internal deodorizer. It's true: the chlorophyll and other phytonutrients will cleanse you from the inside out. Some of the best foods for that include parsley, cilantro, celery and all mint species. The aromatic herbs are also excellent: sage, rosemary, thyme, oregano, and so on. As a sidebar to the body odor discussion, all the things that come out of your body are strong indicators of your current level of health, as well as what adjustments you need to make in order to be healthier. It's interesting to note that for hundreds of years, physicians actually tasted the urine of their patients and were able to make medical diagnoses by taste analysis alone. As bizarre as this sounds, it actually makes good sense. The human tongue is perhaps the finest natural chemical composition sensor known to modern medicine. (Dogs' noses are also good at this. Dogs have actually been trained to sniff out bladder cancer by smelling the urine of humans. Just search Google for articles on "bladder cancer dogs sniff" and you'll find lots of references to this fact.) After tasting the urine, skilled physicians were able to offer astoundingly precise medical diagnoses. The problem, of course, is that doctors also tended to become ill from tasting their patients' urine, and so this practice fell into disfavor long ago. By the way, just to be clear here, I'm not at all suggesting that you should be tasting your own urine. But it's very easy to smell your own armpits and get a sense of what's going on. Try going 24 hours with no deodorant. If you can't stand the smell from the outside, just imagine what your body smells like on the inside! Maybe it's time for some plants in your diet, ya think? About the author: Mike Adams is a natural health author and award-winning journalist with a strong interest in personal health, the environment and the power of nature to help us all heal He has authored and published thousands of articles, interviews, consumers guides, and books on topics like health and the environment, and he has created several downloadable courses on survival and preparedness, including his widely-downloaded course on personal safety and self-defense. Adams is an honest, independent journalist and accepts no money or commissions on the third-party products he writes about or the companies he promotes. In 2010, Adams created TV.NaturalNews.com, a natural living video sharing site featuring thousands of user videos on foods, fitness, green living and more. He also founded an environmentally-friendly online retailer called BetterLifeGoods.com that uses retail profits to help support consumer advocacy programs. He's also the founder and CEO of a well known email mail merge software developer whose software, 'Email Marketing Director,' currently runs the NaturalNews email subscriptions. Adams volunteers his time to serve as the executive director of the Consumer Wellness Center, a 501(c)3 non-profit organization, and regularly pursues cycling, nature photography, Capoeira and Pilates. Known as the 'Health Ranger,' Adams' personal health statistics and mission statements are located at www.HealthRanger.org Have comments on this article? Post them here: people have commented on this article.
Basketball Cardiovascular Conditioning The following are guidelines for an off-season basketball cardiovascular program, which is designed to increase the endurance and efficiency of your cardiorespiratory system. The program consists of two components: - Cardiovascular Training - (Aerobic Work) - Sprint (Interval) Training - (Anaerobic Work) Stage One: Cardiovascular Training - (Aerobic Work) Cardiovascular training is crucial in order to build a solid base of conditioning. This type of training should be executed 3-4 days per week and can involve activities such as running, biking, hiking and swimming. If you choose to run, perform these activities on a track or grass surface to alleviate stress on the knees. It is important that you realize that you DO NOT have to distance run every day in order to get an effective workout. Running is extremely effective, but it is also extremely stressful if done over long periods and distances. Cross-Training is an effective method to use in order to get results with little risk to your body. The stresses the body encounters doing a variety of activities is more beneficial to the athlete than the stresses encountered by doing the same old, tired routine. Also, the risk of injury is greater if you only take part in one activity. Here are some examples of different forms of cardiovascular exercise along with suggested time limits: - Exercise Bike - 30-45 minutes. Jogging - 30 minutes. - Stairmaster - 30 minutes. Aerobics Class - 30 minutes. - Water Exercise - 30 minutes. Versa Climber - 30 minutes. Again, these are only a few suggestions. Use your imagination to create cross-training programs that will keep you interested and motivated. Basic Max Heart Rate Calculator Your Target Heart Rate must be maintained in order to gain the full benefit of cardiovascular training. At this point in time it is necessary that your Training Heart Rate (THR) fall between 70-75 percent of your Maximum Heart Rate (MHR). To get an exact measurement, click here. Stage Two: Sprint / Interval-Training Anaerobic training involves the application of timed recovery periods following brief, but intense runs. This type of training is specific to the nature of basketball. In a game situation, play (work) is stopped when a timeout is called, or a penalty is assessed (rest interval). The goal of interval-training is to condition your body to become accustomed to not only the high-intensity running nature of the game but, also, the brief recovery periods. While other players try to catch their breath during free throws, you are recovering. This results in the ability to sustain high-intensity output throughout an entire game. In order to make this possible, rest periods employed during anaerobic conditioning sessions will range from 1:1 to a 1:3 work/rest ratio. All rest periods have been predetermined for future training sessions. Prior to sprint training, it is important that you warm up and stretch sufficiently. It is also necessary that you perform a sprint-specific warm up, in addition to your general warm-up and flexibility program. This will greatly assist you in preparing your muscles for high-intensity work, and help reduce the chance of an injury occurring. Remember, stretching is not warming up. Sitting on your butt stretching has absolutely nothing to do with running. While stretching is important, understand that it is only part of the preparation protocol. - General Warm Up - Designed to increase body temperature and to gradually elevate heart rate, similar to slightly revving your car engine on a cold morning, a mile jog, bike, treadmill, fast walk and jump rope all qualify as a general warm up. Duration of warm up should be from 5-10 minutes. - Flexibility - Never stretch a cold muscle. Always performed following General Warm-up. Designed to increase the elasticity and circulation to muscles, and further prepares your body for exercise. When stretching, pay close attention to your quads, hamstrings and calves but don't neglect to perform upper body stretches as well. Sprinting is a total-body movement. Injury to any part of the body is a possibility if necessary steps of prevention are not taken. - Sprint-Specific Warm Up - Specific to the nature and movement patterns of running. Performed prior to sprint training, the sprint-specific routine will help to loosen tight muscle groups in an Active, and Dynamic, way (also known as Active Warm Up and/or Dynamic Warm Up). During your sprint workout it is important that you practice proper running technique. Arm gait (cheek-to-cheek), hnee drive (forward), body alignment and head tilt must be carefully monitored and maintained. Concentrate all movement forward, not across your body. You will begin the sprint-training program with "strides" (75 percent), and will gradually increase intensity as the week's progress. Over the course of the off-season, the intensity (speed/effort) of the runs should increase, while the volume (in this case, distance), should decrease. Once you begin sprinting, all sprints must be performed as close to maximum as possible (90-100 percent), in order to benefit your performance. The Final Stage: Basketball-Specific Metabolic Training I think it is important to mention that the majority of our early work involves endurance running, and the later work tapers from long duration type sprints: 800m, 400m and 200m, to shorter, more intense, sprints such as 100m, 50m, 20m and 10m. When we get to the final stages of the off-season we are doing strict basketball-specific work; most all of it is performed on the basketball court. This final preparation work involves conditioning drills with the ball and metabolic conditioning. An example of metabolic type work would be repeats, or rather, back-to-back runs with rest periods, that are specific to the nature of the game (see routine below). I have even gone so far as to design a position-specific metabolic program for my players. Some of our players like to do their in-season conditioning work outside, as do some of the players undergoing rehabilitation. However, we are trying to duplicate the short, intense sprints that are done on the basketball floor. Metabolic Conditioning Example - Starting on baseline - Sprint to free throw line - sprint back - Immediately sprint to opposite baseline - sprint back - Immediately sprint to halfcourt - backpedal back Rest 25 seconds - Lateral slide to free throw line (left arm lead) - slide back - Sprint to halfcourt - backpedal back - Lateral slide to free throw line (r. arm lead) - slide back - Rest 25 seconds I would repeat this type of drill, changing the commands on each, for a total of six reps. After 6 of these cycles have been completed, I give the player a 2-minute rest period, during which, the player will shoot free throws. Following the 2-minunte rest, we do another set of six. Again followed by 2-minunte rest with free throw shooting. Click here for a printable version of this page. All in all, the player ATTEMPTS to complete six sets of this program. However, I can do as little or as much as I need, depending on what I am trying to accomplish. A player trying to maintain conditioning may need as little as two sets of six. A player trying to return to the court after injury will of course require more. If you follow these guidelines, you will gradually build up your aerobic and anaerobic levels to meet the demands of the basketball season, but remember, be safe. Don't push yourself too hard early on. If you get ahead of schedule, you may overstress your body, which could lead to injury. Take your time, and do it right. You'll get to where you need to be by the start of the season. Good Luck!
How do developers tackle this problem generally? Creating game AI is certainly not the most formal of processes in software development; it requires many ad-hoc modifications and hours of empirical evaluation. The games industry is somewhat immature as a whole, but game AI is probably the furthest behind. Until recently, AI code took barely a few hundred lines of code, being hacked together with a couple of months to spare before the deadline. Since the turn of the millennium, AI has suddenly been propelled into the limelight and it is expected to scale up—often becoming a centerpiece of the design. A few different aspects about the typical approach to creating game AI merit analysis, notably the integration with the engine, the design of the system, and the guidelines used throughout the development. Integration and Design Historically, in-game agents were simulated as part of the game logic. The 2D positions of the characters were updated at each iteration, like in Pac-Man. Since then, things have moved on slowly. Thankfully, the AI code now is generally separated from the logic. However, the agent is generally given direct access to the game data, free to extract whatever it needs. The separation is only a programming trick to simplify the codebase. As for software design, AI subsystems are often created as separate libraries (to handle movement, for example). Naturally, these are created in different ways, depending on the development style. The most common approach in game development is the hands-on approach, where you incrementally build up the interface and required functionality from scratch. This might not sound formal—at least in terms of classical software design—but modern agile approaches acknowledge the benefits of such rapid iterations. This is certainly well suited to AI because a large amount of experimentation is required. Beyond these modular components, the code can become somewhat unmanageable because the unexpected complexity of the task or the deadline pressures sometimes catch programmers. For example, the AI for Return to Castle Wolfenstein uses C function pointers to simulate a finite-state machine, an approach that quickly becomes almost impossible to understand by anyone but the original developer. Because of the limited resources available, the only important guideline for AI developers is to cut corners wherever possible yet still achieve efficiency. The responsibility of the AI itself is to control characters in a realistic fashion. How this is achieved under the hood is irrelevant. Many applicable techniques could be borrowed from AI research, but few are used in practice. All the common techniques used in classical game AI (for instance, search and scripting) arguably have their roots in computer science instead. Often, the combination of these two requirements (efficiency and realism) leads to simple AI solutions, such as scripts. This approach is entirely justifiable because it solves the problem in a way that designers can easily control. This typical approach to game AI has been finely tuned over the years and seems to have reached satisfactory levels. AI in games is competent enough to not stand out. The standard design and integration has immediate benefits (such as simplicity), but can prove inconvenient in many ways. First, letting the AI access information in the game directly is both dangerous and unnecessary. Second, manually developing all the behaviors for the AI can be tedious using plain programming and causes an exponential growth in time required. There is undoubtedly room for improvement over these standard approaches, as shown by recent progress in game AI. There is an underlying trend in these innovations.
Assessment of in-stream processes in urban streams for development of sediment total maximum daily load Robinson, Joshua Lee MetadataShow full item record The Clean Water Act requires the establishment of Total Maximum Daily Loads (TMDLs) for quantifying allowable pollutant loads for stream reaches in which the biological integrity of the stream is threatened. Sediment TMDLs in urban streams are particularly difficult to establish because they require (1) reliable measurement of sediment loads and (2) the ability to locate sediment sources. This research has attempted to address these challenges through a field study of North Peachtree Creek located in DeKalb County, Georgia, which has been sampled at the Century Boulevard crossing through automatic point sampling and depth-integrated sampling. Storm events from October 2003 through October 2004 provided a field record of sediment concentration and turbidity data over a wide range of storm events. Bed and bank sediment samples were collected for comparison with the point samples and depth-integrated samples. A methodology is presented whereby point sampling is used to calculate suspended sediment discharge and turbidity analysis is used to locate and characterize sediment sources. Point samples provide the boundary condition in the Rouse solution for the vertical distribution of suspended sediment to obtain suspended sediment discharge, which is then calibrated through comparison with depth-integrated sampling. The computer model HEC-RAS (U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, 1998) was applied to the stream reach to calculate the energy grade line slope throughout each storm event for input into the sediment discharge calculations. A favorable relationship between turbidity and suspended fine sediment was found at the sampling cross-section and, through comparison with bed and bank sediment samples, was used to identify the contribution of eroded bank sediment to the total sediment discharge.
Advanced robots with pressure-sensitive surfaces, flexible joints and novel actuators could help people overcome their physical limitations. “Look deep into nature and then you will understand everything better,” said Albert Einstein. He probably wasn’t thinking about robots, but his maxim is particularly apt for an exciting, cutting-edge blend of engineering, technology and the natural world – soft robotics. Taking ideas from biological systems, soft robots are made of deformable structures that can deal with uncertain and dynamic tasks, offering benefits over the rigid, linear and constraining motions and abilities of traditional robots. They are brought to life thanks to recent developments in materials science, sensor technology and biologically-inspired actuators. Controlling them are innovative systems and algorithms that make these soft robots aware of and responsive to their environment. Creating new and useful applications for soft-robot technologies is challenging researchers, businesses and governments across the world. From mobility to medicine and the military, soft robotics offers a potential revolution in the way we live our lives. “We want to replace rigid robots that we see in the films and in science fiction with soft robots that interact with, and take their inspiration from, nature,” says Jonathan Rossiter of the Bristol Robotics Laboratory in the UK, one of the leading soft robotics institutions in Europe. “Our research seeks to create and exploit new materials with specific, beneficial properties.” In one human hand, there are 29 major and minor bones and the same number of major joints, 123 named ligaments, 34 muscles and 48 named nerves. When you consider the biomechanics at work, nature’s engineering is even more impressive. Our hands are soft enough to lift the most fragile of items, and strong enough to support our own weight – sometimes with just a few fingers. The force generated by the muscles that bend the fingertips must be at least four times the pressure which is produced at the fingertips. Recreating such a complex system incorporates all three aspects of soft robotics development: biosensors, bioactuators and biomaterials. It sounds a tough challenge, but in 2015 a group of students from Harvard University and the Indian Institute of Science created a soft robotic prosthetic hand as part of Harvard’s Global Immersion summer programme. With the help of fibre-reinforced bending actuators to mimic the movements of the fingers and a pneumatically actuated artificial thumb, the students made a functioning prototype. Controlled by an open-?source and freely available Soft Robotics Toolkit control board, the prosthetic hand demonstrates essential functions, including pinching, open palm, the ability to point, and a grip with some power. Creating such a complex mechanism was achieved by students working with cheap, readily available and open-source materials and software. But what about the work of the leading soft robotics experts? The ‘right’ trousers Around the world, there are people with some form of mobility impairment, from difficulties lifting or carrying to problems with coordination, and more severe disabilities. In early 2015, the Engineering and Physical Sciences Research Council (EPSRC), the UK’s main agency for funding research in these areas, allocated almost £5 million of funding for soft robotic projects. Led by Rossiter at the Bristol Robotics Lab the ‘Wearable soft robotics for independent living’ project is using its £2m grant from the EPSRC to develop a soft robotic ‘second skin’ that would provide support and aid for those with mobility impairments. This intelligent clothing uses artificial ‘muscles’ made from smart materials and reactive polymers to help the wearers and give them extra propulsion. The soft polymers are coated with compliant electrodes that flex with the underlying surface, with the actuation provided by placing an electrical current across them. “The trousers are loose when they are off, but once on, they automatically add support to the user,” Rossiter says. “There’s a lot of power needed to lift someone from a chair, for instance, so the engineering challenge is significant.” The trousers are currently still on the drawing board, but when built they will incorporate not only soft robotics but also nanoscience, functional electrical stimulation and even 3D printing. Controlling it all will be a full-body monitoring system, working in harmony with the user’s body. “The trousers themselves will respond to the wearer’s environment. They can calculate, for instance, when the wearer is climbing stairs,” says Rossiter. Together with researchers from the Universities of Leeds, Loughborough, Nottingham, Strathclyde and the West of England, Rossiter and his team aim to develop a wearable prototype in three years. And the scientists are already involving potential patients in the design process. “We are developing the technology in partnership with patients and are currently seeking applications from potential users of these trousers,” says Rossiter. Another lab working on soft robotics projects aimed at enhancing mobility is Harvard University’s Wyss Institute for Biologically Inspired Engineering. “The basic premise is that small levels of assistance, delivered with a lightweight and non-restrictive system, can have a significant impact on a person’s mobility,” says Conor J Walsh, a roboticist at Wyss Institute. More specifically, he’s creating a flexible and supportive exoskeleton – a suit that resembles a scuba diver’s attire and could be like a second skin. “Compared to previous exoskeleton designs, these systems are significantly lighter as they do not contain any rigid structure, and they provide minimal restrictions to the wearer’s motion, avoiding problems relating to joint misalignment,” says Walsh. “Our approach to interfacing with the human body is to use functional textiles that enable forces to be comfortably and effectively applied to the joints to augment the biological muscles.” The exosuit’s actuator system gives assistance when needed: a nudge rather than a push. “The biologically-inspired architecture provides force transmission paths in a manner that is consistent with and does not impede normal human walking,” Walsh adds. The suit’s built-in sensors help to ensure that the support is provided at the right time, actively surveying the environment and responding to stimulus. Walsh estimates that the sensors can improve muscle power by up to 20 per cent, which could make the difference between leading an active or sedentary life. One of the key challenges has been to reduce weight, says Walsh. The current suit weighs 6kg, with the battery pack needed to power it slotted onto the wearer’s hip. As the technology becomes more advanced, it should be possible to make the suit lighter, to ensure that it is indeed supportive and not restrictive. Apart from people with disabilities, soldiers could benefit from soft robotics too. They may lug anywhere up to 50kg on their backs while marching long distances or patrolling difficult terrain. As a result, leg injuries are common. The concept of a wearable exosuit has been part of the US development of military technology since the 1960s, and is only now – through the Darpa Warrior Web programme – coming to fruition. Walsh, whose work at the Wyss Institute has received almost $3m in funding to develop functional prototypes, says that the exosuits will reduce the stress on muscles and tendons, enabling soldiers to walk further with less effort and have a reduced risk of injury. Walsh’s military exosuits are the technology of tomorrow, but soft robotics is already benefiting some patients, offering them a chance to walk again after injury, accident or illness. Founded in 2005, Ekso Bionics has created assistive exosuit technologies that are now being used in hospitals across the US. “Our technology measures 500 times per second where the body is in space and uses a sophisticated algorithm to determine how much power and where to assist the foot on its gait trajectory,” explains Ekso Bionics spokeswoman Heidi Darling. The suit mimics the action of the leg muscles and tendons when a person walks, and provides small but carefully timed assistance at the joints of the leg without restricting the wearer’s movement. Working with real patients is helping the company refine and improve its technology. It’s also helping to break down the barriers between man and machine, pointing to a future where they may coexist invisibly. “As we exponentially improve upon these technologies, they will become less and less noticeable. We predict a day in the not too distant future where robotic legs could simply look like the clothing we wear today,” says Darling. Soft robotics aren’t just used to add capabilities to humans, though. They may also have a role in treating us. In just one of many hundreds of medical projects across Europe, STIFF-FLOP is a research venture using flexible robot technology to aid surgeons carrying out some of the most demanding keyhole operations. “The inspiration for our project comes from the octopus and how it can use its limbs,” says Kaspar Althoefer, STIFF-FLOP project coordinator and a roboticist at King’s College, London. “Octopuses are soft, with no skeleton, but if they want to, they can stiffen their limbs to do things like picking up stones, catching prey and even walking. It’s a fantastic role model for our design.” When fully developed, STIFF-FLOP’s soft robotic arm will be capable of fitting through a 12mm gap – the width of a human finger. Once inside, its soft manipulator and gripper will be able to carry out surgical operations and procedures under human control. The unit’s module base is made of silicone that can be pneumatically actuated. Its state can change from floppy to stiff through a process called granular jamming: by applying vacuum, the granules move, solidifying the unit. It’s a unique way to gain access to specific parts of the body, and the unit also uses distributed sensing and biologically-inspired actuation to give it an extra dimension of control. “We need to integrate the technology with sensors. We don’t want just the hardware and the actuators, but a system that can feel its environment and understand where it is in the human body,” says Althoefer. “One day we can use these sensors to improve control, possibly automating certain tasks so the robot can avoid healthy organs, navigate to parts of the body and even carry out surgery.” Using nature as its basis, soft robotics technologies continue to develop and evolve, with ever more exciting uses, and an ever greater potential for benefit. Rossiter is keen to point out that the individual technologies at work – sensors, actuators and more – aren’t necessarily new, but they’re being combined in different and exciting ways. Likening it to the advances in 3D-printing technology over the past decade, he’s confident that soft robotics can add real benefit to the way we live our lives, augmenting and supporting human function. So just how will people react to soft robots? Rossiter has an interesting take on this: “In the future, we won’t be talking about robots at all. They will – quite literally – be built into the fabric of our existence and our built environment. We don’t see them as separate things. They can and will coexist with humans.”
Libertarian socialists regard all concentrations of power as sources of oppression that must be continually challenged and justified. Opposition generally first begins with large corporations for inherently being designed as private tyrannies; and secondly the state, because citizens can vote for their state's representatives and often have some means of democratic participation, even if a nation state is violating its social contract. In lieu of corporations and states, libertarian socialists seek to organize themselves into voluntary associations (usually collectives, communes, municipalities, cooperatives, commons, or syndicates) that use direct democracy or consensus for their decision-making process. Some libertarian socialists advocate combining these institutions using rotating, recallable delegates to higher-level federations. Spanish anarchism is a major example of such federations in practice. Contemporary examples of libertarian socialist organizational and decision-making models in practice include a number of anti-capitalist and global justice movements including Zapatista Councils of Good Government and the Global Indymedia network (which covers 45 countries on six continents). There are also many examples of indigenous societies around the world whose political and economic systems can be accurately described as anarchist or libertarian socialist, each of which is unique and uniquely suited to the culture that birthed it. For libertarians, that diversity of practice within a framework of common principles is proof of the vitality of those principles and of their flexibility and strength. Contrary to popular opinion, libertarian socialism has not traditionally been a utopian movement, tending to avoid dense theoretical analysis or prediction of what a future society would or should look like. The tradition instead has been that such decisions cannot be made now, and must be made through struggle and experimentation, so that the best solution can be arrived at democratically and organically, and to base the direction for struggle on established historical example. Supporters often suggest that this focus on exploration over predetermination is one of their great strengths. They point out that the success of the scientific method comes from its adherence to open rational exploration, not its conclusions, rather than dogma and predetermined predictions. Although critics claim that they are avoiding questions they cannot answer, libertarian socialists believe that a methodological approach to exploration is the best way to achieve their social goals. To them, dogmatic approaches to social organization are doomed to failure; and thus reject Marxist notions of linear and inevitable historical progression. Noted anarchist Rudolf Rocker once stated, "I am an anarchist not because I believe anarchism is the final goal, but because there is no such thing as a final goal" (The London Years, 1956). Full article ▸
The following may be useful to both individual leaders and to leader trainers to gain experience in integrating his or her personal moral values into workplace actions. Instructions. Read the following two sets of statements and indicate whether on balance you agree with Choice A or Choice B. Success is largely a matter of getting the right breaks. It is foolish to think that I can really change another person’s core values and attitudes. Getting promoted is a matter of being a little luckier than the next person. A lot of what happens to me is probably a matter of luck. Many times the reactions of my bosses seem haphazard to me. Marriage is largely a gamble. Sometimes I feel I have little to do with the evaluations I receive. I have little influence over the way other people behave. It is only wishful thinking to believe that one can readily influence what happens in our society at large. It is almost impossible to figure out how to please some people. Promotions are earned through hard work and persistence. If you know how to deal with people, they are really quite easily led. People like me can change the course of world affairs if we make ourselves heard. Getting along with people is a skill that must be practiced. The success I have is the result of my own efforts; luck has little or nothing to do with it. I have noticed a direct connection between how hard I work and the rewards I get. When I am right, I can convince others. In our society, a person’s future earning power depends on his or her ability. I am the master of my fate. What do you suppose are the ethical standards of someone who selected Choice A? Choice B? If you were the leader of someone who is characterized by the statements in Choice A, (Choice B) how could you induce him or her to do what you wanted him or her to do? Be explicit. How would someone characterized by Choice A statements respond to a formally promulgated code of ethics? Choice B? Write a short essay describing what you suppose would be the ethical basis of a leader characterized by Choice A factors. Write another short essay describing what you suppose would be the ethical basis of a leader characterized by Choice B factors.
Learn something new every day More Info... by email An artificial sweetener is a replacement for sugar, usually with less calories. It may also be suitable for people with certain dietary restrictions, such as diabetes, by omitting the sucrose. These types of sweeteners are a type of sugar substitute, but generally sugar substitutes include both natural substitutes, such as agave, and sweeteners, such as aspartame. Many people notice a difference both in taste and feel when using an artificial sweetener, and it is rare to find one that exists as a perfect substitute for actual sugar. Sometimes a number of sweeteners will be used together, or with other flavor agents, to try to create a taste more similar to natural sugar. The texture of an the sweetener can also be made more like real sugar by adding some sort of a bulking agent, to give it a more similar weight. There are five main artificial sweeteners that are approved for use in the United States and are found in many foods and beverages. These are: aspartame, acesulfame potassium, neotame, saccharin, and sucralose. All five exist under different brand names, as well. For example, aspartame can be found for sale as NutraSweet™, as can neotame, while acesulfame potassium can be found for sale as Nutrinova™. A large push in the global market towards the artificial sweetener is a result of basic economics. Producing this type of sweetener is much, much cheaper than growing and refining actual sugar or other natural sweeteners, allowing a much larger profit margin for manufacturers. As a result, many companies are pushing their diet lines, which use artificial sweetening instead of actual sugar, since they make a great deal more money off of each unit sold. At the same time, the profit margins for manufacturers of artificial sweeteners are also very high, so they are constantly pushing their products on food and drink producers. Aspartame is the most used artificial sweetener in the world. It was first discovered in 1965, and the patent eventually went to Monsanto. It was discovered accidentally, in pursuit of an anti-ulcer drug. When the scientist spilled some on himself, he licked it up and noticed it was sweet. Aspartame is an excellent sweetener because it is about two-hundred times as sweet as sugar itself. Aspartame has been the center of a health controversy since the early-1980s, when it was approved by the FDA for human consumption, in spite of a number of studies that suggested a link between its consumption and the generation of brain tumors. Sucralose is quickly challenging aspartame, as processes for creating it become more refined and its price drops rapidly. It is about six-hundred times as sweet as sugar, and has had FDA approval since 1998. Although there are some health concerns about sucralose, the majority of the controversy over sucralose as an artificial sweetener comes from a slogan used by Splenda™, "Made from sugar, so it tastes like sugar." The sugar industry in the United States has taken the company to court a number of times over that slogan, since as a sweetener sucralose is made only tangentially from sugar. @Soulfox -- The United States government still allows for the sale and distribution of aspartame. Based on that, I hope we can assume that it is safe. Still, it is a chemical sweetener and that turns off some people. If you want to be totally safe, stick with some of the more natural sweeteners out there. You can even find some diet soda that uses those sweeteners. Otherwise, if the federal government thinks that aspartame is safe, who am I to disagree? It has been in use for decades and I am not aware of any public outcry against it. Aspartame is possibly the most widely used of all artificial sweeteners (diet sodas use aspartame almost exclusively), but it is very controversial. There are people out there that swear that aspartame is harmful to humans and warn against it. I am no scientist, so I don't know if those warnings carry any weight. Is aspartame harmful or not? One of our editors will review your suggestion and make changes if warranted. Note that depending on the number of suggestions we receive, this can take anywhere from a few hours to a few days. Thank you for helping to improve wiseGEEK!
Involving parents in children’s learning A significant body of research indicates that when parents participate in their children’s education, the result is an increase in student achievement and an improvement of students’ attitudes. Productive partnerships between schools, family and the community also provide a strong network of connections that can help protect young people against a range of harms including those associated with drugs, emotional distress and problem behaviors. This section provides information and strategies designed to support schools and teachers in the engagement of parents in the drug education activities taking place in their school. Creating Conversations, Talking Tactics Together and the Parent Partnerships – Later Years of Schooling resources outline a number of strategies to enhance partnerships with parents. The resources offer opportunities for powerful learning and will assist schools to apply the Principles of Learning and Teaching. See: Principles of Learning and Teaching P-12 and Family support services Talking Tactics Together (for primary schools) Talking Tactics Together (PDF - 3 (pdf - 3.53mb) - an interactive family drug education program where parents and their primary school children participate together in a range of drug education activities. This resource provides a range of tools and resources to help the school community plan and run events in which parents and children learn about drug related issues together. Creating Conversations (for secondary schools) Creating Conversations (PDF - 3 (pdf - 3.58mb) - a school-based program that involves students in facilitating discussion sessions with parents about drug related issues. This manual is intended to support school communities plan these events. The student activity section of the Creating Conversations manual has been translated into seven languages to assist and support students from culturally diverse backgrounds and their school community, plan and run Creating Conversation sessions for their parents. Creating Conversations Final Report (Word - 384Kb) (doc - 394kb) - a summary of the key findings of the formative evaluation conducted in 2003. Creating Conversations - Case studies of good practice (PDF - 534Kb) (pdf - 534kb) - case studies describing Creating Conversations sessions held in eleven schools across Victoria. Included are accounts of the successful planning processes, the events, benefits, outcomes and key findings from these student facilitated discussion sessions. Preparatory documents for parent events (Primary and Secondary schools) Three sample documents designed to support the preparation and planning processes for the parent events. Included are; a sample survey developed to collect comment from parents to uncover the preferred discussion points for the sessions; and two sample invitations (formal and informal) to be sent to parents inviting participation in the evening event. Parent Survey 1 (Word - 29Kb) (doc - 44.5kb) - can be provided to parents prior to the event to establish the key concerns and issues for discussion at the event. Parent Invitation - 1 (Word - 23Kb) (doc - 38.5kb) - a sample invitation for parents to attend school events about drug issues and young people (formal letter version). Parent Invitation - 2 (Word - 22Kb) (doc - 37.5kb) - a sample invitation for parents to attend school events about drug issues and young people (informal version). Guidelines are available to assist schools to engage parents in school drug education activities. Parent Involvement in Drug Education: Guidelines for Schools (PDF - 334Kb) (pdf - 333.63kb) - developed to assist with effective parent involvement in drug education. The brochure also includes strategies for schools for involving parents and building connections with local community agencies. Parent Involvement in Drug Education: Guidelines for Schools - Further Information about the Guidelines (PDF - 765Kb) (pdf - 764.6kb) - the seven guidelines provide a framework for involving parents in school drug education programs. School drug education should use a range of strategies that involve a broad cross-section of parents, recognise the diversity of parent communities, and aim to be responsive to student needs. The Parent Partnerships resource includes the following three documents: Parent Partnerships - Parent Involvement in Later Years of Schooling (PDF - 2 (pdf - 2.22mb) - provides practical advice and tools to assess and enhance current school practice of involving parents. Parent Partnerships – Professional Development Module (PDF - 2 (pdf - 2.31mb) - explains the components of the Parent Partnerships – Parent Involvement in the Later Years of Schooling resource. The activities have been designed to be easily replicated in working with parents. Parent Partnerships – Professional Development Module - Power Point Presentation (PDF - 727Kb) (pdf - 726.75kb) - presentation overheads supporting the Parent Partnerships Professional Development Module. Culturally and Linguistically Diverse (CALD) Family Engagement with Schools Project - Case Studies (PDF - 1 (pdf - 1.73mb) - provides a summary of 15 case studies of innovative approaches to engage students and parents from varying cultural backgrounds in drug education and student wellbeing. Drug information for parents Young People, Parents and Drugs - Some Commonly Asked Questions (PDF - 517Kb) (pdf - 516.86kb) - brochure providing drug information and tips for parents for talking to their children about drugs. Parenting strategies: Preventing Alcohol Misuse - Provides a range of appropriate parenting strategies supported by high quality research endorsement from experts in the field of parenting and adolescent alcohol misuse. The online survey and feedback report will provide useful information for parents of adolescents aged 12 to 17 years. The web-based intervention is designed to help parents implement these strategies and improve their skills in managing alcohol use in their children. This research project is funded by VicHealth and the University of Melbourne. What parents should know about Ice (PDF - 228Kb) (PDF - 228Kb) (pdf - 227.93kb) brochure distributed to parents of year 10, 11 and 12 students in Victoria. It outlines factual information about the drug, Ice (crystal methamphetamine) and some general advice for talking to students about drugs. The latest Australian Secondary Students’ Alcohol and Drug Survey indicates there has been little change in amphetamine use among students between 1996 and 2005. However, the Department remains committed to providing key materials in relation to the risks associated with all drugs and to assist schools with their ongoing drug education activities. Celebrating Safely - Parent Brochure (PDF - 989Kb) - highlights issues to consider when holding a teenage party, the importance of communication between parents and young people and on being a role model for teenagers. For the related student and classroom materials, see: Alcohol Related Resources Drug Information for Parents (PDF - 3 (pdf - 3.08mb) - provides accurate information for parents about the most commonly used drugs. Schools often distribute this brochure at drug information sessions for parents. Alcohol fact sheets The following eight fact sheets provide evidence based advice for parents about the risks associated with alcohol use by young people and tips for talking to young people about alcohol.
Plants grown in soil with poor drainage generally do not thrive. Prolonged contact with moisture causes smaller leaves, leads to die-back of branches and increases susceptibility to mineral deficiencies, root rot and wood-boring insect pests. Heavy clay soil and a low-lying location can contribute to a drainage problem. Running machinery over the area or even extensive foot traffic may pack the soil down, impeding water drainage. Some shrubs tolerate poor drainage, however, while producing showy blooms or interesting sculptural forms. Described as "golf balls with antennae," the spherical, spiky, white blooms that come out in summer on the buttonbush (Cephalanthus occidentalis) attract butterflies and bees to the moist areas where it grows best. As a bonus, the flowers are fragrant. The multistemmed bush will reach 6 to 12 feet in height in U.S. Department of Agriculture plant hardiness zones 5b to 10a. Dense, dark-green foliage turns color in autumn, before falling to the ground. Long tassels of fragrant, white flowers that droop from the arching branches and red or purple fall foliage make the sweetspire (Itea virginica) an attractive ornamental shrub. Since single specimens can appear a bit scraggly, multiple plants are more effective. Growing to about 8 feet tall in zones 6 to 10a, sweetspire blooms best and takes on better fall color in a location that receives sun at least a few hours a day. It is not fazed by poor drainage and is adaptable to swamps. The bush holds onto its brilliant autumn foliage until well into the winter. "Henry's Garnet," "Merlot" and "Scarlet Beauty," among the best cultivars for fall color, are all more compact than the typical sweetspire, at 3 to 4 feet. This evergreen Mediterranean native bears large, often fragrant, blooms in white, yellow, pink, salmon or red from late spring to fall. Depending on the variety, the oleander (Nerium oleander) ranges from 3 to 20 feet high in zones 8 to 10. Three recommended hybrids, "Mrs. Roeding" (double salmon blooms), "Petite Pink" and "Petite Salmon," usually do not top 6 feet. Hummingbirds and other birds use oleanders for habitat. Besides tolerating poor drainage, the shrubs can grow in soil with relatively high salt content. A drawback to the plant is the poison it contains in all parts, especially the sap. Whenever pruning an oleander, wear gloves to prevent getting the sap on your skin. Usually trunkless, unless grown in standing water, the palmetto (Sabal minor) produces fan-shaped leaf blades as wide as 4 feet across. The old leaves fold at the base and hang down, resembling a closed umbrella. This dwarf evergreen shrub is a member of the palm family but seldom surpasses 6 feet in zones 9 and 10. Because of its interesting shape, the palmetto makes a good accent plant for moist grounds and can tolerate salt spray. - University of California Integrated Pest Management: Poor Water Management, Poor Drainage - The New Sunset Western Garden Book; Kathleen Norris Brenzel - Lady Bird Wildflower Center: Cephalanthus occidentalis - Lady Bird Wildflower Center: Itea virginica - University of California - Marin Master Gardeners: Plant Guide - Lady Bird Wildflower Center: Sabal Minor - Thinkstock/Comstock/Getty Images
In a recent report, Imagining construction’s digital future, McKinsey & Company suggests that the construction industry is ripe for disruption and two of the technologies that it believes will be key in that anticipated transformation are goespatial and BIM. The McKinsey report presents data that shows that large construction projects typically take 20 percent longer to finish than scheduled and are up to 80 percent over budget. Construction productivity has actually declined in some markets since the 1990s and financial returns for contractors are relatively low and volatile. The report finds that construction has been slow to adopt process and technological innovations. R&D spending in construction lags other industries. Construction R&D is less than 1% of total industry revenue compared to 3.5-4.5 % in the auto and aerospace sectors. And construction spending on IT is low compared to other industries. The McKinsey Global Institute estimates that the world will need to spend $57 trillion on infrastructure through 2030 to keep up with global GDP growth. This is a massive incentive for the construction industry to transform productivity and project delivery through new technologies and improved practices. McKinsey has identified five technologies that it believes will be transformative in the construction industry. Th first two are geospatial technologies and BIM. About 4 million excavations are carried out on the UK road network each year to install or repair buried utility pipes and cables. Not knowing the location of buried assets causes practical problems that increase costs and delay projects, but more importantly, it increases the risk of injury for utility owners, contractors and road users. The problems associated with inaccurate location of buried pipes and cables are serious and are rapidly worsening due to the increasing density of underground infrastructure in major urban areas. In the U.S. it is estimated that an underground utility is hit every minute. Underground utility conflicts and relocations are the number one cause of project delays during road construction. These type of unforeseen problems are a major reason that projects are delayed and go over budget. Discrepancies between ground conditions and early survey estimates can require costly last-minute changes to project scope and design. New techniques that integrate high-definition photography, 3-D laser scanning, ground penetrating radar in conjunction with other technologies and geographic information systems make it possible to reduce the risk of hitting underground utilities. Reality modeling using phodar and LiDAR technologies provides high-quality 3-D images and point clouds that can be integrated with building information modeling (BIM). Used in conjunction with ground-penetrating radar, magnetometers, and other equipment, LiDAR can generate above-ground and underground 3-D images of project sites.
¡Interferencia de bloqueo de anuncios detectada! Wikia es un sitio libre de uso que hace dinero de la publicidad. Contamos con una experiencia modificada para los visitantes que utilizan el bloqueo de anuncios Wikia no es accesible si se han hecho aún más modificaciones. Si se quita el bloqueador de anuncios personalizado, la página cargará como se esperaba. Zhang Zeduan (Plantilla:Zh-tspw) (1085-1145 AD), alias Zheng Dao, was a famous Chinese painter during the twelfth century, during the transitional period from the Northern Song to the Southern Song Dynasty. He was a native of Dongwu (present Zhucheng, Shandong). There is evidence that he was a court painter of the Northern Song Dynasty, and that in the aftermath of that dynasty's fall, his paintings were criticisms of the new dynasty. Most of what is known about Zhang Zeduan's life comes from a colophon written in 1186 by a man named Zhang Zhu. Zhang Zeduan's most famous painting is Along the River During Qing Ming Festival, a wide handscroll which depicts life in a city. This painting was made famous throughout China, as an emperor of the Yuan Dynasty (1279-1368 AD) felt compelled to write a poem on his copy of the painting, writing in praise of it. A popular remake of the painting was made in the 18th century, during the Qing Dynasty. In terms of historical significance, Zhang's original painting reveals much about life in China during the 12th century. Its myriad depictions of different people interacting with one another reveals the nuances of class structure and the many hardships of urban life as well. It also displays accurate depictions of technological practices found in Song China. For example, it depicts one river ship lowering its bipod mast before passing under the prominent bridge of the painting. It shows ships in two major types, yet all of which have slung rudders for steering; the painting depicts freighters with narrow sterns or passenger boats and smaller craft with broad sterns, sailing upriver or docked along the banks while loading and unloading goods. Large stern sweeps and bow sweeps can be seen on at least three of the river ships, worked by up to eight men each. - Needham, Joseph (1986). Science and Civilization in China: Volume 4, Physics and Physical Technology, Part 3, Civil Engineering and Nautics. Taipei: Caves Books Ltd.
from The American Heritage® Dictionary of the English Language, 4th Edition - transitive v. To gather and store in or as if in a granary. - transitive v. To amass; acquire. See Synonyms at reap. - n. A granary. - n. An accumulation or collection of something. from Wiktionary, Creative Commons Attribution/Share-Alike License - n. A granary; a store of grain. - n. An accumulation, supply, store, or hoard of something. - v. To reap grain, gather it up, and store it in a granary. - v. To gather, amass, hoard, as if harvesting grain. - v. To earn; to get; to accumulate or acquire by some effort or due to some fact; to reap. - v. to gather or become gathered; to accumulate or become accumulated; to become stored. from the GNU version of the Collaborative International Dictionary of English - n. A granary; a building or place where grain is stored for preservation. - transitive v. To gather for preservation; to store, as in a granary; to treasure. from The Century Dictionary and Cyclopedia - To store in or as if in a granary; hoard: chiefly in figurative use. - Synonyms To gather, collect, lay in, husband. - To grow in quantity or amount; accumulate. - n. A granary; a building or place where grain is stored for preservation; hence, a store of anything, especially of knowledge or experience: now chiefly in figurative use. from WordNet 3.0 Copyright 2006 by Princeton University. All rights reserved. - v. assemble or get together - v. store grain - v. acquire or deserve by one's efforts or actions - n. a storehouse for threshed grain or animal feed Yet this genius of a reporter, and probably others, think we should just forget about going back to the moon becasue at present, global warming and energy independence gets more headlines, never stopping to think of the technology and skills we could garner from a return to the Moon and onto Mars. Ever had an idea for a recipe that, in your mind and on paper, looked brilliant - patent making, gazillions of books publishing perfect - but in practice all you manage to garner is a barely satisfactory "meh"? Although the impolite host wound up abruptly canceling the bonfire, there are several lessons one could garner from the barbecue that wasn't. But it should be noted that occupation monitoring organizations such as Peace Now, B'tselem, and Yesh Din garner respect in society and are recognized as important resources for information. At the risk of moving beyond review and into critique, here are a few things I was able to garner from the text that made me think there might be something more than a simple tale. Nor did he recieved huges lump sums of money garner from the misery of those who WERE defrauded! So congrats to the wohle Garner-Afleck family! do have the kids the name garner inside, too? like violet anne garner affleck or something like that? Garnering Right Ideas "garner" - gather; a gathering of my thoughts which are usually right of center leave a comment » Written by garneringrightideas … Perhaps, the most I can garner from a work of fantasy is the hint of a sense of life – a subconscious view of existence –” an emotional appraisal of life” – the widest and the most vague equivalent of an explicit metaphysical value-judgment. Gerald, is he trying to kind of garner public favor with this YouTube video?
Biopesticides offer powerful tools to create a new generation of sustainable agriculture products. They are the most likely source for alternatives to some of the most problematic chemical pesticides currently in use. Biopesticides also offer solutions to concerns such as pest resistance to traditional chemical pesticides, public concern about side effects of pesticides on the surrounding environment and ultimately, on human health. The overriding challenge for the biopesticides industry is to live up to the promise that the field holds. There are unanswered questions and un-examined assumptions about them with which those involved must contend. Challenges to biopesticides stem from questions about their efficacy and safety, public and grower confusion about the spectrum of biopesticide products on the market, and current market conditions that paradoxically both hinder and favor the field’s growth. These stories highlight some of the successes and challenges for expanding use of biopesticides. The Challenge of Commercialization for Niche Products. A look at economic and regulatory challenges and opportunities impacting commercialization of biopesticides alternatives due to their niche market applications. Mating Disruption as a Pest Managment Tool. This example demonstrates the complexity of both developing and using biopesticides An Alternative to Methyl Bromide: “Pasteuria” for Nematode Control. A technological advance significantly decreased the cost of production, making the product economically viable. Large-scale Production of Baculovirus Isolate. A look at the greater production complexity (and potential costs) of developing a biopesticide. The Challenges of Product Formulation, Proprietary Ingredients and Community Dialogue: The Light Brown Apple Moth. Success for the field of biopesticides will require greater transparency in research, design, and application. Niche Marketing as an Opportunity for Competitive Differentiation “Bioworks”. This case illustrates how biopesticide companies can position themselves for success within a shifting paradigm. Codling Moth Control- Regulatory Changes Can Drive Innovation (and Lack of Regulation Can Stymie It). Shifting to more sustainable agricultural practices rarely is as simple as a one to one replacement of an existing pesticide.
Wanna know what question we get asked the most by kids like you? How can I help animals? The great thing is that there are so many ways to get involved in helping ALL animals—the wildlife in your backyard, endangered species all over the world, and the four-legged members of your own family. Here are a few ideas to get you started: ♥ Read as much as you can about your pet and how to look after her. Make a list of the things that they need to be healthy, and check it with your veterinarian. ♥ If you’ve got a dog or cat at home, help make sure he’s happy and healthy by brushing him and playing his favorite game every day. (This one’s fun for you, too!) ♥ Don’t let balloons go, especially if you live near water. The critters who live in the water might think they’re food and eat them—which could make them very sick. ♥ Support the DSPCA. It costs a lot of money to run the DSPCA and we rely on donations from kids like you to help cover our costs. ♥ Wildlife-proofing your rubbishlitter is just a matter of three easy steps: - Rinse and recycle. Make sure you recycle all recyclable plastic, glass and aluminum containers, and before you do, rinse them well to eliminate food remnants and odors that might attract wildlife in the first place. - Cut and crush. Plastic and aluminum containers should be crushed before disposal to minimize the chance that a small animal (or even just its head) might fit and get stuck within. Six-pack can rings should be snipped to eliminate the possibility of trapping, and all fishing line and string should be cut into 6-inch pieces before disposal. - Close and cover. Always make sure your rubbish is stored in a plastic or metal bin with a secure lid before disposal. - What about when you're outside, hiking or camping? The best policy is to take your rubbish home with you for proper recycling and disposal. Wildlife-proofing your rubbish may take a few extra minutes on your part, but for animals, it can mean the difference between life and death. ♥ Move bird feeders away from windows. Birds can fly into the window and hurt or kill themselves. ♥ Unscooped dog poop leads to bacteria in lakes, streams and oceans, choking out aquatic life and threatening the survival of many aquatic species. By simply cleaning up after your dog each day, you can help prevent water pollution and protect fragile aquatic life. ♥ Create a garden wildlife habitat. Habitat is a combination of food, water, shelter, and space arranged to meet the needs of wildlife. Even a small garden can be landscaped to attract birds, butterflies, beneficial insects, and small animals. Trees, shrubs, and other plants provide shelter and food for wildlife. The plants you use for food and cover will help determine the wildlife species attracted to your backyard. Nesting boxes, feeders, and watering sites can be added to improve the habitat. Information courtesy of the ASPCA
Frost seeding can be a good option in Northeastern hopyards. Establishing a solid intercrop can help keep down weedy species, and in the case of legumes, can add fertility to your soil. Frost seeding should occur in the early spring when the ground freezes at night and thaws during the day. While frost seeding can be done over a thin layer of snow, it is best to seed it into a field where you can see bare soil to ensure good seed-to-soil contact. The freeze-thaw cycle will cause the seed to fall into the cracks in the soil and germinate. If there is rapid snow melt, however, it can wash the seed right off of the field. Red and white clovers will work best in your hopyard as they germinate quickly and at cool temperatures. They should be seeded at 2-4 lbs/acre. Our very own Dr. Heather Darby wrote an article about frost seeding into hay and pasture land, and the principles are very similar for implementing in a hopyard. To read the full article, please click here.
FACTORS IN MODERN SIKH HISTORY Dr. Sangat Singh I am thankful to Dr. Ganda Singh Memorial Society for inviting me to deliver this memorial lecture. Before coming directly to the theme of the talk today, I would like to highlight some basic facts about the Sikh history. In the very first chapter of my work, THE SIKHS IN HISTORY,1 I made an observation : "The Hindus have learnt one thing from history that they cannot learn anything". At that time, a thought crossed my mind : What was the position of the Sikhs vis a vis their history? Do the Sikhs learn from their history? Have they learnt from it in the past? If not, are the Sikhs capable of learning from history? The basic question that ultimately boiled down was: Are the Sikhs aware of their history? These were the musing of a mature mind. I must confess that I am not a historian in the traditional sense of the term. I taught history for a year in a college in the University of Delhi during my youth, but shortly transgressed into international and strategic studies. As such, I was deeply involved in analysing the current scene and formulating proposition for framing of policy guidelines in the making of contemporary history. I also kept myself abreast with the ongoing current developments in the Sikh situation in Panjab. In 1980s when I was commissioned by S. Hukam Singh, founder president of Kendri Sri Guru Singh Sabha, to undertake a rewriting - mark the word "rewriting" - of the Sikh history, I was aware that the Sikhs had made history, or had played a dominant role in making of history. But they had played little role in writing their history especially in the context of the changing times and situations.2 A good General not only plans in advance, but also changes his tactics and strategies in view of the developing situation. He always has an alternate plan in case of a serious set back. The Sikh history needed a new outlook in context of the changed circumstances. I may state here forthwith that I had a very clean objective in penning down THE SIKHS IN HISTORY. I made that explicit in the very first sentence in the preface that I was aiming at a rewriting of the Sikh history, and that too from the Sikh national perspective. The process involved reinterpretation and rewriting of the known facts of history; and giving them a consistency and orientation, so that the facts speak themselves aloud. The higher degree of analytical capacity that I had acquired as part of my official work, helped me to give the facts a sharper focus. They thought that throughout history, only individuals have propounded ideas that have moved the world, made me to persist in pursuit of my work. Now, when the end product is there, it is for others to sit in judgement over it. This bring me to come to the fundamentals of the Sikh history. The first thing that strikes one in the modern Sikh history is the declaration of way by Lord Dalhousie, East India Company's Governor General of India on eve of the 2nd Anglo-Sikh war in 1848; it talks of war against 'the Sikh nation'. Mark these words. Never had hitherto East India company in its various wars of aggrandisement in different parts of India confronted a nation or even a nationality, based on religious, ethnic, territorial or other considerations. The Sikhs were a nation, sui juris at that, when other parts of India were a conglomerate of regional, ethnic, religious, tribal, caste or sectional loyalties. That was an important factor that came into-play in their history. The other was that sikhism constituted a distinct independent faith with a well developed religious thought and philosophy, in North Western parts of India. This was for the first time, after the enlightenment of Lord Buddha two thousands years back , that a faith had germinated that was based on revelation, in this case of Guru Nanak in 1499. It made Punjab, as against other parts of India, tri-religious state, with Islam, Sikhism, and Hinduism as three arms of a triangle. Whereas, the mughals (of Bahadur Shah's and later Farrukhsiyar's firmans for extermination of the Sikhs), the Afgan invaders (Cf. Qazi Noor Mohamad's JANGNAMA) and the English colonisers realised the distinct character of Sikhism, the general body of Hindus, Including their religious Maths, Centres (which had ceased to grow during the medieval period when Sikhism emerged) did not. That created problems on the 19th century onwards, with the rise and growth of Hindu consciousness, miscued as Indian consciousness. The Sikhs stood much misunderstood in Hindu eyes. As such, two basic factors in Sikh history were, or are, one Sikhism as an independent faith, and two, Khalsa's emerging as a nation in pre-modern times. I call them basic, because these have been constant, invariable, and central to the Sikh make up or Sikh psyche, This brings me to the modern phase of Sikh history. By common consent it started with the annexation of Punjab by the English in 1849. The English efforts to extend their stay in Lahore, by seeking a revision of the Treaty of Lahore caused deep schism in Punjabi society. This gave rise to two types of persons - I am deliberately using the word person, instead of Chief -one owing the fealty to the English and the other seething with resistance and revival of the Khalsa power. A pronounced feature of the latter was revival of Khalsa spirit, though it is difficult to accuse the former (those working to English designs) of being cool to the Khalsa revivalism was one of degree, depending upon one's priorities, perceptions, and situation in life. The failure of the Sikh Misls power in latter half of 18th century, constituted a material factor in inhibiting the forces of revival of Khalsa power. Mention may now be made of the various main elements which at different times, and in different circumstances, led the forces of resistance during the 19th century. Briefly, these were Bhai Maharaj Singh, Baba Ram Singh of Bhaini Sahib, and Maharaja Daleep Singh. The fourth element, the rise of puritan Sikh revivalist movement the Singh Sabha, was the other facet of the same coin. Since adequate attention has not been paid to the contribution of Bhai Maharaj Singh, I propose to deal with him in a bit more detail as against the other two. A prince among patriots, Bhai Maharaj Singh spanned the transition of the Sikh history from medieval into modern period. A saint and a religious leader, he became a revolutionary, and laid the foundations of a Khalsa Lehr, a people's movement, to uphold their sovereignty. Bhai Maharaj Singh's sense of Khalsa patriotism was sharply awakened by the English designs to extend their sway over the Lahore Darbar in suppression of the Treaty of Lahore, 1846. Rani Jindan in desperation sought his assistance to ward off the English machinations. Bhai Maharaj Singh, an astute man that he was, to begin with, abdicated from the gaddi, seat of Naurangabad and shifted to Amritsar which straightaway became the nerve centre in intense political activity. His whirlwind tours to the villages, which took him far and wide, exhorting the people not to let the English usurp their freedom deeply stirred the people . This mass arousal, prelude to people's war, was considered dangerous by the English Resident, Henry Lawrence, who by mid 1847, firstly , wanted Bhai Maharaj Singh to wind up his Amritsar headquarters and instead shift back to Naurangabad, and, secondly, summoned him to Lahore to answer some charges. Bhai Maharaj Singh read through the Resident's intentions, gave him a slip and chose to go under-ground. In the prevailing situation, his position was like that of fish in the This was not withstanding the English efforts to marshal Dogras and Urban Hindus, and stir up a section of Muslims including tribals against the Sikhs. It is not the scope of this talk to go into the details of the all- pervasive influence and activity of Bhai Maharaj Singh in events forming the core of the Second Anglo-Sikh war. Briefly, he raised the standard of revolt and raised sufficient dust about his movements to keep the English off track to avoid premature conflict; organised his own intelligence network and showed his superiority in tactical warfare; moved over to Multan for a week or so, to give sufficient impetus to the forces of Dewan Mul Raj, moved back to central Punjab and sent emissaries all over Punjab to raise a revolt; and over to Hazara by a circuitous route via Shivalik hills to tap Raja Chattar Singh (younger brother of Sham Singh Attariwala) now Governor of Hazara, to bring in a Sikh Sardar/Chief to lead the popular movement ; his travels in the countryside to raise volunteers and all the way from Rawalpindi and Jhelum districts to eventually join Raja Sher Singh's forces. These were all reflective of his deep sense of hurt at the Sikh predicament, and commitment to the Sikhs ideals. It were his presence that helped the Punjabi forces to worsen the English forces at Ramnagar. This came as a morale booster. And, finally it was his exhortation to the forces at Chillianwala, 13 January 1849, his leading the ardas, prayer before the engagement, management of food and supplies for the troops and horses, looking after the sick and wounded and participation in hand to hand fight, that made Chillianwala the most hard fought battle in British conquest of Hindustan. The English suffered the worst defeat in their history. The contemporary British chroniclers and later expert studies all agree of the English predicament. A recent study by Pakistan's Directorate of Military Operations of Chillianwala Battle Opines that had Sher Singh regrouped his forces and launched a night attack, or his father Chattar Singh joined him the next morning, results would have been different. Even then, Bhai Maharaj Singh wanted Raja Sher Singh to fight another battle at Rawalpindi or Hasan Abdal, but Sher Singh lost his nerve and surrendered (14 March 1849). Bhai Maharaj Singh, like a true patriot that he was, chose to escape, to fight a lonely battle, and carry on the war of liberation. He now moved over to the thick jungles in the interior of Jammu and sent his followers to contact like-minded people in various regions to gauge their feelings. He made an unsuccessful attempt to kidnap Maharaja Daleep Singh who was about to leave Lahore in exile. He busied himself in making arrangements for a general rebellion, or a people's war, and even sought assistance of Amir Dost Mohammad of Kabul and Pathan Chiefs in the North West. He sought assistance of cross section of people. After despatch of these letters, he left on a secret tour of Majha and Doaba to raise resources. He said that "There will be another National war; let all the true Sikhs rise on the day fixed." When all the arrangements had been made for a revolt at two cantonments on the night of 3 January 1850, Bhai Maharaj Singh was arrested on the information of a Muslim informer. This was on 28 December 1849. Surprisingly, he and his companions were not armed. Even a Skirmish would have given him a better place in history and build up folk literature around his personality. In the words of Mr. Vansittart, Deputy Commissioner, Jalandhar, who effected the arrests, Bhai Maharaj Singh "is not and ordinary man. He is to the natives what Jesus Christ is to the most zealous of Christians," There was a reward of Rs. 10,000 on his head. It was considered too dangerous to put Bhai Maharaj Singh to trial. That would only have tended to aggravate feelings, and English were not ready for that. He was quietly deported under Regulation III of 1818 to Singapore, and lodged in a strong Fort with windows blocked out, in the process making it a dark cell. He remained calm and serene, and passed in to history on 5 July 1856, unwept, unsung, unhonoured. The people back home were kept in the dark about the fate of this brave son of Punjab. The English, to stamp out the Sikh inner consciousness and cravings of their rule over Punjab, manoeuvred with new management of Sri Harmandir Sahib in Amritsar to drop the singing of litany RAJ KAREGA KHALSA from the maryada, code of rituals, it daily followed in the sanctum sanatorium. The practice continues ever today. Baba Ram Singh (he succeeded Bhai Balak Singh of Hazro in 1862) was another multifaceted personality. He was conscious of the deception by which the English had annexed Punjab, and also of the general moral, social and religious degeneration all around. He launched a movement for religious reform and revival. He wanted his followers to strictly follow the Khalsa rahat, code of conduct. He administered amrit to both the sexes together, introduced a number of social reforms, and set an elaborate missionary work. He believed that the Adi Sri Guru Granth Sahib if the real Guru and condemned Sodhis, Bedis, Bhallas, who claimed the status of guru, as impostors. He wanted to consolidate the Sikh power for political ends. He advocated Swadeshi and boycott of western goods and ideals; he was far ahead of his times. The opening of butchers shops sellings kine flesh in Amritsar caused deep resentment both against the butchers and the English overlords. Under misdirected Brahminical zeal for protection of cow. Baba Ram Singh's followers in 1860s killed some Muslim butchers in Amritsar. The authorities at first interned Baba Ram Singh, but later kept him under surveillance. This was upshot of political backlash, his Namdhari of Kuka movements was taking. In 1872, when some of his hot headed followers, against his express wishes and advice, attacked Malaud and Malerkotla, the Deputy Commissioner Ludhiana, in disregard of orders of his superiors, and without a fair trial, below 49 of arrested Namdharis by guns; another was cut to pieces. Baba Ram Singh was deported to Rangoon where he died in 1884. This caused a setback to the Namdhari movement, which politically was an expression of pent up feelings against the English machinations in the annexation of the Punjab. Religiously, the Namdhari movement, even under Baba Ram Singh, had developed certain peculiarities, and despite his protestations, in his letters from Rangoon jail that he was not a Guru, his over-enthusiastic followers raised him to that level. Overall, the Namdhari movement under Baba Ram Singh was like a whirlwind which affected certain pockets only and had limited impact on the general body of the Sikhs. Maharaja Daleep Singh was, another character who kept alive the resistance in Punjab. He had been converted to Christianity in 1853. But under the influence of his mother, Rani Jindan, who joined him in another decade, he gradually became conscious of his Sikh heritage. But it was not till mid-1880s, his meeting with his cousin, Thakar Singh Sandhawalia, that he decided to be rechristened a Sikh. His being baptised as a Sikh by the Sikh troops in Aden, and his attempts to come back to India, to be amidst his people, caused misgivings to the British. His falling fowl of the treatment meted out to him, travels to Russia to seek assistance for revival/ restoration of his rule over Punjab, and eventually settling down in Paris, were ramblings of an awakened mind; these were put to rest in 1893. An indirect impact of the Kuka movement and Maharaja Daleep Singh's yearnings for restoration of his rule over Punjab was that no Sikh could send his child to London for higher studies, say, for studying Bar-at-law. During the 19th century, Muslim community from Punjab produced half a dozen Bar-at-Laws, who played an important role in the socio-religious movements and judicial administration of Punjab. The Hindus too had their quota in late 1890s, but no Sikh, not even from Malwas which had a longer interaction with the English, could do so, may be for fear of being tainted for disloyalty, or joining the hostiles. The first Sikh youth to complete Bar-at-Law was not till the end of the first decade of the present century. By the time, the socio-cultural movements among the Sikhs had far advanced , to buttress the traditional Sikh leadership : it did not permit the induction of people with higher education. I may be wrong, but I have a feeling that was the main reason why the Sikh leadership remained in the hands of semi-educated, semi-literate persons as against that of the Hindus or the Muslims. Another possibility was that the Sikh movement, especially in the wake of Gurdwara reform movement, had become rural. But that did not prevent the aristocracy, the Chief Khalsa Diwan and the Sikh National Party from playing a leading role till the death of Sunder Singh Majithia. The rural-urban divide became operative only in 1960s after the eclipse of Master Tara Singh. Anyhow, I am liberty of throwing up some ideas, and it shall be open especially for the upcoming scholars to dilate upon them. Mention may now be made of the rise of the pure Sikh revivalist movement, the Singh Sabha (s), in 1873. It aimed at revivalism of Khalsa spirit, and restoring Sikhism to its pristine purity. The Singh Sabha was to shun The Singh Sabha instantly caught the imagination of the literate sections of the community. It, however, became a movement with the upcoming of Prof. Gurmukh Singh of Oriental College, Lahore, as the moving spirit. Sri Guru Singh Sabhas mushroomed all over the province. Prof. Gurmukh Singh was a puritan and brooked no deviation from the egalitarian Khalsa spirit. This, at times, brought him into conflict with the Amritsar wing of Singh Sabha. A Khalsa Diwan established in 1883 to oversee the functioning of Singh Sabhas was followed by another one at Lahore in 1886, which became the focal point of Sikh revivalism. The acute personal differences of the three prominent founders of Singh Sabha played havoc with the movement. Sardar Thakar Singh Sandhawalia dreamt of driving the English out re-establishing the Khalsa raj; Kanwer Bikram Singh of Kapurthala was a pure revivalist, while Baba Khem Singh Bedi was anxious to get himself recognised and worshipped as Guru. After the death of Kanwar Bikram Singh in 1887, Baba Khem Singh Bedi ganged up the Singh Sahibs of Akal Takht and Sri Harmandir Sahib and the other historic shrines to issue a hukamnamah (on 18 March 1887), to excommunicate Prof. Gurmukh Singh from Panth. Though it had no impact on the functioning of Prof. Gurmukh Singh for rest of his life for another decade, it showed the extent factionalism could go and fracture the Sikh corporate body. The revocation of this hukamnamah at the World Sikh Sammellan in 1995 showed that the head of Akal Takht or for that matter, of other historic shrines, are not infallible. They played a faux pas in 1919 and initiated General Dyer and Capt. Briggs into Sikhism in utter violation of fundamentals of Sikhism. Again , in 1980s the Akal Takht Jathedar played havoc with Sikh political institutions by simulated dissolution of various Akali Dals, and later formation of a United Akali Dal, without at first bringing about the unity in political outlook of the various constituent units. This strand of irresponsibility has now continued for over a century . The present Jathedar of Akal Takht, Bhai Ranjit Singh, in his wisdom, has, however, decided not to interfere in the political processes of the Sikh set ups which remain divided as ever. The first quarter of 20th century saw the culmination of both the resistance and the revivalist movements. The anouncement of Secretary of State, Edward Montague, in August 1917, epitomised the former, while the Sikh Gurdwara Act 1925, epitomised the later. The resistance to British rule had many facets in various parts of India, to wit, the agitation following partition of Bengal, the activity of trio Bal-Pal-Lal (Bal Gangadhar Tilak, Bipin Chandra Pal, Lala Lajpat Rai), the revolutionaries starting with Khudi Ram Bose overflowing to Bhagar Singh-Sukhdev -Rajguru, the Home Rule Movements of Annie Besant and Bal Gangadhar Tilak. In Punjab, Sardar Ajit Singh and Ghadrite revolutionaries, who were overwhelmingly Sikhs, played a prominent part. It were the revolutionaries who shook the foundations of the British rule, and brought about a realisation of the futility of British continuing their overlordship, paving way for August 1917 declaration. During this crucial period, M.K. Gandhi, who later was acclaimed father of 'our nation', whatever that meant, at first by Subhash Chandra Bose in 1944 and later by Jawaharlal Nehru in December 1946, was serving as recruitment sergeant for First World War, and earned the title of 'Kaiser-i Hind' for his services while Jawaharlal Nehru, in the words of his latest biographer, American Professor Wolpert, was busy in his post adolescent cravings and mischief mongering. The Sikh revivalist phase matured into the movement for reform of Gurdwara administration, and their liberation from the Hinduised practices and management. During this period, the Sikh movement attained a rare degree of unity and oneness, as was demonstrated by the failure of British administration to find even one, a single, Sikh to Side with them over the Sri Harmandir Sahib keys issue. The Sikhs had attained their objectives by 1922, but their lack of application and lack of ability to analyse and take hard decision, made them to unnecessarily prolong the movement. The subsequent Guru Ka Bagh Morcha, Nabha abdication and Jaito Morcha, agitation, were unnecessary and proved injurious. Right from day one of Gandhi's intervention in Nankana Sahib tragedy down to his being shot dead, he emitted total hostility to Sikhism and Sikh ideals. It is surprising, the Sikh leaders never paid attention to his numerous utterances, much less read his inner mind. This resulted in the Sikh leadership's totally atrophying their movement. Gandhi was told on the day one itself that his references to the Sikhs as Hindus was offensive to the Tat Khalsa and the whole Sikh movement, but he never desisted hurting the Sikh sentiments, much less atone for his action of omission and commission. His telegram to Baba Kharak Singh on victory over keys Affair, 'First battle of India's freedom won, Congratulations", was fraudulent in character, and did not make a dent in his outlandish assessment of the Akali movement, or Sikhism as part of Hinduism. He sowed the seeds of schism in the Gurdwara reform movement; later, Punjab Governor, Hailey, worked upon that lead. The Sikh leadership's deference to him after he fired his salvos on Nabha affair only showed their lack of discernment, what was good or bad for them. Similarly, Baba Kharak Singh's claiming on the one hand the position equivalent to that of president of USA, Germany or France in his capacity as head of SGPC, and, on the other hand, accepting the position of President of Punjab Congress, was anomalous, to say the least, and tended to atomise the Sikh position. By the time the Gurdwara Act was adopted in 1925, the Sikh movement had splintered, causing untold mischief and hardship. It needed a Herculean effort and Socratian wisdom to push it out of the morass. The Sikhs lacked both. With Master Tara Singh's coming on the top in 1930s with Congress leadership's blessings, the leadership passed on to mediocre hands. Even Baba Kharak Singh who had sought to give the events a constructive turn on the eve of Lahore Congress in 1929, became crazy, peevish and negative in outlook and behaviour. The Sikhs were in a soup , and one wonders whether they have come out of it even today. Some thoughts on the Sikhs and Gandhi in the context of India's struggle With the August 1917 announcement there was really no movement for India's independence. It was all for placements. The Muslim League had gained its position at the Lucknow Congress in 1916, and thoughtfully ran no anti-imperialist struggle. No one suffered a scratch, much less going to goals. The Congress under Gandhi's leadership ran three movements by fits and starts. The first one, non-cooperation movement 1920-22 was for placement of Gandhi's at the centre stage in the Congress and saw its seizure by him; the second, Civil Disobedience Movement 1930-32 was more with a view to erode the popularity gained by the revolutionaries than against the British : Bhagat Singh, at the time, had gained an advantage over Gandhi in popular estimation and third, the Quit India Movement 1942, was upshot of Gandhi's misreading of Hindu religious literature, especially Gita, to stab the British in the back when in trouble at the height of the War. Lord Krishna had ran away with the clothes of naked Gopis bathing in the pool of water, and dictated terms to them from an unequal position. Gandhi's move boomeranged, in the process strengthening Jinnah and the Muslim League. The Satyagraha against the Rowlatt Bills in March-April 1919 had helped to launch Gandhi into the Indian polity. The Punjab administration was aghast at the turn the events had taken at Amritsar, and wanted to teach the people a lesson. Baisakhi, 13 April, was at hand. The Administration hired one Hans Raj, a caste Hindu, to lure the people to Jallianwala Bagh, a closed square with a narrow entrance. It was all a contrived affair. When General Dyer arrived there, Hans Raj was seen talking to the Inspectors of CID (Central Intelligence Department), and disappeared. M.K Gandhi who was entrusted by the Congress to conduct an enquiry came upon the evidence, but he chose to put a veil over it, as, meanwhile he had built up his leadership on the blood of martyrs of Jallianwala Bagh. For Gandhi, to expose Hans Raj's role meant giving away the mileage he had gained. To Gandhi, this type of method was not unjustified, as in his reading of Hindhu Shastras, the Devas (gods) had defeated the Asuras (titans) by dubious means, and so had Pandavas defeated Kaurvas in Mahabharta war. Gandhi was a scheming and brainy bania, trying to act as a Brahmin. The mantle of Hindu revivalism of Bengal, Maharashtra and Punjab brands, had fallen on his shoulders. He personified atavistic nationalism of the Hindus. If the British by granting separate electorate had taken religion into politics into religion. The Sikhs had already won separate electorate in Punjab. Gandhi felt aghast, especially at the Sikh assertion of being an independent faith. Even after the adoption of Gurdwara Bill in 1925, he wrote a scurrilous piece terming Guru Gobind Singh as "a misguided patriot", and casting aspersions on the originality of the mission of Guru Nanak. (He repeated these writings after a lapse of 17 years in 1942.) But with what results? There was widespread condemnation of Gandhi's views but the Sikh leadership did nothing to cut umbilical chord that bound it to the Congress or Gandhi. At the All Party Conferences in 1927-28, the Sikhs did not do their home work. Their advocacy of joint electorate was based on a wrong premise, of their constituting 25 per cent of the voters in the then restricted franchise. It never occurred to them that their advantage would disappear into thin air, once adult franchise was introduced. At the Lahore Congress 1929, Gandhi hoodwinked Tara Singh with a lollipop. The Congress leaders had promised to adopt a resolution not to accept a constitution that was not acceptable to the Sikhs. Instead, Gandhi used all his wile to draft an omnibus type one, that Congress would not accept a constitution that was not acceptable to the minorities - the Sikhs, the Muslims, and others. Tara Singh, an ordinary Graduate, without any analytical capacity, was in for such lollipops (till he subjected the Sikhs bound hand and foot in 1947). He was subjected to double talk with impunity. The 1929 assurances were not worth the paper written on, as Tara Singh learnt in post - 1947 era. The plea of the Sikh leadership to the Congress about the quantum of Sikh sacrifices in the freedom struggle - of the people who were sent to the gallows, sentenced to transportation for life, or otherwise imprisoned since Gandhi's assumption of leadership (they quoted figures churned out by Lala Duni Chand, Punjab Congress President in support of their assertions) were all in vain. They were talking to the wrong people; these facts and figures were simply not relevant. The Sikh leadership hardly had fingers on the pulse, and was completely off the track. Gandhi was dead set against the backward classes conversion to Sikhism. He said, he did not mind their conversion to Islam or Christianity, but never to Sikhism. Why? If not that he was rabidly anti-Sikh? Tara Singh was right in breaking with the Congress in 1940 over War efforts. He should have accepted Gandhi's correct advice to turn completely communal and safeguard the Sikh interests, but chose to continue to be tied to Congress's apron strings. A complete break would have made them to charter an independent course, and fend for themselves. His parameters were not clear. The Sikh leadership showed lack of comprehension of even basic issues both during the Cripps Mission's visit in 1942 and later that of Cabinet Mission in 1946. Baldev Singh (who had once joined a College) was another mediocre, not worth of his job; he sold the Sikh interests in return for his family's business interests in Bihar, Giani Kartar Singh was the only one who could have hoodwinked Congress leadership to yield iron clad guarantees but was checkmated by Tara Singh and Baldev Singh . Baldev Singh had pangs of conscience only after his ouster from the Union Cabinet in 1952, and wanted to write his Memories as to how the Sikhs were betrayed, but lacked the capability to even do that. Swaran Singh who replaced him at Lahore, and later emerged as Bara Babu at Delhi, had no mind to do so, even with best of persuasion. He said, he did not want to betray the confidence reposed in him by Nehruvian dynasty. He was more loyal than the King, or in Maoist metaphor, was running dog of Hindu Chauvinism. When the Muslim league adopted the Lahore Resolution, March 1940, Gandhi was quick to analyse that the Muslims would by committing suicide of they do so. In his analysis, Muslims, who constituted a solid phalanx in undivided India, would be divided into a number of segments, if not splintered. He saw in it a rare opportunity to liberate Hindus from the thousand years of thralldom of Muslims. After the mis-adventure of Quit India movement in 1942, Gandhi saw to it that Jinnah keeps alive Muslims' fledgling hope. Gandhi's holding parleys with jinnah in 1944 when the latter's position was precarious, and conferring on him the title of Quaid-i-Azam (The Great Leader), is to be seen in that light. After the Muslim League accepted the Cabinet Mission Plan, Gandhi at first brusquely told Maulana Azad, Congress President of six years standing not to talk about, what he termed, "My Hindus". He then made Jawahar Lal Nahru to say openly that Congress believed in majoritarian democracy, and would in the Constituent Assembly, upturn all the commitments now being made. That put wisdom in Jinnah, but not in the Sikh leadership. Eventually, Jinnah, but had to, against his best judgment, accept the truncated Pakistan offered to him by Lord Mountbatten. In the process, with Indian Islam being fractured, Gandhi, assisted by Nehru and Patel, liberated Hinduism from a Millennium of slavery, Here was a rare case of double liberation. Not surprisingly, Nehru acclaimed Gandhi in December 1946, while inaugurating the Constituent Assembly, as father of "our nation" - whether he meant 'Hindu Nation', or Congress Party as nation, does not know. Without partition of India, Gandhi could not have emerged as 'father of our nation'. In three-fourths of India, Hinduism had triumphed, to resume its onward march, after a hiatus of a 1000 years. The Sikh leadership, during the last phase 1945-47, as stated earlier, was a confused lot, fractured and not sure of itself. It tried to conceal its weakness by convening All Party Sikh Conferences. These in turn, enabled the quislings, turncoats, and infiltrates to occupy key positions. The appointment of Babu Labh Singh as President of Akali Dal in 1945 and of Col. Niranjan Singh Gill of INA, a Trojan horse of Congress, or a power broker, as' dictator' of Panthic Board, is to be seen in that light. The intelligence Bureau in June 1946 pointed to the "Perennial jealousies" among the Sikh leaders, as the main stumbling block. There has been no end to them and characterises the Sikh leadership even today. Tara Singh had spelled out the Sikh objectives, "to avoid perpetual slavery of Hindus or Muslims". But he drew no contingency plan, much less alternative ones. The leadership instead of facing the issues squarely, was indulging in self-deception. The Sikh leadership was fumbling before the Cabinet Mission on 5 April 1946, when the same day, Jawahar Lal Nahru said at a Press Conference, "The brave Sikhs of Punjab are entitled to special consideration. I see nothing wrong in area and a set up in the North where in the Sikhs can experience the glow of freedom." This could have been interpreted by the Sikh leadership as a challenge to carve out such an area in the talks with the Cabinet Mission. The Cabinet Mission threw a lot of suggestions at them, of an autonomous unit on the Soviet model (with membership of U.N. on the pattern of three of the Soviet republics of Latvia, Lithuania and Estonia) but the Sikh leadership, lacking any knowledge of international affairs and world polity, simply failed to comprehend it. The British found them not worthy of confidence because of their pedestrian leadership, which instead chose to treat whatever Nehru had said at a press conference as a lollipop, which it was not. The 3 June 1947 announcement of Baldev Singh on behalf of the Sikhs to throw in their lot with the Hindus without getting iron clad guarantees, not even the implementation of 3-way division of Punjab talked about in Sachar-Swaran Singh statement of 21 April 1947, marked the total failure of the Sikh leadership. The Sikhs could have insisted on division of Punjab between Muslims and non-Muslims on the one hand, and between the Hindus and non-Hindus separating a couple of Haryana districts on the other, with, preferably, their joining the Hindus as an autonomous unit. But the Sikh leadership lacked clarity. Penderel Moon at the last moment tried to bring that about, but since Mountbatten himself was angling for Governor Generalship in post-independent India, nothing came out of the move. Till the end, Akali Dal was fighting for maintenance of India's unity, when both the Congress and Muslims League were fighting for placements and power. There were two people who till the end fought for India's unity - Pathans and the Sikhs. Badshah Khan in the background of Congress treachery and sell out, spoke of his people being thrown to the wolves ; the Sikhs lacked a man of that clarity to realise the damage they had caused in subjecting the Sikhs to "perpetual slavery of the Hindus" and their majoritarian democracy. To sugar coat the hurt, the Congress straightaway served the Akalis lollipops in the form of participating the East Punjab Government. That was not unwelcome as the only wise decision taken by the Sikhs during the entire episode of decolonisation of the subcontinent, mass migration from West Pakistan and their denuding the East Punjab of its Muslim content, was still in the process of being implemented. The Sikh settlement in Cis-Ghaggar area, and their trumping up a majoring in a compact area, for the first time in their history, was direct offset of that. This brings us to the recent phase, the last 50 years of the Sikhs as part of decolonised India, when the Sikhs for the first time in their history came under the tutelage of a reviving Hinduism. The Hindus right from the day one were very clear about the import of the change that had taken place. The Punjabi Hindu was especially emotive at their, for the first time after a millennium, becoming a majority in Punjab. They had now become the ruling race. They were also clear about their intentions as to the treatment to be meted to the non-conforming faiths. As against that , the Sikh leadership was bewildered, helpless, and vulnerable. The pathetic Sikh situation was discernible right form the beginning. Maharaja Yadvendra Singh of Patiala's observations (letter of 5 Sept 1948 to Patel) about "the sense of frustration and despair" of the Sikh leadership, and the "fear of total extinction" by the youth and their readiness "to make any sacrifices" to ward off the threatening evil, falls in place. He pleaded that "An immediate declaration of the Government of India assuring the community of their rightful place in the body politic, seems to be most essential." This was asking for the moon. Gandhi right from 3 June had adopted most supercilious attitude towards the Sikhs. He resumed his attack on the Sikhs and Sikhism. This, at first, culminated in Punjab Government circular to all Deputy Commissioners and District Superintendents of Police in October 1947 branding the Sikhs as 'criminals and vagabonds', a lawless people, and "a menace to peaceful Hindus". This circular could have been issued by the Governor only at the instance of the Government of India. Then followed Gandhi's daily diatribes against the Sikhs in his evening meetings. This culminated in Gandhi's final pronouncement on 21 Jan. 1948 to a Sikh delegation : precisely, he wanted the Sikhs to disown Guru Gobind Singh, cast off kirpan and other symbols of Khalsa, and merge into the ocean of Hinduism Earlier, in December 1947, Gandhi had observed, "Sikhism, Hinduism, Buddhism and Jainism, and their offshoots are one. Hinduism is the ocean to which all rivers run. It can absorb Islam and Christianity and all other religions and only then can it become the ocean". This will rank him as the foremost Hindu fundamentalist. Shortly after Gandhi was shot dead, Lord Mountbatten wrote in February 1948 : The Sikhs as part of Pakistan would have retained a measure of political identity. But as part of Hindustan, they fear conomic absorption by the Hindus, also religious absorption. In short, they feared, probably correctly, virtual extinction as a political force, and survival only as a rapidly dwindling sect of Hindus. The Sikh predicament since 1947 is to be seen in this light. In the wake of Gandhi's murder, the simulated violence that was in store for the Sikhs, were the murderer a Sikh, as was originally feared, made the Sikhs to distance themselves from Hinduism in their manslaughter of the Muslims that went on in the name of communal riots all over India. The Muslims too respected the Sikh neutrality or non-involvement in the Communal quagmire all over India. The Punjabi Hindus too distanced themselves from the Sikhs by disowning their mother tongue, Punjabi language. The Union Government took a malicious note of the Sikhs clobbering a majority in a compact area from Attari to Ghaghar, and also the Sikh preponderance, especially in the senior echelons, in the Army. That made it to take some decisions, never to make a Sikh the head of Army. Soon the goings on in the Constituent Assembly (CA) took a turn for the worse for the Sikhs. They were offered inclusion of four of their backward sections in the Scheduled Castes, as ultimate reward for their contribution in the freedom struggle. Tara Singh compared his position to that of a person in a forest, who was disrobed by the Thugs to absolute nakedness; he was offered a loin cloth in return for an assurance that the person would not narrate to others what was done to him. Sardar Patel declared in mid-1948, PEPSU (a conglomeration of the states in East Punjab as a political unit) as the Sikh Homeland. This caused furore among the Punjabi Hindus of all shades and Hindus press all over India. The concept was soon revered. In order to show the Sikhs their place. Akalis were not permitted to hold a religious conference to commemorate Nankana Sahib Martyrs anniversary in February 1949 inside Gurdwara Rakab Ganj in Delhi, and Tara Singh was arrested . A general arrest of the Sikhs followed. It was in this atmosphere that, amidst Hindu resurgence, the CA reopened the agreed provisions of the Constitution and adopted the final draft. The Sikh representatives, finding the goings on hostile, announced their refusal to accept the Constitution , and refused to put their signatures to the final document. They were to be kept outside the national mainstream. The Sikhs saw their salvation in a reorganisation of Punjab on linguistic basis. Since this would meet their aspirations. Nehru, who was gangotri, source of Hindu revivalism or anti-Sikhism, chose to misrepresent it as a demand for a Sikh State. Nehru was explicit. If partition had not taken place, they could have done something for the Sikhs. In his words, 'Time has changed!' Now all the earlier pledges could be seen only as a stratagem; these had lost their relevance. Sikhism was in the grips of a boa constrictor, and he would rather do something to strengthen that hold. The Akali morchas for Punjabi Suba were in vain, and did not influence the ruling elite. Twice during the first decade, in 1948 and then in 1956, Akalis decided to shun political activity, to same Hindu leadership to adopt secular attitude, out in vain. Nehru's talks with Sant Fateh Singh in 1961 showed how illogical and mean he was. It was Nehru who laid down the outline for annihilation of Sikhs, if they were to resort to such type of agitation again. The contours of this outline are discernible from three mindless accusations hurled at the height of Punjabi Suba agitation, to wit, (1) Pakistan agrees to train Sikhs in guerilla warfare, (2) otherwise support and encouragement of Pakistan, and (3) training of the Sikh Youth in the use of explosives. This outline was utilised by his daughter Indira in post-1978 era to organise state sponsored militancy in Punjab. Mention may now be made of the communists as a factor in Sikh polity. Right from the beginning, there was a section of Communist party of India (CPI) or its earlier segments that was interested in Gurdwara politics. Communists in Punjab had certain pockets in the Sikh constituencies for Punjab legislature. But they were kept at bay by both the Akalis and Congress, who some times, as in 1937 elections, joined together to defeat them. After 1947, with the Hindus denying their mother tongue, and the Congress playing to the Hindu Gallery in opposing on Punjabi Suba, Communist support to Akalis tended to give them bi-partisan support. That made Akalis to give communists a sizeable number of seats in Gurdwara election in 1955. They were called Red Akalis. They worked under an overall strategy chartered by General Secretary of Punjab CPI, Harkishan Singh Surjeet who later, was master craftsman of communist infiltration into Akali Dal. The Communists, however, played a dubious role in ousting Tara Singh from Presidency of SGPC in 1958. In the ensuing elections to SGPC in 1960, Communist were aligned with the congressite Sikhs, and both were routed. Meanwhile, because of the merger of Akali Dal with Congress in 1956, in the 1957 elections to Punjab Assembly, the Communists got about 18 per cent of votes polled in Punjabi region. The CPI came to the conclusion that it can become a mass movement only at the cost of destruction of Akali Dal. (Gurharpal Singh Communism in Punjab, Delhi, 1992) Consequently, when Tara Singh, out of pique, chose to part company with the Congress over candidates fielded in 1957 elections, some members of the CPI joined Akali Dal on individual basis. Later, when Fateh Singh split with Tara Singh who lacked manpower to organise his faction of Akali Dal, the leadership to them was provided by Jathedar Gurcharan Singh Tohra. (For his bio-sketch see, Khushwant Singh, A History of the Sikhs, Oxford,1991, Vol. II) On the victory of the Sant Fateh Singh in SGPC elections in 1965, Sarup Singh and Satbir Singh, both former Presidents of AISSF (All India Sikh Students Federation) stated that the communists had gained a backdoor entry into Sikh politics. Both Sant Sipahi, Amritsar and Spokesman (Chandigarh) have surmised that with the election of Sant Fateh Singh in 1965, Gurdwara elections, or the major infiltration of communists and congressites there has been a sharp deterioration in Gurdwara administration. Tohra with the support of solid communist phalanx and the Congressites (to whom the leadership) was shortly provided by Balwant Singh), had the potentiality to play an upsetting role. To begin with, he, through the medium of Panthic Unity, in 1970, placed people like Gurnam Singh and Dr. Jagjit Singh Chauhan, then both in league with the Congress into important posts in Akali Dal. Chauhan who had been inducted as one of the General Secretaries was let loose on international arena, with the blessings of Indira Gandhi. He floated the idea of Khalistan and raised sloganeering at the U.N Under media management of the Government of India, this was utilised to malign Akali Dal which, however, suspended him from primary membership. The Akalis were worsted in 1972 Punjab Assembly elections and shortly afterwards. Tohra asked for Fateh Singh's resignation. He seized Presidentship of SGPC in January 1973. At the suggestion of Harkishan Singh Surjeet, Tohra, according to Amarjit Kaur (The Punjab Story, Delhi, 1984) placed Marxists and Naxalites at a large scale in Gurdwara administration. Since Indira was working in alignment with the Communists at National Level, the elections due for SGPC were not held till 1979 (Indira had by then been overthrown), when Akalis were working in alignment with the Janta Government. Again, the House elected in 1979 was kept i n office for another 17 years thanks to Congress-Communists combination working in alignment during the period, to prevent the rise of new leadership among the Sikhs. The new SGPC house chosen in 1996 reflects a different alignment in the Sikh polity. To resume the story. With the induction of solid phalanx of Communists in Akali Dal is mid 1960s, the Panthic leadership now could never be unitary as was under Tara Singh, or Fateh Singh. This paved the way for group leadership, with Sant Harchand Singh Longowal, Parkash Singh Badal, Gurcharan Singh Tohra and Jagdev Singh Talwandi being multiple centres of power. This proved centrifugal. Another fall out of the collaboration of Communists with the Congress was that the two Universities at Amritsar and Patiala that came up became the centres for Sikh-looking Communists, who, keeping Sikh forms, played havoc with Sikh institutions and in exposition of Sikh religion and philosophy at international conferences. Dr. Harjinder Singh Dilgeer in his monumental work, THE SIKH REFERENCE BOOK mentions of a host of them : those who have propounded the viewpoint advocated by Hew McLeod, who has been in league with pan-Hindus/Arya Samajists in denigrating Sikhism. To what extent the Akali leadership has been aware of the Communists/ Congressite infiltration and its playing havoc in the Sikh institutions, it is difficult to say. Similarly, to what extent the Marxists and Naxalites who infiltrated Akali Dal have shed Maxism and become oriented to the Sikh philosophy, I would not venture to go into. It would be for some one to conduct a specialised study and make his deductions. In my humble view, so far Harkishan Singh Surjeet who has been main beneficiary, at first in getting Nakodar seat to Punjab Assembly with Akali support in 1950s and then getting in to Rajya Sabha in 1978 with Akali support, is alive and kicking, the umbilical chord that binds the Comrades cannot be completely severed. The case of Balwant Singh Ramoowalia, who was President of Communist Students Union in 1964, infiltrated Akali Dal and was twice elected to Lok Sabha on Akali ticket, and later ran for offices of profit in post-1984 era, and then became a Cabinet Minister in Janta Government as nominee of Surjeet, is a case on point. He mentioned his communist ancestry - that his father was also a communist, but not his Sikh ancestry, that for how many generations his family has been a votary of the Sikh faith. It is a paradox that though Communism has been losing at international level, by an adroit manipulation it is still keeping its stranglehold over a number of states/parts in India. The CPM which had affiliations with Red Akalis is a dying party, with a bulk of its Polit Bureau Members being over 70. In Punjab it is not much of a force, unless one considers Marxists/Naxalites functioning within Akali Dal who may be at its beck and call. The formation of Punjabi speaking state in 1966 was result of the Indo-Pakistan war of 1965 when the Sikhs rose to a man to defend the country, and provide the armed forces the necessary support. At the time, Sant Fateh Singh who was on verge of going on a fast unto death postponed it, and the President, Dr. S. Radhakrishnan, intervened decisively to concede the demand. But the "For Eyes Only" note left by Jawaharlal Nehru for his successors, quoted by Shastri in his talks with Sant Fateh Singh earlier, proved a roadblock, as it unnecessarily complicated the situation. Then followed Shastri's death at Tashkent. Indira who took over proceeded to complicate the situation so that the formation of Punjabi Subha was not a smooth affairs, but riven with reeds. Hence, the Shah Commission, and its topsy turvey recommendations, including keeping Hydel and Power resources outside the purview of Punjab Administration, a number of joint institutions with Haryana, and eventually keeping Chandigarh as Union territory. Indira's objective was embroil Haryana as much as possible in Punjab tangle, so that the Jats of Haryana don't think of Jat unity, impinging upon jat areas of western Uttar Pradesh. The formation of Akali Governments in wake of the division of Punjab in 1966, at first, under Gurnam Singh who later was over by Congress, and later under Parkash Singh Badal, could not achieve much, as Akalis were either riven by dissensions/defections or the Akali coalition was thrown out by the Centre under the draconian Article 356. Akalis move to rope in BJP was a clever move to reassure the Urban Punjabi Hindus, an insatiable class. The formation of Badal government in 1997 is to be seen in that light. Badal has chosen to say that he would like to use Ranjit Singh's role as a model, in coopting Hindus and others into the extent of Badal's reading of Ranjit Singh's administration, especially my comments on his rule. These are brief and pithy. I think, it will be more appropriate for Badal to draw inspiration from Unionist Government in pre-partition Punjab. The Unionists had the necessary majority on their own, but they always had a Minister from Hindu National Party and one from one or other Sikh parties - the Sikh National Party or Akali Dal. And, the Unionist Government in Punjab was much more secular and had smooth sailing than Congress governments formed in 1937, or the coalitions that have come into power in Independent India. Coalition with BJP in Punjab also serves Badal well in letting sleeping dogs lie sleeping, though one wishes that BJP leaders too would reciprocate. Laxmi Kanta Chawla is a typical Urban Punjabi Hindu representative, forthright and honest in her views. But Balram Ji Das Tandon and other BJP leaders have been in the forefront in taking Ajit Singh Sandhu to the top BJP leadership - Atal Behari Vajpayee, Lal Krishan Advani, Jaswant Singh, Murli Manohar Joshi and others for a sympathetic hearing at his predicament born out of his killings of innocent Sikhs, and indictment by the Supreme Court. It would have been appropriate for some of them to instead pay a pilgrimage to Jaswant Singh Khalra's wife. Possibly, none of them feels that the Sikhs too have human rights. After Sandhu's suicide, a dozen or so Police personnel indicted in various cases, were on verge of making confessional statements spilling the beans about state-sponsored militancy against the Sikhs as a people. The hue and cry raised by K.P.S Gill with the full support of the Hindu (there is no national) press and Hindu (where is the secular?) leaders, and the mild, compromising approach of Punjab police, has thwarted that. The drafting of Anandpur Sahib resolution in 1973 was the cumulative upshot of Sikh frustration and maladroitness on the part of union government in treating the Sikh people. It was handiwork of S. Kapur Singh of I.C.S., who had suffered the Hindu vendetta because of his Sikh spirit. He was an eminent scholar and a philosopher, with deep grounding in Sikh history. The draft he put forth is a brief, compact document. It is important, not for what it says, but also for what it conceals. There are certain things which are not said or spelt out. Kapur Singh represented the Sikh spirit. It was this spirit that stood out against Indira Gandhi's emergency. It were only the Akali Dal which ran a morcha against this almighty engine of tyranny, with even the Supreme Court giving way. The RSS stood for some time and then gave way. This Sikh opposition incensed Indira Gandhi to inflict economic hardships on the Sikhs and Punjab. The Hydel Power Award was one such instrument, which should have been among the first to be scrapped after 1977, as part of emergency excesses. Morarji Desai, the Prime Minister, was a hard core Gandhite and Anti-Sikh fanatic. Akalis should have threatened to pull out of the coalition , right in the beginning. Their failure to do so, proved very costly. Was it lack of consciousness of direction or comprehension, one does not know. This was the first time that Akali were offered participation in the Union Government after ouster of Baldev Singh in 1952. Baldev Singh was a fiasco. Was Akali participation in 1977 any better so far as Sikh interests are concerned? I have my doubts. Akali Dal's redrafting the Anandpur Sahib Resolution at its Conference at Luhiana in 1978 was inept. The leadership should not have felt chary at the resolution being the work of one man. Then, the leadership lacked drafting skill to put down its own mind. It sought the assistance of Harkishan Singh Surjeet, that clever fox, then termed 'guruji' by some Akali stalwarts; he in turn involved Jyoti Basu. It was a sad commentary on intellectual content of the Sikh leadership. Early in 1940s, when the Sikhs needed to draft a resolution on Azad Punjab, they had sought the assistance of Rajaji. A political party or a group that cannot draft its policy, comes to grief. And that happened to the Sikhs in 1947. Similarly by going by this draft prepared under the advice of Marxists, who were collaborators of the Indira Congress, Akali did neither enhance their prestige or prospects, nor chose to advance their viewpoint; they unnecessarily put therein phrases, they should have held back. Nothing prevented Akali Dal from adopting fresh resolutions spelling out some of their socio-religio-economic objective without tampering with the Anandpur Sahib Resolution of 1973, and without disclosing their full hand. Possibly, the group leadership was at the root of the problem. Indira Gandhi singularly pursued her policy of Vendetta against the Sikhs. She and her cronies organised clash between the Sikhs and schismatic Sant Nirankaris in 1978, and sowed the seeds of violence in Sikh polity. These sprouted forth after Indira's coming to power in 1980. What followed before and after 1984 was state terrorism, organised by intelligence organisations and sets ups. One organisation did not know that the other was doing. This led to criss cross movements, all at the cost of the Sikhs. Bhindranwala phenomenon is to be seen in that light; so is with the Operation Bluestar and its aftermath. Indira's use of Sikh revivalism (of Bhindranwala brand) to shatter the Sikh mainstream, had devastating effect. The Akalis regarded Indira as a politically hostile element, while she regarded the Sikhs as an enemy to be defeated in detail. It was this difference in perception that lay at the root of the Sikhs inadequate response. The apogee was Armed forces circular, baat cheet, talking points, in 1984, terming Guru Gobind Singh as the fountain head of terrorist. Every one upholding Sikh values was a terrorist, a potential terrorsit or the one looking like a terrorist. November 1984 anti-Sikh pogrom was aimed at annihilating the Sikhs all over India. Then there was the introduction of drugs in Punjab with connivance of security agencies. This affected the Sikh youth in multiple ways; an Army Officer told me that really speaking the Sikh youth of requisite qualities was not available for recruitment. May be that was so. But that was no justification for putting quotas from provinces into the recruitment for armed forces. Why not the quota for backward classes and other minorities? For instance, the content of Muslims even in para military forces, which serve as vehicle of oppression in communal conflicts, in negligible. I have given in a greater detail in THE SIKH IN HISTORY (New York, 1995, 2nd edn. Delhi, 1996), the role of para-military forces and intelligence set ups in organising terrorism and executing terroristic acts, and indulging in activity affecting honour and dignity of our people. A Director BSF justified the para military force's acts of rape and rapine to cause change of gene of the Sikh people; he little realised that the Mughals under Babur, Humayun, Akbar were not fanatics; the degrees of fanaticism increased with the induction of Hindu blood in Jahangir, Shahjahan and reached its apogee under Aurangzeb. The Sikhs have been subjected to violation of Human Rights, with impunity. All Hindu parties, whether Congress, BJP, Communists, Janta Dals of various brands, and other were unanimous that Human Rights are not available to the Sikhs, including the cronies. Even Giani Zial Singh, as President, could not get the body of a relative killed during November 1984 riots in Delhi. He entrusted Madan Lal Khurana to intercede on his behalf or that of the family, to no effect. A Sikh lady, a UK national, and a personal guest of Butta Singh, then union Home Minister on a visit, was implicated as a terrorist, and was released only after British Prime Minister, Margaret Thatcher, interceded with Rajiv Gandhi on her behalf Buta Singh was helpless. But these cronies, Zail Singh Buta Singh have been men of straw who cannot learn anything from history. There was involuntary disappearance of Sikh youth for almost a decade. People have been shot dead in cold blood, without questions being asked. According to my analysis of 1991. Census figures, there has been a shortfall of 10 to 12 lakh Sikh youth between 1984-1991. The process went on for atleast another three years. There has been increase in number of women available in Punjab as against men in a number of districts, for the first time since the introduction of census process. Jaswant Singh Khalra's figures of 25,000 unclaimed bodies cremated in a couple of cremation grounds in Amritsar and Taran Taran points to that. Since both the Punjab Government, and the SGPC which has the resources, are not interested to pursue the line of enquiry as to the loss of manpower during the decade 1984-94, the next decennial census due in 2001 shall show the impact of this large scale elimination of Sikh youth. Already, in urban areas, Sikh girls are increasingly marrying Hindu boys, as Sikh youth of comparable age group is not available . Then there was large scale encouragement of apostasy under the regime of Beant Singh who acted more like a robot. The Gurmat Chetna Lehr launched in 1996 seeks to stem that rot. How far that would succeed would depend upon various factors. The question starting at us is, what is the position of Akalis, who represent the Sikh populace, and in whom the Sikh people have reposed their confidence. Writing about Maharaja Ranjit Singh's rule, I had opined that "so far as Sikhism was concerned, it gave a big stink" and that "Ranjit Singh's lopsided appraisal of the fundamentals of his state which constituted of the nodes of his power" was one of the factors for that. In this context I am not constrained to pass value judgement on the administration of Badal. Since early this year. At the Institute of Sikh Studies Conference a month back, he himself opined that his administration is like a vehicle whose engine is on, but the wheels do not move. Was he showing consciousness of what the people's expectations are? I think he was. The special session of Parliament in August 1997 provided an ideal opportunity for the Sikh representatives in Parliament to record their perception of the maltreatment meted out to the Sikh community in decolonised India, and the economic discrimination to which Punjab was subjected. Akalis had 8 representative in Lok Sabha. Of them only 3 chose to speak and expect one according to Sikh press, they did not make an impact. Why this indifference and lackdaisical performance. They had the facts; almost all of them had access to my work, THE SIKHS IN HISTORY. To highlight political aspect at least, They need not have quoted from the book, If they were allergic to some part of it. It gave all the sources; they could have had access to those sources to present their case. They could have chosen to divide the fields on which each one of them, atleast five-six of them could have presented their viewpoint. But they did not. Why? I don't want to speculate on the reasons. Thanks to Akalis boycotting the 1992 elections they did not have a representative in Rajya Sabha. Now in April 1998, seven seats all won by Congressites in default, shall be falling vacant. If the coalition - Akalis and BJP can assure that is no cross voting of their members, they can annex all the seats themselves, or send an acceptable one from opposition to Rajya Sabha. The opposition can win one seat. If all the four groups join together or there is cross voting by Akali-BJP members. Congress with 14 members can be thwarted, while Akali Dal (Mann) with one member can be made to send its nominee to Rajya Sabha. It is for Badal to think of combinations and permutations, and for appropriate candidates for Rajya Sabha. Akalis have taken membership of Rajya Sabha too casually. They have sent Tohra, Talwandi and the likes, who were not equipped for that, or they have gifted seats to men like Surjeet the evil genius of CPM. And sometime to Congress as in early 1984. Now they can send atleast 5 members with one going to BJP. Badal should not shy away from drafting professionals. Two things essentials for them would be ideological purity, and lack of ambition. Besides, all of them should be vocal and volatile. These could be specialists in international law, international relations world polity, services, economics with grounding in international aid and development. Sikh philosophy and history. I am told it would be foolhardy on my part of tender such an advice, as Sikh leaders are normally not amenable to unsolicited advice. To conclude one can say that history has treated the Sikh people very harshly. This is especially with the recent history the last 50 years of decolonised India. The failure of the Sikh leadership in 1945-47 was followed by era of Brahminical chicanery, which is still a continuing process, of which they have been victims. They have not yet found a counter to that. The Sikhs have lost their self- image, of their being the lions to safeguard the underdog. If themselves not underdogs, their position in social set up has deteriorated. Persecuted and deprived, the youth, with easy availability of drugs is astray. It lacks positive thinking, and is losing cultural moorings. The leadership continues to function as if nothing has happened. It is as fractured as ever. It seems to have so easily and so early forgotten what happened to the Sikh people for a decade from 1984. A people who do not learn from history are condemned to repeat it. The Jews passed through an horrendous era. But they have preserved their heritage. The Sikhs are obliterating even their old memorials which presented to the succeeding generations their hoary past. Jallianwala Bagh still has bullet marks; but not the Golden Temple. You can awaken the asleep, but not those who are already awake. The kar seva sants, lacking sufficient enlightenment about the importance of their heritage, have also been obliterating Sikh memorials. The so called Sant Samaj has made big strides in the Punjab villages they are out inflict mortal blows to the mainstream Sikhism. In the last chapter 'Future of the Sikhs' in THE SIKHISM HISTORY. I had surmised that in 1999, the Sikhs would be entering a new phase of hope and fulfilment. I wrote that in 1992, though the work was published only in 1995. I shall go by my that assessment. Let us hope for a better tomorrow. 1. Sangat Singh, THE SIKH IN HISTORY (NEW YORK, 1995) 2nd edition, Delhi, 1996, Pp xviii 564 2. This was notwithstanding Rattan Singh Bhangoo's laudable contribution, and that of Giani Gian Singh, and earlier of Bhai Santokh Singh in the last century, and that of Karam Singh Historian during the current one. Karam Singh has the potentiality to write history in the modern sense. It was his efforts that the Sikhs, after over three centuries became aware of Jahangir's role in the martyrdom of Guru Arjan Dev. He also unearthed Qazi Noor Mohammad's Jangnamah which delineates the Sikh character during the 18th Century, and throws light on the Sikh mode of warfare. After Karam Singh's early death in 1930s, his mantle (and material) fell on Dr. Ganda Singh, who in his post-retirement period, especially after laying foundations of PANJAB PAST AND PRESENT, a bi-annual journal, under the auspices of Punjabi University Patiala, did a commendable job in reinterpreting some parts of the Sikh history, and inspiring a host of scholars to do their bits on others, His setting up of Punjab History Conference, an annual get together of established and young fluttering historians was a laudable effort. It is now a dwindling institution, and needs to be revamped if the ideals that inspired Dr. Ganda Singh are to be kept alive.
What is a Worldview? The meaning of the term worldview (also world-view, world view, and German Weltanschauung) seems self-evident: an intellectual perspective on the world or universe. Indeed, the 1989 edition of the Oxford English Dictionary defines world-view as a "... contemplation of the world, [a] view of life ..." The OED defines Weltanschauung (literally, a perception of the world) as "... [a] particular philosophy of life; a concept of the world held by an individual or a group ..." In Types and Problems of Philosophy, Hunter Mead defines Weltanschauung as [a]n all-inclusive world-view or outlook. A somewhat poetic term to indicate either an articulated system of philosophy or a more or less unconscious attitude toward life and the world ... In his article on the philosopher Wilhelm Dilthy in The Encyclopedia of Philosophy, H.P. Rickman writes [t]here is in mankind a persistent tendency to achieve a comprehensive interpretation, a Weltanschauung, or philosophy, in which a picture of reality is combined with a sense of its meaning and value and with principles of action ... In "The Question of a Weltanschauung" from his New Introductory Lectures in Psycho-Analysis, Sigmund Freud describes Weltanschauung as ... an intellectual construction which solves all the problems of our existence uniformly on the basis of one overriding hypothesis, which, accordingly, leaves no question unanswered and in which everything that interests us finds its fixed place. James W. Sire, in Discipleship of the Mind, defines world view as ... a set of presuppositions ... which we hold ... about the makeup of our world. These definitions, though essentially in accord with one another and seemingly not at all inconsistent with current usage, are somewhat superficial. Worldview in Context Figures 1 and 2 provide a basis for a deeper understanding of worldview. The sensing, thinking, knowing, acting self exists in the milieu of a world (more accurately, a universe) of matter, energy, information and other sensing, thinking, knowing, acting selves (Figure 1). At the heart of one's knowledge is one's worldview or Weltanschauung. Figure 1. The self and its worldview in the context of the world. To sense is to see, hear, taste, and feel stimuli from the world and from the self (Figure 2). To act is to orient sensory organs (including eyes and ears), to move body parts, to manipulate external objects, and to communicate by speaking, writing, and other actions. Although we humans are not unique in our ability to sense and to act on our environment, it is in us, so far as we know, that thought as the basis for action is most highly developed. Thought is a process, a sequence of mental states or events, in which sensed stimuli and existing knowledge are transformed to new or modified knowledge, some instances of which are intents that trigger motor control signals that command our muscles to action. While some actions are merely the result of sensorimotor reflexes, responses to emotions like fear or anger, or automatized patterns developed through habit, we at least like to believe that most of our actions are more reflective, being based on "higher" forms of thought. For example, there is in most sensory experience an element of perception, in which sensed stimuli are first recognized and interpreted in light of existing knowledge (learned patterns) before they are committed to action. And to bring thought to bear on some stimuli or knowledge rather than others requires a focusing of attention, an allocation of limited mental resources to some mental activities and away from others. But it is in our reason -- and specialized forms of reason like problem solving, judging, and deciding -- that we take the most pride. Reasoning is focused, goal-directed thought that starts from perceptions and existing knowledge and works toward new and valued knowledge. Reasoning therefore begins with knowledge and ends with knowledge, the opinions, beliefs, and certainties that one holds. By inductive reasoning (which is idealized in empirical science), one works from perceptions and other particular knowledge to more general knowledge. By deduction (exemplified by mathematical logic) further generalizations and, more practically, particular knowledge, is produced. Over a lifetime, reason builds up not only particular opinions and beliefs, but also a body of more and more basic, general, and fundamental knowledge on which the particular beliefs, and the intents for external acts, are based. This core of fundamental knowledge, the worldview, is not only the basis for the deductive reasoning that ultimately leads to action, but also is the foundation for all reasoning, providing the standards of value to establish the cognitive goals towards which reason works and to select the rules by which reason operates. The large red arrows in Figures 1 and 2 symbolize the absolutely crucial role that the worldview plays in one's behavior. Figure 2. The worldview in the context of the self. To put this more concisely, and consistently with the definitions considered above, One's worldview is also referred to as one's philosophy, philosophy of life, mindset, outlook on life, formula for life, ideology, faith, or even religion. The elements of one's worldview, the beliefs about certain aspects of Reality, are one's The following elaboration of these elements and their implications to thought and action is based on Hunter Mead's Types and Problems of Philosophy, which I highly recommend for further study. For each worldview element I pose for you some important questions whose answers constitute your corresponding beliefs. I suggest a few possible answers you could give to these questions. Then I present some of the implications those beliefs could have to your thought, other beliefs, and action. But first I must acknowledge some assumptions that underlie or constrain what I say. First, your worldview may not be explicit. In fact few people take the time to thoroughly think out, much less articulate, their worldview; nevertheless your worldview is implicit in and can be at least partially inferred from your behavior. Second, the elements of your worldview are highly interrelated; it is almost impossible to speak of one element independently of the others. Third, the questions I pose to you are not comprehensive: there are many more, related questions that could be asked. Fourth, the example answers I give to the questions -- that is, worldview beliefs -- are not comprehensive: many other perspectives are possible and you may not find your answers among those that I suggest. But, I hope, they illustrate the points. Fifth, my assertion that your worldview influences your action is based on the assumption that thought is the basis for action and knowledge is the basis for thought. Of course, as I wrote above, some actions are reflexive or automatic in nature: conscious thought, much less knowledge and, especially, worldview, probably have little direct influence on them. Nevertheless, even highly automatized or impulsive actions often follow patterns of behavior that originated in considered acts. Finally, my exposition of worldview is based on my own worldview and the questions that I choose to pose to you, the possible answers that I give as examples, and even the way I present those example answers are colored by my worldview. Your epistemology is what you believe about knowledge and knowing: their nature, basis, and validation. What is knowledge? You may believe that knowledge is simply information. Perhaps you consider it merely a state of the brain, the result of the actions of neural mechanisms. Or possibly it is something deeper than information or mechanism: the state of a not wholly material mind that exists for the time being on a fleshy substrate and that will persist even after the substrate has long since died and decayed. Maybe you believe that your knowledge is a localized manifestation of the contents of a Cosmic Mind. What is knowing? You might believe that knowing is a passive response to sensory evidence or an act of trust or commitment in the absence of any external guarantee. What is the basis for knowledge? You may hold that the only valid basis for knowledge is empirical evidence derived from sensory experience, or that reason is the supreme authority for knowledge. Perhaps you consider authority, in the form of books or people, as the most reliable source of knowledge. Perhaps, to you, intuition -- a direct perception of the world, independent of sense or reason -- provides the best evidence for knowledge (see Figure 2), or maybe revelation -- direct apprehension of truths coming from outside of nature -- is the supreme source of knowledge. More likely than any of the above opinions, you affirm that no single source of evidence for knowledge is sufficient, but instead you ascribe certain relative weights to authority, empirical evidence, reason, intuition, and revelation. What is the difference between knowledge and faith? You may see a profound distinction between knowledge and faith, the former being validated certainty, the latter fanciful, ungrounded hope. On the other hand, you may view knowledge as a continuum based on your level of confidence in a proposition, with faith, opinion, and certainty being merely points along that continuum. Is certainty possible? You may think that it is possible to have complete certainty about some knowledge or that it is presumptuous -- even dangerous -- to claim certainty about anything of consequence. Your epistemology, what you believe about knowledge, affects what you accept as valid evidence and therefore what you are willing to believe about particulars. It affects the relative significance you ascribe to authority, empirical evidence, reason, intuition, and revelation. It affects how certain you can be about any knowledge and therefore what risks you will take in acting on that knowledge. If knowledge is merely brain state, then true knowledge in the sense of its correspondence to the actual state of the world is suspect. Your beliefs, and therefore your acts, are at the mercy of your neural machinery and are valid and valuable only to the extent that those mechanisms correspond to reality; confidence and certainty must be suspect to you. At the opposite extreme, if knowledge is an extension of a Cosmic Mind, then you may feel that you can claim access to real truth, perhaps directly through revelation, and that your actions can be grounded in fundamental reality. If you hold reason to be the paramount basis for knowledge, then you must discount any hypothesis that cannot be validated rationally and you cannot use such a hypothesis as a reliable basis for action. If you believe sensory evidence to be the test of truth, then knowledge must be verified empirically before it can be the grounds for your thoughts or acts. If you rely on intuition or revelation, "lower" forms of evidence are discounted. If you depend on authority to validate knowledge, you will be reticent to believe, think, or act without the blessing of some external source of authority. If you believe certainty is possible, you can have complete confidence in the validity of thoughts and actions. You will feel justified in taking extreme measures to secure valued ends, even at the risk of being branded a fanatic. On the other hand, if you doubt the possibility of absolute certainty, you are more likely to assume an attitude of intellectual humility and be more prone to conservatism and moderation in your behavior. Your metaphysics are the beliefs you hold about the ultimate nature of Reality. What is the ultimate nature of Reality? If you are a philosophical naturalist (sometimes called a materialist), you believe that the universe consists solely of matter, energy, and information and that there is nothing outside that material universe. The universe is mechanistic and uncaring and there is no Mind or God or Spirit that created it, guides it, or even considers it. On the other hand, if you are a philosophical idealist, you believe that Reality is ultimately noumenal (of the Mind) or spiritual in nature. There is a supernatural Something outside and above nature that created it, and perhaps even now has a part in guiding it. There is a moral order to the universe: good is not only desirable but possible, achievable, perhaps even inevitable. What is Truth? There are three major theories with respect to truth. If you subscribe to the correspondance theory of truth, you believe that truth corresponds to what really is, that there is a direct relationship between true knowledge in your mind or brain and what actually exists outside yourself. If you believe that such a strict definition of truth is unrealistic, you may believe that truth is merely that knowledge which is internally consistent. That is the consistency theory of truth, whose archetype is mathematical logic, where consistency is a necessary condition for any proposition to be considered valid. If you are a pragmatist, you hold to the pragmatic theory of truth: truth is what works. Whether or not knowledge corresponds to external reality and whether or not it is consistent with other knowledge is immaterial. What counts is that what you believe to be true leads to valued ends. If it works for you, it is true for you, though it might not be true for someone else. What is the ultimate test for truth? This question and its possible answers parallel the epistemological question concerning valid bases for knowledge. You may hold that some authority -- some book or person or organization -- holds the keys to truth: whatever he/she/it says is true. As an empiricist, you may hold that truth is discovered only by empirical inquiry. If you are a rationalist you would say that truth is found through valid inductive and deductive reasoning. On the other hand, you may believe that you know the truth directly through intuition or even revelation. If you are a philosophical naturalist (equivalently, a materialist) and believe that nothing exists outside of the physical universe, then you can believe in no spiritual realm, no God. There can be no absolute, externally valid standards of value and morality; any standards are simply (collective) choices or norms, simple artifacts of human biology, human inventions with no broader significance. In the end, the individual person is free to choose his or her morality and act as he or she sees fit, without fear of violating any absolute, objective, universal rules. Life itself being material, there is no afterlife and no reward or punishment for "good" or "bad" behavior. There are no absolute personal responsibilities, no obligations, and since there is no One or Thing to reward or punish "good" or "bad" behavior, in the end there are no significant consequences of it. On the other hand, if you believe that Reality is ultimately spiritual in nature, there is room for a God or gods and just possibly an absolute and eternal moral order to which you may be responsible. You may have an accountability for your acts that goes beyond just yourself, your family, your friends, your community, or your government. You may have a moral obligation to believe, think, and act in conformance with that supernatural reality and you will probably try to do so, at least part of the time. With regard to truth, if you subscribe to the correspondence theory of truth, then you are more likely to seek truth, by thought and act, outside yourself. If you hold to the consistency theory of truth you may be content to rely on reason as a primary means for discovering truth. If you are a pure pragmatist, you will discount the notion of absolute truth as irrelevant and will search for truth only as far as is needed to realize practical ends, whatever you determine them to be. Your cosmology consists of your beliefs about the origin of the universe, of life, and particularly, of Man. What is the origin of the universe? One possible answer to this question is chance: the universe as it exists now is simply the mechanical response of matter and energy to random events and the laws of physics over a very long time. Standing in direct opposition to this is the notion that the universe is the result of the acts of a supernatural Creator that formed the universe ex nihilo (out of nothing). What is the origin of life? What is the origin of Man? Here again, you may believe that life, and even the human race, is the result of chance, random events, and natural selection. At the opposite end of the cosmological spectrum is the belief that Something outside of nature instantaneously created life pretty much as we see it today. Some hold an intermediate position, that of a gradual rise of plant, animal, and even human life from non-living matter, not by mere chance and natural selection, but through guidance by a divine shepherd or helmsman, towards a desired end, according to a plan or purpose. If you believe that things came to be primarily by chance, then the universe, the laws of physics, life in general, and even human life have no universal significance. This in turn implies that human thought and action themselves have limited significance: in the Big Picture, one thought or act is equivalent to any other. On the other hand, if the universe was created by a Designer, presumably that Designer had a plan or purpose and what you are or do can, and perhaps therefore should, be consistent with that plan. And that is the substance of your teleology, your beliefs about purpose. Does the universe have a purpose? Obviously, one possible answer is No. You may believe that the universe has no goal or desired end other than what its inhabitants choose to establish and pursue. The alternative is to believe that there is some purpose: some purposive Agent has either created the universe according to a plan or has "adopted" the universe, but in either case wishes for it some process or end state. If the universe has a purpose, whose purpose is it? If you believe that the universe has no purpose, then of course this question is meaningless. On the contrary, given a purpose, there must be a purposive Agent. You probably believe that this is God or a god or gods, but perhaps you consider its personification only anthropomorphism, that Agent transcending personhood. What is the purpose of the universe? Here there are many possible answers, the simplest one being that this purpose is unknown, even unknowable. Perhaps you believe that the purpose of the universe is an ever-increasing complexity and interdependence of its elements. Maybe it is a growing consciousness of its inhabitants and ultimately a self-consciousness on the part of the universe itself. You may believe that there is no more purpose to the universe than simply the happiness of its conscious occupants. If you believe in God (see below), knowledge of or communion with God by its conscious inhabitants may be the Grand Purpose. If the universe has no purpose, then we have no obligation to fulfill other than what we, perhaps collectively, choose. There is no accountability to Something higher than ourselves and no meaning to life other than what we choose. In the end, our acts cannot be judged according to a universal purpose, so there is no real fear of "missing the mark." Our acts are neither justified nor not justified by conformance or lack of conformance to a Plan. There can be no direct link between is and ought; in fact, ought may be a meaningless term. But if there is a Plan or Purpose to the universe we may have an obligation to think and act consistently with it, and therefore life may have meaning in its context. There can be a link between is and ought and this may (or at least should) make us try to act as in certain ways. Of course, obligation may not be the right term to use in regard to this Purpose: if free will is an illusion, we may have no choice but to behave in a manner consistently with the Purpose, being mere automata whose actions were pre-programmed before time. Your theology is comprised of your beliefs about God. Is there a God? If you are a theist you say yes, if an atheist no, and if an agnostic you say maybe. Theists differ as to the number of gods: traditional western belief (that is, post-classical) is monotheistic, but many people believe in multiple gods. What is God's nature? Assuming that you believe in a God or gods, there are many possible beliefs about His/Her/Its/Their nature. For the sake of simplicity, I will give monotheistic, masculine examples, but they can be generalized. Most likely you believe that God exists outside of and above nature. You may believe that He is a localized Person or that God transcends personhood. He may be benevolent or tyrannical, loving or indifferent, omnipotent or limited in power, omniscient or only partly knowledgeable of what is going on in the universe. What is the relationship of God to the material universe? He may be the creator or just a chance companion to it. If He is the Creator, he may have made it and left, being now sort of an absentee landlord (the position of deism), or He may still be interested in and intimately involved in perhaps all of its doings. If you are a pantheist, you probably hold that God and the universe are One. What is the relationship of God to Man? God may be a loving parent or a childish tyrant. He may be lawgiver, policeman, judge, and executioner or a caring but just disciplinarian. You may believe that God is indifferent to the activities of us humans or that He desires an intimate relationship with each individual person. Perhaps God speaks to us or perhaps he has left us to work things out on our own. If there is no God, then you must look elsewhere for a source of and purpose for the universe. With regard to your behavior, there is no One to be accountable to, no One to obey, no One to talk to, no One to love, and no One to look to for help in time of need -- nor are any of these necessary. But if you believe in God, then perhaps you believe that you do have an obligation, that you ought to think and act so as to please Him, that you have the privilege to communicate with Him, and that you ought to be in proper relationship with Him. The term anthropology usually refers to the study of human culture and human artifacts, but in the context of worldview, I take it to mean your beliefs about Man. I do not wish to be sexist, but to avoid cumbersome prose as much as possible, by Man I mean all humans, of both genders and all ages. What is Man? Man may be merely a cosmic accident or just one step in the directionless chain of evolution. Maybe you believe that though Man is an evolutionary step, that step is nevertheless a very important one on the path to some valued end. If you are a theist you may see Man as the gem of God's creation or even a creature created in His own image. At the extreme, you may consider Man a part of God or even a god himself. What is Man's place in the universe? Man may be an infinitesimally, insignificant part of the universe or a key step in the progress of evolution towards new and better beings. He may be merely a part of earth's global ecosystem or a steward responsible for the well-being of the lower organisms and the inanimate elements. Perhaps you would go so far as to say that Man's unique place in the universe is as a moral agent, to think and act in such a way as to realize the good. Does Man have free will? Perhaps not: perhaps we are mechanisms, slaves to our instincts and/or conditions and events beyond our control. Perhaps we are puppets of God, acting out a script that we had no part in writing. But maybe you believe that we do have the ability to think and act with at least partial freedom. Though there may be constraints, imposed by the laws of physics and biology or the guidance of God, we do have choices, for which we may be responsible. What ought Man to do? Maybe you believe that you have no obligation to anyone or anything beyond yourself (if you so choose). Or maybe you do have a responsibility for the well-being of the universe in general and Man in particular. Perhaps you have a responsibility to believe in, love, obey, even enter into communion with God. Is Man basically good or evil? Perhaps beliefs about good and evil belong more properly in your axiology (see below), but this question is fundamental to your view of Man. Although western thought, grounded in principles of Christianity, held fallen Man to be fundamentally sinful and continually striving against his evil nature, and although that belief is still held by some today, it is more likely that you believe that people are basically good and only wanting the environment and the opportunity to express that goodness. Maybe even more common is the belief that Man is basically neither good nor evil, but morally neutral from birth, and whether one follows a path of good or evil depends on external influences and strength of will. If we are mere mechanistic elements of the universe, then we are free to think and act on impulse and we and our behavior have no special significance or value. If we are stewards of the creation of God, then we have a responsibility to take care of our part of the universe. If we are created in God's image, then we have great intrinsic value and we should see to our own and, especially, to others' well-being. If we are moral agents, then we have an obligation to know what is good and to do well what is right. If we are basically good, then that obligation should be a light one and we merely need to be sensitive to and to follow our own natural inclinations -- and help others do the same. If we are born morally neutral, then things are only a little more difficult: moral goodness must be cultivated and rewarded and evil must be discouraged and, fortunately, there is nothing working in us to resist such moral training. But if Man is basically wicked, then we should resist certain natural inclinations to evil, and seeing that evil is so intrinsic to our nature and such resistance is ultimately futile, we must look to Someone or Something higher than ourselves for forgiveness, redemption, and moral strength to behave as we ought. The term axiology comes from the Greek axios or worth. In philosophy, axiology is that field that concerns itself with the subject of value and all pro and con assertions. In the context of worldview, your axiology consists of your beliefs about the nature of value and what is valuable: what is good and what is bad, what is right and what is wrong. Virtually all elements of your worldview, from your epistemology to your anthropology, are intimately related to your axiology and it is your beliefs about the value of things that are the proximate cause for most of your behavior. What is value? Maybe you define value in terms of worth, but if so you run into the problem of circularity, for worth is usually defined in terms of value. Perhaps you believe that value is merely a personal preference for things. You may believe that value is the interest someone has in a thing, the degree to which something is the fulfillment of some desire, or even the true object of someone's desire. Bucking the present trend of relativistic thinking, you might consider value to be a property of the elements of the universe as concrete (though not as obvious) as shape and size. All such definitions are problematic and it may be simpler (and perhaps more correct) to believe that value is a primitive, indefinable term that every thinking person understands without explanation. What kinds of value are there? You may think that value is value. But more likely, you acknowledge that there are several kinds of value: non-moral values (economic value, aesthetic value, simple goodness), and moral value (the extent to which a thought or act is morally right or wrong). Is value objective or relative? You may believe that value is objective, that it is inherent in the object of consideration and independent of anyone's assessment of it. Value is then "built into" the universe, a fundamental, metaphysical reality. Or perhaps you believe that value is subjective, that it exists only in the mind of the subject (e.g., you) and therefore varies from subject to subject. If so, you must believe that an object has no value independent of a subject that assesses it. Is value absolute or relative? You may believe that value is absolute, that there is an absolute, eternal, and universal standard of value which applies to all people and any other moral agents for all time. Perhaps, on the contrary, you believe that value is relative to a time, a place, a culture or an individual: there are no standards of value that apply under all circumstances. Perhaps the last two questions seem to be the same and, indeed, they are very closely related. But they are different, as the following table illustrates. What is the source of value? This follows closely from, but is not identical with either of, the previous two questions. The value of a thing or act may be imposed by the self or it may be decided by a society or culture. Perhaps you believe that value comes from the very nature of the universe. Some believe that value is defined by God or the gods. What is the highest good? Although there is often surprising agreement about whether a thing is good or bad, one aspect that distinguishes one individual's axiology from another's is the extent of goodness ascribed to a thing, that is, how good or how bad it is. Each of us has a hierarchy of value, whose apex is the highest good, our summum bonum, perhaps the single most distinguishing feature of one's worldview. To the hedonist, the highest good is pleasure or happiness; to the aesthete it is beauty; to the philosopher, truth; to the scholar it may be knowledge; to the naturalist it may be nature in its undisturbed order and splendor. If you are a secular humanist you likely consider humans and their well-being the highest good, a closely-related summum bonum being self-realization: the full realization of one's capacities or potentialities. Technological Man ascribes great value, perhaps the greatest, to power, speed, efficiency, productivity, or information. To the religious the summum bonum may be God or perhaps it is intimate knowledge of, or communion, or mystical union with God. What is right? What is right or wrong follows from what is good or bad, and besides being at the peak of one's hierarchy of value, one's summum bonum is something to which all acts could and indeed should potentially lead. The simple answer to the question posed by this paragraph is that what leads to the good is right and what leads away from it, to the bad, is wrong. Depending on your beliefs about what is good and, especially, about what the summum bonum is, you may believe that whatever brings pleasure or happiness is right and what leads to pain is wrong. Acts that create beauty or lead to knowledge of truth are held to be right by many. Other candidates for right behavior are acts that preserve the natural order, behaviors that help one realize his innate potentialities and capacities, or courses of action that realize speed, efficiency, power, productivity, or the possession of information. To those that hold God or the things of God as the highest good, what is right, indeed one's moral obligation, is to love and obey God and perhaps to seek His Kingdom. It is impossible to overstate the importance of your axiology in determining your behavior. It is the foundation for all of your conscious judgments and decisions and therefore the basis for all purposive thought and action. Although some acts are reflexive or instinctive and cannot therefore be ascribed to conscious reference to your beliefs about value, any action based on even the most cursory reflection has its foundation in your standards of what is good or bad, right or wrong. Regarding your beliefs about the nature of value itself, if you believe that value is relative and subjective then you need not worry that your standards of value are more or less valid than anyone else's; there can be no universal standard against which to judge your thoughts and acts. If value is relative and subjective you have no moral obligation to act in a certain way: you are free to choose and abide by (or ignore) any standards you create yourself or adopt from society; you need feel no guilt for being "bad" if you have been true to your standards. On the other hand, if you believe value objective and absolute, you do have moral obligations; there is a right set of standards to judge against; and you should think and act according to those standards. Regarding your beliefs about the value of things, if your summum bonum is pleasure, then you may, and indeed should, act in such a way as to yield the greatest possible pleasure and avoid pain, your own and perhaps others'. If your summum bonum is truth, you may seek knowledge, information, or even just data, and trust to authority, sensory evidence, and/or your own rational capacity to judge what is true. If your highest good is beauty, you may seek to create it yourself or find it in nature or in the works of others. If it is human well-being (however you define it), you may strive to realize it directly through your own behavior or indirectly by encouraging or exhorting others. If it is self-realization, you may try to identify your own (and others') personal potentialities and cultivate them to their fullest expression. If you believe that some combination of speed, power, efficiency, and productivity is the highest good, then you may seek it through your own work as a scientist, engineer, or inventor or by acquiring and using the technologies developed by others. If your summum bonum is God, you may seek Him and His Kingdom and try to think and act in such a way as to please Him. In summary, your worldview is the set of beliefs about fundamental aspects of Reality that ground and influence all your perceiving, thinking, knowing, and doing. Your worldview consists of your epistemology, your metaphysics, your cosmology, your teleology, your theology, your anthropology, and your axiology. Each of these subsets of your worldview (each of these views) is highly interrelated with and affects virtually all of the others. I claim that you have a worldview and that your worldview (especially your axiology) is the basis for and therefore fundamental to what you believe about the particulars of reality and what you think and do. If you deny that you have a worldview, then you are naive, willfully ignorant, or simply misled; you cannot argue your case to the end, for to do so you must invoke more and more fundamental beliefs, leading you ultimately to what I have defined as your worldview. If you deny that your worldview fundamentally affects what you think and do, then you must acknowledge that your behavior is impulsive, reflexive, or emotional at best; ignorant or irrational at worst. Assuming that a worldview can be incorrect or at least inappropriate, if your worldview is erroneous, then your behavior is misguided, even wrong. If you fail to examine, articulate, and refine your worldview, then your worldview may in fact be wrong, with the above consequences, and you will always be ill-prepared to substantiate your beliefs and justify your acts, for you will have only proximate opinions and direct sensory evidence as justification. If you fail to be conscious of your worldview and fail to appeal to it as a basis for your thoughts and acts, you will be at the mercy of your emotions, your impulses, and your reflexes (not that such responsive behavior is always bad); you will be inclined to "follow the crowd" and conform to social and cultural norms and patterns of thought and behavior regardless of their merit. If you are unwilling to acknowledge and articulate your worldview, to make known your fundamental opinions, and to bring to the front of discourse your basic beliefs, you are being intellectually evasive at best or dishonest at worst. Those around you must always be in the dark concerning your underlying beliefs and motives. They will be forced to guess (perhaps wrongly) the true meaning of what you say and the purpose of what you do. If you consider a worldview a private matter and take steps to prevent the open discussion of worldviews, you are in fact imposing your worldview on others; by doing so you would deny individuals the opportunity to bring their own worldviews fully to bear on matters of common concern and the opportunity to examine their worldviews in the light of others'; you would effectively restrict public discourse to trivialities and ungrounded assertions. On the other hand, if you use a position of power or authority to impose your worldview on others or somehow force or coerce others into adopting elements of your own worldview, you are denying them the opportunity to seek out their own answers to the important questions posed above; you may be personally responsible for condemning them to life with an erroneous worldview; you may be denying truth and goodness a chance to manifest themselves in those who you are manipulating; and anyway, in the end, if and when your power over them wanes, they may come to reject, even abhor, the beliefs you have imposed upon them. Your worldview -- anyone's worldview -- is too important to ignore. If there is such a thing as obligation, we as knowing, thinking beings have an obligation to examine, articulate, refine, communicate, and consciously and consistently apply our worldviews. To fail to do so is to be something less than human. Socrates, during his trial for being impious to the Greek gods and corrupting the youth of Athens by his teachings, said "... the unexamined life is not worth living ..." (Plato, Apology). He was right, and without complaint he accepted the sentence of death to prove it. There can be no stronger testimony to the validity of these assertions than that. Following, listed most recent first, are significant changes made to this page since its creation. 21 Mar 01 1 Jul 00 23 Jun 00
Microsoft research has a long-standing commitment to games for learning, beginning more than a decade ago with our support of Henry Jenkins and the MIT Education Arcade through programs like Games to Teach and iCampus. This work complemented games research being performed by Michel Pahud, Andy Wilson, and other Microsoft researchers. More recently we founded the Games for Learning Institute, a consortium of 8 universities, 14 principal investigators, and a small army of graduate students whose mission is to find out what makes games fun, what makes them educational, and develop patterns to assist developers in the creation of effective educational games. One of those principal investigators is Professor Andrew Phelps, founding director of the Rochester Institute of Technology (RIT) School of Interactive Games & Media (IGM) within the B. Thomas Golisano College of Computing and Information Sciences at RIT. Andy began his experiments with games for learning as far back as 2003 when he created MUPPETS to teach computational thinking through 3-D graphics and animation. More recently, he and Jessica Bayliss began pushing the boundaries of games in the classroom by conducting an experiment to award experience points to students in lieu of grades. In collaboration with Elizabeth Lawley, professor of IGM and director of the RIT Lab for Social Computing and creator of the citizen heritage experiment Picture the Impossible, and Elouise Oyzon, associate professor of IGM, he began to develop a much more ambitious idea: create a “frame game” that wraps around the most common activities inherent to student life at RIT. - Develop a platform that deeply integrates with the school’s core student information systems in order to create gameful experiences for students that pervade their digital and analog lives - Use this platform and the resulting experiences to gather data on student activities, improve student motivation, and reduce attrition in the IGM freshman class. Just Press Play Our first official project is Just Press Play, an experiment to craft gameful experiences for the students of Rochester Institute of Technology (RIT) undergraduate programs in Game Design and Development and New Media Interactive Development. You can get an even deeper dive into the project by visiting the Just Press Play developer blog. The vision: We intend to build a pervasive game system that engages our students more fully (or, as McGonigal might put it, gamefully) in activities that will improve their ability to manage the college experience, help prepare them for careers in game development and new media, give them a sense of accomplishment and progress along the path to their goal of graduation, and provide them with a way to meaningfully demonstrate and record the variety of skills they have mastered. The goal: Our immediate goal is to develop a game-based achievement system that helps our students navigate the intellectual, social, and developmental challenges of their undergraduate experience, and provides them (and us) with a clearer picture of their progress. We are designing this system specifically for students in the School of Interactive Games and Media, but are cognizant that future development should take into account the need to adapt the content for other contexts and communities. Just Press Play pilot program launched in October 2011. The Just Press Play experiment is an important first step in bringing gameful experiences to education, but it is only the beginning. Throughout the year we intend on announcing additional partnerships with other researchers and organizations to build out the foundations of a unified “game layer” for education. This layer is similar to the social layer developed in the first decade of the twenty-first century to support a unified representation of identity and social networks across websites and applications. The social layer is arguably complete with the creation of the Open Graph protocol and applications such as Bing Social Search. Now we need to begin work on another layer, one that will instrument our everyday experiences, transform these experiences into gameful experiences and, by doing so, provide the inputs for entirely new capabilities such as eportfolios, adaptive learning, and project-based learning. Intrinsic motivation is a primary goal of the game layer, but there are other benefits as well. Because a great deal of data is needed to power these gameful experiences, we are encouraging participants to instrument their digital and analog lives in a way similar to how Foursquare encourages players to keep track of the places they visit. This instrumentation provides entirely new insights into the worlds of students and educators. It enables large-scale longitudinal studies that span the many institutions of learning that we travel through over the course of our lives. It is the promise of true K-Gray learning environments to teach twenty-first-century skills and guide our students along a “hero’s journey” of lifelong learning.
Welcome to Nebraska, a land of distinct natural beauty. Prairies extend for miles, pine-covered buttes dot the landscape, endless fields of wheat bend in the breezes, and huge herds of cattle roam on vast grazing lands. It is easy to visualize the Old West in the land of Nebraska. This is the territory of the Pony Express, the Overland Stage, Boot Hill, the Oregon and Mormon Trails. This is where the mighty Missouri flows, and where the Sioux and the Omaha have flourished. This is where historical figures, like Crazy Horse and Chief Red Cloud, Walter Reed, and Lewis and Clark played out the early history of the American West. The stagecoaches and steam locomotives may be gone today, but the days of trappers and traders, of pioneers and explorers, remain in the spirit of Nebraska. The state of Nebraska is actually named after the Platte River from the French meaning "broad river." The Omaha Indians called the river "ibôápka" also meaning "broad river." In 1842, John Charles Frémont used the word Nebraska in referencing the Platte River and this was the name that was given to the territory when it was created in 1854. "The Cornhusker State" officially replaced "The Tree Planters State" in 1945 in recognition of The University of Nebraska football team, the Cornhuskers. It is now more generally associated with all University of Nebraska athletics. It is also said that this nickname refers to the corn that supports Nebraska beef cattle and another state nickname; "The Beef State." "Cornhusker State" appeared on Nebraska license plates from 1969 to 1975. Officially designated by an act of the Nebraska legislature on April 4, 1895, "The Tree Planters State" nickname was offered as a more fitting representation of the state than others that were in use at the time. This name refers to the millions of trees planted by early Nebraska settlers as windbreaks, orchards and fuel woodlots. Arbor Day was founded in 1872 by J. Sterling Morton of Nebraska City and Nebraska's U.S. Senator Phineas W. Hitchcock introduced the Timber Culture Act in 1873. "The Tree Planters State" was officially replaced by "The Cornhusker State" in 1945. This nickname is in reference to one of Nebraska's main industries; beef. With about 2 million head of beef cows, it's easy to understand why Nebraska is sometimes referred to as "The Beef State." "The Beef State" was carried on Nebraska license plates from the mid-1950s to the mid-1960s. This nickname was given to Nebraska, around 1870, to honor the abundant antelope that graced the state's prairies. An interesting name to say the least. It's said that this reference is to the abundance of bull bats that gobble up insects in the state. These bats are called "bug-eaters" by some Nebraskans. Nebraska was sometimes called "The Blackwater State" because of the rich black Nebraska soil that darkened the streams. People who live in Nebraska or who come from Nebraska are called Nebraskans. The second commemorative quarter-dollar coin released in 2006 honors Nebraska, and is the 37th coin in the United States Mint's 50 State Quarters® Program. Nebraska, nicknamed the "Cornhusker State," was admitted into the Union on March 1, 1867, becoming our Nation's 37th state. Nebraska's quarter depicts an ox-drawn covered wagon carrying pioneers in the foreground and Chimney Rock, the natural wonder that rises from the valley of North Platte River, measuring 445 feet from base to tip. The sun is in full view behind the wagon. The coin also bears the inscriptions "Nebraska," "Chimney Rock" and "1867." Chimney Rock was designated a National Historic Site on August 9, 1956, and is maintained and operated by the Nebraska State Historical Society. Practically anywhere travelers go in Nebraska they will encounter reminders of America's westward expansion. The state is crisscrossed by the Oregon and Mormon Trails, the Pony Express, the Lewis and Clark Trail, the Texas-Ogallala Trail and the Sidney-Deadwood Trail. The Nebraska State Quarter Design Committee accepted nearly 6,500 quarter design ideas from citizens. Four of these were forwarded to the United States Mint and were used as the basis for narrative designs that were created by United States Mint sculptor-engravers and artists in the United States Mint's Artistic Infusion Program. Nebraska Governor Dave Heineman announced his recommendation of "Chimney Rock" on June 1, 2005. The Department of the Treasury approved the design on July 20, 2005. The three other design concepts considered during the final selection process were "The Capitol," featuring a rendition of the architecturally striking State Capitol in Lincoln; "The Sower," depicting the figure that stands atop the Nebraska Capitol, representing Nebraska's standing as an agricultural leader; and "Chief Standing Bear," paying tribute to the Ponca Indian Chief. For more about the state commemorative quarters, visit this page. This 50 State Quarter Map is a great way to collect and display all 50 State Quarters. Shankle, George Earlie. State Names, Flags, Seals, Songs, Birds, Flowers, and Other Symbols. Irvine, Calif.: Reprint Services Corp, Revised edition, 1971. Shearer, Benjamin F. and Barbara S. State Names, Seals, Flags and Symbols: A Historical Guide Third Edition, Revised and Expanded. Westport, Conn: Greenwood Press, 3 Sub edition, 2001. Nebraska (From Sea to Shining Sea), by Myra S. Weatherly. 80 pages. Publisher: Children's Press(CT) (September 2003) Reading level: Grades 3-5. Presents information about Nebraska's people, geography, history, landmarks, natural resources, government, state capitol, towns and cities, and more. Nebraska (World Almanac Library of the States), by Michael E. Flocker. 48 pages. Gareth Stevens Publishing (August 2002) Reading level: Grades 4-6. Filled with the most up-to-date information, including the latest Census results. Full-color photos bring to life the story of Nebraska. In addition to an in-depth factual profile of Nebraska in the form of a state Almanac, this book offers fascinating and lively discussions of the state's history, people, geography, government, economy, culture, and lifestyles. A section on Notable People, a calendar of events, and enough primary source documents, time lines, maps, and other tools to make this unquestionably the best young adult reference material on the USA available anywhere. History of Nebraska, by James C. Olson and Ronald C. Naugle. 506 pages. Publisher: University of Nebraska Press; 3 Sub edition (May 1, 1997) History of Nebraska was originally created to mark the territorial centennial of Nebraska, and revised to coincide with the statehood centennial. This one-volume history quickly became the standard text for the college student and reference for the general reader, unmatched for three generations. This third edition, which has been thoroughly revised and rewritten while preserving the spirit and intelligence of the original, affirms and extends that record. Incorporating the results of thirty years of scholarship and research, the third edition of History of Nebraska gives fuller attention to such topics as the Native American experience in Nebraska and the accomplishments and circumstances of the state's women and minorities. It also provides a historical analysis of the state's dramatic changes in the past thirty years. Roadside History of Nebraska, by Candy Moulton. 416 pages. Publisher: Mountain Press Publishing Company (October 1, 1997) This overview of Nebraska history leads both visitors and residents on an in-depth tour of the state's past. Divided into five geographic divisions, the book follows roadways to all the well-known and many lesser-known points of interest. From early French and Spanish explorers to modern agriculture and the ongoing plight of Native Americans, the complete story of Nebraska unfolds here.
Rage I hold within my soul at times I cannot control what's the point of being here? When being me is what I fear Everyday it's all the same trapped again in my own pain I cry myself to sleep so many secrets I must keep No one to reach you...nobody cares Trapped in the middle of a distant stare I've prayed that I was free of this grief that's filling me Everywhere I turn every bridge must bur WHY ARE INDIVIDUALS AGGRESSIVE? Aggression is difficult to define, it is a complex phenomenon, and depending upon the context the term can be made to carry either positive or negative connotations, it can be attacking behavior that may be either self-protective and self-assertive or to the infliction of injury toward oneself or toward others, to the total destruction of others......................In a perfect world, violence, plane crashes floods and other disasters would not occur. Disease and illness would be non-existent. Emergency medical services would not have a basis for fruition. Unfortunately, the world is not perfect place. Anger is a healthy emotion when it is expressed appropriately. When it is not, It can have devastating effects. Anger is at the root of many personal and Social problems, e.g., child abuse, domestic violence, physical and verbal Abuse and community violence. Problematic interpersonal relations may also Disrupt employment activities because of the interference of anger on Workplace performance. Left unchecked, anger can destroy relationships, Obstruct problem solving skills, and increase social withdrawal. Anger also Affects our physical health. For example, it can tax our immune system; Contribute to headaches, migraines, severe gastrointestinal symptoms, Hypertension and coronary artery disease. Anger is a healthy and valid Emotion. But many of us are taught not to express or show our anger. This Often leaves us...
Learn something new every day More Info... by email Through the process of muscle contraction, tension is developed within muscle tissue, which may or may not lead to movement of a part of the body. The term contraction often means to shorten; however, during a muscle contraction the tension may cause muscles to stay the same, get longer or become shorter. The physical process of the contraction happens quickly and in only a few steps. The two proteins that are responsible for muscle contractions are actin and myosin. When myosin and actin interact, it results in a change in the shape of the muscle cells. Contractions happen when actin filaments actually slide over myosin filaments. This slide causes a change in the shape of the muscle cells producing movement, which is considered a muscle contraction. Depending on the muscle and the intended outcome of the contraction, muscles can either lengthen or shorten. A concentric contraction occurs when the muscle decreases in length, such as when performing a bicep curl. An eccentric contraction occurs when the muscle increases in length, such as when doing a push-up. Muscle contractions can result in either movement or no movement. When attempts are made to push or pull an object that is physically unmovable, such as a building, the burden on the muscle exceeds the pressure produced by the contracting muscle. This results in no movement of the object or the muscle and is known as an isometric contraction. On the other hand, isotonic contractions result in movements taking place. If the muscle is stronger than the load it is trying to push or pull, a movement results. There are two types of contractions: voluntary and involuntary. The difference between the two boils down to conscious thought vs. unconscious control. Skeletal muscles, also known as striated muscles, are voluntary muscles, while smooth muscle and cardiac muscle are involuntary muscles. Skeletal muscles are so named as they are usually attached to the skeleton to provide support and cause movement. Cardiac muscle is only found in the heart, and smooth muscle is found within internal organs, such as the stomach, bladder, and intestines. Voluntary muscles are manipulated by conscious brain commands. These muscles must be stimulated by nerve impulses. This signal is known as an action potential and it motivates the muscle fibers to produce contractions. For example, to walk, one must consciously stimulate the body to perform the action. For this to happen, the brain sends a nerve impulse to the muscles in the legs so they contract and relax until the person sends another message to stop the action. Smooth and cardiac muscles are involuntary muscles, so they do not need to be consciously stimulated for contractions to take place. Instead, a muscle contraction of smooth or cardiac muscle is initiated within the organ itself. Within the digestive system, the introduction of food is what causes the contractions to move the food through the system. Similarly, the heart controls its own contractions through electric impulses that originate within the heart. The most effective and efficient way to build muscle is by doing exercises that contract isolated muscles or muscle groups very slowly. This actives the muscle most effectively to support growth. One of our editors will review your suggestion and make changes if warranted. Note that depending on the number of suggestions we receive, this can take anywhere from a few hours to a few days. Thank you for helping to improve wiseGEEK!
After multiple attempts to image the Cydonia region from April 2004 until July 2006 were frustrated by altitude and atmospheric dust and haze, the High Resolution Stereo Camera (HRSC) on board Mars Express finally obtained, on 22 July, a series of images that show the famous 'face' on Mars in unprecedented detail. A perspective view showing the so-called 'Face on Mars' located in the Cydonia region. The image shows a remnant massif thought to have formed via landslides and an early form of debris apron formation. The massif is characterized by a western wall that has moved downslope as a coherent mass. The massif became famous as the 'Face on Mars' in a photo taken on 25 July 1976 by the American Viking 1 Orbiter. Image recorded during orbits 3253 and 1216 by the High Resolution Stereo Camera (HRSC) on board ESA's Mars Express. Image is based on data gathered over the Cydonia region, with a ground resolution of approximately 13.7 metres per pixel. Cydonia lies at approximately 40.75° North and 350.54° East. Credits: ESA/DLR/FU Berlin (G. Neukum), Malin Space Science Systems The data were gathered during orbit 3253 over the Cydonia region, with a ground resolution of approximately 13.7 metres per pixel. Cydonia lies at approximately 40.75° North and 350.54° East. "These images of the Cydonia region on Mars are truly spectacular," said Dr Agustin Chicarro, ESA Mars Express Project Scientist. "They not only provide a completely fresh and detailed view of an area famous to fans of space myths worldwide, but also provide an impressive close-up over an area of great interest for planetary geologists, and show once more the high capability of the Mars Express camera." Cydonia is located in the Arabia Terra region on Mars and belongs to the transition zone between the southern highlands and the northern plains of Mars. This transition is characterized by wide, debris-filled valleys and isolated remnant mounds of various shapes and sizes. 'Human face' first seen in 1976 One of these visible remnant massifs became famous as the 'Face on Mars' in an image taken on 25 July 1976 by the American Viking 1 Orbiter. A few days later, on 31 July 1976, a NASA press release said the formation "resembles a human head." However, NASA scientists had already correctly interpreted the image as an optical illusion caused by the illumination angle of the Sun, the formation's surface morphology and the resulting shadows, giving the impression of eyes, nose and mouth. Nonetheless, the 'Face on Mars' was the subject of widespread speculation on the possible origins and purpose of artificial structures on the Red Planet, with the face being the most talked-about formation. The array of nearby structures has been interpreted by some space enthusiasts as artificial landscapes, such as potential pyramids and even a disintegrated city. The idea that the planet might have once been home to intelligent beings has since inspired the imagination of many Mars fans, and has been expressed in numerous, more-or-less serious, newspaper articles as well as in science-fiction literature and on many Web pages. Despite all this, the formal scientific interpretation has never changed: the face remains a figment of human imagination in a heavily eroded surface. It took until April 1998, and confirmation with additional data from the Mars Orbiter Camera on NASA's Mars Global Surveyor, before popular speculation waned. More data from the same orbiter in 2001 further confirmed this conclusion. Significance for planetary geologists While the formations aren't of alien origin, they are nevertheless of significant interest to planetary geologists. In areas adjacent to Cydonia, gently sloping areas surrounding hills or reliefs, so-called 'debris aprons,' are frequently found. They form at the foot of such remnant mounds and probably consist of a mixture of rocky debris and ice. In Cydonia itself, such aprons are often missing in smaller massifs. The formation of debris aprons is considered to be controlled by talus formation, a sloping mass of rock debris at the base of a cliff, and landslides. At the Mars 'face,' such characteristic landslides and an early form of debris apron formation can be seen. Former larger debris aprons might have been covered by later lava flows in the surrounding area; the western wall of the face moved downslope as a coherent mass. The location of the detachment zone is reflected by a large scarp extending from North to South. The results of large mass wasting, or downslope movement of rock, are also visible at the foot of the pyramid-like formations. Between April 2004 and July 2006, the HRSC gathered data from the Cydonia region numerous times. However, high flight altitude, resulting in poor data resolution on the ground (orbits 0262, 2533, 2872), as well as dust and haze in the Martian atmosphere, leading to heavily reduced data quality (orbits 1216, 2872) prevented the acquisition of high-quality Cydonia images. 'Skull-shaped' structure appears in some images On 22 July, the HRSC finally met success during orbit 3253, and a wide area in Cydonia was imaged at the best possible resolution and in 3D. In fact, in addition to the well-known 'face' and 'pyramids,' a naturally skull-shaped structure also appears in some of the Mars Express images. Agustin Chicarro \| alfa Climate cycles may explain how running water carved Mars' surface features 02.12.2016 \| Penn State What do Netflix, Google and planetary systems have in common? 02.12.2016 \| University of Toronto A multi-institutional research collaboration has created a novel approach for fabricating three-dimensional micro-optics through the shape-defined formation of porous silicon (PSi), with broad impacts in integrated optoelectronics, imaging, and photovoltaics. Working with colleagues at Stanford and The Dow Chemical Company, researchers at the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign fabricated 3-D birefringent... In experiments with magnetic atoms conducted at extremely low temperatures, scientists have demonstrated a unique phase of matter: The atoms form a new type of quantum liquid or quantum droplet state. These so called quantum droplets may preserve their form in absence of external confinement because of quantum effects. The joint team of experimental physicists from Innsbruck and theoretical physicists from Hannover report on their findings in the journal Physical Review X. “Our Quantum droplets are in the gas phase but they still drop like a rock,” explains experimental physicist Francesca Ferlaino when talking about the... The Max Planck Institute for Physics (MPP) is opening up a new research field. A workshop from November 21 - 22, 2016 will mark the start of activities for an innovative axion experiment. Axions are still only purely hypothetical particles. Their detection could solve two fundamental problems in particle physics: What dark matter consists of and why it has not yet been possible to directly observe a CP violation for the strong interaction. The “MADMAX” project is the MPP’s commitment to axion research. Axions are so far only a theoretical prediction and are difficult to detect: on the one hand,... Broadband rotational spectroscopy unravels structural reshaping of isolated molecules in the gas phase to accommodate water In two recent publications in the Journal of Chemical Physics and in the Journal of Physical Chemistry Letters, researchers around Melanie Schnell from the Max... The efficiency of power electronic systems is not solely dependent on electrical efficiency but also on weight, for example, in mobile systems. When the weight of relevant components and devices in airplanes, for instance, is reduced, fuel savings can be achieved and correspondingly greenhouse gas emissions decreased. New materials and components based on gallium nitride (GaN) can help to reduce weight and increase the efficiency. With these new materials, power electronic switches can be operated at higher switching frequency, resulting in higher power density and lower material costs. Researchers at the Fraunhofer Institute for Solar Energy Systems ISE together with partners have investigated how these materials can be used to make power... 16.11.2016 \| Event News 01.11.2016 \| Event News 14.10.2016 \| Event News 02.12.2016 \| Medical Engineering 02.12.2016 \| Agricultural and Forestry Science 02.12.2016 \| Physics and Astronomy
Those flashes of light at twilight might seem like a lasting symbol of summer magic, but the number of lightning bugs continues to diminish each year. What can you do to help keep them aglow? Many species of firefly live on the ground during the day, so avoid using chemical fertilizers or pesticides, and try not to mow your lawn more often than necessary. If possible, you can offer them a welcoming habitat by including areas of longer grass or a water feature into your landscaping. And the easiest way to help? Close your window blinds and turn off exterior lighting at night. Fireflies rely upon their blinking light to attract mates, signal danger and more, and light pollution blocks this ability to communicate. But offer them a delightful oasis of darkness, and they’ll keep shining bright.
In the second half of 18th century, intensive economic and political relations were established between the Qing Empire and the Kazakhs. One modern legacy of this historic relationship is the perception within contemporary Chinese historiography that the territory east and south of Lake Balkash (in present-day eastern Kazakhstan) had historically been a part of China, before being appropriated by Tsarist Russia during the Qing dynasty. Using newly-released Qing dynasty archival documents, this talk will examine the origins of such perceptions, in order to shed new light on the significance of the Kazakh-Qing historical relationship, and to challenge the depiction of this region as primarily an object of bipolar territorial rivalry between the Qing Empire and Russia. To do so, the presentation will pursue two major arguments. First it will undermine the bipolar historical interpretation by highlighting the active and independent voice that the Kazakhs themselves injected into political debate over the sovereignty of the region. Second, it will demonstrate that in fact a wide variety of perceptions regarding the area east and south of Balkash existed at this time; a variety characterized both by ambiguity and flexibility in Qing policy, and by Kazakh counter-narratives that gained force from Kazakh eastward migration in the mid eighteenth century, and were well established by 1760. This event sponsored by the East Asia Resource Center. For more information, contact [email protected].
Most adults can expect to have 32 teeth. The four third molars, or “wisdom” teeth, are often extracted because they do not grow into the mouth well or there is not enough room for them to remain in proper alignment. It is very unusual to have wisdom teeth replaced. But the other 28 teeth are needed. Your mouth, jaw, and body developed together over millions of years. They are designed to operate together at peak efficiency. When you lose a tooth, the efficiency decreases and function suffers. When you lose a tooth, you lose some ability to chew food properly. This may mean that you either place more stress on the other teeth in order to chew all the food you eat, or you do not chew well enough and what is swallowed is not quite ready to be digested. This can lead to digestive difficulty. You might have to eliminate certain favorite foods because you cannot chew them thoroughly. For each missing tooth, you lose approximately 10% of your remaining ability to chew food. Other problems also occur. The teeth adjacent to the space left by the missing tooth will eventually shift. If for example, a lower tooth is extracted, the opposing tooth in the upper jaw will grow slowly (or sometimes quickly) longer in a downward direction into the missing tooth space. This is called extrusion or supereruption. Here is an example: The teeth on either side of the missing tooth space will move and tilt off their proper vertical axis and drift into the missing tooth’s space. This can make these teeth more prone to decay and gum disease because it is much harder to keep the teeth clean when they are not aligned properly. Root structure that is normally covered by gum and bone may become exposed. All this can happen if one tooth is lost. Other major problems can occur if multiple teeth are lost. There is a loss of the arch length, the distance from the back of the last tooth on one side of your mouth to the back of the last tooth on the other side of your mouth. With collapsed bite and loss of vertical dimension, the distance from your chin to the tip of your nose decreases, making your face shorter. Extrusion and movement of your maxillary (upper) alveolar bone until the gum tissue from the upper jaw can touch the teeth or gum tissue of the other jaw causes loss of facial tone and shape. The facial muscles of the cheeks and mouth sink into the edentulous (extraction) site. There can also be severe cosmetic problems when the extracted tooth’s space is visible when you talk or smile. This is not a pretty sight to anyone. There is loss of self-image and self-esteem and a feeling that you are getting old. Once you start losing teeth, you can actually start to look old. Losing a tooth is pretty serious. The longer you wait after a tooth is extracted, the more difficult and expensive it can become to make the replacement you need. With very few exceptions, it is better to replace missing teeth as soon as possible. Evolution designed you to chew your food with 28 teeth. I will discuss with you the best type of dental implant replacement that will restore your mouth to health. My office is located in Burbank, California. You can choose to do nothing at all and leave the space or spaces…this is not usually recommended. You can have a fixed replacement made that could be an implant, a conventional bridge (crowns/caps), a dental implant overdenture or a combination of implants and bridges. The advantages of the fixed replacements are that they are not designed to come out of your mouth at any time, they are the easiest to live with, feel more like the original teeth, and are more cosmetic than removable dentures. A removable partial denture is held in place by metal clasps that may be visible. It is bulkier and may interfere with your speech for a period of time. However, generally, dentures cost less than a fixed replacement. Your jawbone and teeth were meant to function in a particular fashion. The interaction is complex and marvelous. Loss of teeth degrades this function. Preserve your health. Replace missing teeth as soon as possible! Ramsey A. Amin, D.D.S. Diplomate of the American Board of Oral Implantology /Implant Dentistry
A Winter Tragedy: The Donner Party in 1846/47 (Part 3) A little introductory information was offered in a previous post about the Donners leaving Sangamon County, Illinois to emigrate to California. James Reed had organized a wagon train of families from the Springfield area who wanted to move to the west coast. He was spurred on by reading of a shortcut through the Great Basin and by much conversation that was sweeping the nation at the time. California was still owned by Mexico, but would soon be a territory of the U.S. The original wagon train left in mid-April, 1846. By the end of June, they had arrived at Fort Laramie, a travel oasis of sorts, in what we now know as the state of Wyoming. At least two significant events happened at this stop. First, James Reed met a friend of his there who had just taken the “shortcut” and strongly encouraged Reed to not take it–a recommendation Reed ignored. The path was barely passable and would be terrible with wagons. Second, Landsford Hastings, the author of the book recommending the “shortcut” had left a message at Fort Laramie for emigrants that he would meet up with them at Fort Bridger (also in present-day Wyoming) and take them through the pass. The wagon train journeyed forward and when they arrived at Little Sandy River (Wyoming) in mid-July the party split into two factions. There were two trails to take and most of the participants chose to take the better known and safer trail, even though it would be a longer path. A minority chose to stay with the Hastings shortcut; that group elected George Donner to be their new leader. As they continued traveling that summer and early autumn, the group of emigrants being led by George Donner had ongoing difficulties. The journey through the Wasatch Mountains took much longer than they had anticipated; the trek through the Great Salt Lake Desert was fraught with obstacles which left their food and water supply dangerously low. They also lost a couple of wagons in the difficult crossing. Recognizing their plight, they sent two young men ahead to buy supplies and bring them back to the wagon train. The party continued to travel through the autumn but with the strain of the journey taking its toll on the people. One of the tragic accidents along the way was when a wagon axle broke on one of the Donner wagons. While repairing it, George Donner seriously injured his hand–an injury which ultimately led to his death in the mountains and separated the family from the rest of the group. As Eliza P. Donner Houghton (daughter of George) described it in her book, The Expedition of the Donner Party and its Tragic Fate: Uncle was giving the finishing touches to the axle, when the chisel he was using slipped from his grasp, and its keen edge struck and made a serious wound across the back of father’s right hand which was steadying the timber. The crippled hand was carefully dressed, and to quiet uncle’s fears and discomfort, father made light of the accident, declaring that they had weightier matters for consideration than cuts and bruises (from Chpt 6). . . . Father’s hand became worse. The swelling and inflammation extending up the arm to the shoulder produced suffering which he could not conceal. Each day that we had a fire, I watched mother sitting by his side, with a basin of warm water upon her lap, laving the wounded and inflamed parts very tenderly, with a strip of frayed linen wrapped around a little stick. I remember well the look of comfort that swept over his worn features as she laid the soothed arm back into place. (from Chpt 8) Because of this accident, the George and Jacob Donner families and their help stayed behind while the other kept moving forward toward a location that had a cabin. When the early winter snow storm stopped all forward movement, the Donners were still about six miles behind the others and had to build makeshift tents of the blankets they had with them. As the storms got worse, it became clear everyone would be stranded in the mountain snow without adequate food and shelter.
Poe Essay, Research Paper This essay is about how Poe uses the description of environments in his narratives. I shall explain this usage with close reference to several short stories by Poe. A full listing of the stories used appears in the List of Works Consulted at the end of this essay. It is important to note that in all of the stories, the narration is in the first-person. This has deep-reaching effects on how particular environments are described. This will also be commented upon. The first excerpt comes from a story entitled MS Found In a Bottle : Our vessel was a beautiful ship of about four hundred tons, copper-fastened, and built at Bombay of Malabar teak. She was freighted with cotton-wool and oil, from the Lachadive islands. We had also on board coir, jaggeree, ghee, cocoa-nuts, and a few cases of opium. The stowage was clumsily done, and the vessel consequently crank. Poe describes his environments in great detail thus giving the reader a clear representation of where the scene is taking place. The above description is short and concise compared to a usual Poe description. Here he has described the ship as beautiful this is an opinion and not a description, and Poe often gives opinions in his descriptions. His description consists of the weight of the ship, what it is made of, where it was built, of what it was built, and the cargo it was carrying. A further minute detail is that the ship was lopsided because the cargo wasn t stowed properly. This is the sort of meticulous detail that Poe generally uses. It is unusual in his works to find a detailed description this short however. This next excerpt is from the same story, and is more typical of Poe s descriptive style particularly the length of the description: I have made many observations lately upon the structure of the vessel. Although well armed, she is not, I think, a ship of war. Her rigging, build, and general equipment, all negative a supposition of this kind. What she is not, I can easily perceive –what she is I fear it is impossible to say. I know not how it is, but in scrutinizing her strange model and singular cast of spars, her huge size and overgrown suits of canvas, her severely simple bow and antiquated stern, there will occasionally flash across my mind a sensation of familiar things, and there is always mixed up with such indistinct shadows of recollection, an unaccountable memory of old foreign chronicles and ages long ago. I have been looking at the timbers of the ship. She is built of a material to which I am a stranger. There is a peculiar character about the wood which strikes me as rendering it unfit for the purpose to which it has been applied. I mean its extreme porousness, considered independently by the !worm-eaten condition which is a consequence of navigation in these seas, and apart from the rottenness attendant upon age. It will appear perhaps an observation somewhat over-curious, but this wood would have every, characteristic of Spanish oak, if Spanish oak were distended by any unnatural means. The introductory sentence to this paragraph forewarns the reader that Poe is about to make a lengthy description, as he proceeds to do. He offers more speculation than actual description here, but he does to eliminate what is unlikely about the true features of the ship and his rambling resembles the thought processes of the average person. Poe meanders a lot. By this I mean that there is no clear logical progression to his description. In his meandering, there is a sense that the reader is not actually meant to follow the meaning, and that it is only for the narrator s benefit that it has been written at all. This is consistent with the story, as the narrator commented earlier in the story that he was going to record his observations in case he did not survive. He mentioned specifically that it would be a journal, but this paragraph does not read as a journal. I reads more as notes taken down with the intent to organise and elaborate later. This could quite possibly be the effect Poe was looking for when he wrote the story. If one looks closely at this description, the narrator is not actually saying much at all. He says that he really can t say what type of ship it is, and that the wood it was made of was old and worm-eaten and porous. He then speculates on whether the ship is made of Spanish oak or not. It takes him a half-page long paragraph to do this, when he could have used a paragraph the size of the previous one. Long meandering paragraphs are Poe s style, and he nearly always uses them. The next excerpt is from The Oblong Box , and is another atypical description: Now, my state-room opened into the main cabin, or dining-room, as did those of all the single men on board. Wyatt’s three rooms were in the after-cabin, which was separated from the main one by a slight sliding door, never locked even at night. As we were almost constantly on a wind, and the breeze was not a little stiff, the ship heeled to leeward very considerably; and whenever her starboard side was to leeward, the sliding door between the cabins slid open, and so remained, nobody taking the trouble to get up and shut it. But my berth was in such a position, that when my own state-room door was open, as well as the sliding door in question (and my own door was always open on account of the heat,) I could see into the after-cabin quite distinctly, and just at that portion of it, too, where were situated the state-rooms of Mr. Wyatt. This is a concise description where Poe gets straight to the point. It is something like a floor plan, with directions but no distance markers. He offers no opinions in this paragraph, which is unusual opinions being almost essential to Poe s descriptions. Poe appears to find it difficult to describe a scene without offering an opinion as to why it might appear as it does. He does, however, have the narrator comment on the reason why his door was always open . He does so in brackets, though, so as not to appear to detract from the descriptive nature of the paragraph. Poe s attention to detail in this paragraph is minute as per usual. Poe puts a lot of irrelevant information into his descriptions. For instance, in the paragraph above, the phrase never locked even at night . Never locked means just that: never locked. There was no need to qualify whether the door was locked at night or not, because if was never locked, then obviously it wouldn t be locked at night. Of course it could be argued that the implication here is that a reader might think that it was obvious to lock a door at night. This in my opinion is a false argument. Without the mention that the door was not locked at night, a reader would not be likely to think that it should be, because the thought would not come to mind without the suggestion. The next excerpt is from The Cask of Amontillado : At the most remote end of the crypt there appeared another less spacious. Its walls had been lined with human remains, piled to the vault overhead, in the fashion of the great catacombs of Paris. Three sides of this interior crypt were still ornamented in this manner. From the fourth side the bones had been thrown down, and lay promiscuously upon the earth, forming at one point a mound of some size. Within the wall thus exposed by the displacing of the bones, we perceived a still interior crypt or recess, in depth about four feet, in width three, in height six or seven. It seemed to have been constructed for no especial use within itself, but formed merely the interval between two of the colossal supports of the roof of the catacombs, and was backed by one of their circumscribing walls of solid granite. This description is deliberately graphic so as to set the right mood for the reader. The reader knows that something terrible is going to happen, and therefore has an expectation The language with which he accomplishes this includes the words human remains , vault , crypt , bones , catacombs etc. These are all words associated with death and dying, and therefore the description takes on a dark, foreboding tone. Although this story is written in the first-person, it could not be deduced from this paragraph. The narration here shows the narrator describing the scene as if from a great distance, using perhaps the clinical detachment that doctors develop to distance themselves from horrifying injuries to their patients. There are no personal pronouns used at all thus there is no link from the scene to the narrator. Considering the horrific nature of what he is about to do to his friend, then it is another plot device that Poe uses to set the tone for the reader. Poe uses the first-person point of view to write the majority of his stories, and all of the stories from which excerpts have been taken were written in this way. This changes the way a reader would look at the descriptions, because they would be coming from someone who is actually in the events, rather than someone who is telling something remote from them. There are many advantages to using the first-person in stories, and these are especially evident when the narrator is required to describe a scene. The first of which I shall speak is allowance for opinion. When humans speak from their own point of view, they undoubtably will give an opinion of some sort, whether it is noticable or not. This is easy to find in three of the four descriptions above. The first three descriptions make use of giving opinion, whereas because of the detached nature of the fourth description, opinion is not a viable tool. In a first-person narrative, opinion could be as simple as a choice of adjective, or as complex as why the narrator thinks something is the way it is. For example, in the first paragraph, opinion is used twice – once covertly and once quite openly. The covert opinion is the description of the ship as being beautiful , and the open opinion is that the stowage was clumsily done . Both these opinions serve purposes within the description. The covert opinion indicates to the reader that the narrator can appreciate beauty, and that he knows enough about ships to be able to tell when one is beautful. The open opinion also shows that the narrator knows about ships, as he can tell that the reason why the ship was lopsided was that the stowage was clumsily done . The second advantage of using a first-person narrative in a description is conjecture. First-person narratives are very open in their styles, in that they allow for a lot of things that normally wouldn t be permissable in a third-person narrative. A first-person narrator is able to make deductions about the world around them, and Poe has used this to his advantage, especially in the second paragraph. The narrator here has made many observations . . . upon the structure of the ship , and has eliminated unlikely possiblilties and favoured more likely ones. He has used conjecture and deduction throughout the paragraph in order to give the reader a clear picture of just how much he does know about the ship. This is an effective technique, and gives a sense of realism and therefore credibility to the narrator, which helps the story to become a lot more readable. In conclusion, I would like to reiterate what this essay has discussed. This essay has been about how Poe uses the description of environments in his narratives. I have explained this usage with close reference to several short stories by Poe. The effects of the first-person narrative on description have also been discussed in detail, particularly the use of opinion and conjecture.
New diagnostic tool could lower numbers of unnecessary lymph node surgeries; © panthermedia.net/Viktor Cap The researchers say their crisscrossing optical images, made by shining a laser back and forth across a biopsied tissue sample a few millionths of a meter thick, can potentially be used with other tests to more accurately determine the need for lymph node biopsy and removal in women at risk of metastatic breast cancer. In what is believed to be the first study to measure minute changes in tumor connective tissue fibers, researchers found that eight women whose cancers had spread beyond the breast through the body's lymphatic system had about 10 percent more densely packed and radially spread-out collagenous structural proteins than six women whose cancers had not yet spread. Collagen fibers in the non-metastasized tumors, also obtained during breast biopsy, were more diffuse and arranged in a transverse or horizontal pattern. All 14 women in the study had aggressive, malignant breast cancer. In the new report, researchers say that if these "proof of principle" findings hold up in testing now under way in hundreds more women with or without metastatic breast cancer, then their new optical imaging tool could simplify testing for spreading disease and help people avoid unnecessary lymph node surgery. "Our new diagnostic technique has the potential to help reassure thousands of breast cancer patients that their cancers have not spread to other organs, and could help them avoid the risks and pain currently involved in direct inspections of lymph nodes for the presence of cancerous cells," says study senior investigator Doctor Kristine Glunde. Women with denser tumor fiber patterns would likely stand a greater chance of needing lymph node biopsy and removal and inspection of such tissue for malignant cells, says Glunde. She says complications from lymph node biopsy and more invasive dissection include risk of infection, pain, severe swelling and leakage of lymph fluid around the armpit, as well as stiffening in the arm, which can be permanent. An estimated 230,000 Americans were diagnosed in 2011 with invasive breast cancer, while another 57,000 were found to have noninvasive, or in-situ breast cancer. COMPAMED.de; Source: Johns Hopkins Medicine
Paraguayan Communist Party(redirected from Communist Party of Paraguay) Also found in: Wikipedia. Paraguayan Communist Party (PCP; Partido Com-munista Paraguayo). The Paraguayan Communist Party was founded on Feb. 19, 1928, on the day a group of Marxists published their manifesto To the Citizens of the Republic! The manifesto set forth the party’s program of action and the basic tasks of the communist struggle. The party has always been forced to work underground, with the exception of February 1936 and the second half of 1946. It was accepted into the Communist International at the Sixth Congress of the Comintern (1928). In the 1920’s and 1930’s, the PCP fought for the formation of the first workers’ organizations, held meetings, and undertook political education work among Communists. In 1932 it took a stand against the fratricidal war between Paraguay and Bolivia, instigated by foreign oil monopolies. Owing to the active work of the Communists, the League of Maritime Workers was formed in 1935, the Paraguayan Confederation of Labor was founded in 1936, and the first workers’ congress of Paraguay was held in 1939. The First Congress of the PCP (June 1941) adopted a party program and called for intensification of the struggle for democratic rights and agrarian reform. During World War II, despite the difficulties of working underground, the party carried out work among the masses to aid the anti-Hitler coalition. The Communists participated in the armed struggle of March 1947 against the dictatorship of H. Morínigo. The Second Congress of the PCP (August 1949) adopted a program of national transformation, providing for the reestablishment of national independence, the implementation of agrarian reform, and the raising of workers’ standard of living. In the late 1950’s and early 1960’s, the party made a significant contribution to the struggle against the dictatorship of A. Stroessner, who came to power in 1954. In 1959 the PCP helped organize the United Front for National Liberation, a group that was formed abroad from representatives of the main opposition parties to fight the dictatorial regime. In March 1967 the National Conference of the party adopted the document Principles of Party Reorganization. The document defined the principal actions and measures necessary for the radical restructuring of the party. The Third Congress (April 1971) discussed and approved the new program, party rules, and political theses and elected the new leadership of the PCP. The program states that the ultimate goal of the PCP is the building of socialism and communism and that its immediate task is the struggle for a democratic, agrarian, and anti-imperialist revolution. The political theses note that as long as there is military-police dictatorship in the country only a general popular uprising can bring about a revolution. Delegations of the PCP have participated in the international conferences of Communist and workers’ parties held in Moscow in 1957, 1960, and 1969. The party approved the documents adopted at these conferences. The PCP is built on the principle of democratic centralism. Its highest organ is the Congress; between congresses the party is directed by the Central Committee, which elects from its membership the Political Commission and the Secretariat. The president of the PCP is A. Maidana. The main organ is the newspaper Adelante!; the party also publishes the theoretical political journal Bases. E. M. NADEZHDIN
Like orange trees, palms rank high on the horticulture list when it comes to plants for which Florida is known. Gracing all of its shorelines, lined up along highway medians, and fanning across the most humble of landscapes, their presence serves as a constant reminder of the Sunshine State's tropical climes. Not all of Florida's palms are alike in size and appearance, giving gardeners plenty of options. This variety's graceful form makes it a good addition for indoor spaces and outdoor landscapes. Its common name is even trademarked. From the short, smooth trunk grows large fronds that gradually arch outward. This palm, native to Madagascar, reaches no higher than 20 feet. Grow it in USDA zones 9-11 in sunny spots or in partial shade provided by other plants. Fertilize it every three months or when its color begins to fade. Water it when the soil becomes dry. Coconut palms are indicative of traditional Florida beach and sunset scenes. Most grow in south Florida, which experiences less drought than northern parts of the state. Several types exist, ranging from dwarfs to those that grow up to 80 feet tall. Smooth gray trunks are topped by several fronds with yellowish-green leaves. They are believed to have originated in the west Pacific and Indian Ocean islands. Its white fruit, protected by a hard woody shell and brown hairy husk, is used in desserts and other dishes. Cultivate coconut palms by planting coconuts on their side in sunny locations and burying them halfway with moist soil. When they mature, beware of falling coconuts, which have caused fatalities. This species is also called hurricane palm for its ability to withstand hurricane-force winds. These palms can grow up to 30 feet tall and sprout leaves that are 3 feet long. On younger trees, the fronds twist and dip downward, giving it an eye-pleasing appearance. Erect spear leaves also sprout from the center, giving the tree an easy identifying characteristic. Yellow or red flowers bloom, and the bullet shaped fruit is purple or black. It is native to the Mascarene Islands, where it is nearly extinct. Grow these palms in USDA zones 10 and 11. Provide full sun and lots of water. Propagate them from seed that germinates in up to four months. Regal in appearance as its name suggests, this palm has a smooth white trunk and leaf clusters that number up to 20 on the top. The species was imported in the 1920s and 1930s, and trees now decorate parkways and boulevards in south Florida. The Royal Palm Visitors Center near Homestead includes several impressive specimens. They are hardy to USDA zones 10 and 11. Grow these palms in places that receive full sun and regularly water them. Plant them as seeds, which are purple and a quarter-inch long.
Biodiversity is referred to as the web of life because many microorganisms, plants and animals interact with each other. The relationship among species is an important part of biodiversity. 1Understand what a food chain is. A food chain is a sequence of who eats whom. The usual order of a food chain is: - omnivore; and/or 2Use a real life example demonstrating a food chain to help you understand it better. Millions of food chains exist around the world. The following farming food chain example is one example of a simple food chain based only on green plants, goats, microorganisms and humans. - Green grass and wildflowers use sunlight to grow in a field maintained by a farmer. This field is called a pasture. - A goat (herbivore) grazes on these delicious plants in the pasture. - In turn, the goat provides milk, meat and wool for the farmer, his or her family, and others. - The goat also provides fertilizer. - Microorganisms decompose the goats’ poop or excrement, which provides fertilizers for the grass and flowers to grow. 3Understand the food web. Food chains that are related in an ecosystem form a food web. - In forest ecosystems, many types of herbivores eat the trees and other plant life. Carnivores, or meat-eating animals, such as tigers, lions, and wolves, prey on herbivores. They usually prey on wild animals. Sometimes, if the habitats or homes of carnivores are destroyed, they may also attack goats, sheep or cows for food. For example, in India, farmers may lose their goats to tigers; in Eastern Africa, cows may provide lunch for lions and in Western Canada and the US, wolves sometimes attack the domesticated sheep. Carnivores are an important part of biodiversity because they regulate herbivore populations so that they do not eat their favorite plant species to extinction. 4Prepare a class project on food chains and webs. As part of a class project, either individually, or in groups, prepare a project that demonstrates the food chain and food web in the context of biodiversity. It is a good idea to select different food chains and food webs before starting, to ensure that the class learns as much as possible about different ecosystem chains, e.g., forest, marine, mountain, desert, etc. Ideas for trying include: - Preparing a talk with illustrations of the food chain and web; - Making a model of a food chain and food web, using small models made from recycled materials or reuse your small figurines, plant life, pebbles etc.; - Making a film of the interaction of life in a food web. Present each film to class; or - Making a poster featuring a food chain to display on the classroom wall. - Essential terms: - A herbivore is an animal that eats only plants. - A carnivore is an animal that eats only flesh. - An omnivore is an animal that eats plants and other animals. Humans are omnivores, as they eat plants and animals. - Animals that rely on the farmer for food and protection are called domesticated - For teachers: this article is part of a series of articles on biodiversity, including Learn About the Biodiversity Benefits of Ecosystems and Understand the Concept of Biodiversity. Consider teaching these as a set to enable your class to get a wider appreciation of biodiversity conservation. Things You'll Need - Project workbook, paper and writing materials - Modelling materials, recycled where possible or natural objects - Images, photos and illustrations - Filming equipment Sources and Citations - Adapted from Convention on Biological Diversity Secretariat, Biodiversity, Food and Farming for a Healthy Planet. Shared with permission and appreciation.
Kansas City Celebrates African American History Author to donate portion of proceeds from new book to Blanche Kelso Bruce Scholarship in Africana Studies at University of Central Missouri Since 1803, African Americans have contributed to Kansas City’s rich history. Men and women like Tom Bass, Emily Fisher, and Hiram Young built the region in slavery and in freedom. In Kansas City, readers will be introduced to a jazz mecca of the 1920s and ‘30s, the establishment of the Kansas City Monarchs baseball team, the Kansas City Call newspaper and election of the city’s first black mayor, Emanuel Cleaver. “Kansas City is a book of mini biographies, family histories and colorful personalities,” said author Delia Gillis. “Within these pages, you will meet slaves, slave owners, free blacks, educators, the clergy, musicians, journalists, athletes, businesspeople, soldiers, elected officials, public servants and even a millionaire. From the famous to the infamous, from leaders to everyday people; this visual history provides a record of struggle and achievement of continuity and change.” Highlights of Kansas City: - Includes images of famous people and landmarks - Features photos of important civic organizations - Explains the history of Kansas City photographers, William Fambrough and Elijah Washington - Showcases athletes and entertainers of Kansas City Available at area bookstores, independent retailers, and on-line retailers, or through Arcadia Publishing at (888)-313-2665 or www.arcadiapublishing.com. Arcadia Publishing is the leading publisher of local and regional history in the United States. Our mission is to make history accessible and meaningful through the publication of books on the heritage of America’s people and places. Have we done a book on your town? Visit www.arcadiapublishing.com by Delia C. Gillis Black America Series 128 pages/ softcover Available: January 29, 2007 Learn more ... Fall 2006, ANTH 4815 - Special Projects: Early Human Evolution and Donald Johanson 1CH, 4:00-5:00, W, Wood 206 This short, weekly course will introduce the study of early human evolution in Africa, feature a student seminar with Donald Johanson (discoverer of the famous 'Lucy' fossil) during his campus visit on September 20, and further explore this topic and his research throughout the course. Limited to 25 students. For further information, please contact Dr. Jeff Yelton, 136O Wood, 660-543-4427. Dr. Albert Camarillo, Stanford University will speak at 7pm on Thursday, January 26th on Comparative Urban Histories of European Immigrants, Mexican Americans, and African Americans, 1900-1980 Dr. Albert Camarillo is professor of history and the Miriam and Peter Haas Centennial Professor in Public Service at Stanford University. He is author of several books, including Chicanos in California: A History of Mexican Americans (1984) and Not White, Not Black: Mexicans and Racial/Ethnic Borderlands in American Cities (forthcoming). El Grupo Folklorico Atotonilco: 7:30 p.m., Jan 27, 2006 This group has garnered a reputation as one of the best Mexican folk dance companies in the country. In 1997, they received the singular honor as the "Premiere Mexican Folk Dance Company in the United States." Mexico has a great dance tradition with formative roots in the ethnic groups that shape its culture. Through dance, music and costumes, El Grupo Folklorico Atotonilco dances its way through history featuring the pre-Hispanic peoples who were indigenous to Mexico; the Spanish influence exerted during the conquests including elements of the Arab, African, and other European cultures; and the African peoples who arrived during the Spanish colonization period as slaves. Unforgettable: The Nat "King" Cole Story: 7:30 p.m., Feb. 21, 2006 Unforgettable is Nat "King" Cole's phenomenal life story. The son of an Alabama preacher, the soft-spoken jazz pianist became a worldwide singing sensation and the first performer of color to star in his own national TV program. Monroe Kent III, star of London's Five Guys Named Moe and North American tours of Dreamgirls and Ain't Misbehavin' , headlines Unforgettable . Kent has already won wide-ranging praise for this portrayal of Cole in the United Kingdom and the Far East. The Independent said it best , "Nat King Cole is perfectly performed by the velvet-voiced Monroe Kent ... he is irresistible." For more information about the performance and Monroe Kent visit their web site! Dr. Martin Luther King, Malcolm X, President John F Kennedy—all the great names are here—in their crucial moments, both public and private. There are unsung heroes too, like the young people who faced down fire hoses and police during Dr. King's march for Freedom in Birmingham, Alabama. This extraordinary new play also celebrates the power of theatre as a storytelling medium. Great music—from soaring gospel to pulsating protest songs—is used as it was then, to soothe the heart and raise the spirit. Then there are the scenes themselves. Wrought with clarity and deep emotion, their strength and immediacy cannot be denied. MARCH 3, 2005: 7pm in the Union Ballroom (Union 240). For details contact Dr. Gillis at 543-8726 or email @ [email protected] View the Printable Program Listen to the radio advertisement. Slideshow now availabe, Black History 2006: Dearly Departed (This slideshow is rather large in size, over 1 MB, please allow extra time for loading, especially if using a slower internet connection.) Postal Service Unveils Black Heritage Stamp, Warrensburg, 02/21/2006 The U.S. Postal Service unveiled the 2006 African American Heritage commemorative stamp during a ceremony Feb. 17 in the James C. Kirkpatrick Library on the CMSU campus. Read more... Burr Speaks At Unveiling (PDF, see p. 6)
Moth Drives Mobile Robot Through Odor Tracking Researchers tested the insect-controlled robot to demonstrate the potential of an autonomous robot that could track smells. To research and evaluate the capabilities of a robot that could effectively track certain smells, researchers at the University of Tokyo created a two-wheeled robot controlled by a male silkmoth. The robot was driven by the moth as it tracked down the sex pheromone usually given off by a female. These tests were conducted to characterize the silkmoth’s tracking behaviors and it is hoped that in the future these could be applied to other autonomous robots so they can track down the source of environmental spills and leaks when fitted with highly sensitive sensors. Further evaluations of the insect-controlled robot will provide a ‘blueprint’ for these biomimetic, scent-tracking robots. Gizmag reports that the tests with the moth took place in a wind tunnel with a pheromone source at one end. The mobile robot started at the other end, downwind of the pheromones. The silkmoth was suspended over an air-floated polystyrene ball that spun when the moth moved its legs towards the scent. An optical mouse sensor detected these movements and steered the robot in the direction the moth wanted to go. Fourteen male silkmoths were tested in total and all of them were able to guide the robot to the pheromone source. The researchers’ results have been published in the journal ‘Bioinspiration and Biomimetics‘ and the short video below shows some of the moths being tested:
Vinci and Bouygues move Chernobyl containment arch into place The world's largest land-based moveable object is currently being slid into place by a team from Vinci and Bouygues. The start of the slide marks a key milestone in the ambitious project to position an arch as a shield to protect against the radioactive waste following the 1986 Chernobyl nuclear power station accident. Chernobyl’s New Safe Confinement (NSC) is the largest moveable land-based structure ever built. It has a span of 257m, a length of 162m, a height of 108m and a total weight of 36,000t. It is being moved into its resting place over Chernobyl’s reactor 4, which was destroyed in the accident 30 years ago. The sliding is done by specialist contractor Mammoet using a skidding system that consists of 224 hydraulic jacks to push the arch 600mm with each stroke. It is anticipated that the total skid time will be around 40 hours of operation spread over a period of up to five days. The NSC was constructed in a clean area near reactor 4 and will be slid over 327m to seal off the unit. It will make the site safe and allow for the eventual dismantling of the ageing shelter that currently houses the reactor and for the management of the radioactive waste within. Ukraine minister of ecology and natural resources Ostap Semerak said: “The start of the sliding of the arch over reactor 4 at the Chernobyl NPP is the beginning of the end of a 30-year long fight with the consequences of the 1986 accident. The credit for construction of this one-of-a-kind technological structure goes to an expert team of engineers and builders. This is a historic step towards the improvement of environmental safety throughout the world, as well as in the Chernobyl exclusion zone. And it has only become possible thanks to immense international support. The fact that more than 40 contributing countries and donor countries united around the goal of protecting humanity from the radioactive consequences of the tragedy is another demonstration that environmental safety remains a priority for global policymakers. And I believe that the transformation of the exclusion zone into a safe area will demonstrate the change in Ukraine’s overall environmental policy, too.” Igor Gramotkin, director general of the Chernobyl Nuclear Power Plant, commented: “For us the arch is not just 36,000 tonnes of prefabricated metal. It is 36,000 tonnes of our belief in success, of trust in our site, our people and in Ukraine.” Vince Novak, EBRD director, nuclear safety, added: “This is the culmination of many years of hard work by Ukraine and the international community. The New Safe Confinement project would not have been possible without the support of the over 40 donor countries who are contributors to the Chernobyl Shelter Fund. The new structure illustrates what is possible in a spirit of determined and coordinated joint effort and thanks to the generous support of EBRD shareholders.” Nicolas Caille, project director for Novarka – the French construction consortium formed by Vinci Construction and Bouygues Construction – said: “This is a one-of-a-kind project serving the aims of the Ukrainian authorities. We are immensely proud of what we together with our partners have achieved. The New Safe Confinement shows what is technically possible. At the same time, given the circumstances, we must all hope that never again will a similar structure have to be built on the site of a nuclear accident and in a contaminated environment.” Novarka’s construction of the New Safe Confinement started in 2012 after extensive preparatory works on the ground. The vast dimensions of the structure meant that it had to be built in two halves, which were lifted and joined together in 2015. The arch-shaped structure is fitted with an overhead crane to allow for future dismantling of the existing shelter and the remains of reactor 4. The New Safe Confinement has a lifespan of at least 100 years and will cost €1.5bn (£1.3bn). - Click here to return to the previous page - Subscribe to our free construction newsletters - Buy & Sell Construction Plant Machinery online with TCiTrader.co.uk. Find new, used & reconditioned Construction Equipment. Click here to view Construction Equipment Classifieds. Download our free construction news iPhone / iPad app. Sign up to our FREE email newsletters or subscribe to our RSS feed for regular updates on the latest Construction News, Plant News, Contract News & Supplier News. The Construction Index also provides the latest Construction Tenders, Construction Market Data & Construction Law Commentary all FREE. This article was published on 15 Nov 2016 (last updated on 18 Nov 2016).
This set of digital source cards and note cards imitates the process of research utilizing note cards, but without the index cards. The first page is for instructions-- there are basic instructions included, but you can edit them to tailor the requirements to your own research project. Next, you'll find the forms for source cards so that students can keep track of their source information (hooray for no plagiarism!). Following the source cards are the note cards, complete with two example cards to help students use the forms correctly. This resource works best if you "protect" the document before sharing digitally with the students. Alternately, you could print the forms and have students use them to take notes that way. Happy researching!
Around the world societies are struggling with the same education dilemma: what is the best system to distribute state-funded school places to children in a way that enhances both the equity and quality of education? One key question is: should the system focus scarce resources on the most able children through selective schools or distribute resources fairly for the benefit of all through comprehensive mixed-ability schools? Governments have responded in various ways to this challenge, but not surprisingly poorer countries tend toward the former approach and richer countries toward the latter. However, whatever the system in place, parents will always seek the best school for their children, which raises the important issue of school choice. In some countries, such as in the United Kingdom, parents are asked to state a preference for their chosen school. However, this preference will only be granted automatically if the school is undersubscribed, or in other words unpopular. For popular schools the key criteria for student entry are whether the student has special needs; a sibling currently attending the school or how near the student lives to the school, often down to the nearest centimeter. A small number of schools will hold a lottery if places are oversubscribed. Of course, parents can choose a private or independently funded school outside state provision, if they have the ability to pay. And wealthier parents can also "choose" a school for their child by moving house to a particular school's catchment area or through paying for extra tuition in a specialist subject, such as music or sport, that may open the door to specialized school scholarships. Some parents in the UK even resort to dubious or even illegal strategies to meet particular school selection criteria and gain a place at an excellent state school, thereby avoiding the costs of private education. These strategies include giving a false home address by temporarily renting a property nearby or giving the address of a relative or friend. However, the stakes are high, as if the deception is discovered it may be too late to find another school place and the parent may be prosecuted.
On Monday, I spent the day visiting the Wildfowl and Wetlands Trust's 800-acre reserve at Slimbridge in Gloucestershire. Conservationist and artist Sir Peter Scott made his home here at this extraordinary site more than 60 years ago. His ambition was not only to secure a vitally important feeding ground for wildfowl and waterbirds on the Severn estuary, but to build an organisation (the WWT) whose conservation work might be internationally recognised. Scott sadly did not live to see one of WWT's most ambitious recent conservation efforts, the Great Crane Project (GCP). In the Middle Ages, cranes were common in Britain. Bishops feasted on them and towns and villages (eg Cranleigh, Cranbrook, Cranfield) were named after them. But draining of wetlands and hunting led to the disappearance of the crane as a breeding bird about 400 years ago. The objective of the GCP is to bring back a viable population of Eurasian cranes to the Somerset Levels. In practical terms, as Debbie Pain, WWT's director of conservation, told me, this means reaching between 70-100 birds. The GCP is a brilliant example of national and international collaboration. Funds have crucially been provided by Viridor Credits environmental company. Besides WWT, the Royal Society for the Protection of Birds (RSPB) and the Pensthorpe Conservation Trust have brought their knowledge and resources to the project. The eggs have come from a thriving population of cranes – upwards of 450 breeding pairs – in the Schorfheide-Chorin biosphere reserve, near Berlin. In conservation terms, the achievements so far are remarkable. In 2010 and 2011 a total of 48 fertile eggs were collected from Germany, 44 of which hatched at Slimbridge. After hatching, the birds spend their first twelve weeks in a large specially constructed enclosure, with a high net roof. My wife and I were invited to dress up in the grey loose-fitting robes, which the WWT carers wear. The carers feed the birds – absent their real mothers – with grain from a scoop, modelled on the head and neck of a crane, so as to mimic the mother feeding her young. Before you enter the enclosure, you go through a range of "bio-security" procedures. Once inside, you have to observe some strict rules. Don't talk. Don't let the birds see your face. Harsh though it may seem, the birds have to learn to fear, not to love, human beings. They are taught, by dogs dressed up as foxes, to give foxes a wide berth. Being a "crane-carer", if only briefly, was a strangely moving experience. Fully grown, the Eurasian crane (Grus grus) stands at 1.2 metres. Its wingspan is an incredible 2.4 metres. The birds we fed that day had matured astonishingly quickly, in height if not yet in weight. One of them, attracted by my bright red notebook, stretched up and almost plucked it from my breast pocket. Of the 38 cranes reared to fledgling (out of the 44 hatchlings) at Slimbridge and released in Somerset, 33 remain. Yes, there have been some fatalities. Cranes feed and roost on the ground and one at least has been lost to a fox. Another flew into a powerline. But overall, the results of the GCP so far have lived up to, or even exceeded, expectations. Less than two weeks from now, the 18 young birds we saw at Slimbridge will be taken to a pre-release enclosure on an RSPB reserve on the Somerset Levels and Moors. At the beginning of September, they will be eased into their new life in the wild. Already there is a small army of volunteers in Somerset monitoring the movement of the cranes who are already there from the releases of previous years. The birds are not yet ready for breeding – that is still a year or two away. But already keen-eyed observers have noted signs of courtship. Those who are backing the GCP believe that within the next few years it may not only be possible at attain a viable population of cranes on the Somerset Levels; they are also convinced that there are opportunities for the introduction or re-introduction of cranes in other parts of the United Kingdom. Could grus grus become our new national bird? • Stanley Johnson's new book, Where the Wild Things Were: Travels of a Conservationist, is published by Stacey International
Look out, South Dakota and Nebraska – wild weather is on its way. That’s the message from this example of the new super-detailed US weather forecast map, produced by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration. NOAA is combining detailed real-world weather data with models of how clouds and winds evolve, creating a weather prediction that is updated every hour. It has a resolution of 3 kilometres, four times better than previous systems. This allows meteorologists to pinpoint neighbourhoods under threat of tornadoes, snowstorms and flash flooding as well as alert airports and pilots to air turbulence and thunderstorms. The image above, produced on 30 September, appears to show the south of the US ablaze, but it’s actually a map of surface temperature. It shows a cold front moving across the plains, threatening South Dakota and Nebraska with severe downpours. For more on our planet’s tempestuous climate, read our Instant Expert guide to extreme weather. More on these topics:
A REVIEW OF ALOCASIA (ARACEAE: COLOCASIEAE) FOR THAILAND Thailand.— NORTHERN: Chiang Mai, Chiang Rai, Nan, Lampang, Tak. Distribution.— N.E. India (Assam), Nepal, N.Bangladesh, N. Burma, N. Lao PDR, N. Vietnam, S.W. China (not confirmed). Ecology.— Moist evergreen lower montane forest, sometimes on limestone; altitude: 600–1650 m. Vernacular.— None recorded. Uses.— None recorded. Notes.— Alocasia navicularis is a common species in the wild but rather poorly represented in herbaria . It is most similar to A. odora but easily distinguished by the dark yellow spathe limb, and in lacking stolons at the base of the stems. 8.Alocasia odora (Lindl.) K.Koch, Index Seminum (B) 1854(App.): 2. 1854; Gagnepain in H. Lecomte, Fl. Indo-Chine 6: 1147. 1942.— Caladium odorum Lindl., Bot. Reg. 8: t. 641. 1822.— Arum odorum (Lindl.) Roxb., Fl. Ind. ed. 1832, 3: 499. 1832.— Colocasia odora (Lindl.) Brongn., Nouv. Ann. Mus. Hist. Nat. 3: 145. 1834.— Alocasia tonkinensis Engl., Pflanzenr., IV, 23E: 91. 1920. Massive pachycaul evergreen herb to 2.5 m with slightly milky latex. Stem erect to decumbent, with short stolons terminating in tubercles arising from the base. Leaves several to rather many together, clustered at the tips of stems of larger plants. Petiole to 1.5 m long; petiolar sheath membranous; lamina peltate, cordato-sagittate or cordato-ovate, to 130 by 100 cm, apex short acuminate, base margins undulate; primary lateral veins 9–12 on each side; interprimary veins forming well-defined interprimary collecting veins. Inflorescences 2–3 together among the leaf bases, subtended by membranous cataphylls. Peduncle stout, ca 35 cm long, exceeding the cataphylls at anthesis. Spathe ca 13–25 cm long, constricted about of the way from the base; lower part ovoid, green; limb broadly oblong- lanceolate, 10–30 by 4–8 cm, cowl-like at anthesis, later reflexed, then deliquescent, membranous, greenish white. Spadix shorter than the spathe, shortly stipitate; female flower zone 1–2 by ca 1.5 cm diam.; ovaries pale green, ca 3 mm diam.; stigma sessile, weakly 3-lobed, the lobes blunt, pale green; sterile interstice equalling the male zone, ivory, very slightly narrowed corresponding to the spathe constriction; synandrodia , composed of rhombo-hexagonal, ca 2.5 mm diam.; male flower zone cylindric, ca 3–5 cm long, ca 2 cm diam., whitish; synandria rhombo-hexagonal, convex-topped due to cap-forming synconnective, ca 1.5 mm diam.; appendix elongate-conic, 3–5.5 by 1–2 cm, equalling length of the spadix, markedly thicker than the male zone at the base, thence slowly tapering, white. Fruiting spathe ca 6 cm long. Fruits globose, ca 1 cm diam., ripening scarlet. Thailand.— SOUTHWESTERN: Kanchanaburi; PENINSULAR: Phuket. Distribution.— India (Assam) through to SW China, SW Cambodia and east to Japan (Ruykyu Is.). Ecology.— Primary and secondary tropical rain forests, bamboo-thickets, riverbanks, swamps, sometimes on limestone; altitude: below 1700 m. Vernacular.— None recorded.
Angas, George French 1822-1886 :The volcanic region of pumice hills looking towards Tongariro and the Ruapehu. George French Angas [delt]; G. W. Giles [lith]. Plate 28. 1847. Reference Number: PUBL-0014-28 An extensive view over rolling hills towards the snow-clad central volcanic peaks. Two Maori holding sticks or spears in the right foreground and several cabbage trees on the nearest plain. 1 image, categorised under Lithographs, related to J W Giles, Taupo District, Ruapehu, Mount, Tongariro, Mount, Hills - New Zealand - Waikato Region, Men, Maori, Cabbage trees and Volcanoes. Angas, George French 1822-1886 :The New Zealanders Illustrated. London, Thomas McLean, 1847., Reference Number PUBL-0014 (35 digitised items) Extent: 1 colour art print(s)Tinted lithograph, hand-coloured 550 x 360 mm. Single art work Conditions governing access to original: Not restricted Other copies available: File PrintIn Drawings & Prints under Artist/Title (DFP-002533) Usage: You can search, browse, print and download items from this website for research and personal study. You are welcome to reproduce the above image(s) on your blog or another website, but please maintain the integrity of the image (i.e. don't crop, recolour or overprint it), reproduce the image's caption information and link back to here (http://mp.natlib.govt.nz/detail/?id=11123). If you would like to use the above image(s) in a different way (e.g. in a print publication), or use the transcription or translation, permission must be obtained. More information about copyright and usage can be found on the Copyright and Usage page of the NLNZ web site.
The brilliant supergiant star, Rigel, emerges from behind the haze of Saturn's upper atmosphere in this Cassini view. Rigel is one of the 10 brightest stars in Earth's sky and forms the left foot (sometimes referred to as the left knee) of the familiar constellation Orion. Imaging scientists use views like these to probe the vertical structure of haze in Saturn's upper atmosphere. The dimming of the star at each altitude in the atmosphere yields information on the density of the haze at that location. The image was taken in visible green light with the Cassini spacecraft narrow-angle camera on April 28, 2006 at a distance of approximately 663,000 kilometers (412,000 miles) from Saturn. Image scale is 4 kilometers (2 miles) per pixel. The Cassini-Huygens mission is a cooperative project of NASA, the European Space Agency and the Italian Space Agency. The Jet Propulsion Laboratory, a division of the California Institute of Technology in Pasadena, manages the mission for NASA's Science Mission Directorate, Washington, D.C. The Cassini orbiter and its two onboard cameras were designed, developed and assembled at JPL. The imaging operations center is based at the Space Science Institute in Boulder, Colo. For more information about the Cassini-Huygens mission visit http://saturn.jpl.nasa.gov/home/index.cfm. The Cassini imaging team homepage is at http://ciclops.org.
A plot consultation reveals a historical novel with an exciting external dramatic action plot that was bogged down in historical facts and details. Rule of Thumb Use only the historical facts and details that serve to deepen and inform the story itself ~ meaning: - Dramatic action plot - Character emotional development - Thematic significance However, if you find yourself wanting to add those titillating tidbits because they are fascinating to you and thus, you reason, the reader will find them fascinating, too ~ wrong. Whether a novel, short story, or screenplay, the story itself is all that matters. Even one unrelated or distantly related historical fact can dilute the story overall and will often confuse the reader. Don't use historical facts because you can. Use what will enhance the story.
Electricity has a strange place in the annals of medicine. Its effects on the body have been known since ancient times. In the first century AD, the Roman physician Scribonius Largus described the salutary effects of applying an electric torpedo fish to the body for the relief of headaches, gout, or hemorrhoids. Since then, electric cures have fallen in and out of favor again and again, pursued and promoted by earnest scientists and profiteering quacks alike. The devices in this gallery come mostly from the mid-20th century. They include Russian electrosleep machines, neurofeedback devices, and an electrical instrument that could be played by two people trying to synchronize their brain waves. They are among the more than 2,300 devices at the Bakken Museum in Minneapolis. The museum's collection, which also includes some 11,000 books and scientific manuscripts dating back to the 13th century, focuses on the use of electromagnetism in medicine. Assistant curator Adrian Fischer (below) compiled this selection of some of the Bakken's more rare and unusual devices, such as the Garceau Nerve Stimulator (above) that was made sometime between 1940 and 1970. Fischer says the documentation accompanying this device suggests it was used to stimulate the cerebral cortex during brain surgery, for example, to help surgeons pinpoint the source of a patient's epileptic seizures. Ectron Mark 4 ECT apparatus (1960-1970) Electroconvulsive shock therapy aims to reboot the brain of someone deep in the grip of depression by applying a seizure-inducing jolt through electrodes placed on the head. ECT got an unshakably bad reputation from its portrayal in the 1975 movie One Flew Over the Cuckoo's Nest, but it's still used today -- more safely and humanely -- as a last resort for people with severe depression that doesn't respond to drugs and other treatments. It works for some patients, but memory loss is a common side effect. A manual accompanying the Mark 4 boasts of several features, including "Amnesia and Confusion reduced," and "Skin Burns eliminated." Electrosleep machine (1955-1965) Electrosleep, also called “transcerebral electrotherapy,” is a method for stimulating the brain during sleep to improve the quality of sleep. "As a result of the passage of the electrical current, there occurs a mild inhibition of the central nervous system, equivalent to that produced by a medium-strength tranquilizer," the manual for this model helpfully explains. Electrosleep research was booming in Russia in the 1950s. This model was the first made in the U.S. Electroson (1969) This portable Russian electrosleep machine produces low-frequency pulses of electrical current to stimulate the brain during sleep. Alpha-Stim 2000 (1981-1987). Transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation is a method for passing currents between two electrodes placed on the body. "The Alpha-Stim 2000 is the fastest, most effective method of pain control on the market today," its manual boasts. "Its advanced circuitry uses 1983 electronic technology, and its advanced design utilizes an 'analytical-therapeutic loop' which allows for more operator variables than ever before available." It also weighs more than 40 pounds and cost $5,850, according to the website of EPI, the company that made it and still markets similar products today. EPI's founder, one Dr. Daniel L. Kirsch, explains the scientific rationale behind the Alpha-Stim thusly: "It is based on a theory of cellular resonance or biological harmonics, whatever you want to call it." Any questions? No? Good. Cyborg P303 (1978-1983) Biofeedback was big in the 70s and 80s. The idea was that people can learn to control physiological processes such as digestion and muscle tone that don't normally enter conscious awareness -- with a little help from technology. The Cyborg P303 converted electrical signals from the muscles into sounds (note the headphone jack). Tuning in to these sounds and learning to control them, the manual suggests, could be beneficial for a wide range of disorders, including "stress-related illnesses such as tension headaches, anxiety, and conversion reaction, as well as loss of motor function resulting from cerebral-vascular accidents and spinal cord injuries." Cyborg Q700 (1977-1982) A "flexible, yet reasonably-priced data accumulator" for biofeedback therapy and research, according to its manual, the Q700 included a time period integrator for averaging signals over a fixed period of time. Electrosone 50 (1973) This device sent very weak pulsating current through the patient's brain for "assisting in the fields of relaxation and sleep." It includes a set of electrodes to be placed on the back of the neck and over the closed eyelids. It was also apparently used in at least one study on altered states of consciousness. Alpha Wave Sensor (1965-1979) Alpha waves, synchronized waves of brain activity at eight to 13 cycles per second, typically occur when a person is resting but awake. This device converts alpha waves into sound for biofeedback. According to patent filings, the big advance here was that the electrodes in the headset did not require a user to shave his head or apply "costly, aesthetically repugnant" electrode cream to make good contact. Biofeedback Music Instrument (1974) This biofeedback device is made for two. Participants strap on the electrodes (see below) and the machine converts electrical signals from their brains into sound. Think of it as using your brain as a musical instrument. John Cage and other avant garde composers experimented with neurofeedback (pdf) in the '60s and '70s. In one performance, a subject's brain waves set the rhythm of an Indian raga. But if that's too high concept or New Age-y for you, don't sweat it. Play some Skynyrd, man! All photos: Tim Gruber/WIREDGo Back to Top. Skip To: Start of Article.
Despite evidence that housing plays an important role in the eradication of malaria, it is often overlooked. As World Malaria Day gets closer each year, organizations release an increasing number of reports on the progress achieved and what needs to be done to eliminate the disease. Despite vast evidence that housing can play an important role in the eradication of malaria in many regions in the world, many of these reports fail to mention the importance of housing in malaria reduction. Today’s reality of growing slums and deteriorating health conditions calls for a joint approach of two often-considered separate sectors – housing and health. Many of the biggest urban centers in the world are now located in sub-Saharan Africa, where 72 percent of its urban population live in slum conditions. As 90 percent of malaria cases occur in sub-Saharan Africa, we must look into the links between housing and malaria if we are to eradicate this disease. For the past decades, key health and funding organizations aimed at eliminating malaria have been targeting the reduction of Anopheles mosquitoes, the main malaria vector, through indoor residual insecticide spraying (IRS), and insecticide-treated bed nets (ITNs). The World Bank, one of the three largest sources of funds in the fight against malaria, has recently committed $200 million to provide people in sub-Saharan Africa with 25 million insecticide treated bednets. UNITAID has also provided 109 million to UNICEF to buy and distribute 20 million bednets in eight high-burden countries in 2009-2010. The World Health Organization estimates that nearly all sub-Saharan African countries had adopted the policy of providing bednets to children and pregnant women by the end of 2006. Despite the results achieved through these strategies, mosquitoes are becoming increasingly resistant to insecticides, including pyrethroids, which are present in bed nets and sprays, particularly in Africa. While insecticides can be effective in controlling malaria, such as DDT, they also represent a major threat to human health and the environment. Regarding bed nets and antimalarials, it has been observed that in all sub-Saharan African countries there is a strong relationship between household wealth and the use of bednets and anti-malarials by children. Children in rich households are 60 percent more likely to sleep underbed nets and receive medication when they have a fever when compared to children in poor households. This means that malaria affects human populations unevenly. Malaria treatment and preventive measures can cost poor households 25% of their total available income (AMREF, 2006). Although many corporations continue to invest heavily in this strategy, failure to address the disparities in bed-net usage and treatment may likely mean a loss in the effectiveness of donor funds. Perhaps it might be time to broaden the scope of strategies deployed – to include improvement in living/housing conditions. Studies done in several sub-Saharan African countries have proved that simple, low-cost improvements in traditional houses, which prevent mosquitoes from entering the home and reaching humans, contribute to reducing the number of malaria cases. Screening windows, closing eaves and upgrading the materials of ceilings are some of the efficient strategies that can contribute to decrease the number of people affected by malaria – through limiting vector entry. Housing as a strategy against malaria includes not only the physical houses per se but also the immediate surroundings around the home, which can represent excellent sites for mosquito breeding. Studies show that malaria transmission is strongly associated with the location of mosquito breeding. The Anopheles mosquito likes to breed in fresh water or brackish water close to human settlements as they rarely fly more than 1km to find a blood meal. The lack of adequate waste management systems and awareness in many urban and peri-urban areas contributes to the expansion of malaria vector breeding sites near human settlements. Buckets, old tires, open tanks and ponds are some of the attractive sources for mosquitoes to breed and pose a major health risk to residents. Simple measures such as clearing ponds, closing water containers and eliminating other potential breeding sites can substantially decrease the population of malaria vectors and reduce the risk of malaria transmission. Poor households are again the most vulnerable to malaria since they live in houses that are frequently built with materials that deplete quickly and are located in areas with no waste management system in place. According to a study carried out in Sri Lanka, the risk of getting malaria was greater for residents of the poorest type of house construction (incomplete, mud, or palm walls, and thatched roofs) compared to houses with complete brick and plaster walls and tiled roofs. The combination of larval control methods with simple housing improvements can drastically reduce people’s exposure to mosquitoes infected with the malaria parasite and consequently to disease. As mosquitoes are becoming resistant to insecticides and anti-malarial drugs, we urgently need new methods for controlling mosquitoes and treatments for infection. It’s time for us to consider housing and the elimination of vector-breeding sites near the home as a viable and effective strategy to help end malaria. Alexandra Valerio is a project coordinator at Architecture for Health In Vulnerable Environments.
Since independence, the population has been almost entirely Arab. However, there are Afro-Arab concentrations in western coastal locations, South Asians in southern regions, and small European communities in major metropolitan areas. Many ethnologists contend that the purest "Arab" stock is to be found in Yemen. Classified as Joktanic Semites, the Yemenis claim descent from Himyar, great-grandson of Joktan, who, according to the book of Genesis, was descended from Shem, the son of Noah. Yemenis were prominent in the early armies of Islam and thus helped to Arabize much of the Middle East. The Tihama has been subjected to occupation and infiltration by many conquerors, and its people show significant admixtures of other racial types, including Negroid peoples. A small minority of Akhdam perform menial tasks throughout the country. The history of the Yemenite Jews predates by centuries the Islamic Hijra ( AD 622). How they came to settle in the region has not been determined.
In some ways, we’ve come a long way as females. But in many respects, we’re still a long way from living in a world where both sexes are well and truly equals. One major obstacle left to overcome: the gender wage gap. In 2015, female full-time workers made 20 percent less than men on average. That number is even higher for minorities and women in various areas of the country. It’s an issue that’s gained a lot of attention over the past few years, and while the gap is up from the 21.6 percent recorded in 2014, it’s sadly not expected to dimish anytime soon. In fact, according to a recent study, the wage gap isn’t expected to fully close until — wait for it — 2069. The new report was conducted by financial consultancy firm Deloitte. However, it’s important to note that the company looked at the gender pay gap in the UK, so the year might vary slightly, considering the US and the UK aren’t exactly tied in the pay wage percentage. In fact, they’re actually pretty far ahead of us. The Office of National Statistics in the UK recorded the gender pay gap at a 9.4 percent difference in 2015. That’s a whopping 10.6 percent ahead of us. And, considering the difference between 2015 and 2014 in the US was a mere 1.4 percent, this not exactly a scale that moves quickly. In other words: While the gap is projected to close in 2069 for UK citizens, it could take even longer for American workers. Womp. Womp. Could the pay gap close for us by the year 3000? According to the Jonas brothers, we’ll all be living under water, but here’s to hoping it will also bring equal pay for equal work. Seems like a pretty reasonable concept. What has your experience been with the wage gap? Share with us on Twitter @BritandCo. (GIFs via Giphy, featured photo via Getty)
A serious concern for little bodies When diarrhea hits young children, it can be more than just an uncomfortable nuisance. This age group is especially sensitive to the loss of electrolytes that accompanies severe bouts of diarrhea, and they can become dehydrated very quickly. Back in the 1970s, infectious diarrhea accounted for about five million childhood deaths each year. Since then, oral rehydration therapies have cut the number of infectious diarrhea deaths substantially, but they don’t do much to shorten the time that the diarrhea persists. Good bugs for bad bugs Probiotic are defined as “live microorganisms which when administered in adequate amounts confer a health benefit on the host.” Babies are given their first “dose” of probiotics as they pass through the birth canal. After that, the type and amount of bugs that take up residence in the intestines depends on different factors, including: - Antibiotic use—Antibiotics kill off good bacteria, along with the bad. - Probiotic intake—Kefir, yogurt, miso, pickles, and other fermented foods can all help build a healthy crop of beneficial bacteria in the gut. - Diet type—Certain dietary patterns lend themselves to the growth of particular strains of gut flora. High-fat, low-fiber diets lead to the predominance of one type of bacteria, while low-fat, high-fiber diets lead to another. Breast-feeding babies also have different flora in their guts than bottle fed babies. Sixty-nine children (average age 24 months) who were hospitalized with acute infectious diarrhea and dehydration were enrolled in the study. The children were given L. reuteri (400 million colony forming units per day) or placebo for seven days in addition to oral rehydration therapy. - L. reuteri significantly reduced the duration of watery diarrhea compared with placebo (2.1 days in the L. reuteri group versus 3.3 days with placebo). - The number of children with normal stool consistency was significantly higher on days two and three of treatment in the L. reuteri group than in the placebo group. “Probiotics might be more effective when given early when patients might be less ill,” commented the researchers. “If this is the case, the efficacy of L. reuteri might have been even more pronounced if administered as early as possible.” A strain for every occasion Different probiotics have different effects in the human body. For instance, Lactobacillus plantarum is particularly good for relieving symptoms of gas and bloating associated with irritable bowel syndrome, Lactobacillus casei works well for post-antibiotic and traveler’s diarrhea, and Lactobacillus reuteri seems to be most helpful for infectious diarrhea. (Aliment Pharmacol Ther 2012;doi:10.1111/j.1365-2036.2012.05180.x)
Alarmist scenario: An ulcer or stomach cancer. More likely cause: Gas or acid reflux. Reality check: “Most occasional abdominal pain doesn’t have an underlying cause,” says gastroenterologist Carol Burke, the director of the Center for Colon Polyp and Cancer Prevention at the Cleveland Clinic. While ulcers are fairly common, affecting one in ten Americans, they involve additional symptoms, including weight loss, burping, nausea, vomiting, and bloating. Stomach cancer is rare (primarily affecting men older than 72) and usually accompanied by nausea, weight loss, gastrointestinal bleeding, and bloating. Rx: Try over-the-counter remedies, like Tums, Mylanta, and Prilosec, and avoid anti-inflammatories. If you have severe symptoms that occur more than three times a week or persist for more than two months, see a doctor.
Send the link below via email or IMCopy Present to your audienceStart remote presentation - Invited audience members will follow you as you navigate and present - People invited to a presentation do not need a Prezi account - This link expires 10 minutes after you close the presentation - A maximum of 30 users can follow your presentation - Learn more about this feature in our knowledge base article Do you really want to delete this prezi? Neither you, nor the coeditors you shared it with will be able to recover it again. Make your likes visible on Facebook? You can change this under Settings & Account at any time. How did Pythagoras have an impact on our lives? Transcript of How did Pythagoras have an impact on our lives? Pd. 1 ELA Pythagoras' belifs were: Religious beliefs: Pythagoras was: An influential philosopher One of the greatest Greeks of his time No evidence of him being a scientist, but did enjoy learning about numerical relationships There should be a new way of life focusing on: Self- discipline Catholics are baptized to have a new, pure life in the church. Muslims fast during Ramadan. Jews do not eat animals under the law of Kashrut Egyptian priests are private and use codes of secrecy. Who exactly was Pythagoras? Fun Fact: There is not enough evidence to suggest that Pythagoras is the creator of the Pythagorean Theorem, which calculates the length of a triangle's hypotenuse. What beliefs did he have? Spiritual purity The soul reincarnates after death Religious ritual: Dietary habits: One should not eat beans, as they may be a reincarnated human. Self- discipline Silence is a form of self- discipline, as Greeks respected the people who are silent more than the greatest speakers in the world. How does Pythagoras' beliefs have an impact on religion and daily lives? Pythagoras' beliefs have been used to create a new way of life based around discipline, diets, and religion.
On May 4, 2016, the 3,900th article was added to the SuccuWiki! For other uses of the word Incubus, see Incubus (disambiguation). For the Collective IncubI, see Incubi (Collective) An incubus (from the Latin, incubo, or "nightmare"; plural incubi) is a demon in male form who, according to a number of mythological and legendary traditions, lies upon sleepers, especially women, in order to have sex with them. Its female counterpart is the succubus. An incubus may pursue sexual relations with a woman in order to father a child, as in the legend of Merlin. Religious tradition holds that repeated intercourse with an incubus or succubus may result in the deterioration of health, or even death. Medieval legend claims that demons both male and female sexually prey on human beings, generally during the night when the victim is sleeping. A number of secular explanations have been offered for the origin of the incubus legends. They involve the medieval preoccupation with sin, especially sexual sins of women. Victims may have been experiencing waking dreams or sleep paralysis. Also, nocturnal arousal, orgasm or nocturnal emission could be explained by the idea of creatures causing an otherwise guilt-producing and self-conscious behavior. Alternatively, the influence of incubi could also have been invoked to explain otherwise "unexplainable" pregnancies out of wedlock. Purported victims of incubi could have been the victims of sexual assault by a real person. Rapists may have attributed the rapes of sleeping women to demons in order to escape punishment. A friend or relative may have assaulted the victim in her sleep. The victims and, in some cases the clergy, may have found it easier to explain the attack as supernatural rather than confront the idea that the attack came from someone in a position of trust. Ancient and religious descriptions One of the earliest mentions of an incubus comes from Mesopotamia on the Sumerian King List, ca. 2400 BC, where the hero Gilgamesh's father is listed as Lilu. It is said that Lilu disturbs and seduces women in their sleep, while Lilitu, a female demon, appears to men in their erotic dreams. Two other corresponding demons appear as well: Ardat lili, who visits men by night and begets ghostly children from them, and Irdu lili, who is known as a male counterpart to Ardat lili and visits women by night and begets from them. These demons were originally storm demons, but they eventually became regarded as night demons due to mistaken etymology. Debate about the demons began early in the Christian tradition. St. Augustine touched on the topic in "De Civitate Dei" (The City of God), admitting that there were too many attacks by incubi to deny them. He stated, "There is, too, a very general rumor, which many have verified by their own experience, or which trustworthy persons who have heard the experience of others corroborate, that sylvans and fauns, who are commonly called incubi, had often made wicked assaults upon women." However, despite this affirmation, questions continued about the reproductive capabilities of the demons. 800 years later Thomas Aquinas would lend himself to the ongoing discussion, stating, "Still if some are occasionally begotten from demons, it is not from the seed of such demons, nor from their assumed bodies, but from the seed of men taken for the purpose; as when the demon assumes first the form of a woman, and afterwards of a man; just as they take the seed of other things for other generating purposes." Thus it became generally accepted that incubi and succubi were the same demon, but able to switch between male and female forms. A succubus would be able to sleep with a man and collect his sperm, and then transform into an incubus and use that seed on women. Their offspring were thought to be supernatural in many cases, even if the sperm and egg originally came from humans. Though many tales claim that the incubus is bisexual, others indicate that it is strictly heterosexual and finds attacking a male victim either unpleasant or detrimental. There are also numerous stories involving the attempted exorcism of incubi or succubi who have taken refuge in, respectively, the bodies of men or women. Incubi are sometimes said to be able to conceive children. The half-human offspring of such a union is sometimes referred to as a cambion. The most famous legend of such a case includes that of Merlin, the famous wizard from Arthurian legend. According to the Malleus Maleficarum, exorcism is one of the five ways to overcome the attacks of incubi, the others being Sacramental Confession, the Sign of the Cross (or recital of the Angelic Salutation), moving the afflicted to another location, and by excommunication of the attacking entity, "which is perhaps the same as exorcism." On the other hand, the Franciscan friar Ludovico Maria Sinistrari stated that incubi "do not obey exorcists, have no dread of exorcisms, show no reverence for holy things, at the approach of which they are not in the least overawed." There are a number of variations on the incubus theme around the world. The alp of Teutonic or German folklore is one of the better known. In Zanzibar, Popo Bawa primarily attacks men and generally behind closed doors. "The Trauco," according to the traditional mythology of the Chiloé Province of Chile, is a hideous deformed dwarf who lulls nubile young women and seduces them. The Trauco is said to be responsible for unwanted pregnancies, especially in unmarried women. Perhaps another variation of this conception is the "Tintín" in Ecuador, a dwarf who is fond of abundant haired women and seduces them at night by playing the guitar outside their windows; a myth that researchers believe was created during the Colonial period of time to explain pregnancies in women who never left their houses without a chaperone, very likely covering incest or sexual abuse by one of the family's friends. In Hungary, a lidérc can be a Satanic lover that flies at night and appears as a fiery light (an ignis fatuus or will o' the wisp) or, in its more benign form as a featherless chicken. In Brazil and the rainforests of the Amazon Basin, the Boto is a combination of siren and incubus, a very charming and beautiful man who seduces young women and takes them into the river. It is said to be responsible for disappearances and unwanted pregnancies, and it can never be seen by daylight, because it metamorphoses into that kind of river dolphin during those hours. According to legend the boto always wears a hat to disguise the breathing hole at the top of its head. The Southern African incubus demon is the Tokolosh. Chaste women place their beds upon bricks to deter the rather short fellows from attaining their sleeping forms. They also share the hole in the head detail and water dwelling habits of the Boto. In Germanic Folklore there is the mara or mare, a spiriT or goblin that rides on the chests of humans while they sleep, giving them bad dreams (or "nightmares"). Belief in the mare goes back to the Norse Ynglinga saga from the 13th century, but the belief is probably even older. The mare was likely inspired by sleep paralysis. In Assam, a north-eastern province of India it is mostly known as "pori": পৰী meaning angel). According to the mythology Pori comes to a man at night in his dreams and attracts towards her. Gradually the victim's health deteriorates and in some cases a tendency to commit suicide generates in him. In Turkish culture, incubus is known as Karabasan. It is an evil being that descends upon some sleepers at night. These beings are thought to be spirits or jinns. It can be seen or heard in the nightmare and a heavy weight is felt on the chest. Yet people cannot wake up from that state. Some of the causes are sleeping without adequately covering the body (especially women) and eating in bed. Scientific alternate explanations Victims may have been experiencing waking dreams or sleep paralysis. Nocturnal arousal or nocturnal emission could be explained away by creatures causing otherwise guilt-producing behavior. Then again, victims of incubi could well have been the victims of real sexual assault. Rapists may have attributed the rapes of sleeping women to demons in order to escape punishment. A friend or relative is at the top of the list in such cases and would be kept secret by the intervention of 'spirits.' The victims and, in some cases, the magistrates, may have found it easier to explain the attack as supernatural rather than confront the idea that the attack came from someone in a position of trust. - Classification of demons - Christian demonology - Night terror - Sexuality in Christian demonology - Jennifer's Body - Merlin's father was said to be an incubus in Geoffrey of Monmouth's Historia Regum Britanniae and many later tales. See Lacy, Norris J. (1991). "Merlin". In Norris J. Lacy, The New Arthurian Encyclopedia, p. 322. (New York: Garland, 1991). ISBN 0-8240-4377-4. - Stephens, Walter (2002), Demon Lovers, p. 23, The University of Chicago Press, ISBN 0-266-77261-6 - Lewis, James R., Oliver, Evelyn Dorothy, Sisung Kelle S. (Editor) (1996), Angels A to Z, Entry: Incubi and Succubi, pp. 218, 219, Visible Ink Press, ISBN 0-7876-0652-9 - Masello, Robert (2004), Fallen Angels and Spirits of The Dark, p. 66, The Berkley Publishing Group, 200 Madison Ave. New York, NY 10016, ISBN 0-399-51889-4 - Raphael Patai, p. 221, The Hebrew Goddess: Third Enlarged Edition, ISBN 978-0-8143-2271-0 - Siegmund Hurwitz, Lilith: The First Eve ISBN 978-3-85630-522-2 - Raphael Patai, p. 221 & 222, The Hebrew Goddess: Third Enlarged Edition, ISBN 978-0-8143-2271-0 - Augustine (410), "The City of God 15.23","The City of God - Aquinus, Thomas (1265–1274), "Summa Theologica", "Summa Theologica" - Carus, Paul (1900), The History of The Devil and The Idea of Evil From The Earliest Times to The Present Day, "The Devil's Prime," at sacred-texts.com - Russsel, Jeffrey Burton (1972), Witchcraft in The Middle Ages, p. 145, Cornell University Press, Ithaca and London, ISBN 0-8014-0697-8 - Stephens, Walter (2002), Demon Lovers, pp. 54, 55, 332, 333, The University of Chicago Press, ISBN 0-266-77261-6 - Kramer, Heinrich and Sprenger, James (1486), Summers, Montague (translator – 1928), The Malleus Maleficarum, Part 2, Chapter 1, "The Remedies prescribed by the Holy Church against Incubus and Succubus Devils," at sacred-texts.com - Maclean, William (Reuters, May 16, 2005), "Belief in sex-mad demon tests nerves," on the World Wide Religious News (WWRN) website - "TIN TIN" A brief description of the myth at EDUFUTURO(in Spanish) - Mack, Dinah, Mack, Carol K. (1999), A Field Guide to Demons, Fairies, Fallen Angels and Other Subversive Spirits, p. 209, Henry Holt and Company, LLC, ISBN 0-8050-6270-X - "Whales and Dolphins" at ancientspiral.com - Boto at library.thinkquest.org - "The Dolphin Legend" at sumauma.net - Bjorvand and Lindeman (2007:719–720). - Ynglinga saga, stanza 13, in Hødnebø and Magerøy (1979:12).
\|Department of Public Information • News and Media Division • New York\| World ocean day marked by United Nations atlas of oceans’ fifth year online The Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) and a group of 14 partner organizations are celebrating World Ocean Day tomorrow, 8 June, by marking the fifth anniversary of the United Nations Atlas of the Oceans (www.oceansatlas.org), a pioneering online encyclopaedia containing a wealth of information on the world’s oceans that is maintained collaboratively by an international network of expert editors. The Atlas was launched in 2002 by a group of United Nations agencies and their partners -- constituting some of the world’s foremost ocean agencies -- amid mounting concern over the continuing deterioration of marine and coastal ecosystems with the goal of helping to reverse this decline and promote the sustainable development of oceans. Overfishing, destruction of coastal habitat and pollution from industry, farms and households are endangering not only fish -- an important source of animal protein in the human diet -- but also are affecting marine biodiversity and even the global climate. The Atlas allows policymakers, resource managers, academics and experts to access, contribute and continuously update and expand human knowledge on these issues—and their possible solutions. “The basic idea is to pool knowledge and expertise from around the globe in one easy-to-use tool that can deepen our understanding of marine environments and help promote a shared, coherent vision for ocean management,” said Jorge Csirke, Director of FAO’s Fisheries and Aquaculture Management Division and the United Nations Atlas Project Director. Currently the Atlas contains more than 4,000 entries on a vast range of themes, from fisheries biology to ocean law to undersea prospecting for pharmaceuticals to maritime transport and telecommunications. Each topic category provides background information, lists United Nations agency programme roles and involved organizations, describes relevant legal and policy frameworks, identifies research needs, and gives an assessment of what the future holds. These entries are maintained by a network of 42 volunteer expert editors, with another 7,000-plus “members” who receive regular updates on new or altered Atlas content, contribute to the content and give feedback to the editors. About 100,000 people access the United Nations Atlas of the Oceans website each month. Acting under the United Nations Ocean and Coastal Areas Network (UN-Oceans) framework, 15 United Nations and non-United Nations organizations make up the Atlas partnership, with the Food and Agriculture Organization serving as the coordinating Secretariat: the International Atomic Energy Agency; the International Maritime Organization; the International Seabed Authority; the Secretariat of the Convention on Biological Diversity; United Nations Department of Economic and Social Affairs; the United Nations Environment Programme; the World Meteorological Organization; the Census of Marine Life; Russia’s Head Department of Navigation and Oceanography; the Intergovernmental Oceanographic Commission of the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization; the National Geographic Society; the United States National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration; the World Ocean Observatory; and the World Resources Institute with initial funding from the United Nations Foundation. For further information, please contact: Tina Farmer, Food and Agriculture Organization, tel.: +39 06 5705 6846, e-mail: [email protected]; Anne Rogers, United Nations Department of Economic and Social Affairs, tel.: +1 212 963 2476, e-mail: [email protected]. * *** *
U.S. Foreign Policy and From the Mid-19th Century to World War II The United States' foreign policy has often had a direct and strong influence on the history of immigration to the country. This impact is particularly evident in United States-Asia relations from the mid-19th century through World War II. The three key factors affecting U.S. foreign policy toward Asia during this time were territory, trade and a constant tension in public attitudes regarding internationalism versus isolationism. America's mid-19th Century expansionist agenda of "manifest destiny" seemed to be fulfilled with the conclusion of the Mexican-American War in 1847. The borders that make up the lower 48 had been secured. But from 1857 to 1910, the United States acquired 13 islands or island groups in the Pacific Ocean, in addition to the purchase of the Alaskan Territories from Russia in 1867. The Spanish-American War in 1898 resulted in the United States' extending its reach as far as the Philippines. After a short series of battles with the failing Spanish empire and the signing of the Treaty of Paris without Filipino representation, the United States fought a short war with the Filipino independence movement and declared the islands to be American territory. Soon after, the Hawaiian Islands and Guam were annexed. Americans were in full consideration of their own role on the global stage and whether or not they were natural inheritors of the tradition of empire that had come before them. The Anti-Imperialist League formed at this time, composed of prominent individuals of the period, including Mark Twain, Andrew Carnegie, Samuel Gompers, and Jane Addams. International trade was a major factor in these considerations. In addition to being the leader in industrialization, by the turn of the 20th century the United States had become the major agricultural exporter in the world. A strong desire to increase international trade fueled the debate as to whether maintaining that prominence in agricultural exports would be best accomplished through both territorial expansion and an economic push for market expansion. Secretary of State John Hay, under President William McKinley, authored the Open Door Policy, which came to dominate American foreign policy in Asia. The policy was essentially a memo, titled Open Door Note, that was first sent to London, Berlin and Saint Petersburg in 1899, then later forwarded to Tokyo, Rome and Paris. It stated that (1) China was to be kept open to trade with all countries on an equal basis; (2) no country should interfere with any of the treaty ports in China or with any other vested interests; (3) Chinese authorities were permitted to collect tariffs on an equal basis; and (4) the Chinese should show no favoritism to their own nationals in the matter of harbor dues or railroad charges. Of the six recipients, only the British accepted the Open Door Policy. Based on Britain's support, Secretary Hay declared the policy to be in effect, but America had no way of enforcing it. The Open Door Policy reflected a mix of sentiments that Americans were trying to define for themselves. On the one hand, many Americans were anti-imperialist, having established their own nation state by gaining freedom from being a colony. On the other hand, as the nation grew, economic and social interests looked to grow the country's prominence and prosperity in comparison to other nations. In 1900, the United States sent troops to assist the Europeans and Japanese in suppressing the Boxer Rebellion. Hay was concerned that the incident would result in China's dismemberment and would threaten the Open Door Policy. He sent a memo declaring U.S. support for a solution that would "preserve Chinese territorial and administrative integrity" as well as "equal and impartial trade with all parts of the Chinese empire." These ideas became the cornerstones of foreign policy with Asia and remain so to this day: open trade with China and the preservation of territory. The resulting indemnity that the Europeans and Japanese imposed upon the Qing dynasty to pay for the loss of life and property amounted to a crushing $333 million. The United States received $25 million of that amount, of which $11 million was given to American colleges to support Chinese students. In 1904, the Russian-Japanese War became another test of America's Open Door Policy. Japan, afraid that Russia would threaten its ambitions in China and Korea, launched a surprise attack against the Russians in Manchuria and occupied Korea. Theodore Roosevelt offered to mediate and brought the two parties to Portsmouth, New Hampshire. There they signed the Portsmouth Treaty, which gave Manchuria back to China and resulted in Russia's conceding Japan's right to dominate interests in Korea. The 1905 Gentleman's Agreement with Japan, or the Taft-Katsura Agreement, reflected U.S. recognition of a rising, powerful, modern Japanese nation. The Gentleman's Agreement provided for mutually agreed-upon criteria for Japanese to be allowed to immigrate to the United States. The Gentleman's Agreement also recognized Japan's claim to Korea and the United States' claim to the Philippines. Internationalism Versus Isolationism Cynicism in international affairs befell the American public at the conclusion of World War I and seriously curbed America's imperial ambitions. Internationally, imperialism of any brand, whether European, American or Japanese, could not be reconciled with the determination of grassroots democracy movements and ethnic nationalism. The Treaty of Versailles and Wilson's visionary but deeply flawed Fourteen Points for the League of Nations epitomized this irreconcilable clash. Also, the Russian and Bolshevik revolutions challenged the future of capitalist enterprise. The subsequent economic crash of the 1930s confirmed for many around the world that becoming too intertwined in the world's problems was confusing, leaving one's own interests vulnerable. While many parts of Europe turned to communism and fascism, Americans reacted with strong isolationist and nativist attitudes. This nativism resulted in a series of increasingly restrictive immigration policies. The precedent set by the Chinese Exclusion Act in 1882 continued. American workers felt very threatened by immigrant labor and lobbied Congress to pass legislation after legislation to make entry into the country more difficult. Employers and business interests were, naturally, more in favor of the cheap labor opportunity that immigrants provided. But just as the vote to join the League of Nations and its multilateral internationalism failed as a matter of foreign policy, likewise Americans increasingly interpreted foreign elements of any sort to be detrimental on the domestic front. \|KQED Inc. All Rights Reserved. ?>\|
Skip to comments.U.S. 'planned to blow up Moon' with nuke during Cold War Posted on 11/27/2012 11:51:54 AM PST by the scotsman 'The U.S. had planned to blow up the moon with a nuclear bomb in the 1950s. At the height of the space race, the U.S. considered detonating an atom bomb on the moon as a display of America's Cold War muscle. The secret project, named 'A Study of Lunar Research Flights' and nicknamed 'Project A119,' however was never carried out. America's planning included calculations by astronomer Carl Sagan, then a young graduate student, of the behavior of dust and gas generated by the blast, the Daily Mail reports.' (Excerpt) Read more at uk.news.yahoo.com ... “Why the U.S. wanted to nuke the moon during the Cold War” ‘In the 1950s, with a young Carl Sagan lending a hand, America considered a novel way to outshine the Soviets’ By Peter Weber \| November 26, 2012 Apparently they had never watched Space:1999 “blow up the moon” and “explode a nuclear bomb on the moon” are two different things. I remember back in the fifties when grade ‘Z’ sci-fi was king there was a movie in which the bad guys were going to move the Moon closer to the Earth to create a stronger gravitational pull, and create havoc for some reason I cannot remember. I’m sure it was logical to somebody at the time. I remember the scenes of the Moon ringed with a flash of light that appeared to be dust, each time they did whatever they did to goose the Moon towards the Earth. Wondering if that stupid movie was based on this concept, or what? Where's the kaboom. There was supposed to be a moon-shattering kaboom. In the annals of military research and history, virtually every idea, idiotic or otherwise has been considered at one time or another. The imperial japanese researched dropping plague infested lice on chinese cities, but found that the lice didn’t survive the initial airburst well. Then there is Cobalt Thorium G. The intent of this nonsense can only be to disparage the United States in public, to destroy it's reputation for global political gain. And nonsense it is. If a nuclear weapon could in fact be detonated on the Moon, the force would almost exclusively be directed into space. And with no atmosphere, I don't think the damage would be significant at all. To cause damage, the explosion would have to take place deep inside the Moon. And the explosion would have to be absolutely massive. It would be no simple single missile explode on impact effort. If a massive enough bomb were to be detonated splitting up the moon, the parts would not be equal. There would be small parts and massive parts. Portions sped up by the blast could jettison into space. Portions slowed, could lose orbital inertia. It could become a planetary killer of an event, our planet being the damaged party, subsequent to the moon's destruction. I don't believe the U. S. ever had a plan drawn up for this purpose. It's irrational beyond belief. Does this sound like Palestinian propaganda to anyone else. LMAO, stuff for the funny papers... The proposal, never more than that, was to detonate an atomic bomb on the Moon. Deathstar technology is still a bit beyond our reach more than fifty years later. Just plan ignorance, the very heart of our legacy media. The kind of thinking leading up to blowing up the moon is similar to the irrational thinking that humans, and not the Sun, are changing Earth’s climate. “...’Project A119,’ however was never carried out.” LOL, no sh!t. 1. The biggest nuke we could have detonated at the height of the Cold War might have added a barely visible crater to the moon IF we could have delivered it there. 2. Without any atmosphere, most blast shock effect would be missing and the heat and radiation would be wasted. 3. If some idiot DID succeed in damaging the moon, there's a very good chance that life on Earth would be irrevocably changed as well. Any damn fool who would come up with an idea like this should have been fired and then barred from any further government work. I think the blast wouldn’t have even been visible from earth with the naked eye. An 8” telescope can resolve something like 1.2km on the moon. And “resolve” means be abe to tell one thing from another. Possibly a minor glint of the flash for a few seconds, maybe? Maybe a little atmospheric dust detected in telescopes? Certainly is was something that the Soviet public would have never known about. At best, some soviet scientist may have found out about it and reported it upwards. But if they were hoping for some dramatic blast. No way. Even then, what was the concept? Were they supposed to see us attack the moon, conclude we were nuts, and that they should stay far away from us? That could have messed up a lot of classic song titles.. Moonlight Fall-Out O’er Miami Pulverized Moon River Blue Moon Go Booom! Brian Williams, spokesman for the blame America first coalition, ran this story on last night’s Nightly News. The smug bastard never met a more stupid story. What the hell happened to fact checking in the news room ? Blow up the moon? Think of all the surfboard shops/manufacturers that would be out of business. Not to mention how many ticked off surfers there’d be. “Dude! Where’s the moon?” “I don’t know bro, but where are the curls, man?” ” blow up the moon and explode a nuclear bomb on the moon are two different things.” As per usual, the commentary on FR is more perceptive than the third-rate crap dished out by the MSM. To put things in perspective, a scientific assessment of the likely consequences of a collision between the asteroid YU55 and the earth, as reported by the “Telegraph” of London: “If it were to hit the earth, the asteroid, named YU55, would have an impact equivalent to 65,000 atom bombs and would leave a crater more than six miles wide and 2,000ft deep.” So in other words if we were able to deliver 65,000 atom bombs to a specific location on the moon simultaneously, we might have been able to do some significant damage to it (but we still wouldn’t have “blown it up”). Indeed, the crater in the scenario above would be small potatoes compared to those which are visible (essentially to the naked eye) from earth. It’s so obvious that one atomic bomb would do nothing, and probably not even be visible with the naked eye. This is obvious withing 5 minutes on FR. This is one of two things, playing the “Look how stupid America is game”. Or, it was some obscure academic lab exercise that Carl Sagan was involved in as a student and it makes a cool story to pretend it was real. I can see having a grad student in some lab calculate what the effect of a nuke on the moon would be for pure academic reasons. We were right in the middle of aggressive testing then to learn everything we could about them. But it’s a near certainty that there was never a plan to do this. Someone else pointed out that we couldnt do low earth orbit yet, and we were going to send a rocket, ANY ROCKET, to the moon? Please. In his later years, Sagan had an office in the Space Science Building at Cornell. I never got to see him on campus but I enjoyed the cartoons he used to leave on his office door when he was away. He also became a controversial anti-nuclear activist. I recall him protesting with a group at the Nevada test site. It is true that Edward Teller, at the time the first A-Bomb was to be tested in southern New Mexico, believed the explosion might ignite the entire earth’s atmosphere — he went forward with the test anyway. It seems they don’t ask our consent in such matters. National Security, you know? Those explosions were primarily Viking rockets, I seem to remember, developed for the Navy by a civilian contractor. Huntsville, home of military rocket development, was supposed to keep hands off the space program, so the available V-2 and Redstone rockets were off limits for the space program. After Sputnik, the complexion of the space race changed radically. The United States panicked. Ultimately we did what should have been done initially, namely use Redstone rockets to put a satellite in orbit. All this is from memory, so if I'm wrong on details, c'est la vie. Bright kid. He ought to get ahead in the moon. Among my elementary school cohort the Vanguard rocket model kit was the least desired. Well, except for re-enactment of the fiery crashes simulated by packing it with strike anywhere match heads and set off with gasoline soaked string. Ah, the days before the nannies fell upon the youth of America. Disclaimer: Opinions posted on Free Republic are those of the individual posters and do not necessarily represent the opinion of Free Republic or its management. All materials posted herein are protected by copyright law and the exemption for fair use of copyrighted works.
...it's all about being your pal European Wildlife Conservation Organization Intensifies Efforts to Preserve Endangered Species of Plants and Animals The European Centre of Biodiversity (ECB), a key project of the European Wildlife conservatin organization, which would act as a "Noah's Ark" of endangered species of plants and animals in Europe has been established. The ECB would be a large non-governmental nature reseravtion, which would provide a natural habitat for a large number of endangered species. It would be based on the purchase of land which farmers have ceased cultivating in recent years because it was no longer economically sustainable. In some areas commercial forests will also be purchased and transformed into forest stand made up of a large variety of native species. The project is also designed to support the European Union’s plan to halt the decrease in biological diversity on the continent by 2020. Key species of European flora and fauna, which are threatened with extinction, would be protected by the ECB. Its development is now underway near the largest forest block in Central Europe that lays on the border of the Czech Republic and Germany. Aim of the European Wildlife is to create a reserve which would be ten times ten kilometres large. “Protecting animals in their natural environment is the most effective method of preserving them for future generations,” says Dalibor Dostal, the director of the European Wildlife conservation organisation. “When we look at areas with the best biodiversity we find that they are situated in the north, east and south of the continent. Consequently, restoration of biodiversity in Central Europe is important in connecting all these isolated populations in the peripheral areas of Europe and restoration of biodiversity in western Europe in the following years.” Through establishing a sufficiently large reserve, the ECB's plan is to create good conditions that will allow large predators and herbivores to migrate over long distances in the years to come, avoiding a continued separation of the individual populations in Europe. The aim is also to slow the onset of climate change, as the newly planted forests will remove around forty thousand tons of CO2 from the atmosphere per year. This is important for species´ adaptation to climate change as it will allow them to migrate to colder regions where they will find better conditions for survival. Recurrent devastating floods, which in recent times have devasted most part of Central Europe, makes the project even more imperative, as the project would play a vital role in preventive measure to reduce risk of flooding. - Your Pal More on the Web Content Manager: [email protected] Inquiry Manager: [email protected]
David Shepherd from Life Community brings us these slivers of Coroplast turned into a curtain. They used Coroplast sheets they had left over from previous designs and cut them into small strips – approximately 12 inches long and 2 inches wide. They drilled holes near the ends and fed the strips onto fishing line. Then they spread them out to leave a 4 to 5 inch gap between and secured them with a dot of hot glue where the line passed through each sheet. They made approximately 55 strands. Then they flew these by simply attaching each strand to one of their fly bars using duct tape. Then they raised the bar out of view. Then they lit the “wall” with three LED Pars from each wing. They added small fans blowing in from both wings to keep the motion going and make the stage look alive. Check out the video to see the effect.
execution noun (KILLING) - Many people believe that execution has no place in the penal system of a civilized society. - Henry VIII ordered the execution of two of his wives, Anne Boleyn and Catherine Howard. - The convicted double murderer is facing execution in the morning. - The soldiers were arrested in connection with the alleged illegal execution of prisoners during the war. - Hanging was the usual form of execution practised in Britain. execution noun (ACTION) Thesaurus: synonyms and related words
This collection contains prints of American Indians mainly from the Midwestern and Eastern United States during the 18th and Many of the prints depict romanticized views of Native Americans, including but not limited to their daily life, peaceful and violent interactions with Europeans and Americans, and portraits of important leaders and figures. 129 prints in 2 boxes; prints 53 cm. x 48 cm. (21 in. x 19 in.) and smaller. The Huntington Library does not require that researchers request permission to quote from or publish images of this material, nor does it charge fees for such activities. The responsibility for identifying the copyright holder, if there is one, and obtaining necessary permissions rests with the Open to qualified researchers by prior application through the Reader Services Department. For more information, contact Reader
Generic Name: ribavirin (RYE-ba-VYE-rin) Brand Name: Examples include Copegus and Ribasphere Ribasphere may cause serious birth defects and/or fetal death when used during pregnancy. It should not be used by women who are pregnant or by men whose female partners are pregnant. Women of childbearing potential who either take Ribasphere or are sexual partners of men who take Ribasphere must: - have a negative pregnancy test immediately before therapy with Ribasphere is started. - avoid becoming pregnant during therapy with Ribasphere or within the first 6 months after Ribasphere is stopped. At least 2 reliable forms of effective birth control must be used during treatment with Ribasphere and for 6 months after treatment with Ribasphere is stopped. If you or your sexual partner becomes pregnant while taking Ribasphere or within 6 months after Ribasphere is stopped, contact your doctor right away. Use of Ribasphere alone is not effective for treating chronic hepatitis C infection. Talk with your doctor. Ribasphere may cause a serious blood problem (hemolytic anemia). This blood problem can worsen any heart problems you have and cause you to have a heart attack, which can be fatal. Tell your doctor if you have ever had heart problems. Do not take Ribasphere if you have a history of serious or uncontrolled heart problems. Call your doctor right away if you have chest pain while taking Ribasphere. Ribasphere is used for: Treating chronic hepatitis C infection in certain patients. It may also be used for other conditions as determined by your doctor. Ribasphere is an antiviral medicine. Exactly how it works to treat hepatitis C is not known. Do NOT use Ribasphere if: - you are allergic to any ingredient in Ribasphere or have had a severe allergic reaction (eg, red, swollen, blistered, or peeling skin) to ribavirin or any other ingredient in Ribasphere - you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant while you take Ribasphere or within 6 months after you stop taking it - you are a man with a female sexual partner who is pregnant or planning to become pregnant while you take Ribasphere or within 6 months after you stop taking it - you are breast-feeding - you have certain blood disorders (eg, hemolytic anemia, sickle cell anemia, thalassemia major), autoimmune hepatitis (liver problems caused by your immune system instead of a virus), severely decreased liver function, or inflammation of the pancreas (pancreatitis) - you have a history of serious or uncontrolled heart problems - you are taking didanosine Contact your doctor or health care provider right away if any of these apply to you. Before using Ribasphere: Some medical conditions may interact with Ribasphere. Tell your doctor or pharmacist if you have any medical conditions, especially if any of the following apply to you: - if you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or are breast-feeding - if you have a female sexual partner who is of childbearing age - if you are taking any prescription or nonprescription medicine, herbal preparation, or dietary supplement - if you have allergies to medicines, foods, or other substances - if you have a history of cancer, heart problems or a heart attack, high blood pressure, diabetes, pancreas problems, lung or breathing problems, sarcoidosis, blood problems (eg, anemia, spherocytosis), stomach or bowel bleeding, thyroid problems, psoriasis, HIV infection or other immune system problems, or eye or vision problems - if you have liver problems other than hepatitis C infection (eg, hepatitis B infection), cirrhosis of the liver, or decreased liver function - if you have kidney problems or are on dialysis. Some brands of this product should not be used in people who have kidney problems - if you have a history of mood or mental disorders (eg, anxiety, depression, psychosis), thoughts of suicide, or suicidal behavior - if you have a history of an organ transplant - if you have a history of drug or alcohol abuse - if you are dehydrated Some MEDICINES MAY INTERACT with Ribasphere. Tell your health care provider if you are taking any other medicines, especially any of the following: - Didanosine or other nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitors (NRTIs) (eg, lamivudine), other antiretroviral medicines for HIV infection, or thiopurines (eg, azathioprine) because serious side effects, including risk of infection, nerve problems (peripheral neuropathy), pancreas problems, bone marrow suppression, lactic acidosis, and severe or fatal liver failure, may be increased by Ribasphere - Anticoagulants (eg, warfarin) or certain NRTIs (eg, lamivudine, stavudine, zidovudine) because their effectiveness may be decreased by Ribasphere This may not be a complete list of all interactions that may occur. Ask your health care provider if Ribasphere may interact with other medicines that you take. Check with your health care provider before you start, stop, or change the dose of any medicine. How to use Ribasphere: Use Ribasphere as directed by your doctor. Check the label on the medicine for exact dosing instructions. - Ribasphere comes with an extra patient information sheet called a Medication Guide. Read it carefully. Read it again each time you get Ribasphere refilled. - Take Ribasphere by mouth with food. - Drinking extra fluids while you are taking Ribasphere is recommended. Check with your doctor for instructions. - Take Ribasphere on a regular schedule to get the most benefit from it. Taking Ribasphere at the same times each day will help you remember to take it. - Continue to take Ribasphere even if you feel well. Do not miss any doses. - If you miss a dose of Ribasphere and you remember the same day, take it as soon as possible. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and go back to your regular dosing schedule. Do not take 2 doses at once. Check with your doctor if you are unsure of what to do if you miss a dose. Ask your health care provider any questions you may have about how to use Ribasphere. Important safety information: - Tell your doctor or dentist that you take Ribasphere before you receive any medical or dental care, emergency care, or surgery. - Ribasphere may cause drowsiness, dizziness, or blurred vision. These effects may be worse if you take it with alcohol or certain medicines. Use Ribasphere with caution. Do not drive or perform other possibly unsafe tasks until you know how you react to it. - Avoid drinking alcohol, including beer, wine, and liquor, because it could worsen liver disease. - At least 2 reliable forms of effective birth control must be used during treatment by men and women who take Ribasphere and for 6 months after Ribasphere is stopped. Men who take Ribasphere should use a condom with spermicide as 1 of the 2 forms of birth control. - Women of childbearing potential who either take Ribasphere or are sexual partners of men who take Ribasphere must have a pregnancy test before therapy with Ribasphere is started, monthly during therapy, and monthly for 6 months after Ribasphere is stopped. - Patients who take Ribasphere may be at increased risk of suicidal thoughts or actions. The risk may be greater in children or teenagers who have had suicidal thoughts or actions in the past. Watch patients who take Ribasphere closely. Contact the doctor at once if new, worsened, or sudden symptoms such as depressed mood; aggression, anger, anxiety, nervousness, or irritable behavior; or any unusual change in mood or behavior occur. Contact the doctor right away if any signs of suicidal thoughts or actions occur. - Ribasphere may lower the ability of your body to fight infection. Avoid contact with people who have colds or infections. Tell your doctor if you notice signs of infection like fever, sore throat, rash, or chills. - Ribasphere may cause dry mouth and increase the risk of teeth and gum problems. Proper dental care is important while you are taking it. Brush and floss your teeth and visit the dentist regularly. - If vomiting occurs while you are taking Ribasphere, be sure to rinse your mouth and clean your teeth afterwards. - Serious and sometimes fatal lung problems have happened with Ribasphere. Call your doctor right away if you have lung or breathing problems (eg, trouble breathing, shortness of breath, a cough that is new or worse). - A severe skin reaction (Stevens-Johnson syndrome/toxic epidermal necrolysis) may happen. It can cause very bad health problems that may not go away, and sometimes death. Get medical help right away if you have signs like red, swollen, blistered, or peeling skin (with or without fever); red or irritated eyes; or sores in your mouth, throat, nose, or eyes. - Do NOT take more than the recommended dose or use for longer than prescribed without checking with your doctor. - Diabetes patients - Ribasphere may affect your blood sugar. Check blood sugar levels closely. Ask your doctor before you change the dose of your diabetes medicine. - Lab tests may be performed while you use Ribasphere. These tests may be used to monitor your progress or to check for side effects. Be sure to keep all doctor and lab appointments. - Have your lung function checked as you have been told by your doctor. - Have an eye exam as you have been told by your doctor. - Use Ribasphere with caution in the ELDERLY; they may be more sensitive to its effects, especially anemia. - Ribasphere may affect growth rate in CHILDREN and teenagers in some cases. They may need regular growth checks while they take Ribasphere. - Some brands of Ribasphere are not approved for use in CHILDREN younger than 18 years old. Discuss any questions with your doctor. - If your child is taking Ribasphere, the dose may need to be changed as your child's weight changes. Have your child's weight checked often. Talk with the doctor before changing your child's dose. - PREGNANCY and BREAST-FEEDING: Do not use Ribasphere if you are pregnant. It has been shown to cause harm to the fetus. Avoid becoming pregnant while you are taking it. If you think you may be pregnant, contact your doctor right away. It is not known if this medicine is found in breast milk. Do not breast-feed while taking Ribasphere. Possible side effects of Ribasphere: All medicines may cause side effects, but many people have no, or minor, side effects. Check with your doctor if any of these most COMMON side effects persist or become bothersome: Seek medical attention right away if any of these SEVERE side effects occur: Diarrhea; dizziness; dry mouth; dry skin; hair loss; joint pain; loss of appetite; mild headache, nausea, or vomiting; mild stomach pain; tiredness; trouble sleeping; upset stomach; weakness or fatigue. Severe allergic reactions (rash; hives; itching; difficulty breathing; tightness in the chest; swelling of the mouth, face, lips, or tongue; unusual hoarseness; wheezing); bloating of the stomach; changes in hearing or taste; chest pain; confusion; dark, tarry, or bloody stools; dark urine; decrease in the amount of urine; fainting; hearing loss; irregular heartbeat; menstrual problems; mood or mental problems (eg, agitation, aggression, anger, anxiety, decreased concentration, depression, irritability, memory problems, nervousness); muscle pain or weakness; numbness of an arm or leg; pale skin; pale stools; persistent loss of appetite; rash with blisters or sores in your mouth, nose, or eyes; severe or persistent diarrhea, nausea, or vomiting; severe or persistent headache or dizziness; suicidal thoughts or actions; symptoms of high blood sugar (eg, confusion; drowsiness; flushing; fruit-like breath; increased thirst, hunger, or urination; rapid breathing); symptoms of infection (eg, fever, chills, sore throat, ear or sinus pain, cough, more sputum or change in color of sputum, painful urination, mouth sores, wound that will not heal); symptoms of pancreatitis (eg, severe stomach or back pain, with or without nausea or vomiting); unusual bruising or bleeding; unusual or severe tiredness, weakness, or fatigue; vision changes (eg, loss of vision); vomit that looks like coffee grounds; weight loss; worsening psoriasis; yellowing of the eyes or skin. This is not a complete list of all side effects that may occur. If you have questions about side effects, contact your health care provider. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. To report side effects to the appropriate agency, please read the Guide to Reporting Problems to FDA. If OVERDOSE is suspected: Contact 1-800-222-1222 (the American Association of Poison Control Centers), your local poison control center, or emergency room immediately.Proper storage of Ribasphere: Store Ribasphere between 59 and 86 degrees F (15 and 30 degrees C). Store away from heat, moisture, and light. Do not store in the bathroom. Keep Ribasphere out of the reach of children and away from pets. - If you have any questions about Ribasphere, please talk with your doctor, pharmacist, or other health care provider. - Ribasphere is to be used only by the patient for whom it is prescribed. Do not share it with other people. - If your symptoms do not improve or if they become worse, check with your doctor. - Check with your pharmacist about how to dispose of unused medicine. This information should not be used to decide whether or not to take Ribasphere or any other medicine. Only your health care provider has the knowledge and training to decide which medicines are right for you. This information does not endorse any medicine as safe, effective, or approved for treating any patient or health condition. This is only a brief summary of general information about Ribasphere. It does NOT include all information about the possible uses, directions, warnings, precautions, interactions, adverse effects, or risks that may apply to Ribasphere. This information is not specific medical advice and does not replace information you receive from your health care provider. You must talk with your health care provider for complete information about the risks and benefits of using Ribasphere. Disclaimer: This information should not be used to decide whether or not to take this medicine or any other medicine. Only your health care provider has the knowledge and training to decide which medicines are right for you. This information does not endorse any medicine as safe, effective, or approved for treating any patient or health condition. This is only a brief summary of general information about this medicine. It does NOT include all information about the possible uses, directions, warnings, precautions, interactions, adverse effects, or risks that may apply to this medicine. This information is not specific medical advice and does not replace information you receive from your health care provider. You must talk with your healthcare provider for complete information about the risks and benefits of using this medicine.
This is the field on which the football game takes place. The field is rectangular in shape and 120 yards long and a little over 50 yards wide. This includes a ten yard end-zone on each side. The field has yard markers, also known as hash-marks, for every yard, and lines which run across the field in five yard increments to denote the distance to the goal line. These lines are numbered every 10 yards with the distance to the goal line. The fifty yard line is the absolute middle of the field, and the lines are numbered down from that spot. On each side of the fifty yard line is a forty, thirty, twenty, and ten yard lines. At either end of the field are goal posts which serve as the uprights for field goals and extra points. The uprights are connected by a cross-bar which keeps them eighteen-and-a-half feet apart, the standard in the National Football League. The uprights are typically yellow and stand at the very back of the end-zone. The long borders of the field are known as sidelines, and the short sides are known as end-lines. If the ball or player crosses either of these boundaries, they are out-of-bounds. Also referred to as "Field of Play." The playing field may be made of grass or artificial turf, it depends on the stadium. Other than the material used, fields in the NFL must follow strict rules to ensure fair competition on every playing field. Modern stadium will sometimes put a slight curvature on the field; the middle of the field is higher to allow water to drain to the sides more easily. Although rarely used in the US, the playing field is sometimes referred to as the "pitch."
The use of products to communicate the self: how proficient are young adults MetadataShow full metadata That people use products to create, maintain, and communicate aspects of the self is a well established tenet in the behavioural sciences as is the notion of shared understanding of the meanings associated with such products. Consumer researchers who examine facets of the relationship between the self and products (and brands) primarily examine prescribed and specific aspects of the self in relation to prescribed products. Whilst the notion of shared meaning is accepted, few studies examine the proficiency of consumers in their use of products to communicate aspects of the self to others. This multi-method study examines how the products (and brands) which young adult consumers select from those they own, reflect aspects of their self and the degree to which this reflection is shared by their peers. The findings show that young adult consumers speak of their product choices in terms of both personal and social related aspects of the self. The findings show that young adults are able to articulate how they use products to depict aspects of their self and that they primarily, use products to denote group membership including status (inter and intra group). Allied to this is their conscious awareness that the status element is linked to an experience of ‘power’ in relation to others, and that the use of products to depict aspects of their self requires a degree of self-control, i.e., power over self. Whilst the communication of the social self represents the main purpose, the role of products to communicate individual characteristics is also significant. In terms of shared meaning, successful decoding occurs mainly in the social domain, for example, characteristics such as cares about personal grooming; trendy and fashion conscious; healthy, fit and active; sociable; cool; confident and enjoys drinking.
3 Answers \| Add Yours In Book 9 of Homer's Odyssey, the title character begins to tell the Phaeacians about his adventures. After leaving Troy, Odysseus sailed to Ismarus, a city that belonged to a people known as the Cicones. [By the way, I believe Ismarus is a coastal town, not an island.] Odysseus and his men attacked and defeated the inhabitants of Ismarus, but Odysseus' men spent too much time celebrating their victory, despite Odysseus' desire to leave as soon as possible: Then as you might imagine I ordered us to slip away quickly, but my foolish followers wouldn’t listen. They drank the wine, and slaughtered many sheep and shambling cattle with twisted horns. (A.S. Kline translation) Thus, while Odysseus' men are wasting time, the Cicones regroup and attack Odysseus and his men. This time, the Cicones gain the victory and kill 72 of Odysseus men (6 from each of the 12 ships). After suffering this loss, Odysseus and his men sail away. One mistake Odysseus does not make at Ismarus is, as we soon learn, that he spares the life of Apollo's priest Maron, who gave Odysseus the wine that he uses to get the Cyclops drunk. The men was greedy for treasure so they started plundering the fallen country for gold, so greed took the control over them and started directing them. They didn't listen to Odysseus commands and continuing looting, so as a result, a neighboring city came and invade them and killed a lot of them One mistake is that the men start looting the fallen city, and get greedy. This leads to them not listening to Odysseus to get back to their ships. Instead, they feast and celebrate on th beach. As a result, 72 men are killed when a neighboring army comes to drive them out. We’ve answered 318,912 questions. We can answer yours, too.Ask a question

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