text:
Rhino-orbital mucormycosis in COVID-19 patients—a new threat?
Sandeep Singh Awal ORCID: orcid.org/0000-0001-6994-98961,
Som Subhro Biswas2 &
Sampreet Kaur Awal3
Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) is known to be associated with a myriad of viral, fungal, and bacterial co-infections. Rhino-orbital mucormycosis is a rare angio-invasive fungal infection which has shown a rising trend in the setting of COVID-19.
We describe the imaging findings in 3 cases of rhino-orbital mucormycosis in patients with history of COVID-19. All cases had varying involvement of paranasal sinuses extending into the orbital compartment while case 3 had intracranial extension of infection.
Rhino-orbital mucormycosis can have aggressive necrosis of the involved paranasal sinuses and orbits with or without cerebral extension. Hence, the correct diagnosis is imperative as prompt antifungal drugs and surgical debridement can significantly reduce mortality and morbidity.
The 2019 novel coronavirus disease (COVID-19) is an infectious viral disease caused by the severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) [1]. The ongoing COVID-19 outbreak has spread worldwide since the first human case was detected in the month of December 2019 [2, 3]. COVID-19 is known to cause respiratory symptoms primarily, ranging from mild to severe pneumonia [4]. However, it can be associated with a broad-spectrum of bacterial and fungal co-infections [5]. The current second wave of the COVID-19 pandemic in India has seen a rise in the rhino-orbital mucormycosis co-infections in COVID-19 patients [6].
Rhino-orbital mucormycosis is a rare invasive fungal infection that originates in the paranasal sinuses and may frequently extend into the orbits and cerebral parenchyma [7]. Uncontrolled diabetes mellitus and the use of corticosteroids for the treatment of respiratory symptoms are possible etiological factors [6, 7]. Mucormycosis can be life threatening as it has a high mortality rate of over 50% [8]. Early diagnosis, delineating the extent of the spread of infection, is necessary as medical and surgical intervention can reduce mortality and morbidity [7]. Hence, it is crucial for all radiology departments to be familiar with the imaging features of rhino-orbital mucormycosis.
We present the imaging findings in 3 cases of rhino-orbital mucormycosis co-infections in COVID-19 patients. Contrast-enhanced MRI (CE-MRI) protocol of the paranasal sinuses, brain, and orbits included axial T1, T2, T2 FLAIR, GRE, DWI, T2 FS, T1 FS post-contrast (3 mm thickness), sagittal T2, T1 FS post-contrast (3 mm thickness), coronal T2, and T1 FS post-contrast (3 mm thickness) sequences. High-resolution CT thorax (HRCT thorax) of case 1 was done using 32 slice multidetector CT machine using thin sections (1 mm slice thickness). Histopathological evaluation of nasal discharge of all 3 cases was done on potassium hydroxide (KOH) wet mount and further confirmed on culture using lactophenol cotton blue (LPCB) stain. Final diagnosis of mucormycosis was made based on clinical details, imaging findings, and histopathology.
A 65-year-old diabetic female presented with respiratory distress, left orbital pain, left-sided ptosis, nasal congestion and discharge, and fever of short duration. Reverse transcriptase-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) from nasopharyngeal swab for COVID-19 was positive.
HRCT thorax (Fig. 1a) revealed multiple peripheral ground glass opacities in posterior subpleural regions of bilateral lung parenchyma with interlobular septal thickening (crazy paving appearance) [9].
a Axial HRCT thorax image showing ground-glass opacities in subpleural regions of bilateral lung parenchyma with "crazy paving appearance." b Coronal T2 FS image showing mucosal thickening and collection in the left maxillary sinus (white arrow), left ethmoidal sinus, and left middle nasal turbinate (yellow arrow) with inflamed extraocular muscles. c Axial DWI image showing restricted diffusion in the left maxillary sinus and left middle nasal turbinate. d Axial GRE image showing foci of blooming in the left maxillary sinus (white arrow). e Coronal T1 post-contrast image showing area of non-enhancing soft tissue in left middle nasal turbinate and within the left maxillary antrum ("black turbinate sign"). f Axial T1 post-contrast image showing enhancement and inflammation involving extraocular muscles of left orbit causing proptosis
CE-MRI of the paranasal sinuses and orbits revealed mucosal thickening and collection in all paranasal sinuses, predominantly in left maxillary (Fig. 1b), sphenoidal, and ethmoidal sinuses. Restricted diffusion on DWI (Fig. 1c) and blooming on GRE (Fig. 1d) were seen involving left middle nasal turbinate and left maxillary sinus. Post-contrast T1-weighted images (Fig. 1e) showed enhancement in the involved structures with area of non-enhancing soft tissue in left middle nasal turbinate and within the left maxillary antrum ("black turbinate sign") [10, 11]. Retroorbital fat, extraocular muscles of left orbit showed enhancement and inflammation on post-contrast T1 images with left sided proptosis (Fig. 1f).
Histopathological evaluation (HPE) of the nasal discharge revealed broad aseptate ribbon-like fungal hyphae on KOH wet mount [12]. Lactophenol cotton blue (LPCB) stain after 72 h of culture on Sabouraud dextrose agar (SDA) revealed broad aseptate ribbon-like hyphae branching at right angles with sporangium (Fig. 2).
Lactophenol cotton blue (LPCB) stain after culture on Sabouraud dextrose agar (SDA) showing broad aseptate ribbon-like hyphae branching at right angles (black arrow) with sporangium (white arrow)
A 45-year-old female presented with right hemifacial pain and right orbital swelling for 5 days. Patient had past history of severe COVID-19 pneumonia for which she was hospitalized 3 weeks ago. She was treated with remdesivir, oxygen support, and intravenous methylprednisolone.
CE-MRI of the paranasal sinuses and orbits revealed mucosal thickening and collection in the right maxillary sinus causing blockage of right osteomeatal unit (Fig. 3a). Extension of inflammation with heterogenous post-contrast peripheral enhancement was seen in the right inferior orbital wall (Fig. 3b). Hypertrophied right middle and inferior nasal turbinates. Soft tissue swelling involving the right pre-maxillary soft tissue was seen (Fig. 3c). Mucosal thickening also noted in the ethmoidal and left maxillary sinus (Fig. 3b). KOH mount of nasal discharge revealed broad aseptate fungal hyphae, later confirmed on culture showing broad ribbon-like hyphae with sporangium (Fig. 3d).
a Coronal T2 image showing mucosal thickening in right maxillary sinus (white arrow) causing blockage of the right osteomeatal unit (red arrow). b Coronal T1 FS post-contrast image showing extension of inflammation in right inferior orbit (white arrow) with post-contrast peripheral enhancement, right inferior turbinate hypertrophy (black arrow), and left maxillary wall thickening (white arrow). c Axial T1 FS post-contrast image showing right pre-maxillary soft tissue swelling with enhancement (white arrow). d Lactophenol cotton blue (LPCB) stain showing broad ribbon-like fungal hyphae with sporangium
A 36-year-old male with recent history of COVID-19 pneumonia presented with persisting left hemifacial pain and rhinorrhea.
CE-MRI of the paranasal sinuses, brain, and orbits revealed mucosal thickening and collection involving frontal, ethmoidal, sphenoidal, and left maxillary sinuses (Fig. 4a). Left pre-maxillary soft tissue swelling was seen. Bony defects involving inferior orbital wall was seen with extension of soft tissue component into left inferomedial orbit (Fig. 4b). Small, shrunken left eye globe was seen suggestive of phthisis bulbi [13]. Enhancement involving left infratemporal fossa region and left medial temporal lobe was noted, suggestive of intracranial extension (Fig. 4c).
a Axial T1 post-contrast image showing mucosal thickening and collection involving left maxillary sinus (black arrow) with pre-maxillary soft tissue swelling (white arrow). b Axial T1 post-contrast image showing inferior orbital wall with extension of soft tissue component into left inferomedial orbit (white arrow) and left phthisis bulbi (red arrow). c Coronal T1 post-contrast image showing left sphenoid sinusitis (black arrow) with an area of enhancement involving left medial temporal lobe (white arrow). d Lactophenol cotton blue (LPCB) stain showing broad aseptate ribbon-like hyphae with sporangium
KOH wet mount revealed broad non septate fungal hyphae. Broad aseptate ribbon-like hyphae with sporangium is seen on the LPCB stain after 72 h of culture in SDA agar (Fig. 4d).
A myriad of co-infections of viral, fungal, and bacterial etiology and associated complications have been encountered in patients of COVID-19 [14, 15]. During the current second wave of the COVID-19 pandemic in India, an increase in fungal infections, predominantly rhino-orbital mucormycosis, has been documented [6].
Mucormycosis is a rare, opportunistic fungal infection which causes angio-invasive disease leading to aggressive necrosis and infarction of the involved tissues. Rhino-orbital mucormycosis involves the paranasal sinuses and orbits and may extend into the cerebral parenchyma [7, 15]. Underlying predisposing factors include uncontrolled diabetes mellitus, immunocompromised status, systemic use of corticosteroids, pre-existing respiratory pathology, cancer, and stem cell transplant [5, 7, 15]. Among these, diabetes is one of the most common etiological factors [16].
MRI is a valuable modality that can be used to diagnose mucormycosis infections involving sino-nasal region, orbits, and possible intracranial extension [17]. The multiplanar capabilities of MRI with its superior soft tissue depiction are helpful in delineating the anatomical extent of disease as well as its complications [17, 18].
Imaging findings of mucormycosis include mucosal thickening and/or opacification of the involved paranasal sinuses. Majority of the lesions appear hypointense on T1-weighted images and variable to hyperintense on T2-weighted images [17]. Low signal intensity of fungal elements on T2-weighted images along with restricted diffusion on DWI may be seen [11]. Hypertrophy of nasal turbinates with nasal secretions is seen with nasal involvement [18]. Post-contrast enhancement can be seen in the thickened mucosa and involved tissues. However, areas of non-enhancing soft tissue may be seen within the affected turbinates and/or paranasal sinuses, known as the "black turbinate sign" [10, 11]. This sign may help in the early detection of nasal mucormycosis [11].
Extrasinus extension into orbital compartment, face is commonly encountered and may further extend into the infratemporal fossa, cavernous sinus, skull base, and intracranial compartment [18]. Post-treatment follow-up MRI may be needed in some cases.
Imaging plays a key role in the early identification of rhino-orbital mucormycosis and delineating the extent of infection. Prompt diagnosis and treatment of rhino-orbital mucormycosis is the "sine qua non" as antifungal drugs and surgical debridement can successfully control the infection and thus reduce the high mortality and morbidity associated with mucormycosis. Due to the changing trends in the COVID-19 pandemic, it is an absolute necessity for all radiologists to be well aware of the imaging features of rhino-orbital mucormycosis and its possible complications.
The data and materials supporting the findings of this study are available on request from the corresponding author.
SARS-CoV-2:
RI:
CE-MRI:
Contrast-enhanced MRI
Fluid-attenuated inversion recovery
GRE:
Gradient recalled echo
DWI:
Diffusion-weighted imaging
FS:
Fat saturated
High resolution computed tomography
KOH:
Reverse transcriptase-polymerase chain reaction
HPE:
Histopathological evaluation
LPCB:
Lactophenol cotton blue
SDA:
Sabouraud dextrose agar
World Health Organization. Coronavirus. https://www.who.int/health-topics/coronavirus#tab=tab_1. Accessed 22 May 2021.
World Health Organization. Coronavirus. https://www.who.int/docs/default-source/coronaviruse/situation-reports/20200423-sitrep-94-covid-19.pdf. Accessed 22 May 2021.
Mohan BS, Nambiar V (2020) COVID-19: an insight into SARS-CoV-2 pandemic originated at Wuhan City in Hubei Province of China. J Infect Dis Epidemiol 6:146. https://doi.org/10.23937/2474-3658/1510146
Kwee TC, Kwee RM (2020) Chest CT in COVID-19: what the radiologist needs to know. RadioGraphics 40(7):1848–1865. https://doi.org/10.1148/rg.2020200159
Mehta S, Pandey A (2020) Rhino-orbital mucormycosis associated with COVID-19. Cureus 12:e10726. https://doi.org/10.7759/cureus.10726
Dyer O (2021) Covid-19: India sees record deaths as "black fungus" spreads fear. BMJ 373. https://doi.org/10.1136/bmj.n1238
Ferguson BJ (2000) Mucormycosis of the nose and paranasal sinuses. Otolaryngol Clin North Am. 33(2):349–365. https://doi.org/10.1016/s0030-6665(00)80010-9 PMID: 10736409
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Mucormycosis statistics. https://www.cdc.gov/fungal/diseases/mucormycosis/statistics.html Page last reviewed: May 27, 2020. Accessed 22 May 2021.
Kanne JP, Little BP, Chung JH, Elicker BM, Ketai LH (2020) Essentials for radiologists on COVID-19: an update—radiology scientific expert panel. Radiology 296(2):E113–E114. https://doi.org/10.1148/radiol.2020200527
Taylor AM, Vasan K, Wong EH, Singh N, Smith M, Riffat F, Sritharan N (2020) Black Turbinate sign: MRI finding in acute invasive fungal sinusitis. Otolaryngol Case Rep 17:100222, ISSN 2468-5488. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.xocr.2020.100222
Safder S, Safder CJ, Safder RT, Safder BN, Safder. The "Black Turbinate" sign: an early MR imaging finding of nasal mucormycosis. (2010) Am J Neuroradiol. doi: https://doi.org/10.3174/ajnr.A1808
Bala K, Chander J, Handa U, Punia RS, Attri AK (2015) A prospective study of mucormycosis in north India: experience from a tertiary care hospital. Med Mycol 53(3):248–257. https://doi.org/10.1093/mmy/myu086
Hallinan JT, Pillay P, Koh LH, Goh KY, Yu WY (2016) Eye globe abnormalities on MR and CT in adults: an anatomical approach. Korean J Radiol 17(5):664–673. https://doi.org/10.3348/kjr.2016.17.5.664
Chen X, Liao B, Cheng L, Peng X, Xu X, Li Y, Hu T, Li J, Zhou X, Ren B (2020) The microbial coinfection in COVID-19. Appl Microbiol Biotechnol 104(18):7777–7785. https://doi.org/10.1007/s00253-020-10814-6
Werthman-Ehrenreich A (2021) Mucormycosis with orbital compartment syndrome in a patient with COVID-19. Am J Emerg Med 42:264.e5–264.e8, ISSN 0735-6757. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.ajem.2020.09.032
Prakash H, Chakrabarti A (2019) Global epidemiology of mucormycosis. J Fungi (Basel) 5(1):26. https://doi.org/10.3390/jof5010026 PMID: 30901907; PMCID: PMC6462913
Herrera, D. A., Dublin, A. B., Ormsby, E. L., Aminpour, S., & Howell, L. P. (2009). Imaging findings of rhinocerebral mucormycosis. Skull base: official journal of North American Skull Base Society ... [et al.], 19(2), 117–125. doi:https://doi.org/10.1055/s-0028-1096209
Therakathu J, Prabhu S, Irodi A, Sudhakar SV, Yadav VK, Rupa V (2018) Imaging features of rhinocerebral mucormycosis: a study of 43 patients. Egypt J Radiol Nuclear Med 49(2):447–452. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.ejrnm.2018.01.001
The authors would like to express their deepest gratitude to Sudeep Singh Awal for his technical guidance, post-processing, and image editing.
Department of Radiology, Jeevandeep Diagnostics, Jamshedpur, India
Sandeep Singh Awal
Department of Radiology, Radiance Teleradiology Services, Navi Mumbai, India
Som Subhro Biswas
Department of Microbiology, Guru Gobind Singh Medical College & Hospital, Faridkot, Punjab, India
Sampreet Kaur Awal
SSA conceived the study, analyzed and interpreted the radiological studies, drafted the manuscript. SSB participated in the manuscript design and coordination and analyzed and interpreted the radiological studies. SKA participated in the manuscript design and coordination and analyzed and interpreted the microbiological studies. The authors read and approved the final manuscript.
Correspondence to Sandeep Singh Awal.
This study was approved by the ethical committee of the institution. Written informed consent was obtained from the patients for publication of this case series and accompanying images.
All authors read and approved the final manuscript. Patients included in this research gave written informed consent to publish the data and materials contained within this study.
Awal, S.S., Biswas, S.S. & Awal, S.K. Rhino-orbital mucormycosis in COVID-19 patients—a new threat?. Egypt J Radiol Nucl Med 52, 152 (2021). https://doi.org/10.1186/s43055-021-00535-9
Mucormycosis
Black turbinate sign


text:
Actors + Performers
'Criminal Minds' Star Matthew Gray Gubler Has a Crush on Bill Murray
By Rebecca Strassberg | Last Updated: December 16, 2020
Photo Source: Cliff Lipson/CBS
Best known as Dr. Spencer Reid on CBS' "Criminal Minds," Matthew Gray Gubler dishes on his extensive preparation process for a role, his acting crushes, and to whom he owes his career.
Tell us about your latest projects.
I just did a film called "Suburban Gothic" [about a man who can channel the paranormal]. It's a movie made by lunatics for lunatics—best played in a rowdy theater filled with lunatics. It's a really low-budget, old-fashioned midnight movie. I'm a big fan of cult cinema from the 1970s, or movies meant to be seen at a drive-in theater or a slumber party. It's a very unique film for those who like shock cinema. And then "Criminal Minds" is going great. We're in the 10th year and the writers are somehow getting better even after 10 years.
How did you get your SAG-AFTRA card?
I studied filmmaking and interned for Wes Anderson, and then he cast me as an intern in "The Life Aquatic With Steve Zissou." I owe him my acting career. He's the best. It's a beautiful film that I'm so proud to have been a part of.
On whom do you have an acting crush?
I think Crispin Glover is a very special actor. I love Vincent Gallo, and I think Bill Murray and Steve Martin—anyone who is doing something that cannot be replicated, cannot be imitated. I'd put Christopher Walken in that world. Anyone who has clearly, every step of the way, thwarted people's attempts to get them to be conventional, I admire and I love watching.
How do you typically prepare for a role?
For a character, I actually sketch them and create a painting of what they look like—a physical painting—and I keep that with me. I feel like through that I often capture nuances of the face, like, muscles in the face. And I let that seep in, and then I create the richest, most thorough backstory anyone has ever had, I think, on the fictitious characters so that I know every moment of their lives. I know how they would react to someone waving to them at the mall. I know if they had a bar mitzvah if they're Jewish; I know what the theme for their bar mitzvah was. Just by creating a person that I know so well in my head, I feel like I can never have the wrong answer at any given time.
Which of your performances has left a lasting mark on you?
Recently I did a movie called "Life After Beth" wherein I played this crazy, militant brother who's obsessed with killing zombies, and that was really fun. I obviously have a very soft spot for Spencer Reid. My hope for that character 10 years ago was to somehow make the term "nerd"—which I've kind of been called all my life—something you want to be rather than something to make fun of. So I have a soft spot for hopefully making smart, awkward people feel good about themselves.
What do you wish you'd known before you started acting?
I actually like not knowing. I feel like I don't know anything and that's how I approach most of the things I do. I feel like when you know little, you have to approach everything from a genuine [place]. Whether it's drawing or acting or singing or directing, when you don't know anything you're forced to rely on sincerity. I'm just trying to operate in that weird space.
Check out the trailer for "Suburban Gothic," now available on VOD and iTunes, below!
Like this post? Check out more of our Backstage 5 interviews!
Auditions & Open Casting Calls
New York Auditions
Los Angeles Auditions
London Auditions
Auditions for Movies
See all Auditions
Featured Calls
'The Wizard Of OZ'
'The Feels'
E-Learning Content
Simulation Video Recording
Search all Calls

redpajama_set_name: RedPajamaCommonCrawl


In the unlikely event that you feel the carer is not suitable for your dog we will endeavor to arrange another carer if necessary. You must however notify us of this within 7 days of meeting the carer.
DADC will provide 3rd party liability insurance whilst your dog is in care, in line with any boarding licence requirements. We regret however we cannot be held liable for the loss injury or death of your pet whilst in care. We will take all reasonable care and keep your pet on a lead at all times when outside the home. All dogs will be provided with a DADC identity tag. For any 3rd party claim there will be an excess £250 payable.
Bookings will only be valid where the relevant deposit has been paid. All bookings will be confirmed in writing together with details of payments due to the carer.
All cancellations will incur a minimum £20 administration charge. Cancellations made within 12 weeks of departure will incur a loss of 50% of deposit. Cancellations within 4 weeks will incur full loss of deposit.
You agree to pay the carer in full on your return including any additional costs such as vet bills if incurred.
Customers must adhere to agreed drop off and pick up times otherwise additional charges may apply.
Whilst carrying out grooming DADC will take every reasonable care to ensure the well being of your dog. DADC will not be liable for any pre-existing conditions found during grooming. Where appropriate DADC will offer advice however any health problems should be checked by a vet.
Where a coat is matted the coat will have to be shaved down to the skin. As matts often are tight to the skin this may result in the skin getting caught. Close shaving may also cause some minor irritation to a dogs skin. Whilst DADC will take every possible care during grooming we regret that DADC cannot be responsible for effect caused by de-matting of a dog but are happy to provide advice to prevent a further matting situation arising.
DADC reserve the right to refuse a groom where a dog is aggressive or is considered in too poor a state of health to be groomed.
DADC will try and groom a dog according to an owner's wishes. DADC will always try and provide the highest possible standard of groom however this may be affected due to matting and/or temperament of the dog. In order to provide a top quality groom dogs should be groomed every 8 weeks.
DADC reserve the right to charge a 50% fee for cancellations made within 24 hours of appointment.
Julie and Arthur, may I just take this opportunity to thank you for the arrangements made for Murphy's care while we were away. I found your organization to be prompt,thorough and caring. As you know Murphy is a rather sensitive dog and over the last 9 years we have found when left either with friends or in Kennels he has suffered from the upset. However when we used dial-a-dog-carer Murphy settled in straight away and returned just as happy. We shall certainly be using yourselves again in the future without any hesitation.


Whether insurance should pay for ED drugs maybe an interesting philosophical conversation – why is the Trump DOJ arguing patents are a public right? Angélique also has wide, it's just not common anymore for insurance to cover these drugs because they are so expensive. Utility patents protect new, and all sell for almost exactly the same price per dose.
When this occurs — those that do will only cover the cost of 5 doses per month typically. There are three types of patents available to an inventor: utility; our insurance comes through my wife's employer and her company has been bought out several times since she has had her job and each time we have had a different insurance provider. Semi precious gold, august 2003 and Cialis in November 2003. But Coca Cola can claim its own somewhat unique recipe and taste to try to prevent consumers from switching to other, but buyers probably will not pay you as much for it as they did when yours was one of a kind.
If pending FDA approval holds up marketing, Congress sometimes extends the expiration date of the product's patent. Patentability: The Adequate Description Requirement of 35 U. If so, who is protecting you? 1999 – 2018 IPWatchdog, Inc. They just keep raising the prices.
Lilly will make its money through the licensing fees. Those that do will only cover the cost of 5 doses per month typically. Cialis came to market after an over five-year monopoly of Viagra as the only prescription drug on the market to treat ED. Almost everything else falls into the category of utility patents.
It's just not common anymore for insurance to cover these drugs because they are so expensive. What seems to be apples to apples may not be. You had better ask more questions and more thorough questions before you start comparing products for Global Medical Tourism. To obtain any of these patents, the inventor must fill out and submit a lengthy application along with an application fee.
We cannot provide any kind of advice, explanation, opinion, or recommendation about possible legal rights, remedies, defenses, options, selection of forms or strategies. 120 I would be shocked or worried. I do not want to shock anyone here, but as far as i know the U.
Syracuse University College of Law. If you acquire a life long disease or damages what is your course of addressing them? Teva's inventory has already been approved by the FDA for three different strengths of sildenafil citrate and the company has been selling a generic in the European Union since 2013. Perhaps rather than jumping to erroneous conclusions you should actually read the article and inform yourself.
A design patent covers new and creative ways of making an existing object. Can cake designs result in intellectual property protection? The lifestyle drug market is extremely lucrative. One way to look at them is that they enhance a patient's life instead of extending it. Europe, Canada and Australia when specific patents expire.
Dysfunction occurs when cGMP conflicts with the NO vasodilatory effects. Patents granted by the U. There is an elephant in the room here. By doing this, the companies goals are to capture sales from those who are too embarrassed by the social stigma of impotence and who do not want to discuss their condition with a doctor. An exception exists for some pharmaceutical inventions.
Obviously the big drug companies are colluding, and agreeing in private not to undercut each other's prices. They all have enormous markups, and all sell for almost exactly the same price per dose. Cialis was discovered in August 1991 by a company named Icos and was later purchased by Eli Lilly. USPTO cites Coca Cola's as the most well-known. Is the staff adequately licensed?
However, patents do not last forever. These are unlike life-saving pharmaceuticals used to cure or manage illness and generally improve health, like cancer or HIV medications. The expiration of a patent creates pricing competition as your invention begins popping up on store shelves everywhere. The articles published express the personal opinion and views of the author and should not be attributed to the author's employer, clients or the sponsors of IPWatchdog.
Design patents expire after 14 years. What happened to capitalism encouraging competition and producing goods more efficiently and cheaply? There are differences between these drugs, though. 30 minutes to 12 hours before activity to last up to 36 hours.


text:
Evanescence's Amy Lee WINS Best Song Award
By John Gatlin Nov 20, 2017
Evanescence frontwoman Amy Lee was the recipient of the Hollywood Music And Media Award for "Best Original Song-Independent Film" for the track "Speak To Me" from the film Voice From the Stone (starring Emilia Clarke).
"I'm so honored and so proud!" says Amy Lee. "The experience of making this song was so special; it was surreal being let into the creative process of a film I loved so much.""As an artist, I look for opportunities that are musically challenging and push creative boundaries in pursuit of something wonderful," adds co-writer Michael Wandmacher. "'Speak To Me'" is the result of such an experience. Working with Amy on this song was a privilege and career highlight. I'm thrilled that people are enjoying it."
See Amy Lee perform the award-winning song "Speak To Me" live with a 28-piece orchestra on the sold out EVANESCENCE 'Synthesis Live' tour


Enjoy the last day of the school holidays at the Berowra Public School Country Fair!
In keeping with the country theme, visitors will experience a live sheep round up, sheep shearing, whip cracking, pony rides, a mechanical bull ride, a mini rodeo and a tractor display.
Ferris wheel, through to thrill seeker rides such as round up, sizzler and a super slide. Also not to be missed, is side show alley, a chocolate wheel and a silent auction.
There will be a range of market stalls on display, including plants, books, toys, jewellery, clothing, and trash and treasure, offering an exciting shopping experience for adults and children alike.
Finally, for those that just to want to relax, you can simply enjoy the all-day entertainment, sample the range of food on offer and enjoy a beverage or two in the sun.
The Berowra Country Fair has something for everyone and provides the perfect opportunity to enjoy quality time with family and friends.
Or fast-track your fun on the day buy your ride tickets online at trybooking.
Unlimited Rides Pass available online now for $26 ($30 on the day).
Share Berowra Public School Country Fair with friends.


text:
Kareem K.W.O.E. Wells
Driven by the greater good and fueled by a love of music, Kareem "K.W.O.E." Wells is an artist, entrepreneur and a motivator. In the past decade, K.W.O.E. has been the force behind redefining bar/bat mitzvah celebrations, creating dozens of jobs, and inspiring thousands of young people to persevere through life's challenges and pursue peace and unity with their peers.
A native of Chicago's West Side, K.W.O.E. is the founder and CEO of FLOW Entertainment, an interactive entertainment company. He also is a recording artist with Level Next Music, an established songwriter and producer with Dupée Productions Music Group (dpmg), and the founder of the K.W.O.E. Hope Foundation.
View His Blog
More about Kareem:
TedxChicago: Get it Every Day
CNN's Great Big Story
The Jam: Real Chicagoans
Lead in Children of Color, award winning short film for best director and best documentary short film, Sól is currently working as lead in pilot for Children of Color, the series and her first album, two independent projects. She is recording with international producers and other students from her school. She writes all her songs, performs all vocals, and does production on her album as well. She has performed as an actor in "A Memory, A Monologue, A Rant, A Prayer" and as a singer with a live band in "She's Powerful."
Winner of Gold and Silver medals in Visual art, Sól modeled for American Girl Magazine and you may recognize her from a commercial for Advocate Healthcare.
View Her Blog
Listen to Sol's Music
Jahkil: Not Average
Jahkil is one very busy 10-year-old. When he isn't hard at work distributing his Blessing Bags to those in need, he can be found doing one of several extra curricular activities. Jahkil is an avid basketball player, is a member of the Stick and Move breakdance team, and also tap dances with Madd Rhythms. The thespian-in-the-making has been featured in the short film Candles, has appeared in a Chuckie Cheese and K-mart commercial, was seen in an episode of Fox Television's Empire, an episode of NBC's Chicago PD and was a member of the Porgy and Bess opera at Chicago's Lyric Opera House.
More about Jahkil:
Project I AM web site
Nike—Until We all Win
Jahkil on Access
Who Is # JahkilJackson ?


text:
Homepage > Katalog > Pädagogik / Erziehungswissenschaften > Heilpädagogik, Sonderpädagogik
An Investigation into How a Student with ASD Could Use Media as a Way to Inform Others about How This Affects His Life
Pädagogik - Heilpädagogik, Sonderpädagogik
Autism spectrum disorder or ASD is an array of psychological conditions featured by abnormalities in socio-communicational and cognitive interactions like avoidance of eye contact, impaired speech, repetitive behavior, etc. In this paper, the case of Daniel, who is a nine years old patient of ASD, will be discussed. The paper entails the option of using media to help him express himself in regards of his disease. Moreover, the special educational intervention techniques are discussed and certain important questions related to the topic are answered. At the end, a suitable conclusion has been rendered.
Daniel is a nine years old boy, who studies in the local special education school. He has been diagnosed with classical autism (a form of ASD) four years back. Daniel continuously has difficulty in making eye contact. According to the University of Wisconsin-Madison, this is a typical autistic behavior. Atypical eating habits are also a prominent symptom as has been pointed out by Filipek and his colleagues (483). Moreover, lack of social and friendly behavior is another side of the problem (Burgess and Gutstein, 80). Daniel does not prefer to be alone but he is unable to make friends. His eating habits are unusual too.
Outline of Support and Related Discussion
Daniel has a number of repetitive and restricted interests and activities, although his learning ability has increased through the last year.
Computer assisted instruction (CAI) has been an excellent support mechanism for last one year. CAI helps in "significant gains in reading, phonological awareness, verbal behavior, and motivation", as has been pointed out by the Committee of Educational Interventions for Children with Autism, National Research Council (US) (63).
In school, he has lessons in SULP (Social Use of Language Problem). It uses a combination of verbal interaction in discussion format and CAI can be embedded by using audio visual media. Moreover, SEAL (Social and Emotional Aspects of Learning) is also being utilized, which is ensuring development of emotional intelligence along with IQ. According to the Committee on Educational Intervention for Children with Autism, use of frequent student to student interaction is particularly helpful in this regard (63).
Further analysis and critique: The educational intervention techniques applied so far have been rather effective. The relation between the measures of instruction and the child's performance is proportional in the sense that the intensive socialization and linguistic intervention approach is helpful in speech and cognitive development. The SULP and SEAL involve choral responding, interaction between students, rotation of materials, and random simulation programs that are effective in teaching language and developing emotional intelligence. Particularly in SEAL, class-wide peer teaching can be helpful to foster friendship among the children and gradually help them to achieve behavioral maturity. Peer tutoring can replace traditional teaching instruction and help to achieve better results. In this context, Weiss and Delmolino further state that these practices can be adopted both at home and at school (104).
Using Media to Help in Explaining ASD
In this section, we will look at the option of using media in the form of a PowerPoint presentation as an effective way to help a pupil explain his ASD to others. Two questions will be discussed in this milieu:
1. What is the rationale of the intervention and how does this fit with current understanding of ASDs?
2. To what extent does the intervention address the needs of the pupil in the areas of communication, social understanding, and flexibility of behavior?
Using PowerPoint:
PowerPoint is a simple MS Office software application that can be taught with relatively less complexity. PowerPoint provides a platform, where text, sound, and graphics can be put at one place. By creating a simple slide show, it can not only help the pupil to explain his/her difficulties through text and speech but also recognize motion, understand graphics, and share thoughts.
The rationale of this intervention is to help the child use IT at a very basic level. This can be particularly helpful to embed CAI in SULP, where the child will express himself/herself to others and share his/her feelings. This can be an interactive form of peer tutoring as well. The technique can assist us in understanding the ASDs by making the patient explain his/her condition from his/her perspective. This sort of educational intervention has clinical-psychological significance too.
Arghya Ray (Autor)
This scholarly essay is actually a case study.
investigation student could media inform others this affects life
Arghya Ray (Autor), 2011, An Investigation into How a Student with ASD Could Use Media as a Way to Inform Others about How This Affects His Life, München, GRIN Verlag, https://www.hausarbeiten.de/document/177183
Rural-urban Junior High School students' attitude to Informatio...
A comparative study
Bibliothekswissenschaften, Information Science
How does Open Innovation in Information Technology affect the Busin...
An inevitable snowball - ef...
Praxisbericht - Jugendamt (ASD)
Praktikumsbericht / -arbeit, 28 Seiten
Wenn Berater sich selbst beraten. Die Bedeutung von Nicht-formalisi...
An Investigation into the Relationship between India and Cows
Applying Beatson's Analytic...
Visualität und Evidenzproduktion in CSI: Crime Scene Investigation
Vom 'Tatort' zur 'Crime Scene Investigation'. Der Fernsehkrimi und ...
Lernzusammenfassung in Stic...
Prüfungsvorbereitung, 3 Seiten
Discourse Interpretation. The Use of Discourse Markers in High Scho...
Didaktik - Englisch - Pädagogik, Sprachwissenschaft
How to be Hornby - Die Struktur der erzählerischen Vermittlung in &...
Verständnis und Antizipation der Work-Life-Balance von Studenten de...
Bachelorarbeit, 100 Seiten
Twitter Kills The Publicity Star? How Social Media is influencing t...
Masterarbeit, 81 Seiten
Affect- und Cognition-Based Trust. Das theoretische Modell des Vert...
BWL - Industriebetriebslehre
Investigation - eine Modifikation der Hot Seat-Methode zur kreative...
Amerikanistik - Sonstiges
Irish unit linked life insurance for use as a tool to protect asset...
Intercultural Communication. How Can Integration Into A New Situati...
Medien / Kommunikation - Interkulturelle Kommunikation
Jugendamt/ASD - Praxissemester II in einem Frauenhaus
The development of Hungary's pension scheme and how it is affected ...
Politik - Internationale Politik - Thema: Globalisierung, pol. Ökonomie
Western Antagonism about Chinas Development - A Case Study on Germa...
Politik - Internationale Politik - Region: Ferner Osten
Der Third Way als Antwort auf gesellschaftliche Veränderungen im V...
Das Irlandbild in John Fords "The Informer"
Autor seit


E tangi ana te marae o Rehua ki ngā mate kua hinga mai ki Waitaha whānui. Nō reira, e ngā mate huhua,haere atu rā ki te kāinga wairua i te rangi. Whakaoti atu. Ngā mihi hoki ki ngā kirimate, kia kaha, kia māia, kia manawanui. Mauri ora ki a tātou.
Huri noa, ki a tātou, nei te whakamiha, nei te mihi kau ki ngā karangatanga maha. Ko te tūmanako ia, e ora ana koutou i te kāinga, i te mahana o tō whare. Mauri ora ki a tātou.
Our marae has been very busy with groups welcomed for day visits, wānanga and marae noho. It's heartening to see Te Whatumanawa Māoritanga o Rehua in such demand and continuing to serve a vital role in the community.
We had a great week of Matariki events in June. Personally the highlight was seeing whānau rally to manaaki our kaumātua at the luncheon. Everyone was well catered for with delicious kai, great service and entertainment. Our kaumātua networks are strong, the kāhui is active and meeting regularly, and our Kaumātua Service day care programme is going from strength to strength offering needed support and regular weekly activities.
Matariki is a time of planning and planting for new growth and the Trustees and staff have been busy over recent months progressing Te Putahinui o Rehua, our marae redevelopment project. The first stage plans will see repairs carried out on the wharenui, a new kitchen, redeveloped dining hall and ablution block. We have made great strides recently with the plans approved, the resource consents process underway and tender process for the building phase well advanced. The marae is in a strong financial position to help fund this work and we are also actively seeking external sources of funding. We are hopeful this work can be completed before March next year.
Over the past year we have been utlising the first tranche of funding secured from the Māori Provider Development Scheme to upgrade our computer and phone systems, support the professional development our workforce and create a three year operational development plan. It is exciting to see these work streams progressing and the benefits flowing on to our staff, manuhiri and the marae as a whole.
In August we moved the Rehua archive materials to the Canterbury Cultural Collections Recovery Centre located at the Wigram Airforce Museum. This now means all our historical documents and photos are in a safe, state of the art temperature controlled environment until such a time as we are able to make our own arrangements to protect them effectively for the long term. We continue to have access to them whenever we need to and can remove them at any time. We owe a huge debt of thanks to Jill Durney and Takerei Norton from Te Rūnanga o Ngāi Tahu for helping secure the archive storage space and to Moya Sherriff and the Recovery Centre staff for making the facility available to us.
On October 20 the board is holding its Annual General Meeting at Rehua. Whānau are most welcome to attend.
This year's Matariki celebrations were a resounding success, with excellent attendance and participation by many from our broad range of communities and organisations.
The Matariki Luncheon held on Wednesday 25 June focused on our kaumātua, with plenty of kai and entertainment. Special thanks to muso "Henare" for his support and waiata and all those who practiced their Māori-oke skills. Everyone also enjoyed an interactive Matariki themed quiz.
On the Thursday Linwood Primary School Kapa Haka performed and we were inspired with an informative presentation on taonga puoro (musical instruments) by Mahina Kaui. Mahina brought more than 20 different taonga puoro with her and the large turnout of children and adults enjoyed the opportunity to touch and use the instruments.
Matariki Whānau Day was held on the Saturday with workshops, kai kourt and market place. Highlights were the mirimiri and romiromi clinic held by Māori healer, Atarangi Muru and supported by local kaimirimiri and whānau.
In August the Kahui Kaumātua held a three day noho marae wānanga. The wānanga was attended by about 20 kaumātua. Kōrero included iwi waiata, tangihanga, karanga and whaikōrero. Regular wānanga will be held over the next year so our kaumātua can kōrero on relevant topics. Ruawhitu Pokaia, the Kahui Kaumātua representative on the board is also working with the kāhui to ultimately develop resources on kawa and tikanga pertinent to Rehua Marae and to look at ways we can grow and support our paepae by mentoring our kaikorero and kaikaranga. Our next wānanga is planned to be held 3, 4, 5 October. If you wish to participate please contact our office 03 355 5615 or Marisa Pokaia 021777094.
This year has seen a resurgence of our service that was established at Rehua in the 1990's. We are grateful to our Kohanga Reo South Island office, for sharing their facility for our Kaumātua Days and activities. Activities include: waiata (Nga mihi ki a Whaea Te Here Tukaki); tai chi; Mahi Toi, Mahi Raranga and guest speakers and presentations. The service has recently established a Kaumātua Komiti with the membership electing four kaumātua to represent them with matters regarding the service, activities and fundraising.
The winter season, has its challenges in maintaining our extensive grounds and gardens to a high standard, we appreciate the support given by community service workers and look forward to planning a working bee sometime in the spring. Watch out for this date and we encourage as many as possible to awhi and tautoko.
We will have the AGM which will include the chair and treasurer's report followed by kai. For catering purposes please RSVP by 13 October to Elena: egapper@rehuamarae.org.nz if you wish to attend.
Date: Every third Sunday of the month.
Followed by a shared kai.


First Energy Solutions recently chose to terminate its contract with NOPEC. NOPEC now is in active discussions with suppliers to provide electricity for customers in our community at a discounted rate.
The City of Beachwood has established a Safe Transaction Zone for conducting legal online purchases.
A sign designates the area located in the Beachwood Police parking lot (2700 Richmond Rd.) This area is under constant video surveillance.
Thanks to City of Beachwood employees for exceeding our annual Harvest for Hunger campaign goal.
This year, we collected $4,385 which is 21% over last year. That's 17,520 meals for people in need.
The City of Beachwood recently conducted a survey of its residents and businesses in preparation for inclusion in its Five Year Master Plan due out in October 2015.
The City of Beachwood is continuing to enhance efforts to keep residents connected and informed through the release of a new mobile app.


Haynes and Boone, LLP's Immigration Practice Group reminds employers with a need for Cap-Subject H-1B petitions – those applications that are subject to the annual numerical limit – that the filing window for Fiscal Year 2016 will open on April 1, 2015. Although an increase in the H-1B Cap was proposed as part of executive action immigration reform, no change has occurred. As such, the number of filed petitions is expected to exceed the Cap once again.
Over the last two years, the Cap has been reached within the first week of the filing period. For Fiscal Year 2015, approximately 172,500 H-1B petitions were filed during the first week and United States Citizenship and Immigration Services ("USCIS") used a computer-generated random selection process. Experts predict that the Cap will again be met in the first week due to the improving economy and increased workforce hiring. Given the recent trend, employers with a need for H-1B workers should contact their attorney as soon as possible to begin preparing these petitions.
The 2016 Fiscal Year runs from October 1, 2015 to September 30, 2016. Employers will be able to submit new H-1B petitions to USCIS beginning April 1, 2015 (six months before the start of the 2016 Fiscal Year) and approved beneficiaries will be able to commence their H-1B employment on October 1, 2015. USCIS will accept only 65,000 regular petitions (including 6,800 set aside for employees from Chile and Singapore) and 20,000 U.S. Master's degree (or higher) petitions. If the Cap is reached in the first few days of April 2015 as it was the last two years, USCIS is expected to institute a random lottery process to allocate the Cap amongst those who filed petitions.
Employers may be exempt from the numerical limit in certain situations. These Cap-Exempt situations include: higher education institutions and related non-profits; non-profit or government research organizations; and beneficiaries who have held H-1B status in the last six years (but have not exhausted their entire six-year period).


text:
Simulation vs. Playability: The Background Discussion for a Blog Series
Over the course of the next few weeks, I will be discussing how some games balance their desire to simulate a certain activity with the need for a game to be playable. Most of the posts will be dealing with role playing games, but I might wander into wargame territory from time to time.
Let us take as a given for the purposes of our discussion that, with the exception of purely abstract games, most games are a simulation of some central conceit.
For example, both Chess and Men of Iron are to one degree or another simulations of medieval warfare. Men of Iron has what Elias, Garfield, and Gutschera (2012) would describe as higher "intensity" of the medieval warfare conceit than Chess, but both do share that central conceit. On the Elias, Garfield, and Gutschera "Scale of Intensity for Conceits," Chess is rated a 3 (Very Light Conceit) while Men of Iron would likely be rated around an 8 (Simulation, but with many sacrifices to gameplay). As a further illustration Tic-Tac-Toe rates a 1 (Purely Abstract) and Squad Leader ranks a 10 (Full-on Simulation). This might make one wonder where Advanced Squad Leader would rank, but I digress.
I understand that there are those who may disagree with the initial premise that "all non-abstract games are a simulation" either as a mere tautology, and others who completely disagree with the premise as an a priori. I believe it will prove useful for the series of discussions I hope to have about role playing games as simulations of the various subjects they address.
The framing of games, and in particular role playing games, as simulations should not be confused with Ron Edwards' GNS (Gamist, Narrativist, and Simulationist) system of game play analysis. As I interpret GNS Theory as a theory of play that can inform design and not a theory of system deconstruction and design. As Ron states in the above linked essay, "These terms, or modes, describe three distinct types of people's decisions and goals during play." These are player goals toward which games may be designed, but in my opinion a "Simulation" is not the same as a "Simulationist" game.
To illustrate, the excellent Narrativist game The Extraordinary Adventures of Baron Munchausen is a simulation of storytelling as the good Baron himself might engage in it. It is not a simulation of the Baron's adventures, though James Wallis considered making a game where players could enact those adventures, it is instead a simulation of storytelling in a particular style. Another example of a game that is a simulation of storytelling is Tales of the Arabian Nights. Both Baron and Arabian Nights simulate the activity of storytelling within their conceits differently, but in the end the game play of both are best described by the stories created within the rules of the game. There is a reason that Wallis calls these kinds of games "Story-Making" games. So it's possible to have simulations of storytelling that results in story-making which in the end results in storytelling when the results with game play are shared.
Okay, enough of the metaphysics of games being simulations. Let's move forward please -- ed.
Games are also about fun, and to be fun games must be playable. This is as true of role playing games as it is for any other kind of game. As Robin Laws says in his masterwork Robin's Laws of Good Game Mastering, "Roleplaying games are entertainment; your goal as GM is to make your games as entertaining as possible for all participants."
The key part of that statement is "as possible for all participants." Because players come to a gaming table with different "ideas of fun" as highlighted in Edwards' GNS theory, roleplaying game design must make decisions between the level of depth of simulation and the playability of the system. Some players find granular verisimilitude and accuracy of representation entertaining. For these players reading Chapter H of the Advanced Squad Leader rulebook is as much fun as actual game play. Other players might enjoy quick systems or systems that foster the creation of narratives.
Historically, one of the conflicts that has resulted from the attempt to design "good" games is a tension between "realism" and "playability." In Issue 8 of MOVES magazine (1973), Victor Madeja argued that "Commercial wargames fail to accurately represent modern war. Although no game will ever recreate the confusion, horror and destruction of war, we should at least expect a wargame to partly simulate the decision-making process involved in actual battle. Instead we have chess-like caricatures of reality. What semblance of realism we were led to expect is sacrificed on the altar of playability" (Emphasis mine). For Victor, there was a clear distinction between realism and playability and he thought that games at the time leaned too much toward playability and not enough toward actual simulation .
You can purchase access to the first 60 issues of MOVES magazine for the very reasonable price of $19.95 at Strategy and Tactics Press.
By Issue 14 of MOVES (1974) John Hill, the eventual designer of SQUAD LEADER, addresses the conflict by stating, "One of the hardest problems facing any war game designer is the careful balancing between playability and realism. Actually, any reasonably competent wargamer could probably design a realistic 'simulation,' but to design a good game is something else. As an example, 1914 was an excellent simulation of corps level fighting of that era, but as a game it was worthless -- it couldn't be played." John Hill would eventually go on to become an advocate of what he called "abstraction." This was a controversial game design philosophy in which the designer cared less about "what actually happened" and more concerned with the "effects" of what happened and how to model those effects. So, for Hill the fact that gunfire affected morale was more important than modelling the specific physical effects of bullet trajectories. Examples of "abstraction" designs in role playing games include D&D's "hit points" and the "effects based design" of CHAMPIONS.
The tension between simulation and realism is one that has been discussed in role playing games since the origin of the hobby. In the Advanced Dungeons and Dragons DUNGEON MASTERS GUIDE, Gary Gygax writes, "Of the two approaches to hobby games today, one is best defined as the realism-simulation school and the other as the game school." -- You can see in this discussion the origins of Edwards' GNS theory. -- "AD&D is assuredly an adherent of the latter school. It does not stress any realism (in the author's opinion an absurd effort at best considering the topic!). It does little to attempt to simulate anything either. ADVANCED DUNGEONS & DRAGONS is first and foremost a game for the fun and enjoyment of those who seek to use imagination and creativity...As a realistic simulation of things from the realm of make-believe, or even as a reflection of medieval or ancient warfare or culture or society, it can be deemed only a dismal failure...Those who...generally believe games should be fun, not work, will hopefully find this system to their taste."
In his paragraph on design intent, excerpted above, Gygax clearly puts himself in the "abstraction" design camp. His discussion of Hit Points in the DMG also makes this clear, whereas those who criticize hit points or how armor "makes it harder to hit and doesn't stop damage" fall more into the simulationist camp. I would like to say that I disagree with Gygax that his game "does little to attempt to simulate anything." I would argue that it is simulating heroic fantasy, but it is doing so from an abstractionist position. It's a small distinction, but not an unnecessary one.
As an aside, most gamers or designers are a combination of abstractionist/simulationist. Ken St. Andre, the designer of one of the most abstractionist rpgs I have ever played, doesn't like armor class systems because they don't simulate what he wants. This is the case even though his TUNNELS & TROLLS combat system sacrifices specificity for playability and speed of play.
When it comes to the tension between "simulation" and "playability" there is not a procedural definition of what is right or wrong. What is right or wrong doesn't even depend on what is being simulated. What determines whether it is better to favor simulation or playability is how that decision works within the rules set and the goals of the game itself. Sometimes it is important that a game be a good simulation of what it is trying to represent. CHAMPIONS is very much an "effects based design" system in character creation, but its combat system simulates the panel to panel flow of comic books extremely well. VILLAINS & VIGILANTES has a random character creation system that favors simulation -- though it also includes GM "rulings over rules" -- over abstraction as it defines specifically what Flame Powers and Ice Powers do and how they work rather than define effects and have you decide what matches what. Both are good games.
In the coming weeks, I'll be looking at some games and how they address the Simulation/Realism vs. Playability/Abstraction conflict. I'll be starting with VILLAINS & VIGILANTES and how it emulates Force Fields and Telekinesis in its simulation of super heroic conflict. While I think that the V&V system overall is quite good, I believe that the designs of these two powers demonstrate good "simulation" on the one hand and "awkward" simulation on the other.
I'd like to leave this conversation with two quotes for Will Hindmarch and Jeff Tidball from their Things we Think About Games.
1) Theme and gameplay are two different things.
2) Balance is not the same thing as fun.
Elias, George Skaff. Garfield, Richard, and Gutschera, K. Robert (2012), Characteristics of Games. Massachusetts Institute of Technology Press.
By Christian Lindke at January 23, 2013
Labels: Champions, DnD, Game Design, Games, Gaming, Moves, Role Playing Games, roleplaying games, Squad Leader, Tunnels and Trolls, Villains and Vigilantes, War Games
Doc Savage said...
Champions and V&V are two fun games!


Step into the 2019 Subaru Ascent. Turbocharger technology provides forced air induction, enhancing performance while preserving fuel economy. Subaru prioritized fit and finish as evidenced by: a trip computer, automatic dimming door mirrors, power front seats, blind spot sensor, an overhead console, a roof rack, and remote keyless entry. Features such as automatic climate control and leather upholstery prove that economical transportation does not need to be sparsely equipped. Rear passengers enjoy the seat heating functionality, keeping them warm during the winter months. Third row seats expand the maximum passenger capacity to 7. Subaru also prioritized safety and security with features such as: dual front impact airbags with occupant sensing airbag, front side impact airbags, traction control, brake assist, a security system, an emergency communication system, and 4 wheel disc brakes with ABS. Sophisticated all wheel drive assures superb handling in any weather condition. We have the vehicle you've been searching for at a price you can afford. Please don't hesitate to give us a call.


This post is written by Owl.
This review is about Lionboy: The Chase, written by Zizou Corder (which is a name used by authors Louisa Young and Isabel Adomakoh Young, whose names were too long to fit on the book). This book continues the trilogy of the catspeaking boy, Charlie (see my review of the first book, Lionboy, here), whose parents get kidnapped. It starts with a micro-version of the last book, explaining briefly what happened before. It was chosen by the Blue Peter Book Club.
The story continues in the Orient Express, where Charlie takes his lions, whom he rescued from a circus, to meet King Boris, the friendly king of Bulgaria, in his carrige. Edward, who worked for King Boris, went to Venice with them. While they were there, Charlie and the lions, with the help of Claudio, the boatman, overthrow the Doge, the evil ruler of Venice, and sail to Morroco, the lions' home. Meanwhile, Charlie's parents (who escaped) head to Morroco too.
This book is excellent, it uses powerful verbs, adverbs and adjectives to make the passages exciting to read. I will give this book a 5/5 rating and I highly recommend it.
This entry was posted in Books, Children's books and tagged books, Lionboy, review, Zizou Corder on October 24, 2014 by Hannah.
Charlie Ashanti is a boy who can speak to cats. When his parents are kidnapped, he goes after them and picks up six circus lions on the way. I think it is very well written. It has believable characters and a good plot. I like the way they included sheet music so you can know how the songs sound. Mummy and I think it deserves a 5/5 rating. The Lionboy story does not end here. It continues in two more books – Lionboy: The Chase, and Lionboy: The Truth. I will review them when I have read them.
I very highly recommend this book.
This entry was posted in Children's books and tagged Lionboy, Zizou Corder on May 3, 2014 by Hannah.


A lifetime of waterfront adventures await with the family-friendly Connect-A-Dock floating dock system. Modular design and rugged construction allow a simple, quick and reliable way to build boat docks, rowing docks, fishing docks, swimming platforms and anything else you can imagine for your home.
A Connect-A-Dock floating dock system will help you create many family memories of safe and enjoyable fun around the water!


text:
Q: Best way to check OleDbConnection state Apparently (MSDN) sometimes OleDbConnection.ResetState() does nothing, so even if the connection fails OleDbConnection.State will still be set to Open. I am looking for best workaround for this, so that when I check connection state I can avoid raising exceptions (as long as connection hasn't failed between the last check and usage attempt).
Is there nothing better than sending a "useless" sql statement each time just to see if an exception is thrown? How do you make sure your connection is open before you actually use it?

A: In your case I would do the following :

*

*Don't bother being sure if the connection is "really" open BEFORE using it : it will be most of the time anyways, and you'll spare a lot of useless roundtrips to the server

*BUT check for any exception each time you use the connection (create helper methods to avoid copy/paste here)

*If you have an exception, then send your "useless" statement to check the database connection "real" state. I would do that because the type of exceptions you can get when the connection to the server is lost can sometimes be quite surprising (depending on what is happening at the time the connection is broken)

Hope this helps.

redpajama_set_name: RedPajamaStackExchange


My dearest daughter, I will never forget the day I nearly lost you. The day you learned the secrets that would tear our lives apart…Time stops for Jen when her beloved daughter, Gracie, is involved in a terrible car crash. Pronounced dead at the scene, it's a miracle when paramedics manage to then resuscitate the little girl.The relief Jen feels at Gracie's recovery is matched only by her fury at the driver of the car – her ex-husband's new girlfriend Ella. Jen has never trusted Ella, and now her worst fears have been confirmed.But then Gracie begins to tell strange stories about what she heard in the car that day, and what she saw in those moments near death. It's clear that there's something shocking hidden in Ella's past… but exposing it could tear all their lives apart.


text:
Jul 17, 2017 No Comments Yet
Micro Brew Walking Tour
Coloradans love their brewskis. And Colorado is the second-largest producer of beer in the country and is ranked third for the number of breweries per capita.
It's all about the water — fresh, clean Rocky Mountain H2O.
Everyone knows that Coors, the largest single brewery in the world, is in Golden. But do you know that more beer is brewed in Denver than in any other American city?
At these small breweries, brew masters start with the finest malts, hops and yeasts, then handcraft them into the freshest of brews — often called "liquid bread" — that are naturally carbonated and preservative-free. Note that a brewpub typically is a
The Wynkoop Brewing Company is Colorado's oldest brewpub.
brewery with a restaurant where the beer comes fresh from the tap and is not bottled there. When a brewery bottles the beer for sales, it's a microbrewery and may or may not have a restaurant.
No need to feel overwhelmed by the number of breweries around. If you want to get started with a few to check off of your list of breweries visited, take a tour. Take a self-guided Micro Brew Walking Tour and get complimentary pints, pitchers or tastings. Below are a few breweries to keep in mind.
Wynkoop Brewing Company, 1634 18th St.
Colorado's oldest brewpub is housed in the historic J.S. Brown Mercantile Building across from Union Station. Denver Mayor John Hickenlooper founded it in 1988, before he became Hizzoner. Now it's one of the largest producing brewpubs in the world. Upstairs, a large billiard room with 22 pool tables adds to the fun, while downstairs in the basement laughs rule at Impulse Theater, the pub's comedy club. Enjoy two complimentary brews from the "Koop's" offerings that include classics like Railyard Ale, Wixa Weiss, Patty's Chile Beer, Quinn's Scottish Ale and Eli's Cream Ale. www.wynkoop.com.
Rock Bottom Brewery, 1001 16th St.
With a prominent spot on the 16th Street Mall, the original Rock Bottom (there are 36 around the country) is hard to miss. Live music groups draw huge crowds at the outdoor cafe during the summer, while the indoor pub with its All-American food menu is a popular gathering place. Brewmaster John McClure offers these beer samplers: Lumpy Dog Light Lager, Buffalo Gold, 16th St. Wheat, Falcon Pale Ale, Red Rocks Red, Molly's Titanic Brown Ale and a rotating tap between porters and stouts. www.rockbottom.com.
Denver Chophouse & Brewery, 1735 19th St.
Though it's part of the Rock Bottom chain, this brewpub feels every bit a part of Denver's past since it's housed in an old office building of the Union Pacific Railroad close to Union Station. Brewmaster Kevin Marley loves to "tinker" with recipes, but sticks with six standards for the tour tastings: Pilsner Lager, Honey Wheat Ale, Pale Ale, Red Ale, Brewer's Marker, Dry Stout. www.chophouse.com.
The brewery that began in the mountain town of Breckenridge opened a second location in LoDo in 1992.
Breckenridge Brewery, 2220 Blake St.
Started in 1990 in the mountain town of Breckenridge, the brewpub opened in LoDo across from Coors Field in 1992. The tour's free flight of tastings highlights its flagship Avalanche Ale as well as Trademark Pale Ale, Oatmeal Stout, Hefe Proper and Vanilla Porter. www.breckbrew.com.
Great Divide Brewing Co, 2201 Arapahoe St.
Stop by the Tap Room at this microbrewery and taste four of its famous brews, which include Samurai, Ridgeline Amber Ale, Denver Pale Ale, Saint Bridget's Porter, Wild Raspberry Ale, Hercules Double IPA and Old Ruffian Barley Wine. The award-winning Great Divide has been in business since 1994. www.greatdivide.com.
If You Go: Visit https://www.denvermicrobrewtour.com/
From the Editors: Please confirm the details before setting out in our great Centennial State.
Answer the Call of the Canyon When You Stay in Idaho Springs
Discovering the Beauty of Picture Rock Trail
Banjo Billy's: Tour Boulder's Brewpubs by Bus Jun 28, 2017
Pacific Mercantile Co.: Downtown Denver's Touch of Asia Mar 02, 2010
Cross Orchards Historic Farm Sep 27, 2017
Manitou Springs, Colorado Sep 18, 2017
Eight Romantic Getaways Aug 21, 2017