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Board index Information & Discussion Published Studies
Myelitis and Borreliosis/Lyme disease
Topics with information and discussion about published studies related to Lyme disease and other tick-borne diseases.
RitaA
Joined: Thu 1 Jul 2010 8:33
Post by RitaA » Mon 3 Sep 2012 8:19
Mov Disord. 1995 Jul;10(4):521-2.
Restless legs syndrome after a borrelia-induced myelitis.
Hemmer B, Riemann D, Glocker FX, Lücking CH, Deuschl G.
Department of Neurology, University of Freiburg, Germany.
[PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]
Lancet. 1996 Aug 31;348(9027):624.
Lyme myelitis mimicking neurological malignancy.
Dryden MS, O'Connell S, Samuel W, Iannotti F.
J Neurol. 2002 Oct;249(10):1472-4.
Acute myelitis in early Borrelia burgdorferi infection.
Lesca G, Deschamps R, Lubetzki C, Levy R, Assous M.
J Spinal Cord Med. 2003 Summer;26(2):168-71.
Transverse myelitis secondary to coexistent Lyme disease and babesiosis.
Oleson CV, Sivalingam JJ, O'Neill BJ, Staas WE Jr.
Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, Thomas Jefferson University Hospital, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA.
To describe transverse myelitis secondary to coexistent Lyme disease and babesiosis.
Case report.
A 74-year-old man presented with rapid onset of weakness, numbness, and tingling in his legs, with symptoms ascending to his hands and forearms within days. He recalled an insect bite to his scapular area 2 weeks earlier.
T2-weighted magnetic resonance imaging demonstrated diffuse hyperintensity from T1 through T12. Western blot and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay identified infection with Borrelia burgdorferi, the spirochete responsible for Lyme disease. Giemsa-stained blood smears identified ring forms later recognized by polymerase chain reaction as Babesia microti, the piroplasm responsible for babesiosis. Initial examination revealed C7 motor and T3 sensory complete tetraplegia, with recovery to T4 paraplegia by 2 months.
The history, physical examination, imaging, and serologic studies were consistent with transverse myelitis related to Lyme disease and babesiosis. The severity and permanence of this patient's deficits were greater than those reported in the majority of previous cases of transverse myelitis due to Lyme disease alone, suggesting a possible role for coinfection with babesiosis.
Eur Neurol. 2004;52(3):186-8. Epub 2004 Nov 2.
Acute transverse myelitis as a main manifestation of early stage II neuroborreliosis in two patients.
Meurs L, Labeye D, Declercq I, Piéret F, Gille M.
Department of Neurology, Clinique Sainte-Elisabeth, Brussels, Belgium.
Rev Neurol (Paris). 2007 Nov;163(11):1039-47.
[Acute myelitis and Lyme disease].
[Article in French]
Blanc F, Froelich S, Vuillemet F, Carré S, Baldauf E, de Martino S, Jaulhac B, Maitrot D, Tranchant C, de Seze J.
Département de Neurologie, Hôpitaux Universitaires de Strasbourg, Strasbourg [France]
Acute myelitis accounts for 4 to 5 percent of all cases of neuroborreliosis. In the literature, simultaneous spinal MRI and cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) investigations are presented for only 8 cases. We describe here 3 cases of acute Lyme myelitis.
In a cohort of 45 patients with neuroborreliosis, diagnosed between January 1998 and January 2005, 3 had acute myelitis. Clinical, biological and radiological data were studied.
CASE REPORTS:
The three patients had motor, sensorial and sphincter involvement. Extra-spinal involvement, such as fever and headache for one, facial nerve palsy for the second and subarachnoid hemorrhage for the third, was also noted. Pleocytosis varied from 10 to 520 white cells per mm3. Lyme serology was positive in CSF for all. Intrathecal anti-Borrelia antibody index was positive or intermediate for all three patients. Spinal cord MRI revealed a large hyperintense zone involving more than 3 vertebral segments. Myelitis was central, posterior or transverse in the axial plane. The clinical course was favorable after a three-week course of appropriate antibiotics.
These 3 cases and the others from the literature show the diversity of the clinical and radiological features of acute myelitis: transverse, central or posterior myelitis. Thus, Lyme serology in CSF in indicated for patients presenting acute myelitis, particularly in endemic areas.
Ger Med Sci. 2008 Jun 10;6:Doc04.
Subacute transverse myelitis with Lyme profile dissociation.
Walid MS, Ajjan M, Ulm AJ.
Medical Center of Central Georgia, Macon, GA, USA.
Transverse myelitis is a very rare neurologic syndrome with an incidence per year of 1-5 per million population. We are presenting an interesting case of subacute transverse myelitis with its MRI (magnetic resonance imaging) and CSF (cerebrospinal fluid) findings.
A 46-year-old African-American woman presented with decreased sensation in the lower extremities which started three weeks ago when she had a 36-hour episode of sore throat. She reported numbness up to the level just below the breasts. Lyme disease antibodies total IgG (immunoglobulin G) and IgM (immunoglobulin M) in the blood was positive. Antinuclear antibody profile was within normal limits. MRI of the cervical spine showed swelling in the lower cervical cord with contrast enhancement. Cerebrospinal fluid was clear with negative Borrelia Burgdorferi IgG and IgM. Herpes simplex, mycoplasma, coxiella, anaplasma, cryptococcus and hepatitis B were all negative. No oligoclonal bands were detected. Quick improvement ensued after she was given IV Ceftriaxone for 7 days. The patient was discharged on the 8(th) day in stable condition. She continued on doxycycline for 21 days.
Transverse myelitis should be included in the differential diagnosis of any patient presenting with acute or subacute myelopathy in association with localized contrast enhancement in the spinal cord especially if flu-like prodromal symptoms were reported. Lyme disease serology is indicated in patients with neurological symptoms keeping in mind that dissociation in Lyme antibody titers between the blood and the CSF is possible.
The full article is available here: http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2703261/
BMJ Case Rep. 2009;2009. pii: bcr07.2008.0527. Epub 2009 Jan 23.
Poliomyelitis-like syndrome with matching magnetic resonance features in a case of Lyme neuroborreliosis.
Charles V, Duprez TP, Kabamba B, Ivanoiu A, Sindic CJ.
Service de Neurologie, Cliniques Universitaires Saint-Luc, Université Catholique de Louvain, Brussels, Belgium.
Lyme disease is a multisystemic disorder caused by an epizootic organism of the spirochete group, called Borrelia burgdorferi (Bb), which is transmitted to humans by ticks of the genus Ixodes. Lyme neuroborreliosis may occur during the early dissemination phase, most often as a painful meningo-radiculitis and very rarely as a radiculo-myelitis, whereas encephalomyelitis is observed in the late phase. We report the case of a patient with an early subacute poliomyelitis-like syndrome closely matching the selective involvement of the anterior horns and roots of the cervical spinal cord seen on magnetic resonance (MR) imaging. This condition improved with appropriate antibiotics.
Recently, eight documented cases of early subacute Bb myelitis have been reported.2 In six of these cases, painful radicular symptoms appeared before spinal cord signs. Most patients exhibited CSF mononuclear pleocytosis and cervical spinal cord lesions on MRI. All but one patient had a favourable outcome with appropriate intravenous antibiotherapy. Absence of encephalitic involvement and cranial nerve palsy, frequent combination with meningoradiculitis and good response to antibiotherapy are key features allowing discrimination between early and late variants of Bb myelitis.
Leptomeningeal enhancement and nerve root enhancement of the cauda equina on post‐contrast T1 weighted MR images have been reported in spinal Lyme neuroborreliosis.4 Enhancement of the cervical nerve roots has also been reported in this condition.5 Concomitant enhancement of the leptomeninges, anterior horns and anterior radicelles of the cervical spine has never been described to date. The close correlation between clinical and MR features was a prominent feature of this clinically and radiologically atypical case of Lyme neuroborreliosis.
Acta Neurol Belg. 2009 Dec;109(4):326-9.
Lyme disease presenting as subacute transverse myelitis.
Koc F, Bozdemir H, Pekoz T, Aksu HS, Ozcan S, Kurdak H.
Department of Neurology, Cukurova University School of Medicine, Adana, Turkey.
Lyme disease (borreliosis) is a systemic illness resulting from infection with the spirochete Borrelia burgdorferi. It is transmitted to humans by the bites of infected ticks belonging to several species of the genus Ixodes. After the bacteria enter the body via the dermis, most patients develop the early, localised form of Lyme disease, which is characterised by erythema migrans and influenza-like symptoms. This disease may also affect the heart, nervous system and joints. The neurological findings of this disease may include peripheral and central nervous system signs. A 21-year-old woman attended a family medicine outpatient clinic complaining of unexplained pain and muscle power loss in her lower extremities. The problem had started in her right leg 3 months earlier and worsened in the last week. She had a neurology consultation and was hospitalised. Her neurological examination revealed bilateral facial paralysis and sensory impairment. Immunoglobulin M antibody to B. burgdorferi was positive on Western blotting in both serum and cerebrospinal fluid. The patient was diagnosed with subacute neuroborreliosis and treated.
Infection. 2010 Oct;38(5):413-6. Epub 2010 May 27.
Acute transverse myelitis in Lyme neuroborreliosis.
Bigi S, Aebi C, Nauer C, Bigler S, Steinlin M.
Neuropaediatrics, Department of Paediatrics, University Children's Hospital, Inselspital, Bern, Switzerland.
Acute transverse myelitis (ATM) is a rare disorder (1-8 new cases per million of population per year), with 20% of all cases occurring in patients younger than 18 years of age. Diagnosis requires clinical symptoms and evidence of inflammation within the spinal cord (cerebrospinal fluid and/or magnetic resonance imaging). ATM due to neuroborreliosis typically presents with impressive clinical manifestations.
CASE PRESENTATION:
Here we present a case of Lyme neuroborreliosis-associated ATM with severe MRI and CSF findings, but surprisingly few clinical manifestations and late conversion of the immunoglobulin G CSF/blood index of Borrelia burgdorferi sensu lato.
Clinical symptoms and signs of neuroborrelial ATM may be minimal, even in cases with severe involvement of the spine, as shown by imaging studies. The CSF/blood index can be negative in the early stages and does not exclude Lyme neuroborreliosis; if there is strong clinical suspicion of Lyme neuroborreliosis, appropriate treatment should be started and the CSF/blood index repeated to confirm the diagnosis.
Here's a description of transverse myelitis:
http://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/healthli ... is_134,24/
Transverse Myelitis
Transverse myelitis is a neurological condition that happens when both sides of the same section of the spinal cord become inflamed. This inflammation can damage myelin, the fatty substance that covers your nerves. Loss of myelin often leads to spinal cord scarring that blocks nerve impulses and results in physical problems.
Transverse myelitis is a relatively rare disease. It occurs most often in children ages 10 to 19 and in adults ages 30 to 39, but it can happen at any age.
Experts don't know the exact cause of transverse myelitis. The inflammation that leads to transverse myelitis can result as a side effect of a number of other conditions, including:
• Lyme disease
• Syphilis
• Measles
• Viral infections
• Bacterial infections
Some people may also get transverse myelitis as a result of spinal injuries, spinal malformations, or vascular diseases like atherosclerosis, all of which can reduce the amount of oxygen in spinal cord tissue. If parts of the spinal cord don't have enough oxygen, nerve cells often begin to die. The dying tissue can cause the inflammation that leads to transverse myelitis.
Transverse myelitis can also be a warning sign of multiple sclerosis, but this is a rare occurrence. Since some people with transverse myelitis have autoimmune diseases such as lupus, some doctors believe that transerve myelitis may also be an autoimmune disease. Finally, some cancers can trigger an immune response that leads to transverse myelitis.
The physical symptoms of transverse myelitis can develop over several hours or days, or over a longer period of one to two weeks. These are possible symptoms:
• Back or neck pain
• Weakness in arms or legs
• Abnormal feelings in the legs, such as burning, tingling, or pricking
• Loss of bladder or bowel control
• Heightened sensitivity to touch
The location on the body of these symptoms depends on what part of the spinal cord is inflamed. People with inflammation in the neck typically feel symptoms from the neck down, while inflammation in the middle of the spine can cause symptoms from the waist down.
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Download "PicShare: A Capture-Centric Remote Collaboration Tool"
1 PicShare: A Capture-Centric Remote Collaboration Tool Maurizio Pilu Hardcopy Technology Laboratory HP Laboratories Bristol HPL (R.1) May 31, 2007* remote collaboration, casual capture, imaging, scanners Sharing images or documents is a natural activity between people both at work and in their social life. Sharing between remotely-located people is now possible through one of the many remote collaborations tools available on the market. However, none of them was particularly designed with image sharing in mind. This short technical report describes the principles of a prototype remote collaboration application we developed called PicShare that is tailored to sharing and discussing captured images of any kind. The concept of PicShare was developed to systematically satisfy some basic user needs when sharing material captured with a scanner or a digital camera. These needs are seamless integration with a capture device, a collaboration session encompassing a set of images, the selection images and their views and pointing, all without appreciable delay and assured consistency between the local and remote views. PicShare addresses all these issues in a single integrated solution that runs on the top of the ubiquitous NetMeeting videoconferencing application. Observation of PicShare usage by a small number of early users showed that their experience was greatly enhanced when compared to that with existing general purpose application-sharing tools. The integration of PicShare with a prototype desktop face-up scanner and its 2-seconds capture-to-share time has also stimulated thinking of the device itself as a remote collaboration tool, for instance through hand-written sketches or 3D objects that are captured and shared and discussed synchronously. * Internal Accession Date Only Approved for External Publication Copyright 2007 Hewlett-Packard Development Company, L.P.


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RightNow Seeks Its Own CRM Niche
The online software vendor hopes to piggyback on SalesForce.com's IPO, but it isn't a copycat.
Ronna Abramson
Riding the coattails of media-hound
, fellow customer relationship management (CRM) software vendor
RightNow Technologies
filed for an initial public offering this week. RightNow is hoping to raise about $60 million primarily for working capital but has not yet disclosed a price or share count.
Like Salesforce, RightNow provides software on demand -- software delivered via the Internet as a hosted service -- and stands to gain from the growing desire of companies to contract out their software and avoid complicated installations. But while Salesforce specializes in software that automates sales and marketing processes, RightNow focuses on applications for customer service and call centers -- and consequently it is poised to gain from the offshore outsourcing boom.
RightNow's recent S1 filing with the
actually marks its second attempt to go public. The first came in April 2000, but RightNow dropped that effort in November 2000 as investor ardor for IPOs and all things tech was rapidly cooling. (Credit Suisse First Boston was lead underwriter on the would-be offering in 2000; Morgan Stanley and San Francisco-based Thomas Weisel Partners are co-leads for the current offering.)
"It's good that the four years have passed because they have been able to stay alive and still effectuate this business plan," said David Menlow, president of IPOfinancial.com. "There will be some eager participants to get involved in this deal."
Indeed, after pulling its original IPO attempt, RightNow continued to post higher sales, reaching 25 consecutive quarters of sequential revenue growth and eight consecutive quarters of positive cash flow from operations in March.
Investors should especially like the fact that RightNow's bottom line edged into the black for the first time in March, when it posted a $76,000 quarterly profit on $12.9 million in revenue. That represented a 65% jump in revenue from the same period a year ago and considerable improvement over the company's biggest loss -- of $19.6 million -- in 2000.
"This
on-demand model has really caught on," said RightNow CEO Greg Gianforte, who started the company in 1997 out of a spare bedroom in his Bozeman, Mont., home. "It eliminates the headaches and the costs associated with the infrastructure of enterprise software."
Menlow dubbed RightNow's consistent revenue growth "very nice," albeit not necessarily as steep as the growth rates seen during the height of the dot-com boom. But in stark contrast to some companies of that bygone era, RightNow may be on the road to its first profitable year. "This is a positive and reassuring step for investors," he said, while acknowledging that a whole year of profits already on the books would be even stronger.
In 2003, RightNow lost $4.1 million on revenue of $35.9 million, compared with a $2.8 million loss on $26.9 million in revenue in 2002. (By comparison, Salesforce earned $3.5 million on $96 million in revenue in its fiscal year ending Jan. 31, 2004, after losing $9.7 million on $51 million in revenue in fiscal 2003.)
Gianforte declined to comment on the offering or whether RightNow's first profitable quarter prompted the company to revisit its IPO aspirations. With only $8.4 million in cash, $1 million in long-term debt and a $44.4 million accumulated deficit, RightNow could certainly use a stronger balance sheet, especially considering it's competing against the world's largest software vendors, including
(MSFT) - Get Report
(SAP) - Get Report
(ORCL) - Get Report
(PSFT)
Siebel Systems
(SEBL)
Of those, however, only Siebel has made an aggressive, high-profile move into the hosted CRM space, a move prompted in part by a decline in ordinary software sales amid competition from Salesforce.com.
RightNow, of course, is still a fraction of the size of Salesforce.com. But as another company offering software on-demand, RightNow still could benefit if Salesforce's IPO makes a splash, much in the same way pundits have speculated Google's higher-profile IPO could benefit Salesforce's offering.
If that chain of events unfolds, the time may indeed be right for RightNow.

redpajama_set_name: RedPajamaCommonCrawl


Users can experience a variety of activities in VR, from walking down stairs to driving a car with two prosthetic legs.
The initial MIGO 360-degree immersive video experience offers users an opportunity to have a first-person point-of-view interaction with a fellow amputee. Image courtesy of Hanger Inc.
Hanger Inc. is transforming the patient experience for people with limb loss and limb difference with the launch of MIGO, a first-of-its-kind virtual reality (VR) experience.
"As America's industry leader in prosthetic care, we're dedicated to investing in new technology to support those we serve," stated Hanger Inc. president and CEO Vinit Asar. "Producing this VR experience to further empower the limb loss and limb difference community is an example of our commitment to fulfilling the triple aim of healthcare, which equates to exceptional patient care and experience."
The initial MIGO 360-degree immersive video experience offers users an opportunity to have a first-person point-of-view interaction with a fellow amputee. Users are able to experience a variety of activities, from walking down stairs and driving a car with two prosthetic legs, to cutting food with a prosthetic arm.
"Losing a limb can be highly traumatic, often compared to losing a loved one," stated Kevin Carroll, MS, CP, FAAOP(D), vice president of prosthetics for Hanger Clinic, Hanger's patient care subsidiary. "I'm thrilled we're now able to offer this new avenue for providing hope and inspiration, showing those with limb loss and limb difference what is truly possible with hard work, dedication, and the appropriate prosthetic devices."
The initial rollout of MIGO VR took place in mid-April at Hanger Clinic's 2018 Bilateral Above-Knee Amputee (BAKA) Bootcamp. Nearly 60 attendees simultaneously used the technology, immersing themselves in a virtual one-on-one peer mentorship experience and viewing what it's like to be independent with prosthetic technology. A number of attendees were using wheelchairs and in the early stages of learning to walk with prostheses, so it was an impactful opportunity, as they had the chance to explore a more mobile future.
"I was amazed by this experience," shared Yvonne Llanes, a BAKA Bootcamp attendee. "The word 'hope' came to my mind. This experience provides so much hope for those individuals with recent limb loss, and shows that anything is possible."
Feedback from the initial rollout will be used during the development of a full-length MIGO VR experience that will feature a variety of prosthetic users of various ages and amputation levels performing a number of different activities. The extended Hanger Clinic MIGO VR experience is slated to rollout nationwide summer 2018.


Facilitator: Geraldine King, NVision Insight Group Inc.
Hear from federal government representatives on how CBWM is being supported. Identifying the decisions, priorities, and broad strokes of what governments are already doing to support CBWM through programs, funding streams, and relationships. How do governments see the growth and potential of what CBWM could be nationally? How do they use data in decision-making?
Hear about Indigenous-led water monitoring programs. Why is water monitoring important in different contexts? What does it take to set up a monitoring program? And how does this help exercise inherent water rights and associated responsibilities?
What can we learn from the CBWM movement south of the border? Hear how CBWM in the US has taken shape. Jeff brings 30 plus years of experience creating federal-level supports and funding models, resulting in program longevity and ensuring CBWM data can feed into local, statewide and national assessments. Jeff can speak to challenges and lessons learned in standardization of protocols to the development of sustainable funding models, among many other topics.
What are the most promising existing and emerging opportunities for CBWM to meaningfully inform decisions under federal laws and policies that impact freshwater? What decisions under what laws and policies? How can CBWM support implementation of proposed updates to federal environmental laws (i.e., Fisheries Act, Navigation Protection Act, Impact Assessment legislation)?
Across the country, we have some incredible monitoring programs and some not so good programs and everything in between. Can we better integrate and coordinate? How can we better coordinate for better local monitoring coverage and better local to national integration? Can we build CBWM momentum by speaking the same language for watershed health comparisons across the country.? Can we build in political buffers with an integrated approach?
Learn about diverse community concerns driving water and climate monitoring in the Mackenzie River Basin. How are different indicators selected? How does monitoring relate to unique water management and governance systems in the Basin?
Indigenous knowledge and ways of knowing is relatively new to academic discourse but ancient in practice. Our project Indigenous Water quality tools implements applies IK and TEK in ecosystem and human health to develop tools such as digital storytelling, place name heritage mapping of waterways, and co-created sensors with real time apps in the Mohawk language while building capacity in Indigenous communities to manage, govern and sustain water security.
What changes should we expect to see in the use of IK/TK with the new federal environmental impact assessment regime? What can southern Canada learn from best practices in the territorial north?
4:00 p.m. Plan for Next Day – What should people be thinking about?


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Iran General NewsIran Portrays Itself as Reasonable, but Why Does It...
Iran Portrays Itself as Reasonable, but Why Does It Continue to Falsely Imprison Foreign Nationals?
London, 13 Dec – Iranian foreign minister Mohammad Javad Zarif wrote an op-ed for the New York Times earlier this month, arguing that Europe should work with Iran or else.
In it he claimed that Iran was a reasonable and peaceful state- despite much evidence to the contrary- and that if Europe didn't work with Iran, then it may endanger peace in the Middle East or risk the 2015 nuclear deal.
There are many people who have rebutted Zarif's claims of the Iranian Government as peaceful, including, ironically, Zarif himself when he threatened Europe over their continued relationship but there are those who know exactly the threat that Iran poses to the citizens of foreign powers who don't do as the Government wants.
I'm talking about those who have had loved ones kidnapped and held hostage by Iran. Two of those people wrote to the NYT in response to Zarif's op-ed; Hua Qu, a Beijing wife and mother, and Sarah Levinson Moriarty, an American daughter.
Qu is married to Princeton doctoral student and American citizen Xiyue Wang, who has been convicted of spying in Iran for the US and sentenced to 10 years' imprisonment.
Wang was doing research- with permission from the Government- into Iran at the turn of the 20th century (i.e. before any of the mullahs were even born and long before the 1979 takeover) but was abruptly taken into custody.
Qu wrote: "Now we live in a Kafkaesque nightmare. It's like getting a terminal cancer diagnosis: in five minutes, everything changes, and over time, you become unwillingly expert in obscure procedures and tests. I have learned more about Iranian politics than I ever wanted to know, and I read about nuclear negotiations as if my happiness were at stake, because it is. For Xiyue, it's much worse."
She explains that Wang is subjected to "calculated cruelty" from the Government, deprived of warm clothing (which makes him constantly cold), a chair to sit on (which aggravates- and possibly caused- his arthritis), and even basic health care (which has caused his teeth to decay). It is not just the authorities that target Wang but also his fellow inmates (including a member of the Taliban).
Qu wrote: "I try to keep his spirits up, but it is hard when neither of us knows how much real hope there is. Once, in a despairing moment, my husband attempted suicide."
She speaks of Shaofan, the 4-year-old son that she has with Wang who she fears is beginning to forget his father after nearly two years apart.
She criticised Zarif's portrayal of Iran, explaining that this is not the Iranian Government that she has become accustomed to.
Qu wrote: "I want very much to believe him, but actions speak louder than words… I want to believe that there is no intent to hold our lives hostage because it confers political leverage. Xiyue is just a student, a nobody; only his citizenship made him a valuable target."
She advises that if Zarif wants others to see Iran as respectable, they should start by freeing the falsely imprisoned, including her husband.
Of course, Wang is not the only foreign or dual national imprisoned in Iran on bogus charges. Some estimates put the number as high as 50, including Nazanin Zaghari-Ratcliffe, the British charity worker accused of trying to overthrow the Government.
Then there is the case of ex-CIA agent Bob Levinson, who has been 'missing' in Iran for over a decade now. His family believe that he too has been taken hostage by the Iranian Government.
Levinson Moriarty could not believe that a country that would not even resolve her father's case would speak of its peaceful nature.
She wrote: "No country should even consider cooperating with Iran until it honours its own promise to cooperate with the United States on Bob Levinson. Talk is cheap. It is time that Iran take its own meaningful first step to peace by finally sending our beloved father home to us."
Simply, Europe should not work with the Iranian Government. It only emboldens them.
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Iran General News October 27, 2013
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Jackson is 35 miles south of us and has several grocery stores. At the south end of Teton Park or north on the way to Yellowstone Park are two small, well-stocked grocery stores. A mile from the cabins is a small convenience store. There are charcoal grills & picnic tables if you enjoy outdoor cooking. If vacation means a break out of the kitchen, we have a nice variety of food services close by. There are two small country style cafes within three miles of us. Twelve miles away are two restaurants with fine dining & nice grills. Eighteen miles is a wonderful pizza place. There is also a nice covered wagon cookout 8 miles from the cabins. As well as an evening out with good food & great views we always enjoy the drive and it's a great chance for wildlife viewing.
The Jackson Airport JAC 307/733-7682, has service with American Airlines, Delta and United. Some of our guests will fly into Salt Lake City and rent a car and drive on up which is about a 5 to 6 hour drive.
Dollar 877/222-7736 or 307/733-9224 also has car rental located in Jackson and they shuttle to the airport.
For people traveling to both Yellowstone and Grand Teton national parks, a combined seven day entrance pass may only be purchased at park entrance stations. Cost is $50.00 for private, non-commercial vehicle, $40 for a motorcycle and $20/person for people traveling by foot, bicycle, ski, etc.


WATCH: CAMILA CABELLO Talks About Hearing FIFTH HARMONY's First Single Without Her - MYX | YOUR CHOICE. YOUR MUSIC.
During a recent interview with AMP Radio, singer Camila Cabello was asked if she's "Down" with Fifth Harmony's newest single without her in it.
"I've heard some snippets of it. I haven't had the chance to hear the whole thing, but I thought it was pretty cool," replied the former member. "I wish the best for them and I'm sure they're gonna kill it. And I'm super happy making my music...so it doesn't feel weird. It feels natural."
The "Ain't No Crying In The Club" singer also spoke about her dramatic departure from the girl group last December 2016 and if she had any regrets with her decision, "Obviously I wish it wouldn't have been like that because I just, you know, peace", she explained. "I wish the best for them and I'm sure they're going to kill it and I'm super happy making my own music".
What are your reactions with Camila's interview about Fifth Harmony? Tell us in the comments!


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Hierarchy of UOC (MP) launches targeted campaign against Tomos | 12 July 2019, 14:48 | Moscow Patriarchy |
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8 July 2019, 11:32 | Interview | |
Orthodox Church of Ukraine undergoing a catharsis – Cyril Hovorun
Euromaidan Press talked to Archimandrite Cyril Hovorun, PhD, Senior Lecturer at Stockholm School of Theology, former Chairman of the Department for External Church Relations of the UOC MP (pictured on the left), to understand how the OCU has been developing the last half a year and what impact Filaret's actions could possibly have.
28 June 2019, 08:00 | Interview | |
A patriarchate for the UGCC is not only a title. Above all, it's a way of existing, — His Beatitude Sviatoslav
Recently, there was information that Pope Francis is preparing a surprise for the Ukrainian Greek-Catholic Church. The pontiff wants to meet with the UGCC leadership to discuss a number of themes in ecclesiastical and social life. According to the Head of the UGCC, His Beatitude Sviatoslav (Shevchuk), whom RISU had the opportunity to interview, such a meeting is truly very important.
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Dr George Weigel's Presentation during Heart to Heart 2019 in Philadelphia
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22 November 2018, 14:51 | Religious studies |
Moscow's canonical raiding
In the context of recent events in the Orthodox world, disputes over the boundaries of church institutions often arise between the Patriarchate of Constantinople, Kyiv and Moscow. Ukraine accuses Russia of misappropriating the territory of the Kyiv Metropolis. In its turn, Moscow appeals to the fact that the ancient Kyiv Metropolis differs from the territory of modern Ukraine. RISU decided to clarify this topic, getting advice from historians. Based on this research, we prepared an infographic.
25 September 2018, 14:21 | Religious studies |
A Different Approach to the Ecclesiastical Discussion about Ukraine
The first question that arises concerning Ukraine is this: with what right and based on which holy canons, does Russia today claim the ecclesiastical and administrative dependency of the Metropolis of Kyiv?
Andrew Sorokowski
Viktor Yelenskyj
Michael Cherenkov
Kateryna Shchotkina
Oleksandr Zaiets
Tetiana Derkach
Volodymyr Moroz
Aleksander Sagan
Maksym Vasin
Myroslav Marynovych
Yurij Chornomorets
Marianna Karapinka
Liudmila Fylypovych
Michael Yakubovich
Hennadij Druzenko
Yurij Reshetnikov
Anatoliy Babynskyy
Oleh Havrysh
Kateryna Labinska
Alla Boyko
The Zaborovsky code
17 November 2017, 17:47 | Kaleidoscope-digest | 0 | | Code for Blog | |
Maria Chadiuk
9 November 2017 The Day
Every day, thousands of people admire the Lavra and Sophia bell towers, the St. Andrew's Church which rise up on the right bank of the Dnieper. However, the name of the person thanks to whom these and other hallmarks of Kyiv exist, I mean Metropolitan Raphael Zaborovsky, is not mentioned that often.
HISTORY OF OUR SPIRITUALITY
Metropolitan of Kyiv, Halych, and All of Little Russia Raphael Zaborovsky died on October 22, 270 years ago. To mark that date, the National Sanctuary Sophia of Kyiv hosted an exhibition called "MIRA RES..." (Latin for Miracles). One of its key tasks, according to the sanctuary's director-general Nelia Kukovalska, is to provide a reminder of the history of our spirituality.
"The question of choosing a name for the exhibition reflected how we commemorate Zaborovsky in general. When we proposed to name it 'MIRA RES...', the counterargument was that people would not understand what the exhibition is about. However, were one to inscribe on a poster 'The exhibition is dedicated to the memory of Raphael Zaborovsky' and go to Sofiiska Square, no more than one individual, perhaps, will answer who he was. And they will be an employee of the sanctuary who went out to have a coffee," said Ihor Netudykhatkin, a researcher at the Sophia of Kyiv.
However, this was not always the case. In the metropolitan's lifetime, the school which he helped decided to change the name to the Mohyla-Zaborovsky Academy. And the time when he was the metropolitan is sometimes called "the age of Zaborovsky Baroque."
"PUZZLES" THAT RESTORE MEMORY
At the exhibition, one can see the models of the Zaborovsky Gate and the Old Academic Building, them being only a few of the large number of buildings the construction of which involved the metropolitan. Also, the Metropolitan Mansion itself, in which the exhibition is held, was completed during Zaborovsky's reign. In addition, the exhibition has put on display a lot of icons.
According to Netudykhatkin, such love of architecture and iconography was not accidental for Zaborovsky. He says the metropolitan also dabbled in these arts. As the proof of this, he cited Empress Anna of Russia presenting Zaborovsky with an architect's toolset in 1739.
The photo of the Sophia iconostasis, which is displayed at the exhibition, points to another fact from the metropolitan's biography. He often spent his own money in support of the Orthodox Church in general and Sophia of Kyiv in particular. It was his money, for example, that funded the Church of St. Volodymyr in the capital's Shuliavka neighborhood.
One of the most notable exhibits is an 18th-century ship model. Its maker Vadym Hoshko, a representative of the Federation of Ship-Modeling and Ship-Modeling Sports of Ukraine, won 14 medals for his work. This item hints at an interesting period in the life of the metropolitan, when he served as the Ober-Hieromonk of the Imperial Russian Navy.
However, the most important items are in the next room. These are the elements of the metropolitan's liturgical vestments (miter, omophorion, cuffs), which were discovered by archaeologists as they opened his tomb at St. Sophia Cathedral in 1936. By the way, the cuffs have recently been restored, as have the heads of angels from the burial place of Zaborovsky, which can also be seen at the exhibition.
"A TRUE LIGHT"
As the organizers of the exhibition noted, the name "MIRA RES..." not only repeats the words of Metropolitan Serapion Aleksandrovsky, said when he showed the incorrupt relics of Zaborovsky to the faithful. The activities of the metropolitan were also miracles.
What prompted a man who could Polonize himself and have a career in the Polish-Lithuanian Commonwealth (his native Right-Bank Ukraine was then part of it) to make his way to Kyiv? After all, then the city belonged to another state. Zaborovsky had a fantastic career in the Russian Empire: he became the Ober-Hieromonk of the Russian Imperial Navy in 1723, and Bishop of Pskov and Narva in 1725. Nevertheless, he still cared about the interests of his native land, protecting the existence of the Kyivan Metropolitanate and hindering the Holy Synod's plans to subordinate the Kyiv Mohyla Academy to itself.
Zaborovsky introduced clear rules not only in church affairs (for example, he forbade priests to let wealthy laymen into the altar), but also in that of the academy, having composed the Academic Rules for Teachers and Students. Under his management, the number of students at the academy doubled, and the city's architecture was on a rise.
Therefore, all the fields that the metropolitan got involved with experienced a renewal and received an impetus for development. We feel the spiritual pulse of this impetus even today, when, for example, we visit the Sophia of Kyiv. According to Kukovalska, it is hard to speak about the sanctuary without mentioning the name of Zaborovsky.
Therefore, the exhibition "MIRA RES..." is, as director of the Spiritual treasures of Ukraine Museum Ihor Ponamarchuk emphasized, "the first step towards the atonement for our sins, including the fact that we do not remember our heroes." He also added: "A person does well in the other world as long as we remember them here, commemorate, thank them for being the people they were."
In the 18th century, a prefect of the Mohyla Academy called Zaborovsky "a true light." Olha Zarytska, who works for the His Beatitude Metropolitan Volodymyr Memorial Foundation, recalls the words of the Gospel of Matthew that a candle should not be put under a bushel, as it should be put on a candlestick and give light unto people.
"The true light" has been carrying out its mission for a long time. The task of our generation is to create a "candlestick" that will make the knowledge about the metropolitan accessible to the majority. This task is being implemented by the exhibition "MIRA RES..." which will be held at the Sophia of Kyiv until January 24.
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Pope and UGCC leaders discuss current church mission in war-torn Ukraine and in communities throughout the world | 15 July 2019, 14:06 | Monitoring
When Russia invaded Ukraine, the countries' rabbis also went to war | 12 July 2019, 15:19 | Monitoring
Russia uses threats & intimidation to drive Crimean Tatar language out of schools in occupied Crimea | 9 July 2019, 11:16 | Monitoring
barni | 13 July 2019, 22:55
bopa | 13 July 2019, 22:09
З еклезіальної позиції допис викликає почуття нерівноважності через нагадування про УПЦ МП і замовчування про УАПЦ. У вибраному автором стилі, доцільно було б вживати РПЦ в Україні. Проте враховуючи
Молоді ієрархи (до 50-ти років), завдякуючи діям м. Філарета, переживають складний процес християнського самоусвідомлення. Православний світ уважно слідкує за подіями у християнському житті в
Хіба не сказано "суд вирішує питання про наявність правових підстав"? Для чого ще щось дписувати на сторінках релігійного видання?
enzian | 13 July 2019, 18:24
Між іншим, сумління мучить усіх порядних людей.
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RISU is a project of the Institute of Religion and Society
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Politics of disease during the Aids crisis
Tim Murphy's Christodora uses the story of a real-life building to house a readable sweeping saga.
By Robert WiersemaSpecial to the Star
Sun., Aug. 14, 2016timer3 min. read
updateArticle was updated Aug. 16, 2016
Christodora, the breathtaking new novel from Brooklyn writer Tim Murphy, is an exploration of the politics of the AIDS crisis and of those who fought both the politics and the disease. It is also, being a New York novel, about real estate, shifting values, of the rise and fall of cultures and neighbourhoods.
It begins, somewhat prosaically, with the history of a real apartment building.
Christodora House was built in the East Village in 1928, "an edifice that loomed over Tompkins Square Park and the surrounding blocks of humble tenements" serving as a settlement house for immigrants, particularly eastern European Jews. As the neighbourhood, changed the building fell into ill repair and was eventually taken over by the city; it was then sold it for $60,000. It became an early condo conversion in the mid-1980s, one of the first signs of the gentrification of the area.
In most books, that sort of scene-setting — a compressed blast of information over the first three pages — would be an imposition many readers might not bother to push past. In Christodora, though, it not only works — it's written with a wry wit that overcomes the dryness of the material — but is vital for establishing the terms of the novel, including the interplay between historical locations and events and fictional characters and situations. It incorporates pivotal events (including the Tompkins Square Park Riots of 1988 and the 1996 Vancouver AIDS Conference).
In the novel, Steven Traum was one of those who bought in early: "for the trifling sum of $90,000, (he) purchased a two-bedroom, 1,400-square-foot corner unit on the sixth floor," using the space for work and as a downtown crash pad for his son Jared during school breaks and vacations.
The offhand way Jared, one of the novel's main characters, is introduced, as peripheral to his father, is the guiding mechanism within a novel that sprawls over more than five decades, with nearly a dozen major characters, organized emotionally rather than in a straightforward narrative manner.
For example, we first meet Hector as a resident in the Christodora in the summer of 2001, when his dog attacks Mateo, Jared and Milly's adopted son. At this point, Hector is a drug addict and suspected of turning tricks to pay his expenses. The novel soon shifts back twenty years, however, and introduces readers to Hector as a young idealist, an intern working for Milly's mother in the health department in the early days of the AIDS epidemic. That interplay, between who Hector is now and who he was then, the shadow of the past haunting the present, repeats throughout the book with the other characters.
By shifting back and forth through time and between its main characters, Murphy (a prize-winning journalist who has been reporting on AIDS/HIV for more than two decades) is able to transcend rote narrative in favour of something more powerful.
Readerly expectations are confounded at every turn. We don't follow the disintegration of Jared and Milly's marriage, for example: we see them first as a happily married couple, then as young lovers, then as anguished parents, driven to strife and suspicion. It's an impressionistic approach to storytelling, one where we are caught up in the fine details, but when we step back and look at the novel as a whole, we see that Murphy has created a sprawling, intimate historical novel.
It is a powerful and rewarding reading experience. Stylistically challenging, emotionally devastating (both positive and negative), realistic (even when it shifts into an imagined future) and impassioned, it is one of the finest novels we are likely to encounter this year.
Robert Wiersema's latest book is Black Feathers.


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text:
Anonymous donor pledges £40,000 to help fund Northern Ireland teenager's 'life-changing' surgery
"Thank you from the bottom of our hearts."
Shaun KeenanDerry reporter
Mum Brenda Scott and Emily
An anonymous donor has given thousands of pounds towards a young teenager's potentially life-changing surgery.
Emily Scott, 12, who was diagnosed with scoliosis in March suffers from a 50 degree curve in her spine
On Monday, Belfast Live reported how Emily's mum Brenda had started a fundraising campaign in a bid to transform her daughter's life.
Brenda, who is from Carrickfergus, said the donor had paid £40,000 directly to the family after seeing Emily's story in the news.
The operation, which is performed in Istanbul, costs more than £45,000 and the youngster will also need aftercare.
Brenda previously told Belfast Live that the family's biggest fear was that the curve continued to get worse before they could avail of surgery.
Virtual marathon helps raise £40,000 for cancer charity
Charity shop hidden gem reunites Co Tyrone woman with dress she lost 12 years ago
She said: "She seems to be progressing at quite a rapid rate, which is a massive worry for me as her mother.
"She just wants to go back to a normal life and she can't have that at the moment.
"If the curve continues to turn then eventually any damage to her organs will be irreversible. Getting the surgery would change all of our lives."
Emily's spine curved 10 degrees in four months - from 40 degrees in March to 50 degrees in July
Revealing the news on Tuesday night, Brenda said the donation meant the family could now focus on prepping Emily for the operation.
She added: "We can not thank the donor enough and we are now in plans with the surgeon in Turkey to organise a date and final costs.
"We will be continuing with the fundraising and all donations will be accepted and all planned events will go ahead.
"We need to pay for flights, accommodation, additional medical costs of MRI, x-rays and other tests to conclude surgery is safe.
"Any outstanding monies after all costs are paid will be donated to a local charity Megan's Wish who help and support children with scoliosis and their families."
Emily Scott (front, right) with mum (Brenda), dad (Stephen) and sister (Megan)
"We are well aware that there are many children that need this surgery and we hope with us going public we have raised awareness of waiting times and how the NHS system is broke," Brenda added.
"We welcome the news that Minister Swann is changing the NHS and introducing new orthopaedic clinics and day centres to free up Musgrave.
Stay informed with Belfast Live
Want to stay up to speed with the latest news across Belfast and beyond? Sign up for our daily newsletter by simply entering your email address here.
We'll send you a free round-up e-mail of all the latest from Belfast covering news, entertainment and sport, all in one handy place.
For a more personal browsing experience, download our free app on Android here or Apple here and never miss the stories that matter to you.
"For now, we will concentrate on prepping Emily for surgery and will be scaling down our fundraising efforts.
"Thank you from the bottom of our hearts, Brenda, Stephen, Emily and Megan."
To donate to Emily's fundraiser visit HERE.


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Off the Beaten Path Southern Heritage
The South of India is distinctly different from the more popular North, and this itinerary is a fascinating look into what makes this culture tick. While most tourists may arrive in Delhi, this itinerary begins in Mumbai, the southern capital. And from beach cities to temple towns, this trip will introduce you to new foods, new ways of thought, beautiful warm weather, and a warm, welcoming people.
Day 1: Mumbai Arrival
Accommodation: Fariyas Hotel
Welcome to India! Upon arrival at Mumbai's International Airport, you will be met by our representative in the arrival area of the airport once you clear all immigration and customs formalities. You will then be transferred to your hotel for check in. (This service is on a private basis.)
Mumbai is a cluster of seven Islands that derives its name from Mumbadevi, the patron goddess of the koli fisher folk, its oldest inhabitants. The islands were tossed from one king to another emperor for two millennia, until the maritime trade empire of the British decided to develop the natural harbor into a city. In the four hundred years since then, the city has grown by a series of land reclamations which now link the original islands into one mass.
Today, Mumbai pulsates with activity. It is a city that is disciplined by no time frame, either by day or by night. Mumbai is also the country's financial powerhouse, its industrial heartland, and its economic nerve center. With dazzling shopping arcades, exciting sports activity, night clubs and bars, theater and music, gourmet restaurants and interesting sightseeing, Mumbai offers visitors a heady mix of all this and more.
Day 2: Mumbai
Tour: City Tour
Today, you will embark on a city tour of Mumbai. Begin at the Gateway of India, Mumbai's principle land mark, is a huge archway on the water's edge. The famous monument was built to commemorate the visit of the first British Monarch, King George V. Continue on to Crawford Market, named after Bombay's first municipal commissioner. The market is at the northern end of the old British part of town and faces the crowded inner city.
Your last stop will be at the Prince of Wales Museum, a magnificent and somewhat strange structure built in a confluence of Gothic and Moorish styles and crowned by a sparkling white dome. The museum boasts a great collection of ancient Indus Valley artifacts as well as some priceless Tibetan and Nepali Art. (This service is on a private basis.)
Tour: Elephanta Caves
This morning you will head on a excursion to the Elephanta Caves, located one hour by boat out of Mumbai. These rock-cut temples on the peaceful Elephanta Island are thought to have been carved between 450 and 750 AD. The temples survived Portuguese vandalism and remain equal in size, beauty and power to the caves at Ajanta and Ellora.
On this tour, you will transfer to the jetty at the Gateway of India to board boats (small local launches) to Elephanta Island, where you will see a 8th-century shrine cut from the hillside. Among the sculptures is the magnificent "Maheshmurti," or Hindu Trinity, representing the three aspects of Shiva the Creator, the Preserver and the Destroyer. These caves provide an exciting glimpse of Indian sculpture dating from about 600 A.D. Huge panels depict episodes relating to Lord Shiva, each executed with power, grace and an amazing sense of movement.
After the tour, you will be returned to your hotel. (This service is on a private basis.)
Day 4: Mumbai - Goa
Accommodation: Country Inn & Suites Goa
Mumbai - Goa
Departs: TBD
Arrives: TBD
Not included: pricing subject to date and availability
In the morning, you will be picked up at your hotel in Mumbai and transferred to the airport in good time to board your domestic flight to Goa. Upon arrival in Goa, you will be greeted at the airport by your driver and transferred to your hotel. (This service is on a private basis.)
Goa is a tranquil beach side paradise on the west coast of India. Escape from the hectic pace of everyday life and enjoy a palm fringed retreat by the sea. A gentle breeze, swaying palm trees, golden sand beaches and a never ending shore line embodies the essence and magic of Goa.
Having been the meeting point of many races, religions and cultures over the centuries, this city has a distinctive lifestyle quite different from the rest of India. Hindu and Catholic communities make up almost the entire population, with minority representation of Muslims and other religions. The tourist season in Goa begins in late September and carries on through early March. The weather in these months is usually dry and pleasantly cool. Besides the obvious natural beauty, travelers enjoy the laid back, warm and friendly nature of the Goan people.
Day 5: Goa
Tour: Half Day Tour
Enjoy a half day tour of Goa. Nine kilometers from the East of Panjim is Old Goa, popular for its churches and cathedrals. Some of the old buildings are converted into museums maintained by the Archaeological Survey of India. Old Goa is still the spiritual heart of Christian Goa. It has been granted World Heritage Status by UNESCO for its extraordinarily grandiose churches and convents.
Goa was the second capital of the Adil Shahi dynasty of Bijapur before the arrival of the Portuguese. Under the Portuguese, the city grew rapidly in size and splendor. But it was short-lived because by the end of the 16th century. That of the British, French & Dutch, had replaced Portuguese supremacy on the seas. In 1843, the capital was shifted to Panaji.
Afterwards, you will be returned to your hotel. (This service is on a private basis.)
Enjoy this free time at your leisure.
Day 7: Goa - Badami
Accommodation: Badami Court
In the morning, you will be picked up at your hotel in Goa and transferred to your accommodations in Badami. (Duration: 4 hours.) (This service is on a private basis.)
Badami is famous for its four cave temples - all hewn out of sand stone on the precipice of a hill. Legend has it there were two demon siblings Vatapi and Ilvala, who had a scam by which they could kill and make a meal of mendicants passing by. Their tricks worked until Agastya muni came by and counter-tricked them and brought an end to Vatapi's life. Two of the hills in Badami are supposed to represent the demons Ilvalan and Vatapi.
Day 8: Badami
After breakfast you will enjoy a city tour of Badami.
Badami, the one time capital of the Chalukyas, is noted for several temples, some structural and other rock-cut, of the 6th and 7th Centuries. Badami saw a succession of rulers of which the Chalukyas were only the most important. There is architecture and sculpture here from periods ranging as far back as the 7th century AD Pallava rule to as recently as the 19th century Marathas. Badami was the capital of the early Chalukyas, who ruled much of Karnataka and Andhra Pradesh between the 6th and 8th centuries. It was founded in 540 A.D. by Pulakesi I(535-566 AD), an early ruler of the Chalukyas.
One of the temples, Pattadakal reached its pinnacle of glory under the Chalukyan Kings and was once used as a ceremonial center where kings were crowned. The oldest of them all is the Sangamesvara Temple built by king Vijayaditya during the 8 century AD. Though not the biggest of the temples in Paddatdakal this temple dedicated to lord Siva is one of the fine examples of the high architectural standards maintained by the Chaluykan architecture. Almost all the temples are carved with dramatic themes from the Hindu mythology. A great majority of them is on lord Siva, especially the dancing aspects. The oldest of them all are the Mallikarjuna and the Virupaksha Temples. (This service is on a private basis.)
Day 9: Badami - Hampi
Accommodation: Hyatt Palace Hampi
In the morning, you will be picked up at your hotel in Badami and transferred to your accommodations in Hampi. (Duration: 3 hours.) (This service is on a private basis.)
Today, proceed on a guided tour of the city. Hampi holds many delightful surprises. The most famous is the King's Balance where kings were weighed against gold or money which was then distributed to the poor. Also worth a visit are the Queen's Bath with its arched corridors, projecting balconies and lotus shaped fountains, the two storeyed Lotus Mahal, the huge Elephant Stables, the splendid Vitthal Temple with its musical pillars and the Stone Chariot, the Virupaksha Temple, Ugra Narasimha, the 6.7 meters tall monolith, the Pushkarini Tank, the Mahanavami Dibba, etc.
Temples of this city are noted for their large dimensions, florid ornamentation, bold and delicate carvings, stately pillars, magnificent pavilions and a great wealth of iconographic and traditional depictions, which include subjects from the Ramayana and the Mahabharata. The Pampapati temple is one of the largest temples at Hampi. The Vitthal temple is an excellent example of Vijayanagar style. Also present are some monolithic statues of Lakshmi, Narasimha and Ganesha, which are noted, for their massiveness and grace. Other temples in the surroundings are the Krishna temple, Pattabhirama temple, Hazara Ramachandra, Chandrasekhara temple and the Jaina Temple. (This service is on a private basis.)
A world heritage center, Hampi is the most beautiful of all the ruins in Karnataka. Founded in the 14th Century, this was the glorious capital city of a flourishing dynasty who were great patrons of art and architecture. The remains can still be seen in the vast ruins of Hampi, which historians have praised as 'greater than Rome'. Hampi is famous for its ruins belonging to the medieval Hindu kingdom of Vijayanagar and it has been declared a World Heritage site. The temples of Hampi, its monolithic sculptures and monuments, attract the traveler because of their excellent workmanship. The Hindu style of architecture found at Hampi reflects the splendor of the Vijayanagar Empire. The rugged landscape adds to the historic ambiance of this site.
Day 10: Hampi - Bangalore
Transportation (Train): Hampi Express Train
Transportation: Train Station Transfer
Hampi Express Train
Hampi - Bangalore
Train: Sleeper Train (Hampi Express)
Departs: 8:45pm
Arrives: 6:10am
After enjoying a day at leisure of individual exploration, you will be picked up at your hotel in Hampi this evening. Your driver will then transfer you to the train station for your overnight train to Bangalore. (This service is on a private basis.)
Deep in the south of India, Bangalore is the city that dominates southern culture and commerce. Victorian-era architecture aside, the main reason to come to Bangalore is to see an Indian city with a burgeoning food and arts scene. In a country inundated with ancient culture and customs, Bangalore is special for its (relative) new-ness. The IT service industry booming in India is centered in Bangalore, and the result is a young culture keyed into the West, and speaking more English than most places in India.
Day 11: Bangalore - Cochin
Accommodation: Casino Hotel
Bangalore - Cochin
Early this morning, upon arrival in Bangalore, you will be picked up at the train station and transferred to your hotel to check in and enjoy breakfast.
You will be met for a brief city tour of Bangalore. Visit the Fort Kempe Gowda, which was the stronghold of Hyder Ali and Tipu Sultan and witnessed several fierce battles. You'll also visit Lal Bagh which has a rare collection of tropical and sub-tropical trees, plants and herbs to quench the thirst of search for scenic beauty by both layman and horticulturist. (This service is on a private basis.)
In the afternoon, you will be picked up at your hotel in Bangalore and transferred to the airport in good time to board your domestic flight to Cochin. Upon arrival in Cochin, you will be greeted at the airport by your driver and transferred to your hotel. (This service is on a private basis.)
Cochin, commonly known as Kochi, is the destination where China and India collide, blending together in a unique and mesmerizing way. On a casual stroll through the city, you can expect to see a centuries-old synagogues, ancient mosques, Chinese fishing nets and remains of the Portuguese colonization and British Raj rulers, all while soaking in the tropical weather of the Malabar Coast. What was once only a region of India's most sought after ports, is now a satisfying conglomeration of cultures and faiths that is difficult to find elsewhere.
Day 12: Cochin
Tour: Kathalaki Dance Show
This morning, proceed on a city tour of Cochin. You'll begin your tour with a visit to the Jewish Synagogue (of 1568), which is the oldest synagogue in the commonwealth. Next visit the ancient Mattancherry (Dutch) Palace built by the Portuguese in 1557. Another stop is made at the St. Francis Church, the oldest European built church in India.
Also, pay a visit to view the amazing Chinese fishing nets. Cochin's Chinese fishing nets found here are the only ones of their kind in India. It is believed that traders from the court of the Chinese ruler Kublai Khan introduced these nets here.
For lunch today, enjoy a cooking demonstration at a local home. Nimmy and her husband Paul, your hosts, have been teaching foreigners the art of cooking at their home for more than twelve years. This is a comfortable and informal experience that is just as memorable as it is delicious and laid back! (This service is on a private basis.)
Kathalaki Dance Show
In the evening, proceed to a local theater where you will learn about Kerala's fascinating art from, Kathakali. The Kathakali performers begin to train for their art at a young age, and their study continues for a lifetime. Here you will enjoy a dance performance. Kathakali is the classical dance-drama of Kerala, South India, which dates from the 17th century and is rooted in Hindu mythology. Kathakali has a unique combination of literature, music, painting, acting and dance. (This service is on a group basis.)
Day 13: Cochin - Periyar
Tour: National Park Game Drive
Accommodation: Cardamom County
In the morning, you will be picked up at your hotel in Cochin and transferred to your accommodations in Thekkady. (Duration: 4 hours.) (This service is on a private basis.)
Thekkady (Periyar)
Located on the Tamil Nadu and Kerala border, this region is known as the Spice Village of India for its vast spice and tea gardens. The road winds through mountains, descending through a carpet of tea bushes, estates of tall rubber trees and gardens of coffee, cardamom and pepper. The aroma of the spices fills the air.
National Park Game Drive
Upon arrival in Thekkady (Periyar) you will check in to your Resort. The Resort is located on the fringes of the Periyar Game Preserve. This unique wildlife sanctuary is about 300 square miles and centered around an artificial lake fed by the Periyar River.
This evening, proceed to visit the park for game viewing by boat. The convoluted waterways afford great opportunities of elephants, bison, deer and occasionally a tiger sightings. All manner of flora and fauna flourish in this tropical habitat, making it one of the premiere reserves of Southern India.
Day 14: Periyar - Kumarakom
Tour: Spice Plantation Tour
Accommodation: Abad Whispering Palms
In the morning, you will be picked up at your hotel in Thekkady for your transfer to your next accommodations in Kumarakom. En route to Kumarakom, you will stop for an interesting tour, before proceeding to your hotel. (This service is on a private basis.)
Spice Plantation Tour
Today, you will have the chance to enjoy a tour of a spice plantation.
Sprawling tea estates cover much of the landscape, but cardamom, rubber, vanilla and coffee plantations are also aplenty. Perhaps that explains the never-ending cups of green cardamom-flavored tea proffered at any time of the day. Walk amid the palatte displaying variant shades of green, neatly arranged into terraced farms, the symmetry broken only by the sudden appearance of a gurgling stream. A lazy mist curls through the hills tuning life into a dreamy rhythm, as you find yourself renouncing to this sensual overflow. It is believed that the spice trade dates back three thousand years in Kerala. As for the many spices that find their home here, Pepper still remains the king. Nevertheless, the slanting slopes also caress a variety of cinnamon, clove, nutmeg, ginger, turmeric and curry leaves. (This service is on a private basis.)
An enchanting backwater destination, Kumarakom offers visitors many other leisure options. Boating and fishing facilities are available at Kumarakom. Holiday packages on the houseboats, traditional Kettuvalloms, are an out-of-this-world experience at Kumarakom. An unbelievably beautiful paradise of mangrove forests, emerald green paddy fields and coconut groves interspersed with enchanting waterways and canals adorned with while lilies - this is Kumarakom.
Day 15: Kumarakom
Tour: Bird Sanctuary Tour
Bird Sanctuary Tour
After breakfast you'll enjoy a visit to the Kumarakom bird sanctuary.
Located on the banks of the Vembanad Lake, the bird sanctuary is spread across 14 acres. The Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary, an ornithologist's paradise is a favorite haunt of migratory birds like the Siberian stork, egret, darter, heron and teal. A visit to the bird sanctuary, set within the lush acres of wooded land nearby, acquaints you to the variety of migratory birds that flock in thousands, some from the Himalayas, some even from as far as Siberia. In addition, you can get thrilled of the native kingfishers ablaze in psychedelic colors, experience a walk under rookeries of egrets and night herons or lone golden-backed woodpeckers and even delight in the acrobatics of the paradise fly-catchers. (This service is on a private basis.)
Tour: Houseboat Overnight
Houseboat Overnight
This afternoon you will board your houseboat. The backwaters in Kerala are a network of 1500 Kms of canals both manmade and natural, 38 rivers and 5 big lakes extending from one end of Kerala to the other. Before trucks became popular, the main cargo transportation was through backwaters by 'Kettuvalloms'. Kettuvalloms or Houseboats (Riceboats) are country boats that were used in the early days for the transport of goods from the isolated interior villages to the towns.
Dining on board is an experience in its self. Though based on the tradition of fish and vegetables, in keeping with the demands of a cosmopolitan clientele, the cuisine served aboard the houseboats features a far more sophisticated menu than a kettuvallom. The ethnic meals are prepared on board by a personal cook and fish delicacies such as white prawns, pearl spotted fish, crabs and mussels are the specialties. The meals include lunch, evening coffee or tea with snacks, dinner and breakfast.
Once on the boat, you will cruise along the backwaters for a couple of hours. Pass small villages and see how the local people live. The lushness of coconut trees will astound you. En-route visit villages to see coir making, tea shops, paddy fields, temples, beaches etc. till sunset. At night the boat is anchored at a beautiful and quiet part of the lake. (This service is on a group basis.)
Day 17: Kumarakom - Alleppey - Varkala
Accommodation: The Gateway Hotel Janardhanapuram
This morning after indulging in breakfast on board, you will disembark from your houseboat in Alleppey.
You will be greeted by your driver, who will transfer you to your accommodations in Varkala. The drive time should be approximately 3 hours. When you reach your beautiful hotel, check in, relax and start taking advantage of all the amenities!
Varkala beach is the only place in southern Kerala where cliffs are found adjacent to the Arabian Sea. These formation cliffs are a unique geological feature on the otherwise flat Kerala coast. They are known among geologists as Varkala Formation and a geological monument as declared by the Geological Survey of India. There are numerous water spouts and spas on the sides of these cliffs. The beach is a haven for sun-bathing and swimming.
The evening views of the sunset are worth lingering over. There are several small restaurants and snack shops near and around Papasnanam beach, which attracts the maximum visitors both for leisure as well as for religious reasons.
Days 18 - 19: Varkala
Day 20: Varkala - Trivandrum Departure
Today, you will be picked up at your hotel in Varkala and transferred to the airport in Trivandrum. (This service is on a private basis.)
Fariyas Hotel
Located just off the Colaba Causeway, Fariyas Hotel sits in the heart of the city, yet far from the bustling crowds. Its scenic location offers a breathtaking view of the harbor, just two minutes away from the Gateway of lndia and many other historic attractions. The property features modern decor and floor-to-ceiling windows, which offer guestrooms plenty of natural light. After long days of sightseeing, enjoy a refreshing dip in the swimming pool, followed by a tasty meal at the outdoor poolside restaurant.
Country Inn & Suites Goa
Perfectly located for exploring all that Candolim has to offer, the Country Inn & Suites is a fab option for couples. Come and experience traditional Goan hospitality right in the heart of town, ensuring you are well looked after and stress-free. With a pool surrounded by palm trees and a seriously tempting spa, this Portuguese-style hotel is quite a sanctuary for those looking to unwind.
Badami Court
Surrounded by mountains and greenery, this 2-storey hotel is located at the Station Road, and close to the Badami Cave Temple. There are 27 rooms to choose from. Guests are served complimentary breakfast through room service and can also savour on a multi-cuisine fare at the Pulakeshi Dining Room, a coffee shop-cum-restaurant, which is open for its patrons from 6a.m to 11p.m. A swimming pool and fitness equipments are available for rejuvenation
Hyatt Palace Hampi
Located amid the lush green ambiance of Vidyanagar Township in the culturally rich state of Karnataka, Hyatt Place Hampi is among the best hotels in Hampi. Spread over 10 acres of land, this upscale, select-service hotel, is ideally designed for the discerning business or leisure traveler. The hotel offers 115 "smart-design" guestrooms - including seven rooms with private plunge pools and three suites that afford guests a spectacular and unrivalled view of the Sandur Mountain Range, making it the perfect hotel to stay near Hampi.
If anything, Casino Hotel is rather nondescript from the front. However, as in many courtyard style dwellings in India (or Europe for that matter), it's charms become evident once you enter. The classic Kerala combination of tiled roof, wooden beams and rough plaster creates a haven of warmth and light around the grassy central space, which is divided up neatly between the Fort Cochin seafood restaurant and the pool.
Cardamom County
The first ISO Certified four-star resort in Kerala, Cardamon County is conveniently perched on the gradient of a gently sloping hill facing the Periyar Tiger Reserve. The architecture and landscaping of the entire resort has been thoughtfully created in deference to the ethereal beauty of its natural surroundings. The interiors of the resort have been aesthetically designed and furnished in an appealing blend of contemporary styling and a natural charm.
Abad Whispering Palms
Abad Whispering Palms is located at Kumarakom the most exotic resort destination in Kerala right on the bank of the Vembanadu Lake in natural back water surroundings. Situated amid a natural backwater setting, it is a place where you can relax and bask in the luxury of tranquility. The resort is spread out and built in Traditional Kerala style, ensuring privacy during your stay.
The Gateway Hotel Janardhanapuram
Conveniently located in Varkala, The Gateway Hotel Janardhanapuram Varkala is a great base from which to explore this vibrant city. From here, guests can enjoy easy access to all that the lively city has to offer. With its convenient location, the hotel offers easy access to the city's must-see destinations. Simply put, all the services and amenities you have come to expect from Taj Hotels Resorts and Palaces are right in the comfort of your own home. The hotel provides airport transfer, bar, room service, safety deposit boxes, smoking area to ensure our guests the greatest comfort. Guests can choose from 30 rooms, all of which exude an atmosphere of total peace and harmony. The complete list of recreational facilities is available at the hotel, including outdoor pool, hot tub, garden, massage, tennis courts. Whatever your reason for visiting Varkala, the The Gateway Hotel Janardhanapuram Varkala is the perfect venue for an exhilarating and exciting break away.
This is just one of many authentic travel experiences offered by Global Basecamps. If you are interested in more unique destinations to India with unprecedented planning and extraordinary service visit our main India tours page to browse other sample trips.


Welcome to the 2010 SEK DOP history summary. This is the Swedish Krona (SEK) to Dominican Peso (DOP) exchange rate history data page for the year of 2010, covering 365 days of SEK DOP historical data.
Best exchange rate: 5.6949 DOP on 04 Nov 2010.
Average exchange rate in 2010: 4.1552 DOP.
Worst exchange rate: 0 DOP on 11 Mar 2010.
Below is a table showing 365 days of historical exchange rates data for the year of 2010, covering the Swedish Krona (SEK) to Dominican Peso (DOP) conversion.


According to weather people everywhere, we may or may not be getting our first storm of the winter tomorrow. They all agree it will snow. That's not in question. What IS in question is how much. Will it be merely a nuisance snow or a plowable snow? I don't think they have any idea and we'll all find out at the same time.
I hate going to the grocery store the day before a "winter precipitation event" and usually try to avoid it. But even if the forecast for tomorrow was sunny and 70, I still couldn't have waited. And heaven forbid we do get stuck in the house for a couple of days with nothing more than microwave popcorn, saltines and water. Hearing "There's nothing to eat," is bad enough when I can point out several different food options. When there really isn't anything to eat I can't be my usual snarky, righteously indignant self.
So I braved the zoo in an effort to stock the shelves. I got the usual two gallons of milk, a dozen eggs, bread, lunch meat and regular dinner stuff. But in honor of the potential for being homebound I got the usual blizzard fare. You know – Double Stuff Oreos, spray cheese, cocoa and two bags of mini-marshmallows, chocolate chip muffin mix, ramen noodles, Pillsbury Valentine's day pre-cut cookies, dark chocolate, etc. I almost bought a chocolate cake mix and frosting, but you know I'm wanting to lose weight. So I restrained myself.
So what do you think makes snowstorm-worthy food?
We're getting a storm also. Luckily I grocery shopped this weekend. Do you know what I call people who run to the store fro eggs, bread, and milk before a storm? French Toast People. So I guess my pick would be french toast for storm worthy food.
Potato! Chips! They are good for anything, anytime, anywhere. They are my downfall and a snowstorm is a fine excuse to get some in! They are calling for that snowstorm around her tomorrow too. And I'm supposed to be having a kitchen designer come after work – from a little bit out of town *sigh* She may not make it.
Well, 'blizzard food' is standard fare around here! lol Seriously though, I do stock up a bit when I know we are going to get a big storm. I buy lots of chicken noodle soup and Cheetos. I also buy M&Ms (for the kids, you know;) and plenty of Coca-cola and 7-Up. Oh, and Cheese Nips – the White Cheddar ones.
I had to shop yesterday, and the supermarkets were already crazy. I considered holding off until Thursday, but I was making my son peanut butter and jelly sandwiches on Italian bread.Milk, BREAD, eggs (french toast person here :D) 3 different kinds of Pillsbury cookie doughs (chocolate chip, oatmeal and suger) corn bread mix, pumpkin bread mix, soup, hot cocoa, diet soda and snacks–you notice the diet soda was a must–LOL.
Milk for hot chocolate, bbq chips, some form of bread/bread product and a spur of the moment junk food item that I pick up while shopping for the other three items. The pantry's pretty well stocked so we never really panic. Other than that I'm good until the storm lets up.
soup and chocolate. not together of course. lol.


Uruguay is a small country but nevertheless has an estimated population of approximately 500,000 horses. More than 37,000 horses were slaughtered in 2014 so the meat could be exported. Like people in the U.S., Uruguayans do not consume horsemeat; they consider horses as companion, sport and work animals. Horses are not commercially bred for meat production and there is no traceability regarding drugs that have been administered to the horse during its lifetime. The last owner of the horse simply has to sign an affidavit and confirm that the horse has not been given any restricted substances during the last 6 months. In addition, Phenylbutazone and many other drugs can be readily purchased without prescription for owners to administer to their horses. Uruguayan law also mandates that sport horses are specifically excluded from slaughter for human consumption, but it remains uncertain if this is truly the case.
There are three horse slaughter plants in Uruguay, all of which are approved for export of horsemeat to the European Union. In 2012, Uruguay adopted regulations for the protection of animals at slaughter; however, enforcement is questionable at best and there is absolutely no legislation in place for animal welfare during transport. The vehicles that are routinely used are not appropriate for the transport of horses, especially over long distances such as slaughter horse shipments originating in Brazil. In addition to the horses that are legally imported from Brazil, hundreds or even thousands of horses are shipped illegally across the border.
In Uruguay, horses have to stay 40 days at a registered "acopio" (collecting station) prior to slaughter. Before horses enter the "acopio", they have to get an ear tag for identification. The ear tag number has to be noted on the affidavit of the last owner regarding medical treatments during the last 180 days. If horses without an eartag arrive at a slaughter plant, they are supposed to stay 40 days at the plant before they can legally be slaughtered. However, investigations showed horses without eartags being unloaded straight at the plants, so enforcement of this rule is obviously unreliable.
Behind this dilapidated slaughter plant building were some empty pastures, overgrown with waist-high bushes. Behind one of these bushes, investigators found a dead horse in an advanced state of decay. Next to the decaying carcass was another horse skull. There were several more skulls visible throughout the area. None of them had any bullet holes, indicating that the horses had been left to die instead of being euthanized.
At this particular plant, horses are hosed down with a high pressure water jet, a procedure that greatly frightens the horses. As well, the worker often aims the water directly at their faces. In the chute that leads up to the entrance of the building, the horses are also moved with a high pressure water hose. Again, the water is aimed directly at the horses' faces, what makes them go back instead of moving forward. The floor of the chute is slippery from the water and from feces.
Investigators observed a white horse slipping, falling, and struggling mightily to get up again. Investigators observed two groups of 10 horses being hosed down and moved up the chute. An electric prod was used on the horses first in line to make them enter the building. Several horses were in deplorable condition, severely emaciated with their ribs clearly visible. Many had scratches and abrasions on their bodies. Two horses had open cuts on their forehead and around the eyes; one horse had bleeding injuries along the spinal cord. Horses without eartags were slaughtered in clear violation of law. Loud noises could be heard from inside the plant and some horses in the chute showed strong signs of panic. In addition, the severed legs of slaughtered horses were observed being discarded through an opening in the wall.
There were several injured and/or lame horses observed on day of sale our investigators were present. One extremely thin horse could only bear weight on three legs and his left front leg seemed to be broken. This horse was not fit for transport and should never have been brought to the auction. A pony had what appeared to be a tendon rupture and severely overgrown hooves. A brown horse had a deep open wound at the right shoulder, and another horse had a wound on the left hip. A very young foal had abrasions on its body and head. Many horses had bleeding cuts and abrasions, which likely occurred during transport. Several horses were thin with their ribs clearly visible. About 10% to 15% of the horses did not have the mandatory brand mark. A severely emaciated gelding (a BCS of 1) which was extremely weak and should not have gone through the sale was indeed sold.
As previously mentioned, the transport trucks are inappropriate for horse transport. Uruguay shippers use trucks with trailer compartments pulling another trailer that are open roof with no protection whatsoever from the harsh elements and with a high risk of head injuries. Many of the trailers observed at the auction were dilapidated with exposed sharp elements and worn-out, bad flooring. Adult horses were loaded with ponies and foals unsegregated for transport.
Based on all of these observations, AA and its EU partners are calling upon the EU Commission to stop all horse meat imports from Uruguay.
To read the complete, in-depth investigative report, please go here.
To learn more about Animals' Angels, Inc. and their investigations, please visit their website here.


text:
Choking While Eating
By Guest Greytluv,
July 8, 2010 in Health and Medical discussion
Guest Greytluv
Just the past two, three weeks my Danger dog eats and then starts choking. He'll finally hack up whole kibble, eats it and go beck to his bowl and finish.
Do you think he's eating too fast? It doesn't happen every time he eats but it's happening more often. I sometimes put a couple of spoons in his bowl thinking that will slow him down, but I'm not sure it's happening cuz he's eating too fast or what
greyhead
Can't address the significance of this change in his eating behavior, but it may have some medical significance since he hasn't made a big habit of it previously. Maybe the GTers who know about that will chime in. And btw, how old is Danger?
For now, I'll just say that our Spencer, who's 9, has been doing that since he arrived at age 5. He has never been one to chew kibble, just inhales it. Someone told us to get a couple tablespoons of canned food, mix with a bit of water to make a sort of gravy, and moisten the kibble with that. We make it moist enough that the food will just slide down when he swallows it. The times I'm rushed and have to just serve kibble, he goes back to choking it it up and then eating it, just like Danger.
Mary with Jumper Jack (2/17/11) and angels Shane (PA's Busta Rime, 12/10/02 - 10/14/16) and Spencer (Dutch Laser, 11/25/00 - 3/29/13).
jenn8
Bug will choke on his kibble if it's dry. Like greyhead does, I add canned food and warm water, then stir it up until it makes a gravy. Works great.
Guest IrskasMom
Bug will choke on his kibble if it's dry. Like greyhead does, I add canned food and warm water, then stir it up until it makes a gravy. Works great.Jenn
ditto to what Jenn said. Mine chockes on dry Kibble to .
Location:Peterborough, England
How old is Danger? If he's a senior, it is possible that he is beginning to suffer from laryngeal paralysis (LP). What happens is that the larynx doesn't close off as it should when they're eating or drinking, so food or water may slip in, making them cough or choke. This needs to be diagnosed by a vet, who will then advise you on what to do, and whether he may eventually need surgery.
Most likely, it's nothing much to worry about, but I must also tell you that I SO wish I'd demanded an investigation when Renie began to do this when she was nine. It was only now and then, but she did almost exactly what you describe and then was fine. Nothing else in the world the matter with her. But .. eventually she started to lose a little weight, and then (almost a year later during which she saw the vet multiple times) she began screaming in pain and went rapidly downhill - within a week. We got her an urgent referral to a specialist and it turned out she had a tumour deep in her chest in the region of her oesophagus and by then it had spread and infiltrated her spine and there was nothing to be done but say goodbye. If we had seen this wretched thing sooner, maybe it could have been removed and she might still be with me. But at the time we were with a vet who (in hindsight) was more concerned with saving money for us than making a thorough investigation.
I must emphasise that this is an extremely rare thing - I just needed to mention it as a remote possibility so you can watch him for other symptoms. And also I should say that Sid does exactly the same with his kibble when he eats too fast, as so many dogs do. It's difficult not to panic over this after my experience with Renie, but in fact he's had this area x-rayed for another reason and nothing abnormal showed up, thank God.
The plural of anecdote is not data
Brambleberry Greyhounds My Etsy Shop
Guest Energy11
I have to wet all my kibble here. My boys eat sooo fast, that they will choke if not. Goldie is the same way. I moisten and wet all of their kibble. Might just be that with yours, too.
Danger will be 11 in September. I do wet his food with water and a little canned food and some yogurt. I will try soaking his food longer to soften it. If it keeps happening I'll take him to the vet.
Now that I think about it a while ago he was coughing a bit. I can't remember if it was when he was eating I did think it was odd. I know my Shih Tzu coughed and it was her heart so I'm pretty in tuned to coughing. The cough stopped, though
Here's the Wikepedia article on LP in dogs. Click.
And if you do a search in the Health and Medical forum here on Greytalk for 'laryngeal paralysis' ("LP" won't work, since it's only two letters), you'll get results which include people's personal experience. That should give you some idea if this is just eating too fast, or if there might be a medical problem. Good luck!
MerlinsMum
Location:S. Portland, Maine
It might also help to invest in a Brake-Fast bowl. My Sagan throws himself on his food like it's the first meal he's had in weeks... but the Brake Fast bowl really slows him down. I use the blue one for both my boys.
Kerry with Pippin (Paid Vacation), adopted 4/15/2017
Missing the best wizard in the world, Merlin (PA's Paris), the biggest Love I've ever known, and my sweet 80lb limpet, Sagan (Leon B) , every single day.
ozgirl2
Location:New Carrollton, MD
Are you using a raised feeder? That helped with Cody's choking up food...
Jeannine with Merlin, the crazed tabby cat and his sister, Jasmine, the brat-cat
With Angel Cody(Roving Gemini), and Weenie the tortie waiting at the Bridge


text:
A Supervolcano's Fallout: Mass Extinction
This placid view of Gouchang, Guizhou, China belies the region's violent history. New evidence uncovered from ancient lava deposits there suggests a supervolcano eruption was the direct cause of the mid-Permian extinction, which killed massive amounts of marine life, 260 million years ago.
Carbon from a massive volcanic eruption caused a mass extinction on Earth 260 million years ago, according to a new study. It's the first definitive link between a volcano and extinction.
The study strengthens the case that so-called supervolcano eruptions lead to massive climate change and may be responsible for many of the most devastating mass murders in Earth's history.
Although not one of the "big five" mass extinctions, the mid-Permian extinction has long been considered an important, if puzzling, event. Scientists have eyed massive lava deposits in the Emeishan region of southwestern China as the murder weapon, but they've been unable to show a connection.
Now Paul Wignall of the University of Leeds and a team of researchers have found that a host of algae and other marine species died out suddenly, along with many land-dwelling animals, right after a huge eruption. Chemical evidence also revealed a sharp up-tick in atmospheric carbon at the time, possibly spewed into the atmosphere when lava infiltrated and cooked pre-existing coal seams. The team's work is published in the current issue of the journal Science.
Compared to some of the largest volcanic cataclysms in geologic history -- called Large Igneous Provinces (LIP)s -- Emeishan is small; its lavas cover "only" around 250,000 square kilometers (96,526 square miles), an area about the size of Colorado.
Still, it was enough to have a global impact on life and climate. And the team's discovery adds credence to the idea that several major mass extinctions may have been caused by LIPs.
"Every crisis in the past 300 million years coincides with a LIP eruption," Wignall said. "So there's clearly some connection." Researchers suspect that the Siberian Traps eruption, which occurred just 10 million years later, was responsible for the Permian-Triassic extinction, the worst mass dying of all time. And though they agree that the huge eruptions disrupted climate, views are split over whether it was global warming from the excess carbon, or global cooling from large amounts of sulfur dioxide (SO2), that did the killing.
"This is an important study, as it tries to link basaltic eruptions directly to the extinction," Henrik Svensen of the University of Oslo said. "It is difficult to know exactly what the organisms died from, if judging from the fossils themselves."