Like the personal computer and the Internet, the satellite television dish represents both a significant threat and an important tool to the Chinese government. Last June, the new Zhongxing-9 (Chinasat-9) satellite was launched. It will allow the government to provide government-sponsored satellite TV services to millions of households for the first time, broadcasting dozens of standard-definition and high-definition TV channels to otherwise unserved areas throughout rural China.
According to Brendan Murray, market analyst in Space and Telecommunications at Maryland-based Futron Corp, Chinasat-9 distributes China Central Television (CCTV) channels as well as local/provincial channels as part of China's "Cuncuntong" project, which aims to deliver state-run radio and TV to as many as 60 million families who do not now enjoy high-quality terrestrial TV services.
"The Zhongxing-9 satellite can provide 150-200 standard definition TV channels - 48 are currently in use - and the service is free to users. The government covers the cost of the satellite and part of the cost of set-top boxes," said Kevin Li, director of telecom research at In-Stat China. "[As for the remaining and currently unused satellite capacity], there are two possible scenarios. Satellite operators will either charge content integrators, who will then provide customized programming to people in rural areas, or consumers will have to buy another set-top box with encryption and authentication capabilities [if they want to view channels from an expanded menu of new premium services provided for a monthly fee]."
China Direct Broadcast Satellite Co Ltd (China DBSAT) operates Zhongxing-9. This company began operations last year as China's lone state-owned provider of satellite TV services following its creation in late 2007 via the merger of certain assets belonging to China Satellite Communications Corp, Sino Satellite Communications Co Ltd and China Orient Telecommunications Satellite Co Ltd.
According to a report prepared by Lisa Hulme-Jones, senior analyst for North Asia at BuddeComm, an Australia-based independent global telecommunications research and consultancy company, China DBSAT is now the second-largest satellite fleet operator in Asia with total assets of 7 billion yuan (US$1 billion).
While the company's main business consists of satellite TV services including those broadcast direct to individual homes, it also provides satellite Internet access and telecommunications services. China DBSAT transmits programs for 169 TV and 40 radio stations. The company's total revenue was expected to reach 800 million yuan last year with about 10% contributed by overseas clients.
There are more than 140 million Chinese cable TV subscribers. In contrast, more than 300 million households in China - and perhaps as many as 350 million - are located in relatively underserved or unserved regions, according to a report from China's State Administration of Radio Film and Television (SARFT), which Hulme-Jones has examined.
platform, which would satisfy the increasing demands from households in China for more advanced digital TV services," said Hulme-Jones.
China's introduction of its own state-sponsored satellite TV services was delayed considerably by the loss of the Sinosat-2 satellite in 2006. It failed shortly after its launch due to a problem with its solar panels. The plan was for Sinosat-2 and Zhongxing-9 to be operating together in tandem in order to maximize satellite TV coverage for the 2008 Olympic Summer Games in China. Zhongxing-9 is also capable of transmitting radio and TV channels to Hong Kong, Macao and Taiwan.
"A pay model for [satellite TV] in China with additional programming or value-added services may have to wait until the launch of Sinosat-4, which will replace Sinosat-2, provided that the government officially relaxes regulations regarding the use of satellite dishes by the general population, not just the underserved. Sinosat-4's launch has now been delayed from 2008 to 2011," said Murray.
Apparently, the Chinese government is prepared to spend over 3 billion yuan to provide satellite TV and radio services by the end of 2010 to approximately 700,000 villages. Each village will be required to have electricity and at least 20 households, according to the National Human Rights Action Plan of China (2009-2010), which was released in early April by the Information Office of the State Council.
While all of this activity suggests, among other things, that the evolution of satellite TV services will remain under strict governmental control, and that satellite TV installations and subscriber growth will remain closely supervised by the Chinese government, the reality of the situation is quite different.
Indeed, a satellite TV infestation has been well underway in China for a decade or more. Casual viewing of unauthorized satellite TV services is a routine and popular activity.
"To my knowledge, there are no 'legal' satellite TV subscribers in China, but the illegal market is huge - the number often thrown about is around 20 million. There are 1 to 2 million legal satellite TV dishes used for various platforms in China, but these are technically limited to hotels that serve foreigners and expatriates in China, foreign-owned buildings, embassies, etc. But not for Chinese citizens," said Patrick French, senior analyst and head of the Singapore Office at NSR LLC, an international telecom consulting firm based in Massachusetts. "China has launched Chinasat-9 for satellite TV services and it is broadcasting content, but to my knowledge, China has yet to rewrite its laws to allow people to legally buy a satellite TV dish to get programming off of this satellite."
One executive who sells satellite TV equipment and services in China - who did not wish to be identified - described a dynamic satellite TV market which is growing at a brisk pace despite not being granted official approval.
"This is complicated. Times have changed. The latest government regulations on satellite TV dishes date back to 1993, and they have not been revised for a long time," he said. "In terms of international TV channels, there are some permitted, only via the Sinosat-1 overseas TV channel platform for hotels and resorts etc. Any re-broadcast to Chinese citizens is not allowed."
Despite this rigid government policy, this executive points to Suzhou, for example, where for a monthly fee of 295 yuan, people can view roughly 15 overseas channels including CNN and BBC using a digital decoder.
"This is obviously against the central government's laws, but it is happening on a large scale," he said. His company offers programming packages from Taiwan, Hong Kong and elsewhere.
"However, the number one headache to the business is piracy because there are too many pirated systems on the market, which are very cheap. Most people who actually watch satellite TV here in China are doing so using pirated receivers. My guess is over 90%, although nobody has the precise number. It may be higher."
The fact that satellite TV represents a potentially disruptive phenomenon in China is something that is openly discussed in the Chinese media. In January, for example, the State Administration of Traditional Chinese Medicine (SATCM) declared that TCM was under attack from "from illegal ads" and Vice Health Minister Wang Guoqiang revealed that Chinese authorities had terminated 2,274 illegal TCM advertisements in 2008, according to Xinhua.
"Satellite TV stations" along with newspapers were identified as the major sources of these ads, and according to the SATCM, "some profit-driven media advertising departments open the doors to illegal TCM ads". This reference to "satellite TV stations" leaps out as a clear indicator that legal or not, domestic satellite TV is well established in China.
Xinhua's reporters have documented what other governments are doing in response to the flood of foreign satellite TV channels. For example, Xinhua recently reported that Iran's Minister of Culture and Islamic Guidance Mohammad-Hossein Safar-Harandi had branded the British Broadcasting Corporation's (BBC) Persian TV channel in Iran as "illegal" after the BBC launched its Farsi-language TV channel on January 14. Iran's Intelligence Minister Gholam-Hossein Mohseni Ejeie described the new TV channel to Xinhua as "detrimental to Iranian national security".
Xinhua simply reported that, "most of the Iranians from different ethnic groups, either Persian or others, have access to satellite dishes country-wide and are following global events through diverse domestic and foreign satellite channels".
in particular by using specially prepared smart cards, downloadable software and other techniques. FTA manufacturers have denied these allegations. Nevertheless, this technology has been the subject of at least one lawsuit in the US.
"The growing Chinese demand for information resulted in the increase of foreign TV channels distributed in China although only a few are distributed in foreign language. Foreign channels and blocks of programs may largely be reserved for certain designated test areas for distribution over cable," said Pacome Revillon, CEO of Paris-based Euroconsult, an international research and consulting firm specializing in digital broadcasting, IT and satellite technology.
"His speech did not seem to hint that any goal of 'opening up' or 'enriching people's cultural life' depended on importing content from the West," said Murray. "Topical news programming still cannot be legally imported. And SARFT provisions regarding the import and broadcast of overseas programming still prohibit anything seen as opposing the basic principles of the Chinese constitution, or endangering the nation's 'social morality' or the national culture and tradition. There is no indication that SARFT will abdicate this role."
The abrupt intervention by Chinese censors during the live satellite TV broadcast in January of the inaugural address given by President Obama certainly stands out in this regard. President Obama's specific mention of communism caused censors to suddenly pull the plug on his speech. However, while the live transmission was interrupted for viewers watching the official Chinese government-approved satellite TV feed that day, thousands if not millions of other viewers watching the live telecast being beamed into China via unauthorized satellite TV services encountered no reception problems whatsoever.
According to Murray, a strong emphasis will continue to be placed on the "co-production" of approved content as opposed to unfiltered access to Chinese audiences. The message conveyed by the Chinese delegation at the April 2009 MIPTV trade show in Cannes, France was clear and to the point - acquiring new foreign content is not on the list.
"They emphasized the need for program 'exchanges' and 'cooperation with other countries', but did not seem to define 'exchanges' as indicating a desire to seek out new foreign content - they seemed more interested in exporting Chinese dramas and cartoon programs," said Murray. "In fact, SARFT recently increased restrictions on foreign-produced cartoons such as Japanese manga or shows like The Simpsons during prime time in China. This would appear to be more of an attempt to stimulate the Chinese cartoon production industry rather than restrict access to foreign producers for content reasons."
packages for Mandarin or Cantonese-speaking audiences.
"Although we cannot disclose specific subscriber numbers, the entire Chinese community residing within our coverage area [which includes the entire US] is estimated at over 1 million households," said Naomi Rodriguez, a member of DirecTV's public relations staff. "We are determined to build the strongest and most appealing Chinese satellite platform for the US market. We are focused on providing the best quality entertainment channels to our viewers. The intention is to provide quality, not quantity. We combine programming and channels from Hong Kong, Taiwan and China."
According to Revillon, the availability of Chinese TV content outside of China has been steadily increasing over the past decade.
"From approximately 100 TV channels in 2000, the number of satellite TV channels broadcast outside of China was over 230 in 2008. However, half of them are broadcast in the Asian and Oceanic area," said Revillon. "With nearly 100 Chinese satellite TV channels in early 2008, North America is clearly a core market. CCTV has been at the forefront of the Chinese channels expansion in recent years."
The distribution of Chinese TV content outside China reflects a change in the communication policy of the Chinese government following the 2008 Beijing Summer Olympic Games.
"Since the 2008 Games, TV content has greater diversity and reflects more than ever the current Chinese society. It is considered as a promotion and commercialization of Chinese values and dynamics rather than propaganda," said Revillon. "The content of these international channels is adapted compared to their national counterparts. The fact that the content is still strictly controlled is certainly a reality."
Samuel Zhou, senior vice president of New York City-based New Tang Dynasty TV (NTDTV), wants everyone to understand that the Chinese Communist Party (CCP) is firmly in control of all CCTV content seen abroad, and that this TV programming from China deserves very close scrutiny.
"CCTV-4 is CCTV for the overseas Chinese audience, and it serves as the mouthpiece for the CCP aimed directly at all overseas Chinese," said Zhou, who added that CCTV-9 is for English-speaking audiences. "CCTV-4's content has long been present on almost all local Chinese TV's around the world."
Zhou points to the Chinese government's very aggressive campaign to launch 24/7 CCTV-4 broadcasts on various US cable and satellite TV carriers besides DirecTV including DISH Network, Time Warner, RCN, Charter, and Verizon Fios, to name a few. "Since 2004, they have combined CCTV-4 with about a dozen other channels such as Phoenix TV to form a 'Great Wall Platform'," said Zhou. "At the same time, they exert political and commercial pressure on various US pay TV service operators so that they will not carry independent Chinese language TV channels such as NTDTV."
Back in China, Chinasat-9 will now provide the Chinese government with a powerful satellite TV platform which can be used to lure Chinese consumers away from the unauthorized satellite TV services that dominate China's satellite TV scene. This will not be an easy task nor a rapid transition, and yet at last the Chinese government will have its own toolset to promote and distribute satellite TV - and it will be available for free.
. It has happened in Iran, and it seems as if it is about to happen in Myanmar. However, the dishes almost always reappear in short order. So while turning the tide on satellite piracy might appeal to some government officials, this seems like an unlikely possibility, at least for now. One thing is certain. In bad economic times, taking away someone's satellite TV is not a good idea.


A stylish alternative to jeans, these Marlow lightweight trousers by Howick are an easy way to refine your daytime looks. Made from a smooth pure cotton fabric, they are fitted with a classic button-zip fastening to offer maximum ease. Trimmed with a four-pocket style for a classic appeal, these regular fit trousers pair well with a crisp white shirt and navy blue blazer to create a sophisticated desk-to-dinner ensemble.


Strong, rhythmic gestures and pride of place create an atmospheric "om" in Bobby McAlpine and Susan Ferrier's new ADAC office.
Area designers leave their signature design stamp on projects near and far.
Along the shores of Lake Martin, Alabama, designer Susan Ferrier and architect Bobby McAlpine create a chic camp-style retreat.


Listen to Hurst Green Primary School's Phase One Assistant Headteacher Mr Walters read one of his children's favourite bedtime stories. Listen carefully for his somewhat dubious pirate accent!!!
"My little girl thinks all of the 'Underpants Books' by Claire Freedman are hilarious but this is her favourite. She likes it when I have to pretend to be a pirate and then likes to decide, at the end of the book, what pair of pants from the picture different people we know would wear! My little boy, who is only one, loves this story too and giggles when I squawk loudly like a parrot after the quiet part of the story. I think it's just a really funny, well-written book with a great rhyming scheme which is really fun to read out loud!"


text:
Christopher Ondaatje is a man of many talents who has had a charmed career and life. He was born in Sri Lanka, educated in England and built a successful career in finance and publishing in Canada. In the early '90's he sold all his business interests and returned to writing where he has broken new [...]
A magical musical journey
Book facts | Love Duet and other curious stories about music, selected by Christopher Ondaatje
Christopher Ondaatje is a man of many talents who has had a charmed career and life. He was born in Sri Lanka, educated in England and built a successful career in finance and publishing in Canada. In the early '90's he sold all his business interests and returned to writing where he has broken new ground as a respected book reviewer and a writer of thought-provoking books dealing with significant biographical histories and geographical events.
Since 1985 Ondaatje has devoted his time to travelling, writing and administering the Ondaatje Foundation. He is a life patron of the National Portrait Gallery where the Ondaatje Wing is named after him. The Ondaatje Theatre at the Royal Geographical Society; and the Ondaatje Prize at both The Royal Society of Literature and The Royal Society of Portrait Painters are other major benefactions. Recently he was awarded the Gold Medal of The Royal Canadian Geographical Society. He was made a Commander of The British Empire (CBE) in June 2000, and awarded a knighthood in the Queen's honours list, June 2003.
However, Christopher Ondaatje's recent book is a complete departure from his other endeavours. Love Duet is a diverse collection of stories, articles, opinions and interviews which is a literary revelation with music as its theme. In addition to writing the title story "Love Duet", which is clearly inspired by his affiliation with the prodigiously gifted Albek Duo from Switzerland, he has selected some of the best pieces from the last two centuries by authors ranging from Somerset Maugham to H.H. Munro (Saki); from Roald Dahl to Nadine Gardiner, and from Tolstoy to Chekhov. He has also included some of the most emotional musical literature from Proust, E.M. Forster and Thomas Mann. There are violent expressions of startling sensitivity and disclosure; there is great variation, but somehow, ingenuously, everything draws together revealing precision and perception.
There is also an extraordinary article by the renowned Sri Lankan born cellist Rohan de Saram "Trio" on the curious relationship between Johannes Brahms, Robert Schumann and his wife Clara. Food for thought!
The late Glenn Gould has penned a seldom read but perceptive observation of the composer Richard Strauss, and his own final interview is far-reaching and wildly opinionated. Robert Schumann's very first article on his discovery of Chopin has been translated from its original German probably for the first time, revealing Schumann's talent as an entertaining reviewer.
The kaleidoscope of brilliant musical literature conjures up an almost forgotten world of musical discovery. It explains how over ten centuries ago Pope Gregory initiated the idea of writing down music.
Then how Guido of Arezzo, a monk, invented the music notations do, re, mi, fa, so, la and ti and wrote them down on a staff. Also how an Italian composer Claudio Monteverdi added musical accompaniments to madrigals – and thus invented opera. The Baroque Era emerged in the 1600s and composers like Bach, Vivaldi and Handel composed many of the works still played today. Then the Romantic Era emerged and saw the birth of emotional and poetic structure when Chopin, Liszt, Brahms and Strauss made their name.
Vienna was the centre of classical music and composers like Dvorak, Tchaikovsky and Rachmaninoff created music, sometimes from folk music, which lasted well into the 20th century. New composers emerged like Debussy, Stravinsky and Prokofiev and somehow Ondaatje has magically put it all together into a collection of writing that is sometimes surprising, often enchanting, and always entertaining. It must have been a joyful voyage of discovery for the author and we are lucky to be taken along on this magical musical journey.
-Michael Berry (Publisher, Rare Books and Berry)
From poets' muse to principal in Jaffna
Bringing back a smile to their faces
Letters on a meditative journey
The Little Sisters' one big family
Arugam Bay: An exotic, eclectic experience
The true beauty of Sri Lanka
Mekala, a fusion of classical and modern dance
Mariam wins Godage Short Story Prize
One creation, but many layers
Ladies' College brings to life a perennial love story
Tanya to premiere two new compositions at St. Martin-in-the-Fields
Making a song and dance out of nothing – or someone – rather special
What's in a name? A lot if you are a Royal
The Mavericks are back
Tips from the High Street 'Knicker Queen of Britain'
"Ivory and The Elephant: A Historical Perspective"
All choked up about CHOGM

redpajama_set_name: RedPajamaCommonCrawl


A job recently completed on a residential care home, working alongside Danny Mac from 50 shades paint & decor.
Very large corridors stripped from dark brick style wallpaper, extensive prep work followed by Dulux Trade Diamond Matt in various colours.
All trim was completed in Zinsser allcoat white, with multiple colours on doors also in Zinsser allcoat and hand rails stained with Dulux Trade light oak with 2 protective coats of Dulux Diamond glaze.
Lounge / Diner and Cinema area was also decorated but no pictures for privacy reasons.
Looks great now and a lot brighter than the dark brick style wallpaper.


So make some posts people.
When you say an official rescue, how do you mean? What do you have to do to make it official?
i'm not an official rescuer! although am listed as a carer and now the local school has my number,as they have alot of hogs about that they didn't know what to do with.
Trish, what I meant when I said official was when you actually open a Hedgehog Rescue, get it marked on the map, get some donation etc, as well as having equiptment for it.


It's true, we are moving to CANS! Our canning line is being made as we type! We hope to be canning on our NEW Canning line by late February/early March. We have a lot to do in the brewery to prepare for the arrival but we can't wait for the change!
February brings our new seasonal, Irish Red Ale. This delicious beer will be on tap starting early February.
We will continue our taproom hours. PLEASE NOTE WE WILL BE CLOSED AT 6PM ON JANUARY 19TH DUE TO A PRIVATE EVENT. We do apologize for the inconvenience.
Sign up for the Graeme's Run at No Label on Feb. 10th at 8:30am. This event is for a great cause to raise money for the Children's Heart Foundation.
Looking to volunteer at No Label? Contact us at info@nolabelbrew.com. Want to rent an area of the brewery during our taproom hours? Contact jennifer@nolabelbrew.com.


text:
Naturecom Inc. - 512786 - 04/20/2017
Naturecom Inc. MARCS-CMS 512786 — April 20, 2017
Naturecom Inc.
Los Angeles District Office
Los Angeles District
19701 Fairchild, Irvine CA 92612-2506
WL # 26-17
Xiuli (Erin) Zhang, CEO
8 Rancho Circle
Dear Ms. Zhang:
From November 2 through November 10, 2016, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA or we) inspected your facility located at 8 Rancho Circle, Lake Forest, CA 92630. Based on our inspection and subsequent review of your product labeling collected during the inspection, we identified serious violations of the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act (the Act) and applicable FDA regulations. You can find the Act and FDA regulations through links on the FDA's home page at http://www.fda.gov.
Adulterated Dietary Supplements
Our inspection of your facility revealed that you failed to comply with the Current Good Manufacturing Practice (CMGP) regulations for dietary supplements, found in Title 21 of the Code of Federal Regulations, Part 111 (21 CFR Part 111). These violations cause your dietary supplement products to be adulterated within the meaning of section 402(g)(1) of the Act [21 U.S.C. § 342(g)(1)], in that they have been prepared, packed, or held under conditions that do not meet CGMP regulations for dietary supplements.
During the inspection, investigators observed the following significant violations:
1. You failed to prepare and follow a master manufacturing record (MMR) for the dietary supplement products that you package and label, as required by 21 CFR 111.205(a). Specifically, you do not have any MMRs for the dietary supplement products that you package and label. A master manufacturing record for a firm that only packages and labels the dietary supplement must include specifications that are applicable to its operations [see 72 Fed. Reg. 34752, 34902 (June 25, 2007)].
Once you establish an MMR for the dietary supplement products that you package and label, you must establish specifications to ensure the quality of the dietary supplement and that the dietary supplement is packaged and labeled as specified in the master manufacturing record (21 CFR 111.70(a)), and you must fill, assemble, package, label, and perform other related operations in a way that ensures the quality of the dietary supplement and that the dietary supplement is packaged and labeled as specified in the master manufacturing record (21 CFR 111.415). Additionally, to the extent you receive a product from a supplier for packaging or labeling as a dietary supplement (and for distribution rather than for return to the supplier), you must establish specifications to provide sufficient assurance that the product you receive is adequately identified and is consistent with your purchase order (21 CFR 111.70(f)).
We have reviewed your December 18, 2016, response; however, we are unable to evaluate the adequacy of your corrective action. Your response states that you have established MMRs for each batch size of a dietary supplement that you manufacture. However, the MMRs provided in your response failed to include actual or representative labels associated with them (see 21 CFR 111.210(g)).
2. Your batch production records (BPRs) failed to include complete information relating to the production and control of each batch, as required by 21 CFR 111.255(b) and 21 CFR 111.260. Specifically, your batch production records do not include the following:
a. The identity of equipment used in producing the batch, such as the scales, scoops, and package sealing equipment.
b. The date and time of maintenance, cleaning, and sanitization of the equipment and processing lines used in producing the batch, or a cross-reference to records, such as individual equipment logs, where this information is retained.
c. The weight or measure of each finished package.
d. The date and time of when weighing and packaging occurred.
e. The quantity of packaging materials and labels used.
f. An actual or representative label or cross-reference to the physical location of the actual or representative label specified in the master manufacturing record.
g. The issuance and use of packaging materials and labels and reconciliation of any issuance and use discrepancies.
We have reviewed your December 18, 2016, response; however, we are unable to evaluate the adequacy of your corrective action. It is unclear how the generic template you provided with your response will apply to a specific dietary supplement products or specific batches of dietary supplement product, as required. Additionally, the supporting documentation you provided with your response fails to include the following information required by 21 CFR 111.260:
The statement of actual yield and statement of the percentage of theoretical yield must be included at appropriate phases of processing in accordance with CFR 111.260(f);
The actual results obtained during the monitoring operations described in steps 3 through 6 of the document you provided, in accordance with 21 CFR 111.260(g);
The results of any tests or examinations conducted on packaged and labeled dietary supplements, such as those described in steps 6.1, 6.3, 7, and 8 of the document you provided, in accordance with 21 CFR 111.260(k)(3);
Documentation at the time of performance that quality control personnel reviewed the results of any tests and examinations, including those for packaged and labeled dietary supplements, such as those described in step 3 of the document you provided, in accordance with 21 CFR 111.260(l)(1)(ii)
Misbranded Dietary Supplements
Your products are misbranded under section 403 of the Act [21 U.S.C. § 343] because they do not comply with FDA's labeling requirements under 21 CFR Part 101.
1. Your NVS Labs Caffeine Tablets and NVS Labs Beta Alanin products are misbranded within the meaning of section 403(y) of the Act [21 U.S.C. § 343(y)] in that the labels fail to bear a domestic address or domestic phone number through which the responsible person (as described in section 761) may receive a report of a serious adverse event with such dietary supplement.
2. Your NVS Labs Caffeine Tablets, NVS Labs Instantized BCAA, and NutriVita Shop Methylsulfonylmethane products are misbranded within the meaning of section 403(q)(5)(F) of the Act [21 U.S.C. § 343 (q)(5)(F)] in that the product labels fail to bear nutrition labeling in the form of a "Supplements Facts" label, as required by 21 CFR 101.36.
3. Your NVS Labs Caffeine Tablets product is misbranded within the meaning of 403(s)(2)(B) of the Act [21 U.S.C. § 343 (s)(2)(B)] because the product label fails to identify the product using the term "dietary supplement," as required by 21 CFR 101.3(g).
The violations cited in this letter are not intended to be an all-inclusive statement of violations that exist in connection with your products. You are responsible for investigating and determining the causes of the violations identified above and for preventing their recurrence or the occurrence of other violations. It is your responsibility to ensure that your firm complies with all requirements of federal law, including FDA regulations.
You should take prompt action to correct the violations cited in this letter. Failure to promptly correct these violations may result in legal action without further notice, including, without limitation, seizure and injunction.
Additionally, we have the following comment. We acknowledge that you have voluntarily recalled your products containing 1,3-dimethylamylamine, also known as DMAA or geranium extract. Please provide this office with the status of your activities of this on-going recall and any action plan you have to prevent this from reoccurring.
Within fifteen (15) working days of receipt of this letter, please notify this office in writing of the specific steps you have taken to correct violations. Include an explanation of each step being taken to prevent the recurrence of violations, as well as copies of related documentation. If you cannot complete corrective actions within fifteen working days, state the reason for the delay and the time within which you will complete the correction.
Section 743 of the Act (21 U.S.C. 379j-31) authorizes FDA to assess and collect fees to cover FDA's costs for certain activities, including reinspection-related costs. A reinspection is one or more inspections conducted subsequent to an inspection that identified noncompliance materially related to a food safety requirement of the Act, specifically to determine whether compliance has been achieved. Reinspection-related costs means all expenses, including administrative expenses, incurred in connection with FDA's arranging, conducting, and evaluating the results of the reinspection and assessing and collecting the reinspection fees (21 U.S.C. 379j-31(a)(2)(B)). For a domestic facility, FDA will assess and collect fees for reinspection-related costs from the responsible party for the domestic facility. The inspection noted in this letter identified noncompliance materially related to a food safety requirement of the Act. Accordingly, FDA may assess fees to cover any reinspection-related costs.
Please submit your response to:
Kelly D. Sheppard, Director, Compliance Branch
19701 Fairchild
If you have any questions please contact Dr. Raymond W. Brullo, Compliance Officer, at (949) 608-2918.
CDR Steven E. Porter, Jr.
Los Angeles District Director
David Mazerra, Ph.D.
Chief, Food and Drug Branch
1500 Capitol Avenue - MS 7602
Sacramento, California 95899-7435


This chapter demonstrates the basic principles involved in local circuits in general and reviews evidence for the organization of local circuits in the hippocampus. Local circuits in the hippocampus are comprised of excitatory connections from principal cells to interneurons and mainly inhibitory interneuronal connections onto principal cells. A smaller number of connections are made up of mutual inhibitory interneuronal interconnectivity and recurrent excitatory connectivity between principal cells. The pattern of local connectivity is diverse and represents a rich tapestry of prospective strategies for modifying initial responses to inputs and post hoc responses to continued input activity on the basis of previously generated outputs.


Die neuen Oberschenkelbänder sind in den Farben make up, rot, schwarz und weiß erhältlich. Jede der Farben ist optimal zu Ihrer Kleidung kombinierbar, ideal passend für jede Gelegenheit und zu jedem Anlass.
The new thigh bands are available in the colors black, red, make up and white. Each of the colors can be optimally combined with your outfit, perfect for every occasion and opportunity.


Ginga Densetsu Weed. . HD Wallpaper and background images in the Ginga Densetsu Weed club.
This Ginga Densetsu Weed photo might contain मोबाइल फोनों के लिए, हास्य पुस्तक, मंगा, कार्टून, एनीमे, कॉमिक बुक, and manga.


text:
Doncaster Rovers: We've found the formula for survival says Tommy Rowe
Tommy Rowe says it was about finding the right formula as Doncaster Rovers desperately searched for a way to end their horrendous slump in form.
Friday, 29 April, 2016, 05:58
Midfielder Tommy Rowe has scored two goals in his last two games for Rovers
Rovers failed to win in 16 league matches and looked almost certain to be relegated to League Two.
But two wins and two draws from their last five games has given them a real chance to secure survival with two games of the season remaining.
Loanee Rowe says he could see the squad and coaching staff were searching for the right combination of players and systems in arrest the slump when he arrived from Wolverhampton Wanderers in mid-March.
He believes the about-turn in form began when things finally clicked into place for Rovers.
And the midfielder thinks, after plenty of hard work, Rovers are now close to playing the ideal football for the squad.
"It's all been about finding the right formula I think," Rowe told The Star.
"When I first came, we were still in between players and formations and that was the sticking point.
"It's throughout the team. Forward, midfield and defensive areas have got to link well
"The cohesion between the players and formations was off a little bit.
"We were always trying to improve that and we improved it very well by a lot of work on the training ground.
"Sometimes it wasn't right, we weren't getting it right and we were disappointing with the way we were doing it in training and in matches.
"But we knew if we kept plugging at it, stuck by the system and what they were telling us, we'd get there.
"I'm not saying it's the finished article but we're nearly at what we think is the right way to play."


text:
Woman finds razor blades under car door handle
TEMECULA (KCBS/CNN) — It sounds like an urban legend or something out of a horror movie.
A California woman found razor blades under her vehicle's door handle.
The four blades were glued together with the sharp edges facing both up and down.
Kristen Dalton said she believes she was targeted randomly because she couldn't think of anyone who would be motivated to harm her.
She said she's glad she reached under her handle gently because the blades were positioned to easily cause harm.
"So no matter if you grab the handle from underneath or on top, then you are going to get cut by the blades," said Dalton.
Police in Temecula also got a call the following day about a razor blade placed on the grill of a parked car.
They don't believe the incidents were related.
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Actor Jeff Goldblum advocates banning single-use plastics in California
by Ashley Zavala / Jan 22, 2020
SACRAMENTO (KRON) - Actor Jeff Goldblum spent the day at the State Capitol.
"I'm of the opinion my life belongs to the community," Goldblum said.
California governor aims to block PG&E's bankruptcy plan
SAN FRANCISCO (AP) — California Gov. Gavin Newsom is urging a federal judge to reject Pacific Gas and Electric's blueprint for getting out of bankruptcy and renewing his threat to lead a bid to turn the beleaguered utility into a government-run operation.
In a court filing Wednesday, Newsom's lawyers gave a sternly worded rebuke of PG&E's plan, escalating the intrigue in the year-old case that will determine the fate of the nation's largest utility. PG&E is trying to dig out of a financial hole created by more than $50 billion in claims stemming from a series of catastrophic wildfires that have been blamed on the San Francisco company.
Preliminary hearing date set for suspected 'Golden State Killer'
by CNN Newsource, Kayla Galloway / Jan 22, 2020
SACRAMENTO (KRON/CNN) -- The man accused in the Golden State Killer case is set to appear in a Sacramento court room in May for a preliminary hearing.
Joseph James DeAngelo will return to court May 12 at 8:30 a.m. for the hearing where evidence will be presented and a judge will determine whether there is probable cause for the case to go to trial.
Bay Area / 3 seconds ago
Bay Area / 1 min ago
World / 17 mins ago


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Walter Mazzarri warns Watford skipper Troy Deeney is target of troublemakers after nightclub incident
Deeney was involved in an incident where he was threatened with pepper spray and Mazzarri believes he is targeted because of the prison sentence he served in 2012
Mike WaltersSports writer
Deeney with Watford boss Mazzarri (Image: Shaun Botterill)
Walter Mazzarri has warned Watford captain Troy Deeney to beware of "jealous" opportunists trying to test his reformed character.
Deeney was caught up in a nightclub brawl, and threatened with pepper spray by police, when a Saturday evening out with his wife Stacey in Birmingham erupted in trouble as he unwound following the Hornets' 2-0 defeat at Manchester United.
Watford are taking no action against their talisman over the 3am incident on February 12, when Deeney's patience was tested to breaking point by a punter pestering him repeatedly for selfies and filming him as he sipped his drink.
Deeney is believed to have snatched an intrusive punter's phone and deleted the file, and in the melee which followed, bouncers cleared the Levana bar.
Deeney shoots at goal against United (Image: Action Images via Reuters)
The Watford skipper argues with Etienne Capoue (Image: Richard Heathcote)
But while Mazzarri is entirely supportive of his captain, the Watford manager has also warned Deeney he is a target for troublemakers because of the three months he served in prison after being convicted of affray in 2012.
Mazzarri said: "I spoke with Troy, but there was not much to speak about. He had three days off like the other players, he went out and this sort of thing can happen, even if it is not his fault.
"For us, it does not change a lot because he is a very professional player when he comes here to work.
"Should the captain of a Premier League club be able to go out for the evening with his wife without being harassed or filmed? What do you want me to say?
Walter Mazzarri (Image: REUTERS)
Deeney celebrates after scoring (Image: Getty Images)
"If a professional footballer decides to go out on his day off, he is free to do it, but there are people who need to be more educated, more responsible and show more respect to us under the lights.
"There are ways and means of asking for pictures and autographs, and if the person decides he doesn't want to pose for a photo, you have to respect that.
"Yes, it is possible there are people out there who are trying to test his character. People like him can sometimes cause people from the street to have some jealousy.
"Troy will know that next time something like this happens, he will have to control himself a little bit more – but it's not easy. Everyone's patience has a limit.
Deeney has been in decent form recently (Image: Mike Hewitt)
"In life, it can happen to anyone. If we decide to go out in the street and someone bothers you or harasses you, what are you going to do?
"You can't live all your life locked up in your own house. The important thing here is that there are different ways of asking things and showing some manners."
Seven-goal top scorer Deeney rang Watford officials before dawn on the Sunday morning to spell out his version of events in case of any attempts to exploit his celebrity.
Sure enough, a relative of one nightclub reveller allegedly phoned Watford to ask for money.
Deeney, 28, will lead Watford in the home game against West Ham on Saturday as the Hornets bid to reclaim a place in the top half of the table.
Will Watford finish in the top 10 this season?


Ukraine introduces crypto taxation bill, which aims to promote the development of the digital currency-related activity in the country. Ukrainian authorities plan to impose a five percent tax on individuals and legal entities that operate with virtual currencies.
18 September, AtoZ Markets – The parliament of Ukraine, the Verkhovna Rada, reportedly proposed a bill that is related to the cryptocurrency taxation laws in the country. Once passed into law, the bill would tax operations with cryptocurrency assets. The draft law was published on the official website of the parliament.
The tax bill was initiated by 23 government officials. It suggests a five percent tax on individuals and legal entities that operate with virtual currencies, including tokens and cryptocurrencies.
According to some of the online reports, cryptocurrency related profits by businesses would be taxed at 18 percent, starting from January 1, 2024. This rate is a normal tax rate for corporate and personal income in Ukraine.
As of the moment, there is no valid legal regulation for cryptocurrencies in Ukraine. Back in September 2017, the Ukrainian Cabinet of Ministers on the Financial Stability Board called for the conclusion of the legal status of cryptocurrencies in the country. As a matter of fact, the Ukrainian Cabinet of Ministers on the Financial Stability Board operates under the parliament of Ukraine.
At the very beginning of the current year, AtoZ Markets reported that Ukrainian authorities planned to create a new working group on cryptocurrency legislation. That time, the news was announced by Ukrainian government.
During the official meeting regarding cybersecurity and infrastructure, Oleksandr Turchynov, the National Security and Defense Council Chief shared his outlook on the matter. He stated that a lack of regulation in regards to the tech poses a threat to Ukraine's security and economy.
Following the acknowledgment of these risks, the formation of the new working group has begun.
The new Ukraine crypto working group includes officials from the National Bank of Ukraine, the Ministry of Finance, the National Securities and Stock Market Commission and the National Police, among others.
The key purpose of this working group is to determine which agencies have the authority to oversee the domestic digital currency market. The group also intends to create a system for collecting income taxes that are related to the cryptocurrency trading.
This May, the Head of Ukraine's National Securities and Stock Market Commission (SSMCS) Timur Khromaev stated that the commission plans to consider recognizing cryptocurrencies as a financial instrument. He also highlighted the need for the legal recognition of cryptocurrencies. The Financial Stability Council supported this idea later in their July statement.


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Modelling Clean Air Zones
This article summarises the presentation given by David Connolly at Modelling World on 6 June 2018.
Air pollution is one of the most significant public health problems of our time. The Royal College of Physicians estimated in 2016 that around 40,000 premature deaths per annum in the UK are attributable to outdoor air pollution[1], more than 20 times those killed in road traffic accidents. In May 2018, the European Commission took the unprecedented decision to refer the UK, amongst other EU countries, to the European Court of Justice for failing to address chronic breaches of limits for nitrogen dioxide.
The issue of the air we breathe in our towns and cities is now firmly at the top of both public health and political agendas, with a range of measures being implemented and proposed to tackle road transport emissions. Clean Air Zones are one of the measures being taken forward, defined as areas "where targeted action is taken to improve air quality and resources are prioritised and coordinated in order to shape the urban environment in a way that delivers improved health benefits and supports economic growth".
A Clean Air Zone (CAZ) aim to address all sources of transport-related pollution and reduce public exposure to it using a range of measures tailored to the location. They can be either Non-Charging or Charging, e.g. motorists must a charge to enter or move within a zone if they are driving a vehicle that does not meet the standard for that zone.
There are complex issues surrounding urban transport emissions, not least the dynamics of the relevant behavioural responses, which can be surprisingly difficult to untangle. SYSTRA is currently involved in CAZ feasibility studies in Southampton, Derby & Nottingham and Sheffield & Rotheringham, in which innovative transport modelling is being used to inform the development of these zones.
Our modelling work takes into account a range of factors, including the approach to modelling 'Pay Once Per Day' charges for non-compliant vehicles (typically pre-Euro 6 diesel or pre-Euro 4 petrol). In addition to 'traditional' driver responses of changes to route, destination and/or mode, Charging CAZs are also likely to affect vehicle ownership, as owners of non-compliant vehicles switch from diesel to petrol, to cleaner engine technologies and/or buy younger or cleaner vehicles.
The pressures to switch away from diesel are already affecting new vehicle sales, resulting in a drop in the sales of new (Euro 6) diesel vehicles, even though these vehicles would be unaffected by most of the charging regimes being considered in the various CAZ schemes in the UK. To put this into perspective, however, sales of new electric vehicles in the UK reached 2.3% this year; growing but still small, especially compared to their uptake in some of our neighbouring countries.
Of particular interest is how the frequency of driving into or through a proposed CAZ will affect vehicle replacement decisions. We can analyse long-running Automatic Number Plate Recognition datasets across an area, which sheds light on the distribution of trip frequency, from 'once per year' to 'almost daily', by vehicle type (including private cars, private hire vehicles, hackney cabs, light goods and heavy goods vehicles). Understanding these trip frequency distributions is crucial for predicting the total number of vehicles which need to be replaced to achieve the required reduction in emissions and hence to appraise the cost of the various potential Charging CAZ schemes being considered.
Modelling is just one element underpinning the development and implementation of CAZs (and Low Emission Zones), but with a robust and nuanced approach, it can give local authorities the confidence they need to proceed with making significant changes to the way vehicles (and therefore people) travel to and through their most socially, culturally and economically important areas.
Dr David Connolly is SYSTRA's Director of Innovation and a leading expert in developing, appraising and delivering transport-related emissions schemes and strategies. For more information, contact dconnolly@systra.com
[1] https://www.rcplondon.ac.uk/projects/outputs/every-breath-we-take-lifelong-impact-air-pollution


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Q: Count if or match in another column in same table I have a Column A and Column B in a table:

I want to create a calculate Column that says "Yes" if the letter in Column A was found in Column B, and "No" if that is not the case (in power query so in language M).
I have read a lot about Calculate functions, filtering the table, Search Functions etc (even merging the table with itself but my file is already very heavy and I am not sure the solution is adapted). But when I try all these solutions and try to adapt them to my case, I get either error or circular reference.

A: When you build queries in the query editor it is done in steps. In order to avoid the circular reference, you need to make sure that the step where you create your custom column references the previous step and not the query name.
For example, if my query is named Table01 and I try to write this custom column formula
 = if List.Contains(Table01[Column B], [Column A]) then "Yes" else "No"

then I will get a circular reference error since the query name refers to the result of the final step.
However, if my previous step is named #"Changed Type", then  I can write this instead
 = if List.Contains(#"Changed Type"[Column B], [Column A]) then "Yes" else "No"

and it works just fine.

redpajama_set_name: RedPajamaStackExchange


HAVANA (Reuters) - Russia has begun shipping large quantities of oil to Cuba for the first time this century, sources said, as supplies to the island from crisis-wracked Venezuela have dwindled.
A Russian oil tanker with 249,000 barrels of refined products is due to arrive in Cuba on May 10, according to Reuters shipping sources and others, bringing back memories of when the Soviet Union supplied all of the Communist-run Caribbean island's energy needs.
More tankers apparently will follow.
Rosneft, Russia's state oil company, announced on Wednesday it had signed an agreement with Cuba's state-run Cubametals to supply 250,000 tonnes of oil and diesel fuel, without providing further details.
The news is sure to raise eyebrows in Washington as its tense relations with Moscow continue, despite President Donald Trump's campaign pledge to improve them.
The Russian company has already become a concern for the United States. Venezuelan state oil company PDVSA last year used 49.9 percent of its shares in its U.S. subsidiary, Citgo, as collateral for loan financing by Rosneft.
"It is very clear that Cuba is diversifying its long-term supply contracts in the event that its October 2000 subsidized oil agreement with Venezuela is terminated," Pinon said.
Cash-strapped Cuba struggled with long blackouts and fuel shortages after the fall the Soviet Union, but the rise of the late Venezuela leftist President Hugo Chavez quickly solved the crisis at the turn of the century.
Since then Cuba has relied on Venezuela, an OPEC member, for about 70 percent of its fuel needs, including oil for refining and re-exports.
But socialist Venezuela's subsidized shipments have fallen by as much as 40 percent since 2014. Potential new suppliers usually want cash because of Cuba's poor credit rating.
Electricity and fuel rationing to state companies began a year ago, and more recently there have been gasoline shortages.
A change of government in Venezuela, which has been experiencing daily protests, would directly threaten the agreement.


Yes, the ploughmans pie worked, and here are photos.
That's a half-litre bottle of beer, for scale. Click for a larger one (larger photo, I mean, not larger pie/beer).
When I make the next one, I'll cut the ham and apples into smaller bits, and I'll distribute small bits of cheese throughout the filling to help it all hold together when it's cut. I think I'll also make it wider and not so tall. And I'll remember to glaze the pastry before it goes into the oven.
Holding together is a good plan (although it's getting a bit hawaiin pizzay) but tall is good and different!
I think if I was going to do this I'd put the ham into a cheese sauce, the apple sliced as a layer at the bottom, and then a layer of pickle under the crust at the top.
Not that I would do this because it's bonkers.
I wouldn't do the cheese sauce, I like my cheese in bits in a pie. But I like the layers idea.
Of course, not going to happen, even for Hogswatch, as is clearly bonkers. But they said that about Toffee Apple Maple Bacon cheesecake, too.
I wouldn't like to encourage you to do it for Hogswatch, what with it being a Special Serious Celebration for Serious Special People, none of whom are bonkers at all. Oh no.
That's great! But I think a traditional gelatine might help hold it together.
or even some liquid (broth? cider/juice?) plus thickener.


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The Rise To The Top Visits New York City
by David Garland in David's Blog, Riveting News
Fans and viewers of The Rise To The Top will be in for a treat this weekend when Episode #11 Attracting Passionate Customers hits the airwaves on ABC in St. Louis and worldwide via therisetothetop.com with brand new content brought back from New York City to help inspire and educate entrepreneurs. "Entrepreneurship is everywhere!" proclaimed CEO/Host of The Rise To The Top David Siteman, "My obligation is to bring unique stories, compelling interviews, and tips to help entrepreneurs…and also remind folks that business is fun. Our new on-location shoots are going to add a lot of value to our viewers."
While viewers will notice familiarity in this week's The Rise To The Top including "Build Your Business" and "Get Off Your Couch and Get Involved" segments, there will also be new features including a special on the Kairos Society Summit in New York City which brought together the top collegiate entrepreneurs in the world, networking lessons from the St. Louis Business Expo and much more. Special guest co-owner/GM of the St. Louis Aces Professional Tennis Team Dani Apted Schlottman joins David to discuss building a passionate following as well as her interesting journey to the top.
The Rise To The Top: Entertaining, Empowering and Energizing Entrepreneurs can be viewed on ABC30 in St. Louis, Missouri at 11 AM every Sunday following "This Week With George Stephanopoulos as well as Tuesdays and Thursdays following "Jimmy Kimmel Live". Shows are always available 24/7 in full television quality at www.therisetothetop.com
For Press Inquiries Please Email: media@DSGagency.com


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Affective economies, autism, and 'challenging behaviour': socio-spatial emotions in disabled children's education
PLUQUAILEC, Jill (2018). Affective economies, autism, and 'challenging behaviour': socio-spatial emotions in disabled children's education. Emotion, Space and Society.
Pluquailec-AffectiveEconomiesAutismAndCahllengingBehaviour(AM).pdf - Accepted Version
Creative Commons Attribution Non-commercial No Derivatives.
Link to published version:: https://doi.org/10.1016/j.emospa.2018.07.004
This paper tells a story of a small action in a fleeting moment in a morning spent in a UK special school classroom with Molly, a child with an autism diagnosis. It brings the socio-politically active sphere of Critical Disability Studies (Goodley, 2014; Goodley and Runswick-Cole, 2014; Titchkosky and Michalko, 2012; Shildrick, 2012; Titchkosky 2011) and more recently, the emergent Disabled Children's Childhood Studies (Runswick-Cole, Curran and Liddiard, 2017; Curran and Runswick-Cole, 2013) in to conversation with emotional geographies in education (Kenway and Youdell, 2011). This paper rejects the pathologising of disabled children's emotions as symptoms of disorder and instead reorientates our gaze towards emotions as socio-spatially mediated in the subjectification of children in school spaces. It does this by drawing together the theoretical tools of Ahmed's affective economies (2004a; 2004b) to explore the interventions in the everyday lives of disabled school children. Ahmed's affective economies are put to work to explore the emotions produced, reproduced and resisted between bodies in disabled children's schooling. Through such a reorientation we can explore how the subjectivation of children labelled with Special Educational Needs or Disability (SEND) becomes between bodies rather than residing within an individual child's pathology or psychology.
disability; emotions; childhood; autism; education; storytelling
Departments - Does NOT include content added after October 2018:
Faculty of Social Sciences and Humanities > Department of Education, Childhood and Inclusion
https://doi.org/10.1016/j.emospa.2018.07.004
Jill Pluquailec


text:
Octavian Drăghici ()  un fotbalist român, care evoluează pe postul de atacant la clubul din , .

Legături externe
Profil pe soccerway.com
Profil pe romaniansoccer.ro

Fotbaliști români
Sportivi români în viață
Fotbaliști ai Universității Cluj
Fotbaliști ai CS Gaz Metan Mediaș
Fotbaliști ai ACS Poli Timișoara

redpajama_set_name: RedPajamaWikipedia


text:
Jan 9, 2023 4:23PM EST
These Best-Selling Merrell Moab 2 Hiking Boots Are Over 50% Off Today on Amazon
By Nikki Chwatt
Nikki Chwatt
More Stories By Nikki
Amazon Is Have a Secret Sale on Its Best-Selling Snow Boots Today
The 35 Best Winter Boots for Women to Look Stylish and Feel Comfortable This Season
Sarah Jessica Parker's 'And Just Like That' Rainy Day Uniform Includes Hunter Boots — And They're on Sale
CREDIT: Courtesy of Amazon
If you purchase an independently reviewed product or service through a link on our website, Footwear News may receive an affiliate commission.
If one of your New Year's resolutions is to immerse yourself in the great outdoors, you will need a pair of boots that will keep up with you. Hiking boots are a crucial piece of outdoor wear and a stellar gift for any outdoors enthusiast. Merrell is a go-to brand for all outdoor apparel and footwear that will equip you for your active lifestyle, including hiking socks and boots. And though Merrell shoes can be pricey, today, the brand's Moab 2 Hiking Vent Boots are on sale at Amazon for up to 54% off as part of the retailer's New Year's sale.
The Merrell Moab 2 Vent Hiking Shoes have racked up over 11,000 five-star ratings, are Amazon's number one best-selling women's hiking shoes, and are widely considered one of the best hiking shoes of 2022. Even actress and cookbook author Ayesha Curry is a fan, and it's not hard to see why. First, they're comfortable right out of the box with a cushioned collar, supportive footbed, and a roomy toe box, which is great for those with wide feet and bunions. They also have enough flexibility to take straight to the trail and are considered moderately lightweight hiking shoes, clocking in at 12 ounces. Along with cushioned EVA insoles, the sporty shoe has targeted heel cushioning, arch support, and protective toe caps to keep your feet safe when you're crossing rocky terrain.
The rugged outsoles provide decent all-around traction over rock and dirt and have mesh uppers for added breathability and ventilation. The lace-up design allows you to find a custom, comfortable fit, while the oversized tongues prevent debris from entering your shoes.
While Merell did release the Moab 3 Vent shoes in September of 2022, the Moab 2 Vents boots are just as investment-worthy because they contain the brand's beloved arch support, shank, and comfortability that requires no break-in period. Thus, the only features the Moab 2 shoe lacks are the use of recycled materials, increased load capacity, and a new cushioned sole.
Merell's Moab 2 Vent shoes come in 17 different styles with sizes ranging from 5 to 11 — there are also wide-width options. The boots are generally $110 a pair, but you can currently snag them for as little as $50.77, depending on which size and colorway you choose. While the style looks like a summer hiking shoe, it makes an excellent option for the upcoming season, mild winters, or trips in warmer climates. One Amazon reviewer even says, "These shoes are great for mild winter weather, but I am wearing them today. The weather is in the 20's in coastal Virginia. I like the support that these shoes give my feet."
So whether you're planning on rock climbing, trail running, fishing, or leisurely hiking your favorite trail, make your next adventure much more comfortable and shop the Merrell Moab 2 Hiking Shoes for a fraction of the price.
Merrell Women's Moab 2 Vent Hiking Shoe
Buy: Buy Now At Amazon $110 $53.70


text:
Reports/Studies
Canada Petchem Can Compete With U.S. Gulf: Report
Canada's existing petrochemical industry, as well as new polypropylene plants being built in the Edmonton area, can compete economically with the petrochemical industry in the U.S. Gulf Coast, even if it is faced with a $50 a tonne carbon tax, a new study concludes.
July 4, 2019, 6 AM MDT
Get The Insights You Need To Drive Your Digital Agenda And Greater Revenues
A new report from IT Media Group (ITMG), sponsored by Salesforce, compiles insights that shift the perception of IT from cost centre to revenue engine.
June 25, 2019, 6 AM MDT
IEA Cuts Demand Growth Outlook; Canada Study Holds Steady From Year Ago
The International Energy Agency's (IEA) estimate for global oil demand growth in 2019 has been cut for a second consecutive month.
June 14, 2019, 7:53 AM MDT
Canadian Oil Output To Be Constrained To 2035: CAPP
The Canadian Association of Petroleum Producers (CAPP) says the outlook for the country's oil producers will be constrained going forward as lack of takeaway capacity, limited market diversity and an onerous regulatory system continues to stifle investment.
June 13, 2019, 11:03 AM MDT
Canadian Natural Gas Production Growth 'Limited' To 2024: IEA
The U.S is expected to account for all North American natural gas production growth through 2024 while Canada's growth is "limited by the lack of export infrastructure," the International Energy Agency (IEA) said in its annual natural gas forecast released this morning.
June 7, 2019, 9:49 AM MDT
Global Natural Gas Demand Continues To Grow In Lock-Step With International Trade Development: IEA
Global demand for natural gas is set to keep growing over the next five years, driven by strong consumption in fast-growing Asian economies and supported by the continued development of the international gas trade, the International Energy Agency (IEA) says in its annual natural gas forecast released this morning.
June 7, 2019, 10:46 AM MDT
Capex To Continue Declining In 2019: AER
Total capital expenditures in the conventional oil and gas and oilsands sectors decreased by six per cent in 2018, reaching C$28.9 billion, the Alberta Energy Regulator (AER) said in a new report this morning.
Canadian Companies Among Bidders In Latest Colombian Block Auction
Canadian companies look set to deepen their involvement in Colombia's upstream oil and gas sector after its national hydrocarbons agency (ANH) announced that three Canadian companies – Gran Tierra Energy Inc., Frontera Energy Corporation and Parex Resources Inc. – are among seven bidders in the latest Colombian bidding round.
June 4, 2019, 6 AM MDT
Brazil Leads In Latin America With Over $12 Billion In M&A Deals
A new report from Sproule, the Daily Oil Bulletin and Evaluate Energy shows how, among Latin American nations, Brazil has secured by far the highest level of M&A investment in upstream oil and gas.
Clean Fuel Standards Will Increase Energy Costs, Says New CERI Report
Tough new federal clean fuel standards set to begin in 2022 will drive up energy costs across the Canadian economy, according to a recent report authored by the Canadian Energy Research Institute (CERI).
Latin America: 5 Key Takeaways From Sproule, DOB And EE M&A Activity Report
A new report from Sproule, the Daily Oil Bulletin and Evaluate Energy shows how politics and fluctuating oil prices continue to dominate headlines and influence appetite for investment in Latin America's upstream oil and gas industry.
April Oil Supply Dropped, IEA Reports; Canadian Output Up In March
In April, global oil supply fell 300,000 bbls/d with Canada, Kazakhstan, Azerbaijan and Iran leading the losses, reported the International Energy Agency (IEA) in its monthly oil report.
Report Urges Feds To Expand Procurement Spending With Aboriginal Businesses
Canadian Council for Aboriginal Business (CCAB) today released a data-driven report calling on the federal government to increase the dollar value of its procurement spending with Aboriginal businesses to five per cent of total procurement spending by 2024.
'Responsible' Oil And Gas Development Important To Preserve Agricultural Land: B.C. Committee
Responsible oil and gas development is important to the preservation of agricultural land, a B.C. committee said Tuesday.
NEB Report Looks At Canada's Transition To Low-Emission Energy Sources
Canada's transition to low-emission energy sources is underway but it remains one of the most emission-intensive nations in the world, according to a new report from the National Energy Board (NEB).
April 26, 2019, 12 AM MDT
Geoscience BC Issues New Report On Locating, Measuring And Mapping Gas And Liquid Hydrocarbons In Northeastern B.C.
A new report released by Geoscience BC released results of a multi-year research project examining the complex network of tiny fractures and pores that store and transport gas and liquid hydrocarbons in fine-grained sediments, using samples and data from oil and gas production areas in northeastern British Columbia.
B.C. Government Releases Hydraulic Fracturing Scientific Report
An independent scientific review of hydraulic fracturing in British Columbia has found that while there is a strong regulatory framework, further research is needed to support the responsible development of the province's shale gas resources.
Induced Seismicity, Water Quality Two Key Areas Addressed In B.C. Report
Anomalous induced seismicity (AIS) related to hydraulic fracturing and wastewater disposal was a key subject of concern expressed by representatives of a wide variety of groups, according to a report produced by an independent scientific review of hydraulic fracturing in British Columbia.
Major Projects Needed To Meet Crude Capacity Demand, NEB Tells Sohi
Any notable increase in pipeline or rail capacity would need to come from new major infrastructure projects as current pipeline capacity is fully utilized and rail infrastructure is operating at or near capacity, says the National Energy Board (NEB).
Sproule And GTI Announce A Partnership To Combine Forces To Develop A Monthly Western Canadian NGL Report
Sproule and GTI today announced a strategic partnership to deliver a jointly developed Canadian natural gas liquids (NGL) report to industry.
Alberta Climate Leadership Plan Releases 2017/2018 Progress Report
The Alberta government spent a total of $1.19 billion on its Climate Leadership Plan in the 2017/2018 fiscal year, according to the recently released progress report on the plan.
Canadian Crude Production Outlook Has 'Significantly Deteriorated': IEA
The outlook for Canadian oil production has "significantly deteriorated" and the longer-term outlook looks "more precarious," the International Energy Agency (IEA) says in its latest crude oil forecast report released this morning.
Saskatchewan's High Taxes Harming Competitiveness: Study
Saskatchewan has the highest taxes on new oil and gas investment among all major energy-producing jurisdictions in North America, which is harming the province's competitiveness, finds a new study by the Fraser Institute.
March 5, 2019, 9:14 AM MST


text:
[[Soubor:Geom_podobnost_stejnolehlest.svg|náhled|vpravo|300px|Stejnolehlost zobrazí pětiúhelník na podobný pětiúhelník. S - střed stejnolehlosti, k=A'S/AS=B'S/BS=... - koeficient stejnolehlosti]]

Stejnolehlost je homotetie, která má jediný samodružný bod, střed stejnolehlosti.

Všechny přímky spojující vzory a jejich obrazy se protínají v jediném bodě - středu stejnolehlosti. Kromě něj je určena reálným číslem různým od nuly a jedné, tzv. koeficientem stejnolehlosti. Je-li S střed stejnolehlosti a λ její koeficient, pak pro každý vzor X a jeho obraz X´ platí:.

 Speciální případy
Pro koeficient stejnolehlosti rovný −1 se jedná o středovou souměrnost.

 Pro stejnolehlost platí
 Obrazem přímky je vždy přímka s ní rovnoběžná, tj. všechny směry jsou samodružné. Z projektivního hlediska jsou všechny nevlastní body samodružné.
 V euklidovském prostoru je homotetie (nejjednodušší) podobnost. Absolutní hodnota koeficientu stejnolehlosti je rovna měřítku podobnosti.
 Každé dvě kružnice v rovině jsou nejen podobné, ale i stejnolehlé. Pokud nejsou soustředné nebo stejně velké, tak právě dvěma způsoby.
 Dva pravidelné mnohoúhelníky se stejným počtem stran jsou vždy podobné, ale stejnolehlé jsou jen, když mají rovnoběžné odpovídající strany.
 Dva pravidelné mnohostěny (např. krychle) jsou vždy podobné, ale stejnolehlé jsou jen, když mají rovnoběžné odpovídající stěny.
 Každé dvě koule či kulové plochy jsou nejen podobné, ale i stejnolehlé. Pokud nejsou soustředné, tak právě dvěma způsoby.

 Literatura
 Eva Bartoňová, Pavel Květoň: Matematika 3, Obchodní akademie Orlová, Ostrava 2006, , str. 72-75
 Šárka Voráčová a kolektiv: Atlas geometrie – Geometrie krásná a užitečná'', Academia, Praha 2012, , str. 32-33

Externí odkazy

Geometrie


Vice News and furries, the Fullerton murder story, and "sensational media".
Tempe O'Kun is a popular author of Paranormal Furry Romance, anthropomorphic-animal Westerns, and even game design.
Tempe writes in to share his recent appearance in the news, plus Q&A with me.
Things got physical at a town hall meeting this afternoon in Mandan with Rep. Kevin Cramer, R-N.D. Two people were escorted from the Coffee with Cramer event by police officers. Things got heated, when Cramer was accused of supporting tax cuts for the wealthy.
Statement about the tragedy in Fullerton, CA.
Please visit this GoFundMe campaign for expenses for surviving kids.
There has been a lot of talk about a tragedy this weekend in Southern California.
This is a niche interest, so when something like this happens, it's personal tragedy to us beyond just a news story to others. Many members have lost friends or have very close ties to those who did. Please send thoughts to them, and the surviving kids most of all.
I felt a little responsible for saying something, because of the way things started to happen when news started coming out. At first, it was just a call to locate a Missing Person (a fur) who was soon located. I tweeted that and got a high amount of views.
When more came out, I looked into it deeply to write a big story. I talked to people close to it, with personal knowledge that nobody else had. Some info came out that was directed to the police. Then I saw people local to the story asking for space. They asked for it to be kept as their story, given time to process, and handled by professionals and cops. That was when I decided this is beyond fan level. I removed all my tweets and passed on their message.
I think it really is the worst thing that ever happened with ties to this community. It's not that unusual compared to other crimes that happen in cities, but I think it's disproportionately big to a niche group. It might have to do with 2016's explosion of interest and positive activity as well – things are just growing.
That wasn't quite the end of it. The OC Register reporter had a lot of conversation with me due to my initial notice. They were puzzled about what furries are and what they do. Of course they already knew this was part of the story – that wouldn't be overlooked. It made a dilemma – I thought that if tabloids were going to exploit this, maybe a real member should say something to real news.
So I sent the best info I could about the definition of "Furry" and referred the reporter to the same local person who I saw asking for space and respect. I thought he was already doing a good job of handling it. So when you see Bandit speaking in the piece, it's not for attention, it's because he was asked. Remember that he lost friends, like everyone else close to this story, and that's the real deal.
There were a few missteps from the OC Register piece (nobody said anything about "sensitive" topics,) but Bandit seems to be getting many thank-you's for doing a good job from local members. He mentioned turning down other interviews, and I think that's a good idea. Say it once and let it go.
I have been checking around to see what comes out. I expect tabloids to try riding this, but most of the few I have seen so far seem pretty negligible, and I hope they get little mileage. They can say there's weird stuff with misfit people, but nobody did a crime while participating in one of our activities. In the end it's just between regular humans.
TL;DR: Was going to write a big report. Stopped to let locals and pros process. I think it's beyond fan level. It's awful and sad. There hasn't been anything this bad in fandom before. Let it process and share good words to anyone who lost friends and family.
Thank you to the OC Register and reporter Scott Schwebke for linking here. And thank you to Scott for being professional and sensitive, and doing good detective work. I believe that Scott's reporting has helped to stop rumors and confusion. There was a screenshot of a supposed murder confession that was degraded enough that you could see it was shared hundreds or thousands of times, before it was posted out-of-context on some trashy tabloid blogs. Scott dug up the source and provided context that I think shows it could NOT have been a reasonable clue of real danger before the incident. Thank you to everyone in the community who stepped up to provide such info to aid police investigation. Everyone's concern will help heal this incident to heal in time.
Everyone knows the FurFest chlorine story – but did you see Tommy Bruce's documentary blog?
Midwest FurFest was hit by poisonous gas. I rushed out a short notice, and had tips sent in by friends like Mordi. Soon, the news was everywhere.
Do you like links and stories to come? Snausages– a regularish feature. Story tips welcome- I'd love to post yours!
Amazing photos! Rough translating indicates that trouble in Ukraine led to a new event in a new location.
Some of the same furries appear in this parade: Dreamflash… 5000+ people parading for hugs, positivity, bright costumes, and soap bubbles.
A super cool answer to my older article, "Questions for Russian furry fans about anti-gay oppression". Could simply wearing a fursuit get you in trouble? Not for these.
Furry culture in San Francisco news – Furfling banned on FA – Fur Con reg open, hotel 5/21 – Rocket Raccoon cosplay – And more!
Do you like links and samples of stories to come? Here's treats of the week. Snausages: now a regular feature!


The efficiency and reliability of one of Britain's first mass-produced engines had a significant influence on the outcome of WW1.
The use of Tanks in warfare is quite a recent development, making their debut into active duty during World War 1. Up until this point, infantry relied upon horses and walking as the main modes of transport into battle. Protection for these was either relatively light, allowing motion to be quick and responsive, or heavy and cumbersome, making traversing terrain incredibly difficult.
The appearance of armoured all-terrain vehicles in combat situations allowed army's to protect their troops better, traverse harder terrain and trenches whilst carrying better, heavier armament. It also meant there was less reliance on humans or animals who are more susceptible to fatigue. Originally starting as a slow, riotous event, the development of tanks quickly became a game of countermoves: heavier armour to heavier armament, wider trenches to longer tracks. The engine was also subject to the same rapid development seen in the rest of the vehicle.
In early 1916, with his reputation for aptitude and ingenuity having preceded him, Harry was asked to act as a consultant on the new tank projects to help solve some of the manoeuvrability issues. He was later asked to design a new engine to replace the one used in the earlier tank versions, and in doing so, eradicate several critical issues which crippled its effectiveness. The Daimler 105bhp sleeve valve gasoline engine had a poor lubrication system, which often resulted in failures. Also, oil was being consumed in the exhaust port, which produced a large cloud of blue smoke that gave away the tanks location.
Harry designed a new engine to replace the existing one, which resulted in a greater power of 150bhp and no visible smoke. Over 8000 of these Ricardo engines were produced to power the tanks, with many more powering generators in naval craft, locomotives, workshops, hospitals and camps. It became Britain's first mass-produced internal combustion engine.
The triumph of the tank engine dramatically boosted the reputation of the newly formed Engine Patents Ltd, and served as a technological foundation for the company. As a result of the projects success, Engine Patents Ltd was awarded £30,000 which led to Harry buying land in Shoreham and building a design and research centre upon it, where one of the company's many technical centres still sits today.


text:
Stars: Megan Fox, Will Arnett, William Fichtner, Alan Ritchson, Noel Fisher, Pete Ploszek, Johnny Knoxville, Jeremy Howard, Danny Woodburn, Tony Shalhoub, Tohoru Masamune, Whoopi Goldberg, Minae Noji, Abby Elliott, Madison Mason, Taran Killam, K. Todd Freeman
Genre: Action, Science Fiction, Adventure
Review: A terrorist gang known as the Foot Clan are holding New York City in the grip of a crime wave, and reporter April O'Neill (Megan Fox) would love to get a scoop on the whole story, but try as she might her bosses still land her with trivia like a "get in shape after winter" demonstration when she knows she could do so much better. Her cameraman Vernon Fenwick (Will Arnett) tries to persuade her that not everyone wants to hear news items that are all doom and gloom and gritty, but she's having none of it so when she gets a lead from someone who knows about the theft of rare genetic material, she heads off to the docks alone that night. However, what she sees has her doubting her sanity...
And everyone else doubts her sanity too in an example of what was becoming a cash cow for Hollywood studios in the twenty-first century: take an existing property, preferably with a hefty dose of nostalgia attached, and reboot it for a younger audience so their parents would take them to see the kind of entertainment they appreciated as kids themselves. It had it all, a built in guarantee it would make money thanks to the brand recognition, and equally certain publicity since even those who were appalled at the notion would be vocal enough about it in social media that there was added, free publicity into the bargain, and plenty of it. That latter aspect was part and parcel of the marketing.
This hatred of what, in this instance, producer Michael Bay was doing with these franchises, was responsible for even more discussion than if they had made a product with a universal appeal, making you wonder if most of those who caught Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles (or its obvious comparison, Bay's Transformers movies) were doing so out of a desire to have an object of utter derision as moviegoers began to characterise themselves more by what they didn't like as what they did like. The argument came up time and again: these were movies for kids, so they didn't really need to be sold anything of exceptional quality, meaning they would swallow any old garbage as long as it was bright, colourful and inane, which was selling a whole generation very short indeed.
Fortunately, not every movie production aimed at the family audience thought the laziest effort imaginable would be appropriate, for every Turtles and its ilk there were the gems, The Lego Movie or Frozen or much of Pixar's output, family films with brains in their heads rather than an overstuffed profit margin to gloat over. So where did this leave a blockbuster such as this, was it worth piling on with the haters? Well, not so much, as that would be giving too much credit for the equivalent of a junk food meal for the eyes and ears, something disposable but which leaves you feeling hungry for something more shortly after, whether that be more junk or more substantial, like for instance the original Star Wars this rips off a "kill the mentor" bit from. One thing against that conclusion was that this wasn't too pleasurable to look at or listen to.
Take the Turtles themselves, resembling reptilian eighties Arnold Schwarzeneggers, crafted in CGI rather than the puppetry and costumes of the previous entries and too creepy to warm to with their realistic eyes but not very realistic anything else. Not helping was their personalities, especially Michelangelo (Noel Fisher) who came across like a stalker who wouldn't take no for an answer when it came to his emotions for April, but you had to expect an element of inappropriate behaviour by now with Bay productions, especially his mass market works. Not even the tired addition of fart gags would lift that, but more dispiriting was Will Arnett in a throwaway role, second billed but yet another example of a very talented man given thin gruel to perform in modern Hollywood. Also not helping was a script equally scanty when it came to plot, leading to every point being overexplained and drawn out to a tedious degree. But you knew what you were getting into with these, and if you were truly disappointed it was a case for pitching your expectations far lower. Repetitive, cliché-ridden music by Brian Tyler.
Jonathan Liebesman (1976 - )
South African director who got acclaim for his powerful 2000 short film, Genesis and Catastrophe, based on the Roald Dahl story. Made his Hollywood debut with hit horror Darkness Falls and followed it with epics Battle: Los Angeles and sequel Wrath of the Titans. A Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles reboot was successful but little loved.


text:
import csv
from dateutil.parser import parse
from functools import reduce
import json
import logging
import os
from pathlib import Path
import urllib.parse
import requests

LOG = logging.getLogger(__name__)

# attr function
# given a change dict, returns 0 or 1 for Jenkins pass/fail
def verified(change):
    value = change.get('labels', {}).get('Verified', {}).get('value')
    if value is None:
        return None
    elif value <= 0:
        return 0
    else:
        return 1

# attr function
# given a change dict, return delta in seconds between created and updated time
def created_updated_delta(change):
    created = parse(change['created'])
    updated = parse(change['updated'])
    return int((updated - created).total_seconds())

# constants
attrs = list([
    {'label': 'verified', 'value': verified},
    {'label': 'changeID', 'value': '_number'},
    {'label': 'project', 'value': 'project'},
    {'label': 'insertions', 'value': 'insertions'},
    {'label': 'deletions', 'value': 'deletions'},
    {'label': 'accountID', 'value': 'owner._account_id'},
    {'label': 'created_updated_delta', 'value': created_updated_delta},
])

filename = 'changes.csv'

changeUrlParams = 'o=CURRENT_REVISION&o=CURRENT_COMMIT&o=CURRENT_FILES&o=DETAILED_ACCOUNTS&o=LABELS' # NOQA

KB = 1024 * 1
MB = 1024 * KB
GB = 1024 * MB
stopAtSize = 1 * MB

class GerritSession(requests.Session):

    base_url = 'https://review.openstack.org'

    def query_change(self, change_id):
        """Return a dict representing a single change."""
        url = "{}/changes/{}?{}"
        resp = self.get(url.format(self.base_url, change_id, changeUrlParams))
        return self._strip_gerrit_weirdness(resp)

    def _strip_gerrit_weirdness(self, response):
        xssi_crap, jsonable = response.text.split('\n', 1)
        return json.loads(jsonable)

    def query_changes(self, query, start):
        """Return a list of changes from a given query from offset 'start'"""
        query = urllib.parse.quote(query)

        url = "{}/changes/?q={}&{}&start={}"
        resp = self.get(url.format(self.base_url, query, changeUrlParams, str(start))) # NOQA
        return self._strip_gerrit_weirdness(resp)

    def get_changes(self, query, chunk_size=500):
        """
        Return a generator that can be used to
        iterate though all changes from a query.
        """
        start = 0
        while sizeOfCSV() < stopAtSize:
            changes = self.query_changes(query, start)
            LOG.debug("got {0} changes to process".format(len(changes)))
            if not changes:
                LOG.info("out of changes that match query.")
                break

            for change in changes:
                yield change

            start += chunk_size

# return size of csv in bytes
def sizeOfCSV():
    try:
        return int(os.stat(filename).st_size)
    except:
        return 0

# remove duplicates and changes with a 'None' value for 'verified'
def deduplicateCSV():
    newCSV = []
    seenKeys = set()
    f = open(filename, "r")
    reader = csv.reader(f, delimiter=',')
    for row in reader:
        if row[0] == 'None' or row[1] in seenKeys:
            continue
        seenKeys.add(row[1])
        newCSV.append(','.join(row))
    f = open(filename, "w+")
    for i in newCSV:
        f.write(i + '\n')

# return an array of the change's values
def changeValues(change):
    values = []
    for attr in map(lambda x: x['value'], attrs):
        if callable(attr):
            values.append(str(attr(change)))
        else:
            values.append(str(reduce(dict.get, attr.split("."), change)))
    return values

# write a list of changes to the csv
def writeChanges(changes):
    needs_headers = False
    if not Path(filename).is_file():
        needs_headers = True

    with open(filename, 'a+') as f:
        if needs_headers:
            f.write(','.join(map(lambda x: x['label'], attrs)) + '\n')
        for change in changes:
            f.write(','.join(changeValues(change)) + "\n")

def main():
    query = ('status:open '
             'label:Verified '
             'reviewer:"Jenkins <jenkins@openstack.org>"')

    gerrit = GerritSession()
    print('generating csv...')
    writeChanges(gerrit.get_changes(query))
    print('deduplicating csv...')
    deduplicateCSV()

if __name__ == "__main__":
    logging.basicConfig(level=logging.INFO, format='%(message)s')
    main()

redpajama_set_name: RedPajamaGithub


text:
Michigan Medicine Headlines> News
Fueled by $10 million in gifts, U-M Precision Health and bipolar disorder research team will work to improve care
September 9, 2019	// FOUND IN: News
Nearly 6 million Americans have bipolar disorder, a complex mental health condition that can send them on a roller coaster of manic highs and depressed lows. Finding a treatment that steadies their mood, even with the help of an experienced treatment team, can take time and a little bit of luck.
Some never do find medications that work for them, and as many as one in five will die by suicide.
Now, a new gift to U-M aims to bring more precision to the care of people with bipolar disorder. It will expand and harness the power of massive data from U-M bipolar research and allow researchers to mine that trove of information in combination with other data, using advanced tools created for Precision Health at U-M.
The new $5.8 million gift from the Richard Tam Foundation brings the foundation's total giving to U-M for bipolar research to $10 million, and will allow more scientists and clinicians to translate new knowledge into improved care. Support includes $500,000 for Precision Health at U-M, its first major gift.
Judith Tam, president of the RIchard Tam Foundation, with Sachin Kheterpal, M.D., M.B.A., co-director of Precision Health at U-M
Judith Tam, president of the Richard Tam Foundation, said the combination of U-M's strength in studying bipolar disorder and related conditions, and its investment in precision health, inspired the gift.
"Precision health could help doctors figure out the right medicine to give to a particular patient, much more quickly, and could expand their toolbox through new discoveries," she said. "We've got brilliant people here, and I've seen the passion in their eyes when they talk about their research. They're not just doing their work and going home. They are on fire."
The Richard Tam Foundation has given to U-M's bipolar work since 2014, helping fuel the growth of the Heinz C. Prechter Bipolar Research Program that has collected genetic samples and other data from people with and without bipolar illness for more than 13 years.
"Precision Health is developing unprecedented insights into human health and disease, and I'm grateful to Judith Tam for her generous support," said U-M president Mark Schlissel, M.D., Ph.D. "This gift from the Richard Tam Foundation will enhance our bipolar disorder research by taking advantage of the genetic and lab test data platform assembled by Precision Health at U-M, resulting in improved care for millions of patients."
Melvin McInnis, M.D., scientific director of the Prechter Program, said, "This new gift will allow us to build upon the infrastructure already in place at the university, to integrate clinical data and our research data and ultimately to build models of illness trajectories that will inform care."
Sachin Kheterpal, M.D., M.B.A., a co-director of U-M Precision Health, praised the Richard Tam Foundation's position as a pioneer in giving to the new U-M initiative.
He said, "It's a very generous gift that is hopefully a model for future gifts, where we're able to demonstrate the value of researching individual diseases, marrying that research data with the Precision Health platforms we're building, and thereby increasing the potential for hundreds of researchers to benefit from the overall impact."
The gift will create a Tam Precision Health & Bipolar Collaboration Fund within Precision Health.
Precision Health, launched in early 2018, offers researchers across U-M access to genetic and clinical data, and the tools and expertise they need to use them to advance their research. It also offers training and funding to help researchers harness the power of these data and tools.
"We absolutely need to leverage our Precision Health platform to advance and support the pace of discovery research. We are highly committed to collecting more robust bipolar research data, as well as information on other therapeutic treatments that would benefit from a very personalized approach," said Marschall S. Runge, M.D., Ph.D, U-M executive vice president for medical affairs.
In addition to supporting Precision Health-related work, the new gift will continue support for bipolar disorder research projects at U-M. It will also create a professorship in the Department of Psychiatry at Michigan Medicine, with the proposed name of the Richard Tam Professorship in Translational Bipolar Research, pending approval by the U-M board of regents. This will allow the recruitment of another top bipolar researcher to U-M.
The Richard Tam Foundation issued a challenge to others interested in moving bipolar research forward at U-M, offering to match bequest dollars documented in 2019. Judith Tam hopes that the new gift will inspire even more giving by those who have seen the impact of bipolar disorder on those they love. She also hopes others who give to U-M biomedical research will consider including Precision Health as a recipient.
Said McInnis, "The work that we're doing with Precision Health is absolutely fundamental and transformational in terms of the future of medicine, the future of mental health research and the future of our understanding of various different human illnesses."
The Michigan Medicine blog recap
U-M's United Way campaign raises more than $1.2 million
More Michigan Medicine patients will get hospital-level care at home through new programs


No usual Costco visit for Saturday morning! I had to take my car to the mechanic for a minor repair. Today we had lunch at Togo's, thinking sandwiches would be healthier than burgers.
Like its competitors, Subway and Quizno's, you stand at the counter while the sandwichista asks for your preferences as he or she assembles the finished product. Julie went first. I had to bite my tongue because as he asked her which condiments she wanted on the sandwich, I could hardly understand anything he was saying. It was like one of those Candid Camera-type bits in which the person at the drive up order window mumbles everything. Even "salt and pepper?" came out muddled.
Luckily I had a different sandwichista. I noticed my sandwich seemed larger than hers even though we ordered the same type - must be because she unknowingly agreed to the mumble, "make your sandwich smaller than your husband's?"
The other day I wrote about that crossover network upgrade that was on its way from Colorado, due, according to UPS tracking, on Friday. Well, the tracking info told me that it was delivered at 10:19 am and left at the front door but there was no package.
I called UPS about that and they gave me the same information that was on the web site. "It was delivered at 10:19 am and left at the front door."
"Yes, but there is nothing there."
Then she went through the routine of telling me sometimes they hide things in the bushes or put it somewhere else to keep it out of sight, but we don't have enough hiding places to make that even a consideration. Besides, with all the stuff I get from UPS, the delivery man in brown is all too aware of which house is mine.
After assuring her that the package was not there, I was told I needed to contact the shipper to initiate a tracer on the package; I couldn't make this request of UPS, the shipper/vendor had to.
Why couldn't they misdeliver a CD or a book or something??? Why this thing I've been so anxiously awaiting??? I wrote to the Ninja and let him know what happened.
This morning our next door neighbor appeared with the box. He discovered it when he got home Friday night but said it was too late to bring it over so he held onto it until Saturday. Whew! What a relief.. I wrote the Ninja again and told him never mind, the package was delivered next door. It must have been a substitute man in brown.
That was the big excitement for Saturday.. at least now my weekend isn't ruined! It was great that the package arrived and the sandwiches at Togo's were not bad at all, despite the difficulty in communication.
Oh, and by the way, if you are wondering what the heck I am talking about with this "crossover network upgrade," you can see a short instructional video that might make it a little clearer by clicking here.


Thank you to all who participated in Goat Day 2018! Special thanks to Elizabeth Maga, Rachel Conway, Chris Akins, Anita Oberbauer, Ed DePeters, ANS graduate students Maia Laabs and Kathleen Furtado, and ANS undergraduate students, Laura Waters, Amelia Kerautret, Makenzie Hill, Jackson Sawyer, Samantha Allhands, Haley Bartlett and Mitchell Ng.
Pablo Ross, Huaijun Zhou, Juan Medrano and colleagues were awarded USDA-NIFA-AFRI grant entitled "Functional Annotation of the Bovine Genome".
Huaijun Zhou, David Bunn and colleagues publish "Transcriptome Analysis in Spleen Reveals Differential Regulation of Response to Newcastle Disease Virus in Two Chicken Lines" in Scientific Reports.
Trish Berger and Barbara Nitta-Oda publish "Increased testicular estradiol during the neonatal interval reduces Sertoli cell numbers" in Animal Reproduction Science.
Ermias Kebreab and colleagues publish "Predicting manure volatile solid output of lactating dairy cows" in the Journal of Dairy Science.
Alison Van Eenennaam spoke on "Evaluation of the Offspring of Genome Edited and Control Bulls" at the Plant and Animal Genome Conference in San Diego, CA and on "Biotechnology – Promise and Politics" and "Sustainability and Food Choices – it's complicated" at Brigham Young University in Provo, UT.
Staff and faculty attended the California Grain & Feed Association Conference in Monterey, CA.