text:
Conspiracy Theorists Try to Connect Ever Given Ship, Hillary Clinton, and Child Trafficking
Not all dots connect.
Dan Evon
Image via Gage Skidmore / Flickr
Former U.S. Secretary of State Hillary Clinton was trafficking children via the Ever Given cargo ship that got stuck in the Suez Canal in March 2021.
About this rating
In March 2021, a massive cargo ship called the Ever Given got stuck in the Suez Canal, blocking one of the world's busiest shipping routes. As authorities began working on a way to dislodge the stuck ship, conspiracy theorists went to work spreading unfounded rumors claiming that the ship was being used by former U.S. Secretary of State Hillary Clinton in a child-trafficking scheme.
The claim that Clinton is trafficking children via the stuck cargo ship is based on a pair of seemingly odd coincidences.
First, the company that owns this ship is Evergreen Marine Corporation. According to journalist Ronald Kessler's book "In the President's Secret Service: Behind the Scenes with Agents in the Line of Fire and the Presidents They Protect," "Evergreen" was the name the Secret Service once used for Clinton.
Second, the call sign for this boat is "H3RC," which, with a little fudging, appear to be Hillary Rodham Clinton's initials.
Why Clinton would leave behind clues to implicate herself in this alleged crime has not been explained. Furthermore, if there were any truth to these claims, one would expect a massive police presence at the Suez Canal as children are removed from these ships, as well as the announcement of an investigation into Clinton. None of that has come to pass, however, as this is nothing more than a perceived coincidence.
Conspiracy theories are often built by people in search of dots to connect. In this case, some social media users noticed that this international incident bore some superficial coincidences to Clinton — who has been the target of a variety of baseless QAnon and Pizzagate conspiracy theories concerning the occult and child trafficking since her run for president in 2016 — and concluded that the only explanation was that Clinton was trafficking children through the Suez Canal via cargo ship. With the same barrier of evidence (taking two random factoids and forcibly drawing a line to connect them), one could argue that since this ship's International Maritime Organization (IMO) number is the same as a dentist's office in Jacksonville, Mississippi (minus the area code), this cargo ship was clearly carrying thousands of pounds of dentures.
The conclusion that this ship was trafficking children (and that Clinton was somehow involved) was reached despite the fact that no children have been seen in the containers aboard this ship, no records have been unearthed that would connect Clinton to this company, or that the Evergreen Marine Corporation has been in operation since the 1960s, long before Clinton first warranted Secret Service protection. It should also be noted that anti-trafficking organizations such as the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children, the Coalition to Abolish Slavery and Trafficking, and The Polaris Project, have made no statements suggesting that this cargo ship could be carrying trafficked children.
In July 2020, a similarly baseless rumor was circulated that claimed the furniture store Wayfair was involved in child trafficking. This rumor was based almost entirely on the perception that some of Wayfair's cabinets seemed overpriced. Polaris, the organization that runs the U.S. National Human Trafficking Hotline, released a statement at the time saying that its phone lines had been clogged by conspiracy theorists, which had made it "difficult for the Trafficking Hotline to provide support and attention to others who are in need of help."
Suez Canal Ship


text:
A landslide dam or barrier lake is the natural damming of a river by some kind of landslide, such as a debris flow, rock avalanche or volcanic eruption. If the damming landslide is caused by an earthquake, it may also be called a quake lake. Some landslide dams are as high as the largest existing artificial dam.

Causes
The major causes for landslide dams investigated by 1986 are landslides from excessive precipitation and earthquakes, which account for 84%. Volcanic eruptions account for a further 7% of dams. Other causes of landslides account for the remaining 9%.

Consequences
The water impounded by a landslide dam may create a dam reservoir (lake) that may last for a short time, to several thousand years.

Because of their rather loose nature and absence of controlled spillway, landslide dams frequently fail catastrophically and lead to downstream flooding, often with high casualties. A common failure scenario is overflowing with subsequent dam breach and erosion by the overflow stream.

Landslide dams are responsible for two types of flooding: backflooding (upstream flooding) upon creation and downstream flooding upon failure. Compared with catastrophic downflooding, relative slow backflooding typically presents little life hazard, but property damage can be substantial.

While the dam is being filled, the surrounding groundwater level rises. The dam failure may trigger further catastrophic processes. As the water level rapidly drops, the uncompensated groundwater hydraulic pressure may initiate additional landslides. Those that fall into the dam reservoir may lead to further catastrophic spillages. Moreover, the resulting flood may undercut the sides of the river valley to further produce landslides downstream.

After forming, the dam leads to aggradation of the valley upstream, and dam failure leads to aggradation downstream.

Construction engineers responsible for design of artificial dams and other structures in river valleys must take into account the potential of such events leading to abrupt changes in river's regimen.

Examples
The highest known landslide dam of historic times is the Usoi Dam in modern Tajikistan created by a landslide triggered by an earthquake on February 18, 1911. It dammed the Murghab River to the height of  to impound Sarez Lake  deep.
Lake Waikaremoana in New Zealand was formed by a  high landslide dam believed to be 2,200 years old. Between 1935 and 1950 the landslide was tunneled and sealed to stabilise it so it could be used for hydroelectric power generation. This appears to be the first example of modification of a natural landslide dam for power generation.
Attabad Lake in Pakistan was formed by a landslide in 2010. ( high)
The Red Lake (Romanian: Lacul Roşu) is a barrier lake in the Eastern Carpathians chain in Harghita County, Romania. The name of "Lacul Roşu" comes from the reddish alluvia deposited in the lake by the Red Creek.
The Gros Ventre landslide is an example of a huge, short-lived and devastating landslide dam, ( high).
The Lynmouth Flood of 15-16 August 1952 was partly the result of the formation and subsequent failure of a landslide dam on the East Lyn River, sending a wave of water and debris into the town and killing 34 people.
Quake Lake, created in Montana in 1959, ( high).
The Tangjiashan Lake, a dangerous "quake lake", was created as a result of the 2008 Sichuan earthquake. It was located in the extremely rugged terrain of Tangjiashan Mountain. Chinese engineers, scientists, and soldiers were involved in the digging of a sluice to alleviate the dangers of this one of 34 landslide dams created by the magnitude 8.0 Sichuan earthquake. On June 10, 2008, the lake started to drain via the sluice, flooding the evacuated town of Beichuan. ( high)
The Riñihuazo begun on 22 May 1960, after a landslide caused by the Great Chilean earthquake blocked Riñihue Lake's outflow. According to the chronicler Mariño de Lobera a similar event occurred after the 1575 Valdivia earthquake. ( high)
The 2014 Oso mudslide dammed the Stillaguamish River in March 2014, creating a lake that blocked Washington State Route 530 and hampered rescue/recovery efforts.
Among the most destructive landslide lake outburst floods in recorded history occurred in the Sichuanprovince on 10 June 1786, when the dam on the Dadu River burst, causing a flood that extended  downstream and killed 100,000 people.
The largest landslide dam in Britain impounds Tal-y-llyn Lake (Llyn Mwyngil) beside Cadair Idris in Snowdonia National Park, Wales. It was first recognised by E Watson in 1962. It is probably over 10,000 years old.
Moklishko Ezero in North Macedonia
Trebenishko Ezero, near Trebenishta in North Macedonia
The 1139 Ganja earthquake triggered a massive landslide on Mount Kapaz, damming the Kürəkçay River, forming Lake Göygöl. The earthquake resulted in as many as 300,000 deaths.

References

Dams by type
Landslide analysis, prevention and mitigation

redpajama_set_name: RedPajamaWikipedia


text:
Q: Modifying saved plot with matplotlib I am having a problem right now. I have run an extremely heavy simulation and, thus, generated a plot with matplotlib containing the results and saved it (as .jpg). However, there are some elemnts of the plot I would like to change, such as labels size and one vertical line. Is there a straighforward way to do this using matplotlib? I know I could have stored the data and now just replot changing the parameters (and, actually, I have done this), but I was wondering whether there is an easier way. Maybe something like:
fig, ax = plt.figure(path_to_figure)
ax.set_ylabel("Y_label")
...

A: You can refer to below example, which gives you more idea on how you can do this while plotting everything.
import numpy as np
import matplotlib.pyplot as plt
import matplotlib
%matplotlib inline

plt.rc('text', usetex=True)

def f(t):
    return t ** 2

t1 = np.arange(0.0, 2.0, 0.1)

noise = np.random.randn(len(t1)) * 0.04
# x coordinates for the lines
xcoords = [0.1, 0.3, 0.5]
# colors for the lines
colors = ['r','k','b']

fig = plt.figure(figsize=(4, 3), dpi=200)
ax = fig.add_subplot(1, 1, 1)
plt.scatter(t1, f(t1 + noise), color = 'hotpink', label='Values obtained by experiment', edgecolors='k')
plt.plot(t1, f(t1), ls='solid', label='Theoretical expectation', color='b')
plt.title(r'This is latex title example $\mathbf{E = m \times c^2}$', fontsize='small')
for xc,c in zip(xcoords,colors):
    plt.axvline(x=xc, label='line at x = {}'.format(xc), c=c)
plt.grid()
plt.legend(loc=0)

If you want to make all the fonts bold, you can also use below code to make everything bold:
font = {'weight' : 'bold',
        'size'   :  14 }
plt.rc('font', **font)

def f(t):
    return t ** 2

t1 = np.arange(0.0, 2.0, 0.1)

noise = np.random.randn(len(t1)) * 0.04
# x coordinates for the lines
xcoords = [0.1, 0.3, 0.5]
# colors for the lines
colors = ['r','k','b']

fig = plt.figure(figsize=(4, 3), dpi=200)
ax = fig.add_subplot(1, 1, 1)
plt.scatter(t1, f(t1 + noise), color = 'hotpink', label='Values obtained by experiment', edgecolors='k')
plt.plot(t1, f(t1), ls='solid', label='Theoretical expectation', color='b')
plt.title(r'This is latex title example $\mathbf{E = m \times c^2}$', fontsize='small')
plt.xlabel("This is X-label.", fontsize=12)
plt.ylabel("This is Y-label.", fontsize=16)
for xc,c in zip(xcoords,colors):
    plt.axvline(x=xc, label='line at x = {}'.format(xc), c=c)
plt.grid()
plt.legend(loc=(1.15,0.2))

redpajama_set_name: RedPajamaStackExchange


text:
Tag : NoFe
[UPDATE Dec 27] Rich, NoFe, and Zero joins Victory Five with Rookie
After playing for seven years in Invictus Gaming, Song "Rookie" Eui-jin has joined Victory Five. In early December, Invictus Gaming had announced that Rookie has become a free agent, altho
IG NoFe: "I've tasted failure, but I've also learned a lot; in the end, it was all about mindset."
Hongje "Koer" Kim
Yeonjae "Arra" Shin
Hee Eun "Youii" Yoo
After a brief stint as a commentator/analyst on the LCK, Jeong "NoFe" No-chul, will be returning to coaching; this time, as the head coach for Invictus Gaming in the LPL. IG finished in 9t
[Official] Invictus Gaming announces the acquisition of NoFe as their newest head coach
On May 27, Invictus Gaming announced the acquisition of Jeong "NoFe" No-chul as the newest head coach for their League of Legends roster. He was actively sought out by the team for this pa
NoFe to coach an LPL team
NoFe has joined an LPL team as a coach. Jeong "NoFe" No-chul will be returning to coaching after his short tenure as an LCK analyst and commentator. He will be headed to the LPL. According
Heated rivalries on the rise - How to be more entertained watching the LCK
Joonkyu "Lasso" Seok
Round 2 of LCK has finally returned. Although the Coronavirus put a temporary halt on the league, the players continued their practice in their respective facilities. Now, it's time for that practice
KT Ray: "I was a very inconsistent player... Reapered, NoFe, and Heart led me well, and iloveoov is also teaching me well."
On February 23rd (KST), kt Rolster faced Afreeca Freecs in the 2020 League of Legends Champions Korea Spring Split. kt Rolster finally climbed out of their long losing streak with a 2-1 victory.
AF Spirit: "I really didn't want to lose to coach NoFe's team."
Afreeca Freecs defeated Hanwha Life Esports 2-1 in the first round of the 2020 League of Legends Champions Korea Spring Split. During past interviews, Lee "Spirit" Da-yoon had been saying
AF Kiin: "The games make me often do 1v2-5s; since it happened so often, sometimes I see the road to survival."
On February 9th (KST), Afreeca Freecs defeated Hanwha Life Esports 2-1 in the 2020 League of Legends Champions Korea Spring Split for their second win of the season. In their win, Kim
AF Ucal on Playing Against Kingzone: "We're both aggressive teams, so I think it'll be fun. I personally want to hunt down Deft."
On June 12th (KST), in the 2019 LCK Summer Split Day 6 Game 1, Afreeca Freecs demolished Hanwha Life Esports 2-0 and proved that their recent performance against Griffin and SK Telecom T1 wasn't a
AF Kiin: "When I first joined Afreeca, I was nervous facing Khan because he's a good player... I'm not nervous anymore."
On the 9th (KST), Afreeca Freecs and SK Telecom T1 clashed in the 2019 LCK Summer Split. Afreeca defeated SKT 2-1 and were able to secure their first win of the season. In all three games, Kim "
AF Coach NoFe: "Ucal only debuted last year, but he's been the LCK champion and experienced Worlds...He'll be performing to reach expectations soon."
In the 2019 LCK Spring Split Day 22 match between Afreeca Freecs and SANDBOX Gaming was a close fight. SANDBOX Gaming took Game 1 but Afreeca Freecs flipped it over and took away games 2 and 3 for the
AFs NoFe: "Every year, Korea is praised for Worlds, but there really wasn't a year like this before... We all need to work hard."
Ki-Baek "Juneau" Nam
James "Bick" Hong
Yudae "Akiin" Oak
People encounter countless obstacles during their lives. Some choose to simply stick with the status quo, whereas others accept the challenge and try to overcome it. Although the former is often a
Coach NoFe Joins Afreeca Freecs
Ji-Eun "Meii" Paek
Afreeca Freecs made an official announcement that Coach No-Chul 'NoFe' Jung will be joining them via their official social media on December 12th. NoFe was formerly the head coach for EDward Gaming prior to joining Afreeca Freecs; he was himself a pro gamer for 2 years in MVP Blue and NaJin White Sword before he changed his path and became a coach for HUYA TIGERS (former name for ROX Tigers). Under his guidance, the team has become the top team in the LCK, having made it to 1st place several times. They were placed 2nd in the World Championship 2015 and 3rd in 2016 after they lost to SKT T1 by 3-2. Afterward, NoFe joined EDG, which has placed 1st in China Regional Finals 2018 and qualified for World Championship 2018 with him. Now that NoFe has joined Afreeca Freecs, many League of Legends fans are looking forward to seeing how far Afreeca Freecs will make it under NoFe's guidance.
EDG Coach NoFe: "The team kind of feels like a curse where we are unable to harvest our full potential. As long as luck and player conditions are on our side, us going to semifinals won't be a dream."
On the 16th (KST), EDG ended their last round of the groups stage with a 4-2 score and qualified for the quarterfinals as the second seed.The day had started well for EDG. Defeating kt, EDG was at arm

redpajama_set_name: RedPajamaCommonCrawl


text:
Archer and Armstrong
'Zombieland' Director to Helm 'Archer and Armstrong' Movie
Following recent news of Sony's plans for a film adaptation based on Bloodshot (with the screenwriter of Arrival), comes word that another property from Valiant Entertainment has been set for a big screen adaptation: Ruben Fleischer, the director of Zombieland, has signed on to helm a film based on comic-book series Archer & Armstrong, which centers on a mismatched pair of heroes who develop an unlikely friendship.
Valiant Announces 'Divinity III: Escape From Gulag 396'
With the Valiant Universe being overwritten by a timeline where the Soviet Union took over using the most powerful being in the world, characters like Bloodshot and X-O Manowar have found themselves recast as "heroes of the revolution," but Obadiah Archer and Aram Anni-Padda aren't so "lucky." In March, Eliot Rahal and Francis Portela are bringing you Divinity III: Escape From Galag 396, a one shot in which Archer finds himself imprisoned as a religious extremist alongside an immortal enemy of the state. Check out an exclusive first look at the covers and some of Rahal's thoughts on the story below!
Yes, This Is Real: Valiant Reveals Cat Cosplay Covers
This December, Valiant is doing a line-wide series of variant covers featuring cosplayers dressed as Valiant characters, from Faith to Archer & Armstrong, all the way down the line to Bloodshot. The thing is, all of these cosplayers... are cats.
Fantastic Five: Best Comic Book Reboots
If there's one thing we've learned from our years on the Internet, it's that there's no aspect of comics that can't be broken down and quantified in a single definitive list, preferably in amounts of five or ten. And since there's no more definitive authority than ComicsAlliance, we're taking it upon ourselves to compile Top Five lists of everything you could ever want to know about comics. With a heavily anticipated and equally hyped reboot (or de-boot? or lateral-move-boot?) debuting this week, we thought we'd take a look at comics' frequent tendency to hit the reset button, with a specific focus on times when things turned out, you know, pretty okay! Whether it was because a certain character or story was in particularly dire straits and needed a mulligan, or because time and hindsight allowed an already good idea to be refined, these five examples show that dramatically reconfiguring a comics series is not always necessarily a bad thing.
Going Deep with Archer and Armstrong in 'A&A' #1 [Review]
Archer and Armstrong are back! Valiant's buddy caper comic, starring a sheltered young warrior and an uncouth ancient warrior, got its start back in the 90s, and was revived in 2012 by Fred Van Lente, Clayton Henry, and Pere Perez in a series that ran for 25 issues. This new title, A&A: The Adventures of Archer and Armstrong by Rafer Roberts and David LaFuente, picks up where that one left off. However, while the last Archer & Armstrong was a globe-hopping, and eventually dimension-hopping adventure story, the story kicking off in A&A #1 finds the duo traveling within, rather than without. Specifically, the heroes are journeying into the bottomless depths of Armstrong's magical bag, which houses an entire world of goblins, monsters, and at least one very angry god.
Elle Collins
The Delinquents: A Beginner's Guide To 'Archer & Armstrong'
Valiant Comics' shared superhero universe is smaller and less familiar than those of its major rivals, but even a small shared universe can offer a lot to learn about. To help those readers looking to take the plunge into the Valiant Universe, we've assembled our own team of delinquents to break things down. Ste...
Micheline & Morris
'The Adventures of Archer and Armstrong' #1 Has It in the Bag
One of comics' best buddy action-comedies returns in March with The Adventures of Archer and Armstrong #1, written by Plastic Farm's Rafer Roberts with art by former Ultimate Spider-Man penciller David Lafuente. The first storyline, "In the Bag," features Archer (a very nice young man who was raised in a religious theme park and trained to be an assassin) searching for his best friend Armstrong (fun-loving immortal vagrant and occasional hero) inside the latter's magic bag, which opens into a kind of mystical warehouse/library which apparently holds, among other surprises, the god Bacchus.
The Delinquents: A Beginner's Guide to the Valiant Universe
When it comes to shared comics universes, most people turn their mind straight to Marvel and DC, publishers that have mastered the concept over several decades. But a few years ago, Valiant Comics came roaring back, relaunching themselves for a contemporary audience, and providing a simpler superhero universe to get to grips with. Yet even a small shared universe can feel like a lot to learn about, and readers may have held back from taking the plunge. To help those readers whose curiosity has been piqued, we've assembled our own team of 'delinquents' to break things down. Steve Morris knows the Valiant Universe inside out; J.A. Micheline is completely new to the universe. Micheline has the questions, like what exactly is a "psiot", and who is that bloke in the blue and yellow helmet, and why is everybody so afraid of a goat; and Morris has answers. We hope.
A Tour Of The Inner Workings Of Valiant Comics
Since their first tiles appeared on comic-shop shelves in 2012, the resurrected Valiant Comics has established themselves as a force to be reckoned with. Their new take on the characters and mythology of the original 1990s Valiant line, their pursuit of top-shelf creators, their focus on storytelling and world-building, and their gift for unorthodox marketing and promotion has drawn praise from both fans and press, led to a film development deal with Sony, and won scores of industry awards (and award nominations). They've proven themselves to be not just cashing in on past glories, but a company that's capable of pushing their stable of characters in new and exciting directions while remaining true to their roots.
Patrick A. Reed
'Delinquents' #3 Has Best Opening Line Of All Time [Preview]
Listen, folks: I was already on board for what James Asmus, Fred Van Lente and Kano were doing in the pages of The Delinquents from the moment that I found out it was a superhero team-up about going on a quest for hobo treasure. That is literally the only thing I needed to know before I decided to read it. But then the writers went one better by giving the third issue what may actually be the single best opening line of all time. Seriously, if you have read a comic that starts out with a better piece of dialogue than "Well first off, what makes you so sure your sugar daddy was behind that ass menagerie?" I would like to read it, and I am not even close to kidding.


Established in 1956, AbbeyPrint Ltd. is now one of the largest digital, colour lithographic and large format printing companies in South Lincolnshire.
With design studio, print presses and finishing all here on site our customers are able to control their projects from origination to completion.
Our Office Supplies Division is independently owned and offers highly competitive pricing along with free local delivery. Providing you with everything, from those daily office essentials like pens, paper and coffee, to complete office interiors design. Order your office supplies online or call and collect from our well stocked retail store.
We always put our customers first. We listen to needs, offer honest advice, appreciate deadlines and fulfil orders in the most cost effective way, making no compromise on quality. We have a great team of specialists ready to help, so contact us today or pop in and visit us at our Enterprise Way site. We welcome both trade and domestic customers.


If you need help to make a claim for Universal Credit, you can contact Citizens Advice Scotland. Find out more.
If you need to get online to manage your Universal Credit journal, look for jobs or learn new skills, there's lots of places you can go for free access to a computer or wifi. There are also some places where support and assistance to use a computer is available. Find out more by checking out what access and support is available in your local area.


FAQ.How to use the Application Support folder?
I was saving a registration code for an app to the Preferencefolder.
into that folder using MBS?
Notes: You may not be able to write there with a normal user account!


The réponses to some of the votes seem a bit biased.
Bellatrix Lestrange vs. Bella Swan?
Vampire Bella vs Bellatrix Lestrange—- Fight to the Death! Who would win?
Just a collection of reasons as to why our Bellatrix Lestrange is better then their Bella cygne found in the 1000 reasons why Bellatrix is better then Bella froum. So credit to all particapants of that froum including me, enjoy.


Kiangazi House Naivasha is set amongst beautiful lush gardens and tended lawns, this homestead has truly breathtaking views of un spoilt Africa. Accommodation consists of 5 rooms. Each room has its own distinctive character with en-suite bathroom. All of the beds are four-poster surrounded in netting.
Three of the rooms (1 twin, 2 doubles) are inside the main house, one of these being the Ibis suite which has its own fireplace and mini-bar. 2 new garden rooms are situated outside the main house and have their own private verandas. (3 smaller annex rooms can be made available for larger groups).
Kiangazi House Naivasha has highly trained professional chefs who deliver an exquisite array of cuisine. Fresh vegetables and dairy products are produced on the farm nearby and therefore obtained daily. A swimming pool is creatively blended into the surrounding garden.
With delightful lush gardens littered with color, rolling lawns and a view to compliment the beautiful setting, it's ironic that "Kiangazi" is the Swahili word meaning "hot and dry season". This delightful country house overlooks Oloidien Bay and part of Lake Naivasha.
Kiangazi House Naivasha has a library and huge fireplace it is an ideal place to relax in. Or, for the more energetic, there is a tennis court which overlooks the corridor route taking wildlife to water at the lakes edge. A salt lick and water hole is excellently located at the bottom of the garden for animals to congregate at.
Game drives can be arranged here or, for those wishing to venture further afield, it is possible to arrange a whole day trip in the lodges 4x4 vehicles to Lake Nakuru National Park.


text:
What Should You Expect From New Cancer Trea…
Everyday Health Cancer
Redemption for Stand Up 2 Cancer campaign
By Matthew Zachary
Got cancer? Non-smoker? Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center's got a survey for you!
Does the American Cancer Society care about young adults with cancer?
I am never one of those people who make grand gestural statements without realizing the accountability that comes with it should the random and rare opportunity present itself where I might need to stand corrected. An old boss once told me, "Don't ever be too proud to crawl under a desk, get your hands and knees dirty and plug in your own damn computer." And so, it is with a pleasant humility that I proudly assert – A CHANGE OF HEART.
Something happened. I don't know if it was us, our movement, the viral phenom. of the social media world or martians but the StandUp2Cancer campaign is now listing young adult organizations along with the mainstream groups!
Check it out for yourself: SU2C Resources
There's Planet Cancer, The Ulman Cancer Fund for Young Adults, the Young Survival Coalition and... wait... no i[2]y? Maybe we rattled the cages too much. Or maybe we're the reason this all happened and this is the price to pay for impugning the establishment perhaps a little too disruptively? Have we a mystery?
Note: All the money raised is going to the the American Association of Cancer Research so we, as young adults must hold them accountable that an appropriate portion of the proceeds be directed towards young adult organizations. Otherwise, it's all moot. There's only a handful of actual young adult cancer research going on out there and those folks need the money. Does cancer research also include survivorship programming? I sure hope so.
So thank you establishment for making the right decision, whether we had anything to do with it or not. Ya' done right. Ya' done good.
Matthew Zachary, CEO of the I'm Too Young For This! Cancer Foundation (i[2]y)
I'm Too Young For This! Cancer Foundation (i[2]y) is a pioneering, survivor-led, advocacy, support and research organization, working exclusively on behalf of survivors and care providers under the age of 40. Its mission is to end isolation and improve quality of life for young adults affected by cancer.
The Latest in Cancer
Your Everyday Guide to Living Well With Cancer
When Two Doctors Told Me There Was No Way to Control My Rare Cancer, I Found Another Doctor
Two oncologists told me there was no hope. A third opinion — and the discovery that I was a candidate for targeted therapy — saved my life.
Cancer Prevention Month: February 2020
What Are the Risk Factors for Cancer, and Can You Prevent It?
Risk factors can raise your chances of getting cancer, but many are preventable.
Cancer Screening Tests Can Help Doctors Find Cancer Earlier
An early cancer diagnosis can make an enormous difference in the course of treatment and your odds of surviving.
Cancer: What Does It Mean to Get Palliative Care?
Palliative care can reduce pain and help you live more comfortably.
After a Cancer Diagnosis Comes the 'Staging'
The stage of cancer indicates how advanced it is and what treatments will work best.
What Are Some of the Signs and Symptoms of Cancer?
Your symptoms may depend on the type of cancer you have, how advanced it is, where it's located, and how much it has spread throughout your body.
Cancer: What Are the Treatment Options for Me?
Treatments for cancer range from mainstream, tried-and-true therapies to alternative and complementary approaches designed to help support your care a...
All You Need to Know About Essential Oils and Cancer
Financial Toxicity: Cancer Can Wreak Havoc on Finances
For people coping with cancer, skyrocketing treatment prices can threaten their survival.
Beating The Odds Against Merkel Cell Carcinoma
Susan Manber's cancer was caught early — thanks to her daughter. Now she's on a campaign to make sure others get the same chance she did.
Immunotherapy for Triple-Negative Breast Cancer, Some Men With Prostate Cancer Can Skip Radiation After Surgery, and More Cancer News From the Week of September 29
This week's cancer news update is full of findings from the European Society of Medical Oncology (ESMO) meeting in Barcelona, Spain.
Lynch Syndrome 101: What You Need to Know
Dogs, Kids, and Cancer: What's the Connection?
Veterinary researchers and a nonprofit foundation explore similarities between cancers in dogs and children that could lead to new treatments — and po...
Rates of Cervical Cancer Screening Sinks, Cases of Cervical Cancer Rise as Women's Health Clinics Close and More From Day Two of ASTRO's Annual Meeting in Chicago
The benefits of immunotherapy drugs paired with radiation treatment were also among key findings on day two of ASTRO.
Long-Term Hormone Treatment for Prostate Cancer May Be Riskier Than Previously Thought, and More From Day 1 of ASTRO's Annual Meeting in Chicago
News on radiation's role in priming the immune system to fight prostate cancer and women's satisfiaction with partial breast radiation after breast ca...
Coping With a Cancer Diagnosis at a Young Age
Here are four lessons I learned.
Sleep Apnea Linked to Increased Cancer Risk
A growing body of evidence suggests that sleep apnea contributes to cancer risk. Yet 80 to 90 percent of people who have the sleep disorder may not kn...
Cutting Back on Chemotherapy Dose Decreases Survival Odds, Exercise May Help Prolong Survival for Those With Colorectal Cancer, and More Cancer News From the Week of August 18
Women with a history of cancer linked to a BRCA mutation or who have a family history suggestive of this mutation should receive genetic screening, ne...


text:
Free Books / Reference / The Encyclopaedia Britannica /
This section is from "The Encyclopaedia Britannica". Also available from Amazon: Great Books of the Western World (60 Volumes).
Barasat, a subdivisional town in the district of the Twenty-four Parganas, Bengal, India. For a considerable time Barasat town was the headquarters of a joint magistracy, known as the "Barasat District," but in 1861, on a readjustment of boundaries Barasat district was abolished by order of government, and was converted into a subdivision of the Twenty-four Parganas. Pop. (1901) 8634. It forms a striking illustration of the rural character of the so-called "towns" in Bengal, and is merely an agglomeration of 41 separate villages, in which all the operations of husbandry go on precisely as in the adjacent hamlets.
prev: Amable Guillaume Prosper Brugiere Barante
next: Johann Philipp Baratier


Give your readers a better user experience by creating fewer columns with bigger content on the screen. Although Smartphones today are typically equipped with screen zoom in and out feature, it will still be easier to visit a site where information is easier to read. It's best to move things around your site by giving the readers access to the most important data of your mobile site without frustratingly zooming in and locating tabs and information on the screen.
Just like the layout, your content will be highly important for the success of your mobile site. Since the screens on mobile devices are smaller than PCs, might as well find a better means to present your details and images. You might need to do an overhaul of the content and keep things simple. So far, 46 percent of mobile users report having difficulty interacting with webpages. The study also revealed that 44 percent complained that navigation on non-responsive site was difficult. Therefore, make sure to invest in mobile responsive design to consistently gain customers even as the market goes mobile.
"Google recommends webmasters to follow the industry's best practice of using responsive web design, namely serving the same HTML for all devices and using only CSS media queries to decide the rendering on each device," Google Developers' Overview of recommendation wrote.
Allie Cooper has an knack for writing tech news, android phone updates, and company start-ups. Aside from blogging she is a fan of 90's movies and a music lover as well. You can always find her on Google+ .


text:
Tag: Ted Kennedy
Newly Released FBI Documents Show More Threats to Ted Kennedy; One Allegedly Came From Al Capone's Son
Just released FBI records show the bureau investigated more threats against Sen. Edward M. Kennedy than previously revealed, including one involving the son of the late mobster Al Capone and a plot by Cuban communists, the Boston Globe reported.
The paper reported that none of the half-dozen or so newly revealed threats were substantiated. Nonetheless, the paper reported that Kennedy seemed to live under constant threat after the murder of his two brothers and "protecting Kennedy became a full time job for the FBI and Secret Service agents."
The Globe reported that the new documents released on Monday — the second since the FBI declassified the Kennedy file — spanned the mid-1960s to 2001.
The Globe reported that one of the more unusual threats surfaced in the summer of 1968, just weeks after Robert Kennedy's death. The paper reported that a man phoned the FBI's Miami office to report that he, his roommate, a cashier, and a waitress at the New England Oyster House in Coral Gables, Fla., overheard a man identify himself as Sonny Capone, the son of Al Capone, while making a threatening phone call.
"If Edward Kennedy keeps fooling around, he's going to get it too,'' the caller, who was apparently drunk, reportedly said. The Globe reported that the FBI confirmed Sonny Capone was living in the area. However, there was no FBI document indicating a follow up to the call.
Posted: August 2nd, 2011 under FBI, News Story.
Tags: Al Capone, FBI, sony capone, Ted Kennedy
Sen. Kennedy's Office Manager Convicted of Stealing More than $75,000
WASHINGTON – A former office manager for the late Sen. Edward Kennedy could be off to prison.
A federal jury in Washington on Tuesday convicted Ngozi T. Pole, 40,of Waldorf, Md., of stealing more than $75,000 by paying himself unauthorized bonuses, the Justice Department said. Specifically, he was convicted of five counts of wire fraud and one count of theft of government property.
As office manager, authorities said, Pole's responsibilities included transmitting salary information to the Senate Disbursing Office in order to adjust the pay of employees in the senator's office.
Authorities charged that Pole beginning in at least 2003 and continuing until January 2007, repeatedly submitted paperwork causing the Senate to pay him larger bonus payments than had been approved by either the chief of staff or Senator Kennedy.
Pole hid the unauthorized payments "by repeatedly transmitting information to the chief of staff that falsely showed that he received only those payments that had been authorized," authorities said.
"Today, a federal jury found Mr. Pole guilty of using his position as a Congressional staffer to steal more than $75,000 of government money," Assistant Attorney General Lanny A. Breuer of the Criminal Division said in a statement.
"Employees of Congress are entrusted with performing their duties honestly and ethically. While hundreds of them live up to that important duty every day, we will, as today's verdict shows, hold accountable those few who use their positions to illegally enrich themselves."
Authorities said Kennedy's staff fully cooperated in the probe. Sentencing is set for July 14.
Tags: convicted, Fraud, Justice Department, Lanny Breuer, Maryland, ngozi t. pole, Ted Kennedy, waldorf
FBI Says Millionaire Supposedly Had Info on Sex Parties and Mentioned Kennedys, Sinatra, Marilyn Monroe
photo: jfk library-facebook
A 40-year-old multi-millionaire who had once been married to the U.S. Ambassador to Spain, reportedly had "considerable information" about sex parties at a New York Hotel involving the Kennedys and some famous entertainers, according to a 1965 FBI file released Monday.
The July 1965 FBI file, part of a ream of files released Monday about the late Sen. Ted Kennedy, stated that millionaire Jacqueline Hammond had information about sex parties at the Hotel Carlyle in New York and "a number of persons participated at different times.'
The document said among those mentioned: Robert Kennedy, John Kennedy, Teddy Kennedy, Sammy Davis Jr., Mr and Mrs. Peter Lawford, Frank Sinatra and Marilyn Monroe.
The document said that Ogden was once married to Ogden Hammond, the one time ambassador to Spain.
It also mentioned that "she maintains a room at the Hotel Carlyle."
Read files
Posted: June 14th, 2010 under FBI, News Story.
Tags: FBI, Frank Sinatra, Marilyn Monroe, New York, RFK, Robert Kennedy, sex, Ted Kennedy
Ted Kennedy FBI Files: Father Phoned FBI to Check on Rumors of Son; Tipster Told FBI Mob Was Trying to Set Up Teddy and Robert Kennedy and Peter Lawford
Late Sen. Ted Kennedy
WASHINGTON — FBI files released Monday on the late Sen. Ted Kennedy show that Joseph P. Kennedy, the senator's father, felt close enough to FBI Director J. Edgar Hoover to check on a rumor regarding his son.
An FBI file dated May 11, 1954, said Kennedy called the bureau and spoke to an assistant director. Kennedy said he had learned that muckraking journalist Drew Pearson was going to write a story about his son "Teddy" that said he had not been admitted to school at Fort Holabird, Md., while in the Army because of an "adverse FBI report which linked him to a group of 'pinkos.'"
The FBI assured him that Ted Kennedy had not been investigated for any links to communism.
In another document, an informant told the FBI the mob was plotting a character assassination of Robert and Ted Kennedy and brother-in-law Peter Lawford.
(Read FBI Files)
Tags: death threats, FBI, Michigan, Ted Kennedy, Warren
Relatives Get Rare Opportunity to Raise Objections to Release of Certain FBI Files of Ted Kennedy
WASHINGTON – In a rare move, the family of Edward M. Kennedy will be allowed to raise objections before thousand of pages of the late Senator's FBI file are released, the Boston Globe reports.
The paper reports that the the FBI is providing the "uncommon" opportunity so that the privacy rights of living relatives will not be violated, the Globe reported.
"In certain circumstances [such as] the family of victims of crimes or, as in this case . . . a public official, [the FBI] may coordinate the release of certain material with the family," Dennis Argall, an FBI spokesman told the Globe, noting that the practice was rare. "The family of a deceased person may have a privacy interest."
"But the reason [for objecting] can't simply be that it is embarrassing" Argail told the Globe.
El Paso Gangs Could Join Cartel Power Struggle (El Paso Times)
Ex-NJ Lawmaker Pleads Guilty to Child Porn (AP)
7-Year-Old Girl Gunned Down in Car in Miami (AP)
NY Fireman Gets 25 to Life for Arson Murder (AP)
Man Who Threatened Wa. Senator Released (AP)
Chicago Fed Judge Indicates He May Release Sealed Documents in Blagojevich Case (AP)
Details of NY City Bomb Plot Revealed (NY Daily News)
Swastikas and Nazi Salutes at Funeral of S. African White Supremacist (Globe Online)
Identity Thieves Filed for $4 Million in Tax Refunds (WIRED)
Mexican Journalist Found with Throat Slashed (AP)
Posted: April 12th, 2010 under FBI, News Story.
Tags: Dennis Argall, FBI, files, Ted Kennedy
FBI Has More than 3,000 Files on Sen. Ted Kennedy
Ulrich Boser, editor of the website The Open Case, could be in for some interesting reading if the FBI doesn't redact too much.
By Ulrich Boser
The Open Case
What does the FBI have on Ted Kennedy? A lot, apparently. I filed a FOIA to get any documents related to the lion of the Senate shortly after the Senator's death. I received a letter late last week, and the FBI told me that they had over 3,000 files on Kennedy.
To put that in context, Michael Jackson's FOIA turned out to be only 600 pages.
Posted: November 4th, 2009 under FBI, News Story.
Tags: 000, 3, FBI, files, Ted Kennedy


Substitute Teaches in Duval earn $7.70 an hour, less if you have your AA degree. Even un-glorified babysitters (your 16-year-old neighbor) have a market rate upwards of $12 p/hour.
As a 30-year educator, and one with 7+ years in the business world, I can tell you without question, "You get what you pay for." Every state has the exact same issue; schools have privatized every aspect of education that they can, under the guise of "wisely spending our tax dollars". When sub jobs go unfilled day in, day out because few will work for that kind of money, it's pretty obvious that the money is not nearly "market rate", at least not as far as putting quality bodies into classrooms is concerned. We've had subs that come in with pajama pants on. No joke. We've had subs who believe that their job is to be on their phone all day, looking up occasionally to make sure no one got stabbed, I guess. Once in a while, we get a real good one. They don't last long, as someone will hire them as a long-term sub or as an a full-time teacher.
Oh, well, this is the American educational system. We want the Harvard experience, but we won't even pay WalMart wages.
^We don't even pay the older sibling pay rate, let alone the wal-mart rate.
As a 30-year educator, and one with 7+ years in the business world, I can tell you without question, "You get what you pay for." Every state has the exact same issue; schools have privatized every aspect of education that they can, under the guise of "wisely spending our tax dollars". When sub jobs go unfilled day in, day out because few will work for that kind of money, it's pretty obvious that the money is not nearly "market rate", at least not as far as putting quality bodies into classrooms is concerned...They don't last long.
I would argue that the same holds true for full-time teachers in Duval County as well.
Too little pay, too many headaches, and too much micromanagement is leading to an astounding number of county teachers also saying, "Why bother?"
Education has gone to hell since the creation of the DOE, let's start there.
What the feds do doesn't really affect me that much, other than the mandates regarding special education, food programs, etc. MUCH more of our headache comes from our own state government (Michigan, in my case) and their constant attempt to sell off the public school to their rich friends who want to turn school into a "business" model. Strangely, no "business" would ever accept the deficient "raw material" that we get from our suppliers, and surely would not expect to turn out gold-plated Cadillac's (or brain surgeons) from that!
Oh, well, 13 more months and I can put that all behind me and focus on another chapter of my life, and it WON'T be substitute teaching.
Uh, Stephen, as you said in your own post, the DOE was created in 79, not what you portrayed in those stereotypes. And since the inception of the DOE, reading and math scores are down.
It's been proven time and time again that giving more money to the DOE does nothing to help students.
Look up "stupid in America" on YouTube, it was a dateline program (I think) that did good research in to the problem.
Look who makes policy for the doctors. The AMA, an organization of doctors. For the lawyers? The ABA. For educators? Paid liars called "legislators", none of whom have a background in education. Ummmm...think we've found the biggest problem.
Since public schools are by definition government entities, this statement makes absolutely no sense.
Finehoe, why doesn't it make sense?
Do you believe education has gotten worse since the 70s?
And since the inception of the DOE, reading and math scores are down.
Correlation doesn't necessarily equal causation.
Do you believe the Dept. of Education sets teacher salaries in general and substitute teacher pay specifically?
since the inception of the DOE, reading and math scores are down.
current curricula and emerging standards.


text:
The shop is closed between January 14th and February 8th. Orders placed during this time will be shipped on the 9th.
Diverse Science
Biology & Natural History
Computers & Information Science
Medicine & Anatomy
Objects & Instruments
Rare Book Guide
What is a First Edition? What do the terms Printing, Impression, and Issue mean?
How to Start Collecting Rare Books
Understanding Our Rare Book Descriptions
Rare Book Condition Ratings
Collecting Articles Published in Scientific Journals
What's an Alembic? Alchemy, the History of Science, & Our Logo
GBP USD EUR CAD INR AUD JPY
Browse ▾
Rare Book Guide ▾
Home / Products / Wood, Elizabeth A. | Crystal Orientation Manual
Wood, Elizabeth A. | Crystal Orientation Manual
Notify me when similar items are available:
Details & Condition
First edition of this introductory crystallography manual by the first female scientist at Bell Labs. As the author writes in the preface, "Many chemists, physicists, engineers, and technicians who are today confronted with the problem of obtaining a slice or rod of suitable orientation for their experiments have not had crystallographic training: it is for these that the manual was written".
Elizabeth Wood (1912-2006) was educated at Bryn Mawr, where she became an instructor in geology. Following teaching stints at Barnard and Columbia she joined Bell Labs in 1942 and remained there for the next twenty-four years. Wood's interests "ranged from the growth of single crystals with useful semiconducting, lasing, magnetic or superconducting properties to the crystallographic investigation of new materials with unusual properties such as the exhibition of both ferromagnetism and piezoelectricity. She also worked on material phases that could be changed by the application of appropriately oriented electric fields and on the formation of new superconductors" (International Union of Crystallographers obituary).
Woods was a highly respected scientist, whose advice was often sought by colleagues. She was also a talented science writer, publishing books for both popular and professional audiences. "Her reputation for clearly written texts spread as a result of her Rewarding Careers for Women in Physics (1962) and Pressing Needs in School Sciences (1969) published by the American Institute of Physics (AIP) in 1962. It became wider still with the publication of her Crystal Orientation Manual in 1963, which expounded the art and science of preparing shaped pieces of large accurately oriented single crystals for technicians... Five years later, her Science for the Airplane Passenger was published and proved very successful, appearing for many years in airport bookstores throughout the US and other countries. Her deep interest in improving the scientific understanding of the general public was recognized by the ACA's establishment of an Elizabeth A. Wood Science Writing Award. Its purpose is to honor the authors of outstanding publications that bring science to the attention of the general public" (International Union of Crystallographers obituary).
Wood was also active in professional societies, serving as secretary of the American Society for X-Ray and Electron Diffraction and taking the lead in its merger with the Crystallographic Society of America. In addition to drafting the constitution for the resulting American Crystallographic Association, she was elected its first female president in 1957.
New York and London: Columbia University Press, 1963.
Ring bound. Original cream wrappers printed in black and green with an x-ray crystallograph. Diagrams, charts, and illustrations from photographs throughout the text. Old tape repair at head of spine, library ticket to tail of spine, ink stamp "Property of the US Army Redstone Scientific Information Center" to the inside of the cover, library pocket to inside lower wrapper. Wrappers toned and rubbed with some light marks and creasing and a small area of dampstain to the lower wrapper. Very good condition.
Subscribe for occasional catalogues & fair tickets:
Our premises in the Scottish Highlands is open by appointment only.
Email: info@alembicrarebooks.com
Telephone: +44 ( 0)20 8050 2872
© 2022 Alembic Rare Books. POS and Ecommerce by Shopify
American Express Apple Pay Diners Club Discover Maestro Mastercard Shop Pay Visa


Making change for the better.
Sometimes even the best leaders need support when navigating unfamiliar terrain. Launching new businesses, negotiating ownership transitions, overseeing mergers and acquisitions, and implementing exit strategies are just a few of the major events that test a leader's mettle.
The Sandstad Group is here to help you go the distance when charting new territory – all while maintaining a level of leadership, professionalism, and performance that keeps you competitive.


text:
1st Cycle Kelp Gulls - First Impressions
Kelp Gull (Larus dominicanus) is the most widespread large white-headed gull in the southern hemisphere with a unique circumpolar distribution. Recent data based on morphology and biometrics suggests there may be 5 subspecies (Jiguet et al. 2012).
The overwhelming majority of records in North America are adult type birds, which begs a reoccurring question, are we overlooking young Kelp Gulls? This seems to be a persistent theme. Taking an objective view, and considering the fact that young gulls have a propensity to wander, I would say the lack of records of 1st cycle birds may be due mostly to observer bias, especially around the Gulf Coast where Lesser Black-backed Gull has increased. But also consider the fact that a disruption in food supply may be prompting Kelp Gulls to stray. Hence, there would be less of a survival rate for an already distressed, misplaced and inexperienced young gull to make it as far north as adults.
I recently visited the Lima region (-12S, 77W) along the coast of Peru in hope of gaining some insight on the local population there. The subspecies found in Peru is nominate L.d. dominicanus.
Kelp Gull (L. dominicanus) range map. Copyright eBird.
Most identification material available on South American Kelp Gulls comes from reports in Chile and Argentina, down to Tierra del Fuego. In fact, it appears there is more information on Kelp Gulls from Antarctica than there is on those in the north of South America. Seeing that Peru is geographically closer to North America, it should be worthwhile to familiarize ourselves with Kelps in this region.
A visit in early November put me squarely in the austral spring, now approaching the summer season. Most of my time was spent in Chorrillos at Los Pantanos de Villa where 100-300 Kelp Gulls were on display daily. The predominate age group here was 1st cycle individuals (roughly 10 months old), which made up approximately 75% of all flocks.
The KEGU flocks were very accommodating with hatch year birds making up 3/4 individuals.
The aim of this post is to present a description of 1st cycle Kelps in the austral spring, with emphasis on how they compare to the primary confusion species in North America: Lesser Black-backed Gull. It should be noted that the two have rather similar plumage aspects and patterns, and describing feather minutia to differentiate them may not always be the most fitting approach. Thus, there is a great need to use size, structure and bare parts for this identification.
A natural starting point is to compare this age group to similar age Lesser Black-backed Gulls. Plumage patterns should be compared to 2nd calender year Lesser Black-backed Gulls from the northern summer season (i.e., those on the threshold of commencing their 2nd prebasic molt). Although the two taxa are superficially alike, a close look soon reveals several structural, bare-part and plumage differences. Described below are averages which are found in more birds than not. Suffice to say there are always outliers which seemingly contradict any set of field notes as these are large white-headed gulls with considerable variability. In short, the reader should allow for variation when testing any of the notes described below.
Bill Size, Shape & Pattern
The bill averages a relatively thick base, is stout, and often shows a bulbous tip similar to Western Gull. The culmen is somewhat blunt in shorter-billed birds (presumably males). Those with longer bills can show a slight droop, exaggerated by the wide angle at the gonys. Bill size and structure is likely to be of great use for separating Kelp from Lesser Black-backed Gull.
1st cycle Kelp Gull (front) with a 2nd cycle (inner primary molt has commenced). Both show relatively thick bills, but note the slight droop to the 2nd cycle's bill.
There is little order in bill color patterns, however, as some showed bicolored bills with demarcated black tips while others retained entirely dark bills. Below is an individual with a mixture of pink and black. Bill pattern is likely of little use for identification.
Facial Expression & Head Shape
The gape on this age group seemed to immediately jump out at me, portraying a different facial expression than 1st cycle Lesser. It isn't a long gape, but the flesh is more swollen and exposed than on Lesser Black-backed, which seems to typically have the flesh on the gape covered in feathers. Also consistently seen is a dark post-ocular line in individuals that have molted into whiter heads. The eye placement strikes me as forward and higher on the head, and not as centered on the face when compared to Lesser. The head often has an elongated shape and is somewhat blocky with more birds averaging a flat crown than rounded. In some ways, we have a facial expression reminiscent of California Gull, on the head of a Great Black-backed Gull.
The downward gape and post-ocular line recall California Gull at times.
Head Streaking
The markings on the crown are somewhat similar to the fine, thin, streaks of Lesser Black-backed Gull, but then soon become heavier and coarser along the hindneck. As we follow the markings down the side of the neck and breast, the pattern may become blotted with spots.
This individual shows more of a heavily marked neck. The blotted spots along the side of the neck are reduced on individuals with whiter heads and necks.
Overall the species averages longer legs than most other large gulls I have experience with. At this time of year, the majority of individuals showed traces of blueish-gray on the tibia, especially where the leg meets the body. This blue color was consistently observed and is likely to be of good use for an out of range bird. The rest of the leg below the joint was either a pale fleshy pink or beginning to yellow in a few advanced individuals. The joint on many birds is a large balled knot with a noticeably thick tarsus.
Scapular Crescent
Many birds have replaced their tertials (via the 1st prealternate molt) as it is "their" first spring. The new, second generation tertials and scapulars often show broad white edges, forming bold crescents similar to Slaty-backed Gull. The scapular crescent is not always consistently large. However, the tertial crescent is reliable and I would consider this a great feature for pinning a Kelp candidate in North America. Scrolling back up to the group photo at the top of this post, one can see this obvious feature in just about every individual.
This 1st cycle has retained its juvenile tertials, which here, show thick white tips. Also consider the bluish tibia, downward gape and flatter crown with highly placed eye.
A 1st cycle with 1st alternate tertials. The bold white crescent is rather noticeable from a distance.
Secondary Skirt
Of use when comparing Kelp to Lesser Black-backed Gull is the former's propensity to show a secondary skirt (secondary feathers hanging below the greater coverts when the bird is at rest). When the secondaries are fully grown, it's likely the tips to these feathers can be seen well below the greater coverts, recalling what is seen on other broad-winged large gulls such as Western, Glaucous-winged and Slaty-backed Gull. Consider this relatively plain-looking bird with dark brown secondary skirt merging with the tertials. This is not a field mark typical of Lesser Black-backed Gull. The shape of this bird is much more similar to Slaty-backed Gull than it is to Lesser Black-backed.
A large and relatively short-winged individual. Much of its coverts and tertials are still juvenile.
Wing Projection
Wing projection is a tricky feature as it varies depending on posture, molt, wear, age and perhaps even sex. On average, the wing's projection (the extent of primary length past the tail) is short, or shorter than the longer-winged Lesser Black-backed Gull. It seemed to be much more noticeable and useful in adult birds which had all 10 primaries fully grown. In my opinion, it wouldn't be as useful a feature to rely on for out of range 1st cycles, and it should only be used as a supporting detail if present. Strictly speaking, one can find "unusually" long-winged and thin individuals such as this bird, which resembles the body profile of a Lesser, but this is the exception, not the rule:
A long-winged bird with an attenuated look to the rear, resembling Lesser Black-backed Gull. Furthermore, the juvenile tertials lack any hint of a crescent. But notice the glaring gape, drooping bill and bluish tibia. Also consider the broken secondary skirt, indicating active molt on an otherwise broader wing.
A relatively short-winged 1st cycle (right) with an adult type. Among several features mentioned earlier in this post, note the secondary skirt on the adult and bluish base to the tibia on the 1st cycle. The bold white tertial crescent is visible on every individual in this frame. The uniformly long legs put Las Vegas showgirls to shame.
Open Wing & Tail
In flight the arm is relatively short and broad. The inner primaries are dark and typically don't show a pale window. The outer tail feathers generally show more pigment coming up their bases (when compared to Lesser). The uppertail coverts are largely white at this time of year due to wear and new 1st alternate coverts which lack much of a pattern (see the first open wing below). It should be noted that some birds with retained juvenile uppertail coverts will show more markings (see the second open wing below).
A rather "Lesser Black-backed-looking" individual with plain uppertail coverts. The solid pattern to the tail band on the outermost rectrices may be of use, as is the bulbous-tipped bill.
The uppertail coverts are more marked on this individual. Also notice the vertical stitching on the outer web of the outermost tail feather. In addition to this, the outer web can also show horizontal ribbing similar to 1st cycle American Herring Gull.
The pattern to the underwing is not unlike a Lesser, but note the broad structure of the arm. The body is much more barrel-chested than the lankier Lesser Black-backed Gull. Despite all of the plumage characteristics mentioned in the literature, the most useful feature on the individual below is - unquestionably - the size and shape of the bill. The impression is much more akin to Yellow-footed and Western Gull.
To summarize, 1st cycle Kelp Gulls in central Peru are among the northernmost populations south of the equator. This age group superficially resembles Lesser Black-backed Gull, but using a collection of field marks, the discerning eye should be able to pick up on a "typical" extralimital bird. It is important to keep in mind that the field marks described here should be used in combination and not singly. A larger gull with overall stronger proportions and long legs may be the first impression one gets. Body size can be as lanky as a small Lesser Black-backed, or, approaching that of a Great Black-backed Gull. There was only one instance where I thought the plumage aspect of a 1st cycle Kelp Gull resembled a Great Black-backed Gull (see below), but the head and hindneck streaking, and incidentally the gape, were sufficiently different.
A large 1st cycle with superficial resemblance to Great Black-backed Gull.
Note that the long dark markings on the undertail coverts are unlike the sparse markings on GBBG.
A big takeaway from the images in this post should be the amount of variability in upperpart patterns (on par with the variability found in other large white-headed gulls). The wing coverts and scapulars strike me as being a bit plainer than a 1st alternate Lesser Black-backed Gull, with a velvety texture at times. Less advanced birds show patterns that are more diffuse than other black-backed species, such as this largely juvenile individual:
A retarded HY Kelp Gull with plain upperparts. The long strong bill and long legs are noteworthy.
Molt and its implications on identification
The most exciting revelation during my visit was uncovering a flight feather molt sequence which, to my knowledge, has not been documented in this species. The pattern is radically different than any large gull in North America, and if understood correctly, could readily be used to seal an ID for a young out of range Kelp Gull. Look for this in an upcoming post in Part 2.
1st Cycle Kelp Gulls - Part 2 Molt


Our outreach component is effectively targeting at-risk youth by weekly, regular lunch-time visits at all middle and high schools. We also conduct one-on-one street outreach in environments frequented by youth throughout our community.
During outreach, teams comprised of staff, volunteers and youth themselves to provide significant information on a variety of issues including health, shelter, education, and employment. Staff distribute our "Teen Safety Plan"– a small wallet size brochure designed to empower youth on the streets during potentially dangerous situations.
Snack foods and basic hygiene materials may also be distributed to at-risk youth at this time. In addition to our outreach efforts, teams offers referral services, assessments, goal development, case management and advocacy.


text:
Joe Biden vs. Sarah Palin – Debate Preview, Answers to Debate Questions!
September 30, 2008 September 30, 2008 ~ Wiberg	~ 2 Comments
The two brightest people in America will go at it on Thursday, October 2, 2008 – they will match wits, trade barbs, be wily. But enough about Andy vs Dwight from "The Office!" (NBC is so in the tank for Andy Bernard, it makes me sick. They should just let Dwight win Angela!).
The other event – Joe Versus the Barracuda. Spoiler alert: America wins! Because I have been following for, oh, about twenty days, I think I can provide expert analysis on this whole debate thing between the Veeps (veeps is insider talk for VP which stands for Vice Prez, which stands for Vice President).
Biden plans to leave half his IQ back in Delaware, "because," he says "he want's the debate to be close."
Sarah Palin will be wearing – just joking!!!! I'm not going to describe what a female politician is wearing because that would be sexist. As long as she looks hot, then I'm all good with whatever she says. Joe Biden will be wearing the same suit he wore in 1972 when he left his lucrative one-year career as a lawyer and traded down to be a politician.
The debate will start with lame thank yous to the host, the audience and the building hosting the debate. Except Sarah Palin will say "thanks, but no thanks" to an offer of a glass of water.
The "moderator," Gwen Ifill, will ask a series of incredibly stupid questions. Both candidates will answer them with their standard campaign-rally answers. But HERE, on this site, is a preview to some of their answers. I won't give away the questions. I'll let you hear those on Thursday night.
EXCERPTS OF ANSWERS TO QUESTIONS YOU'LL HEAR ON THURSDAY NIGHT:
Biden: "I got 99 problems, but a bitch ain't one of them." (the crowd will oooh and aaah – the next morning Jay-Z's record label will file a suit against Obama-Biden).
Palin: Biden, Hemingway called, he wants you back in that boat and on the sea pronto!"
Biden: I know foreign policy. I've been everywhere. When you're from Delaware, you want to travel! (the next day, Delaware Chamber of Commerce files a lawsuit against Biden).
Palin: I read newspapers. Both sides. And I have seen all three Bourne movies, so, please, I know foreign policy.
Biden: I didn't hear the question, Gwen. I was busy admiring my last answer.
Palin: My favorite SNL skit this season? Oh, I'd say the one with the Joe Biden parody. Oh, you say that hasn't happened yet. Interesting…
Palin: Hillary Clinton is a woman with 18 million cracks.
Biden: My wife is one of those cracks. One of the good ones. (the next day, his wife files for divorce)
The debate will end with a handshake – between "moderator" Gwen Ifill and Joe Biden. She will nod to him like "see, I told you and O that I was gonna do you a solid." Biden will act like he knows what she meant but later will ask Obama – "what's a solid?" He will say "it's like a favor," but Biden will still feel like it means something else and remain suspicious of his exotic partner and politician.
Andy Bernard and Dwight Schrute, American heroes.
Joe Biden: Why Can't I Be Smeared!
September 12, 2008 ~ Wiberg	~ 3 Comments
Late Friday night, Delaware-not-Pennsylvania Senator and vice-presidential candidate Joe Biden complained to the press that absolutely nobody was investigating him. He admitted he was extremely disappointed that the McCain campaign had yet to send a team of lawyers to his home state to research his activities.
"I won't be ignored." Senator Joe Biden wants his time in the spotlight to make a gaffe.
"I have skeletons in my closet, people. I have a high IQ, so my skeletons are very smart. The closet is unlocked, too. Please, pick up the phone, find something out about me. I'm a baaad guy."
Despite hundreds of hours of media spent on the Republican vice-presidential canddiate, Sarah Palin, Barack Obama's choice has barely registered with the American voter.
"Give me time, and I promise, I will make a gaffe or say something so inappropriate that you'll wonder why I'm not in prison. I'm a gaffe-making-machine – just turn me on!"
Biden said if needed, he would buy air time to reveal some of his awful decisions made while a U.S. Senator for over 30 years.
"I will pay to be smeared. That's how serious I am about winning the vice-presidency.
"I've been here forever, and believe me, in what little I've done, there are plenty of scratch-your-head moments. Did you know I voted for the United States to bomb Canada during the Stanley Cup finals? I did. I'm a total f*ck up. Just look into it, for Chrissakes!"
Barack Obama couldn't be reached for comment, according to his advisors. "He's too busy emailing his suporters. Something John McCAin cannot do."
Joe Biden: I love Me Some Pig – don't listen to the other guy
September 9, 2008 ~ Wiberg
Today Joe Biden condemned his fellow Senator's remarks, referring to Sarah Palin as a pig with lipstick.
"Let's just get one thing clear. I love pigs. With or without lipstick. Barack doesn't and I don't know why. He's weird, okay."
Joe hearts Pigs
BONUS MATERIAL: Predictable, extremist commentary: You know who else doesn't like pigs? Muslims! Oh MY GOD! That's proof that Barack is a muslim!!!!!! He doesn't like pigs, aka Pork!!!!! I am totally forwarding this to my friends.
Joe Biden and Lobbyist Son Hunter at the Dinner Table
Last month, Joe Biden's Senate office spokesperson said the following about his son, Hunter Biden, who is a lawyer/lobbyists for several companies.
"Hunter Biden does not lobby and has not lobbied Senator Biden's office," Alexander said in an e-mail. "Our rules are dictated by the Senate ethics bill, and we follow it by the letter." Alexander said she knew of no favors done for the son's clients."
But doubts were raised when a transcript was released several days later, as Hunter Biden visited his father's home for Sunday dinner.
Joe Biden: How is your work going, son?
Hunter Biden: Please don't ask that, dad. I don't want to cause any conflicts of interest.
JB: I understand. Can you pass me the salt?
HB: I can pass that salt, if you can pass the mustard.
JB: But there isn't any mustard on the table.
(brief silence)
JB: Oh, yes, of course. I'll pass that soon. It will get passed.
HB: Thank you dad. I love mustard. My friends back at the firm love mustard.
JB: I'll pass it, don't worry. Man, this mooseburger is delicious.
HB: Why are we having moose burgers? They taste awful.
JB: It's a long story, but apparently the other side is going to pick some hockey mom from Alaska and the One – excuse me, Senator Obama – thought I'd should do some research on the folks up there – y'know, see what the eat, what they drink, that sorta thing. Hey, what do you think of my new hair?
HB: Not bad, dad. You look like a million bucks. Or at least a quarter of a million dollars.
JB: Is that all?
HB: Well, you might look like a little more, but it depends. I'd have to ask my colleagues. I'm still new at judging hair.
JB: You ask them. I'll bet they see that I look like at least half a million bucks. I mean, this is great hair!
HB: I agree, but it isn't doing that much lately.
JB: It will soon. This hair will do things for you, believe me. Tell your friends that. Now, can you pour me some more of that arctic icewater?
END TRANSCRIPT
A 2004 photograph shows close ties between Joe Biden and lobbyist Hunter Biden (who is on one side or the other of Joe - does it matter?)
Sarah Palin – One Heartbeat Away From Presidency? Probably Not. How Presidents Die In Office
September 7, 2008 September 7, 2008 ~ Wiberg	~ 1 Comment
A semi-serious post:
All week long, the world wrings its hand and thinks "if John McCain wins, Sarah Palin will be one heart beat away from the Presidency!!! OMG!"
A review of Wikipedia's page on Presidents Who Died In Office, indicates that Presidents generally don't die by first losing their heart beat, ie 'heart attack', but by other, more preventable methods!
Four were assassinated (Lincoln, Garfield, McKinley, Kennedy), one died from pneumonia (Harrison), and another from gastroentitis (Taylor). Franklin Delano Roosevelt died from a cerebral hemorrhage.
Warren G. Harding was the only one, it seems, who died in office of a heart attack in 1923. Four presidents have been assassinated while in office, so that is a concern. But nobody goes around saying "If John McCain wins, Sarah Palin will be one bullet away or one uncooked steak away from the Presidency!! OMG!" because that would be tacky.
When he wasn't playing MurderBall at the White House basketball court, FDR was running the country. He died in 1945 from a cerebral hemorrhage, ending the longest presidency in U.S. history.
So, the chances any president is going to die while in office is slim to none. Joe Biden or Sarah Palin will just have to sit back, attend funerals and stay awake during the President's State of the Union speeches.
And remember, this person is TWO heart attacks away from the presidency! OMG!:
Speaker of the House Nancy Pelosi sends pizzas, bacon cheesburgers, and donuts everyday to the offices of the current President and Vice-President.
Joe Biden – Private Sector Employment History Revealed! Young, Dumb, and Full Of
In a two minute investigative report using the internets, mostly Wikipedia, vice-presidential candidate Joe Biden's private sector employment history was revealed, providing a stunning insight into the Delaware Senator, listed here:
1. Practiced Law in 1969.
1969 Employee of the Year at Biden Law Offices
In 1970, Joe Biden was elected to a County Council position, and from there, went on to represent in the U.S. Senate, effectively ending his private sector employment history.
Even more impressive, Joe Biden currently lists his net worth between $59,000 and $366,000, making him one of the poorest current Senators. As one unnamed Senator put it: "Biden has done the impossible: he's managed to be in the U.S. Senate for 30 years and not get rich. What a loser."
Biden explained his financial situation to my imaginary friend. "I didn't go to Washington to get rich. I went there to work. And, yes, had I known I could have made loads of money in D.C., I would have. For sure. I was young, dumb, and full of cumulative blue collar experiences that I thought I could use to help the public."


text:
Senior Programme Officer, Resources & Conflict at War on Want
War on Want has been fighting the root causes of poverty for the past 60 years in active solidarity with people across the world. We seek transformative change by empowering grassroots movements and challenging political decisions at national and international levels which perpetuate poverty and injustice.
War on Want is seeking to develop its programme of fighting against the plunder of natural resources by multinationals. The resources and conflict programme focuses on the conflict over natural resources as well as its impact on people who experience loss of livelihoods, violent conflict, persistent human rights violations (including the right to protest) and environmental degradation.
This is an exciting position for a person with the drive and passion to help achieve the objective of securing rights for people threatened by corporate control of natural resources. This will be achieved by supporting communities in their efforts to better protect their fundamental rights and developing global alliances to expose and challenge natural resource expropriation.
You will be responsible to the International Programmes Director.
Areas of responsibility:
Supporting grassroots movements fighting for their rights in the context of resource conflict
Exposing the abuses of multinational corporations seeking to appropriate natural resources from other countries and communities
Working to end predatory actions by states aiming to take control of other's natural resources, including land, oil, gas, water or minerals.
Ensure effective and extensive communication of War on Want's resources and conflict programme
Specific responsibilities
Programme strategic development:
Lead the development and implementation of the resources and conflict programme's strategy
Develop annual plans of action to achieve the programme's overall aim
Be responsible for creating the advocacy strategy, policy positions and research work on conflict over resources
Establish national, regional and international alliances with networks and social movements in order to expose multinational companies and states seeking to appropriate natural resources
Identify and develop partnership with grassroots movements living under human rights violations because of conflict over natural resources
Identify actions to support people whose right to protest has been violated
Communications and networking:
Communicate effectively to position War on Want and its work on resource conflict in social media, mainstream and alternative media through written, visual and spoken means
Represent War on Want in public speaking, media interviews, to external organisations and to policy makers, including at a high level
Ensure War on Want's various audiences are timely and efficiently informed on issues related to the resources and conflict programme
Facilitate communication between networks and social movements from the Global South and the UK
Identify and coordinate exposure in the UK and globally of resources expropriated from local communities
Develop and implement UK events in coordination with partners from the Global South
Programme Management:
Investigate new sources of external funding and write funding applications for the overall programme implementation, including grants for partner organisations
Develop and maintain strong partnership with organisations in the Global South fighting against resource expropriation, human rights violations and criminalisation of protest
Manage grants for partners in the Global South
Manage the overall budget of the resources and conflict programme
Manage external consultants, volunteers and where appropriate other staff
Ensure good communication with all War on Want departments
Maintain up to date War on Want's organisational systems
Substantial experience of working with grassroots movements from the Global South, including experience overseas
Practical experience in strategising and coordinating initiatives with grassroots movements in the Global South and organisations/social movements in the UK
Strong political understanding of the root causes of poverty
Proven networking and facilitating skills to drive collective aims
Proven communication skills in English (written and spoken). Please submit links to examples with your application
Fluency or working knowledge of Spanish
Commitment and passion for the aims and values of War on Want
Ability to work within a team and on own initiative
Flexibility and ability to work to tight deadlines
Knowledge of resource conflict issues
Experience of organising events e.g. conferences, seminars
Job title: Senior Programme Officer, Resources & Conflict
Salary: £33,828 rising towards £35,553 on an annual incremental basis, plus 6% non-contributory employer's pension
Closing date: 5 May 2015, 1pm


text:
August Burns Red – Messengers (2007)
Context: workplace listening
This is not my first time with August Burns Red, being primarily familiar with their albums Thrill Seeker (2005) and Constellations (2009). A friend of mine told me they were on tour, which turned out to be a Messengers ten-year anniversary tour. I figured I should give the album a listen before purchasing a ticket to see them, because if that album was trash there would be no reason to go to the tour (my guess is they will play the album in it's entirety as is standard for these things these days).
Messengers sits pretty much exactly where you'd expect being where it is in the band's discography. It continues much of what Thrill Seeker accomplished in terms of it's raw energy and musicianship, which isn't necessarily a bad thing. They don't seem to be worried about exceeding whatever excitement or success Thrill Seeker gave them and continue on the path of brutality they had laid before themselves.
Where this album does begin to sag, however, is it seems to not make a stand for itself, if that makes any sense. Constellations saw the band begin to experiment with softer, building intros like in "Mariana's Trench," whereas this just continues to go straight for the jugular. Many will find/have found this to be a pleasing thing, and who am I to take away your fun? The downside to this lack of sonic expansion is that it's easy for tracks to wash themselves out as it becomes more fast riffage, more heavy breakdowns, and more guttural throat screaming. Most people would say that's a good thing, and it largely is, but the album has a bad habit of quickly becoming background noise as nothing immediately jumps out and demands attention. To me at least.
I like ABR and hope their latest efforts at least hold up to the standards set forth in Thrill Seeker and maintained here in Messengers. I just hope they find a way to vary their sound enough that the tracks have a life of their own.
August Burns Red, music


text:
FROM RAGS TO RICHES: DR. VELUMANI SHARES HIS LIFE JOURNEY AT EO LEARNING SESSION
HomePress ReleaseFROM RAGS TO RICHES: DR. VELUMANI SHARES HIS LIFE JOURNEY AT EO LEARNING SESSION
The members of Entrepreneurs Organization (EO), Jaipur attended an inspiring and thought provoking session on Saturday evening by Indian scientist, entrepreneur as well as the Founder, Chairman and Managing Director of Thyrocare Technologies, Dr. Arokiaswamy Velumani at hotel ITC Rajputana. The speaker shared his life journey of 60 years summing up how once he struggled for food and now is a rich and successful entrepreneur. He spoke about his life story as a boy from a small village who made his way to the National Stock Exchange (NSE). The speaker was welcomed by the President, EO Jaipur, Mr. Uddhav Poddar. Earlier, the new members of EO were formally introduced to the other members. The theme for this year is 'Breaking the Monotony'.
According to Dr. Velumani, villages are true universities — people are born in villages to create a big impact because here one gets experience of practical learning through problem solving and not theoretical lessons.
Stressing on the idea of 'The Luxury of Poverty', Mr. Velumani said that nothing on this Earth teaches like empty intestines, which basically translates as poverty. If somebody has not seen poverty, they have not seen life. The speaker further said that he feels lucky to be poor because he learnt a lot of things through problem solving. The most powerful man is the most frugal man, added Dr. Velumani.
Talking about the establishment of Thyrocare, Dr. Velumani said that in 1982 he did not even know where the thyroid gland is situated in the body. By 1992, he had completed his M.Sc. and PhD in thyroid biochemistry. And in 2002, he was running the world's largest thyroid testing laboratory. He has over 3000 franchises running in the entire country. Even though he was a mathematics student, he still went on to establish this because he believed in the power of disruption. "If you do what you studied, you will survive. But if you do what you have not studied, you will become a leader."
Highlighting the importance of taking risks and disruptions, he said: "If you want to be successful, don't do what your neighbor is doing. Find out what he is doing and do it better than him." Giving a tip on being successful parents, Dr. Velumani shared that one must not mix parenting with pampering. Allow children to go through problems to become successful. He added that he is thankful to his parents for not doing anything for him.


Stress and burnout are common among doctors. Excess levels of stress have been shown to have detrimental personal and professional effects as well as a negative influence on patient care.
The aim of our pilot study was to assess the levels of burnout among a cohort of interns.
A voluntary written self-assessment of burnout levels was distributed to interns in two teaching hospitals. The Maslach Burnout inventory is a 22-question survey assessing the three components of the burnout syndrome—emotional exhaustion (EE), depersonalisation (DP) and personal achievement (PA).
Twenty-seven surveys were distributed to interns in two hospitals with a 96.3 % (n = 26) response rate. The mean age was 25.1 years (range 24–31 years). 14 were medical interns, 12 were surgical interns at the time of completion. Overall, the mean EE score was 23.4 (range 11–29), representing moderate levels of EE. The mean DP score was 9.4 (range 4–14), representing moderate levels of DP. The mean PA score was 18.9 (range 12–29), representing high levels of PA. There were no significant differences noted between levels of EE, DP or PA among male or female interns, medical or surgical interns or those who worked in a peripheral or university hospital.
Burnout is reported among interns in our pilot study. Measures need to be taken to heighten awareness of burnout among doctors and to educate physicians regarding self-awareness and personal health.


text:
Asia is getting tougher on auditors after high-profile defaults
Thu, Mar 14, 2019 - 9:35 AM
[HONG KONG] Regulators in some Asian countries are getting tougher on auditors after landmark defaults, in an increasingly high-stakes game as investors call for earlier warning signs amid expectations for debt failures to mount.
High-profile collapses of commodities trader Noble Group Ltd and India's shadow lender Infrastructure Leasing & Financial Services Ltd have rocked investors over the past year. In China, a spate of defaults has raised concerns over the quality of financial reports.
Those incidents have prompted investors and regulators in Asia to look back on where they might have picked up more clues that trouble was brewing, adding to broader scrutiny of auditing firms elsewhere in the world. In Malaysia, the Securities Commission fined Deloitte PLT earlier this year for breaches related to a bond issuance by 1MDB. The Singapore Exchange plans to increase the accounting oversight of listed companies, amid a probe into Noble Group and its longstanding auditor Ernst & Young LLP.
"Auditors in Asia have not been very good at warning debt investors of potential defaults," said Charles Macgregor, head of Asia at Lucror Analytics Pte in Singapore. "Most auditors are afraid of qualifying their audit report, as they could get sacked by the company."
'ACTIVE ROLE'
SGX RegCo proposals raise profile of ACRA, SISV
The Singapore Exchange has in the past defended its oversight of Noble, citing a clean bill of health by the company's auditors Ernst & Young. PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP also produced a study in 2015 that stated the commodities trader complied with international rules in valuing long-term contracts, even as it qualified its assessment by saying Noble needed to improve governance and deal valuation methodology.
In response to questions, the Singapore Exchange referred Bloomberg to a speech by Tan Boon Gin, chief executive officer of Singapore Exchange Regulation in January. The Singapore Exchange will play "a much more active role" in determining the scope of the year-end audit for selected companies, Tan said at that time. It has already started doing so by meeting with auditors and audit committees of about 15 listed companies so far.
SGX will also propose a new power to require the appointment of a second auditor in "exceptional circumstances" Tan said. In addition, it proposes that all listed companies have to appoint either a Singapore-based auditor, or to have a Singapore-based auditor jointly sign off on a year-end audit conducted by a foreign auditor.
"We are fully cooperating with the enquiries and are unable to comment on the details at this time," EY said in response to questions from Bloomberg. A PwC spokesman said the firm is unable to comment on anything related to Noble as it is a past client.
Singapore's Accounting and Corporate Regulatory Authority conducts inspections on registered auditors to assess their compliance with auditing standards, according to a spokesperson.
The regulatory body may suspend or cancel a public accountant's registration for serious audit deficiencies. It is also "looking into amending the law to allow sanctions to be meted out on firms for lapses in quality controls," the spokesperson said.
MORE COMPLEX
The increasing complexity of accounting standards makes it harder for auditing firms, and of course if a company is intent on committing fraud, that can be difficult for anyone to detect.
"The job of the auditor is to make sure that the company's accounts conform with generally accepted accounting principles," said Todd Schubert, head of fixed-income research at Bank of Singapore Ltd. "They are not forensic accounts."
The so-called "big four" accounting firms--Deloitte, KPMG, EY and PwC - have faced scrutiny globally. A UK competition watchdog said late last year that audit work should be split from the much larger consulting business at an operational level.
Still, Asia presents unique challenges.
"It's very hard to rely on auditors for Chinese companies for credit analysis," said Ben Sy, head of fixed income, currencies and commodities at JPMorgan's private banking unit in Asia. "Sometimes the actual liabilities of a Chinese company can be significantly larger than those on the books."
Keppel Capital Holdings launches new infrastructure fund


text:
Roy Returns
December 2, 1995. It�s a date that will live in infamy.
Patrick Roy, bitter at being left in net for nine goals in an 11-1 loss to the Detroit Red Wings, skated to the Canadiens bench, barged past coach Mario Tremblay twice without saying a word, and informed team owner Ronald Corey, �I have played my last game in Montreal.�
Aw, it was glorious. Johnny Paycheck couldn�t have done it any better.
Three days later, Roy was traded to the Colorado Avalanche. He�d go on to win two Stanley Cups and a Conn Smythe with the Avs. Meanwhile, the Canadiens have languished in mediocrity, winning only four playoff series the past 12 seasons. Hard to get happy after that one.
On Saturday, Roy and the Canadiens will finally bury the hatchet, with the Habs retiring St. Patrick�s No. 33 prior to their home game with the Boston Bruins. Considering the circumstances surrounding his departure, Roy wasn�t sure if he�d ever be welcomed back in Montreal.
�Well, you have no control on if they will retire my jersey or not, but I surely hope that that would happen one day,� said Roy in a media conference call Wednesday.��I knew they had a lot of guys to do before me.�You know, the Canadiens haven't done that for a long time, and I felt that the Savards, the Robinsons, Gainey, Dryden, they've been a big part of the history of the Canadiens, and I think they deserve that.
�But it's a great honor for me to join them.�You know, to see my jersey retired by the Montreal Canadiens means a lot to me.�It's an organization with a great history and great tradition.�I've seen them play when I was younger, and then watching games every Saturday and then going downstairs to play hockey because we were excited and we wanted to do the same thing that they were. I mean, to see today my jersey retired, I mean, it is very special.�
A native of Sainte-Foy, Quebec, Roy began playing hockey as an eight-year-old, choosing to play goaltender because of his hero Rogie Vachon.
�Yes, my favorite players were, at the time, Rogie Vachon,� said Roy. �He was playing for the Kings.�The great reflex.�He was spectacular to watch.�Then after being a North Leagues fan and living in Quebec, Daniel Bouchard was my second favorite goaltender.�Bouchard also had a bit of a style that I like.�He was a little deeper in his net, but Vachon was challenging more the shooters.�Bouchard was more like in between, you know, stand up and butterfly goalie.�He had a bit of a style that I like it.
Roy�s rise to greatness wasn�t without adversity. As a youngster, he was cut from his Midget CC team, but his love for the game never wavered. Even in those early days, Roy was supremely confident, and he rallied the next season to make Midget AA. That same confidence became the hallmark of his legendary NHL career.
�I always thought that goaltenders could not show weaknesses,� said Roy.��As an example, we played against Detroit one year in the playoffs and we lost the first two games in Denver, and then we're going in Detroit. I felt that I could not show weaknesses saying, �Oh, yeah I'm not sure.�It's going to be tough.��
�Your presence, you always have to show that you were strong and nothing would affect you.�I thought it was important.�It's like a goaltender giving a bad goal in the key moment of the game.�You look at the bench and everybody has their heads down after the goal.
�I think the position demands that you stand tall and say, �Hey, guys, I'm there.��You don't want to have the players thinking, �Okay, is the goaltender going to be okay tonight?�Is he going to be shaky?��You want to make sure that the guys go, �Okay, we're okay.�Patty is in the net.�He's going to have a good game, and all I have to worry is play hard as a team.��
Roy, whose number is already retired in Colorado, certainly inspired confidence in his Montreal teammates. In his 10-plus seasons with the Canadiens, Roy posted 289 wins, 29 shutouts, two Stanley Cups, two Conn Smythes, and three Vezina Trophies. Roy was the Montreal Canadiens. While the relationship didn�t end on the best of terms, he prefers to remember the good times and hopes the Montreal fans can do the same.
�You always have some regrets,� said Roy. �I mean, nobody's perfect.�There's things.�But when you love to compete, and that's the way I was, it was good side of it and bad side of it.�But I don't think I would have the career I had if I was not that type of person.
�But the good thing about what's going to happen on Saturday is we're going to talk more about, you know, those years like '86 or '89 or '93.�I thought we had great runs in Montreal.�I think we finally gonna put away that December 2nd of '95, and that's something that, you know, one game�-- I mean, it's funny, because when you play -- when you get to the NHL they say to you, �One game does not make a career.��But one game made pretty much my career in Montreal.
�But I feel that that was not the case.�I mean, I had so many good years and we had so many good teams.�I mean, I played with -- I played for great coaches, but I also played with great teammates.�Nothing would have happened without the support of them. But we had, you know, players that had that desire to want to win, and they were very special teams.�
Roy�s confidence never shone brighter than in the playoffs. The best clutch goaltender in hockey history, Roy lived for the big moment, saving his best performances for postseason overtime.
�Somehow it was even easier to focus,� said Roy of his overtime success.��I was just focusing on making the next save.�All you can do as a goalie is buy time for your teammates.�I never scored a goal.�They're the ones who put the puck in the net.�What you want as a goaltender is to say, �Hey, let's make those saves and buy time, and then hopefully we'll put the big one before them.��That was my approach, and I was fortunate enough to be a lot of time on the winning side.�
During Montreal�s march to the Cup in 1993, Roy and the Canadiens posted 10 consecutive overtime victories.
�I remember that run very well,� said Roy.��The first game we played, we lost in overtime, and after that we went on.�I mean, I gave up a bad goal on Joe Sakic to tie the game, and then I gave another one on Scott Young on a wraparound.�After that, we went on to win ten straight.
�At the end it was like we�-- you know, after two period, if we were tired, we were almost hoping to go in overtime with the same score because we were so confident.�We believed that it was the time we could not lose a game in overtime.�
After retiring in 2003, Roy became involved with the Quebec Remparts of the QMJHL, serving as owner, general manager, and head coach. In 2005-06, his first year behind the bench, Roy led the Remparts to the Memorial Cup. Not surprisingly, he brings his trademark intensity and fiery competitiveness to coaching, helping players like Alexander Radulov and Marc-Edouard Vlasic make it to the next level.
Roy�s a natural born winner. It�s only a matter of time before he�s coaching in the NHL. And it will be in Colorado. Tony Granato is an empty suit. He�s merely holding Roy�s place. Expect to see Roy there next season once his son Jonathan, who mans the pipes for the Remparts, is done with junior hockey.
�It's not something that I looked at, but I guess we should never say never,� said Roy of his NHL coaching aspirations. �As we speak, I'm very happy with the junior level.�It's a learning process for me right now, and I'm learning a lot.�I feel year after year I'm getting better at it.�It's a nice challenge.
�I consider myself extremely lucky to have two passions in my life, as a hockey player and now as a coach.�Coming into the rink every morning, I mean, watching games and try to get better.�You know, even when I watch games now, I'm not looking at them as a player, but more as, okay, look what they're doing as a system.�If the coach change, what kind of change he's making and stuff like that.
�I consider myself very fortunate and lucky to be able to have a situation like I have right now.�But to be frankly, I mean, it's not what I'm looking at right now.�If it happens, I mean, yes, I probably -- like Colorado last year Joel Quenneville decided to step down as a coach, people asked me if I was interesting to talk.�Yes, I would have been interesting to talk, but it's more by curiosity, see what they're looking at and stuff like this.
�I'm not sure if I would take over or if I feel I'm ready to coach right now in the NHL.�You never know what could happen.�
In other words, yeah, Roy will be Colorado�s next coach. Book it. But until Roy begins his coaching career, fans can admire his sweater hanging from the rafters of Montreal�s Bell Centre.
�I want people to remember the way I was competing and the way I was playing every night,� said Roy.��I think that's, you know, in life, you have moment where you have to persevere, and I think that's what I want to be remembered at.�


Did you know that NASA had an Exoplanet Travel Bureau? I did not. Of course, they don't, not really. But they do have these really incredible images about some real-world exoplanets that have been recently discovered. I applaud both the art and the science. Here are the images, along with the NASA text that accompanies each one, but you should definitely head over to the site to get super high resolution versions suitable for printing your own posters.