Europe: Past Tense, Future Perfect?
On Monday 30.04.2018 Mikhail Khodorkovsky participated in the Milken Conference on the topic of Europe: Past Tense, Future Perfect?
In a time of rising authoritarianism and global turmoil, many are looking to prosperous and democratic Europe for leadership. But even as the Eurozone economies seem to finally be recovering from crisis, extremist parties are on the rise and the U.K. is preparing to leave the E.U. How can Europe reconcile the tensions of income inequality and widespread prosperity as well as the gap between the values it asserts and the increased fearmongering in its politics? And with Russian and Chinese influence increasing, the question is inevitable: Is this Europe's moment of leadership—or irrelevance—on the world stage?


text:
Epic Games-backed distributed computing startup Hadean snags $30 million to power metaverse • TechCrunch
Hadean, a UK-based distributed spatial computing start-up aiming to build the infrastructure for the burgeoning metaverse, has raised $30 million in Seres A funding from a high-profile group of investors like Epic Games and Tencent completed.
Founded in London in 2015, Hadean began with a broad mission to "make supercomputing-level computing available to everyone," TechCrunch wrote in 2017 when the company was still in beta. Over the past few years, Hadean has iterated for various use cases, becoming a major player in the gaming space in particular, where it powers big hits like Minecraft.
At its core, Hadean is about helping developers scale their codebase to support software that requires significant processing power, something Minecraft particularly demands when it comes to multiplayer engagement over the web. Hadean's spatial simulation library integrates with all major gaming engines, helping MMO (Massively Multiplayer Online Game) and other online game developers avoid player caps or employ other forms of technical (but limited) tricks to circumvent the problems created of hundreds or more players participating at the same time. It's all about keeping the dreaded "lag" at bay while maintaining the depth, complexity, and realism of a single-player offline console game.
This is achieved through the magic of distributed computing, with Hadean's platform eliminating what the company calls "excessive middleware, orchestration and overengineering" and dynamically allocating more or fewer resources as needed.
However, the underlying technology can be used for almost any use case, from resource-intensive enterprise applications to Web 3.0, blockchain and the metaverse. Hadean was commissioned by the British Army in July to build a simulated land warfare training environment.
A virtual world as illustrated by Hadean Photo credit: Hadean
Epic investment
And with that in mind, Hadean has now secured a crowd of illustrious supporters eager to get in at an early stage while the metaverse is still in its infancy.
As the Telegraph newspaper first reported last month [paywalled]Hadean initially secured approximately $18 million in funding from investors including Chinese tech titan Tencent and InQTel, a CIA-backed non-profit venture capital firm based in Virginia, U.S., is still in the process of closing the funding round, announced today.
The full list of (known) backers includes lead investor Molten Ventures (formerly Draper Esprit), Tencent, 2050 Capital, Alumni Ventures, Aster Capital, Entrepreneur First, InQtel, and the powerful Epic Games, who also happens to be a Hadean client. In fact, Epic Games has previously awarded funds to Hadean in the form of a MegaGrant, which are basically grants to support companies working on Unreal Engine support projects.
In an email to TechCrunch, Hadean CEO Craig Beddis said that Epic Games was late to the Series A round and therefore had to be invested via a convertible bond, which basically means it is a short-term debt converted into equity.
It's also worth noting that Epic Games recently raised around $2 billion to build what it touts as a kid-friendly metaverse, and this gives another indication of why it's now investing directly in Hadean.
"Hadean's computing power will provide the infrastructure needed as we work to build a scalable metaverse," said Marc Petit, who serves as VP of Epic's Unreal Engine Ecosystem, in a statement. "The company's technology complements Epic's Unreal Engine, enabling massive amounts of concurrent users and unlocking new tools for creators and developers."
Tencent's involvement is also notable given the current geopolitical tensions between China and the US Beddis explained that Hadean ultimately accepted less money than was offered by Tencent in order to remain CFIUS (Committee on Foreign Investment in the United States) compliant and avoid national security clearance.
With another $30 million in the bank on top of its previously raised seed rounds of around $16.5 million, Hadean is well-funded to double its existing traction in gaming, government, corporate and all possible types of power to have Web 3.0 and Metaverse applications.
"Hadean's mission is to bridge physical and virtual worlds – to help us make better decisions and ultimately improve our quality of life in the physical world," Beddis said. "Today's virtual worlds are a limited experience—small, isolated, and insecure. Therefore, these are the technical challenges we face today. But we believe that the true success and mass adoption of the Metaverse will depend on the ease with which developers will be able to build their own experiences at scale, using open and robust Metaverse-as-a-Service technologies to use."

redpajama_set_name: RedPajamaCommonCrawl


text:
\section{Introduction}

A \emph{loop} $(Q,\cdot)$ is a set $Q$ with a binary operation $\cdot : Q\times Q\to Q$ such that (i) for each $a,b\in Q$, the equations $ax=b$ and $ya=b$ have unique solutions $x,y\in Q$, and (ii) there exists a neutral element $1\in Q$ such that $1x = x1 = x$ for all $x\in Q$. For $a\in Q$, the \emph{right translation} and \emph{left translation} by $a$ are the bijections $R_a :Q\to Q; x\mapsto xa$ and $L_a :Q\to Q;x\mapsto ax$. These generate the \emph{multiplication group} $\Mlt(Q) = \langle R_x, L_x\ |\ x\in Q\rangle$. The \emph{inner mapping group} is the subgroup stabilizing the neutral element, $\Inn(Q) = (\Mlt(Q))_1$.
A subloop $S$ of a loop $Q$ is \emph{normal} if it is the kernel of a homomorphism; this is equivalent both to $S$ being stabilized under the action of $\Inn(Q)$ and to $S$ being a block of $\Mlt(Q)$ containing $1$. A loop $Q$ is \emph{solvable} if it has a subnormal series $1\leq Q_0 \leq \cdots \leq Q_n = Q$, $Q_i \normal Q_{i+1}$, such that each factor loop $Q_{i+1}/Q_i$ is an abelian group. A loop is \emph{simple} if it has no nontrivial normal subloops. Basic references for loop theory are \cite{Bruck, Pflugfelder}.

A loop is \emph{automorphic} (or an \emph{A-loop}) if every inner mapping is an automorphism, that is, $\Inn(Q) \leq \Aut(Q)$. Automorphic loops were introduced by Bruck and Paige \cite{BP}. In recent years, a detailed structure theory has emerged for \emph{commutative} automorphic loops \cite{JKV1,JKV2,JKV3,Csorgo1}.
The outstanding open problem in the theory of automorphic loops is the following.

\begin{problem}
\prblabel{simple}
Does there exist a (finite) simple, nonassociative automorphic loop?
\end{problem}

\noindent It is known that there are no simple nonassociative automorphic loops of order less than $2500$ and no simple nonassociative commutative automorphic loops of order less than $2^{12}$ \cite{JKNV}. The main result of this paper shows that in the commutative case, Problem \prbref{simple} has a negative answer, and in fact, more than that.

\begin{theorem}
\thmlabel{main}
Every finite, commutative automorphic loop is solvable.
\end{theorem}

For a prime $p$, a finite loop $Q$ is said to be a $p$-\emph{loop} if $|Q| = p^m$ for some $m\geq 1$. A by-product of our proof of Theorem \thmref{main} is the following.

\begin{theorem}
\thmlabel{2loop}
Every automorphic $2$-loop is solvable.
\end{theorem}

Automorphic loops are power-associative, that is, each element generates a (cyclic) group \cite{BP}. In particular every element of an automorphic loop has a two-sided inverse. Unlike the situation for groups, in general power-associative loops, the property of being a $p$-loop is not equivalent to every element having order a power of $p$. This is, however, true for automorphic loops. For $p$ odd, this will be found in \cite{KKPV}. In the next section we will show that every finite automorphic loop consisting of elements of $2$-power order is a $2$-loop. We will address the (elementary) converse in the final section.

We also note that again unlike the group situation, automorphic $p$-loops are not necessarily nilpotent. Examples of nonnilpotent, commutative, automorphic $2$-loops can be found in \cite{JKV2}. Commutative, automorphic $p$-loops for $p > 2$ are indeed nilpotent, but there exist noncommutative, automorphic loops of order $p^3$ which are not \cite{JKV3}.

Just as for groups, if $Q$ is a loop with normal subloop $S$, then $Q$ is solvable if and only if both $S$ and $Q/S$ are solvable. Thus as one would expect, both Theorems \thmref{main} and \thmref{2loop} will follow from considering simple loops.

Theorem \thmref{main} itself reduces to considering finite simple commutative automorphic loops of exponent $2$ because of the following, which is a composite of Theorems 5.1 and 3.12 and Proposition 6.1 of \cite{JKV1}.
\begin{proposition}
\prplabel{composite}
Let $Q$ be a finite, commutative automorphic loop.
\begin{enumerate}
\item $Q \cong O(Q) \times E(Q)$ where $|O(Q)|$ is odd and $E(Q)$ is a $2$-loop.
\item If $|Q|$ is odd, then $Q$ is solvable.
\item If $Q$ is simple, then $Q$ has exponent $2$.
\end{enumerate}
\end{proposition}
\noindent In particular, suppose $Q$ is a minimal counterexample to Theorem \thmref{main}. If $Q$ were not simple, then $Q$ would have a normal subloop $S$ such that both $Q/S$ and $S$ are solvable. Since automorphic loops form a variety in the sense of universal algebra \cite{BP}, both $S$ and $Q/S$ are commutative and automorphic. But this contradicts the nonsolvability of $Q$. Therefore $Q$ is simple and, by Proposition \prpref{composite}, $Q$ is a $2$-loop of exponent $2$.

Similarly, suppose $Q$ is a minimal counterexample to Theorem \thmref{2loop}. Any subloop and any factor loop of a $2$-loop is a $2$-loop, and so by the same argument as in the preceding paragraph, it follows that $Q$ is simple. We will show in Theorem \thmref{reduce} that $Q$ must then be commutative and thus by Proposition \prpref{composite} have exponent $2$.

Thus both Theorems \thmref{main} and \thmref{2loop} will follow from showing that a finite simple commutative automorphic loop of exponent $2$ is a cyclic group of order $2$. This will be the main goal of the fourth section.

\section{Automorphic $2$-loops}

In this section, we prove that if every element of a finite automorphic loop has $2$-power order then the loop is a $2$-loop.

In a loop $Q$ with two-sided inverses, let $J: Q\to Q; x\mapsto x\inv$ denote the inversion map.

\begin{proposition}[\cite{JKNV}, Corollary 6.6]
\prplabel{aaip}
Every automorphic loop has the antiautomorphic inverse property, that is, the identity $(xy)\inv =y\inv x\inv$ holds for all $x,y$. Equivalently, $R_x^J = L_{x\inv}$ or $L_x^J = R_{x\inv}$ for all $x$.
\end{proposition}

\begin{corollary}
\corlabel{normalize}
If $Q$ is an automorphic loop, then $J \in N_{\Sym(Q)}(\Mlt(Q))\cap C_{\Sym(Q)}(\Inn(Q))$.
\end{corollary}

\begin{proof}
That $J$ normalizes $\Mlt(Q)$ follows because $\Mlt(Q)$ is generated by all $R_x$, $L_x$. That $J$ centralizes $\Inn(Q)$ follows because $\Inn(Q)\leq \Aut(Q)$, which is centralized by the antiautomorphism $J$.
\end{proof}

The following result was shown for commutative automorphic loops in \cite{JKV1}.

\begin{lemma} \label{lm:PaPbPa}
Let $Q$ be an automorphic loop. Define the map $P_x=R_x\inv L_{x\inv}=
R_x\inv R_{x}^J$. Then, for all $a,b \in Q$, we have $P_a P_b P_a = P_c$ with $c = b L_{a\inv}\inv R_a$. Moreover, $P_a^n =P_{a^n}$ holds for all integers $n$.
\end{lemma}
\begin{proof}
We have
\[
P_a P_b P_a = R_a\inv R_a^J R_b\inv R_b^J R_a\inv R_a^J
= g^{-1} g^J,
\]
where $g = R_b (R_a\inv)^J R_a$. Let $c = 1g = b R_a^J R_a = b L_{a\inv}\inv R_a$ and set $h = g R_c\inv$. Observe that $h\in \Inn(Q)$, so that $h\in \Aut(Q)$.
Thus
\[
P_a P_b P_a = R_c\inv h\inv J h R_c J = R_c\inv J R_c J =P_c\,,
\]
since $h$ centralizes $J$. This proves the first statement of the lemma. By
putting $a = b^{-1}$, we have $c = a$ and $P_a P_{a\inv} P_a = P_a$, which implies
$P_{a\inv}=P_a\inv$. Similarly, $b = 1$ implies $P_{a^2} = P_a^2$. Continuing this, one
obtains $P_{a^n} = P_a^n$ for all integers $n$.
\end{proof}

\begin{theorem}
\thmlabel{2power}
Let $Q$ be a finite automorphic loop. If every element of $Q$ has $2$-power
order then $Q$ is a $2$-loop.
\end{theorem}
\begin{proof}
Assume $Q$ is a minimal counterexample. As usual, $Q$ is simple and $\Inn(Q)$
is maximal in $\Mlt(Q)$. Let $G = \Mlt(Q)\langle J\rangle$, let $C$ denote the conjugacy class of $J$ in $G$ and let $X = \{ P_x \mid x\in Q\} \subset G$. As $J$ centralizes $\Inn(Q)$, we have $C = \{ J^{R_x} \mid x\in Q\}$. Moreover,
\[
J^{R_x} = R_x^{-1} J R_x = P_x J\,,
\]
thus, the map $g\mapsto gJ$ is a bijection between $C$ and $X$. Take any two
elements $J^a,J^b \in C$. As $b = h R_x a$ for some $h\in \Inn(Q)$ and $x\in Q$,
we have $J^b = J^{R_x a}$ and $J^b J^a = (J^{R_x} J)^a = P_x^a$. By
Lemma \ref{lm:PaPbPa}, the order of the permutation $P_x$ divides the order of
$x$, thus, the order of $J^b J^a$ is a power of $2$ for all $a,b \in G$ by
assumption. The Baer-Suzuki theorem (\cite{KS}, Thm. 6.7.6) implies that $C$
generates a nilpotent subgroup $H$ of $G$. As the Sylow $2$-group of $H$ is
normal in $H$, $H$ must be a $2$-group itself which is normal in $G$.

If $|H|>2$ then $H\cap \Mlt(Q)$ is a normal $2$-group of $\Mlt(Q)$, whose orbit
determines a nontrivial normal subloop of $2$-power order, a contradiction. If
$|H|=2$ then $H=\langle J \rangle$ and $J$ is central in $G$. This implies that $Q$
must be commutative of exponent $2$. By (\cite{JKV1}, Corollary 6.3), $Q$ has $2$-power
order, a contradiction.
\end{proof}

\section{The multiplication group of simple automorphic $2$-loops}

The starting point for our study of simple loops is the following important result, which is an immediate consequence of the characterization of normal subloops as blocks of the multiplication group (\cite{Albert}, Theorem 8).

\begin{proposition}
\prplabel{primitive}
A loop $Q$ is simple if and only if $\Mlt(Q)$ acts primitively on $Q$.
\end{proposition}

The simple loops under consideration here are all $2$-loops, and so we will use the classification of primitive groups of degree a power of $2$. This follows from the classification of nonabelian simple groups of prime power degree by Guralnick \cite{Guralnick} and is stated explicitly in \cite{GuSa}. For $p=2$, the result can be refined slightly using Zsigmondy's theorem \cite{Zsigm} as given in (3.3) of \cite{Guralnick}.

Recall that a primitive permutation group $G$ is of \emph{affine type} if it has an abelian
regular normal subgroup, which is necessarily elementary abelian of order $p^n$ for some
prime $p$. In this case $G$ is embedded in the affine group $AGL(n,p)$ with the socle being
the translation subgroup. The stabiliser of $0\in GF(p)^n$ is a subgroup of $GL(n,p)$ which
acts irreducibly on $GF(p)^n$.

\begin{proposition}[Guralnick and Saxl \cite{GuSa}]
\prplabel{GS}
Let $G$ be a primitive permutation group of degree $2^n$. Then either $G$ is of affine
type, or $G$ has a unique minimal normal subgroup $N=S\times \cdots \times S = S^t$, $t\ge
1$, $S$ is a nonabelian simple group, and one of the following holds:
\begin{enumerate}
\item[(i)] $S=A_m$, $m=2^e\geq 8$, $n=te$, and the point stabilizer in $N$ is $N_1 =
A_{m-1}\times \cdots \times A_{m-1}$, or
\item[(ii)] $S=PSL(2,q)$, $q = 2^e -1\geq 7$ is a Mersenne prime, $n=te$,
and the point stabilizer in $N$ is the direct product of maximal parabolic subgroups
each stabilizing a $1$-space.
\end{enumerate}
\end{proposition}

We will use the following result of Dr\'{a}pal (\cite{Drapal}, Theorem 5.1).

\begin{proposition}
\prplabel{Drapal}
Let $F$ be a finite field, $|F| \neq 3,4$, and let $Q$ be a loop with $\Mlt(Q) \leq P{\Gamma}L(2,F)$. Then $\Mlt(Q)\cong Q$ is a cyclic group.
\end{proposition}

We record one elementary fact about primitive groups.

\begin{lemma}
\lemlabel{primitive}
Let $G$ be a permutation group acting primitively on a set $\Omega$. Then for any $x\in \Omega$, $G_x$ acts fixed point free on $\Omega\setminus \{x\}$.
\end{lemma}

\begin{proof}
Assume that $y^g = y$ for all $g\in G_x$ and pick $h\in G$ such that $x^h=y$. Then $G_x\leq G_y = G_x^h$ and $h\in N_G(G_x)$. Since $G_x$ is maximal in $G$, we have $h\in G_x$ and so $y = x$.
\end{proof}

We also need the following consequence of (\cite{JKNV}, Lemma 4.1).

\begin{lemma}
\lemlabel{no4trans}
Let $Q$ be a loop and let $H \leq \Aut(Q)$. Then $H$ is not $4$-transitive on $Q\backslash \{1\}$.
\end{lemma}

We first eliminate all but the case of affine type in Proposition \prpref{GS}.

\begin{theorem}
\thmlabel{affine}
Let $Q$ be a simple automorphic $2$-loop. Then $\Mlt(Q)$ is a primitive group of affine type.
\end{theorem}

\begin{proof}
Suppose $\Mlt(Q)$ is not of affine type. By Proposition \prpref{GS}, $\Mlt(Q)$ contains a unique minimal normal subgroup $N=S^t$, $t\geq 1$ where $S$ a nonabelian simple group. The subgroup stabilizing $1\in Q$ is $N_1 = T_{(1)} \times \cdots \times T_{(t)}$ where each  $T_{(i)}$ is a maximal subgroup of $S$. In this case, we can identify $Q$ with the cartesian product $Q_{(1)} \times \cdots \times Q_{(t)}$, where $Q_{(i)}$ is the coset space $S/T_{(i)}$. We write the neutral element of $Q$ in the form $1=(1,\ldots,1)$.

Set $Q^* = \{ (x,1,\ldots,1) \mid x\in Q_{(1)} \}$. Since $S$ acts primitively on each
$Q_{(i)}$, Lemma \lemref{primitive} implies that each $T_{(i)}$ acts fixed-point freely on
$Q_{(i)}\setminus \{1\}$. Thus $Q^*$ is precisely the set of fixed points of the subgroup
$1\times T_{(2)} \times \cdots \times T_{(t)} \leq \Inn(Q)$. Since $\Inn(Q)\leq \Aut(Q)$,
$Q^*$ is a subloop of $Q$. Let $H$ denote the stabilizer subgroup of $Q^*$ in $\Mlt(Q)$,
and let $H^* \leq \Sym(Q^*)$ be the induced permutation group; $H^*\cong H/M$ where $M$
consists of those elements of $H$ acting trivially on $Q^*$.

By Dedekind's modular law, since $N\normal \Mlt(Q)$,
$\hat{N} = N\cap H = S\times T_{(2)} \times \cdots \times T_{(t)}$
is a normal subgroup of $H$. Moreover, $M\cap \hat N = 1\times T_{(2)} \times \cdots
\times T_{(t)}$ acts trivially on $Q^*$, and, by $S \cong \hat N/(M\cap \hat N) \cong
M\hat N/M$, the induced action of $\hat N$ on $Q^*$ is permutation equivalent to the
action of $S$ on $Q_{(1)}$. Since $M\hat N$ is normal in $H$, the permutation group $H^*$
on $Q^*$ has $S\times 1\times \cdots \times 1 \cong S$ as a normal subgroup. Similarly, we
can show that $T_{(1)}\times 1 \times \cdots \times 1 \cong T_{(1)} =S_1$ consists of
automorphisms of the loop $Q^*$. After identifying the groups $S\times 1\times \cdots
\times 1$, $T_{(1)} \times 1\times \cdots \times 1$ with $S$ and $T_{(1)}$, respectively,
we have
\begin{equation}
\eqnlabel{H*}
\Mlt(Q^*) \leq H^* \leq N_{\Sym(Q^*)}(S)\qquad\text{and}\qquad T_{(1)}\leq H^*_1\leq
\Aut(Q^*).
\end{equation}

Now assume that case (i) of Proposition \prpref{GS} holds, that is, $S = A_m$, $T_{(1)} = A_{m-1}$ with $m = 2^e\geq 8$. Then $\Aut(Q^*)$ is $5$-transitive on $Q^*\setminus \{1\}$, which is impossible by Lemma \lemref{no4trans}.

Now assume that case (ii) of Proposition \prpref{GS} holds, that is, $S = PSL(2,q)$ with $q = 2^e - 1\geq 7$ a Mersenne prime, and each $T_{(i)}$ a maximal parabolic subgroup stabilizing a $1$-space. In this case, $N_{\Sym(Q^*)}(PSL(2,q)) = P\Gamma{}L(2,q)$, and so by \eqnref{H*}, $\Mlt(Q^*)\leq P{\Gamma}L(2,q)$. By Proposition \prpref{Drapal}, $Q^*$ is a cyclic group. This contradicts the assumption that $T_{(1)}\leq \Aut(Q^*)$ operates transitively on $Q^*\setminus \{1\}$.
\end{proof}

Now we show that like Theorem \thmref{main}, Theorem \thmref{2loop} reduces to considering commutative automorphic loops of exponent $2$.

\begin{theorem}
\thmlabel{reduce}
Every simple, automorphic $2$-loop is commutative of exponent $2$.
\end{theorem}

\begin{proof}
Let $Q$ be a simple, automorphic $2$-loop. By Theorem \thmref{affine}, $\Mlt(Q)$ is of affine type. Thus $U = \soc(\Mlt(Q))$ is a regular, normal, elementary abelian $2$-subgroup. We identify $U$ with a $GF(2)$-vector space and we identify $\Inn(Q)$ with an irreducible subgroup of $GL(U)$.
Since $U$ is characteristic in $\Mlt(Q)$, Corollary \corref{normalize} gives $J\in N_{\Sym(Q)}(U)$. Hence the group $U\langle J\rangle$ is a $2$-group, and so $1\neq Z(U\langle J\rangle) = C_U(J)$. Since $J$ centralizes $\Inn(Q)$, irreducibility of $\Inn(Q)$ gives $C_U(J) = U$ and so $J\upharpoonright U = \id_U$. Thus $J = \id_Q$ and so $Q$ has exponent $2$. Then $Q$ is commutative since $J$ is an antiautomorphism (Proposition \prpref{aaip}).
\end{proof}

\section{Automorphic loops and Lie algebras}

We can now prove the main results of the paper by eliminating the case of affine type in Proposition \prpref{GS}. In the proof, we construct a simple Lie algebra from a hypothetical simple commutative automorphic loop of exponent $2$. The ``crust of a thin sandwich'' theorem of Zel'manov and Kostrikin will lead to a contradiction.

Let $Q$ be a finite, simple, commutative, automorphic loop of exponent $2$. \emph{We assume from now on} that $Q$ is not associative, and we will work toward a contradiction. Again, $\Mlt(Q)$ is of affine type and we identify $U = \soc(\Mlt(Q))$ with a $GF(2)$-vector space, the operation of which we now write additively. Once again, we identify $\Inn(Q)$ with an irreducible subgroup of $GL(U)$. Each right translation $R_x$, $x\in Q$ can be factored as
$R_x = h_x u_x$ for a unique $h_x\in \Inn(Q)$ and a unique $u_x\in U$.

Set $R_{x,y} = R_x R_y R_{xy}\inv$ and note that $R_{x,y}\in \Inn(Q)$. Then
\[
R_{x,y} h_{xy} u_{xy} = R_{x,y} R_{xy} = R_x R_y
= h_x u_x h_y u_y = h_x h_y (u_x^{h_y} + u_y)\,.
\]
Therefore
\begin{equation}
\eqnlabel{factors}
R_{x,y} = h_x h_y h_{xy}^{-1}\qquad\text{and}\qquad u_{xy} = u_x^{h_y} + u_y\,.
\end{equation}
Now we also have a one-to-one correspondence between $U$ and the set $\setof{h_x}{x\in Q}$. Abusing notation a bit, we may thus index elements of the latter set by elements of $U$: $h_u = h_x$ where $R_x = h_x u$. This allows us to define an isomorphic copy of $Q$ on $U$ by
\begin{equation}
\eqnlabel{newop}
u\circ v = u^{h_v} + v\,.
\end{equation}
Denote the right translations in $(U,\circ)$ by $R^{\circ}_u : v \mapsto v\circ u$, and for $u,v\in U$, set $R^{\circ}_{u,v} = R^{\circ}_u R^{\circ}_v (R^{\circ}_{u\circ v})\inv$. For all $u,v,w\in U$
\begin{equation}
\eqnlabel{Uinn}
w R^{\circ}_{u,v}
= \{[(w^{h_u} + u)^{h_v} + v] + (u^{h_v} + v)\}^{h_{u\circ v}\inv}
= \{(w^{h_u h_v} + u^{h_v} + v + u^{h_v} + v\}^{h_{u\circ v}\inv}
= w^{h_u h_v h_{u\circ v}\inv}
\end{equation}

\begin{lemma}
\lemlabel{inn=inn}
$\Inn(U,\circ) = \Inn(Q) = \langle h_x\ |\ x\in Q\rangle$.
\end{lemma}

\begin{proof}(\emph{cf}. \cite{JKNV}, Lemma 6.1)
Set $H = \langle h_x\ |\ x\in Q\rangle$. Since each $h_x\in \Inn(Q)$, $H\leq \Inn(Q)$.
Because $Q$ is commutative, $\Inn(Q)$ is generated by the mappings $R_{x,y}$ \cite{BruckCont}. By \eqnref{factors}, we have $R_{x,y} = h_x h_y h_{xy}^{-1}$, and so $\Inn(Q) = \langle h_x h_y h_{xy}^{-1}\ |\ x,y\in Q\rangle\leq H$. Similarly, by \eqnref{Uinn}, $\Inn(U,\circ)\leq H$. But $\Inn(Q)$ and $\Inn(U)$ are isomorphic, and hence, by finiteness, equal.
\end{proof}

\begin{lemma}
\lemlabel{aut_char}
For all $u,v\in U$, $h_u h_v = h_v h_{u^{h_v}}$.
\end{lemma}

\begin{proof}
Since $Q$ is automorphic, we have for all $u,v,w\in U$,
\[
w^{h_v h_{u^{h_v}}} + u^{h_v} = w^{h_v}\circ u^{h_v}
= (w\circ u)^{h_v} = (w^{h_u} + u)^{h_v} = w^{h_u h_v} + u^{h_v}\,.
\]
The desired result follows immediately.
\end{proof}

Next we define a new binary operation on $U$ as follows:
\begin{equation}
\eqnlabel{lieop}
[u,v] = u + v + u\circ v
\end{equation}
for all $u,v\in U$. Evidently, $[\cdot,\cdot ]$ is commutative and $[u,u] = 0$ for all $u\in U$. In addition, $[\cdot,\cdot ]$ turns out to be $GF(2)$-bilinear.

\begin{proposition}[\cite{Wright}, Theorem 4]
\prplabel{Wright}
$(U,+,[\cdot, \cdot ])$ is a simple, nonassociative algebra over $GF(2)$.
\end{proposition}

For $u\in U$, let $\ad(u) : U\to U; v\mapsto [v,u]$ denote the right multiplication mapping in the algebra $(U,+,[\cdot, \cdot ])$. We use these notation conventions in anticipation of the following result.

\begin{lemma}
\lemlabel{lie_alg}
$(U,+,[\cdot, \cdot ])$ is a simple Lie algebra over $GF(2)$ satisfying
\begin{equation}
\eqnlabel{premedial}
\ad(u)\ad([u,w]) = 0
\end{equation}
for all $u,w\in U$.
\end{lemma}

\begin{proof}
We have $(v)\ad(u) = u + v + v^{h_u} + u = v(\id_U + h_u)$, that is,
\[
h_u = \id_U + \ad(u)
\]
for all $u\in U$. We now use Lemma \lemref{aut_char}. First we compute
\[
h_u h_v = (\id_U + \ad(u))(\id_U + \ad(v)) = \id_U + \ad(u) + \ad(v) + \ad(u) \ad(v)\,.
\]
Since $\ad(u+ (u)\ad(v)) = \ad(u) + \ad([u,v])$, we also have
\begin{align*}
h_v h_{u^{h_v}} &= (\id_U + \ad(v))(\id_U + \ad(u) + \ad([u,v])) \\
&= \id_U + \ad(v) + \ad(u) + \ad(v) \ad(u) + \ad([u,v]) + \ad(v) \ad([u,v])\,.
\end{align*}
Equating both expressions, we have
\[
\ad(u) \ad(v) = \ad(v) \ad(u) + \ad([u,v]) + \ad(v) \ad([u,v])\,,
\]
or equivalently,
\begin{equation}
\eqnlabel{J}
\ad(u) \ad(v) + \ad(v) \ad(u) + \ad([u,v]) = \ad(v) \ad([u,v])\,.
\end{equation}
Since the left side is invariant under switching the roles of $u$ and $v$, so is the right side, and thus we have
\begin{equation}
\eqnlabel{pretmp}
\ad(u) \ad([v,u]) = \ad(v) \ad([u,v])
\end{equation}
for all $u,v\in U$. Now we linearize \eqnref{pretmp} by replacing $v$ with $v + w$. We get
\begin{align*}
&\ad(u) \ad([v,u]) + \ad(u) \ad([w,u]) \\ &=
\ad(v) \ad([u,v]) + \ad(v) \ad([u,w]) + \ad(w) \ad([u,v]) + \ad(w) \ad([u,w])\,.
\end{align*}
Using \eqnref{pretmp} to cancel terms, we obtain
\[
\ad(v) \ad([u,w]) + \ad(w) \ad([u,v]) = 0\,.
\]
Set $v = u$ and use $[u,u] = 0$ to get
\[
\ad(u) \ad([u,w]) = 0\,.
\]
This establishes \eqnref{premedial}. Applying \eqnref{premedial} to \eqnref{J}, we have
\[
\ad(u) \ad(v) + \ad(v) \ad(u) + \ad([u,v]) = 0\,,
\]
which is precisely the Jacobi identity (in characteristic $2$). Therefore $(U,+,[\cdot,\cdot])$ is a Lie algebra. The simplicity was already mentioned in Proposition \prpref{Wright}.
\end{proof}

For the final step, we will need the well-known ``crust of a thin sandwich'' theorem of Zel'manov and Kostrikin \cite{ZK}.

\begin{proposition}
\prplabel{sandwich}
Let $\mathfrak{g}$ be a Lie ring generated by a finite collection of elements $a$ satisfying $\ad(a)^2 = 0$ and $\ad(a)\ad(x)\ad(a) = 0$ for all $x\in \mathfrak{g}$. Then $\mathfrak{g}$ is nilpotent.
\end{proposition}

\begin{lemma}
\lemlabel{sandwich2}
Let $\mathfrak{g}$ be a Lie ring satisfying \eqnref{premedial}. If $\mathfrak{g}$ is generated by finitely many elements of the form $[x,y]$, then $\mathfrak{g}$ is nilpotent.
\end{lemma}

\begin{proof}
We have
\begin{equation}
\eqnlabel{sandtmp}
\ad([x,y])^2 = \ad(x)\ad(y)\ad([x,y]) + \ad(y)\ad(x)\ad([y,x]) = 0\,,
\end{equation}
by \eqnref{premedial}. Also,
\[
\ad([x,y])\ad(z)\ad([x,y]) = \ad([x,y])^2 \ad(z) + \ad([x,y])\ad([z,[x,y]]) = 0\,,
\]
using \eqnref{sandtmp} and \eqnref{premedial}. The conditions of Proposition \prpref{sandwich} are satisfied, and so $\mathfrak{g}$ is nilpotent.
\end{proof}

Returning to our Lie algebra $(U,+,[\cdot,\cdot])$, we now obtain a contradiction as follows. Since $(U,+,[\cdot,\cdot])$ is simple, we have $[U,U] = U$. Thus $(U,+,[\cdot,\cdot])$ is generated by finitely many elements of the form $[x,y]$. By Lemmas \lemref{lie_alg} and \lemref{sandwich2}, $(U,+,[\cdot,\cdot])$ is nilpotent, a contradiction.

We have seen that a simple, commutative, automorphic loop of exponent $2$ cannot be nonassociative, and hence must be a cyclic group of order $2$. This completes the proofs of Theorem \thmref{main} (by Proposition \prpref{composite}) and of Theorem \thmref{2loop} (by Theorem \thmref{reduce}).

\section{Final remarks}

We note that the converse of Theorem \thmref{2power} is an immediate consequence of Theorem \thmref{2loop}: if $Q$ is an automorphic $2$-loop, then since $Q$ is solvable, it follows from the same argument as in group theory that $Q$ has a subloop $S$ of index $2$. We have $x^2\in S$ for all $x\in Q$, and then by an induction argument, $x^2$ must have $2$-power order. Thus so does $x$ and hence every element of $Q$ has $2$-power order.

A subloop $S$ of a loop $Q$ is \emph{characteristic} if it is invariant under $\Aut(Q)$. Clearly every characteristic subloop of an automorphic loop is normal. In fact, standard facts about characteristic subgroups of groups hold for characteristic subloops of automorphic loops with essentially identical proofs. For instance, a characteristic subloop $T$ of a normal subloop $S$ of an automorphic loop $Q$ is necessarily normal in $Q$.

The \emph{derived subloop} $Q'$ of a loop $Q$ is the smallest normal subloop of $Q$ such that $Q/Q'$ is an abelian group. The derived subloop is characteristic. It follows from the above remarks that if $Q$ is automorphic, then each higher derived subloop $Q''$, $Q'''$, \emph{etc.} is normal in $Q$. In particular, the derived series of a solvable automorphic loop is a \emph{normal} series $Q \unrhd Q' \unrhd Q'' \unrhd \cdots\unrhd Q^{(n)} = 1$.

In a similar vein, we note that a minimal normal subloop of a finite automorphic loop is a direct product of isomorphic simple automorphic loops. Indeed, the same argument that works for groups (\emph{e.g.}, \cite{Huppert}, p. 51) applies without change. Thus a minimal normal subloop of a finite solvable automorphic loop is an elementary abelian $p$-group. These remarks may prove helpful in settling one of the main remaining open problems in the theory of commutative automorphic loops:

\begin{problem}
\prblabel{Sylow}
Let $Q$ be a commutative automorphic loop. For each prime $p$, does $Q$ have a Sylow $p$-subloop? For each set of primes $\pi$, does $Q$ have a Hall $\pi$-subloop?
\end{problem}

redpajama_set_name: RedPajamaArXiv


text:
Defining the brand story and experience for a Vietnamese luxury resort
Nam Nghi
Brand & Activation
Nam Nghi, a boutique resort on the Vietnamese island of Phu Quoc, is a beautifully designed hotel that is built on a secluded peninsula and with a private island. Despite its unique geographic assets, the property had difficulties standing out in the increasingly competitive hotel market on Phu Quoc island due to its inconsistent customer experience across touchpoints.
Nam Nghi engaged Prophet to closely examine its brand portfolio, develop a refreshed brand positioning and narrative, and ultimately completely redesign its identity system to fit the reimagined approach for the brand.
Prophet's experience in developing luxury hotel brands in Asia and around the globe has led to an understanding of key experience trends that are shaping the travel and hospitality category: hyper-local, eco-consciousness and bespoke experiences.
Prophet identified Nam Nghi's unique geographic placement as the resort's clear advantage in the market. The unspoilt Phu Quoc island is a hidden paradise; it boasts of colorful coral reefs, lush jungles, turquoise waters, white beaches and true Vietnamese hospitality.
As a result, we defined a unique and strong brand story for Nam Nghi – "Nurtured by Nature."We positioned the property as a destination for eco-luxury travelers who crave world-class quality hospitality and authentic, one-of-a-kind experiences with minimal environmental impact.
Centered around the positioning, we further explored how we could bring the story to life across existing touchpoints, including gastronomy experience, hospitality services, range of activities and its signature private island. Moreover, we helped the client to create signature moments that enhance the brand positioning. For example, using reusable bottles filled with filtered water and electric cars for pick-up.
We then designed an identity that conveys the idea of "immersion in nature" using patterns and hand-drawn illustrations. The lush foliage and vibrant corals that surround Nam Nghi served as inspiration for a rhythmic pattern design that is artistic and hand made. Using icons that represent the local flora and corals, we designed bespoke illustrations that are used in the framing device design, pattern design and on-site offerings. Aside from comprehensive guidelines, we delivered designs and ideas for touchpoints ranging from in-room amenities to wellness outlets, as well as digital apps.
Phu Quoc Island has become one of Asia's most talked-about destinations and an international hub for luxury and eco-friendly tourism. We brought Nam Nghi to life through an immersive visual identity that conveys premium options, while telling a story about local culture and its commitment to nature. The brand rejuvenation appeals to the young affluent customers – fashionable, luxurious and eco-conscious, through a distinctive brand positioning and visual identity that is true to the hotel's strengths.
Our work with Nam Nghi was awarded Silver for best visual identity at Transform Awards Asia-Pacific 2019.
Growing a brand through a customer-centric transformation
Refreshing the retail experience to deliver "Modern Value" to Chinese consumers
Experience & Innovation
Jump-starting a new electric vehicle brand
5 Trends That Will Define Brands in 2021
Make Purpose Work Harder: Lessons from Business Leaders
Examples of Brand Purpose in Action: When It's Needed Most
View All Prophet Thinking


text:
Q: uploadTaskWithRequest background session fromFile crash I am writing an app using swift 2 and I need to upload photos and videos on my server in background session. For that reason, I write this code :
        let configuration = NSURLSessionConfiguration.backgroundSessionConfigurationWithIdentifier(SessionProperties.identifier)
        //let configuration = NSURLSessionConfiguration.defaultSessionConfiguration();

        let queue = NSOperationQueue.mainQueue()

        // To limit to 1 upload at a time

        queue.maxConcurrentOperationCount = 1

        let backgroundSession = NSURLSession(configuration: configuration, delegate: self, delegateQueue: queue)

        for postingFile in postingFileList {

            let request = NSMutableURLRequest(URL: NSURL(string: NetworkUtil().serverUrl+"/upload/upload/v1.0/events/\(postingFile.event.id)/files/\(postingFile.file.id)?frag-start=0&frag-size=\(postingFile.fileSize)")!)

            request.HTTPMethod = "POST"

            request.setValue("Keep-Alive", forHTTPHeaderField: "Connection")

            let uploadTask = backgroundSession.uploadTaskWithRequest(request, fromFile: postingFile.url)

            //let uploadTask = backgroundSession.uploadTaskWithRequest(request, fromFile: postingFile.url, completionHandler: { (NSData, NSURLResponse, NSError) in
            //    print("completion handler")
            //})

            uploadTask.resume()
        }

This code crash at line :
            let uploadTask = backgroundSession.uploadTaskWithRequest(request, fromFile: postingFile.url)

It says :
Terminating app due to uncaught exception 'NSInvalidArgumentException', reason: 'Cannot read file at file:///var/mobile/Media/DCIM/100APPLE/IMG_0361.JPG'
If I do not use background session, and use this configuration instead :
let configuration = NSURLSessionConfiguration.defaultSessionConfiguration();

there is no crash and upload is done.
Do you have any idea of what happen here with background session using from file?

A: This may be a permission issue. You are trying to access a non sandboxed file URL from a background process. Try moving the file locally to your sandbox directory and then upload in background.

redpajama_set_name: RedPajamaStackExchange


Arborwell Best Practices were created by company staff members in order to form a consensus and a standard of how Arborwell operates. They are the guiding principals of the actions and culture of the company.
It is a continuous, working document that will be revisited on a regular basis. Adjustments and improvements will be made as customer and market conditions present themselves.
All employees are required to know, understand and follow the Best Practices.
It is Arborwell's position that safety is the # 1 best practice. It is a culture that must permeate throughout the entire organization. Proper training, documentation, and recognition of safe work habits are the foundation of "Safety Best Practices".
All new employees will be trained and documented before operating power equipment.
All employees will take responsibility for a safe working environment.
Safety meetings will take place weekly.
The company will recognize and reward safe working practices.
All Employees will be certified in First Aid & CPR.
Employees will identify and document potential safety hazards in the estimating process.
Arborwell will achieve an accident free workplace by working together as a cohesive team.
The customer is always accurate, and is our livelihood.
Never take the customer for granted, and always keep a regular flow of communication.
We will always be an easy company to work with.
Front line has authority to make decisions at all costs to satisfy the customer.
Phone calls will be answered in person and always introduce your self.
All client calls will be returned the day they are received.
Any client complaint will be resolved the day it is received.
All RFP's will be fulfilled within 1 to 5 days, unless otherwise directed by the customer.
The A.M. is responsible to see the job through completion.
When the job is complete, A.M. is to confirm completion with the client.
We will formally express gratitude at the completion of each job, both verbally and written.
When not knowing an answer or not understanding, we will contact other team members for assistance immediately.
Back log driven sales is the only avenue for company growth. The Arborwell sales staff will be politely aggressive, knowledgeable, helpful, and will at all times be a solution to our customers and potential customer's problems.
We will sell "value added" service.
We will smile on the phone, as well as, in person.
We will revisit (touch) the customer every quarter.
As a general rule, we do not give "bids" we present proposals.
We will submit proposals in a thorough and professional format.
Sales are not for selfish reasons; we will sell for the good of the company and the crews (field employees) existence.
Proposals will be presented and explained in person whenever possible.
Arborwell sales people will only be knowledgeable certified arborists.
The office is the center of the companies' soul and is often the first impression of what it is like to do business with Arborwell. All of the best practices are dealt with on a daily basis in the office environment.
Customer Information List to be used for all customer calls.
Get to know the customer.
Office staff will provide exceptional files and paperwork.
Office staff will job cost in a timely manner for job analysis.
Office staff will invoice on a daily basis.
Office staff will operate as a support team for A.M.'s and operations.
We will operate as a support team for our customers, vendors, and employees providing financial, clerical, and technical support in a timely and professional manner.
We will process customer billings, vendors invoices, and financial reporting with an emphasis on efficiency, accuracy and timeliness.
We will evaluate the costs and benefits of all practices and procedures, implement process improvements, and reduce both organizational and accounting expenses.
We will focus our operational planning, budgeting, and spending to adhere to our overall company values and policies.
The Arborwell operations are the company's backbone and will be treated with respect and dignity. The operational culture will present a sense of pride and ownership. We will provide a place of work that others envy and want to belong to.
We will have accurate, thorough time cards and work orders with job number(s).
We will have the right equipment for the job.
We will have the equipment standardized and completely supplied.
All equipment will be clean, sharp and operating properly.
We will notify supervisor on the job status.
We will always strive to perform the highest standards of service.
All employees will immediately report any broken or malfunctioning equipment.
All employees will report any injury or property damage as soon as possible to their immediate supervisor or to the office.
Employees and crews will support each other and assist one another as a team.
Satisfied customers start with satisfied employees. The people of Arborwell are its essential asset. It is paramount that Arborwell is respectful, responsible and responsive to all of its employees. The Human Resource Department's customers are the employees of Arborwell.
We will provide a work place that is free from discrimination and harassment.
We will maintain a respect for cultural diversity and assure open lines of communication between field and office.
We will operate an open-door policy where employees can be heard by their supervisors, manager or administration.
We will provide benefits that will assure a healthy, engaged workforce.
Image is everything! When people think of Arborwell, they will think of clean, neat equipment and employees. Organized, trustworthy, fair and honest are all the images we will project and live by.
Field employees need to have their meals in an unobtrusive area.
Field employees will be in full, clean company issued uniforms during all working hours.
Sales force, estimators and production managers and will be dressed for professional image such as khakis and tucked-in polo shirts with Arborwell company logos only.
We will keep all equipment and rolling stock clean and well organized.
When driving company vehicles, we will be attentive, courteous and always give the right of way to others.
We will conduct ourselves in a polite and professional manner.
We will treat customers, the general public and each other with respect at all times.


STAMFORD, Conn. (AP) — A railroad official says a body has been found at a train station in Stamford.
A Metro-North Railroad spokeswoman tells the Greenwich Time that the person was found Saturday under the train platform at the Springdale station.
The spokeswoman says the cause of death has yet to be determined. The person's family is still being notified.
Metro-North tweeted at about 4 p.m. that New Canaan Branch service had been delayed for the police investigation. It tweeted later that a substitute bus service is in place for the branch because of the investigation.


Ready to get started with Peter?
Things moved quickly for our closing, and we had less than a month between PA acceptance and closing, so we were a bit nervous about the financing piece. Peter handled everything very smoothly, answered questions in a timely manner, and no problems occurred-what more can we ask for!
Everyone worked so hard on my loan. Pete was awesome, and his team is A+. Love my new home, and that would not have been possible without you guys. Thank You!
The associates were very knowledgeable and prompt in there requests and review of necessary information to process my loan in a timely and efficient manner.
We were first time home buyers, and Guaranteed Rate Affinity made the process so easy! They were constantly available to answer questions we had and made the what we thought to be scary process extremely smooth and painless! Thank you!!!
Peter knows that everyone has different financial goals, so he takes the time to fully understand each client's situation in order to recommend the most appropriate mortgage solutions. Guaranteed Rate Affinity offers a full range of loan products and programs to fit specific financing needs, and he makes sure to have a thorough understanding of each. Peter's first objective is to help clients make the best choice, but that is just one aspect of his elite service. He works with homebuyers throughout the mortgage process as a consultant and guide, directing the activities of a dedicated team that includes loan assistants, processors, underwriters and closing specialists. Peter also coordinates with real estate agents and other industry professionals to ensure that the transaction closes as quickly and smoothly as possible.


As the editor of The Times, James Harding produced a lively, award-winning newspaper as well as enjoying the admiration and support of his staff.
However, this week he learnt that to survive in the post every editor also needs the confidence and backing of his, or her, proprietor – particularly when that person is Rupert Murdoch, the world's most powerful media mogul.
I discovered some months ago through senior sources that Mr Harding was on borrowed time – for various reasons he had lost Mr Murdoch's confidence to an extent where the relationship could not be repaired. After that, there was only going to be one outcome – Mr Harding's departure. He resigned on Wednesday.
These are difficult times for any newspaper editor, quite apart from the repercussions of the Leveson report into the culture, practices and ethics of the Press. Circulations are tumbling, advertising revenues are in decline and no-one has yet discovered a model for how to make money from high-cost, online national titles in the digital age.
Mr Harding's position was made all the more difficult because, during his five years at the helm, The Times's circulation declined faster than some of its rivals – by some 40 per cent, from 670,000 a day to just under 400,000. On top of this, losses at the paper are now said to run at nearly £1 million a week.
Mr Murdoch, a very sprightly 81 years young, hasn't got where he is today by ignoring the "bottom line", but there were other reasons, too, that made Mr Harding's job increasingly precarious.
Mr Harding took – some would say admirably, while others might say foolishly – a robust, independent line when reporting on the hacking story at the News of the World.
However, as I reported in my blog of 9 February 2012, he then, embarrassingly, appeared on the front page of his own newspaper after he was recalled to the Leveson inquiry to explain when he had been forced to apologise to a High Court judge, Mr Justice Eady, who had been misled by the paper's lawyers in relation to the hacking of a police officer's email account.
So what is the future for The Times? Mr Murdoch clearly wants to make savings by wholly, or partly, integrating The Sunday Times and The Times into a seven-day operation.
The winner here is likely to be John Witherow, who could eventually become the editor-in-chief of both titles and with a more hands-on role at The Times, knocking it back into the sort of paper that his proprietor would be prouder to own.
During Mr Witherow's 18 years as editor of The Sunday Times, I have had my occasional ups and downs with him and his paper. Regular readers of my blog will know, for example, that I did not think his Insight team handled the whole Peter Cruddas story with credit – and may yet rue the day that its "exposé" forced him to resign as co-Treasurer of the Conservative Party.
However, Mr Witherow is a talented editor and a safe pair of hands. Crucially, I know that, unlike Mr Harding, he does retain Mr Murdoch's full confidence.
Yet, the future of The Times is complicated by undertakings that were given by Mr Murdoch to the Government more than 30 years ago. When John Biffen, then Trade Secretary, approved the purchase of The Times and The Sunday Times in 1981, he insisted on a legally-binding undertaking designed at protecting the independence and quality of the newspapers.
Out of interest, last night I dug out a copy of that typed, five-page agreement, which was drawn up to avoid the need to refer the purchase of the newspapers by News International to the Monopolies and Mergers Commission.
One of the conditions of sale is that The Times and The Sunday Times remain as separate newspapers. Another is that editors are not appointed or dismissed without the approval of the majority of the 'independent national directors".
Indeed, before announcing his (enforced) resignation to his staff on Wednesday afternoon, Mr Harding met with the independent national directors to inform them of his decision to step down.
It was reported yesterday – accurately I suspect – that executives from News International have made informal approaches to the Government to seek permission to restructure the two titles into a single, seven-day operation. News International clearly hopes to make significant savings – with inevitable job losses – by merging the two newspapers.
The 1981 agreement was drawn up when well-run national newspapers were big, profitable beasts with huge reporting staff worldwide. Now, even as much leaner operations, they are fighting for their very survival.
Governments, like big business and other walks of life, need to move with the times. I see no reason why this shouldn't involve a re-think of an out-dated agreement sooner rather than later in order to secure the future of The Times for many years to come.


The handling and convenience of the compact Sony SEL 35mm F2.8 FE Carl Zeiss Sonnar T* lens are enhanced by an internal focus mechanism that keeps its length constant during focusing. Lightweight design further augments portability as well as handling. All of this plus outstanding ZEISS resolution and contrast make this lens an ideal match for full-frame α7 series bodies.
Outstanding resolution and contrast are the key features of the Sony SEL 35mm F2.8 FE Carl Zeiss Sonnar T*. Three double-sided aspherical elements effectively control spherical aberration, while extensive application of the ZEISS T* coating not only minimizes flare and ghosting for natural colour reproduction, but is instrumental in achieving impressive contrast as well.
A maximum aperture of F2.8 facilitates shooting in a wide range of lighting conditions, with consistent image quality at all apertures. Bright lenses are often large, but a new focus lens group design allows a large maximum aperture in a compact lens. A circular aperture design contributes to gorgeous bokeh for smoothly defocused backgrounds with the Sony SEL 35mm F2.8 FE Carl Zeiss Sonnar T*.


This project aims to develop neuromorphic systems based on a combination of Josephson junctions, magnetic Josephson junctions, single flux quantum technologies, and spintronic components. These technologies are neuromorphic at the device level with the potential to dramatically improve both speed and efficiency compared to modern CMOS. The use of magnetic Josephson junctions as synaptic components with reconfigurable memory enables new neuromorphic architectures. Spiking systems will be designed, modeled, fabricated and tested. Processing will be done in the NIST state-of-the-art clean room. Emphasis will be placed on developing stochastic spiking systems, liquid state machines, and artificial neural network-based architectures. Fundamental design and theory work is an essential component to adapt conventional neural architectures to those that are amenable for superconducting/spintronic systems.


text:
Alphonso Davies, Leon Bailey and Weston McKennie (l-r.) are all key to their nations' Gold Cup campaigns this summer. - © 2019 DFL
Alphonso Davies, Leon Bailey and Weston McKennie: key for Canada, Jamaica and the USA at the CONCACAF Gold Cup
Move over Barry, Robin and Maurice! It's the turn of Weston, Leon and Alphonso to take the Americas by storm this summer as the Bundesliga trio star for their respective nations at the 2019 CONCACAF Gold Cup.
While Schalke's Weston McKennie will be pivotal in joint-host nation the USA's challenge, Leon Bailey of Bayer Leverkusen will spearhead Jamaica's charge, with Canada's hopes resting on Bayern Munich's teenage prodigy Alphonso Davies.
bundesliga.com follows the progress of this Bundesliga trio of stars hoping to keep their nation Staying Alive in the Americas this summer.
Weston McKennie (Schalke/USA)
Goals: 2
Assists: 1
"The position that we've talked about me playing is what fits me the best," says McKennie of his discussions with Berhalter. "Playing a number 10 role offensively and then defensively almost playing like a double six."
And that is exactly how he started in the USMNT's 4-0 win over Guyana, to begin their Gold Cup campaign in style. He was substituted after 74 minutes, but not before getting the assist for the USA's first goal and controlling the game from his deeper midfield position.
Former Dortmund man Christian Pulisic (l.) and McKennie will be central to the USA's challenge on home soil. - imago images / Icon SMI
A 6-0 win followed in the second group stage game for the US against Trinidad & Tobago, with McKennie playing the full 90 minutes in midfield once again. His shot late on was rebounded home by Aaron Long to complete the six-goal thumping and secure a quarter-final berth with a game to spare. He was rested against Panama.
After being brought back into the side for the crucial quarter-final with Curacao, McKennie made the biggest impact possible by grabbing the only goal of the game. The Schalke midfielder was positioned perfectly at the back post to be on the end of Pulisic's cross, which he duly headed home.
McKennie only had eyes for the ball in the USMNT's opening win of the Gold Cup against Guyana. - 2019 Getty Images
The Texas-native scored another crucial goal in the semi-final win over Jamaica, slotting home the opener with a striker-like finish. The result now sets up a final against Mexico on Sunday, which of course, McKennie will play a pivotal role in.
USA's fixtures and results
Group D: Guyana (4-0 win), Trinidad & Tobago (6-0 win), Panama (1-0 win)
Quarter-final: Curaçao (1-0 win)
Semi-final: Jamaica (3-1 win)
Final: vs. Mexico (7 July)
Leon Bailey (Bayer Leverkusen/Jamaica)
"I promise to wear the colors black green and gold with honor, pride, and dignity while aiming to be a positive role model for kids with a dream," wrote 21-year-old Bailey in an Instagram post featuring him wearing a shirt half in the colours of his country, the other half in the colours of his club.
And in the Leverkusen winger's first competitive game for his country, he did not disappoint. His chipped pass over the Honduran defence was the pass-to-assist for the opening goal against Honduras on 17 June.
Leon Bailey's has been sporting the colours of Jamaica for the first time this summer. - imago images / Icon SMI
It was a historic night for Jamaica as they hosted their first Gold Cup match with 17,874 spectators in Kingston witness to Bailey's debut in the competition.
Bailey and his side followed up the opening win with a goalless draw against El Salvador, leaving them top of Group C. The Leverkusen winger did not feature in the 1-1 draw with Curaçao to send Jamaica into the knockout stages, but played the full 90 minutes in a 1-0 win over Panama in Philadelphia in the quarter-finals to book a place in the last four.
Bailey produced his first assist of the tournament in the semi-final against the US, crossing for Shamar Nicholson to head home and bring Jamaica back into the game. But in the end, a 3-1 defeat sent Bailey and co. home.
Jamaica's fixtures and results
Group C: Honduras (3-2 win), El Salvador (0-0 draw), Curaçao (1-1 draw)
Quarter-final: Panama (1-0 win)
Semi-final: USA (1-3 loss)
Alphonso Davies (Bayern Munich/Canada)
In the six league appearances he has made since moving to Germany from Vancouver Whitecaps in January, Davies — just 18 years old — has confirmed there is gargantuan potential packed into his bantamweight boxer's frame.
"He's a diamond. He shows that every day in training," said Hasan Salihamidzic, the bowled over Bayern sporting director, who also saw his club's new arrival squeeze in a maiden top-flight goal in the 6-0 win over Mainz on Matchday 26.
In the space of just two short years, Davies has shed the 'promising youngster' tag to emerge as the (very young) man on whose broad shoulders the hopes of the 2000 champions - the only nation to win the competition other than the USA or Mexico - now rest.
Alphonso Davies assisted the third goal in Canada's 4-0 win over Martinique to open the Gold Cup tournament. - getty images
And with the pressure heavily on with Canada playing out the opening game of the tournament against Martinique, Davies and Co. were up to the challenge. A 4-0 win, with Davies contributing an assist having won the ball from the opposition defence on the left wing before curling a delightful low cross with his "weaker" right foot for Junior Hoilett to poke home.
Gold Cup fixtures don't come much bigger than the Canucks' second game against Mexico at the Denver Broncos' Mile High Stadium, where the Bayern winger played 90 minutes in the 3-1 defeat.
Davies started at left back in Canada's final group game, a comfortable 7-0 win over Cuba in Charlotte, North Carolina, and provided an assist for Lucas Cavallini to make it 4-0 in first-half stoppage time to ensure progress to the quarter-finals.
That was where the Gold Cup journey ended for the Canucks, though. Davies set up the opening goal as Canada raced into a 2-0 lead against Haiti in Houston before the Caribbean side struck back with three second-half goals to send Davies and Canada on their summer holidays.
Canada's results
Group A: Martinique (4-0 win), Mexico (3-1 loss), Cuba (7-0 win)
Quarter-final: Haiti (3-2 loss)
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died a pauper in 1921.
shown sealing the cornerstone with mortar.
was laid on October 24, 1949 during a special open-air General Assembly meeting.The ceremony, marking the fourth anniversary of the United Nations and was attended by U.S. President Harry S. Truman, who was the principal speaker. Copies of the United Nations Charter and the Universal Declaration of Human Rights were deposited in the cornerstone by Secretary-General Trygve Lie (shown above).
canceled after just one season.
Iowa, that also killed 1950s rock stars Buddy Holly and Ritchie Valens.


text:
Louisiana Women: LSU Law Professor Lucy Bowers McGough
by: Carly Laing
Posted: Sep 5, 2019 / 09:44 AM CDT / Updated: Sep 5, 2019 / 11:44 AM CDT
BATON ROUGE, LA (LOCAL33) (FOX44) – Lucy Bowers McGough was a trailblazer for women in the law profession back in the 1960's, and today she continues to push through barriers even during her retirement.
Lucy Bowers McGough is enjoying retirement at St. James Place in Baton Rouge.
"I've never spent a boring day in my life."
She's been retired for several years now, but still keeps her passion alive.
"I'm still teaching, but I only teach one course a semester. I can't imagine. My students are just wonderful."
It's a passion that she never knew she had.
"I never wanted to be a lawyer. I just fell into it. Divine intervention."
It was 1962. She was studying at Emery University in Atlanta, Georgia when she stumbled into the law building on campus.
"The dean said if your grades are what you say they are, I have one deans admit left, you can have it. School starts Monday."
It was divine plan that would pave the way for women in the law school program for may years to come.
"I was the only one there that day. I felt like I always had to be prepared. I didn't want to let the women that were in the classes behind me down, and I didn't want to let the dean down either."
McGough went on to graduate 4th her class.
After practicing law for 4 years she decided to get her masters degree.
The former lawyer became the first female faculty member at Emory University.
A colleague told McGough, "not unkindly though, it sounds unkind. He said ,you know why you got the chair' and I said 'because I'm a women' and he said that's right, and I said 'I'm hooray for it. I'm so happy to be here'."
She continued to break ceilings through out her career later becoming the first female chair at both Emory and LSU Law Schools.
"When you say a women was the first in doing something she owes that piece of her soul to the fact that she is a woman. Not as a handicap, but as a hands up."
McGough still teaches law at LSU today while enjoying retirement.
"You adapt, in order to thrive you have to take what you got and go with it."
Louisiana Women: LAE President Dr. Tia Mills
Louisiana Women: Mimosa Owner, Madeline Subat Ellis
Louisiana Women: Brynn Thompson
Louisiana Women: East Baton Rouge EMS Paramedic Lacey Spencer
Louisiana Women: Sadie Roberts-Joseph
Louisiana Marathon prompts downtown street closures
Identical twin brothers to serve on the 19th Judicial District Court at the same time
CDC study shows 30% of adults in Louisiana are physically inactive


text:
WOMEN'S RUGBY LEAGUE
World War II veteran inspiring Jillaroos winger Ward
Alicia Newton NRL.com Reporter
Tue 24 Apr 2018, 04:53 PM
Meg Ward can't help but light up when speaking about former World War II veteran Patrick Broadfoot before Anzac Day with rugby league put on the back burner for the special occasion each year.
The pair weren't related by blood but shared a special bond that the 22-year-old Jillaroo could only describe as that of a grandfather to grandchild.
Broadfoot served in the second World War and shared stories with Ward which inspired the winger to chase her goals.
Ward has been juggling her time between playing sport and serving as a firefighter in the Defence Force for the last two years.
"He wasn't my grand-dad officially but very much was," Ward told NRL.com
"He had a lot of stories, Patty. He was such a big part of our family. He'd been through a lot and seen a lot. Hearing his stories was a big part of me joining the Defence Force.
"He was a gunner. They would boss him around to go do things they wouldn't do or knew were dangerous. Or build things over that period.
Meg Ward (left) and Talesha Quinn with a representative playing the bugle ahead of Anzac Day. ©Grant Trouville/NRL Photos
"It went on for about seven months so a long time for someone to be controlled by other people. Anzac Day for him each year was everything. He has all these medals and was proud of them, it was a big time of the year for him."
Broadfoot died in 2016, but was with Ward when she completed her final duties.
"The pride that I have that he was proud when I graduated from recruits is something I'll always carry with me," she said.
"My family had a real influence. I wasn't sure what I wanted to do in life. I wanted to be a firefighter but knew how difficult the process would be so my family suggested to do it through the ADF.
"I'm now a part of something so much bigger. I'm proud as a firefighter and without us there the pilots can't fly. We're a part of something so much bigger."
Works pretty rough sometimes.. After a big day of 4 wheel driving, we hit the mud pits for a quick swim! Absolutely loving my course and can't wait for the rest of the year with this bunch having a ball and making memories ❤💪🏼🚒
A post shared by Meg Ward (@mwardy3) on Jul 5, 2016 at 2:56pm PDT
Jillaroos teammate Talesha Quinn completed her post in the army more than 2100 kilometres away from Ward in Townsville.
She now works in logistics since moving to Sydney and credited the strict regime for helping shape her life on and off the rugby league paddock.
"The army for me was a massive wake-up call," Quinn said.
"Every day I woke up and thought, 'why am I here, why am I doing this?' but it did get easier. I'd been to university twice before I joined. I was struggling to get a job. Being from the country and being a tomboy, I felt I was a fit for the army.
Always good to have so much suppport from the top! Lucky to work where I do! #australianarmy #6brigade #victoriabarracks #fulltimejob #getpaidtoplayfootball #verylucky #dreamjobforfooty #army #representingmycountry #elitesportsprogram #followyourdreams #supportfromhighplaces #respect
A post shared by Talesha Quinn (@taleshaquinn) on Oct 11, 2017 at 3:19pm PDT
"Anything from waking up at 5am with the sheets over our shoulders every morning, we had 15 minutes to have a shower, make our sheets, fold our clothes to certain centimetres, the corner of the bed had to be a certain way.
"Everything in the draws had to be the same as the person next to you by no more than a millimetre. No hands in your pockets, no yawning, no eye contact with any of the instructors.
"The first two weeks everyone gets in trouble because you don't know what you're doing and I think that's where teamwork comes in a lot. If you don't work together in anything there is always extra training, not just you but everyone. People correct themselves, your roommate will tell you."
Forward planner: Brown piecing together new-look Warriors pack
The deep dive to uncover Jillaroos records


Last month saw the north-of-England's finest mix-comp-commemorate their F15teenth anniversary and they celebrated it with an album mixed by Giuseppe Ottaviani, Marco V and Liam Wilson. And we give away 2 copies!
Two members can win a copy of F15teen Years Of Goodgreef mixed by Giuseppe Ottaviani, Marco V and Liam Wilson!
You need to completely fill out the submission form bellow, copy it with the correct information and send it in an email to remco@trancepodium.com with subject: "Goodgreef Competition"
Deadline for submissions is 8 November 2015.
Subculture: The Residents Vol. 2 out now!


A few summers ago, my family and I went on a road trip through South Dakota. We stopped in Custer State Park and came across these sweet little burros. I took some photos and now I'm doing a series of paintings from them. Aren't they cute?
I am super excited about these two collections of nursery print sets! Due to popular demand, I've added new baby animals to each collection of woodland and safari themed sets. Follow me on instagram for a peek into my latest paintings before they make it to my etsy shop!
Timber Wolf, by Katrina Pete. Watercolor on Arches cold pressed paper.
One afternoon, I was shopping at Blick's (my favorite art store) and I discovered an awesome set of watercolor paint. It's called QOR, and they make incredibly vivid and bright watercolors with surprising transparency. I made a few free form paintings with layers of orange, pink, and yellow. The colors truly shine on a good quality watercolor paper such as Canson or Arches cold pressed. After making a few ombre sunsets, I thought it would be fun to make animal shapes out of them. Out came my pens and pencils and a few sketches later I joined my watercolor background images with my hand drawn animal shapes in photoshop!
So there you have it, the origin of my sunset moose painting. I like the way his antlers turned out! He is available in printed form on high quality archival paper in my etsy shop. He also has a matching bear friend available in the same sunset watercolors.
Back to my obsession with Blick's… The reason I love this store so much? All of the people who work there are artists too, and some of them are just as awkward as I am 🙂 They have workshops on weekends where you can learn new painting techniques and try out supplies. And, AND they don't make you feel weird for spending 47 minutes in the paint aisle. Blick's is a porthole into a dimension where time ceases to exist. I've never seen a clock in the store. This is my happy place. When I finally check out with bags of creativity supplies, the sun is a few notches lower in the sky, and I've forgotten to eat lunch again.
Any questions? Please email me and I'd be happy to help! Or follow me on instagram for my latest paintings and watercolor tips.
These furry little guys are so much fun to paint! I love their mannerisms and inquisitive ways, and they remind me of our dog, Fletcher! View more of my watercolor woodland animals paintings and prints in my etsy shop.


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Meet the Worlds Part 3: Immerse Your Senses (and Shake That Virtual Booty) in Dusty Multiverse
July 27, 2021 By Kirsten Weisenburger
Here we go again! August 22 to September 7, 2021, six teams of wildly creative technologists are building Virtual Worlds and inviting one and all to explore, co-create, and play in the digital dust. Welcome to the second in a series of conversations with the amazing humans who have dedicated their summer to building their World for the 2021 Virtual Burn. Learn about all the Worlds and get your tickets to the Virtual Burn here.
Introducing Dusty Multiverse!
Tell us about your World.
Dusty Multiverse is an interactive and immersive experience that thrives on the artistic collaboration and participation of the Burning Man community, giving us space for artistic, digital self-expression and a place to voice our many unique experiences, helping us find a better understanding of what it means to be human on a global scale.
Watch Dusty Multiverse leads Brittany and Faryar share some of the magic:
https://journal.burningman.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/07/Dusty-Multiverse-2021-clip-for-Journal-post.mp4
Tell us more about what people can do in Dusty Multiverse. What kind of adventures can virtual Burners participate in?
Brittany: Oh my gosh, there are a vast amount of experiences to be had in Dusty Multiverse. Firstly, I would love to let you guys know about one of my favorite parts, which you experience as you experience what we call avatar rooms. Across the seven square miles of Black Rock City, you can chat via live voice. With this you get to serendipitously meet and spark conversations with people from around the globe. If you are a DJ, you can play your live sets and live stream them, and appear in the environment as a 3D hologram on stage while you perform to a global audience. You can submit artwork and we'll recreate it in a photo-realistic format. We also offer the ability for you to host and attend "meet the artist" workshops.
What are you bringing that's new or different from last year? What can people look forward to that they didn't experience last year?
Brittany: Last year we were primarily sound heavy. We had the sound camp community very involved. This year we're working to round out the experience to make it more true and authentic to a live Burning Man event. Our simulation, Dusty Multiverse, is true to the size of Black Rock City. So those of you who haven't been to Black Rock City yet, you'll familiarize yourself with it.
Faryar: We have expanded most of our technology and we have some new and exciting features. Now we can have up to 10,000 people around any one location. So if, let's say you attend a sound camp with your avatar, you can see up to 10,000 other avatars around you. They're simultaneously in one place and they can communicate. We also have an updated avatar system. You can take a picture of your face and an avatar that mimics your facial features will be created automatically for you.
The other thing that's exciting is that we have these new social rooms for workshops where up to thousands of participants can attend at one time. They enable anyone to communicate and discuss topics of interest.
You can also search for your friends by name. Wherever they are on the playa, you can just teleport yourself to them. So nobody would get lost and you can easily find your friends and go hang out with them wherever they are. We also created our own broadcasting net for delivery of high-quality audio and video. We want to make sure the quality of the music is something that people can enjoy at home.
How do I get in? What software do I need? What hardware do I need?
There are two main methodologies. One is that you can attend with an iPhone or Android device via the Dusty Multiverse app. Once you download the app, you can simply register and go inside. We're also having a VR simulation this year, which will be hosted in the Oculus app store for Oculus Quest. One thing that's actually interesting — a lot of people had fun with this last year — we have the capability of mirroring your phone. The phone becomes like a controller so you can use it to navigate while you're enjoying the experience on your flat screen, sitting on your couch and seeing this amazing high-quality rendering of the playa and performances.
How do you bring your Burning Man thing, whatever it happens to be, into Dusty Multiverse?
Faryar: We've made it very easy on our website, DustyMultiverse.com; we have a participate tab. People of all walks of life — musicians, DJs, producers, artists, speakers, philosophers, teachers, anyone who has anything to contribute to society — can go there and fill out a form. We will be in immediate contact with them and present to them how they can participate. People don't have to be tech savvy or technologically advanced to participate. All you need is a smartphone or computer.
We are looking specifically for two kinds of volunteers: general volunteers that help us and help the other attendees during the event; and technical artists and 3D artists who can help replicate and simulate art so we can place it in the virtual playa for people to see and enjoy.
Anything else you'd like to share?
Brittany: It's a very special thing to be able to attend Burning Man. With Dusty Multiverse my hope and goal is to be able to share that sense of community. I never knew what a true sense of a community was until I stepped foot on the playa and I saw a genuine authenticity of kindness and acceptance that I hadn't experienced in my life before. I really, really want to share that with individuals who don't have the capacity to go to Black Rock City. It's the glue that holds everything together; you don't really know what's missing until you know. I think that's something the world can use at this point.
Cover image from the Dusty Multiverse, 2021 (Graphic design by Deets Shay)
About the author: Kirsten Weisenburger
Kirsten Weisenburger (aka kbot) is a strategist on Burning Man Project's Communications team. No, that doesn't mean she sits around playing chess and making Venn diagrams. Rather, she works within and outside the organization to gather, develop and share stories about Burning Man culture and community.
Tagged: Dusty Multiverse, Virtual Burning Man 2021, virtual reality, virtualburn2021, VR.
prev Year Two Update: Progress On Burning Man Project's Sustainability Roadmap
next "Boundless Space" Artist Stories Part 1: Nourishing the Bloodstream of World Art
3 Comments on "Meet the Worlds Part 3: Immerse Your Senses (and Shake That Virtual Booty) in Dusty Multiverse"
Burning Man Project Communications says:
Reminder: Burning Man Project has a responsibility to maintain this space for the benefit of all participants, to ensure that comments serve to enhance the experience of our visitors, rather than cause harm. While spirited conversation is welcome, unruly and rude behavior is not. Posts that are harmful to others or run counter to the spirit of civil discourse may be removed.
Please review our COMMENT POLICY here, then comment with care: https://journal.burningman.org/comment-policy/
Nicoal says:
Last year's virtual burns were a lot of fun. But there were some people who got a bit out of control and irresponsible with alcohol and drugs, considering there were children present. Is there anything being done to make sure people are no longer anonymous during the virtual burns? This would cut down on some of the micro aggressions and insults, and otherwise reckless and dangerous behavior. All the virtual burns need to be a safe space for women and children and marginalized groups.
Thank you for the feedback. As in 2020, Virtual Event Support Team (V.E.S.T.) volunteers will be reachable throughout the Virtual Burn to support participants and the safety and wellbeing of the greater Burning Man virtual community. The Worlds of the Virtual Burn, which are built and managed by independent teams external to Burning Man Project, are intended to be safe spaces for participants. They're created on various platforms that have different safety systems built in to address concerning behavior; some are automatic and some are more manual. Avatar anonymity is less the issue than the accountability and repercussions on the backend for users based on their registered account information. The Virtual Burn Worlds are required to be in compliance with the safety and security protocols of their host platforms to help make these experiences safe for everyone.
Virtual Burn (12 )
Spotlight on Three Build-A-Burn Artists
Sep 2, 2021 By Jane Lyons
Dip Your Mind Into the Great Unknown: Experiences Not to Miss This Week in Virtual Burn
Aug 29, 2021 By Kirsten Weisenburger
Ready to Rumble? Here's Everything You Need to Access the Virtual Burn
Aug 20, 2021 By Burning Man Project
Meet the Worlds Part 6: Share Your Creativity With the Burnerverse on Burn Week: Global Live Stream


The fire chief said hundreds of firefighters had stopped the flames from spreading to the north tower belfry.
He said one firefighter had been seriously injured, while two-thirds of Notre Dame's roofing had been destroyed.
French media quoted the Paris fire brigade as saying the fire was "potentially linked" to a 6 million Euro ($9.5 million) renovation project on the church's spire and its 227 tonnes of lead.
Archpriest of Notre Dame Cathedral Patrick Chauvet said a crown of thorns believed by Catholics to have been worn by Jesus during the crucifixion was among the items saved.
"It (the fire) didn't reach the treasury," he said.
"And then inside they tried to save some paintings, but you know, it was impossible to take down the big paintings."
Notre Dame spokesman Andre Finot earlier said the blaze was likely to bring the entire wooden frame of the cathedral down, and the stone vault of the edifice could be threatened too.
Built in the 12th and 13th centuries, Notre Dame is the most famous of the Gothic cathedrals of the Middle Ages and one of the most beloved structures in the world.
Situated on the Ile de la Cite, an island in the Seine river, the cathedral's architecture is famous for — among other things — its many gargoyles and its iconic flying buttresses.
Its priceless treasures also include the crown of thorns, which is only occasionally displayed to worshippers.
Paris Mayor Anne Hildago said the cathedral's significant collection of artwork and holy objects had been recovered.
She said residents living near the cathedral were evacuated in preparation for the burning structure's possible collapse.
French President Emmanuel Macron cancelled a major televised speech to travel to Notre Dame after the blaze broke out.
He pledged to rebuild the cathedral, and said he would seek international help to do so.
"Notre Dame is our history, our literature, part of our psyche, the place of all our great events, our epidemics, our wars, our liberations, the epicentre of our lives," he told reporters in front of the still-burning Paris landmark.
The fire came less than a week before Easter and amid Holy Week commemorations.
As the cathedral burned and flames lit the sky behind them, Parisians gathered to pray and sing hymns outside the church of Saint Julien Les Pauvres across the river from Notre Dame.
"It's been labelled as a disfigurement of the city. People are really just in shock and awe and can't believe what they're witnessing," he said.
"Night is falling now and the crowds are starting to move on, but certainly, for the last two hours during twilight, it was just the world's worst light show."
"Basically the whole rooftop is gone. I see no hope for the building," said witness Jacek Poltorak, who was watching the fire from a fifth-floor balcony two blocks from the southern facade of the cathedral, one of France's most visited places.
The cathedral is also famous for featuring in Victor Hugo's classic novel The Hunchback of Notre Dame.
Notre Dame had been undergoing renovations, with some sections under scaffolding, while bronze statues were removed last week for works.
The Paris prosecutor's office said it had launched an inquiry into the fire, but had ruled out arson and possible terror-related motives.
It was ransacked by rioting Protestant Huguenots in the 16th century and was pillaged again during the French Revolution of the 1790s and left in a state of semi-neglect.
Hugo's 1831 work led to revived interest in the cathedral and a major "partly botched" restoration that began in 1844.
The wood and lead spire was built during that restoration, according to the cathedral's website.
The Vatican said it was praying for firefighters "and those who are doing everything possible to confront this dramatic situation".
"The Holy See has seen with shock and sadness the news of the terrible fire that has devastated the Cathedral of Notre Dame, symbol of Christianity in France and in the world," it said in a statement.
In Washington, US President Donald Trump tweeted: "So horrible to watch the massive fire at Notre Dame Cathedral in Paris". He suggested first responders use "flying water tankers" to put it out.
France's civil security agency said "all means" except for water-dropping aircraft were being deployed to tackle the blaze.
External Link: Every new clip looks worse. What a terrible thing to watch in real time.


text:
Q: Redirect output of python/ipython interactive prompt commands to files or variables If I execute a function at the Python or Ipython command prompt, such as 'help(dir)':
>>> help(dir)
Help on built-in function dir in module __builtin__:

dir(...)
    dir([object]) -> list of strings

    If called without an argument, return the names in the current scope.

I'd like to capture the resulting output in a file or variable, but
>>> x = help(dir)
>>> help(dir) >file.txt
>>> help(dir) >>file.txt

do not work.  I see a related question (Redirect an output command to a variable or file?) though it is awfully complicated, would be difficult to remember on the fly, and it unclear whether it even applies here.
In the bash shell, output can be redirected with > or 2>.  Seems like it should be easy to do something similar in the Python or Ipython shell.

A: Use IPython capture_output function
In [21]: from IPython.utils import io

In [22]: with io.capture_output() as captured:
   ....:   help(dir)
   ....:

In [23]: print captured.stdout
Help on built-in function dir in module __builtin__:

dir(...)
    dir([object]) -> list of strings

    If called without an argument, return the names in the current scope.

Update
In case above solution does not work, you can use ipython command output capture feature. E.g.:
In [6]: output = !python -c 'help(dir)' | cat

In [7]: output
Out[7]:
['Help on built-in function dir in module __builtin__:',
 '',
 'dir(...)',
 '    dir([object]) -> list of strings',

A: Even better than the methods above, (both of which will work), as much easier to remember and no imports needed, is the iPython magic %%capture:
In [38]: %%capture myout
   ....: help(dir)
   ....:

In [39]: print myout.stdout
Help on built-in function dir in module __builtin__:

dir(...)
    dir([object]) -> list of strings

    If called without an argument, return the names in the current scope.
    Else, return an alphabetized list of names comprising (some of) the attributes
    of the given object, and of attributes reachable from it.
    If the object supplies a method named __dir__, it will be used; otherwise
    the default dir() logic is used and returns:
      for a module object: the module's attributes.
      for a class object:  its attributes, and recursively the attributes
        of its bases.
      for any other object: its attributes, its class's attributes, and
        recursively the attributes of its class's base classes.


A pivotal moment in Sheffield's sporting history has been brought back to life with the unveiling of new exhibition.
The city staged four matches in the 1966 World Cup – three group games and a quarter final, all at Hillsborough.
England went on to win the Wembley final with Sheffield's own Gordon Banks in goal.
The 50th anniversary of the city's role in this historic championship is being celebrated in Football's Coming Home.
The five-week exhibition has transformed part of The Moor Market and celebrates life on the streets of the Steel City in the year that changed football history in England.
Internationally-renowned sports artist Paul Trevillion – the man famed for drawing Roy Of The Rovers – is designing artwork that will hang outside the entrance to the building.
The market walkways have a trail containing scores of Sheffield footballing facts, counting right back to the formation of the world's first club – Sheffield FC, of course,started in 1857.
Local schools also play a central role in the exhibition. 20 short-listed entries in a city-wide art competition launched by Paul Trevillion to mark the city's footballing sports heritage are also on show.
Admission is free and the exhibition, delivered in partnership with The Star, will run to August 6.
We're planning our own special Retro coverage, including a look back by one of The Star's 1966 reporters.
If you've got memories or souvenirs, we'd love you to share them with Retro readers. Contact Julia.Armstrong@jpress.co.uk.


text:
class BINARYNINJAUIAPI PlatformDialog: public QDialog
{
	Q_OBJECT

	QComboBox* m_arch;
	QComboBox* m_os;
	QComboBox* m_platform;

	std::map<QString, PlatformRef> m_platformsByName;
	PlatformRef m_selectedPlatform;

public:
	PlatformDialog(QWidget* parent, ArchitectureRef defaultArch = nullptr);

	PlatformRef getPlatform();
	void saveDefaults();

private Q_SLOTS:
	void architectureChanged(const QString& name);
	void osChanged(const QString& name);

	void selectPlatform();
};

redpajama_set_name: RedPajamaGithub


World Environment Day, commemorated each year on 5 June, is one of the principal vehicles through which the United Nations stimulates worldwide awareness of the environment and enhances political attention and action. The theme for this year is Melting Ice - A Hot Topic? Yeah, I agree melting ice is due to global warming. We realize that the North and South pole ice is melting significantly, thus increase sea level and weather changes.
How can you celebrate World Environment Day? We can celebrate in many ways but definitely not clubbing or party. We may ride bicycles to reduce carbon emission,save energy, recycle, using green energy and having public awareness. For me, I celebrate by posting blog to increase reader awareness. RECYCLE and SAVE THE GREEN!!
Leave a comment to share with us of how you celebrate World Environment Day.


During last year's Fringe festival, Bad Dog ran Toronto, I Love You. The format of the show, if you don't know, is a beautiful story-telling unscripted theatre piece accompanied by Mi Casa Theatre's Nick Di Gaetano.
Nick has put his recordings of the soundtrack to the Fringe show up on his bandcamp. It's the perfect soundtrack to read the other blog posts to, to have playing as you drink your coffee and read the Sunday paper, or when you are just looking for some nice music.
The new tracks for the upcoming run are being added regularly, so make sure to check it out.


text:
How to Watch New York Giants Live Stream Online
Watch New York Giants live stream online. Get New York Giants vs Arizona Cardinals NFL game time, date, TV schedule, results and free live streaming
NFL Week 15 Game Preview: Titans at Giants
February 20, 2019 by Christopher Leave a Comment
Just as things looked bleak for the Titans playoff hopes, they roll out two wins that put them right in the thick of the AFC Wild Card race. The Titans join three teams tied at 7-6 entering Week 15.
Baltimore owns the tiebreakers and the last wild card spot, but another loss by the Steelers versus the Patriots this week could put the Ravens into first place in the AFC North and drop the Pittsburgh (7-6-1) a half-game behind any other winners from among the 7-6 pack.
Back-to-back playoff appearances would make the fans crazy in Tennessee, but so far, they are crazy over the inconsistent play of their Titans. Every time it seems they are ready to go on a streak, they lose an ugly game.
Injuries to Marcus Mariota and others played a small role in the Titans' rollercoaster season.
For the New York Giants, the season has been more like a valley from which they are trying to climb out. Four wins in their last five games have the players talking about 8-8 and a possible wild-card berth. Running the table would mean turning away three playoff contenders in the Titans, Colts, and the Cowboys.
Even if the result doesn't put them in the playoffs, the Giants say they would enjoy putting a damper on the playoff aspirations of others.
Behind a revitalized offensive line, Eli Manning and Saquon Barkley have stepped up in the second half. Barkley became the first Giants rookie to top 1,000 rushing yards and he doesn't want to slow down just yet.
Injuries and notes
Neither team lists any new injuries. Odell Beckham's bruised quad makes him questionable for the game.
Coaching matchup
Pat Shurmur is suddenly more comfortable in New York as the improved play of his offensive line makes his (and GM Dave Gettleman's) proclamation that Eli Manning is still an above-average quarterback seem closer to reality. Despite being sacked a record number of times, Manning is completing a high percentage of passes and as the line play improves, so does Eli's yards-per-attempt. Fans are laying off Shurmur, even as they worry the recent play might mean another year or more of Manning.
Tennessee's rookie coach, Mike Vrabel, has his team right where he wanted them, despite some disappointing weeks. There is no question about his security, although Marcus Mariota might be feeling a little anxiety about the team's plans for him.
How to watch the Giants-Titans game
Much of the Northeast and Tennessee will catch this game from the Fox Sports feed delivered by Fubo TV.
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Read More: NFL Week 17 Game Preview: Cowboys at Giants
Who will win the Giants-Titans game?
New York Giants has been on a roll. If not for a conservative second half against the Eagles, the Giants could be on a five-game winning streak and threatening to blow past the pack vying for the second wild card.
As it is, they feel they have something to play for, especially in front of their home fans. Tennessee is not to be taken lightly, but the Giants roll on.
Filed Under: News & Updates Tagged With: Giants, NFL Week 15, Titans
NFL Week 17 Game Preview: Cowboys at Giants
Dallas took care of business at home last week and clinched the NFC East with a 27-20 win over the Buccaneers. It was far from a perfect game, but it wasn't bad enough to make anyone panic about the Cowboys playoff chances.
New York Giants showed why they are not going to the playoffs this year. Another two-score last quarter lead faded to obscurity and the Giants let the Indianapolis Colts maintain their own playoff aspirations with a heartbreaking 28-27 loss.
Even after the Colts took the lead with an extra point, the Giants had a minute left to move into position for their Pro Bowl kicker, Albert Rosas, to pull out the victory. But Eli Manning could not add to his list of fourth-quarter comeback victories, throwing a deep interception to seal the deal.
Manning has been announced the starter for the season finale as rumors swirl that he will return as the starter in 2019. Rookie Kyle Lauletta sabotaged any consideration to take a look at the Giants' developmental project when he was cited for multiple offenses related to a traffic violation earlier this season.
Dallas could be tempted to rest some starters as there is no positioning advantage to be had with a victory or loss. Jimmy Jones says there are some obvious players who will sit, but most starters will line up for the first drive and try to end their regular season with a better offensive showing than they had against the Buccaneers.
One injured player who might line up Sunday is Tavon Austin. He hasn't played in several weeks and might use this game as a tune-up for the postseason.
Sean Lee will probably sit out. Tyrone Crawford has carted off the field with what looked like a serious neck injury but was released from the hospital with the diagnosis of a simple sprain. He will not play Sunday, however.
New York has a slew of players on their injury report. Who plays might be determined by who has something to prove for next season and who might be an ex-Giant soon.
Odell Beckham (quad) is still questionable, as are Russell Shepard (ankle) and tight end Rhett Ellison (concussion). Defensive end Mario Edwards (hip) and Kerry Wynn (thumb), along with linebacker Alec Ogletree (concussion) are questionable.
Pat Shurmur is reported "tortured" by the growing process the Giants are going through, but most observers claim the Giants locker room resembles a winning team and attitude. About the only question the Giants don't have to answer is whether Shurmur will be back.
Likewise, Sean Payton would have to make a boneheaded mistake that cost his team a wild-card win to have any chance of being let go by Jones. Dallas is a division winner, no matter what the rest of the division looks like.
How to Watch the Giants-Cowboys Game
You can watch the Giants and the Cowboys play for free this weekend with a free trial offer from Fubo TV. Fubo TV offers all the local and national networks you need to follow your favorite NFL team.
Fubo TV, like other internet TV services, gives you live stream NFL action throughout the playoffs. But there is much more to Fubo TV than football.
Like DirecTV Now, Sling and other internet TV providers, Fubo TV includes a full range of movie channels and national networks in their basic subscription price so you can watch all your favorite shows from anywhere you have an internet connection.
DirecTV Now, Sling, and Fubo TV don't require special equipment and they won't ask you to sign a contract. Just a low monthly subscription cost that is a fraction of what you pay to cable and satellite providers.
Who will win the Giants-Cowboys game?
Dallas has nothing to play for and the Giants have nothing but pride. Pride will be enough as the Giants defense holds onto a second-half lead against the Cowboys' backups.
Filed Under: News & Updates Tagged With: Cowboys, Giants, NFL Week 17
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