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University Of Aberdeen Triumphs At 22nd Boat Race
Aberdeen City, Featured, Sport No Responses »
The University of Aberdeen rowed to victory on Saturday (March 4) at the 22nd annual Aberdeen Boat Race, which is sponsored by Aberdeen Asset Management.
Breaking rival Robert Gordon University's five-year winning streak, the University of Aberdeen triumphed in a time of 7 minutes 03.8 seconds, winning by 4 lengths.
The Robert Gordon University crew followed close behind, with a time of 7 minutes 16.3 seconds.
The University of Aberdeen also celebrated success in the alumni and second crew races – marking the first ever clean sweep in the event's history.
Hundreds of spectators braved the weather to line the banks of the city's River Dee to cheer on the teams as the old opponents battled it out on the river. Due to water levels, the 3.5km course was shortened by 300m.
Fiona Bell (21), president of Aberdeen University Boat Club, said,
"It feels amazing to have brought the Aberdeen Boat Race trophy back to the University of Aberdeen. I think we're all still in shock a little; we set out to break RGU's five-year hold over the title and we did it! I'm incredibly proud of my team and their performance today. We've been training hard in daylight and darkness, so it's brilliant that all our hard work has paid off.
"Erin and the RGU crew were formidable opponents, and made things very difficult for us out on the water. It was a fantastic race to row in, and I hope those watching from the banks enjoyed it too. I'd also like to thank Aberdeen Asset Management for their continued support – without their backing the Aberdeen Boat Race couldn't happen."
Erin Wyness (20), president of Aberdeen University Boat Club, added,
"Congratulations to all of the University of Aberdeen crew on their win today. It was a hard race with both crews on form beforehand, so it would have been hard to call before we set off. Even though we didn't win this year, I'm still very proud of all the effort the crew has put in over the last few months, and it doesn't take away from our five-year streak. We'll be back next year!
"The whole day has been brilliant both for the rowers and spectators on the shore – from the alumni and second crew races right up until the title race – and I'd like to thank Aberdeen Asset Management for their amazing continued support of this historic event."
The alumni boat race was won by the University of Aberdeen in a time of 8 minutes 02.5 seconds. The universities' second crew boat race was also won by the University of Aberdeen in a time of 2 minutes 36.6 seconds. Original 106fm clinched the media challenge title in a time of 1 minute 30.1 seconds over a 300m course.
Martin Gilbert, chief executive of sponsor Aberdeen Asset Management, commented,
"On behalf of all at Aberdeen Asset Management, I would like to congratulate the winning crew from the University of Aberdeen. I would also like to recognise the effort of the Robert Gordon University Boat Club rowers, who put in a sterling effort on the water. Both teams should be rightfully proud of their achievements today.
"The university experience is about more than classroom learning, and the boat clubs are a real testament to that. Being founded in Aberdeen, we are very proud to continue to support the Aberdeen Boat Race in what is our 17th year."
Follow the Aberdeen Boat Race on Facebook at www.facebook.com/aamboatrace, on Twitter @2017boatrace or Instagram @aamboatrace
Posted by Editor at 14:30	Tagged with: Aberdeen, AU, Boat, Dee, Education, Gordon, Race, RGU, River, Robert, Sport, University
Crews Unveiled For 22nd Aberdeen Boat Race
Aberdeen City, Sport No Responses »
After months of secrecy and planning, the final crews are announced on Tuesday, 21 February for the 22nd annual Aberdeen Boat Race. The 18 successful students have travelled from around the world to study at the University of Aberdeen and Robert Gordon University – from A Coruña in Spain to Perth in Australia.
They will come together this Saturday, March 4, for the challenging 3.5km race along the River Dee, which is sponsored by Aberdeen Asset Management.
Fiona Bell, president of Aberdeen University Boat Club (AUBC), and Robert Gordon University Boat Club (RGU) president Erin Wyness have handpicked their teams after monitoring the rowers' technical skill and performance under pressure over the past few months.
Rowing for the University of Aberdeen are:
Alex Zabala (18) from A Coruña, Spain; Fiona Bell (21) from Kilmacolm; Lachlan Cowie (21) from North Kessock; Henry Pettinger-Harte (21) from Chester; Alex Afaquah (20) from Glasgow; Rosie Kelly (21) from Belfast; Anna-Sophie Tierre (19) from Aukrug, Germany; and Isla Ferguson (19) from Edinburgh. The cox is Alex Ralston (20) from Perth, Australia.
Representing Robert Gordon University are:
Erin Wyness (20), Holly Reid (23), Andrew Main (20), Gregor Pittendreigh (20) and Josh Quinn (23) from Aberdeen; Michael Brady (21) from Livingston; Ruth Wright (26) from Turriff; and Katherine Lawrie (19) from Stonehaven. The cox is Kathryn Duthie (21) from Dunfermline.
Last year's race was the most exciting yet, with both crews breaking the course record. Jostling for first position along the length of the course, RGUBC just clinched the title for the fifth consecutive year by only a quarter of a length. After coming so close, AUBC is determined to make 2017 the year they bring the trophy back to their boat house.
As the Aberdeen Boat Race enters its 22nd year, it is once again supported by global investment group, Aberdeen Asset Management.
Martin Gilbert, chief executive of Aberdeen, comments:
"Since its inception, the Aberdeen Boat Race has become a real highlight in the city's sporting calendar. Over the past few months, the crews have faced dark, early mornings and intense training sessions in rain and shine to prepare for the race ahead of them, and the time is almost here to put that training into practice.
"Aberdeen Asset Management remains dedicated to nurturing young talent, and we look forward to celebrating both crews' achievements on March 4, regardless of who lifts the trophy."
Professor Ferdinand von Prondzynski, Principal of RGU, says:
"Every year the crews from both universities show great skill and determination on the water and this year will be no different. The atmosphere at the finish line is electric and it is always fantastic to see Robert Gordon University students lining the riverbanks alongside the general public. I'm looking forward to another exciting race in March."
Professor Sir Ian Diamond, Principal and Vice-Chancellor of the University of Aberdeen, adds:
"Last year's race was incredibly close, and I know that AUBC has been out on the water training hard this year. The effort that both crews put into the preparations for the Aberdeen Boat Race is commendable, and I'm sure will lead to another exciting race along the River Dee."
Following the toss for stations at 3.20pm, a number of races will take place in the run up to the title event. The Universities' Second Crew Race takes place at 4.05pm, while the Alumni Crews take to the water at 4.25pm. The Media Challenge – which will see the Evening Express and Original 106fm take on reigning champions BBC, takes place at 5.15pm before the main Aberdeen Boat Race at 5.30pm.
Follow the Aberdeen Asset Management Universities' Boat Race on Twitter @2017BoatRace, Facebook www.facebook.com/AAMBoatRace and Instagram @AAMBoatRace.
Perth Student Eyes Up Coveted Rowing Title
Alex Ralston
With thanks to Leanne Carter, Account Manager, Tricker PR.
A Perth student with an ambition to join the Royal Air Force has his sights firmly set not on the skies but on the water. Alex Ralston (20) hopes to be selected to represent the University of Aberdeen in the 22nd annual Aberdeen Boat Race this March.
If chosen, cox Alex and his fellow rowers in the mixed eight crew will face off against reigning champions Robert Gordon University (RGU) in the 3.5km race along the River Dee, which is sponsored by Aberdeen Asset Management.
For Alex, who studies Geology and Petroleum Geology at the University of Aberdeen, there's a clear parallel between the RAF and life in the rowing club.
He explains,
"Flying a plane is one of the best feelings in the world. My grandfather was in the air force, so it's been a lifelong ambition of mine to become a pilot.
"But there are similarities between being out on the water and up in the air. There's a real emphasis on teamwork in both disciplines, and a chain of command to follow. As cox, it's my job to instruct the crew and I like that feeling of being in charge. I've always had an authoritative streak.
"The crew trains together up to 12 times a week, so we really put the hours in. Plus, we're always socialising with each other. There's a great sense of camaraderie within the boat club."
Alex, who started studying at the University of Aberdeen in 2014, originally hails from Perth in Western Australia but his family relocated to their home's Scottish namesake when he was eight years old.
Before attending university, Alex had never lifted an oar – despite being a fan of the Oxford-Cambridge Boat Race on television. Alex said:
"I used to really be into running, but I joined the rowing club because I wanted to get bigger. I've always been quite small… but I never really bulked up!
"I was lined up as a cox in my first year, but was told it would be better to learn how to row first as it would give me a greater knowledge of what I was asking my crew to do. But my body isn't naturally suited to rowing – I'm too small – so in 2015 I was given the opportunity to cox the Aberdeen Boat Race second crew race.
"I try to do the same training as the rest of the crew, apart from weights. I'm on a kind of weight-loss fitness regime to make myself more efficient. It feels a bit like torture, but it definitely does help. Not only do I enjoy the fitness aspect, but the rest of the crew know I'm going through the same things as they are. It helps me get more out of them when we're out on the water."
Alex's university career took off from there and – despite being in the losing side – it was his chance to cox the main University of Aberdeen crew in the Aberdeen Boat Race last year that sticks out as his most memorable race to date. The 2016 event was the annual contest's closest race in its 21 year history, with Robert Gordon University clinching the title for the fifth year in a row by just a quarter of a length – even though both teams smashed the course record.
"We were all really gutted last year. The RGU crew looked incredibly strong, but we went out on the water with a defiant attitude and we almost had it. It was a really close race all the way down the river, and the adrenaline was pumping, but in the end we didn't quite make it. We're fully confident this year, though.
"I think this year will probably be my last Aberdeen Boat Race, as I focus more on my goal of joining the RAF, so I'm determined to cross the finish line first."
The Aberdeen Boat Race is made possible by the continued support of title sponsor Aberdeen Asset Management. Martin Gilbert, chief executive of Aberdeen, commented:
"The passion with which the students from the University of Aberdeen and Robert Gordon University throw themselves into their training is inspiring to all those who attend the Aberdeen Boat Race. The crews face a tough challenge this year, and will give their all in a race which I know will be thrilling for all those on the banks of the River Dee in March."
Follow the 2017 Aberdeen Boat Race on Twitter @2017boatrace, Instagram @AAMboatrace and Facebook at www.facebook.com/AAMBoatRace
Posted by Editor at 01:03	Tagged with: Aberdeen, AU, Boat, Dee, Gordon, Race, RGU, River, Robert, University
Aberdeen Boat Race Returns With A Splash In 2017
Erin Wyness (RGUBC) and Fiona Bell (AUBC) hope to lead their teams to victory in the 2017 Aberdeen Boat Race.
Old rivalries will be reignited this March as Aberdeen's two universities take to the River Dee in a fierce battle of nerves and determination.
The Aberdeen Boat Race – Scotland's longest running boat race – returns for its 22nd year on Saturday, 4 March 2017 at 5.30pm thanks to the continued support of global investment group, Aberdeen Asset Management.
The University of Aberdeen has challenged five-time reigning champions Robert Gordon University (RGU) to a rematch following 2016's exhilarating race in which both crews smashed the course record.
Following a close race in which the mixed crews gave it their all over the 3.5km course, RGU emerged triumphant by just a quarter of a length in an impressive seven minutes and 38.6 seconds.
Ahead of the main race, the day's programme will also include second crew, alumni and media team races. Students, alumni and members of the public are invited down onto the banks of the Dee to cheer on the crews.
Erin Wyness (20), president of RGU Boat Club, believes that her crew has what it takes to bring home the trophy for the sixth year in a row. The Events Management student from Aberdeen says:
"Of all the races we compete in throughout the year, the Aberdeen Boat Race is by far the highlight for the clubs in Aberdeen. The University of Aberdeen squad is looking strong, but we've been training hard in order to lift the trophy again. Bring on March 4th."
Aberdeen University Boat Club president Fiona Bell (21), however, is confident that this will be the year that the historic institution will break RGU's winning streak. Sport and Exercise Science student Fiona, who hails from Kilmacolm near Glasgow, says:
"We've been out on the water in all weathers – in daylight and darkness – to make sure we're ready to take on RGU and the crew is in good shape. After RGU winning for five years straight, defeat is not an option – it's time for us to reclaim the title."
The annual boat race – hailed as Scotland's equivalent of the Oxford-Cambridge boat race – stretches from the Bridge of Dee to the Aberdeen Boat Club, offering many great vantage points for spectators along the course. Each team of eight, and their coxes, have already begun an intensive training regime to reach peak physical fitness for the race.
Professor Sir Ian Diamond, principal and vice-chancellor of the University of Aberdeen, says:
"The dedication and hard work of the Aberdeen Boat Race crews is an inspiration to all of us. The rowers from both universities put everything they have into the race and it is a fantastic occasion. The result of last year's race was incredibly close, and I am looking forward to another hard-fought contest in March."
Professor Ferdinand von Prondzynski, principal of RGU, adds: "Few sporting events are more closely contested in the north east than the Aberdeen Boat Race. The crews from both universities show incredible skill and dedication in their efforts, and I hope that students, families and the general public will line the banks of the river to enjoy what is undoubtedly Aberdeen's hardest-fought sporting event."
Martin Gilbert, chief executive of Aberdeen Asset Management, comments,
"What began as quite a modest event between two local universities has become one of the north east's most popular sporting events. The rowers should be incredibly proud of their efforts, as every year the race becomes closer and harder-fought. We are delighted to continue our support of the Aberdeen Boat Race again in 2017, and we look forward to supporting the crews alongside the general public on the shores of the River Dee."
For all the latest updates on the crews and their training, follow the Aberdeen Boat Race on Twitter @2017boatrace, Instagram @aamboatrace and on Facebook at www.facebook.com/aamboatrace
Salmond Welcomes New Mobile Coverage Checker
Aberdeenshire, Information 2 Responses »
With thanks to Tom Collins, Press Officer, Rt. Hon. Alex Salmond MP MSP
Following Alex Salmond's calls for the 'Big Four' mobile network providers to improve coverage across Aberdeenshire, communications regulator Ofcom has launched a new online checker for consumers and businesses across Gordon and Aberdeenshire East.
Users are able to use the website to see the available coverage for voice calls, 3G and 4G from service providers: 02, Vodafone, EE and Three.
The interactive map can display coverage detail down to 100 square meters, allowing members of the public to make a better decision when choosing their mobile phone plan.
Last month, Mr Salmond wrote to the CEOs of each of the 'Big Four' (O2, Vodafone, EE and Three) asking them to provide a full analysis of their existing cover across both constituencies and what they plan to improve their services.
EE responded stating that it plans to increase its 4G coverage in Aberdeenshire East from 41.5 per cent to 95.2 per cent by the year 2017. Similarly, in the Gordon constituency, EE plan to increase 4G coverage from 52.1 per cent to 88.4 per cent by 2017.
Commenting, Mr Salmond said:
"I am pleased to see that Ofcom has launched this service. It will allow members of the public to make a better decision about which company provides the best coverage for their area.
"I am also glad that EE have plans in place to increase their coverage and improve services throughout Aberdeenshire East and Gordon.
"It is now time for the rest of the Big 4 to start using the map themselves and start filling in the enormous blanks that appear throughout Aberdeenshire."
In his letter to the Big Four, Mr Salmond referenced the village of Methlick which, with a population of 450 people, has no coverage from either Vodafone or O2 – two out of the "big four" carriers – despite not being in a remote or topographically challenging location.
Mr Salmond also tabled a motion in the Scottish Parliament recognising that the "big four" need to make significant improvements to their services in the region.
Ofcom online coverage checker: http://www.ofcom.org.uk/mobile-coverage
[Aberdeen Voice accepts and welcomes contributions from all sides/angles pertaining to any issue. Views and opinions expressed in any article are entirely those of the writer/contributor, and inclusion in our publication does not constitute support or endorsement of these by Aberdeen Voice as an organisation or any of its team members.]
Posted by Fred at Aberdeen Voice at 01:50	Tagged with: Communication, Gordon, Mobile, Network, Politics, SNP
BIG Pizza Party Fails To Deliver
Aberdeen City, Articles, Community, Featured, Information, News No Responses »
With an armful of flyers promoting various pro 'Retain Union Terrace Gardens' groups, Aberdeen Voice's Suzanne Kelly headed to the first of two 'pizza parties' thrown by the secretive 'Vote For The City Gardens Project' group. Suzanne was unable to give away more than four flyers – because less than a half dozen students turned up to hear the pro CGP message.
If the promise of free food to students isn't enough to lure more than 5 or 6 people, things are looking bleak for the VFTCGP, and bleaker still for PR agency, BIG Partnership.
VftCGP, on their official Facebook page, announced last week there would be two 'free pizza!' events thrown for students; a free pizza dinner was theirs and all they had to do was show up to hear a pro-City Garden Project lecturer – Paul Robertson.
At first most FB readers assumed this was a spoof thrown by the 'Retain UTG' groups – but no, this was actually someone's idea of a vote-winner.
We all know the proverb about the incompetent who can't even arrange a drinking session in a brewery; but I was unprepared for what must be the biggest non-event in history.
The Facebook invitations simply read:
"Free Pizza And Information Night! Come join us for free pizza and a chat with Paul Robertson about the City Garden Project on Monday 20th February, between 6pm and 7pm at the RGU: Union".
Thinking back to my RGU course days, I thought a. how insulted I would be at someone blatantly trying to buy my opinion – with pizza no less, and b. how often I could have found a free meal very handy indeed. This event would be packed. The invites were also sent to staff and students. I thought of a massive collective of outsiders and RGU students and staff competing for quickly-disappearing 'American Hots' and 'Hawaiians' before a slick presentation from BIG.
BIG must be making a huge amount of money from the referendum – it is doing some if not all of the official City Gardens Project group's PR, as well as work for the 'Vote for the City Gardens Project' group. This last group, VftCGP is allowed to spend and write whatever it wants without any external controls.
They were behind the A3 glossy colour brochure filled with 'concept' drawings in lurid pastel colours (or 'vibrant and dynamic' colours – depending on your outlook); these brochures were delivered not only to city voters, but also to shire non-voters. Perhaps this was the first sign of many mistakes and gaffes to come?
I arrived late; it was 5:50pm. Had I missed the free pizza?
Would I get through the crowds? Would I be admitted? I went to the RGU Union reception desk, and was told the event was really only for RGU students.
"How many are already signed in?" I asked.
"You're the first one." came the reply.
It was explained that I needed to be signed in by a RGU Union member. A tumbleweed rolled by.
Eventually a man arrived who explained he'd received the invitation which said nothing about it being only for students. Is it possible that BIG didn't get all the little details right – like who should be allowed in? It seemed so. The reception desk got in touch with someone – presumably the organisers and we were allowed to attend the event. It was almost 6pm.
A sea of empty chairs and a few sofas greeted our eyes. We were the first two arrivals.
My friend and I went to the designated area. The song by The Specials, 'Ghost Town' went through my mind. Two students played pool further off. A man tended the food/drink area. Three BIG PR professionals (who looked like students to me) were fumbling with a screen, a laptop and a projector.
There was me and my new friend, who if possible was even more against the concept of building ramps over UTG than I was.
A sea of empty chairs and a few sofas greeted our eyes. We were the first two arrivals. We sat in the back of 8 or 9 rows; the chairs of which had all been covered with a copy of The Granite Web newspaper, and a fetching postcard of the concept drawing captioned "Wish You Were Here?". It crossed my mind the organisers must have wished people were here, too. But no one was.
My new friend explained to me his position against the CGP. He had attended a meeting in the days of the consultation; Sir Ian Wood had addressed a group of Health & Social Sciences faculty and staff at the Garthdee campus. My friend said:-
"I was there all that time ago, and Sir Ian Wood told a group of about 24 of us that if the consultation showed that people didn't want the gardens developed, then he would walk away. He walked away all right – and came back."
My new friend was not happy.
"I know people have their own opinions about what should happen to Union Terrace Gardens," he said; "but I object to PR people muddying the waters. Instead of corporate BS we need facts and honest debate."
It was approximately 10 minutes after 6. It was three people fumbling with technology, and my friend and I at the back. Had any PR professionals come over to introduce themselves? Welcome us? Offer out any pizza? No.
But what was this? Two male students showed up. They looked at eachother, then at the empty seats. They sat in the front row. As they didn't seem to have been made welcome by the professional BIG team, I wandered over.
"I can't buy you any pizza," I explained; "and I can't afford any print or radio commercials. However, I'd like to offer you some literature just so you can see the other side to the coin."
"I'm a social work student, and I'm not in favour of this plan." one of them said. He spoke about money, and seemed to know quite a bit about this nebulous scheme.
They took my literature. One of the PR bods – a woman with dark hair, watched this little exchange between the student and I, and looked for all the world as if cold water had been poured on her. It kind of had.
It was 6.15 now. There had been no welcome to the visitors. There was no presentation ready to roll.
There was a Lady Gaga video playing over the pool table which made as much architectural sense as the Granite Web newspapers thay lay unread and unwanted on the empty chairs. And – there was no pizza.
What was that? Three more people had arrived. I repeated the procedure and gave them flyers too. It seemed that was all they were going to get.
"Does anyone know how to work presentations?" one of the BIG crew asked. Answer came there none.
My friend admitted to me he knew all the ins and outs, as did I. But by now things were getting poignant, and moved by pity for the fumbling threesome, I simply had to leave.
I made my farewells to my new friend, who promised to call me if anything exciting happened, if the numbers swelled, or if the pizza showed up. I do not expect to hear from him.
"I went to that fly-through thing at the art gallery. I really don't know what decade they were trying to capture."
I thanked him and headed off. Just as I turned to leave, it seemed the three-man crew managed to power up the projector. A yawn of excitement emanated from the four or five remaining hungry students. Perhaps I've missed the public relations event of the year. Well, there is always tomorrow at Aberdeen University at 6.30 pm. Then again, I think I'l lbe washing my hair.
As I turned to leave, more than 15 minutes after the advertised start time, I think one of the three began to speak. The film 'Withnail and I' came to mind. At the end of this film the unequalled Richard E Grant gives a rendition of Hamlet's famed soliliquoy to a collection of animals at the Regents' Park zoo. He is brilliant, but there was no one there to appreciate his message.
Poor BIG. Poor paying clients of BIG. Richard E might have had no audience, but at least he had something important, heartfelt and honest to say.
Picture Credit: Renee Slater
Posted by Suzanne at Aberdeen Voice at 00:07	Tagged with: Aberdeen, ACSEF, BIG, Brochure, Building, CGP, City, Facebook, Free, Gardens, Gordon, Granite, Health, Information, Partnership, PR, Project, Referendum, Retain, RGU, Robert, Science, Sir, Sir Ian Wood, SIW, Social, Student, Suzanne Kelly, Terrace, Union, University, UTG, VftCGP, Vote, Web, Youth
Super-Natural: The Urban Landscapes Of DS+R
Aberdeen City, Articles, Community, Information No Responses »
A lecture by Charles Renfro, held at the Robert Gordon University, Tuesday the 14th of January. By Jeremy Millar.
I pulled on my black turtleneck and picked up my Mac book pro and set off for the lecture. Would I be mistaken for an architect; yes I was – it's all in the attention to detail. The theatre was pretty full, with architecture students to the back, and bolder interested parties to the front. Charles Renfro is an engaging character – think Niles Crane amalgamated with Andy Warhol.
He had flown in especially for this event, and encountered the usual techie difficulties in getting his gleaming Mac book pro to talk with a PC campus. The lecture was a run through of a number of the DS+R projects, and very impressive it was too.
At their heart DS+R are artists, often very clever and imaginative conceptual artists. This approach is exemplified by the 'blur' installation on lake Neuchatel in Switzerland. This brought to mind 'Smoke on the Water' for some reason. This building was a folly in the architectural sense and Charles spoke of playing with the senses as the visitor entered the water cloud and saw nothing. Like many of the DS+R projects there is an element of passing through, rather than destination.
The revolving trees in Liverpool are another witty play on perception.
Understandably the main focus of the lecture was on the High Line project in New York. I have to say that I was a fan before, and now I am even more so. This project demonstrates all that is great about urban design. It involves people with their environment on so many levels. There are many small spaces along the route that offer opportunity for performance. There is a sense of people owning and playing up to the intimacy of these spaces. If it is not to your taste – well you can just move on. It was, however, sooo New York – and I was reminded of "just a New York conversation rattling in my head": thanks Lou.
a walk-through video that involved much playing of the bagpipes
I was impressed by the way in which the High Line acknowledges routes and roots, and builds in memory of decay and goes wild. Charles is keen on letting the DNA show through and inform the evolution of the space. He ably demonstrated this with the Lincoln Centre and the new Rio gallery designs.
Loving what I've seen so far, in that it is visionary, interactive and accessible. These projects are also all in large metropolises with sophisticated urban elites, and large numbers of tourists pretty much the year round. There is no question that I would visit if in New York, Rio or Boston.
And so onto the 'City Garden Project' for which Charles launched a walk-through video that involved much playing of the bagpipes. The key words and phrases included diversity of ecology, ideas pulled from existing context (that DNA concept) sustainability, green lung, reconnecting the city, reinforcing heritage moments, keeping topographic interest; and I have to say he lost me.
I could see some of the connections to the successful DS+R projects, but this vision betrayed a fundamental absence of an understanding of what makes Aberdeen unique both architecturally and culturally. The DNA of Aberdeen city centre is in the crisp Victorian lines of squares, crescents and terraces. The grand public buildings echo a past of commerce and culture as one strolls down Union Street.
The visual dominance of 'education, salvation and damnation' overlooking the gardens and leading the eye round to the gallery are rightly flagged up in guides to the city.
The gardens as they stand reveal this DNA and tell Aberdeen's story. Charles in his presentation showed photographs of this evolution, the exposed Denburn, the trains pulling into the station, the bandstand and the vistas beyond. This legacy would be obliterated, and as for the DNA, we would have some balustrade and two statutes. I would defy any visitor to read the city from the perspective of the Web, unlike the active interpretation gained from a stroll along the High Line.
A question about the merits of consultation with the public gained an acknowledging that this had not happened
Granite is what makes Aberdeen noteworthy. The city centre is a symphony of granite. Apart from the granite in the name of the Granite Web it barely features in the design. The talk of the eye being drawn to new perspectives is compromised by the edifice of the Web blocking views towards the Theatre and the Terrace. The parade of arches under Union Terrace barely feature in the walk through.
The biodiversity of the various garden spaces are for me messy and confused. The High Line took it's planting from the wild flowers that colonized the derelict line and the wildness was utilized to great effect. The current gardens are formal with wild edges and they reflect a city rightly famed for this form of planting. If people want to experience the Scot's pine they can catch a bus to the Duthie Park. We have parks for all tastes and occasions in Aberdeen. There is no need to create a microcosm of the northeast in the city centre.
There was time for a few questions. A question about the merits of consultation with the public gained an acknowledging that this had not happened, although there was an awareness of the controversy. DS+R worked to the brief and they may consult more widely if the referendum is successful. There was no acknowledgment of contact with heritage groups at any stage of the process. Charles has made four visits to the city and feels he is getting to know it.
A question about the profile and presence of the arena space referred to as the 'butterfly' draws on the restaurant at the Lincoln centre, and both attempts to sit in the landscape and be iconic. There was an acknowledgement from Charles that this is a work in progress and they will get it perfect.
There was a question about sustainable build and climate change. Charles said that the build will reach the highest standard and will probably be the first in Scotland to do so. He talked to the advantages of green roofs for maintaining ambient temperatures. He did not address the concrete involved in the build, but did say that he was given materials to work with.
A further query focused on the tunnel through to the station. Charles was clear that this is not part of the project, but the Web would provide the opportunities for others to take these developments forwards. The man from Keppie spoke of connecting with the harbour and opening access to Aberdeen's other areas in 10, 20, 30 years. He added that the project is about creating an identity for Aberdeen going forward.
Make Union Street a cultural space and preserve the gardens
A question followed which addressed scale of the design and queried the numbers of people required to make the space work. The observation that Aberdeen was not New York was made.
Charles interestingly responded by reference to walking on Union Street and having to 'fight' people off. He went on to claim that the Web would provide the space for people to escape Union Street, which he acknowledged was dying, with the malls draining the energy away.
He then went on to claim that a range of cultural programming would attract people to the Web. It would be a melting pot for all the different populations that are around. In a further observation about walking down Union Street in the rain, he wondered why the 'sidewalks' couldn't be bigger.
The final question was the magical one, and asked Charles that knowing what he knows now and if given a free rein to develop a project – would he go for the current one? The answer was of course, absolutely. He then returned to his battling down Union Street theme and made the obligatory one man and his dog in the gardens observation of the usage of the gardens by the public.
So there you have it. For me the most revealing evidence from Charles came with his 'Why can't the sidewalks be bigger'. In looking into the tranquil sanctuary of the gardens from the bustle of Union Street he was blind to the answer beneath his feet. Pedestrianise Union Street: create a space, a green corridor that revitalizes the Street; brings together all the successful elements of his other projects, preserves and lets the DNA speak. Make the Street a cultural space and preserve the gardens – subject to access improvements and recreational attractions – as the sanctuary within the hustle and bustle of 'downtown' Aberdeen.
The final train journey along the High Line delivered turkeys to New York for Thanksgiving.
Don't let the City Garden Project deliver another architectural turkey to Aberdeen. Vote 'Retain Union Terrace Gardens' in the referendum.
Cue 'Won't Get Fooled Again'…
Posted by at 00:13	Tagged with: Aberdeen, Architect, Architectural, Boston, Butterfly, Centre, CGP, City, Consultation, Cultural, Denburn, Design, Environment, Garden, Gordon, Granite, Green, Heritage, Liverpool, Lung, New York, Pine, Project, Referendum, Robert, Sanctuary, Scots, Space, Street, Terrace, Theatre, Tunnel, Union, University, Urban, Victorian, Web
Culture Wars: ACSEF, The Creative Arts And The City Garden Project
Controversy has raged over the fate of Union Terrace Gardens for the last three years. A major subtext to this has been the role of culture in Aberdeen life, particularly in view of the way the proposed Peacock Visual Arts centre for contemporary arts was gazumped by Sir Ian Wood's Civic Square proposal in 2008, writes Mike Shepherd.
The £13.5m building was to contain a gallery, TV studio, print studio, restaurant and offices for Peacock Staff and provide a base for Aberdeen City Council's Arts Development and Arts Education teams as well as extra space for the City Moves dance agency.
It was to be called the Northern Lights Contemporary Arts Centre.
When the Civic Square was first mooted, the emphasis was on the Square itself. Sir Ian Wood had described it as:
"a cross between the Grand Italian Piazza and a mini Central Park".
http://www.eveningexpress.co.uk/Article.aspx/935798?UserKey
An underground concourse was also proposed and at this stage, the main uses were identified in a Press & Journal report:
"The new square could have three underground levels, the first of them offering the potential for Peacock Visual Arts' planned new centre, as well as restaurants, a heritage museum and visitor attractions linked to north-east attributes such as granite, paper, fishing, whisky and golf."
http://www.pressandjournal.co.uk/Article.aspx/1259519
However, Peacock Visual Arts were understandably reluctant to be included within the Civic Square plans. In any case, an underground concourse would not be a suitable venue for an arts centre. A building receiving natural light would have been much more appropriate.
Sir Ian, perhaps frustrated at the reluctance of Peacock to get involved, told the Herald Scotland
"There is quite rightly a strong feeling about the arts in Aberdeen," he says. "It is not for everyone but some people do feel intensely about it. I understand the emotional concern.
"What I find hard is that, frankly, this is about jobs and economic prosperity, for the wider interests of people in Aberdeen who don't care about the arts. Eighty per cent of the people who spend time in the square will have no interest in the arts. You have to develop things for the good of everyone."
http://www.heraldscotland.com/news/home-news/art-student-versus-millionaire-in-a-battle-for-a-city-s-heart-1.929558
Peacock's arts centre was effectively killed off by the Aberdeen Council vote in May 2010 to progress instead Sir Ian Wood's Civic Square proposal. This was later rebranded the City Garden Project.
Following the demise of Peacock, ACSEF started to develop an increasing interest in local culture. ACSEF are the non-elected body charged by both Aberdeen and Aberdeenshire Councils with promoting the economic development of the region. They have been involved in promoting the City Square, describing it as one of their flagship projects.
The ACSEF minutes for the 4th October 2011 noted comments by Professor Paul Harris, the recently appointed head of Robert Gordon University's Gray's School of Art in Aberdeen :
"Paul Harris advised that he is a member of the Scottish Enterprise Tayside Regional Advisory Board. At a national level he had been closely involved in taking forward the V&A project which illustrates how a collective vision could be translated into strategy and raise a city's profile in an international context.
"Creative industries have an important role not only in their own right but also in terms of being key drivers of an area's wider economic success in part through creating vibrant and attractive communities in which to live, work and visit and in fostering innovation, a key driver of economic success.
"Professor Harris concluded that the vibrant and valuable creative industries sector in Aberdeen City and Shire requires greater cohesion and visibility and suggested that a creative industries strategy be devised to address this and realise the sector's potential for future growth. In addition projects such as the City Garden offer opportunities for the city to achieve an international cultural venue. He suggested that a collective approach amongst partners could be achieved at no cost while a strategic voice supports funding bids."
Some in the city might feel alarmed about the business–dominated board of ACSEF defining a top-down strategy for the "creative industries" in the Aberdeen area.
The link to the City Garden Project is of note. Paul Harris is mentioned in the news section for the City Garden Website – "City Garden Project Can Make Aberdeen Cool, Contemporary and Cultural".
"Professor Harris is leading a City Garden Project sub-group representing culture, the arts and the creative sector to consider the potential content for the scheme which has a new centre for culture and the arts at its heart.
He added: "The V&A in Dundee is a perfect example of culture being a catalyst for wider regeneration. There we had an idea and had to develop the infrastructure. In Aberdeen we have the potential infrastructure and a unique opportunity to fill it creatively.
The sub-group is proposing a new model to enhance the performance and reputation of the region's arts and culture locally, nationally and internationally based around the new infrastructure the City Garden Project can deliver above and below ground.
The vision is to create an internationally known facility that is a focal point for exchanging and showcasing excellence in cultural activities between countries, regions and cities located around the North Sea.
The so-called "Northern Arc" would form partnerships with key cultural organisations to present displays and exhibitions, diverse performances and events covering, history, science & technology, visual arts, design, film, music, dance and literature.
"The Northern Arc" will include a number of flexible spaces, centred in the City Garden, with on-going programmes of events and activities with a variety of local, regional and international organisations"
http://thecitygardenproject.com/news_full.asp?id=95&curpage&search=clear&section=news
The use of the name "Northern Arc" is unfortunate given that the City Garden Project had killed off the Peacock Visual Arts plan to build the "Northern Light" contemporary arts centre. The sub-group mentioned is believed to include most of the city's existing arts organisations, which are largely publicly funded. If the underground concourse is built, could it be that existing facilities such as the Belmont Cinema and the Lemon Tree will be relocated to the building?
The Press and Journal reported last October that Aberdeen Council is interested in making a bid for Aberdeen to become the UK City of Culture in 2017.
"Council bosses are applying for a £92 million loan from the Scottish Government to fund five regeneration schemes, including the controversial City Garden Project. Approval of the ambitious plans could trigger a campaign for the prestigious title, officials confirmed yesterday."
The bid to become city of culture could prove a hard sell to the people of Aberdeen. It was actively discussed with much scepticism on the Aberdeen Facebook page. Here are some of the comments:
– Aberdeen has plenty of culture. What it doesn't have is a council that knows what culture looks like. Culture is one of the indicators of true prosperity but you can't make money off it directly. The council's thinking process seems to be: Step 1 – culture, Step 2 – ???, Step 3 – Money!
– I will say that there are signs of some joined up thinking re culture. A sign though… It's not for the council to lead and make it happen though. It should come from the ground up to the point where the council starts listening to those that are doing and asking what is needed rather shoving another box ticking lecturing strategy in our faces. Far more people working across the arts know what is needed than there are people sitting at desks re writing old words. The city would need to give a decent amount of funding to Arts organisation and to arts within education instead of cutting funding almost to the point of extinction.
– So much negativity in this thread, Aberdeen should be ambitious & go for this city of culture in 2017, Aberdeen despite is geography has lots of people doing innovative things in the arts. It did Liverpool no harm & only positives came out of it…
A group called AB+ is organising a cultural conference in the Arts Centre on 26 January. Two of the speakers are Professor Paul Harris and Valerie Watts, Chief Executive of Aberdeen City Council.
"Valerie will be describing her experiences in Northern Ireland with Londonderry's bid to become European Capital of Culture and the impact this had on the arts there, whilst Paul will talk about bringing the V&A to Dundee."
http://positiveaberdeen.wordpress.com/2011/12/21/conference-speakers-announced/
The conference is an opportunity to discuss cultural activities in Aberdeen and as such is to be welcomed. It is likely that some of the issues raised here will be touched upon by the speakers in the Arts Centre.
The City Garden Project will be launching its referendum campaign and will also soon be announcing the final chosen design. It is almost certain that the campaign for the City Garden Project will tie together local cultural activity, economics and Aberdeen City Council's bid to become UK City of Culture for 2017.
It's an explosive mix.
Posted by Fred at Aberdeen Voice at 22:52	Tagged with: Aberdeen, ACC, ACSEF, Art, Arts, Board, Centre, City, Civic, Concourse, Council, Creative, Culture, Development, Dundee, Economic, Education, Enterprise, Facebook, Future, Garden, Gardens, Gordon, Gray's, Herald, Innovation, Journal, Lights, Northern, P&J, Paul Harris, Peacock Visual Arts, Press, Professor, Project, PVA, Regional, Robert, School, Scotland, Shire, Sir, Sir Ian Wood, SIW, Square, Terrace, UK, Union, University, UTG, Valerie Watts, Visual
The Reds Remember
Articles, Community, Featured, History, Information No Responses »
Remembrance Day was observed at Pittodrie for the third time since 2009's unveiling of the memorial to Dons players and staff who gave their lives in both World Wars, writes David Innes.
The memorial has a permanent home in the Richard Donald Stand, and as Aberdeen Football Club Heritage Trust Chairman Allan McKimmie declared in his welcome address, the memorial has become a popular and informative attraction for those who take a tour of the Dons' home, and for fans who take a keen interest in the club's history.
Around 100 gathered to pay tribute in a short and respectful ceremony organised by the Trust, with a new memorial unveiled, dedicated to Keith loon and Dons player from 1937-1939, Jack Campbell. Jack went missing, never to be found, in an ill-fated far Eastern air reconnaissance mission in August 1943.
The unveiling was carried out by Duncan Davidson, Chairman of the Club's Former Players' Association. Duncan later laid a wreath from the FPA, and there were other tributes laid by the club, the Trust, the Royal British Legion, Gordon Highlanders and by representatives of other groups who paid dutiful and solemn respect.
WO2 (retired) Birkaji Gurung and several comrades from the Gurkha Rifles who have taken up residence in and around the city attended.
Birkaji read a special Armistice Tribute in his native Nepalese. Birkaji, a staff member at Pittodrie, was very keen to attend the ceremony and pay tribute to the fallen on behalf of the Gurkha Rifles whose commitment, courage and loyalty in conflicts is legendary. The Trust and attendees were delighted and honoured by the Gurkha contribution.
Aberdeen Football Club Heritage Trust is grateful to everyone who supported and attended the ceremony; especially Matt Fyfe of the Royal British Legion, Prestige Scotland, historians Derek Giles and Colin Johnston, and AJ Reid of the SSAFA.
The Trust is also grateful to everyone who donated hard cash to the bucket collection before the match against Rangers recently. Over £700 was raised for Trust activities, the biggest of which remains its aim of raising enough money to kit out to a high standard a museum at the Dons' proposed new Loirston home.
Posted by at 20:56	Tagged with: Aberdeen, Armistice, Association, British, Chairman, Club, Donald, Dons, Football, Gordon, Heritage, Highlanders, Legion, Loirston, Pittodrie, Richard, Rifles, Royal, Scotland, Stand, Tribute, Trust
Gordon Highlanders Statue Unveiled
Aberdeen City, Aberdeenshire, Articles, Community, Featured, Information No Responses »
Saturday 5th October morning was sunny and crisp; a perfect setting for the unveiling and dedication of the Gordon Highlanders commemorative statue by Mark Richards. Story by Suzanne Kelly; photos by Earl Solomon of Hart & Sign.
The guests of honour were those who had served as Gordon Highlanders before the world-renown unit was 'amalgamated' in 1994.
HRH Prince Charles, Duke of Rothesay and last Colonel-in-Chief of the Gordon Highlanders spoke of how he had grown up alongside this regiment, and had been surrounded by its members who formed some of his childhood memories.
"When I was a child in the 1950s my earliest memories were of the Gordon Highlanders; they suffered terribly but found their way to Balmoral" he said, naming a Pipe Major Brown and others.
"It was a proud moment for me when Her Majesty appointed me in 1977 (as Colonel-in-Chief of the Gordon Highlanders)"
"We have done my old regiment a great honour in making sure the Gordon Highlanders' history and memory will be kept alive in Aberdeen."
The Prince also spoke of the suitability of the statue's location, for the old barracks had been located at Castle Hill from 1872 to 1935. He recalled how the unit had marched down Union Street many times. Before he left, the Prince spoke with many of the VIP Gordon Highlanders who were seated in a special enclosure. Prince Charles also took his time speaking to members of the public before he left.
I spoke to a number of the Gordon Highlanders, including C. McIntyre, who had joined in 1980:
"this was a great regiment" he commented.
Major Birnie – a Gordon Highlander for 39 years commented to me on the statue:
"It's marvellous – a great reminder for years to come; as soldiers grow older they are less in number. I am thankful for this statue."
The statue is a figurative bronze showing a standing Gordon Highlander in the older dress uniform, and the second figure is in more modern dress.
A Mrs Reid was there to see if she recognised any of her husband's former colleagues in arms; she thought the statue and dedication was a 'lovely gesture.'
I also spoke with an acquaintance, Sheilagh. She was there with her mother and two nieces. One of the nieces offered that her great- grandfather had been a Gordon Highlander.
He had been shot in the leg in France during World War I.
There was talk of another Gordon Highlander (an uncle) who had seen service in World War II and had been a POW in a Japanese camp. Sheilagh had been inspired by these relatives and had served in the RAF.
Other speakers during the day called the Gordon Highlanders 'the finest regiment in the world' and others spoke of the statue's purpose 'not in praise of war but to respect the Gordon Highlanders for their faith, honour, sacrifice and courage'.
As Earl Solomon who had photographed and videoed the event and I left, he commented as we said goodbye to some of the Gordon Highlanders we had spoken with;
"it's all about them, isn't it",
and Earl was right.
The world's greatest resource on the history of the Regiment is The Gordon Highlanders Museum on Viewfield Road, Aberdeen http://www.gordonhighlanders.com/ which offers a full programme of events, displays, and hosts private regimental dinners (not to be missed).
Posted by at 01:39	Tagged with: Balmoral, Castlegate, Charles, Chief, Colonel, Earl Solomon, Gordon, Highlanders, Museum, Pipe, Prince, Rothsay, Statue, Suzanne Kelly, Uniform, War, World, WWII


Those who have been around long enough to remember say that the first car ever sold on bidorbuy.co.za was an Audi. It was second-hand and it was auctioned off for R140,000 or thereabouts.
That was over a year ago. Since then, there have been no cars sold on bidorbuy. (The brand-new cars auctioned as a part of the July-August bidorbuy radio advertising campaign do not count: we mean cars that sellers put on the site all by themselves.) Not that this had anyone at bidorbuy worried. On the contrary. bidorbuy has been, and still is, somewhat uneasy about the implications and complications connected with the sale of second-hand cars – for they surely would be second-hand – on the site. There is a lot to worry about. The value of the product. The success fee. The shipping costs. And above all else, the impossibility to test-drive the car, to – so to say – kick the tyres.
In spite of all the impediments, this week bidorbuy was practically inundated with car listings. All right, we exaggerate a little, but when you have two cars appear after a year of absolute lull – and on a Crazy Wednesday R1-no-reserve auction too – it feels almost like being inundated.
Still, the "implications and complications" part remains strong enough to make bidorbuy refrain from actively promoting car sales on the site, at least until a comprehensive policy is thoroughly thought out and put together. In the meantime, bidorbuy will concentrate, in its wheels category, on building up the "Classifieds" collection of cars. And with more than 35,000 cars featured, what a collection it already is!


text:
This day in history, April 25
Today is Saturday, April 25, the 116th day of 2020. There are 250 days left in the year.
Today's Highlights in History:
On April 25, 1945, during World War II, U.S. and Soviet forces linked up on the Elbe River, a meeting that dramatized the collapse of Nazi Germany's defenses. Delegates from some 50 countries gathered in San Francisco to organize the United Nations.
On this date:
In 1507, a world map produced by German cartographer Martin Waldseemueller contained the first recorded use of the term "America," in honor of Italian navigator Amerigo Vespucci.
In 1859, ground was broken for the Suez Canal.
In 1874, radio pioneer Guglielmo Marconi was born in Bologna, Italy.
In 1898, the United States Congress declared war on Spain; the 10-week conflict resulted in an American victory.
In 1915, during World War I, Allied soldiers invaded the Gallipoli Peninsula in an unsuccessful attempt to take the Ottoman Empire out of the war.
In 1917, legendary jazz singer Ella Fitzgerald was born in Newport News, Virginia.
In 1959, the St. Lawrence Seaway opened to shipping.
In 1983, 10-year-old Samantha Smith of Manchester, Maine, received a reply from Soviet leader Yuri V. Andropov to a letter she'd written expressing her concerns about nuclear war; Andropov gave assurances that the Soviet Union did not want war, and invited Samantha to visit his country, a trip she made in July.
In 1990, the Hubble Space Telescope was deployed in orbit from the space shuttle Discovery. (It was later discovered that the telescope's primary mirror was flawed, requiring the installation of corrective components to achieve optimal focus.)
In 1992, Islamic forces in Afghanistan took control of most of the capital of Kabul following the collapse of the Communist government.
In 1995, show business legend Ginger Rogers died in Rancho Mirage, California, at age 83.
In 2002, Lisa "Left Eye" Lopes of the Grammy-winning trio TLC died in an SUV crash in Honduras; she was 30.

redpajama_set_name: RedPajamaCommonCrawl


Simple to prepare evening meals are my mainstay, even more so whilst I'm cooking for one. It's good to have some variation though and this simple laksa noodle soup with tofu, red peppers and green cabbage is a filling and delicious addition to my repertoire. It has the added advantage of being vegan, so it makes a perfect dairy free meal.
Pimp up your pasta and have a fabulous weeknight meal that takes no time at all, but feels a little bit special. This seasonal romanesco pasta dish is a taste sensation. It's quick and simple to make and is also suitable for vegans.
There is no doubt about it, Italians are proud of their food heritage and they have every right to be so. With its fresh flavours, vibrant colours and simplicity, Italian cuisine ranks as one of the world's best and is one of my personal favourites. It's had a massive influence on British food. Where would we be without our pizza, spaghetti Bolognese, lasagne, risotto and more recently the panini? But there is far more to it than these familiar dishes.


text:
Fan Engagement is About to Change – For Good
Business - 30 Jan 2020
Creation of IQONIQ digital platform is announced
Nothing in sports and entertainment can be taken for granted.
Whether it be the success of your club, your league or your idol, nothing is for certain. This is especially relevant for the love and dedication that fans give to these industries. Over generations, their level of devotion, through the good and the bad, has been unmatched across industries and across the world.
But even the most die-hard fan needs to feel that their love is replicated. That their support is mutual, and their appreciation prioritised over other goals.
Now, fan engagement is about to be taken to another level.
By offering an all-in-one digital solution for leagues, clubs and idols, the IQONIQ platform is about to change the game. In an increasingly cluttered market, where fans need to scour multiple platforms to find the information they want, IQONIQ offers fans clearer and deeper opportunities to engage with those they support, with exclusive, unique benefits to fans and rights-holders alike.
Having already established partnerships with world-leading sports leagues and clubs across Europe, IQONIQ will give fans unique access to their idols and make them feel appreciated and valued, ensuring that their fandom of today becomes the fandom of tomorrow.
Reflecting on the birth of the IQONIQ platform, CEO Kazim Atilla said, "Today is an exciting day for the sports and entertainment industry because we are announcing the creation of a platform that is bringing leagues, clubs, sports icons and fans together like never before. IQONIQ is an innovative all-in-one solution for fans and rights-holders, who can interact and engage with each other on one platform. Fans will be able to check posts, live scores, get news, buy tickets, play games to win prizes, acquire merchandise and much more, while also earning loyalty and bonus points on our platform. Meanwhile, sports and entertainment rights-holders will be able to increase their engagement and interaction with their supporters in a new and unique way. We look forward to announcing some strategic high profile partnerships in the coming weeks, culminating in the launch of the online platform next month."
With ever-changing developments in technology and society, fan support can no longer be taken for granted. With IQONIQ, fan engagement is soon to change for good. Are you ready to change with it?
For media inquiries please contact: cameron.angus@bcw-global.com
About IQONIQ: IQONIQ is a new social media and fan engagement platform exclusively targeting the Sport and Entertainment world. Under its slogan of Become One, the IQONIQ platform is the very first all-in-one ecosystem that integrates each partner – be it league, club or idol – into a single interface, offering new, unique opportunities for rights-holders and personalised, demand-driven experiences for fans. The IQONIQ Group is incorporated and headquartered in Monaco. More information is available on https://iqoniq.com/.


Check out this short Zwift video. How to change your jersey, bike, helmet, socks, hair, gloves and skin. It's easy in the Customize Menu from inside Zwift. Check it out as I adjust my player in Zwift.
You receive new items when you level up, hit achievement goals, finish events, or even hack the config files (from what I've been told).
After getting logged in to Zwift I show you how I select a route and get started. Then we go a full lap of the Volcano Circuit in Watopia. I check in a couple times from the route and finish at 10 Laps. Then we get to see the app in action as I scroll through my results and save them to Strava. Finally we get to check out my Specialized Camber Comp set in my Wahoo Kickr Core as I swap out my Selle SMP Drakon seat for the boys' Specialized Henge. Good stuff.
Got on the treadmill this morning with Zwift Running and Stryd footpod to work on this week (#5 of 8) of the Cyclist to 10k Training Program in running. I spend quite a bit of time showing the Zwift App on the iPad and Companion App on Droid working together. Then I show how to sync the Stryd Footpod with the Styd Droid App. Finally we put the Stryd footpod in the charger for the day.
Want More? Check out http://www.sevensummitsbody.com/ and https://elbrusraceteam.blogspot.com/ today!
I hadn't been cycling very much in the past couple weeks, working hard to rehab my knee and protect it so I can at least run and ski with my daughter. This was my first ride over 13 miles in a bit, and I somehow managed to cut loose and test my maximum wattage, earning the coveted 600 Watts Plus achievement. I was toast after this one, for sure.
I got my Stryd Footpod today and took a moment to open it all up, charge it some, then pair it to the Stryd App on my droid.
Sorry about the sound sync – this was shot on an old PC webcam and the video and audio were way off.


The Saturday part of the World Cup's matches will open up at Kazan Arena. Here two teams from the group C will meet each other. The Euro-2016 runners-up France welcomes Australia. Will the hosts win with a substantial advantage?
Four year ago in Brazil les Bleus stopped at the quarterfinal round. Then Frenchmen became the Euro-2016 vice-champions. France have so far met all expectations, and finished top of WC qualifying Group A, ahead of Sweden and the Netherlands. The leader earned twenty-three points after ten games. Its overall statistics consisted of seven wins, two draws and a loss, 18 goals for and 6 goals against. After three straight friendly wins against Russia (3-1), Ireland (2-0) and Italy (3-1), Didier Deschamps' side come into this one on the back of a surprising 1-1 draw against USA at the Stade de France.
Australia will take part in its fourth World Cup in a row. It played more qualifying games than any other team at Russia 2018. Australian national team possessed the third place in its Asian qualifying group B and earned nineteen points as well as Saudi Arabia. The rival had a better goal difference and been advanced to Russia. It took them 22 matches to make it to the world's biggest football event, including two playoff ties. In the second of these, a 3-1 victory over Honduras in Sydney won the Socceroos their ticket to Russia.
The Tricolors are evident favorites of this fixture. We expect they will dominate in the Group C from the very beginning. We believe the home side with its brilliant offensive line will destroy the Socceroos. We predict France's victory with an Asian handicap of (-1,5) and call to bet on this with a good coefficient of 1.85.
On this page you will find the prediction for the FOOTBALL match of France vs Australia of the World Cup, International. In this personally prepared preview we use h2h stories, over/under stats, France - Australia match facts and team news. For more accurate analysis we use any additional information like injuries, suspensions or weather forecasts. On BetFAQ.com website we provide information for helping you make your own decision regarding a bet on this event. Odds for the France - Australia match prediction are relevant at the time of publication.


text:
import argparse
import sys

def parse(argv=None, stdin=sys.stdin):
    if argv is None:
        argv = sys.argv[1:]

    argv, original_argv, parallelized_arguments = [], iter(argv), []
    for arg in original_argv:
        if arg == ":::":
            parallelized_arguments.extend(original_argv)
        else:
            argv.append(arg)

    if not parallelized_arguments:
        parallelized_arguments = (line[:-1] for line in stdin)

    return dict(
        vars(parser.parse_args(argv)), arguments=parallelized_arguments,
    )

parser = argparse.ArgumentParser()
parser.add_argument("command", nargs=argparse.REMAINDER)

redpajama_set_name: RedPajamaGithub


text:
De novo acute megakaryoblastic leukemia with p210 BCR/ABL and t(1;16) translocation but not t(9;22) Ph chromosome
Xiao Min1,
Zhang Na1,
Liu Yanan1 &
Li Chunrui1
Acute megakaryoblastic leukemia (AMKL) is a type of acute myeloid leukemia (AML), in which majority of the blasts are megakaryoblastic. De novo AMKL in adulthood is rare, and carries very poor prognosis. We here report a 45-year-old woman with de novo AMKL with BCR/ABL rearrangement and der(16)t(1;16)(q21;q23) translocation but negative for t(9;22) Ph chromosome. Upon induction chemotherapy consisting of homoharringtonine, cytarabine and daunorubicin, the patient achieved partial hematological remission. The patient was then switched to imatinib plus one cycle of CAG regimen (low-dose cytarabine and aclarubicin in combination with granulocyte colony-stimulating factor), and achieved complete remission (CR). The disease recurred after 40 days and the patient eventually died of infection. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first report of de novo AMKL with p210 BCR/ABL and der(16)t(1;16)(q21;q23) translocation but not t(9;22) Ph chromosome.
Acute megakaryoblastic leukemia (AMKL), also known as M7 under the French-American-British (FAB) classification, represents < 5% of acute myeloid leukemia (AML) [1–3]. In adults, AMKL constitutes only 0.5% - 1% of de novo AML cases [4]. Ph chromosome is a rare cytogenetic abnormality (≈ 1%) in AML [5, 6]. The incidence of t(9;22) in AMKL varies considerably in the literature: from < 20% to > 60%, possibly due to inconsistency in the inclusion/exclusion of blastic phase of chronic myeloid leukemia (CML)[7–9].
Here, we report a case of 45-year-old woman with de novo AMKL. Multiple reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) and Fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH) data indicating a BCR/ABL rearrangement, cytogenetics for der(16)t(1;16)(q21;q23) but not t(9;22) Ph chromosome. Upon induction chemotherapy consisting of homoharringtonine, cytarabine and daunorubicin, the patient achieved partial hematological remission. The patient then received imatinib plus one cycle of CAG regimen (low-dose cytarabine and aclarubicin in combination with granulocyte colony-stimulating factor) [10], and achieved complete remission (CR). The disease recurred after 40 days and the patient eventually died of infection. The case diagnosis and management process, including the therapies, are summarized in Table 1.
Table 1 The clinical course of the patient
A 45-year-old woman was hospitalized on May 16th, 2008 with two weeks of fatigue, dizziness and low fever. The body temperature was 37.9°C. On auscultation, a II/VI systolic murmur was noticed over the apical region. The liver was palpable at 2 cm below the ribcage. The spleen was palpable at 2 cm below the left costal margin. Abdominal ultrasound confirmed slight hepatosplenomegaly. The patient had no history of toxic substance exposure. Family history was non-remarkable.
Blood tests revealed a hemoglobin concentration of 63 g/L, a hematocrit of 23%, a platelet count of 138 × 109/L. White blood cell count was 24 × 109/L, with 54% megakaryoblasts, 17% promegakaryocytes, 10% myelocytes, 8% band forms, 7% neutrophils, 3% lymphocytes, and 1% monocytes. Plasma D-dimer and lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) were normal. A bone marrow smear showed 67.2% megakaryoblasts and 20.4% promegakaryocytes. The megakaryoblasts were medium to large-size with round, slightly irregular nuclei and one to three nucleoli (Figure 1a). The cytoplasm of promegakaryocytes was basophilic and might show distinct pseudopod formation (Figure 1b). Immunohistochemistry staining (Leukocyte Phenotyping Kit, Sun BioTech, China) of these cells revealed a total of 55% positivity for CD41 (Figure 1c) and 60% positivity for CD42b (Figure 1d), while CD13, CD14, CD68, MPO, HLA-DR, CD10, CD19, CD3, CD5, and CD7 were all negative A bone marrow biopsy indicated acute leukemia with myelofibrosis (Figure 1e &1f).
Diagnosis of acute megakaryoblastic leukemia. a. Bone marrow smear revealed many medium to large-size megakaryoblasts. The yellow arrow indicates megakaryoblasts (1000 ×). b. Bone marrow smear revealed many large-size promegakaryocytes. The cytoplasm of promegakaryocytes shows distinct pseudopod formation (1000 ×). The red arrow indicates the promegakaryocytes. c, d. Immunohistochemistry staining of CD41 (c) and CD42b (d) of bone marrow smears (1000 ×). The positivity was shown by the red precipitates in plasma or membrane. e. Bone marrow biopsy showing diffuse bone marrow infiltration of medium-size megakaryoblasts (1000 ×). The blue arrow indicates the megakaryoblasts. f. Bone marrow biopsy showing myelofibrosis (100 ×). The white arrow indicates myelofibrosis.
Cytogenetic analysis of trypsin R-banded chromosome preparations revealed 46, XX, der(16)t(1;16)(q21;q23)[8]/46,XX [12] (Figure 2). To identify fusion genes, multiplex reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) was performed with 1~8 parallel nested (2-round) multiplex reactions in a thermocycler (Perkin-Elmer) to achieve maximal sensitivity, as described in a previous study [11]. The E2A mRNA was used as the internal positive control. The groups containing possible fusion genes were further characterized using split-out PCR to identify the fusion pattern as described previously [11]. The results suggested the presence of fusion among the following genes: BCR, ABL and TEL (Figure 3a). A split-out PCR analysis was performed using the individual primer sets BCR/ABL e1a2, BCR/ABL b2a2 or b3a2, TEL/ABL. The results revealed fused BCR/ABL b2a2 mRNA expression (Figure 3b). FISH analysis on interphase cells revealed an atypical signal pattern consisting of one green signal, two orange signals, and one orange/green (yellow) fusion signal in approximately 30% of the cells (Figure 3c).
Representative karyogram of bone marrow cell showing the 46,XX,der(16)t(1;16)(q21;q23).
Detection of fusion genes. a. Multiplex reverse transcription-PCR analysis showed that the cells of this patient were positive for a translocation in multiplex reaction 6 (The arrow). Internal positive control: E2A (690 bp). The primer sets used in multiplex reverse transcription-PCR were chosen as described previously [11] to detect the following fusion genes: 1. CBFβ/MYH11/MLL/AFX1/AF6/ELL/E2A; 2. MLL/AF1P/AF17/AF10/E2A; 3. PBX1/SIL/TAL1/HLF/TEL/AML1A/E2A; 4. AML1A/AMLMDS EVI/HOX11/ETO/TLS/ERG/E2A; 5. MLL/AF4/AF9/AF1Q/ENL/E2A; 6. BCR/ABL/TEL/E2A; 7. DEK/CAN/SET/AMLMDSEVI /E2A; 8. PLZF/PML3/RARα/NPM/NPMALK /MLF1/E2A; b. The split-out PCR analysis revealed a BCR/ABL b2a2 fusion gene expression using primer sets for 1. BCR/ABL e1a2 (320 bp); 2. BCR/ABL b2a2 (472 bp) and BCR/ABL b3a2 (397 bp); 3. TEL/ABL (366 bp); c. Fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH) using a Vysis LSI BCR/ABL Dual Color, Dual Fusion Translocation Probe (Vysis, Downers Grove, IL, USA) on an interphase cell. Orange signal is ABL gene on chromosome 9 and green signal is BCR gene on chromosome 22. The ABL orange signals occurred on both chromosomes 9 and on der(9)ins(22;9) and one BCR green signal on chromosomes 22 and one yellow fusion signal on der(22)ins(22;9). The arrow indicates the fusion signal.
On the basis of the above reported clinical and biological features, a diagnosis of de novo acute AMKL. The patient received induction had regimen consisting of: homoharringtonine (2 mg/m2/day on day 1 - 7), cytarabine (100 mg/m2/day on day 1 - 7) and daunorubicin (45 mg/m2/day on day 1 - 3). A bone marrow smear at one month later showed no improvement. A partial remission was achieved after the induction treatment was repeated. The patient then received imatinib (600 mg/d, p.o.) and one cycle of CAG regimen (cytarabine 30 mg/day for 14 days, aclarubicin 10 mg/day on days 1 - 8, and granulocyte colony-stimulating factor 300 μg/day on days 1 - 14). Imatinib was discontinued after 2 weeks due to severe bone marrow suppression. Plasma LDH and liver enzymes remained within the normal range during the treatment. A complete hematological response was achieved upon evaluation at 50 days after initiating imatinib treatment, and the patient was discharged. She was hospitalized for high fever and dyspnea after 40 days. Hemoglobin was 90 g/L. White blood cell count was 19 × 109/L, with 21% blast cells. Relapse was established with bone marrow smear. The patient was treated with cytarabine (2 g/m2/day on days 1 - 3) and daunorubicin (45 mg/m2/day on days 1 - 3), with no apparent improvement. She died of fungal infection after 27 days.
Although the first AMKL was described as early as 1931, reports have been sporadic because of both the rarity of the disease and the lack of well-established diagnostic criteria. In fact, precise diagnostic criteria were added to the French-American-British classification only in 1985 (FAB M7) [1]. The bone marrow aspirate shows a leukemic cell infiltrate that comprises 30% or more of all cells. These cells are identified as being of megakaryocyte lineage by platelet peroxidase reaction on electron microscopy or by tests with monoclonal or polyclonal platelet-specific antibodies (CD41a, CD42 or CD61). Myelofibrosis or increased bone marrow reticulin are a prominent aspect in most AMKL patients. In some cases, megakaryoblastic crisis could be the first presentation of CML, and not distinguishable from de novo AMKL [12–16]. This case represents de novo AMKL in our opinion, because the patient had no basophilia and eosinophilia upon presentation, which are often seen in blast crisis of CML [17]. Basophilia, a frequent feature of blast crisis, is uncommon in acute leukemias [18]. Furthermore, our patient had only mild splenomegaly. Moderate or severe splenomegaly is common in blast crisis of CML [13, 16].
AMKL is associated with no specific cytogenetic abnormality, and the majority of cases present with a complex karyotype. In a recent study by Le Groupe Francais de Cytogenetique Hematologique (GFCH), complex karyotypes of unbalanced changes, such as -5/del5q or -7/del(7q), 3q21q26, dic(1;15)(p11;p11), inv(4)(p15q11), t(14;21)(q24;q22), der(7)t(7;17)(q11;q11) and t(6;13)(p22;q14), were common in adult de novo AMKL [8]. In addition, the t(X;16) translocation has also been reported in 2 adult de novo AMKL cases [8]. One translocation was 46,XY,t(16;21)(p11;q22), another was t(16;16)(p13;q22). The present case serves to identify a novel translocation der(16)t(1;16)(q21;q23), providing further insight into the heterogeneity of genomic rearrangement in this subset of AML.
Data concerning the incidence of the Ph chromosome or BCR/ABL rearrangement in de novo AMKL are scarce. The Ph chromosome is one of the most common chromosomal abnormalities associated with adult AMKL according the report of the GFCH [8]. For example, Ph chromosome was found in four out of a total of 23 AMKL cases (17%) [8]. In fact, only two cases were de novo AMKL (9%). In an early study of 14 AMKL patients with cytogenetic data, Ph chromosome was found in two cases of megakaryoblastic transformation of chronic myelogenous leukemia, but not in de novo AMKL [7]. Ohyashiki et al. reported three cases with AMKL, but none had Ph chromosome [9].
Reports of Ph chromosome or BCR/ABL rearrangement are summarized in Table 2. Cases were heterogeneous and the survival was from 1.9 to 96 months. The case reported by Kaloutsi et al. [20] was a 24-year-old male with de novo AMKL. Interestingly, cytogenetics revealed a t(10;22), which by FISH, was found to be a variant Philadelphia translocation involving chromosome 10q. The FISH result in our case revealed an atypical signal pattern: one yellow fusion signal with one green and two orange signals (Figure 3c). This result confirmed that the detected variant translocation involved fragments of two chromosomes: 9 and 22. The ABL orange signals occurred on both chromosomes 9 and on der(9)ins(22;9) and one BCR green signal on chromosomes 22 and one yellow fusion signal on der(22)ins(22;9).
Table 2 Literature review of Ph chromosome or BCR/ABL rearrangement in de novo acute megakaryoblastic leukemia
To the best of our knowledge, this is the first report of de novo AMKL with rare variant of Philadelphia rearrangement and a novel translocation der(16)t(1;16)(q21;q23). Our case and the case reported by Kaloutsi et al. [20] suggested that the FISH should be considered for detection of variant Philadelphia rearrangement in de novo AMKL patients.
Written informed consent was obtained from the husband of the patient for publication of this case report and any accompanying images. A copy of the written consent is available for review by the Editor-in-Chief of this journal.
Bennett JM, Catovsky D, Daniel MT, Flandrin G, Galton DA, Gralnick HR, Sultan C: Criteria for the diagnosis of acute leukemia of megakaryocyte lineage (M7). A report of the French-American-British Cooperative Group. Ann Intern Med. 1985, 103: 460-462.
San Miguel JF, Gonzalez M, Cañizo MC, Ojeda E, Orfao A, Caballero MD, Moro MJ, Fisac P, Lopez Borrasca A: Leukemias with megakaryoblastic involvement: clinical, hematologic, and immunologic characteristics. Blood. 1988, 72: 402-407.
Tallman MS, Neuberg D, Bennett JM, Francois CJ, Paietta E, Wiernik PH, Dewald G, Cassileth PA, Oken MM, Rowe JM: Acute megakaryocytic leukemia: the Eastern Cooperative Oncology Group experience. Blood. 2000, 96: 2405-2411.
Castoldi GL, Liso V, Fenu S, Vegna ML, Mandelli F: Reproducibility of the morphological diagnostic criteria for acute myeloid leukemia: the GIMEMA group experience. Ann Hematol. 1993, 66: 171-174. 10.1007/BF01703231.
Cuneo A, Ferrant A, Michaux JL, Demuynck H, Boogaerts M, Louwagie A, Doyen C, Stul M, Cassiman JJ, Dal Cin P, Castoldi G, Van den Berghe H: Philadelphia chromosome-positive acute myeloid leukemia: cytoimmunologic and cytogenetic features. Haematologica. 1996, 81: 423-427.
Buchdunger E, Cioffi CL, Law N, Stover D, Ohno-Jones S, Druker BJ, Lydon NB: Abl protein-tyrosine kinase inhibitor STI571 inhibits in vitro signal transduction mediated by c-kit and platelet-derived growth factor receptors. J Pharmacol Exp Ther. 2000, 295: 139-145.
Cuneo A, Mecucci C, Kerim S, Vandenberghe E, Dal Cin P, Van Orshoven A, Rodhain J, Bosly A, Michaux JL, Martiat P: Multipotent stem cell involvement in megakaryoblastic leukemia: cytologic and cytogenetic evidence in 15 patients. Blood. 1989, 74: 1781-1790.
Dastugue N, Lafage-Pochitaloff M, Pagès MP, Radford I, Bastard C, Talmant P, Mozziconacci MJ, Léonard C, Bilhou-Nabéra C, Cabrol C, Capodano AM, Cornillet-Lefebvre P, Lessard M, Mugneret F, Pérot C, Taviaux S, Fenneteaux O, Duchayne E, Berger R, Groupe Français d'Hematologie Cellulaire: Cytogenetic profile of childhood and adult megakaryoblastic leukemia (M7): a study of the Groupe Français de Cytogénétique Hématologique (GFCH). Blood. 2002, 100: 618-626. 10.1182/blood-2001-12-0241.
Ohyashiki K, Ohyashiki JH, Hojo H, Ohtaka M, Toyama K, Sugita K, Nakazawa S, Sugiura K, Nakazawa K, Nagasawa T, Enomoto Y, Watanabe Y: Cytogenetic findings in adult acute leukemia and myeloproliferative disorders with an involvement of megakaryocyte lineage. Cancer. 1990, 65: 940-948. 10.1002/1097-0142(19900215)65:4<940::AID-CNCR2820650420>3.0.CO;2-W.
Saito K, Nakamura Y, Aoyagi M, Waga K, Yamamoto K, Aoyagi A, Inoue F, Nakamura Y, Arai Y, Tadokoro J, Handa T, Tsurumi S, Arai H, Kawagoe Y, Gunnji H, Kitsukawa Y, Takahashi W, Furusawa S: Low-dose cytarabine and aclarubicin in combination with granulocyte colony-stimulating factor (CAG regimen) for previously treated patients with relapsed or primary resistant acute myelogenous leukemia (AML) and previously untreated elderly patients with AML, secondary AML, and refractory anemia with excess blasts in transformation. Int J Hematol. 2000, 71: 238-244.
Pallisgaard N, Hokland P, Riishøj DC, Pedersen B, Jørgensen P: Multiplex reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction for simultaneous screening of 29 translocations and chromosomal aberrations in acute leukemia. Blood. 1998, 92: 574-588.
Campiotti L, Grandi AM, Biotti MG, Ultori C, Solbiati F, Codari R, Venco A: Megakaryocytic blast crisis as first presentation of chronic myeloid leukemia. Am J Hematol. 2007, 82: 231-233. 10.1002/ajh.20797.
Pelloso LA, Baiocchi OC, Chauffaille ML, Yamamoto M, Hungria VT, Bordin JO: Megakaryocytic blast crisis as a first presentation of chronic myeloid leukemia. Eur J Haematol. 2002, 69: 58-61. 10.1034/j.1600-0609.2002.01638.x.
Al-Shehri A, Al-Seraihy A, Owaidah TM, Belgaumi AF: Megakaryocytic blast crisis at presentation in a pediatric patient with chronic myeloid leukemia. Hematol Oncol Stem Cell Ther. 2010, 3: 42-46.
Pullarkat ST, Vardiman JW, Slovak ML, Rao DS, Rao NP, Bedell V, Said JW: Megakaryocytic blast crisis as a presenting manifestation of chronic myeloid leukemia. Leuk Res. 2008, 32: 1770-1775. 10.1016/j.leukres.2008.02.025.
Bryant BJ, Alperin JB, Elghetany MT: Paraplegia as the presenting manifestation of extramedullary megakaryoblastic transformation of previously undiagnosed chronic myelogenous leukemia. Am J Hematol. 2007, 82: 150-154. 10.1002/ajh.20777.
Vardiman JW, Harris NL, Brunning RD: The World Health Organization (WHO) classification of the myeloid neoplasms. Blood. 2002, 100: 2292-2302. 10.1182/blood-2002-04-1199.
Peterson LC, Bloomfield CD, Brunning RD: Blast crisis as an initial or terminal manifestation of chronic myeloid leukemia. A study of 28 patients. Am J Med. 1976, 60: 209-220. 10.1016/0002-9343(76)90430-7.
Balatzenko G, Guenova M, Zechev J, Toshkov S: Acute megakaryoblastic leukaemia with extreme thrombocytosis and p190 (bcr/abl) rearrangement. Ann Hematol. 2004, 83: 381-385. 10.1007/s00277-003-0783-1.
Kaloutsi V, Hadjileontis C, Tsatalas C, Sambani C, Kostopoulos I, Papadimitriou C: Occurrence of a variant Philadelphia translocation, t(10;22), in de novo acute megakaryoblastic leukemia. Cancer Genet Cytogenet. 2004, 152: 52-55. 10.1016/j.cancergencyto.2003.08.022.
Corm S, Renneville A, Rad-Quesnel E, Grardel N, Preudhomme C, Quesnel B: Successful treatment of imatinib-resistant acute megakaryoblastic leukemia with e6a2 BCR/ABL: use of dasatinib and reduced-conditioning stem-cell transplantation. Leukemia. 2007, 21: 2376-2377. 10.1038/sj.leu.2404792.
Ahmad F, Dalvi R, Das BR, Mandava S: Novel t(8;17)(q23;q24.2) and t(9;22)(p24.1;q12.2) in acute megakaryoblastic leukemia AML-M7 subtype in an adult patient. Cancer Genet Cytogenet. 2009, 193: 112-115. 10.1016/j.cancergencyto.2009.04.018.
This work was supported in part by the Nature Science Foundation Committee (#30800402).
Department of Hematology, Tongji Hospital of Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, 1095 Jie-Fang Avenue, Wuhan, Hubei, 430030, PR China
Xiao Min, Zhang Na, Liu Yanan & Li Chunrui
Xiao Min
Liu Yanan
Li Chunrui
Correspondence to Li Chunrui.
XM was responsible for data acquisition and analyses, as well as data interpretation. ZN participated in manuscript preparation and contributed significantly to the concept development. LYN participated in patient management, and also contributed to data interpretation. LCR was responsible of patient management and conceived the study. All authors read and approved the final manuscript.
Min, X., Na, Z., Yanan, L. et al. De novo acute megakaryoblastic leukemia with p210 BCR/ABL and t(1;16) translocation but not t(9;22) Ph chromosome. J Hematol Oncol 4, 45 (2011). https://doi.org/10.1186/1756-8722-4-45
Acute megakaryocytic leukemia
p210 BCR/ABL


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text:
Q: Unusual Scheme `let` binding, what is `f`? In "The Scheme Programming Language 4th Edition" section 3.3 Continuations the following example is given:
(define product
  (lambda (ls)
    (call/cc
      (lambda (break)
        (let f ([ls ls])
          (cond
            [(null? ls) 1]
            [(= (car ls) 0) (break 0)]
            [else (* (car ls) (f (cdr ls)))]))))))

I can confirm it works in chezscheme as written:
> (product '(1 2 3 4 5))
120

What is 'f' in the above let? Why is the given ls being assigned to itself? It doesn't seem to match what I understand about (let ...) as described in 4.4 local binding:
syntax: (let ((var expr) ...) body1 body2 ...)

If 'f' is being defined here I would expect it inside parenthesis/square brackets:
(let ([f some-value]) ...)

A: This is 'named let', and it's a syntactic convenience.
(let f ([x y] ...)
  ...
  (f ...)
  ...)

is more-or-less equivalent to
(letrec ([f (λ (x ...)
              ...
              (f ...)
              ...)])
  (f y ...))

or, in suitable contexts, to a local define followed by a call:
(define (outer ...)
  (let inner ([x y] ...)
    ...
    (inner ...)
    ...))

is more-or-less equivalent to
(define (outer ...)
  (define (inner x ...)
    ...
    (inner ...)
    ...)
  (inner y ...))

The nice thing about named let is that it puts the definition and the initial call of the local function in the same place.
Cavemen like me who use CL sometimes use macros like binding, below, to implement this (note this is not production code: all its error messages are obscure jokes):
(defmacro binding (name/bindings &body bindings/decls/forms)
  ;; let / named let
  (typecase name/bindings
    (list
     `(let ,name/bindings ,@bindings/decls/forms))
    (symbol
     (unless (not (null bindings/decls/forms))
       (error "a syntax"))
     (destructuring-bind (bindings . decls/forms) bindings/decls/forms
       (unless (listp bindings)
         (error "another syntax"))
       (unless (listp decls/forms)
         (error "yet another syntax"))
       (multiple-value-bind (args inits)
           (loop for binding in bindings
                 do (unless (and (listp binding)
                                 (= (length binding) 2)
                                 (symbolp (first binding)))
                      (error "a more subtle syntax"))
                 collect (first binding) into args
                 collect (second binding) into inits
                 finally (return (values args inits)))
         `(labels ((,name/bindings ,args
                     ,@decls/forms))
            (,name/bindings ,@inits)))))
    (t
     (error "yet a different syntax"))))

A: f is bound to a procedure that has the body of let as a body and ls as a parameter.
http://www.r6rs.org/final/html/r6rs/r6rs-Z-H-14.html#node_sec_11.16

A: Think of this procedure:
(define (sum lst)
  (define (helper lst acc)
    (if (null? lst)
        acc
        (helper (cdr lst)
                (+ (car lst) acc))))
  (helper lst 0))

(sum '(1 2 3)) ; ==> 6

We can use named let instead of defining a local procedure and then use it like this:
(define (sum lst-arg)
  (let helper ((lst lst-arg) (acc 0))
    (if (null? lst)
        acc
        (helper (cdr lst)
                (+ (car lst) acc)))))

Those are the exact same code with the exception of some duplicate naming situations. lst-arg can have the same name lst and it is never the same as lst inside the let.
Named let is easy to grasp. call/ccusually takes some maturing. I didn't get  call/cc before I started creating my own implementations.

redpajama_set_name: RedPajamaStackExchange


text:
Miami Marlins rumors: Aroldis Chapman, Kenley Jansen could be free agent targets
Miami might consider upgrading the back of its bullpen.
By Scott Gelman Oct 31, 2016, 12:01pm EDT
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If the Marlins make a major free agent signing this winter, the club could consider Aroldis Chapman or Kenley Jansen, according to MLB.com's Joe Frisaro.
"If a free agent makes sense, you could see a signing. But I feel their big-splash free-agent push may be for a closer like Aroldis Chapmanor Kenley Jansen. I also anticipate some trades."
Though Miami's emphasis almost certainly will be on upgrading the starting rotation, improving the bullpen could be next on the list. The Marlins had one of the National League's better units last season and might be taking notes with regard to how Cleveland has used Andrew Miller.
Last spring, the Marlins were prepared to have Carter Capps and A.J. Ramos compete for the closing job. However, once Capps went down for the season, Ramos was tasked with pitching the ninth. He fared well and was named an All-Star as a result, but Ramos might best be suited for the eighth inning. Now with Capps having been traded to San Diego, adding another arm could make sense for the Marlins.
Because the Marlins have been linked to Chapman in the past, any interest wouldn't be surprising. He's had another dominant season with both the Yankees and Cubs, pitching to a 1.55 ERA and 1.42 FIP over 58.0 innings.
It's unlikely the Marlins would consider using Chapman as a starter, though since the club is in need of pitching depth, they could consider the possibility. Adding Chapman would be notably expensive, because he is already making more than $11 million this season.
Jansen, too, is another expensive closing option. But he also thrived this season, pitching to a 1.83 ERA and 1.44 FIP over 68.2 innings with the Dodgers.
While the Marlins might not be the favorite to land either Chapman or Jansen, they could remain in the mix. Adding another reliever would push Kyle Barraclough to a seventh inning role and Ramos to the eighth.
Miami attempted such a sequence after acquiring Fernando Rodney, but Rodney struggled in the eighth inning.


text:
Golden Mean Meaning & Sentence
Golden Mean Meaning
Golden Mean Sentence Examples
Neither to much nor to little
The CEO always strived for the golden mean in her business decisions.
The artist found the perfect balance in his work by adhering to the golden mean.
In relationships, it's important to find the golden mean between independence and dependency.
The politician's speeches always struck a golden mean between conservative and liberal views.
The chef's dishes always had the perfect balance of flavors, thanks to his adherence to the golden mean.
The architect's design for the building achieved the golden mean between functionality and aesthetics.
The teacher's lesson plans always aimed to strike a golden mean between challenge and support for her students.
The designer's fashion collection was praised for its ability to strike the golden mean between trendiness and timelessness.
The musician's compositions were known for their ability to strike the golden mean between complexity and accessibility.
The philosopher believed that the golden mean was the key to living a virtuous life.
The writer's novels were praised for their ability to strike the golden mean between entertainment and intellectual stimulation.
The photographer's images were known for their ability to strike the golden mean between reality and artistry.
The scientist's research always aimed to strike a golden mean between caution and boldness.
The lawyer's argument in court was praised for its ability to strike the golden mean between persuasion and logic.
The golfer's swing was admired for its ability to strike the golden mean between power and precision.
The doctor's treatment plans always aimed to strike a golden mean between aggressive and conservative approaches.
The engineer's designs were known for their ability to strike the golden mean between efficiency and safety.
The therapist's approach was praised for its ability to strike the golden mean between support and challenge for her patients.
The coach's training methods always aimed to strike a golden mean between intensity and recovery.
The project manager's team always aimed to strike a golden mean between speed and quality in their work.
The financial advisor's investment strategies were known for their ability to strike the golden mean between risk and return.
The teacher's grading system was praised for its ability to strike the golden mean between fairness and rigor.
The politician's policy proposals were known for their ability to strike the golden mean between compassion and practicality.
The artist's use of color was admired for its ability to strike the golden mean between boldness and subtlety.
The chef's use of spices was known for its ability to strike the golden mean between boldness and subtlety.
The architect's use of lighting was admired for its ability to strike the golden mean between functionality and atmosphere.
The writer's use of imagery was praised for its ability to strike the golden mean between simplicity and complexity.
The photographer's use of composition was known for its ability to strike the golden mean between symmetry and asymmetry.
The scientist's use of methodology was praised for its ability to strike the golden mean between thoroughness and efficiency.
The lawyer's use of evidence was known for its ability to strike the golden mean between comprehensiveness and relevance.
The golfer's use of club selection was admired for its ability to strike the golden mean between conservatism and aggressiveness.
The doctor's use of medication was known for its ability to strike the golden mean between effectiveness and safety.
The engineer's use of materials was admired for its ability to strike the golden mean between strength and cost-effectiveness.
At One's Best Meaning & Sentence
After a Fashion Meaning & Sentence
At Daggers Drawn With Meaning & Sentence
At Once Meaning & Sentence
By Fair Means or Foul Meaning & Sentence
Capital Punishment Meaning & Sentence
Dark Horse Meaning & Sentence
From Door to Door Meaning & Sentence
Gift of the Gab Meaning & Sentence
Good Samaritan Meaning & Sentence


text:
Q: Round robin scheduler using a linked list I'm trying to write a very simple OS simulator and I am stuck getting my round robin algorithm to work. Basically what i am trying to do is create a circular linked list that stores the burst values of the process. Right now I am getting a null pointer exception. It has been awhile since I've used a linked list so bear with my code:
public static void RR3(int numProcess, int[] cpuBurst, int[] arrivalTime){
    int quantum = 3,time = 0, temp;
    int completionTime = 0;
    LinkedList <Integer>process = new LinkedList();
    for (int i = 0; i < numProcess; i++) {
        process.add(i, cpuBurst[i]);
    }

    while (process.isEmpty() != true){

        for (int j  = 0; j < quantum; j++) {
            System.out.println(process.getFirst());
            if(process.peek() == 0 ){
                completionTime = completionTime + time;
                process.remove();
            }
            else{
                temp = process.pop();
                process.push(temp - 1);
                time++;
            }
        }
        process.addLast(process.getFirst());
        process.removeFirst();
    }

    double act = (double) completionTime/numProcess;
    System.out.println("-----------------RR3-----------------");
    System.out.println("             Act = " + act + "ms");
}

Am I using linked list right? Any help is appreciated.
edit:
I put in System.out.println(process.getFirst()); after the first for loop to get some sort of stack trace and this is my output:

6
  5
  4
  4
  3
  2
  10
  9
  8
  7
  6
  5
  3
  2
  1
  7
  6
  5
  Exception in thread "main" java.util.NoSuchElementException
  4
  3
  2
  1
  4
  3
  1
      at java.util.LinkedList.getFirst(LinkedList.java:242)
  2
  1
      at OsSimulator.RR3(OsSimulator.java:61)
      at OsSimulator.main(OsSimulator.java:79)
  Java Result: 1

my burst time i entered were 6,4,10,7 so it looks like it is on the right track but i get the error with this line
process.addLast(process.getFirst());

and now its a no such element exception.

A: It means what it says.  There is no first element, so the process list is empty.
This must be occurring because processing the quanta in the j loop has made the list empty.
If you add trace code to print out the whole list during each iteration rather than just the first element, it will become pretty obvious what's happening.
Debugging is always about making yourself see what is really going on instead of guessing at an opaque puzzle.  The main tool you have to visualize what's really going on (when your brain fails you) is the machine itself.   Add trace code or become expert with a debugger.  The discipline is to force yourself to see truth.

A: I don't have access to eclipse to check this at the moment, but are you sure you aren't trying to call process.getFirst() after the last element is removed from the list inside of the for loop?
I would suggest putting a breakpoint before that line and then running the code in debug mode to verify.

A: Before calling process.getFirst() make sure List is not empty
public static void RR3(int numProcess, int[] cpuBurst, int[] arrivalTime) {
    int quantum = 3, time = 0, temp;
    int completionTime = 0;
    LinkedList<Integer> process = new LinkedList<Integer>();
    for (int i = 0; i < numProcess; i++) {
        process.add(i, cpuBurst[i]);
    }

    while (process.isEmpty() != true) {
        for (int j = 0; j < quantum; j++) {
            if (process.size() == 0)
                break;

            System.out.println("Process: " + process.getFirst());
            if (process.peek() == 0) {
                completionTime = completionTime + time;
                process.remove();
            } else {
                temp = process.pop();
                process.push(temp - 1);
                time++;
            }
        }
        if (process.size() == 0)
            break;
        process.addLast(process.getFirst());
        process.removeFirst();
    }

    double act = (double) completionTime / numProcess;
    System.out.println("-----------------RR3-----------------");
    System.out.println("             Act = " + act + "ms");
}


text:
SportsFootballLocal
Ghana FA to hold safety and security training for Premier League clubs
By Stephen Owura Kissi
The Ghana Football Association (GFA), will on Thursday, November 05, 2020 organise a one-day workshop for safety and security officers of the 18 Premier League clubs at the GFA Secretariat at 9am.
This is part of preparations towards the 2020/2021 football season.
Clubs are advised to submit to the GFA Secretariat, name of their safety and security officer, his/her contact, E-mail address and official club email by close of business, Friday, October 23, 2020.
The 18 Premier League clubs are also free to contact the secretary to the safety and security committee on 0542073692 or email: julius.emunah@ghanafa.org for any further assistance.
Ghana Premier League clubs