Pendleton Artificial Reef (PAR) was constructed to determine the potential of artificial reefs to mitigate for possible losses of kelp-reef habitat resulting from operation of coastal power plants. Placed in August 1980, PAR consists of eight boulder modules (some topped with cobble) on a featureless sand bottom at a depth of 13.1 m below MLLW. We studied benthic succession on PAR from September 1981 through August 1983 using a point quadrat sampling technique to describe abundances and vertical distribution of organisms. During this period, small foliose and filamentous algae growing on or over other organisms accounted for 56% of the overstory cover. Cryptoarachnidium (a sediment fixing, encrusting ectoproct) and barnacles accounted for 66% of the understory cover. Cryptoarachnidium was particularly abundant on all modules, while algal turf cover was highest on modules constructed primarily of boulders. On module crests where light and water motion were highest, algal turf was greatest and negatively correlated with erect ectoprocts that were greatest on the slopes of modules. Since erect ectoprocts may inhibit algal colonization and were most abundant on the slopes, we suggest that light, turbidity, and competitive interactions with erect ectoprocts limit the comparatively high cover of algal turf to the module crests. Cover of algal turf was also greatest during periods of clear water in late fall and early winter, while erect ectoproct cover increased during the study period. Cryptoarachnidium cover increased rapidly during the first year after reef placement and stabilized during 1982-1983. Barnacles were the only organisms to show a decline in abundance during the study period. PAR has been in place over 3 years, but relatively to a local natural reef, is still dominated by early successional species. This phenomena appears to result from a number of factors, but especially environmental conditions at the time of reef placement and the isolation of PAR from other shallow reefs in the area.
The sharks, batoids, and chimaeras, collectively the class Chondrichthyes, are one of the most successful groups of fishes, with over 1250 species globally. Recent taxonomic revisions have increased their diversity by about 20% over the past 17 years (2000–2016). The Northeast Pacific Ocean is one of the top 20 most diverse regions/countries on the globe with 77 chondrichthyan species, a number less than a quarter that of the most species-rich area (Australia) but that has increased by 10% since 2000 to include three new species (two skates and a chimaera). In this chapter we discuss the species richness of chondrichthyans occurring in the Northeast Pacific Ocean, characterize their life histories, briefly review several fisheries, and summarize the conservation status of those chondrichthyans occurring in the region. Detailed descriptions and evaluations of fisheries can be found in Chapter 7 of AMB Volume 78.
Cited By (since 1996):64, Invertebrates, CODEN: DRORE, Continuous measurements of sulfide, silicate and temperature were made in situ from the submersible Alvin in the Rose Garden and New Vent hydrothermal fields of the Galapagos Spreading Center. Continuous measurements of temperature also were made for an 18 day period in the Rose Garden field. The results demonstrate several adaptations that appear to have contributed to the success of the vent mussel Bathymodiolus thermophilus in the Rose Garden. Dense clusters of B. thermophilus can disperse the hydrothermal fluids laterally for distances of several meters. This results in a large increase in the area of the redox transition zone, where both dissolved oxygen and hydrogen sulfide are available. As a result, the animal communities can grow to occupy areas that would not otherwise provide adequate reduced substrates. Measurements of the temperature demonstrate a distinct tidal periodicity. This periodicity will result in a large range of environmental conditions within the vent community. The mussel can tolerate these wide ranges in condition because of its ability to accept long periods of anoxia and to filter feed.
Biological aspects of the sixgill shark, Hexanchus griseus.
Information was obtained on the Pacific sleeper shark, Somniosus pacificus Bigelow and Schroeder, 1944, along the California coast from fishermen who caught specimens incidentally in sablefish traps and trawls. Morphometric and tooth-count data were taken from several specimens. An estimate of fecundity was based on one specimen with 372 yellow, vascularized, ovarian eggs. The approximate size at marurity was determined using gonadal development and a length-weight curve. Pacific sleeper sharks are considered sluggish, bottom-dwelling, cephalopod and fish feeders, yet they may occasionally consume fast swimming epipelagic fish.
During the IronEx II experiment in the eastern equatorial Pacific (May to June 1995), the response of the microplankton community to mesoscale iron fertilization was followed using a combination of marker-pigment, microscopical and flow cytometric techniques. Phytoplankton standing stock bloomed dramatically over a period of 6 d following 3 iron additions of 2 and 1 nM, respectively. Carbon biomass in the patch increased by a factor of 4, chlorophyll a by about a factor of 16 and diatoms by > 70-fold relative to contemporaneous levels in the ambient community. The bloom then plateaued sharply and remained at a more or less constant level for 4 d, despite the addition of more iron (1 nM) and physiological indices (low C:chl a ratio and elevated photochemical quantum efficiency) suggesting that the cells were healthy and growing rapidly. Relatively large pennate diatoms (Nitzschia spp., median length 20 to 24 μm) dominated the patch bloom, with smaller pennate species and centric diatoms declining in relative importance. Heterotrophic bacteria increased at a slow rate (0.08 d -1) for > 10 d during the experiment, as did heterotrophic nanoflagellates. There were also indications of enhanced cell size, cellular pigment content and possibly growth rates of small phytoplankton. Nonetheless, little difference was observed between the ambient community and the peak patch bloom with respect to the size composition of auto- and heterotrophic populations < 10 μm in cell size. The relative constancy of the smaller size fractions, the sharp curtailment of net growth of the bloom after 6 d, and > 3-fold increase in large heterotrophic dinoflagellates and ciliates suggest that protistan grazers may have played an active role in controlling the phytoplankton response to increased iron availability.
Since 2004, the Monterey Bay Aquarium, California, has displayed six juvenile white sharks, Carcharodon carcharias (Linnaeus, 1758), in the 3,800 m3 Outer Bay exhibit. Upon capture, the sharks (132 - 164 cm total length (TL) and 19.6 - 47.0 kg body mass (BM)) were held in a 13,800 m3 ocean pen to initiate feeding prior to transport. Oxygen consumption rates of free-swimming C. carcharias during transports were analyzed, yielding one of the highest reported mass-specific muscle oxygen consumptions (MO2) for any shark species (246 ± 13 mg O2/kg/h). While on display (70 - 198 days), four of the C. carcharias fed consistently at a daily ration of 747 ± 46 g, or 1.62 ± 0.15% BM/day. One shark did not feed and was released after 11 days; another shark fed intermittently and was released after 55 days, but died immediately post-release. Mean mass growth rate for C. carcharias at the Monterey Bay Aquarium was 71.6 ± 8.2 kg/yr, with a corresponding mean dietary gross conversion efficiency of 27.1 ± 3.8%. The mean length growth rate (64.9 ± 8.5 cm/yr), was approximately twice the rate estimated from a published von Bertalanffy growth function. All C. carcharias were fitted with pop-up archival satellite tags upon release, which provided evidence of post-release survivorship.
The biomass dynamics of primary producers have important implications for the structure and function of ecosystems. Along the wave-swept coastline of central California, USA, biomass removal by wave action is a key driver in the primary productivity of giant kelp forests, yet the mechanisms of regrowth within giant kelp Macrocystis pyrifera are not well understood. To examine the physiological consequences of biomass loss on Macrocystis, a manipulative experiment was used to simulate biomass removal by wave action. Growth rates were measured as the number of new fronds produced through time, and the δ13C and δ15N values of juvenile fronds were used as a proxy for carbon and nitrogen translocation in support of growth. The experimental removal of biomass significantly constrained the growth of new fronds and, under extreme levels, led to mortality. The growth rate and isotopic composition of juvenile fronds on sporophytes with a portion of canopy biomass intact recovered to pre-disturbance values within 4 mo. In contrast, a reduction in growth rates as well as a permanent depletion in δ13C and δ15N values was observed when the canopy was completely removed and the magnitude scaled with biomass loss. These results suggest that the translocation of carbon and nitrogen to juvenile fronds from near-surface biomass is a critical process affecting growth in giant kelp. The spatial variability and physiological consequences of biomass loss among individuals may therefore play an important role in the biomass dynamics of giant kelp forests across multiple temporal and spatial scales.


As the three-day FICCI Frames media and entertainment conference came to a close in Mumbai yesterday, industry leaders had agreed on three recession-busting strategies - collaboration, improving consumer relations and cutting costs.
Speaking at the closing session, Zee chairman Subhash Chandra spoke of the entertainment industry's need to pull together if it was to overcome challenges such as shrinking capital and declining ad revenues.
Cost-cutting was also a recurring theme at the conference - and one that is particularly relevant in India where production costs had spiralled out of control in 2008. 'Last year capital was a commodity but now capital is king,' said Reliance Entertainment president Rajesh Sawhney in a session entitled 'Recession and the Entertainment Industry'.
Technology was often mentioned as a method of reducing costs - PVR Pictures CEO Uday Singh observed how digital cinema is helping films reach a wider audience at lower cost. He also said Slumdog Millionaire had received a boost in India through its release in e-cinemas - as it was classed as an Indian film.
Although India's domestic box office has taken less of a hit than the TV industry, gross receipts are expected to fall this year due to a lower number of releases.
According to Big Pictures COO Sunir Kheterpal, around 50 or 60 Hindi films won't receive a theatrical release in 2009 because no-one is willing to acquire their distribution rights. 'This used to be sellers market, but now it's a buyers market,' Kheterpal said.
Further complicating matters, Indian producers and exhibitors are currently locked in a dispute over revenue splits, which may postpone some upcoming releases.
Slumdog Millionaire was also frequently discussed. While the film has created controversy in India for its portrayal of the country's poverty, it has also been lauded as an example of India's filmmaking prowess.
To mark its tenth anniversary, Frames also ramped up the glamour quotient with an awards ceremony on the opening night, attended by stars such as Amitabh Bachchan, Kareena Kapoor, Priyanka Chopra and Shilpa Shetty. FICCI and the US-India Business Council also presented an award to US actor Danny Glover and to congressman John Lewis.
New report from FICCI and KPMG predicts that the growth of digital services will put the Indian media and entertainment sectors on the road to recovery in 2010.


text:
Q: Project References within a Visual Studio Solution in .NET 4.5 I am currently working on a project where I am trying to refactor some code by means of an "Anti Corruption Layer".
This is the as-is state of projects:
[WebSolution.Api]
[WebSolutions.Services]

[WebSolution.Api]⇢ [WebSolutions.Services] ⇢ superPackage
The issue at hand is [WebSolutions.Services] is currently using a NuGet package (let's call it superPackage) which we are trying to get rid of.
Unfortunately, that NuGet package is too deeply integrated within the [WebSolutions.Services] project.
As an interim step, what we are trying to do is to extract the dependency by means of an Anti-Corruption Layer.
This is the new state of projects:
[WebSolution.Api]
[WebSolutions.Services]
[WebSolutions.Dependency]

[WebSolution.Api]⇢ [WebSolutions.Services] ⇢ [WebSolutions.Dependency] ⇢ superPackage
My attempts as follows:

*

*Create an adapter that interfaces superPackage in [WebSolutions.Dependency]

*Remove the call from [WebSolutions.Services] to superPackage, instead calling [WebSolutions.Dependency], which will then call superPackage
The challenge I was facing was that when I removed the superPackage  NuGet package from [WebSolutions.Services], and added a project reference to [WebSolutions.Dependency], the compiler was throwing errors, insisting that superPackage needs to be referenced by [WebSolutions.Services].
I was under the assumption that since [WebSolutions.Dependency] had a NuGet dependency on superPackage, referencing [WebSolutions.Dependency] from [WebSolutions.Services] will give me those dependencies for free.
Appreciate any advice, please.

A: Make sure you don't use any of the classes of the "superPackage" in the interface functions you are calling from Api and Services.

redpajama_set_name: RedPajamaStackExchange


Three Park County sheriff's deputies were shot, one was killed, while serving a high-risk eviction notice to a Bailey man who had a contentious relationship with law enforcement.
"It is a dark day," said Susan Medina, spokeswoman for the Colorado Bureau of Investigation, who has taken the lead in the shooting investigation.
The man at the home at 36 Iris Drive, Martin Wirth, was armed with a rifle and opened fire on the deputies, according to Medina.
Park County Sheriff Fred Wegener had just arrived on scene just after 9:48 a.m. Wednesday when patrol officers were about to make contact with Wirth, the sheriff's office said.
"Wirth came out on his deck, paused and then went back inside. Officers quickly followed Wirth inside the residence. As they entered, Wirth fired upon them. Officers returned fire," Undersheriff Monte Gore explained in a news release. "Wirth was shot and killed by deputies returning fire."
The deputy who was shot and died at the scene was a 13-year veteran of the Park County Sheriff's Office. He was identified Wednesday afternoon as Nate Carrigan, who has coached football and baseball at Platte Canyon High School.
Master Patrol Deputy Kolby Martin, who has 11 years with Park County, was shot multiple times in the lower extremities, and Capt. Mark Hancock, who has 21 years with Park County, was grazed in the ear, the sheriff's office said.
Martin was airlifted to Saint Anthony's Hospital in Denver with life-threatening injuries and Hancock was also transported by ambulance to Saint Antony's. Martin remains in critical condition and Hancock has been released, Medina said in an afternoon news conference.
The CBI said it will be at the crime scene all evening, conducting interviews and canvassing the neighborhood.
Wirth had previously run for office and had been fighting foreclosure for years . He recently posted on Facebook that the cops wanted him dead.
When the deputies went to the home in the Friendship Ranch subdivision, they were prepared for the eviction to be contentious, and there were eight deputies on hand, Medina said.
The person in the home was known to authorities, and "they had background information on the suspect in this case," Medina said, but didn't elaborate.
The bomb squad. the SWAT team and the ATF, were called to the shooting scene as a precaution but they were sent home later in the day.
During the initial response to the shootout, the Park County Sheriff's Office asked for help for all nearby law enforcement agencies. More than 100 law enforcement responded.
"I contacted the Colorado Bureau of Investigation and requested that they take the lead in this ongoing investigation," Gore said. "The response from our brother and sister Law Enforcement agencies, and our community, is truly heartwarming and overwhelming. We do not require additional resources at this time."
AIRTRACKER7 flew over the scene and showed a road block at Iris and Pine drives, near the Deer Creek Christian Camp.
Platte Canyon and Fitzsimmons Middle School were placed on lockdown, but that lockdown has been lifted. Deer Creek Elementary School remained on lockout for the day.
Park County said it will hold a vigil Wednesday night at Platte Canyon Community Church at 6 p.m. for the Park County deputies. The county also asked residents to turn on their porch lights Wednesday night for Corporal Nate Carrigan.
Park County has dealt with tragedy before. In September 2006, a gunman terrorized students and staff at Platte Canyon High School in Bailey.
The suspect took six girls hostage . He killed one of the hostages before turning the gun on himself.
That hostage, 16-year-old Emily Keyes, was able to send a text to her parents before she died. It said, "I love U guys."
Many people in the Denver metro area have driven through Park County on Highway 285. Park County includes the towns of Bailey and Fairplay.
Park County covers over 2,200 square miles and is larger than the state of Delaware. It stretches just over 50 miles from north to south and about 40 miles from east to west. The homes in Park County are on open land and are far apart from one another.
This is the second officer-involved shooting Denver7 has covered in three days. On Monday, a Denver police officer was shot by a burglary suspect, who was later shot and killed by officers following a brief chase.
There have been 14 officers shot in Colorado in the last 3 months. Read more.


text:
{Interview} Gaby Triana
By cedarhollowhorrorreviews on July 1, 2018 • ( Leave a comment )
CHHR: Please give a brief introduction here.
Heyyy. I'm Gaby Triana, author of ISLAND OF BONES and RIVER OF GRASS from the Haunted Florida series. In my previous life, I wrote young adult novels, WAKE THE HOLLOW, CAKESPELL, SUMMER OF YESTERDAY, and others. I've been in the business for 17 years now, but my horror readers are just getting to know me. I've also ghostwritten 40+ novels for bestselling authors in different genres: sci-fi, horror, young adult, romance, and erotica.
CHHR: When did you realize you wanted to be a writer?
I've always been a writer and storyteller, but probably in the third grade. I wrote a story called "Skeeter Creek" that sounded Mark Twain-ish, and my teacher gave me an A+++++ all across the page and told me I would be an author. I believed her.
CHHR: What does your writing schedule look like?
It revolves around my kids. So the days they're in school, I'll write a chapter in the afternoon and another one at night, around 4k words. On days when they're not home, I'll write 6k, maybe 8k words in 2-hour stints with breaks in between to take advantage of the quiet. J
CHHR: Do you have any interesting writing rituals? If so, what are they?
Not really. I mean, besides grabbing coffee, twisting my hair into a clip, and putting on headphones to drown out ambient noise, not really. I can't write listening to music like some people. I wish I could—it'd make it more fun. But I need total silence or white noise.
CHHR: Do you like writing short stories or novels?
I'm a novel author, though my longest book, WAKE THE HOLLOW, is only 80k words. Most tend to be on the short side, between 50-70k words. My short stories were all written in high school for scary story contests, which I'd either win or get 2nd place to Neil Schneider who was a year older than me. Am I sore? NO.
CHHR: How is the horror scene where you live?
I live in Miami, land of mojitos, beaches, and the Brazilian Butt Lift, which is both huge and horrific. But that wasn't your question. There's not much of a horror scene here, so I often feel displaced.
CHHR: Do you use outlines or do you go with the flow?
I used to outline every friggin chapter, but nowadays, I leave room for organic writing. I'll outline the first 4-5 chapters just to get things moving, maybe 3 plot points, and a generic ending. Along the way, I'll usually end up thinking of something better and go in another direction that ends up serving the story better anyway. So, I guess a combo of both.
CHHR: How did publishing your first book or short story change your writing process?
When I published my first young adult novel, BACKSTAGE PASS, I felt validated as a "real" author and began writing in a "real" way, meaning every day, as though it were a job, not a hobby. Because it was.
CHHR: What do you think makes a good horror story?
To me, it's about the character. Once you know who they are, what they're scared of, what they're resisting or missing in life, then you put them in every situation that sucks to be them. Horror isn't different from any other story, except fear is a bigger focus, and personally, I'm a nut for atmospheric gothic tales about old houses, ghosts, and what is there but you can't see.
CHHR: What are you currently working on?
Finishing up RIVER OF GHOSTS, the 2nd book in the Haunted Florida series that's now on pre-sale. My whole life, I wanted to read horror stories set in South Florida where I live, like what Anne Rice books are to New Orleans, but I couldn't find many, so I figured I'd write them myself.
CHHR: What is in your TBR pile?
PROVIDENCE by Caroline Kepnes. I got it in my goody bag at the Horror Writers Association's conference in March and have been slowly making my way towards it. It's next in the TBR. I just finished KILL CREEK by Scott Thomas, TEETH OF THE SEA by Tim Waggoner, and THE CARROW HAUNT by Darcy Coates.
CHHR: What is the last book that scared you?
Any of them will scare me if it's 2 am and I'm the only one awake.
CHHR: What is your favorite horror book?
THE WITCHING HOUR by Anne Rice and BAG OF BONES by Stephen King are two of my all-time favorites.
CHHR: What is your favorite horror film?
Oh, man. I'm not a "favorites" type person. I have a wide set of books and films I love, but The Shining remains one of my all-time favorites because of its slow-burn descent into madness. I also really love The Conjuring because of its old-school haunting elements but with modern pacing, and The Omen still freaks me out.
CHHR: What type of music do you listen to? What's your favorite album?
I listen to literally everything. It all depends on my mood, of which I have many. J On one day, I might be listening to Loreena McKennitt if I'm feeling witchy, Dave Matthews Band on another if I'm feeling nostalgic for a bittersweet time in my life, Eminem if I'm feeling rebellious, Guns N' Roses if I want to pretend I'm back in high school, or Celia Cruz if I'm feeling close to my Cuban roots. U2's Unforgettable Fire is still one of my all-time favorite albums.
CHHR: What is your spirit animal?
Cat, without a doubt. Specifically my cat, Bowie. He's a survivor who's been shot, rehabilitated, and now lives his best life. I haven't been shot but I've been through a lot in only 46 years and only now feel like I'm getting a hang of this.
CHHR: What is your favorite beer?
Cherry Wheat by Sam Adams, which I can't find ANYWHERE IN MIAMI. *grumbles* I also love an Aruba Red and Shock Top's Blood Orange or Sunset Orange or whatever the fuck it's called.
CHHR: If you could have a beer with one author, who would it be?
Washington Irving, author of my favorite short story ever—The Legend of Sleepy Hollow—on which my book WAKE THE HOLLOW is based. The man had a super interesting life, was one of the first American authors to win acclaim in Europe, served as Ambassador to Spain, and was rumored to have a brief romantic liaison with author Mary Shelley (a major plot point in my book).
Thanks for having me!
http://www.gabytriana.com
Amazon Author Page: https://www.amazon.com/default/e/B0045B9682/ref=dp_byline_cont_ebooks_1?redirectedFromKindleDbs=true
New Blog Site Coming in July:
http://www.witchhaunt.com
GABY TRIANA is the bestselling author of horror and YA novels, Island of Bones, Cakespell, Wake the Hollow, Summer of Yesterday, and many more, as well as 40+ ghostwritten novels for best-selling authors. Gaby has also published with HarperCollins, Simon & Schuster, and Entangled, won an IRA Teen Choice Award, ALA Best Paperback Award, and Hispanic Magazine's Good Reads of 2008. She writes about ghosts, haunted places, and abandoned locations. When she's not obsessing over Halloween, Christmas, or the paranormal, she's taking her family to Disney World, the Grand Canyon, LA, New York, or Key West. Gaby dreams of living a witchy life in the forests of New England but for the meantime resides in sunny Miami with her boys, Michael, Noah, and Murphy, her husband Curtis, their dog, Chloe, and four cats—Daisy, Mickey Meows, Paris, and the reformed thug/shooting survivor, Bowie.
Categories: Interviews
Tagged as: Interviews
{Book Review} BEHIND THE DOOR by Mary SanGiovanni
{Interview} Mindi (Gows33)

redpajama_set_name: RedPajamaCommonCrawl


Selected Publications: Micks E, Jensen JT. Estradiol valerate and dienogest: A novel four-phasic oral contraceptive pill for effective pregnancy prevention and treatment of heavy menstrual bleeding. Womens Health (lond Engl) 2011;7(5):513-524.
Micks E, Jensen JT. Oral contraceptives: What you need to know when prescribing the latest formulations. Contemporary OB/GYN Feb 2012;43-49.
Micks E, Edelman A. How often should healthy women be screened for osteoporosis? OB/GYN Clinical Alert 2012;28(12):94-96.
Micks E, Edelman A. Progestins and risk of venous thromboembolism: What's the deal with drospirenone? OB/GYN Clinical Alert 2011;(28)4:25-28.
Micks E, Edelman A, Renner R, et al. An evaluation of hydrocodone/acetaminophen for pain control in first trimester surgical abortion: A randomized, controlled trial. Obstet Gynecol 2012 (Accepted for publication 7/2012).


text:
Download Food Monster App
Food Monster App Newsletter Support Us
U.S. Government Releases Plan to Cull and Slaughter 100,000 Wild Horses and Burros
20.8K Views 1 year ago
By Natasha Brooks
Lead Image Source : Pixabay
The Bureau of Land Management (BLM) has released their plan for the "management," aka the capture, sale, and slaughter, of American wild horses and burros, and as one might expect from the BLM based on their history, these plans are extreme and dangerous for the survival of these majestic creatures.
The plans include: the removal of 50,000 wild horses and burros from the range, the mass killing or sale for slaughter of 100,000 wild horses and burros, including those who have already been captured and are in "holding facilities," and the mass sterilization of wild horses and burros who are not captured, a practice that is extremely dangerous for the natural behaviors of wild herds, who are protected under federal law.
The plan would cut wild horse and burro populations to a shockingly low 27,000; ironically, the same number that existed in 1971 when Congress set measures to protect the dying species. These plans are so outrageous that on the 14 million acres of land managed by the BLM in New Mexico, only 83 wild horses will be allowed.
Suzanne Roy, Executive Director at American Wild Horse Campaign, remains somewhat optimistic, stating, "BLM, the agency whose terrible mismanagement of this program has brought us to this place, is now proposing more bad ideas, including mass roundup and slaughter to cover for their incompetence … Rest assured, this plan will meet with strong opposition from the horse welfare and wild horse advocacy communities, which came together several months ago to produce a Unified Statement for humane and sustainable wild horse and burro management, signed by more than 100 organizations throughout the country."
Wild horses and burros, herbivores who coexist peacefully even with grazing cattle and humans, are routinely targeted by the BLM and chased down by helicopters to be taken to "holding facilities" where they will wait indefinitely before being put on the auction block to be sold, slaughtered, and eaten in countries around the world. These actions by the BLM are largely driven by special interests, i.e. cattle ranches and Big Meat and Dairy, and if these mass killings continue, America's wild horses, our great symbol of freedom in the Wild West, will soon become extinct.
You can help America's wild horses and burros in several ways. For starters, spread awareness of the issues by talking to your friends and family and sharing posts like this one on social media. You can also join and donate to groups advocating for wild horses. To learn more about the serious issues at hand and how you can become involved in saving America's equines, visit the American Wild Horse Campaign website here.
Image Source: Pixabay
Sign on with:
JOHN PASQUA says:
SHUTDOWN THE INHUMANE BUREAU OF LAND MANAGEMENT DOWN NOW.
boyscout says:
the blm is made up of savages doing the bidding of the cattle, mining and oil and gas industries. They do not honor nor respect life or living things. The department should be shuddered and they should be dragged off to prison. They manage nothing but death and destruction.
Get your favorite articles delivered right to your inbox.
Download the FoodMonster App
139.3K Views 22 hours ago
52.9K Views 1 week ago
37.4K Views 3 weeks ago


Welcome to Formutech Nutrition, since day one we have been dedicated to providing our customers with a top of the line array of effective sports nutrition, supplements for muscle gain and fat loss. We are dedicated to you and reaching your goals, and we wholeheartedly believe that you can with the aid of our products. Rest assured all of the sports nutrition products we offer have been produced by using only the highest quality raw ingredients available to us. Trust in us that if it's on our label it is in the product at the scientifically relevant efficacious dose.


text:
Understanding The 5 Levels of Autonomous Trucking
With increasing numbers of automated trucking technologies being tested and appearing on the market, the industry is at a crossroads. "Automated features" to the layperson often conjure images of futuristic driverless cars operating with fully autonomous features. This, however, is not the case, and automation occurs on a spectrum.
The question then becomes, what levels of autonomy can be adopted in commercial vehicles, and when should each be adopted? The current state of federal policies and regulations for the autonomous trucking market are largely absent, making integration across full networks difficult.
The industry thus faces new questions about the future of automation. Shippers and carriers should stay informed about new technology for semi-trucks and variations in state-to-state regulations. This will create a strategic advantage as we look to the longer-term future and sustainability strategies of shippers.
The Five Levels of Autonomy in Commercial Transportation
As more sophisticated vehicle technologies continue to emerge, the opportunities for automated truck options range widely, from providing select driver assistance systems to complete autonomy with no human intervention. These abilities can be divided into five levels, all of which have differing implications for the industry if implemented.
Although autonomous vehicle technology is well recognized as the product of market-disruptors like Peloton, Tesla, and TuSimple, this innovation does not stop here. More legacy, or traditional truck manufacturers, like Daimler, Peterbilt, and Volvo, are also working toward a future that leverages automated technology.
Five Autonomous Driving Levels for Semi Trucks
The spectrum for autonomous trucking levels include:
Level 1: Driver Assistance—one function controlled automatically (i.e. cruise control)
Level 2: Partial Automation—both steering and acceleration/deceleration are automated, with the driver ready to take vehicle control
Level 3: Conditional Automation—all safety-critical functions are automated, but the driver is present for certain traffic and environmental conditions
Level 4: High Automation—automated to perform all safety-critical functions and roadway conditions for a full trip (driver still present)
Level 5: Full Automation—expected to perform equal to a human driver, in all scenarios and conditions (driver not present)
Autonomous Features at Levels 1 and 2
These changes include small shifts toward increased driver assistance. In many cases, these technologies can be seen in both passenger vehicles and heavy-duty trucking on the road today. Level 1, for instance, can include adaptive cruise control and lane assist features. Technology at level 1, however, is implemented independently of other autonomous features.
Level 2 involves two primary control functions working together. Leading-edge companies such as Peloton and Tesla have implemented these levels of automation in prototype fleets.
Level 3 Autonomous Trucks
Level 3 is where automation starts to become more intensive. Fully autonomous solutions begin to emerge in instances where highway driving is consistent and predictable – like long-haul routes. The driver chooses which automated features to employ and most miles are traveled autonomously. But The driver maintains ultimate control of the vehicle throughout the duration.
Instances, where driver intervention is required include subpar weather events that limit connectivity and visibility, and more variable urban and city driving that requires frequent starting and stopping.
Automation for Level 4 Vehicles
Level 4 automation is similar to Level 3 in that the driver is still present, but at this level, the vehicle would be operating fully on its own in all scenarios. Most companies are jumping Level 3 and striving for Level 4.
For example, Waymo is testing Level 4 technology within their own business but have yet to move into the commercial sphere. TuSimple, founded in 2015, is another market leader that is testing automated vehicles at the higher levels of automation. TuSimple operates 200 trucks in the united states and 500 global trucks over millions of miles of testing throughout 2019.
Level 5 Makes Semi Trucks Fully Autonomous
Level 5 is perhaps the furthest from the reality of today's trucking industry. Humans would no longer be driving trucks – or even present – and vehicles would be fully-automated.
Level 5 automation is more prevalent overseas, specifically in Sweden where two companies – Einride and Volvo – are testing Level 5 technology in controlled, low speed, short distance environments.
Opportunities For Safety And Sustainability
Increasing levels of automation bring new possibilities for safety and efficiency because it removes the most variable element of heavy-duty truck driving—human error.
Sustainability for Levels 2 and 3
Technology at Levels 2 and 3 focuses on increasing aerodynamics, saving fuel, and locating ideal speeds for efficiency. Examples include navigation software that allows drivers to locate more fuel-efficient routes. Others will optimize operating functions like speed and braking which can make automation as good as, if not better than, the most efficient driver.
Increased Safety for Level 4 and 5 Vehicles
Automated vehicles at Levels 4 and 5 include technology that enhances operational functionality. This translates into significantly reduced safety hazards on the road. Automated trucks at these levels could include abilities to improve stability (preventing skidding or rollovers) or faster reaction times and stopping features than most humans reacting to external stimuli.
Examples of Safety and Sustainability Enhancements
Peloton is currently pioneering a platooning program designed with these goals in mind, capitalizing on the art of drafting to save on fuel costs. In testing, The Peloton System resulted in 7 percent overall fuel efficiency savings, with the lead truck in a platoon saving 4.5 percent on diesel fuel and the following truck saving 10 percent.
Automation systems like those at Peloton seem to be paving the way toward a more sustainable approach to trucking. Its 2018 report, Driverless? Autonomous Trucks and the Future of the American Trucker, the U.C Berkeley Labor Center estimated that the industry will see about $35 billion in fuel efficiency gains and an overall total of $168 billion saved industry-wide.
McKinsey & Company also noted that automated trucks will bring changes to the efficiency of transportation and supply chains because shipping and production schedules will be tied less to the availability of truck drivers.
Implications Of Adopting Automated Trucking Technology
Moving toward an autonomous semi-truck market is not without its challenges. While the U.S. is increasingly seeing Level 2 technologies emerge, moving into Level 3 technologies will be the biggest leap to date.
Social Attitudes toward Automation
Social attitudes about automated vehicles add barriers to the development or adoption of technology. Fear of an unknown technology rises, with concern for the risks associated with technology failure.
This is often exacerbated by news stories about accidents involving autonomous vehicles. This media coverage can contribute to a negative perception of the technology among consumers and leads to slowed adoption.
Technology/Testing Concerns
Many in the industry ask, "What if the technology doesn't perform as expected?" Real-world performance is unknown and stagnates development.
In a predictable environment—such as a road shared with other autonomous vehicles—the technology holds true today. But how will the technology perform when surrounded by human behavior which is inconsistent? How will the introduction of unpredictable decision making ultimately impact the safety of other drivers on the road? If systems fail, what safety features are in place to prevent compounded risks?
The role of the driver is also in question, as the driver's responsibilities will change, and eventually, the demographics of the driver pool will evolve. These factors generate fears about the potential loss of driver jobs. Some sources, however, say that increased use of automated trucks can help alleviate the significant shortage of drivers seen throughout 2018 that persisted in 2019.
National Standards For Autonomous Trucking Testing and Use
Beyond these challenges, legislation regulating autonomous vehicle testing differs widely across states. Currently, no federal standard on autonomous trucking technology exists, so every state varies in its acceptance of autonomous trucking technology. Several states have no proposed legislation, meanwhile states like Nevada, California, Texas, and Arizona are hotbeds for testing automated trucks.
Conversely, restrictive policies in certain states and the absence of federal policy has slowed the pace of development and implementation operationally. While some Level 1 and 2 technologies are already integrated into commercial trucks, the advancement of vehicles to higher levels of automation is slow.
Shippers' transportation networks most often utilize over-the-road trucking strategies that span hundreds of miles across numerous states. The lack of uniformity across the United States makes finding viable, autonomy-compliant routes difficult. As more states—or the federal government—enact legislation that allows automated trucking testing, the solution becomes more practical in real-world applications.
What Can Shippers Expect for the Future of Autonomous Trucking?
The attitudes toward and standards for autonomous trucking remain in flux. Yet little doubt remains that these autonomous variables will play an increasingly significant role in the future of the industry. Early adopters seeking an increase in safety, efficiency, and sustainability continue to emerge. Ultimately, being informed, open to changes, and taking an active role in the policy realm puts shippers in an advantageous position, as getting in front of these changes allows for more agile supply chains.
Breakthrough's team is committed to keeping up with the latest news and research on these ever-evolving technologies. For further insights on the impact of autonomous trucking technology on efficiency, safety, and supply chain management, contact us and check out our blog.
Take Control of Your Transportation Network.
Remove distorted transportation practices and reveal data-driven insights with FELIX.
Read more on these topics:
Tags: automation, Autonomous Vehicles, Efficiency, supply chain strategy
Brett Wetzel
Senior Director, Applied Knowledge
Brett brings an interdisciplinary background to service Breakthrough clients across multiple disciplines during his career, starting on our Client Services team and then transitioning to the Applied Knowledge team. Brett conducts research and provides insight into industry technology advancements and alternative energies.
Read MORE ARTICLES BY THIS AUTHOR >
Freight Solutions
Capacity Sourcing
Rate Guidance
Transportation Leadership Journal
The transportation industry is fundamentally changing. The year 2020 will kick off a decade with new frontiers in data science, artificial intelligence, and optimization—all leading up to a shift in focus.
A History of DOE Fuel Surcharges
Most shippers reimburse for fuel with fuel surcharge schedules handed for generations without questioning why they are used or whether they continue to fit today's strategies.
Sign up now and get our fuel advisor brief
920-617-3070 • 400 S. Washington Street, Green Bay, WI 54301
©2020 Breakthrough. All rights reserved. Privacy Policy
Totally Awesome popup
Oh, what a tangled web we weave,/ When first we practise to deceive!


text:
Soviet Far Eastern Military District
1st Special Far Eastern
Tactical Air Army in January 1, 1973
The Sino-Soviet border conflict was a seven-month long, undeclared military conflict between the Soviet Union and China at the height of the Sino-Soviet split in 1969. The most serious of these border clashes - which brought the two communist-led countries to the brink of war-occurred in March 1969 in the vicinity of Zhenbao (Damansky) Island on the Ussuri (Wusuli) River.
From 1969, huge forces were focused at the Soviet Far East. They have increased the land and air forces by threefold. Along with the existing 5th Army, two new armies were formed. They also needed air support, so two new air divisions (33rd and 83rd Air Divisions) were formed between 1972 and 1974.
The 1st Air Army received four new air regiments. From the Soviet Air Defence, two regiments of MiG-17 Fresco was deployed here, likewise a bombing regiment with IL-28 Beagle from East Germany. In addition, a new flying regiment was formed here.
277th Bomber Air Regiment crews in front of their IL-28U Mascot trainer aircraft in early seventies
26th Guard Fighter Bomber Air Regiment's MiG-17 Fresco in 10th Uchastok - Kalinka airport in 1969. Photo: Raisa Mogilnaya
Soviet 404th Fighter Air Regiment's MiG-21SM Fishbed-J under hardened aircraft shelter in the seventies
Modern aircraft have also arrived too. One regiment of MiG-21SM Fishbed-J modern tactical fighter and two regiments of new basic Su-17 Fitter-C fighter bomber was received by the 1st Air Army between 1970 and 1972. New Mi-8 Hip and Mi-6 Hook helicopters also arrived in the Soviet Far East.
First early Su-17 Fitter-C combat unit in the seventies
The 26th Regiment used the basic Su-17 Fitter-C basic version for a short time and quickly replaced it with Su-17M Fitter-C.
Soviet 26th Guard Fighter-Bomber Air Regiment's pilots in front of their Su-7U Moujik advanced trainer jet


text:
THE HERDWICK NEWS
June 15, 2022 newspaper2020
Business Urged To Be Proactive About Menopause
It could soon be unlawful to discriminate against women who are going through the menopause, businesses are being warned.
Business law specialist Baines Wilson has told clients that a Parliamentary review, due imminently, could recommend that the menopause is made a 'protected characteristic' under the Equality Act 2010.
This would outlaw discrimination as is already the case for other protected characteristics such as age, disability, race, religion and sex.
Joanne Holborn, partner and head of employment and training at Baines Wilson, says that even as the law stands businesses could face a claim for age, disability or sex discrimination if they fail to make reasonable adjustments to accommodate the needs of staff going through the menopause.
She is urging employers to provide equality and diversity training and raise staff awareness to improve knowledge and understanding.
She said: "This could be as simple as putting up posters in communal areas, outlining what the menopause is, when it occurs and the affect it can have.
"Employers should encourage those who require any workplace adjustments to manage their symptoms, to request these from the appropriate individual within the company – ensuring each request is dealt with sensitively."
She added: "Additionally, employers should review the policies they have to ensure they cater for those experiencing menopausal symptoms and consider implementing a menopause policy."
The House of Commons Women and Equalities Committee has just published the results of a survey, which found that nearly a third of women going through the menopause have missed work because of symptoms.
It also found that only one-in-10 women had asked for workplace adjustments.
Those who had not said they were "worried about the reaction of others" or did not know who to ask.
Typically, the menopause affects women between 45 and 55 with menopausal women are the fastest growing demographic in the workforce.
Symptoms can include anxiety, mood swings, brain fog, hot flushesand irregular periods.
Around 80 percent of menopausal women are in work and 88 percent of these say the menopause has had an impact on their working life.
Baines Wilson, which has offices in Carlisle and Lancaster, has recorded a 14-minute podcast where Joanne Holborn explains how the menopause affects employees, what employers should be aware of and how they can support staff who are experiencing this.
For more information on how to manage the menopause at work, contact Baines Wilson's employment team on 01228 552600 or 01524 548494.
Previous South Lakeland District Council Launches Projects To Help Alleviate Poverty
Next School Pupils Help Save Stagecoach Route 93


Your support for our Wildlife Sanctuary now goes further!
Help transform the lives of animals at the new ADI Wildlife Sanctuary and your donation will be DOUBLED thanks to a match funding offer.
ADI has saved hundreds of animals from suffering around the world. Find out their stories and learn where they are and who they're with now!
Over 100 animals saved during our biggest rescue to date! Find out how we emptied Peru of its circus animals and how you can help give the animals a better future.
Help rescue animals in need and join the front line against animal suffering.
Help us build our sanctuary for rescued circus animals.
Watch ADI in action and our lions, primates, bears and other rescued animals enjoying their forever homes and for many companionship for the first time.
ADI is working with the authorities in Guatemala to enforce a new law banning the use of animals in circuses.
With your help, Tina and Tilin can have a woodland paradise. We are also upgrading our macaque monkey habitat!
Anne, Europe's oldest elephant, removed from the circus after devastating ADI exposé.


Looking for a reliable and affordable accredited DSTV Installer? Look no more as we are here at your service. Allow us to make your life much more easier.
Our company is based in 257 Oak Ave Ferndale Randburg.


text:
Home Chevron icon It indicates an expandable section or menu, or sometimes previous / next navigation options. Voices of Color
At least 122,000 Japanese Americans were locked up in internment camps after Pearl Harbor. More than 80 years later, its legacy lingers.
Yoonji Han
Children in families of Japanese ancestry were evacuated with their parents and housed at internment camps.
Dorothea Lange/Records of the War Relocation Authority
After the Pearl Harbor attack on December 7, 1941, more than 122,000 Japanese Americans were forcibly sent to internment camps.
The move came amid fears about national security, but also economic competition and racism.
The internment of Japanese Americans is a historical reminder of how immigrants are treated amid political conflict, experts say.
In a speech to Congress, President Franklin Delano Roosevelt declared the Japanese attack on Pearl Harbor on December 7, 1941 as "a date which will live in infamy." The bombing thrust the United States fully into World War II, but also stoked existing xenophobia and racialized fear about national security.
The reaction to Pearl Harbor was swift. The same day, just hours after the attack, the FBI rounded up nearly 1,300 Japanese American community and religious leaders, arresting them without evidence and freezing their assets. More than 850 Germans and 150 Italians were also arrested.
Two months later on February 19, 1942, Roosevelt issued Executive Order 9066, which authorized military commanders to designate military areas along the West Coast and remove civilians from these areas "in his discretion." A few weeks later, Congress passed a law that gave teeth to the order, making violations punishable by imprisonment and a $5,000 fine.
Although Executive Order 9066 did not specify any ethnic groups, military commanders like Lieutenant General John L. DeWitt issued a proclamation that specifically forced Japanese Americans to evacuate from their homes.
"A Jap's a Jap – it makes no difference whether he is an American citizen or not," DeWitt reportedly said.
Throughout the war, at least 122,000 Japanese Americans were forcibly confined in isolated, fenced, and guarded "assembly centers" and "relocation centers," also known as "internment camps." More than half of the evacuees were legal American citizens, and ranged from a 92-year-old woman and a baby boy born a few months before the last camp closed three years later in 1945.
Japanese Americans form a line outside a civil control station for "processing" in response to the Civil Exclusion Order, April 25, 1942.
A history of discrimination
Many non-military Americans supported the forced relocation and internment of Japanese Americans due to economic competition, distrust of the "other," and lasting anti-Asian racism, according to scholars.
"Discrimination against Asian Americans had been common in the U.S. since the 19th century. Americans blamed Asians for taking away jobs and were generally xenophobic against perceived negative cultural as well as economic influences from the 'yellow peril,'" Nancy Qian, a professor at Kellogg School of Management at Northwestern University, told Insider.
Following the end of the Chinese Exclusion Act of 1882, which later expanded to prohibit immigration from most Asian countries, thousands of Japanese immigrants settled in America. They found success in farming and other small businesses in Hawaii and other West Coast states — a success that some white farmers and business owners viewed as threats.
In 1913, the California State Assembly passed an act that restricted land ownership to only those eligible to be citizens. And, in 1922, the Supreme Court upheld the government's right to deny US citizenship to Japanese immigrants.
"We're charged with wanting to get rid of the Japs for selfish reasons. We do. It's a question of whether the White man lives on the Pacific Coast or the brown men," Austin E. Anson, managing secretary of a farming association, told the Saturday Evening Post in 1942. "If all the Japs were removed tomorrow, we'd never miss them in two weeks because the White farmers can take over and produce everything the Jap grows. And we do not want them back when the war ends, either."
Poor living conditions
Japanese Americans were temporarily housed at assembly centers before they were transported to internment camps. The assembly centers were often old fairgrounds or racetracks with buildings meant for livestock, hastily converted into living quarters for families up to six, according to oral histories of internees.
The internment camps were no better. Four or five families shared tar-papered, army-style barracks with communal mess halls, schools, and work facilities surrounding them. The camps were ringed by barbed wire and guard towers. Prisoners were shot for walking too close to the fence.
Some Japanese Americans rioted against the poor living conditions they were subjected to, including insufficient rations, substandard sanitation, and overcrowding. But nascent attempts at an uprising were swiftly quelled by US Army guards.
High school students at the Heart Mountain Relocation Center, Wyoming, June 1943.
Records of the War Relocation Authority
Decades till reparations
The internment camps ended in 1945 after the Supreme Court unanimously ruled that the military had "no authority to subject citizens who are concededly loyal" to the United States.
The Supreme Court had, however, held in a separate case that same year that compulsory exclusion of citizens during times of war was justified to reduce the risk of espionage. Scholars have condemned the widely-criticized ruling as "an odious and discredited artifact of popular bigotry," and as "a stain on American jurisprudence."
In 1988, Congress passed the Civil Liberties Act of 1988, which offered $20,000 checks to camp survivors and issued a formal apology for the "grave injustice" that "was done to both citizens and permanent resident aliens of Japanese ancestry by the evacuation, relocation, and internment of civilians during World War II."
The law also acknowledged that the actions were "carried out without adequate security reasons and without any acts of espionage or sabotage, and were motivated largely by racial prejudice, wartime hysteria, and a failure of political leadership."
A lingering legacy
The last camp closed in May 1945, but the implications of the forced evacuation and imprisonment of Japanese Americans after Pearl Harbor linger today in the political theater.
"The internment of the Japanese Americans is a stain on the collective memories of all Asian Americans. It puts into question how they will be treated by America in the event of an international conflict between the country of their ancestors and the US," Qian said, citing the backlash Chinese Americans faced amid the Trump-China trade war and the Covid-19 pandemic.
"One interpretation is that the perceived backlash is actually the combination of isolated incidents and political rhetoric, and that most Asian Americans are safe and will be treated fairly," Qian continued. "But this sanguine view is undermined by the recollection of the Japanese American experience during WWII."
Voices of Color Pearl Harbor World War II


Your bed/room assignment at SRMC is based on your diagnosis on admission and the bed availability at that time. You can select a bed/room depending on your affordability and medical insurance. The admission counsellor will help you to choose your bed/room. Sometimes you may have to wait for a short time till the bed/room of your choice gets ready. Please bear with us for any inconvenience.


"2019 is the year of the vegan," declared The Economist earlier this month. Forbes chimed in with their prediction that plant-based living will go mainstream this year.
Claims like these get thrown about in the plant-based community from time to time, but when McDonald's debuted a McVegan burger last December, it validated the plant-based trend in an unprecedented way.
It's not an understatement to say that veganism has grabbed hold of the American attention. Approximately a quarter of 25- to 34-year-old Americans identify as vegan or vegetarian. If this trend continues, we are heading towards a future free of animal-based sources for diet, fashion, and industrial products.
Within a couple of months, a host of new vegan restaurants have made the Windy City their home. For starters, the Seattle chain, No Bones Beach Club opened its doors in Wicker Park; on January 5, Fancy Plants Vegan Cafe debuted in Lakeview; in early January, celebrity chef, Matthew Kenney, rolled out his plant-based carpet with the launch of Althea in the Gold Coast. Not to be outdone by Chicago's salute to vegan cuisine, Manna Kitchen will soon become the first plant-based restaurant to serve the Western Suburbs of Chicago.
For us at Veggie Fest Chicago, this is great news. Part of our goal is to motivate others to consider a plant-based lifestyle that promotes health, spiritual, and environmental benefits.
The local plant-based buzz excites us because Veggie Fest is back this summer, 2019, in Lisle, Illinois, though the global vegan phenomenon interests us, too. Where else in the world is veganism such a #TrendingTopic? What are some of the best places in the world to eat vegan? What if we want to try this global trend?
We asked our friend, Ken Spector, who is the "Marketing and Ideas Man" at HappyCow. Here are some of his thoughts.
KF: Where are some of the best places in the world to be vegan?
KS: London, England. Some argue that veganism has already gone mainstream in the UK. London has over 128 exclusively vegan restaurants registered on HappyCow.
Other great places for veganism are Warsaw, Poland and Berlin, Germany. The most dense vegan area—meaning the most vegan restaurants per capita—is Prague. In the USA, it's Portland, Oregon. The data keeps changing. I have to constantly update these points in my talks at many of the festivals I visit.
KF: What should aspiring or new vegans know?
KS: Two things. 1. Be careful just being vegan. There are real deficiencies to be concerned about. There is no reliable source of B12 other than a supplement. I know many vegans that do not take the deficiencies seriously.
2. You can't just start to eat vegetables and think you're the greatest person on the planet. Be careful about preaching so much. A study just came out recently. Something like-Twenty-six percent of meat eaters are discouraged to try giving up meat because of the attitude of vegans. For many of us, we weren't always vegan or vegetarian, so just remember that.
In addition to 2019 being the year of the vegan, let's make 2019 the year we grow tolerant of that which is unfamiliar. In our global society, let's practice open-mindedness. Let's consider how our lifestyle choices impact our environment and well-being. Let's experience new things– maybe even try a McVegan burger.


text:
Q: AdLockOptimistic equivalent in razor pages I'm working on a .Net Razor Web Page and I want to know how to block the read registry (previously I used AdLockOptimistic in ADO) until the update is completed, my code is...
        var sqlLeeUsr = "SELECT UsrSmlla FROM tbUsr WHERE (UsrNro=@0)";
        var usr = db.QuerySingle(sqlLeeUsr, intUsrNro);
        if (usr != null)
        {
            intSecuencia = usr.UsrSmlla + 1;

            var sqlModUsr = "UPDATE tbUsr SET UsrSmlla=@0 FROM tbUsr WHERE (UsrNro=@1)";
            db.Execute(sqlModUsr, intSecuencia, intUsrNro);
        }

A: Rather than querying the value, then incrementing it, you should do the two operations in one. That way, each invocation will definitely get a unique value.
The code you want to execute is likely:
var sqlLeeUsr = "UPDATE tbUsr SET UsrSmlla=UsrSmlla+1
    FROM tbUsr
    OUTPUT INSERTED.UsrSmlla
    WHERE (UsrNro=@1)";
var changed = db.QuerySingle(sqlLeeUsr, intUsrNro);

This will update the table and return the new (incremented) value.


This years Sonic Acts X11 in Amsterdam,'The Cinematic Experience' was a beautifully put together combination of live music and audio visual performances, exhibitions, talks, and film screenings.
For me, a reoccurring theme throughout Sonic Acts X11, was silence. Being a mother of an extremely talkative five year old, the first thing I was looking forward to was the opportunity to spend five days in my own, with the time/space /quietness to reflect, experience and absorb – a rare opportunity, and one made possible by STEIM who let me stay in their artist accommodation for the duration of the festival.
On Thursdays pre opening night of the festival I attended the screening of Stan Brakhage's, 'Dog Star Man' , it felt immensely refreshing to be seated in a quiet movie theatre, for over an hour, watching a silent film. On the way out , i overheard two people talking about how, for them, it had been an excruciating endurance test!
Afterwards I went to the The Drone People at the Paradiso, a four hour concert featuring BJ Nilsen, Joachim Nordwall, C.Spenser Yeh Hildur Gudnadottir, Carl Michael von Hausswollf and Mika Vainio – whose releases such as Metri (Sahko), and the first Panasonic album Vakio, I found particularly cathartic in the mid nineties. The effect of the continuous drone performances, set in the wonderfully apt venue, through a great sound system, was physical as well as aural, at times a sonic pummeling, at times a gentler textural immersion. Coming straight from a purely visual silent movie experience to a pure sound experience was an interesting contrast , and illustrated well the point Ken Jacobs made couple of days later where he argued the case for being selective about which sense to focus on at one time, in particular not adding sound to image unnecessarily, (& visa versa), except in the rare occurrence of a true audio visual artwork.
He showed examples of silent film, ruined by the overlay of sound, and talked about how the effect of music added to a scene was to dictate how to feel about it, not letting the viewer have the space /silence to arrive at their own thoughts. He showed us some of his own silent films, Orchard Street and Window, and also gave a magic lantern performance later in the festival.
I missed the first conference keynote talk 'the Diamora Revisited' by Erkki Huhtao , which I heard was excellent, (I was too busy enjoying a lie in) but made it to 'The Defeat of Time' a discussion on Drone by Carl Michael von Hausswollf and Joachim Nordwall. Hausswollf described how as a boy growing up in the Swedish countryside, he would put on his snow shoes, go deep into the snow filled forest, and stand still, experiencing a profound silence. He said that Drone music was perhaps his way of getting back to that experience /feeling, in a similar way that other people might use meditation. Joachim Nordwall said that for him it was a way of recreating a particular time /place/feeling, in his case, of a room where aged 15 he first experimented with drugs, drones and analog synths.
Over the next couple of days there were many more artists, writers and theoreticians who spoke about, or demonstrated their own experiments in inducing / experiencing enhanced sensory perception/reaching an inner silence through immersion in sound / image , or blurring boundaries between the individual sense of self and the outer world.
Media artist Ulf Langheinrich talked about projects of his aimed at achieving a direct sensory impact through the use of flicker, and on 'effecting interference movements between the perceptive and processing potential of the eye-brain-apparatus'.
Tez gave a realtime performance using flicker video and surround sound binaural beats, 'producing and audio visual stimulus which allows moving visual patters to emerge directly in the brain of the viewer/listener ' – a contemporary dream machine.
Kurt Hentschlager told of how his Feed' performance, also using flicker, was designed to induce sensory overload. This has, on occasion caused a number of people to black out.
Writer and theoretician Arjen Mulders talked about 'extramedial' , 'the filmic' in movies , as a 'feeling of silence and stillness at the heart of the event '…'movement may be the essence of film, but its effect on the viewer is unfathomable silence. ..you cannot capture the extramedial but you can cause it too appear.
He said that for him the 'extramedial' was an antidote to the media theory that he is constantly engaged in, which made me think that a way to reach an inner silence away from all that living in the head , might be particularly useful for the more theoretical artists & academics. Although using flicker as a way to alter the visual cortex would seem quite an extreme way to try to achieve this.
His talk provoked the most controversy amongst musicians in the audience, as he appeared to be saying that the extramedial could only be reached by the visual. A number of people said that what he called the 'filmic' moment could and often was, be produced by sound, not image, another commented that sound seemed to be a 'black spot' throughout the media conference, some one else pointed out that recent research was challenging the primacy of the visual.
However I think he was really only talking about his own experience of extramedial, which happened to be visual. Throughout the talks I attended everyone seemed pretty much to be talking about their attempts to reach or create similar experiences, only using different medium and method to get there.
For myself, nothings beats the live improvised performance of abstract electronic music to create a feeling of 'being in the moment' – as a live performance is itself. Even though I appreciated all of the exhibition installations, the films and the talks that I made it to, the highlight of the festival for me was performances by Signal, and Ryoichi Kurokawa.
Although the music of Signal the (Raster- Noton) 'supergroup' comprising Carsten Nicolai Frank Bretschneider, and Olaf Bender and can definitely be appreciated independently of visual in a recorded medium, in a live setting their performance was a powerful audio visual synergy. I often close my eyes to better focus on the music, but somehow, even with the massive projection screen behind them, this wasn't necessary, the visuals being abstract enough that instead of being a distraction they became a part of the overall experience, without really needing to 'watch them. I confess though that I did stop being in the moment for long enough to imagine an alternative setting for a performance of theirs, perhaps a warehouse space filled with people dancing. At the Paradiso it was largely seated, and a more 'in the body' sensual response such as dancing would seem an appropriate audience reaction to the creative energies being put out by Signal.
This was the second time I have experienced a Ryoichi Kurokawa performance and it was just as beautiful, both visually and sonically as the first. I felt that this was something that could justifiably be described as 'Live Cinema' (not that Ryoichi uses this term himself) and wondered whether Douglas Kahn, another speaker saw it & if so what he thought of it. In his talk he seemed quite put out by the appropriation of the term 'Live Cinema' by some of todays artists engaged in the performance of live generated audio visual, since examples that he had witnessed had struck him as only relatively unsophisticated 'VJ'ing' , which was certainly not the case with Ryoichi Kurokawa, a consummate artist.
On the Sunday I experienced some of the Acousmonium, a sound diffusion system, or 'speaker orchestra' designed in Paris in 1974 consisting of 80 speakers of all different shapes and sizes, placed across a stage at varying hight and distances according to their range, power, quality and directional characteristics. This had a real charm to it visually, lit with ultra violet lighting, and an immersive sonic quality ' it puts you inside the sound. Its like the interior of a sound universe ' said Francoiuse Bale after designing it. I didn't catch all the performances but I particularly enjoyed the Hans-Joachim Rodedelius piece.
Finally, my own 'silent moment' occurred just before the festival began. After arriving on the wednesday night, traveling by tram from the main train station, towards where i was staying, my brain was hyperactive, many of my thoughts were nostalgic, having lived in Holland many years previously with my partner, and I also felt slightly anxious, as I get lost very easily. Looking out of the tram window I saw an enormous full moon over Amsterdam, and the image itself, combined with an awareness (rather than a thought) of the moon shining simultaneously over Birmingham, produced a shift that gave me a feeling of calmness.


text:
Visiting Us Hunting & Fishing
The pristine waters of Snow Lake and the numerous surrounding lakes offer the angler the opportunity to catch Walleye (Pickerel), Northern Pike (Jack), Lake Trout, Rainbow Trout and numerous other miscellaneous species.
There are six major road accessible master angler lakes in the Snow Lake area including Snow Lake, Wekusko Lake, Herblett Lake, Corman's Lake, Tramping Lake, and Osborne Lake, as well as the Grass River. Nine more major lakes are accessible by trails including Niblock Lake, Vikers Lake, Loonhead Lake, Corley Lake, Morton Lake, File Lake, Dolomite Lake, Buzz Lake and Dyce Lake. In addition, six more major lakes are accessible via winter roads which include such lakes as Squall Lake, Mcleod Lake, Cook Lake, Ham Lake, Woosey Lake and Morgan Lake. There is also a huge number of smaller lakes, some of which may not have been named yet, which one may fish.
A license is required in order to fish on any of the above waters. Check your conservation license to see the number of the various fish you are entitled to possess at any one time. It is important to note that High Quality Management lakes exist in the Snow Lake area and that the Angling Guide available from any Conservation office should be consulted regarding all fishing regulations on any waters in the area. The season is officially closed for part of May during spawning to permit the fish to replenish their numbers. Check with Conservation or your Angler's Guide to find out the dates. It is important to note that all fishing in Manitoba is now "barbless". For complete information consult the 2016 Angler's Guide or call (800) 214-6497.
Please check with the local Conservation office, 506 Lakeshore Drive, Snow Lake, at (204) 358-2521 to ensure you have the most recent information.
Moose, Black Bear, Rabbits, Grey Timber Wolves, game birds, migratory birds, waterfowl, and various rodents may all be hunted in the Snow Lake area. Archers may also hunt big game animals in this region.
For Manitoba regulations click on Hunter's Guide
Hunting packages, accommodations and guides may be solicited through one of the following lodges/outfitters in the Snow Lake area:
Burntwood Lodge
Fly in fishing and out camps with the main lodge located on Burntwood Lake. 24 cabins that can accommodate 6 - 8 guests with all the bedding and linens supplied. The Burntwood Lodge is the only accommodation on the whole lake. The lake itself is 35 miles long with many bays, islands and rivers. The water is never rough enough to make one lose valuable fishing time. CLICK HERE FOR MORE INFORMATION
Tawow Lodge Ltd.
The Tawow Lodge is located at Herb Lake Landing, five kilometers north of PTH #39, on the south end of Wekusko Lake. The lodge is licensed to accommodate 28 guests. Fish for Walleye, Northern Pike, Sauger, Perch and Whitefish. Accessible by road. Out camp at Woosey Lake accommodates 6 persons. CLICK HERE FOR MORE INFORMATION
Wekusko Falls Lodge
The Wekusko Falls Lodge is situated on the Grass River system midway between Tramping Lake and Wekusko Lake, ten minutes drive south of the Town of Snow Lake on Highway #392. All cabins overlook the Grass River and Wekusko Falls. The Lodge has 6 - 2 bedroom cabins that can accommodate 8 people each. These cabins all have full bathrooms with showers, electric stoves and refrigerator. CLICK HERE FOR MORE INFORMATION
The pristine waters of Snow Lake's numerous lakes offer the angler the opportunity to catch Walleye, Jack, Lake and Rainbow Trout, and numerous other species. Fishing may occur during any time of the year that the ice is safe enough to bear one's weight, usually this will start in the month of December and terminate in early April.
The same rules and regulations apply to ice fishing as to boat oriented fishing. Shacks and shelters may be used but must be removed prior to spring break-up.
2016 Angler's Guide


Southern Africa has a new strategic plan for regional peace and security covering five sectors – political, defence, state security, public security and police.
The plan, developed by the Southern African Development Community (SADC), was launched on 20 November in Arusha by the Tanzanian President, Jakaya Kikwete.
Kikwete, who is the current Chairperson of the SADC Organ on Politics, Defence and Security Cooperation, urged Member States to make resources available for implementation of the Revised Strategic Indicative Plan of the Organ (SIPO).
Kikwete also stressed that political will is needed to move forward.
Speaking at the same occasion, the SADC Executive Secretary, Dr Tomáz Augusto Salomão, emphasised the need to preserve "peace, security, stability and democracy, as a prerequisite for regional integration and sustainable development", in order to address the challenges posed by the new political, economic and social context in the region.
Salomão traced the history of the Organ on Politics, Defence and Security Cooperation established by SADC Heads of State and Government in 1996, and its achievements and challenges, saying that it constitutes a "solid platform for deepening the political cooperation and cohesion in the region".
The legal instruments already adopted for implementation include various SADC protocols, notably that on politics, defence and security cooperation signed in 2001.
Other protocols are against corruption; for combating illicit drugs; the control of firearms and ammunition; facilitation of the movement of persons; extradition; legal affairs, mutual assistance in criminal matters; and a mutual defence pact.
The first Strategic Indicative Plan for the Organ (SIPO) identifying strategies and activities was adopted in 2003 for implementation over five years. Discussions on revision of the plan began in 2007.
The Executive Secretary identified the key achievements as the integration of the regional police chiefs organization into the Inter-State Defence and Security Committee; establishment of the Regional Early Warning Centre for conflict prevention and management; and the SADC Standby Force.
Salomão also cited establishment of civilian structures such as the SADC Electoral Advisory Council, and the SADC Mediation, Conflict Prevention and Preventive Diplomacy structures.
However, he added that, in addition to these achievements, there are challenges resulting from geopolitics and global dynamics, but also from inadequate coordination mechanisms and a shortage of human and financial resources for appropriate implementation.
The SIPO is to be reviewed at five-year intervals to ensure adequate response to the changing geopolitical environment, and relevance of objectives, strategies and activities in various sectors, as well as to strengthen monitoring mechanisms, human resources and structures.
A main goal of the programme, Salomão said, is to publicise and disseminate the revised SIPO to all stakeholders, to facilitate development of a comprehensive work plan to enable "relevant stakeholders to be true partners in the implementation".
Among the new challenges he cited are piracy, climate change, human trafficking, illegal immigration and economic recession.
The launch was witnessed by senior defence, police and correctional services officers from Tanzania, and senior government officials and diplomats from SADC member states, as well as research and academic institutions attending a symposium on the new strategic plan.
SADC has 15 member states including DRC, but Madagascar is currently suspended following a non-constitutional change of government in 2009.


text:
EU AUTHORISED REPRESENTATIVE
REGULATORY CONSULTANCY
(CFS) CERTIFICATE OF FREE SALE
EU-AUTHORISED REPRESENTATIVE
IVDR
NON EU
Regulatory 2 Go 12/22
Newsletter 01/22
FLYER 03/22
NEWS - Letter 01 / 2022
New transition periods of the IVDR
As we can see from a recent press release, the EU has extended the transition periods of Regulation 2017/746 on in-vitro diagnostics (IVDR) in an urgent procedure. The European Council and the European Parliament adopted the European Commission's proposal of October 14, 2021 without any changes. However, this does not change anything when the regulation comes into force. This remains May 26, 2022. However, the new deadlines give manufacturers and notified bodies a little more room to get IVD products through the conformity assessment procedure.
As a result, the new regulations could e.g. prevent IVDs from disappearing from the market en masse from May 2022.
In this article, you can find out which new deadlines apply, what they mean for you and what you should do now.
1. Overview of the new transition periods
a) What is new with the amending regulation of the IVDR?
In particular, the changes give manufacturers more time whose products require a Notified Body under the IVDR. Such products may still be manufactured and placed on the market after May 26, 2022. But beware! Some requirements of the IVDR still have to be met. You can find out more about this below.
b) Which products do the changes affect?
First of all, it is important that the new regulations only apply to existing products. These are devices that were (or will be) declared compliant before May 26, 2022 AND are classified as Class D, C, B, or A (sterile) under the IVDR. This means that all products will benefit from an extended transition period, except
• Class A products without sterile marking and
• new products for which a declaration of conformity will only be issued after May 26, 2022.
c) How long are the new deadlines?
How long the new deadlines are depends on the future risk class and whether a notified body was already involved under IVDD.
• There is no extended period for Class A devices, with the exception of sterile devices.
• These sterile Class A devices, along with Class B devices, will have the longest transition period for placing on the market: until May 26, 2027.
• For Class C products, the deadline is May 26, 2026 and
• For Class D products, the deadline is May 26, 2025.
• The so-called "sales regulation" applies for a further year after the end of the aforementioned periods.
The figure below summarizes the regulations. Find out in the following section how this looks in detail for the individual cases.
IVDR & MDR Transition Timelines / Amendment December 20, 2021
2. The new deadlines in detail
a) IVD for which a certificate was issued by a Notified Body under IVDD and also require a Notified Body under IVDR
For in vitro diagnostic devices for which a certificate has been issued by a Notified Body under IVDD, the deadline changes as follows in accordance with Article 110 paragraph (2):
• Certificates issued by Notified Bodies before May 25, 2017 according to IVDD remain valid until the date specified in the certificate. So there is no change for these products.
• Certificates according to Annex VI of the IVDD lose their validity on May 27, 2025 at the latest.
(before: 2024 – extension by 1 year)
• Certificates issued by Notified Bodies after May 25, 2017 in accordance with IVDD will lose their validity by May 27, 2025 at the latest. (before: 2024 – extension by 1 year)
What does that mean specifically?
Example: Let's say you have declared conformity for a List B IVD with a Notified Body certificate according to Annex IV of the IVDD (Full Quality Assurance System). The certificate has an issue date before May 25, 2017. The validity date on the certificate should then be shown up to May 25, 2022 at the latest, because that is the requirement of the IVDD (Article 9 Para. 10). Anyone who does not receive a current certificate under IVDD from the notified body for their existing products by May 25, 2022 at the latest must declare conformity under IVDR. For this, manufacturers must involve a notified body accredited for the IVDR. With a certificate that was issued between May 25, 2017 and May 25, 2022, the validity of the certificate must end on May 26, 2025 at the latest (last possible date), otherwise it will become invalid according to IVDR regulation Art. 110.
The prerequisite for this case is that a notified body is or was already involved in the conformity assessment procedure under the IVD Directive 98/79/EC. Otherwise, no certificate from a notified body can exist.
Products that receive such a certificate are products that comply with Annex II, List A and List B or self-test, regardless of the conformity assessment procedure selected under the IVDD. So it doesn't matter whether the product in question has received a certificate under IVDD via a complete quality assurance system, via the type examination or the design test in self-tests.
b) "Other IVDs" that have already been placed on the market under IVDD and require a Notified Body under IVDR
• The following new transitional periods apply to in-vitro diagnostics for which manufacturers under IVDD issued the declaration of conformity themselves before May 26, 2022 without involving a notified body and which under IVDR must undergo a conformity assessment procedure with a notified body in accordance with IVDR classification rules:
• May 26, 2025 for Class D IVD
• May 26, 2026 for Class C IVD
• May 26, 2027 for Class B IVD
• May 26, 2027 for Class A IVDs that are marketed sterile.
• Depending on the risk class of the IVD, these existing products may continue to be placed on the market after the IVDR's validity date of May 26, 2022, provided that the products comply with the IVDD requirements and there are no significant changes to the design and purpose.
• However, manufacturers should note that even for devices for which the proposed transition periods would apply, the requirements of the IVDR for post-market surveillance (PMS), market surveillance, vigilance and registration of economic operators and devices must be complied with.
Assuming that the product has been or will be issued with a declaration of conformity according to Annex III under the IVDD before May 26, 2022 without a notified body. The question then arises under which class the product will fall under the IVDR in the future.
I) If the product falls into Class D in the future, you may still manufacture and market these products until May 26, 2025, but you may no longer make any significant changes. After that, you or the distributor may provide and commission the product for another year until May 26, 2026, which is colloquially referred to as the "sales rule".
II) If the product falls under Class C in the future, manufacture and placing on the market is permitted until May 26, 2026. Significant changes are not permitted.
III) If the product falls under class B or A (sterile) in the future, manufacture and placing on the market are permitted until May 26, 2027, which is the longest transitional period. Significant changes to the product are also not permitted here.
c) No extension for "normal" (non-sterile) Class A devices and "new" IVDs
However, the extensions proposed by the Commission should NOT apply to two product groups:
• Normal" (non-sterile) Class A products
• "New" IVD
In any event, as of May 26, 2022, if the device falls under Class A and is not a sterile device, manufacturers must demonstrate compliance with the IVDR and meet all applicable IVDR requirements. You cannot use an extended transition period. With no Notified Body required, it is entirely up to the manufacturer's resources and timing to achieve this goal.
The extended deadlines for "new" in-vitro diagnostics also do not apply. As such, the Commission considers IVDs whose conformity has not been declared under the IVDD.
Manufacturers must also provide proof of conformity for these products in accordance with IVDR from May 26, 2022.
d) Laboratory Developed Tests (LDT)
There is now also a little more leeway for products that are produced and used by medical institutions themselves. This is intended to relieve the burden on health facilities such as laboratories, which have been badly hit by the corona pandemic.
But be careful, the following requirements remain unaffected:
(3) Demonstrating compliance with the essential safety and performance requirements shall also include a performance evaluation in accordance with Article 56.
(4) Products manufactured and used in healthcare facilities are deemed to have been put into operation.
(5) With the exception of the relevant essential safety and performance requirements set out in Annex I, the requirements of this Regulation shall not apply to devices manufactured and used solely within healthcare facilities located in the Union, provided that all of the following conditions are met
Article 5 (5) sentence 1, sentence 2 letter a) and sentences 3 to 5 also remain unchanged.
From May 26, 2022, all Lab Developed Tests (LDT) in the EU must meet the basic safety and performance requirements in accordance with Annex I IVDR, including the performance evaluation, and may not be handed over to another legally independent institution – legal requirements that apply in Germany are already anchored in the Medical Devices Act (MPG).
Article 5 (5) of the IVDR provides for longer periods of time for LDT, especially with regard to the sub-items of sentence 5. For the implementation of sub-points b) and c) as well as e) to i), the deadline is now May 26, 2024. For letter d), the deadline is May 26, 2028.
Letter d) has the longest period. This says:
"In its documentation, the healthcare facility provides a justification for the fact that the specific needs of the patient target group cannot be satisfied or cannot be satisfied at the indicated level of performance by a similar product on the market;"
This requirement should ensure that there is no competition between LDTs and commercial products on the market, as they are regulated differently. The EU has now placed this point at the very end of the transition period on the grounds that laboratories can only compare the products on the market with their own product if all IVD products on the market are also approved under IVDR and registered in EUDAMED.
For which the EU grants a delay in LDTs
The following items of Article 5(5) will be deferred for two years until May 26, 2024:
• Quality management system
Letter b) refers to the requirement for a suitable quality management system, which would at least have to take into account the development and manufacture of IVDs from ISO 13485 in order to meet the state of the art.
• Quality assurance in the laboratory
Letter c) requires compliance with the requirements of ISO 15189 for quality assurance in the laboratory and compliance with national accreditation regulations such as the RiliBÄK in Germany (guideline of the German Medical Association for quality assurance in laboratory medicine).
• Provision of information
Letter e) Provision of information to authorities on manufacture, modification and use
• Public statement
Letter f) Declaration of compliance with Annex I of the IVDR
• Documentation
Letter g) Documentation on production, design and performance, i.e. the "product file" so to speak
• Proof of production according to specifications (batch record)
Letter h) Proof of manufacture according to the specifications in the "Product File"
• Serious Incidents and Corrective Actions
Letter i) Collecting and evaluating experience in clinical use and deriving corrective measures
e) EUDAMED
According to the current status, the deadline for an EUDAMED registration of IVDs is November 26, 2023.
This results from Article 26 paragraph 3 IVDR and Article 113 IVDR, which refers to it. Art. 113 IVDR also points out that IVDs must be registered in EUDAMED 18 months after the IVDR has come into force. If the database is fully functional on May 20, 2022, the deadline for registration is November 26, 2023.
3. What does not change
The IVDR applies from May 26, 2022. This means that the obligations to monitor products on the market (Articles 78 to 81) as well as vigilance (Articles 82 to 87) and monitoring by the competent authorities also apply, regardless of the transition periods. Thus, the entire Chapter VII of the IVDR is to be applied, even if the products are still placed on the market under IVDD. In addition, economic operators must register in EUDAMED.
However , the requirements of this Regulation relating to post-market surveillance, market surveillance, vigilance, registration of economic operators and of devices shall apply to devices referred to […] instead of the corresponding requirements in Directive 98/79/EC.
Proposal of the EU Commission of October 14, 2021 to adapt the IVDR (EU) 2017/746
The Notified Body that issued certificates under the IVD Directive will continue to be responsible for monitoring conformity during the transitional period.
It is also important that no significant changes are made to the products or their intended purpose during the transition period, because then manufacturers must apply the IVDR immediately and in full.
4. Background to Changes
The IVDR came into force on May 25, 2017 and will be binding from May 26, 2022. The new deadlines do not change that. As a result, a large part of the declarations of conformity issued under the IVDD would have become invalid from May 2022.
However, on October 14, 2021, the EU Commission submitted a proposal for an amendment to the IVDR to the Council and Parliament in order to give manufacturers more time to go through the conformity assessment procedure. The resulting amending ordinance went through the legislative process in a very short time.
The Commission justified its proposal primarily with the effects of the corona pandemic: This ties up a lot of resources, making it almost impossible to implement the necessary measures quickly.
But the current effects of the MDR on the Medtech-Market should also play a role. A product clear-cut such as that caused by the MDR should be avoided for in-vitro diagnostics. Various actors have been sounding the alarm for months.
• Numerous stakeholders from politics, the Medtech-Industry, notified bodies, medical professionals, scientists and non-profit organizations have warned of the dangers of IVDR deadlines being too short.
• On May 11, 2021 and June 15, 2021, various parties and the Council of Health Ministers contacted the Commission to obtain a new regulation.
In its proposal, the commission recognized how dramatic the situation is:
• There are currently only six Notified Bodies across Europe that can deal with the IVDR (under the IVDD there were 18).
• A notified body must now be involved for significantly more in-vitro diagnostics: Up to now, the quota was around 8% of the in-vitro diagnostics on the market. Under the IVDR, a notified body would have to be involved in almost 78% (a total of around 24,000 IVDs).
• According to a survey by MedTech Europe, if the deadlines were not extended, around 22% of in vitro diagnostics would disappear from the market from 2022 (currently around 40,000 IVDs are on the market, i.e. 9,000 would disappear).
• However, Covid-19 in particular has shown how important reliable in-vitro diagnostics are.
• Approximately 70% of clinical decisions are made using in vitro diagnostics.
5. What the changes mean for manufacturers
• It is important for manufacturers to continue to adhere to their implementation plan so that their IVDs become IVDR-compliant in good time.
• Due to the scarce resources, manufacturers should not let time pass unnecessarily.
• Manufacturers should be clear about the risk class of their IVD. Not only does the conformity assessment procedure depend on this, but also the transition period.
The IVDR will apply from May 26, 2022. The new regulations in the IVDR will not change that. However, the majority of IVD manufacturers now have more time to provide the necessary proof of conformity for their products. In view of the few notified bodies that have existed for the IVDR so far and the generally tense situation due to the corona pandemic, this should bring great relief for many – and prevent important IVD products from disappearing from the market. For medical laboratories, too, some requirements only apply with a time delay. Nevertheless, they must also meet the basic safety and performance requirements for in-house products or lab-developed tests.
https://ec.europa.eu/commission/presscorner/detail/en/ip_21_6965
Johner Institute – Neue Übergansfristen IVDR


Nucleic acids are biological macromolecules present in all living organisms. These biological molecules are essential for life, and include DNA (deoxyribonucleic acid) and RNA (ribonucleic acid).
These are responsible for the storage and transfer of genetic information from generation to generation. Friedrich Miescher, a Swiss biochemist (1869) was the first to isolate nucleic acids from the nucleus of pus cells and Salmon sperm. He called it "nuclein". Altman (1899) coined the term "nucleic acid".
DNA found in all organisms except a few viruses. The greatest amount of DNA is concentrated in the nucleus. It also occurs in cell organelles like mitochondria, plastids and centrioles.
Deoxyribonucleic acid is a polynucleotide molecule consisting of a repeating sequence of monomeric nucleotides arranged in a linear polymeric chain. Each monomeric nucleotide is composed of three components.
Purine bases are adenine and guanine. Pyrimidine bases are thymine and cytosine. The pyrimidine uracil is absent.
Adenine pairs with thymine by two hydrogen bonds. Cytosine pairs with guanine by three hydrogen bonds.
J.D.Watson and F.H.C. Crick in 1953 proposed the double helix model of DNA based on Chargaff's analytical data and the X-ray diffraction studies made by M.H.F Wilkins and Rosalind Franklin. They were awarded Nobel prize in 1962 for this work.
1.DNA is composed of two helical polynucleotide chains that are coiled around a common axis forming a double helix (usually right-handed) resembling a spiral staircase.
2.The sugar phosphate units of the nucleotides form the backbone and the nitrogenous bases form the cross rungs of the DNA molecule.
3.Nucleotides of a strand are linked to each other through phosphor-diester bonds between the sugar of one nucleotide and the phosphate of the other nucleotide.
4.The two strands of the DNA molecule are held together by the hydrogen bonds formed between purine and the pyrimidine bases. The base pairing is specific. Always adenine pairs with thymine and guanine pairs with cytosine. This is known as complimentary base pairing. Due to this the two stands of the DNA are complimentary and not identical.
5.The amount of purines and pyrimidines are always equal (A+G=C+T). The amount of adenine is equal to the amount of thymine and the amount of cytosine is equal to guanine. This is Chargaff's rule of base equivalence. The ratio A+G/T+C is always a unity.
6.Number of hydrogen bonds is specific. There are two hydrogen bonds between A and T and 3 hydrogen bonds between G and C (A=T and G=C).
7.The two strands are anti parallel. ie. One of them runs in 5' to 3' direction and the other runs in 3' to 5' direction.
8.The diameter of the DNA molecule is 20 A (2nm). One full turns of the double helix (one gyre) takes 34 A (3.4nm) and has 10 base pairs. One base pair is placed at an angle of 36 degrees with reference to the next base pair. The distance between the two adjacent base pair is 3.4 A degree.
9.The double helix has two grooves namely major deep groove and minor shallow groove. They alternate each other. In these grooves specific proteins interact with DNA molecule.
1.DNA is the genetic material in most of the organisms except a few RNA viruses, controlling the structure and function of an organism.
2.DNA is capable of self replication or duplication and passes on the hereditary characters to the next generation.
3.DNA undergoes mutation and genetic recombination.
5.DNA sends coded information for protein synthesis. The proteins control the structure and function of the cells.
What is the difference between a DNA and the RNA?
Want to know more about DNA structure? Click here to schedule a live help with an eTutor!