Backsword- A sword blade, which has a cutting edge only on one side. Most commonly found on curved blades, such as sabers, falchion, and cutlass.
Basket- An arrangement of steel bars, and panels that form a basket-like cage around the grip (and the wielder's hand). These are most commonly found on Scottish basket-hilted swords, and European rapiers.
Blade- The section of the sword, which is not part of the hilt.
Boshi- The curved edge of the point on a Samurai sword.
Chappe- A flap of leather attached to a sword's crossguard, which serves to protect the mouth of the scabbard and prevent water from entering. Also called a Rain Guard.
Cruciform- A generic term for any sword which when inverted point downward will form the shape of a crucifix. This was, to a degree, a religious symbol to the knights of the crusading era.
Daisho- The primary swords of the Samurai, a set of the Katana and Wakizashi.
Edge- The cutting portion of the sword's blade.
Ferrule- A metal band at either end of the grip used to secure the leather or wire wraps. Also used as a decoration.
Finger guard- A small crescent shape bar which extends from the sword's guard, and rises parallel to the sword's ricasso, which enables a user to loop their finger over the guard (which increases point control, but decreases cutting power), without fear of being injured by an opponent's blade sliding down their own.
Fuchi- The collar on the guard of a Japanese sword.
Full tang- A sword tang that passes the entire length of the grip, and is attached directly to the sword's pommel.
Grip- The part of the hilt held by the user (the handle).
Guard/Cross-guard- The section of the sword hilt whose purpose is to protect the wielder's hand. It may take of the shape of a simple bar, a steel basket, a flat disc, or several other forms.
Habaki- The blade collar on a Japanese sword.
Hamon- The "e;line"e; or visual characteristic typical of Japanese blades caused by the use of differential hardening.
Hilt- All of a sword, except for the blade, including the cross-guard, grip, and pommel.
Kashiri- The pommel on a Japanese sword.Katana - A long Japanese sword.Kissaki - The point of a blade on a Samurai sword.
Kogatana- A mini Tanto Japanese sword.
Kozuka- The grip on a small Japanese knife.Knuckle guard - A curved bar which extends from the guard to pommel, designed to prevent the user's hand from being cut by a sliding blow from an opponent's weapon.
Menuki- The decorative ornament on the handle of a Japanese sword.
Mune- The back of the blade on a Samurai sword.
Pas d'An- The portion of a rapier's guard, which surrounds the base of the sword blade.
Point- The tip of the sword's blade.
Pommel- A counter-weight at the end of a sword's hilt, used to balance the sword. Also may be used as a striking implement.
Quillon(s)- Renaissance term for the crossguard. Used almost exclusively when referring to rapiers.
Quillon block- Section of the rapier's hilt where the guard's arms (both bars, and rings) are attached. The tang of the sword blade also passes through this point, with the ricasso on one side, and the sword's grip on the other.
Rat-tail tang- A more modern method of manufacturing involving a small diameter rod being welded onto a normal tang. This method has proven faulty in many low-end swords in that they often break due to poor welds.
Ricasso- Any narrowing or thickening of a sword's blade, which remains unsharpened, just above the guard. Increases the user's ability to loop a finger over the guard, to increase control of the point.
Saya- The scabbard for a Japanese sword.
Scent stopper- Pommel type which resembles the stopper in an antique perfume jar.
Shinogi- The grind edge of the blade on a Japanese sword.
Tachi- The original Samurai sword worn suspended from an intricate belt.
Tang- The section of the sword blade that the hilt is attached to. This part of the sword is not visible when the blade is fully mounted.
Tanto- A short Japanese sword.
Tsuba- The hand guard on a Japanese sword.
Tsuka- The handle or grip of a Japanese sword.
Tsukaito- The cord wrapping on the handle of a Japanese sword.
Wakizashi- A medium length Japanese sword.
Welded tang- A tang where the steel of the blade has had another piece of steel (very often low carbon steel) welded on to it as an extension.
Wheel- A pommel that is in the shape of a flat disc. It may have added features, such as beveled edges, or raised center sections.
Wire-wrap- Spun and twisted metal wire (may be iron, brass, bronze, copper, etc.), which is then wrapped around the sword grip, often used to increase the ability to grip a sword's handle. Also a sign of wealth, as these grips tended to be more expensive to manufacture.
Yakiba- The edge of the blade on a Samurai sword.


When it comes to finances, most people think of bankruptcy as the monster hiding in the closet or under the bed. However, while it's obviously beneficial to avoid bankruptcy if possible, the real boogeyman isn't bankruptcy, it's debt. Too much debt can be incredibly damaging, and it can cost you your home, your car, or even your business. As a financial planner, I tell my clients to think of bankruptcy as a weapon to use against the debt monster. Sure, it's a last resort, but it's effective – a bankruptcy can stop a foreclosure in its tracks and clear away debt burdens that you would otherwise have to carry for years. A good bankruptcy lawyer can be your knight in shining armor. I hope this blog will understand how to fight off debt, and when and how to use bankruptcy to banish debt for good.
Divorce can be a time of anguish, regret, resentment, and even anger, but you might not have known that divorce can also affect your quality of life in retirement. This is especially true for those who divorce later in life, when the majority of you and your partner's assets were accumulated during marriage.
Without an experienced attorney to walk you through the process, you might not know that the division of assets is imperative to your retirement, or that you are entitled to up to 100% of your spouse's social security benefits. This article discusses two of the biggest ways a divorce attorney can help ensure you are prepared for retirement.
You need a qualified divorce attorney to ensure that your assets are divided fairly among you and your spouse. This is especially important concerning the home in which you both lived, as well as second or third homes that may have been used for investment or vacation purposes.
In retirement, home ownership represents potential streams of income. Whether from directly renting out the rooms in the home, or by initiating a reverse mortgage, owning property is one of most important components when it comes to enjoying your retirement. An experienced divorce attorney can make sure the division of assets is equitable and that you have what you need to provide for your own future in retirement.
A divorce attorney can also help you ensure you get the social security benefits to which you are legally entitled. If you and your spouse were married for at least ten years, and you are over the age of 62, you can collect social security benefits on your ex partner's record.
This is important if your ex spouse was the primary, or sole, income earner. Many divorcees are anxious about their pending divorce, fearing that their time away from the workforce will limit their ability to collect income from social security. However, if you meet the age and marriage requirements, you may be eligible for up to 50% of your ex partners social security benefits. Additionally, the benefits you receive do not reduce the benefits your partner receives. If your ex spouse passes away, you may be able to collect 100% of the social security benefits as a widowed spouse.
These are just two of the many ways an experienced divorce attorney can help ensure your financial stability in retirement.


text:
package net.liftweb {
package example {
package comet {

import _root_.net.liftweb._
import http._
import common._
import util._
import Helpers._
import js._
import JsCmds._
import _root_.scala.xml.Text

class Clock extends CometActor {
  override def defaultPrefix = Full("clk")
  // schedule a ping every 10 seconds so we redraw
  ActorPing.schedule(this, Tick, 10 seconds)

  private lazy val spanId = uniqueId+"_timespan"

  def render = {
    bind("time" -> timeSpan)
  }

  def timeSpan = ({timeNow})

  override def lowPriority = {
    case Tick =>
      partialUpdate(SetHtml(spanId, Text(timeNow.toString)))
      ActorPing.schedule(this, Tick, 10 seconds)
  }
}

case object Tick
}
}
}

redpajama_set_name: RedPajamaGithub


text:
Beating Burnout | The Nordic Way
Burnout is rising in the land of work-life balance
(Image credit: Benoît Derrier)
By Maddy Savage
Sweden is famous for championing a balanced lifestyle, but the number of young people being signed off work with severe stress is mushrooming.
This is the first story in our Nordic Way series, that examines life in Scandinavia and beyond.
If you're aware of global stereotypes about Sweden, working life in the Nordic nation might conjure up images of Scandi-sleek ergonomic offices, numerous breaks for coffee and cinnamon buns (called fika in Swedish), or clocking off early on Fridays to disappear to a lakeside cottage.
While not all workers are afforded such luxuries, figures suggest less than 1% of Swedes work 50 hours a week or more, and citizens are guaranteed at least five weeks' holiday. There's a strong culture of flexible working, alongside some of the most generous parental leave and subsidised childcare policies in the world. So it's not a place you'd imagine finding an exhausted employee struggling to complete workplace tasks or unable to switch off at home.
But the number of people diagnosed with chronic stress-related illnesses – including exhaustion, a condition also referred to as 'clinical burnout' – has risen rapidly in recent years. This category of sickness was the most common reason for Swedes to be off work in 2018, according to the Swedish Social Insurance Agency, accounting for more than 20% of sickness benefit cases across all age groups.
Rates have shifted dramatically among young workers, with cases up by 144% for 25-29 year-olds since 2013. Women are more likely than men to be off sick with exhaustion – experts say women still spend more time on household chores regardless of whether they have children or not, are over-represented in stressful, care-based jobs such as nursing and social work – but the rise has been noticeable across both genders and in different sectors.
Stress-related illness was the most common reason for Swedes to be off work in 2018
'A constant high, high, level of stress'
Natali Suonvieri, a 27-year-old based in Gothenburg on Sweden's west coast, is among those affected. She says she "hit the wall" and was signed-off with exhaustion in 2017, while she was working as a marketing manager for a small start-up. Her standard working hours were 0800-1700, though she sometimes worked overtime and checked her emails in the evening.
"I had a constant high, high, level of stress," she explains. "I was actually on sick leave for more than one year, and for three, four months I was lying in bed in the foetal position, more or less." She says she still has problems with cognitive issues. "I have trouble with focusing. I have trouble concentrating... trouble remembering stuff."
While many countries do not formally recognise exhaustion or clinical burnout as a medical condition, it has been a legitimate diagnosis in Sweden since 2003.
Burnout in the land of work-life balance
Video by Maddy Savage and Benoît Derrier.
Professor Marie Åsberg, a psychiatrist at Karolinska Institute, Sweden's largest academic medical research centre, explains that it is important to recognise that the condition encompasses much more than the "feeling of being overwhelmed" at work, which is a common reaction during stressful periods that we often refer to as "burnout" and usually subsides when things calm down.
Although the symptoms of clinical burnout can vary, she says they typically include "a chronic ongoing stress", which might manifest in severe fatigue, anxiety, concentration difficulties and other cognitive disturbances. "Once you develop it, it takes a very long time to recover. If your brain doesn't function properly, it is terribly difficult to go to work and do a normal job," she says. Asberg believes recent years have seen "epidemics" of the condition in Sweden.
A Swedish problem?
International comparisons are tricky, because definitions of burnout vary and not all countries recognise the diagnosis. But when it comes to the high figures in Sweden, one argument is that since Swedes were early to formulate a medical diagnosis for the condition, this has helped break down taboos, encouraging more people to come forward and making employers more aware of and accepting of the problem.
"People used to think it was some kind of mumbo jumbo... but the debates about mental health in general and burnout have been more and more common, which also of course increases the tendency to seek help and to talk about it," explains Selene Cortes, a spokesperson on clinical burnout for Swedish mental health charity Mind.
I was actually on sick leave for more than one year, and for three, four months I was lying in bed in the foetal position, more or less – Natali Suonvieri
Professor Marie Åsberg also points out that Sweden's generous welfare system plays a role: those who are diagnosed with exhaustion can typically receive approximately 80% of their salary, capped at 774 Swedish krona ($83, £66) per day. "The state pays, so you are not supposed to suffer economically if you are ill," she explains. "And because of that, the state has created very good databases of people who are on sick leave and why."
But even if Swedes have a greater tendency or economic ability to seek help, how can we unpack the disconnect between the nation's short working hours and obsession with work-life balance, and the prevalence of a condition characterised by chronic stress levels?
"I can see why people outside Sweden might have a hard time believing we're getting burned out, when we have everything served up on a plate," says Pia Webb, a Swedish life and career coach certified by the European Mentoring and Coaching Council.
She believes it is something of a "Swedish problem" that while many people clock off work at 1700 or even earlier and are "very bad at doing nothing". She argues there is strong social pressure to invest time in "being fit, being busy and looking perfect", which she believes has increased in recent years.
Swedes work out more than any Europeans other than the Finns, according to a recent Eurobarometer poll, with almost one in three exercising five times a week or more. Although numerous studies have confirmed the benefits of exercise in boosting mental health, Webb argues that there are dangers when it comes to competing in "increasingly tough races and challenges", or training with the goal of achieving a certain body type. These pressures could help explain why younger people are more frequently succumbing to exhaustion, she says.
Working in marketing for a small start-up, Natali Suonvieri burned out in 2017 while working standard hours of 08:00-17:00 with lots of overtime too (Credit: Benoît Derrier)
It's a view that Cecilia Axeland, 25, from Stockholm agrees with. She was working above average hours and "travelling a lot" in a sales job when she experienced a clinical burnout two years ago, but says that the pressure to work out and "achieve things" in her spare time was also a major trigger for her exhaustion.
"I felt the pressure...you need to be healthy, you need to eat healthy, you need to relax but you also need to be 'out there'," she explains. "And since I also do music...I never basically rested and that drained me."
Contemporary pressures
Professor Marie Åsberg says she is sceptical about whether these types of pressures are stronger in Sweden than in other Western countries, however she agrees that a failure to schedule proper relaxation time is the most crucial factor leading to clinical burnout, and helps explain why exhaustion is not just a reaction to working long hours.
The brain, Åsberg explains, cannot differentiate between employment and other work-like tasks, such as planning a lot of activities in your spare time, having a competitive hobby, or staying up late to ensure your social media profile is up-to-date.
"I guess the brain doesn't care if you get paid for it, or not," she says, adding that most people who "hit the wall" are "very ambitious" and "don't sleep enough". "They want to succeed and show the world how good they are, so they overtax their own strengths and endurance."
She argues that alongside social media and smartphones, there are other contemporary pressures that may be influencing the increase in exhaustion disorders both in Sweden and elsewhere.
In today's competitive job market, where young people can struggle to secure permanent employment in popular fields, she believes many are so "keen and eager to show that they are good", that they work harder than they need to.
Modern mantras that encourage us to live out our dreams can also increase pressure and create disappointment when things don't go to plan. "These days you are told from childhood that if you just work a bit, you can be anything – all opportunities are open to you – and that is not the case for everyone."
"Young people are quite lonely in the process of creating a future life," says Selene Cortes, a spokesperson for Mind, a Swedish mental health charity (Credit: Benoît Derrier)
An individual or collective issue?
Some experts argue that the way Swedish society is structured also puts a unique strain on young people's mental health. Selene Cortes, from mental health charity Mind, reflects that Sweden is one of the world's most individualistic and secular countries, according to global research project the World Values Survey (WVS).
There is a cultural norm suggesting Swedes should be independent from a young age, which Cortes says can feel like a burden or mean that some don't communicate struggles that could be warning signs for a clinical burnout. "Young people are quite lonely in the process of creating a future life," she argues.
Pia Webb, who has lived in the UK and worked with clients from across Europe as well as Sweden, has a similar message. "Other cultures are more family-oriented...people help each other more," she argues. "And I think with that also comes more relaxation time, and just being in the 'here and now', whether that's a big get-together for a dinner, or in the UK just sitting around having a cup of tea."
Preventing burnout
When it comes to tackling clinical burnout in Sweden and elsewhere, there is a split between those who believe it is up to individuals to take matters into their own hands and those who argue it is more of a societal problem.
"It's easy to say 'it's society's fault that I am getting it' [burnout] and 'I am just another number', or even to feel some 'prestige' for working so hard," argues Webb. But she suggests many of those who end up off work with exhaustion have failed to tackle personal issues such as perfectionism, anxiety or confidence problems.
Sweden is well known for its work-life balance, with much flexible work, childcare support and generous holiday. But clinical burnout is creeping in (Credit: Benoît Derrier)
"Being busy is an easy way of not dealing with those issues," she says. "Of course working long hours or not having a supportive manager might drain you further, but if you still haven't dealt with your issues, you will never manage as well as you could."
But former marketing manager Natali Suonvieri argues that the emphasis should be on helping companies do more to ensure employees can manage their stress levels. She now works as an educator in sustainable work life, after going back to university to study for a Masters in Employment Relations and Organisational Psychology following her own exhaustion.
"Anybody can get burned out," argues Suonvieri, who also runs Sweden's biggest Facebook community for women experiencing stress. "It's not about the amount of time that you're working, it's about the control and the resources you have in the workplace… so that [you know you can] do a sufficient and a high-quality job," she says. "It's a complex issue, involving everything from leadership to what kind of working environment you have in general."
Suonvieri also says she is sceptical about official figures that suggest less than 1% of Swedes regularly work long hours, arguing that many employees and employers do not properly track how much time is spent checking emails or texts once the official work day is over.
While by far "the best treatment is prevention", Professor Marie Åsberg says that Sweden's healthcare system offers a range of heavily-subsidised treatments for people with exhaustion that other countries might learn from.
These include group stress courses, where participants are given tips and exercises to help tackle their stress. "It helps you get over this sense of shame," says Åsberg. "They (the other group members) have the same condition as you, and you see they are good people and interesting people and then logically there is no reason to be ashamed."
"You've kind of got this network of people going through the same thing," agrees Cecilia Axeland, who participated in a stress course as well as a state-subsidised sleep programme after her clinical burnout. "That's something that I felt helped me, because I understood I'm not alone."
Some Swedes with exhaustion are also offered individual therapy, but there are long waiting lists in some regions, due to a shortage of trained psychotherapists, which has become an increasingly debated social and political issue in recent years.
It's not just work stress – for Cecilia Axeland, the pressure to work out and achieve things in her spare time was also exhausting (Credit: Benoît Derrier)
But Åsberg argues that one of the most sought-after talking therapy treatments, Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, which aims to train patients replace unhelpful thoughts with more useful or realistic ones, can actually have a negative impact on people suffering from exhaustion, especially in the early stages. "It may be counterproductive, because it teaches people to do a lot of things and work on their own recovery when they should just be resting at this point."
Taking time out to unwind completely is also Cecilia Axeland's advice to fellow sufferers. After getting plenty of rest during her four months of sick leave, she studied for a year and now has a new job in the tech industry. But she is much more conscious about finding the time to "switch off" from her day job and hobbies than before she got ill.
"I usually go out on walks to just clear my mind and leave my phone at home. No one can reach me," she says. "Before my burnout, I really needed to prove myself... and now I would say I am a lot kinder to myself... that's what's most important."
Beating Burnout: Three signs you're close to burnout
Around the BBC

redpajama_set_name: RedPajamaCommonCrawl


Following a hugely successful English production in 2015, The Little Company is proud to present the Mandarin version of The Three Billy Goats Gruff, an entertaining musical that is bound to be unforgettable.
The Three Billy Goats Gruff (affectionately known as "Baby", "Middle", and "Big") are a close-knit bunch who graze happily together with their caretaker, Little Bo-Frilly. But one day, it dawns on them that they are in the middle of a horrible drought. As the grounds turn a dreadful shade of brown, they're slowly but surely running out food.
Unfortunately, as the gang decides to cross the bridge to the other side of the valley for survival, they will have to take on a frightening troll that – gulp – loves to feast on goats!
Step into the magical, fairytale world of The Three Billy Goats Gruff – a musical guaranteed to be snortingly silly and full of giggles!
This show is recommended for aged 5 and above.
This show is in Mandarin language.
The duration is approximately 50 minutes.
The giveaway ends on 8th Feb 2016, 11:59pm.
The winner has to complete at least the 3 steps mentioned above in order to be qualified.
Prize is non-transferable and cannot be exchange for cash or other dates.
This set of 4 tickets can only be used for the show on Saturday, 20th Feb 2016 at 11am.
The winner can proceed to collect the tickets from the box-office half an hour before the show starts.
Judges' decision is final, and reserves the right to disqualify anyone who does not deem to have fulfilled the terms stated.
We reserve the right to amend the terms and conditions of the giveaway without prior notice.
Next postSafari Zoo Run 2016: Mark Your Calendar on 27 and 28 February!
Hope to win this wonderful giveaway. Thanks!
hope to win this set of tickets to inspire my chiak kan dang boys to enjoy using the Chinese language.
We enjoy watching children's theatre as a family! Hope to win a theatre outing for us!


text:
Demo-Graphics: Comic Fandom on Facebook – US Edition
Posted on January 4, 2021 by Brett	Leave a comment
We hinted at the return of some long-shelved regular features on the site, and the first back is Demo-Graphics!
What is Demo-Graphics?
Each month I dive into data from Facebook looking at the various demographics it can tell us about comic fans. This isn't hard numbers but best used to show trends in the industry and the potential of the market out there. This has shown the shift towards women being a major force in readers and a shift to the younger demographic.
We use key terms, "likes", that users have indicated and have come up with our own set to measure each month. There's over 50 terms used (and no I won't release them). We stick to specific terms for the industry such as "comics" and "graphic novels" and "one-shots" as well as publishers and leave out broad terms like specific characters or stories. Just because someone likes Batman doesn't mean they like comics.
Other things to know…
This data is important in that it shows who the potential comic audience could be. These are not purchasers, these are people who have shown an affinity for comics and are potential purchasers and those with an interest.
Also, with this being online/technology, due to laws and restrictions, those under the age of 13 are underrepresented.
Since the last time this feature was run, Facebook has made adjustments as to what it can report so some data is no longer available and we've also added in new data that hasn't been reported before (but some of it has been tracked over the years).
Facebook Population: Around 70 million in the United States
We last ran this report in October 2018 which saw over 73 million individuals reported. Things have dipped over the years but the amount of individuals is still massive. Men remained steady at 33 million while women dipped to 37 million over that time frame.
The Spanish-speaking population in October 2018 was 13.7%, a little over 2 years later, that number has remained relatively the same at 13.29%.
NEW: Comics focused on kids has been an explosive area of growth over the years. The data tells us that 18.75% of comics fans are parents, that's 13 million individuals!
Gender and Age
Women have been a majority for a long time in this reporting. They continue to be exactly that accounting for 52.86% of the comic fans compared to men at 47.14%. Women regularly became the majority of the fandom back in October 2017 when we first saw a 50/50 split in the demographics.
Facebook still is not good about placing gender in a binary, but it's still a goal to better report beyond just the two regularly listed.
As we can see by the numbers below, women do slip as the majority from around age 22 to 33.
The relationship status is one I've been intrigued to see how it's changed over the 2 years since last reported. Would we see a major shift as people age? Would it remain steady? Well, lets find out!
There was a major drop in people reporting their relationship status as it turns out. While the population overall shrunk by about 3 million individuals there were almost 8 million fewer individuals reporting this piece of data.
How has things changed?
Those who have marked themselves "single" decreased about 3 million
Those "in a relationship" decreased 1.7 million
"Married" has remained the same
"Unspecified" has decreased 3 million
Other statuses shifted in numbers but their percentages remained mostly unchanged.
Out of all of the statistics, this is the one I'm trying to figure out. Almost all percentages for education level listings are down. This could be due to it just not being as common a thing or there's been a shift in the populace. The only percentage to increase are those "in high school".
NEW – Political Leaning
Facebook is a data trove of political information. While I regularly tracked the information, I have never reported on the political leanings of the comic fans there. Well, here's the first such release of the data!
First up, what does this data look like for Facebook as a whole?
Interestingly, Facebook leans a bit more Conservative with that population making up the largest block of users. Comic fans though are a bit different. Those identified as Liberal make up the majority
But what about the gender of those comic fans?
We can see, according to this data that comic fans lean more liberal than the general Facebook population. There are some interesting differences in that Conservatives are dominated by men while those Liberal and Moderate see women as a majority. We'll see how this shifts over the months and years with the flow of American politics.
That's it! Or, not… we'll be back tomorrow as we see the European statistics and then Thursday we dive in comparing the two!
tagged with comic books, demographics, facebook, facebook fandom, gender, industry, marketing, sales, statistics, Technology
Help comic creators in need and support the Hero Initiative.


Dash network has a great possibility to nearly match with ease the current level of transaction of PayPal. This future outcome on Dash network is a part of a research study conducted by Arizona State University (ASU). The paper entitled Block Propagation Applied to Nakamoto Networks is yet to be published. According to a report by BCFocus, Dash is also preparing itself for the launch of DashCopay wallet based on iOS and Android.
The research paper lays emphasis on the techniques of propagation for minimising the orphan rate which are marked at high levels. It says, "We found that xthin block propagation can support the Dash network with a capacity at least an order of magnitude larger than the original Dash protocol.
At different point of time, Dash network has made investments in research with long duration. This specifically includes providing fund to ASU research lab based on blockchain technology which generated scaling papers and also distributed research giants. The founder of Dash, Evan Duffield has also led to the foundation of Dash Labs which conduct research work in similar manner for long term growth.


Planners Insurance Group provides Business & Personal Insurance in Keller and throughout Dallas, Fort Worth, TX.
Brian with Planner's Insurance did an awesome job shopping my insurance for me to get me the best rate! I connected with Brian through a veteran networking group and I'm glad I did. My favorite part of working with him is that he takes his time to explain things and is very thorough. I also prefer to have a local point of contact rather than a call center if I need help or have questions. Have him shop your insurance with multiple carriers so you can save money without sacrificing coverage. Highly Recommend!
Got me squared away in a few hours with a good rate. Better than I've had in years. Glad I don't have to be paranoid about that anymore. Thanks for posting about your service man. Glad I called. I freakin LOVE this group. Hahaha.


REDUCED! Set at the end of a cul-de-sac in a sought-after community with an assoc. pool & spa, tennis courts, this home offers a relaxing, convenient lifestyle. Backing to a beautiful, secluded mountainside, yet located close to award-winning schools, local fwys and beaches, this refined coastal residence offers a main floor office/potential fourth bedroom, an airy, open floor plan and an oversized lot with approx.11,375 sq. ft.Cheerful and inviting, the home includes a formal living/dining room combination with soaring cathedral ceilings and numerous large windows.The sunny family room has a fireplace & walls of glass that overlook the backyard.The kitchen has granite counters,a breakfast nook and modern appliances.The appeal continues in the upstairs master suite, as it offers gorgeous mountain views, vaulted ceilings and a spa-like bath, complete with a deep soaking tub, dual sinks and a separate shower.Two secondary bedrooms and an updated bathroom complete the upstairs.A main level office with built-in shelving that could be removed to add space for a closet and a three car garage are further highlights of this well-maintained and perfectly located residence, but the secluded backyard is certain to be a favorite for the owner. It features mountain views and mature landscaping, plus an expansive private patio.With all the amenities of SJC located nearby, and a serene, picturesque setting in a neighborhood with equestrian trails, a clubhouse & volleyball courts.
Feel as though you've escaped to the countryside in this palatial yet welcoming estate. This property is situated on a sprawling hillside in a coveted San Juan Capistrano equestrian neighborhood 10 minutes from the Pacific Ocean with quick freeway/tollroad access. The lush yet drought conscious and energy efficient grounds surround a resort-like home where elegance meets comfort, combining all the elements of nature. The main house boasts 7500 SF of interior living space with an open floor plan and a gorgeous loggia, bringing the outside in. Gaze at the incredible views from the master retreat, showcasing a tranquil spa style en suite and his/her walk-in custom closets. The estate features 4 bedrooms in the main house, rooftop deck, movie theater, and separate 2000 SF 2-story casita (living room, kitchenette, 2 bathrooms, bedroom, and a state of the art gym). The amenities within this estate are vast, using only the finest in materials and fixtures from Venetian plastered walls to crown molding to wainscoting and trim; the house is overflowing with chic design customized to fit each space. Outside is an entertainer's and sports enthusiast's paradise featuring a basketball court, pool/spa, putting green and a hilltop park-like setting with panoramic views.
SINGLE LEVEL HOME ON EXPANSIVE 31,000 SQ FT CORNER LOT, POOL AND SPA, 4 CAR GARAGE, EXTENDED DRIVEWAY FOR 8 OR MORE CARS, INDOOR-OUTDOOR LIVING, COASTAL INTERIOR DESIGN...THIS HOME HAS IT ALL! Private, west facing, wrap around, backyard retreat with pool, spa and river waterfall, natural stone hardscape, mature landscaping, large grass area, built in BBQ with sink, fire ring with seating, large greenhouse to grow your own plants, raised planter beds, fruit trees, grape vines, hillside with sitting area equipped with gas and electric and a trellis on top. A true indoor-outdoor setting with French doors in almost every living area leading to the outside. Enter to vaulted ceilings with wood beams, skylights, neutral colors, stone fireplace, distressed style floors, double pane windows, Hunter Douglas blinds, remote control shades and Pottery Barn light fixtures. Kitchen with white cabinets, abundant storage and countertop space, kitchen window sink, skylights and bar stool seating. Dining room with sun room and French doors opening to a lush landscaping. Master bedroom with double door entry, vaulted ceilings and French doors opening to a serene hillside setting. Secondary bedrooms with French doors and 4th bedroom as an optional office with a bay window, bench seat and closet. 4 car garage with epoxy floors and built in cabinets. Near historic San Juan with shops, wine bars and dining. Hiking and equestrian trail. Community pool and spa, clubhouse, tennis and volleyball court.
Enjoy Southern California living at its best in the desirable Sorrento community of San Juan Capistrano. This exceptionally maintained 4 bedroom, 2 ½ bath home has an oversized 3 car garage on an a large lot on a cul de sac. The HOA maintained land surrounding the house gives you a feeling of seclusion and privacy. You'll enjoy the low maintenance and water usage of this oversized, newly xeriscaped yard. The upgraded kitchen has granite countertops and appliances. The pass thru bar area to the family room is great for entertaining. The kitchen flows to the spacious family room where you can enjoy the fireplace on those wintery nights. The formal dining room and sunken living room are light and bright thanks to the windows and high ceilings. Custom leaded glass windows adorn the entry and formal dining room. The master retreat has a walk in custom closet and mirrored wardrobe doors that lead to the newly upgraded un-suite with a soaker tub and a separate glass shower lined with granite. The many upgrades include the sinks, faucets and lighting fixtures. In the garage there's custom cabinets, new garage doors and opener and is wired for cable. Close to award winning schools, hospitals, shopping and the beach. This commuters dream home is only minutes away from the 5. The HOA Clubhouse - offers a huge pool, hot tub, showers, restrooms, conference rooms with all the amenities for special occasions. Tennis courts and volleyball court.
The best place to find grand scale homes in the beach town of San Juan Capistrano, California is the community of Capistrano Royale. This enclave of estates offers luxury, and abundance.
Capistrano Royal is comprised of two-story homes which were built in 1974. Living space ranges from 1,548 to 5,514 square feet. Many homes are on single loaded streets, and are designated as horse properties. There are many trails for hiking, and horseback riding in this region. The Home Owners Association maintains the community pool, spa, sports court, play area, tennis court, and clubhouse.
This community is served by the Capistrano Unified School District which offers facilities like Viejo Elementary School and Carl Hankey Middle School. Highly ranked Capistrano Valley High School is the only high school within city limits. There are also several private schools in San Juan Capistrano. Mission Parish School has its classrooms in historic buildings on the grounds next to Mission Basilica San Juan Capistrano.
Residents are close to many restaurants and stores with several shopping centers including Marbella Plaza, Plaza Del Obispo Shopping Center, and Plaza Del Rio Shopping Center. There are several golf courses north of the community. Arroyo Trabuco Golf Club is one of the most popular, which is open to the public. This club features an 18-hole Tom Lehman and Casey O'Callaghan designed golf course. It also has facilities for weddings, and banquets. The Marbella Country Club is to the south of Capistrano Royale. There is more outdoor recreation at the Laguna Niguel Regional Park which features boating and fishing on the Laguna Niguel Lake. There are also tennis courts, playgrounds, picnic areas, volleyball courts, barbecue pits, and bike trails.
The City of San Juan Capistrano has the largest variety of homes in Orange County. You'll find working ranches, million dollar homes, and houses built before 1900. The city reflects a Spanish architectural style because it was built around Mission San Juan Capistrano.
If you're already working with a Real Estate agent, please utilize your agent's website & direct expertise to aid in your home search. We are only able to directly serve our own clients. Thank you for your interest in the Capistrano Royale community, and we wish you the best of luck with your Real Estate needs.
Whether you are contemplating buying or selling a home in Capistrano Royale, it is important that you hire the right team that fits your needs. We roll out the red carpet for buyers & sellers alike, and ensure you have access to us 24/7, as we aim to earn your business for life! We understand the market well, and you will not find a more qualified Capistrano Royale real estate agent to help you with all of your Real Estate needs!
As a buyer, you will have access to Capistrano Royale listings the second they hit the market, which gives you a leg up on the competition. As a seller, your home not only will be featured on one of the top Capistrano Royale sites on Google, but we also will syndicate your home to hundreds of other sites, hold weekly open houses, send out postcards, and much more! We have helped dozens of buyers & sellers, and look forward to helping you as well!
This 5 bedroom, 5 full baths home, located on Dominion Way was recently sold on Monday, April 15th for $1,710,000.
With 5,300 square feet of total floorspace, this home is priced at $322.64 per square foot. That's 27.67% lower than the neighborhood average. There are also 2.00 garage spaces available for parking.
Originally built in 1989, this home sits on a 29,791 square foot lot.


This project is an application of the DIVA daylighting simulation advanced metrics of evaluation for daylit spaces. The goal is to develop and explore design alternatives in Rhino in possible support of studio activities. The evolution of the project is based on understanding of site context, design goals, factors affecting daylighting performance and control strategies for natural light.
1. Develop Rhino project model to match a design studio space proposal (or assume a space).
2. Define your daylighting goals and objectives for your spatial and functional experience in writing.
3. Model a minimum of two designs for daylighting techniques you believe will enhance performance.
4. Simulate for all alternatives the Daylight Availability Metric (not Daylight Autonomy or Useful Daylight Illuminance) at chosen work plane as your climate-based metric. You should also simulate False Color Renderings with Daylight Glare Probability (DGP) and Work Plane Illuminance (plan top view) for select times and situations to highlight design intervention. For example, when designing a light shelf, select a situation to show before its installation and after.
5. Analyze the produced metrics in terms of short-comings, potentials and advantages both spatially and over seasons and times.
I will provide the rhino model and site as well as a finished example you can use to finish the project. In the end I need 3 letter sized pages. Thank you.


text:
The Grosse Pointe Academy is an independent day school located at 171 Lake Shore Drive in Grosse Pointe Farms, Michigan. Originally known as the Academy of the Sacred Heart, the campus buildings were designated a Michigan State Historic Site in 1977 and listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1987. The school serves preschool through middle school (lower secondary school).

History

The site on which the Grosse Pointe Academy now sits was originally a French ribbon farm running from Lake St. Clair to Ridge Road. In 1867, the Society of the Sacred Heart, an order of cloistered nuns, obtained the property, and the next year a small public school was built on the property. In 1885, the nuns planned the construction of a boarding school for young ladies, teaching grades K–12, on the property. The school was built in 1887 along the property line separating the academy from Saint Paul's, so that the nuns could enter the building from within the property and the students could enter from the parking lot of St. Paul's. The remainder of the property continued to be a self-sustaining farm. In 1899, the chapel was added.

In the late 1920s, recognizing the need for more space, the sisters sold off the portion of the farm beyond Grosse Pointe Boulevard and used the proceeds to build a new education building and renovate the chapel. Farming continued on the property until the 1940s. In 1969, the Sisters deeded the property to a lay Board of Trustees, who continued the educational mission of the school as the Grosse Pointe Academy, a co-educational day school.

Description
The Grosse Pointe Academy is situated on a long strip of land between Grosse Pointe Boulevard and Lake Shore Drive on Lake Saint Clair, and directly adjacent to Saint Paul Catholic Church (Grosse Pointe Farms, Michigan). Seven buildings are situated on the site, of which five are contributing structures to the historic district: an 1855 farmhouse, four large educational buildings dating from 1885 to 1930. The last two structures, a 1939 headmaster's house and a maintenance shed, are non-contributing.

References

External links

Grosse Pointe Academy — homepage

Private K–8 schools in Michigan
Schools in Wayne County, Michigan
School buildings completed in 1887
Michigan State Historic Sites in Wayne County, Michigan
Historic district contributing properties in Michigan
National Register of Historic Places in Wayne County, Michigan
School buildings on the National Register of Historic Places in Michigan
Italianate architecture in Michigan
Gothic Revival architecture in Michigan
Historic districts on the National Register of Historic Places in Michigan
Defunct Catholic secondary schools in Michigan

redpajama_set_name: RedPajamaWikipedia


text:
The 1969–70 Duke Blue Devils men's basketball team represented Duke University in the 1969–70 NCAA University Division men's basketball season. The head coach was Bucky Waters and the team finished the season with an overall record of 17–9 and did not qualify for the NCAA tournament.

References

Duke Blue Devils men's basketball seasons
Duke
Duke
1969 in sports in North Carolina
1970 in sports in North Carolina


There were essentially no standalone autorefractor or keratometer devices left on the market in 2016. The value of AR/KR combination devices to clinicians is the time savings that they represent over traditional refractive devices.
Autorefractors/keratomers sales will slightly increase throughout the forecast period. The AR/KR market is a mature market with sales of replacement devices being the primary driver. Any new sales can be attributed to the natural growth expected as the elderly population increases in the United States.
Prices are expected to remain stable over the forecast period due to the maturity of the market and the high level of competition among manufacturers to win over new customers. Growth in ASP is driven by the increasing popularity of three-in-one combination devices that feature pachymetry or tonometry capabilities in addition to the standard functionality. The higher price of these units is driving growth in the overall market.
Autorefractors (ARs), also called automated refractors, are computer-controlled routine diagnostic devices used for detecting refractive errors of the eye. They are useful in the determination of a patient's prescription for contact lenses or eye glasses. During the examination process, the patient uses one eye at a time to look into the machine at an image, which is projected onto the retina. The autorefractor adjusts the path of the light until the image that it observes on the patient's retina is in focus. The degree of correction necessary to achieve this is the basis for the patient's refractive prescription. This is an entirely automated process which does not require feedback from the patient. Cycloplegic agents are necessary to dilate the pupil, thereby eliminating a diagnostic error caused by pseudomyopia, a result of a constriction of the ciliary muscles.


HomeAdvisor's Deck Construction Cost Guide lists prices associated with building a . But use caution if you plan to install a fire pit or outdoor grill on your deck. .. Rails or balustrades; Stairs; Labor and other contractor fees (if applicable).
How to Build Wooden Deck Stairs . When building stairs or steps for a deck: . Attach deck stair treads with the cup facing down to prevent the steps from holding .. Building a set of stairs specially outside for a decking may not be as intimidating… . steps… what is the different though? or is it just the price of the material?
Precut, notched stringers take a lot of the work out of building exterior steps. .. out before finishing with an exterior porch and deck paint or waterproofing stain.
4 Set framing square and straightedge to height of riser and width of stair tread. 5 Use framing square to mark saw-tooth pattern of steps onto a pressure-treated 2x12. 6 Notch the . 13 Attach risers to stringers with 3-inch decking screws. . Subscribe now and save up to 79% off the newsstand price for just $1 an issue.
Estimate the cost of building a high-performance composite deck with help from Trex. . straight sections of decking and stairs over more complicated curved designs . deck beautiful and useable by providing out-of-sight storage; Trex Outdoor.
Nov 13, 2005 . Article about building stairs for a second-story deck.
. to build steps. Despite the skill level, building porch steps is still. . Finish it with waterproof deck stain or exterior porch paint. Community Q&A. Unanswered Questions. Where do I get ship wood from and how much will it cost? Answer this.
The 5 Best—and 5 Worst—Home Improvement Projects for Your .
Jan 27, 2010 . A fiberglass front deck replacement project, for example, costs about three . exterior, they want to enjoy their outdoors," Kuperszmid Lehrman says. . Lipford, meanwhile, highlights another key benefit of building a wooden deck. . want a nursery on the first floor [because] they don't want to climb stairs.
These DIY steps will work for replacing an old set of stairs and for building stairs on a brand new deck. . COST. $100 - $500 .. This design also uses 2x12 skirt boards that attach to the sides of the outside stringers. . run (horizontal tread depth) for exactly duplicating each step as you draw it onto the stringers (Photo 2).
Get detailed labor requirements and cost facts for wood decking installation . install 2"x6" wood decking on existing deck support framing using exterior grade screws. . Unit Pricing Data: Westside Online Building Supplies Bathroom Fixtures.


Plan now to attend this wonderful event. The 2017 Serra International Annual Convention will be in Rome, Italy June 22 - June 25, 2017 it promises to be informative, historical, and very enjoyable. For registration and additional information please visit Serra International.


text:
P.C. Hawkeye Goes Fishing è un cortometraggio muto del 1912 diretto e interpretato da Hay Plumb.
Si conoscono pochi dati del film che, prodotto dalla Hepworth, fu distrutto nel 1924 dallo stesso produttore, Cecil M. Hepworth. Fallito, in gravissime difficoltà finanziarie, il produttore pensò in questo modo di per poter almeno recuperare il nitrato d'argento della pellicola.

Trama
Andando a pescare, Occhiodifalco si mette nei guai, coinvolto in una regata sul fiume.

Produzione
Il film fu prodotto dalla Hepworth.

Distribuzione
Distribuito dalla Hepworth, il film - un cortometraggio di 145 metri - uscì nelle sale cinematografiche britanniche nel settembre 1912.

Voci correlate
Filmografia Hepworth

Collegamenti esterni

Cortometraggi muti britannici
Cortometraggi commedia
Film Hepworth


Underneath is a selection of the places we have been featured to date. Feel welcome to read the content further by clicking on any of the below sections.
The Dapper Gent...Trim and Proper!
"The fragrance is fresh and masculine with a classic woody undertone"
"Vanguard the new eau de parfum for men"


At Hot we create fabulous flowers to enhance your reception and offices. With extensive experience working creatively with local businesses we provide contract floristry, plant maintenance and individual floral displays for functions, launches and sales events. In a competitive business world we provide an efficient service to help create the right working atmosphere for employees and customers.
Give us a call to arrange a no obligation site visit, with prices starting from only £25.00 per week a modest outlay can reap rewards.
Please find below some example images of our corporate flowers.


text:
Zohreh Ghahremani
Cold & dark
My friend called to tell me of a new book about Iran, written by someone I had briefly met in Chicago. With nostalgia now a permanent companion, I'm always on the lookout for such books. She went on to explain, "Some people compare it to Searching for Hassan, but I think this one is more of a documentary on Iran's history and geography."
I had read Terrance Ward's book and enjoyed his sweet story. Since my husband and I often share books, I decided to buy a copy of A Persian Odyssey and make a gift of it to him and kill two birds with one stone.
In A Persian Odyssey, Dr. Yalda, an Assyrian-Iranian-American, pays a visit to Iran, his place of birth and where he grew up. (I don't use the word 'homeland' because at no point does the author give a 'homely' impression and the closest he comes to showing any attachment is in the end when he calls it "the fatherland".) His American wife understandably refuses to accompany him on account of the mandatory Islamic garb, thus missing the opportunity of a lifetime.
The book offers its average reader a wealth of information about Iran, past and present. I have to emphasize on the word average because to those of us who know Iran in general, and no doubt to scholars in particular, the information is incomplete, if not biased. The brief history review and the description of the architectural sites are educational, however, the author tends to generalize one man's view. Much of the information on today's Iranian society comes from taxi drivers and talks at chai-khaneh – spelled chay khane and, knowing Iranian storytellers' tendency to exaggerate, most of the author's analysis amounts to heresy.
Had the author been less partial, A Persian Odyssey could have been the ideal guide for those who know little of Iran. Since the Islamic revolution, not too many writers with Dr. Yalda's impressive background have attempted such a daring tour. He takes us from the shores of beautiful Caspian to the mountains and down to the arid desert while telling historical tales along the way and describing the ancient architecture in a most eloquent fashion. Unfortunately, he goes through his journey with a chip on his shoulder and a heart as cold and dark as his namesake, Yalda – the longest night.
Such a detailed remembrance will be sure to offer joy to those who know Iran, but I saw little similarity between Yalda's outlook and that of Ward – and in fact found them to be exact opposites. In Searching for Hassan, Terrance Ward is an American who grew up to love both Iran and its people. The emotional bond takes his entire family back to Iran – despite the Islamic garb. Dr. Yalda, on the other hand, is an Iranian with scorn for Muslims in general and Iranian Muslims in particular and he returns as a curious tourist determined to find fault with a nation.
In all fairness, he has worked hard to get his point across and readers are bound to feel deep compassion for the Assyrians and other minorities who endured incredible atrocities throughout Iran's history. As someone who grew up among Armenian, Jewish and Assyrian friends, I was ashamed of how little I knew about their suffering prior to my time. Yalda describes in detail Muslim's discriminations against minorities. In particular, the Assyrians, who not only suffered under Iranian rulers, but were mistreated by Turks, Persians, Russians, British and even Arabs. Considering that they posed no threat to any of those governments, one can't help but wonder why? What was it about the Assyrians that provoked so much animosity and aroused all these different nations against them?
Most readers' knowledge of Islam is limited to what is offered in the media, and owed to the recent political uproars; criticism of Islam has become an acceptable trend. Today, Muslims are one billion strong, yet most authors continue to write about them as if they were an odd minority. Dr. Yalda follows suit, using wars of centuries ago to prove Muslims evil. As gruesome as those descriptions are, the fact remains that all history books are filled with such scenes.
Indeed a close look at any country's history leaves humanity in shame and Iran is by no means an exception. But times have changed and what is considered barbaric today, at one time used to be common practice. Is the author forgetting the Crusades? What about Christians who uprooted the entire Mayan civilization, and let us not forget the crimes of slavery or what KKK did to innocent families. They were Christians, too, but no one blames the God-fearing-church-goers nor should we shame Christianity in general.
Recent political changes in Iran, indeed the Middle East, have harmed more Muslims than any other group. The brutality of such rulers is no secret, yet one billion faithful Muslims continue to bow and pray to "Allah, the kind, the merciful," the very same God that Dr. Yalda presumes unkind, even cruel. "Ahura Mazda, unlike the ferocious Yahweh and the Moslem Allah, is a kind and forgiving God." (Pp215) The author's contempt for Islam is reflected throughout the book. When he meets a Muslim man from Switzerland, he writes, "The Swiss convert to Islam repelled me, and I did my best to ignore him."
He speaks of najes – religiously unclean – as if it were an insult to discriminate against other religions. "Najes" is a general term for religiously unclean and even Muslims are considered so if they leave the bathroom with traces of excrement still on them – as is the case with the use of paper. How ironic that the author is appalled by the Islamic requirement of a simple wash after using the toilet, yet is acceptant of the Zoroastrian trust in the cleansing wonders of urine of Ox. As far as I know, Islam considers bodily fluids najes, even when they are on one's own child. If a Muslim calls her own son najes for alcohol consumption it isn't offensive, but Christians, who not only enjoyed an occasional drink but also happened to run most of the liquor stores took it as an insult. I guess it's all in the way we present an argument, isn't it?
To honor other's faith is among the basic rules of etiquette. Dr. Yalda, who is raised with such standards, asks permission each and every time prior to entering a Zoroastrian temple. Yet he takes the liberty to impersonate a Muslim and sneak into a shrine without permission, an act that he admits, "would insult the purity and sanctity of the place." (Pp 178) In fact, there is plenty of controversy throughout the book, for example, he refuses to go to places that cater to western tourists, yet when he is ignored in one such hotel, he forgets all western manners and reacts in a harsh way.
An Orthopedic surgeon, not once does Dr. Yalda glance at the many victims of war, nor does he take a single step to help them. To him, these are the same people who beheaded his great-great-grandfather. A mere tourist, he views Iranians as a barbaric nation, who has done nothing but torture, mutilate, and commit genocide. In our twenty-five centuries of glorious history, he finds only one king worthy of praise – Reza Shah – and sees everyone else a fool, a thug and a self-centered criminal!
Based on stories told him by the cab drivers, he views the Iranians of today a nation left to rot in prostitution and drug abuse. Not once does he enter a university, nor does he make an attempt to speak to writers, artists or scholars. The only people he empathizes with are the remaining Zoroastrians and a group of western tourists in Yazd. He comes across as an outsider in Iran, almost as foreign as the British anthropologists who preceded him on such a journey, except he shows even less compassion than they did.
Religions evolve with history, politics, psychology, and above all, man's need to feel a supreme power watching over him. Iranians have survived centuries of different religions and there is much more to their existence than that. In a civilized world – and one that prides itself on freedom – it is erroneous to attack followers of any creed. At a time when clerics are causing great damage to the reputation of Iranians and while firearms are turned on innocent Muslims, it is tragic to hear someone, in particular one who considers himself a man of knowledge, use harsh words to settle old scores.
In the end, the author makes an effort to redeem himself as he writes, "Iran will arise from her ashes like a phoenix and reclaim her eminent place in the world community, as she has done so many times in her long history." And that is a beautiful way to look at it, even though it may be a little too late.
Zohreh Khazai Ghahremani is a retired dentist and a freelance writer. She lives in San Diego, California. Her latest book is "Sharik-e Gham" (see excerpt). Visit her site ZoesWordGarden.com
PrevPreviousKavian Sadeghzadeh Milani, Amir Abbas Hoveyda, accusations of being a Bahai
NextCrazy callNext


Thank you for your interest in working with 29Design Studio. We are delighted that you decided to schedule a free Designing consultation session with us. While the session should last about 30 minutes, We are booking a full hour, in case we need more time.


text:
Kerala sets new goal '1-lakh COVID-19 tests per day' using 'Healthmonitor software'
Kerala had witnessed a slide of nearly 15-20% in the number of tests after the introduction of the new software.
The Kerala government, which is using new software 'Lab Diagnostic Management System' (LDMS) in the place of 'Healthmonitor' for updating COVID-19 related information, has been suggested by the High Level Expert Committee, to use the proven software application (Healthmonitor) for better results, including one lakh COVID-19 tests per day.
Official sources said there is a delay in updating the information while using the LDMS though it is effective, resulting in reduction of COVID-19 tests each day. Due to software issues, the State government was facing problems in updating the COVID-19 related information. Therefore, the emphasis should be on increasing the number of tests identifying the maximum number COVID-19 infected people, the committee suggested. The state government has been using the Healthmonitor for three years.
It is learnt that Kerala had witnessed a slide of nearly 15-20% in the number of tests after the introduction of the new software.
According to available information, Healthmonitor, a web-based OS software, allows Hospitals to report cases of diseases as soon as they are registered at the hospital. The software seamlessly integrates with the existing manual process by allowing hospitals that do not have any web access to send paper based reports to data entry operators who can enter them into the system or send soft copies of the reports that can be imported automatically. The system allows secure login with role based privileges for different roles like Government Medical Official, Hospital Staff, Data Access Operators and System Administrator.
The GIS interface uses Google maps to present the data on a real time basis on a map of the state. Cases of diseases are represented by markers on the map and easy visual analysis of the pattern and extent of spread of diseases is possible. The GIS and reporting interface processes the cases registered and present reports that can be used by the Health Department to monitor the situation on a real time basis and take precautionary measures if required. Such a system will help in preventing occurrences of disease outbreaks of the scale experienced by Kerala in the last couple of years.
Kerala on Sunday reported 7,631 new cases of COVID-19, taking the total number of infected persons to 3,41,859, which is roughly 1 per cent of the total population of Kerala.
The other states with 1 per cent infected persons of their total population are Maharashtra, Karnataka, Andhra Pradesh and Delhi. On Sunday 58,404 samples were tested in the state. The test positivity rate has come down to 13.07 per cent.
Lab Diagnostic Management System
High Level Expert Committee
Healthmonitor software
UP makes new e-gov strides in healthcare, launches E-Sushrut Hospital Management System in 12 medical colleges
Centre launches incentive scheme to boost digital health transactions under Ayushman Bharat
Centre taking measures to enhance public health by quality drugs and devices: Union minister Mansukh Mandaviya
AIIMS restores critical health e-data, digital health records of 3-4 cr patients at risk


Linnane Armstrong grew up on Whidbey Island in a family of artists. Nature has always been her most influential muse and her form of choice is relief printmaking, which she said allows her to express a unique view of the beauty she finds in nature. Detailed patterns adorn dramatic landscapes and natural elements in her linocut and woodcut prints inspired by water, tree, sun, moon, sky, beach, prairie and the animals that have surrounded her throughout her life on the island.
She begins most pieces by sketching on location, and taking some reference photos. Later, in her Coupeville studio, she details the composition, values and the colors of the sketch.
"Most of my linocuts are printed in one color, either designed as monochrome prints, or awaiting hand-applied watercolor paintings over the finished prints," Armstrong said.
Each hand-printed block print may have slight natural variances from one print to the next, adding to the uniqueness and charm of these original artworks.
"I try to capture intense light and dark values, as well as the patterns that transition between them, in ways that will draw the viewer deep into the scene," the artist said.


TEENAGE pop sensation Nicholas McDonald teamed up at a dazzling fundraiser with cancer scientist Emma Shanks who has overcome the disease four times.
More than £70,000 was raised for Cancer Research UK at the black tie dinner at the Malcolm Group Heritage Centre in Linwood, Lanarkshire. The bash saw X Factor finalist Nicholas of Glasgow sing for the 370 guests from the construction and logistics industry after Dr Shanks who is head of screening at Cancer Research UK's Beatson Institute in Glasgow revealed in a heartfelt speech exactly how lifesaving research into cancer can be.
Dr Shanks, 36, said: "I am confident that through research we will find better treatments and improve survival rates for mouth cancer.
"Mouth cancer has not defined who I am or what I am. What I am, most importantly of all, is here. I am here to be a wife and a mother to my children. Mouth cancer is just something that has happened to me and my experiences have been accompanied by a number of blessings and led me to some truly amazing and inspirational people."
Dr Shanks had been celebrating the birth of her daughter , Isobel, two weeks before she was given the news that her mouth cancer had returned for a fourth time. The mum of two from Gartocharn, West Dunbartonshire was first told she had mouth cancer at just 22 when her doctor spotted an ulcer on her tongue that wouldn't heal. Since then, she's endured five operations , including an eight hour operation at the Southern General hospital when a large part of her tongue was removed and replaced with a skin graft from her forearm. But the treatment proved a success and Dr Shanks who also has a son, Jamie, three, is back at work.
She was a VIP guest at the fundraiser on May 10, hosted by sports broadcaster Peter Martin and organised by Nicola Robertson, granddaughter of Malcolm group founder Donald Malcolm who died in 2003 after a long battle with mouth cancer.
Nicola, 26, said: "The idea for this event all came about at Cancer Research UK's Emeralds & Ivy Ball in London in 2013 when I said to my dad wouldn't it be amazing if we had something like this up in Scotland, a mini version … and with the venue of the Heritage Centre at our head office and Grandpa's 10 year anniversary having just past, I thought it would be a perfect event to organise.
"The ball was supported by so many of Grandpa's connections, old and new customers to The Malcolm Group and also close family friends. It was a testament to Grandpa seeing just how much support and generosity was given from so many people. The evening could not have gone any better and the feedback has been amazing, to quote one guest: 'I would just like to pass on my congratulations for what was one of the very best events I have attended in a long time - a great night out"
"It really does make it all worthwhile. I enjoyed every minute of it and know my Grandpa will be looking down wishing he was there. It was lovely to have everyone in one place to celebrate a wonderful man. Grandpa's eldest grandson, also named Donald, read out a very impressive speech sharing with everyone how amazing this man was! It was an emotional night but also a truly special night."
Prizes at the auction included a week at a luxury villa at Casa Blanco in Spain that sleeps up to 10, an executive box at The Hydro in Glasgow to see Scottish sit com, Still Game including a champagne reception for up to 16 and a signed shirt by Olympic legend, Sir Chris Hoy.
Frances Milner, director of supporter led fundraising at Cancer Research UK said: " Last year, Cancer Research UK spent over £1 million on groundbreaking research to find new ways to prevent, diagnose and treat mouth cancer including supporting an important clinical trial, which aims to improve survival for people with early stage mouth cancer with patients recruited in Glasgow, Edinburgh, Kilmarnock and Falkirk.
"We receive no Government funding for our research. But with your support, our scientists, doctors and nurses continue to make sure more people survive. Put simply, we're powerless without our supporters."


text:
Parolin chases the series win with Al Dhaheri at Lonato
Wednesday, 27 February 2019 / Published in Motorsport
Still well represented, the Parolin brand has just achieved more success at the second round of the WSK Super Master Series at Lonato. More than half of the 60 Mini finalists at South Garda Karting actually raced on Parolin chassis, five of which finished in the top ten. With pole position, 12 wins out of 15, two wins in the Prefinals, and the Final victory, the score is once again eloquent for the company from Bassano del Grappa.
"After the form shown in the rain at Adria, the second round of the WSK Super Master Series demonstrated our potential in the dry," commented Marco Parolin. "In the sun at Lonato, our chassis have been very effective. In 60 Mini, our driver Rashid Al Dhaheri dominated from start to finish with a high level of skill. It was more complicated for the other Parolin Racing Team drivers as well as in OK-Junior, a category in full swing for us in which the performances unfortunately did not lead to the expected results, partly because of lively battles on the track. In OK, Gabriele Mini' was undoubtedly the most powerful driver in the Qualifying Phases, before being delayed in the battle of the Prefinal. In any case, our level of competitiveness has been reinforced again."
Gabriele Mini' clearly dominated the OK category after his 2nd fastest time by brilliantly winning his four Qualifying Heats. He managed a remarkable recovery of 14 places in the Final and finished in 9th position, again one of the fastest on the track.
Already a winner at Adria, Rashid Al Dhaheri repeated his feat at Lonato. 3rd fastest in Qualifying, he took the lead in the heats with three wins and two fastest laps of the race. As the battle became even more intense, Rashid won the Prefinal and triumphed in an epic fight up to the final metres of the Final. He therefore reinforced his lead in the provisional classification of the WSK Super Master Series. Keanu Al Azhari and Valerio Rinicella were in the top five in the Prefinals before losing their chances in the Final battles. Giovanni Trentin made a good debut with the team with three top threes in the heats and a gain of 12 places in the Final before a spoiler penalty.
The OK-Junior drivers of the team were not celebrating as a result of disappointing Qualifying Practices and fierce clashes in the pack. Brando Badoer was forced to retire in the Prefinal, while Martinuis Stenshorne took a 9th position in the Prefinal and was in the top 10 of the Final with the second fastest time when he had to retire with a broken chain.
Al Dhaheri wins 60 Mini in the challenging WSK Super Master at Adria
Tuesday, 05 February 2019 / Published in Motorsport
In the first event of the WSK Super Master Series, the Adria track remained wet and slippery until the Prefinals. In these winter conditions, the Parolin chassis once again demonstrated their versatility on all terrain, allowing many drivers to express their talent. The superb victory for Rashid Al Dhaheri in Mini, and the performances of Brando Badoer in Junior and Gabriele Mini' in OK, brought great satisfaction to the Parolin Racing Team.
"While most of the season's competitors were there for the opening of the WSK Super Master Series, the Parolin brand has remained the best represented on the grid, not only in Mini, but also in Junior, and our project is also progressing in the top category," said Marco Parolin. "Our successes in Mini confirm this as much as our breakthrough in OK-Junior and our level of performance in OK. However the weekend at Adria was very wet with consequent numerous incidents and penalties. The victory for Rashid Al Dhaheri in Mini is all the more beautiful as he started from a long way back. The 100% Parolin 60 Mini podium obviously gives us great satisfaction".
Al Dhaheri on a cloud
It was the young Maxens Verbrugge who set the fastest time of the official Parolin team in 60 Mini, but incidents and a penalty in the Prefinal caused him to miss his qualification. Meanwhile, Rashid Al Dhaheri was back in 5th position with three wins, a feat after starting from 33rd place in Qualifying. Strong and determined, he fought in the leading group for the Final victory and managed to win after a crazy race, thus taking the lead in the championship. With great determination, Douwe Dedecker managed to recover from 60th place in Qualifying and reached the top 20 of the Final. The other drivers of the team suffered in the pack as a result of poor performance in Qualifying in the rain. They all made good progress in the heats, for example Keanu Al Azhari regained 31 places in five heats, but their starting handicap was too great to allow them to reach the Final.
ABadoer long in the top five
4th in Qualifying, Brando Badoer represented the best chances of the Parolin Racing Team in OK-Junior. Winner for the first time of a heat in his new category, he was delayed by a retirement, but remained in the game by finishing in the top five of Prefinal B. The Final did not go as well as expected in the dry, and Brando first lost ground before taking back positions at the end of the race to finish 19th. Alessandro Cenedese, Martinius Stenshorme and Vinicius Tessaro also had to give up in the fight of one of their heats. Cenedese was penalised in the Prefinal before finishing 26th in a complicated Final. Tessaro made up for a very good Final B where he finished in 2nd position while Jesse Carrasquero continued his progress in the pack.
Mini in the frame in the rain
Although rain is not his favourite conditions, Gabriele Mini' did not leave the front of the OK category. 5th in Qualifying, he won one of his heats before taking 3rd place in his Prefinal while posting the fastest lap in the race. Gabriele fought for a long time between 3rd and 5th position in the Final and planned to ensure a good result at the finish, but a broken chain decided otherwise two laps from the goal.
The next meeting for the Parolin Racing Team will be at the end of February at Lonato for the second round of the WSK Super Master Series.


ArCADia-3D MAKER saves a 3D project from the ArCADia BIM system.
ArCADia-3D MAKER, which has a saving option for a 3D project.
ArCADia-3D VIEWER, which allows the user to view a 3D project without the need to install ArCADia.
There are two options for saving a project presentation: with or without the ArCADia-3D VIEWER browser. The browser, i.e. ArCADia-3D VIEWER can be downloaded from the website and installed independently of the ArCADia BIM software.


MannaPro Gamebird/Showbird Complete Crumbles\tI Feeders Grain and Supply Inc.
MannaPro Gamebird/Showbird Complete Crumbles consist of 24% protein with essential amino acids for fast growth, efficient gain, and high-quality plumage. Formulated for gamebirds, showbirds, turkeys, ducks, geese, and broilers. Includes vitamins and minerals essential for healthy development and yeast culture for improved digestion and feed utilization.


I was curious about how many tons of carbon dioxide that my family pumps into the atmosphere (= global warming). Looked at the most direct variables: flying, driving, and home electricity. There are obviously more variables to look at (like beef!), but I'm starting with these three, as the data is readily available and I gotta start somewhere.
So, 19 tons of CO2 per year. Damn! Sorry about that, earth and future generations. Good news is that I now know how to reduce it by ALOT (like 5 times less)!
Sunshine. Over 35 adults and 15 kids milling about, playing and socializing. Some down by the beach eating snacks and windsurfing. Work going on in the background: Pototoes being boiled, tables being set, drinks brought out, BBQ lit. Nobody is giving orders, things are just happening. Looks rather chaotic.
But then at 16:30, precisely on schedule, everything miraculously comes together!
Here are annotated slides from my lighting talk Agile@Home at Agila Sverige 2012.
Have you tried a BBQ board? Or a travel spike? Or a homework burnup chart? How about Limiting WIP in the kitchen, or the closet? How about agile party planning? There are plenty of ways that Agile and Lean practices and ideas can be used to make life at home more simple, pleasant, and fun!
Enjoy! And please share your own tips and tricks!


text:
The Otago Nuggets are a New Zealand basketball team based in Dunedin. The Nuggets compete in the National Basketball League (NBL) and play their home games at the Edgar Centre. For sponsorship reasons, they are known as the Night 'n Day Otago Nuggets.

Team history
The Nuggets entered the National Basketball League (NBL) for the first time in 1990. After finishing in the top six in five of their first eight seasons, and making the semi-finals three times in that span, the Nuggets finished in the bottom four in their next 14 seasons, including being perennial wooden spooners. Following a tumultuous 2008 season, where the Nuggets collected their fourth consecutive wooden spoon and had mass player turnover throughout the year, Basketball Otago withdrew the Nuggets from the 2009 season, citing financial concerns. They returned to the league in 2010 and subsequently finished with a winless record (0–18), becoming just the third team in NBL history to finish a season without a win (joining the 1998 Northland Suns and the 2009 Taranaki Mountainairs). The Nuggets also had a 33-game losing streak that spanned April 2008 to May 2011.

In 2013, the Nuggets made it to the post-season for the first time since 1997. They finished the regular season in second place with a 12–4 record, before losing 87–72 to the Nelson Giants in the semifinal. In 2014, the Nuggets missed the finals with a 7–11 record.

In November 2014, Basketball Otago withdrew the Nuggets from the NBL for a second time. In September 2015, Basketball Otago announced their decision to keep the Nuggets out of the NBL in 2016, looking instead to bringing them back in 2017. However, in September 2016, they opted not to apply for a position in the 2017 competition. In February 2018, plans to resurrect the Nuggets were further put on hold.

In April 2019, Basketball Otago were granted approval to make an NBL bid for the 2020 season. The Nuggets were granted provisional entry back into the NBL in July 2019, but the following month, their formal entry was deferred to the 2021 season, with both the league and the organisation feeling an additional 12 months would help the team to better lay the foundations needed for success. However, in May 2020, the Nuggets formally returned to the league in a 2020 competition that was revised and modified due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

The Nuggets had a successful return to the NBL in 2020 as they finished the regular season in first place with a 9–5 record behind Coach of the Year winner Brent Matehaere. They went on to reach their first ever NBL final behind the likes of Jordan Hunt, Jarrod Kenny and Jordan Ngatai, where they defeated the Manawatu Jets 79–77 to win their maiden NBL championship.

In November 2021, the Nuggets were purchased by Sports Entertainment Network New Zealand (SENZ), a subsidiary of Australia's Sports Entertainment Group (SEG).

In 2022, the Nuggets finished the regular season in third place with a 10–8 record and went on to reach the NBL final behind the likes of Tray Boyd III, Keith Williams, Todd Withers and Sam Timmins. In the final, they won their second championship in three years with an 81–73 victory over the Auckland Tuatara.

Current roster

References

External links
"Greatest moments in Otago sport - Number 28" at odt.co.nz
"Passion here for Nuggets impresses" at odt.co.nz

National Basketball League (New Zealand) teams
Basketball teams in New Zealand
Basketball teams established in 1990
1990 establishments in New Zealand


text:
import { Universe } from '@ephox/boss';

import { WordScope } from '../../data/WordScope';
import * as WordUtil from '../../util/WordUtil';
import * as Identify from '../../words/Identify';

const identify = (allText: string): WordScope[] => {
  return Identify.words(allText);
};

const isWord = (_universe: Universe<any, any>, text: string): boolean => {
  return !WordUtil.hasBreak(text);
};

export {
  WordScope,
  identify,
  isWord
};


In addition to our translation and interpretation services, we also offer our foreign clients advisory services for entering the Slovak market. For many foreign entrepreneurs, Agency TOP has served as a reliable, on-the-ground partner in Slovakia.
During an initial consultation, we will gladly offer an overview - free of charge - of the advantages as well as the potential risks of operating your business in Slovakia.
From there, you'll be able use our services to conveniently and promptly launch your business activities in Slovakia, thanks to our strong emphasis on cost optimisation.
It goes without saying that we are dedicated to offering professional services and transparent pricing. One of the fundamental principles guiding our activities is to protect the business secrets of our clients provided the course of our collaboration.


Many of the new Mural Designs with the 3D technology have matching SwitchStix®. IdeaStix® Accents and SwitchStix® are self-adhesive, removable, reusable, washable and heat and steam resistant.
These artful creations are re-usable designer accents and mini-murals which can be applied to bathroom or kitchen tiles, canisters, or just about any other solid (non-porous) surface you might want to decorate"for instant character in an ordinary room.
For homeowners and renters alike IdeaStix® Murals, Accents, SwitchStix® and TileStix® can create dramatic change without tools, mess or installation.
They are perfect for apartments because they remove just as easily.
On the practical side, the decorations are great cover-ups for small holes and scratches and can be moved around from room to room.
Available in wallpaper stores or online. For more information contact IdeaStix at 1-866-359-5986 or visit http://www.ideastix.com.


text:
Hall of Fame Honorees
Cable, Wade H.
Wade Cable is a Director and is President and Chief Operating Officer of William Lyon Homes, a large
Carlson, David P.
Dave was born and raised in Walnut Creek, California. He followed in his father's footsteps and obtained
Carson, Kevin S.
Kevin serves as the Northern California President for The New Home Company. He has 30
Cerini, Floyd B.*
Floyd B. Cerini was Vice President of Govemment Relations of Title Insurance and Trust, and Vice
Chaiken, Donald
Donald Chaiken, a native of New York City, grew up in Miami, Florida. He is a graduate with highest
Chenoweth, Richard C.*
Dick Chenoweth was born in San Francisco in 1924 and moved to Los Angeles that same year where
Christopherson, Brenda
Keith and Brenda Christopherson are the co-founders and owners of Christopherson Homes, Inc.,
Christopherson, Keith
Clark, John B., Jr.*
Although John B. Clark, Jr. is known as the premier fence builder in San Diego County, it wasn't always that
Clifford, Emmett S.*
Emmett S. Clifford serves as President and Chief Executive Officer of The Clifford Group, Inc. and
Condiotti, Art*
Art Condiotti, President of Condiotti Enterprises, Inc., was born in New York City in 1921, is a graduate of
Connerly, Ward
Ward Connerly is President and Principal Consultant of Connerly & Associates, Inc., a housing research and community
Cooper, Wilfred N., Sr.
Wilfred N. Cooper, Sr., is the founder, Chairman of the Board, and a Director of WNC & Associates, Inc. The company's
Cortney, Michael C.
Upon graduation from the University of New Mexico in 1971 with a B.S. Degree in Civil Engineering, Cortney was
Crowell, Harry C.
Harry C. Crowell is one of the most active men in the housing industry. Since 1963, he has been the principal operating
Cusumano, Gary M.
Since 2004, Gary Cusumano has served as chairman of NewhallLand, one of the most important land development


It provided preliminary, primary, secondary, sludge and advanced treatment modules. WASDA gives various options of activated sludge systems, i.e.
Provides conceptual and process design recommendations for conventional wastewater, primary, secondary and advanced treatments - proposed by best practical manuals / public authorities (sewerage services / environmental control).
Mainly focussed on municipal and industrial applications.


Energy asset risk management is critical. Using the health analytics approach in the previous blog, we looked at some of the key analogies and why they make sense. In this next part of the blog we're going to look at some examples of the actual issues to be aware. Plus, we'll look at how real-time monitoring & analytics of these key factors can lead to lower asset failures, reduced degradation levels and longer capital lives. Overall this will lead to lower costs through risk mitigation.
When you go to the doctor for an annual check up (as we mentioned in the previous blog) you're typically tested for specific markers. This is to make sure that you are within safe physical limits. Examples are cholesterol, blood pressure, BMI, resting heart rate etc. The wider list is long and exhaustive.
The same applies to an electrical system and the key electrical assets it powers, for example motors, pumps, chillers, HVAC system etc.
Key fact number 1 – there are physical limits within which a business's electrical system should remain.
If a business wants to enhance its asset lifetimes and get serious about energy asset risk management it must aim to remain within these limits. Moving outside these physical boundaries will cause stress to the system. And, more importantly, put production & revenue at risk.
Essentially, the longer an energy system can remain within these limits, the greater the chance for everything to run for longer without issue.
Simple examples of energy asset risk management within an energy system are voltage and current. Both of these have different reasons to keep them optimised for your electrical system & assets.
You could think of voltage like blood pressure. We do not want it to be too high or too low but within a defined range. This range is dependent upon the assets (they are designed for specific ranges) and the distribution system you are working within. Move outside these defined limits for a period of time and you are more likely to induce asset degradation and / or failure.
With current, electrical systems are set to trip at certain levels for protection. Overloading a specific phase can lead to nuisance tripping which will lose you valuable hours to deliver revenue-creating products & / or services. This overloading of a particular phase, leading to unexpected tripping, happens when electricians favour adding new equipment to a specific phase. This will lead to a build up of imbalanced phases over time.
Going back to where most electricity is used within commercial & industrial organisation, motors, it is critical that they work with balanced current inputs. If these become imbalanced then it creates additional mechanical stress. This stress will provide a greater chance of shortening the motor's life.
There are numerous client case studies where we have been told about motors being replaced / rewound every 5 years. They should last for 10+ years. When we investigate, we typically find that the electrical system's 3-phase currents are severely imbalanced.
This simple monitoring of current imbalances & rebalancing if required can lead to longer lifetimes. This will lead to lower capital spends & a higher return on capital investment.
Yet, this is just one simple and small element of energy asset risk management within an energy system.
Physical limit analysis and the increased probability of failure & / or degradation applies to all electrical data. There are about 50-60 data points of value in any electrical meter. They all provide energy asset risk management markers to be acted upon at specific points. All of these can be monitored in real-time and responded to if their limits are broken – enabling you to to mitigate overall systemic worries.
Figure 3 (lower down) gives a graphical example of a voltage limit issue.
Voltage levels are critical within electrical energy systems as all electrical equipment is rated for a specific range. Move outside of this range and equipment will start to degrade and, in the worst cases, fail catastrophically – causing potentially serious health and safety risks.
So, keeping within voltage tolerances is really important for lots of reasons.
At this client site (figure 3) a new transformer was installed. Monitoring the voltage levels, our system found that the voltage had not been set correctly (point 1) by the transformer installation business. We noted the detrimental setting and ensured that the client was made aware that the tap settings needed to be changed. This was then done (point 2 on diagram.) This is a simple example of real-time energy asset risk management working as required.
This client has a daily product valued in the millions. This action saved the client from a potentially significant production failure at some point in the future were it to continue. Although difficult to value, this provided a hugely beneficial input to their business moving forward given its risk reduction value.
However, knowing that you are currently within your limits is good now, but does not tell you anything about how you are expected to be in the future.
Hence, trend analytics for these "health limits" are important. They will enable a business to determine where risk factors may be expected to occur. This will enable proactive behaviour – something even FitBit or the doctor don't provide for you now.
We can breathe easier when issues are discovered or the absence of issues is known. However, we also need to ensure that the build up of issues is not going undetected. So, as an analogy, although your blood pressure may be fine now, is it trending to detrimental levels? And, if so, when will this happen? 12 weeks, 30 weeks, 52 weeks?
Physical limits analysis is also critical to your ability to grow.
There are numerous examples of businesses that make investments in growth development with no reference to whether their energy system can handle the new level of production. They raise the finance for the development with no reference to transformer limits. When they approach the network operator who then tells them that they need to spend a significant amount of money on a new transformer. This capital spending "shock" then means that the finance director has to go back through a new round of finance raising which can delay their expansion plans by months.
Real-time energy asset risk management would immediately allow a finance director to be able to ensure that all requirements for the power delivery from growth are encapsulated in their growth plans.
This is a service that we encompass within our energy asset risk management platform.
Temperature of electrical circuits is critical. It's importance is in providing a sign of ill-health in terms of inefficiencies that can be caused by electrical effects such as harmonics.
Schneider Electric has a great report on this – looking at the risk limits and degradation issues for different electrical components from temperature. You can find the report here.
As well as asset efficiency & degradation issues from over-temperature, the temperature of a distribution board can also enable you to determine the possibility of fire risks & fault de-rating. Also, whether the temperature trend is changing significantly and whether it is beyond safe, regulatory levels. Add the analytics and you can predict if / when regulatory limits will be broken.
At Argand, we're now using distribution board level technology that provides (in addition to asset life & asset risk from power quality issues) real-time temperature data.
An example of this can be seen in figure 4 below for our own offices over a 7-day period. You can see the temperature increasing during the working hours when the boards are more in use and under electrical stress.
This is a manifestation of the "Internet f Things" (IoT) developments whereby multiple disparate data points can be brought together to add overall value.
Monitoring these temperature developments over time we can determine whether there is a build up of electrical health issues. Specifically, health issues which may manifest as higher distribution board temperatures. This is a very simple analogy to understand in relation to a human body. Another critical element of energy asset risk management.
From our perspective this is a radical change in analysis that is being driven by developments in IoT monitoring hardware and the interaction with real-time analytics – like ours shown above.
We can also use the hardware / software combination to determine how long assets have been running for. This is in relation to their expected lifetimes. This provides an additional enhancement to the overall Energy Asset Risk Management opportunity.
Many assets are given a Mean Time Between Failure (MTBF) value. This is the predicted elapsed time between inherent failures of a system during operation. The value is typically in hours (but it can also be the number of switches etc) and indicates the reliability of the asset.
For more efficient maintenance of systems O&M teams need to see how long assets have been running for. This enables proactive maintenance. It is a much more efficient way of using O&M resource as opposed to a reactive or planned regime.
Luckily this is now possible via our own platform. This adds a new, beneficial element to the value of investing in asset-focused distribution board monitoring hardware. Combined with our energy asset risk management software it provides real value.
Using data from energy metering systems we can determine how long an asset has been running for. Then, by applying MTBF methodology we can calculate the probability of failure.
This ability to determine hours run in real-time is a simple, yet powerful way to enable really targeted O&M. This will allow pre-failure actions to ensure a smooth delivery of service without significant interruption.
The blog is just s snapshot of the possibilities to utilise real-time energy asset risk management within commercial and industrial energy systems.
The opportunities to reduce risks and running costs through better use of existing data are increasing. By analysing electrical energy networks through the "Electrical Heath" lens we can start to determine real-time responses. We can provide energy asset risk management at a fraction of the cost of the potential risk savings.
This continues to be an area that is significantly undervalued by monitoring solutions. They miss the value from the other data points that can enable a much better understanding of the health of an energy system.
Whilst energy metering has typically been used for energy cost reduction only, the critical risks in a system are being missed.
New, more proactive ways of dealing with data will drive additional value through risk reductions.
This is what Argand are doing and where we are differentiating ourselves from the market. We're adding value through a combination of cost and risk reductions. Together these will mitigate significant losses in production and revenue.
So, do you have an electrical metering system that you'd like to get more value out of?
Then give us a call and we can help you really understand the health of your system. Energy asset risk management will help you to drive additional value through proactive and predictive maintenance.


The following blogs are open to outside submissions, mostly without financial compensation. They're an excellent way to get your name out to new people and get practice working with editors, setting deadlines, and producing content for public consumption. Your first step is to look over the site, read what kind of content they produce and read their submission guidelines. Here's a hint, they might not be posted. Hit the contact page and send them a query.
Daily Encounter More than encounters, but exclusively for D&D 4e.
Dragon Age Oracle Content for the AGE system and Dragon Age.
Dice Monkey General RPG bloggery.
D&D Dads Less about gaming itself, and more about being a father and a gamer.
Hereticwerks A little bit everything RPG, with a focus on indie games.
The Illuminerdy D&D and some of everything else.
Kobold Quarterly A magazine and publishing company but it takes open submissions for its front page.
StufferShack Takes articles for any system, but offers a lot of content for D&D 4e, FATE and Mass Effect.