A treatment instrument includes a first coil and a second coil that is different from said first coil. The first and second coils are connected to each other. An operation wire is inserted in the first and second coils, and a tip end of the wire is connected to a treatment device. Upon movement of the wire, the treatment device operates. A method of manufacturing such a treatment instrument includes inserting one end of the first coil and one end of the second coil in a connection pipe from opposite ends thereof, exposing both ends of the connection pipe and corresponding portions of the first and second coils. The portions exposed to the arc columns are melted and connected.
In a particular case, the treatment unit may include a brush unit.
FIG. 35 shows another method of exposing the tip of the wire to the arc column, according to a fourteenth embodiment.
FIG. 1 shows an endoscope  1, to which a biopsy forceps is connected, which is manufactured according to a first embodiment.
The endoscope  1 has a flexible insertion tube 3. A bendable unit 2 of the insertion tube 3 is to be inserted in a human cavity. At the distal end portion of the bendable unit 2, an objective optical system is provided. An object image entering from the objective lens is observed through an eyepiece unit 6. By rotating an operation knob 5 provided on an operation unit 4, the bendable unit 2 can be bent arbitrarily.
The endoscope is formed with a instrument insertion opening  7. A biopsy forceps 201, or another treatment instrument can be inserted, from the instrument insertion opening 7, through an instrument insertion channel 11. When the biopsy forceps 201 is inserted, a first forceps cup 205 a and a second forceps cup 205 b protrude from the distal end of the endoscope 1. By operating an operation handle 225 provided to the proximal end portion of the biopsy forceps 201 to move in a direction along the axis thereof, the first and second forceps cups 205 a and 205 b can be opened and closed.
FIG. 2 shows a cross section of the distal end portion and the proximal end portion of the biopsy forceps  201. The first and second forceps cups 205 a and 205 b have plate-shaped arms 206 a and 206 b which are integrally formed with the cups 205 a and 205 b. The arms 206 a and 206 b are formed with a hole 211, and at which, the arms 206 a and 206 b are rotatably supported by a pin 204. With this structure, by rotatably moving the arms 206 a and 206 b, the cups 205 a and 205 b can be opened or closed.
The pin  204 is secured on a supporting member 203. The portion of the supporting member 203 where the arms 206 a and 206 b move are formed as a slit portion 203 a.
Each of the arms  206 a and 206 b is formed with a link engaging hole 221, which engages with a link shaft 214. Each link shaft 214 further engages with a link hole 222 formed on a link plate 207 a or 207 b. Thus, the link plates 207 a and 207 b are rotatable about the link shafts 214, respectively.
Further, as shown in FIG. 2, each of the link plates  207 a and 207 b is formed with an engaging hole 231, through which an supporting pin 234 is rotatably inserted. The supporting pin 234 is secured onto a metal connector 240. Furthermore, the metal connector 240 is connected with the distal end of an operation wire 212. The proximal end portion of the operation wire 212 is connected to an operation slider 225. With this configuration, by moving (sliding) the operation slider 225, the operation wire 212 can be moved along its axis. The metal connector 240 is slidably fitted in an through hole 203 b defined on the supporting member 203. Thus, as the operation wire 212 moves in the axial direction thereof, the metal connector 240 moves such that a distance between the pins 204 and 234 varies. That is, if the metal connector 240 is moved in the direction where the pin 234 approaches the pin 204, the biopsy forceps cups 204 a and 204 b open, while if the metal connector 240 is moved in the direction where the pin 234 is away from the pin 204, the biopsy forceps cups 204 a and 204 b close.
In order to prevent the operation wire  212 from bending too sharply, the operation wire 212 is covered with a coil 213, which elastically protect the operation wire 212. Further, to allow smooth slidable movement of the operation wire 212 inside the first coil 213, the distal end of the first coil 213 is connected with the supporting member 203. The proximal end side portion of the operation wire 212 is covered with a second coil 223, which has a greater wire diameter than the first coil 213. It should be noted that the distal end portion of the wire 212 should follow the curve formed by the bendable unit 2, and therefore, the first coil 213 is formed by a relatively thin wire so that the first coil 213 is sufficiently flexible. On the contrary, a portion of the second coil 223 located at the flexible tube 3 is formed by a relatively thick wire so that the second coil 223 is not bent easily. Using a connection pipe 233, the first coil 213 and the second coil 223 are connected so that the wire 212 is covered with the first coil 212 or the second coil 223 without a non-covered portion along its length. The connection portion 101 will be described in detail hereinafter.
FIG. 3 shows an enlarged cross-sectional view of the connection portion  101.
The proximal end portion of the first coil  213 is formed to be an insertion end 213 a, and the distal end portion of the second coil 223 is formed to be an insertion end 223 a. Each of the insertion portion 213 a and 223 a are formed such that the outer diameter thereof is less that but substantially equal to the inner diameter of the connection pipe 233. Therefore, the insertion end 213 a of the first coil 213 and the insertion end 223 a of the second coil 223 are smoothly inserted in the connection pipe 233. It should be noted that the outer diameter of the connection pipe 233 is substantially the same as the outer diameter of the first coil 213 and the second coil 223, and therefore, the connection portion 101 can be inserted in the treatment instrument channel 11 of the endoscope 1 smoothly, without being caught thereby.
According to the first embodiment, the end portions of the connection pipe  233 and the first and second coils 213 and 223 are connected with an arc welding method. That is, predetermined portions of each end of the connection pipe 233 and the outer surface of the first coil 213 or the second coil 223 are exposed to arc so that the exposed portions are melted and connected. The melted and connected portions are indicated as connected portions 215 in FIG. 3. It should be noted that the connected portions 215 are distributed on four through six circumferential positions.
FIG. 4 shows a condition where the arc welding is performed. A first electrode  301 is placed on the connection pipe 233, and a second electrode 302 is located in the vicinity of a portion where the end of the connection pipe 233 and the first coil 213 is connected. For preventing oxidization of the connected portion, Argon gas is filled around the second electrode 302.
By applying a predetermined electrical power between the first electrode  301 and the second electrode 302, an arc column 303 is generated between the second electrode 302 and a portion of the connection pipe 233 closer to the second electrode 302. Since the temperature of the arc column is 5000K or more, the portion of the connection pipe 233 and a portion of the outer surface of the first coil 213 adjacent thereto are melted. Thereafter, by stopping the power supply between the first and second electrodes 301 and 302, the arc column 303 is disappeared and the melted metal is cooled to the solidifying point. As a result, the first coil 213 and the connection pipe 233 are connected strongly. The other portions are melted and connected in a similar manner.
FIG. 5 schematically shows connection portion  101A according to a second embodiment of the invention. The structure of the biopsy forceps other than the connection portion 101A is similar to the structure of the first embodiment, and therefore, description of the endoscope other than the connection portion 101A will not be repeated.
According to the second embodiment, an operation wire  212 at the distal end portion is covered with a first coil 213 formed of a thin wire, and the portion inserted in the flexible tube 3 is covered with a second coil 223 formed of a thick wire. With this configuration, the first coil 213 functions as a flexible coil, while the second coil 223 serves as a rigid coil. The proximal end of the first coil 213 and the distal end of the second coil 223 contact with each other.
In the second embodiment, the portion where the proximal end of the first coil  213 and the distal end of the second coil 223 contact is exposed to an arc column so that the portion is melt and connected. Thus, as shown in FIG. 5, connection portions 215 are formed at the portions where the proximal end of the first coil 213 and the distal end of the second coil 223 contact with each other. In FIG. 5, four portions are indicated as the connection portions 215. However, in order to provide sufficient connection forth, the number of the connection portions 215 may be increased to, for example, six.
FIG. 6 shows how the first and second coils  213 and 223 are connected. As shown in FIG. 6, a first electrode 301 contacts a portion where the proximal end of the first coil 213 and the distal end of the second coil 223 contact. A second electrode 302 is located in the vicinity of a position where the proximal end of the first coil 213 and the distal end of the second coil 223 contact. The first electrode 301 and the second electrode 302 are arranged such that the operation wire 212 is located therebetween. Further to this configuration, in order to avoid oxidization of the connected portions, an area surrounding the second electrode 302 is filled with Argon gas.
By applying a predetermined electrical power between the first electrode  301 and the second electrode 302, an arc column 303 is generated between the second electrode 302 and a portion which is closer to the second electrode 302 and where the proximal end of the first coil 213 and the distal end of the second coil 223 contact. Since the temperature of the arc column is 5000K or more, the portion where the proximal end of the first coil 213 and the distal end of the second coil 223 contact is melted. Thereafter, by stopping the power supply between the first and second electrodes 301 and 302, the arc column 303 is disappeared and the melted metal is cooled to the solidifying point. As a result, the first coil 213 and the second coil 223 are connected strongly. The other connection portions 215 are melted and connected in a similar manner.
According to the second embodiment, the arc column  303 is generated on the outer surface of the first and second coils 213 and 223. Therefore, only the surface of the first and second coils 213 and 223 is heated. Accordingly, it is not necessary to grind the proximal end surface of the first coil 213 and the distal end surface of the second coil 223 as in the prior art, wherein a laser beam is used for melting the coils.
FIG. 7 shows a manufacturing method of a connection portion  101B according to a third embodiment. The third embodiment is similar to the first embodiment except that a plurality of through holes 233H are formed on the connection pipe 233. As shown in FIG. 7, a first electrode 301 is placed on the connection pipe 233, and a second electrode 302 is located above the through hole 233H. For preventing oxidization of the connected portion, Argon gas is filled around the second electrode 302.
By applying a predetermined electrical power between the first electrode  301 and the second electrode 302, an arc column 303 is generated between the second electrode 302 and the through hole 233H through which the surface of the first or second coil 213 or 223 is exposed. Since the temperature of the arc column is 5000K or more, the edge defining the through hole 233H and a portion of the outer surface of the first coil 213 exposed to outside through the through hole 233H are melted. Thereafter, by stopping the power supply between the first and second electrodes 301 and 302, the arc column 303 disappears and the melted metal is cooled to the solidifying point. As a result, the first coil 213 or the second coil 223 and the connection pipe 233 are connected strongly.
FIG. 8 shows an endoscope through which a biopsy forceps  100 according to the fourth embodiment is inserted. Similarly to the endoscope shown in FIG. 1, the biopsy forceps 100 is inserted from the instrument insertion opening 7 of the endoscope. A pair of forceps cups 105 protrude from the distal end of the bendable unit 2 of the endoscope 1.
FIG. 9 shows the biopsy forceps  100. To the forceps cups 105, an end of the operation wire 107 is connected, and upon movement of the wire 107 along its axis, the forceps cups 105 open and close.
In order to allow a smooth movement of the operation wire  107, it is inserted through a first guide coil 104. The inner surface of the first guide coil 104 is formed to be smoothly slidable with respect to the operation wire 107. Thus, the operation wire 107 is slidable inside the guide coil 104 without snagging. Further, since the operation wire 107 is covered with the first guide coil 104, the wire 107 is prevented from being hooked to fingers of an operator or the like.
The other end of the operation wire  107 is connected to an operation slider 108 of an operation mechanism 103. The operation slider 108 is slidably supported by a cylindrical guide 106, in which the proximal end portion of the first guide coil 104 is fitted. With this structure, by sliding the operation slider 108 along the cylindrical guide 106, the operation wire 107 can be moved along its axis to operate the forceps cups 105.
FIG. 10 shows a cross section of the bendable unit  2 of the endoscope 1. The bendable unit 2 has a plurality of ring members 21 which are rotatably connected by pins 22. The above structure of the bendable unit 2 is inserted. In each ring member 21, a pair of wire guides 11 are provided. a pair of operating wires 12 are inserted through the plurality of ring members 21, and supported by the wire guides 11. The pair of wire guides 11 of each ring member 21 are located at opposite positions with respect to the central axis thereof.
FIG. 11 is a cross-sectional view of the operation unit  4. As shown in FIG. 11, the proximal ends of the operating wires 12 and both ends of a wire 33 are connected through a sag/tension removing devices 35 and 35. The central portion of the wire 33 is wound around a pulley 16 which is coaxial with respect to the operation knob 5.
One of the operating wires  12 is inserted in one of the pair of wire guides 11, and the other of the operating wires 12 is inserted in the other of the pair of wire guides 11. Then, the tips of the operating wires 12 are processed to have a larger diameter than the inner diameter of the cylindrical portion of the wired guides 11. With this structure, the tips of the pair of operating wires 12 are engaged with the wire guides 11 of the distal end side ring member 21.
With this structure, when the operation knob  5 is rotated and the pulley 16 rotates, one end of the wire 33 is pushed toward the bendable unit side of the endoscope 1, and the other end of the wire 33 is pulled toward the proximal end side of the operation unit 4. Thus, the two wires 12 are moved in the opposite directions, thereby the bendable unit 2 being bent.
In order to allow a smooth movement of the wires  12 in the flexible tube 3 of the endoscope 1, each of the wires 12 is inserted through a second guide coil 13, as shown in FIG. 12. The inner surface of the guide coils 13 are made smooth so that the wire 12 slides therein. With this configuration, the operating wires 12 are slidable in the second guide coils 13 without sags.
As shown in FIG. 9, between the first guide coil  104 and the guide 106, a first coil 101 is provided. The first coil 101 prevents concentration of the force applied to the first guide coil 104 at the end of the support 106. That is, if the first coil 101 is not provided, the first guide coil 104 may be bent due to the force applied thereto at the position where the first guide coil 104 contacts the end of the support 106. Since the first coil 101 is provided, it is ensured that the first guide coil 104 will not be bent, and therefore, the operation wire 107 can be smoothly moved.
FIG. 12 is an enlarged cross-sectional view of the operation unit  4. As shown in FIG. 12, the diameter of the operation unit 4 is gradually reduced toward the flexible tube 3. In order to prevent the second guide coils 13 from being damaged as they contact corner portions 4 a inside the operation unit 4, the second guide coils 13 are inserted in second coils 15, respectively.
FIG. 13 is a cross sectional view of a part of the operation wire  107, the first guide coil 104 and the first coil 101. As indicated in FIG. 13, the first guide coil 104 and the first coil 101 are connected at a plurality of portions, the connection portions being indicated by reference numerals 115. As shown in FIG. 13, each of the connection portions 115 is formed such that a part of the first coil 101 and the corresponding part of the first guide coil 104 are melted. It should be noted that the outer surface of the first guide coil 104 is melted, but the inner surface of the first guide coil 104 is not melted. Therefore, even though the first coil 101 is firmly connected with the outer surface of the first guide coil 104, the inner surface of the first guide coil 104 is not connected to the operation wire 107.
In the embodiment, the first cover coil  101 and the first guide coil 104 are melted by generating an arc column. FIG. 14 shows a method of generating the arc column. As shown in FIG. 14, a first electrode 301 is secured to the first cover coil 101, and a second electrode 302 is arranged in the vicinity of the first cover coil 101. Further, in order to prevent oxidization of the connection portion, an area surrounding the second electrode 302 is filled with Argon gas.
By applying a predetermined power between the first and second electrodes  301 and 302, an arc column 303 is generated between the second electrode 302 and the first cover coil 101 at a portion adjacent to the second electrode 302. Since the temperature of the arc column is 5000K or more, the portion of the first cover coil 101 exposed to the arc column 303 and the corresponding portion of the first guide coil 104 are melt. Then, the power supply to the first and second electrodes 301 and 302 are terminated, the arc column disappears, and the melted metal is cooled down to the solidifying point. As a result, the first cover coil 101 and the first guide coil 104 are firmly connected as shown in FIG. 13.
It should be noted that by adjusting a period of time during which the predetermined power is supplied to the first and second electrodes  301 and 302, the temperature is controlled such that the outer surface of the first guide coil 104 is melted but the inner surface of the first guide coil 104 is not melted.
Although not shown in drawings, the second guide coil  13 covering the operating wire 12 and the second cover coil 15 can be connected in a similar manner.
FIG. 15 shows an enlarged cross-sectional view of the bendable unit  2 of the endoscope 1 shown in FIG. 1 or FIG. 8, according to a fifth embodiment of the invention. The bendable unit 2 is provided with a bending assembly 25, which includes a plurality of ring members 21 which are rotatably connected with pins 22. The bending assembly 25 is covered with a rubber tube 14. The ring member 21 is formed as a metal tube, end portions thereof being cut to be wedge-shaped. Each of the ring member 21 is provided with a pair of wire guides 11 on the inner surface thereof. In each ring member 21, the wire guides 11 are provided on substantially the same plane, which is perpendicular to the central axis of the ring member 21, and the wire guides 11 are located at opposite positions with respect to the central axis. Further, when all the ring members 21 are aligned along a straight line, the pair of wire guides are also aligned along straight lines, respectively. Through each wired guide 11, the operation wire 12 is inserted, and at the distal end side of the operation wire 12 is formed to have a spherical shape to that the end side of the wire 12 is not pulled out of the wire guide 11 of the distal end side ring member 21. It should be noted that the wire 12 may be a single wire or twisted wire.
Portions of the operating wires  12 inserted in the flexible tube 3 are covered with guide coils 29 for elastically protect the wires 12, respectively. Both ends of each guide coil 29 are fixed with respect to the flexible tube 3 so that the guide coil 29 does not move in the axial direction inside the flexible tube 3 when the operation wire 12 is moved.
The bendable unit  2 and the flexible tube 3 are connected using a metal connector 41, which is a cylindrical metal member. Further, the bendable unit sides of the guide coils 29 are secured on the inner surface of the metal connector 41.
FIG. 16 is a cross-sectional view of the operation unit  4, which is similar to the unit shown in FIG. 11. As shown in FIG. 16, the proximal ends of the operating wires 12 and both ends of a wire 33 are connected through a sag/tension removing devices 35 and 35. The central portion of the wire 33 is wound around a pulley 16 which is coaxial with respect to the operation knob 5. Each of the sag/tension removing devices 35 is formed with a wire connection opening 36, through which each wire 12 is inserted. The inserted portion of each wire 12 is formed to be spherical so that it is not pulled out of the connection opening 36.
It should be noted that, according to the embodiment, in combination of one operation dial and a pair of operation wires, the bendable portion  2 of the endoscope is bent in two directions. It is possible to use a pair of such combinations, so that the bendable portion 2 is bent in four directions.
FIG. 17 is a cross section taken along line A-A of FIG. 15. In this embodiment, end portions, on the bendable unit side, of the guide coils  29 and the inner surface of the metal connector 41 are melted so that connection portions 15 are formed. The connection portions 15 are formed by exposing these portions to arc columns.
FIG. 18 shows when the connection portions  15 are formed to connect the guide coils 29 to the metal connector 41. As shown in FIG. 18, on the metal connector 41, connection holes 41 a are formed, and the guide coils 29 are located at the connection holes 41 a, contacting the inner surface of the metal connector 41. Further, a first electrode 301 is inserted in the metal connector 41 and is contacted with one of the guide coils 29. A second electrode 302 is located outside the metal connector 41, in the vicinity of the connection hole 41 a. For preventing the oxidization of the connection portions, an area surrounding the second electrode 302 is filled with Argon gas.
By applying a predetermined power between the first and second electrodes  301 and 302, an arc column 303 is generated between the second electrode 302 and the connection hole 41 a that is located close to the second electrode 302. Since the temperature of the arc column is 5000K or more, the edge portion of the connection hole 41 a and a portion of the guide coil 29 corresponding to the connection hole 41 a are melted. When the power supply is terminated, and the arc column disappears, the melted metal is cooled down to the solidifying point. As a result, the tip of the guide coil 29 and the inner surface of the metal connector 41 are firmly connected.
With this structure, the connection portions  15 are formed as a slightly concaved portion with respect to the outer surface of the metal connector 41. Thus, the metal connector 41 can be smoothly inserted in the bendable unit 2.
FIG. 19 shows a cross-sectional view taken along line B-B of FIG. 18. As shown in FIG. 19, for one guide coil  29, a plurality of connection holes 41 a are formed, and therefore one guide coil 29 is connected to the inner surface of the metal connector 41 at a plurality of portions (three, in this embodiment). With this structure, even if one of the connection positions 15 is disabled (released), there still remains two connection portions, and therefore, the guide coil 29 is connected to the metal connector 41 sufficiently firmly.
FIG. 20 shows a side view of a cleaning brush  51 for cleaning the instrument channel of the endoscope, according to a sixth embodiment. The cleaning brush 51 includes a brush unit 54 made of synthetic resin. The brush unit 54 is secured to an operation wire 52. As shown in FIG. 20, the tip of the operation wire 52 is formed to have a spherical shape 52 a. A portion of the operation wire 52 on the proximal end side of the brush unit 54 is covered with a coil 53.
FIG. 21 shows the process for forming the spherical portion  52 a at the tip of the operation wire 52. As shown in FIG. 21, a first electrode 301 is connected to the coil 53, and a second electrode 302 is located in the vicinity of the tip end of the operation wire 52. For preventing the oxidization of the tip end of the wire 52, an area surrounding the tip end of the wire 52 and the second electrode 302 is filled with Argon gas.
When a predetermined power is supplied between the first and second electrodes  301 and 302, an arc column is generated between the tip 52 a of the wire 52 and the second electrode 302. Since the temperature of the arc column is 5000K or more, the tip 52 a of the wire 52 is melted, and formed to be spherical due to its surface tension. Then, when the power supply is terminated and the arc column disappears, the tip 52 a is cooled to its solidifying point. As a result, the tip 52 a of the wire 52 is cured.
In the above-described embodiment, in order to form the tip  52 a of the wire 52 as a spherical shape, the tip 52 a is exposed to the arc column. Another method for selectively heating a small area can be applied instead of the above-described method. For example, by emitting a laser beam to the tip 52 a of the wire 52, it is also possible to melt the tip 52 a and form the portion as a spherical shape.
FIG. 22 shows a brush instrument  51A according to a seventh embodiment of the invention. In this embodiment, instead of forming the tip 52 a of the wire 52 in a spherical shape, a collar 55 is used. As shown in FIG. 22, the tip end 52 a of the wire 52 is inserted in the collar 55. Then, the distal end portion 52 a of the wire 52 and the distal end portion 55 a of the collar 55 are exposed to the arc column. Then, the distal end portions 52 a and 55 a of the wire 52 and the collar 55 are melted and formed to be a hemispherical shape due to the surface tension.
According to the seventh embodiment, the collar  55 is melted to form the hemispherical (or curved) portion at the distal end thereof. Therefore, a radius of the curvature of the hemisphere is greater than the radius of the spherical portion formed in accordance with the sixth embodiment. Accordingly, the brush instrument according to the seventh embodiment causes less damage than the brush instrument according to the sixth embodiment.
FIGS. 23 and 24 show cross-sectional views of a part of the biopsy forceps shown in FIG. 2, according to an eighth embodiment. As shown in FIG. 24, on the cylindrical portion  203 c of the supporting member 203, a plurality of through holes 203 d, which are circular holes, are formed. The plurality of through holes 203 d are arranged in the circumferential direction. In this embodiment, the inner diameter of the cylindrical portion 203 c is substantially the same as the outer diameter of the coil 213, and the distal end portion of the coil 213 is fitted in the cylindrical portion 203 c of the supporting member 203.
FIG. 25 shows how the supporting member  203 and the coil 213 is connected. As shown in FIG. 25, a first electrode 301 is connected to the coil 213. In the vicinity of the though hole 203 d, a second electrode 302 is provided. It should be noted that the second electrode 302 is a cylindrical member having substantially the same diameter as the through hole 203 d. Further, the second electrode 302 is arranged such that the central axis of the second electrode 302 is substantially the same as the central axis of the through hole 203 d. Furthermore, in order to prevent the oxidization of the through hole 203 d, an area surrounding the second electrode 302 and the through hole 203 d is filled with Argon gas.
By applying a predetermined voltage between the first and second electrodes  301 and 302, an arc column 303 is generated between the through hole 203 d and the second electrode 302. Since the temperature of the arc column 303 is 5000K or more, the edge portion defining the through hole 203 d and a portion of the outer surface of the coil 213 corresponding to the through hole 203 d are melted to form a connection portion 215. It should be noted that the arc column is generated on a line connecting the second electrode 302 and the through hole 203 d closest to the second electrode 302. Thereafter, when the power supply to the first and second electrodes 301 and 302 is terminated, the arc column disappears, and the connection portion 215 is cooled down to the solidifying point. As a result, the coil 213 and the supporting member 203 are firmly connected at the portion where the through holes 203 d are formed, as shown in FIG. 23.
It should be noted that the heated portion is limited to the portion exposed to the arc column, that is, the edge of the through hole  203 d and the corresponding portion of the coil 213. Thus, by adjusting the duration of time during which the predetermined voltage is applied between the first and second electrodes 301 and 302 so that the inside portion of the coil 213 is not melted (e.g., a few milliseconds), is becomes possible to connect the supporting member 203 with the outer surface of the coil 213. Further, to the adjoining areas, radiant heat is conducted. Accordingly, temperature gradient between the welded portion and the adjoining portion can be suppressed relatively low. Thus, the adjoining areas will not be damaged due to heat distortion or the like.
In the above-described embodiment, the shape of the through hole  203 d is a circle. However, the invention is not limited to this configuration, and the through hole 203 d may have an ellipse shape. In such a case, the connecting force between the supporting member and the coil may be increased.
FIG. 26 shows a side view of a cleaning brush  61 according to a ninth embodiment.
As shown in FIG. 26, a brush unit  54 is secured to the distal end portion of an operation wire 52. The wire 52 on the operation unit side (right-hand side in FIG. 26) is covered with a cover coil 53 which reinforces the operation wire 52. It is preferable that a distance between the brush unit 54 and the brush unit side end of the cover coil 53 is as small as possible in view of the reinforcing function.
According to the ninth embodiment, the end portion of the cover coil  53 is connected to the operation wire 52. Specifically, the end portion of the cover coil 53 and the corresponding portion of the operation wire 52 are exposed to an arc column so that the portions of the cover coil 53 and the operation wire 52 are melted, and then hardened to form connection portions 65.
FIG. 27 shows how the cover coil  53 is connected to the operation wire 52. As shown in FIG. 27, a first electrode 301 is connected to the cover coil 53, while a second electrode 302 is placed in the vicinity of the tip end of the cover coil 53. In order to prevent oxidization of the tip of the cover coil 53, an area around the tip of the cover coil 53 and the second electrode 302 is filled with Argon gas.
By applying a predetermined voltage between the first and second electrodes  301 and 302, an arc column 303 is generated between the tip end of the cover coil 53 and the second electrode 302. Since the temperature of the arc column is 5000K or more, the tip of the cover coil 53 and a portion of the operation wire 52 contacting the tip of the cover coil 53 are melted to form the connection portions 65. It should be noted that the arc column 303 is generated on a line connecting the second electrode 302 and the closest portion of a member (i.e., the cover coil 53) connected to the first electrode 301. Therefore, in order to heat the tip of the coil 53, it is only necessary to locate the tip of the cover coil 53 at a position close to the second electrode 302, and fine adjustment thereof is unnecessary. Thereafter, the power supply is terminated, thereby the arc column disappears. Then, the connection portion 65 is cooled and solidified. In the embodiment, the connection portion 65 extends over the circumference of the tip of the cover coil 53. Alternatively, a plurality of connection portions arranged at certain intervals along the circumference of the tip of the cover coil 53 may be formed.
FIG. 28 shows another method of exposing the tip of the cover coil  53 to the arc column, according to a tenth embodiment. In this embodiment, instead of the first electrode 301 in the ninth embodiment, another electrode 306 formed with a nozzle 306 a is used. The electrode 306 is located in the vicinity of the second electrode 302. By applying a predetermined electrical power between the electrodes 302 and 306, an arc column 303 a is emitted from the nozzle 306 a. Using the thus generated arc column 303 a, the tip of the cover coil 53 may be melted as in the ninth embodiment.
It should be noted that a method of heating and melting the tip of the cover coil  53 is not limited to the above-described methods. Any method which is capable of heating a predetermined minute area selectively can be utilized. For example, by emitting a laser beam to the tip of the cover coil 53, the similar effect can be achieved.
According to the ninth and tenth embodiments, a brush instrument which is configured such that the connection portion  65 is as small as possible can be manufactured easily. Further, according to the ninth and tenth embodiment, since soldering process is not performed, it is unnecessary to clean elements with fluxes, which simplifies the manufacturing process. Since the distance between the brush unit and the tip end of the cover coil can be made as small as possible, the wire 52 will not be bent easily.
FIG. 29 is a partially cross-sectional side view of a part of a cleaning brush instrument  51 according to an eleventh embodiment.
According to the eleventh embodiment, a portion  53 a next to a tip end portion 53 b, which is a few millimeters long, of the cover coil 53 is configured to have a wider pitch of the wound wire than the other portion to form an interstice portion. Then, at the interstice portion 53 a, the coil 53 and the wire 52 are melted so that a connection portion 65 is formed, where the wire 52 and the coil 53 are connected. With this structure, since the tip end portion 53 b of the coil 53 is not connected to the wire 53, and retains the elasticity, the portion of the wire 52 next to the brush unit 54 can be elastically reinforced by the cover coil 53.
According to this embodiment, in order to melt the coil  53 and the wire 52, the interstice portion 53 a is exposed to an arc column.
FIG. 30 shows a procedure for forming the connection portion  65. As shown in FIG. 30, a first electrode 301 is connected to the cover coil 53, and a second electrode 302 is positioned in the vicinity of the interstice portion 53 a. In order to prevent the oxidization, an area surrounding the interstice portion 53 a and the second electrode 320 is filled with Argon gas.
By applying a predetermined voltage between the first and second electrodes  301 and 302, an arc column 303 is generated between the interstice portion 53 a and the second electrode 302. Since the temperature of the arc column is 5000K or more, the coil 53 at the interstice portion 53 a and the surface of the wire 52 located at the interstice portion 53 a are melted. It should be noted that the arc column 303 is generated on a line connecting a portion of the member, which is connected to the first electrode 301 (i.e., the cover coil 53) and closest to the second electrode 302, and the second electrode 302. Thus, in order to heat the interstice portion 53 a, it is only necessary to locate the interstice portion 53 a closest to the second electrode 302. After the coil 53 and the corresponding portion of the wire 52 are melted, the power supply is terminated. Then, the arc column disappears, and the connection portion 65 is cooled down, thereby the connection portion 65 is solidified. By turning the coil 53 and repeating the above procedure, the entire circumference of the connection portion 65 can be solidified.
FIG. 31 shows another method of exposing the interstice portion  53 a to the arc column, according to a twelfth embodiment. In this embodiment, instead of the first electrode 301 in the eleventh embodiment, another electrode 306 formed with a nozzle 306 a is used. The electrode 306 is located in the vicinity of the second electrode 302. By applying a predetermined electrical power between the electrodes 302 and 306, an arc column 303 a is emitted from the nozzle 306 a. Using the thus generated arc column 303 a, the coil 53 and the surface of the wire 52 at the interstice portion 53 a are melted as in the eleventh embodiment.
It should be noted that a method of heating and melting the interstice portion  53 a is not limited to the above-described methods. Any method which is capable of heating a predetermined minute area selectively can be utilized. For example, by emitting a laser beam to the interstice portion 53 a, the similar effect can be achieved.
According to the eleventh and twelfth embodiments, a brush instrument which is configured such that the connection portion  65 is as small as possible can be manufactured easily. Further, according to these embodiments, since soldering process is not performed, it is unnecessary to clean elements with fluxes, which simplifies the manufacturing process. Since the distance between the brush unit and the tip end of the cover coil can be made as small as possible, the wire 52 will not be bent easily.
FIG. 32 shows a tip end portion of a cytological brush instrument  61 according to a thirteenth embodiment.
As shown in FIG. 32, the cytological brush instrument  61 has an operation wire 52, which is covered with a cover coil 53. In order to prevent relative movement between the operation wire 52 and the cover coil 53, the wire 52 and the coil 53 are connected at the tip ends thereof. According to the embodiment, the tip portion of the cytological brush instrument 61 is exposed to an arc column so that the wire 52 and the coil 53 are melted at the tip portion thereof.
A manufacturing process will be described hereinafter. Firstly, the wire  52 is inserted through the coil 53, and as show in FIG. 32, a tip end portion (a few millimeters long) is protruded from the end of the cover coil 53. Then, as shown in FIG. 32, a first electrode 301 is connected to the cover coil 53, and a second electrode 302 is located in the vicinity of the tip of the wire 52. In order to prevent the oxidization of the tip end 53 a of the coil 53, an area surrounding the tip end 53 a of the coil 53 and the second electrode 302 is filled with Argon gas.
By applying a predetermined voltage between the first and second electrodes  301 and 302, the arc column 303 is generated between the second electrode 302 and the tip 52 a of the wire 52. Since the temperature of the arc column 303 is 5000K or more, The tip 52 a of the wire 52 and the tip 53 a of the coil 53 are melted to form a connection portion 55.
It should be noted that the arc column  303 is generated on a line connecting the second electrode 302 and a portion of a member which is connected to the first electrode 301 and closest to the second electrode 302. Therefore, in order to heat the tip 52 a of the wire 52, it is only necessary to locate the tip 52 a of the wire 52 closest to the second electrode 302, and no further fine positioning procedure is necessary.
After the tip  52 a of the wire 52 and the tip 53 a of the coil 53 are exposed to the arc column 303 and are melted, the power supply is terminated. Then, the connection portion 55 is cooled and solidified, as shown in FIG. 34.
FIG. 35 shows another method of exposing the tip of the wire  52 to the arc column, according to a fourteenth embodiment. In this embodiment, instead of the first electrode 301 in the thirteen embodiment, another electrode 306 formed with a nozzle 306 a is used. The electrode 306 is located in the vicinity of the second electrode 302. By applying a predetermined electrical power between the electrodes 302 and 306, an arc column 303 a is emitted from the nozzle 306 a. Using the thus generated arc column 303 a, the tip of the operation wire 52 may be melted as in the thirteen embodiment.
It should be noted that a method of heating and melting the tip of the operation wire  52 is not limited to the above-described methods. Any method which is capable of heating a predetermined minute area selectively can be utilized. For example, by emitting a laser beam to the tip of the operation wire 52, the similar effect can be achieved.
According to the thirteenth and fourteenth embodiments, a brush instrument which is configured such that the connection portion  55 is as small as possible can be manufactured easily. Further, according to the thirteenth and fourteenth embodiment, since soldering process is not performed, it is unnecessary to clean elements with fluxes, which simplifies the manufacturing process. Since the distance between the brush unit and the tip end of the cover coil can be made as small as possible, the wire 52 will not be bent easily.
exposing ends of said connection pipe and portions of said first coil and said second coil corresponding to said ends of said connection pipe to arc columns, respectively, the portions exposed to the arc columns being melted, and thereafter, solidified.
2. The method according to claim 1, wherein an outer diameter of said connection pipe member is substantially the same as an outer diameter of said first coil outside said connection pipe and an outer diameter of said second coil outside said connection pipe, and wherein an inner diameter of said connection pipe member is substantially the same as an outer diameter of said first coil inside said connection pipe and an outer diameter of said second coil inside said connection pipe.
wherein a plurality of positions, along a circumferential direction, of a portion where an other end of said connection pipe is to be connected to said second coil are exposed to arc columns, respectively.
4. The method according to claim 1, wherein said connection pipe is formed with a plurality of through holes, each of which is exposed to an arc column, whereby an edge portion of each of said through holes and one of said first and second coils located at each of said through holes are heated and melted.
5. A method of manufacturing a treatment instrument of an endoscope, said treatment instrument including a first coil and a second coil that is different from said first coil and to be connected to said first coil, an operation wire, and a device secured to a distal end of said first coil, said wire being inserted through said first coil and said second coil, a distal end of said wire being connected to said device, said device being driven by said wire when said wire is moved in said first coil and said second coil, said method comprising generating an arc column between a contact portion where a proximal end side of said first coil and a distal end side of said second coil contact with each other and an electrode located in the vicinity of the contact portion, the proximal end side of said first coil and the distal end side of said second coil located at the contact portion being melted as exposed to the arc column, and solidified as cooled.
wherein a plurality of positions, along a circumferential direction, of the contact portion are exposed to arc columns, respectively.
7. The method according to claim 1, wherein said first coil includes a flexible coil, and wherein said second coil includes a rigid coil.
said first cover coil and said first guide coil at portions exposed to the arc columns being melted, and thereafter, solidified.
applying a predetermined voltage between said first cover coil and said electrode to generate the arc column therebetween.
10. The method according to claim 8, wherein said instrument is a biopsy forceps having a pair of cups that is opened and closed by operation of said operation wire.
exposing said connection member to an arc column so that the connection member and the outer surface of said guide coil is heated and melted.
exposing the at least one through hole to an arc column to melt the connection member and the guide coil at a position corresponding to the at least one through hole.
exposing the plurality of through holes to an arc column to melt said connection member and said guide coil at positions corresponding to said plurality of through holes.
applying a predetermined voltage between said electrode and said another electrode to generate an arc column therebetween.
cooling the melted portion of said operation wire.
18. The method according to claim 17, wherein said heating comprises exposing said tip of said operation wire with an arc column.
19. The method according to claim 17, wherein said heating comprises exposing said tip of said operation wire with a laser beam.
21. The method according to claim 20, wherein said heating comprises exposing said tip of said operation wire with an arc column.
22. The method according to claim 20, wherein said heating comprises exposing said tip of said operation wire with a laser beam.
connecting the tip end of said coil and said supporting member in accordance with arc welding.
24. The method according to claim 23, wherein said supporting member has a cylindrical portion, inner diameter of said cylindrical portion being substantially the same as an outer diameter of said coil, and wherein said arc welding is performed with inserting the tip of said coil in said cylindrical portion.
25. The method according to claim 24, wherein said cylindrical portion is formed with at least one through hole pierced in a radial direction, and wherein said tip end portion of said coil and said supporting member are connected by welding at a position where said at least one through hole is formed.
26. The method according to claim 24, wherein said at least one through hole includes a plurality of through holes distributed in a circumferential direction.
27. The method according to claim 23, wherein said treatment instrument includes a forceps provided with a pair of forceps cups.
cooling the melted portion of said operation wire and said coil.
29. The method according to claim 28, wherein said heating comprises exposing said tip of said operation wire and coil with an arc column.
30. The method according to claim 28, wherein said heating comprises exposing said tip of said operation wire and coil with a laser beam.
31. The method according to claim 28, wherein said treatment unit includes a brush unit.
33. The method according to claim 32, wherein said heating comprises exposing said interstice portion of said coil and the corresponding position of said operation wire with an arc column.
34. The method according to claim 32, wherein said heating comprises exposing said interstice portion of said coil and the corresponding position of said operation wire with a laser beam.
35. The method according to claim 32, wherein said treatment unit includes a brush unit.


text:
Seventh Circuit federal appeals court issues groundbreaking ruling that discrimination based on sexual orientation is a form of sex discrimination prohibited by Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964.
Yesterday, the Seventh Circuit sitting en banc (the entire court) issued a significant decision under Title VII reversing years of circuit precedent. Specifically, in Hively v. Ivy Tech Community College of Indiana, No. 15-1720, 2017 U.S. App. LEXIS 5839 (Apr. 4, 2017), the court held that Title VII's prohibition on sex discrimination includes a prohibition on sexual-orientation discrimination. In other words, employers who discriminate on the basis of an individual's sexual orientation violate Title VII. This groundbreaking ruling puts the Seventh Circuit at odds with other circuits, including the Sixth (which oversees Ohio), setting up potential Supreme Court review.
In Hively, an openly gay part-time professor filed a Title VII complaint with the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) against her employer Ivy Tech, after she had sought and been denied full-time positions six times and her part-time contract was not renewed. The EEOC gave her a right-to-sue letter.
Under Seventh Circuit precedent, as with many other circuits, Title VII did not protect those who suffered discrimination on the basis of sexual orientation. The Hively court, however, decided to "take a fresh look at our position in light of developments at the Supreme Court extending over two decades." Id. at *2. Those developments included formative cases finding Title VII violations based on gender stereotyping and same-sex harassment, as well as cases finding due-process and equal-protection violations in non-employment cases, most recently regarding prohibitions on same-sex marriage. Hively, at *5-6 (citing, e.g., Obergefell v. Hodges, 135 S.Ct. 2584 (2015)); see also id. at *23-25. As the court noted, it creates "a paradoxical legal landscape in which a person can be married on Saturday and then fired on Monday for just that act." Id. at *6 (quoting the panel).
The Hively majority found two approaches compelling in its determination that the statute protected the lesbian plaintiff. First, it discussed the "comparative method," under which the relevant question was: if the plaintiff held all other things constant and changed only her sex, would she have been treated the same way? The court looked to Price Waterhouse v. Hopkins, 409 U.S. 228 (1989), in which the Supreme Court held that the practice of gender stereotyping falls within Title VII's prohibition against sex discrimination. The court concluded this case was no different. If the plaintiff had been a man sexually attracted to women, she allegedly would not have been discriminated against. Thus, just as in Hopkins, the alleged conduct here was "based on assumptions about the proper behavior for someone of a given sex." Id. at *16. She was discriminated against because she was a woman. See id. at *14.
The second approach the Court found compelling was the associational theory of discrimination, under which "a person who is discriminated against because of the protected characteristic of one with whom she associates is actually being disadvantaged because of her own traits." Id. at *18 (emphasis added). As the court noted, this approach began with Loving v. Virginia, 388 U.S. 1, 12 (1967), the seminal case striking down restrictions on interracial marriage. In that case, because the conduct (marriage) was only illegal because of the race of one's partner, the Court reasoned that the law unlawfully "rested on 'distinctions drawn according to race.'" Hively, at *21-22 (quoting Loving, 388 U.S. at 11). The same was true in Hively: "If we were to change the sex of one partner in a lesbian relationship, the outcome would be different. This reveals that the discrimination rests on distinctions drawn according to sex." Id. at *22. (And the fact that Loving dealt with racial associations, rather than with sex-based associations, "is of no moment," the court determined, since Title VII also prohibits discrimination on bases other than race. See id. at *22-23.)
In reaching its conclusion, the Seventh Circuit rejected the notion that it could infer any intent from Congress's failure, in recent years, to add sexual orientation as a protected class under Title VII. It also rejected the dissent's argument that sexual-orientation discrimination was excluded because the enacting Congress did not anticipate this form of discrimination―the dictionary at the time of Title VII's enactment, for example, did not include a definition of "sexual orientation." After all, the court reasoned, sexual harassment was not in the dictionary at the time, either. Yet no one questions that sexual harassment is included within Title VII's prohibition on sex discrimination. See, e.g., id. at *25 n.5.
The en banc decision included not only a dissent but also two concurrences, including one by Judge Posner arguing for "judicial interpretive updating"―an approach that would acknowledge that the court was giving new meaning to an old statute based on "present need and understanding." Id. at *32-33 (Posner, J., concurring); see also id. at *42 ("We understand the words of Title VII differently ... because we live in a different era, a different culture.").
This case, as the dissent put it, is "momentous." It is a victory for LGBTQ individuals, although it remains to be seen whether other circuits will follow suit and/or whether the circuit split the decision has now created will persuade the Supreme Court to accept review. The Sixth Circuit is one that conflicts with Hively. See Vickers v. Fairfield Med. Ctr., 453 F.3d 757 (6th Cir. 2006); Gilbert v. Country Music Ass'n, 432 F. App'x 516 (6th Cir. 2011). In Vickers, the Sixth Circuit rejected the Price Waterhouse v. Hopkins sex-stereotyping theory of liability that Hively embraces. Quoting a Second Circuit decision, the Sixth Circuit opined: "a gender stereotyping claim should not be used to bootstrap protection for sexual orientation into Title VII." Vickers, 453 F.3d at 764 (quoting Dawson v. Bumble & Bumble, 398 F.3d 211, 218 (2d Cir. 2005)).
The Second Circuit, however, may soon join the Seventh. It recently decided a case in which two of the three panel members stated, in a concurrence, that they were convinced by arguments "that sexual orientation discrimination is, almost by definition, discrimination "because of . . . sex," and that when the appropriate occasion presented itself, the court should revisit its past rulings "in light of the changing legal landscape." Christiansen v. Omnicom Group, Inc., No. 16-748, 2017 U.S. App. LEXIS 5278, at *14, 15 (2d Cir. Mar. 27, 2017) (Katzmann, C.J., concurring).
If the Second Circuit changes course, there may be room for the Sixth Circuit to do so, too. And the Sixth Circuit should. Its previous ruling makes no sense in light of the plain language of Title VII barring sex discrimination. And it leaves members of the LGBT community in Ohio, Michigan, Tennessee, Kentucky, subject to discrimination and unfair treatment in the workplace.
Chandra Law has considerable experience fighting against employment discrimination, including sex discrimination and retaliation, and protecting LGBT rights.
By Subodh Chandra
posted in Civil Rights & Constitutional Law
While this website provides general information, that information does not constitute legal advice. The best way to get guidance on your specific legal issue is to contact a lawyer.
©2021 The Chandra Law Firm LLC.
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The Ukraine crisis, sponsored by US hegemony and war profiteers, by Aaron Maté
Ukraine certainly doesn't have anything to do with the security of U.S. citizens. From Aaron Maté at mate.substack.com:
If Biden can interrupt NATO expansion and war profiteering, the US-Russia standoff over Ukraine can be resolved.
New US "lethal aid" for Ukraine, courtesy of US taxpayers and their weapons industry beneficiaries. (U.S. Embassy in Ukraine)
The US-Russia standoff over Ukraine has sparked bellicose threats and fears of Europe's biggest ground war in decades. There are ample reasons to question the prospects of a Russian invasion, and US allies including France, Germany's now-ousted navy chief, and even Kiev itself appear to share the skepticism.
Another potential scenario is that Russia draws on the Cuban Missile Crisis and positions offensive weapons within the borders of Latin American allies. Whatever the outcome, the crisis has underscored the perils of a second Cold War between the world's top nuclear powers.
If the path forward is unpredictable, what got us here is easy to trace. The row over Ukraine is the outgrowth of an aggressive US posture toward Russia since the collapse of the Soviet Union three decades ago, driven by hegemonic policymakers and war profiteers in Washington. Understanding that background is key to resolving the current impasse, if the Biden administration can bring itself to alter a dangerous course.
US principles vs. power constraints
Russia's central demands – binding guarantees to halt the eastward expansion of NATO, particularly in Ukraine, and to prevent offensive weapons from being stationed near its borders – have been publicly dismissed by the U.S government as non-starters.
Posted in Foreign Policy, Governments, Military, Politics, Propaganda, War
Tagged Biden administration, Russia, Ukraine
Russia's Red Line, by Patrick Lawrence
If Russia adheres to its red line it will have benefits far beyond Russia. From Patrick Lawrence at consortiumnews.com:
It is absolutely necessary that Moscow holds the line for the sake of a new security order in Europe and a sustainably stable world order in our time.
Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov, left, with President Vladimir Putin in 2017. (The Kremlin)
"They must understand," Sergei Lavrov said in one of his many public statements last week, "that the key to everything is the guarantee that NATO will not expand eastward."
The Russian foreign minister has repeated this thought almost ad infinitum lately. He speaks, of course, of the Biden administration and the diplomats who bear its messages to others.
Here is another of Lavrov's recent utterances:
"We are very patient… we have been harnessing [burdens] for a very long time, and now it's time for us to go."
I do not know quite what Lavrov means by "harnessing burdens." I suspect it is a translation problem, and he said something closer to "bearing burdens." But it is perfectly clear what he means when he says it is time for Russia to go: He means it is time to advance beyond the status quo, move on from post–Cold War security arrangements that have allowed NATO, in the name of the Atlantic alliance, to aggress toward the Russian Federation's western borders more or less at will since the Soviet Union met its end.
All that Lavrov, President Vladimir Putin and other Russian officials have said and done since the Ukraine crisis re-erupted late last year indicate one simple, hard-as-granite reality. In consequence of the many pointedly provocative moves the West, notably the U.S. and Britain, have made in Ukraine over the past year, our planet now has a brand-new red line etched upon it.
I hope Russia draws it in the deepest scarlet. As a diplomatic tactic, red lines are not very often advisable: They tend to paint the painter of the line into a corner. This one is absolutely necessary if we are to see a new security order in Europe. A new security order in Europe is essential if we are to achieve a sustainably, stable world order in our time.
Posted in Politics, Foreign Policy, War, History, Military, Governments, Geopolitics, Propaganda
Tagged Ukraine, Russia, Vladimir Putin, Sergei Lavrov
World Boris Johnson Posing as Churchill on Ukraine Is Slapstick Example of War-as-Distraction, by Finian Cunningham
Boris needs something huge to divert attention from his own rank hypocrisy. Ukraine doesn't really fit the bill. From Finian Cunningham at strategic-culture.org:
Boris Johnson attempting to start a war with Russia partly over an illicit birthday party is a descent into deplorable and gutless slapstick.
The old dictum is truer than ever that stoking conflict in some distant land is an effective distraction from domestic political woes. But in the case of British prime-minister Boris Johnson, the ruse descends into farce.
Johnson is counting the days until his Conservative party finally gets rid of this train-wreck of a leader. Lies, incompetence and scandals ooze from Downing Street under his watch. Even Britain's Tory press has given up on its loyalty to Johnson who is now seen as an irredeemable election liability for Conservatives.
That's why Johnson's "warning" to Russia this week of "severe consequences" if it invades Ukraine sounds downright comical. His attempt at showing political spine abroad is belied by the image of his reputation at home resembling a wobbly jelly.
Johnson claimed with a straight face that the British intelligence was "clear" that Russia is planning to invade Ukraine and install a puppet regime in Kiev. He went on to say that Britain was "leading" the way among NATO allies for inflicting dire economic costs on Russia. This is in spite of the ropey British story being rubbished as not having a shred of credibility.
Posted in Geopolitics, Governments, Politics
Tagged Boris Johnson, Hypocrisy, Russia, Ukraine
Moscow to Washington: "Remove the Nukes on Our Doorstep and Stop the Eastward Push", by Mike Whitney
Ask anybody who criticizes Russia's stance on NATO and weaponry on its doorstep in Ukraine how they'd feel if Russian or Chinese weapons and troops were stationed in Mexico or Canada. From Mike Whitney at unz.com:
"There arrives a moment of truth when the West either accepts our proposals or other ways will be found to safeguard Russia's security." Konstantin Gavrilov, head of the Russian delegation at the Vienna negotiations
Here's a simple way to test your understanding of the current US-Russia standoff. All you need to do is answer one very-basic question about the nature of the conflict, and that answer will determine whether you understand what is actually going on or not. Here's the question:
What is the source of the confrontation between the US and Russia in the Ukraine:
Russia has amassed over 100,000 combat troops near Ukraine's eastern border and is threatening to invade.
Russian President Vladimir Putin wants to rebuild the Soviet Empire by expanding Russia's territory beyond its borders.
The western media has concocted a fake storyline about a "Russian invasion" to divert attention from Moscow's reasonable demands for legally-binding security guarantees that address the pressing issue of hostile foreign armies (NATO) and nuclear missiles on Russia's doorstep.
If you picked Number 3, then pat yourself on the back, that is the right answer. (Please, see: "There Is No Russian Invasion Threat To Ukraine", Moon of Alabama; Quote: "The story of Russian preparations for an invasion of the Ukraine is made up from whole cloth.") The current crisis has nothing to do with the fictitious "Russian invasion" that was invented to conceal the real issue. The real issue is Russian security and the demands that Russia has made in the form of two draft treaty agreements. The western media– in concert with the Intelligence agencies, the Pentagon, the Biden administration, and the US foreign policy establishment– have done everything in their power to prevent the American people from reading the contents of these draft treaties for fear that they will see that Russia's demands are both reasonable and appropriate. Russia isn't asking for anything more than any sovereign country should expect. As FDR famously said, "Security for one, is security for all." We support that sentiment and we think the American people do too.
Posted in Foreign Policy, Geopolitics, Governments, History, Politics
Tagged Biden administration, Russia, Ukraine, Vladimir Putin
Stop the Neocons From Starting a War, by Eric S. Margolis
There is still time to stop the many idiots within the U.S. foreign policy establishment from doing something incredibly stupid in Ukraine. From Eric Margolis at lewrockwell.com:
Amid surging tensions over Ukraine, the head of Germany's navy had the courage to voice Europe's fears over this totally unnecessary, contrived crisis.
In a speech to an Indian think tank, Vice-admiral Kay-Achim Schonbach proposed the Western powers 'respect' Russian leader Vladimir Putin and accept that Crimea would remain in Moscow's hands.
The German admiral's remarks produced a major uproar in Washington and tut tuts in Europe where hatred of Russia has become a state fetish. Most aggrieved were the British and Americans who deeply fear an alliance or at least entente between Germany and Russia that might undermine US domination of the continent.
Germany, Europe's leading military force and mainstay of NATO, has hollowed out its military power. Thanks to unqualified female defense ministers, Germany's armed forces have degenerated into parade troops. Armor and aircraft, once hallmarks of German military power, have become feeble toys, lacking in munitions, spare parts and capable crews.
Polls show Germans have very little interest in confronting Russia. Memories of World War II are still raw. Today's Germans live in a nation that was 50% destroyed by US and British bombing. Millions of Germans come from families driven out of eastern Europe.
There is not a lot of sympathy for Ukraine's current government that was installed by a US-financed and stage-managed coup in 2013-2014. Germany's US-dominated media and government support Washington's hard line on Ukraine but many ordinary Germans and French don't agree.
Tagged Biden administration, Neocons, Russia, Ukraine
The Globalist American Empire Would Rather Risk Nuclear War Than Admit Its Own Arrogance, by Revolver
Unfortunately we have to turn our attention to a slithering group of invertebrates known as neocons, because they may pitch us all into nuclear Armageddon. They dream grand dreams of global domination and love sending other people's kids off to wars, although most of them have never fought in one. From Revolver at revolver.news:
The United States is on the brink of a war in Ukraine, and most of the country hasn't even noticed.
WASHINGTON — President Biden is considering deploying several thousand U.S. troops, as well as warships and aircraft, to NATO allies in the Baltics and Eastern Europe, an expansion of American military involvement amid mounting fears of a Russian incursion into Ukraine, according to administration officials.
The move would signal a major pivot for the Biden administration, which up until recently was taking a restrained stance on Ukraine, out of fear of provoking Russia into invading. But as President Vladimir V. Putin has ramped up his threatening actions toward Ukraine, and talks between American and Russian officials have failed to discourage him, the administration is now moving away from its do-not-provoke strategy.
The discussions came as the State Department ordered all family members of U.S. embassy personnel in Kyiv to leave Ukraine, citing the threat of Russian military action, and authorized some embassy employees to depart as well, according to senior State Department officials who briefed reporters on Sunday. [NYT]
Sounds very serious. Yet right now, this is the New York Times front page.
The NYT squeezed the story into the bottom left, below perpetually-unchanging narratives about COVID and stories about Joan Didion and the latest prestige TV show.
Posted in Foreign Policy, Geopolitics, Governments, History, Military, Politics, Propaganda, War
Tagged Neocons, Russia, Ukraine
What Brought Biden to the Table? By Ted Snider
Is the Biden administration backing off on Ukraine? Has there been an outbreak of sanity? From Ted Snider at antiwar.com:
No one knows whether the recent talks between the US and Russia will produce results. But they happened. And they have led to the promise of further talks. What, after a quarter century of Russian cries, brought Biden to the table?
The US long ago left its place at the table. Diplomacy has yielded its seat to military pressure and economic sanctions. America now always insists on the need to use force: Putin only understands force; Iran only responds to sanctions. Antony Blinken himself, America's top diplomat, has said that "force can be a necessary adjunct to effective diplomacy." "We must supplement diplomacy with deterrence," he added. "Words alone will not dissuade the Vladimir Putins and Xi Jinpings of this world."
He's wrong, though. Diplomacy has consistently worked with China; it accomplished the JCPOA nuclear agreement with Iran when sanctions, sabotage and threats failed; it has worked in the many arms controls agreements with Russia, and it has worked, when honored, with North Korea.
The US thinks the world only respects force and not reason because the US only respects force and not reason. They assume of others what they discover in themselves. The US long ago exchanged diplomats for torturers and arm twisters, whether it is the torture of military threats or the arm twisting of economic strangulation.
If diplomacy has failed the US, it has failed for only two reasons. Either they have broken promises that were showing promise, as they did with Iran, or they have not engaged in diplomacy sincerely, demanding that the other country make the core concession the US demands without being willing to make the core concession the other country desires.
Posted in Foreign Policy, Geopolitics, Governments, History, Military, Politics, Propaganda
UKRAINE CRISIS: German Navy Chief Resigns; Britain Spreads Fears of Russian 'Coup' & Wider War, by Joe Lauria
Tell the truth and you're gone; tell lies and you can probably start a war. From Joe Lauria at consortiumnews.com:
The German admiral's frank remarks contradict the war hysteria being drummed up by the U.S. and Britain, Joe Lauria reports.
Vice-Admiral Kay-Achim Schönbach, the head of the German navy, has resigned after saying talk of a Russian invasion of Ukraine was "nonsense" and that Russia was merely seeking "respect" for its security concerns in Europe.
"It is easy to give him the respect he really demands – and probably also deserves," Schönbach told a meeting of a think tank in New Delhi on Friday.
"My minister asked me what does Russia really want?" the vice-admiral said.
"Is Russia really interested in having a small, tiny strip of Ukrainian soil to integrate into their country? No. This is nonsense. I think Putin is putting pressure on it because he knows he can do it. And he splits the European Union. But what he really wants is respect. He wants on a high-level, respect. And my God, giving someone respect is low cost, even no cost. So if I were asked, it is easy to give him the respect he really demands – and probably also deserves. Russia is an old country. Russia is an important country."
Schönbach also acknowledged that "the Crimean peninsula is gone. It will never come back. This is a fact." That contradicted NATO's official position.
German navy chief resigns over Ukraine & Putin comments
Germany's Navy chief, vice-admiral Kay-Achim Schönbach, has vacated his post on Saturday evening – just a day after he said that Crimea "will never come back", and that Putin and Russia "deserve respect." pic.twitter.com/nB2Ew3v5EZ
— Ben Schaack (@BuyingStrength) January 22, 2022
Posted in Geopolitics, Governments, History, Military, Politics, Propaganda, War
Tagged Crimea, Kay-Achim Schonbach, NATO, Russia, Ukraine, Vladimir Putin
Iran-Russia Hit Maximum Strategy, by Pepe Esobar
A lot of countries on the receiving end of U.S. hostility are making common cause together. From Pepe Escobar at unz.com:
Three ain't a crowd: The Iran-Russia summit this week, concurrent with RIC military drills in the Sea of Oman, in advance of a Xi-Putin meeting in two weeks, suggests a rapidly-advancing strategic vision for the three Eurasian powers.
The official visit to Russia by Iranian President Ebrahim Raisi, at the invitation of Vladimir Putin, generated one of the most stunning geopolitical pics of the 21st century: Raisi performing his afternoon prayers at the Kremlin.
Arguably, more than the hours of solid discussions on geopolitical, geoeconomic, energy, trade, agriculture, transportation and aerospace dossiers, this visual will be imprinted all across the Global South as a fitting symbol of the ongoing, inexorable process of Eurasian integration.
Raisi went to Sochi and Moscow ready to offer Putin essential synergy in confronting a decaying, unipolar Empire increasingly prone to irrationalism. He made it clear at the start of his three hours of discussions with Putin: our renewed relationship should not be "short-term or positional – it will be permanent and strategic."
Putin must have relished the torrents of meaning inbuilt in one of Raisi's statements of fact: "We have been resisting the Americans for more than 40 years."
Yet, much more productive, was "a document on strategic cooperation" between Iran and Russia that Raisi and his team presented to Russian officials.
Posted in Economics, Politics, Business, Foreign Policy, Technology, Economy, Eurasian Axis, Governments, Geopolitics
Tagged China, Eurasian integration, Iran, Russia
Anonymous Officials Claim There's An Evil Russian Plot Again But The Evidence Is Secret Again, by Caitlin Johnstone
Recycling propaganda from the government is not journalism. From Caitlin Johnstone at caitlinjohnstone.com:
Major western news publications are running a story about a sinister plot by the Russian government, and — you may want to sit down for this — the sources of the report are anonymous, and the evidence for it is secret.
The New York Times reports that according to anonymous individuals within the US and British governments, Russia is currently plotting to topple the existing government of Ukraine in some way using some method and then somehow install a puppet regime that is sympathetic to Moscow using some sort of means. What specifically those means and methods might be are not revealed to us in this very serious news report.
"The communiqué provided few details about how Russia might go about imposing a new government on Ukraine, and did not say whether such plans were contingent on an invasion by Russian troops," the Paper of Record informs us. "British officials familiar with the situation, who spoke on condition of anonymity, said the intent was both to head off the activation of such plans as well as to put Mr. Putin on notice that this plot had been exposed."
Posted in Foreign Policy, Geopolitics, Governments, History, Intelligence, Media, Politics, Propaganda
Tagged NY Times, Russia, Ukraine


Need square footage at an affordable price? This is it! This 1 1/2 story home features great flex space for lots of possibilities. Updated kitchen with 42" cabinetry, island, walk-in pantry, gas stove with built in microwave, side by side refrigerator and dishwasher all stay. Hardwood floors and 9 ft ceilings throughout the main level with formal dining room with window seat, beautiful entry way, 2 bedrooms and full bathroom. Additional bedroom on upper level. Full basement is mostly finished with 4 bonus rooms all with ceramic tiled floors and an additional full bath with double sinks. Large utility and storage area with utility sink. Partially fenced yard, 2 car carport with storage shed, plus 2 additional storage sheds for convenience. Enjoy evenings on the quaint covered front porch. New roof in 2012. New 97% high efficiency HVAC & Furnace in 2014. Centrally located with easy access to Route 15.


One of my favorite parts of Sea Otter is hanging at the Little Bellas lemonade social. Lea and Sabra Davison founded the group which aims to bring more girls into mountain biking. And it totally rules. At Sea Otter, the Little Bellas cheer at the races and there's a meet-up where a group of pros answer whatever questions the girls can throw their way. Also, I take notes, because some of their questions are better than mine. There's also jersey signing and rap battles and hella sweet lemonade. It's a pretty good time.


The most apparent change is a panel-based user interface, which distributes elements around the screen. Mischief doesn't include a huge amount of tools, so this fragmented approach gives you a �... 15/04/2010�� Changes to registry entry not saved on restart Hope this is the right forum. I'm trying to change the DWORD (32-bit) value of StartMenuInit from 4 to 3, but a restart/relogin changes it back to 3.
10 Basic Mistakes in Digital Painting and How to Fix Them. by Monika A common beginner mistake is to use a canvas size similar to the resolution of your screen. The problem is you never know what resolution your viewers use! Let's say that your picture looks on your screen like in the example 1. It's as high as it could be without a need to scroll over it, and that's OK for you. That's the... Changing dpi is one of the strengths of ImageConverter Plus. What you need to do is to go to the advanced resize options. You can specify the desired resolution, for instance, 300 dpi in horizontal and/or vertical resolution. You can also control color depth and compression level of your PNG images.
I had to enlarge my 10Mp image slightly (from 100dpi to 150) and it still looks really good. you will be going from 79dpi to 150 dpi with your image and intended size. What you can do is measure your monitor and view it at a zoom level so it shows the right amount of pixels per inch on your screen - first 79 and then resize 1.9x and step away form the monitor and see how it looks.... 11/06/2017�� - How to resize your image size and change your image size with Image size and Canvas size option. - How to Save and Open file to your computer or Medibang Cloud.
The resolution can usually be changed simply by changing a information field in the image file (or other representation). For example a 100 x 100 pixel image with a resolution of 100 DPI would be 1 inch wide. When the resolution is changed to 50 DPI it would still be 100 x 100 pixels, but now it is 2 inches wide.
22/06/2017�� Just resize your canvas and bring the dpi down to a 72 (since that's the resolution for web). Remember the widest image Tapas will allow you to upload is 940px and the longest is 4000px. Remember the widest image Tapas will allow you to upload is 940px and the longest is 4000px.
MediBang Paint for Windows PC MediBang is a devoted drawing app, not only a plain picture enhancing device. The quantity of instruments the software program presents is impressive.


Please select a tab to view detail about Team 3526's performance in the 2016 Season as well as detail of each event they attended.
This tab displays only official event's that Team 3526 attended in 2016.
Oh no! Unfortunately, we don't have any match videos of Team 3526 available at this time.


text:
package com.nahroto.teleportball.huds.menuhud.actors.overlay;

import com.badlogic.gdx.graphics.Texture;
import com.badlogic.gdx.graphics.g2d.Sprite;
import com.badlogic.gdx.graphics.g2d.TextureAtlas;
import com.badlogic.gdx.graphics.g2d.TextureRegion;
import com.badlogic.gdx.scenes.scene2d.InputEvent;
import static com.badlogic.gdx.scenes.scene2d.actions.Actions.*;

import com.badlogic.gdx.scenes.scene2d.ui.Image;
import com.badlogic.gdx.scenes.scene2d.utils.ClickListener;
import com.badlogic.gdx.utils.Align;
import com.badlogic.gdx.utils.Array;
import com.nahroto.teleportball.Application;
import com.nahroto.teleportball.Constants;

import javafx.scene.layout.Background;

public class ColorOverlay
{
    public static boolean enabled, busy = false;

    private Image image;
    private ColorButton redButton, orangeButton, blueButton, greenButton;
    private Array<ColorButton> colorButtons;

    public ColorOverlay(Sprite bg, Sprite redBG, Sprite orangeBG, Sprite blueBG, Sprite greenBg, final Application app, final TextureAtlas atlas)
    {
        Sprite sprite = new Sprite(app.assets.get("images/colors/overlay.png", Texture.class));
        sprite.getTexture().setFilter(Texture.TextureFilter.Linear, Texture.TextureFilter.Linear);
        image = new Image(sprite);

        colorButtons = new Array<ColorButton>();

        redButton = new ColorButton(atlas.createSprite("red-up"), atlas.createSprite("red-down"));
        orangeButton = new ColorButton(atlas.createSprite("orange-up"), atlas.createSprite("orange-down"));
        blueButton = new ColorButton(atlas.createSprite("blue-up"), atlas.createSprite("blue-down"));
        greenButton = new ColorButton(atlas.createSprite("green-up"), atlas.createSprite("green-down"));

        redButton.whenClicked(bg, redBG, "images/paddlandball/bg-red.png", app);
        orangeButton.whenClicked(bg, orangeBG, "images/paddlandball/bg-orange.png", app);
        blueButton.whenClicked(bg, blueBG, "images/paddlandball/bg-blue.png", app);
        greenButton.whenClicked(bg, greenBg, "images/paddlandball/bg-green.png", app);

        colorButtons.add(redButton);
        colorButtons.add(orangeButton);
        colorButtons.add(blueButton);
        colorButtons.add(greenButton);
        final Runnable notBusyAnmore = new Runnable()
        {
            @Override
            public void run()
            {
                busy = false;
            }
        };

        image.addListener(new ClickListener()
        {
            @Override
            public void clicked(InputEvent event, float x, float y)
            {
                if (enabled == false && busy == false)
                {
                    busy = true;
                    image.addAction(sequence(parallel(moveBy(0, 150, 0.4f)), run(notBusyAnmore)));
                    enabled = true;
                }
                else if (enabled && busy == false)
                {
                    busy = true;
                    image.addAction(sequence(moveBy(0, -150, 0.4f), run(notBusyAnmore)));
                    enabled = false;
                }
            }
        });
    }

    public Array<ColorButton> getColorButtons()
    {
        return colorButtons;
    }

    public Image getImage()
    {
        return image;
    }

    public void update()
    {
        redButton.getButton().setPosition(image.getX() + 25, image.getY() + 25);
        orangeButton.getButton().setPosition(image.getX() + 135, image.getY() + 25);
        blueButton.getButton().setPosition(image.getX() + 245, image.getY() + 25);
        greenButton.getButton().setPosition(image.getX() + 355, image.getY() + 25);
    }

    public void dispose()
    {
        redButton.dispose();
        orangeButton.dispose();
        blueButton.dispose();
        greenButton.dispose();
    }
}

redpajama_set_name: RedPajamaGithub


In this seminar KIPA's Linus Byström and Erik Krahbichler will share their "dos and dont's" when it comes to medtech inventions.
Which part of my medtech invention can and should I protect?
When and how should I do it, in order to secure its value in the most appropriate way?


At 7 years old, Kansas Middletent and his twin brother violently brawled as entertainment for their drug-addict father and his friends. They were at a party in their home on a Native American reservation.
Wednesday, Middletent spoke at "Movies that Matter: Native America — The Untold Story and short film Legacy," a film screening and discussion organized by Native Hope and hosted by Impact Hub Boston.
Trisha Burke, executive director of Native Hope, said the nonprofit aims to share positive stories and unheard voices coming out of reservations despite disparities that have come to dominate the stereotypes of Native American life.
About 84 percent of American Indians or Alaska Natives ages 24 to 29 had high school diplomas or their equivalent in 2016, according to a study by the National Center for Education Statistics. In the same study, 95 percent of whites had high school diplomas.
Middletent spoke about his personal experience with education. Despite graduating as valedictorian of his class and receiving an athletic scholarship from Dakota Wesleyan University and being selected as a Gates Millennium Scholar, Middletent dropped out of college after his second year trying to balance his roles as a father and a student.
Burke said interest in Native Hope and its message has surged in recent years, possibly because of new technology.
Raquel Halsey, interim executive director of The North American Indian Center of Boston, attended the event and said she feels a significant amount of people in the Boston community have shown interest in events centering around Native American culture.
MMA fighter Nikki Lowe also spoke at the event. "Legacy," a short documentary about Lowe's life, created by filmmaker Mark Lewis, was played for attendees.
"Legacy" documents Lowe's childhood, many health problems, teen pregnancy, close relationship with her family, addiction to alcohol, path to sobriety and eventually her successful career as an MMA fighter. Following the documentary, Lowe spoke about how the hardships of reservation life negatively impact children.
As a Native Hope fellow, Lowe receives funding from the nonprofit to travel and share her story. She said she hopes to encourage kids she speaks like she was while learning to fight.


Today's weather in Nimes is displayed in the icon below. To obtain a detailed forecast for the following 3, 5, 7 or 10 days simply click on the link within the icon and you will be given an informative and detailed forecast.
Nimes is situated on the temperate coastal plains of the Languedoc region which rarely freeze in winter. Summer temperatures are frequently in the eighties (30ºC+), with Nîmes, (reputedly the hottest place in France) recording temperatures of 43ºC (110ºF) in the shade in 2001. Thankfully this is the exception rather than the rule and 30ºC is normally the highest it ever gets: and that is only during August.
The weather pattern in the Languedoc is among the most extreme in France. Nimes not only has a wonderful microclimate and the hottest summers, but also the highest winds. Dry winds like the Mistral and the Tramontane blow at the extreme north during the summer months, and when the Sirocco blows then this is the time to keep your doors and windows closed as it carries very fine sand from the North African deserts and can coat the whole house with a layer of dust very quickly.
January and February are classed as the winter months in Nimes with rain, a few frosts and snowfalls on the plains and regular snowfall in the mountain ski resorts. It is still warmer than the UK and the days longer and brighter, but the rain does add a dampness to the air.
March and April can be unpredictable with glorious sunny days but also cooler cloud and rain. They are good months for the golfers offering ideal temperatures for them to play.
May and June are among the best months to be in Nimes with lots of sunshine and warm temperatures. They are the quieter periods leading up the children's summer holidays and the town is less crowded and more relaxing than during the hottest months of July and August. This is when the weather is hot and dry with temperatures around 30°C. During September it cools down a bit but can feel humid.
October is another wonderful month with the summer rush long gone and an abundance of warm, sunny days. November and December are cooler but still with lots of sunshine and again offer good golfing weather.
If you are planning on hiring a car in Nimes to give you the freedom and flexibility to explore the area in the your own time, then over the summer months you should consider renting a vehicle with air conditioning.
You can obtain a free online quote for Nimes Airport car hire here.


Pretty Purple and Pink. Handmade in our Lily Lane studio with quality fabrics from our shop. 35 inches x 48 inches. Quilt Is ideal cot or single bed topper. Professionally machine quilted with machine washable wadding inside.


Dental crowns are more common than you might think. In fact, the number of Americans with dental crowns is on the rise. According to the American Academy of Implant Dentistry, 15 million people in the United States have crowns put in place of missing teeth. Dr. Cliff Broschinsky at Avalon Dental is an experienced professional, so if you think you may need a crown, book an appointment online or call today. Avalon Dental is conveniently located near you in San Ramon, California.
A crown is a tooth-shaped "cap" that's used to cover a damaged or weak tooth. It is sculpted to the shape of the original tooth and can enhance the tooth's appearance and stability. The crown fits over the tooth and is cemented into place so that the original tooth is completely encased.
There are a variety of reasons Dr. Broschinsky may suggest a crown. A crown can cover a strangely-shaped or dark tooth, or a dental implant.
Metal crowns are sturdy and able to endure the force of chewing and eating, but because of their color, they're usually reserved for use on back molars.
Porcelain fused to metal crowns are closer in appearance to natural teeth than stainless steel crowns; however, they do have some disadvantages. For instance, the metal portion of the crown might be visible as a dark line close to the gums, and the opposing teeth might endure more wear than with other types of crowns.
A majority of the time, a minimum of two appointments is required to complete a dental crown procedure. The first visit will include X-rays so that Dr. Broschinsky can assess the health of the tooth that requires the crown.
Next, Dr. Broschinsky will use a local anesthetic to numb the tooth and its surrounding tissue. The tooth will be filed down or built up so that the crown will fit properly and securely. Once the tooth has been prepared, the dentist will take an impression of your teeth. The impression will be sent to the lab and used to custom-make the crown. The impression will be sent to the lab and used to custom-make the crown. A temporary crown will then be created and placed to protect your tooth until the permanent crown can be placed.
To learn more about dental crowns, call Avalon Dental or make an appointment online.


text:
News: Development careers
Like learning? You're in luck
By Kelli Rogers // 15 January 2014
Innovation & ICT
An open book. Many development organizations are building physical or virtual communities to foster continued learning for their employees. Photo by: basag
For those development professionals agonizing over what to study and specialize on in graduate school, fret not — your education is becoming less likely to stop there.
Deloitte, for example, established Deloitte University, a 107-acre campus in Texas described as a "leadership development haven" to continue growing their talent pipeline.
"The development of our people is an absolute requirement," Larry Quinlan, Deloitte's global chief information officer, said last week during the "Talent Mobility & the Future of Jobs" summit in Washington, D.C., organized by the Diplomatic Courier, STEMconnector and the Global Action Platform.
For companies less likely to establish physical campuses for learning, young startup Brave New Talent is bringing enterprise organizations and individuals together in online communities to share knowledge, exchange ideas and engage with mentors.
Much of the world's knowledge is locked inside the experience of professionals and within the confines of company walls, noted Brave New Talent's founder and CEO Lucian Tarnowski.
"We want to provide a medium to unlock this knowledge and experience," he said.
Quinlan and Tarnowski were just two of the many panelists present at the summit, which focused heavily on the importance of furthering education in science, technology, engineering and math — known as STEM — to address a hefty employment gap in an ever-evolving technological age. Panelists from Deloitte, Wal-Mart and the Institute of Food Technologies all named positions within their respective organizations that a STEM-educated young person might fill.
The inability to fill jobs despite massive unemployment is not only due to geographic imbalances in demand and supply, but also linked to large skills gaps that exist between the needs of the industry and the output of the education systems, several panelists noted.
"Shame on higher education for not being more in step with needs of today's employers," said Steve Currall, dean of the School of Business at UC Davis. But even with closer collaboration, there will always be a place for tailor-made learning for a company's employees, he said.
Deloitte University, for example, isn't the answer to perceived or real inefficiencies in the education system, Quinlan stressed — it exists to ensure that Deloitte distinguishes itself to its employees as well as its clients.
"No one is done learning the moment they get their degree," concluded Karenann Terrell, EVP and chief information officer for Wal-Mart.
Check out our Career Matters blog by Kate Warren, Devex's resident career expert and subscribe to Doing Good for career insights, job postings and more.
Kelli Rogers@kellierin
Kelli Rogers is an Associate Editor for Devex. Based on the U.S. West Coast, she works with Devex's team of correspondents and editors around the world, with a particular focus on gender. She previously worked as Devex's Southeast Asia correspondent based in Bangkok, covering disaster and crisis response, resilience, women's rights, and climate change throughout the region. Prior to that, she reported on social and environmental issues from Nairobi, Kenya. Kelli holds a bachelor's degree in journalism from the University of Missouri, and has since reported from more than 20 countries.
India | Senegal | Kenya | Zambia
Intern: Resource Watch
Individual Consultant: Learning Passport Specialist (National)