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Barriers and enablers to source plasma donation by gay, bisexual and other men who have sex with men under revised eligibility criteria: protocol for a multiple stakeholder feasibility study
Elisabeth Vesnaver ORCID: orcid.org/0000-0002-0499-80101,11,
Mindy Goldman2,
Sheila O'Brien2,
Paul MacPherson3,12,
Terrie Butler-Foster4,
Don Lapierre2,
Joanne Otis5,
Dana V. Devine6,13,
Marc Germain7,
Andrew Rosser8,
Richard MacDonagh9,
Taylor Randall9,
William Osbourne-Sorrell9,
Broderic Clement-Thorne9,
Taim Bilal Al-Bakri9,
Kyle A. Rubini9,
Nolan E. Hill10 &
Justin Presseau1,11
Health Research Policy and Systems volume 18, Article number: 131 (2020) Cite this article
Blood donation policy in Canada for gay, bisexual and other men who have had sex with men (gbMSM) has changed progressively in the last decade from indefinite deferral to 3-month deferral from last male-to-male sex. Driven by safety data and overseen by the national regulator, more inclusive policies continue to redress the disparity in donation for gbMSM. At the same time, the need for source plasma to prepare fractionated blood products is growing worldwide. The collection and processing of source plasma ensures greater safety compared to whole blood donation with respect to transfusion-transmitted infection. This greater safety offers an opportunity to evolve policies for gbMSM from time-based to behaviour-based deferral using revised eligibility criteria. However, changing policies does not in itself necessarily guarantee that gbMSM will donate or that staff in donor clinics are ready to support them to do so. In anticipation of a move to behaviour-based donation screening for gbMSM in Canada, we aim to assess the acceptability of and perceived barriers and enablers to source plasma donation using revised screening criteria for gbMSM among key stakeholders to inform policy implementation strategies.
This mixed-methods feasibility study will involve gbMSM and donor centre staff to understand modifiable barriers to implementing more inclusive eligibility criteria. Key informant interviews and surveys will be rooted in the Theoretical Domains Framework to identify modifiable factors associated with source plasma donation motives in gbMSM and training needs in donation centre staff. We will use an integrated knowledge translation approach involving a partnership between researchers, the national blood operator and gbMSM, situating knowledge users as key research team members to ensure their perspectives inform all aspects of the research.
Our integrated knowledge translation approach will provide a more comprehensive and collaborative understanding of blood operator and gbMSM needs while accelerating the implementation of study findings. Given the historical backdrop of the decades of exclusion of sexually active gbMSM from blood donation, this study has the potential not only to inform a process and policy for gbMSM to donate source plasma, a blood product, but also offers opportunities for new relationships between these knowledge users.
The demand for plasma proteins (e.g. immunoglobulins) continues to rise globally, outstripping the supply. Canada does not collect enough source plasma to meet the needs of its citizens and would benefit from widening the range of possible donors, especially to those who may be interested but limited from doing so, such as gay, bisexual and other men who have sex with men (gbMSM). Source plasma is a type of plasma donation that is frozen and then sent to a manufacturer for the production of specific plasma protein products such as intravenous immunoglobulins. The additional processing involves pathogen reduction and additional assurance of supply safety compared to whole blood donation with respect to transfusion-transmitted infection. This greater safety offers an opportunity to widen the range of possible source plasma donors with more inclusive eligibility screening.
Evolving policy
In the early 1980s, in Canada and many other countries, blood donation by gbMSM was banned based on the higher seroprevalence of HIV in this group and because there was no test available to detect HIV infection at the time [1]. Donor criteria have moved progressively from a permanent deferral (cannot donate) to a 3-month deferral since the last time of sexual encounter with a goal of moving to behavioural risk screening for gbMSM donors. The risk of HIV infection is not the same for all gbMSM; behavioural risk screening would enable identification based on sexual behaviour rather than time since sexual encounter [2, 3]. Currently, Canadian blood donor criteria do not permit any sexually active gbMSM to donate whole blood or source plasma—men who have had sex with a man in the past 3 months are deferred. However, Canadian Blood Services, one of Canada's two national blood operators, is reviewing its policies regarding source plasma donation in an effort to be more inclusive while maintaining the safety of the blood supply, including some gbMSM that are at low to no risk of HIV infection such as those in monogamous relationships.
It is likely that many in the general population, including gbMSM, are not yet as aware of what source plasma donation entails and how it differs from whole blood donation. Source plasma donation involves drawing whole blood, separating out the plasma, and then returning red and white blood cells and platelets back to the donor. The source plasma donation process takes approximately 45 min and can be donated as frequently as every week. Once collected, source plasma can be frozen and stored for months and the manufacture of plasma protein products includes several pathogen reduction steps to kill any residual infectious agents. Conversely, fresh components collected during whole blood donation, such as platelets and red blood cells, have a short storage period of up to 7 or 42 days, respectively, and are currently not subjected to the same pathogen reduction processes as source plasma in Canada. Both the longer storage time of source plasma before pooling and the pathogen reduction manufacturing processes involved in the production of plasma protein products make it feasible to apply additional safety steps that may allow some sexually active gbMSM to donate source plasma. Expanding the eligibility to gbMSM for source plasma donation first provides an opportunity to collect data on gbMSM donors whilst maximising the continued safety of the supply. Data on gbMSM donors is critical to support changes to whole blood screening policies; with current deferrals in place and gbMSM unable to donate, no such data can be collected.
What would the revised eligibility criteria involve?
As of 2019, all male donors are asked 'In the last 3 months, have you had sex with another man?' Responding yes to this question results in a 3-month deferral from last sexual contact, which amounts to an indefinite deferral for a donor in an ongoing relationship. Revised eligibility criteria could include adding additional behavioural screening questions to those who answer 'yes' to identify gbMSM that are at low to no risk of HIV infection. The additional behavioural questions under consideration include:
Have you had sex with a new partner in the last 3 months?
Have you had sex with more than one partner in the last 3 months?
Are you in a mutually exclusive (monogamous) relationship?
These questions are based on those in use in jurisdictions such as France (quarantined plasma programme), Italy and Spain [4,5,6] as well as data generated in the ongoing Canadian research studies on gbMSM and blood donation. The use of the draft questions in this study will permit further validation of their clarity and acceptability, which may lead to modifications in the actual questions submitted to Health Canada for implementation in a source plasma collection site.
A change in criteria is necessary but insufficient
Making donation possible is necessary but likely insufficient for a successful gbMSM plasma donation programme. Given the historical exclusion of gbMSM from any blood or blood product donation, any gbMSM donation programme would require general acceptability among gbMSM. In Canada, Caruso et al. [7] explored the acceptability among gbMSM of a plasma donation programme involving quarantining plasma until donors return 2 months or more after initial plasma donation and are retested for transmissible diseases, thus ensuring the safety of the supply prior to release. The programme was considered by some participants to reinforce the exclusion and discrimination experienced with whole blood deferral policies because gbMSM donors and their plasma are treated differently.
While behavioural risk screening is an approach that has previously been supported by gbMSM with respect to whole blood donation [8, 9], there is also a need to explore how gbMSM understand and would respond to the screening questions. Studies of gbMSM that have donated blood despite not being eligible reported that participants donated because they were uninformed about the policies or they assessed their own HIV risk to be low with a mixed understanding of the 'window period', the period in which new HIV infection is not detectable but potentially infectious [8,9,10]. Exploring how gbMSM understand the behavioural screening questions prior to implementation can help uncover and address the challenges of adherence to the policies.
Balancing supply safety with equality and justice
The ineligibility of sexually active gbMSM from blood and plasma donation has attracted debate worldwide with regards to justice, exclusion, safety, risks and community [11,12,13,14]. Time-based deferrals that involve policies specific to gbMSM have been described by some as discriminatory, disproportionate to risk and unnecessarily strain the supply of available blood (and plasma) products [15, 16]. The gbMSM blood donor debate has ignited many gbMSM and allies to equate blood donation with equality and full citizenship and has resulted in lawsuits, boycotts of blood drives and petitions [16, 17]. The effects of group exclusion from blood donation can be long lasting as has been observed in the Haitian-Canadian community [18]. An extension of existing donation promotion strategies without such considerations is likely to miss the mark. Understanding how gbMSM view the historical context and changes of the policies in relation to how they view the proposed behavioural risk screening approach will generate insights for the development of appropriate strategies for communication of the policy and promotion of source plasma by gbMSM.
Staff perspectives
The staff in donation clinics who would be tasked with implementing the revised eligibility criteria for gbMSM play a central role in the safety and success of such a programme. Alteration of the eligibility criteria may require additional training and staff may have views and perspectives that, if surfaced early, would help to ensure a feasible and acceptable roll-out of a gbMSM source plasma donation programme. Indeed, Hughes et al. explored the views of blood collection organisation staff on the transition from indefinite deferral to 12-month deferral in gbMSM in California [19]. They showed that, while some staff voiced reservations, most staff supported this transition. They also showed that staff valued their professionalism and would follow the regulations imposed by the Food and Drug Administration in the United States regardless of their own personal views. Furthermore, most staff expressed a desire for further training and materials. Findings such as these highlight the importance of understanding the potential barriers and enablers to the implementation of revised eligibility criteria to ensure that such a change could be feasibly implemented. However, the Hughes et al. study focused on whole blood donation and the move from indefinite to 12-month donation deferral in gbMSM. There is a need to explore such views in more detail in a Canadian setting for source plasma donation and for revised eligibility criteria that moves away from a time-since-sexual-encounter criterion.
Understanding the challenges before jumping to solutions
While this is a promising opportunity for more inclusive donation to enhance the donor pool with a previously excluded segment of the population, it is important to assess the feasibility with key knowledge users prior to implementation. The proposed study is designed to fill this gap and provide information from gbMSM and donor centre staff on whether revised eligibility criteria for gbMSM is viewed to be feasible and acceptable and what factors could be adapted to enhance these features [20].
The implementation of revised eligibility criteria and gbMSM source plasma donation can be described as an intervention designed to support behaviour change in gbMSM. Due to the number of different knowledge users that may each require different targeted strategies, the intervention can be described as a 'complex' intervention. The United Kingdom Medical Research Council guidance on the development and evaluation of complex interventions highlights the importance of careful intervention development using appropriate theory and feasibility assessment prior to evaluation and implementation [21]. Although there are extant theories to draw from to understand first time blood donation (as it would be for most gbMSM), the application of behavioural science to source plasma donation is scant and, in Canada, source plasma donors are typically recruited from among whole blood donors [22]. Furthermore, the historical backdrop of exclusion of gbMSM from donation may have resulted in drivers that are unique to this population.
A systematic approach to intervention development can provide transparency and foster cumulative evidence to ensure that the strategies devised to support gbMSM in donating and staff in screening are fit for purpose. French et al. [23] proposed a four-step approach for designing theory-based implementation interventions that suggests key steps in the systematic development of an intervention to change behaviour as follows: first, identify who needs to do what differently; second, identify what barriers and enablers might be relevant; third, select change strategies and techniques that are fit for purpose to address identified barriers and enablers; and fourth, identify how change can best be measured. This study will focus on completing step two using a comprehensive theoretical framework.
To ensure the findings are useful to all knowledge users, this study will be rooted in an integrated knowledge translation (IKT) approach, a form of research co-production [24]. Research co-production is an equitable collaborative approach to research that meaningfully engages knowledge users who are directly impacted by the results of the research [25]. IKT is distinguished from other co-production approaches with its emphasis on collaboration with knowledge users that are in positions of power to create change [26], the focus of study is identified by knowledge users, and research focuses on "generating real-life solutions to complex problems" [27].
The purpose of this study is to assess the feasibility and acceptability of source plasma donation with revised eligibility criteria for gbMSM in two Canadian cities. Our specific objectives are to identify the following:
Views and experiences of gbMSM regarding source plasma donation, current eligibility criteria and revised eligibility criteria.
The acceptability of additional behavioural questions during the screening process from the perspective of gbMSM.
Potential barriers and enablers to source plasma donation from the perspective of gbMSM.
The acceptability of additional behavioural questions during the screening process from the perspective of donor centre staff.
Potential barriers and enablers from the perspective of donor centre staff in the donation clinic to implementing new eligibility criteria for gbMSM to donate and to inform the adaptations needed to centre flow and processes prior to piloting.
Consistencies and discrepancies between the two Canadian cities and implications for tailoring strategies to support gbMSM source plasma donation in each context.
An integrated knowledge approach
Consistent with an IKT approach, the initial topic was born out of Canadian Blood Services seeking to better understand the feasibly of a source plasma programme for gbMSM with more inclusive donation eligibility criteria and the broader voice of gbMSM demanding greater equality as it relates to donation. The research questions were collaboratively developed by the research team consisting of scientists and collaborators from research institutions, Canada's two national blood operators, and a local LGBT2Q+ community organisation to ensure diverse perspectives and expertise. While our team offers both insider and outsider perspectives with respect to the donor centre working environment and identifying as gbMSM, we sought out greater inclusion of gbMSM voices in the design and conduct of the study design. We first consulted with community members through outreach and engagement activities and these activities resulted in the formation of a Local Advisory Group of gbMSM. Local advisors are key members of the research team (rather than participants) who provide ongoing input in monthly group meetings and in individual exchanges by email or phone as needed. They provide feedback on study design, contribute to survey and interview guide development, and help to develop and facilitate the recruitment strategies. They will review and provide feedback of summaries of analysis and results, advise on next steps, and help disseminate findings.
This mixed-methods feasibility study will explore the views of gbMSM and donor centre staff regarding source plasma donation and eligibility criteria to better understand the modifiable barriers and enablers to implementing revised eligibility criteria. We will use qualitative interviews and an online anonymous survey to identify the barriers and enablers to source plasma donation that may emerge with the implementation of revised screening criteria for source plasma donation by gbMSM. Qualitative interviews will be used to elicit potential barriers and enablers to implementing revised eligibility from the perspectives of donor centre staff.
This study will be conducted in London (Ontario) and Calgary (Alberta). Canadian Blood Services operate two dedicated source plasma donation centres that are located in London (Ontario) and Calgary (Alberta). These centres are potential locations for a first implementation of a gbMSM source plasma donation programme if approved by Health Canada. The study was first developed in London (Ontario) due to operational feasibility and strong relationships with the local gbMSM community. The research team sought additional funding to expand the project to Calgary (Alberta).
Analytic framework
Many factors may emerge as barriers and enablers to source plasma donation by gbMSM or to donor centre staff's implementation of revised eligibility criteria. Solutions and strategies for encouraging and supporting donation should be tailored to address these barriers to ensure that the supports developed are fit for purpose [28]. Theories of behaviour provide a useful set of factors to consider when investigating barriers and enablers. By providing an understanding of which modifiable factors may be associated to implementing revised criteria, such theories provide a source of factors that could then be directly targeted to develop strategies and materials to support donation. There are many different theories that could be used as a basis for identifying such factors in a systematic way. A group of researchers sought to synthesise key content across 33 predominant theories and the 128 constructs within them. They developed the Theoretical Domains Framework (TDF) [29, 30], which summarises key factors from theory that are known to be associated with behaviour and behaviour change and is well suited to explore the full breadth of factors that are relevant in this behaviour and population. The TDF identifies 14 different modifiable factors, as follows: knowledge, skills, beliefs about capabilities, optimism, beliefs about consequences, intention, goals, professional/social role and identity, social influences, reinforcement, behavioural regulation, emotion, memory/attention/decision processes, and environmental context and resources. Clear guidance has been developed to use the TDF for developing qualitative interview guides [31] and quantitative surveys [32]. The TDF has been used broadly as a basis for understanding barriers and enablers in the healthcare setting and with the public [32,33,34,35]. Once identified, this approach specifically suggests particular strategies and behaviour change techniques that best suit addressing the barriers and enablers identified based on expert review and the evidence base [36].
gbMSM perspectives
Qualitative interviews
Participants and recruitment
We will use a combination of purposive and snowball sampling to recruit adult (18+) gbMSM in London (Ontario) and Calgary (Alberta) as well as in surrounding communities for interviews. Purposive sampling will be used to recruit gbMSM who represent a breadth of age, cultural backgrounds and geographic locations (rural/urban). We will work with our local advisory groups, local organisations and social groups that provide services to gbMSM to help identify potential participants. In 2020, many countries, including Canada, were practicing social distancing to reduce the spread of COVID-19. In light of this, we will advertise on social media platforms with assistance from organisations that provide services to gbMSM. We recognise that this method of sampling may not reach those who are not active on social media and, as such, we will supplement this strategy with snowball sampling methods by inviting participants to recommend others for participation. Snowball sampling is well suited for the recruitment of traditionally underserved groups and those who experience stigmatisation, including gbMSM.
We will conduct up to two semi-structured interviews per participant, by phone, scheduled over a period of 2–6 weeks. Informed consent will be obtained prior to the interview. Interviews will be approximately 60 min in length and audio-recorded for verbatim transcription. The use of a multiple interview format will promote the development of rapport over time, facilitating the discussion of sensitive and personal topics while allowing time for reflection and elaboration [37]. We will offer the option of one longer interview if participants prefer, to take a participant-centred approach to data collection. Field notes will be captured after each interview to assist with analysis and reflection on the impact of the interviewer's positionality on the data generated. Interview participants will receive a CAD$ 20 gift card at each interview session to thank them for their time, to a maximum of CAD$ 40 per person. Participants that opt for one longer interview will receive a CAD$ 40 gift card.
Interview guide development
The first interview will explore the context of how source plasma donation is perceived by gbMSM using a semi-structured approach to interviewing. Key interview questions will be used to help define the areas to be explored but the interview style will remain flexible to allow for the discovery and discussion of topics of importance to the participant [38, 39] that may not have otherwise been thought of as pertinent by the research team [40]. The topic guide includes questions regarding experiences of donation, deferral or exclusion, views on current gbMSM donor deferral criteria, and the acceptability of the three behavioural screening questions suggested for inclusion in revised eligibility criteria.
The second interview will build on the first to elaborate on emerging themes and explore participants' views regarding the implementation of revised eligibility criteria, potential impacts of revised eligibility criteria on donation practices, and possible barriers and enablers to source plasma donation. The topic guide for the second interview draws on existing literature [31] and previously developed guides [33] to assess if and how the identified barriers align with TDF domains. Interview guides will be reviewed by the study's local advisory groups in each city and piloted prior to broad enrolment. At the end of the interviews, participants will be asked about the interview experience and this feedback will be considered and incorporated as appropriate.
Our sample size will be determined by the available number of interviewees. We aim to recruit 15–20 men from each region to complete a series of two interviews. This sample size estimate is informed by the scope of the study, the nature of the topic and the use of a multiple interview format [41]. Given that data collection and analysis are concurrent, informational and thematic redundancy [42, 43] will be assessed on an ongoing basis and the number of interviews will largely be driven by the quality and richness of data [44]. Drawing on the literature, saturation is often reached within 15–20 TDF interviews [33, 34].
Interviews will be audio recorded, transcribed verbatim and de-identified prior to analysis. As an additional step, we will send each participant their written transcript to review for completeness and resonance. We will use NVivo12 to facilitate analysis. Data collection and analysis will be concurrent to generate emerging understanding of the research questions, which will inform both the sampling and the questions being asked [39]. We will conduct two phases of qualitative descriptive analysis—inductive thematic analysis [45] to identify, analyse and report patterns within the data, and theory-driven, directed content analysis to code barriers and enablers expressed by gbMSM to specific TDF domains [46]. Throughout, reflexive journaling will be used to capture the analytic process and any developing insights about the patterns in the data. Data from each region will be analysed separately as each context may have unique cultural, societal and political forces that shape the views of gbMSM regarding source plasma donation. We will contrast findings between cities to inform city-specific modifications for implementation.
During thematic analysis, we will follow the six analytic steps proposed by Braun and Clark [45]: becoming familiar with the data, generating initial codes, searching for themes, reviewing themes, defining and naming themes, and producing the report. We will then re-visit the data during directed content analysis and use guidance from the literature [31] to code barriers and enablers to source plasma donation expressed by gbMSM to specific TDF domains [46]. We will develop a code book to enhance the reliability of coding. To enhance the trustworthiness of our findings, we will use a combination of duplicate coding by two researchers trained in both inductive analysis and the use of the TDF, peer debriefing activities and consensus-building measures.
We will invite adult gbMSM (aged 18+) living in London (Ontario) and Calgary (Alberta) to complete an anonymous questionnaire regarding their views about current and potential future barriers and enablers to donating source plasma. Questionnaire items will enable the assessment of respondents' eligibility to donate according to the revised criteria but will not exclude participants to the survey on the basis of these criteria.
Recruitment and procedure
Our local advisory groups of gbMSM will facilitate recruitment by providing access to the venues and organisations through which a link to the online survey can be circulated as well as by advising on additional non-traditional venues for recruiting participants. We will offer the opportunity to enter a draw for one of ten pre-paid Visa gift cards valued at CAD$ 125 each.
The questionnaire will be designed for completion by adult gbMSM and will include screening questions to ensure that we involve our targeted respondents. We will use items from a TDF questionnaire previously assessed for its discriminant content validity [32] to assess barriers and enablers to donating source plasma if they were eligible under revised eligibility criteria. Appropriate language and response options will be informed by the interviews; thus, certain questions may be unique to each city. The questionnaire will be piloted by gbMSM prior to launching.
Our analytical approach is modelled on an approach used by Presseau et al. [33]. We will conduct descriptive analyses to identify mean scores and standard deviations on each of the 14 TDF domains. As donation represents a hypothetical behaviour for respondents at the moment, we will assess intention to donate as a proxy for actual donation (consistent with other donation studies) [47]. We will assess bi-variate associations between intention to donate source plasma with socio-demographic factors, including self-identified gender, eligibility to donate (based on revised criteria) and responses to each TDF domain. Informed by behavioural theory [33, 48], we will then conduct multiple regression analysis to investigate which variables are associated with gbMSM's intention to donate source plasma. We will investigate whether these associations are moderated by their eligibility as determined by the revised criteria. If the surveys end up very similar between sites, we will analyse the combined sample and investigate whether the associations differ by location. We are powered to conduct independent analyses in each region if needed.
For analysis of our survey data, for a regression model comprised of data covering 20 independent variables [i.e. 13 TDF domains (not including intention), as well age, self-identified gender, rural/urban, sex with new partner in last 12 months (yes/no), sex with more than one partner in last 3 months (yes/no), in a monogamous relationship (yes/no), married (yes/no)], we will require a total sample size of 314 participants (157 participants in each region) to detect a medium effect size (R2 = 0.15). We will aim to continue to recruit until this sample is exceeded or the recruitment period is completed (6 months).
We will interview English-speaking donor centre staff involved in applying current eligibility criteria or discussing eligibility with potential donors at the London donor centre. Recruitment will be facilitated by our stakeholder contacts at the donor centre. Nurses and donor care associates will be invited to participate in a one-on-one semi-structured telephone interview lasting 30–45 min. Interviews will focus on the barriers and enablers to using each of the proposed revised screening criteria.
Our approach to interview guide development, data analysis and sample size is rooted in the TDF framework and will follow the methods outlined for the interviews with gbMSM.
The findings of the study may be of interest to diverse audiences and require a multi-pronged dissemination strategy. A key advantage of an IKT approach is that stakeholders are members of the research team and provide real-time guidance on the type of dissemination that is needed at different stages of the project. Our first priority is to work with our stakeholders to ensure they have the findings in an appropriate format and to develop a dissemination plan for their respective communities. We will collaborate with our local advisory groups of gbMSM to disseminate among their local communities and beyond, which may involve a website and online events or articles in gbMSM-focused venues. We will also work with our blood operator stakeholders to disseminate appropriately through their organisations and international networks. Beyond our stakeholders, dissemination of this work is likely relevant to stakeholders outside the traditional scientific audience and, thus, we will aim to publish in open-access journals or repositories and share these via social media to reach a broader audience.
Source plasma donation by sexually active gbMSM is not currently permitted. The data generated in this study is based on a hypothetical change in policy. The barriers and enablers will be elicited by asking respondents to answer to a hypothetical scenario, which may be different from their responses to real-life scenarios [49]. If revised eligibility is approved, ongoing investigation is needed alongside any initial implementation.
This protocol is based on a grant funded by Health Canada, administered by Canadian Blood Services, and peer-reviewed by experts external to the funder and blood operator. The study has been reviewed and received ethics approval from the Ottawa Health Science Network Research Ethics Board (ID # 20190287-01H and 20200255-01H). The Canadian Blood Services Ethics Board has also reviewed and approved the parts of the study involving donor centre staff (ID 2019.020). At the time of submission, recruitment and data collection had begun with donor centre staff and gbMSM.
The findings from this study will contribute to our understanding of the views of gbMSM regarding source plasma donation and source plasma donation eligibility policies as well as of the perceived barriers and enablers to donating source plasma should they become eligible. Findings will help to inform the development of implementation strategies and support donation promotion if policies change to enable some sexually active gbMSM to donate. This study will also generate insights regarding staff anticipated barriers and enablers to implementing revised criteria for source plasma donation that will inform intervention development in preparation for wide-scale implementation if policy changes are approved by Health Canada.
A strength of using the TDF is that the domains have been mapped to specific evidence-based behaviour change techniques [36]. Thus, the findings will specify theory-driven and evidence-based strategies to be incorporated into future intervention development to address the barriers and enablers identified, increasing the likelihood that resulting strategies are likely to be effective. Although the findings are based on two collection sites, by rooting our approach in behaviour change theory, we will enhance the transferability of findings to other sites.
The multiple sources and types of data that will be collected in this study will enable a broader understanding of the needs to be addressed prior to implementation. Qualitative methods will help us to explore the full range of factors that may impact implementation by staff and donation among gbMSM. Quantitative findings will inform which of these factors identified by gbMSM are likely to have the greatest impact on donation intention, elucidating the areas most amenable to the targeted strategies to support donation.
Canada is not alone in its consideration of behaviour-risk screening for blood donation [50,51,52]. While many countries have followed a similar evolution to blood donation policies for gbMSM, the context in which these policies are made and enacted vary greatly. The contextual findings can help decision-makers and researchers in other jurisdictions to better situate the findings and assess the transferability of our findings to their context [42].
As of 2020, the public discourse related to blood donation by gbMSM was intensifying in response to the repeated calls for blood donation by blood operators internationally due to COVID-19-related blood shortages [53, 54]. There was also increasing public interest in plasma donation and the ineligibility of gbMSM due to the clinical trials investigating convalescent plasma as a treatment for COVID-19 [55, 56]. Convalescent plasma is a type of plasma collected from patients recovered from COVID-19; gbMSM who have recovered from COVID-19 are not eligible to donate. The iterative and adaptable nature of an IKT approach that engages both the blood operator and gbMSM combined with the flexibility of qualitative methods makes this project uniquely situated to adapt and respond to the shifting social context of the study.
Due to the decades of exclusion from blood and blood-product donation that gbMSM have experienced and the social and political movement that has arisen in response, there may be divisions between blood operators in different countries and gbMSM that will need to be bridged for gbMSM to engage enthusiastically with a source plasma donation programme. Research using IKT has the potential to create impact beyond addressing the research objectives. There is potential for the different knowledge user groups involved in the research to experience mutually beneficial learning cycles throughout the project's stages of design, data collection, analysis, reporting and dissemination [25]. As each unique perspective contributes to the work, all knowledge users and researchers learn from these perspectives and may shift their own perspectives. Furthermore, in this process, there is the potential to strengthen relationships across knowledge users. Partnerships between gbMSM and Canadian blood operators can only aid in improving the development of appropriate and sensitive implementation supports and ultimately facilitate bringing gbMSM into the donor base.
This research will explore the perceptions and experiences of gbMSM and donor centre staff regarding the feasibility and acceptability of implementing revised eligibility criteria for source plasma donation by gbMSM. The findings from this study will help refine or provide feedback on three proposed behaviour-based screening questions for donation eligibility and provide a basis for developing sensitive materials that could support a change in policy.
gbMSM:
Gay, bisexual, and other men who have sex with men
IKT:
Integrated knowledge translation
TDF:
Theoretical Domains Framework
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Tatchell P. End the gay blood ban. The Guardian. 2009. https://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2009/nov/30/gay-sex-give-blood-ban. Accessed 3 Feb 2020.
Galarneau C. Blood donation, deferral, and discrimination: FDA donor deferral policy for men who have sex with men. Am J Bioeth. 2010;10(2):29–39.
Wainberg MA, Shuldiner T, Dahl K, Gilmore N. Reconsidering the lifetime deferral of blood donation by men who have sex with men. CMAJ Can Med Assoc J. 2010;182(12):1321–4.
Martucci J. Negotiating exclusion: MSM, identity, and blood policy in the age of aids. Soc Stud Sci. 2010;40(2):215–41.
Charbonneau J, Tran NYL. The paradoxical situation of blood donation in the Haitian-Quebec Community. Can Ethn Stud. 2015;47(2):67–92.
Hughes SD, Custer B, Laborde N, Sheon N. Transition to a 1-year deferral for male blood donors who report sexual contact with men: staff perspectives at one blood collection organization. Transfusion. 2018;58(8):1909–15.
O'Cathain A, Thomas KJ, Drabble SJ, Rudolph A, Hewison J. What can qualitative research do for randomised controlled trials? A systematic mapping review. BMJ Open. 2013;3(6):e002889.
Craig P, Dieppe P, Macintyre S, Michie S, Nazareth I, Petticrew M. Developing and evaluating complex interventions: the new Medical Research Council guidance. BMJ. 2008;337(sep 29 1):a1655.
Charbonneau J, Cloutier M-S, Fainstein B. How do people become plasma and platelet donors in a VNR context? J Clin Apheresis. 2018;33:236–48.
French SD, Green SE, O'Connor DA, et al. Developing theory-informed behaviour change interventions to implement evidence into practice: a systematic approach using the Theoretical Domains Framework. Implement Sci. 2012;7:38.
Bowen S, Graham ID. Integrated knowledge translation. In: Straus S, Tetroe J, Graham ID, editors. Knowledge translation in health care. Hoboken: Wiley; 2013. p. 14–23. https://doi.org/10.1002/9781118413555.ch02.
Beckett K, Farr M, Kothari A, Wye L, le May A. Embracing complexity and uncertainty to create impact: exploring the processes and transformative potential of co-produced research through development of a social impact model. Health Res Policy Syst. 2018;16:118.
Nguyen T, Graham ID, Mrklas KJ, et al. How does integrated knowledge translation (IKT) compare to other collaborative research approaches to generating and translating knowledge? Learning from experts in the field. Health Res Policy Syst. 2020;18:35.
Boland L, Kothari A, McCutcheon C, Graham ID, for the Integrated Knowledge Translation Research Network. Building an integrated knowledge translation (IKT) evidence base: colloquium proceedings and research direction. Health Res Policy Syst. 2020;18:8.
Graham ID, Logan J, Harrison MB, et al. Lost in knowledge translation: time for a map? J Contin Educ Health Prof. 2006;26(1):13–24.
Michie S. Making psychological theory useful for implementing evidence based practice: a consensus approach. Qual Saf Health Care. 2005;14(1):26–33.
Cane J, O'Connor D, Michie S. Validation of the theoretical domains framework for use in behaviour change and implementation research. Implement Sci. 2012;7:37.
Atkins L, Francis J, Islam R, et al. A guide to using the Theoretical Domains Framework of behaviour change to investigate implementation problems. Implement Sci. 2017;12:77.
Huijg JM, Gebhardt WA, Crone MR, Dusseldorp E, Presseau J. Discriminant content validity of a theoretical domains framework questionnaire for use in implementation research. Implement Sci. 2014;9:11.
Presseau J, Schwalm JD, Grimshaw JM, et al. Identifying determinants of medication adherence following myocardial infarction using the Theoretical Domains Framework and the Health Action Process Approach. Psychol Health. 2017;32(10):1176–94.
Presseau J, Mutsaers B, Al-Jaishi AA, et al. Barriers and facilitators to healthcare professional behaviour change in clinical trials using the Theoretical Domains Framework: a case study of a trial of individualized temperature-reduced haemodialysis. Trials. 2017;18:227.
Birken SA, Presseau J, Ellis SD, Gerstel AA, Mayer DK. Potential determinants of health-care professionals' use of survivorship care plans: a qualitative study using the theoretical domains framework. Implement Sci. 2014;9:167.
Michie S, Johnston M, Francis J, Hardeman W, Eccles M. From theory to intervention: mapping theoretically derived behavioural determinants to behaviour change techniques. Appl Psychol. 2008;57(4):660–80.
Murray SA, Kendall M, Carduff E, et al. Use of serial qualitative interviews to understand patients' evolving experiences and needs. BMJ. 2009;339:b3702.
Britten N. Qualitative interviews in medical research. BMJ. 1995;311(6999):251–3.
DiCicco-Bloom B, Crabtree BF. The qualitative research interview. Med Educ. 2006;40(4):314–21.
Gill P, Stewart K, Treasure E, Chadwick B. Methods of data collection in qualitative research: interviews and focus groups. Br Dent J. 2008;204(6):291–5.
Morse JM. Determining sample size. Qual Health Res. 2000;10(1):3–5.
Lincoln YS, Guba EG. Naturalistic inquiry. Thousand Oaks: SAGE; 1985. p. 422.
Malterud K, Siersma VD, Guassora AD. Sample size in qualitative interview studies: guided by information power. Qual Health Res. 2016;26(13):1753–60.
Vasileiou K, Barnett J, Thorpe S, Young T. Characterising and justifying sample size sufficiency in interview-based studies: systematic analysis of qualitative health research over a 15-year period. BMC Med Res Methodol. 2018;18:148.
Braun V, Clarke V. Using thematic analysis in psychology. Qual Res Psychol. 2006;3(2):77–101.
Hsieh H-F, Shannon SE. Three approaches to qualitative content analysis. Qual Health Res. 2005;15(9):1277–88.
Godin G, Sheeran P, Conner M, et al. Factors explaining the intention to give blood among the general population. Vox Sang. 2005;89(3):140–9.
Schwarzer R. Modeling health behavior change: how to predict and modify the adoption and maintenance of health behaviors. Appl Psychol. 2008;57(1):1–29.
FeldmanHall O, Mobbs D, Evans D, Hiscox L, Navrady L, Dalgleish T. What we say and what we do: the relationship between real and hypothetical moral choices. Cognition. 2012;123(3):434–41.
Cahill S, Wang T. An end to lifetime blood donation ban in Israel for MSM would be a major step toward a science-based policy that reduces stigma. Isr J Health Policy Res. 2017;6:15.
Zucoloto ML, Gonçalez TT, McFarland W, Custer B, Galdino G, Martinez EZ. Blood donation deferral policies among men who have sex with men in Brazil. Hematol Transfus Cell Ther. 2019;41(2):164–8.
Germain M. Men having sex with men and blood donation: is there a game changer on the horizon? Transfusion. 2020;60(3):437–40.
U.S. relaxes rules for gay blood donors amid coronavirus—will Canada go further? Global News. https://globalnews.ca/news/6772924/coronavirus-canada-gay-blood-donation/. Accessed 10 Apr 2020.
Dunham J. PM Trudeau urges Canadians to donate blood during COVID-19 pandemic. Coronavirus. 2020 https://www.ctvnews.ca/health/coronavirus/pm-trudeau-urges-canadians-to-donate-blood-during-covid-19-pandemic-1.4859962. Accessed 31 Mar 2020.
West J. I recovered from COVID-19. But I can't donate my plasma because I'm gay. Mother Jones. https://www.motherjones.com/politics/2020/04/covid-19-recovery-plasma-coronavirus-gay-blood-donation/. Accessed 13 Apr 2020.
Calls grow for Trudeau to end ban on gay blood donors. National Post. https://nationalpost.com/news/canada/calls-grow-for-trudeau-to-end-msm-blood-donation-ban. Accessed 22 June 2020.
This study received funding from Canadian Blood Services MSM Research Grant Program and Canadian Blood Services MSM Plasma Program, funded by the federal government (Health Canada) and the provincial and territorial ministries of health. The views herein do not necessarily reflect the views of Canadian Blood Services or the federal, provincial, or territorial governments of Canada.
School of Epidemiology and Public Health, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, Canada
Elisabeth Vesnaver & Justin Presseau
Medical Affairs and Innovation, Canadian Blood Services, Ottawa, Canada
Mindy Goldman, Sheila O'Brien & Don Lapierre
Medicine, The Ottawa Hospital, Ottawa, Canada
Paul MacPherson
Medical Affairs and Innovation, Canadian Blood Services, London, Canada
Terrie Butler-Foster
Department of Sexology, Université du Québec À Montréal, Montreal, Canada
Joanne Otis
Canadian Blood Services, Vancouver, Canada
Dana V. Devine
Héma-Québec, Medical Affairs, Quebec City, Canada
Marc Germain
PRIDE London President, London, Canada
Andrew Rosser
Local Advisory Group, London, Canada
Richard MacDonagh, Taylor Randall, William Osbourne-Sorrell, Broderic Clement-Thorne, Taim Bilal Al-Bakri & Kyle A. Rubini
Centre for Sexuality, Calgary, Canada
Nolan E. Hill
Clinical Epidemiology Program, Ottawa Hospital Research Institute, Ottawa, Canada
Department of Biochemistry, Microbiology and Immunology, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, Canada
Centre for Blood Research, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, Canada
Elisabeth Vesnaver
Mindy Goldman
Sheila O'Brien
Don Lapierre
Richard MacDonagh
Taylor Randall
William Osbourne-Sorrell
Broderic Clement-Thorne
Taim Bilal Al-Bakri
Kyle A. Rubini
Justin Presseau
JP and MG conceived the study. All authors participated in the design of the study. JP and EV led the drafting of the manuscript with input from all authors. All authors read and approved the final manuscript.
Correspondence to Elisabeth Vesnaver.
The study obtained ethics approval from the Ottawa Health Science Network Research Ethics Board (ID # 20190287-01H and 20200255-01H) and local ethical approval was obtained from the Canadian Blood Services Ethics Board, which has also reviewed and approved the parts of the study involving the donor centre in London, Ontario (ID 2019.020).
Vesnaver, E., Goldman, M., O'Brien, S. et al. Barriers and enablers to source plasma donation by gay, bisexual and other men who have sex with men under revised eligibility criteria: protocol for a multiple stakeholder feasibility study. Health Res Policy Sys 18, 131 (2020). https://doi.org/10.1186/s12961-020-00643-4
Received: 28 July 2020
gbMSM
Blood donation eligibility


text:
Q: Zip arrays with MongoDB Is it possible to zip arrays within a mongo document?  I mean the functional programming definition of zip, where corresponding items are paired into tuples.
To be more precise, I would like start with a mongo document like this:
{
    "A" : ["A1", "A2", "A3"],
    "B" : ["B1", "B2", "B3"],
    "C" : [100.0, 200.0, 300.0]
}

and end up with mongo documents like these:
{"A":"A1","B":"B1","C":100.0},
{"A":"A2","B":"B2","C":200.0},
{"A":"A3","B":"B3","C":300.0},

Ideally this would use the aggregation framework, which I am already using to get my documents to this stage.

A: Starting from MongoDB 3.4, we can use the $zip operator to zip our arrays.
That being said, we can't get your expected output unless you know length of your array.
db.collection.aggregate( [
    { "$project": {
        "zipped": {
            "$zip": { "inputs": [ "$A", "$B", "$C" ] }
        }
    }}
])

which produces:
{
    "_id" : ObjectId("578f35fb6db61a299a383c5b"),
    "zipped" : [
        [ "A1", "B1", 100 ],
        [ "A2", "B2", 200 ],
        [ "A3", "B3", 300 ]
    ]
}

If we happen to know the number of elements in each sub-array, we can use the $map variable operator which return an array of sub-document.
In the $map expression, we need to use the $arrayElemAt operator to set the value of our field A, B, and C.
db.collection.aggregate( [
    { "$project": {
        "zipped": {
            "$map": {
                "input": {
                    "$zip": { "inputs": [ "$A", "$B", "$C" ] }
                },
                "as": "el",
                "in": {
                    "A": { "$arrayElemAt": [ "$$el", 0 ] },
                    "B": { "$arrayElemAt": [ "$$el", 1 ] },
                    "C": { "$arrayElemAt": [ "$$el", 2 ] }
                }
            }
        }
    }}
] )

which produces:
{
    "_id" : ObjectId("578f35fb6db61a299a383c5b"),
    "zipped" : [
        {
            "A" : "A1",
            "B" : "B1",
            "C" : 100
        },
        {
            "A" : "A2",
            "B" : "B2",
            "C" : 200
        },
        {
            "A" : "A3",
            "B" : "B3",
            "C" : 300
        }
    ]
}

redpajama_set_name: RedPajamaStackExchange


text:
Business Observer Wednesday, Jan. 13, 2021 4 days ago
Medical group expands to fourth location with merger
True Eye Experts now has an office in North Fort Myers.
NORTH FORT MYERS — True Eye Experts, an optometric clinic with three locations in the Tampa region, has added a fourth location, expanding to Southwest Florida for the first time.
The new location comes in a merger with Tucker Vision Center of North Fort Myers, according to a statement. Financial terms of the deal weren't disclosed, and Dr. Terry Tucker will continue to serve as the brand's optometrist, now under the True Eye Experts name. The office location will remain the same, 88 Pine Island Road, and a full brand transition is expected to be complete by early spring, the release adds.
"Our goal from the very beginning was to gather a group of exceptional eye doctors and provide the highest level of customer service," True Eye Experts co-founder Dr. Samuel Teske says in the statement. Seeing True Eye Experts grow from one location to four is proof that we stayed true to that promise and created a team of specialists who are laser-focused on providing individualized care, clear communication, and selfless service."
"We now employ more than 50 team members between the four clinics," adds True Eye Experts co-founder Kevin Whaley in the statement. "We pride ourselves on keeping the same level of quality vision care and products at each of these practices. When you walk into one True Eye Experts location, you'll receive the same great customer service and expert eye care as the others."
Tucker Vision Center was founded in 1985. True Eye Experts has offices in Lutz, Trinity and New Tampa.
Food company names former ice cream exec CFO
National taco chain makes Florida debut in region

redpajama_set_name: RedPajamaCommonCrawl


text:
KNMO
CGN Media
Mariniers
CGN Video Vault
CGN united magazine
CGN supports the dance and music sport in Europe. CGN is recognised as a professional platform for participants who want to develop in the area of technical skill and creativity. This is achieved through the CGN international dance and music competition and by sharing knowledge and experience. CGN promotes dance and music sport among young people and looks after the interests of its participants.
CGN competition
CGN Challenges
CGN individuals & ensembles
CGN talks & clinics
CGN jury training
About CGN
Friends of CGN
CGN board
Dedication award
Seizoen 2020 contests
Seizoen 2020 participants
Seizoen 2020 Programs
CGN Champions
CGN introduces "The Challenges"
The CGN headlines are divided into the categories below.
Published on 24-11-2019 in CGN
CGN will introduce the "CGN Challenges" from the upcoming season. This is a new competition that we are going to offer to percussion groups, brass groups and dance groups where you as a group must be able to give at least 2 performances of at most 2 minutes.
This is cast in a form of competition where there are always 2 groups on the floor literally opposite each other. One group challenges the other group by showing the best in the area of percussion, brass or dance in combination with a choreography, all in 2 minutes. Immediately afterwards the other group "answers" in the form of their 2-minute mini-program. After that, each group will perform another 2 minut mini-program.
The jury will literally among the groups in the middle. After each group performed twice, the jury will determine the winner. The winner goes on to the next round that will ultimately determine who will be number 1 and 2.
Number two of the first round will drop out or continue for 3rd or 4th place.
Last season a preview of this was given at the Leeuwarden contest by the percussion groups of Noordenveld and De Sternse Slotlanders. This was immediately popular with both the participants as the audience.
These so-called "Challenges" were created by films and TV programs where candidates challenge each other and a jury immediately indicates who wins. Consider, for example, "Dance in the Gym" from The West Side Story where two groups of young people challenge each other in dance. The groups show the best of themselves in a short period of time and because of the "challenging" character by both groups, it often becomes a true spectacle.
This type of competition is suitable for both inside and outside. CGN will of course also present the "challenges" indoors, but CGN also wants to offer this form of competition in collaboration with other organizations at events that take place both indoors and outdoors.
Paul Doop (chairman of CGN) says about this: "We want to attract audiences that do not yet know us as CGN by, for example, organizing a number of Challenges in a shopping mall on the morning or afternoon prior to a CGN competition." He is convinced that it is shopping audience finds this form of music and dance cast in a competitive form so attractive that they will consider going to the CGN competition later that day.
"But we also want to present the Challenges to associations at events where CGN and its competition are still unknown," he continues. "We want to introduce them to our circuit in this accessible way."
You can register in the following forms:
Drum Challenge (for percussion groups)
Brass Challenge (for wind band groups with limited percussion such as drum set or aux. Percussion)
Dance Challenge (all forms of dance)
For 40 years, CGN has been offering forms of competition that are very popular with associations, given the growing number of participants. There are associations that indicate that the CGN Competition is still one step too far. For example, because they are not used to participate in a competition circuit or have never done anything about show at all.
"Yet we hear that associations are interested in participating in the CGN Circuit, but that they hope for a kind of" light "form," says Paul. "With the introduction of the" CGN Challenges "we think we have found a way to meet this wish and we challenge associations and the public to come and experience this!"
At the end of October, CGN will announce the dates and events / places where the Challenges will be held. Associations can already sign up for the mailing list in order to be kept informed of these Challenges. Send an email to info@colorguard.org and indicate which challenge or challenges you are interested in as an association.
Tip, deel dit bericht!
CGN United
Cantonlaan 17
3742 CH Baarn
info@colorguard.org
CGN Shop
Member of the KNMO
Drum corps, colleges, high schools, and winter guards from around the globe choose DSI products over any other marching band accessories and color guard equipment. Our exceptional quality and service ensure that you will have the best products in the fastest time so you can perform your best.
Evans Drumheads has been in the music industry for more than 40 years, and those six words best describe the history and vision of the company. Decades ago, Evans was the pioneer of drumhead manufacturing and design. Today, we are the innovators.
The Promark company was founded in 1957 by Herb Brochstein, a professional drummer and drum shop owner. Promark has always been a family business and so continues with the 2011 purchase by D'Addario & Company from Herb's son Maury. The offices and factory remain in Houston, Texas; manufacturing hickory, maple and Japanese Shira Kashi™ Oak (Promark was the first American drumstick company to successfully market sustainable Japanese Oak) drumsticks in its modern 90,000 square foot facility.
Pyware
Pyware 3D is used by marching ensembles across the world to develop their routines. Since 1982, Pyware has been the recognized leader in drill design software.
Available in 3 editions, Pyware 3D is the solution for ensembles of any size or skill.
Stanbury
After over 100 years of producing uniforms for the marching arts, our fire still burns bright. It is our commitment to you to continue the legacy of our founder William Stanbury. His philosophy to provide exceptional customer service, impeccable attention to detail and quality products that stand the test of time will continue to guide us forward.
Guard Equipment
DeMoulin Bros. and Co. is the oldest and largest manufacturer of music performance group apparel in the world. We manufacture an endless range of uniforms for Marching Bands, Concert Bands, Color Guard, Choir and many other music related performance groups. The products offered include: custom and in-stock marching band uniforms, formal wear for men and women, guard uniforms and the largest selection of accessory products found anywhere. By combining our experience and craftsmanship in garment manufacturing with the most current design elements and quality standards, DeMoulin Bros. and Co. continues to lead the industry in all fields.
Let op, je verlaat de website
Het inschrijven voor het nieuwe seizoen gaat via ons nieuwe Intranet. Klik op onderstaande link om naar deze pagina te gaan.
https://intranet.cgnunited.nl/register
Enter your details below and the e-mail address of the person you want to share this page with.
Naam kennis
E-mailadres kennis
Note: you will leave the website
http://videovault.eu/cgn/index.php


You will stay in university dormitories in single-occupancy rooms, which are furnished and equipped with a sink. There are showers, toilets and kitchens on each floor shared by 8 persons. There is a WiFi area by the cafeteria and in your room.
A welcome social event at a local restaurant in the beginning of the program will provide students with an opportunity to meet the instructor and each other. During field trips to the non-governmental organizations (NGOs), lunch will be provided. Most other meals are not included in the price of the program. To save money, students may eat in the dining facility located in the dormitory complex where breakfast, lunch and dinner are served or you can shop at local markets and use shared kitchen area of the accomodations. Students may also choose to visit nearby restaurants to enjoy regional Genevois and Swiss specialties.
Geneva, Switzerland, represents a perfect place to study global inequality, given the prevalence of intergovernmental organizations and non-governmental organizations that seek to address these issues. You will visit several of these international organizations, the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), the World Health Organization (WHO), the International Institute for Sustainable Development (IISD), the United Nations Children's Fund (UNICEF), and the World Trade Organization (WTO). These organizations will provide different perspectives on the problems that developing countries face as well as propose practical solutions.
According to the following Lonely Planet description, Geneva is a super sleek, slick and cosmopolitan city (and one of Europe's priciest). Its people chatter in every language under the sun and it's constantly thought of as the Swiss capital—which it isn't. This gem of a city superbly strung around the sparkling shores of Europe's largest Alpine lake is, in fact, only Switzerland's third-largest city. Yet the whole world is here: the UN, International Red Cross, International Labour Organization, World Health Organization. You name it, they're in Geneva; 200-odd top-dog governmental and non-governmental international organizations meting out world affairs with astonishing precision and authority.
Language Spoken: Switzerland has four national languages: German, French, Italian and Rumantsch, as well as dialect forms of each.
Prepare for fluctuating weather conditions. Some days will be hot, in the range of 90˚F; others will be rainy and much cooler. You are encouraged to monitor the weather in the weeks leading up to the program online.


English folk quintet Fanfarlo will drop their as-yet-untitled second record soon, and judging by early hints, the band have adopted a compelling new direction in the two years since we've heard from them.
"Deconstruction" is our second listen to new material – it's a little more electro-influenced than we're used to, built on wavering synth loops and arpeggios and toe-tapping drum machine that build up into a bass-driven, dancy little number. It's new, sure, but it's no less fun – the band's boy-girl group vocals are irresistible, and that that synth riff is super-catchy. Take a listen and enjoy.
MP3 / Video: Fanfarlo – "Replicate"
New Justice - "Newlands" & "Cannon"


text:
Home / News / The US Secretary of State has revealed the peculiar reason for his Nigeria visit
The US Secretary of State has revealed the peculiar reason for his Nigeria visit
10:12:00 am News
Tillerson has announced a $533 million aid package to fight famine in East Africa
Secretary of State Rex Tillerson spoke about the USrelationship with Africa before heading on a trip to the continent (AFP)
US Secretary of State Rex Tillerson is expected in Africa from March 7 on a 5 nation tour that is not capturing the imagination of Africans.
Most analysts have criticised the Trump administration for the lack of a clear agenda for its partnership with Africa and see the Tillerson trip as a placatory move by him after his controversial comments about certain African countries.
At a speech at the George Mason University before his departure, Secretary Tillerson revealed the real reasons behind his choice of Kenya, Ethiopia, Djibouti, Nigeria and Chad.
Well, it's – obviously, I wished I had two or three weeks, because there are many African nations that are important to us that I think a visit would be beneficial to the relationship. But we picked these five. We're going to Ethiopia. Ethiopia is the home of the African Union; that's where it is located, their headquarters. Ethiopia also a very longstanding, important partner with the U.S. We have a relationship with Ethiopia that spans more than a century now.
Then we're going to stop in on Djibouti, the Horn of Africa. Djibouti is that country that sticks out right into the narrow straits between Yemen, leading into the Red Sea up to the Suez Canal, a very critical trading route for the world's economy and a critical partner in securing that trading route.
Then we're going to Kenya, a large, thriving country. It's really where PEPFAR has seen its greatest success, and it's also been an incubator for how we expanded PEPFAR over the years. So we have a longstanding partnership with Kenya.
Then we're going to Chad – N'Djamena, Chad – because Chad contributes the largest fighting force to the G5 Sahel and they have been crucial to our fight against terrorism in the Sahel and the success of what they're doing.
And then finally to Nigeria, the most populous nation on the African continent. Tremendous natural resources and tremendous capabilities to succeed as a nation. They're still on their journey to succeed, and they are going to be critical to not just the relationship the U.S. has with Africa, but Nigeria is going to be critical to how Africa succeeds as a continent. And I spoke about the need to integrate African economies more, trade more with the neighbors. I think too often the U.S. in its approach – it's all been about trading across the transatlantic corridor. We really need to promote African intercontinental trade. That's actually going to open more opportunities for American investment and participation. So Nigeria, big country, very important country to the future of the continent.
And there – I'd love – there are others I'd love to go to. I've traveled to North Africa, as I'm sure you'd be aware, but a lot of important countries in East Africa, South Africa, clearly, so obviously this won't be my last trip. I'll have to go back.


text:
Home » Marketing mix articles » Marketing mix of Jaguar
Marketing mix of Jaguar
March 8, 2019 By Hitesh Bhasin Tagged With: Marketing mix articles
Jaguar is a renowned car manufacturer, known for its high-tech and suave car designs, and enjoys a worldwide acknowledgement for the quality of its cars. The Jaguar cars division is part of an overall brand, the Jaguar Land Rover, which is a British based multinational car manufacturer.
The company has been used on many occasions in the past to design and manufacture vehicles for the Queen, the Prime Minister, and many high officials and celebrities in the United Kingdom. In India too, you will find the car being bought by the A+ class segment. Jaguar cars today are designed in Coventry, England, and manufactured at plants in Warwickshire and Birmingham. The car brand has a lot of history, and is seen as prestigious by the public in Great Britain as well as other parts of the globe.
In 1989, the company changed hands as it was bought by Ford, who then passed it on as part of a package deal to Indian car maker Tata Motors in 2008. Although not owned by a British company, the design and manufacture of this brand continues to be in England. In India, Jaguar cars are available through dealerships, in diesel and petrol models, including the Jaguar XF, XK XJ and the F type as well.
Product in the marketing mix of Jaguar
The Jaguar car brand is synonymous with smooth, fast and luxurious vehicles. Unlike the BMW, which has low cost models, Jaguar is premium throughout and does not believe in approaching the masses at all. It is just for the classes. Jaguar is favoured by people who are in the position to spend a lot on their vehicles. Please remember that the mileage of these vehicles is very low, sometimes going just a few miles for a liter of petrol / diesel. Thus, the maintenance and running of the car also is costly. Jaguar made its name in the 1940s and 50s by creating a chain of sports vehicles which caught the eye. These cars were successful commercially and on the track in motor sports, which went on to become an integral part of the sport for decades.
Also Read Marketing Mix of DELL
Product of Jaguar
High tech products
Restricted to the classes
Positioning and exclusivity of the product is most important to gain customers
Place in the marketing mix of Jaguar
Jaguar's land rover started entering India in 2009 and by the end of 2014 it had 20 dealerships in the country. The numbers – 4 distributors in a year, speaks volumes of the exclusivity of Jaguar. The Jaguar cars are not for everyone. Thus, there is no massive distribution in place for the same. Jaguar has showrooms and dealer outlets only in the very very premium urban areas of India, or even across the world. Jaguar's power lies in its promotions and product quality, rather then depending on the distribution.
The company continues to grow in Asian countries, whilst also delivering strong performances in its 'home' markets. As these smaller markets are growing, the company is adjusting and accordingly opening more showrooms and dealerships, thereby increasing its reach to the top class people who can actually afford a Jaguar. However, like other top end brands which deliver high quality products at somewhat of an affordable price, Jaguar cars are financially restricting for many people, and therefore seen as true status symbols, a symbol of sheer success.
Place / Distribution of Jaguar
Selective Distribution
Maintains exclusivity
Promotions in the marketing mix of Jaguar
Since releasing their sports cars in the 40s and 50s, Jaguar has been associated with elegance and quality, and is the car of choice for many celebrities and prime ministers around the world. The clientele of the car brand speaks a lot of the quality of the cars. The company indulges in some selected advertising on television, but uses most of its advertising budget on billboards and magazines.
Though, when it does come out with TVC's (mainly for the introduction of a new product), it comes out with style. The TVC's are smooth yet powerful, and they put across the message that the Jaguar is still prowling around in the market, ready for the customers who can actually purchase it. Sponsorship deals allow the company to increase its brand recognition in growing markets, and participation in various car shows around the world gives the company a chance to show off its very latest vehicles.
Also Read Marketing mix of Baskin Robbins - Baskin Robbins marketing mix
The company roped in handsome and stylish football player David Beckham as it brand ambassador this year. He will be the marketing face for Jaguar cars to be launched in coming months in China as well as the world.
Promotions of Jaguar
100% ATL promotions
All promotions have premium targeting.
Price in the marketing mix of Jaguar
Be rest assured, if you think of how much diesel or petrol will cost when you buy this car, then this car is not for you. Jaguar purely uses a super premium pricing. The preserve of the rich or famous, Jaguar cars can be very expensive. The starting price of the XF is about 30,000 GBP, while the XK can cost nearly 60,000 GBP. These prices can have thousands added on, depending on the customer's desires.
In India, the Jaguar XF is around 48, 60,000 (INR), and can rise to as much as 1,88, 00, 000 (INR) for a convertible XK. Jaguar provides dealerships which can offer customers loans or repayment schemes. The running costs and maintenance of a Jaguar may be more expensive compared to other car brands. Nevertheless, it is worth the luxurious features the car comes with. However, it does not fit everybody's budget.
All cars are still currently built in the United Kingdom, and shipped out to dealerships and customers from there. Although the transportation is a major cost, most costly is the technology that goes in the product. The exclusivity of the car also contributes to the rise in prices, because Jaguar has to survive while selling very less units as compared to other brands.
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Bart Arsenault says
Does Jaguar's business plan of increasing units sold to over 200,000 in the luxury car sector and introduction of various models including an SUV change your view of Jaguar as only for the wealthy and rich?
Todd Deffenbaugh says
I'd like to know if Jaguar still endorses Colin Kaepernick. If so, I'd strongly ask you to consider ending Jaguar's association with him immediately. His statements over the weekend were ULTRA offensive to every man and woman who's served in the military. I'll never consider purchasing a product that this pathetic individual endorses.
Kelvin Black says
Jaguar is considered as one of the best auto brands and I don't think it needs to do much more for its marketing. When the product is good, people will definitely go for that rather making more research on that. I like the idea of marketing strategy that Jaguar is following. It is pretty good. I'm a Jaguar user and I can say how the car is. We can trust on it for a long time luxuros ride, as per my Jaguar specialist. Thanks Mr. Bhasin for all these info. It was great to go through your post.
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Contemporánea was special ensemble-in-residence at Kulturmødet 2014, performed six concerts within 48 hours, curator: Ejnar Kanding (for ten concerts at the platform for Music of today).
A project that was built around a collaboration with electronica composer Frank Bretschneider (DE). In March 2007 Contemporánea presented a remix Bretshneider did of the orchestral work Vergeuder der Schmerzen (1995) with the title: Difficult Shapes & Passive Rhythms. In 2008 the Wundergrund festival commissioned a piece for Contemporánea as a co-composition by Bretschneider and Kanding, the 38 minutes composition was performed in November 2008 in Copenhagen and Berlin by Contemporánea. In 2011 Bretschneider and Kanding composed the percussion solo piece A Different Kind of Tension in close collaboration with percussionist David Hildebrandt. These three works, that shows the unique collaboration between two different musical traditions, was released at a concert Lille VEGA in Copenhagen February 28, 2012 with the Berlin based video artist Lillevan performing live video.
The main focus for this three year project was exploration of interaction between live music performance and live performed video. The video artist was Anders Elberling with whom Contemporánea had worked with on a regular basis since 2002. Thanks to Bikubenfonden for a three year working grant. This project was the basis for important activities the coming years such as the CD releases of Auxiliary Blue, Flug der Farben and Echoes of Dreamless Fragments and the recording of Time & the Bell by Ivar Frounberg at the CD Rhytmical Séance.
These years Contemporánea was invited to perform at several important international festivals in ICMC 2001, Cuba; Ultima 2001, Oslo; ISCM 2002, Hong Kong; Magma 2002, Berlin; Up North 2002, Dublin; Up North 2003 (Copenhagen & Malmö) and Interactive performance series 2003, New York City.
During 1997-98 Contemporánea toured several times in South American countries, Colombia, Venezuela, Argentina, Chile and Bolivia. We had the pleasure to perform a lot of new Danish pieces and to supervise a lot of composers and musicians through workshops at universities and conservatories. We invited Martin Moore (Buenos Aires) in 1999 to Denmark performing concerts with us and in 2001 we invited Rodolfo Acosta (Bogota) as guest composer for out project City of the Shadows. We regard this audio-visual project as a culmination of the South American years of Contemporánea.
"Happy in Dorado City" is a music theater performance (1998-99) by Wolfgang Häntsch, in which the motto was: "The human existential bankruptcy in the shadow of the metropolis". Performanes in Switzerland (1998) and in Germany (1999). Three works by Ejnar Kanding grew out of this project: Ciudad de las Sombras (bass clarinet), Metrópoli (percussion) and Sepilcro Movible (bass clarinet & percussion).
A music theater performance by Martin Tulinius with music by Fuzzy: Ferrocarril de la Noche (1998), Berio: Sequenza III (1966), Gubaidulina: Ein Engel (1994), Frounberg: Drømmespor (1997) and Xenakis: Psappha (1975).
A series of five concerts where an entire program is dedicated to a single composer. The framework around the concerts explored the idea of performing contemporary music in a cafe/bar venue under the motto: a cup of beer or a glass of wine. Jens Hørsving, Ejnar Kanding, Ivar Frounberg, Anders Brødsgaard was portrayed, the third one in the series were dedicated to portray the ensemble with five solo pieces.
Concerts in Colombia (Bogota and Cali), Venezuela, Chile, Argentina and Bolivia and workshops with composers and instrumentalists in Universidad Javeriana, Universidad de los Andes, Bolivian National Conservatory, Universidad Simón Bolívar.


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This entry was posted in Home and tagged Handyman Manhattan, Handyman NYC, Handyman Upper East side, Handyman Upper West Side on May 29, 2018 by Ben Verdi.
While the year is approaching towards its mid, there are good chances that you have started sifting through 2018 resolutions. It might be fine with your personal life but when as far as reinventing your living space is concerned, you need to be little more particular.
As per the report released by Trulia in December, only 6 % of homeowners plan to sell their home in 2018. Also 16% say plan to sell their home in the next two years. Simply, renovations are likely being on the rise in the coming year.
So,whether you are taking up renovation yourself or you choosing an expert handyman in NYC for the same, you need to know what to avoid.
The industrial trend arrived years back when former industrial buildings were renovated into loft-style living spaces. From ductwork, steel finishes, exposed pipes, to warehouse-style lighting, it has been loved for that really cool effect. But now the trend must go! Welcome the mixture of styles and leave it to the lofts. You can implement industrial style in small doses.
These have been a top choice for few years now. From backsplashes to laundry room, cement tiles have marked their presence everywhere. And now this must be stopped! Certainly, these look great, but you cannot overlook the fact that longevity is an issue. Secondly, the most common patterns are too bold, too graphic, and too bright, which don't fit well into short spaces.
Pro tip: Even if you still want to go for this trend, prefer well-crafted design with appropriate pattern and color to make it a good choice for years to come.
Homes with neutral palettes have been admired for varying reasons. But now it is time to welcome richer color schemes. People are fed up of grays, whites, and similar shades. You can have them in the background but ensure to incorporate bold colors in the forefront. So even if you have recently invested in neutral hues, you can prefer an easy change.
This is another older style, a simple zigzag pattern which comes in two colors, that has been inescapable for the past few seasons. 2017 has seen the best version of the pattern in everything. From lampshades to backsplashes, it was omnipresent. However, you cannot ignore the fact that these don't look good in adult living spaces.
This fanciful and exotic trend has made you feel like you are on a vacation. Regardless of this, the style tends to burn out very fast. Having pineapple, the flamingo, or the philodendron leaf, is not recommended. Such fun aesthetic and bohemian-styled interiors cater to be loud patterns, which seems to be good for a season. If you are in a tropical climate, you will gradually feel out of place after summer has passed.
Going green is the theme. But cactus decor was the win-win option for last year. In 2018, say no to spiky succulents in the corners of our living rooms. Being absolutely overdone, these look too edgy. It is hood to appreciate the desert beauty, but kitschy cactus prints aren't recommended. You can leave the prickly plants to your yard space.
Lastly, you can sit together with your handyman to discuss on what things are good for your space. Being in the industry for years, they are well-versed with the latest trends and practices.
Need an expert to help? Let us take the burden off your shoulders.
This entry was posted in Home and tagged Handyman Manhattan, Handyman NYC, Handyman Upper East side, Handyman Upper West Side on May 3, 2018 by Ben Verdi.
Summer vacations are one of the most awaited times. Whether young or old, everyone in the family loves to pack their stuff and spend some time off their home. And if you have made any such plans, that's really great!
No, it's not just about shopping and packing necessary stuff which you will need on your vacation. It is more important- your home's security. So, have you planned something for the same?
In case, you missed on this part, here are some crucial steps to consider right away, to make sure your home and belongings remain just as you left them.
Want a most reliable solution? Go for stand-alone security cameras. The best part is that you will get an app provided by the camera company which can be used on your smartphone, tablet, or laptop. You can view your house interior or exterior, as per your need. And the footage can be viewed in real-time or if required, past footage can be pulled up from an archive.
Do you know around 60% of convicted burglars have stated that the presence of an alarm make them pass on a house and move onto another one? So, if you haven't installed one, don't delay. You can consult a professional and get the job done at the earliest.
For those who are into habit of keeping extra or spare keys of their property need to know that it can be a source for a thief. Hence, the best option is to remove the keys as soon as possible. You can give it to a trusted neighbor or friend. Or you can also plan to install a keyless electronic entry system.
It might appear to be more of fun to announce your upcoming trip to Bali on Facebook. But don't you think that such an announcement can let the would-be thieves know about your absence. So, avoid public or semi-public announcements about your vacation plan. You can tell your friends in person, if required.
Don't let your house be in dark. Actually, a dark place serves to be an open invitation for the robbers. Hence, for those hours when homes are normally active, i.e. 6 pm to 10 pm, set a timer for lights. Simply, you can plug a couple of floor lamps into easily available programmed timers. These are inexpensive and give the impression of human activity during those hours.
Having no car in your parking gives away the message that no one is home. So, why not leave a car in your driveway. In case, you are driving your car wherever you are going, you can ask a neighbor or friend to park theirs in your driveway, while you are gone.
In every house, there are some highly important valuables and these have to be secured while you are away from home. When you are out on vacation, burglars have the luxury of time to find valuables and steal them away from poorly secured places like lockboxes. So, the solution in investing a home safe that bolts to the floor.
This was the ultimate vacation preparation checklist ensuring safety of your house. So, if you want your vacation to be relaxing and worry-free, it becomes vital to prepare your home before you leave. No matter where you go this holiday season, follow these to keep your apartment safe and sound.
Minutes after i called them these guys where here with all their equipment. Fast, professional and friendly service .


text:
 addresses = [
 "33 N LaSalle St, Chicago, IL 60602",
 "100 W Grand Ave, Chicago, IL 60654",
 "238 E Monroe St, Chicago, IL 60601",
 "70 E 18th St, Chicago, IL 60616",
 "5046 S Greenwood Avenue, Chicago, IL 60615",
 "1060 W Addison St, Chicago, IL 60613",
 "201 E Randolph St, Chicago, IL 60602",
 "800 S Halsted St, Chicago, IL 60607",
 "5801 S Ellis Ave, Chicago, IL 60637",
 "4822 N Broadway St, Chicago, IL 60640",
 "1616 N Wells St, Chicago, IL 60614",
 "3613 S Prairie Ave, Chicago, IL 60653",
 "2433 N Lincoln Ave, Chicago, IL 60614",
 "917 E 103rd St, Chicago, IL 60628",
 "50 W Washington St, Chicago, IL 60602",
 "300 N Central Park Ave, Chicago, IL 60624",
 "220 E Chicago Ave, Chicago, IL 60611",
 "5700 S Lake Shore Dr, Chicago, IL 60637",
 "6224 S Wabash Ave, Chicago, IL 60637",
 "157 W Grand Ave, Chicago, IL 60654",
 "3325 N Southport Ave, Chicago, IL 60657",
 "5211 N Damen Ave, Chicago, IL 60625",
 "100 Linden Ave, Wilmette, IL 60091"]

 long_rand = Random.new(1234)
 lat_rand = Random.new(5678)
 require 'date'

 20.times do
   User.create(name: Faker::Name.name, email: Faker::Internet.email, bio: Faker::Lorem.paragraph(8), image_url: Faker::Avatar.image, facebook_id: "123456789", points: rand(0..90), last_location: "this is a location")
 end

 counter = 0
 20.times do
   Event.create(name: Faker::Lorem.word, description: Faker::Lorem.paragraph(4), creator_id: rand(1..20), date: Time.now + (60*60*24*7), address: addresses[counter], activity_id: rand(1..12), max_participants: rand(1..50))
   counter += 1
 end

Category.create(name: "Games")
Category.create(name: "Sports")
Category.create(name: "Health & Fitness")
Category.create(name: "Food & Drink")
Category.create(name: "Educational")
Category.create(name: "Politics")
Category.create(name: "Outdoors")
Category.create(name: "Family")
Category.create(name: "Entertainment & Music")
Category.create(name: "Technology")
Category.create(name: "Pets & Animals")

Activity.create(name: "Go Bowling")
ActivityCategory.create(activity_id: 1, category_id: 1)
ActivityCategory.create(activity_id: 1, category_id: 2)
Activity.create(name: "Play Board Games")
ActivityCategory.create(activity_id: 2, category_id: 1)
ActivityCategory.create(activity_id: 2, category_id: 8)
Activity.create(name: "Live Action Role Play")
ActivityCategory.create(activity_id: 3, category_id: 1)

Activity.create(name: "Play Soccer")
ActivityCategory.create(activity_id: 4, category_id: 2)
ActivityCategory.create(activity_id: 4, category_id: 1)
ActivityCategory.create(activity_id: 4, category_id: 7)
Activity.create(name: "Play Basketball")
ActivityCategory.create(activity_id: 5, category_id: 2)
ActivityCategory.create(activity_id: 5, category_id: 1)
Activity.create(name: "Play Baseball")
ActivityCategory.create(activity_id: 6, category_id: 2)
ActivityCategory.create(activity_id: 6, category_id: 1)
ActivityCategory.create(activity_id: 6, category_id: 7)
Activity.create(name: "Play Frisbee")
ActivityCategory.create(activity_id: 7, category_id: 2)
ActivityCategory.create(activity_id: 7, category_id: 1)
ActivityCategory.create(activity_id: 7, category_id: 7)
Activity.create(name: "Play Tennis")
ActivityCategory.create(activity_id: 8, category_id: 2)
ActivityCategory.create(activity_id: 8, category_id: 1)
Activity.create(name: "Rock-Climbing")
ActivityCategory.create(activity_id: 9, category_id: 2)
ActivityCategory.create(activity_id: 9, category_id: 7)
Activity.create(name: "Watch Sports on TV")
ActivityCategory.create(activity_id: 10, category_id: 2)

Activity.create(name: "Yoga")
ActivityCategory.create(activity_id: 11, category_id: 3)
Activity.create(name: "Spa")
ActivityCategory.create(activity_id: 12, category_id: 3)
Activity.create(name: "Make Smoothies")
ActivityCategory.create(activity_id: 13, category_id: 3)

Activity.create(name: "Happy Hour")
ActivityCategory.create(activity_id: 14, category_id: 4)
Activity.create(name: "BBQ")
ActivityCategory.create(activity_id: 15, category_id: 4)
ActivityCategory.create(activity_id: 15, category_id: 7)
Activity.create(name: "Thai food")
ActivityCategory.create(activity_id: 16, category_id: 4)
Activity.create(name: "Chinese food")
ActivityCategory.create(activity_id: 17, category_id: 4)
Activity.create(name: "American food")
ActivityCategory.create(activity_id: 18, category_id: 4)

Activity.create(name: "Museum")
ActivityCategory.create(activity_id: 19, category_id: 5)
ActivityCategory.create(activity_id: 19, category_id: 8)
Activity.create(name: "Go to a Lecture")
ActivityCategory.create(activity_id: 20, category_id: 5)
Activity.create(name: "Take a Class")
ActivityCategory.create(activity_id: 21, category_id: 5)

Activity.create(name: "Rally")
ActivityCategory.create(activity_id: 22, category_id: 6)
Activity.create(name: "Discussion")
ActivityCategory.create(activity_id: 23, category_id: 6)
Activity.create(name: "Watch a Political Movie")
ActivityCategory.create(activity_id: 24, category_id: 6)

Activity.create(name: "Hiking")
ActivityCategory.create(activity_id: 25, category_id: 7)
Activity.create(name: "Camping")
ActivityCategory.create(activity_id: 26, category_id: 7)
Activity.create(name: "Spelunking")
ActivityCategory.create(activity_id: 27, category_id: 7)
Activity.create(name: "Picnic")
ActivityCategory.create(activity_id: 28, category_id: 7)
ActivityCategory.create(activity_id: 28, category_id: 8)

Activity.create(name: "Go to the Zoo")
ActivityCategory.create(activity_id: 29, category_id: 8)
ActivityCategory.create(activity_id: 29, category_id: 7)
Activity.create(name: "Go to a Playground")
ActivityCategory.create(activity_id: 30, category_id: 8)
ActivityCategory.create(activity_id: 30, category_id: 7)
Activity.create(name: "Go to a Kid Moie")
ActivityCategory.create(activity_id: 31, category_id: 8)

Activity.create(name: "Concert")
ActivityCategory.create(activity_id: 32, category_id: 9)
Activity.create(name: "Opera")
ActivityCategory.create(activity_id: 33, category_id: 9)
Activity.create(name: "See a Movie")
ActivityCategory.create(activity_id: 34, category_id: 9)
Activity.create(name: "See a Play")
ActivityCategory.create(activity_id: 35, category_id: 9)

Activity.create(name: "Hackathon")
ActivityCategory.create(activity_id: 36, category_id: 10)
Activity.create(name: "Tour DBC")
ActivityCategory.create(activity_id: 37, category_id: 10)
Activity.create(name: "Coder Meetup")
ActivityCategory.create(activity_id: 38, category_id: 10)

Activity.create(name: "Dog Park Meetup")
ActivityCategory.create(activity_id: 39, category_id: 11)
ActivityCategory.create(activity_id: 39, category_id: 7)
Activity.create(name: "Kittens!")
ActivityCategory.create(activity_id: 40, category_id: 11)
Activity.create(name: "Bird-watching")
ActivityCategory.create(activity_id: 41, category_id: 11)
ActivityCategory.create(activity_id: 41, category_id: 7)

 20.times do
   UsersEvent.create(user_id: rand(1..20), event_id: rand(1..20))
   Comment.create(user_id: rand(1..20), event_id: rand(1..20), content: Faker::Lorem.paragraph(2))
   UsersActivity.create(user_id: rand(1..20), activity_id: rand(1..40))
   # UsersCategory.create(user_id: rand(1..20), category_id: rand(1..10))
 end

redpajama_set_name: RedPajamaGithub


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…the composers at the heart of the New York-based Bang on a Can Collective — Julia Wolfe, Michael Gordon, and David Lang — have sustained what may be the most convivial vanguard in modern musical history.
part of 'Three Generations' curated by Steve Reich.
After moving to New York City in the mid-1980s Gordon, Lang, and Wolfe saw both the polarized music world of New York (the so-called "Uptown" and "Downtown" scenes) and the lack of options for young composers to present their works in existing venues as a significant challenge to solve.
In order to create a space for composers to experiment without being judged or forced to align with any certain group, Gordon, Lang, and Wolfe organized the first Bang on a Can Marathon in May 1987. From that first marathon their collaboration has grown to include a non-profit organization (Bang on a Can), a touring ensemble (the Bang on a Can All-Stars), a record label (Cantaloupe Music), a publishing company (Red Poppy Music), a summer music institute at Mass MoCA, and so many other smaller projects and collaborative efforts — including several works they have written together: The Carbon Copy Building, lost objects, Shelter, Water, singing in the dead of night, and their upcoming project for the Bang on a Can All-Stars, Roadtrip.
Over the decades, Gordon, Lang, and Wolfe have had a tangible affect on a diverse group of artists all over the world, both as teachers and by the example of their revolutionary approach to artistic compatriotism. Through their growing web of students, followers, and fans, there are few parts of the contemporary classical music scene that are untouched by their influence.
Recently, Michael Gordon has delved further into his idiomatic and hypnotic writing for single-instrument ensembles with Amplified for four electric guitars, which premiered in Dublin last spring and in New York at BAM last fall. Last summer, Gordon also had several important premieres on the west coast, including The Unchanging Sea for the Seattle Symphony and Natural History for the 100th anniversary of the National Parks Service, performed on the rim of Crater Lake in Oregon. This spring the Rotterdam Philharmonic gives the Dutch premiere of The Unchanging Sea, Ballett Zürich premieres a new arrangement for period orchestra of several Gordon-works for orchestra interspersed with Vivaldi, and The Crossing premieres a new evening-length work in June called The Anonymous Man.
David Lang has recently premiered two operas, anatomy theater and the loser, the latter of which he also directed. He continues to be a much sought-after collaborator in film, theater, and dance. simple song #3, from the score which he wrote for Paolo Sorrentino's film Youth, was nominated for both a Golden Globe and an Academy award, while the New York City Ballet recently premiered his work shade with choreography by Pontus Lidberg. Next year will also see the premiere of his symphony without a hero in Seattle, while his Pulitzer Prize-winning the little match girl passion continues to be performed all over the world.
Julia Wolfe won a MacArthur Fellowship last fall, in addition to a Pulitzer Prize the previous spring for Anthracite Fields, a haunting art-piece about the coal-mining industry. The work is currently on tour from coast to coast. Wolfe will continue to explore American labor history with her 2018 commission from the New York Philharmonic for a choral and orchestral piece about the women who worked in the garment industry. She will also lead workshops at the Philharmonic's three commissioning partners: Cal Performances at the University of California, Berkeley; the Krannert Center at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign; and the University Musical Society at the University of Michigan, Ann Arbor.