How are you? I hope you are well. Where are you living these days? Somewhere were the weather is more predictable I hope than English weather. Tell me, did you decide to actually cut your hair to the shoulder length, or grow it down to your waist? Did you dye your hair red or light brown? I'm still stuck with those dilemmas right here, right now.
Tell me about all the wonderful people we've met since this very moment of today. Tell me about all the places you've seen since you turned 21. Have you visited the streets of Paris? While you were there, did you visit the love lock bridge and place your own lock on there? Did you see the Parthenon in the land of Greece? Seen of the village of Santorini? Have you been inside the Colosseum in Roma? Ridden across the canals of Venice? Taken a stroll down Central Park in New York City? Seen Golden Gate Bridge in San Francisco at sunrise? Dipped your feet in the clear blue waters of Bali? Or seen the sunset in a foreign land with the friends you love?
Who is part of your life now? And who has become a distant memory? Do me a small favour. Humour me. Pick up the phone right now, and ring that person you've been meaning to speak to forever. Just do it. Tell them your favourite memory you have with them, and of them. Give them something to smile about for the rest of the day.
I'm a true believer in everything happens for a reason, even if we don't know it at the time. Maybe you finally know what the lessons and purpose of the hardships and struggles we've faced. Can you tell me what we truly learned from all these moments? What did we learn along the way? Where are you in life? Who have you become? And who do you want to be? What is your next adventure? What would you tell me if you had the chance?
If you had the chance, what would you tell or ask your future self? Where do you wish to be in 10 years time?
20 something blogger, with a passion for all things creative, fictional and life. In my head, I'm imagining dragons, fighting alongside Shadowhunters and roaming the streets of San Fransoyko.
© Creative In The Arts. Design by FCD.


The train CSMT Kolhapur - Nagpur Express starts journey from CHHATRAPATI station and stops at NAGPUR JN.(C. It's number is 11404 and it stops at 20 stations between the first and last stations. This train runs on Friday, Monday. If you've booked a ticket on CSMT Kolhapur - Nagpur Express, you can check your PNR status here. It travels 1026 kilometre to reach its final destination. CSMT Kolhapur - Nagpur Express (11404) departs from its first station at 12:50:00 and reaches its last station at 12:35:00. Also see the complete list of trains in India.


text:
Àïxa forma part del nom de molts personatges:

 Aisha bint Hussein, princesa jordana
 Àixa al-Mannubiyya, santa tunisiana del
 Àïxa bint Abd-al-Aziz, filla d'Egilona i esposa de Fortun ibn Qassi
 Àïxa bint Abi-Bakr, filla d'Abu-Bakr as-Siddiq i esposa del profeta Muhàmmad

Notes

redpajama_set_name: RedPajamaWikipedia


text:
Home Films
Children's Day 2019 Special: 7 Animated Films And Shows On ZEE5 To Watch With Your Kids
Even though animated cartoon shows, films, etc are originally intended for kids, they have proven to be immensely popular amongst adults too.
Updated on Nov 11, 2019 14:30:02 IST | By Aayushi Sharma
1. Toonpur Ka Super Hero
Children's Day 2019 | Children's Day is celebrated every year in India on 14 November. Arguably, there is no other way to brighten up a kid's day than to show them an animated series or film. Of course, we believe several other tricks in the book would work their charm too, but the joy of watching animated characters remains unmatchable. In fact, the immense popularity of animated projects is also contributed by the likes of adults who enjoy watching them. Thus, we have compiled a list of seven animated films on ZEE5 that you can watch with your little ones on the occasion of Children's Day 2019.
Toonpur Ka Super Hero is a 2010 Hindi animated action-comedy film starring power couple Ajay Devgn and Kajol. Ajay plays Aditya Kumar, a famous film actor who plays a superhero on the screen but his cartoon-loving son calls him a 'fake hero' because a body double performs his stunts. Aditya gets a chance to show his son that he is a hero when he is kidnapped by the cartoon characters his son watches. Subscribe to ZEE5 now and watch the film below:
2. Hotel Transylvania
Hotel Transylvania is an animated horror-comedy flick. Count Dracula builds a resort in Transylvania, where human beings are not allowed. Trouble begins when a young Jonathan finds his way into the resort and mixes around with other Draculas. Count must try his best to keep his daughter from falling in love with Jonathan. Click here to watch the film.
3. Love U Ganesha
Animation perfectly combines mythology with fiction to intrigue the viewers. Love U Ganesha is about a boy Chintu, a fifth-grade student who doesn't want to work hard but achieve it all. He constantly complains to Lord Ganesha who eventually promises to help him. However, Lord Ganesha always guides Chintu in achieving his goals through intelligent hard work alone.
4. Krishna aur Kans
Krishna Aur Kans is a 2012 film featuring the voices of Manoj Bajpayee, Juhi Chawla, A.K. Hangal, Mukesh Khanna, Anupam Kher, and Om Puri. Krishna, a brave little boy escapes from the clutches of his uncle, Kans, who tries to kill him in every possible way. Kans deploys an army of demons who try to get rid of Krishna right from the moment of his birth. But Krishna each time defeats them and saves himself. What will Kans do to defeat Krishna?
5. GG Bond Monster Hero
GG Bond and Super Q eat students from High Expectation Primary School. Despite being extremely different, the two dream of becoming a superhero. One day, a real monster shows up, sending the fairyland into a panic…The world calls for a hero! Who will rise to the occasion? Watch GG Bond Monster Hero to find out!
6. Chacha Bhatija
Chacha Bhatija revolves around the detective duo of an uncle and nephew living in Funtooshnagar. Chacha and Bhatija are more like buddies and share a great rapport. While solving the top cases in town, the duo often comes across a series of comic & funny situations. The basic elements of the show are fun with a bit of action. Watch the episodes here:
7. Bal Hanuman
Bal Hanuman is a 2007 animated film based on the childhood of the Indian mythological character Hanuman from Ramayana. Hanuman was blessed with supreme intelligence, strength and divine powers. With his superpowers, he helped Lord Rama to defeat Ravana and rescue Sita.
Here's wishing every little one and the ones in all of us, a very Happy Children's Day!
Watch the latest episodes of Tujhse Hai Raabta, now streaming on ZEE5.
hindi film
Fyaar Or Pyaar - What Will Rumi Choose? Click To Watch 2018 Blockbuster Manmarziyaan On ZEE5 Now
Love, Sleep, Repeat Music Review: A Combo Of Peppy, Foot-Tapping Songs Celebrating Love
ITA Awards 2019: Kundali Bhagya, Dheeraj Dhoopar, Kubbra Sait, Yogesh Tripathi Win Big

redpajama_set_name: RedPajamaCommonCrawl


My name is Mandla Mthimkulu host of mmino ya mehleng on Saturdays & laidback sounds on Sundays both 12-3pm.I was born on the 12 March in Sebokeng, attended primary school at Emanzini Primary school in zone 3 and secondary at Thuto Tiro Comprehensive in zone 10 then furthermore attended at Vereeniging college in 2001 doing mechanical engineering.
I'm a husband and father of two, I'm the first born with 2 siblings (younger brothers)…I was born & raised in Sebokeng but currently I'm staying in lakeside Proper.
I joined Lekoa fm family following my passion & love for radio,I joined the team when it started to go on air on the 25 July 2014.
I would want my show to to have an impact by allowing the listeners to participate more on the show e.g give suggestions, request their songs and be guests on the show. by doing that, it will motivate them to recruit new listeners as well.
What I like about my job is that it brings creativity day by day,teaches me more about radio,connects me & listeners through airwaves.
My goal is to see myself growing in the industry and taking the station to the greater heights.


text:
It happened that the next game of Mortem et Gloriam was a rematch! Once again, I was to face the army of Muslim Indian Sultanate commanded by Paul. I fielded the exact same army as last time but Paul was experimenting with different units available for this faction. This time he increased the percentage of the cavalry and based his army around TuGs of Turkish Cavalry.
What is more, Paul included only TuGs in his force which allowed him to increase the break point from six to seven! As a result, I had to find a way to defeat an army that is more difficult to catch, has better shooting and would take more effort to break. Here are the details of the army Paul brought this time:
Indian Muslim Sultanate
As mentioned, I used exactly the same army list as last time and here are the details:
Early Seleucid
Unfortunately, this list turns out to be incorrect. It is because all TuGs of the Line Cavalry would need to be converted to Cataphracts. I have realized it only after this game. However, I decided to write the battle reports from both regardless. Mainly because I think both were really good battles for both of us and it would be a waste of a good material for some stories!
Pre-battle
This time I was the defender and I was not able to get to a more dense terrain during the pre-battle part of the game. As a result, we ended up on an empty battle field with a secured flank with a river only. This was still helpful as I could keep the camp a bit further away from the enemy and anchor one flank. It was still a challenging situation where I had to fight against a much more mobile foe with good shooters on an empty battle field.
Early Seleucids vs Muslim Indian Sultanate
I noticed that the TuGs of Archers are smaller though so I hope to get to these units fast and eliminate them because of two main reasons. First, they seemed to be the easiest to rout and second, every shooting unit less is better for my own army.
However, Paul was fully aware of that and kept his more fragile infantry further away. He also deployed three TuGs of Turkish cavalry in front of my Phalanx. As is very often the case in our battles, Paul is using such force to slow down my main battle line. It is also to inflict as much damage as possible before the clash of the infantry lines.
Once again, there was a strong contingent on my left flank. The flexibility of Turkish Cavalry would also lie in the fact they started the battle in skirmishing formation. It would allow them to race around the flank much easier and reform later to get ready for melee.
As in the previous battle, I deployed each TuG of the Phalanx in wider formation to limit the slowing effect of the incoming fire. I still kept the majority of the cavalry in the second line to be able to send it where it is needed the most. This time, however, I also placed Cretan Archers in between the TuGs of the phalangites to allow them to shoot at the incoming enemy cavalry. I hoped they would inflict some damage with their ranged attacks.
The general plan was to march across the plain and engage the enemy infantry as soon as possible. That would, of course, depend on the cards and the foe, in particular how effective the Turkish Cavalry would be with their bows. The central formation of the Phalanx would most likely need to turn towards the left anyway as the enemy infantry was not directly in front of them.
The forces on the left, in particular the flanking TuGs of cavalry and phalangites, would be hard pressed to hold against the overwhelming forces of the enemy. I thus planned to advance cautiously and postpone the fight as long as I could. It was to but time for the rest of the army and prevent the enemy from attacking the camp.
Deployment of the Armies
Indians - Turn 1
Turn 1 - Sequence of Actions
Defending the flank!
Both armies advanced mainly on their respective right flanks. The Turkish Cavalry raced across the empty plain to outflank the slower Seleucid phalangites, closely followed by the Elephants and the contingent of Mamluks.
Seleucids mirrored this manoeuvre by sending their own cavalry and phalangites along the river but have already encountered more Turkish cavalry sent to slow them down.
Cavalry gambit by the army of the Sultanate.
Seleucids - Turn 2
Cretan Archers prove their worth.
Seleucids were determined to get rid of the harassing enemy cavalry on their right flank and begun dealing with this problem by chasing one of the groups with their own horsemen. But it was the Cretan Archers who really proved their worth when in the show of marksmanship they shot down a very significant number of the enemy horsemen. That clearly unnerved the Turks, who quickly turned around and withdrew.
The rest of the army kept advancing while the contingents on the left started re-arranging the battle line to stop enemy horsemen from sneaking to the back field.
The game on manoeuvres intensifies.
The Phalanx starts taking damage from the enemy shooting.
Seleucids decided to charge the enemy archers on the right flank. It was supposed to be a quick fight that would put pressure on the nearby Turkish cavalry. Unfortunately, the stubborn Archers proved to be much more difficult foe and the Line Cavalry was now engaged in melee with their flank exposed.
The Turkish cavalry contingent on the opposite flank reformed to get ready to engage Seleucid horsemen facing them. However, the phalanx managed to re-arrange its formation too and at the moment no gaps in it were present to be exploited.
First fights on the Seleucid right flank.
Protect the flank!
Despite the initial drawback in the form of early loss of the cavalry unit on the right flank, Seleucids continued the fight as planned. First phalanx engaged enemy swordsmen and with the help of the Cretan Archers, started thinning down enemy formation. Tharcians raced to get ready to join the fight.
In the meantime, the units on the left and in the centre kept manoeuvring to keep the enemy in check and trying to maintain cohesion. But the enemy arrows kept raining and the phalanx in particular was losing men.
The main forces have not committed to melee yet.
Turn 5 - Sequence of Actions.
Seleucids attack through the centre to open the path to the enemy camp.
Seleucids commenced their attacks. First, Thracians' wild charge broke the fighting spirit of the enemy swordsmen. Next, the co-ordinated attack of the Companions and the Phalangites routed the unit of Archers and opened the path to the camp for the Seleucid elite cavalry.
Unfortunately for Seleucids, despite the efforts and bloody combat that erupted on the opposite flank, another unit of Line Cavalry perished. It looked like the Turkish horsemen had an openings to outflank Seleucids at last.
Seleucid battle line fragments.
Pikes vs Elephants!
With the battle line fragmented and more and more gaps appearing in the formation, Seleucids had to act quickly before it could be exploited by the enemy. Fortunately, Companions managed to sack the camp and once the news carried throughout the battle field, many Indian soldiers lost their will to fight and fled the battle.
Furthermore, one of the Phalanx units succeeded in driving off the Elephants all by itself, with no support at all. It was very much needed tactical victory as it now helped the nearby Cataphracts to challenge enemy horsemen and keep them away from further outflanking.
However, some of the Seleucid units were exposed to the flank attacks anyway and the foes were already preparing to charge.
Series of individual combats as battle lines mix.
The phalanx holds the line!
The battle lines mixed by now completely and it was down to the series of individual combats now to decide the fat of both armies. Many units were badly damaged and at the brink of destruction. It was now up to the resilience of each individual formation and its ability to hold the line a little bit longer.
Turkish cavalry had some good opportunities to charge exposed flanks of their enemies but it all turned badly instead. First, the Companions, despite the heavy losses, managed to inflict enough damage to completely dishearten their opponents and routed them. Even though they were themselves just a tiny bit away from breaking too.
Then the Phalangites prevailed and surprisingly did not suffer much damage from another flank attack. They reformed and got ready for the final push against wavering swordsmen. They were also being outflanked by the Thracians so the help was coming.
On the right flank another phalangites unit was winning against the enemy Archers but the final blow was struck elsewhere. In the fury of desperate combat, badly damaged phalangites on the centre left, managed to rout one more enemy unit before disintegrating due to exhaustion.
That was the last straw for the Indian army and it fled the battle field, not knowing how close it came to defeat their opponents.
The situation just before the final fight.
Turn-by-turn animation summary.
After-battle
Many thanks to Paul for yet another fantastic game! This one was far closer and ended up in 15:7 result. However, Companions were just one point of damage away from being routed and all phalanx TUGs sustained significant casualties. It was definitely a very bloody victory for Seleucids.
I must admit that only when creating maps I realized how fragmented and vulnerable the battle line of my army looked like. Especially in the second half of the battle. I am thus very glad I managed to keep the more mobile enemy from outflanking long enough for the pikes to engage and break through.
I wondered if there was any single turning point of the battle but I came to the conclusion that it was a chain reaction of effects that contributed to the overall result. It started with good performance of the Cretan Archers who killed two bases of the Turkish Cavalry. That helped to get into combat intact and faster. The Archers also helped to inflict more damage to the infantry and that resulted in routing them earlier.
It was a race against time as usual so I am glad Companions managed to break through and sack the camp before being charged from the flank too. It was extremely helpful because it resulted in routing one of the damaged cavalry units at the bottom of the battle field and removed one more base from the TuG that charged them soon after. I got lucky not to be routed by that flank charge and in return, I inflicted one more wound needed to break another unit.
Pikes defeating Elephants was also quite lucky as I managed to consistently roll wounds against them and it helped to have more bases to lose. While TuG of 3 bases of Elephants proved to be a bit fragile and sensitive to unlucky dice rolls.
I was also happy that I had units in place to win some more fights if this one did not go well. And to be honest, I did not expect the pikes to win, just to hold a bit longer. It could have been even closer end result but I had units in place to try and rout either Swordsmen or Archers. It would have been still very close call if the battle continued for another turn as Paul also had one of his cavalry units at the back of my phalanx on the right flank.
In terms of things to do better I am considering my two units of line cavalry on both flanks. Perhaps I overestimated the ability of the cavalry to rout a TuG of Archers on their own. Maybe it would have been better to simply protect the flank and stay away from the shooters for the time being, i.e. until Phalangites and Thracians defeated their opponents.
The same with the other unit. While it is always difficult to hold against the enemy shooters, that combat showed that things can escalate quickly. Even when sustaining casualties, I could keep the unit intact a bit longer.
All in all it was a great game for both of us. I also know I need to come up with another plan before we fight again as this battle was really close!
Posted by Swordmaster at 21:18
Labels: Early Seleucids, Mortem et Gloriam, Muslim Indian Sultanate
I like those reports
Swordmaster 27 December 2020 at 10:24
thefrenchjester 27 December 2020 at 08:22
happy end of the year for you!
thanks for this great report, so nice to read you again on MEG;
Thank you and you too Gilles! Yes, I am very happy I got some games at last. Hopefully there will be more in 2021. There will be one more report this year so stay tuned!
Game 151 - Forces of the Abyss - 2020/12/23


text:
Q: Pandas join or merge 2 data frames 1 having 1 record and other having multiple records I have 2 data frames
df1 =
 city.population  city.sys.population  cnt  cod  message  tmp
               0                    0   38  200   0.1642    1

df2=
  A                    B   C   D       E       tmp
  0                    0   38  200   0.1642    1
  0                    0   38  200   0.1642    1
  0                    0   38  200   0.1642    1
  0                    0   38  200   0.1642    1

I want to merge/join the two data frames on tmp and should get the result like
A                    B   C   D       E       tmp       population cnt cod
0                    0   38  200   0.1642    1         0          38  200
0                    0   38  200   0.1642    1         0          38  200
0                    0   38  200   0.1642    1         0          38  200
0                    0   38  200   0.1642    1         0          38  200

But I'm getting values for population, cnt and cod only for the first record. Is there any way to have the values in first record filled for all rows for population cnt and cod fields

A: You can join two data frame with append. Did you try it?
df1.append(df2)
df1.head()

Let me know if works.
For more look at the documentation
http://pandas.pydata.org/pandas-docs/version/0.15.2/merging.html

A: df3 = pd.merge(df2, df1, on='tmp', how='outer') should give you what you want. This is equivalent to a full outer join in SQL, if you are familiar with that terminology.
What this does is smush the two data frames df1 and df2 together so that the df3.tmp  column is equal to the union of the values in df1.tmp and df2.tmp (i.e. the list of values you would get if you did df1.tmp + df2.tmp. So any rows in df2 that have df2.tmp == 1 will get the info from df1 where df1.tmp == 1 This will work if you want to include all the data from both df1 and df2. This way, if you have a column in df1 with a value in 'tmp' that is NOT in df2, your new dataframe will have 'NaN' values for columns A,B,C,D,E, and the data from df1, but you don't lose any data in the merge.
eg if df1 =
pop  syspop    ct    cod     msg  tmp
0    0.0     0.0  30.0  200.0  0.1642  1.0
1  0.0     0.0   0.0    0.0  0.0000  3.0`

then df3=
    a    b     c      d       e  tmp  pop  syspop    ct    cod       msg
0  0.0  0.0  38.0  200.0  0.1642  1.0  0.0     0.0  30.0  200.0  0.1642
1  0.0  0.0  38.0  200.0  0.1642  1.0  0.0     0.0  30.0  200.0  0.1642
2  0.0  0.0  38.0  200.0  0.1642  1.0  0.0     0.0  30.0  200.0  0.1642
3  0.0  0.0  38.0  200.0  0.1642  1.0  0.0     0.0  30.0  200.0  0.1642
4  0.0  0.0   0.0    0.0  0.0000  2.0  NaN     NaN   NaN    NaN     NaN

If you want other combinations of df1 and df2 (for example, you don't care about any values that are in df1 that are not also in df2), you would change the 'how' argument. see the pandas docs here for more info:
http://pandas.pydata.org/pandas-docs/stable/merging.html#brief-primer-on-merge-methods-relational-algebra

redpajama_set_name: RedPajamaStackExchange


03. I have a serious shopping problem. I think I am a shareholder in Boots & H&M as I have been buying enough to be some form of Brand Partner.
04. One of my shopping purchases was this beautiful Crown & Glory headband that I saw on the stunning Lily Melrose. I cannot wait to wear this on holiday and nights out - love.
haha I have a very serious shopping problem too! the photo!


text:
Predictive and Prognostic Role of Metabolic Response in Patients With Stage III NSCLC Treated With Neoadjuvant Chemotherapy
Angelo Castello, Luca Toschi, Sabrina Rossi, Giovanna Finocchiaro, Fabio Grizzi, Emanuela Mazziotti, Dorina Qehajaj, Daoud Rahal, Egesta Lopci
Istituto Clinico Humanitas
INTRODUCTION: The purpose of this study was to assess the predictive and prognostic role of 18F-fluorodeoxyglucose (18F-FDG) positron emission tomography/computed tomography (PET/CT) in candidates with stage III non-small-cell lung cancer (NSCLC) to neoadjuvant chemotherapy.
PATIENTS AND METHODS: Sixty-six patients with stage III NSCLC treated with induction chemotherapy from March 2013 to December 2017 were retrospectively identified. Response assessment were evaluated according to the Response Evaluation Criteria in Solid Tumors (RECIST) 1.1 and European Organisation for Research and Treatment of Cancer (EORTC) criteria. 18F-FDG PET/CT metabolic parameters were analyzed as absolute values as well as percentage changes (Δ) between 2 consecutive scans, for primary tumor (T) and for regional lymph nodes (N). All clinical variables and metabolic parameters were compared with treatment response and correlated with progression-free survival (PFS) and overall survival (OS), based on a median follow-up of 9.4 months.
RESULTS: Post-induction therapy standardized uptake value (SUV)max_T, SUVmean_T, metabolic tumor volume (MTV_T), and total lesion glycolysis of the tumor (TLG_T) varied significantly between responders and non-responders (6.6 vs. 13.8; P = .001; 4.2 vs. 8.1; P < .001; 6 vs. 17.9; P = .002; and 24.1 vs. 136.3; P < .001, respectively). Likewise, percentage changes (Δ_T) were significantly different between the 2 groups (P < .001). Along with primary tumor, also post-SUVmax_N, post-SUVmean_N, and post-TLG_N (P = .024, P = .015, and P = .024, respectively), as well as all percentage changes (Δ_N) were different between responders and non-responders. RECIST 1.1 and EORTC response classifications were discordant in 27 patients (40.9%; κ = 0.265; P = .003). On multivariate analysis, post-TLG_N was an independent predictor for both PFS and OS, whereas RECIST 1.1 was a predictor only for OS.
CONCLUSIONS: Several metabolic parameters may differentiate responders from non-responders following neoadjuvant chemotherapy in stage III NSCLC. As compared with RECIST 1.1, EORTC seems to be more appropriate for evaluation therapeutic response. Finally, post-TLG_N has significant prognostic information.
Clinical Lung Cancer
https://doi.org/10.1016/j.cllc.2019.07.004
10.1016/j.cllc.2019.07.004
Fingerprint Dive into the research topics of 'Predictive and Prognostic Role of Metabolic Response in Patients With Stage III NSCLC Treated With Neoadjuvant Chemotherapy'. Together they form a unique fingerprint.
Non-Small Cell Lung Carcinoma Medicine & Life Sciences
Drug Therapy Medicine & Life Sciences
Positron Emission Tomography Computed Tomography Medicine & Life Sciences
Fluorodeoxyglucose F18 Medicine & Life Sciences
Progression-Free Survival Medicine & Life Sciences
Induction Chemotherapy Medicine & Life Sciences
Castello, A., Toschi, L., Rossi, S., Finocchiaro, G., Grizzi, F., Mazziotti, E., Qehajaj, D., Rahal, D., & Lopci, E. (2020). Predictive and Prognostic Role of Metabolic Response in Patients With Stage III NSCLC Treated With Neoadjuvant Chemotherapy. Clinical Lung Cancer, 21(1), 28-36. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.cllc.2019.07.004
Predictive and Prognostic Role of Metabolic Response in Patients With Stage III NSCLC Treated With Neoadjuvant Chemotherapy. / Castello, Angelo; Toschi, Luca; Rossi, Sabrina; Finocchiaro, Giovanna; Grizzi, Fabio; Mazziotti, Emanuela; Qehajaj, Dorina; Rahal, Daoud; Lopci, Egesta.
In: Clinical Lung Cancer, Vol. 21, No. 1, 01.2020, p. 28-36.
Castello, A, Toschi, L, Rossi, S, Finocchiaro, G, Grizzi, F, Mazziotti, E, Qehajaj, D, Rahal, D & Lopci, E 2020, 'Predictive and Prognostic Role of Metabolic Response in Patients With Stage III NSCLC Treated With Neoadjuvant Chemotherapy', Clinical Lung Cancer, vol. 21, no. 1, pp. 28-36. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.cllc.2019.07.004
Castello A, Toschi L, Rossi S, Finocchiaro G, Grizzi F, Mazziotti E et al. Predictive and Prognostic Role of Metabolic Response in Patients With Stage III NSCLC Treated With Neoadjuvant Chemotherapy. Clinical Lung Cancer. 2020 Jan;21(1):28-36. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.cllc.2019.07.004
Castello, Angelo ; Toschi, Luca ; Rossi, Sabrina ; Finocchiaro, Giovanna ; Grizzi, Fabio ; Mazziotti, Emanuela ; Qehajaj, Dorina ; Rahal, Daoud ; Lopci, Egesta. / Predictive and Prognostic Role of Metabolic Response in Patients With Stage III NSCLC Treated With Neoadjuvant Chemotherapy. In: Clinical Lung Cancer. 2020 ; Vol. 21, No. 1. pp. 28-36.
@article{f11c9f42a6e94f7aa29e839049c78795,
title = "Predictive and Prognostic Role of Metabolic Response in Patients With Stage III NSCLC Treated With Neoadjuvant Chemotherapy",
abstract = "INTRODUCTION: The purpose of this study was to assess the predictive and prognostic role of 18F-fluorodeoxyglucose (18F-FDG) positron emission tomography/computed tomography (PET/CT) in candidates with stage III non-small-cell lung cancer (NSCLC) to neoadjuvant chemotherapy.PATIENTS AND METHODS: Sixty-six patients with stage III NSCLC treated with induction chemotherapy from March 2013 to December 2017 were retrospectively identified. Response assessment were evaluated according to the Response Evaluation Criteria in Solid Tumors (RECIST) 1.1 and European Organisation for Research and Treatment of Cancer (EORTC) criteria. 18F-FDG PET/CT metabolic parameters were analyzed as absolute values as well as percentage changes (Δ) between 2 consecutive scans, for primary tumor (T) and for regional lymph nodes (N). All clinical variables and metabolic parameters were compared with treatment response and correlated with progression-free survival (PFS) and overall survival (OS), based on a median follow-up of 9.4 months.RESULTS: Post-induction therapy standardized uptake value (SUV)max_T, SUVmean_T, metabolic tumor volume (MTV_T), and total lesion glycolysis of the tumor (TLG_T) varied significantly between responders and non-responders (6.6 vs. 13.8; P = .001; 4.2 vs. 8.1; P < .001; 6 vs. 17.9; P = .002; and 24.1 vs. 136.3; P < .001, respectively). Likewise, percentage changes (Δ_T) were significantly different between the 2 groups (P < .001). Along with primary tumor, also post-SUVmax_N, post-SUVmean_N, and post-TLG_N (P = .024, P = .015, and P = .024, respectively), as well as all percentage changes (Δ_N) were different between responders and non-responders. RECIST 1.1 and EORTC response classifications were discordant in 27 patients (40.9%; κ = 0.265; P = .003). On multivariate analysis, post-TLG_N was an independent predictor for both PFS and OS, whereas RECIST 1.1 was a predictor only for OS.CONCLUSIONS: Several metabolic parameters may differentiate responders from non-responders following neoadjuvant chemotherapy in stage III NSCLC. As compared with RECIST 1.1, EORTC seems to be more appropriate for evaluation therapeutic response. Finally, post-TLG_N has significant prognostic information.",
author = "Angelo Castello and Luca Toschi and Sabrina Rossi and Giovanna Finocchiaro and Fabio Grizzi and Emanuela Mazziotti and Dorina Qehajaj and Daoud Rahal and Egesta Lopci",
note = "Copyright {\textcopyright} 2019 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.",
doi = "10.1016/j.cllc.2019.07.004",
journal = "Clinical Lung Cancer",
T1 - Predictive and Prognostic Role of Metabolic Response in Patients With Stage III NSCLC Treated With Neoadjuvant Chemotherapy
AU - Castello, Angelo
AU - Toschi, Luca
AU - Rossi, Sabrina
AU - Finocchiaro, Giovanna
AU - Grizzi, Fabio
AU - Mazziotti, Emanuela
AU - Qehajaj, Dorina
AU - Rahal, Daoud
AU - Lopci, Egesta
N1 - Copyright © 2019 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.
N2 - INTRODUCTION: The purpose of this study was to assess the predictive and prognostic role of 18F-fluorodeoxyglucose (18F-FDG) positron emission tomography/computed tomography (PET/CT) in candidates with stage III non-small-cell lung cancer (NSCLC) to neoadjuvant chemotherapy.PATIENTS AND METHODS: Sixty-six patients with stage III NSCLC treated with induction chemotherapy from March 2013 to December 2017 were retrospectively identified. Response assessment were evaluated according to the Response Evaluation Criteria in Solid Tumors (RECIST) 1.1 and European Organisation for Research and Treatment of Cancer (EORTC) criteria. 18F-FDG PET/CT metabolic parameters were analyzed as absolute values as well as percentage changes (Δ) between 2 consecutive scans, for primary tumor (T) and for regional lymph nodes (N). All clinical variables and metabolic parameters were compared with treatment response and correlated with progression-free survival (PFS) and overall survival (OS), based on a median follow-up of 9.4 months.RESULTS: Post-induction therapy standardized uptake value (SUV)max_T, SUVmean_T, metabolic tumor volume (MTV_T), and total lesion glycolysis of the tumor (TLG_T) varied significantly between responders and non-responders (6.6 vs. 13.8; P = .001; 4.2 vs. 8.1; P < .001; 6 vs. 17.9; P = .002; and 24.1 vs. 136.3; P < .001, respectively). Likewise, percentage changes (Δ_T) were significantly different between the 2 groups (P < .001). Along with primary tumor, also post-SUVmax_N, post-SUVmean_N, and post-TLG_N (P = .024, P = .015, and P = .024, respectively), as well as all percentage changes (Δ_N) were different between responders and non-responders. RECIST 1.1 and EORTC response classifications were discordant in 27 patients (40.9%; κ = 0.265; P = .003). On multivariate analysis, post-TLG_N was an independent predictor for both PFS and OS, whereas RECIST 1.1 was a predictor only for OS.CONCLUSIONS: Several metabolic parameters may differentiate responders from non-responders following neoadjuvant chemotherapy in stage III NSCLC. As compared with RECIST 1.1, EORTC seems to be more appropriate for evaluation therapeutic response. Finally, post-TLG_N has significant prognostic information.
AB - INTRODUCTION: The purpose of this study was to assess the predictive and prognostic role of 18F-fluorodeoxyglucose (18F-FDG) positron emission tomography/computed tomography (PET/CT) in candidates with stage III non-small-cell lung cancer (NSCLC) to neoadjuvant chemotherapy.PATIENTS AND METHODS: Sixty-six patients with stage III NSCLC treated with induction chemotherapy from March 2013 to December 2017 were retrospectively identified. Response assessment were evaluated according to the Response Evaluation Criteria in Solid Tumors (RECIST) 1.1 and European Organisation for Research and Treatment of Cancer (EORTC) criteria. 18F-FDG PET/CT metabolic parameters were analyzed as absolute values as well as percentage changes (Δ) between 2 consecutive scans, for primary tumor (T) and for regional lymph nodes (N). All clinical variables and metabolic parameters were compared with treatment response and correlated with progression-free survival (PFS) and overall survival (OS), based on a median follow-up of 9.4 months.RESULTS: Post-induction therapy standardized uptake value (SUV)max_T, SUVmean_T, metabolic tumor volume (MTV_T), and total lesion glycolysis of the tumor (TLG_T) varied significantly between responders and non-responders (6.6 vs. 13.8; P = .001; 4.2 vs. 8.1; P < .001; 6 vs. 17.9; P = .002; and 24.1 vs. 136.3; P < .001, respectively). Likewise, percentage changes (Δ_T) were significantly different between the 2 groups (P < .001). Along with primary tumor, also post-SUVmax_N, post-SUVmean_N, and post-TLG_N (P = .024, P = .015, and P = .024, respectively), as well as all percentage changes (Δ_N) were different between responders and non-responders. RECIST 1.1 and EORTC response classifications were discordant in 27 patients (40.9%; κ = 0.265; P = .003). On multivariate analysis, post-TLG_N was an independent predictor for both PFS and OS, whereas RECIST 1.1 was a predictor only for OS.CONCLUSIONS: Several metabolic parameters may differentiate responders from non-responders following neoadjuvant chemotherapy in stage III NSCLC. As compared with RECIST 1.1, EORTC seems to be more appropriate for evaluation therapeutic response. Finally, post-TLG_N has significant prognostic information.
U2 - 10.1016/j.cllc.2019.07.004
DO - 10.1016/j.cllc.2019.07.004
JO - Clinical Lung Cancer
JF - Clinical Lung Cancer


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Mortgage Rates Steady - Will They Go Lower?
Mortgage rates started the day in worse shape than yesterday's close, but came back in line before it ended keeping it the same as what it closed at yesterday following the Bond auction and the release of the FOMC Minutes. Rates had risen after that March 19th announcement and today's Minutes release provided an opportunity for the Fed to further explain some of the factors that may have concerned markets back in March. The key point in the minutes was that the Fed admitted it may have mis-led markets with comments that were interpreted by investors and traders that the Fed was preparing to increase interest rates much sooner than had been thought. U.S. stocks rose while Treasuries pared declines and the dollar sank after Federal Reserve meeting minutes eased concern about the timing of future interest rate hikes. In general, "Fed accommodation" has been beneficial for interest rates. The most prevalently quoted conforming 30yr fixed rate for best-case scenarios remains 4.5%, with 4.375% getting some play on some higher price loans.
The Fed appears to be increasing its market support with comments that investors need to hear - although the Fed will continue the tapering, the Fed's primary goal is to keep the stock market from declining (forget about inflation and low unemployment the Fed's statutory goals), believing that a better stock market will right all the economic weakness that clearly underlies this economy. That being said, it will prove to be a serious mistake in a few years when inflation increases rapidly.
There is fear that the US Stock market will see a major decline sometime in the next two months - but the timing is difficult to anticipate because the Fed seems determined not to let that happen. The DJIA is likely to re-test its high at 16,600, now only about 170 points away. We are somewhat lone rangers in that view but there is a limit to how long investors can ignore that the US and global economies are not gaining momentum. If several of the economist I review are correct in their outlook - interest rates are going to fall this summer. In the meantime we have to take markets as they are presently. The 10yr is refusing so far to break and hold below 2.70%, until that happens we take it one step at a time. The future remains cloudy regardless of one's opinion.
In summary, rates got a little reprieve from today's Fed minutes, dropping slightly after their release. In this case, no bad news (in Fed minutes) equals good news for borrowers. If you missed locking yesterday, and didn't see better rates this afternoon, I would think floating until tomorrow is worth the risk.


text:
Home/Conservancy/About/Conservancy Blog/Emerald ash borers threaten extinction for our region's ash trees
Emerald ash borers threaten extinction for our region's ash trees
The emerald ash borer (EAB), which kills virtually all ash trees that it infests, has been making its way toward our region for about 15 years. The EAB was first officially detected in Chester County this past November. For landowners and tree lovers, now is the time to prepare for the inevitable: identifying and protecting the ash trees you want to save, and making sure you are ready to deal with the demise of others.
What is emerald ash borer?
Larval tunnels on ash tree. (Photo credit: Troy Kimoto, Canadian Food Inspection Agency, Bugwood.org)
Emerald ash borer (EAB), Agrilus planipennis, is an insect native to northeastern Asia. The ½-inch long, metallic green beetle was first identified in North America in 2002.
The EAB adult eats ash leaves, but it is the EAB caterpillars (larvae) that have a destructive impact on trees. The larvae hatch in summer from eggs laid on the outside of the tree. They tunnel through the bark into the tree's sapwood layer where they eat through the phloem (the layer of the tree that conveys sugar and nutrients). The larvae consume the phloem for several weeks, making S-shaped tunnels as they go. Fattened up and ready for winter, the larvae pupate within the tree and emerge as adult insects in spring.
As numerous larvae eat through its phloem layer, a tree becomes riddled with larval tunnels. These tunnels interrupt the flow through the phloem, starving the tree. Within 3-5 years of infestation the tree will be dead.
How much of a problem?
Prior to EAB's arrival in Pennsylvania, there were an estimated 300 million ash trees. In southeastern Pennsylvania and northern Delaware the two dominant species are White ash, Fraxinus americana and Green (or black) ash, Fraxinus pennsylvanica). Both are large trees with deeply furrowed bark and compound leaves.
Ash trees are common landscape trees, favored for their long life and stately habit. The ecological value of ash trees in the forest is great as well. Ash seeds provide food for many birds and small mammals, and sites for cavity nesters such as wood ducks, nuthatches, woodpeckers, owls and squirrels. Its leaves provide food for 150 species of butterflies and moths.
Emerald ash borer kills 99-100% of all ash trees it infests, as seen in this aerial photograph of a forest in Ontario, Canada. (Photo credit: Troy Kimoto, Canadian Food Inspection Agency, Bugwood.org)
Ash trees that are not yet infested with EAB may be treated with preventive insecticides. However, insecticide application must be repeated to maintain the tree's defenses into the future. Some insecticides can be applied by homeowners, but some can only be applied by a licensed commercial pesticide applicator.
It is a good idea to take an inventory of your ash trees, whether they are in the landscape or in woodlands. Identify and prioritize trees that might create a falling hazard, such as those next to residences or driveways. These trees are good candidates for treatment. So are trees that do not pose a hazard but are significant to you for their beauty, history, or conservation value. Treated trees will also benefit from extra care to support their health, such as watering during a drought.
Emerald ash borer. (Photo credit: Leah Bauer, USDA Forest Service Northern Research Station, Bugwood.org)
Should you decide that treatment is not an option, consider removing trees that might cause a hazard if they were to lose limbs or topple due to weakened condition. If located near structures, driveways, walkways, play areas or other places where people congregate, they can create a falling danger.
Woodland trees typically do not pose a hazard, but landowners can still consider treating ash trees so the trees can continue to provide conservation value. Retaining a stock of ash trees may ultimately aid in extending the life of the species if scientific research succeeds in identifying preventive measures or enables resistance to the insect.
Extending the life of the ash trees would help other species as well. Nearly 100 insect species depend on ash trees, including moths that specialize in feeding on ash nectar.
Pollinator safety
Unfortunately, the insecticides available to combat EAB are non-specific. They affect all insects Including bees and other pollinators, which feed on the nectar and pollen produced by ash. Certain insecticides are more readily taken up into pollen than others. To reduce the potential harm to pollinators from treatments, follow these guidelines for treatment:
Use insecticides that are directly injected into the trunk, rather than those applied to soil around the tree. Sprays can get onto other flowering plants.
Avoid use of neonicotonoids such as imidacloprid, which are highly toxic to bees and are taken up into pollen. A commonly used non-neonic is emamectin benzoate.
Timing is critical. To minimize impact on pollinators, wait until just after the tree has flowered to apply any insecticides.
No insecticide that is used against EAB has been shown to be completely harmless to bees and other pollinators, even botanical or organic insecticides including Tree-Azin, an extract from neem tree seeds. Even if an insecticide is not toxic it may have what are called sub-lethal effects, which affect insect behavior and can ultimately cause sickness or death.
New trees for the future
If you remove an ash, or if it dies, plant a tree in its place, especially another native hardwood tree that will perform similar functions: protecting water quality, providing wildlife habitat and cooling and cleaning the air. While you're at it – plant another one! If any good can come out of the extinction of the ash tree species, it will be the proliferation of more native trees and the attention paid to their care. http://www.emeraldashborer.info/replanting.php
http://www.emeraldashborer.info
http://ento.psu.edu/extension/trees-shrubs/emerald-ash-borer/factsheets/...
http://www.cambridgema.gov/~/media/Files/publicworksdepartment/Forestry/...
http://labs.russell.wisc.edu/eab/signs-and-symptoms/
Conservation Landowners Notice: If your property is subject to a Conservancy easement, removal of trees—whether in the landscape or the woods—may be prohibited or permitted only with Conservancy approval, even if the tree is diseased or dead. Application of insecticides may also be restricted in certain environmentally sensitive areas such as within a wetland. Be sure to review your Easement prior to taking either action. This notice should not be construed as an approval for any action taken by an individual landowner. Please do not hesitate to contact the Conservancy's Easement Management staff if you have any questions or concerns. We are happy to help.
What We Love About Fall in the Brandywine Valley
Environmentally friendly home deicing
Susan Charkes, Land Stewardship team Learn More


text:
UM notes: WRs Harris, Perry active in red zone situations
Saturday's students-only practice provided many firsts at Michigan Stadium.
UM notes: WRs Harris, Perry active in red zone situations Saturday's students-only practice provided many firsts at Michigan Stadium. Check out this story on detroitnews.com: https://detne.ws/1Jd6nGC
Ben Fidelman, Special to The Detroit News Published 12:33 a.m. ET Aug. 23, 2015 | Updated 6:20 a.m. ET Aug. 23, 2015
No Michigan running back stood out, though Derrick Green was the most effective.(Photo: Leon Halip, Getty Images)
Ann Arbor -- Saturday's students-only practice provided many firsts at Michigan Stadium. Whether it was seeing potential starting quarterback Jake Rudock under center or first-year head coach Jim Harbaugh donning the headset, the approximately 400 fans in attendance were treated to a sneak peek of the 2015 Wolverine squad.
Unexpected red zone personnel
First-team wide receivers were being used in red zone situations. With presumed starter Amara Darboh in street clothes due to a finger injury, Drake Harris and true freshman Grant Perry lined up with Rudock whenever the offense got near the 20-yard line.
Five key issues for Michigan's offense
Harris had a few mid-range catches in those red zone drives, including one 15-yard touchdown grab — the first points of the scrimmage. Perry contributed as an ordinary slot-type receiver, scrounging under routes and working for yards after the catch.
Jehu Chesson and tight end Jake Butt also contributed. Rudock's second score was a 6-yard strike to Butt. Chesson played mostly with Shane Morris and the second-team offense.
No separation in the backfield
Though the offensive line looked improved from the spring game, no running back stood out. Five players had carries, highlighted by Ty Isaac, De'Veon Smith and Derrick Green. Playing with limited contact made it hard to tell how effective the backs were.
Outside of Green breaking into the secondary once, none of the other running backs had major gains.
No official stats were kept but it seemed that Smith had the most carries, though Green was the most effective. Perhaps the most important news was that each of the three primary backs looked healthy.
Isaac reportedly spent a lot of time in the trainer's room this spring, and Green is working back to game-form after suffering a broken clavicle in Michigan's loss to Rutgers last season. Drake Johnson, who suffered a torn ACL in the Ohio State game, warmed up with the team and practiced when the team was broken into positional groups, but didn't participate in the game simulation portion of the evening.
First glimpse at special teams
In multiple portions of the practice the field goal teams were on the field — the first time the public has seen the uprights being used since last season. Just two kickers, Kenny Allen and Kyle Seychel, saw action, with the competition seeming closer than many thought. Allen seemed to be the more consistent, but Seychel wasn't missing by much.
Both were booting the ball well, collectively making about three-fourths of their attempts in the 45- to 50-yard range. Holding every place kick was Blake O'Neill, who transferred to Michigan as a fifth-year senior from Weber State and figures to be the team's starting punter. The Wolverines elected not to punt in the open practice.
Rudock commands first team at practice for UM students
Freshman kicker Andrew David was dressed, but did not participate in the game simulations.
Standing out on the field-goal block team was Jabrill Peppers, who played as an end rusher. He was undoubtedly explosive off the line, and if the scrimmage was full-contact would have had at least one kick block.
With just 12 days until the season begins, the improvement Michigan has made since the spring game is coming together on the field. But for now, the team is headed back to the submarine.
Ben Fidelman is a freelance writer.


text:
NATO in 2040: An Information Odyssey
Why taking a scorched-earth approach to social media companies won't win the war on terror.
On the Defence Connect Podcast: The Art of Influence
We Don't Have A Fake News Problem, We Have A Reality Problem
Why Businesses Hold the Key to Stemming the Tide of Radicalization
Named 1of 10 Best Female Business Bloggers!
The Australian Crime Terror Nexus
Tracking terrorists on social media
The Content Wars: my article for 'NATO Review'
Social Media is neither the problem nor the solution. As quoted in the SMH
Nicole Matejic
Why Every Girl Needs a Dragon: The Art of Social Media Storytelling
by Nicole Matejic/
I first published this blog in 2013.
"There's no doubt that we're moving into a new age of media, and the days when a writer could just write his books and have them published and never interact with the public are gone." – George R.R. Martin
I confess it. I am addicted to Game of Thrones. I've read all the books, seen every HBO episode … worse still, I'm going to be bold here and out myself as a bona fide geek. I love science fiction, I get the jokes on Big Bang Theory and I can even say a Klingon word or two.
I have a dog called 'Merlin' and own every Stargate and Sanctuary episode ever made. Ever.
So when the first episode of 'Game of Thrones' season 3 hits the iTunes store on April 1 (I already have my season pass) I will be downloading it at warp speed and enjoying another hot date with my chaise lounge and Apple TV. It's a feast for a single maiden's eyes: Kings, Lords and Knights, and Jason Momoa as Khal Drogo. Unfortunately for us (and him) his character died in early on, but his young wife Khaleesi (Daenerys Targaryen played by actress Emilia Clarke) soon became the focus of my attention in the series: and no, although she's an exceptionally beautiful woman, it's her dragons I'm captivated by.
What a girl could do with a dragon!
No more peak hour traffic!
But then … where does one park your dragon?
And what if he gets hungry during the day? Public liability insurance could be an issue …
My dragon would be socially savvy with his own Twitter feed, Facebook Page and Google hangout. He'd be rocking it on Instagram, shooting straight to Vine and checking in via FourSquare. Twitter would buzz with #DragonSightings and with any luck, less regular occurrences of #DragonJustAte @SomeUnfortunatePerson …
His YouTube channel would entertain; GoPro would have to make a flame and heat proof dragon-harness and housing especially for him. He'd have his own line of beers and barbeques. Modern day minstrels on MySpace may even write songs about his adventures in the city, and misadventures in the country.
There would be a Dragon-Tracker App; and an online gamified learning platform to educate others on the nuances of dragonology. His blog would be an insight into the human-dragon dynamic. His website a portfolio of his work in sustainability and survivability (yours). He'd become a thought leader in product placement and aerial advertising.
With a global social audience, savvy digital citizenship and a well defined online footprint, his influence will know no bounds. He can be the catalyst that enacts social change, champions social connectivity and advocates for social accessibility. His mission is shared. His objective is not Big, it's Great. People will remember him for years to come and marvel at his social ingenuity.
There are no rules. There are no limitations. Imagine your product's story coming to life via social media …
Aren't stories so much more exciting when there are dragons involved!
Nicole is an internationally recognised and trusted authority on navigating national security, crisis and emergency management challenges in an environment of converged threat and risk. Highly regarded for her online influence and social media acumen, particularly in open source and social intelligence, digital diplomacy and use of communication technologies in radicalisation and emergencies - Nicole is a regular instructor for and speaker to NATO. Nicole is a Doctoral Candidate at the University of Southern Queensland, where she is researching the path to jihad. Her thesis 'The Jihadi Nudge' is a multidisciplinary body of work that investigates how terrorist organisations use behavioural economics models of choice architecture (or decision science) to radicalise individuals. Nicole is an Adjunct Lecturer at Charles Sturt University in the School of National Security and Terrorism.
The emergence of Social Propaganda in Australian Politics
Keeping up with the KRuddashians: A Lesson in Social Over-Exposure
The Plan is to have a Plan; before you need a Plan
Socially active? Are you protecting yourself against STD's? (Socially Transmitted Disasters)
Nicole on The Project
https://youtu.be/k-becIPfNso
Nicole at NATO's Strategic Communications Centre of Excellence
https://youtu.be/FXEcXc2q7uk
Nicole at NATO's Experts Forum: Social Media for International Organizations
https://youtu.be/Dhz7TPvr6us
Buy my book on Amazaon
Nicole Matejic Copyright © 2021.


brought a friend of hers, Michael Taylor, who is from London, with her to Wadsworth Elementary's new world health/studies class, taught by Mrs. Valerie Sanson, to speak about her travels abroad as well as Michael's recent trip to Namibia. Dack hopes to share her love of reading and traveling with all of the schools in Flagler County and make each student aware of their role as a community citizen as well as a world citizen.
They met for their second debate Wednesday evening. They did not like each other. From the Herald: "Alex Sink and Rick Scott admire each other's commitments to their families. And that's about it. The leading candidates for governor spent most of Wednesday's hourlong, televised debate bashing their rivals platforms, experience and character in an effort to break the the logjam that remains with less than two weeks to Election Day. Sink, the state's chief financial officer, was more aggressive, portraying Scott as untrustworthy and unprepared to lead the nation's fourth largest state. "He should look at me," she admonished when he was asked to say something positive about her. Scott, a political rookie and former hospital executive who is mostly financing his own campaign, repeatedly sought to link Sink to President Barack Obama and called her a failed fiscal watchdog. He never looked over at her during the debate." […] Each delivered blows, but neither landed a knock out. The most dramatic exchange came in the first 30 minutes, when Scott blasted Sink's proposals as unworkable. He said she proposes saving $700 million in the budget but wants to spend what he estimates is $12.5 billion — a sum he said would lead to a tax increase. […] Sink wasted no time with pleasantries, calling Scott a "corporate raider" who "bought hospitals all over the country and shut many of them down." The full story.
From the Times-Union: "State Senate hopeful Deborah Gianoulis wants to connect her opponent, incumbent John Thrasher, to Tallahassee's 'Taj Mahal' courthouse scandal and generate votes for her. She joins a growing list of candidates who have jumped onto the extravagance of the $48 million 1st District Court of Appeal courthouse project as a potential wedge issue this campaign season. Gianoulis launched a website Wednesday that accuses Thrasher of helping legislators sneak funding for the building into a transportation bill. Thrasher's name became tangled in the courthouse debate after an e-mail circulated among the judges pushing for the mahogany-paneled project, uncovered last month, listed him among the "heroes" who helped bring it to fruition. […] At 110,000 square feet, the appellate court's new building is only a fraction of the size of the $350 million Duval County courthouse complex under construction in Jacksonville." The full story.
From the Miami New Times: "On a Sunday evening in early August, Kenold François drove his weathered taxicab past an abandoned housing project and up to the Dolphin Food Market on NW 46th Street in Liberty City. His passenger, a well-built man with a beard and short hair, stared calmly out the window as the car came to a halt. Then he pulled a gun. Stepping from the cab, the man emptied 13 rounds into the passengers of a Mercedes-Benz parked in front of the dingy grocery. As bullets tore into 20-year-old Keondre Aquamina and 22-year-old Henry Ferguson, François sat frozen with fear. Haitian compas music spilled softly from the radio. Then the gunman jumped back into the taxi. "Drive!" he shouted. […] With unemployment hovering near 13 percent in Miami-Dade County, authorities say taxi drivers have become both a means of transportation for bad guys and targets for criminals looking for quick cash. In the seven weeks following the murder, seven cabbies have been robbed at gunpoint, almost all in the same neighborhood and possibly by the same thieves. Some of the attacks could have been prevented by barriers between the front and back seats, like those required in other big cities. Better safety practices by cabbies and their companies might have stopped the others. […] Cabbies caught up in the crime spree have been of all ethnicities and from late-30s to mid-60s in age. Some have spent decades driving their taxis in Miami and have never been targeted, until now." The full story.
From Politico: "According to multiple Republican campaign sources, the former Alaska governor wreaks havoc on campaign logistics and planning. She offers little notice about her availability, refuses to do certain events, is obsessive about press coverage and sometimes backs out with as little lead time as she gave in the first place. In short, her seat-of-the-pants operation can be a nightmare to deal with, which, in part, explains why Palin doesn't often do individual events for GOP hopefuls." She's apparently well-behaved when she's on, "But the high-maintenance aspects of dealing with the 2008 GOP vice presidential nominee have angered and frustrated some conservative candidates and aides who once thought highly of Palin and, for more skeptical Republicans, simply reconfirmed their view that she's self-centered and unhelpful to the cause." The full story.


text:
package org.onosproject.driver.extensions.codec;

import com.fasterxml.jackson.databind.node.ObjectNode;
import org.onosproject.codec.CodecContext;
import org.onosproject.codec.JsonCodec;
import org.onosproject.driver.extensions.Ofdpa3CopyField;

import static com.google.common.base.Preconditions.checkNotNull;
import static org.onlab.util.Tools.nullIsIllegal;

/**
 * JSON Codec for Ofdpa copy field class.
 */
public class Ofdpa3CopyFieldCodec extends JsonCodec<Ofdpa3CopyField> {

    private static final String N_BITS = "nBits";
    private static final String SRC = "src";
    private static final String DST = "dst";
    private static final String SRC_OFFSET = "srcOffset";
    private static final String DST_OFFSET = "dstOffset";

    private static final String MISSING_MEMBER_MESSAGE = " member is required in Ofdpa3CopyField";
    private static final String MISSING_COPY_FIELD_MESSAGE = "CopyField can not be null";

    @Override
    public ObjectNode encode(Ofdpa3CopyField copyField, CodecContext context) {
        checkNotNull(copyField, MISSING_COPY_FIELD_MESSAGE);
        return context.mapper().createObjectNode()
                .put(N_BITS, copyField.getnBits())
                .put(SRC_OFFSET, copyField.getSrcOffset())
                .put(DST_OFFSET, copyField.getDstOffset())
                .put(SRC, copyField.getSrc())
                .put(DST, copyField.getDst());
    }

    @Override
    public Ofdpa3CopyField decode(ObjectNode json, CodecContext context) {
        if (json == null || !json.isObject()) {
            return null;
        }

        // parse members of copy field action
        int nBits = (int) nullIsIllegal(json.get(N_BITS),
                                        N_BITS + MISSING_MEMBER_MESSAGE).asInt();
        int src = (int) nullIsIllegal(json.get(SRC),
                                      SRC + MISSING_MEMBER_MESSAGE).asInt();
        int dst = (int) nullIsIllegal(json.get(DST),
                                      DST + MISSING_MEMBER_MESSAGE).asInt();
        int srcOffset = (int) nullIsIllegal(json.get(SRC_OFFSET),
                                            SRC_OFFSET + MISSING_MEMBER_MESSAGE).asInt();
        int dstOffset = (int) nullIsIllegal(json.get(DST_OFFSET),
                                            DST_OFFSET + MISSING_MEMBER_MESSAGE).asInt();
        return new Ofdpa3CopyField(nBits, src, dst, srcOffset, dstOffset);
    }
}

redpajama_set_name: RedPajamaGithub


Electronic payment system SOFORT (its Klarna now) was established in 2005 in Germany, Munich. Initially the company was known under the brand name Payment Network, and now offers products and services for safe purchase of goods in the Internet. This includes among other things the payment method called SOFORT Banking. The company develops for their customers an innovative online payment solutions that will make your life easier and simpler, will ensure equal conditions, which set new standards. For e-commerce the system has created a broad portfolio of banking products together with SOFORT BANK.
Payoneer payment system is necessary for those who work with foreign spa networks or freelance in the burzhuneta. The system itself is very convenient, the interface quality!
We (eliveragroup.com) like is this company, it is regrettable that so few countries can pay. By the way people pay to use, few have online banking. Service is very good.
Useless System tried to help my friend in Trinidad because she is a flood victim. Sofort works together with western Union. The form was filled in and accepted the money deducted from my account. Yet they "had some more question"??? And hence the money could not be taken by my firend. The contract was cancelled and I don't have my money back yet.
Terrible customer service. Transaction was not completed, but the withdrawal from my account was. They will not investigate and tell me to contact the merchant, but the merchant has no record of the transaction... So someone has my money and no one can tell me who??
Sofort is one of less secure methods of payment, even publishing your credit card number is more secure way to pay for something. Not saying that using it is violation of rules of about any bank account.


I'm sitting on the edge of a kayak in South Florida. It's hot, but I love hot as long as I'm near the ocean. We've paddled back among the mangroves. My son is fishing. I've been taking pics, looking at hermit crabs, and enjoying the views. Kayaking is awesome, but I do prefer being beach side.
I just spent a week with my bonus daughter and her family on St George Island, and now I'm here on the Atlantic side of Florida for a few days with my son.
Max and I have driven many miles together, and we have many more to go. He is a great traveling companion.
I am in love with the beach and ocean more than ever. If you understand this love, then I know you are a kindred spirit. If you aren't a "beach" person, I probably won't "get" you and you won't "get" me in this setting. That's okay; it takes all of us to make the world go around!
This trip has been both lovely and difficult at the same time. I miss my husband/favorite traveling companion/best friend more than I could have ever imagined. In my new small town home, I can sometimes forget how much I miss him; however, beaches, swimming in the ocean, and traveling make it very difficult to be without him. It's as if the more beautiful the place and the more joy I experience in my day, the more I miss him because I want to share it with him.
Our first beach trip was a long weekend to Myrtle Beach/Surfside. It was a trip where we both realized that we might be perfect for each other. He picked me up at the airport in Charlotte, NC. The flight was delayed, we had a flat tire in the middle of nowhere, we had a slight (major) mixup in accommodations (at midnight), and neither of us was upset. We laughed and had a great time despite our tribulations. Later, we both agreed that the positive attitude of the other, despite the problems, contributed to the growth in our relationship.
I digress; back to present day. I have learned that I absolutely enjoy traveling alone (or with Max), IF (and obviously this is my new reality) B. isn't available. I love the beauty of the world; I love taking the slow but scenic route. I like making my own rules which include stopping anytime I want to or Max wants to because we see something beautiful or photo worthy. I love the ocean as much as I thought, maybe even more than I realized.
Life is bittersweet. That word describes it perfectly. I find myself smiling but simultaneously wanting to cry. I want to live my life to the fullest, but I also want to crawl under the covers and cry. Kayaking with my son is amazing, but I still wish B was here too. He would love it!!
No one else "gets" me like my husband did. It's too tiresome to even think about starting over. I'm weird. I like people, but then I don't. It's hard to explain, but my B got it. He understood that I was an extroverted introvert. I think Max understands, so that's why we get along.
I'm rambling again, as usual, so I'm going to stop for now and try to get Evan to paddle back. That's the key I think….figuring out how to paddle back.


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The data is stored on non-volatile EEPROM. For data loggers with external batteries: change batteries and offload data, then relaunch normally. For data loggers with internal batteries: as long as the EEPROM has not been damaged, the data can be retrieved by Onset. Please contact the place of purchase for a return authorization number and request data back service.


Show your love for Scotland with this highly attractive Sterling Silver Signet Ring.
Featuring the Scottish Saltire, the national flag of Scotland, and enhanced with ancient Celtic Trinity Knots on the shanks, the ring is embossed on the inside with the words 'Alba Gu Brath' - gaelic for 'Scotland Forever'.
Crafted in the finest 925 Sterling Silver, it will delight lovers of all things Scotland, and the unique history and heritage of our small country. It is shipped to you, direct from Scotland, in a quality black and gold jewellery gift box.
It will make an ideal gift, and a lasting memento, for yourself or someone you love.
Available in sizes, from 8 to 14. Please select the size you require from the drop down menu above.


Despite the presidential election results, Black women knocked down doors in several areas of the country at the polls.
Black Women ran and won in 2016 at all levels of government and decisively kicked open doors that have been difficult to get through. Tuesday night more steps were taken towards representation reflecting their true, 23 million strong voting power.
Black women made up 7.4% of the U.S. population but were only 3.4% of the members of Congress and there had not been a Black woman serving in the United States Senate since 1998.
The 115th Congress will see a record number of Black women going to Washington—20 — including 2 non-voting delegates representing Washington, DC and the U.S. Virgin Islands and the first Black woman elected to the U.S. Senate in almost 20 years.
As state legislators are sworn in in January, Kentucky will be removed from the list of states that that do not have a Black woman serving in their legislative bodies– Alaska, Arizona, Hawaii, Maine, Montana, North Dakota, South Dakota, Washington, and Wyoming remain on that list.
Electing Black women to executive office executive office continues to be challenging whether it is at the state-wide or municipal levels as only three Black women serve in state-wide executive office and out of the 100 major cities only four Black women serve as Mayors.
Here is a snapshot of seven Black woman game changers who won new positions last night.
Kamala Harris is the two-term Attorney General of California, Harris is the first woman, African American and South Asian to serve as Attorney General in California and will be the first African American and South Asian to represent California in the U.S. Senate. She won a decisive victory, garnering more than 2 million more votes than her opponent.
Lisa Blunt Rochester has served in the cabinets of two Delaware governors as Delaware's first African American woman Secretary of Labor, Deputy Secretary of Health and Social Services, and State Personnel Director. Blunt Rochester is now the first woman and person of color elected statewide in Delaware's history. She won a closely watched race 56 to 41.
Val Demings was Orlando's first female police chief. Demings ran for Congress in 2012 and narrowly lost to a conservative Republican, but because of redistricting under court order, the demographics of the district have shifted creating an opportunity for Demings to join in the 115th Congress, where there could be a record number of Black women serving at one time. She received a mandate to serve from voters receiving 65% of the vote.
Attica Scott, is a mother, an activist, and a community leader. Scott is a Community Coach with County Health Rankings & Roadmaps and previously a served as the District 1 representative to Louisville Metro Council. In the May Democratic primary, Scott defeated Tom Riner, a 34-year conservative Democrat who only attracted 31 percent of the votes in the state's 41st district. Scott, a relative underdog in the race, won with 54 percent of the votes. Scott was unopposed in the General Election and will be the first woman to serve in the Kentucky state legislature in 20 years.
Ilhan Omar is an experienced policy analyst, community educator and advocate. She currently serves as the Director of Policy Initiatives at Women Organizing Women, where she empowers East African women to take civic leadership roles in their community. Omar is now the first Somali-American Muslim woman ever elected in this country as she is sworn in to the Minnesota State House of Representatives.
In 2005 Catherine Pugh was appointed to the Maryland General Assembly, House of Delegates, where she served for one year before running for her Senate seat in 2006. Pugh currently serves as the Majority Leader and serves as President of the National Black Caucus of State Legislators (NBCSL). Pugh won a hotly contested crowd field primary that included the City's former Mayor Sheila Dixon. Pugh will be Baltimore's third woman mayor when she is sworn in this January.
Kim Foxx, most recently was the Chief of Staff for Cook County Board President Toni Preckwinkle and was an Assistant State's Attorney for Cook County for 12 years. Foxx won a closely watched primary over embattled incumbent State Attorney Anita Alvarez in March. Foxx's convincing victory with 71% of the vote makes her one of only a hand full of Black women that are State's Attorneys in the country.


Over the years I learnt how to paint in Acrylic by a lot of experimenting and trying out new supplies. So here are a few of my favorite acrylic art supplies.
These are my absolute favorite. The price is the same for any color you choose to buy and is not priced according to the series of colors. They are great to work with and are vibrant and light-fast.
I also use Daler Rowney graduate acrylics, Pebeo Studio Acrylics and Camel Artist acrylics.
These are very reasonably priced, considering the amount of pigment they hold and are great to work with. I use them for fluid acrylic paintings and sometimes for airbrushing.
The acrylic inks by Liquitex Basics are also a great choice.
Airbrushing was an excellent discovery. There are effects you can create with an airbrush which you just cant create as efficiently without one.
These are the paints I use for airbrushing and I dilute it with a little bit of water. The pigment is great, although I feel they are a little bit on the expensive side.
Alternatively I use my acrylic paints and dilute it to use as airbrush paints.
My personal favorite is Mijello Artelier airtight peel off paint palette. There are a lot of other peel off paint palettes you can choose from. I prefer the mijello because of the airtight feature. I can just leave the paint on the palette if I want to take a little break and the paint remains just as fresh and wet.
Watch this video to know more about paint palettes.
Using a spray bottle is the best thing when you are working with acrylic paints. Blending acrylic paints requires you to keep your paints wet long enough to do that. I wouldn't be able to work with acrylic paints without a spray-bottle.
Alternatively you could also use an airbrush for that but I prefer saving electricity.
I buy whichever canvas is available at a good discount in the art supply store. This is because most machine stretched canvas available in India is manufactured in the same place and just labeled differently. If you are looking for specific brands, I would suggest Camel or FineArt.
If you are buying stretched canvas that is locally made, make sure you see exactly what you are buying and how well it is stretched, watch out for neat edges and clean staples.
A couple of wash-brushes is a must have as it allows you to cover large areas very quickly. I use filbert brushes for most of my painting and also use liner brushes for fine detailing.
Acrylic paint washes off easily with water. A good washtub is an absolute essential.
Follow the video link to know more about washing paintbrushes.
Liquitex pouring medium is an excellent product to use for pouring paints. It eliminates air bubbles and gives a smooth clear glossy finish and makes the colors look more vibrant.
This medium has been an inspiration to create thick textures and to make textured paintings. You can find a lot of my textured flower painting videos on my YouTube channel. Follow link to my channel here.
This is not an absolute essential but is a great help while blending acrylic paints.
Liquitex Varnish is reasonably priced and gives a very good finish to the paintings. It is essential to varnish acrylic paintings as it protects it from dust and other damage.
Learn how to varnish here.