text:
Theologians & Franciscan Friars about recent post-Congress Indonesian violence affecting their communities
October 28, 2011 News alert, Press Release, Urgent ActionAbepura, Asian Human Rights Commission, australia, Brigade Mobil (Indonesia), brutality, Congress, Forkorus Yaboisembut, Franciscan, Freeport-McMoRan, human rights, Human Rights and Liberties, Impunity, indonesia, Indonesian Army, Indonesian National Armed Forces, Indonesian State Violence, Jayapura, John Vianney, Julia Gillard, Makar, Papua, Papuan people, Sang Surya, Third Papuan People's Congress, United Nations Security Council, west papuawestpapuamedia
unofficial English translation of the media statement published yesterday (26/10) by the Rector of "Fajar Timur" Catholic School of Philosophy and Theology and the Provincial of the Franciscan Friars in West Papua, Indonesia, in regards to the recent violence affecting their communities. via ETAN
"WHAT THE CIVITAS ACADEMICA OF 'FAJAR TIMUR' SCHOOL OF PHILOSOPY AND THEOLOGY HAVE EXPERIENCED AND SEEN POST THE THIRD PAPUAN CONGRESS"
1. Wednesday, 19 October 2011, around 9 am, the police, Brimob and the Indonesian army were on guard equipped with armoured vehicle, trucks, along Sosiri Street, Yakonde Street even at the back of "Fajar Timur" School of Philosophy and Theology (STFT). Within those streets the Catholic mission compound is located, including St Paul's Secondary School and its teachers' residence, "Nur Jaya" girls' dormitory, JMJ nuns' house, staff residence, "Sang Surya" Franciscan friary, "Tunas Harapan" Catholic dormitory, Zakheus football field (where the gathering spot of the congress), Seminary of John Vianney, "Tauboria" dormitory, Inter-diocesan seminary, the campus of Fajar Timur School of Philosophy and Theology, residence of priest staff, a chapel, a dinning hall and other facilities. The deployment of troops without any prior notice to the school made us worried and suspected that the situation would have turned into chaos and we would have been trapped in such circumstances. Therefore, around 10 am, we asked our staff to go home.
2. Around 11 am, a unit of Indonesian army with heavy guns entered the campus and dormitories (the inter-diocesan seminary) from the hill at the back of the campus. The troops entered our property without asking any permission. They took rest in a multi-purposed hut. Some students gave reactions to them and asked them not to enter the seminary and campus area. So they then left and went back to the hill.
3. Around 3.30 pm some members of the security services entered the dormitories searching for the participants of the Papuan congress who were running for safety. The security services entered the dormitories of the brothers from the Diocese of Agats. They broke the doors of the study room and bed rooms at the front side, entered and ransacked the computer room while saying, "Take that computer for evidence." While window glasses were destroyed, another voice said, "Don't do it. This is the mission complex." The brothers from the Diocese of Agats were terrified and lying face down hiding at the front room. A few congress participants who took refuge in the bathrooms were arrested. A harsh voice said, "Run?…get shot!" When the security services wanted to ransack the room at the back where students were hiding, an instruction came out saying, "Enough! Enough! Stop! Back off!" then silence. After waiting for a while, those who were hiding, got out and ran away to the residence of priest staff. When they got there, they realised that one of them was shocked and could not move from his hiding place.
4. Meanwhile, inside the staff's study room, Father John Jehuru OSA, Associate Dean and the Rector of Interdiocesan Seminary was stunned when a bullet penetrated his window. He was monitoring the chaos happening in Zakheus football field around 3.30 pm. The bullet razed his glass louvers and curtain, hit the wall, before dropped into a study desk. The bullet and Father John were only separated for about 50-75 cms. The crumbs of the bullet were found.
5. The security services also entered other dormitories. In the dormitories of the brothers of the Diocese of Manokwari-Sorong, while searching for participants of the congress, they said, "Is it a mission house? Where are those idiot priests? Why priests hide criminals?"
In the dormitory of the brothers of the Archdiocese of Merauke, the security services arrested Agus Alua, a student, who was standing outside when the security services came in. We found a bullet pierced a window but we do not know from which direction the bullet came from. The security services came from the back of the campus with shooting. However, we do not know whether they were the same troops that came ealier at 11 am or not.
6. Meanwhile in the staff residence, the troops were chasing the participants and threw tear gas. One of the troops entered and found the resident, a woman, lying face down and hiding under the bed. He asked, "Who are you?" and the woman answered, "I'm the resident here!". "Get out, don't be afraid" said the security. She came out and wiped her soured eyes saying, "I'm not afraid of you but of your bullets and tear gas". Then he walked away.
7. In "Sang Surya" Franciscan friary, many participants took refuge. Mr Forkorus Yaboisembut (the Chair of the Papuan Customary Council) and Dominikus Sorabut, now suspects detained in the police custody, were taking rest after the congress was closed. Father Gonsa Saur OFM, the head of the friary, was taken by surprised when he heard a shooting. He put his Franciscan habit on and came out standing at the stairs that connect the first and the second floor of the friary. Three members of the security forces and some others with plain clothes forced to enter the second level of the house but Father Gonsa denied them. He saw the security services with plain clothes sneaked into the dining room and the front room. They were carrying big guns and pistols. Due to the heavy pressure from the security forces, finally Father Gonsa had to ask those who were hiding to come out. While some of them came out, some others stayed hidding for safety. Father Gonsa asked the security, "You can take them, but don't beat them." In front of him, they were not beaten up but once they were out at the road, some of the security services beat them.
Six members of the security forces in plain clothes dragged Mr Yaboisembut and yelled at him. A woman was dragged too out of the friary. One of the security forces tried to penetrate the second level but Father Gonsa asked him to come down. About ten people surrendered but we do not know their identities. They were told to walk by squatting. There were three women among them. Outside the building, many security forces with or without uniform were hanging around with heavy weapons.
8. In John Maria Vianey's Seminary of the Diocese of Jayapura, many participants were hiding for safety. The security services searched for the participants and found Father Yan You, the head of the seminary. Three members of the security forces pointed his gun at Father Yan's head one by one. They said, "You hide them." He answered, "Kill me, shot me, come on." Then they smashed the door, entered the room and took those who were hiding. Meanwhile, the brothers convened the participants at the hall. The brothers gave up their bedrooms for the participants for hiding. The brothers put their priest uniform on and protect the participants of the congress but when the security forces entered, some of the participants surrendered and they were taken away. The brothers told the security not to be cruel with the participants. One of the brothers, who tried to help those who were shot, got beaten with a rifle butt on his hand until it was fractured and with a rubbler baton on his nose until it was bleeding. He had been arrested and detained at the Papua police custody overnight before released on the following day. He is being treated at the intensive care unit at the local hospital.
9. When the security forces persecuted the crowd and members of the security guards of the Papuan Customary Council (Penjaga Tanah Papua), these people ran through the back of the library and tried to enter the staff room. But they could not make it because it was locked. So they broke two pieces of glass louvers. They ran to the hill but then were stopped with shootings coming from the top of the hill. So they went back to the bushes where they had come from.
Because of this incidence, the "Yerusalem Baru" inter-diocesan seminary and "Fajar Timur" School of Philosophy and Theology were physically and non-physically damaged:
1. 7 doors were ruined, 2 computer units missing, 2 trophies crushed, 2 chairs were broken, 2 sickles and 1 knife were missing, pots of flowers scattered. Window glasses of the dormitory of the Diocese of Merauke was razed with bullet, 2 pieces of glasses louvers of the staff room were smashed, 1 window glass of the staff room was pierced by bullet, window glasses of the seminary office demolished.
2. One student is being treated in hospital because his face was swollen so there was no difference between his nose and his cheeks.
3. The brothers remain terrified and worried. They are traumatized because the security services have acted inhumanely.
In regards to this incidence:
1. We do not ask for compensation for the damaged or missing facilities. The violent acts of the security forces have destroyed the facilities and also infused fear and anxiety among the civitas academica of "Fajar Timur" School of Philosophy and Theology. The building and window glasses can be replaced but it takes a long time to heal fear and anxiety.
2. We do not ask for compensation for the medical treatment for the brother who is in hospital.
3. We firmly reject any repressive means to deal with issues because such violent act only undermines the human dignity of victims and perpetrators.
4. We are deeply concerned that our campus, which is entitled to academic freedom, was penetrated by heavily armed security forces without any permission or prior notice.
5. We regret that the monopoly of truth by the security forces who assumed the brothers had done something wrong by providing assylums for those who were persecuted by the security forces. We affirm that such an assylum was provided on the basis of the universal humanitarian principle, namely when a person is exposed to a life-threatening situation, s/he has to be given protection and defence. Therefore, the protection provided for the participants of the congress who tried to take refuge from the persecution and threats from the security forces was solely based on the humanitarian principle rather than any political interests.
6. We appeal to the Indonesian Human Rights Commission (KOMNAS HAM) to investigate the violent incidence post congress to look at how serious human rights abuses have occurred.
7. Based on the government's commitment, as expressed by President Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono during his address to the nation on 16 August 2011, namely "dealing Papua with heart," we support a dialogue to be done between Jakarta and Papua. This dialogue is highly important not only to stop violence but also to prevent any recurrence of violent acts in Papua. We ask all parties of good will to push the idea of dialogue between Jakarta and Papua.
8. We ask for supports and solidarity from the members of the Catholic Church around the world to pray and support the implementation of dialogue between Jakarta and Papua for peace of Papua. Because only through dialogue, issues that underpin conflicts in Papua can be identified and proper solutions can also be found without resorting to violence and bloodshed.
Jayapura, 26 October 2011
Rector of "Fajar Timur" STFT The Provincial of the Franciscans Order in Papua
Father Dr. Neles Tebay, Pr Father Gabriel Ngga OFM, Lic Theol.
Photos: Indonesian Police open fire on student dormitory in Jayapura (westpapuamedia.info)
800 arrested, many tortured after troops open fire on Papuan Congress (westpapuamedia.info)
Confirmed reports: Indonesian security forces prepare to attack Congress 3 gathering to disperse participants (westpapuamedia.info)
← Student found dead in Keerom	Neles Tebay calls for an end to repression and suppo →
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text:
Q: Efficiently filter out matching rows between two 2-D numpy arrays I have two numpy arrays that look like
a = np.array([[1,2], [3,4], [5,6], [7,8]])
b = np.array([[1,2], [3,3], [5,6], [8,7]])

I want to filter to rows that are in array a, and not in array b. So my output should look like:
in_a_and_not_b = np.array([[3,4], [7,8]])

I have some nasty code to do this right now:
in_a_and_not_b = []
current_row = 0
for row_a in a:
    include_current_row = True
    for row_b in b:
        if np.array_equal(row_a, row_b):
            include_current_row = False
    if include_current_row:
        in_a_and_not_b.append(a[current_row])
    current_row += 1

My problem is that this takes forever. Is there a more numpy-thonic way to do this that will take less time?
In reality, my arrays a and b are large, around (50000, 2) in shape each.

A: If you convert arrays to list of tuples then you can do set(tuples_a) - set(tuples_b)

Minimal working example
import numpy as np

a = np.array([[1,2], [3,4], [5,6], [7,8]])
b = np.array([[1,2], [3,3], [5,6], [8,7]])

tuples_a = [tuple(x) for x in a.tolist()]
tuples_b = [tuple(x) for x in b.tolist()]

print( set(tuples_a) - set(tuples_b) )

Result:
{(3, 4), (7, 8)}

And next you can convert it to numpy.array.
But if you need to keep order then it may have problem.

redpajama_set_name: RedPajamaStackExchange


Stranger than you can imagine.
The Mütter Museum in Philadelphia houses some of the weirdest bits of human parts one can imagine.
Translucent cards with Mütter vibes to be sold at the museum shop. With a Full House, you get a full anantomical body.


There are countless myths of tennis, and one of the most popular to be passed on from coach to player is "toss higher to get more time to hit the ball." In reality, by contrast, tossing higher gives you less time to hit the ball.
Let's take Maria Sharapova's serve. No junior player should dream of serving like Sharapova. There are many great things to admire about Sharapova's game. Her never give up attitude would be at the top of the list. Few in the history of tennis, male or female, have her sheer determination to continue the fight regardless of the score. She has the grit of the great Jimmy Connors.
On the other hand, there are many flaws in Sharapova's serve, but let's focus on the toss. Sharapova's toss on average is four feet higher than the highest point she can reach with her outstretched racket. The challenge for her is that the ball is accelerating on the way down to her contact point, due to the effects of gravity. The ball will pass through the window (contact point) of her outstretched racket moving at nearly 11 mph.
This is where the "toss higher for more time" myth comes into play. Since the ball is accelerating on its way down, due to gravity, a ball that drops four feet will average 8.4 mph during its fall. Thus, you will have less time to hit the ball versus tossing the ball to your contact point, where the ball would be stationary or close to it and moving at nearly zero mph. It is much easier to hit a stationary target than a moving target.
What coaches should say is that tossing out of your reach will give you more time to swing and in reality less time to hit the ball. A player does not need much time to swing. It takes Sharapova about 1.1 seconds from the time her toss leaves her hand for her to contact the ball, compared to John Isner's 0.7 seconds. This is because Isner's toss is significantly lower than Sharapova's. Isner hits the ball within inches of the peak of the toss, giving him more time to hit the ball than Sharapova. The height of the player doesn't matter.
No matter how high you toss the ball, you have a maximum of how high you can reach with your racket, which is about 22 inches out of your outstretched hand. In reality, the toss should be pretty much the same for every person, since most players play with a racket that is 27 inches long. A person who is 5ft 10in tall can only reach around 8ft 11in off the ground with their outstretched racket. If you tossed 10 feet higher than your outstretched racket, you would have to wait for the ball to come back down 10 feet to your 8ft 11in reach. So, the question becomes, how high is too high?
Last but not least, there is a direct correlation between tossing out of your reach and a loss of power. In addition, you lose consistency and accuracy as the height of the toss increases.
When you start to lower the toss, you should realize that the rhythm and timing of the swing will need to change. Players who toss out of their reach will need to slow the racket down at some point during the swing to wait for the ball to arrive. This is a rhythm killer for the serve and a major power loss. As you work on lowering the toss, the arms will need to stay much closer together to keep the swing going for the new toss, and in keeping the rhythm of the swing going you will gain significant power.
So give yourself less time to swing with a lower toss but more time to hit the ball, and you will find yourself hitting a more fluid and powerful ball.
Here are the numbers. Notice that within just a few feet how quickly the speed of the ball increases.


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      <version>${dependency.mockito.version}</version>
      <scope>test</scope>
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      <artifactId>org.apache.felix.main</artifactId>
      <version>${dependency.apache-felix-main.version}</version>
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  </dependencies>

  <build>
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        <groupId>org.apache.felix</groupId>
        <artifactId>maven-bundle-plugin</artifactId>
        <extensions>true</extensions>
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          </instructions>
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    </plugins>
  </build>
</project>

redpajama_set_name: RedPajamaGithub


text:
Nanomaterials for SERS Applications
Submit to Nanomaterials Review for Nanomaterials Edit a Special Issue
Nanomaterials Home
volume 13 12 11 10 9 8 7 6 5 4 3 2 1
issue 1 2 3 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 1 2 3 4 1 2 3 4 1 2 3 4 1 2 3 4 1
Special Issue "Nanomaterials for SERS Applications"
A special issue of Nanomaterials (ISSN 2079-4991).
Deadline for manuscript submissions: closed (20 June 2017) | Viewed by 53609
Dr. Yuying Zhang
Physical Chemistry I and Center for Nanointe gration (CENIDE), University Duisburg-Essen, 45141 Essen, Germany
Interests: SERS substrates, SERS labels, cancer diagnosis, theranostics
Dr. Wei Xie
Department of Chemistry, Center for Nanointegration Duisburg-Essen, University of Duisburg-Essen, Essen, Germany
Interests: Rationally designed plasmonic nanoparticles, surface-enhanced Raman spectroscopy, in situ characterization of reactions on surface
Surface-enhanced Raman spectroscopy (SERS) is an ultrasensitive analytical technique for molecular identification and labeling. The central element of SERS is the plasmonic substrate nanomaterials on which Raman signal intensity of analytes can be enhanced by several orders of magnitudes, typically 105–108. The blooming of SERS in the last two decades, therefore, follows the development of nanomaterials, in particular, noble metal nanomaterials, such as gold and silver nanostructures, which provide the required plasmonic activity for SERS enhancement.
The present Special Issue of Nanomaterials is aimed at presenting the current state-of-the-art in the use of nanomaterials for SERS applications. The topics include the design of colloidal and surface-supported nanostructures with plasmonic activity, and their applications in SERS studies including biomedical labeling, imaging, chemical sensing and detection. We have invited contributions from leading groups of the field to present frontier research works in this discipline.
Submitted manuscripts should not have been published previously, nor be under consideration for publication elsewhere (except conference proceedings papers). All manuscripts are thoroughly refereed through a single-blind peer-review process. A guide for authors and other relevant information for submission of manuscripts is available on the Instructions for Authors page. Nanomaterials is an international peer-reviewed open access semimonthly journal published by MDPI.
metal nanomaterials
colloidal and surface-supported nanostructures
surface enhanced Raman scattering (SERS)
plasmonic activity
biomedical labeling
chemical sensing
Published Papers (9 papers)
Optimizing Melamine Resin Microspheres with Excess Formaldehyde for the SERS Substrate
Lu Shen
Junfu Zhu
Yuqing Guo
Zhirong Zhu
Xiaogang Wang
Zhixian Hao
Nanomaterials 2017, 7(9), 263; https://doi.org/10.3390/nano7090263 - 06 Sep 2017
Influence of the excess monomer within the synthetic reaction solution of melamine resin microspheres (MFMSs) on the surface-enhanced Raman spectroscopy (SERS) enhancement from Rhodamine 6G (R6G) was investigated, where the R6G was adsorbed on the silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) that were loaded on the [...] Read more.
Influence of the excess monomer within the synthetic reaction solution of melamine resin microspheres (MFMSs) on the surface-enhanced Raman spectroscopy (SERS) enhancement from Rhodamine 6G (R6G) was investigated, where the R6G was adsorbed on the silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) that were loaded on the MFMSs. Surface characteristics of the MFMSs were modified by the excess monomer (i.e., the excessive melamine or formaldehyde) through its terminal overreaction, which can be simply controlled by some of the synthetic reaction conditions, thus further allowing us to optimize the assembly of the loaded AgNPs for the SERS detection. These SERS substrates incorporating the optimized MFMSs with the excess formaldehyde can also be used for tracing analyses of more environmental and food contaminants. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Nanomaterials for SERS Applications)
Hollow Au–Ag Alloy Nanorices and Their Optical Properties
Keke Yu
Xiaonan Sun
Liang Pan
Ting Liu
Anping Liu
Guo Chen
Yingzhou Huang
Hollow noble metal nanoparticles have excellent performance not only in surface catalysis but also in optics. In this work, the hollow Au–Ag alloy nanorices are fabricated by the galvanic replacement reaction. The dark-field spectrum points out that there is a big difference in [...] Read more.
Hollow noble metal nanoparticles have excellent performance not only in surface catalysis but also in optics. In this work, the hollow Au–Ag alloy nanorices are fabricated by the galvanic replacement reaction. The dark-field spectrum points out that there is a big difference in the optical properties between the pure Ag nanorices and the hollow alloy nanorices that exhibit highly tunable localized surface plasmon resonances (LSPR) and that possess larger radiative damping, which is also indicated by the finite element method. Furthermore, the surface enhanced Raman scattering (SERS) and oxidation test indicate that hollow Au–Ag alloy nanorices show good anti-oxidation and have broad application prospects in surface-plasmon-related fields. Full article
Supplementary File 1 (PDF, 1849 KiB)
Characterization and Discrimination of Gram-Positive Bacteria Using Raman Spectroscopy with the Aid of Principal Component Analysis
Alia Colniță
Nicoleta Elena Dina
Nicolae Leopold
Dan Cristian Vodnar
Diana Bogdan
Sebastian Alin Porav
Leontin David
Raman scattering and its particular effect, surface-enhanced Raman scattering (SERS), are whole-organism fingerprinting spectroscopic techniques that gain more and more popularity in bacterial detection. In this work, two relevant Gram-positive bacteria species, Lactobacillus casei (L. casei) and Listeria monocytogenes (L. [...] Read more.
Raman scattering and its particular effect, surface-enhanced Raman scattering (SERS), are whole-organism fingerprinting spectroscopic techniques that gain more and more popularity in bacterial detection. In this work, two relevant Gram-positive bacteria species, Lactobacillus casei (L. casei) and Listeria monocytogenes (L. monocytogenes) were characterized based on their Raman and SERS spectral fingerprints. The SERS spectra were used to identify the biochemical structures of the bacterial cell wall. Two synthesis methods of the SERS-active nanomaterials were used and the recorded spectra were analyzed. L. casei and L. monocytogenes were successfully discriminated by applying Principal Component Analysis (PCA) to their specific spectral data. Full article
Charge Transfer Effect on Raman and Surface Enhanced Raman Spectroscopy of Furfural Molecules
Fu Wan
Haiyang Shi
Weigen Chen
Zhaoliang Gu
Lingling Du
Pinyi Wang
Jianxin Wang
Nanomaterials 2017, 7(8), 210; https://doi.org/10.3390/nano7080210 - 02 Aug 2017
The detection of furfural in transformer oil through surface enhanced Raman spectroscopy (SERS) is one of the most promising online monitoring techniques in the process of transformer aging. In this work, the Raman of individual furfural molecules and SERS of furfural-Mx (M [...] Read more.
The detection of furfural in transformer oil through surface enhanced Raman spectroscopy (SERS) is one of the most promising online monitoring techniques in the process of transformer aging. In this work, the Raman of individual furfural molecules and SERS of furfural-Mx (M = Ag, Au, Cu) complexes are investigated through density functional theory (DFT). In the Raman spectrum of individual furfural molecules, the vibration mode of each Raman peak is figured out, and the deviation from experimental data is analyzed by surface charge distribution. In the SERS of furfural-Mx complexes, the influence of atom number and species on SERS chemical enhancement factors (EFs) are studied, and are further analyzed by charge transfer effect. Our studies strengthen the understanding of charge transfer effect in the SERS of furfural molecules, which is important in the online monitoring of the transformer aging process through SERS. Full article
Open AccessCommunication
A Simple and Highly Sensitive Thymine Sensor for Mercury Ion Detection Based on Surface Enhanced Raman Spectroscopy and the Mechanism Study
Hao Yang
Sui-Bo Ye
Yu Fu
Weihong Zhang
Fangyan Xie
Li Gong
Ping-Ping Fang
Jian Chen
Yexiang Tong
Nanomaterials 2017, 7(7), 192; https://doi.org/10.3390/nano7070192 - 24 Jul 2017
Mercury ion (Hg2+) is recognized as one of the most toxic metal ions for the environment and for human health. Techniques utilized in the detection of Hg2+ are an important factor. Herein, a simple thymine was successfully employed as the [...] Read more.
Mercury ion (Hg2+) is recognized as one of the most toxic metal ions for the environment and for human health. Techniques utilized in the detection of Hg2+ are an important factor. Herein, a simple thymine was successfully employed as the surface enhanced Raman spectroscopy sensor for Hg2+ ion detection. The limit of detection (LOD) of the developed sensor is better than 0.1 nM (0.02 ppb). This sensor can also selectively distinguish Hg2+ ions over 7 types of alkali, heavy metal and transition-metal ions. Moreover, the LOD of the sensor can even achieve 1 ppb in practical application in the nature system, which is half the maximum allowable level (10 nM, 2 ppb) stipulated in the US Environmental Protection Agency standard. Further investigation of the thymine-Hg2+-thymine coordination mechanism provides a possible means of detecting other metal ions by replacing the metal ion-specific ligands. This work paves the way for the detection of toxic metal ions and environmental problems. Full article
Controllable Charge Transfer in Ag-TiO2 Composite Structure for SERS Application
Yaxin Wang
Chao Yan
Lei Chen
Yongjun Zhang
Jinghai Yang
Nanomaterials 2017, 7(7), 159; https://doi.org/10.3390/nano7070159 - 28 Jun 2017
The nanocaps array of TiO2/Ag bilayer with different Ag thicknesses and co-sputtering TiO2-Ag monolayer with different TiO2 contents were fabricated on a two-dimensional colloidal array substrate for the investigation of Surface enhanced Raman scattering (SERS) properties. For the [...] Read more.
The nanocaps array of TiO2/Ag bilayer with different Ag thicknesses and co-sputtering TiO2-Ag monolayer with different TiO2 contents were fabricated on a two-dimensional colloidal array substrate for the investigation of Surface enhanced Raman scattering (SERS) properties. For the TiO2/Ag bilayer, when the Ag thickness increased, SERS intensity decreased. Meanwhile, a significant enhancement was observed when the sublayer Ag was 10 nm compared to the pure Ag monolayer, which was ascribed to the metal-semiconductor synergistic effect that electromagnetic mechanism (EM) provided by roughness surface and charge-transfer (CT) enhancement mechanism from TiO2-Ag composite components. In comparison to the TiO2/Ag bilayer, the co-sputtered TiO2-Ag monolayer decreased the aggregation of Ag particles and led to the formation of small Ag particles, which showed that TiO2 could effectively inhibit the aggregation and growth of Ag nanoparticles. Full article
Highly Sensitive Magnetic-SERS Dual-Function Silica Nanoprobes for Effective On-Site Organic Chemical Detection
Cheolhwan Jeong
Hyung-Mo Kim
So Yeon Park
Myeong Geun Cha
Sung-Jun Park
San Kyeong
Xuan-Hung Pham
Eunil Hahm
Yuna Ha
Dae Hong Jeong
Bong-Hyun Jun
Yoon-Sik Lee
We report magnetic silver nanoshells (M-AgNSs) that have both magnetic and SERS properties for SERS-based detection. The M-AgNSs are composed of hundreds of Fe3O4 nanoparticles for rapid accumulation and bumpy silver shell for sensitive SERS detection by near-infrared laser excitation. [...] Read more.
We report magnetic silver nanoshells (M-AgNSs) that have both magnetic and SERS properties for SERS-based detection. The M-AgNSs are composed of hundreds of Fe3O4 nanoparticles for rapid accumulation and bumpy silver shell for sensitive SERS detection by near-infrared laser excitation. The intensity of the SERS signal from the M-AgNSs was strong enough to provide single particle-level detection. We obtained much stronger SERS signal intensity from the aggregated M-AgNSs than from the non-aggregated AgNSs. 4-Fluorothiophenol was detected at concentrations as low as 1 nM, which corresponds to 0.16 ppb. The limit of detection for tetramethylthiuram disulfide was 10 μM, which corresponds to 3 ppm. The M-AgNSs can be used to detect trace amounts of organic molecules using a portable Raman system. Full article
Melanin-Associated Synthesis of SERS-Active Nanostructures and the Application for Monitoring of Intracellular Melanogenesis
Haixin Dong
Zhiming Liu
Huiqing Zhong
Hui Yang
Yuqing Hou
Jia Long
Jin Lin
Zhouyi Guo
Nanomaterials 2017, 7(3), 70; https://doi.org/10.3390/nano7030070 - 20 Mar 2017
Melanin plays an indispensable role in the human body. It serves as a biological reducer for the green synthesis of precious metal nanoparticles. Melanin–Ag nanocomposites were successfully produced which exhibited very strong surface-enhanced Raman scattering (SERS) effect because of the reducibility property of [...] Read more.
Melanin plays an indispensable role in the human body. It serves as a biological reducer for the green synthesis of precious metal nanoparticles. Melanin–Ag nanocomposites were successfully produced which exhibited very strong surface-enhanced Raman scattering (SERS) effect because of the reducibility property of melanin. A melanin–Ag composite structure was synthesized in situ in melanin cells, and SERS technique was performed for the rapid imaging and quantitative assay of intracellular melanin. This imaging technique was also used to successfully trace the formation and secretion of intracellular melanin after stimulation with melanin-stimulating hormones. Based on the self-reducing property of melanin, the proposed SERS imaging method can provide potentially powerful analytical detection tools to study the biological functions of melanin and to prevent and cure melanin-related diseases. Full article
Figure 4 Cont.
Review of SERS Substrates for Chemical Sensing
Pamela A. Mosier-Boss
The SERS effect was initially discovered in the 1970s. Early research focused on understanding the phenomenon and increasing enhancement to achieve single molecule detection. From the mid-1980s to early 1990s, research started to move away from obtaining a fundamental understanding of the phenomenon [...] Read more.
The SERS effect was initially discovered in the 1970s. Early research focused on understanding the phenomenon and increasing enhancement to achieve single molecule detection. From the mid-1980s to early 1990s, research started to move away from obtaining a fundamental understanding of the phenomenon to the exploration of analytical applications. At the same time, significant developments occurred in the field of photonics that led to the advent of inexpensive, robust, compact, field-deployable Raman systems. The 1990s also saw rapid development in nanoscience. This convergence of technologies (photonics and nanoscience) has led to accelerated development of SERS substrates to detect a wide range of chemical and biological analytes. It would be a monumental task to discuss all the different kinds of SERS substrates that have been explored. Likewise, it would be impossible to discuss the use of SERS for both chemical and biological detection. Instead, a review of the most common metallic (Ag, Cu, and Au) SERS substrates for chemical detection only is discussed, as well as SERS substrates that are commercially available. Other issues with SERS for chemical detection have been selectivity, reversibility, and reusability of the substrates. How these issues have been addressed is also discussed in this review. Full article
Displaying articles 1-9
https://www.mdpi.com/si/8370

redpajama_set_name: RedPajamaCommonCrawl


text:
34-Years-Owned 1959 Fiat 1200 Cabriolet
Sold For $20,500 On 5/7/19$20,500 Sold
Seller: scgilliam58
Location: Pleasant Hill, California 94523
Chassis: 118G 002159
One-Family Ownership since 1960
32k Miles Shown, TMU
1,221cc Inline-Four
Engine Rebuilt in 2007
Black over Black and Red
Black Softtop
Removable Hardtop
Service Records and Factory Books
This 1959 Fiat 1200 cabriolet was purchased new at Lutgen Imports of Lincoln, Nebraska by a member of the US Air Force, who sold it to the seller's grandparents in California in 1960. The car was reportedly in storage from 1969 through 1985, when it was acquired by the seller and recommissioned for road use. It is powered by a 1,221cc inline-four paired with a 4-speed manual transmission and is finished in black over a black and red interior. Other equipment includes a black softtop, a removable hardtop, a radio, and an in-line fuel filter. New brake lines and a replacement master cylinder were installed in 2018. This 1200 cabriolet is now offered with factory literature, service records, a tool kit, spare parts, and a clean California title in the seller's name.
The body features styling from Pininfarina, and this example is finished in black with a black softtop that is said to have some holes as well as a yellowed and cracked plastic rear window. Other imperfections include a hole in the black boot cover, a ding in the rear bumper, and pitting on the chrome windshield trim. A removable hardtop was purchased by the seller in 1995 and accompanies the sale. It is shown in the photo gallery below and is said to be in need of paint and a new headliner.
Factory 14″ steel wheels wear chrome hubcaps, trim rings, and whitewall tires. A new brake master cylinder and new brake lines reportedly were installed in May 2018.
The interior features red carpeting and door panels as well as gray plush seat covers over the factory vinyl, which is said to be worn. The shifter boot, wiper blades, and seat foam are said to be in need of replacement. Lap belts have been added, and the seller notes that the armrests on the doors are covered in black duct tape and that the upper door trim has been replaced with chrome strips in place of the factory plastic pieces.
An aftermarket radio is equipped, and the seller notes pitting on the chrome around the gauges. The fuel-level gauge is not functional nor are the low-beam headlights. The 5-digit odometer shows 32k miles, 9k of which were added by the seller.
The 1,221cc inline-four reportedly was rebuilt in 2007 and is paired with a 4-speed manual transmission. An in-line fuel filter has been installed, as has a replacement exhaust system. The seller reports a radiator leak and that a piece of the heater valve has broken off.
The jacking point rubber plugs are missing, and additional underside photos are available in the gallery below.
Factory literature, service records dating back to 1985, a tool kit, a 1960 Nebraska license plate, a set of personalized 1963 California license plates, and spare parts are included in the sale. A December 1960 letter from the original owner to the seller's grandparents is presented in the gallery.
Winning Bid USD $20,500	by euvintage
Auction Ended May 7, 2019 at 2:51PM PT


text:
Scientists Are Sending Astronaut Mice to Space to Study Biology
To see how space will affect our internal biology, NASA is sending a team of rodent astronauts to space.
By Laura Yan
On the next resupply mission to the International Space Station, the Space X Dragon will be bringing coffee, a robot, and a set of rodent passengers to help scientists understand biology in space. The laboratory mice will help researchers study how zero-gravity affects biological processes like circadian rhythms and microbiomes. "Because a trip to Mars and back is expected to take several years, we need to determine how the gut's microbiota might be altered in zero gravity over long timescales," said Fred Turek, director of Northwestern's Center for Sleep and Circadian Biology
The space mice team consists of 10 identical sibling from two different mice families. Half of them will spend 90 days in orbit, while the other half will be living in a NASA simulator that "replaces the exact minute-by-minute conditions — but with gravity — inside the Space Station." Researchers will investigate what happens to the microbiome — trillions of bacteria and other microorganisms that live in human guts — in space, and how circadian rhythms, which regulate our sleep and activity patterns, might play a role.
"It's important to understand how space travel may impact the circadian system, since it coordinates so many biological processes" explains Martha Vitaterna, co-investigator of the study. "The exertion of liftoff, absence of gravity, and confined living arrangement all add to the stress of life in space, and the key to adapting may be in the body's ability to maintain harmony across systems."
The mice study is an analogue to the human twin "Year in Space" project carried out in 2015-2016, in which scientists compared data from astronaut Scott Kelly's year in space with his Earth-based identical twin brother, Mark. The mice research, combined with the results of the Twins Study, will help scientists understand what zero-gravity will do to our bodies, and maybe even help improve human health on Earth.
(via Northwestern University)
Scientists Create Nanomachines To Treat Ulcers
Astronauts Return from Space in Astonishing Photos
Watch These Astronauts Submerge a GoPro in Space
Astronaut Plugs Leak on Space Station with Finger
Astronaut Eileen Collins on What It Was Like to Fly the Space Shuttle
Ants Put on Treadmills to Study Their Behavior


Are You Ready to Rock? HAIRBALL is at Grossinger Motors Arena for the First Time!
BLOOMINGTON, Illinois — Get ready to ring in the new year 80's style when Hairball brings their "bombastic celebration" of arena rock with a tribute to some of the decade's most colorful front men. HAIRBALL isn't a cover band. They are a tribute band with a twist, impersonating the world's top 80's rock bands and lead singers right down to the pyrotechnics, lighting and costumes. The band prides themselves on nailing some ofthe most memorable licks and chops of all time, while adding their own style and flare they've cultivated over decades of performing. The stage becomes an entirely new rock concert several times throughout the show with the main vocalists paying homage to acts including Ozzy Ozbourne, Guns N' Roses, AC/DC, KISS, Aerosmith and more!
Tickets for the New Year's bash go on sale Friday, August 31 at 11:00am. Reserved seat tickets are $39.00 and GA floor seats are $49.00. Tickets available at the Grossinger Motors Arena box office, online at Ticketmaster.com or charge by phone at 800.745.3000.
In addition, Eastland Suites is offering an all-inclusive package to include two tickets, a choice of rooms, shuttle to and from the show, breakfast and late check out. Rates vary depending on ticket level and room. Contact Eastland Suites for more information at 309.662.0000.
A band puts on a concert. HAIRBALL puts on an event! They are a rock and roll experience you won't soon forget. The lights, sound, smoke, fire and cheering crowds; to merely call it a concert would be like calling Mount Rushmore a roadside attraction. Vocalists Joe, Steve and Bobby lead the band through a 2+ hour of mind-blowing and drop-dead accurate homage to some of the biggest arena acts in the world. The motor that drives the HAIRBALL dragster consists of Freaky on the electric bass, Blake on the drums and Happy on the lead guitar. HAIRBALL is an experience, an attitude and expression of music that isn't simply a retro flashback. It's a way of life!


text:
How Genesis Shaped Their Career With 'Selling England by the Pound'
Nick DeRiso Published: October 12, 2013
In order to assemble what became one of their earliest classics, Genesis had to blend the pastoral whimsy of their first couple of albums and the rock pretensions of their most recent work, Foxtrot.
They did just that with the Oct. 13 1973 arrival of Selling England by the Pound. There's a slew of literary allusions here (T.S. Eliot in "The Cinema Show," Tolkein in "The Battle of Epping Forest"), but there's also the almost glam-rock propulsion of "I Know What I Like (In Your Wardrobe)."
The literary references are apt, since Selling England might be best described as an anthology of short stories, loosely interwoven but separate rather than a true concept album.
Unlike their subsequent double-album opus The Lamb Lies Down on Broadway, which marked the end of group's celebrated five-man lineup, each of the songs here works both together and of a piece.
Listen to Genesis Perform 'Firth of Fifth'
If commentary like "Dancing With the Moonlit Knight" was a touch too insular in its focus on modern English life, and the puns sometimes a bit over the top ("he employed me as a karmacanic"), it's all counterbalanced by a group performing at its musical zenith. Check out Steve Hackett's stunning solo on "Firth of Fifth," and Phil Collins' jazz-inflected cadences throughout.
While Tony Banks' underrated keyboard work (notably in "The Cinema Show") remains the album's other principal voicing, Mike Rutherford's bass begins to take on a more prominent role as well. Peter Gabriel is at his narrative best in "Epping Forest," Hackett gets another tasteful feature in "After the Ordeal" and there's even a hint of what's to come with the darkly emotional Collins vocal feature "More Fool Me."
All of this gives Selling England a layered complexity and an uncommon accessibility, even as it brings together all of the many disparate elements that made Genesis such a force. At least for the time being. Gabriel would be gone after the next studio project, then Hackett two albums later.
Top 50 Progressive Rock Albums
From 'The Lamb' to 'Octopus' to 'The Snow Goose' — the best LPs that dream beyond 4/4.
See Phil Collins in Rock's Craziest Conspiracy Theories
Next: Top 10 Peter Gabriel Genesis Songs
Source: How Genesis Shaped Their Career With 'Selling England by the Pound'
Filed Under: Genesis
Genesis Albums Ranked Worst to Best
When Genesis Said Goodbye to Steve Hackett on 'Wind & Wuthering'
How Genesis Began an Exciting New Era on 'Nursery Cryme'
When Genesis Reconvened For One Last Phil Collins Album, 'We Can't Dance'
Watch Peter Gabriel Perform Part of a Genesis Song for the First Time in Decades
Why Genesis' Still-Overlooked Debut LP Made Such a Small Splash
How Genesis Took It to New Level With Their Self-Titled LP
Steve Hackett Says Genesis Documentary Doomed Reunion
Genesis Tease 'Exciting News,' Reveal New Logo


There has been a spectacular southern Right whale hanging out on the Mount main beach in Tauranga. Everyone who has seen whales will know what an amazing opportunity it is.
The whale spent several days cruising around in the shallows and delighting everyone watching. It was fascinating to see it rolling around, slapping the water with its long pectoral fins and lifting its head right out. We also got to see it blowing water in a huge v shape into the air. It was about 9m in length and was likely a juvenile as the adults can grow up to 18m.
They can come close to shore to feed and can dive down for up to an hour, sometimes meet up with large pods when food in plentiful. They are baleen feeders and sieve feed on tiny planktonic species such as copepods.
Seeing this southern right whale relaxing in the shallow waters was such a treat, We can't wait to see what our next whale species spotted will be !!!


Excellent value for money service, highly recommend!
Top notch customer service, pick up/drop off service, superb value for money & friendly guys in the depot! Definitely the best garage I've ever dealt with……. 5*'s for Spires Autocentre.
I feel it necessary to praise the professional customer service I was given when I required 2 tyres to be fitted. I was made to feel both welcome and important as a customer. I also got the impression nothing was to much trouble for the staff at Witney. I was very impressed with the staffs knowledge on all mechanical matters, let alone tyres. I will remain a loyal customer of Spires mobile tyres of Witney and will recommend them to friends and family without hesitation. Good work lads and a huge thank you.


Posted by @NatasaBrouwer on Jan. 26, 2017, 9:25 a.m.
TestVision is a digital asessment tool used by the the UvA. It is general tool, suitable for most courses and examination.
Click on the topic or choose a specific link.
How to enter the data about the test in the Datanose?
What is the examination room test / zaaltest? What are the steps?
How to make/get test analysis?
Is it possible to use html in designing question items in TestVision?


text:
A kinder, gentler Microsoft
By 07.21.2006 :: 1:58PM EDT 07.21.2006
microsoft's general counsel, brad smith, unveiled a kinder, gentler microsoft on wednesday in a lunch-time talk to the new america foundation think tank, unveiling 12 principles that the company will follow in the development of windows vista and all future operating systems to promote openness, interoperability, and choice. microsoft breaks these principles into three categories: 1) choice for computer manufacturers and customers, 2) opportunities for developers, and 3) interoperability for users. the upshot? in mr. smith's words, the purpose is to show "microsoft's continued commitment to vigorous competition and vital innovation in the software marketplace."
the major effects of the "windows principles: 12 tenets to promote competition" that stand out are that pc makers–and users as well–should be able to change default settings in windows, disable integrated features (such as windows media player), and install whatever software or search engines they like without slogging through miles of pop-up warnings and registry settings. those who write software for windows should be able to access a wider range of apis and documentation on how to make their programs work better with the operating system, and they are promised more access to microsoft's patents and communications protocols. on the business side, ms also explicitly makes two "no retaliation" promises for companies that work with microsoft competitors.
the official reason for these principles is "to promote competitive opportunities and otherwise enhance the appeal of windows to developers and users," something microsoft recognizes as part of its "special responsibility both to advance innovation and to help preserve competition in the information technology ecosystem," according to smith. that responsibility comes from windows' domination of the desktop, a level of influence that's led to anti-trust troubles–and massive fines–in the u.s. and europe, which some believe is the real motivation behind these principles. in addition to last week's record regulatory fine from the e.u. (see our coverage), some of the anti-trust regulations in the u.s. are set to expire soon, which could bring microsoft under additional scrutiny as vista prepares to hit the market.
for more information, please see cnet. the cnet article also has a very clean listing of the 12 principles if you don't want to go through microsoft's full listing.
sam's opinion
well, well, well. clearly this is a mix of marketing move and defensive pro-action against more regulatory headslaps–the question is what proportion. my gut feeling about this is that it is 75% fluff and 25% good intention, but maybe i'm just cynical. another thing to keep in mind here is that even if given the ability to change defaults and add new programs, most users can't be bothered to change what comes installed on their computers or defaulted in the os–and you can bet ms knows that, too; so, giving folks more freedom to do those things is great, but it doesn't necessarily mean you'll lose too much share. that's a win-win for microsoft.
what i thought i'd do here is pick out some parts of the "windows principles" to share with you, since i'm sure most of you won't have time–or the desire–to read through microsoft's verbiage. these parts really jumped out at me. i'll give you the quotes and then share my thoughts.
principle i: choice for computer manufacturers and customers
… make it easy to install non-microsoft programs and to configure windows-based pcs to use non-microsoft programs instead of, or, in addition to, windows features.
1. installation of any software. … every computer manufacturer and customer is free to install and promote any operating system, any application, and any web service on pcs that run windows.
3. defaults. … enable computer manufacturers and users to set non-microsoft programs to operate by default in key categories, such as web browsing and media playback, in lieu of corresponding end-user functionality in windows. computer manufacturers are free to set these defaults as they please when building new pcs.
5. business terms. microsoft will not retaliate against any computer manufacturer that supports non-microsoft software. …
wow. what got me here is that these words are on microsoft's website. i just never thought i'd see the day. the only thing that could make my jaw drop lower would be seeing something similar of that incredible egotist larry ellison's oracle website. whether any of these things ever comes true is another story, but they're still amazing to see.
principle ii: opportunities for developers
… opportunities for application developers and website creators to build innovative products on the windows platform including products that directly compete with microsoft's own products.
6. apis. microsoft will ensure that all the interfaces within windows called by any other microsoft product … will be disclosed for use by the developer community generally. that means that anything that microsoft's products can do in terms of how they plug into windows, competing products will be able to do as well.
7. internet services. customers will be free to choose windows with or without windows live.
9. no exclusivity. we want the developer community to know that it is free to develop, support, and promote products that compete with any part of windows. consistent with the u.s. antitrust ruling, microsoft will not retaliate against any third party for exercising this freedom.
look at that first bit of quotation: "including products that directly compete with microsoft's own products." who's writing this? and look how it continues throughout the whole principle. these quotes are the true giveaway that this is all about marketing and is something to show the regulatory agencies. "look," the ms lawyers can say when they're called to the carpet, "we put this up on our website! we're not about crushing the competition anymore!" i know microsoft must share its apis and server communications protocols now according to the terms of the anti-trust
settlements, but it's been dragging its feet on complying on both sides of the atlantic, and there's really no explanation on why that would suddenly have changed so dramatically. i'm not sure who's going to buy this metamorphosis.
the last three are under "principle iii: interoperability for users," and they're all about communications protocols, standards, and patents, which microsoft says it will license (within limits), participate in, and comply with to "enable customers to control their data and exchange information securely and reliably across diverse computer systems and applications." we'll see. microsoft frequently submits its own proprietary developments to standards bodies to see if everyone else is up for following what it's got, but when internet explorer doesn't get updated for such a very long time it's easy to say that you don't have to worry about how out-of-compliance with web standards it is, for instance.
to conclude, it's hard to get down too much on microsoft for making a statement of principles. all companies do this kind of thing (how many of us work for a place with an awful mission statement that's just a disguise for "we work our employees to the bone so our executives can play golf and eat fancy muffins in the board room"?) … what it boils down to is how much the company follows through, and we'll just have to see if microsoft can buck its track record and actually stick to some of these as the next decade unfolds.
user comments 32 comment(s)
scorpion and the frog (2:02pm est fri jul 21 2006)
"if you take me across the pond, you have my word that i will not sting you…"
we all know how that story ends, don't we?
– by aesop
"no new taxes!!!" (2:40pm est fri jul 21 2006)
^^^^ lol!!!!
microsoft is not dumb. it is a goliath in a changing industry and is playing politics. i don't have a problem with microsoft, but i don't see them intentionally weakening their position. maybe they think they have such a good product in vista that it can withstand competition… but i would be surprised if they don't have more tricks up their sleeves. – by h00kw0rm
beware (2:41pm est fri jul 21 2006)
you get… a handshake and a knee to the groin. – by slartibartfast
re: everyone (2:50pm est fri jul 21 2006)
not sure how the story ends but it's begining the same as always. you people wine when microsoft won't play fairly. microsoft starts to play fair, and you losers still when and cry. you guys are a bunch of hypocrites. – by tron
re: aesop (2:54pm est fri jul 21 2006)
not sure how the story ends but it starts the same as always. you people wine when microsoft won't play fairly. microsoft starts to play fair, and you losers still wine and cry. you guys are a bunch of hypocrites.
to follow….
many many irrelevant �linux rules, ms sucks dribble.�
– by tron
tron (3:06pm est fri jul 21 2006)
didn't you know ms is evil? they torture babies until they create new programs for them, if they don't they are thrown to hungry dogs… these dogs are the creatures that hunt down smaller companies which are complety honest and not for profit that are just trying to help the public.
this new strategy is just another ploy to lure prey in, once they've all gotten closer they shall be gobbled up by the giant… quick go get a sling and some rocks. – by a brit
rubbish… (3:16pm est fri jul 21 2006)
pardon my rant…
what a horrible world of whiners we have become. it's a shame my children have to grow up with this crap. hopefully they can come up with something better than making successful companies bend over backwards and waste funds just because a smaller company is just that a smaller company. microsoft ensuring it's os can run a large variety of programs is good business. it shouldn't be an issue of law or create such an uproar that principles of this nature are required to maintain pr. just think about how much farther advaced we would be if all the fines and work hours where put into r&d instead of paying off beurocrats and bitchy companies that i seriously doubt are putting those funds into useful products or services. either way kudos for ms for playing nice with the political bs and actually trying to make the world's tech alittle better even if the heavy power requirement for vista will just help accelerate global warming, hahaha. – by dave
amazing… (3:36pm est fri jul 21 2006)
dave and tron: did you ever stop to think that people who "whine" about microsoft are merely reflecting opinion based on microsoft's past performance? i mean, it's one thing for microsoft to publicly announce they're now, finally, going to play "fair". however, microsoft has made public statements like this before, but their actions run contrary to their statements. one small example: microsoft assured the european union that they would comply with eu demands regarding antitrust issues. did microsoft comply? – by davem753
will apple follow? (3:51pm est fri jul 21 2006)
does that mean apple will follow and not necessarily include a million "i" products with their os? i thought microsoft was bad about bundeling, apple took that to an extreme. – by dreek
apple? (4:12pm est fri jul 21 2006)
i thought we were talking about microsoft. – by davem753
right on dave (4:37pm est fri jul 21 2006)
i never could understand why so many companies complained and sued ms. i never had any problems not using explorer or media player. can i sue apple for having to use quicktime, to view mov files? – by klay
re: davem753 (4:51pm est fri jul 21 2006)
i don't know if ms complied or not. i've never really heard any examples of what ms has or hasn't done. only inferences to how bad they are, and what they did in the past. however, no one ever gives an example. and if it's the old "bundling, antitrust crap", save it. that was a bunch of bs anyway. – by tron
newbie (5:24pm est fri jul 21 2006)
i tryed linux when microsoft started putting spyware in the updates.i googled and found out how to dual boot ubuntu the top linux system with xp.i love linux and never use xp.thanks to microsoft greed i learned a better way to safely surf the internet. – by better way
examples, per request (5:30pm est fri jul 21 2006)
embedding internet explorer to force a defacto "standard" into windows, thus causing harm to netscape, opera, et al. embedding wordpad to force a defacto "standard" into windows, thus causing harm to amipro, wordperfect, lotus, et al. embedding windows media player to force a defacto "standard" into windows, thus causing harm to apple/quicktime and progressive networks/real player, et al. in each of those cases, the embedded software was not uninstallable. there are three examples. i could go on: png, html extensions, xml extensions, office's "xml" which isn't xml, ie not properly displaying standard html, xml, etc… – by davem753
re: tron (7:00pm est fri jul 21 2006)
after explaining why he won't sting the frog, the frog agrees to give the scorpion a ride.
in the middle of the water, the scorpion stings the frog anyway, when he asks why, the scorpion says "it's in my nature"
how is this relevant to ms? not sure, but it seemed entertaining.
as for your post:
"microsoft starts to play fair, and you losers still wine and cry. you guys are a bunch of hypocrites."
you, like the frog, want to trust the scorpion at his word. i prefer to wait and see.
bah (7:20pm est fri jul 21 2006)
and the irs is nicer and more humaine too.
yawn, i'm from missouri, the "show me state."
i belive what i see. – by brotherwitch
davem753 (3:34am est sat jul 22 2006)
strange they offer simple free tools and they are evil? so they can't be un-installed, but you can remove the shortcuts and make other apps run those extensions instead of their default apps.
the apps they offer for free aren't the best available, if you want better ones you can download them or buy them. its the os and it comes with tools… not a problem choose whether to use them or not.
if this is wrong can you please explain why and also does any linux os or mac os come with a tool similar to ms? – by a brit
re: will apple follow? (3:45am est sat jul 22 2006)
uh? micosoft doesn't bundle sh1t. the problem is that the few things they do bundle are immovably welde on.
– by cousin lenny
re: davem753 (4:45am est sat jul 22 2006)
come on………wordpad, that�s a stretch. wordpad is just a stripped down word editor anyway. it doesn't have any advanced functionality. a user would have to get corel, word or open office etc. to do advanced word processing. like "a brit" said, none of the apps in windows have to be used. it seems to me many competitors o/s's include media player, word processing, and internet apps anyway. i downloaded xandros a while back and it came with open office, thunderbird, firefox as well other apps.
microsoft got slammed for bundling software while everyone else is doing it. at least windows media files can be played in other multimedia players. quick time and real network files can only be played in there own players. that seems much worse to me. – by tron
ywah (8:36am est sat jul 22 2006)
who shives a git. you all need windows to function. and you all own ipods. so you are all queer. hahahaha. – by pork
vulnerable (9:31am est sat jul 22 2006)
m$ is vulnerable now. regardless of their gazillion dollar market cap, how about someone show me a product other than windows or office that is actually profitable? zune? another loser because they simply don't understand what people want. that comes from years of being able to tell everyone what to do all the time. if apple releases os x for gereral pc use on intel hardware m$ is completely screwed. that's why gates is bailing.
and as for his phony foundation: he's heavily invested in pharma companies that do human testing in africa. what a saint. please, when will people learn that gates cares about nothing except money?
– by sfx
re: sfx (10:00am est sat jul 22 2006)
not sure but i think their server software is pretty profitable. i.e sql, exchange….
what color is the sky in your world/ – by tron
shame (11:25am est sat jul 22 2006)
the president's veto for embryonic stem cell research had nothing to do with morals.but instead "the kind of politics that snuffs out the candle of hope and that condemns the disabled and the sick president bush was motivated by "cold, calculated, cynical political gain" when he vetoed a bill that would expand federal funding for embryonic stem cell research – by shame on him
whatever (7:21pm est sat jul 22 2006)
ms developed their operating system so they can embed whatever they like. if the other companies dont like it, let they develop their own os. no one is forcing them to use windows. how dare ms promote their own software for their own os that they paid for. give it a rest already. how come no one says anything to apple? they essentially do the same thing. – by get a life geeks
their os? (9:45pm est sat jul 22 2006)
they swindled and misslead some poor smuck in seatle out of his os.
they liked about what they were going to use it for. yeah gates is a real saint.
– by mortalez
ms is what morons deserve (11:49pm est sat jul 22 2006)
if you google for it, you could find many examples of ms dirty tactics,e.g.illegally forbidding resellers from providing any other os on windows pc, lying in court, changing java & other standards to break functionality, indirectly and surreptitiously supporting bogus lawsuit against linux, using pc-tax revenue to underprice products to cut lifeblood out of small competitors revenue stream, etc.etc.etc.,and these are only the tactics we hear about.
of course they have been sued and rightfully lost due to breaking laws, but the hundreds of millions they pay out pale compared to the billions they rake in from clueless bambis like you every fiscal quarter.
by the way, anyone who thinks ms is so brilliant, think about how hard it would be to fail if everyone who uses a computer gave you hundreds of dollars (mainly because hardware and software is exclusively available for your os, unlike any other industry e.g.tires will work with many different cars), and your marginal costs of production (distributing sw) is essential zero, so it's like printing money.
electric utilities have a guaranteed revenue stream for a product everyone must use, and they are at least regulated, otherwise it would be like taxation without representation. in fact their marginal costs are higher than ms. don't even bring up apple who was bailed out financially by ms during doj proceedings (as was corel, maker of the leading office competitor) so as to maintain illusion of not monopoly. what a joke.
i am only scratching the surface here, but i know enough about psychology that it will not make a dent in the proud opinion of a clueless moron, really a useful idiot. yes, go on using ms, it is what you deserve.
and no i am not jealous of rich or succesful people, just frustrated that so much power goes into hands of so few people, it is not healthy for society, even if you think financing a biotech startup with hundreds of millions r&d money is charity, well there is not enough time in the day to clue you in.
– by not moron
microsoft.. it rules for a reason, or two, or three.. (1:13am est mon jul 24 2006)
maybe it's just because i, along with countless others (even those opposing, but are using the operating system right now) use windows, and have used windows, but i am so tired of this bickering against microsoft, and against gates.
yeah, the company is rich. yeah, gates is rich. i'm sorry he doesn't donate five trillion to your charity, and i'm sorry that the company became so successful, because you know it was because of those magical fairies, right? none of their original employees wrote a single line of script, right? or new about business and had at least enough of a vision to get us where we are- using technology efficiently (in comparison to even '94). i'm sorry that apple and other companies' aren't racking in the dough- because they obviously deserve it.
wait a second.. no, i'm not sorry. and neither should microsoft be.
sure, i'll admit. some of the things they got to, and how they got it, were corrupt when in comes to legality. but just because they're so broad and famous doesn't mean they deserve to have this solo spotlight only on them.
apple could do a million things the same way, i'm sure and not get hit for it because for one, people like the though of ms as the enemy and have convinced themselves of it a truth and secondly, people would at first probably consider 'little difference' with apple actually doing something. they'd lose whatever amount, and even if it's done via percentage it still wouldn't equal up to the why-and-reason of the sentence because the mindset, "well.. ms lost this much more than apple for doing the same thing, and even if apple's 'this much' is unfair and far lower than microsoft's 'this much', it doesn't matter because well.. they have money."
yeah, well, "this much" adds up and the finger should be pointed with the same pressure at the both of 'em. not just microsoft because they sell a good product.
if you don't like microsoft as a company, don't work for 'em. don't buy stocks or sign up for any pr service. if you hate their operating system. turn off your xp, and buy a mac.
and don't worry, folks. mac isn't as bad as giving you free programs!! you won't have to worry about fine media right there on your system. you won't have to worry about a lot of things, actually. i mean, beware- there might be a "try an ipod" brochure in the box somewhere. but i'm sure the government or, because they're just so concerened, will take care of it all. apple flaunting anything? how silly (sense the sarcasm?). you'd think they'd put some trademark letter on everything so you'd know it was them. the idea..
if apple and other companies are hurting they can't put it all on microsoft. there's a reason, or two, or three.. why they're so high at the top and the others aren't other than "they're really, really too good at marketing." if you're a big-name company like macintosh or whatever they want to be called now, and you're failing after releasing so many sub-products (of course, no one complains about the ipod versus good ms software), and you're showing your customers a happy face and then you hurt- take the pain. focus on yourself, instead of trying to beat out the competition. i've seen more of that crap from other companies.
microsoft is building the best that they can, and they're degrading themselves and saying, "hey! you're free to use and apply to and help yourselves with whatever we created, even though we don't get the profit because you guys aren't selling as much with your own 'evil' marketing." even if microsoft kept to their former ways, however you see them, there still would be whining. "that's an assumption!!" is it now?
then, what are you doing? are you not assuming microsoft is lying? you're not, inside, thinking- hoping for microsoft to do something good for the customers- i mean, bad for apple or some other? hm.
if you're too ignorant to know how to not use a simple program like i.e or windows media because you're so biased towards whatever else, then why did you buy that operating system? oh, that's why! it's a good buy! you dislike windows media player on your computer? well, sorry but at least it offers some convenience. unlike pro-bound quicktime with its apple on the top. and, maybe it's just a guess, but i have a little feeling people like buying a computer with things on it besides internet. microsoft offers what it does because it comes from a time where you didn't have to download every appliance off the web. why should it omit wordpad because of the minority of users whine that it's politically uncorrect?
i understand that some programs are unremovable. spider solitaire's built in (i've tried to get rid of that addiction)! but, you know what? self-control. don't like it, don't play it. "oooh.. i just hate that microsoft's own operating system comes with their own media player where i can even view my own things i made well on great programs they also made on their own. i wish i had ad-ridden quicktime or itunes. i shouldn – by joseph s.
microsoft rules for a reason (continued) (1:15am est mon jul 24 2006)
"…i shouldn't have to use windows media player."
well, then.. don't. and, as for itunes. microsoft lets you use it. or, is it apple lets microsoft use itunes? after all, who's going to stoop to using a mac just so they can play music?
microsoft has recently come out and said, "fine. you cried for it, and we figure that well, we've made everything else, we might as well make a product that cooperates with our opponent's crap." of course, there may be a few glitches with the iwin because they're so busy paying up to the eu and you for this and that.
microsoft is an american company, a smart company, and a yes- a powerful company. why? for one, they don't waste their time worrying about the others' making money off of their own inventions.
also, they sell a pretty good product.
sadly, it's too good for the others.
-joseph s.
– by joseph s.
trust (8:14am est mon jul 24 2006)
if they say it's daytime, look outside to see for yourself. – by trust is earned
burden shift (11:25am est mon jul 24 2006)
by allowing different default programs (such as media player), m$ shifts one of the key points of the eu antitrust issue onto its customers, pc manufacturers. it saves them from having to release a different product based on location. i hate to say it, but it's a pretty smart (and sneaky) move. – by teej
m$…trust? (12:43pm est mon jul 24 2006)
i wouldn't trust m$ with anything. after the whole wga deal, you don't know what else they are doing to screw the customer. – by sca
to 'burden shift' and the trustees (10:40am est wed jul 26 2006)
wow- never thought of it like that, "burden shift." interesting. i know i'm gonna be considered the evil microsoft supporter here, but i say "way to go!" maybe i'm just so against the eu and for microsoft (a little too ambitious for comfort maybe, but they started out modest/honest enough, right?).
as far as trust, i understand the customer aspect is important. still, i've researched and have also personally seen me and others quite satisfied with their product as a full, decent, money's-worth system. i like my xp. i know there very well could be corruption in the production and marketing of it, but as an american consumer i'm perty satisfied. no one's perfect- not mac and not microsoft. i don't see why microsoft should be expected to be so (well, it could have something to do with their raisin' the bar and being punished with that higher expectation).
i sure hope, though, that if i get vista it comes with the windows products i know and love. i've tried the others and i don't care too much for them. this ain't because microsoft's oh-so-evil default functions messed them up they were in fact 'perfect' in that regard. i don't like them because they offered so much less. maybe i've just had too much of gates' kool-aid, but if the flavor doesn't die, than why change my buy.
-joseph s. – by joseph s.
07.16.2019 :: 6:04PM EDT :: Stephanie Valera
07.16.2019 :: 5:59PM EDT :: Genevieve Scarano


The law (leg.wa.gov) requires that all title insurers and title agents file a schedule of their escrow fees. The schedule must clearly state the amounts to be charged for the escrow services, the manner in which the fees are determined, and any additional charges to the consumer that are not included in the total escrow fee.
If you conduct escrow closing involving property located in any county in this state, you must file a schedule of your escrow rates with us. If you conduct escrows in more than one county and have different rates for the different counties, you must file a rate schedule for each county.
Escrow fee filings must be received by the commissioner at least 15 days prior to their effective date.
The escrow rate schedule to be filed must include an effective date which shall be no earlier than 15 days after the schedule has been filed with the commissioner. In establishing your effective date, be sure to include any mailing or delivery time as the schedule is not to be effective until 15 days after the commissioner actually receives the filing.
Please note: Escrow rate schedules are not submitted through System for Electronic Rate and Form Filing (SERFF).


text:
John H Manhold
John H Manhold Novels
The Coin
El Tigre II
El Tigre Espanol
The Gypsy: A Romantic Thriller so designated by the author T. J. Jones. Assumed published, copyright and written by the author
This is an unusually presented volume that opens immediately with a prologue describing the protagonist's situation tied in a torture chamber, being provided a possible means of escape by "The Gypsy'.
From this and ensuing action, the story expands as the reader is introduced to and learns about (Adam) Cain, the protagonist who seems to function in a somewhatsecondary capacity, his girlfriend Jenny, and brother Jack, The Gypsy, whose forte is stock, bond and similar negotiations and the 'round-about' manner in which her name has been coined. Other characters gradually appear and lead the reader to surmise some type of uprising is being planned by an international group that is attempting seriously destructive caos.
All the characters exhibit interestingly emotional instability that leads to fascinating situations and the Gypsy gradually evolves to be a most interesting notable part of a significant international family that long has functioned 'behind-the-scenes' as well as being the main 'love interest' in the story
Summary: As the author describes, this is a Romantic Thriller, but perhaps not one that may be thought of in the usual manner. It might be described as 'tough' love.
Highly recommended as a 'different' Romantic Thriller.
Jenny lost girlfriend. Gabriel (the Gypsy) so called because she has had a tremendous run on the Market. He is emotionally incapable of sincerely dedicating his relationship to a particular woman. 10 years in Army, just barely honorable discharge allowed him to obtain 'Permit-to-carry' and a job as a security officer in Las Vegas Strip Clubs. Mother died when he was 12. Father missed her but as Navy 'Lifer' was never home. Raised by Grand mother but had left for Army. Adam Cain goes strictly by Cain. Chapter introduces Cain, 2 introduces Gypsy. Chapter 3 all hell breaks loose as four gunmen with Ak-47's start shooting. Chapter introduces the l\Local Law and the story evolves.
Vicious Ripples
Vicious Ripples: A suspicious Thriller (The Desire Card Book 4) Kindle Edition eBook ISBN: 9781685491390 copyright and written by Lee Mathew Goldberg.
Story opens with the brutal kidnapping of the daughter of a divorced couple travelling from the Central Park apartment of one parent to the other. The story then begins with the introduction of Detective Monica Bonner who has just transferred into the area from the Northwest of the country. From this opening the reader is introduced to a most unusual plot, that hinges on a basic power struggle among the rich and powerful Hollywood characters whose names all readers have been acquainted with for many years. The kidnapped child is not part of the scene, per se, but is the granddaughter of a seemingly still powerful part of the overall picture and is the present victim. Monica is an introspectively psychological involved individual whose idiosyncrasies perform perfectly for the role she plays in the tale. The entire unit of presentation is as suggested, set forth as a Book of Desirable books, this volume is the fourth.
Discussion: A well-written, uniquely thought-out and plotted fantasy thriller, beautifully but most unusually characterized. Specifically, the weight of discussion appears to concentrate upon presenting evidence or even vicious aspects of personality exhibited by well-known and/or remembered celebrities. Another noteworthy item: the reader may have benefitted by reading the entire series in order. However, all is sufficiently clear so reading this individual volume alone leaves nothing to be desired. A most interesting read especially from the unusual psychological aspect.
5* especially for readers who enjoy unusual thought patte
POP SMOKE Palmetto Publishing eBook ISBN: 9781641119788. A Memoir Copyright and written by Bill Lindsay.
Overall, the author has written a book that anyone with no knowledge of what the Marine or Army foot soldier endured daily in combat situations must read. It is a simply told presentation of facts dealing with how bodily functions occur and must be dealt with as time and the occurrence of deadly circumstances simultaneously must be dealt with. The author has set forth the facts of this type of warfare in a unassuming manner that the reader is aware of only if he/she reads the account thoughtfully.
Discussion: This entire book is a thoughtfully and empathetically written book by a man who was recruited while in college and exhibited the same empathetic attitude toward his Platoon during his entire term of service. It also provides many interesting additions for the reader only vaguely familiar with much of the Vietnam Conflict. It provides a verbal explanation of the country and those associated with it; a glossary of terms for the uninitiated; a manner of looking at the 'cost' of war from several different aspects and it describes the author from a different aspect than usually presented. Overall, a must read for any person interested in this portion of our history but additionally a description of warfare from the perspective of the foot soldier.
5* A must read for reasons presented.
The Tom Brady
The Tom Brady by Alex Diaz. Football Biography Books Published, copyright and written by the author
This book, sub-titled The Best Story of Tom Brady – one of Football's Greatest Quarterbacks is typical of the importance attached to athletes who are elevated to heroic status by segments of the American public. Tom was not a particularly outstanding choice in his first draft and more specifically was selected very late in the draft at a very high number. He has since reached heights in Football not previously attained by other quarterbacks. This book details his growth and accomplishments through his entire life as a young man growing up in California along with discussions and instructions with respect to 'what makes a good quarterback especially in the school system as it is set forth and utilized today.
Discussion: The author is an individual heavily involved in teaching the fundamentals of the game as provided in the modern system and attempts to illustrate the fundamentals required for an individual to reach the height of attainment exhibited by Brady. The lessons provided along with the changes that have occurred within the game are employed here to explain his hypothesis. In general, the presentation is acceptably provided and sets forth the author's point to use a particular high achiever to demonstrate the results he is attempting to explain. Unusual but acceptable presentation of particular facts about one superior athlete's attainments to simultaneously explain the necessities of teaching modern football.
4* Unusual presentation using an outstanding athlete's accomplishments in reaching a controversial position.
My Life in the Wilderness
My Life in the Wilderness. An Alaskan's Story by Robert L. Hilliker. Written and copyright by the author in 2016. Ebook version published by Alaska Dreams Publishing (First eBook publication May, 2016. Print version ISBN: 978-0692642634 by author).
This is one man's story beginning with his hopes and dreams of living in Alaska in some of the early days. After a number of preparatory moves educating himself in the ways of the early Mountain Men and concentrated activity in practicing these activities, he was ready to make his move. Now a middle-aged man with a family, he embarked upon a first year-long attempt beginning in December 1980 for a sojourn in Alaska. This gradually progressed to the establishment of life as his preferred way of living with a new family, personal construction of a home and a lifetime of satisfaction.
Discussion: This is an interesting tale describing many of the features of Alaska from the trip up the Alaskan Highway into many different parts of the intriguing land by "a normal work-a-day man who was able to realize his dreams by sheer perseverance." The story is simply written and loaded with activities about which most people only dream. There is much repetition and or redundancy, but acceptable because of the occurrences in different settings and involving different individuals. The book is not for everyone, but especially of interest to readers who think about unusual places, participate in 'specialized fun groups' and even dream about actually making the same 'break-from-reality'.
5* Of special interest to readers noted.
Operation Africa
Operation Afrika. The Destroyers WWII Thriller Series Book One. Published, Copyright Sapere Books. Written by Charles Whiting.
This is the tale of a special group of British raiders led by Mark Crooke, a maverick/idealist born in 1911 and educated at Sandhurst with many changes leading to Lt. Col. 1941 after losing an eye and gaining a Victoria Cross Medal for his participation in an unsuccessful raid to remove the Nazi General Rommel. A year later, Court-martialed for insubordination and demoted to 2nd Lt. and returned to Egypt to head-up a group of misfits variously including a London Cockney, a Texas drifter who fought against Pancho Villa and in the Spanish War, former members of various Foreign Legions, a German escapee from Dachau and a Muslim, many with earned Military Medals, but most importantly, all had no future beyond their present assignment because all were recipients of military designated misdemeanors including murder. They were a collection similar to one publicized and popular American Cinema that brought forward a move, originally believed to be initiated by Winston Churchill – an offer "deletion of Military records if surviving participation successfully in 'lost cause' action against the enemy. Their assignment now was to stop the movement of the Nazis straight across Africa to the Suez Canal and into Egypt, an action that would greatly affect Great Britain's Empire.
Discussion: a well-written, high-octane Thriller replete with characters who constantly generate empathic understanding. This is a tale that devotees will find difficulty in laying down for even a few moments. It also presents most fascinating material with respect to the huge desert arena in which the action occurs.
5* highly recommended for the devotee plus interesting associated material
L.E.O.: The True Stories of Lt. Wayne Cotes.
l..E.O.: The true stories of Lt. Wayne Cotes ISBN: 9781983947332/EBook ISBN: Not assigned. Published in U.S. by Kindle Direct Publishing. Copyright 2018 by Jerold Cotes. Second Edition. Written by Wayne Coates.
As stated by the author, these true stories are a collection of anecdotes, conversations, remembrance's and other features recalled from more than 30 years of service as a police officer. The service began as a "Rookie" directly after serving in the Marine Corps and progressed upward gradually through the years to retirement as an Officer in several positions of importance until retirement – his activities not only were policing the inhabitants of an area of the city, more specifically as a member of the community in which he lived as resident of one of the large housing developments of the district in one of the lower scale districts inhabited by drug users/dispensers, prostitutes and similar.
Discussion: The author has set forth a fascinating collection of widely divergent stories containing humor, varying amounts of activity and conversation with and among 'street people' as well as with other police officers while involved interactively among themselves and with these 'street people'. A small number of them probably would be better understood by readers with more 'insider' information, but generally it is well-written with noted apologies to his editor for 'errors' within himself.
4* Pleasant, enjoyable series of short stories.
AFRICA BITES
AFRICA BITES Scrapes and escapes in the African bush ISBN 9781515015987 Lloyd Camp Consulting Surrey, UK written by Lloyd Camp.
The book opens with a helpful comparison of distances and weights and closes with a similarly helpful epilogue, glossary and About the Author. Between, the story is presented in PART I Safari Scrapes and Part II. Early Escapes. The stories included in the first are a collection of delightful, but often seemingly somewhat foolhardy, encounters between humans and wild animals, beautifully arranged by the author who depends upon his knowledge of these creatures of the wild to satisfy a long-held desire of visiting travelers that they have mentioned or he empathetically has discerned. All are fascinating and most poignant, but one particularly in this reviewer's opinion, particularly long will be remembered.
Part I presents a collection of the author's coming-of-age perilous activities as a young boy growing up in South Africa.
Discussion: An Epilogue and About the Author are quite informative about the status of Safaris and the amazing individuals who presently function in the capacity of guides these days. The difference between today and those of previous times is quite remarkable as no doubt, are the pictures conjured-up by the thoughts provided by the individual giving such a trip passing thought, or perhaps actually considering such a journey. One feature which may be somewhat annoying to some readers is the amount of descriptive redundancy.
4* but highly recommended for readers who enjoy described features.
Rise of the Tiger
Rise of the Tiger a modern air combat novel published, copyright and written by Mike Solyom.
The story is set largely in the eastern Malaysian peninsula ending with the city of Singapore as the Caliphate's assembled mighty army descends to capture and control the city and eventually entire world. Still worse is his anticipated employment of a potent nerve attacking chemical to effect this ultimate control beginning with Singapore. The only true source of defense against the oncoming monster is the presence of semi-modern military aircraft, and these provide an almost non-existent threat once Lt. Col. Alexander Kui of the Royal Malaysian AF is shot down and captured. At this point, the reader is introduced to American Fighter Pilots Lee Chennard and Danny Hilton, who are assigned to a covert CIA unit where pilots who have made blunders against important controlling individuals in Washington. Lee's offense was by reporting a clandestine act detrimental to the U.S. by a senior advisor to the President. Other new assignees were because of similar activities. Anyway, it's a manner of chastisement until the lesson had been learned and they could return to active duty. The trouble with the unit was that they had no planes to fly. That is until Lee Chennard went to work. This material gradually is revealed and a fascinatingly conceived plot with numerous turns and twists begins to be delivered and appears to be on its way to providing the initiation of another series of thrillers now directed toward revelation of the many complicated and spectacular events associated with modern air combat.
Discussion: The author, as a twenty plus Air Force Pilot followed by other stints of government programming for flyers, perhaps has set forth a tale which is a little slow beginning, and retains considerable redundancy and repetition, but appears again to have provided the basis for another fascinatingly enjoyable series.
4* But highly recommended.
Catching Currents
Catching Currents: A Frontier Historic Colorado Story ISBN: 9798607893484 Mountain Track Publishing copyright and written by Kari August.
The reader is given to understand that this is a fictional account of a true story by this popular author demonstrating the significance of differences between the cultural restrictions with respect to women's' activity in the western part of the developing United States and those rigidly imposed in the east. The story begins in1897 following the lives of Sally and her brother Will when they are transposed from Boston and its long existent strict codes for 'proper' conduct among women especially within certain classes of society. The changes are set in motion through contact with Caroline, raised on a Colorado ranch with her brothers Teddie and part American Indian Bear whose home is a large ranch supplying specifically bred horses to requests from widely scattered sources. But more than a tale of these mores of the time it is about the numerous changes within the period and a literal smorgasbord of inter-association of nationalities and levels of station in life ranging from English 'cockney' to those of extreme wealth such a Stanley Steamer, inventor of the automobile similarly titled and those of high position such as President Teddy Roosevelt. And of course, a series of interesting love stories.
Discussion; The tale takes place largely in Estes Park, Colorado and includes facts and features of history, lengthy discussions of politics, attitudes in general, women's rights, elevation of important features of nature and establishment of laws for their protection, as well as development of numerous inventions of the period often presented in amusing format. This is a most charming read with characters that beseech empathy. This is a story that at times extends further than required, but still is recommended reading and perhaps most specifically, because it provides an interesting picture of a period of history from several individual aspects.
5* Fact based Historical novel, Recommended.
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BOOKS BY JOHN H. MANHOLD
Centricity


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