text:
Randomised trial investigating the relationship of response rate for blood sample donation to site of biospecimen collection, fasting status and reminder letter: The 45 and Up Study
Emily Banks1, 2Email author,
Nicol Herbert2,
Kris Rogers2,
Tanya Mather1 and
Louisa Jorm2, 3
BMC Medical Research Methodology201212:147
https://doi.org/10.1186/1471-2288-12-147
© Banks et al.; licensee BioMed Central Ltd. 2012
Received: 2 May 2012
Accepted: 17 September 2012
Various options exist for collecting biospecimens and biomarkers from cohort study participants, and these have important logistic, resource and scientific implications. Evidence on how different collection methods affect participation and data quality is lacking. This parallel-design randomised trial, the Link-Up Study, involved blood sample donation and other data collection among participants in an existing cohort study, The 45 and Up Study. It aimed to investigate the relation of fasting status, reminder letters and data collection site to response rates, data quality and biospecimen yield.
Individuals aged 45 and over participating in The 45 and Up Study and living ≤20 km from central Wagga Wagga, NSW (regional area) or ≤10 km from central Parramatta, NSW (urban area) (n = 2340) were randomised, stratified by area of residence, to be invited to give a blood sample and additional data by attending either a clinic established specifically for the trial, with an appointment time ("dedicated clinic", n = 1336) or an existing local commercial pathology centre (n = 1004). Within dedicated clinic groups, participants were randomised into fasting (n = 668) or non-fasting (n = 668) and, at the Parramatta pathology centre site, reminder letter after two weeks (n = 336) or no reminder (n = 334).
Overall, 33% (762/2340) of invitees took part in the Link-Up Study; 41% (410/1002) among regional and 26% (352/1338) among urban-area residents (p < 0.0001). At the dedicated clinics, response rates were 38% (257/668) not fasting and 38% fasting (257/668) (participation rate ratio (RR) = 1.00, 95%CI 0.91-1.08, p = 0.98). The response rate was 22% among individuals randomised to attend the Parramatta pathology centre without a reminder and 23% among those sent a reminder letter (RR = 1.01, 0.93-1.09, p = 0.74). In total, the response rate was 38% (514/1336) at the dedicated clinics and 25% (248/1004) at the pathology centres (RR = 0.67, 0.56-0.78, p < 0.01); measures of height, weight and systolic and diastolic blood pressure did not vary materially between these groups, nor did the median number of aliquots of plasma, buffy coat and red cells collected.
Among cohort study participants, response rates for an additional study involving biospecimen collection, but not data quality or average biospecimen yield, were considerably higher at dedicated clinics than at existing commercial pathology sites.
Fasting status
Biospecimens
Large-scale prospective studies have contributed enormously to our understanding of health. Increasingly, such large scale studies include the collection of biospecimens, to allow investigation and integration of genetic and other biomarker data within epidemiological research. There are multiple possible methods for the collection of biospecimens, ranging from in-home collection, use of mobile vans, attendance at a facility set up specifically for the purpose (termed here a "dedicated clinic") [1], to use of existing health care facilities [2]. The choice of collection method has important logistic, resource and scientific implications. However, empirical evidence regarding the impact of different biospecimen collection methods on measures such as response rate and data quality is lacking.
This paper describes a randomised trial in Australia, comparing biospecimen and biomarker data collection (including physical measures) through dedicated clinics, set up specifically for the trial, with collection through existing commercial pathology centres. Specifically, the trial aimed to compare the response rate to an invitation to give a blood sample and have physical measurements (height, weight, blood pressure and heart rate) taken and the data quality and biospecimen yield, among existing participants from a population-based cohort study (The 45 and Up Study), in individuals randomised to:
Whether the participant was asked to attend fasting or not fasting;
Whether or not a reminder letter was sent to non-attending participants and;
Different sites of data collection (dedicated clinic versus an existing commercial pathology centre);
The "Link-Up Study" was conducted among a subset of 2340 individuals already taking part in The 45 and Up Study, a large scale study of healthy ageing of men and women aged 45 years and over from the general population of New South Wales, Australia. A total of 266,848 participants joined The 45 and Up Study between February 2006 and November 2008 by completing a postal questionnaire and providing written consent for long term follow-up of their health, including linkage to routinely collected population databases of health information. The 45 and Up Study is described in detail elsewhere [3].
Data collection centres
An urban and a regional location were selected for this randomised trial, to allow comparison of response rates in these two types of location. The locations of Parramatta, New South Wales (urban) and Wagga Wagga, New South Wales (regional) were chosen on the basis of having over 1000 45 and Up Study participants resident in the target area, being fairly typical of urban and regional areas in New South Wales and having a local pathology centre. At each location, two collection sites were established; a dedicated clinic was set up de novo and a suitable commercial pathology centre was identified, with 4 collection sites established in total.
Eligible individuals were 45 and Up Study cohort members, resident in Wagga Wagga or Parramatta. In total, 2340 eligible participants in the two areas were randomised to be invited to attend either a commercial pathology centre or a dedicated clinic (see Randomisation section below).
Eligible 45 and Up Study cohort members were sent a postal invitation to take part in the Link-Up Study, which included a covering letter from The 45 and Up Study, a participant information leaflet and a brief questionnaire. Participants randomised to the commercial pathology arm also received a Pathology Request Form, which provided collection instructions for the phlebotomist (quantity, preservative etc.); the participant was asked to bring this form with them when they attended the pathology collection centre.
Self-administered questionnaire and consent
Participants were instructed to complete the questionnaire prior to attending their designated collection site and return it when they attended to give a blood sample. The questionnaire was one A4 page, and repeated selected questions from The 45 and Up Study baseline questionnaire. Questions included the participant's date of birth, self reported height and weight, self-rated health, health events in the last 3 years, and the Medical Outcomes Score Physical Functioning scale.
The consent form was on the reverse of the questionnaire. Participants gave consent for the collection, long-term storage and use of their blood sample for unspecified health research, including genetic research. Participants gave their consent on the understanding that they would not receive any results from tests on their blood sample. Additionally, participants agreed to their questionnaire answers and biomarker data being combined with the health information that was already part of The 45 and Up Study, including linkage to various population databases [3].
Dedicated clinics
The dedicated clinics for this trial were set up in a Police, Citizens, Youth Club in Wagga Wagga and a Returned and Services League club in Parramatta, using methods previously employed in a population-based survey study of diabetes and related risk factors [4]. These sites were chosen as they were familiar to the local community and easily accessible. Each location was staffed by a project manager, three casual field staff and a phlebotomist, who were all specifically trained to take the measurements and samples in accordance with the study protocol.
Potential participants randomised to attend a dedicated clinic were given a provisional appointment time in their invitation letter, which they could change if required. Individuals randomised to attend fasting were provided with fasting instructions (i.e. no food or drink for 10 hours prior to their appointment, except for water). All fasting appointments were made in the morning to minimise the risk of ill effects and inconvenience to the participant. Clinic staff phoned participants 1–2 days prior to the scheduled appointment to confirm the participant's attendance. Where a participant was unable to make the scheduled appointment, clinic staff followed-up the participant by phone to reschedule the appointment. Participants were able to attend the dedicated clinics from Sunday to Thursday.
Commercial pathology centres
The commercial pathology arm utilised the existing infrastructure of a commercial pathology service with a network of collection centres covering much of New South Wales. Collection of blood samples was undertaken by existing pathology centre staff who were specifically trained by Link-Up Study staff to measure height, weight, waist circumference, blood pressure and heart rate. While each pathology collection centre has its own anthropometric measurement equipment, for consistency the same measurement equipment used in the dedicated clinic arm was supplied for use in the pathology arm. Participants were otherwise able to make use of the existing facilities at these centres (e.g. waiting rooms, phlebotomy chairs, vaccutainers).
The pathology centres are attended by general patients as well as trial participants. Due to the existing workload from fasting general patients, the commercial pathology centres were not able to guarantee that fasting trial participants would be able to be seen in the morning. For this reason, fasting samples were not collected in the pathology centre arm of the trial.
Appointments were not given to participants in the pathology arm. Instead, participants were able to attend at a time convenient to them within a specified 4 week date range. Participants were able to attend the commercial pathology from Monday to Thursday. Potential participants randomised to the reminder arm were sent a second invitation 2 weeks after the initial invitation, if they had not attended by that date.
Measurement of height, weight, waist circumference, blood pressure and heart rate
Height was measured using a Charder HM200P stadiometer and was recorded to the nearest 0.1 cm. Participants were instructed to remove their shoes, stand up straight with weight evenly distributed on both feet and position their head so that the line of vision was at right angles to the body. The measurement was taken as the participant inhaled deeply and stretched to their fullest height.
Weight was measured using a Charder MS-3200 digital scale and was recorded to the nearest 0.1 kg. Participants were measured in light clothing and without shoes. Participants were instructed to stand over the centre of the scales with their weight distributed evenly on both feet.
Waist circumference was measured using a Seca 203 waist circumference measuring tape. Participants were instructed to remove any items such as belts or bulky clothing that would interfere with the measurement. Measurements were taken with the participant standing with their feet separated between 25–30 cm and weight distributed evenly on both feet. The tape was positioned on the participant's waist and the measurement was taken at expiration.
Blood pressure and heart rate were measured using an Omron Digital Automatic Blood Pressure Monitor HEM-907. Participants were instructed to remove any bulky items of clothing around their arms. Prior to the measurements being taken, the participant sat still for 5 minutes with their legs uncrossed and feet flat on the ground.
Blood specimen collection and processing for storage
The phlebotomists at each site took a 30 ml blood sample from participants. The sample was collected into tubes as follows:
3 x 6 ml Ethylenediaminetetraacetic (EDTA);
1 x 6 ml Acid-citrate-dextrose (ACD); and
1 x 6 ml Lithium Heparin (LiHep).
Immediately following collection each tube was labelled with the date and time of collection, the participant's date of birth, sex and their unique trial ID number. Samples were refrigerated at 4°C prior to and during transportation to the central laboratory at Darlinghurst, New South Wales. Samples were transported to the laboratory within 36 hours of collection and were processed within 48 hours.
Samples were centrifuged at 2500 rpm for 10 minutes at room temperature. Plasma was removed using a transfer pipette and 0.5 ml aliquotted into 1.0 ml cryo tubes. Buffy coat was then removed into 1.0 ml cryo tubes. One 0.5 ml aliquot of red cells was removed from one of the EDTA tubes, with a transfer pipette into one 1.0 ml cryo tube. Processing generally yielded a total of 22 aliquots for each 30 ml sample (16 plasma, 5 buffy coat, 1 red cells). Once processed, the samples were frozen at −80°C in ultra low temperature freezers.
Randomisation
A total of 2340 individuals who had provided an address in either Wagga Wagga or Parramatta were randomly sampled from The 45 and Up Study cohort and invited by post to participate in the Link-Up Study (Figure 1). Mailing of invitations began on 25 June 2009, with data collection from 5 July 2009 to 6 August 2009 in Wagga Wagga and from 16 August 2009 to 24 September 2009 in Parramatta.
Protocol for allocation of study participants to groups.
The addresses of 45 and Up Study participants have been geocoded using the geocoding system in Freely Extensible Biomedical Record Linkage (FEBRL) [5]. The General Post Office (GPO) was selected as the central area at each location and distance from the central area was calculated using the great-circle distance formula. Participants with a residential address geocoded to the street level, and within 10 km of Parramatta GPO (33.81S, 151.00E) or 20 km of Wagga GPO (35.10S, 147.37E) were selected into the sampling frame. A stratified sample of potential participants was drawn randomly (using a computer generated randomisation list) in each area, with stratification by distance from the GPO.
In Wagga Wagga, 1002 participants were selected, stratified by distance (0-5 km from GPO, 5-20 km from GPO) with equal allocation into each stratification group. In Parramatta 1002 participants were initially selected, stratified by distance from Parramatta GPO (0-5 km from GPO, 5-10 km from GPO).
From the samples in each area, participants were randomly allocated in equal proportions to one of three groups (using a computer generated randomisation list):
invited to attend the dedicated clinic, not fasting;
invited to attend the dedicated clinic, fasting; and
invited to attend the pathology centre, not fasting, no reminder letter.
After preliminary results of relatively low response rates were available from Wagga Wagga, a decision was made to include a fourth group in the trial in Parramatta: invited to attend the pathology centre, not fasting, with reminder letter. An additional 336 eligible participants in the Parramatta area that had not already been selected for sampling were randomly selected (using a computer generated randomisation list) and allocated to this additional pathology arm.
KDR was responsible for generating the syntax used to randomly sample and allocate participants to treatment groups. Randomisation and stratification processes are summarised in Figure 1.
Blinding
Although invitees were told in the study information leaflet that they were part of a pilot project and that their participation would assist "in deciding the best way of implementing the Link-Up Project", they were not aware of the trial hypotheses or randomisation to differing data collection site types, fasting status and reminder letter receipt. In analysing and interpreting the data, the authors were aware of the randomisation status of study participants.
The primary outcome measure for this trial is participation in the Link-Up Study, through attendance at a biospecimen collection site to provide a blood sample and giving written consent to participate, including use of blood samples for genetic and other research. The proportion of invitees who went on to participate in this way in the Link-Up Study is termed the "response rate".
Concern is often expressed that dedicated clinics and highly trained study staff are necessary to make physical measurements for cohort studies and that staff from health services may not be capable of taking measurements in the same way. Among individuals who went on to participate in the Link-Up Study, the biospecimen yield and features of the biomarker data (height, weight, heart rate and systolic and diastolic blood pressure) were compared for those attending the dedicated clinic and those attending the pathology centre, in order to investigate whether there was any empirical evidence of systematic differences that might indicate issues with data quality.
We estimated we would need 668 participants in each treatment group across the area, based on an initially estimated response rate of 50% and difference in response rate of 7.6% between treatment groups for power of 0.796. We allocated 334 persons to each area and planned to pool across areas to compare treatment effects of data collection type (pathology vs. dedicated clinic).
Data from the participants' 45 and Up Study baseline questionnaire were added to the data on responses and clinical data from the Link-Up Study. Information from the Link-Up Study included: area (Wagga Wagga or Parramatta); distance from GPO (categorised as <5 km and >5 km); and the trial group that the participant was allocated to. Distance from GPO was based on the most current residential address held by The 45 and Up Study.
Response rate was analysed using a log binomial model (proc genmod in SAS, v9.2 Cary NC, USA) with response (yes or no) as the outcome, and randomisation group as the predictor variable. Associations with exposure variables were expressed as a participation rate ratio (RR). Quantifying differences in response rate between randomisation groups, stratified by area. Linear combinations of coefficients were used to test three specific hypotheses about differences in response rates between:
fasting versus non-fasting groups in dedicated clinics;
reminder versus no reminder, for specimens collected at the pathology service at Parramatta only;
dedicated clinic versus pathology service.
Wald 95% confidence intervals were calculated for rate ratio estimates.
Among those participating in the Link-Up Study, the means, standard deviations and differences between self-reported and measured height and weight and measured blood pressure were compared between dedicated clinic and pathology service, within each area, using standard t-tests and Bland-Altman plots. Biospecimen yields were measured according to the number of aliquots of plasma, buffy coat and red cells in each preservative type, and compared with pre-specified targets for each of these biospecimens and also compared between the different collection sites, using standard t-tests.
We have not made a formal correction (e.g. Bonferonni correction) for multiple testing (multiple treatment comparison and multiple outcomes) in our study. We have calculated five p-values for the main outcome (response rate), 14 p-values for measurement differences, and 16 p-values for blood aliquot yield. The chance of a Type I error increases with the number of tests performed, so our results should be interpreted with the number of tests for each outcome in mind.
Ethical approval for the study was provided by the University of New South Wales, Human Research Ethics Committee, the Australian National University Human Research Ethics Committee, and the University of Western Sydney Human Research Ethics Committee.
Baseline characteristics according to randomisation group
Table 1 shows a range of demographic, lifestyle and other characteristics of the trial participants according to the group they were randomised to. There were no marked differences between the groups, in either urban or regional strata.
Participant characteristic by area and randomisation status
Wagga Wagga Randomised to:
Group 1 Dedicated clinic not fasting
Group 2 Dedicated clinic fasting
Group 3 Pathology centre not fasting no reminder
Total (N)
Age (mean [SD])
60.8 [9.7]
61.6 [10.5]
Sex (% male)
Distance from centre (mean km [SD])
5.0 [2.9]
Work status (% full time paid work)
Time since recruitment (% >1 year)
Education (% tertiary educated)
Carer status (% full time carer)
Disability (% major disability)
Physical function (% severe limitation)
Smoking (% current smokers)
BMI (% obese (BMI ≥ 30 kgm-2))
Parramatta Randomised to:
Group 4 Pathology centre not fasting with reminder
Overall response to the invitation to participate
The overall uptake of the invitation to participate in the Link-Up Study was 33% (762/2340). The response rate was 41% (410/1002) among participants resident in the regional area (Wagga Wagga) and 26% (352/1338) among those resident in the urban area (Parramatta)(p < 0.0001).
Response rate according to whether participants were invited to attend fasting or not fasting
Individuals invited to provide biospecimens and physical measures at the dedicated clinics were randomly allocated to be invited fasting or not fasting. In Wagga Wagga, a total of 46% of those randomised to attend the clinic in a non-fasting state attended their appointment, compared to 47% randomised to fasting (participation rate ratio, RR fasting versus non-fasting = 1.01, 95% CI 0.91-1.11, p = 0.87; Table 2). Figures for non-fasting and fasting at Parramatta were 31% and 30%, respectively. (RR = 0.99, 95%CI 0.86-1.13), p = 0.88; Table 2). Combining the dedicated clinic in both areas, the response rate was 38% (257/668) not fasting and 38% fasting (257/668) (RR = 1.00, 95%CI 0.91-1.08, p = 0.98).
Response rate to participation in the Link-Up Study among existing participants in The 45 and Up Study, by area of residence and randomisation status
Participation rate ratio (RR)
P (χ 2 test)
n (%)
RR (95% CI)
Group 1 Dedicated Clinic without fasting
Group 2 Dedicated Clinic with fasting
1.01 (0.91-1.11)
Fasting vs. non fasting: p = 0.87
Group 3 Pathology Service no reminder
Clinic vs. pathology service: p <0.01
Fasting vs non fasting: p = 0.88
Clinic vs pathology service: p <0.01
Group 4 Pathology Service with reminder
Reminder vs no reminder: p = 0.74
Response rate according to whether or not participants received a reminder letter
Participants invited to attend the Wagga Wagga pathology centre did not receive a reminder letter. Individuals invited to attend the Parramatta pathology centre were randomised to either receive or not receive a reminder letter, if they had not responded to their initial invitation in the first two weeks of data collection. The response rate was 22% among individuals randomised to attend the Parramatta pathology service without a reminder and 23% among those who were sent a reminder letter (RR reminder versus no reminder = 1.01, 95% CI 0.93-1.09, p = 0.74).
Response rate according to whether participants were invited to attend a dedicated clinic or commercial pathology centre
In Wagga Wagga, the response rate was 46% among those randomised to attend the dedicated clinic, not fasting and 30% among those randomised to attend the pathology centre, not fasting (RR = 0.64, 95% CI 1.0.53-0.79, p < 0.01; Table 2). In Parramatta, the response rate for those randomised to attend the dedicated clinic not fasting was 31% compared to 22% among those randomised to attend the pathology centre not fasting, with no reminder (RR = 0.69, 95% CI 0.53-0.90, p < 0.01). Combining the regional and urban areas, the fasting and non-fasting participants and those who did and did not receive a reminder letter, the overall response rate was 38% (514/1336) at the dedicated clinics and 25% (248/1004) at the pathology centres (RR = 0.67, 95% CI 0.56-0.78, p < 0.01).
For the randomised elements of this study relating to fasting status and the reminder letter, a meaningful difference in the RR can effectively be ruled out, since they are estimated with high precision. Hence, there is little evidence for large differences in these RR.
Physical measures and biospecimen yields at dedicated clinics and commercial pathology centres
Mean height, weight and systolic blood pressure did not differ significantly between the dedicated clinics and commercial pathology centres in either the regional or urban areas (Table 3). Diastolic blood pressure was significantly higher at the Wagga Wagga pathology centre than at the dedicated clinic (p < 0.01), but did not differ significantly between the two types of collection sites in Parramatta. The differences between measured height and weight, and self-reported height and weight on the brief questionnaire completed prior to measurement, were similar across all four sites. Bland-Altman plots suggested no large or systematic variation in the differences between self-reported and measured height and weight according to the type of data collection site (data not shown).
Comparison of height, weight, blood pressure and heart rate measurements at the dedicated clinics versus pathology services
Area: Wagga Wagga
Dedicated clinic
Pathology service
p(Difference)
Height [cm (95% CI)]
168.3 (166.8-169.7)
Weight [kg (95% CI)]
80.2 (78.3-82.1)
self-reported and measured:
0.5 (0.2-0.9)
−1.6 (−1.8- -1.3)
Systolic blood pressure [mmHg (95%CI)]
Diastolic blood pressure [mmHg (95%CI)]
Pulse rate [beats per minute (95% CI)]
Area: Parramatta
Median biospecimen yields and 5th centiles were within one aliquot of the target for each type of sample fraction, preservative and biospecimen collection site, except for the 5th centile at the Wagga Wagga dedicated clinic for EDTA- and Lithium-Heparin-plasma (Table 4). No systematic variation in yield between the dedicated clinics and pathology centres could be identified.
Comparison of number and types of aliquots collected at the dedicated clinics versus pathology services
Type of aliquot
Pathology centre
number of aliquots
median number of aliquots (5th-95th centile)
median number of aliquots dedicated clinic vs pathology centre
Buffy coat
1 (1 – 1)
Li-Hep
* Both groups have the same number of aliquots of this type.
One episode of fainting occurred in a fasting participant at the Wagga Wagga dedicated clinic. This participant had done a number of hours of hard physical work before attending the collection site. No other adverse events were observed.
The collection of biospecimens and biomakers is increasingly recognised as an important component of large scale epidemiological research. Such data enhance substantially the range and nature of the research questions that can be addressed and allow joint consideration of environmental and genetic factors. However, the establishment of large scale biobanks requires consideration of pragmatic and cost factors, alongside traditional scientific and methodological issues [6].
We found that a single mailed invitation to existing cohort study members to donate a blood sample, have physical measurements taken and have these included in a long term biobank for unspecified research purposes yielded a substantial number of participants, with 33% of those approached taking part. The randomised data indicate that response rates were one-third lower at existing commercial pathology centres than at collection sites established specifically for the purpose of the study, where potential participants were given specified appointment times and phone reminders to attend their appointment. There was no significant difference in response rates according to whether or not participants were randomised to be invited to attend in a fasting or non-fasting state or according to whether or not they received a reminder letter. Those residing in regional areas were more likely to participate than those in urban areas. No systematic differences in data quality and biospecimen yield were seen between the dedicated clinics and pathology centres.
We are not aware of any other studies that have made randomised comparisons of biobank participation rates according to type of collection site, so the evidence to date in this area is limited. There are several plausible explanations for the higher attendance rates at dedicated clinics. Studies researching the effect of invitation type on attendance for breast and cervical cancer screening have established that assigned appointments increased uptake of screening [7–9] and this was the method of choice for recruitment into the UK Biobank [1]. A phone call reminder to follow up a written invitation is an additional effective method of increasing participation [10, 11]. Furthermore, several studies have found that establishing a separate clinic in general practice for cancer screening and vaccinations is an effective way of increasing response rates [8, 12, 13], however whether this finding is generalisable to recruitment to biobanks is unclear. The dedicated clinics were able to accommodate weekend recruitment, which was not possible through the pathology centres.
There is little research that can explain why people may be willing to participate in a biobank in some situations, but not others. Previous studies indicate that multiple methods of contact with participants leads to higher response rates in studies in general [10, 11]. Other studies have found that multiple reminders are an effective way of increasing response rates to postal questionnaires [14, 15]. However, in the current trial, a single reminder letter sent to half the cohort members randomised to attend a pathology centre in Parramatta did not have a significant effect on response rates. The reason for this is not known; potential explanations include the fact that only one reminder was given, that the reminder was also sent by mail, that study power was limited or that no genuine difference was present, in this setting.
Research has previously been undertaken to investigate whether individuals would be willing to participate in biobanking, using hypothetical scenarios [16–19], however, data comparing the factors related to actual participation, are limited. The results from the present trial indicated that response rates were higher amongst participants in the regional area than in the urban area. A large multicentre US study found that enrolment site was the most important influence on consenting to donate biospecimens, with response rates varying between 40% and 100% over the 24 enrolment sites used in the study [20]. However, although it was noted that the sites represented a diverse range of urban and regional areas, the researchers did not indicate which locations yielded higher response rates. In contrast, another biobank study found no significant difference based on residential area, however this study measured willingness to participate and not actual participation [21].
There are a number of potential limitations of the current trial that should be borne in mind. We used address details from the baseline mailout for The 45 and Up Study cohort, updated where participants notified The 45 and Up Study Coordinating Centre of a change of address. However, it is likely that some participants had moved, without updating their address details, in the one to three years since joining The 45 and Up Study; others may not have received their invitation or may have been unavailable to take part in the Link-Up Study for some other reason (e.g. holidays, illness). Although the randomised design means that this is unlikely to bias the main comparisons, it does mean that the response rate should be considered to be the proportion of people taking part in the biobank as a proportion of those sent invitations, not as a proportion of those who actually received an invitation. The trial only compared two models of biospecimen and physical measurement data collection. It is therefore not possible to separate different elements of the two designs. For example, it is not possible to establish what the separate contributions of the specific appointment time, weekend appointments and the phone reminders were to response rates, since these were all part of the general dedicated clinic protocol.
The trial examines response rates to biospecimen collection and physical measurements among people already participating in The 45 and Up Study. Similar to most cohort studies, The 45 and Up Study is not designed to be representative of the general population [3]. Rather, it aims to provide a large cohort of individuals consenting to comprehensive and long term follow up, with sufficient numbers in a range of population and exposure groups to allow for valid internal comparisons. The response rate to the main cohort was ~18%. The overall response rate to the Link-Up Study of 33% could be interpreted broadly as 6% of a general population study taking part; comparable to the 9% seen in the UK biobank, but less than other more localised community-based cohort studies (e.g. EPIC Norfolk, Framingham).
The Link-Up Study aimed to test potential strategies for large scale collection of biospecimens and physical measurements from The 45 and Up Study participants. While there was some limited promotion of the trial in the annual newsletter distributed to 45 and Up Study participants (via post or e-mail) and on the website of The 45 and Up Study, there was no media promotion of the trial or local publicity, or other strategies which could potentially improve local participation. This is because the trial sought to explore methods that could be used for The 45 and Up Study as a whole and there would be potential difficulties doing this across the ~800,000 km2 of NSW, for a prolonged period of time. It shows the response rate to a single 'cold' invitation to take part, with reminders. There remains considerable potential for improving response rates.
Dedicated clinics are considered the gold standard for collection of biospecimens and biomarker data for cohort studies, but are relatively expensive and time intensive to establish. Funding must be sourced for infrastructure such as premises and equipment and qualified staff must be hired and trained; these costs will be greater when sampling a geographically dispersed population. In addition to cost, there are logistical implications associated with establishing a clinic de novo. Once established, they can generally only accept participants for a restricted time period.
Collection through existing pathology centres has the advantage of being easier to implement, and having a broad network of collection locations that can be utilised fairly rapidly. Disadvantages are that pathology centres are less flexible and study design may need to be adapted to this; for example, large numbers of fasting participants, designated appointment times and weekend collection may not be able to be accommodated. While response rates were 50% higher at dedicated clinics, compared to commercial pathology centres, the total weighted costs in this trial were 110% higher per invitee, and 40% higher per final participant, at the dedicated clinic versus the pathology centres.
The 45 and Up Study cohort is spread across NSW, with over 50% in rural and regional areas. It would not be practical to set up dedicated clinics to serve the entire cohort, especially in sparsely populated areas. Hence, in this case, a mixed method of collection is likely to be the most practical.
It is generally assumed that more specialised staff, experienced in the specific type of data collection entailed, will collect data that is of higher quality than less specialised or experienced staff. However, the assumption has not, to our knowledge, been tested empirically in the setting of a biobank. The dedicated clinics were set up for the sole purpose of collecting blood samples for research, in accordance with the trial protocol. Conversely, the pathology centres provide a general commercial service, collecting a range of biospecimens for various purposes (predominantly clinical) and according to different instructions. The pathology staff relied on trial participants bringing the Pathology Request Form with them, which provided specific instructions to the phlebotomist. We found no material differences in the physical measurements taken between the dedicated clinics, with more specialised staff, and those at the pathology centres, and biospecimen yields were close to or exceeded targets for the vast majority of participants. This suggests that specialisation beyond the basic training received by pathology centre staff for the purposes of this trial did not appear to be accompanied by a discernable improvement in data quality. If rolled out on a larger scale, specific training of staff at every commercial pathology centre may be impractical and the incidence of protocol deviations could potentially be greater, as there would be less awareness of the study amongst staff in a broad network of pathology centres. Hence, the findings observed here may represent a best-case scenario.
For studies requiring the collection of biospecimens, use of dedicated clinics set up specifically for the purpose of the study, with designated appointment times, can increase response rates when compared to using existing pathology centres. However, each collection method has advantages and disadvantages, including the fact that the cost of collection through these dedicated clinics is greater. Data quality and average biospecimen yield were similar for the different types of data collection sites, within this trial.
ACD:
Acid-citrate-dextrose
EDTA:
Ethylenediaminetetraacetic
FEBRL:
Freely extensible biomedical research linkage
GPO:
LiHep:
Lithium Heparin
MOS-PF:
Medical Outcomes Score-Physical Functioning scale
RR:
Rate ratio.
The authors would like to thank the men and women participating in The 45 and Up Study and in the Link-Up Study. The 45 and Up Study is managed by The Sax Institute in collaboration with major partner Cancer Council New South Wales; and partners the National Heart Foundation of Australia (NSW Division); NSW Ministry of Health; beyondblue: the national depression initiative; Ageing, Disability and Home Care, Department of Human Services NSW; and the Red Cross Blood Service. This specific project was funded by The Cancer Council NSW. Emily Banks is supported by the National Health and Medical Research Council.
Study conception and design: EB, LJ. Study coordination and data collection: NH, EB. Biostatistical supervision and conduct of analyses: KR. Interpretation of analyses: EB, LJ, KR. Literature review: TM, NH. Drafting of manuscript: EB, NH, TM. Revision of manuscript for important intellectual content: NH, KR, TM, LJ. All authors read and approved the final manuscript.
National Centre for Epidemiology and Population Health, Australian National University, Canberra, Australia
The Sax Institute, Sydney, Australia
School of Medicine, University of Western Sydney, Sydney, Australia
UK Biobank: Book Protocol for a large-scale prospective epidemiological resource. Protocol for a large-scale prospective epidemiological resource. 2006, City: UK Biobank Coordinating Centre, http://www.ukbiobank.ac.uk/docs/UKBProtocol.pdf accessed 21 February 2011Google Scholar
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The pre-publication history for this paper can be accessed here:http://www.biomedcentral.com/1471-2288/12/147/prepub


text:
Dems officially support Prabowo-Hatta
Jakarta / Mon, June 30, 2014 / 11:35 pm
The Democratic Party officially declared on Monday its support for presidential ticket Prabowo Subianto-Hatta Rajasa in the approach to the end of the campaign period before the July 9 presidential election.
'€œThis is the party'€™s official stance, so we order all levels of members, supporters and groups under the party to give their full support to Prabowo-Hatta in the election,'€ Democratic Party executive chairman Syarief Hasan said as quoted by kompas.com during a press conference at the party'€™s headquarters in Jakarta.
Syarief acknowledged that the party was initially neutral based on the decision taken by President Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono, the party'€™s chief patron, on May 18. However, he said Yudhoyono allowed party members to support any candidate pair.
According to the Democratic Party'€™s regulation, the executive chairman and secretary-general hold the authority to decide its direction.
'€œPrabowo-Hatta will be able to continue previous and current programs of President Yudhoyono'€™s administration in the next five years, based on their presentation,'€ he said.
Party secretary general Edhie '€œIbas'€ Baskoro Yudhoyono, high council secretary Jero Wacik, honorary council chief Amir Syamsuddin, board of patrons chairman EE Mangindaan and member Roy Suryo were among the party'€™s officials attending the declaration.
'€œThe presence of the party'€™s high officials shows that our party is highly-structured under one command from its chairman,'€ he added.
As one of the party'€™s high-ranking officials, Wacik said he had asked all members and supporters to refrain from smear campaigns.
With the newly additional member, the Prabowo-Hatta ticket, assigned number '€œ1'€ on ballot papers, is supported by the Gerindra Party, the Democratic Party, the Golkar Party, the National Mandate Party (PAN), the Justice Development Party (PPP) and the Prosperous Justice Party (PKS), which collectively secured 353, or 56.19 percent, of the total 560 seats at the House of Representatives. (gda/nvn)
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Opposition party Gerindra considers alliance with Jokowi's PDI-P in MPR
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Agrarian reform offers chance to empower women

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TeamPlatform provides a pivotal support role in a high profile construction project to fix one of UK's busiest motorways and a major channel to the 2012 Olympic Games in London. CAD, Scan and other 3D Formats hosted on TeamPlatform involving dozens of different sites and 5 different companies collaborating with the Olympics Games days away.
TeamPlatform provides a central place to manage hundreds of client projects, tens of thousands mission-critical files, and hundreds of business partners with simplicity and security.
Avance Design is a small, innovative product development company using TeamPlatform to manage 3D design data and 3D printing projects to provide comprehensive, customer-focused design services typically found in companies three times their size.
Triax manufacturing and engineering speed projects with their customers to manufacture turbine components more quickly with project workspaces. Benefits in projects, conference room, in the quoting by salespeople and customers looped into complex manufacturing projects.
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I'm not a person who gets angry very easy, but recently I've been full of rage.
As a student Dietitian and a blogger, I'm getting really frustrated at the boundaries and blocks which are imposed on myself and others. This can be creativity wise, educational wise or even just my opinion. Yes, challenges are great but really? Sometimes I think we're just very old fashioned and a little bit safe in our approaches.
One thing I've found REALLY annoying is that I am not allowed to share my opinion on my teaching quality. I've had SO many people come up to me going "well i don't think that's in your code of contact" or "you shouldn't really be saying that about your lecturers before you've finished". I totally get what you mean. But, let me make this clear, all my issues that I bring up in my blog, I have brought up via university feedback forms and with other lecturers (for example, my course leader). We also have a feedback group for our course where we share our thoughts, many again what I share on my blog. I feel it's completely wrong as a person to withhold my opinions on the level of education I am receiving. I do not name names and of course, any serious issues of misconduct would not be addressed on here…. but isn't my teaching experience making it more representative and relatable for other students? Can't we help each other from this?? Aren't I contributing to make a change??
Another thing that really frustrates me is that I have to keep my personality and my quirks from my profession. I TOTALLY understand professional vs personal boundaries and I know where they lie, but a lot of things? I feel are ridiculous. For example, as a student Dietitian, I understand that we can't have hoops, jewellery below the elbow, nails, etc that represent my personality. But, (even though I don't have either of these) we are refrained from having "funky" coloured hairs and tattoos, which must be covered. Surely in this day and age it's completely wrong? It's outdated! I've discussed this with people and they were like "omg, but I'd feel so much more comfortable if my doctor had a tattoo/purple hair/ an edgy style too". A thing that I struggle with is adjectives. I tend to be bubbly, smiley and charismatic with people – I've spent YEARS building this up as a person to become more confident both in part time work and in social surroundings only for it to be knocked back out of me as a student. To an extent, I understand how word choice can be interpreted in the wrong way for a patient, but in many ways, I don't want to be another churned out robot. I want to be relatable, friendly and mostly, myself as a professional. I feel this is SO much more relatable as a patient. And I'm not just saying that because I don't want to stick to the rules. I'm saying this as a girl who's spent years in and out of doctors surgeries and hospitals with various medical conditions, and someone who's experienced first hand what makes a good professional. Someone you can chat to, relate to. Not a monochrome robot. I'm not like that and I don't want to be.
And that's where I come to the blogging world. Since becoming more involved and interacting within the blogosphere, I've discovered that there is a lot of goals, targets and standards you must meet. I mean, this does not apply to all by all means, but for some, this is definitely a competition. I feel the messages of "support" and "love" are just fake and another attempt and winning over attention. Again, I'm can't know what goes on inside people's heads, but a lot, and I mean A LOT seems bitter and fake. From bloggers I've known before, whilst some are absolute angels and genuinely such LOVELY people, but I know that some are very very very fake. And that makes me weary. What love you see from me will be true from my heart. I'm not afraid to question things, even if I'm wrong. It's my opinion and I believe we should all challenge these. But yeah, bloggers just seem there to please other bloggers, with little regard to the real world and sense of social awareness, despite the social presence.
Okay so yeah. Three big long unsolicited rants. Of course, it's not all doom and gloom and there's a lot of positivity in all areas. It's best to get them out and share, that's what my blogs all about. Nutrition wise, I have to be a lot more careful about my rants (I have a lot!) because they impact on health, but never the less, I don't think I should be frightened to share my opinion. And neither should you.
Remember, no one has made history quietly.


text:
PlayHaus's Second Iteration Is Gracing Houstonians' Instagram Feeds
Meet Julie Gray, the creative visionary elevating the Bayou City's growing street art culture.
By Adrianne Reece March 18, 2021
Painted by designer and artist Gino Van, Playhaus II's "Graffiti Hallway" pays homage to underground art.
Image: Jesse Ballou
Houston's relationship with street art is a long-winded one. For years, we've seen vacant lots transform into awe-inducing graffiti grounds, perfect for photography and tourism. These expressive sketches range in theme, telling harmonious stories of Houston pride, social activism, fashion, and music. With this creative sphere altering the city's landscape and growing into a respected art style, it's hard to believe that street art was ever frowned upon. Long associated with the underground and underrepresented, street art didn't tip into mainstream acceptance until the 1970s and '80s, birthing creative pioneers such as New York streetwear legend Jean-Michel Basquiat and Pennsylvanian artist Keith Haring.
Over time, Houston coined its own roster of street visionaries and soon, Boston native Julie Gray joined that list. From a young age, Gray envisioned herself curating art and exploring how deep her creativity could go. But, once she got married and had two children, she exchanged those passions to be a full-time housewife. For 10 years, she traveled around the world with her family, settling in various parts of Europe. During that time, that gnawing desire to create impactful spaces in the contemporary art and fashion world returned, and she was ready to bring those aspirations to fruition.
"I was going through a divorce and my mom had passed away, so moving to Houston was a fresh start for me," Gray tells Houstonia. "But upon coming here—you know, coming from Boston and living in other major cities—I felt that Houston was behind in the culture of sneaker heads and art. So, once I moved here, I created PlayHaus."
PlayHaus II creative director and owner Julie Gray lounging in the Valentine's Day assorted wall.
PlayHaus
In summer 2019, Gray introduced EaDo to her "project baby," PlayHaus, an interactive pop-up gallery that seamlessly blends street and contemporary art with a fine mixtape of music. She proudly donned her visual art and creative director hat with this creation, seeking out nine Houston artists to produce their best installations and murals. With this Instagrammable haven becoming a hot seat for lively entertainment, Gray knew that expanding this concept with added features would only strengthen its already unforgettable presence. So, in November 2020, she returned with PlayHaus II.
PlayHaus II
This revamped paradise still follows the original recipe: astonishing technicolor, compelling and playful art installations, warm vibes, and incredible music. This time, however, Gray collaborated with Brooklyn rapper Fabolous to introduce a new line of seasonal gear at the grand opening. They worked with Japanese contemporary artist Takashi Murakami to blend his signature smiley-faced flower design on merchandise and other pieces in the gallery. To uphold those relaxed vibes, Gray also integrated a BYOB hookah lounge for visitors to enjoy.
"In the first PlayHaus, I worked with eight to 12 artists. Now, I work with two or three artists," Gray says. "This time around, I wanted to create my own 'no matter what I do, these are my people to do it with' type of team, and that collaborative closeness really drove PlayHaus II."
With this second launch, it's clear that Gray, her business partner Shaun Turner and other team members wanted to show their appreciation to Houston. Every inch of Montrose is carefully stenciled in this art gallery, providing non-Houstonians a hearty glimpse to what the city has to offer. According to Gray, PlayHaus II's enriching vibrancy has drawn visitors from Chicago, Detroit, Maryland, and Los Angeles.
"It's interesting to see that we have so many out-of-towners, especially with us opening [PlayHaus II] in the middle of Covid," Gray says. "I'm open to the idea of bringing PlayHaus to different places, but I just started this two years ago and this is a very intimate business for me."
A closer look at Gino Vian's New York City-inspired "Graffiti Hallway."
Outside of PlayHaus II's fascinating detailing, Gray continues intersecting her love of streetwear fashion and art with several businesses in and outside of Houston. She's worked with household name brands like Nike (even before she landed in Houston, Gray did a running campaign with the athletic brand in Miami), Jordan women's, and SNKRS, Nike's one-stop sneaker shop app for exclusive and premium drops. She also worked on a series of events for Travis Scott's Astroworld festival, even commissioning a glow-in-the-dark 6's mural created by Houston artist Erik Del Rio.
Whether you're taking a stroll through Montrose's immersive art universe for a photo opportunity or stopping by during a lunch break, give PlayHaus II a visit. Though every wall boasts a stimulating story worthy of a quick snapshot, give Gray's favorite installation, the Graffiti Hallway, a long look over.
Open from 3:30–10 p.m. Tuesday–Thursday; 3:30 p.m. to midnight Friday–Sunday. $25 tickets at the door, children under 3 get in free. Masks and social distancing are required. 1735 Westheimer Rd. More information at playhaushtx.com
Street Art, Montrose
artist proposals
Houston's New Tech Hub Calls for Local Artist Submissions
09/21/2021 By Amarie Gipson
Let's Get Boozy
Montrose's Ever Growing Neighborhood Gains New Rooftop Bar
The South Still Has Something to Say
5 Must-See Art Exhibitions to Visit This Month


text:
Thymosiopsis é um gênero de esponja marinha da família Chondrillidae.

Espécies
Thymosiopsis conglomerans Vacelet,Borchiellini,Perez,Bultel-Poncé,Brouard & Guyot, 2000
Thymosiopsis cuticulatus Vacelet & Perez, 1998

Referências
 Van Soest, R.W.M, Boury-Esnault, N., Hooper, J.N.A., Rützler, K, de Voogd, N.J., Alvarez, B., Hajdu, E., Pisera, A.B., Vacelet, J., Manconi, R., Schoenberg, C., Janussen, D., Tabachnick, K.R., Klautau, M. (2008). World Porifera database. Avaliada online em http://www.marinespecies.org/porifera. Visitada em 06 de maio de 2009.

Chondrillidae

redpajama_set_name: RedPajamaWikipedia


text:
Xbox Game Pass the only silver lining as Microsoft's overall gaming revenue dips
Microsoft recently posted its earnings call report for Q2 2023, where it shared how the overall business is doing, including the gaming division. As revealed by the firm, the company's overall gaming revenue has taken a hit but its gaming subscription, Xbox Game Pass, has shown impressive growth.
Most of the products in the tech giant's gaming portfolio suffered a setback during this period. Interestingly though, Xbox Game Pass raked in a significant profit and also set a host of new records in key areas.
Game Pass got the loudest cheer in an otherwise quiet year for Xbox
After a rather underwhelming 2022, where Xbox suffered from the sheer lack of exclusives, parent firm Microsoft has revealed some interesting numbers. As per the tech giant, its gaming revenue dropped up to 13% as compared to the same time the previous year. The firm attributed this drop to "lower price and volume of consoles sold."
Despite the overall dip, game subscription service Game Pass has shown a strong run of form, breaking records in user enrolment as well as user activity. Microsoft shared that Game Pass had set a new record in three areas: number of subscribers, monthly active users, and game streaming hours.
Xbox revenue stalled, so did the quantity of Xbox exclusives
While subscription-based gaming paid good dividends for the company, other major avenues didn't replicate that success. Microsoft's Xbox business faced setbacks in earnings from Xbox hardware which went down by 13%. Moreover, its content and services generated revenue that fell short by 12% compared to the same time a year prior.
Apart from the aforementioned revenue drops, Microsoft also noted that the number of exclusives or first-party games had decreased. In addition to that, the firm pointed out that monetisation in third-party games wasn't as high as required.
Jiogames cloud beta launched in India, how to sign up and play games
Related Items:dips, game, Gaming, lining, Microsofts, pass, revenue, silver, Xbox
LeBron James makes me love the game again, says Kareem Abdul-Jabbar | NBA News
Ericsson: Ericsson report claims 5G has potential to drive revenue growth
AEK Athens vs Atromitos Greek Superleague game scrapped after officials discover goal height difference
केंद्रीय मंत्री डॉ. जितेंद्र सिंह ने कहा कि पहली बार मतदान करने वाले मतदाता, जो अगले चुनाव में अपना मताधिकार डालकर अपने जीवन के चुनावी चरण की शुरुआत करेंगे, उन्हें 2047 में भारतीय लोकतंत्र को आकार देने का बहुमुल्य अवसर प्राप्त हुआ है, जब देश अपनी स्वतंत्रता का 100वीं वर्षगांठ मना रहा होगा
Manika Batra surges to career-best 33 in world rankings | More sports News
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text:
Q: How to find a polynomial that passes through a set of points (not just $1$)? I am learning that polynomials come in this form after they are fully factored:
$f(x) = a(x+\text{root $1$})(x+\text{root $2$})(x+\text{root $n$}).$
At which point, problems say, "find a polynomial that passes through, say, $(1, 2)$. Easy, just plug in $1$ for $x$, and $2$ for $f(x)$, and solve for $a$.
But what if I have a set of points I need it to cross through?
Using an example, let's say I have $f(x) = a(x)(x-2)(x-4)$. I want this to be able to pass through the points $(1,2)$ AND $(3,-1)$?
It seems like every time I solve for a using $1$ point, I modify it to where it no longer satisfies the other point I want. It's almost like I have to solve $2$ equations at the same time? Is this possible?

A: Remember that it if you have $n+1$ points $(x_0,y_0),$ $(x_1,y_1), \ldots,$
$(x_{n+1},y_{n+1}),$ where the $x_i$ values are all different,
there is one and only one polynomial of degree $n$ or less that passes through those $n+1$ points.
Now, obviously once you have found the unique polynomial $p$ of degree $n$ or less that passes through those given $n+1$ points, the same polynomial passes through a lot of other points as well. For any given $x,$ just compute $p(x)$, and the polynomial passes through $(x,p(x))$ as well.
So you might be able to put a polynomial of degree $n$ or less through $n+2$ points -- if the $n+2$nd point just happens to agree with the unique polynomial that goes through the first $n+1$ points.
That is, if $p$ is the unique polynomial of degree $n$ or less that goes through the first $n+1$ points, and someone says it also needs to go through another point that happens to be at $(x_{n+1}, p(x_{n+1}))$, then OK -- you already have a polynomial going through that point.
But if they demand that the polynomial go through $(x_{n+1}, p(x_{n+1}) + 1),$
it simply is not possible to do with only an $n$th-degree polynomial.
You will need at least an $(n+1)$-degree polynomial to satisfy that demand.
In the case where you are given $f(x)=ax(x−2)(x−4),$
you know that the polynomial goes through the points $(0,0),$ $(2,0),$ and $(4,0),$
because $x=0,$ $x=2,$ and $x=4$ are all places at which $f(x) = 0.$
So you've implicitly been told $3$ points your polynomial must go through.
If you are given a $4$th point at a different $x$ coordinate (not $0,$ $2,$ or $4$), that's OK -- we know we can always find a polynomial of degree $3$ through any $4$ points with all different $x$ coordinates.
We also know from the three points $(0,0),$ $(2,0),$ and $(4,0)$
that the formula must be of the form
$f(x)=ax(x−2)(x−4).$
But we can choose $a$ in order to make the polynomial go through that $4$th point.
If we're now given another point the polynomial has to pass through,
that's $5$ points in total for a polynomial that is only of degree $3.$
If you're lucky, the new point happens to be on the unique degree-$3$ polynomial through the first $4$ given points. Otherwise there is no solution.
If the problem is just to find "a polynomial" through all the given points
(the three zeros at $(0,0),$ $(2,0),$ and $(4,0)$ and two other points with different $x$ coordinates), then you can solve the problem with a polynomial of degree $4,$ since you have only $5$ points you need to fit.

redpajama_set_name: RedPajamaStackExchange


text:
Verkholúzie (en rus: Верхолузье) és un poble de la República de Komi, a Rússia, segons el cens del 2010 tenia 122 habitants.

Referències

Pobles de la República de Komi


THE IMAGINARY CURRENCY CONSPIRACY…. Former Gov. Sarah Palin (R) spoke at a Wisconsin Right to Life fundraising banquet over the weekend, and repeated a rather obscure right-wing conspiracy theory that occasionally pops up in religious right circles (via Ron Chusid). If Palin's spouting it, the idea might start making the rounds — coming soon to a Fox News program near you — so it's probably worth taking a moment to set the record straight.
Noting that there had been a lot of "change" of late, Palin recalled a recent conversation with a friend about how the phrase "In God We Trust" had been moved to the edge of the new coins.
Unsaid but implied was that the new Democratic White House was behind such a move to secularize the nation's currency.
Oh, I get it. President Obama is a secret Muslim, a secret Jew, and a secret atheist. I knew it.
In our reality, however, Sarah Palin doesn't have the foggiest idea what she's talking about. In 2005, a Republican Congress commissioned a new dollar coin, which was approved by a Republican president. In the proposed design, "In God We Trust" was moved to the edge of the coin.
The religious right flipped out, and a year ago, the Democratic Congress approved a Brownback/Byrd measure to move the phrase back onto the front of the dollar coin.
In the same speech, the former governor talked up the concept of "death panels" in health care reform, casually threw around the words like "bogus" and "awesome" to discuss weighty topics, and generally made a series of observations that didn't make any sense.


Bryan Elliott is a media, brand, lifestyle and entertainment columnist. He sees every day as a new chance for him to be his very best. More of his independent film and commercial work can be found at TheGoodBrain.com.


All of our programmes are specifically designed and tailored for lower and primary school aged children and delivered by staff that have specific training in not only the delivery of the programmes but also in the specific behaviour management ad engagement techniques required to work with children of this age group.
Renhold School Apprenticeship Apprenticeship – Renhold School Activity Leader Apprentice (Supporting Learning in Physical Education and School Sports) 30 hours a week TTO. Fixed term position during comp ..


14 / 10 / 2017 OPS-JP ? - ? FC Honka ????
30 / 09 / 2017 OPS-JP ? - ? TPS ????
07 / 09 / 2017 OPS-JP ? - ? AC Oulu ????
03 / 09 / 2017 OPS-JP ? - ? IF Gnistan ????
18 / 08 / 2017 OPS-JP ? - ? FF Jaro ????
11 / 08 / 2017 OPS-JP ? - ? KPV ????
22 / 07 / 2017 OPS-JP ? - ? FC Haka ????
15 / 07 / 2017 OPS-JP ? - ? EIF ????
01 / 07 / 2017 OPS-JP ? - ? GrIFK ????
13 / 06 / 2017 OPS-JP ? - ? FC Honka ????
03 / 06 / 2017 OPS-JP ? - ? TPS ????
17 / 05 / 2017 OPS-JP ? - ? AC Oulu ????
13 / 05 / 2017 OPS-JP ? - ? IF Gnistan ????
04 / 03 / 2017 OPS-JP ? - ? HauPa ????
25 / 09 / 2016 OPS-JP ? - ? GBK ????
23 / 09 / 2018 Narpes Kraft ? - ? PK-37 ????
02 / 09 / 2018 SJK II ? - ? PK-37 ????
19 / 08 / 2018 Js Hercules ? - ? PK-37 ????
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This past Sunday marked the beginning of the season of Advent, the four-weeks leading up to the birth of Jesus. Advent, derived from the Latin word Adventus, means "the arrival" or "the coming." The purpose of this season is to prepare us for Jesus' coming.
In this season, we find ourselves preparing for "the coming" of many things: Initiation, finals, internship/study abroad opportunities, and of course, holiday parties with friends and family. Preparation is a large part of our lives. Imagine if you didn't prepare at all for your finals. Maybe your pull off a few decent grades because of an easy class, or shear luck. But it's a good chance that you wouldn't do very well; you might even fail a class or two.
Or imagine if you waited until the day before Christmas to buy a meaningful gift for your mom. Who knows what's left on Target's shelves at 11pm on Christmas Eve? You have just become the posterchild for #ChristmasFail.
Our preparation is evidence that we care about something. And the converse, lack of preparation, shows a lack of care. Advent invites to explore what's really in our hearts. Do we actually care about Jesus' coming or is it just another day of the week? So what does it look like to prepare for Jesus' birth?
Today's devotional comes from the New Testament book of Romans, a letter written by the Apostle Paul to the church in Rome.
Read this passage several times, talking with God about what you notice.
Spend a few quiet moments asking yourself what God might be speaking to you through this passage. What is his invitation for you?
During a time of the year when sunlight is quickly declining, the author Paul invites us to press in to the daylight. But to do this, we must leave behind our life in the darkness. During this season, I often want to hang out in the darkness, e.g. sip a little too much egg nog and hide in my house watching too much Black Mirror. Anything to escape reality because holidays are complicated for me.
After 42 years of marriage, my parents recently divorced. My sister and her family live all the way across the country from me. And it's often during this time that my issues with depression and anxiety threaten to pull me under. It's very easy for me to numb myself with booze and binge watching, biding my time until the holidays are over.
But God invites me to remember that his son, "the light of the world" who came to live among us and remove the darkness, has come and will come again. For the last several years, I've intentionally prepared for Jesus during Advent. I make an Advent wreath, lighting a candle each Sunday to mark the time. And I intentionally look for ways to get out of the house, seeking the light of Christ through good friends who love me well.
As Paul says, "the hour has already come for you to wake up from your slumber, because our salvation is nearer now than when we first believed."
Salvation is here. The freedom, peace, and wholeness that I so desire in my fractured world has come and will come again. Jesus provides renewal, hope, and freedom now. And he will provide it again. This is what Advent invites me into. That bottle of wine provides a cheap relief that lasts only a few hours. But Jesus' presence provides freedom for the whole of this life and the life to come.
So what's in your heart? How is God inviting you to prepare for his coming?


The Knights of Columbus was named one of the 2018 World's Most Ethical Companies by Ethisphere Institute.
The Knights of Columbus has won the distinction for five consecutive years and is one of only three companies in the life insurance category world-wide to earn this award. I am proud to be a member of the Knights of Columbus and working for you and one of the World's Most Ethical Companies.
Let me show you how the Knights of Columbus can help you with all your insurance and financial planning needs.


Following the tragic death of two college students that were perceived or identified as Gay, Dr. Paul Killpatrick, president of Seattle Central Community College, wrote a letter to the community expressing his commitment and responsibility to create a safe learning environment for all students - specifically those that identify as LGBT.
According to Campus Pride, 25% of LGBT staff, faculty, and students reported harassment in a just-released survey. Eighty-three percent identified sexual identity as the basis of the harassment.


Law Inquiry - Page 2 of 10 - In its majestic equality, the law forbids rich and poor alike to sleep under bridges, beg in the streets and steal loaves of bread.
How To Select Actual Property Lawyer Wilmington, DE And What Questions To Ask Them?
How Can Your Actual Property Legal professional PA Assist You With The 7 Step Concerned In Actual Property Transaction?


text:
est un court métrage d'animation américain, de la série Woody Woodpecker, réalisé par Dick Lundy, sorti en 1948. Le film fut nommé aux Oscars dans la catégorie Oscar de la meilleure chanson originale.

Synopsis

Fiche technique
 Titre français :
 Réalisation : Dick Lundy
 Scénario : Heck Allen et Ben Hardaway
 Musique : Darrell Calker
 Production : Walter Lantz
 Pays d'origine :
 Format : Couleurs - 1,37:1 - Mono
 Genre : Film d'animation, Court métrage
 Durée : 6 minutes
 Date de sortie : 1948

Voix originales
 Gloria Wood
 Harry Babbitt

Liens externes

Film américain sorti en 1948
Court métrage d'animation américain
Film nommé aux Oscars
Woody Woodpecker


Timelapse.Snow Mountains with Clouds and Lake,Grand Teton National Park,United States.
4k00:17Timelapse video of cloudy day in Queenstown, New Zealand, from the banks of the Lake Wakatipu.
hd00:29Yacht rails on background of Dark gray clouds in sky and storm on Lake Baikal. No person. Dramatic landscape of nature of mountain coast in bad weather. Magic of Lake Baikal.


text:
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    android:layout_height="64dp"
    android:gravity="center"
    android:orientation="vertical"
    android:background="@android:color/white">

    <com.pnikosis.materialishprogress.ProgressWheel
        android:visibility="gone"
        android:id="@+id/item_load_more_icon_loading"
        android:layout_width="wrap_content"
        android:layout_height="match_parent"
        app:matProg_barColor="@color/color_accent"
        app:matProg_progressIndeterminate="true"
        app:matProg_barWidth="3dp" />

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redpajama_set_name: RedPajamaGithub


We believe that discipleship thrives in community. Each week, you will gather with your Revive group to discuss what God is revealing to you through the daily devotionals, journal and prayers. Through the group discussion questions and conversations, you will grow with God as you journey with your Revive group.
Every day there is a daily devotional. This material is designed to bring you in contact with the power of Gods' Word which transforms our hearts through the Holy Spirit. After each devotional, there are questions to help you respond and meet with God in prayer. We encourage you to take time every day to work through the Revive devotionals, pray and journal. It is this daily discipline that God will work in you and bring revival to your heart and life.
Throughout Revive, there are four Discipleship Experiences that will help you encounter the living God. The Prayer, Confession, Worship, and Evangelism experience will provide interactive opportunities for you to journey with God as His Spirit at work reviving and transforming your heart and life. Two of these are corporate experiences will meet on campus, and two of these can be done in your group.
Revive is for participants, not observers. The Revive journey is a commitment, but it is worth it. Without investment and sacrifice, you will never grow. Yet when you set apart time for God to work in your life, you will be amazed at what He does.


text:
The Jane Nelson Institute for Women's Leadership
News and Successes
Center for Women in Business changes name to Center for Women Entrepreneurs
The Center for Women in Business has a new name—it is now the Center for Women Entrepreneurs. This change more clearly reflects the work that the center does to facilitate economic growth among women entrepreneurs in Texas.
In fact, over the last year, the center:
Provided business advisement to 86 women-owned businesses
Assisted 10+ women in starting or expanding a business in Texas
Awarded $50K to 10 women-owned businesses in Texas through its microgrant program
Promoted its services at more than 50 events, sponsorship opportunities and conferences focused on women entrepreneurs, reaching 20,000+ women
Though its name has changed, the center's mission of helping Texas become the #1 state for women-owned businesses remains the same.
For more information on the Center for Women Entrepreneurs, call 940.898.2895 or email CWE@twu.edu.
Ray Willhoft
rwillhoft@twu.edu
Page last updated 12:07 PM, August 27, 2019
Denton Campus
Stoddard Hall 103
Denton, TX 76204-5617
leadership@twu.edu


text:
Q: How to change color back from HSV to RGB I am doing a little experiment to debug my project. I am trying to manipulate the hue value on HSV colorspace to see the effect on it when I change it back to RGB.
I have a simple image with whole blue background and a single red circle inside of it. I convert it from RGB to HSV and then change one of the values, and then revert it back to the previous value (please see the code, I can't explain it well by using just words). I was expecting the image to remain the same but to my surprise, when I changed it back from HSV to RGB it gives different image.
import cv2
import sys
import numpy as np
from matplotlib import pyplot as plt
from bqplot import pyplot as bq
import math
import os

ori_image = cv2.imread('../test.png')
image = np.float32(ori_image)
image = cv2.cvtColor(ori_image,cv2.COLOR_BGR2HSV_FULL)
hues=np.round(image[:,:,0]/255*360)
np.place(hues,hues==229,50)
np.place(hues,hues==50,229)
hues=hues/360*255
temp_image = image.copy()
temp_image[:,:,0]=hues
temp_image=cv2.cvtColor(temp_image,cv2.COLOR_HSV2RGB)
plt.imshow(temp_image)
plt.show()

Can someone give an explanation for this?

A: Basically, you just used the wrong ColorConversionCode for your second conversion. If you use COLOR_BGR2HSV_FULL for the "forward conversion", you need to use COLOR_HSV2BGR_FULL for the "backward conversion". You used COLOR_HSV2RGB, which is indeed wrong in two ways: (1) You convert to RGB instead of BGR, and (2) you don't use the full conversion for the H channel.
import cv2
import numpy as np
from matplotlib import pyplot as plt

orig_image = np.ones((400, 400, 3), np.uint8)
orig_image[:, :, 0] *= 255
orig_image[:, :, 1:3] = 0
cv2.circle(orig_image, (100, 100), 50, (0, 0, 255), cv2.FILLED)

image = np.float32(orig_image)                                  # this line is ignored either way
image = cv2.cvtColor(orig_image, cv2.COLOR_BGR2HSV_FULL)
hues = np.round(image[:, :, 0] / 255 * 360)
np.place(hues, hues == 229, 50)
np.place(hues, hues == 50, 229)
hues = np.round(hues / 360 * 255)                               # Use np.round here, too, to prevent integer cutting
temp_image = image.copy()
temp_image[:, :, 0] = hues
temp_image = cv2.cvtColor(temp_image,  cv2.COLOR_HSV2BGR_FULL)  # You need to use the proper color conversion code here

plt.figure(1)
plt.subplot(1, 2, 1), plt.imshow(orig_image), plt.title('Original image')
plt.subplot(1, 2, 2), plt.imshow(temp_image), plt.title('Modified image')
plt.savefig('C:/Users/c.wilde/Desktop/output.png')
plt.show()

Note: Matplotlib uses RGB ordering, OpenCV BGR ordering, that's why the blue and red in the plots are inverted.
Also, please notice: I added a rounding at hues = np.round(hues / 360 * 255), because image and temp_image (before converting to BGR) were slightly different due to "integer cutting"; image had mostly values 171, and temp_image mostly values 170. The main result after converting to BGR was identical, but for the sake of completeness, I wanted to mention that.
Hope that helps!


When you think about getting financing for your business, what's the first thing that comes to mind?
Just how are you supposed to get funding if you're not an early stage startup?!
…but nobody seems to remember that good old business credit is still an option!
You can get different types of financing, like loans and lines of credit.
Any kind of business-related activity can be eligible for credit.
Unlike with venture capital, you don't give up your business equity.
You don't have to be a groundbreaking startup.
Even if your company is tiny; even if it's just six months old; and even if you don't have the perfect personal credit score – you can still make use of business credit.
And if yes, how can you get the best terms?
To help us do that, we've invited Ty Crandall on the show. He is the Genius of business credit, and we're extremely lucky to have him!
He is an internationally known speaker, author, and business credit expert, with over 17 years of financial experience. Ty is the authority in business credit building, scoring, and financing.
and "Business Credit Decoded." He has written hundreds of published articles on the subject, and appeared on countless news shows, radio and TV programs across the country. Thanks to his expertise, Ty has also been featured in Forbes, Entrepreneur, and Inc. Magazine.
credit provider network in the world – and he continues to coach them.
How business credit can help you grow your company faster, take more calculated risks with bigger payoffs, and bounce back from disaster.
The difference between consumer and commercial credit (and what it means for your business).
The best ways to monitor your credit reports.
How to get financed even if your personal credit score is damaged.
And more. Enjoy the show, and don't forget to check out Credit Suite's monitoring tool in the show notes!


VANCOUVER, British Columbia, April 16, 2019 /PRNewswire/ -- MYM Nutraceuticals Inc., (CSE: MYM) (CSE: MYM.CN) (OTCBB: MYMMF) ("MYM" or "The Company") is pleased to announce it has incorporated "MYM Nutraceuticals Mexico S.A. de C.V." MYM has confidence in future Mexican legislation to regulate the cannabis industry. The Company is taking steps to be a first-mover in the industry in Mexico by planning to focus on the importation and distribution of hemp derived CBD products. The expected changes in cannabis legislation will make cannabis products like hemp-derived CBD available on the shelves of general retailers across the nation.
The Company has engaged Mr. Joaquin Araico as its Director of Business Development and Local Operations for Mexico. Mr. Araico holds a BA in Economics at the Anahuac University and a certificate in finance at the Technological Institute of Monterrey. He has over 35 years experience in management, finance and politics, particularly in various levels of government and strategic areas in Mexico. He will oversee the daily operations of MYM Mexico and its entry into the CBD and cannabis market within the country.
MYM has also engaged Mr. Hector Ernesto Espino to act as legal representation for MYM Mexico. Mr. Espino has a degree in Law at the Technological Institute of Monterrey, Chihuahua campus, (1988) distinguished by honorable mention. He has a Master at International Law from Georgetown University, he studied Taxation at the Universidad Panamericana and had a Diploma in International Tax Law at the University of Salamanca. In Ciudad Juarez he has served as a Lawyer of the Public Notary Public No. 4 of Ciudad Juarez and as sub-administrator of resolutions of the Local Legal Administration of Revenue of the Ministry of Finance and Public Credit. In Mexico City, he has served as deputy general legal director in the National Lottery for Public Assistance (from 2006 to 2009).
"In keeping with our Strategic Plan previously outlined, we're excited to add another building block by incorporating MYM Mexico and establishing an office in Mexico," said Howard Steinberg, CEO of MYM. "The Mexican government is currently considering significant cannabis reform at a national level. MYM aims to be at the forefront of this movement by positioning the company to be a key player in the importation and distribution of CBD-rich hemp products."
MYM announces it has closed a non-brokered private placement as part of a series of drawdowns on the Alumina Equity Agreement consisting of 1,449,333 units at a price of CAD$0.41 per unit for gross proceeds of $594,226.
Each unit consists of one common share and one transferable common share purchase warrant. Each warrant entitles the holder to purchase one common share at a price of $0.64 for a period of three years from the issue date. The warrants are subject to an acceleration provision that allows the Company to give notice of an earlier expiry date if the Company's share price on the Canadian Securities Exchange (or such other stock exchange the Company may be trading on) is equal or greater than $1.28 for a period of 10 consecutive trading days. The securities will be subject to a four month and one day hold period under securities laws.
The Company intends to use the proceeds from the private placement for the balance of the Elite Ventures Group agreement to fund the 120 acres of CBD-rich hemp in Nevada, USA and for general and other working capital purposes.
MYM Nutraceuticals Inc. is an innovative company focused on the global growth of Cannabis and hemp. To ensure a strong presence and growth potential within the industry, MYM is actively looking to acquire complementary businesses and assets in the technology, nutraceuticals and CBD sectors. MYM shares trade in Canada, Germany and the USA under the following symbols: (CSE:MYM) (OTC:MYMMF) (FRA:0MY) (DEU:0MY) (MUN:0MY) (STU:0MY).
This news release may contain forward-looking statements based on assumptions and judgments of management regarding future events or results. Such statements are subject to a variety of risks and uncertainties which could cause actual events or results to differ materially from those reflected in the forward-looking statements. The company disclaims any intention or obligation to revise or update such statements. For a description of the risks and uncertainties facing the Company and its business and affairs, readers should refer to the Company's Management's Discussion and Analysis and other disclosure filings with Canadian securities regulators, which are posted on www.sedar.com.


A wireframe is a three-dimensional model that only includes vertices and lines. It does not contain surfaces, textures, or lighting like a 3D mesh. Instead, a wireframe model is a 3D image comprised of only "wires" that represent three-dimensional shapes.
Wireframes provide the most basic representation of a three-dimensional scene or object. They are often used as the starting point in 3D modeling since they create a "frame" for 3D structures. For example, a 3D graphic designer can create a model from scratch by simply defining points (vertices) and connecting them with lines (paths). Once the shape is created, surfaces or textures can be added to make the model appear more realistic.
The lines within a wireframe connect to create polygons, such as triangles and rectangles, that together represent three-dimensional shapes. The result may be as simple as a cube or as complex as a three-dimensional scene with people and objects. The number of polygons within a wireframe is typically a good indicator of how detailed the 3D model is.
Since wireframes only contain vertices and lines, they can be rendered very quickly. Therefore, a complex 3D image or animation might be reduced to a wireframe model so it can be rendered and edited in real-time. While wireframe representations of 3D animations were commonly used in early 3D design, today's GPUs are so fast, they can often render fully shaded surfaces and textures in real-time with little to no lag.
NOTE: A "wireframe" may also refer to a mockup or prototype of a website layout or app design.
This page contains a technical definition of Wireframe. It explains in computing terminology what Wireframe means and is one of many technical terms in the TechTerms dictionary.
All definitions on the TechTerms website are written to be technically accurate but also easy to understand. If you find this Wireframe definition to be helpful, you can reference it using the citation links above. If you think a term should be updated or added to the TechTerms dictionary, please email TechTerms!


The 10OA Pro Series Over-the-Axle Bumperpull Trailer from Big Tex has been designed to haul pallets and other medium-weight equipment. A 102-inch low-profile bed with a I-beam frame features an integral tongue for added strength and durability.
- FINISH Superior Quality Finish is Applied for a Highly Decorative and Protective Finish.
- COUPLER Adjustable Forged 2-5/16"
- FINISH (Prep) Steel is Cleaned to Ensure a Professional Smooth Finish.


text:
Q: Numerically solving a non-linear ode system with overdetermined boundary conditions In a paper by Camescasse et al.: "Bistable buckled beam: Elastica modeling and analysis of static actuation", in equation 46, the authors state a non-linear ode system for a bistable buckled beam. In the following section, they discuss the numerical approach and analysis. For that, they define boundary conditions (48) and (49).
For ease of discussion, let's start with some assumptions in my implementation to simplify/explain the model a bit. In my case, $\hat{\delta}^\pm = 0.5$, which erases all distinctions into $\pm$. Logically speaking, this means that the Force $F$ applies in the center of the beam. $F$ is given. $k$ , defined in (38) detemines the slenderness ratio of the beam and is also given. $\frac{d\vec{Q}}{ds}$, defined in (3), is the position vector the point at section $s$ on the neutral axis on the beam, so effectively $\frac{dx}{ds}$ and $\frac{dy}{ds}$. $\vec{\tau}$ is given in (6). All values are normalized, so e.g. $x(1)$ is the value of $x$ at the right end of the beam.
$\tag{46}\left\{\begin{array}{}
\frac{d^2\theta}{ds^2} + \hat{\delta} F  \cos(\theta) - k \delta P F \cos(2\theta) - \frac{1}{2}*k[P^2-\delta^2F^2]\sin(2\theta) = 0 \\
\frac{d\vec{Q}}{ds}=(1+kN)\vec{\tau}
\end{array}\right.$
with
$\tag{47}
N = - P \cos(\theta) + \delta F \sin(\theta)
$,
$\tag{3+37a} \vec{Q} = X \vec e_1 + Y \vec e_2$
and
$\tag{6}
\vec \tau = \cos \theta(s) \vec e_1 + \sin \theta(s) \vec e_2
$
I want to implement the following scenario: The beam is precompressed, so the joint $B$ is at the position $x_B$. Then, a centered actuation Force $F$ pulls the beam downwards. My goal is to analyze the buckling/snap-through behaviour, but i have difficulties implementing all boundary conditions.
$\tag{48}\left\{\begin{array}{}
X(0) = 0 \\
Y(0) = 0 \\
\theta'(0) = 0 \\
\theta(0) = \theta_A
\end{array}\right.$
$\tag{49}\left\{\begin{array}{}
X(1) = x_B \\
Y(1) = 0 \\
\theta'(1) = 0 \\
\theta(1) = \theta_B
\end{array}\right.$
First of all, i don't understand the last conditions in (48) and (49). Solving $\theta(s)$ automatically gives $\theta_a$ and $\theta_b$, so this seems superfluous and is IMO not a boundary condition.
Second, i don't have an extensive numerical background, so there might very well be a wrong assumption in the following problem: the model effectively has four integration constants/degrees of freedom (from integrating to $\theta(s)$, $\frac{d\theta}{ds}$, $x(s)$ and $y(s)$). With the parameter $P$ unknown, this should leave us with a total of 5 boundary conditions to solve. But without counting $\theta_a$ and $\theta_b$ we need six. In my understanding this makes it overdetermined and i have no idea to approach this problem.
I already successfully implemented a version in matlab that simply ignores one boundary condition, e.g. $y(1) = 0$, but this obviously causes the buckling beam to drift downwards when actuated with $F$ and not buckling.


Out of the more than 300 applications submitted in the first stage of the selection process, 49 project consortia involving entities from at least two countries are now working to further develop their projects ideas for submission in the final stage of the application process. The 49 applicants are competing for the €60 million that has been set aside for projects under this fund.
The objective of the EEA and Norway Grants Fund for Youth Employment is to contribute to combat youth unemployment in Europe. To be complementary to existing EU funding, the fund aims to reach groups whose needs have not been adequately addressed. Most of the 49 project ideas aim to improve the employment prospects of socially excluded groups. A number of projects wish to work with inactive youth living in rural and suburban areas, and areas hard hit by the financial crisis, while other propose interventions for disabled youth, youth who have received alternative care or youth from migrant or refugee backgrounds.
The Fund for Youth Employment supports transnational project initiatives and is open to entities in the 15 beneficiary countries of the EEA and Norway Grants as well as Ireland, Italy and Spain – countries with high youth unemployment. The projects groups must be led by an entity from one of the beneficiary countries and involve entities from at least two countries.
All the 15 beneficiary countries of the EEA and Norway Grants are represented as lead partners. The majority of project consortia consist of five to eight project partners. Donor countries, international organisations as well as other EU member countries seem to be keen on providing know-how: over 70 per cent of the consortia have one or more expertise partners. Expertise partners include universities, NGOs, and private companies. In total, 354 entities have planned to engage in one of the 49 initiatives.
Find out more about where the project partners are coming from here.
The project consortia aim to make interventions in a number of ways: some propose research and analysis activities, and many wish to provide youth with a wide range of educational activities and access to work-based learning. Others focus on developing new pedagogical tools or assisting their target groups by creating new inclusive learning spaces. Other again aim at reforming public employment services or assist policy transfer and transfer of best practice.
The projects would like to develop innovative ideas and ensure meaningful contributions and sustainable employment opportunities within diverse economic sectors, like the blue and green economy, tourism and ICT. Entrepreneurship and new jobs within the social economy are also targeted by a number of projects.
The 49 shortlisted projects are now receiving support from the Fund Operator (Ecorys Polska) in preparation for the submission of full proposals on 11 December.


If you feel like trying different sides this Christmas, give these a go. They make an appearance every single year at my family table on Christmas Eve dinner but I don't think they are very popular on this side of the world (particularly our take on Russian-style salad!).
This year I dry-brined a small turkey following Serious Eats' Quick and Dirty Guide to Brining Chicken or Turkey. I seasoned it with a Peruvian-style marinade featuring ají panca, garlic, vinegar, spices and brown ale.
The recipes below pair well with turkey, pork and chicken. Enjoy!
Peel, core and cube apples. Place in a pot with the water and cinnamon stick. Bring to a boil, lower heat and simmer for 25-30 minutes.
While the apples are cooking, peel, cube and steam beetroot, potatoes and carrots.
When the vegetables are almost ready, add corn kernels and peas and cook for another 2-3 minutes.
Mix vegetables in a bowl and let cool down.
When the apples are soft and mushy transfer to a food processor or blender, add ground cloves and process to your desired consistency.
When the vegetables are cold, add peeled and cubed avocado and mayonnaise, season with salt, mix well and serve on a lettuce leave.