text:
NICE Recommendations for EFT
By: Jacqui Footman
Categories: Community News, The Science Behind EFT
What do we mean when we say NICE has found EFT to be clinically- and cost-effective for PTSD? What was the process?
In the UK, the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (formerly National Institute for Clinical Excellence – NICE) is responsible for the evaluation of all treatments and therapy to be recommended for use in the UK's National Health Service (NHS). NICE produces guidelines by condition. This article concerns the NICE Guideline for Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), NG116 (1).
Approximately every five years, NICE considers whether a guideline needs to be revised and updated and, if necessary, conducts a review process that takes one–two years, involving extensive literature review and stakeholder consultation. EFT International (at the time of last review of NG116 known as AAMET) is registered with NICE as a stakeholder for the PTSD Guideline and has participated in the last two reviews; this was in 2011 just a consultation whether full review were needed. Then a full review of NG116 (1) was initiated in 2016 and published in December 2018. The NICE review process is well ordered and mostly transparent – their literature reviews, analyses, discussions and documented decisions are available to download from their website. You can find these relating to the 2018 revision here:
https://www.nice.org.uk/guidance/ng116/history
and here: https://www.nice.org.uk/guidance/ng116/evidence
The information showing how NICE came to recommend further research into EFT for PTSD is available within the 1326-page: Post-traumatic stress disorder [D] Evidence reviews for psychological, psychosocial and other non-pharmacological interventions for the treatment of PTSD in adults (2), and explained and summarised below, so you won't need to trawl those 1326 pages.
NICE starts the process of review with a literature search, then decides for each research paper found whether it is to be included and analysed. At this stage many papers are excluded. The process is explained in Post-traumatic stress disorder [D] Evidence reviews for psychological, psychosocial and other non-pharmacological interventions for the treatment of PTSD in adults (2), pages 9-13 and Appendices A-C.
Unfortunately, in the 2018 revision, the majority of published papers on EFT for PTSD, including a systematic review and meta-analysis showing high effect sizes, were excluded at this stage. However a handful of papers did make it through. It will be important for future EFT researchers to consider when planning research into EFT for PTSD, or indeed other conditions for which NICE evaluates literature, what are the NICE criteria for inclusion of papers. This can be gleaned by careful study of evidence reviews such as the one considered here (2).
The included EFT papers were grouped together with a couple of papers on Thought Field Therapy (TFT) for PTSD and considered together as 'combined somatic and cognitive therapies' (CSACTs). They omitted the paper that compares EFT to EMDR (Karatzias et al, 2011) (3) in their analysis of EFT, instead using this paper in their review of the literature for EMDR – whereas the paper was researched and written as a study of EFT.
Based on the papers they decided to include for each therapy, NICE then completed their own Network Meta Analysis (NMA) and compared 18 psychological interventions for PTSD for efficacy and of these, 11 interventions were considered in an economic analysis. Combined somatic and cognitive therapies were rated respectively 2nd and 4th most effective in two slightly different analyses (4).
Based on this evidence analysis, only Trauma-focussed CBT (TF-CBT), when completed in 8 sessions could be considered better than the CSACTs. Of the CSACTs, it was acknowledged that larger effect sizes were observed in the NMA for EFT than for TFT. There was "some promising evidence for clinical benefits of EFT" (5) and thus a research recommendation for EFT was included in the final guideline when published in December 2018. This recommendation was not included in the draft guideline that NICE put out for consultation in June 2018 and is likely the result of EFT International's (at the time AAMET's) detailed response to the consultation (6). EFTi made the case that the evidence for patient benefit from use of EFT for PTSD was so strongly promising that it would be morally wrong not to include it in the reviewed guideline.
This evidence was good, even based alone on the papers NICE had included in its NMA, even without all the additional papers that had not made it through to the final analysis. These can be found by searching by condition (PTSD) on EFT International's database here.
Based on the NICE NMA only, the guidance development group committee for this guideline decided "that a recommendation could not be made for combined somatic and cognitive therapies based on the evidence for clinical and cost-effectiveness when weighed up against [these] additional considerations" (7). They instead took a first step of recommending further research (5,7). These additional considerations were as follows:
The research papers they considered related exclusively to PTSD in military veteran populations. They wanted to consider papers relating to civilian populations before recommending EFT outright. However it must be noted here that Karatzias et al (3), the team that had compared EFT to EMDR, had collected data in a civilian NHS setting working with patients with various types of PTSD in NHS Fife, and found EFT similarly effective to EMDR, which is recommended in the NICE PTSD guideline as a treatment for PTSD, on the basis of this and other studies
There were too few papers on EFT that used clinician-assessed measures such as Clinician-Administered PTSD Scale for DSM–IV (CAPS) or DSM-V (CAPS-5). NICE favoured this measure, because "this outcome can be blinded" (5). The majority of CSACT studies used self-report instruments of PTSD symptoms, which NICE found less adequate, presumably as they might be considered more subjective and more open to bias since outcome data collection cannot be blinded
There was some follow-up data provided in most of the studies considered. Unfortunately, NICE found it to be too limited.
EFT International Research Team would like to encourage those researching EFT for PTSD, or indeed other conditions, to consider these points when planning and undertaking future research projects.
It is of particular interest to note that NICE observed, in respect of Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), which generally has been favoured as the treatment of choice for PTSD:
Although the evidence for trauma-focused CBT was overwhelmingly positive, the committee discussed the evidence suggesting a potential harm of trauma-focused CBT in terms of a significantly higher rate of drop-out relative to waitlist, and a small but still statistically significant higher drop-out where trauma-focused CBT augmented treatment as usual or medication relative to treatment as usual/medication-only. The committee discussed potential reasons for this higher rate of discontinuation, and speculated that trauma-focused CBT may be less acceptable to people who are not ready to directly confront traumatic memories, are not able to engage due to functional impairment from associated symptoms, and/or have difficulties in building a trusting therapeutic relationship. As existing recommendations for non-trauma-focused symptom-specific CBT interventions, modifications of trauma-focused therapies for those with additional needs (including complex PTSD), and engagement strategies for those with difficulties in building trust in the therapeutic relationship (based on the qualitative evidence [see evidence review H]) have the potential to address some of these reasons for discontinuation, the committee agreed that the potential for benefit was greater than the potential for harm.….Furthermore, offering EMDR as an option for those with non-combat-related PTSD, or supported computerised trauma-focused CBT as an alternative lower intensity intervention, allows people who may not find trauma-focused CBT acceptable to access another psychological intervention if they prefer. (7)"
EFTi's Trainers and Practitioners who are experienced in treating trauma with EFT are aware of EFT's advantages over CBT in respect of the patient groups described above. EFT's particular strengths are the gentleness and safety of the approach and the extent to which it resources patients to support themselves between sessions. We also heard anecdotally from the researchers who undertook the comparison study of EMDR and EFT in NHS Fife (Karatzias et al) (3) that patients preferred EFT to EMDR. We know anecdotally from other NHS services where EFT has been made available that it has featured strongly in patient choice of therapy.
There is a fast-growing and promising evidence base for EFT, suggesting both clinical- and cost-effectiveness. In meta-analysis papers consistently show clinically significant improvement with EFT. A method used of determining the clinical significance or 'effect size' between two groups, Cohen's d, is explained by Dr Peta Stapleton in The Science behind Tapping (8). A meta-analysis of 7 randomised controlled trials of EFT for PTSD (9) uses Cohen's d to show the treatment effect size for the trials that compared EFT to treatment as usual or waitlist. Stapleton explains that the value Cohens d = 0.2 denotes a "small" effect size, one in which there is a real effect (something is really happening), but which you can only see through careful study (8). Cohen's d = 0.8 denotes a "large" effect size, an effect that is big enough and consistent enough to be plainly obvious, one that is "very substantial" (8). In meta-analysis of EFT for PTSD (9), Cohen's d = 2.96, clearly a remarkably large effect size. Effect size is used to inform us about the effect of one treatment over another; in this case the very large effect of EFT for PTSD was in favour of EFT compared to normal care.
NICE, even based on a small selection of papers from all the research available, in its own NMA found EFT to be the second most effective and cost effective therapy for PTSD. The emerging evidence base for EFT for PTSD shows huge promise and potential, including with patient groups where previous therapies of choice have been found insufficient. We await further research and further review by NICE.
In the meantime, we find it true to say that NICE has found EFT to be effective for PTSD (2,4,6).
Given that, alongside the NICE approach of considering only gold-standard research evidence there is a mass of anecdotal and other levels of evidence and clinical experience of positive benefit from the use of EFT for PTSD, many more treatment centres for PTSD need to be looking at how they start to include EFT in their offer to patients, also looking for opportunities to initiate the further research that NICE recommends.
Given the lower number of sessions needed and the much reduced risk of re-traumatisation with EFT compared with other treatments (notably CBT and EMDR), insurance companies also need to consider how they support this work, which, ultimately, will reduce their costs as well as having beneficial effect for their customers on Quality of Life Years (QALY).
Jacqui Footman, Chair of EFT International
Jacqui also operates EFT Devon, offering online interactive practitioner training, tapping groups, introductory workshops and one-to-one EFT facilitation. www.eftdevon.co.uk
With special thanks to Professor Elizabeth Boath of Staffordshire University, UK and Dr Peta Stapleton of Bond University, Australia for checking and suggestions.
Post-traumatic stress disorder, NICE Guideline NG116, published 5 December 2018
Post-traumatic stress disorder [D] Evidence reviews for psychological, psychosocial and other non-pharmacological interventions for the treatment of PTSD in adults. NICE guideline NG116, Evidence reviews. December 2018
Karatzias T, Power K, Keith Brown, McGoldrick T, Begum M, Young J, Loughran P, Chouliara Z, Adams S. A controlled comparison of the effectiveness and efficiency of two psychological therapies for posttraumatic stress disorder: eye movement desensitization and reprocessing vs. emotional freedom techniques. Journal of Nervous & Mental Diseases 2011 Jun 1;199(6):372-8.
Post-traumatic stress disorder [D] Evidence reviews for psychological, psychosocial and other non-pharmacological interventions for the treatment of PTSD in adults. NICE guideline NG116, Evidence reviews. December 2018. Page 267.
Post-traumatic stress disorder [D] Evidence reviews for psychological, psychosocial and other non-pharmacological interventions for the treatment of PTSD in adults. NICE guideline NG116, Evidence reviews. December 2018. Page 1286.
Post-traumatic stress disorder: management. Consultation on draft guideline - Stakeholder comments table. 11/06/2018 to 23/07/2018. 5 December 2018
Post-traumatic stress disorder [D] Evidence reviews for psychological, psychosocial and other non-pharmacological interventions for the treatment of PTSD in adults. NICE guideline NG116, Evidence reviews. December 2018. Pages 285-6.
Stapleton P, The Science behind Tapping, 2019, Hay House. Page 54
Sebastian B, Nelms J. The Effectiveness of Emotional Freedom Techniques in the Treatment of Posttraumatic Stress Disorder: A Meta-Analysis. Explore 2017 Jan 1;13(1):16-25.
Share Your Comments & Feedback Cancel reply


text:
Nizhnik, Israel: "We're looking forward to meeting the Saracens. We are lacking harmony without them"
Gennady Nizhnik, Israel, "Kingdom of Jerusalem" club Concerning the movement in Israel and his club... ... Concerning the movement in Israel The country has about seven clubs of different levels of activity. Almost all of them are descendants of an old "role-playing protoclub", but every club has been developing in its own way. Every club deals with a certain region, era; and historical fencing is…
Shestakov, Estonia: "Everybody wants to join the main five-member team, and we will hold a qualifying event for that"
Our impressions concerning "Battle of the Nations"-2014 are great. We would like to fight with all those opponents, who we have already met, again. And there are many others who we would like to meet. As for Russia, we want to go there, but we have only been invited to a training so far. We aren't ready to fight with the Russians on equal terms. We will…
Combat alliances
What are they and who / what do they include? - Frequently Asked Questions - - Information for novices - You can see at many HMB tournaments that teams participating in "5 vs 5" and "21 vs 21" categories are rarely formed of representatives of one club. You may think that fighters choose partners just before entering the lists, say a few words to each…
Tapsell, New Zealand: "It was amazing to fight against Ukraine in buhurt!"
All the teams showed their best, but the most important moment for me was the fight of our team against Ukraine. The fact is that since I've started practising HMB sport, I've been a fan of the National Team of Ukraine. It was amazing to fight against Ukraine in buhurt! I managed to bring down several Ukrainian fighters and it was worth a journey across the world! …
McNaughton, Scotland: "We've founded regional clubs across the country to select the best fighters for the National Team"
Participation in the World Championship in HMB "Battle of the Nations"-2014 gave us a lot of invaluable experience which our team started to implement immediately after returning from Croatia. We continued to train and taught novices, shared our experiences with them. At the beginning of our preparation for "Battle of the Nations"-2014 we had only one set of armor, which made it impossible to train in a normal way. To somehow compensate the lack of equipment, we devoted a lot of time to physical training, martial arts and fencing.…
Lukashov, Kazakhstan: "How could we stay aside when HMB finally formed as a sport?!"
- New people of the movement Vitaliy Lukashov, President of a "Bayard-Legion" HMB club, Petropavlovsk, Kazakhstan (a branch of historical fencing club "Bayard", Moscow, Russia), HMBIA supervisor in Kazakhstan …About his way to HMB sport (from a "wall notice" and up to world ambitions), movement in the country (from the moment of its formation and up to the present day), and about his clubs (former and…
Obradovic, Serbia: "Compared to the previous year, our standards of authenticity increased significantly!"
HMB sport became more popular in Serbia compared to the previous year. We have new clubs and a large support group for the teams. Now all the fighters are having rest, as the season is over, and improving their armor and fitness. We are working on the organization of a national tournament which is to be held next spring. We also hope to participate in "Battle of the…
McNaughton, Scotland. Concerning the course made…
Pioneer of the Scottish HMB movement, Dave McNaughton, concerning his way of stirring up the movement in his country. First we had to learn whether the people of Scotland really wanted to join the National Team of the country. We began to conduct surveys in the social network Facebook. As a result, we held a meeting for all those who were interested in HMB. There we had a public vote. We wanted to find out whether Scotland needed its own national team for historical medieval battle. The event took place on the 8 of September 2013 in the Stirling Castle. Having gathered…
Nayderov, Russia: "My advice is the following – confront stronger opponents on the lists more often"
I liked "Battle of the Nations"-2014 held in Croatia. But we lacked teams that failed to attend the event in Trogir as they had gone to another tournament. I hope that in the future, this problem will disappear (and we will remember it as an unfortunate misunderstanding), and we will participate in the World Championship in HMB "Battle of the Nations" all together again. And I would advise…
Sergheev, Moldova: "In the end, I joined the buhurt "Russia against all." It was an exciting experience :D"
I've got a lot of impressions concerning "Battle of the Nations"-2014 :) The venue was stunningly beautiful. Picturesque old medieval town, the town hall, cathedral, statues, emblems on the walls ... and even the game, Nine Men's Morris, carved on a stone near the cathedral… A huge number of participants, busy medieval camp with rows of stalls, musicians, and, of course, the best fighters and teams from…

redpajama_set_name: RedPajamaCommonCrawl


text:
Louder The world's biggest and best metal magazine
New Metal Hammer issue
Pantera kicked off German festivals
Katatonia signed art print
New metal albums this week
Cannibal Corpse banned by Russian court
( Metal Hammer )
Sale of band's lyrics and illustrations axed just weeks after shows were pulled
A Russian court has banned distribution of Cannibal Corpse "lyrics and illustrations" – just weeks after the band were forced to cancel three shows in the country.
Russian news service Rapsi reports that the Oktyabrsky District Court of Ufa ruled on Friday that "the translations of lyrics by Cannibal Corpse be banned from distribution in Russia due to violent content."
The ban also also applies to the band's illustrations and artwork, with the claimant saying "lyrics by the band Cannibal Corpse could damage the mental health of children because they contain descriptions of violence, the physical and mental abuse of people and animals, murder and suicide – all accompanied by illustrations."
It is not yet clear whether the ruling amounts to a total ban on the sale of the band's records, or whether they will be available for sale under certain restrictions. The court said the process would be explained at a later date.
Cannibal Corpse had to cancel three of eight planned Russian shows in October, with a fourth pulled halfway through when the venue was raided by police.
The cancellations came about after complaints from a religious group called God's Will. Other acts including Behemoth and Cradle Of Filth also ran into trouble win Russia.
On their Russian drama, Cannibal Corpse guitarist Rob Barrett said it felt as though "a wall" had been put in the way of metal bands in the country.
Metal Hammer Newsletter
Sign up below to get the latest from Metal Hammer, plus exclusive special offers, direct to your inbox!
MORE FROM METAL HAMMER
Tool's Danny Carey has the assault case against him dropped
Nicolas Cage on Megadeth, Rob Zombie and Dimmu Borgir: "Black metal gets a bad rap"
Nicolas Cage used to throw horror movie nights with Johnny Ramone, Kirk Hammett, Rob Zombie and Eddie Vedder
Iron Maiden's Bruce Dickinson on his upcoming solo album: "I'm very proud of it. I think it's gonna be quite special."
Metallica are launching their new album 72 Seasons with a worldwide listening party in cinemas


text:
5 Guns West 'Bad Boys Rock N' Roll' 2019 Reissue
Demon Doll/ Metal Legacy Records
Catalog # DDR142/ML042
UPC # 619960395387
Label: Demon Doll/Metal Legacy
1. Walls Fall Down
2. Thrill Train
3. Sweet 18
4. Heartbreak City
5. Bad Boys Rock N' Roll
6. Christine
7. Heroin Kills
8. Screamer
9. One Night
CLICK PLAYER BELOW FOR SONG SAMPLES
Embed for Bad Boys Rock N' Roll 2019 Reissue
Cocked, loaded and ready to fire...Demon Doll and Metal Legacy Records have teamed up with 80's Hollywood bad boys 5 Guns West on the 30 year anniversary reissue of the 1989 release 'Bad Boys Rock N' Roll.
Previously only available on vinyl, the 9 songs have been digitally remastered for its first CD release (which in our opinion is long overdue).
Brimming from beginning to end with songs about Sex, Drugs & Rock N Roll, we think one good listen will tell you the boys in the band seemed to live it as much as they wrote about it.
The album opener "Walls Fall Down" is a crusher that sets the tone for a roller coaster ride into debauchery that keeps on rolling with tracks like "Thrill Train", "Christine" and "Bad Boys Rock N' Roll".
If you like your Sunset Strip Sleaze Rock unpolished, raw and unapologetic then 5 Guns West is your type of band!
All songs have been digitally remastered and this album comes packaged in an 8 page booklet with a full set of lyrics.
This CD is silver pressed, officially licensed from the band and exclusively available from Demon Doll Records.
Back to Metal Legacy Records


text:
Home News Gun control advocate encouraged by youth movement
Gun control advocate encouraged by youth movement
Goldenberg has ties to Martha's Vineyard.
George Brennan
Janet Goldenberg, who lives in Newton, Mass., but has a second home in Oak Bluffs, is helping lead the effort for improved gun laws in Massachusetts. — Courtesy Janet Goldenberg
After 20 students, 6 and 7 years old, were gunned down along with six adults at an elementary school in Newtown, Conn. in 2012, Janet Goldenberg knew she had to do something.
Goldenberg lives in Newton, Mass., and has a second home on the Oak Bluffs–Edgartown line.
"It was a little bit too eerie driving in Newton, Mass., and hearing about the incident in Newtown, Conn.," Goldenberg said. "They live very much like I live."
At her Wellesley temple, Angus McQuilken, former chief of staff for state Sen. Cheryl Jacques and a leader of the Massachusetts Coalition to Prevent Gun Violence, talked about the need for improved gun control laws in the wake of the Sandy Hook School shootings. Goldenberg found her calling.
In 2014, she helped lead the effort for improved gun laws in Massachusetts — beefed-up background checks, more rigorous licensing, and restrictions on private sales.
Now with the latest school shooting in Parkland, Fla., Goldenberg is pushing for Massachusetts to pass what's known as an Extreme Risk Protective Order (ERPO), which would enable courts to temporarily prohibit a person from possessing or purchasing guns if law enforcement or immediate family members show that he poses a significant danger to himself or to others.
"In the wake of tragedy in California, it is clear to us that this is something Massachusetts should do," Goldenberg said, referring to a 2017 shooting where a gunman killed his wife and then killed four other people and injured 10. He had acted strangely in the past, even shooting a gun during a dispute with neighbors, according to published reports. "We need to close loopholes. There's no one size fits all," Goldenberg said. "As long as we have the Second Amendment, we're going to have a certain amount of gun deaths, but we can minimize them."
At several points during her conversation with The Times, Goldenberg made it clear that gun laws have to be created to save lives "without infringing on the rights" of lawful gun owners.
The deadline for ERPO to move out of the public safety committee is April 15. From there it's up to House Speaker Robert DeLeo whether he will bring it forward for a vote.
Goldenberg said the most important thing people can do now is reach out to representatives, even if the representative supports the bill, to lobby for the bill. State Rep. Dylan Fernandes, D-Falmouth, is a co-sponsor of the bill.
"Even if you know he favors a vote, they still need to hear that you want to make it a priority," she said. Send that email or make that phone call, she added.
The divide on social media between National Rifle Association (NRA) loyalists and gun control advocates appears to be as large as the Grand Canyon.
"It's hard to say whether this is a greater divide, but in the past 10 years or so, the NRA has taken more extreme positions," Goldenberg said. "They used to be more moderate on positions about background checks. Now, any law, no matter how reasonable, they oppose."
There is some evidence in recent days that the light shined by students at Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School in Florida and the support they've received across the country may be making a difference. The NRA released a video last week that offers support for ERPO laws.
"There are plenty of reasonable gun owners who understand you need responsible gun laws," Goldenberg said. With some of its extreme positions, the NRA is "representing the viewpoints of fewer and fewer gun owners."
Goldenberg is buoyed by the actions being taken by young people on Martha's Vineyard and across the country with student walkouts and marches to end violence.
"I think it is tremendous," Goldenberg told The Times of the rallies. "It gives me enormous hope for the future. The ability to organize for the future. They're saying, 'These are our lives. This is our future. We want a say in it.'"
Goldenberg hopes that translates into registering to vote and actually voting. The coalition is working with the League of Women Voters to preregister teens as young as 16, so they're ready to vote when it's legal.
She never expected to be involved in fighting for gun laws. Her prior social action involved working on her temple's toy and food drives. But her family has always advocated for civil rights, and that became a passion for her through the years.
On her frequent visits to Martha's Vineyard, where she loves the breathtaking views of Sengekontacket, her drives to and from her house take her past the campus of Martha's Vineyard Regional High School.
"It's a 20 mph zone, so I slow down, and I can see kids playing on the fields or crossing the street, every single time," she said. "It's a real landmark."
And she can't help but think that what happened in Parkland, what happened at Newtown, it could happen here. It could happen anywhere.
But it's not just the mass shootings that capture the attention of the media that Goldenberg is concerned about. There are teen lives lost every day in the nation's inner cities to gun violence. She's working for laws like ERPO to limit deaths by guns.
"Enough is enough," she said. "Enough tragedies, enough 'thoughts and prayers,' there has to be an opening to make things better. I want to do whatever I can to move the needle."
BinWT March 26, 2018 at 3:12 pm
Her well intentioned efforts will only effect the honest and responsible gun owners… the illegal owners and those we need to control won't even blink… unless it's to laugh at how 'unprotected' the innocents will become.
notnewhere March 26, 2018 at 7:27 pm
Nobody would argue with increased backround checks for mental illness, or taking firearms from some nut who shot at his neighbors and losing his right to possess a firearm. (here in MA, if that happened, the issuing authority, the local chief should have pulled his license-you didn't reference where that happened) The problem that is being glossed over is that there are plenty of current laws that if enforced could put offenders behind bars. Remember the billboards that were on the MA state border bragging 'have an illegal gun one year mandatory jail sentence'. Sounds great. But its nothing but 'window dressing'. Why? Because NOBODY went away for that. They all plea bargained down to a lesser charge. Im glad you mentioned 'inner cities'. You mean like Chicago? With the strictest laws? My point is that the bad guys don't obey laws, and city cops, even if they do their job and make arrests don't put a dent in the problem when the prosecutors, with their heavy caseload, routinely 'plea bargain' the charges from a felony possession to some misdemeanor in order to clear their calendar. So the thug doesn't even have a 'prior firearm' conviction if caught again. More new laws is just 'window dressing'. If you are serious about the problem with illegal firearms and inner city carnage, demand the federal prosecutors take over any gun possession cases and refuse to plea bargain the charges. You will see the problem solved. More unenforceable laws are nothing put 'political window dressing'. Crime control of these offenders with heavy federal sentences will accomplish getting guns off the street from the bad guys without infringing on the rights of legal law abiding gun owners.
New Englander March 27, 2018 at 3:55 pm
For the readers, explain why guns crimes decrease during gun shows. And do it without the straw man arguments you just attempted. They're old.
Save your fake news. Its getting REAL old. Since you liberals failed to address the social problems that lead to drugs and crime in the inner cities and ensuing violence, you attack law abiding gun owners. Blame the NRA for your failed social great society. You are clueless about the gun laws as you continually demonstrate. Try enforcing the laws but that's just not the narrative being spread with the Bloomberg and Soros billions. Both are anti gun ownership for the 'little people', and both protected by private armed guards. Typical left wing hypocrites. And you fall for it hook line and sinker. And why don't YOU explain to the readers your inability to comprehend. You're not worth responding since you constantly post false statements, like when you said 'bad guys' can buy guns legally in other states. Suggest you read the law before you post nonsense.
ascot_wearer March 28, 2018 at 5:45 pm
Whom are you even responding to? I think you copy/pasted the wrong NRA talking point.
If this would be easier, tell us why a person purchasing a gun the legal way is guaranteed to be a good guy. Why couldn't he be a bad guy who's hiding his intentions? After all, bad guys will do anything to get weapons.
If it becomes harder to get guns, they will see less use in crime. That is quite obvious and anybody who says otherwise is arguing in bad faith or willfully ignoring reality.
Part of the problem is that it's impossible to make guns harder for so-called bad guys to get, you can only make them harder for everybody to purchase. And you can't do it locally: most guns used for crime in Chicago _do_ come from out of state. It doesn't matter how effective your gun laws are if a state over your cousin can get you one and report it stolen the next day.
So we are at an impasse: even a partial cure to gun violence would require federal gun limitations, which are deeply objectionable to a large portion of the electorate. Too bad.
Also, this obsession with Chicago (and the dog whistle racism that inevitably accompanies it) is unhelpful. School massacres aren't performed by economically disenfranchised gang members, they are performed by racists, outcasts, and the mentally ill. Again, the only way to stop that is to make guns (or highly effective guns) less available generally, for people who have yet to commit a crime.
Skeptical-Sarcastic-cynic April 3, 2018 at 4:30 pm
No one should own a dog. There is no reason to own a dog. Some think it's macho to own a dog. 4-5 million people are harmed by a dog every year and of those 25 will die from the attack.
Some people have more than one dog! That is ridiculous! Some are attack breeds. Other countries don't have dogs.
My chickens have been killed by dogs and I even have a "dog free zone" posted. For now until all dogs are gone I will have to protect my chickens. Good thing I still can.
dondondon12 April 3, 2018 at 6:26 pm
skeptic– I can't see a reason to own chickens, except perhaps for dog food.
Previous articleOak Bluffs money matters and mopeds teed up
Next articleNew Tisbury School is needed


Jennifer Sampson, CEO and president of United Way of Metropolitan Dallas, says that Troy Aikman came to the group and asked about setting up a donor-advised fund. "It's a first for us and an exciting start for what I see as the future," she said.
Troy Aikman talked this week about why he decided to fold his nonprofit into the United Way.
Troy Aikman heads down a stairway at the United Way of Metropolitan Dallas offices. "My motivation is real simple: I want the community of North Texas to know that philanthropically, I'm still giving back," he said about creating a donor-advised fund at United Way.
Troy Aikman threw the ball to Amy Holderman, principal of Bennett Elementary School in McKinney ISD, at a celebration of the Healthy Zone School Recognition Program at AT&T Stadium in September.
Troy Aikman pals around with students from Arlington ISD's Young Junior High School at the Healthy Zone School Recognition Program celebration. From left, the students are Rylee Richardson, Cassady Frey, Ta'Naya Thurmund, K.J. Polk and Christian Traylor.
Troy Aikman has plans of significance for his second half.
As the Hall of Fame quarterback bears down on his 50th birthday, he wants to be an impact player on Dallas' philanthropic field. And as we all know, Aikman likes to call the shots.
He believes he's found the answer by signing on with United Way of Metropolitan Dallas.
Aikman has committed $1 million to the nonprofit's Unite Forever Campaign in the Dallas organization's first donor-advised fund.
This increasingly popular form of giving allows a donor to set up an account managed by a charitable organization but stay in the driver's seat when it comes to how the money is invested and where it's distributed.
This video is not available on this device.
Aikman's gift, which will be announced at an event in Klyde Warren Park on Saturday night, will fold into the Unite Forever capital campaign that was launched a year ago at United Way's 90th anniversary celebration at AT&T Stadium.
Unite Forever's current tally of more than $35 million includes two $5 million gifts — one from the 19 grandchildren of Caroline Rose Hunt in her honor and the other from Diane and Hal Brierley.
Aikman's ties with United Way date back to his early playing days when he did promotional spots for the national organization.
More recently, he was co-chair of United Way's 90th anniversary celebration with Charlotte Jones Anderson.
In 2011, he and Dr. Kenneth Cooper launched the Healthy Zone Schools Recognition Program, a partnership between United Way and the Cooper Institute to fight childhood obesity at the school level.
But it took nine months to make sure everyone was on board with the idea, which is a departure from the traditional way that United Way takes in donations, says Ed Galante, a retired Exxon Mobil executive who's co-chair of the capital campaign.
"When Troy came to us with the notion of a donor-advised fund, we didn't have to be convinced — we just wanted to make sure that we were comfortable that we could deliver on the promise that we'd be making to him as a donor," Galante said.
For Aikman, it's the next chapter for his foundation, which he created in 1992, when he was 26, wearing his first Super Bowl ring and wanting to do something unique for kids.
He opened the first Aikman's End Zone at Children's Medical Center in Dallas in 1996. The interactive, therapeutic playroom was quickly followed by a more extensive one at Cook Children's Medical Center in Fort Worth. The idea was to give kids in the hospitals a taste of Disneyland.
In 2001, Garth Brooks saw what Aikman was doing and fell in love with the concept. The country music legend thought it was a perfect match for his Teammates for Kids Foundation.
Together, Aikman and Brooks built the Child Life Zone Network, with playrooms in a dozen pediatric hospitals across the country; a couple more are in the pipeline. The one at Mount Sinai Hospital in New York has a full broadcast studio.
Last year, Aikman decided to concentrate on North Texas philanthropy and turned over his interests in the Zone Network to Brooks.
Mike Reilly, who guides Aikman's philanthropic efforts on a pro bono basis, suggested the donor-advised fund to his longtime friend.
"I told Troy, 'This is a great next step for you. You don't want the burden of managing assets of the foundation," Reilly said.
Aikman and Sampson have tossed around a number of ideas about where to direct his funds, including some sort of tie-in with the Zone Network. "I don't want to completely get away from what we've done with the kids in the hospitals," he says.
But another idea is at the opposite end of the age spectrum — doing something for seniors.
That's been on his mind for two decades, since he and his girlfriend at the time happened into Fernando's Travis in Highland Park on a Tuesday night. It was packed with seniors being entertained by a lady lounge singer.
"I enjoyed watching them dancing and having the time of their lives," Aikman said. "I talked with the owner and he said this was a Tuesday night ritual. So every Tuesday night that she and I were free, we'd go.
Sampson says that whatever Aikman zeros in on, she's certain that one of the 103 agencies United Way supports will provide a good platform for his investment.
And yes, she's thrilled with Aikman's million bucks. But there's more to his gift than money.


Last night, Union Market, in NE Washington, DC, played host to beauty and style experts in the DC area, when Follain, a New England-based healthy beauty store announced that it will return to Union Market as a permanent vendor. The space will feature a thoughtfully curated portfolio of skincare, hair care and cosmetic products from over 30 U.S. brands. Follain will join the ranks of Union Market's existing 40 artisans as the market's only beauty retailer.
Founder Tara Foley was inspired to build a beauty shop that could be trusted to sell healthy, effective and sustainable products after working on an organic lavender farm in France, and later, for a skincare manufacturer in Maine. "At Follain, we love to experience and understand the ingredients we feed our skin. We've always encouraged our clients to do the same," says Foley.
Beauty enthusiasts may recognize Follain from previous events, including Union Market's signature fashion series, Thread. "Washingtonians have been great Follain supporters - we keep finding ourselves back in the District. We can't wait to have a permanent presence at Union Market starting next week," Foley exclaims.
Shoppers can expect to find all-American products including natural men's grooming collection Crux Supply Co., organic makeup line W3LL People and handcrafted soap collection Saipua among others.
Beginning today, May 21, Follain at Union Market will be open Tuesday through Sunday from 10am to 6pm.
The idea for Follain was born when founder Tara Foley worked on an organic lavender farm in France and, later, for a skincare manufacturer in Maine. Through these experiences Tara realized how difficult it was to find truly healthy, effective, and environmentally friendly skincare products. She finally became fed up with her time-consuming and endless quest; no single beauty store offered healthy products only. Follain has locations in Boston - Beacon Hill, Boston - South End, Nantucket and now Washington, D.C. For more information about Follain, please visit www.shopfollain.com.


Do you happen to know how ingesting gluten for a celiac disease child plays a role in the ability to focus and concentrate at school?
There have been some studies which suggest that untreated celiac disease may predispose children to behavioral disorders such as ADHD. However, larger studies are needed to know for sure whether or not there is a connection. Interestingly, most of the studies which propose a connection between celiac disease and behavioral disorders suggest that a gluten-free diet significantly improves behavioral symptoms. If your child is experiencing difficulty with concentration, my advice would be strict adherence to a gluten-free diet. If behavior is still a problem despite a strict diet and a normal celiac panel blood test, I suggest discussing this with your pediatrician.


Come spend the holidays with family or friends under the Mediterranean sun! The French Riviera is famous for miles of beach, long walks in the creeks and water from a blue "blue"!
The wonder is assured. If you want to spend your holiday on the French Riviera, we offer you a dream destination! Come relax in Sainte Maxime, the elegant and family destination that offers a special climate with sunshine almost 300 days a year! You can stay at the residence Green Park which offers a perfectly arranged.
Take colors from your vacation on the French Riviera.


Sometimes people need the proper motivation in order to understand what is going on in the world and how it affects them. Covering current events, news, preparedness, politics, the economy and how they play out in the last days before the return of Jesus. Join Joseph and Jay as they deliver A Swift Kick every Monday evening at 7pm ET/4pm PT.


Custom Lip balms Display Boxes are stylish boxes to satisfy the manufacturer. Get Wholesale Lip Balm Boxes in Custom Shapes, Sizes and Layouts. We provide error-free lip balm packaging with free shipping all over the USA. Our lip balm boxes get you the preferred customer attention. Lip balms are used to keep lips moisturized and are used and adored by everyone. Ideal lip balm boxes are catchy and keep the product safe from any outside danger thus maintaining its original texture and flavor. Lip balm boxes are designed in various shapes and colors to cater the need of different style and size lip balm. Beautiful designs are crafted on boxes and logos are printed to grab attention. Boxes should be handy and easy to use.
Lip Balms are a very essential item thus making it a very important and handy product. Custom Lip balm boxes add cool look to entice buyers towards your product. These funky color boxes add special look with a surety of safety and protection. You can customize these lip balm boxes according to your own design and requirements. Options start from Cardboard Lip Balm Display Boxes to Lip Balm Tube boxes, you can add Die-cut window and foiling with all colors of your choice. If you are looking for individual lip Balm boxes or looking to order Lip Balm display boxes wholesale, we at iCustomBoxes have all the tools to fulfill your requirements.
There are many features that we might want to enhance. Some people want to enhance their eyes. Others like to contour their nose and make it more prominent. Some have a fondness for highlighting their cheeks. There are others then who want to moisturize their lips and that's exactly where the lip balms come in. Popular especially in the winter months, lip balms are necessary to avoid chapped lips and to supply them with an added layer of gloss that is absolutely necessary. Thus it is indeed vital for you to make sure that you have lip balm in your pocket during the dry seasons.
But the topic of discussion today is not lip balms. Instead it is the lip balm boxes. It is important to realize that they are found in a variety of shapes and styles. This is largely due to the variation that is present in the way that one can apply it. Some apply lip balms using it from a stick. On the other hand, some apply it in a pallet form from their fingers. Since the stick and palette are obviously very differently shaped, it is important that the boxes are also shaped differently so as to be able to fit them in with much ease.
Lip balms are present in a variety of flavors because like and enjoy different types of flavors. Some like cherry. Others like mint and then there are some who also like lemons and melons. Thus it is vital that you understand that the packaging of the lip balms vary according to the flavor that they are in. Strawberry for instance is present in red lip balm boxes. Melon on the other hand may be present in green lip balm boxes. Lemons may be present in the yellow lip balm boxes. Thus it is vital for you to ensure that the color is right so that the customer does not have to look for their favor and is instead able to know what's inside just by looking at the box. This just makes buying a very convenient process for the consumer.
But the question then that needs to be addresses is that who is the best person for having your lip balm boxes made? The answer to that is fairly simple.- iCustomBoxes. This is because we have a team of exceptionally bright individuals who know how to utilize the space given on your lip balms boxes to effectively brand and market your lip balms. It will only be after that the consumers will be able to easily recognize your products and will be able to recall it when they will he in need of lip balms. Also we have a very customized approach when it comes to designing lip balm boxes for our customers. We realize that it is very important that it is given due consideration that every brand is indeed unique and has an individual identity. This individual identity is what needs to be safeguarded and protected. We thus cannot obviously offer a standard lip balm box for everyone Instead we make extra effort to realize your needs, requirements and also the behavior patterns of your consumers. This helps us predict that what sort of packaging will be responsible for creating and arousing the maximum response from your clients and customers.
Also we have a very quick delivery time. This is done to ensure that your time is not wasted. We realize how busy you are and we do not want to keep you waiting.


text:
Q: 500 Internal Server Error in console on clicking on button I am using PHP and AJAX. I have login form and after entering login details and clicking on the submit button then my ajax not working. I am getting

500 Internal Server Error.

when I click on the submit button.
Screenshot of the console

Would you help me out with what I missed in this?

$(document).ready(function() {
  var isReqInprogress = false;
  $("#loginform").validate({
    rules: {
      username: {
        required: true
      },
      password: {
        required: true
      }
    },
    submitHandler: function(form) {
      //form.submit();
      if (isReqInprogress) {
        return;
      }
      isReqInprogress = true;
      $.ajax({
        url: "process.php",
        type: "POST",
        dataType: "json",
        data: $('#loginform').serialize(),
        success: function(data) {
          if (data.error == "true") {
            window.location = "list.php";
          }
          isReqInprogress = false;
        },
      }); // AJAX Get Jquery statment
    }
  });
});
<form method="post" id="loginform" action="" name="loginform">
  <input type="text" name="username" placeholder="USER NAME" class="input-field form-control box-shadow">
  <input type="password" name="password" placeholder="PASSWORD" class="input-field form-control box-shadow">
  <input type="hidden" name="action" value="loginform">
  <input type="submit" name="login" value="Login" class="w-btn w-btnbg-red" />
</form>
<script src="https://ajax.googleapis.com/ajax/libs/jquery/3.4.1/jquery.min.js"></script>
<script src="https://cdnjs.cloudflare.com/ajax/libs/jquery-validate/1.19.1/jquery.validate.min.js"></script>
<script src="https://cdnjs.cloudflare.com/ajax/libs/jquery-validate/1.19.1/additional-methods.min.js"></script>

Process.php
<?php

    ob_start();
    session_start();
    ini_set('display_errors', 1);
    require_once'connection.php';
    $action = isset($_REQUEST['action']) ? $_REQUEST['action'] : '';

    switch ($action) {
        case 'loginform' : loginform($conn); break;
        default : header('Location: entry-form.php');
    }

    function loginform($conn){
        echo "working";
    }
?>

redpajama_set_name: RedPajamaStackExchange


text:
North Texas football caps ferocious rally with double-overtime road victory
North Texas junior running back Jeffery Wilson (26) moves the chains against Bethune Cookman. Colin Mitchell
by Clay Massey
For the first time since 2013, North Texas football got a win on the road.
After falling behind 17-0, the Mean Green (2-2, 1-0) fought back to defeat Rice University 42-35 in double-overtime Saturday night. It was only the third overtime game in the history of North Texas football.
Facing a fourth and inches in the second overtime, the Owls (0-4, 0-1) quickly snapped the ball. With the game on the line, senior running back Darik Dillard got the handoff but was dropped for a loss by senior defensive end Jareid Combs, ending the game and causing pandemonium on the Mean Green sideline.
"I'm extremely proud of our coaches and our young men," head coach Seth Littrell said. "They didn't blink. They just kept playing through it."
Although North Texas eventually got the win, it was tough sledding for the first 15 minutes, as Rice dominated the first quarter. The Owls jumped out to a quick 17-point lead in the first half courtesy of North Texas penalties.
But two members of the Mean Green offense weren't willing to go down without a fight. Led by career days from freshman quarterback Mason Fine and junior running back Jeffrey Wilson, the offense got back on track to keep North Texas in the game.
Fine finished with 221 passing yards, going 15-for-26 with one touchdown. Wilson finished with 157 yards on 18 carries and three touchdowns, setting new career highs in yards and touchdowns.
"We started working more to our outside zone," Littrell said. "It became more of a downhill, outside run game. I still think we're a long way away, but we're getting better."
In the second quarter, the Mean Green got on the board when Fine connected with junior running back Willy Ivery to make it 17-7.
Junior linebacker Joshua Wheeler then forced a Rice fumble, and junior defensive back Kishawn McClain got an interception, but North Texas did not manage to score off either turnover. North Texas managed to pull to within three before halftime after a massive 75-yard reception by senior wide receiver Kenny Buyers set the Mean Green up in Owls territory.
A few plays later, Wilson punched it in from one yard out.
Rice added a field goal after halftime, but North Texas found paydirt from a long ways out when Wilson took off 75 yards, giving the Mean Green their first lead of the night at 21-20.
Ivery padded North Texas' lead late in the fourth quarter with another touchdown run to make it 28-20. But the Owls were not done.
With less than three minutes to play, Rice senior quarterback Tyler Stehling scampered 41 yards inside the Mean Green five yard line. After Dillard bullied his way into the endzone, Rice went for the two point conversion, and converted, to tie the game at 28.
Both sides then traded blows in the first overtime before Ivery sealed the deal in the second, finding the end zone to give the Mean Green the win.
"This just goes to show what a great week of preparation does for you," Littrell said. "It builds so much more confidence and makes you believe that you're going to find a way to win no matter what. I thought all three phases came out this week and were ready to practice. They worked hard, and it carried over to the game."
Next up: North Texas hosts Middle Tennessee State University at 6 p.m. on Saturday.
Featured Photo: North Texas junior running back Jeffery Wilson (26) moves the chains against Bethune Cookman. Colin Mitchell
footballmean greennorth texas
: Lee Fields and the Expressions bring something new to Oaktopia
: Rae Sremmurd "Starts a Party" at Oaktopia Festival
Clay Massey
Mean Green volleyball defeated on the road
Breaking: No. 33 rated pro-style quarterback from class of 2021 commits to North Texas
North Texas football hires Phil Bennett as defensive coordinator


text:
Manchester All Destinations
Explore Manchester
Manchester Tours
All Manchester Tours
Etihad Stadium (City of Manchester Stadium) Tours & Tickets
Old Trafford Tours & Tickets
Imperial War Museum North Tours & Tickets
Science and Industry Museum Tours & Tickets
Manchester Museum Tours & Tickets
The Lowry Tours & Tickets
John Rylands Library Tours & Tickets
Manchester Football Experiences: Manchester United and Manchester City FC
How to Spend 1 Day in Manchester
How to Spend 2 Days in Manchester
Things to do in North West England
From its vibrant music scene and many museums to its destination-worthy restaurants and legendary football stadiums, Manchester is one of the UK's most exciting and varied cities. Two days is just enough time to experience its highlights and enjoy numerous treks around town—here's how to plan a winning Manchester itinerary.
Day 1: Sports and Sightseeing
**Morning:**On a 2-day trip, time is of the essence—which is why a hop-on hop-off bus tour is the perfect way to begin your Manchester sightseeing. In just a couple of hours, you wend your way through the city, spot highlights such as Manchester Town Hall, and soak up history. No navigating required.
**Afternoon:**Next, it's time to indulge your competitive side. Soccer (call it "football" to fit in) is less a passion and more a religion here. Think carefully before you side with Manchester United (on a visit to Old Trafford Stadium) or Manchester City (based in Etihad Stadium), as allegiances run deep.
**Night:**To round out your first day, meet with a private guide for a customized tour of the city. From vibrant neighborhoods to cocktail bars, see Manchester through a local's eyes. Don't forget to ask for insider tips about restaurants in town so you can plan a post-tour meal.
Day 2: Music and Museums
**Morning:**Don't believe the stale stereotypes—England's dining scene has never been more exciting, and Manchester is one of the best places in the UK to eat. Begin your day with a multistop food tour in the cool Northern Quarter, and enjoy multiple samples.
**Afternoon:**Next, digest on a relaxed museum stroll. Manchester is home to numerous top-notch institutions, from the Manchester Museum and Whitworth Art Gallery to the Science and Industry Museum. For younger visitors, SEA Life offers an entertaining way to learn about undersea creatures.
**Night:**It's no surprise that the hometown of Oasis and The Smiths knows a thing or two about music, and Manchester is still known for its many live music venues. Venture to a show to see up-and-coming acts, or take a walking tour to learn more about the city's musical legacy.
Free Cancellation:Get a full refund up to 24 hours in advance on most experiences.See Details
New standard cancellation policy
You'll receive a full refund if you cancel at least 24 hours in advance of the experience (some exceptions apply). Check the "Cancellation Policy" section on an experience's page to confirm its exact cancellation policy.
See experiences with free cancellation
5 Tours and Activities
The Manchester City Stadium Tour
Go behind the scenes at Etihad Stadium, the home of Manchester City Football Club, on this guided tour. With an avid Man City fan as your guide, hear all about the football (soccer) club's history as you visit the manager's dug-out, the press conference room, the changing rooms and other sites that are off limits to the public during matches. Immerse yourself in the City story during a thrilling audio-visual show.
Half-Day Manchester Food Tour with Lunch
A gastronomic adventure, sample some of the best food and drink the Britain's greatest industrial city has to offer and learn how our food and drink offers an insight into the city's past, present and future. Manchester's food and drink scene is booming and this tour will show you why. Your local guide will take you on a multi-stop food tour across the city revealing some culinary hidden gems and historical insights along the way.
3 hours&nbsp30 minutes to 4 hours
Manchester One Day Tour with a Local: 100% Personalized & Private
Discover Manchester with a private guide, and enjoy a tour that's tailor-made to you. Pick your own departure time, meeting point, and duration, then build an itinerary with a Mancunian guide whose interests match your own. Admission tickets to Manchester attractions are at your own expense, but these can be arranged in advance via your guide.
Manchester's Music Scene
Manchester is considered England's music capital, but exploring independently means missing its hidden musical heritage. On this tour, follow in the footsteps of famous Manchester bands like the Buzzcocks, Joy Division, and The Smiths with your guide. Discover iconic locations including the Free Trade Hall, Oldham Street, and Piccadilly Records, stop for refreshments in historic pubs and live music venues, and find out what puts Manchester on Britain's music map.
Manchester: Football Experience With A Local Host
Explore Manchester's soccer history and heritage on this football fan's sightseeing experience. With your local host to lead the way, visit must-see sites of interest like the National Football Museum, and learn of the role soccer plays in Manchester's sporting culture. Explore both the old and new stadiums of either City or United—depending on the team you support—and stop for a drink in a fans' bar.
More Tours in Manchester
Recommended for Manchester


text:
Home / Special / BUSINESS / Young Ghanaian innovator shows Africa's future lies in its talented youth
Inspired by global technology success stories, Mustapha Diyaol Haqq, a 19-year-old from Kumasi in Ghana, realised he too could deliver innovation where it was most needed / Photo: AMA
Young Ghanaian innovator shows Africa's future lies in its talented youth
Self-taught coder develops model for diagnosing breast cancer; looks to solve some of the continent's biggest challenges and inspires youth across the continent as Africa Code Week Youth Ambassador for 2019.
"It takes a village to raise a child": as the Fourth Industrial Revolution sweeps across Africa and more of its youth develop coding and other digital skills, there may come a time to update this old saying to: "It takes one child to raise the prospects of a village."
And based on the quest of one young man from a village in Ghana to solve some of the major problems faced by his community, this saying could become commonplace as more young innovators enter the fray.
Inspired by global technology success stories, Mustapha Diyaol Haqq, a 19-year-old from Kumasi in Ghana, realised he too could deliver innovation where it was most needed, starting with his very home town. "Seeing how the big tech companies used innovation to solve some of the world's biggest problems made me realise how important it is to learn to code," says Haqq. "I looked online for any free courses that could help me develop coding skills and completed as many as I could."
Despite being self-taught, Haqq was able to develop a potentially life-saving solution for women across the continent. "I used my knowledge of coding and machine learning to develop a model for diagnosing breast cancer, which I hope to release freely to communities across Africa," says Haqq.
Also high on his agenda, hunger and food security which he sees as two of the biggest challenges faced by the continent's rapidly growing population.
One of Haqq's biggest challenges when learning to code was accessing the internet. "We don't have a good internet connection where we live, so I had to walk kilometres to an internet café where I could access free online coding courses / Photo: AMA
"Africa relies heavily on smallholder farmers to meet its food production needs. However, much of the produce from farms is spoilt before it reaches the markets in the cities. I'm currently working on a machine learning and AI model that can help reduce post-harvest losses and ensure the work our farmers do translate into food security for our communities."
Connectivity challenges remain limiting
One of Haqq's biggest challenges when learning to code was accessing the internet. "We don't have a good internet connection where we live, so I had to walk kilometres to an internet café where I could access free online coding courses. Internet access is expensive but, thanks to the generous support of my parents, who made some sacrifices to give me a chance to complete a few online courses, I built sufficient coding skills to start developing solutions to some of the problems affecting our community."
Ghana suffers from poor internet penetration, with only 14% of the population having access to the internet. Despite this, the Ghanaian government has set out an ambitious plan to position the country as a leader in ICT innovation in the sub-Saharan Africa region by 2023. Young innovators such as Haqq will undoubtedly play a crucial role in achieving the government's ambitions and inspiring more youth to pursue careers in tech.
Haqq says internet access is also the single biggest obstacle to greater adoption of coding among African youth. "Our continent does not enjoy the fixed-line infrastructure of our more developed peers, and mobile internet can be expensive. For me to afford the internet cafes where I learned to code, my parents had to make sacrifices. Global companies can play an invaluable support role by investing in providing internet access to our communities to support us as we get ready for a digital future."
One of the initiatives working to address digital literacy in Ghana is SAP's Africa Code Week, an annual, continent-wide digital literacy programme that has engaged over 4.1 million youth in 37 African countries since 2015.
Mustapha lighting a coding fire among Africa's youth as Youth Ambassador for Africa Code Week 2019 / Photo: AMA
"I participated in Africa Code Week as an opportunity to share my knowledge with young people in my community and inspire more youngsters to learn one of the most important languages of our time: coding," says Haqq. "I am also a volunteer and instructor for Ghana Code Club, and with the help of some friends we have established coding clubs in several communities, where we spend our free time and weekends teaching both kids and adults to code. Being appointed Youth Ambassador for ACW 2019 is a dream come true, and a unique opportunity to inspire change on a global platform, encouraging young talents across the continent to learn digital skills and code the change they want to see in their community."
SAP, UNESCO and over 130 partners from the public, private and non-profit sectors are currently gearing up to introduce coding skills to 1.5 million youth across 37 countries in October 2019.
According to Claire Gillissen-Duval, Director of EMEA Corporate Social Responsibility and Africa Code Week Global Lead at SAP, this 2019 edition will feature a strong focus on empowering girls and building teaching capacity at the community level, hence the importance of role models like Mustapha.
"We are extremely proud and honoured to welcome Mustapha as our Youth Ambassador for ACW 2019. He overcame major challenges and his amazing journey has the power to inspire many. As a young innovator and change maker, his mentorship and guidance will be crucial as we strive to empower an entire generation and strengthen teaching capacity in ICT education among African communities."
Stay tuned for #ACW2019 taking place in October across 37 countries. For more information visit www.africacodeweek.org
Article distributed by African Media Agency (AMA) on behalf of SAP Africa.
Previous New book on how colonisation drives today's African migration to Europe
Next Noel Yengong showcases Africa at Europe's biggest men's fashion exhibition
Donald Trump Leads with African Youths – New survey
Dr Uche Iro shows how Diaspora can change lives for better in Nigeria
The publication of the magazine is a response to the increasing numbers of Africans entering self-employment as a defensive response to difficulties in accessing jobs commensurate with their qualifications and experience. Many are also establishing businesses to respond to market opportunities.


text:
Functional PVA/VB2/TiO2 Nanofiber Webs for Controlled Drug Delivery
Lihua Lou, Seenivasan Subbiah, Ernest Smith, Ronald J. Kendall, Seshadri S. Ramkumar
Environmental Toxicology
Provost and SVP Academic Affairs
Drug (vitamin B2, riboflavin, VB2)/nanoparticle (TiO2, coated on drug surface) loaded poly(vinyl alcohol) (PVA) nanofiber webs were successfully produced by the electrospinning process. The characteristics of nanofiber structure, chemical composition, mechanical properties, and drug-release properties were investigated. The morphology and diameter of nanofibers were analyzed by atomic force microscopy and scanning electron microscopy. The chemical composition and mechanical properties of nanofiber webs were examined by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy and Instron tensile tester. The drug-release properties of nanofiber webs were studied by liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS). The influences of TiO2:VB2 ratios (0, 18:1, 9:1, 4.5:1, 2.25:1, and 1:1) and releasing time on release behavior of PVA/VB2/TiO2 nanofiber webs were also investigated, with the corresponding virgin PVA nanofibers and LC-MS grade water as control. Among all of the tested samples, PVA/VB2/TiO2 nanofiber webs with TiO2:VB2 ratios of 18:1 and 9:1 exhibited a steady release rate with 60% of VB2 released around 168 h and all VB2 released around 10 days. In addition, by coating VB2 with TiO2, the burst release was effectively prevented due to three mechanisms: surface modification, polymer morphology, and coated surface. The results in this study indicate drug-loaded and nanoparticle-coated hydrophilic nanofiber webs are useful candidates for steady drug release in the drug delivery application field.
ACS Applied Bio Materials
https://doi.org/10.1021/acsabm.9b00726
electrospinning
10.1021/acsabm.9b00726
Dive into the research topics of 'Functional PVA/VB2/TiO2 Nanofiber Webs for Controlled Drug Delivery'. Together they form a unique fingerprint.
Controlled drug delivery Engineering & Materials Science 100%
Vitamins Engineering & Materials Science 81%
Nanofibers Medicine & Life Sciences 70%
Riboflavin Medicine & Life Sciences 68%
Controlled Substance Chemistry 65%
Vitamin Chemistry 55%
Nanofiber Chemistry 46%
Lou, L., Subbiah, S., Smith, E., Kendall, R. J., & Ramkumar, S. S. (2019). Functional PVA/VB2/TiO2 Nanofiber Webs for Controlled Drug Delivery. ACS Applied Bio Materials, 2(12), 5916-5929. https://doi.org/10.1021/acsabm.9b00726
Lou, Lihua ; Subbiah, Seenivasan ; Smith, Ernest et al. / Functional PVA/VB2/TiO2 Nanofiber Webs for Controlled Drug Delivery. In: ACS Applied Bio Materials. 2019 ; Vol. 2, No. 12. pp. 5916-5929.
@article{0df214d27334410b8240ff929677bf22,
title = "Functional PVA/VB2/TiO2 Nanofiber Webs for Controlled Drug Delivery",
abstract = "Drug (vitamin B2, riboflavin, VB2)/nanoparticle (TiO2, coated on drug surface) loaded poly(vinyl alcohol) (PVA) nanofiber webs were successfully produced by the electrospinning process. The characteristics of nanofiber structure, chemical composition, mechanical properties, and drug-release properties were investigated. The morphology and diameter of nanofibers were analyzed by atomic force microscopy and scanning electron microscopy. The chemical composition and mechanical properties of nanofiber webs were examined by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy and Instron tensile tester. The drug-release properties of nanofiber webs were studied by liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS). The influences of TiO2:VB2 ratios (0, 18:1, 9:1, 4.5:1, 2.25:1, and 1:1) and releasing time on release behavior of PVA/VB2/TiO2 nanofiber webs were also investigated, with the corresponding virgin PVA nanofibers and LC-MS grade water as control. Among all of the tested samples, PVA/VB2/TiO2 nanofiber webs with TiO2:VB2 ratios of 18:1 and 9:1 exhibited a steady release rate with 60% of VB2 released around 168 h and all VB2 released around 10 days. In addition, by coating VB2 with TiO2, the burst release was effectively prevented due to three mechanisms: surface modification, polymer morphology, and coated surface. The results in this study indicate drug-loaded and nanoparticle-coated hydrophilic nanofiber webs are useful candidates for steady drug release in the drug delivery application field.",
keywords = "drug delivery, electrospinning, nanoparticles, titanium dioxide, vitamin B2",
author = "Lihua Lou and Seenivasan Subbiah and Ernest Smith and Kendall, {Ronald J.} and Ramkumar, {Seshadri S.}",
note = "Funding Information: The work was supported by the graduate student summer dissertation award from the Division of Graduate & Postdoctoral Affairs, the Study Abroad Competitive Scholarship from the Office of International Affairs, and the Love of Learning Award from Phi Kappa Phi, Texas Tech University (TTU). L.L. and S.S.R. gratefully acknowledge AATCC committee and Terracon for their help with the student research funding. We acknowledge Dr. Brandon Weeks and his Ph.D. student Lee Yong Joon, at TTU for their help with AFM figures. We also acknowledge Dr. Jiong Wang for his kind help with GO material preparation. We also appreciate Dr. Luis Grave de Peralta and Dr. Maged Alotaibi for their help with optical micrographs. We thank Dr. Todd Anderson for providing supplies for us to conduct the LC-MS/MS experiment. Publisher Copyright: {\textcopyright} 2019 American Chemical Society.",
doi = "10.1021/acsabm.9b00726",
journal = "ACS Applied Bio Materials",
Lou, L, Subbiah, S, Smith, E, Kendall, RJ & Ramkumar, SS 2019, 'Functional PVA/VB2/TiO2 Nanofiber Webs for Controlled Drug Delivery', ACS Applied Bio Materials, vol. 2, no. 12, pp. 5916-5929. https://doi.org/10.1021/acsabm.9b00726
Functional PVA/VB2/TiO2 Nanofiber Webs for Controlled Drug Delivery. / Lou, Lihua; Subbiah, Seenivasan; Smith, Ernest et al.
In: ACS Applied Bio Materials, Vol. 2, No. 12, 16.12.2019, p. 5916-5929.
T1 - Functional PVA/VB2/TiO2 Nanofiber Webs for Controlled Drug Delivery
AU - Lou, Lihua
AU - Subbiah, Seenivasan
AU - Smith, Ernest
AU - Kendall, Ronald J.
AU - Ramkumar, Seshadri S.
N1 - Funding Information: The work was supported by the graduate student summer dissertation award from the Division of Graduate & Postdoctoral Affairs, the Study Abroad Competitive Scholarship from the Office of International Affairs, and the Love of Learning Award from Phi Kappa Phi, Texas Tech University (TTU). L.L. and S.S.R. gratefully acknowledge AATCC committee and Terracon for their help with the student research funding. We acknowledge Dr. Brandon Weeks and his Ph.D. student Lee Yong Joon, at TTU for their help with AFM figures. We also acknowledge Dr. Jiong Wang for his kind help with GO material preparation. We also appreciate Dr. Luis Grave de Peralta and Dr. Maged Alotaibi for their help with optical micrographs. We thank Dr. Todd Anderson for providing supplies for us to conduct the LC-MS/MS experiment. Publisher Copyright: © 2019 American Chemical Society.
N2 - Drug (vitamin B2, riboflavin, VB2)/nanoparticle (TiO2, coated on drug surface) loaded poly(vinyl alcohol) (PVA) nanofiber webs were successfully produced by the electrospinning process. The characteristics of nanofiber structure, chemical composition, mechanical properties, and drug-release properties were investigated. The morphology and diameter of nanofibers were analyzed by atomic force microscopy and scanning electron microscopy. The chemical composition and mechanical properties of nanofiber webs were examined by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy and Instron tensile tester. The drug-release properties of nanofiber webs were studied by liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS). The influences of TiO2:VB2 ratios (0, 18:1, 9:1, 4.5:1, 2.25:1, and 1:1) and releasing time on release behavior of PVA/VB2/TiO2 nanofiber webs were also investigated, with the corresponding virgin PVA nanofibers and LC-MS grade water as control. Among all of the tested samples, PVA/VB2/TiO2 nanofiber webs with TiO2:VB2 ratios of 18:1 and 9:1 exhibited a steady release rate with 60% of VB2 released around 168 h and all VB2 released around 10 days. In addition, by coating VB2 with TiO2, the burst release was effectively prevented due to three mechanisms: surface modification, polymer morphology, and coated surface. The results in this study indicate drug-loaded and nanoparticle-coated hydrophilic nanofiber webs are useful candidates for steady drug release in the drug delivery application field.
AB - Drug (vitamin B2, riboflavin, VB2)/nanoparticle (TiO2, coated on drug surface) loaded poly(vinyl alcohol) (PVA) nanofiber webs were successfully produced by the electrospinning process. The characteristics of nanofiber structure, chemical composition, mechanical properties, and drug-release properties were investigated. The morphology and diameter of nanofibers were analyzed by atomic force microscopy and scanning electron microscopy. The chemical composition and mechanical properties of nanofiber webs were examined by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy and Instron tensile tester. The drug-release properties of nanofiber webs were studied by liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS). The influences of TiO2:VB2 ratios (0, 18:1, 9:1, 4.5:1, 2.25:1, and 1:1) and releasing time on release behavior of PVA/VB2/TiO2 nanofiber webs were also investigated, with the corresponding virgin PVA nanofibers and LC-MS grade water as control. Among all of the tested samples, PVA/VB2/TiO2 nanofiber webs with TiO2:VB2 ratios of 18:1 and 9:1 exhibited a steady release rate with 60% of VB2 released around 168 h and all VB2 released around 10 days. In addition, by coating VB2 with TiO2, the burst release was effectively prevented due to three mechanisms: surface modification, polymer morphology, and coated surface. The results in this study indicate drug-loaded and nanoparticle-coated hydrophilic nanofiber webs are useful candidates for steady drug release in the drug delivery application field.
KW - drug delivery
KW - electrospinning
KW - titanium dioxide
KW - vitamin B2
U2 - 10.1021/acsabm.9b00726
DO - 10.1021/acsabm.9b00726
JO - ACS Applied Bio Materials
JF - ACS Applied Bio Materials
Lou L, Subbiah S, Smith E, Kendall RJ, Ramkumar SS. Functional PVA/VB2/TiO2 Nanofiber Webs for Controlled Drug Delivery. ACS Applied Bio Materials. 2019 Dec 16;2(12):5916-5929. doi: 10.1021/acsabm.9b00726


text:
You've helped raise: $33,609
Home / What Dreams Are Made Of / Dream Big
Achieving the Impossible
A family of believers, the Possible Dream Foundation has brought new life and hope to more than 40 children and adults with chronic illnesses and developmental disabilities. At their homes in Miami and Hayesville, N.C., they live as a family, working, studying, playing, and contributing to the community around them.
With love and support, they've gone further than anyone could have predicted, and they don't take it for granted. Instead, they give back, taking in dogs and training them for search and rescue missions, medical service and more.
KenyanCupid.com Review in 2020
Looking for for a spicy connection with a Kenyan woman? Thank you for visiting KenyanCupid.com for which you have access to gorgeous […]
January 19, 2022 / Possible Dream
Bumble Releases in Asia with Lover Priyanka Chopra
Bumble announced the release of the female-friendly app in Asia with a hollywood meal at the Gramercy Hotel in ny. Chief Executive […]
Join The Family:
© Copyright 2022 The Possible Dream. Site Created by


text:
Home / earn money online / make money online / win money online / The Top Funded Women Founders in Every State
The Top Funded Women Founders in Every State https://ift.tt/3jnIi6P
The top women entrepreneurs and female founders in the U.S. are doing well, but there is a considerable gap from top to bottom. But there is an even bigger gap between what male and female founders receive in funding.
According to PitchBook, in 2019 only 2.8% of the companies founded solely by women secured the total capital invested in venture-backed startups in the US. It goes up by almost 10% (12.4%) when it is co-founded by female and male entrepreneurs.
As bleak as this might seem, this hasn't stopped female founders from going after their dreams. And when they do, they deliver better returns for their investors. A study from the Boston Consulting Group revealed startups founded by women generated 78 cents in revenue for every dollar of investment compared to only 31 cents for male-run startups. So, how are female founders doing in the U.S.?
A new report from Business Financing.Co.UK titled, "The Top Female Founder In Every Country World Map" shows the leading female founders in each country. The map in the U.S. goes into more detail by showing the top founders in each state.
The company analyzed data from the Crunchbase business information resource to identify the top female founder. It then used the information to create maps with the leading female founders in the relevant states and countries.
In the end, the data set for the result contains 107 female founders and co-founders across 102 countries in the world. The U.S. data has 57 female founders from 50 states and Washington D.C.
Women Entrepreneurs in the U.S.
As the largest economy in the world, the female founders in the U.S. have better opportunities than many people in other countries. The result shows more multi-million/billion startups in the U.S. than any other country. And contrary to popular belief, they are not all in California and New York.
Each state has its own successful women business owners and founders responsible for business development in their communities.
images: Business Financing.Co.UK
The Top Ten Founders in the U.S.
Rebekah Neumann
The top female founder in the U.S. is Rebekah Neumann of The We Company at $19.5 billion. Neumann is a co-founder along with Adam Neumann and Miguel McKelvey. As We Work, a subsidiary of The We Company continues to grapple with the fiasco of its IPO plans falling apart in 2019, only time will tell where this company is heading. But it is fair to say Neuman will not be on top of the list this year. All of the founders since have stepped down and the company now has a new executive chairman.
Kathryn Petralia
Kathryn Petralia the Co-founder and President of Kabbage was named the ninth most powerful woman in finance by Forbes in 2017. In 2018 Petralia was named the Fintech Woman of the Year, again by Forbes. After raising $2.5 billion in funding, Kabbage was slated to be one of the leading online small business lenders in the U.S. However, the pandemic has changed all that.
In April of 2020 the company stopped lending money to small businesses. Kabbage said the biggest reason for this decision was small businesses couldn't generate any income during the lockdowns around the country. On August 17, 2020, American Express announced it is buying Kabbage. The terms of the deal haven't been disclosed, but it will close in late 2020.
Jennifer Parke
Jennifer Parke is a co-founder of Fair, a car leasing company in the car-as-a-service segment. To date, the company has raised $2.1 billion in funding.
Parke has extensive experience in art direction and design. Her background includes working for brands like Apple, Cisco, Old Navy and HBO to name a few. Additionally, Parke is responsible for establishing several companies: Sugar Shots, SubGiant, and Boombang Inc.,
Reshma Shetty
One of six founders of Ginko Bioworks, Reshma Shetty and her company has raised almost $720 million to date. This is a company that develops biological engineering products and custom microbes across multiple markets. Shetty received her Ph.D. in Biological Engineering from MIT and also has a B.S. in Computer Science from the University of Utah.
Biotech and health are the more inclusive industries when it comes to women founders. Twenty-three of the 57 women in the U.S. data are in these segments.
Tanya Lipscomb
In addition to being a co-founder at Inscripta, Tanay Lipscomb was also the Chief Technology Officer (CTO) and VP of R&D. To date, the company has raised $259 million. Inscripta is another biotech company developing the world's first benchtop platform for scalable digital genome engineering.
Since 2018 Lipscomb has moved on to as Biotechnology Entrepreneur and Advisor for The Novo Nordisk Foundation Center for Biosustainability and Chief Technology Officer for Artisan Biotechnologies. She holds a PhD. in Chemical & Biological Engineering from the University of Colorado Boulder and a BS in Chemical Engineering from Kansas State University.
Other Female Founders on the U.S. List
Ayla Rogers, Laura Oden and Celia MacLeod
Even though they are the founders with the least amount of money on the list at $505,000 Ayla Rogers, Laura Oden and Celia MacLeod have a great business going with Pandere Shoes. Based in Alaska, the company has carved out a niche market in the industry, making adjustable ankle, mid-foot and toe box shoes. If you have wide feet, Pandere Shoes is the company for you.
Sevetri M. Wilson
With a total funding amount of $10.4 million, Sevetri M. Wilson is the CEO and Founder of Resilia. Wilson's company provides organizations with on-demand tools that optimize operations and increase their effectiveness. It also simplifies the formation of new nonprofits.
The enterprise platform offers corporations, foundations, and government entities intuitive, data-driven software so they can leverage technology to accelerate impact and increase connectivity. Wilson holds MPP (Master of Public Policy) from Harvard University and a BA and MA from LSU in History and Mass Communications.
Jessica Rolph
From Idaho, Jessica Rolph is the CEO and co-founder of Lovevery, which has raised close to $26 million in funding. Rolph's business is a new child development company helping parents ensure they are making the most of each learning stage. Rolph is also the co-founder and COO of Happy Family, the first organic brand to offer a line of organic foods for babies, toddlers and kids.
Rolph has an MBA from Cornell University – Johnson Graduate School of Management.
Suzanne Sysko Clough, MD
With more than $55 million, Suzanne Sysko Clough is another woman founder in the biotech and health sector. Dr. Clough was a co-founder and Chief Medical Officer of WellDoc. Dr. Clough since has co-founded Clough Health and Services and serves as Chief Medical Officer at QualityCare Connect and Amalgam.
Clough received her Doctor of Medicine degree from the University of Maryland School of Medicine.
As the co-founder and CMO of the Kenzie Academy, Courtney Spence's company has raised over $113 million. Spence is a serial entrepreneur who also founded CSPence Group and Students of the World.
Spence is a Duke University graduate.
Global Woman Entrepreneurs
Globally the top female entrepreneurs represent several industries, but financial and fintech make up half of the founders.
The number one spot with $22 billion goes to China's Lucy Peng, who is the executive chairman of Ant Financial Services. This is the online finance arm of Alibaba Group. At number two is the previously mentioned Rebekah Neumann from the U.S. followed by Tan Hooi Ling from Singapore with $9.9 billion as the co-founder of Grab. Grab is an app that provides transportation, logistics and financial services.
Kate Keenan from Australia is at number four with $1.4 billion as the co-founder and CMO for Judo Bank. And Victoria van Lennep from the U.K. rounds up the top five with $1.2 billion as co-founder of Lendable, a FinTech company.
image: Business Financing.Co.UK
Industries Representing Women Founders
Forbes reveals 32% of the 1,714 women founders in its report represent the software, biotech, and healthcare industries. Just as in this report biotech and healthcare segments represent female entrepreneurs in higher numbers. But women are in many industries and some of them have higher female entrepreneurs representation while others leave much to be desired.
In part, this has pushed women to bootstrap their business and grow from there. Female entrepreneurs who started a side hustle and grew it to become billion-dollar businesses are taking place more often. With the advent of the internet and social media, several women have turned their passions into businesses that are now unicorns.
Pat McGrath, a makeup artist, is one of the female entrepreneurs who now has a business with a billion-dollar valuation. Emily Weiss turned her side hustle, which was the blog Into the Gloss the vehicle for her make up line Glossier. The business now has a valuation of $1.2 billion.
Even though the billion-dollar valuation of a business gets the most attention, there are tens of thousands of female entrepreneurs that are successful. And not everyone measures success the same way. A founder in the non-profit segment has a much different goal than a fintech founder.
As long as a woman entrepreneur has the same opportunities they have shown they can grow their business to great heights. Experience, the right education and the guidance of some great mentors don't hurt. But for most of the highly successful people on this list, it all starts with a solid education from a good school.
The Right School
When it comes to education, the school you go to will not determine the success of your business, but it can give you a heads up. Of the female founders, Medium kept track of in a report, 25% of them are represented by just eight undergraduate universities. What is more, only 10 graduate programs represent 59% of all capital raised by the top 300 female founders.
By company count, Harvard University, Stanford University, and Cornell University are the top three undergraduate institutions. And the top graduate programs by company count are Harvard Business School, Harvard University and The Wharton School at the University of Pennsylvania.
You can't go wrong with a great education, but going to one of these schools is not a guarantee you will succeed. The business world is full of people without much education who are very successful. Hard work and determination have been responsible for the success of countless entrepreneurs. But for women, even a degree from these schools will not shield them from the bias they will face when looking for funding.
The Gender Bias in Venture Capital
There is undisputed data that shows female founders don't get the same investment as their male counterparts from venture capital firms. According to the Curnchbase Q1 2019 Diversity Report 83% of venture dollars went to only male founders. And as mentioned previously, it is less than 3% for female only founders. But the bias goes even further. Women entrepreneurs are scrutinized in a much different way. Investors are more inclined to ask male entrepreneurs promotion-focused questions and female entrepreneurs prevention-focused questions.
Why is this so important? Because the study from the Academy of Management says it has a bearing on how much they raise. And it is resulting in divergent funding outcomes. The amount of those who were asked promotion-focused questions raised, "Significantly higher amounts of funding than those asked prevention-focused questions."
The good news is entrepreneurial women are being recognized and supported for their hard work. The average seed round for female-only founded jumped to $1.2 million in 2019, which is almost the same as male founders at $1.35 million. Furthermore, there were 21 unicorns in that last year founded by female entrepreneurs, these are startup businesses with a value of more than $1 billion.
At the end of the day, investors are looking to increase their investment and gender should not play a role in how good an idea is. If all the data points to a great investment, then women should get the funding just like men. After all, female entrepreneurs are delivering better returns for each dollar invested. And this is driving the growth of female founders globally.
The 2020s: The Decade of Growth for Female Founders
The first quarter of 2020 started out with a bang for female founders. A record-tying $5.2 billion (Q2 2019) of capital was invested with 629 deals. This according to Pitchbook's VC Female Founders Dashboard analysis. The great start in 2020 was driven by a stellar 2019 in which female founders raised $17.2 billion.
However, the pandemic put a damper in the optimism of the new decade with the third quarter delivering only $1.8 billion in investments compared to $4.9 billion in 2019. But this one in a lifetime incident shouldn't change much of the growth that has taken place in the 2010s.
To put the growth of the past decade in context, the amount of capital investment for female founders was a mere $442 million in Q1 of 2010. And the deal count was 151. Each subsequent quarter and year experienced impressive growth peaking with the $5.2 billion of the first quarters of 2019 and 2020. Without the curveball of the pandemic, there was a great chance 2020 would've been a record year for funding for female entrepreneurs.
When things go back to normal, female and male VCs have to work even harder to get more female founders the capital they need. And it will require both their efforts to close the huge funding gap that currently exists. But first, they have to overcome a big hurdle to get more woman decision-makers in the VC ecosystem. Pitchbook says in 2019 only 12% of venture capital decision-makers in the U.S. were women.
Because general partners (GPs) in VCs control the use of capital as well as management and operations in a venture firm, having female GPs will at the very least give female entrepreneurs a better chance of having their ideas heard.
For venture capital firms that are only investing a minuscule percentage on female-only founders, they are missing out. How much are they missing out on? According to Morgan Stanley, to the tune of $1 trillion by simply overlooking people of different gender and cultures.
Feature Image: Depositphotos.com
This article, "The Top Funded Women Founders in Every State" was first published on Small Business Trends
earn money online make money online win money online


Is the couplet about mathematics and poetry about logocentricism and deconstructionism?
List of topics in philosophy relevant to mathematics, and open problems in them?
I know of open problems in model theory, but would like to know about philosophical problems (philosophy of language, Husserl's phenomenology ) that have relevance in set theory or type theory.
Where did Kuhn write his last thoughts about incommensurability?
Are statements of the form "I claim that X" always true?
Certain questions on Derrida's conception of languange?