An articulating mechanism is provided with at least one pair of spherical joints interconnected by a set of tension members. Each joint includes a ball member, a socket member configured to pivotably receive at least a portion of the ball member, and at least one tension member extending through both the ball and socket members parallel to and offset from a central longitudinal axis of the joint.
Recently, surgical instruments, including minimally invasive surgical instruments, have been developed that are more ergonomic and which have a wider range of motion and more precise control of movement. These instruments may include mechanisms that articulate using a series of links coupled with one or more sets of tension bearing members, such as cables. As with conventional instruments used in minimally invasive surgery, rotation of the shaft and end effector with respect to the handle is also an important feature of cable and link type instruments to aid with dissecting, suturing, retracting, knot tying, etc. The links, joints, and other components of existing instrument articulation mechanisms include various undesirable limitations. With the increasing complexity associated with surgical procedures that these instruments are used to perform, further improvements in the design of the articulation mechanisms of the instruments are desirable.
According to aspects of the invention, articulating tools are provided with improved articulating mechanisms as well as methods of assembling such tools. In some embodiments, the articulating tool is appropriate for multiple uses, including medical uses such as diagnostic and surgical uses.
In some embodiments, an articulating mechanism comprises at least one pair of longitudinally spaced apart spherical joints. Each joint may include a convex component and a mating concave component. The concave component is configured to receive at least a portion of the convex component. Both components may have spherical surfaces adapted to slide relative to one another. The articulating mechanism further comprises at least one set of tension members interconnecting one component of one of the joints of a pair to one component of the other joint of the pair. With this arrangement, movement of one of the interconnected components causes corresponding relative movement of the other interconnected component directly through tension member movement. Each of the convex and concave components includes a plurality of channels. Each channel is sized to slidably receive one of the tension members. Each channel on at least one of the components has an opening located on the spherical surface of the component. The channels located in mating convex and concave components form pairs of opposing channels. At least one of these pairs of opposing channels cooperates with a common tension member received therein to transmit torque between the mating components.
In some of the above embodiments, the articulating mechanism further comprises at least two pairs of longitudinally spaced apart spherical joints. Each of the pairs may have a discrete set of tension members associated with it. The mechanism may further comprise an intermediate member such that each pair of joints has one joint on one side of the member and one joint on the other side of the member. The intermediate member may comprise a rigid tube configured for receiving the tension members therethrough. The convex component of one of the joints may be integrally formed as a single part with the concave component of another of the joints. The convex component of one of the joints may be integrally formed as a single part with the convex component of another of the joints. The concave component of one of the joints may be integrally formed as a single part with the concave component of another of the joints.
In some of the above embodiments, at least one of the convex members comprises a truncated sphere. At least one of the convex members may comprise a frusto-sphere. At least one of the channels may open radially outward through a circumferential edge of the component. In some embodiments, each of the convex and concave components comprises a central axial bore therethrough. In some embodiments, at least one mating pair of convex and concave components has exactly 4 tension member channels running through each component, and/or at least one mating pair of convex and concave components has exactly 8 tension member channels running through each component. The channels in at least one concave component may be radially interconnected to form a cross-pattern.
According to aspects of the invention, a spherical joint may be provided that comprises a ball member, a socket member and at least one tension member. The socket member may be configured to pivotably receive at least a portion of the ball member. The tension member(s) may extend through both the ball and socket members parallel to and offset from a central longitudinal axis of the joint.
In some embodiments, an articulating mechanism for remote manipulation of a surgical or diagnostic tool is provided. The tool may comprise multiple pairs of links. Each link of each pair may be maintained in a spaced apart relationship relative to the other link of the pair. The mechanism may further comprise multiple sets of tension members. Each set of tension members may connect the links of a discrete pair to one another, such that movement of one link of a pair causes corresponding relative movement of the other link of the pair. Each link may be part of a spherical joint having mating convex and concave surfaces. The tension members may extend through channels in the mating surfaces.
In some of the above embodiments, the links form proximal and distal ends with links of corresponding pairs being located adjacent to the proximal and distal ends, respectively. In these embodiments, movement of the proximal end results in corresponding relative movement of the distal end. The articulating mechanism may further comprise a handle located at the proximal end and a grasper at the distal end.
FIG. 3 is an exploded perspective view of certain proximal components of the articulating device.
FIGS. 4A, 4B, 4C, 4D, 4E, 5A, 5B and 6A, 6B show details of a combination link and busing member for use with the articulating device.
FIGS. 7A, 7B and 8A, 8B, 8C, 8D, 8E show details of convex bushing components for use with the articulating device.
FIG. 9 shows details of a double-ended convex bushing component formed as a single unitary piece.
FIGS. 10A, 10B and 11A, 11B show details of another convex bushing component for use with the articulating device.
FIGS. 12A, 12B, and 13A, 13B, 13C show details of a concave link member for use with an articulating device.
FIG. 14A, 14B, 14C shows details of another concave link member for use with an articulating device.
FIGS. 15-16 show details of an articulating mechanism located on the distal end of an instrument according to aspects of the invention.
FIGS. 17A, 17B, 17C, 17D, 17E, 18A, 18B, 18C, 18D, 19A, 19B, 19C, and 20A, 20B show details of an alternative articulating mechanism.
A set of tension bearing elements or control cables 118 is attached to proximal link 108, extends through proximal link 110, shaft 116 and distal link 114 and is attached to distal link 112, as shown in FIGS. 1A and 1B. A second set of tension bearing element or control cables 120 is attached to proximal link 110, extends through shaft 116 and is attached to distal link 114. In this embodiment, there are three control cables 118 in the first set and three control cables 120 in the second set. It should be appreciated, however, that other numbers of control cables may be used to connect corresponding proximal and distal links. In addition, tension bearing elements other than cables may be used to connect corresponding links. In some embodiments, the tension members may comprise cables that are capable of only transmitting tension between the links. In other embodiments, the tension members may comprise Nitinol wires, rods or other elements capable of transmitting both tension and compression. In these latter embodiments, a link may be alternately pushed and pulled by at least one tension member. In some embodiments, one set of control cables, such as cables 120, may be eliminated to provide an instrument with a single pair of connected links. What is meant by the word "connected" is that the cable(s) are attached to a pair of links to allow one link to drive another link, as opposed to the cables merely slidably passing through the connected links.
FIG. 3 shows an exploded view of certain proximal components of the articulating tool. The tension members have been omitted for clarity. As shown, a double headed bushing 109 is disposed between links 108 and 110, and another bushing 111 is disposed between links 110 and a proximal end cap 300. The interaction of bushings 109 and 111 with links 108 and 110 and with proximal end cap 300 is described in more detail in U.S. 2005/0273084, U.S. 2006/0111209, and U.S. 2006/0111210. If the tension bearing cables 118 and 120 were shown in FIG. 3 as they are in FIGS. 1 and 2, the proximal ends of the three cables 118 would terminate in openings 1806 of link 108, and the cables would pass through openings 1820 in link 110 and openings 304 in end cap 300 before entering shaft 116. Likewise, the proximal ends of three cables 120 would terminate in openings 1822 of link 110 and would pass through openings 304 in proximal end cap 300 before entering shaft 116. A tapered end cap housing or cover 306 may be rigidly fixed to shaft 116 to provide a transition from end cap 300 to shaft 116.
As shown in FIG. 3, proximal links 108 and 110 are separated by bushing 109, and proximal link 110 is separated from proximal end cap 300 by bushing 111. Proximal bushings 109 and 110 each have a convex spherical component or ball located at each of their ends. Mating concave recesses are formed in proximal links 108 and 110 and in proximal end cap 300 for receiving a portion of the ball ends of the bushings. With this arrangement, proximal links 108 and 110 pivot relative to one another about two pivot points (i.e. about the centers of the two ball ends of bushing 109). Similarly, proximal link 110 and end cap 300 pivot relative to one another about two pivot points (i.e. about the centers of the two ball ends of bushing 111). In other embodiments, some of which are later described, links may pivot relative to one another about a single pivot point. In the embodiment shown in FIG. 3, protruding pin features are located on opposite sides of each ball and are pivotably received within mating slots located in the concave recesses. This pin and slot configuration allows torque to be transmitted across the four proximal spherical joints. Distal links 112 and 114, and distal end cap 400 are separated by bushings in a similar arrangement. As can be seen by the radial location of tension member channels 1806, 1807, 1820, 1822 and 304 relative to the concave recesses, the tension members travel axially along lines that are radially outside of the spherical joint surfaces in this embodiment.
FIGS. 4A-4E show details of a combination link and bushing member 500 that may be used in any of the articulating devices described above. For example, member 500 may be used to replace link 110 and bushing 111 shown in FIG. 3, and a component similar to member 500 may be used to replace link 108 and bushing 109.
Link and bushing member 500 comprises a concave component 502 and a complementary-shaped convex component 504, which may be integrally formed therewith as shown. A central axial bore 506 may be provided through member 500. Concave component 502 includes a recess having a concave spherical surface 508. In this embodiment, spherical surface 508 is bounded above by rim surface 510 and below by stop surface 512, which is further described below. Concave spherical surface 508 is interrupted by the upper openings of four channels 514 that travel axially through the concave component and in this embodiment are evenly spaced around the central axial bore 506.
The convex component of member 500 includes a portion having the overall shape of a frustro-sphere, as best seen in FIG. 4D. This frusto-sphere is circumferentially interrupted by four channels 516 that extend axially in line with channels 514, but also extend radially outward to divide the frustro-sphere into four convex spherical surfaces 518. As best seen in FIG. 4D, each channel 516 is outwardly tapered at both its top and bottom to generally form an hourglass shape.
FIGS. 5A-5B show two link and bushing members 500, 500 axially coupled together in operation. As can be seen in FIG. 5B, the convex component 504 of the upper member 500 is received within the concave component 502 of the lower member 500 to form a spherical joint. In this embodiment, the spherical joint is capable of pivoting in at least two degrees of freedom. Dimensions may be appropriately chosen such that the four convex spherical surfaces 518 slidably engage with the concave spherical surface 508 but lateral movement between the spherical surfaces is generally prevented. Stop surface 512 may be provided in the lower concave component for abutting against the bottom surface 520 of the upper convex component to limit the degree of angular rotation permitted between the two members 500, 500. In some embodiments, the degree of angular rotation permitted by stop surface 520 is symmetrical about the central longitudinal axis, and in other embodiments it is asymmetrical. As shown, each central axial bore 506 may be tapered at its top and bottom such that any cables, tubes, fiber optics, etc. passing through the bore are not pinched and do not inhibit members 500, 500 from pivoting.
FIG. 6B is a cross-section similar to FIG. 5B, but is aligned with channels 514 in concave component 502 and channels 516 in convex component 504. Tension members 522, such as for controlling other links in an articulating system, are shown passing through channels 514 and 516. The tapering of channels 516 permit members 500, 500 to pivot without tension members 522 binding. In some embodiments of the invention, channels 516 may be tapered only at their lower ends and not at their upper ends. In other embodiments, channels 514 in concave component 502 may be tapered while channels 516 in convex component 504 are straight. In yet other embodiments, channels in both components 502 and 504 are tapered. In still other embodiments, channels in both components 502 and 504 are straight and sufficient axial distance between the channels is provided to inhibit binding of tension members 522 during pivoting movement.
With the arrangement shown in FIG. 6B, torque may be transmitted between members 500, 500 by tension members 522 without the need for protrusions and slots as previously described in relation to FIG. 3. It can be appreciated that the shorter the distance between channels 514 and 516 and the closer that these channels constrain tension members 522, the less axial rotation or backlash there will be between members 500, 500 for a given torque.
Spherical joints constructed as described above may be provided with mating spherical surfaces that are larger than those of conventional spherical joints for a given joint envelope because they are not outwardly constrained by ball protrusions, socket slots, or tension members that are located radially outward from the mating spherical surfaces. Larger surface sizes may provide additional benefits such as being able to carry more load, allow for looser tolerance control and/or greater instrument rigidity. Such an arrangement may also allow one or more components of the joint to be made out of lighter, cheaper or disposable material such as plastic.
FIGS. 7A-7B and 8A-8E show details of convex bushing components 550 that may be used in any of the articulating devices described above. For example, components 550 may be used in pairs in a similar manner to proximal bushings 109 and 111 shown in FIG. 3, and/or in the distal articulating mechanism of a grasper instrument as shown in FIG. 16.
Convex components 550 are constructed and operate in a manner similar to that of convex components 504 described above. In particular, each component 550 includes a portion having the overall shape of a frustro-sphere, as best seen in FIG. 8A. This frusto-sphere is circumferentially interrupted by four channels 516 that extend axially through the frusto-sphere, but also extend radially outward to divide the frustro-sphere into four convex spherical surfaces 518. As best seen in FIG. 8A, each channel 516 is outwardly tapered at both its top and bottom to generally form an hourglass shape.
Each convex component 550 comprises a pair of opposing, axially protruding ring segments 552 on opposite sides of a central bore 554, as best seen in FIG. 7A where two components 550 are shown axially separated. The protruding ring segments 552 of two facing components 550 may be rotationally oriented as shown in FIG. 7A so that when they are axially drawn together, as shown in FIG. 7B, the four protruding ring segments 552 interdigitate and rotationally lock the two components 550 together. This creates a double-ended bushing 556, with each end having a convex component formed by four spherical surfaces 518. Forming the double-ended bushing 556 from two separate pieces as shown facilitates fabrication of the bushing from an injection molding process. As shown in FIG. 9, a similar double-ended bushing 556′ may also be formed as a single, unitary piece.
FIGS. 10A-10B and 11A-11B show details of convex bushing components 550′. Convex components 550′ are similar to convex components 550 described above and shown in FIGS. 7A-7B and 8A-8E, except that components 550′ each have eight channels 516 instead of four channels 516. This allows up to eight tension members 522 (shown in FIG. 6B) to pass through components 550′. When two convex bushing components 550′ are interengaged as shown in FIG. 10B, they form a double-ended bushing 556″, with each end having a convex component formed by eight spherical surfaces 518′. A similar double-ended bushing (not shown) may also be formed as a single, unitary piece.
FIGS. 12A-12B and 13A-13C show details of a concave link member 560 that may be used in the articulating devices described above. For example, members 560 may be used in a similar manner to proximal links 108 and 110 shown in FIG. 3, and/or in the distal articulating mechanism of a grasper instrument as shown in FIGS. 15 and 16.
Concave member 560 is constructed and operates in a manner similar to that of concave component 502 described above. In particular, a central axial bore 506 may be provided through member 560. A recess having a concave spherical surface 508 is provided at each end of concave member 560. In this embodiment, each spherical surface 508 is bounded on the outside by a castellated rim surface 562 or 564, and on the inside by a stop surface 566 or 568. Rim surfaces 562 and 564 are castellated in order to provide clearance for the tension members 522 when the device is articulated. Stop surfaces 566 and 568 function in a manner similar to previously described stop surface 512. Each concave spherical surface 508 is interrupted by the openings of eight channels 570 that travel axially through concave member 560 and in this embodiment are evenly spaced around the central axial bore 506.
The recess and spherical surface 508 located on the proximal end 572 of member 560 (as shown in FIGS. 12A and 13A) are configured to pivotably engage with the convex spherical surfaces 518′ formed on one end of a convex bushing component 550′ (shown in FIGS. 10A-10B and 11A-11B). Similarly, the recess and spherical surface 508 located on the distal end 574 of member 560 (as shown in FIGS. 12B and 13C) are configured to pivotably engage with the convex spherical surfaces 518 formed on one end of a convex bushing component 550 (shown in FIGS. 7-9).
As shown in FIG. 13C, the recess located on the distal end 574 of member 560 is provided with two cross channels 576 that interconnect the distal ends of every other channel 570. This allows a tension member 522 (not shown in FIG. 13) to pass through one channel 570 from the proximal end 572 to the distal end 574 of member 560, cross over to another channel 570, and return to the proximal end 572 through the other channel 570. Surface friction (or in some embodiments, adhesive, solder, crimping, or the like) keeps tension members 522 from sliding in cross channels 576. In this manner, the four tension member portions that extend through the four channels 570 connected to cross channels 576 can be used to control the pivoting motion of concave link member 560, while four other tension members 522 can pass through member 560 in the remaining four channels 570 to control another link located distal to member 560, as will be more fully described below.
FIGS. 14A-14C show details of a concave link member 560′. Member 560′ is similar in construction and operation to that of member 560, except member 560′ has only four axial channels 570 through it instead of eight.
FIGS. 15 and 16 show details of the distal end of an articulating instrument, similar to instrument 100 shown in FIGS. 1-3 and having a distal articulating mechanism 578 similar to the articulating mechanism shown in FIG. 2B. The distal end of the instrument includes a pair of graspers 580 that may be operated by an actuator (not shown) located at the proximal end of the instrument.
Distal articulating mechanism 578 includes a double-ended convex bushing 556, a concave link member 560, and a double-ended convex bushing 556″, all as previously described. A distal link 582, constructed in a similar manner to one half of concave link member 560 shown in FIGS. 14A-14C, may be formed on grasper housing 584. Similarly, a recess 586, constructed in a similar manner to the proximal end 572 of concave member 560 shown in FIGS. 12-13, may be provided on the distal end of instrument shaft 588. With this arrangement, concave distal link 582 may pivot relative to concave link member 560 about the centers of the two spherical ends of double-ended convex bushing 556. Similarly, concave link member 560 may pivot relative to recess 586 about the centers of the two spherical ends of double-ended convex bushing 556″.
An articulating mechanism similar to distal articulating mechanism 578 may be used at the proximal end of the instrument, although its relative size may be larger or smaller to provide scaling of movement. In this exemplary embodiment, one set of four tension members 522 interconnects the innermost links (i.e. distal link 560 and the proximal link (not shown in FIG. 15 or 16) closest to shaft 588). A separate set of four more tension members 522 interconnects the outermost links (i.e. distal link 582 and the proximal link (not shown in FIG. 15 or 16) farthest from shaft 588). With this arrangement, movement of the instrument handle (not shown) causes movement of the two proximal links which in turn drive corresponding movement of their respective distal links 560 and 582 directly through movement of the associated tension members 522.
FIGS. 17-20 show details of an alternative embodiment of articulating mechanism 600. The construction and operation of mechanism 600 is similar to previously described articulating mechanism 578, but the convex and concave portions have been reversed. In other words, the convex components 602 are located on the links 604, and the concave components 606 are located on the bushings 608. As previously described, each of the components may be provided with a central axial bore 610 and 612, respectively, which may be tapered at one or both ends. Additionally, axial channels 614 in links 604 and axial channels 616 in bushing 608 for receiving tension members 522 may be tapered at one or both ends. As best seen in FIGS. 18A and 18B, the tension member channels 616 in bushing 608 may be elongated such that they form a single cross-shaped opening with central bore 612.
As with the previous embodiments described, articulating mechanism 600 is able to transmit torque between the links 604 and bushings 608 through tension members 522 without the use of other torque transmitting features on the components. In other embodiments (not shown), articulating joints may be configured such that torque is not readily transmitted between the components by tension members 522, but other advantages are nonetheless conferred by locating the tension members through one or more mating spherical surfaces of the joints.
While the inventive surgical instruments and devices with improved articulating mechanisms have been described in some detail by way of illustration, such illustration is for purposes of clarity of understanding only. It will be readily apparent to those of ordinary skill and in the art in light of the teachings herein that certain changes and modifications may be made thereto without departing from the spirit and scope of the appended claims. For example, while the tool embodiments described in here have typically been in the context of tools with an articulating mechanism comprising at least two links, the tension member guide system may be used in an instrument comprising only a single link, a multiplicity of links, and with any number of tension members such as cables, or numbers of cable sets operably connecting the links. Further, the tension member guide system may be used in tools that are absent various features that may be associated with some articulatable instruments, such as handles, rotatability features, and dedicated end effectors. Finally, while the context of the invention may be considered to be surgical or medical diagnostic procedures, devices having such an articulation system may have utility in other non-medical contexts as well.
at least one set of tension members interconnecting one component of one of the joints of a pair to one component of the other joint of the pair such that movement of one of the interconnected components causes corresponding relative movement of the other interconnected component directly through tension member movement, wherein each of the convex and concave components includes a plurality of channels, each channel sized to receive one of the tension members and the channels in at least one of the components having an opening located on the spherical surface of the component, wherein the channels located in mating convex and concave components form pairs of opposing channels, at least one of the pairs of opposing channels cooperating with a common tension member received therein to transmit torque between the mating components.
2. The articulating mechanism of claim 1 further comprising at least two of the pairs of longitudinally spaced apart spherical joints, each of the pairs having a discrete set of tension members associated with it.
3. The articulating mechanism of claim 2 further comprising an intermediate member such that each pair of joints has one joint on one side of the member and one joint on the other side of the member.
4. The articulating mechanism of claim 3 wherein the intermediate member comprises a rigid tube configured for receiving the tension members therethrough.
5. The articulating mechanism of claim 2 wherein the convex component of one of the joints is integrally formed as a single part with the concave component of another of the joints.
6. The articulating mechanism of claim 2 wherein the convex component of one of the joints is integrally formed as a single part with the convex component of another of the joints.
7. The articulating mechanism of claim 2 wherein the concave component of one of the joints is integrally formed as a single part with the concave component of another of the joints.
8. The articulating mechanism of claim 1 wherein at least one of the convex members comprises a truncated sphere.
9. The articulating mechanism of claim 1 wherein at least one of the convex members comprises a frusto-sphere.
10. The articulating mechanism of claim 1 wherein at least one of the channels opens radially outward through a circumferential edge of the component.
11. The articulating mechanism of claim 1 wherein each of the convex and concave components comprises a central axial bore therethrough.
12. The articulating mechanism of claim 1 wherein at least one mating pair of convex and concave components has exactly 4 tension member channels running through each component.
13. The articulating mechanism of claim 1 wherein at least one mating pair of convex and concave components has exactly 8 tension member channels running through each component.
14. The articulating mechanism of claim 1 wherein the channels in at least one concave component are radially interconnected to form a cross-pattern.
at least one tension member extending through both the ball and socket members parallel to and offset from a central longitudinal axis of the joint.
16. An articulating mechanism for remote manipulation of a surgical or diagnostic tool comprising: multiple pairs of links, each link of each pair being maintained in a spaced apart relationship relative to the other link of the pair, and multiple sets of tension members, with each set connecting the links of a discrete pair to one another, such that movement of one link of a pair causes corresponding relative movement of the other link of the pair, wherein each link is part of a spherical joint having mating convex and concave surfaces, and wherein the tension members extend through channels in the mating surfaces.
17. The articulating mechanism of claim 16 wherein the links form proximal and distal ends with links of corresponding pairs being located adjacent to the proximal and distal ends respectively and where movement of the proximal end results in corresponding relative movement of the distal end.
18. The articulating mechanism of claim 17 further comprising a handle located at the proximal end and a grasper at the distal end.


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text:
We Won't Be Erased
Shon Faye On Changing The Conversation Around Trans Rights
Journalist Shon Faye explains the importance of shifting the mainstream conversation away from the simple acknowledgment of trans people towards addressing the disproportionate discrimination that they experience.
By Shon Faye
Kloss Films
The eruption in the mainstream visibility of trans people over the past few years has been bittersweet. In my case, it provided me with the language and confidence to begin to understand myself, and my own need to live authentically. When I was a teenager, I simply didn't realise that trans people could exist and pursue joyful lives in the diverse ways that they have throughout history. So I am immensely grateful for this new and more accepting era, and for the work of trans people who have gone before me to help bring it about. But, like every civil rights movement in history, the path to progress isn't always smooth. While trans people are gaining more acceptance and compassion in many arenas, much of the global political climate has grown hostile.
Read more: Janaya Khan On Living Beyond Gender Binaries And The Power Of Activism
In the United States, the current federal administration is openly hostile to the civil liberties of transgender people and has signalled that it may move to reverse current protections. In the UK, a government consultation on simplifying the process to change legal gender has become a vicious and distressing media debate on the validity of trans people. You may be hearing more about us, but when there are no openly trans editors, staff writers, directors or producers at major media organisations, and no openly trans people in Parliament, very often we are not in control of the terms of the discussion.
Read more: Paris Lees On The Trans Community Stepping Out Of The Shadows
This causes huge problems as it directs focus away from the very real evidence that trans people experience disproportionate levels of discrimination in all areas of life, from schools to nursing homes. Instead, the focus is often on asking why trans people exist at all, or why we ought to be respected as the gender we are. Much of my own work as a journalist writing on these issues is to try and change the conversation – for example, many negative media tropes raise concerns about trans rights try and link trans women with being sexual predators. Distressing as this is, it also obscures the reality that many trans women I know, like many non-trans women, are themselves survivors of sexual and domestic violence. Trans children and their families, too, are misunderstood and harassed by those who simply refuse to accept evidence that accepting young trans people for who they are and – in some cases – seeking clinical support actually improves their mental health and quality of life.
Read more: Kuchenga On Fighting For Trans Visibility And Feminist Sisterhood
It is no coincidence that we see conservative and regressive political forces simultaneously attack trans rights, the freedoms of gay and bisexual people, and the bodily autonomy of women. All three are interconnected issues that centre around how we see gender roles, and the right of people who have been historically disadvantaged to pursue their own destiny. Often, people tell me they're wary of "trans issues" because the discussion seems heated, or the language around it complicated. But human empathy is often displayed in simple acts: challenging someone when they make a derogatory joke, or smiling at a trans person at the bus stop who looks anxious. I'd like people to remember we're not an ideology or an agenda: mostly we're people whose gender identities are a very small part of who we are, and we're just trying to get on with our lives. I hope to see the day where acceptance of this fact is the norm. I'm hopeful I will.
We Won't Be ErasedViewpoint

redpajama_set_name: RedPajamaCommonCrawl


Conversion from one type to another is the most common programming need of our daily activities. We need cast operation almost for all applications we create. Few of them require regular type conversion while other requires you to specify the cast on an expression. In BCL, there are few libraries available to you which might help you to do this casting for you. All these are very specific to a situation and the choice between them is the one most of you are confused about. In this post, I will try to cover all of these scenarios and let you rethink it before writing conversions.
Here the target time is larger in size than the source. Hence there is no probability of producing a truncation or a leak in this case and the compiler allows this conversion.
At the same time this rule is also valid for base – derived types where the derived class object can be cast easily to the base class as base class reference is lower in object hierarchy than derived class objects.
In the above case we need to explicitly specify the type cast to the expression. Hence in this case the explicit cast takes place.
If you look into IL, it will do a conv.I4 which means the 64 bit integer will be converted to 32 bit integer.
On the other hand, in case of reference types, you can even do the same using cast operation and it will call either explicit cast operator or will call the operator of base types. The explicit cast may generate InvalidCastException at runtime.
In case you need to define implicit or explicit cast for your own types you might also have an option to overload cast operators. The cast operator can be overridden so that based on object relationship you might easily do the conversion yourself.
.NET base class library provides you a number of classes that helps you to do these cast. System.Convert is one of the most important classes that let you change types.
Let me demonstrate this class a bit using my favourite tool Reflector.
Here you can see, the ChangeType is actually breaks the entire cast into few parts.
It tries to cast the value to IConvertible, a generic interface from which every CLR type (like int, char, byte, etc) is inherited from. Thus if the value is any CLR Type, it should be cast as IConvertible. Otherwise InvalidCastException is thrown.
Otherwise Type is checked and specific conversion is invoked. If the type is Object, it will return the value directly without any cast.
Thus ChangeType does nothing when you pass an User Defined Type while it does its own conversion when CLR Type is passed.
Hence, eventually every cast is internally a Conv call in IL. The BCL wrapper class Convert is actually the best implementation of implicit or explicit casts by properly throwing exceptions when data overflow occurs.
I must also address that System.Convert is at its best to handle nullables. It does automatic box/unbox effectively when it comes to the point of changing from value type to reference. During this conversion, the Convert methods automatically checks for null value and returns the default value for that particular type.
In the above code the compiler automatically finds the appropriate anonymous type for the variable x which is created anonymously using new operator in the first line with properties to hold X and Y. So passing the object of same type to UnboxAnnonymousType appropriately cast the same type from object. Thus invokes castclass operator and the conversion is valid.
Even though this is the most basic article, but still I had fun creating this. Hope you find it useful.
Thanks for reading. Post your feedback.


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FeaturesNewsROCK
Quantiqua release a new single 'Brainwashés'
QUANTIQUA debuts "Brainwashés," the first single from its upcoming album "La croisée des chemins," due out in spring 2023. By the end of 2022, a mini-album could be released.
QUANTIQUA arose from a musical collaboration between three dear friends and a series of long conversations about the state of the postmodern world in which we all live. QUANTIQUA is an echo of our civilization's follies and incoherence, bathed in a philosophical and artistic environment. A creative place dedicated to naming and denouncing the ills of our day.
QUANTIQUA draws musical inspiration from a wide range of genres, ranging from folk and French rock tinted with psychedelia to darker ambiences distinguished by a diverse funk. Everything that contributed to the emergence of rock, from Léo Ferré and Richard Desjardins to Nick Cave and David Bowie, from Elvis to Pink Floyd, Led Zeppelin to Metallica.
The Beatles, Rolling Stones, Who, Doors, Jimi Hendrix, Deep Purple, Black Sabbath, Genesis, and Emerson, Lake & Palmer, as well as Harmonium, Offenbach, Plume Latraverse, and the Colocs, have all been creators. QUANTIQUA is a musical mash-up that delves into a wide range of aural possibilities while keeping grounded in a familiar harmonic cosmos. QUANTIQUA is always on the lookout for musical and lyrical diversity.
Eric Isabelle has been writing music for about 20 years, but the last two years have been exceptionally fruitful in terms of inspiration, culminating in "La croisée des chemins." Since 2020, QUANTIQUA has evolved from a series of compositions.
The QUANTIQUA formation is :
Eric Isabelle : voice, guitars and drums
Arnold Westram : keyboards and vocals
Charles D'Iberville-Dubuc: guitars and vocals
Carlo Birri : additional musician on "Brainwashed" (bass)
Éric Isabelle composed the majority of the pieces. To complete the project, Arnold and Charles contribute to the arrangements as well as some compositions. The blues, as well as their variations, are the glue that keeps QUANTIQUA together. We may define "derivatives" as sounds produced by overdrives and distortions on guitars, as well as the keys of organs B3, piano, and other Rock sounds. We sense the presence of a drum kit with the nuance of a Nick Masson and the might of a John Bonham. QUANTIQUA is a vocal ensemble that ranges from low and precise to hushed/broken without ever reaching the highs.
Contribute the ability to think critically about our time while encouraging the potential of a better future.
To add a pinch of salt. To quote Léo Ferré, "Before doing a Revolution in the Streets, one must first do it in one's thoughts."
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Following his enthronement on July 30, 1999, His Majesty King Mohammed VI gave his first public speech on August 20th on the anniversary of the Revolution of the King and People. Rereading it nineteen years later provides an interesting insight into his thinking then and now.
The sorrow expressed at the death of King Hassan II was still fresh on the new King's mind as he and his country grappled with the pain and reality of his death. He defined his father in the dearest of terms, "In this climate of sadness and sorrow, the impact of which is still profound in all of us, following the death of the father of the nation, our august father, His Majesty King Hassan II, may God have it in his holy mercy, comes the anniversary of the revolution of the King and the people".
He adds that "we will remain faithful to the Hassan way…the guarantor of the continuity of the state, safeguarding our religion, the homeland and unity of the kingdom with its authentic borders".
King Mohammed VI then provides insight into his own vision, "we invite everyone with vigor and firmness, without relaxation or respite, of the observance of the rule of law within the framework of the freedoms guaranteed by the constitution to individuals and organizations, of the procedures that govern the exercise of these freedoms and the enjoyment of the various rights, the violation or non-respect of which exposes them to the application of the laws in force".
These first words regarding the freedom of individuals and rule of law, coming from this newly enthroned king in the first weeks of his reign, attest to the fact that they were from a deep belief concerning the course that his country must take, and thus provide an insight into his future reign.
His first announcement in this speech was the formation of an independent arbitration body, the Human Rights Advisory Council, to determine compensation for victims and claimants of missing persons and those who have been arbitrarily detained. This would be the first time in history that an equity and reconciliation commission would be established by the same regime investigating itself.
How can we achieve scientific progress and be in tune with the evolved world to enhance their vocation and their skills without modern education?
How can we hope to achieve progress and prosperity when women, who make up half of society, see their interests flouted, regardless of the rights with which our holy religion has placed them on an equal footing with men? These are rights that correspond to their noble mission, rendering them justice against any inequity or violence to which they may be subjected, even though they have reached a level that allows them to compete with men, be it in the field of science or employment?
How can we ensure equal opportunities for all, if the (poor and) physically handicapped are marginalized and excluded …?
Policymakers should study this first speech of King Mohammed VI as it reveals his priorities: a commitment to his father's legacy to consolidate Morocco's territorial integrity through a "confirmatory" referendum on the Sahara; a focus on the most vulnerable populations including women, the poor and handicapped; and, the need to educate the population for a globalized world.
The more things change the more they stay the same. America should study the evolution of the priorities of King Mohammed VI and see that he has been consistent in his vision and mission over the past 19 years. It may be taking longer than expected, but the US should partner with this consistent and predictable vision, which is clearly in line with US values and interests.


There are some missing features in Android and some of Google's apps that are simply incomprehensible. Speed limits are one of them. In countries where speed limits are enforceable by the law and mandatory to respect (ie not here in Lebanon), it's quite unfathomable to me that you would be using a routing and navigation app that didn't show you the speed limit of each road you were taking so you could drive safely and lawfully. But Google Maps didn't have that and it's not until v9.35 beta from a couple of weeks ago that Cody found the first signs of speed limits support inside the app's APK.
At the time, the Android app started showing a toggle under Navigation Settings to display speed limits or not, but the toggle actually did nada. It was there, but the function wasn't turned on yet. It appears that now it is, or it is starting to be, because one reader has spotted it while driving with Android Auto.
As the image above shows, the speed limit is displayed at the bottom right of the screen. Google Maps is also supposed to show your current speed, but that doesn't appear in the image. It's also not clear whether Google Maps will warn you when you go over said limit or not. Common sense says it should.
Let us know if you're starting to see this Speed Limit sign on your Google Maps app and whether it's on the phone or Auto.
It appears that the Speed Limits sign has been showing up for a couple of users on the Android app as well, so this isn't limited to Android Auto, but it's still a server-side switch because not everyone is seeing it. Here are a few screenshots. Thanks Kevin and Aiman Farooq!


OklahomaInsuranceQuotes.net strives to make getting insurance quotes more convenient for Oklahoma residents and non-residents who own a home, mobile home, rental property and auto in Oklahoma.
(Oklahoma City, OK)—OklahomaInsuranceQuotes.net is pleased to announce that on March 20th, 2019, the company will be celebrating fourteen years in business. For more than a decade the site has been a go-to online resource for residents (and soon-to-be residents) who are looking to get quotes for final expense, automobile, or mobile, manufactured, and other types of homeowners insurance in Oklahoma. The website also has a history of helping those who live outside Oklahoma, yet own real property in the Sooner State who need to get an insurance quote for a landlord property or vacant property that are site-built homes, mobile homes or modular homes.
In celebration of their fourteenth anniversary, OklahomaInsuranceQuote.com recently launched a newly-updated website in order to better serve their clients. The improved website not only features easy navigation and a smooth look and feel, but it greatly reduces the time it takes consumers to get critical answers to their important questions, find relevant information about the types of coverage they are currently considering, and, of course, obtain insurance quotes quickly and without hassle. Additionally, the updated website now gives consumers the ability to shop and get quotes for builder's risk insurance as well.
Visit the new OklahomaInsuranceQuotes.net and get a timely, no-obligation quote today for home, car, burial, landlord, builder's, or renters insurance in Oklahoma.
Over the past 14 years, OklahomaInsuranceQuotes.net has helped Oklahomans compare insurance rates for their homes, mobile homes, personal property, vehicles and life insurance for seniors and given many of those insurance shoppers significant cost savings for similar coverage. As well, those who live outside Oklahoma but are rental property owners or who have vacant property in the Sooner State that needs to be insured can utilize this site to get competitive insurance quotes and are in a position to purchase coverage very quickly.


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Former 'Doctor Who' Blasts Trump on 'Behalf of the Scottish Nation': We 'F*cking Don't' Like You
Channel 4 screengrab
Former "Doctor Who" actor David Tennant ripped President Donald Trump "on behalf of the Scottish nation" in an interview on British TV.
"When he was over here and he was talking about England and he was saying 'I'm going out to Scotland for my golf course in Scotland cause people in London are protesting but obviously [in] Scotland they really like me, '" Tennant said in an interview on Channel 4's "The Last Leg", "can I say on behalf of the Scottish nation, we fucking don't?"
Watch the clip below:
Really looking forward to the President's tweet about how terrible & overrated an actor David Tennant is. And how Matt Smith was the better Doctor.pic.twitter.com/epGRuxyBg3
— Graham Love (@GLove39) August 4, 2018


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Draft Data Protection Amendment Act 2018 in appraisal
Tech, Data, Telecoms & Media Austria
National room for manoeuvre
Associations' responsibility
Closed-circuit television
Complaints and compensation for damages
Approximately one year before the General Data Protection Regulation will come fully into force, the Austrian legislature has officially started a six-week consultation process for the national Data Protection Amendment Act 2018. In general, the General Data Protection Regulation will harmonise EU data protection laws. However, numerous so-called 'opening clauses' allow national leeway. Further, EU Directive 2016/680 must be implemented into national law and provides specific regulations on data processing by security authorities for the purpose of law enforcement. The published draft of the national Data Protection Amendment Act implements the directive's provisions in a separate chapter.
If and to what extent the legislature will make use of the competencies provided for by the opening clauses is highly relevant to companies, and the amendment act has answered this question. Apart from implementing the directive and making necessary adjustments to the Data Protection Authority's structure, the amendment act contains the following interesting provisions.
The penalties under the General Data Protection Regulation will increase significantly to €20 million or 4% of the company's annual turnover. According to the general Austrian administrative penal provisions, such penalties were imposed on a company's management unless a responsible representative was appointed. The concept of an association's direct responsibility is rather uncommon under the Austrian administrative law (eg, in Paragraph 99d of the Banking Act). The published draft provides that General Data Protection Regulation fines can be imposed on legal entities only if the underlying offence was caused by the management or responsible representative of the legal entity.
According to the General Data Protection Regulation, the competent national authority will impose the penalties. The amendment act upholds this policy and confirms the competency of the Austrian Data Protection Authority. However, a case pending before the Constitutional Court is challenging the Financial Market Authority's competency to impose these high fines. Thus, an adjustment might be necessary before the draft comes into force.
The General Data Protection Regulation is silent on video surveillance. The legislature intends to modernise the Austrian-specific provisions which came into force with the 2010 amendment to the Data Protection Act. However, the new draft provisions will go beyond the existing scope – in particular, Section 6 of the amendment act applies to images in general. This means that, in future, pictures in general will also be subject to the amendment act. As a counterweight to this far-reaching scope, a rather broad private use exception will apply: images made for private documentation purposes will be excluded from the amendment act, as long as they do not seek to identify any "uninvolved" persons. In other words, holiday snapshot are still allowed.
The General Data Protection Regulation provides data subjects with several options to act against data protection violations. These actions can be taken in addition to any administrative fines imposed under the General Data Protection Regulation.
On the one hand, any affected data subject can file a complaint with the Data Protection Authority. Obviously, this option must be embedded into the national administrative structure and the existing draft does so. Appeals against Data Protection Authority decisions can be brought to the Federal Administrative Court. Further, in the event that the Data Protection Authority does not comply with its obligations to handle a complaint in a timely manner, the matter can be brought before the Federal Administrative Court. Lay judges will continue to oversee cases brought before the Federal Administrative Court's senate.
On the other hand, an affected data subject can address the civil courts in order to receive compensation for any material or non-material damage suffered as a result of a General Data Protection Regulation infringement. Under Austrian civil law, compensation for non-material damages is possible only in exceptional cases, and the General Data Protection Regulation adds to this list of exceptions. The draft also provides for a choice between the domicile of the data subject and the seat of the defendant (ie, the controller or the processor).
A core principle of the General Data Protection Regulation is the accountability of the controller. As part of these strengthened obligations, controllers must maintain an internal record of processing activities. Consequently, the existing obligation to notify all data processing activities to the Data Processing Register will no longer apply. For archiving purposes, the Data Processing Register will remain until the end of 2019. Any pending notification procedures will be terminated in May 2018, once the General Data Protection Regulation comes fully into force.
The Standard and Model Regulations will also cease to be in force. However, the Data Protection Authority will have to issue different ordinances in order to list data applications which will require privacy impact assessments.
Legally binding acts of the Data Protection Authority (eg, approvals for international data transfers) will in general remain valid. However, their compliance under the General Data Protection Regulation must be evaluated.
Finally, data protection is still considered a constitutional right, and any breaches therein will continue to have third-party effect (ie, valid between private parties). However, the Austrian law which extends data protection to legal entities will no longer apply. In future, only natural persons will be covered by the General Data Protection Regulation and the Data Protection Amendment Act 2018.
For further information on this topic please contact Veronika Wolfbauer at Schoenherr Attorneys at Law by telephone (+43 1 5343 70) or email (v.wolfbauer@schoenherr.eu). The Schoenherr Attorneys at Law website can be accessed at www.schoenherr.eu.
The materials contained on this website are for general information purposes only and are subject to the	disclaimer.
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Veronika Wolfbauer
Influencer marketing – Advertising Council adopts specific rules
GDPR implementing legislation in Austria
DPA's strict view on retention periods
Privacy-related representations in M&A agreements
Proposals to alter national Data Protection Act


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Retreats & Residencies
Notes & Publications
Tick research in Seili. Photo Laura Beloff.
Collecting plankton samples. Photo Arja Renell.
Bladderwrack seaweed. Photo Taru Elfving.
Interview with biologist Jasmin Inkinen
To follow the diverse and often unpredictable paths of enquiry and collaborations in the project Spectres in Change, CAA interviews the artists and scientists working on the island of Seili at different stages of the process. The first interview with Jasmin Inkinen was conducted by Saskia Suominen during the autumn 2020.
Jasmin Inkinen is a biologist working at the Archipelago Research Institute, Biodiversity Unit of Turku University.
What are you currently working on?
My work consists of collecting samples from the sea and from the ground for various projects and environmental monitoring programmes. In the autumn, the field work period slows down, final ground samples of the year are being collected, sampling equipment is taken down and fixed if necessary. Sample collecting on the sea continues all year-round.
How has working with artists been like for you? Has it brought something new to your own working?
It has deepened my understanding of my work, especially in relation to the methods I use, and I have realised how beautiful and unique the creatures I get to interact with are. Collaboration with the artists in Seili has gone well and with respect towards each other's work. I have learned that scientists and artists examine the same subjects in a very similar way, despite the different basis and motives of our work.
You mentioned that working with artists has deepened your understanding of your work methodologically. Could you tell a little more about that?
Working with the artists has made me ponder about the difference between a human and an apparatus. How does an apparatus collect its data and how does it differ from manual work? Do we lose something essential if the apparatus does the work for us? The devices we use are calibrated regularly so that the measurements are as accurate and reliable as possible. However, do we lose some of the relevant data that only manual work could provide?
The work that both you and the artists do in Seili is long-term and process based. Do you see any similarities between your working methods?
I have noticed that we search for answers to the same questions even if our motives are different. The journey from the initial question to the final outcome is long and slow for both artists and scientists, and often the answers we find can open up new viewpoints and new questions. This might lead us into working on the same topic for decades.
Seili has its own unique ecosystem and in your work, you closely observe the changes in it. What kind of interesting observations have you made recently?
Even though Seili is not located on the main bird migration routes, some migrating birds fly through it. Normally the birds rest in Seili for one night and continue their journey in the morning. This year, however, the birds have stayed for a longer time. For example, we got to enjoy the company of kestrels (Falco tinnunculus) for a week. Due to the warm autumn weather, also the temperature of the sea water is three degrees warmer than is normal for this time of the year.
You have been involved in several CAA projects and introduced the island to the visiting artists. What do you think is most important in the dialogue between art and science? What do you consider special about Seili and how do you think artists should approach it?
I believe that the most important aspect of scientists' work is to create knowledge and invent new solutions so that both decision makers and people in their everyday lives could commit to the most environmentally sustainable choices. Sometimes, the new knowledge provided by scientists does not appeal to the general public and the information remains cold and distant. Artists, however, are able to reach an audience that scientists and science in general cannot, even when dealing with the same information. They can make global problems seem personal, and I think this is the only way to make change in the world. We need science for the knowledge and understanding, but scientists often lack the skills to move people with the knowledge.
In Seili we have realised that we need to collect data for decades in order to understand slow changes. This information cannot be produced alone. The work requires perseverance, but it is the only way to collect evidence of the changes happening around us
info@contemporaryartarchipelago.org


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Isaacks Law
Wayne Isaacks, JD, CPA is a native of Houston, Texas who has devoted his professional career to counseling owners and management of closely-held businesses in developing ownership and tax strategies and transactions to promote growth in value while minimizing losses to taxation. Business-building leads eventually to exit, succession and liquidity strategies - Cashing Out. Wayne helps business owners plan and execute exit strategies to reap the benefits of building a valuable business through mergers and acquisitions, ESOP transactions, management buy-outs, owner-shareholder buyouts, strategic sales, and private equity transactions.
M&A Practice
ESOP Practice
Owners of Closely-Held Businesses
When he is not working, Wayne enjoys time with his family, working out, and he is an avid archer with the traditional longbow.
Wayne is Board Certified in Tax Law by the Texas Board of Legal Specialization and he is a Certified Public Accountant, licensed in Texas. He received his JD from the University of Houston Law School and his BBA in Accounting from the University of Texas at Austin.
After receiving his undergraduate degree in accounting, Wayne joined Ernst & Ernst (now Ernst & Young) a large public accounting firm and became a CPA. He later formed his own CPA firm in Houston and completed his law degree at the University of Houston. Wayne has also served as general counsel and vice-president to a Houston based computer data storage company from 1988 to 1991 gaining "hands-on experience" in new product development, national service support, U.S. and international sales and distribution, and software development and licensing.
Wayne has advised and represented companies and business owners in mergers and acquisitions, strategic alliances, capital formation and finance, international transactions, executive benefits and stock options, and succession planning including estate planning, wills, trusts, and family limited partnerships. He has worked with numerous ESOP transactions from establishing an initial ESOP, advising mature ESOPs and transitions to 100% ESOP ownership, through the sale and mergers of ESOP-owned companies and termination of the ESOP.
Wayne is a member of the State Bar of Texas, a Certified Public Accountant licensed in Texas, the Houston Bar Association, the NCEO and a professional member of the ESOP Association.


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Category Archives: The WDW News Today Podcast – Enhanced
WDWNT Podcast Episodes 256 & 257 (9/13/12) – Enhanced Edition
Join me, Tom Corless, and a cast including Justin Heyman, David Smith, Jason Diffendal, Marci Smith, Zach Larson, Scott Smith, and Anthony Yacullo for a variety show dedicated to the Walt Disney World Resort and its many fans. Plenty of Walt Disney W... Continue Reading
WDWNT Podcast Episodes 254 & 255 (9/2/12) – Enhanced Edition
Join me, Tom Corless, and a cast including Justin Heyman, David Smith, Zach Larson, Scott Smith, and Adam Roth for a variety show dedicated to the Walt Disney World Resort and its many fans. Plenty of Walt Disney World information and fun awaits you ... Continue Reading
WDWNT Podcast Episode 252 (8/11/12) – Enhanced Edition
Join me, Tom Corless, and a cast including Jason Diffendal, Anthony Yacullo, Marci Smith, David Smith, and Scott Smith for a variety show dedicated to the Walt Disney World Resort and its many fans. Plenty of Walt Disney World information and fun awa... Continue Reading
WDWNT Podcast Episode 251 (8/2/12) – Enhanced Edition
Join me, Tom Corless, and a cast including Justin Heyman, Marci Smith, David Smith, and Scott Smith for a variety show dedicated to the Walt Disney World Resort and its many fans. Plenty of Walt Disney World information and fun awaits you on this edi... Continue Reading
WDWNT Podcast Episode 250: LIVE! (7/13/12) – Enhanced Edition
Join me, Tom Corless, and a cast including Jason Diffendal, David Smith, Marci Smith, Justin Heyman, Ron D'Anna and Anthony Yacullo for a variety show dedicated to the Walt Disney World Resort and its many fans. Plenty of Walt Disney World info... Continue Reading
Join me, Tom Corless, and a cast including Jason Diffendal, David Smith, and Scott Smith for a variety show dedicated to the Walt Disney World Resort and its many fans. Plenty of Walt Disney World information and fun awaits you on this edition of the... Continue Reading
WDWNT Podcast Episodes 247 & 248 (6/24/12) West Coast Extravaganza! – Enhanced Edition
Join me, Tom Corless, and a cast including Conner Purzycki for a variety show dedicated to the Walt Disney World Resort and its many fans. Plenty of Walt Disney World information and fun awaits you on this edition of the WDW News Today Podcast! We ta... Continue Reading
Join me, Tom Corless, and a cast including Justin Heyman, David Smith, Marci Smith, Anthony Yacullo, and Scott Smith for a variety show dedicated to the Walt Disney World Resort and its many fans. Plenty of Walt Disney World information and fun await... Continue Reading
WDWNT Podcast Episode 245 – Art of Animation Resort Special (6/5/12) – Enhanced Edition
Join me, Tom Corless, and a cast including Adam Roth and Conner Purzycki for a variety show dedicated to the Walt Disney World Resort and its many fans. Plenty of Walt Disney World information and fun awaits you on this edition of the WDW News Today ... Continue Reading
WDWNT Podcast Episodes 243 & 244 (5/28/12)
Join me, Tom Corless, and a cast including Zach Larson, Anthony Yacullo, Jason Diffendal, David Smith, Adam Roth, and Justin Heyman for a variety show dedicated to the Walt Disney World Resort and its many fans. Plenty of Walt Disney World informatio... Continue Reading
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It's up to you. We know an instrument is personal. It needs to feel right, sound right and be in the price range you are looking for. Instrument selection, education, and insight.
Searching for the right Eastman? Call us: 503.393.4437. Or you can use the instrument research request link below. An Uptown Music Acoustic Guitar expert will research and get back to you with options.
Taking the time to make sure that your Eastman product decision is the right one is something that we do best. We play what we preach. We have one of the Northwest's largest selections of new and used Acoustic instruments stock.


How cute are these?! There's no better way to celebrate the 4th of July than with these adorable patriotic trifles!
Growing up our mom's speciality dessert during the summer was her berry trifle – any party or big event she would whip together one of these to bring along. She would layer angel food cake, pudding, and cool whip with strawberries and blueberries. Everyone loved it, and was always such a hit it was gone within minutes. We decided to revamp our mom's specialty to make own our healthy alternative that has no added sugar and has 20 grams of protein per serving. Talk about a dessert that will leave you feeling satisfied!
Preheat oven to 325 degrees and spray an angel food cake pan well with nonstick spray. In a large mixing bowl combine egg whites, vanilla extract, and cream of tartar. Beat with electronic or stand mixer until stiff peaks are formed. Do not over mix as your egg whites will deflate! As soon as your egg whites have formed stiff peaks, stop mixing, and SLOWLY FOLD in the protein powder and Truvia. Make sure you take your time and slowly add these items or else your egg whites will deflate . Once all ingredients are well combined, pour batter into prepared pan. Bake for 40-45 minutes. Remove from oven and let cool.
Meanwhile, in a small bowl, mix greek yogurt, stevia and vanilla extract together until well combined. Once cake is cool, break or cut into small pieces. Starting at the bottom of your mini trifle dishes or parfait glasses, layer half of your angel food cake with half of the strawberries and blueberries on top in each dish. Then add 1/4 cup greek yogurt to each dish, and top with remaining cake and berries. Finish it off with a dollop of Truwhip on each trifle and enjoy!
Protein Brownie Cookies 4th of July Recipe Roundup!


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Q: spring security using a custom permissionEvaluator for use in authorize tag with accesscontrollist I am having issues while trying to inject custom permission evaluator in spring security:
My front-end code looks like this:
<sec:accesscontrollist hasPermission="VIEW_HEADER,VIEW_ANYTHING" domainObject="${userWebsiteLocationContext}" >
    <b>This is a TEST</b>
</sec:accesscontrollist>

and I am trying the following within my spring security config :

        ...

...
<security:global-method-security>
    <security:expression-handler ref="expressionHandler"/>
</security:global-method-security>

<bean id="permissionEvaluator" class="org.atd.storefront.security.impl.DefaultPermissionsEvaluator" >
</bean>

<bean id="defaultExpressionHandler" class="org.springframework.security.web.access.expression.DefaultWebSecurityExpressionHandler" >
    <property name="permissionEvaluator" ref="permissionEvaluator" ></property>
</bean>

my custom permission evaulator simply returns false but the text is always displayed. I've also tried the solution at https://jira.springsource.org/browse/SEC-1749 and tried to use the custom defined decision manager bean: access-decision-manager-ref="webAccessDecisionManager" with no avail.
I don't get any exceptions, the hasPermission of my custom permissionevaluator just isn't called.

A: It should be enough to register an implementation of PermissionEvaluator for the accesscontrollist tag to pick it up and use it.
My advice would be to set a breakpoint in the doStartTag() method of the org.springframework.security.taglibs.authz.AccessControlListTag method and inspect which PermissionEvaluator it's really using.

redpajama_set_name: RedPajamaStackExchange


Robots are coming to live amongst us. Some of the best selling books of 2015 have been about the impending arrival of robots. Martin Ford's Rise of the Robots – a rather downbeat assessment of their likely impact – won the FT/McKinsey Business Book of the Year award.
Automation in the factories of the world is not new, and devices like Roomba – the cute robotic vacuum cleaner – grace the kitchen floors of many homes. And most of us live lives silently and invisibly shaped by algorithms and Artificial Intelligence. Our music playlists, shopping recommendations, credit scores and the routes we take across a city are all artefacts of code. We are all living in what Rob Kitchener calls Code/Space.
I recently welcomed Alexa into my space and my family's life. We are living with our first piece of embodied AI.
Alexa is the personality who resides in Amazon Echo. Echo is a tastefully designed, black cylindrical wireless speaker. Alexa can play music, read you the news, help build a shopping list, answers your questions and tell you jokes. Echo / Alexa is simultaneously a bit rubbish and rather amazing.
My children – 8, 10 and 13 years old – are rarely amazed by technology. They have grown up with fast broadband, time shifted TV, 'free' music, the endless WWW and touchscreen devices. They are barely aware of the deep suffusion of technology in their lives and most new devices or gadgets barely register on their 'wow' scale.
Alexa was different. It was like the scene from The Gods Must be Crazy when the Coke bottle falls from the sky. My ten year old daughter marvelled at it. "What's inside that?", she asked. But the raw shock of the new quickly wore off and the kids started to issue Alexa with instructions, tease her, try to catch her out. That's when the trouble began.
My wife said Alexa had to go. She was making the kids rude. More specifically, they were being impolite by not using 'Please' and 'Thank You' when addressing her. My wife didn't want that sort of behaviour encouraged.
We are learning to live with AI and it is us – not Alexa – who aren't making the grade.
But is it that simple? To interact with Alexa you have to begin your command "Alexa" otherwise she won't wake up, but in normal conversation polite requests often start with 'Please'. It positions the requestor as the supplicant.
My wife likes manners. She thinks they are important. I do too. But Alexa doesn't encourage the manners we would like our children to have. "Mind your Ps and Qs" was not on the whiteboard in Seattle when the Amazon team were working on Alexa. She's amazing and a small glimpse of the future for sure. But she's disrupting important family values.
The critic Raymond Williams observed that "a main characteristic of our society is a willed coexistence of very new technology and very old social forms".
There are few social forms older than the family. The story of technology adoption into homes – be it televisions, the web, or embodied AIs like Alexa – is one in which families have sought to reach an accommodation between all that they hold to be valuable and 'true' and their desire to own and use the new.
Alexa will stay. I've successfully argued that since I'm researching this area I need to have 'embodied insight' into what living with AI looks and feels like. But as AI steps out of the shadows to live amongst us both designers and technologists alike would do well to think more about old social forms like households, homes and families.
If Alexa and her kin are to become members of other families their creators need to think more about the grammars – social and linguistic – that define and give those forms meaning.
Alexa will need to mind her her Ps and Qs.


Taking a taxi from the airport to the east side of St. Thomas in the U.S. Virgin Islands seemed to be the obvious choice for most, since air-conditioning and expediency was seemingly worth sacrificing a little local flavor. I opted however, for the city bus. No better way to get a true taste of culture than to get as far away from tourists as possible. Although I stood out as the sorest thumb on the island, the locals were very friendly and helpful, and were sure to let me know when my stop came. After weaving through side tracked neighborhoods and eye-shutting fragrances for 30 minutes, we finally arrived in the quaint little town of Red Hook. Having several hours to kill before the arrival of fellow journalists I did as any red blooded, Caribbean bound yachtie would, and bellied up for a few at Molly Malone's.
The better part of the afternoon was spent at this mellow, Irish Caribbean pub where fountains trickle and fat iguanas pursue the illusive remnants of conch fritters. The pub is steps from the boat docks and is a great place to enjoy cool shade and good food. The hours flew to the tunes of Thin Lizzy, Rod Stewart, The Eagles. The rest of the party showed and we were off on the tender to board Arabella.
The 160-foot sail cruise ship, Arabella, has 20 staterooms, each including air conditioning, satellite TV, and telephone. This regal schooner sails throughout the Spanish, British, and U.S. Virgin Islands from November through April and offers access to secluded coves and bays that larger cruise ships cannot negotiate.
After getting settled in we embarked on a sunset sail to St. John over cocktails and hors d'oeuvres. Dinner ashore at La Tapa met what few expectations I had as we drank wine and admired the talents of local artists. The night progressed and I found myself doing poor (if not slightly incriminating) renditions of Garth Brooks at Polli's karaoke cantina, which seemed to be a hot spot that night. As we headed back to the dock, St. John was alive with island jams and street goers despite its small, idyllic setting and it was a shame to have only one night to spend there.
Waking up only mildly alert, yet fully de-pruned from hours in the hot tub, which sits on the aft deck, I found the sails hoisted and pushing us toward Norman Island in the BVI's. Norman Island is 610 acres of uninhabited reefs and bays, which hold great snorkeling and diving spots. A beautiful island style lunch was being served to my surprise seeing as breakfast had come and gone hours past. We enjoyed mango chutney, coconut shrimp, and crab cakes as the crew anchored near the "Treasure Island caves", which are the supposed setting of the Robert Louis Stevenson classic. That afternoon was spent kayaking warm, clear caves, swimming in the endless tranquility of blue, and beachcombing through the relics of forgotten yachties.
The falling sun seemed to lure us effortlessly to Peter Island for, you guessed it, cocktails and hors d'oeuvres overlooking their secluded coves. Peter Island lies four miles south of Tortola and is comprised of 1,300 acres of lush, mountainous terrain and private beaches. The harbor on Peter Island is one of only a few in the area that can dock mega yachts and also offers a full service marina and daily water sports. We were lucky enough to get a tour of the entire resort and spa facilities. Designed to overwhelm and captivate, the spacious open-air spa will undoubtedly ensure your peaceful well being as the resort provides first class amenities and sapphire views of Caribbean bliss.
We dined aboard Arabella that night on fresh mahi-mahi, island salad and Chilean wine. The elegant dining of the main salon is romantic and rich, keeping with the ships intimate setting. The night once again drew me to the hot tub under the twinkle of 10,000 stars and nothing but beauty seemed to exist.
By this point in the trip the inevitable rethinking of one's life began to occur and our arrival at Jost Van Dyke certainly did not help. The morning cast a picture perfect setting for a day of inebriated wanderings between the bars and the water, which was spotted with charter boats and smiling faces. Our first, and really only plan, was of course a world famous Painkiller at the drinks own birthplace, The Soggy Dollar Bar. The Painkiller is a local concoction of Pusser's rum, tropical juices, and a hint of nutmeg. One quickly turned into one too many, as is so often the case when in a tropical paradise, so after a refreshing dip we shuffled down to the One Love Bar. Perhaps not the best way to counter a buzz, but after all, this was research.
The music at One Love was a hi-light of the trip and I hope that my recommendation of a soundtrack was dually noted by the bartender. The one-man island band did a 10-minute cover of A Pirate Looks at Fourty which would crush any ex-patriated parrotheads attempt at local stardom. Although being thoroughly content with my feet in the sand and a cold beer in my hand, the clock struck that not-so-happy hour of time to go. Not that it was all that bad seeing as we did a sunset cruise around to the next bay, Great Harbor, for dinner at Foxy's.
Foxy's has a slightly more upscale atmosphere with great food and a good energy. The huge gift shop will keep the girls busy while the guys corral about the bar talking ship and stretching truth. The stroll down the sandy road to Corsair's is usually the next action taken if the dancing at Foxy's becomes too much. Corsair's, which has also been deemed an "official" harbor hangout is a must see due to its cheap drinks and beach front setting. We enjoyed the soulful tunes of Harry Belafonte as the moon came to cast a glow over our hammock.
Somehow to my huge surprise I found myself once again in the hot tub back on Arabella. This being our last night out we made the most of it by playing games, revealing secrets, and spilling wine. Falling asleep with the gentle sway of a sailboat rivals any five-star resort.
Clearing customs in St. John the next morning was a breeze despite the foggy head and beating sun. From there we headed back to St. Thomas for shopping and a barbeque lunch. As the women flocked to the jewelry and T-shirts I sat pondering the necessary steps leading to a Caribbean relocation. Life revolves around fun, work revolves around life, and I've grown tired of cities. So by the time this gets read I will hopefully be back to de islands mon.


text:
Q: Graficar CSV tkinter, Matplotlib Estoy graficando un CSV con Matplotlib. Tengo una función browseFiles() la cual carga el archivo CSV y la grafica... pero necesito que esta función solo cargue el archivo y tener otra función con un botón aparte para que grafique el archivo.
import pandas as pd
import matplotlib.pyplot as plt
from tkinter import *
from PIL import ImageTk,Image
import numpy as np
import matplotlib.pyplot as plt
from tkinter import filedialog as fd

root = Tk()
root.title('test')
root.geometry('400x200')

def graph():
    df = pd.read_csv('data.csv')
    df.plot()
    plt.show()

def browseFiles():
    filename = fd.askopenfilename(title = "Select file",filetypes = (("CSV Files","*.csv"),))
    data = pd.read_csv(filename,delimiter=',')
    print(data)
    data.plot()
    plt.show()

# my_button = Button(root,
#                    text='Graficar!', command=graficar)

button_explore = Button(root,
                        text = "Browse Files",
                        command = browseFiles)
# my_button.pack()
button_explore.pack()
root.mainloop()

A: Buen día,
En el botón my_button que tienes comentado (Supongo que porque no te ha funcionado ese código) tienes el argumento command=graficar, pero no tienes ninguna función que se llame graficar tienes una que se llama graph
Ahora, para poder lograr que con un botón obtengas el dataframe y lo imprimas y con otro botón diferente grafiques el dataframe que cargaste anteriormente debes utilizar una variable global
De esa forma puedes guardar el dataframe desde una función y graficarlo desde otra
import pandas as pd
import matplotlib.pyplot as plt
from tkinter import *
from PIL import ImageTk,Image
import numpy as np
import matplotlib.pyplot as plt
from tkinter import filedialog as fd

root = Tk()
root.title('test')
root.geometry('400x200')

#Definimos la variable global
data = None

#Función para graficar
def graph():
    #Utilizamos la variable global
    global data
    data.plot()
    plt.show()

#Función para cargar el dataframe
def browseFiles():
    #Utilizamos la variable global
    global data
    filename = fd.askopenfilename(title = "Select file",filetypes = (("CSV Files","*.csv"),))
    data = pd.read_csv(filename,delimiter=',')
    print(data)

#Botón para graficar, el argumento command siempre debe apuntar a una función existente, en este caso graph
button_graph = Button(root,
                        text = "Graficar",
                        command = graph)

button_explore = Button(root,
                        text = "Browse Files",
                        command = browseFiles)

button_explore.pack()
button_graph.pack()

root.mainloop()


text:
About Clampdown
"Clampdown" is a single and a song by The Clash from their album London Calling. The song began as an instrumental track called "Working and Waiting". It is sometimes called "Working for the Clampdown" which is the main lyric of the song, and also the title provided on the album's lyric sheet. Its lyrics concern those who have forsaken the idealism of youth and urges young people to fight the status quo. The word 'clampdown' is a neat cover-all term the writers adopted to define the oppressive Establishment, notably its more reactionary voices who were to be heard throughout the 1970s calling alarmingly for 'clampdowns' by government and law enforcement on strikers, agitators, benefits claimants, football hooligans, punks and other perceived threats to the social, economic and moral wellbeing of the UK. The 'clampdown' can therefore be read as a figure of dread for the Clash's generation - and the song stands as a warning to the youth to beware being part of the problem rather than of the solution. more »
The kingdom is ransacked
The jewels all taken back
And the chopper descends
They're hidden in the back
With a message written on a half-baked potato
The spool goes 'round
Sayin' I'm back here in this place
And I could cry
And there's smoke you could click on
What are we gonna do now?
Taking off his turban, they said, "is this man a Jew?"
'Cause they're working for the clampdown
They put up a poster saying: "We earn more than you
We're working for the clampdown
We will teach our twisted speech
To the young believers
We will train our blue-eyed men
To be young believers"
The judge said, five to ten, but I say double that again
I'm not working for the clampdown
No man born with a living soul
Can be working for the clampdown
Kick over the wall 'cause government's to fall
How can you refuse it?
Let fury have the hour, anger can be power
Do you know that you can use it?
The voices in your head are calling
Stop wasting your time, there's nothing coming
Only a fool would think someone could save you
The men at the factory are old and cunning
You don't owe nothing, boy, get runnin'
It's the best years of your life they want to steal
But you grow up and you calm down
And working for the clampdown
You start wearing blue and brown
You're working for the clampdown
So you got someone to boss around
It make you feel big now
You drift until you brutalize
Make your first kill now
In these days of evil Presidentes
Working for the clampdown
But lately one or two has fully paid their due
For working for the clampdown
Ha! Get along! Get along! (working for the clampdown)
Yeah, I'm working hard in Harrisburg
Working hard in Petersburg
Ha! Get along! Get along!
Beggin' to be melted down
(Get along! Get along!)
And I'll give away no secrets
Work, work, more work, more work
Work, work, work, work, work
Who's barmy now?
Struggling with Clampdown? Become a better singer in 30 days with these videos!
Reggae, Rock
Punk, Reggae
Discuss the Clampdown Lyrics with the community:
"Clampdown Lyrics." Lyrics.com. STANDS4 LLC, 2020. Web. 19 Jan. 2020. <https://www.lyrics.com/lyric/3346799/The+Clash>.