text:
Revista de Biología Tropical
On-line version ISSN 0034-7744Print version ISSN 0034-7744
Rev. biol. trop vol.69 n.3 San José Jul./Sep. 2021
http://dx.doi.org/10.15517/rbt.v69i3.43477
Seed mass maturity in the terrestrial bromeliad Hechtia perotensis (Bromeliaceae), endemic to Mexico
Madurez de las semillas en la bromelia terrestre Hechtia perotensis (Bromeliaceae), endémica de México
Violeta Elizalde1
José-Rodolfo García1
Carlos Trejo1
Cecilia-Beatriz Peña-Valdivia1
Ma.-Carmen Ybarra2
http://orcid.org/0000-0002-9634-008X
Otto-Raúl Leyva3
1. Postgrado en Botánica, Colegio de Postgraduados, Campus Montecillo, Carretera México-Texcoco, km 35.5, Estado de México, 56230, México; violetaelizalde@gmail.com, garcianr@colpos.mx (*Correspondence), catre@colpos.mx, cecilia@colpos.mx
2. Departamento de Ingeniería Agroindustrial, Universidad Autónoma Chapingo, Carretera México-Texcoco km 38.5, Estado de México, 56230, México; ycydrive@gmail.com
3. Facultad de Ciencias Biológicas y Agropecuarias, Universidad Veracruzana, Camino a Peñuela s/n. C.P.94945 Peñuela, Amatlán de los Reyes, Veracruz, México; oleyva@uv.mx
H. perotensis is a plant with a high potential for ecological restoration because it yields thousands of seeds and grows under low levels of rain, poor soils and contrasting temperatures. However, little is known of the seed mass maturity (high seed germination, low seed fresh weight and low seed moisture content) in this species.
Assess seed germination in the laboratory of H. perotensis during seed development and along the floral stalk (infructescence) in two sites one in rocky location and another near a lake. The hypothesis was that there is a time after flowering in which seeds have highest germination and fresh weight and that the apical, centre and base of the infructescence are different in seed germination and fresh weight in both sites.
Capsules were collected in two sites one in rocky land (Frijol Colorado, Perote, Veracruz) and another near one lake (Alchichica, Puebla), in the months of August, September and November 2016 and January 2017. A repeated measure design (RMD) was used to analyze the effects of infructescence section on seed weight, moisture content and seed germination (41, 87, 152 and 215 days after flowering). Each evaluation time comprised five replicates, each one with 15 seeds.
Difference in seed germination, seed weight and moisture content between sections of the infructescence was not significant. However, significant differences were found not only between first and last sample dates, but mainly between first and second dates. Eighty-seven days after flower pollination seed moisture content was lower than 20 % and up to 80 % of seed germinated in both sites of sampling.
In this study it was found that the moisture content of H. perotensis seed can be used as an indicator of the physiological maturity of the seed and it is also related to germination of the seed.
Key words: ecological restoration; infructescence; moisture content; germination; seed weight.
H. perotensis es una planta con un alto potencial para la restauración ecológica debido a que produce miles de semillas y crece con niveles bajos de lluvia, suelos pobres y temperaturas contrastantes. Sin embargo, el desarrollo de la madurez de las semillas (germinación alta, baja humedad y bajo peso fresco de semilla) en esta especie es muy poco conocido.
Evaluar la germinación en el laboratorio de las semillas de H. perotensis, durante el desarrollo de la semilla y a lo largo del tallo floral (infrutescencia) en dos sitios; uno en un área rocosa y otro cerca de un lago. La hipótesis fue que hay un tiempo después de la floración, en el que las semillas presentan la mayor germinación y menor peso fresco, y que las secciones apical, central y base de la infrutescencia, la germinación y el peso fresco de la semilla son diferentes en los dos sitios.
se recolectaron las cápsulas en dos sitios uno en un área rocosa (Frijol Colorado, Perote, Veracruz) y otro cerca de un lago (Alchichica, Puebla), en los meses de Agosto, Septiembre y Noviembre de 2016 y Enero de 2017. Se usó un diseño de medidas repetidas (DMR) para analizar los efectos de la sección de la infrutescencia sobre el peso fresco de la semilla, el contenido de humedad y la germinación de la semilla (41, 87, 152 y 215 días, después de la floración). Cada tiempo de evaluación comprendió cinco réplicas y 15 semillas.
La diferencia en la germinación de la semilla, el peso de la semilla y el contenido de humedad entre las secciones de la infrutescencia no fue significativa. Sin embargo, se encontraron diferencias significativas entre las fechas de muestreo inicial y final, pero sobre todo entre la primera y la segunda fecha. Asimismo, ochenta y siete días después de la polinización de las flores, el contenido de humedad de las semillas fue inferior al 20 % y superior al 80 % en la germinación de las semillas en ambos sitios de muestreo.
en este estudio se encontró que el contenido de humedad de la semilla de H. perotensis, puede usarse como un indicador de la madurez fisiológica de la semilla y también está relacionado con la germinación de la semilla.
Palabras clave: restauración ecológica; infrutescencia; contenido de humedad; germinación; peso de semilla.
The genus Hechtia Klotzsch is one of the more interesting members of the Mexican Bromeliaceae because it is the only member of the subfamily Hechtioideae and has experience recent discovery of new species (Ramírez et al., 2014). The estimated number of species in Mexico is 65 (Ramírez & Jiménez, 2012) and 94 % of them are endemic (Ramírez et al., 2014). Hechtia plants are terrestrial or lithophile and can grow in volcanic rocks and limestone hills. Bromeliaceae seeds are brown, fusiform, rough, oblong, ellipsoids, one mm wide and three mm long (Espejo et al., 2007). Reyes (2015) suggests that Hechtia can be used in ecological restoration programs because it produces a remarkably high quantity of seeds and the ability of plants to grow under low rainfall, on poor soils, and under contrasting temperatures. However, the knowledge of Hechtia seed biology is limited (Espejo et al., 2007). Information of seed moisture content, dry weight, and seed germination after seed mass maturity of H. perotensis has not been reported. Information about the genus Hechtia includes seed morphological descriptions of H. nuusaviorum (Espejo et al., 2007) and new species descriptions of H. schottii (Escobedo, 2012), H. santanae (Ramírez et al., 2016), H. flexilifolia, H. huamelulaensis, H. nivea (Ramírez et al., 2014).
Seed germination characteristics are fundamental for species conservation (Baskin & Baskin, 1998). In consequence, it is necessary to know the timing of seed harvest as it influences seed quality (physical and physiological) and storage effects (Willan, 1985) to initiate nursery programs and store seeds in germplasm banks. Seed germination is sensitive to environmental conditions (Leck et al., 2008). Sankhla and Chawan (1980) found that seed moisture content is important in regulating seed germination. For example, Phaseolus trilobus seeds had 100 % seed germination at 30 % moisture content and 0 % with moisture content of 2 %. In addition, seed quality continues to improve during development and even after maximum dry weight (Pieta & Ellis, 1991) as seen with seeds of beans (Sanhewe & Ellis, 1996) and cereals (Hay & Probert, 1995). Seed development of H. perotensis has not been reported and this, together with timing of seed harvest is a first requirement to start propagation in nurseries and to store seeds with maximum seed quality in seed banks. The objective of this research was to assess seed moisture content, seed weight and seed germination of H. perotensis during seed development in two sites one in a rocky location and another near a lake. The hypothesis was that after flowering there is a time nearly at the end of seed mass maturity where seeds have low weight due to seed drying, low moisture content and maximum germination. Also, that seed quality differs among three longitudinal sections of the infructescence due to differences in maturity along the stalk.
Sample sites: H. perotensis seeds were collected at site 1 a rocky land, Frijol Colorado, Perote, Veracruz (2 416 m.a.s.l, 19°32´13.95" N & 97°22´98" W) and site 2, Tepeyahualco at the lake of Alchichica, Puebla, México (2 326 m.a.s.l, 19°25'11" N & 97°23'56" W) (geolocation with Garmin eTrex 10 & Google Earth®) (Google Earth, n.d.-a; Google Earth, n.d.-b). The sites were selected to investigate the effect of the lake (site 2) in the relative humidity and on seed mass maturity compared with site 1 plants growing in rocky land. The climate of each region is semiarid with warm summers BS1kw(i´)gw" (García, 1988). The vegetation is typical of a xeric shrublands (Ramírez et al., 2014). Soil was alkaline, not saline, loamy and poor in nutrients in both sites (laboratory analysis).
Plant selection: In a first visit in June 2016 thereafter called day 0, male and female plants in both sites had flowers and insect pollinations. After one month, plants of both sites had green immature capsules and at this moment a white perforated sleeve shape cloth with diameter of 1 mm was inserted along the infructescence in order to keep the seeds inside the cloth in case of dehiscence. Each infructescence length was registered with a measuring tape, divided in three and adjusting a lace in each section to keep the mature seeds separated.
Capsule sampling: Capsules of H. perotensis in both sites were collected in August, September, November 2016 and January 2017. The mean temperature was 15.3 and 17.6 °C, and mean relative humidity for 56.8 and 60 % (data logger Hobo), of site 1 and 2, respectively during the sample months. Temperature and relative humidity were measured to compare the environment characteristics.
Once capsule colour changed from green to brown around 41 d after flowering (DAF) 25 capsules were harvested from each of the base, centre, and apex of the infructescence. Two to four capsule sample dates were made according to the availability of capsules. Samples were made at 41, 87, 152 and 215 DAF in plants named A in site 1 and B in site 2. Plant named C and D of site 1 and 2 respectively were sampled at 41 and 87 DAF due to less availability of capsules.
Seeds extracted from capsules with fine clippers were stored at (25 ± 1 °C) in seal aluminium bags. Seed weight, humidity and germination evaluations were made within one week after each harvest period.
Seed weight: Seed weight was determined in 225 seeds by infructescence in a precision balance (± 0.0001 g; Scientech SA 120) taking 75 seeds from the apex, centre and base of the infructescence this procedure was repeated for each sample date.
Seed moisture content: Seed fresh weight of five replicates each with 15 seeds was determined from the apex, centre, and base of the infructescence this procedure was repeated for each sample date. Seeds were kept at 50 ± 1 °C in an oven until they reach constant weight (5 d). Seed moisture content was calculated using the following expression (International Seed Testing Association, 2010).
Germination: Seeds were placed in petri dishes with filter paper on the bottom and 10 mL of distilled water was added. Five replicates with fifteen seeds (per petri dish of 14 cm) were tested from the apex, centre, and base of the infructescence this procedure was repeated for each sample date. Seeds were superficially disinfested by immersion in sodium hypochlorite (60 g/L of Cl active for 1 min) 1 % (v:v in water). Petri dishes were placed in an incubator (Thermo Scientific. USA: model 846) set at 25 ± 1 °C and photoperiod of 12 h darkness x 12 h light (12 μmol m-2 s-1 of irradiation). A seed was considered germinated when 1 mm of radicle was exposed using a digital caliper Vernier. Evaluations were made at 8 and 15 d from placement in the incubator (International Seed Testing Association, 2010).
Seeds in development: Seeds were observed with a stereo microscope (Leica EZ4 HD) to identify embryo development this procedure was repeated for each sample date. Seed testa was dissected near the embryo and the embryo was extracted with tweezers (International Seed Testing Association, 2010).
Experimental design: A repeated measures design (RMD) was used to analyze the effects of time (day 41, 87, 152 and 215) and infructescence section on seed weight, moisture content, seed germination and seed development at each site. Each evaluation time comprised five replicates each of 15 seeds as an experimental unit from the apex, centre, and base of the infructescence. Multiple comparisons were made with the general lineal model (α = 0.05).
Plant A site 1 Frijol Colorado, Perote, Veracruz: Seeds of the three sections of the stalk (base, medium and apex) were similar on germination, moisture content and seed fresh weight (Fig. 1A, Fig. 1B, Fig. 1C) in each date sampled (P > 0.05). However, there was statistical difference over time; at 41 DAF seed fresh weight average at three sections was 0.0360 g, moisture content of 76 % and seed germination of 20 %. Whereas seeds sampled at 215 DAF had seed fresh weight average at the three sections of 0.0139 g, seed moisture content of 6 % and 94 % of seed germination (P ≤ 0.05). Seeds in development were similar in the three sections of the stalk at 41 DAF with an average of 80 % of seeds. At 87, 152 and 215 DAF seeds in development were on average 6 % without differences in the sections of the stalk (Fig. 1D).
Fig. 1 A. B. C. and D. Germination, seed moisture content, seed fresh weight and seeds in development from the plant A site 1 (Frijol Colorado, Perote, Veracruz) and E. F. G. and H of plant B, from site 2 (Tepeyahualco at the lake of Alchichica, Puebla). Each column represents the average of 5 replicates of 15 seeds each. The apex ( ), centre ( ) and base ( ) of the stalk is represented by three columns. The letters on the columns represent the effects of the time in each section of the stalk by date of days after flowering.
Plant B site 2 Tepeyahualco at the lake of Alchichica, Puebla: Seed germination, moisture content and seed fresh weight (Fig. 1E, Fig. 1F, Fig. 1G) was similar in the three sections of the stalk in each date sampled, however seed germination, moisture content and seed fresh weight showed evident differences with time. On average, seed germination at 215 DAF (98 %) was 2.6 times higher than that at 41 DAF (37 %) (Fig. 1E). Conversely, seed moisture content diminished from 69 to 6 %, nearly ten times in the same period (Fig. 1F).
Seed fresh weight (Fig. 1G) was different (P ≤ 0.05) in the three sections of the stalk over time. The average seed fresh weight was more than double at 41 DAF (0.036 g) compared with 215 DAF (0.016 g) this decrease of seed moisture was due to seed drying.
Seeds in development were similar in the three sections of the stalk at 41 DAF with an average of 60 % of seeds. At 87, 152 and 215 DAF seeds in development were on average 4 % without differences in the sections of the stalk (Fig. 1H).
Plant C site 1 Frijol Colorado, Perote, Veracruz: Seeds of the three sections of the stalk did not differ in germination, moisture content and seed fresh weigh at 41 and 87 DAF (Fig. 2A, Fig. 2B, Fig. 2C) (P > 0.05). However, the average seed germination at 41 and 87 DAF was 23 and 95 % respectively (Fig. 2A). Seed moisture content and seed fresh weight of the three sections on average was 72 % and 0.035 g at 41 DAF. At 87 DAF seed moisture content diminished to 29 % and seed fresh weight was 0.017 g (Fig. 2B, Fig. 2C).
Seeds in development were similar in the three sections of the stalk at 41 DAF with an average of 76 % of seeds. At 87 DAF seeds in development were on average 4 % without differences between the sections of the stalk (Fig. 2D).
Fig. 2 A. B. C. and D. Germination, seed moisture content, seed fresh weight and seeds in development from the plant C, site 1 (Frijol Colorado, Perote, Veracruz) and E. F. G. and H of plant D from site 2 (Tepeyahualco at the lake of Alchichica, Puebla). Each column represents the average of 5 replicates of 15 seeds each. The apex ( ), centre ( ) and base ( ) of the stalk is represented by three columns. The letters on the columns represent the effects of the time in each section of the stalk by date of days after flowering.
Plant D site 2 Tepeyahualco at the lake of Alchichica, Puebla: Seed germination, moisture content and seed fresh weight (Fig. 2E, Fig. 2F, Fig. 2G) was similar in both dates sampled. Also, seed moisture content and seed fresh weight differed over time (P ≤ 0.05), but not between stalk sections. The average seed germination of the stalk was 83 % at 87 DAF (Fig. 2E). Seed moisture content and fresh weight (Fig. 2F, Fig. 2G) decreased to 9 % and 0.0144 g respectively averaged across, the three sections of the stalk at 87 DAF.
Seeds in development were similar in the three sections of the stalk at 41 DAF with an average of 35 % of seeds. At 87 DAF seeds in development were on average 15 % differing between the apex and centre or base of the stalk (Fig. 2H).
Our research showed homogeneity and high seed germination (87 %) of H. perotensis at 87 DAF at the two sites of seed collection and across three sections of the infructescence. In previous research Elizalde et al., (2017) showed variation of seed germination of H. perotensis from two different harvest dates (20 % in 2012 and 92 % in 2015), and as a consequence, it was necessary to establish the time at which H. perotensis reaches high seed quality.
Gutterman (1980) confirmed that seed position in the fruit or infructescence is important for seed germination. The perennial shrub Mesembryanthemum nodiflorum had different seed germination according to the position of the infructescence in which the seed grows. For example, in the apex seed germination was of 61 %, in the centre 5.5 % and in the base 1 %. M. nodiflorum grows in the desert and the difference in germination of the fruit is related with the cycle life of this plant. As a consequence, undetermined factors could have influenced seed quality along an infructescence, such as environmental conditions during the development of the mother plant, flower aperture, and occurrence of pollination insects (Gray & Thomas, 1982).
In contrast, Gesch et al., (2016) did not find differences in seed germination between different seed positions in plants of Thlaspi arvense L. Similarly, in our research seeds of H. perotensis did not show such locational differences in germination.
Willson and Price (1977) found that production of more flowers in one plant attracts more pollinating insects and as a result plant produce more seeds. McKinney et al., (2012) showed that flowering timing coincides with activity of pollinating insects to improve homogenous flower pollination (Hegland et al., 2009). H. perotensis was flowering with pollination insects and we assumed that flower pollination was efficient. In addition, the capsule formation was homogenous in the three sections of the stalk mainly in seed germination.
Seed moisture content diminished gradually during seed development: the reserves are accumulated (sugars) and solutes (proline) in the vacuole and there is water displacement to protect cell membranes. After, physiological seed maturity (mass maturity) orthodox seeds increase the process of seed drying to reach the end of seed maturation (Bewley et al., 2013). We found that seeds of H. perotensis improved seed germination by about 80 % when seed moisture content decrease to 20 % at the last sample analyzed. H. perotensis seeds drying in an environment with low relative humidity (60 %) and a medium temperature 16 °C, reaching a low moisture content in about 45 days.
Bhawna et al., (2011) indicated that seed maturity of Prunus cerasoides was at seed moisture content of 31.96 % ± 1.42 %. According to Mai-Hong et al., (2003) 100 % seed germination of Peltophorum pterocarpum (DC) K. Heyne is reach when seed moisture content was 56 % with maximum seed dry weight of 0.5 g. The seed moisture content has been used as a reliable indicator of seed maturity in several studies e.g., by Shah et al., (2010). In our study we found that seed moisture is an indicator of seed maturity in H. perotensis. Harvest seeds at 41 DAF were in development with an average moisture content of 70 %. Seeds reached embryo maturity and increased germination at 87 DAF with only 10 % of seeds in development. At this stage, maturation is approaching and maturation drying is the event for orthodox seeds to enter in a metabolic quiescent state. Seeds can remain in this state for days to years with high viability (Bewley et al., 2013).
Shah et al., (2006) showed that seed moisture content of 23.4 to 36.1 % can be associated with an optimum seed germination of Pyracantha crenulata. Bewley et al., (2013) reported that seed physiological maturity (vigour and seed germination) is reached when seed dry weight is greatest, and after this moment seeds start to decrease in quality. For example, in soya seeds maximum dry weight was obtained 45 d after flowering. For seeds of Caesalpinia lutea and C. wrightii physiological maturity was reached around 18 to 21 d after flowering (Kaliangile & Grabe, 1988). Our results agree with the above authors and demonstrated that H. perotensis reach minimum seed fresh weight (low seed moisture content) with coincidence of maximum seed germination at the end of the samples periods (87 DAF).
Maturity of seeds also has been associated with seed moisture content, for example, Ricinus communis L. seed maturity was reported to occur at 22 % seed moisture content (Vallejos et al., 2011). Seeds of Aesculus indica Colebr, Albizzia lebbeck and Celtis australis had physiological maturity at 58, 52 and 32 % seed moisture content respectively (Majeed et al., 2010; Bhardwaj et al., 2002). Our research showed that seeds of H. Perotensis reached physiological maturity with fresh seed weight of 0.010 to 0.015 g, moisture content lower than 20 % and seed germination of 85 %. Similar results of seed fresh weight were reported by Elizalde et al., (2017), however they mainly focused on methods to improve seed germination.
Sankhla and Chawan (1980) claim that seeds with high moisture content could produce low seed germination. The authors explained that a seed before drying is in development with immature embryos and in the process of storage of nutritive reserves. Therefore, seed drying is necessary to reach high germination percentages and seed maturity. After seed drying the events of seed development stop and with seed water uptake the seed germination metabolism starts (Bewley et al., 2013).
We conclude that H. perotensis reached seed mass maturity 87 d after flowering with 20 % moisture content. With this knowledge the point of harvest of seeds can be used to store seeds with high percentage of germination in seed banks and to start a plant nursery and use H. perotensis for ecological restoration in their origin place and has the potential to use this plant in other regions with similar environments. Both sites studied reached high seed germination at the same time.
Ethical statement: authors declare that they all agree with this publication and made significant contributions; that there is no conflict of interest of any kind; and that we followed all pertinent ethical and legal procedures and requirements. All financial sources are fully and clearly stated in the acknowledgements section. A signed document has been filed in the journal archives.
To the Consejo Nacional de Ciencia y Tecnología (CONACYT) for the scholarship for the first author. Many thanks to the reviewers and editor that help to improve the manuscript.
Baskin, C., & Baskin, J. (1998). Seeds: ecology, biogeography, and evolution of dormancy and germination. Academic Press. [ Links ]
Bewley, J., Bradford, K., Hilhorst, H., & Nonogaki, H. (2013). Physiology of development, germination and dormancy. Springer Science Business Media. [ Links ]
Bhardwaj, S., Panwar, P., & Kumar, M. (2002). Physical and biochemical changes in seeds as maturity index for harvesting Albizia lebbeck seeds. Journal of Hill Research, 15(1), 52-55. [ Links ]
Bhawna, T., Ashish, T., Shruti, S., & Neerja, P. (2011). Physical attributes as indicator of seed maturity and germination enhancement in Himalayan Wild Cherry (Prunus cerasoides D. Don.). New Forests, 41, 139-146. [ Links ]
Elizalde, V., García, J., Peña-Valdivia, C., Ybarra, C., Leyva, O., & Trejo, C. (2017). Viabilidad y germinación de semillas de Hechtia perotensis (Bromeliaceae). [Seed viability and germination of Hechtia (Bromeliaceae)]. Revista de Biología Tropical, 65(1), 153-165. [ Links ]
Escobedo, S. (2012). Mecanismos de dispersión de semillas en las Bromelias. Desde el herbario CICY 4: 22-23. http://www.cicy.mx/sitios/desde_herbario/ [ Links ]
Espejo, S., López, F., Ramírez, M., & Martínez, C. (2007). Dos nuevas especies de Hechtia (Bromeliaceae) de México. Acta Botánica Mexicana, 78, 97-109. [ Links ]
García, E. (1988). Modificaciones al sistema de clasificación climática de Köppen. Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México. [ Links ]
Gesch, R., Royo-Esnal, A., Edo-Tena, E., Recasens, J., Isbell, T., & Forcella, F. (2016). Growth environment but not seed position on the parent plant affect seed germination of two Thlaspi arvense L. populations. Industrial Crops and Products, 84, 241-247. [ Links ]
Google Earth. (n.d.-a). Frijol Colorado, Perote, Veracruz. Recover on july 14, 2021 from https://earth.google.com/web/search/frijol+colorado/@19.55318431,-97.37798852,2433.58431515a,10930.6604354d,34.99998921y,0h,0t,0r/data=CigiJgokCYtftwEzbTNAEZ9j_ux9aTNAGTSh-p_gWFjAISX4BY4tWljA [ Links ]
Google Earth. (n.d.-b). Alchichica, Puebla. Recover on july 14, 2021 from https://earth.google.com/web/search/alchichica+puebla/@19.41931892,-97.39887023,2323.53443059a,681.20123398d,30.0000019y,0h,0t,0r/data=CigiJgokCZeewHXSnjNAEb7OAbWWjzNAGbzLrRTaUljAIeXtrkCwW1jA [ Links ]
Gray, D., & Thomas, T. (1982). Seed germination and seedling emergence as influenced by the position of development of the seed on, and chemical applications to, the parent plant. In A. A. Khan (Ed.), The Physiology and Biochemistry of Seed Development, Dormancy and Germination (pp. 81-110). Elsevier Biochemical Press. [ Links ]
Gutterman, Y. (1980). Annual rhythm and position effect in the germinability of Mesymbranthemum nodiflorum. Israel Journal of Botany, 29, 93-97. [ Links ]
Hay, F., & Probert, R. (1995). The effect of different drying conditions and maturity on desiccation tolerance and seed longevity in Digitalis purpurea L. Annals of Botany, 76, 639-647. [ Links ]
Hegland, S., Nielsen, A., Lazaro, A., Bjerknes, A., & Totland, O. (2009). How does climate warming affect plant-pollinator interactions? Ecology Letters, 12, 184-195. [ Links ]
International Seed Testing Association (2010). International Rules for Seed Testing. International Seed Testing Association. [ Links ]
Kaliangile, I., & Grabe, D. (1988). Seed maturation in Cuphea. Journal of Seed Technology, 12(2), 107-113. [ Links ]
Leck, M., Parker, V., & Simpson, R. (2008). Seedling ecology and evolution. Cambridge University Press. [ Links ]
Mai-Hong, T., Hong, T.D., Hien, N.T., & Ellis, R.H. (2003). Onset of germinability, desiccation tolerance and hardseededness in developing seeds of Peltophorum pterocarpum (DC) k. Heyne (Caesalpinioideae). Seed Science Research, 13, 323-327. [ Links ]
Majeed, M., Khan, M., Bashir, A., & Qaisar, K. (2010). Maturity indices of Indian horse chestnut (Aesculus indica Colebr.) seeds under temperate Kashmir conditions. Forestry Studies in China, 12(1), 45-48. [ Links ]
McKinney, A., CaraDonna, P., Inouye, D., Barr, B., Bertelsen, C., & Waser, N. (2012). Asynchronous changes in phenology of migrating Broad-tailed Hummingbirds and their early-season nectar resources. Ecology, 93, 1987-1993. [ Links ]
Pieta, F., & Ellis, R. (1991). The development of seed quality in spring barley in four environments. I. Germination and longevity. Seed Science Research, 1, 163-177. [ Links ]
Ramírez, M., & Jiménez, C. (2012). A new species of Hechtia (Hechtioideae: Bromeliaceae) from Puebla, Mexico. Phytotaxa, 42, 1-8. [ Links ]
Ramírez, M., Jiménez, F., Fernández-Concha, G., & Pinzón, J. (2014). Three new species and growth patterns in Hechtia (Bromeliaceae: Hechtioideae). Phytotaxa, 178, 113-127. [ Links ]
Ramírez, M., Carrillo, R., Tapia, M., & Cetzal, I. (2016). An addition to genus Hechtia (Hechtioideae; Bromeliaceae) from Jalisco, Mexico. Phytotaxa, 266(4), 261-270. [ Links ]
Reyes, S. (2015). Conservación y restauración de cactáceas y otras plantas suculentas mexicanas. Comisión Nacional Forestal. [ Links ]
Sanhewe, A., & Ellis, R. (1996). Seed development and maturation in Phaseolus vulgaris. II. Post-harvest longevity in air-dry storage. Journal of Experimental Botany, 47, 959-965. [ Links ]
Sankhla, R., & Chawan, D. (1980). Effect of different seed moisture levels on the germination behaviour of Phaseolue trilobus. Biología Plantarum, 22(5), 388-391. [ Links ]
Shah, S., Tewari, A., & Bisht, S. (2006). Seed maturation indicators in Pyracantha crenulata Roxb. in Kumaun central Himalaya. New Forests, 32, 1-7. [ Links ]
Shah, S., Tewari, A., Tewari, B., & Singh, R. (2010). Seed maturity indicators in Myrica esculenta, Buch-Ham. Ex. D. Don.: a multipurpose tree species of subtropical temperate Himalayan region. New Forests, 40, 9-18. [ Links ]
Vallejos, M., Rondanini, D., & Wassner, F. (2011). Water relationships of castor bean (Ricinus communis L.) seeds related to final seed dry weight and physiological maturity. European Journal of Agronomy, 35, 93-101. [ Links ]
Willan, R. (1985). A guide to forest seed handling. FAO Forestry paper 20/2. FAO. [ Links ]
Willson, M., & Price, P. (1977). The evolution of inflorescence size in Asclepius (Asclepiadaceae). Evolution, 31, 495-511. [ Links ]
Received: August 13, 2020; Revised: April 29, 2021; Accepted: August 03, 2021
Universidad de Costa Rica. Escuela de Biología, 2060 San José, Costa Rica, San Pedro, San José, CR, 2060, 2511-5500 , 2511-5550
rbt@biologia.ucr.ac.cr


Various properties of Cold Work Steels make them perfect for manufacturing a variety of products such as cutting and pressing tools, cavity moulds, knives, hobbing and drawing tools, cavity-sinking punches, flat and circular thread-rolling dies, and much more. Having all such properties like high surface hardness, good toughness and compressive strength, high wear resistance the Cold Work Steel that we offer is highly demanded. Tool & Die Steel is one of major Strengths, We are a Leading Importer - Exporter - Stockist of these Steel Products. WE offer Wide range of Sizes for this Steel.


text:
Adonisea vacciniae är en fjärilsart som beskrevs av Edwards 1875. Adonisea vacciniae ingår i släktet Adonisea och familjen nattflyn. Inga underarter finns listade i Catalogue of Life.

Källor

Nattflyn
vacciniae

redpajama_set_name: RedPajamaWikipedia


text:
Tim Montgomerie and Stephan Shakespeare: Welcome to The Good Right
Follow @montie
John Penrose: The conventional wisdom is wrong. Hunt's spending plans are neither unaffordable nor irresponsible.
Ben Roback: The racism row. Trump has set a trap for the Democrats – but risks also falling into it himself.
Iain Mansfield: Brexit by October 31. Stop using the Left's language. And stand for skilled workers. Essentials for our next Prime Minister.
Tom Tugendhat: The last two men left standing in this contest must resist the temptation to slug it out
Mark Harper: If the Conservative Party is not the party of sound money, then what on earth are we for?
Tim and Stephan preview their forthcoming book, The Good Right, which is part of ConservativeHome's project to identify the Message, Machine and Manifesto for future Conservative majorities.
The British Conservative Party – the twentieth century's most electorally successful political party in the world – hasn't won a parliamentary majority for more than twenty years.
The American Republican Party that won most of presidential elections in the cold war period hasn't won more than 50% of the vote in five of the last six contests for the White House.
In looking to understand transatlantic conservatism's political weakness it would be foolish to blame individual policies or personalities. Something deeper has gone wrong. Conservatism is suffering something of an identity crisis. It's not just ordinary voters who can't agree what conservatism is. Most people on the centre right of politics are deeply confused about what conservatism is.
THE CONFUSED RIGHT
At least four broad definitions of conservatism present themselves.
Since Ronald Reagan and Margaret Thatcher, conservatism has become a creed indistinguishable from capitalism in many voters' minds. For some, this 'conservative capitalism' is about competition, removing barriers to the creation of wealth and cutting taxes. For others of a less sympathetic disposition it's more about cronyism and protecting big business.
For some people, conservative parties are simply the parties of individualism. This is particularly true for many younger conservatives who frequently define themselves in terms of freedom against the state. This can, in extreme forms, become a survival-of-the-fittest Social Darwinism.
Things then start to get confusing, however. For many, conservatism is far from either liberal or libertarian. It's the party of order, control and stability. It's tough on crime, ill-disposed to immigration and intolerant of welfare abuse. Particularly in parts of America, conservatism stands for some very traditional values, notably towards women's rights and towards gay people.
Those who take a longer, more historical perspective see the British Conservatives, in particular, as deeply pragmatic creatures, changing sides in big debates to adopt whatever position most chimes with the public mood of the time. This flexibility – its critics would call it opportunism – helped the Tory Party to become the 20th century's most electorally successful political organisation. Whatever it was that electorates wanted, conservative parties aimed to supply it.
THE GOOD RIGHT
The Good Right argues for radical change in how conservative parties and movements think of themselves and how they present themselves to the world. It is not intended to be a policy manifesto.
It is not comprehensive in scope, not focusing on important questions of foreign policy, for example. Nor is it meant as a commentary on the immediate political situation. 'The Good Right' is an argument that conservative parties should be about more than pounds, shillings and pence. More than economics and more than authoritarian or individualistic.
We advocate a generational shift to what we regard as a conservatism that is true to its historical breadth.
We propose ten steps that will ensure conservatism first captures the moral high ground and then, as night follows day, comes to dominate politics as it has in the past.
We argue this with confidence because conservatism is not a million miles from the perfect recipe. Voters across the world remain attracted to the Right's familiar ingredients of value for taxpayers' money; academic rigour; a tough approach to crime; intolerance of welfare abuse; patriotic self-determination; and strong national defence and border control. What voters haven't seen enough of is conservatism's heart. They haven't seen enough conservative commitment to build a society where everyone has a chance, everyone has a stake and where no one is left behind. Combine the head and heart of conservatism and centre right parties can defeat the Leftist threat from without and the Darwinian distraction from within.
We offer a simple formula for what we call The Good Right. At present we have nations where great inequalities of opportunity are emerging and we have conservative parties that keep losing elections. We believe that conservatism can become popular, authentic and effective if it rebuilds around the idea that family, education and work are the three keys to restoring social progress. Our belief is that the agents of social and economic progress are parents, teachers and job creators. A society that gets behind those will prosper and one that does not will stagnate. And we believe there can be a positive role for government, we don't say that government should always just 'get out of the way' – it has a vital positive role that conservatives need to think about more explicitly.
Building A Majority (Message) Conservatism Conservative strategy Libertarianism Margaret Thatcher Ronald Reagan Socialism US Republicans
Reconstructing May 4) Fixing social care
Reconstructing May 3) She must show that she is on the side of younger people who need homes to buy
Reconstructing May 2) No panic announcement on tuition fees. But a proper medium-term plan.
Reconstructing May 1) She won't win the battle for the future if Corbyn defines the battles of the past.
Our CCHQ election audit: the rusty machine, part three: What can be done to fix it?
Published: September 7, 2017
Our CCHQ election audit: the rusty machine, part two. How and why the ground campaign failed.
Our CCHQ election audit: the rusty machine, part one. Why the operation that succeeded in 2015 failed in 2017.
42 per cent and no majority 7) Leaving the EU offers an opportunity to reduce energy bills
42 per cent and no majority 6) Use leaving the EU to deliver lower food prices
42 per cent and no majority 5) Five steps towards a post-Brexit immigration policy
37 comments for: Tim Montgomerie and Stephan Shakespeare: Welcome to The Good Right

redpajama_set_name: RedPajamaCommonCrawl


The 35th Annual Jazz in July Summer Music Program runs July 10-21, 2017.
The renowned jazz education, performance, and improvisation program is held each year at the University of Massachusetts Amherst. Jazz in July is a summer intensive workshop examining the technique, history, and culture of jazz. Jazz legends such as Dr. Billy Taylor, Sheila Jordan, and Max Roach helped develop Jazz in July's strong foundation in the traditions of jazz. Jazz in July faculty spend these two weeks working with students, helping them to hone their skills as jazz musicians. But Thursday night is their time to shine, showing their chops as prominent jazz musicians!
Featuring Jeff Coffin, Christian Sands, Steve Davis, Steve Johns, Catherine Jensen-Hole, Jeff Holmes, Greg Caputo, Bob Ferrier, Felipe Salles, Genevieve Rose, Stephen Page, Shigefumi "Fumi" Tomita.


The Narrow Stock Adapters work in conjunction with our Parallel Guide System and make it possible to accurately rip stock with very narrow dimensions (less than 10"). We've updated these adapters to now be adjustable from the top side of the Incra T-Track and direct read from the Incra scale with some simple math.
This set requires the Seneca Woodworking Parallel Guide System (Rail Bracket Adapters and Rail Stops) to work properly. We are offering this set for sale individually for customers who had previously purchased our Parallel Guide System and want to add the improved adjustment method to their parallel guide system. These will work with any of the Parallel Guide Systems we've sold (from November 2012 to present).
If you don't yet own the Seneca Woodworking Parallel Guides, the complete set is available here.


"It seems for labour literacy, hazard free healthy environment, manual technical advancements, and share in politics or policy measures is far from reality or rather theoretical approach to deliver."
"Pakistan and Japan share a centuries-old common heritage which invariably links the two countries in strong, historical bond of cultural cooperation. The rich archeological areas of Buddhist and Gandhara civilization in northern Pakistan are the major attraction for Japanese tourists."
"...Israeli democracy puts all its media exclusively at the disposal of the enemies of democracy. Even in the Weimar Republic, stupidity did not go this far."
"Two kinds of forces are fast emerging: the forces for bringing about the pan-Islam federation or the establishment of the now inevitable single Islamic entity, and the forces determined to break up even the existing units that are considered strong enough to provide some kind of impetus to the creation of such a State."
"In the past, when Islam was implemented practically -for instance in Islamic Spain- Jews, Christians and Muslims living in the Spanish cities of Toledo, Cordoba and Granada, enjoyed unrivalled tolerance and prosperity. Martin Hume wrote in his book "Spanish People": "Side by side with the new rulers lived the Christians and Jews in peace. The latter rich with commerce and industry were content to let the memory of their oppression by the priest-ridden Goths sleep".


Say "thank you" without saying a word with our handcrafted script banner. Perfect to hang at your shower or reception or hold for photos.
For your reference, this sign is shown on White paper with Gray ink and Magenta ribbon. Colors may vary from screen to screen. Printed on one side only.


text:
What is the distance between #(3, 9) # and #(5, –3)#?
Algebra Radicals and Geometry Connections Distance Formula
Noah G
To solve problems such as this one, you should use the distance formula (pythagorean theorem).
First, find the vertical and horizontal distances between the points.
Vertical distance = 9 + 3 = 12
Horizontal distance = |3 - 5| = |-2| = 2
So, assuming that the direct distance is the hypotenuse of our right triangle that has a horizontal length of 2 and a vertical height of 12, we now have enough information to do pythagorean theorem.
#a^2# + #b^2# = #c^2#
#2^2# + #12^2# = #c^2#
4 + 144 = #c^2#
√148 or 2√37 = c
So, the answer in exact form is 2√37 units and in decimal form is 12.17.
Here is a practice exercise:
Find the distance between (2, -4) and (-6 , 8)
Hopefully you understand now!
What is the Distance Formula?
How can the distance formula be derived from the pythagorean theorem?
How can the distance formula be used in real life?
How do you find the distance when given two coordinate points?
How do you find the distance between (7, 7) and (–7, 7)?
Does it matter which coordinate is #(x_1,y_1)# when applying the distance formula?
How do you find all points that have an x -coordinate of –4 and whose distance from point (4, 2) is ...
How do you find the distance between (2.3, 4.5) and (–3.4, –5.2)?
What is the distance between the origin of a Cartesian coordinate system and the point (5, -2)?
How do you find the length of the line segment between the points (5,1) and (5,6)?
See all questions in Distance Formula
1847 views around the world


Drake performs in Manchester, England.
Drake channels Marvin Gaye in his new song "Hold on We're Going Home," which he posted online today following a performance at last night's Ovo Fest. The track features smooth vocals and hints of disco as he sings "I want your hot love and emotion, endlessly." The tender song is set to appear on Drake's new album, Nothing Was the Same, due out September 17th.
The song is the latest in a string of songs Drake has released online in recent months. The Canadian singer and rapper posted "Started From the Bottom" in February, and has since released more tracks: "On My Way" came in June, followed a few days later by four other songs. Drake posted another new tune, "All Me," last week.


text:
Phone-alt Envelope Facebook Instagram Twitter Vimeo
Right now, a student is having a learning experience made better by the work we do.
Take Stock In Children
Apple-Mart
Red for Ed
Teacher Funding Grants
Red For Ed Shop
Right now, a student is having a learning experience made better by the work that we do.
Investing in education now to impact our future.
One teacher can inspire the lives of many.
Innovation in and outside of the classroom.
After 25 years and more than a million miles on Florida's highways, the Support Education specialty license plate has a fresh look. While the design is new, the cause remains the same – when a Florida resident purchases or renews their Support Education specialty tag, $20 goes directly back to support schools, teachers and students in the county where the tag is registered.
Since its introduction as Florida's second specialty license plate in 1994, over $13 million dollars has been raised through the collaborative efforts of the Consortium of Florida Education Foundations (CFEF) and local education foundation members throughout the state.
The new design promotes the importance of education in the Sunshine State and is among only a few specialty tags in Florida where the money goes directly back into the county where the tag was purchased or renewed. Florida's K-12 local education foundations invest in classroom innovation, recognize excellence, and provide targeted support beyond what tax dollars provide such as free school supplies for students who can't afford them, classroom grants for teachers and after-school enrichment programs.
Locally, the Educational Foundation of Lake County uses the funds from the Support Education specialty tag for programs like Take Stock In Children, Apple-Mart, Back to School Fairs, and the ACT Reading Prep Program.
"The Support Education specialty tag is a powerful way for citizens to demonstrate their commitment to our public schools and provide needed, local support for teachers and students," said Mary Chance, president of the CFEF. "We are so excited to debut the new design and hope more Florida drivers will support their local teachers and students with the purchase or renewal of the Support Education license tag."
The annual fee for the Support Education specialty license plate is $25. Local taxes and state fees may apply and first-time purchase price and fees may vary based on scheduled vehicle registration renewal date. The new Support Education tag design is available now and can be purchased in-person at your local tax collector office or online at LicenseToLearnFL.com.
16 December, 2018 at 12:27 pm Carman In The News, News Share via:
2045 Pruitt St Leesburg, FL 34748. Educational Foundation of Lake County Copyright © 2022 Designed by WPlook Studio


Production and installation of metal structures and vessel equipment in PASSAT Holding are performed by Mashhimprom, LLC.
Two of holding's companies – NPO Passat, LLC and The Institute of Mining Electrical Engineering and Automation, LLC – have engineering profile.
Complex turnkey works are the sphere of one of the holding's enterprises – The Institute of Mining Electrical Engineering and Automation.


By Karen A. Mann. Cough's music has always strongly evoked that sweet spot between feeling no pain and puking your guts out after drinking a bottle full of codeine-laced cough syrup. You never quite know where any of their songs will lead you.
Cough's music has always strongly evoked that sweet spot between feeling no pain and puking your guts out after drinking a bottle full of codeine-laced cough syrup. You never quite know where any of their songs will lead you. One moment it's ethereal and fuzzy. The next moment you're begging for death. The band seemed to have peaked with the 2010 release Ritual Abuse, a misanthropic slab of agony that brought them a wider audience, and some often unfair comparisons to Electric Wizard.
Aside from their 2013 split with Windhand, the band was mostly silent for six years, during which the members focused on other projects (guitarist Brandon Marcey leads Sinister Haze and bass player Parker Chandler is also in Windhand). Now Cough is finally back with the incredible Still They Pray, appropriately produced by Jus Oborn and Windhand mastermind Garrett Morris, who coaxed the band to create their strongest, most melodic release to date.
Still They Pray begins with a feedback shriek that segues into the shuffling, howling "Haunter of the Dark." Driven by a gut-punch groove and David Cisco's wah-freakout guitar, "Haunter" is a perfect vehicle for Cisco's tortured, from-the-abyss vocals. It's also a good indicator of what to expect from the rest of the album: groovy rhythms that can turn unexpectedly jammy, layers upon layers of hypnotic riffing, and vocals from both Cisco and Chander that sound utterly desperate and morose, whether they're screaming or quietly singing in a clean voice.
Karen's photos are from Cough's album release show. See more of them over at her blog.


Chow Meinwith Rice and Noodles.
Lo MeinSoft Noodle, No Rice.
Combination PlatesServed with Pork Fried Rice and Egg Roll.
Weight Watcher's MenuThese Special Selections Offer the Dieter A Light Meal without Sactrificing Taste.
Lunch Special11am to 3pm. Served with pork fried rice & free choce of wonton soup, egg drop soup or soda.


text:
"Toyota's Collaborative Safety Research..."
Toyota's Collaborative Safety Research Center to Launch New System Usability Research with Partners including University of Michigan and State Farm
Studies into driver behavior and health monitoring innovations continue Toyota's focus on designing safe and intuitive advanced vehicle technologies
ANN ARBOR, Mich. (November 12, 2020) – Marking World Usability Day, Toyota's Collaborative Safety Research Center (CSRC) today announced four new research projects focused on enhancing advanced technology system designs to be intuitive, easy to understand and to safely engage with drivers. The new projects, undertaken in partnership with University of Michigan, Miami University, University of Nebraska, Texas A&M Transportation Institute and State Farm will support and inform a transition to a safe future of mobility.
Toyota's CSRC is investing $1 million in research projects focused on creating systems that are safe and efficient. These projects will focus on enabling safer and more efficient mobility systems by exploring driver behavior in different environments, monitoring driver health and identifying driver error when interacting with advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS) technologies.
Data from each project will be shared across the institutions to help speed research, with the results made public to support the advancement of auto safety industrywide.
"These studies will help us better align advanced vehicle technologies with the driver's needs and allow us to design and develop systems that are ultimately intuitive and easy for drivers to use," said Jeff Makarewicz, group vice president, Toyota Motor North America, Advanced Mobility Research & Development. "By working with our partner institutions, and openly sharing our insights with the broader automotive, government, NGO, and technology communities, we believe we can help progress society's acceptance of these new and promising technologies."
Since its launch in 2011, CSRC has initiated 63 research projects with 31 partner universities, publishing more than 400 papers and presenting at multiple industry conferences. CSRC research has made meaningful contributions to auto safety industrywide, including studies into human factors on vehicle safety and the efficacy of active and passive safety systems, as well as the collection of driving safety data and development of new tools to analyze that data.
The new CSRC research projects include:
For more information on Toyota's Collaborative Safety Research Center, click here.
About Toyota
Toyota (NYSE:TM) has been a part of the cultural fabric in the U.S. for more than 60 years, and is committed to advancing sustainable, next-generation mobility through our Toyota and Lexus brands, plus our nearly 1,500 dealerships.
Toyota has created a tremendous value chain and directly employs more than 36,000 in the U.S. The company has contributed world-class design, engineering, and assembly of more than 30 million cars and trucks at our 9 manufacturing plants, 10 including our joint venture in Alabama that begins production in 2021.
To help inspire the next generation for a career in STEM-based fields, including mobility, Toyota launched its virtual education hub at www.TourToyota.com with an immersive experience and chance to visit many of our U.S. manufacturing facilities. The hub also includes a series of free STEM-based lessons and curriculum through Toyota USA Foundation partners, virtual field trips and more. For more information about Toyota, visit www.toyotanewsroom.com.
Cynthia Mahalak
Cynthia.Mahalak@Toyota.com
+ Select All
- DeSelect All
Roadmanship 2
Download High Resolution
Download Web Resolution
Identify Deviations 1
Feasibility of Indexing Health
Posture and Falling 1
The Stars Align for 2022 Toyota Tundra
Toyota Selects North Carolina Greensboro-Randolph Site for New U.S. Automotive Battery Plant
Next-Generation Tacoma TRD Pro Takes Off-Road Performance Up a Notch


The office is located on the Palais Esplanade in the centre of Meran (South Tirol) at Sandplatz 2, right by the Bozner Tor. Adequate parking facilities are provided by a parking area near the Hotel Palace and another parking area by the Therme Meran. Thanks to its central location, the office is also easy to reach by public transport.
German clients are also supported through the Frankfurt on the Main office of RA Dr. Mario Filtzinger Attorneys in Wiesenau 27-29. Appointments can be made with the attorneys at Dr. Pirhofer, Dr. De Giuseppe & Partner for meetings at this office.
Romstrasse/via Roma ends at a set of traffic lights along the River Passer, where the road splits: turn left towards the Meraner Thermen or turn right towards the 5* Hotel Palace, following signs for the Jaufenpass.
If you turn left at the traffic lights, you will immediately enter the underpass below Thermenplatz, where you can turn right into the underground Therme car park.
If you turn right at the traffic lights, continue for 50 metres and turn right again into the Minigolf car park directly below the renowned Hotel Palace.


text:
Home News Articles War Breaking News World Business Health Life About
Articles News All
NSA director wants 'maritime' law for internet
International partners should embrace a sort of "Law of the Sea" for the internet, the head of the United States National Security Agency now says, in order to keep the web open and safe from bad actors, state-sponsored or otherwise.
Speaking at a cyberwar conference in Estonia on Wednesday, NSA Director Mike Rogers told attendees that continuing management of an "open, reliable and safe" internet may be best achieved if global stakeholders look towards other areas, where widespread cooperation is required to keep operations afloat.
"I hope we do not find a world in which the internet becomes something that fractures and where the ability to move information freely is controlled," Rogers said at the seventh Conference on Cyber Conflict, an annual event hosted by NATO's Cooperative Cyber Defense Centre of Excellence.
"The seas around the world are, much like the cyber domain, not governed by one single nation. We have created maritime norms and have to do the same in the cyber space to ensure a flow of information and ideas," Rogers said, adding, "I'd like to see if we can create something equivalent to the maritime world in the cyber world that enables us to keep moving information, keep moving commerce, keep moving ideas on a global basis."
"Can we create a 'global commons', so to speak, that enables open, reliable, safe and resilient communications, a flow of information and ideas?" the spy chief added. "(This should be) in a framework that maximizes its use for all of us."
inside_article
Rogers' remarks came just shy of the two-year anniversary concerning the publication of the first news articles to make use of leaked NSA documents to expose aspects of the agency's previously secret surveillance operations. Since June 2013, classified files provided to the media by Edward Snowden, a former US government contractor, have detailed the NSA's global eavesdropping efforts, including programs that opponents say have compromised core aspects of the internet.
"The issue is not that the NSA is spying on whoever the bad guy is who they want to spy on," acclaimed cryptologist Bruce Schneier said previously of the agency's effort. "The issue is that they are deliberately weakening the security of everyone else in the world in order to make that spying easier."
Notwithstanding nearly two years of condemnation from international critics, Rogers reportedly urged attendees at this week's event to work together with the US to adopt a system of governance that would keep the web as open as possible. Given revelations made possible by the Snowden trove, however, Rogers could encounter an uphill battle when trying to get international partners on the same page.
NSA disclosures have already led Brazilian President Dilma Rousseff to call for a country-specific internet to avoid US surveillance, and some of America's biggest tech companies, including Google and Apple, have announced plans to open new data centers abroad to ease foreign customers, who fear their information is falling into the hands of Uncle Sam.
Commenting to Reuters, Richard Hill, a former staff member of the United Nations' International Telecommunications Union, said the NSA chief's remarks were "exactly contrary" to current US policy that puts America's intentions above those of others.
On June 5, 2013, the Washington Post and the Guardian first reported that the NSA collects millions of telephone records in bulk on a regular basis, regardless of whether that data pertains to individuals suspected of any criminal activity. After nearly two years of debate, the Patriot Act provision that supposedly authorized the NSA to collect call records, Section 215, is set to expire at the end of this month.
rt.com
EntryNews
Depopulation: Plastics chemicals are reducing women's sex drives and men's sperm counts
New research out of the University of Rochester in New York has found that the plastics chemicals lurking in furniture, food packaging and many other consumer products are directly linked to decreased...
Ginger tea shown to naturally kill cancer, dissolve kidney stones, improve liver health and more
Ginger is another example of a 'superfood' that has been prized for thousands of years for its amazing health benefits, and which is now being scientifically proven to have more beneficial properties than...
The IMF Just Entered The Cold War – Forgives Ukraine's Debt To Russia
Since 1947 when it really started operations, the World Bank has acted as a branch of the U.S. Defense Department, from its first major chairman John J. McCloy through Robert McNamara to Robert Zoellick...
Right Now There Are 102.6 Million Working Age Americans That Do Not Have A Job NATO Prepares to Send Troops to Protect Turkey from Russian "Threats" The Real Reasons Saudi Arabia Hates Iran McCain wants to shoot down Russian planes attacking Islamists
It's Official – UK Admits "Human Rights" No Longer a Priority of British Foreign Policy
Not that they ever were, but they've finally decided to be honest about it. Which to be honest, is pretty scary.
Over Half of E.U. Countries Are Opting Out of GMOs
Sixteen countries have alerted the European Union that they want to opt out of E.U.-approved GM crops.
Proxy Wars: U.S. to arm Kurdish and Arab fighters in Syria
President Obama has decided not to directly confront Russia over its new air offensive in Syria, believing that President Vladimir Putin will soon find himself in a Syrian "quagmire," but he has approved...
Oregon Shooter's Links To Military Cops Rupture Handcuffed Man's Spleen, Laugh at Him, Take Pics as He Lay Dying and Begging U.S. Politicians Are Asked About Saudi Atrocities... Here's What Happened Next AMERICAN jihadi is 'top ISIS commander': Yazidi slave reveals that she was beaten and held captive by US citizen who directs attacks and keeps vial of poison to kill himself if he is caught
Business China Targets Dollar, Washington Has Conniptions
Now even Israel - joined at the hip to the US though the relationship has run into rough waters - has applied to become a founding member of the China-led Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank. Despite...
Breaking News Chinese Doctors Remove Leech From Schoolboy's Throat
Chinese doctors have discovered why complaints of a "sore throat" eventually caused a Chinese schoolboy to lose consciousness.
China Targets Dollar, Washington Has Conniptions Big shark spotted in Egypt's Sharm el-Sheikh again George Zimmerman released on bail, awaits murder trial
Твиты от @EntryNews
Other Articles Depopulation: Plastics chemicals are reducing women's sex drives and men's sperm counts Ginger tea shown to naturally kill cancer, dissolve kidney stones, improve liver health and more The IMF Just Entered The Cold War – Forgives Ukraine's Debt To Russia Right Now There Are 102.6 Million Working Age Americans That Do Not Have A Job NATO Prepares to Send Troops to Protect Turkey from Russian "Threats" The Real Reasons Saudi Arabia Hates Iran McCain wants to shoot down Russian planes attacking Islamists It's Official – UK Admits "Human Rights" No Longer a Priority of British Foreign Policy Over Half of E.U. Countries Are Opting Out of GMOs Proxy Wars: U.S. to arm Kurdish and Arab fighters in Syria Oregon Shooter's Links To Military Cops Rupture Handcuffed Man's Spleen, Laugh at Him, Take Pics as He Lay Dying and Begging U.S. Politicians Are Asked About Saudi Atrocities... Here's What Happened Next AMERICAN jihadi is 'top ISIS commander': Yazidi slave reveals that she was beaten and held captive by US citizen who directs attacks and keeps vial of poison to kill himself if he is caught
© 1999-2019. «EntryNews.COM». When reproducing our materials in whole or in part, hyperlink to EntryNews.COM should be made.
The opinions and views of the authors do not always coincide with the point of view of EntryNews.COM's editors.


Grant focuses on supporting school districts and community organizations working to create healthy school environments.
Washington, D.C. – America's Promise Alliance, the nation's largest network dedicated to improving the lives of children and youth, is extending the America's Promise Healthy Schools Fund to communities working to create healthier school environments for all children.
As part of Together for Healthy and Successful Schools, a new initiative of the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation (RWJF), America's Promise will select three to five districts and/or community-level organizations that will receive up to $300,000 for two years to support existing collaborative efforts.
What if every young person went to a school that focuses on academics as well as social and emotional development and physical health? How do we create the conditions to make it so all children, no matter where they are from, or how much money their family makes, has access to a school that helps them develop into well-rounded adults?
Recognizing that school-centered health intersects with many areas outside of education—housing, employment, transportation, and food access— efforts should serve as a hub for cross-sector collaboration, youth and community engagement, and broader policy and systemic change. Selected grantees will display alignment with this vision and a proven ability to accelerate positive change for young people in schools and their communities.
Districts and organizations in the following 20 states are eligible to apply: Alaska, California, Colorado,District of Columbia, Florida, Idaho, Indiana, Michigan, Mississippi, Missouri, Nevada, New Jersey, New Mexico, New York, North Dakota, Oregon, Rhode Island, South Carolina, Texas, and Washington.
To learn more about the America's Promise Healthy Schools Fund and to apply, visit www.americaspromise.org/healthy-schools-fund. Informational sessions about the grant will take place on November 28 and December 7. The deadline to submit applications is January 22, 2018.
America's Promise Alliance is offering the America's Promise Healthy Schools Fund as a result of its grant award to lead the strategic action and alignment arm of the Together for Healthy and Successful Schools initiative.
Funded by the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation, the initiative has the goal of advancing a more holistic approach to ensuring healthy, successful students; thriving communities; and a better future for everyone. America's Promise will work closely with its fellow grantees—Child Trends and Washington University in St. Louis – which are leading the policy and research arms of the initiative, respectively.
In its role, America's Promise will activate and align existing and new stakeholders at both the local and national levels to support and build demand for healthier schools. America's Promise has partnered with five leading organizations –ChildObesity180, Communities In Schools, FoodCorps, the National Association of Community Health Centers, and Turnaround for Children – to provide support and work with communities to learn about successfully supporting health and well-being in schools.
America's Promise Alliance leads more than 450 organizations, communities and individuals dedicated to making the promise of America real for every child. For more information, visit www.AmericasPromise.org.


This month's cheese comes from Albania. Because I've been to Tirana, for the first time, and certainly not the last. Four highly enjoyable late summer days in a city which seemed to me like Istanbul, Rome and Berlin all in one, if on a smaller scale. Yes, of course, there are many problems, unsurprisingly, but also confidence and optimism. I met wonderful people – and cheese!! Mishavinë stems from the remote north of the country, on the Montenegro border… I'm still like over the moon, and in a state of happy speechlessness. Really. And have to find out more about it. Therefore: hopefully more about all this soon, elsewhere. At least you already have my Heinzelcheese word for this: Albania and cheese, that's a thing.
Faleminderit, shihemi së shpejti, Bledar dhe Nikolin!
If you enjoyed reading this, you might consider clicking on the button below and supporting me in my work. I'd be more than happy.


By hiring professionals to do the job for you, you can rest assured that your household are in safe hands and that they will reach your new place in the best possible manner. Remember that by hiring experts you are saving yourself from tension, work and stress. Please send us an brief enquiry to get the best & affordable price for your house shifting..
Packers and Movers Mumbai 248 10 10.
We provide our services using fully equipped clean and regularly maintained moving trucks. For your peace of mind our moving services are insured, hence your furniture is in safe expert hands. Our crews are fast, efficient, courteous and professional. Our rates are competitive. Our scheduling process is quick.


text:
Teen danger driver drags terrified woman along Bentilee road
Matthew Stevens claimed he was just trying to get away from them following a confrontation
Ruthin Rioad, Bentilee
A young motorist has been jailed after dragging a woman several yards down the road in his car and then striking another pedestrian.
The incident unfolded after Matthew Stevens, who was 18 at the time, was spotted sitting in a black Audi in Ruthin Road, Bentilee.
The mother of his ex-girlfriend lived nearby and she arrived home with her partner in a taxi at around 7pm. After the couple got out, the woman recognised Stevens and went to confront him.
More Stoke-on-Trent and Staffordshire headlines
Catherine Ravenscroft, prosecuting at Stoke-on-Trent Crown Court, said: "She attempted to remove the keys from the ignition.
"As she did so, the defendant drove off, dragging her along for a period, although she got free from the vehicle."
Stevens then drove round the block and returned to the same spot, where he drove towards the woman's partner.
"She saw her partner go over the bonnet of the car. The reverse lights were on. She thought he was going to reverse over him," added Ms Ravenscroft.
But the driver fled the scene and later abandoned the vehicle. It was discovered some time later by police.
When they recovered it, they found a phone and bank card inside the car which belonged to the woman. She had dropped the items as she was dragged along the road in the incident on September 6 last year.
When your bins will be collected in North Staffordshire this Christmas
Hanley nightclub due to reopen tonight after £30k refurb
McDonald's says sorry after Britney, 22, finds 'snail' in meal
Horrible eggy smell from old McGuinness site leaves neighbours gagging
The defendant, who has since turned 20, went on to plead guilty to dangerous driving and failing to surrender to bail.
Stevens, of Dividy Road, Bentilee, has now been sentenced to 13 months in a young offender institution.
Rashad Mohammed, mitigating, said the defendant had previously experienced some issues with his ex-girlfriend and her family after they split up.
"He thought he was being blamed for things he didn't do, such as smashing windows," he added.
On the day of the incident in Ruthin Road, he maintained he was just trying to drive away after being confronted by the woman.
Mr Mohammed told the court: "His behaviour was impulsive rather than pre-planned. He simply failed to think through the consequences of his actions."
Sentencing him, Judge Paul Glenn said he had 'pulled off at speed' while dragging his ex-girlfriend's mother 'two or three car lengths' along the road.
"She describes feeling frightened," he added, although the woman escaped serious injury.
"You then struck her partner, causing him to go over the bonnet. He suffered bruising to his arm and elbow and had knee difficulties. It was lucky it was not more serious."
Judge Glenn said Stevens appeared to be living 'an aimless existence' and had never held paid employment.
He told him: "I've seen nothing at all to suggest a realistic prospect of rehabilitation."
As well as the custodial sentence, the defendant has been disqualified from driving for three years and until he passes an extended test.
Get alerts of the latest news from our courts
Want a free daily bulletin - plus breaking news alerts direct to your inbox? Then sign up to our email newsletter service by clicking here.
Or you can type your email address into the 'sign up to free daily alerts' box. It's at the top of this article.
Click 'subscribe' and you can expect your first newsletter at the next release.
Aldi says sorry after Staffordshire mum finds 'sharp' objects in son's lolly
Covid Christmas 2021 vs Covid Christmas 2020 – are things better this year?
Stoke-on-Trent Crown Court
Bentilee


Our office is located in Clearwater, Florida – conveniently located to serve you. Office address, telephone numbers and interactive maps can be found below.
with lunch hour at noon.
If you would like to contact us via e-mail, fill out the form.
Dr. Lox and staff stand ready to serve your needs and help reduce your pain.


I just bought a pair of skinny, turquoise jeans at the Gap outlet. I think the colored jean thing will have a little more life than the patterned pants, so I decided to dive in. Plus they were only $24 and super soft and comfy. I've been considering dabbling in the patterned pants trend, but agree with all your considerations, so I am looking for something on the thrift store racks. I might come across something current that ends up there because the purchaser just didn't love them or I may find some 80s or 90s pants that have a modern looking print and shape. We'll see.


text:
$600m in penalty rejected over opioid drug sales
Image copyright Reuters Image caption The Pharmacy Doctor's Board has slapped Purdue Pharma with a fine of $28.5m
The UK's highest court has rejected a $630m (£405m) settlement deal by US drug company Purdue Pharma over its role in fuelling the opioid epidemic.
Last month, the state of West Virginia's governor sued Purdue Pharma, contending it had ignored warnings about the effects of its painkillers.
Professor James Odell, who represented Purdue Pharma, said: "They are looking at us as though we are a rapacious corporation out to make a killing out of people who are struggling with their lives."
There were nearly 47,000 overdose deaths in 2016, making it the leading cause of death for Americans aged between 35 and 44.
In March, a state judge in Colorado struck down a similar $1bn settlement as too small. He ordered both parties to develop a more comprehensive plan.
Arctic of blame
Prof Odell said: "People actually died because this was a drug that was supplied by Purdue with such gruesome effectiveness.
"Purdue knew it had a poisonous drug on its hands. They knew, they just didn't care."
On Wednesday, UK courts ordered Purdue Pharma to pay £25.6m, based on the State of New Jersey's claim that it should be held responsible for fraudulently pushing its painkillers to patients.
Prof Odell said his clients were "embarrassed" that they still had a large stake in the company.
"We could make Purdue just disappear," he said. "We could end it tomorrow. That would be great, but it would take years and years and years of litigation.
"We would also enjoy our children's lives better, as their lives would be a lot better without that company."
Categories national Tags celebrity, coronavirus (2019-ncov), influenza, research, science and technology, television
Meet Ebony Wood, Black golf pioneer who inspired generations to tackle the game
Siberian forest fire: Climate change may have sparked blaze


text:
Top 40 Chart
There's something about summertime in New Zealand that makes us feel like a child waking up on Christmas morning. From the classic Kiwi BBQ, to the smell of sunblock, to the piles of sand finding its way into your shoes. We can't help but think that all of our best memories are usually created during summer, and even more so during the classic summer roady.
The best thing about a summer roady (aside from the snacks, of course) is the sick playlist you've been working on since November that your friends have finally given you the chance to play, living out your ultimate DJ fantasies. The pressure is well and truly on as the AUX (or Bluetooth) works its way around your friend group and lands on you. It can be daunting trying to find a perfect mix of summer vibe and catchy hits to sing along to, so let us help you with 8 songs that will get your entire roady crew singing along.
1. Nicki Minaj – 'Starships'
This throwback hit from OG rap queen Nicki Minaj is the perfect jam to chuck on when hitting the beach this summer. From the raps that never miss a beat to the insanely catchy tunes, there's no surprise Nicki has been thriving in the rap game for many years. The popular track comes from her album Pink Friday and will most definitely make you want to bust out some moves. Although to avoid any dance move casualties in the car it's probably best to stick with the vocals, it's near impossible to get past the first verse without belting out a few lyrics let alone the entire song. We haven't heard a lot from the rapper lately as she takes some time out to focus on her family, so make sure you play this one loud for the Minaj fans in the back.
Best sing-along lyrics: "Uh, let's go to the beach, each/Let's go get a wave"
2. Empire Of The Sun – 'Walking On A Dream'
Empire Of The Sun remind us of those days as a child when you and your cousins would dress up and perform shows for your parents (if you know, you know). They bring a fun and quirky vibe with their music ultimately making their hits perfect for those spontaneous group performances in the car. The duo formed in 2007 and is a collaboration between Luke Steele, of alternative rock band The Sleepy Jackson, and Nick Littlemore, of electric dance band Pnau. Both members reside in Australia and have previously made the trip across the ditch to headline popular music festival Rhythm and Vines during 2013, making them a fitting act to amp you up before your annual summer festivals.
Best sing-along lyrics: "We are always running for the thrill of it, thrill of it"
3. Katy Perry – 'Teenage Dream'
There's nothing quite like a Katy Perry hit to get the carpool karaoke going. Katy's array of pop anthems are the type of tracks that will bring out the old school SingStar fans of your squad. Released in 2010, 'Teenage Dream' has major summer vibes, with even the music video replicating the fun filled roadys that many of us look forward to as we wrap up the year. The track talks of a relationship that Katy is so smitten about she feels like a teenager again, a fitting narrative to sing along to with your S/O or just your classic group of friends wanting to have a blast this summer. No doubt this hit will get you in your nostalgic feels as you reminisce on your teenage years, perfect for the sunset drives.
Best sing-along lyrics: "You make me/Feel like I'm living a/Teenage Dream/The way you turn me on/I can't sleep/Lets run away and don't ever look back/Don't ever look back"
4. Queen – 'Bohemian Rhapsody'
We feel this song could sit on this list without any commentary and everyone would just get it. Possibly one of the most popular sing-along songs to exist, the track needs no explanation as to why it should be on your roady playlist. It's simply not enough to just sing the lyrics, if you aren't singing the opera voices and guitar as well then you aren't doing it right. The 1975 anthem goes down in history as being one of the best-selling singles of all time, with over six million copies sold worldwide. It's a perfect song for any road trip crew with a part to sing for everyone, just channel your inner Glee star and hit the road. Make sure to watch out for those hidden Freddie Mercury's among your group – it's always the quiet ones.
Best sing-along lyrics: "Mama, ooo/Didn't mean to make you cry/If I'm not back again this time tomorrow/Carry on, carry on, as if nothing really matters"
5. Mike Posner – 'I Took A Pill In Ibiza'
You may not be headed to a beach in Ibiza this year but a beach in New Zealand is just as good (if not better) we like to think. Despite the lack of overseas travel, you can still vibe like you're having a European adventure with this well-known hit from Mike Posner. Originally the track was meant to portray how Posner was feeling empty and unfulfilled in his career, however the remix by Norwegian duo Seeb brought an upbeat spin to it that Posner describes as both "ironic" and "beautiful": "I wrote this sad thing, and it was me processing some dark and heavy emotion, and now people seem to be having their own joyous memories out of my sadness. That's a very beautiful thing as an artist." The popular beat will have you and your crew singing all the way to your favourite summer festy.
Best sing-along lyrics: "I took a pill in Ibiza/To show Avicii I was cool/And when I finally got sober, felt 10 years older/But f*ck it, it was something to do"
6. The Killers – 'Mr. Brightside'
The Killers are no strangers to creating the hits, and 'Mr. Brightside' has to take the cake for being their absolute best. The classic track will have everyone belting out the chorus, no matter the situation. The song hits different post-quarantine with the lyrics "Coming out of my cage" ringing partly true for New Zealander's who have (hopefully) come out of their last quarantine this year. The track was also the subject of many meme's throughout the quarantine period with many fans referencing their excitement to hit the clubs post-quarantine and listening to 'Mr. Brightside' for the eighth time in a row. As the world around us tumbles into chaos, the lyrics and timely memes almost feel more relatable than ever. In other words, a perfect addition to your roady music line up.
Best sing-along lyrics: "But it's just the price I pay/Destiny is calling me/Open up my eager eyes/'Cause I'm Mr. Brightside"
7. DNCE – 'Cake By The Ocean'
They may no longer be together but there's no doubt this popular group made waves with their signature hit 'Cake By The Ocean'. Lead by the extremely talented (and gorgeous) Joe Jonas, the band released the single back in 2015 where it managed to reach the top 10 across several charts. Don't get us wrong, we love the Jonas Brothers until the end, but when the three brothers broke off into their own musical projects we were pleasantly surprised by the outcome. When first hearing the track it seems to be talking about two things that most people are a big fan of – cake and the ocean. However for those of you that don't know the true meaning of the song… well we'll leave that up to your imagination.
Best sing-along lyrics: "Talk to me, baby/I'm going blind from this sweet-sweet craving/Whoa-oh/Let's lose our minds and go f*cking crazy/Ah ya ya ya ya/I keep on hoping we'll eat cake by the ocean"
8. Niall Horan – 'Slow Hands'
By now it's possible you are slightly losing your voice after singing to all of these summer hits, but before you lose it completely (or the driver shuts the karaoke party down) make sure to include this upbeat tune from former One Direction member Niall Horan. The sound of his smooth vocals and catchy notes are a perfect way to end the long ride to your destination, ready to do it all over again on your way home. The lyrics have a hidden racy theme that will get even Louis Tomlinson re-thinking his "church boy" comment that he famously made about Horan back in a 2014 interview. A singer so talented he should collaborate with the likes of Harry Styles, Liam Payne, Louis Tomlinson and Zayn Malik – I mean we can dream right?
Best sing-along lyrics: "Slow, slow hands/Like sweat dripping down our dirty laundry/No, no chance/That I'm leaving here without you on me"
Listen to the rest of our favourite sing-alongs here:
SEE ALSO: Best Nicki Minaj Songs: 20 Essential Tracks From The Queen Of Hip-Hop
By Katja Feary
Sam Smith General Knowledge Quiz


text: Sometimes, in the warmth of my complaisance, I sit, and his image comes to disturb my peace. At the edge of seeing, in fire's light he slides into my consciousness. A frost of grey traps light, an aura in his hair. His face is dark, and eyes reflect the fire's light, but I can never see his face. Serene, he sit in lotus pose. Amidst the traveler's tales of places been and seen and money spent and saved, he seemed so out of place. And yet this was his place, his park, his new emergent nation, and we the interlopers, the visitors, the guests. He had come to share the evening ritual of beer, and spirits, and ganja smoke, and social discourse of the trip. And who were we, rich beyond his imagining, to deny him this. He took but little of what came his way and then passed it on. He spoke not, and I, uneasy with his presence, preserved the silence in the dark. Despite the dimness of the fire and my unease, eyes met and he broke the silence, "Jambo sir. Please, where are you from?" Awkwardly I said "Canada, from Canada." "Oh Canada, you have large salmon and much wheat," the "l" in salmon vocalized. He sat, immobile, with legs crossed. Forfending a return to silence, I inquired "How do you sit so long, cross legged and still?" The fire, reflecting from his smile he said, "It is not hard with legs like these." Gnarled and deformed, just visible by fire's light, the strangely beautiful terrain that was his knees cast light and shadow from the highs and lows of fused and knitted bone. Reflections from the specula of scar, highlighted smooth and sensual patterns. But not again would flex the rigid scar and sinew of those battered, ill-formed joints of his. Awareness came that he sat not upon a bench or stool but rather on a wheeled device, much like a child's red wagon lacking sides. He pushed himself with wooden sticks. I did not know what else to say so simply said, "I'm sorry." "No need," he said, "they are me." and then, Do you have child?" I told him no. I'm sorry was his sole response. "No need," I said, "we're young and do not yet have time." Again the same response and then with pride, "I've two. They'll graduate fifth-form and that is how I know of Canada." His pity for our childless state was clear and so to change the dialogue I asked about his legs. When he was young, a village child, his parents broke and set them so. I was confused, not sure that I had understood so calmly had he said it, and I asked, afraid, "Your parents did this thing to you?" With true compassion in his voice he said, "It was hard, it was an act of courage." They were poor and he, the youngest, would have no land, nor education would he get, and begging was his only hope. He remembered little of the act. His father held him still, while another smashed and set his knees. He lived as pampered guest until the bone had set and pain was gone. He learned to beg and raised two children with his trade, and they would graduate with options he had not, nor would they have to beg like him or maim a child to give it hope.


My flatmates – Giorgio and Veronika – and I left bright and early to start our first day of Spanish school at 8:30. It was a casual fifteen-minute walk downhill to the school, which was on a busy palm-tree-lined avenue and pedestrian promenade on the edge of the marina. The walk took us through town, down La Rambla, a bustling shopping street by day and a lively strip of clubs and bars by night, which was crossed by narrow, winding alleys of the Old Town.
The school was small, yet modern, and as soon as we arrived, we sat a placement test to determine our level of Spanish. The first part was grammar exercises – my strong point, great! The second part was an oral test – my weak point, not so great! Despite slipping in the odd subjunctive in the speaking part, the two tests balanced out to place me at level B1 (the European language proficiency levels being A1, A2, B1, B2, C1 and C2 in ascending order).
Classes were to be a demanding five hours every weekday with the first three weeks being from 14:30 until 19:30 and the final three weeks from 09:30 until 14:30, and I found myself in a class taught by Laura, a softly-spoken lady from Argentina, and Pedro, an energetic Spaniard, (both in their late 20s/early 30s). I was put in the same class as my flatmates and eight other students from Germany, Japan, Italy, France, England, Belarus and Russia.
As school was in the afternoon, we had a few hours to explore the city, but after a five-minute stroll, we found the hectic city beach, where we set up camp for the rest of the morning.
Back at school in the afternoon, we started off with talking about Spanish customs and comparing them to our own. It wasn't just grammar drills we did in class; it was more practical than university classes. We learnt Spanish recipes; Pedro even gave me his family's paella recipe, which my flatmates and I tried out. Talk about deliciosa.
We learned about Spanish card games, Spanish hand gestures, Spanish idioms and Spanish dances, like the flamenco. It was very culturally oriented – the ideal way to learn a language – and at the end of each day, I'd come home with a sheet of A4's worth of vocabulary.


Traders once called Egypt a "lazy carry", courtesy of President Hosni Mubarak's policy of making the local pound shadow the US dollar.
Robert Burgess, emerging markets economist at Deutsche Bank, said: "It was easy. You could short the dollar, invest in Egypt and enjoy return of 8% to 9% with limited downside."


12 Oct: Performed Pooje at the Mahakaleshwar Jyotirlinga temple in Ujjain, Madhya Pradesh.
05 Oct: Former PM & JDS National President Shri HD Devegowda visited me at the Apollo Hospital to enquire about my health.
Former PM & JDS National President Shri HD Devegowda visited me at the Apollo Hospital to enquire about my health….
05 Oct: Was blessed to have Suttur Mutt's Sri Shivarathri Deshikendra Swamiji visit my official residence. He asked me about my health and wished that I would recover fully soon.


Shopping cart abandonment is a major online shopping phenomenon that is only growing with time. While some 62% of carts were abandoned in 2011, this jumped to 67% in 2012 and some sources report as high as 73% in 2013. That's means the vast majority of shoppers do not follow through with the online purchasing process. Overall it's estimated that some $13 billion in sales are lost annually due to shopping cart desertion. Why does this happen?
Studies cite a number of reasons for shopping cart abandonment. The most popular by far is the discovery of extra costs at the checkout, such as expensive shipping costs or sales tax. Next in line are those who say they were just browsing. Note that it's very rare for a consumer to buy from an online site during the first visit (only 1%!). These causes were followed by more cost considerations including those who found a better price elsewhere and those who found the total cost to be too expensive and decided against buying. Further down the list are technical reasons such as complicated websites, website crashes and overly long processing including security checks. The smallest group of causes dealt with payment issues: prices were displayed only in a foreign currency, worries over payment security and payment method refusal.
If online retailers want to recoup even a fraction of this enormous lost income they must make some major changes in the manner they market online. These changes can be both pro-active in order to prevent shopping cart abandonment from occurring, as well as reactive to recoup a loss after abandonment has already occurred.
Offering free shipping is the single best way to prevent shopping cart abandonment. While online retailers have been slow to catch on, they're learning quickly. At the beginning of 2009 only 37% of online sales were eligible for free shipping. Just two years later this jumped to 47%. Some 20% of consumers say free shipping is the main reason they shop with a particular retailer and many retailers now offer free shipping on every sale. Almost 40% of consumers say they deliberately purchase enough to be eligible for free shipping. At the very least, consider lowering your free order threshold by some 15%.
Prominently display your security logos so buyers are reassured that their credit/debit cards or other payment methods won't be compromised by buying online. This simple action has been proven to increase sales by some 5%!
Since many sales are now via international orders it's important to show what the cost will be in the consumer's local currency. This is a simple enough addition that can track the buyer's IP address to determine what currency they are likely to prefer. Some online stores even go as far as to ask the consumer directly.
Inbound phone calls are 10-15 times more likely to convert than inbound web leads. You should therefore display a toll-free telephone number or chat box option so consumers can talk to service personnel and get direct answers to any questions they have about the product, delivery method or payment process.
Simplify payment by minimizing the checkout process, offering multiple payment options, eliminating hidden charges and making cart editing easier by providing a link to the shopper's cart on every page.
Even if the cart has been abandoned the game is still far from over. In fact, there is a very good chance you can recoup the sale if you handle the situation properly.
Retargeting works by following a consumer out of your site and into the next site they visit. There it places an ad with the same or similar product in order to draw them back in. For retargeting use banner ads, sidebar ads or videos. Inside the ads make sure to highlight your customer satisfaction policies and over the phone sales support.
Less than 20% of online marketers use recovery emails. This is despite the fact that conversion rates via recovery emails are significantly higher than other email marketing programs. They often reach over 20%! A successful recovery email should have images of the selected products as well as product reviews, a single call to action and a phone number to call for more information. For maximum effectiveness send an initial email immediately after the cart has been abandoned. Follow this up with a second email 24 hours later with an offer of a 10% discount and a third email a week later with a 20% discount offer or free shipping. Keep in mind that discounts should be used sparingly though, so as not to boomerang against retailers.
Did we miss anything? What do you do to remedy shopping cart abandonment?