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AJPS Vol.8 No.1 , January 2017
Influence of Different Geomorphic Surfaces and Profile Modification on the Growth of Maesopsis eminni (Engl) at the Yongka Western Highlands Research Garden Park Nkwen-Bamenda, North West Cameroon
Bernard Palmer Kfuban Yerima1*, Roger Kogge Enang1, Claude Assembo Makem2, Nicole Guehjung3, Grace Mbakpor Ayuk3
1 Department of Soil Science, University of Dschang, Dschang, Cameroon.
2 Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development, West Region, Cameroon.
3 Department of Crop Production, University of Dschang, Dschang, Cameroon.
Abstract: The growth of Maesopsis under the influence of various geomorphic surfaces was followed within a period of 70 months. Young plants of two months old were transplanted into 70 × 70 × 70 cm holes under natural conditions (no inputs such as manure and other amendments). A randomized complete block design was set up for the experiment, alongside a control, and growth parameters followed (height and collar circumference). Three blocks with different geomorphic surfaces were put in place for the experiment (upper slope or block 1, middle slope or block 2 and foot slope or block 3). Results of the experiment indicated that geomorphic surface had a significant effect on height but not on collar circumference. Plant height increased progressively from upper slope to foot slope; less tall trees were found at the upper slope, while the tallest trees were found at the foot slope. After 70 months, maximum average height attained by plants for the experiment was 1228.3 cm, observed in block 3 (foot slope), significant at 0.05 confidence level with respect to geomorphic surface. In blocks 1 and 2 (upper slope and middle slope), maximum average heights attained were 798.5 and 937.5 cm, respectively and were shown to be statistically equal at 0.05 confidence level. Geomorphic surface had no effect on collar circumference. Maximum average collar circumferences attained after 70 months were 62.8 cm (observed at the upper slope), 61.3 cm (observed at the middle slope) and 76.3 cm (observed at the foot slope) and the various collar circumferences were shown to be statistically the same at 0.05 confidence level. For the control, maximum height attained after 70 months was 1240 cm (observed at the foot slope). At the upper slope and middle slope, maximum average heights were respectively, 800 cm and 905 cm, and were statistically equal at the 0.05 confidence level but different from the foot slope value of 1240 cm. Maximum average collar circumference was observed at the foot slope (76.3 cm), while circumferences of 62.8 cm and 61.3 cm were respectively observed at the upper and middle slopes. In the control, collar circumference was shown to be statistically equal at the upper and middle slopes but different from that at the foot slope at 0.05 confidence level. Correlations between growth parameters were more explained for the control than for the experiment. Increasing plant height was associated with decreasing percent slope (at a p-value of 0.05) corresponding to increasing soil depth favoring root exploration and soil and water retention. Profile modification enhanced plant growth and enabled the cultivation of trees on all geomorphic surfaces.
Keywords: Maesopsis, Upper Slope, Middle Slope, Foot Slope, Height, Collar Circumference, Profile Modification, Induced Hydrolysis
Watershed management and protection of degraded environments are posing many challenges in the Western Highlands of Cameroon [1] . Selection of appropriate plant species and appropriate plant husbandry practices to enhance plant growth is equally a challenge.
It is necessary that watershed protection be done with plants that are fast growing, have limited transpiration rates, and have some immediate economic value to the farmers planting them in the watershed to enhance its adoption. Maesopsis eminni (Engl), because of its many advantages meets this requirement.
Maesopsis eminni (Engl) has a wide range of uses. It is widely used in agroforestry [2] and also serves as a biofertilizer [3] . It provides shade to many crops and the leaves are used for fodder [4] . Economically, Maesopsis provides timber for furniture making and local construction due to its excellent mechanical properties [5] [6] . Due to its fast growth, M. eminii is widely planted for fuel wood [4] . Aesthetically, Maesopsis is used as an ornamental tree [7] . In Bamenda (North West region of Cameroon), the Blue moon watershed is protected with Maesopsis. Maesopsis contributes enormously to biodiversity conservation; many insect and bird species visit the tree and spend much time on it, even using it as their shelters. Birds are attracted to the tree by the fruit pulp when ripe. Common bird species found on Maesopsis in Mankon (North West region of Cameroon) include: Bamenda apalice (Apalis bamendae), Green turaco (Turaco perro), Black-billed weaver (Ploceus melanogaster), Bannerman's weavers (Ploceus bannermani), Sun birds (Nectarinia sp.), and Speckled Mouse birds (Colius straitus). Many ant species visit the tree for its bark, leaves and fruit juice. Commercially, the cotyledons are sold for their oils and fruits have colorant matter (from oxidation of oils) used for art works [7] [8] . M. eminni is widely used in medicine; the root bark is used to treat gonorrhea [9] , and serves as a diuretic for ascites [10] . It is also used as abortifacient [11] . In Nigeria, the bark is used to solve constipation and painful menstruation problems [12] . Maesopsis is also used as a diuretic and purgative for "yellow fever" [13] .
Some compounds isolated from Maesopsis have exhibited some interesting biological activities; for example, lupeol has been shown to exhibit hypotensive activity [14] , in vitro anti-malarial activity [15] , as well as anti-inflammatory activity [16] . Sitosterol and stigmasterol, isolated from the bark of Maesopsis were found to be essential starting materials in pharmaceutical industries where they are used in the manufacture of steroidic drugs [17] . Because of the presence of triterpenoids in Maesopsis, the plant can act as a potential source of drugs with the following physiological activities: antitumour and anticancer activity, anti- inflammatory activity, action on metabolism, antimicrobial activity, effect on biosynthesis and molluscicidal activity [17] . Two pentacyclic triterpenes, 1α, 3β- dihydroxybauer-7-en-28-oic acid and 3β-hydroxybauer-7-en-28-oic acid, together with sitosterol-3-β-O-d-glucopyranoside and stigmasterol, isolated from the bark of M. eminii have displayed moderate antibacterial activity against Bacillus subtilis ATCC 6633 [18] .
The above uses of Maesopsis clearly indicate that vulgarization of the plant is very important and needs to be encouraged. However, the steep sloping and granitic nature of certain areas, especially the western highlands of Cameroon, which have compact (Figure 1) and very shallow soils (Figure 2) have hampered the cultivation of environmentally friendly tree species (which in most cases are multipurpose).
Secondly, given the problems associated with forest regeneration in similar areas and the need to protect watersheds or water catchment areas, such a study would guide forest regeneration efforts in the area. The growth of Maesopsis
Figure 1. Left, a 15-year old mahogany tree planted in a hole measuring 30 × 30 × 30 cm. Right, 20 meters from the mahogany plant, a profile dug exposing the different horizons (Water stood in profile for >48 hours). Note: The compact and dense nature of the horizons reduces water percolation, impedes root penetration and exploration and constraints plant development.
Figure 2. An entisol (a very shallow soil) that would limit root penetration and exploration.
eminii under the influence of different geomorphic surfaces subjected to the same profile modification techniques at Yongka Western Highlands Research Garden Park, Nkwen-Bamenda in the North-West region of Cameroon was studied after 70 months from the time of transplantation. The main objective was to find out if geomorphic surface has any effect on the growth parameters (height and collar circumference).
2.1. Presentation of Study Site and Experimental Design
The 16-year old, 4.5-ha Yongka Research Park is located at an altitude of 1200 - 1400 m, on 2 to 45% slopes in Nkwen-Bamenda in the North West Region (Long. 10˚10"E and Lat. 5˚50"N) (Figure 3), a part of the Western Highlands of Cameroon.
The area has a staircase configuration dominated by high lava plateaus surrounded by steep mountains and hills, below a plateau with a steep escarpment on basement rock and more or less dissected planation surfaces. Five types of parent materials, which vary over very short distances exist in the area include: organic materials, alluvial/alluvio-colluvial deposits, colluvial deposits, mylonite and granite; granite is the most dominant. With increasing population pressure much of the natural forest vegetation has degraded to secondary formations, or has been replaced by more or less wooded grasslands and agricultural lands; this process is most advanced in areas with least relief.
Vegetation distribution at the study site can be summarized as follows: Hyper- rhenia and Sporobolus grassland dominate above 1500 m altitude; with degraded Sporobolus replacing Hyperrhenia, while Bracken in many places is invading the grassland; Hyperrhenia and wooded savanna (below 1500 m); elephant grass (Pennisetum purpureum) in seasonally flooded swamp grasslands; and spear grass (Imperata cylindrica) on fallow lands after a long period of cultivation.
The climate in the area is distinctly seasonal with one rainy season and one dry season. Rainfall at the research site averages about 2400 mm/year; mean
Figure 3. Map showing the study area in the west part of Bamenda town, NW Region.
annual temperatures average 19˚C - 22˚C.
2.2. Characteristics of Experimental Units
The experimental plot of 1200 m2 (0.12 ha) was divided into 3 blocks following different geomorphic surfaces; upper slope (block 1), middle slope (block 2) and foot slope (block 3).
Block 1: Geomorphic surface, upper slope; topography, flat; gradient, with a range of 2 to 10%, class 1; altitude, 1304 m; very few stones and gravel at the surface; good drainage, class 4; parent material, granite; soil covered with Chro- molaena odorata and Imperata cylindrica. Soil compacted during excavation of nearby road. Presence of alluvio-colluvial materials varying from 10 to 35 mm in diameter transported from the granitic uplands occur at depths of 80/85 cm and 114/120 cm in the soil profile.
Block 2: Geomorphic surface, middle slope; Topography, convex slope with a range of 25 to 45%, class 6; altitude, 1296 m; drainage, slightly excessive, class 5; parent material, granite; soil covered with Chromolaena odorata.
Block 3: Geomorphic surface, foot slope; topography, undulating foot slope; with a range of 2 to 5%, class 2; altitude, 1282 m; drainage, good, class 4; parent material, alluvio-colluvial granitic deposits.
Alongside the experiment, a control was put in place with similar conditions. In the control however, soils show more similarities in properties than in the main experiment.
Also, there was a regular gradient from upslope to downslope in the control (Figure 4), with ranges of 5 to 10%, 10 to 30%, and 2 to 5% for the upper slope, middle slope and foot slope, respectively.
2.3. Experimental Management
Holes of dimensions 70 × 70 × 70 cm were dug and micro basins installed on the lower sides to increase the retention and infiltration of water. Young plants of
Figure 4. Geomorphic surfaces for (a) Experiment; (b) Control.
two months old were then transplanted into the holes, and mulching done during each clearing event to reduce water evaporation, while increasing nutrient content on decomposition. Recording of data was carried out from August 2007 to October 2014; a period of exactly 70 months (close to six years) during which the growth of Maesopsis was followed. Continuous mulching was made after each clearing event.
2.4. Parameters Followed
The growth parameters measured in the course of the experiment were height and collar circumference. Measurements were done using graduated tapes, for collar circumference, and graduated poles for height.
2.5. Soil Sampling and Laboratory Analysis
In each of the three blocks, a representative soil profile was dug, macromorphological features described and soil samples collected for physico-chemical analysis. Soil samples were air-dried, crushed and passed through a 2 mm sieve to remove fragments >2 mm. Sub-samples were oven-dried at 105˚C and physico- chemical analyses carried out following standard laboratory procedures as described by [19] .
Routine soil characterization included ammonium acetate pH 7 extraction of exchangeable bases, 1 N KCl extraction of exchangeable acidity and effective cation exchange capacity (ECEC) by sum of exchangeable bases (Ca2+, Mg2+, K+, and Na+) plus exchangeable acidity (19). Particle-size distribution, cation exchange capacity (CEC), exchangeable cations and pH water were determined on the fine-earth fraction [19] .
Organic carbon was determined by the Walkley-Black wet oxidation method, total nitrogen by the wet digestion method, and available phosphorous by the Bray II method. The saturated hydraulic conductivity was determined by the falling-head method as described by [20] .
Data collected for the period of 70 months were analyzed using Microsoft Excel 2007 (mainly determination of averages of parameters and plotting of growth curves). Genstat 9th edition, version 9.2 was used to study the effect of geomorphic surface on growth parameters, and regressions and correlations between geomorphic surface and growth parameters.
Soils differ over short distances in such characteristics as texture, effective depth, gravel content, compactness and water infiltration rates aggravated by prior cattle rearing activities. Important differences in chemical characteristics and soil fertility exist and are related to parent material and stage of soil development and would impact on forest regeneration [21] . Detailed characterization of the morpho-physico-chemical properties of the soils at the study site indicates three main soil types: Entisols (Young soils); Inceptisols (Soils with minimal development); and Oxisols (Very highly weathered soils).
The physic-chemical properties of the three profiles in each of the blocks are presented below (Table 1). After 70 months from the time of transplantation, it was observed that the growth of Maesopsis (mainly height) is greatly influenced by geomorphic surface (Table 2). As shown in Figures 5-7, overall increase in height is different in the blocks. For the parameters measured, height and collar circumference, it was observed that the maximum average height attained was 1228.3 cm (observed in block 3), 937.5 cm (observed in block 2) and 798.5 cm (observed in block 1) for the experiment, and 1240 cm (observed at the foot slope), 800 cm (upper slope), and 905 cm (mid slope) for the control. Growth rate averages indicate that plant height increases at the rate of 14.66 cm/month, 16.55 cm/month and 21.99 cm/month in blocks 1, 2 and 3, respectively for
Table 1. Physico-chemical properties of soils on the various geomorphic surfaces (blocks).
Table 2. Effect of geomorphic surface on plant height and collar circumferences.
NB: Data are means of six plants. Means with the same letter are not significantly different at p ≥ 0.05.
(a) (b)
Figure 5. Study of the growth curves with respect to the various geomorphic surfaces (experiment): (a) Variation of height in each block, (b) variation of collar circumference in each block for the experiment. NB: Each point is the mean of six plants. Based on averages, plant height increase at the rate of 14.66 cm/month, 16.55 cm/month and 21.99 cm/month in blocks 1, 2 and 3, respectively, while collar circumference increase at the rate of 1.16 cm/month, 1.22 cm/month and 1.30 cm/month in blocks 1, 2 and 3, respectively.
Figure 6. Study of the growth curves with respect to the various geomorphic surfaces (control): (a) Variation of height in each block, (b) variation of collar circumference in each block for the control. NB: Each point is the mean of six plants. Based on averages, plant height increase at the rate of 14.72 cm/month, 11.98 cm/month and 22.63 cm/month in blocks 1, 2 and 3, respectively, while collar circumference increase at the rate of 1.167 cm/month, 0.86 cm/month and 1.43 cm/month in blocks 1, 2 and 3, respectively.
the experiment. For the control, plant height averages increase at the rate of 14.72 cm/month, 11.98 cm/month and 22.63 cm/month in blocks 1, 2 and 3, respectively. The increase in height followed the geomorphic surface from upper slope (shoulder) to foot slope (Figures 7-9). Statistically, growth in blocks 1 and 2 are similar and significantly different from that in block 3 (p-value 0.05). For the collar circumference, average collar circumferences attained were 62.8, 61.3, and 76.3 cm in blocks 1, 2, and 3, respectively for the experiment. For the control, maximum collar circumferences attained were: 61.3 cm, 62.8 cm and 76.3 cm for block 1, 2 and 3, respectively. Collar circumferences were shown to increase at the rate of 1.16 cm/month, 1.22 cm/month and 1.30 cm/month in
Figure 7. Linear relationship between geomorphic surface and total increase in plant height: (a) Experiment; (b) Control. NB: **Significant at 0.01 level of confidence.
Figure 8. Linear relationship between total increase in plant height and total increase in collar circumference: (a) Experiment; (b) Control. NB: **Significant at 0.01 level of confidence.
Figure 9. Maesopsis plant at right in hole. Note that plant circumference decrease as you move uphill.
blocks 1, 2 and 3, respectively for the experiment and 1.167 cm/month, 0.86 cm/month and 1.43 cm/month in blocks 1, 2 and 3, respectively for the control.
The analysis of variance (ANOVA) indicated that geomorphic surface had a significant effect on plant height at a p-value of 0.05, but had no effect on collar circumference. For the control, the ANOVA indicated that geomorphic surface had an effect on both height and collar circumference at the 0.05 confidence level. Correlations between growth parameters were significant for both the experiment and the control but were higher in the control (Figure 8) at a p-value of 0.01.
The effect of blocks (geomorphic surface) on growth of Maesopsis is presented in Table 2.
4. Discussions
4.1. Contribution of Soil Properties to the Growth of Maesopsis
From the results of the analytical data it is evident that the soils under which these plants have evolved are generally poor in nutrients and are acidic in nature as they have developed from granitic parent materials ( 4.8 - 5.9) [22] . They also have considerable amounts of exchangeable aluminium (Al), which would fix phosphorous (P) and reduce its availability to plants.
Equally, the increasing bulk densities with depth (from 0.88 at the surface to 1.5 g/cm3 in subsurface horizons) indicate increasing soil compaction that would have great impact on root penetration. Very low hydraulic conductivity values, especially in blocks 1 and 2, indicate limited water infiltration rates and likely plant moisture stress, especially during the dry season.
Description of the soil profiles indicate that these soils are made up of two main orders: Entisols at the upper and middle slopes; Inceptisols occupy lower slope environments. The decreasing percent slope downwards is correlated with increasing soil depth for root exploration and increased water and nutrient holding capacity which both have increasing positive effects on plant growth (Figure 10 and Figure 11). In this area in the natural state, the climax vegetation
Figure 10. Maesopsis experiment at foot slope, with some in-situ plants in the back ground. Note the very tall nature of the plants.
Figure 11. Maesopsis experiment pictured from the lower slope. Note decreasing height and circumference as one goes up slope.
goes from forest at the lower foot slope to forest savanna to savanna towards the top of the slope. However, with soil profile modification, which increases nutrients through decomposed mulch and profile depth through "induced hydrolysis" ensures that the upper slopes which naturally are under grass can support forest vegetation also. The near similarities in the growth parameters across varying slope environments from top slope to bottom slope indicates the efficiency of the profile modification technique applied and suggests that this technique would be invaluable for forest regeneration in steeply sloping areas. This indicates that Maesopsis is a tolerant and fast growing species which is not very demanding and which can do well on varied slope terrains where profile modification is made and when micro-basins are established under the plants (Figure 9). At the upper slope, the presence of concretions observed at depths of 80/85 cm and 114/120 cm could have been a limitation to the growth of the plants in the long run as this might act as a hindrance to root penetration into the soil. Plant roots being stressed in this manner will generally retard in growth. At the middle slope, though very steep (<45%), growth of plants is favored probably by the fact that the soils developed under natural conditions (no compaction due to anthropic activities as in block 1-upper slope) and further fostered by the establishment of micro-basins and profile modification, a process whereby large holes retain water and allow same to percolate into the ground slowly, resulting in the chemical attack of the rock facilitating root penetration (1). These micro-basins enhance the amount of water collected which then acts through "induced hydrolysis", a terminology coined to describe this process at Yongka research park, that explains the enhancement of chemical weathering process whereby the soil profile develops downwards or better still makes the soils deeper. This enables the best growth of Maesopsis resulting from soil nutrients from weathered rock materials, and the much deeper soil profile which enhances root penetration and exploration for water and nutrients.
4.2. Correlation of Geomorphic Surface with the Growth of Maesopsis
There exists a strong correlation between geomorphic surface and total increase in plant height (Figure 7). As seen from the correlation and regression analyses (Figure 7 and Figure 8), the Pearson's correlation test shows that there exist a strong correlation between geomorphic surface and height and between growth parameters (height and collar circumference). Regression analysis shows that there exist a linear relationship between blocks and total increase in plant height. That is, as we move from block 1 to 3 (from upslope to foot slope), plant height increases following the regression equation Y = 208.85X + 508.6, R2 = 0.9614 (this is significant at 0.01 level of confidence). There also exists a linear relationship between total increase in plant height and total increase in collar circumference: as plant height increases, collar circumference increases as well following the regression equation Y = 9.983X + 294.63, R2 = 0.3613 for the experiment, and Y = 220X + 541.67, R2 = 0.9165 for the control (significant at 0.01 confidence level). These relationships can be used to predict plant growth potential when profile modification and micro-basin techniques are applied.
4.3. Contributions of Soil Management Practices to the Growth of Maesopsis
The application of the profile modification technique by making of holes with dimensions 70 × 70 × 70 cm is a favorable practice for the growth of the plants at an early stage as roots can easily penetrate in the soil―thus plants are stress free. The soil also favors water and nutrient retention. The presence of mulch contributes to the amelioration of the soil structure, preventing erosion, reducing evaporation of water from soil and providing biomass for organic matter production at the surface which is an important component of soil fertility upon decomposition. The increased amount of water retained in the holes, with limited evaporation due to the mulched surface, slowly infiltrates into the soil and attacks the rock through the process which has been termed here "induced hydrolysis". This process resulting in a systematic weathering of the rock enhances root penetration as the weathered rocks also provide nutrients for plant development.
Maesopsis eminii is a fast growing species which is not very demanding in terms of nutrients, and which can grow well on varied slope terrains. Results of this study indicate that geomorphic surface has an effect on height of Maesopsis. Trees with greatest heights are obtained at foot slopes while less tall trees are obtained at upper slopes and middle slopes. Foot slopes with greater soil depths provide better environments for root evolution. For purposes of watershed conservation, Maesopsis is a very good species and can be planted on various geomorphic surfaces provided profile modification with holes of dimensions of at least 70 × 70 × 70 cm (to enhance water retention and root penetration) and mulching (initially to suppress water evaporation and ultimately to serve as an organic fertilizer after decomposition) are established. Through profile modification and micro-basins, rock weathering is enhanced through 'induced hydrolysis' leading to softer rock more easily penetrated by the tap root.
For purposes of timber, planting is best at the foot slope so as to obtain tall trees faster. For other purposes (as mentioned in the introduction), Maesopsis can be planted anywhere following the geomorphic surface. The results of this study are thus highly recommended for forest regeneration in grass field areas such as the Western Highlands of Cameroon and similar ecological areas where Entisols and Inceptisols with shallow profiles exist. Maesopsis is a fast growing plant species; its planting is recommended for those who will use it as fuel wood. For timber purposes, the time for a given tree height and circumference to be attained can be estimated thereby enabling good planning and management. Because of the fast growth, Maesopsis is also strongly recommended for watershed protection as it will enhance the recharge of the water table thereby increasing water yields. Maesopsis is recommended for carbon sequestration because of its fast growing rate. Finally, its medicinal value that is yet little exploited constitutes more compelling arguments for its cultivation.
We thank the authorities of Yongka Western Highlands Research Garden Park for creating an enabling environment for this work to be carried out.
Cite this paper: Yerima, B. , Enang, R. , Makem, C. , Guehjung, N. and Ayuk, G. (2017) Influence of Different Geomorphic Surfaces and Profile Modification on the Growth of Maesopsis eminni (Engl) at the Yongka Western Highlands Research Garden Park Nkwen-Bamenda, North West Cameroon. American Journal of Plant Sciences, 8, 69-84. doi: 10.4236/ajps.2017.81006.
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redpajama_set_name: RedPajamaCommonCrawl


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Ruckman who played seconds football in 1949 before making his senior debut the next year.
He returned to Ultima as captain-coach in 1951, then captain-coached Swan Hill in 1954. In 1955 he was at Goulburn Valley League side Rushworth where he won the league's best and fairest award.
A serving policeman, he returned to Rochester for work and coached them to two Bendigo League premierships in 1961 and 1962 after replacing former teammate Noel McMahen.


Welcome to Foxbank B&B Foxbank is a family home, it has been run by Lawther and Ronnie Murchison for best part of 40 years. Experience, friendliness, warm welcome, home baking all add up to Foxbank's success.
Please contact us directly for more information. Foxbank has two twin bedded rooms one front facing en-suite, the other garden view with private facilties, either room can be booked as a single when space permits, there is one single ground floor en-suite. The family room has double bed with room for two extra singles if required. this room has full bath and shower facilities en-suite. Central heating throughout, TV with usual bedroom extras included. ie hairdrier, tea making facilites. Dietary requiremants? please enquire at time of booking. We do not provide an evening meal, you are welcome to bring in a carrry out meal which you can eat in the breakfast room. Plenty of parking in teh front garden with garage space for our bikers. Please note we do not have card facillites, payment by cash, pay pal or BACS is accepted.


Here you can view a portfolio of our works from many customers and arenas that we have helped to transform around the UK.
One of our most recent clients transformed their arena with the help of our Superior Fibre riding surface. As you can see the overgrown layer of grass where removed revealing a sand base, before then having our Superior Fibre spread on top which has given the surface of the manege a fantastic and aesthetically pleasing finish.
Another happy customer of ours opted for our Equestrian Riding Chip surface. As you can see from the pictures this customer decided to lay the surface onto a wood chip surface with fantastic results, turning a boggy arena into a usable area for horse and rider alike.
Jess Obrien from Church Farm, also chose our Equestrian Riding Chip surface. Her arena was looking tired and nearly down to the membrane. With a good layer of our surface the arena became usable again and to this day both Jess and her liveries enjoy the benefit of our surface.
This little project in 2018 was at Hope View Sensory Farm in Leigh. We removed the old kick-boards and replaced with new, before then levelling the existing surface, laying a new membrane and finished with Fibre-Flight standalone surface – similar to Superior Fibre. Everybody on the yard loved the transformation and is one of our most fulfilling projects to date.
One of our first clients on Wirral, was in need of a surface refurbishment. We decided to excavate 60mm from the top of the surface before then laying down our Equestrian Riding chip as a topper. It's plain to see when an even and consistent finish the surface now has, that provides fantastic underfoot support with its firmness whilst also providing a cushioning bounce.
Our first ever customer at New Fernbank Farm was over the moon when they chose our Equestrian Riding Chip, they needed an all weather, all discipline surface that worked for them at there livery yard.
Customer Comments: …. They made a video for us!


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ArgonCube – Lego for the world of cryogenic neutrino detectors
Research & DiscoveryScience
Physicists from the University of Bern have developed a novel approach to large neutrino detectors based on liquid argon.
In the zoo of elementary particles, neutrinos are somewhat special. Before a neutrino manifests itself in an interaction it may, on average, traverse more than a light year of dense material such as lead. That is where the target mass matters; that is why neutrino detectors need to be very massive; and that is why they are never too large for physicists, though they may seem quite large for the engineers who build them.
Shining an intense neutrino beam at a tank filled with hundreds or even thousands of tonnes of liquefied argon and equipped with a charge drift and readout structure gives a chance for a tiny fraction of neutrinos to produce spectacular images of their interactions with the argon nuclei. Such interaction images, after thorough analysis, are what allow physicists to solve a few of the remaining unknowns about neutrinos.
MicroBooNE
The MicroBooNE experiment, which utilises 170 tonnes of liquid argon, is about to solve the so-called 'low energy excess' anomaly, while the Short Baseline Neutrino (SBN) programme, with its total argon mass of 712 tonnes, is aiming at revealing the existence of a species of neutrino that is so far unknown – the sterile neutrino. The future Deep Underground Neutrino Experiment (DUNE, about 70000 tonnes) will be looking at neutrino mass hierarchy and parameters of charge and parity symmetry violation in the neutrino sector. All three experiments are based on accelerators at the Fermi National Accelerator Laboratory (FNAL) near Chicago, USA; all three experiments utilise large liquid argon detectors for neutrinos; and all three are conducted by large international collaborations with substantial contributions by physicists and institutions from Europe.
What is so special about liquid argon that makes physicists so keen to make detectors out of it?
To the largest extent, it is its nobility. Being an element from the right-most column of the Periodic Table, argon atoms have complete electron shells, and therefore don't wish to either give an electron away, or bind any free one. This latter feature allows the ionisation electrons in the track produced by a charged particle traversing the argon medium to remain freely drifting across the argon for as long as milliseconds. In detectors, those electrons drift towards one side, whereby registering their distributions and arrival times by the electronic readout system means that physicists can reconstruct a full picture of what the interaction looked like. Such detectors are called Time Projection Chambers (TPCs). It is also important to remember here that we need mass, so the argon is condensed into a liquid to fit more of its atoms into the space we have. This is complicated by the fact that for argon to stay liquid at reasonable pressures, it must be refrigerated down to about -186°C. However, cryogenic engineers know how to deal with this.
ArgonCube
ArgonCube is a research and development programme that was started in 2014 at the Laboratory for High Energy Physics at the University of Bern, Switzerland. Its goal is to provide experimentalists with a building block of unified design so that they can build liquid argon neutrino detectors of the mass and size they need by combining a number of such blocks just like their children playing with Lego. Since the start of the programme, the group has grown into a medium-sized international collaboration, well represented across the globe.
The modular approach of ArgonCube features a number of technical and scientific advantages. In order to force ionisation electrons to drift through the medium, an electric field strength of the order of 1 kV/cm and potentials of several hundreds of kilovolt are required. Any dielectric breakdown under such conditions produce an electromagnetic impulse capable of destroying sensitive electronics nearby.
Impurities in the argon may drastically shorten the lifetime of free ionisation electrons, rendering the whole detector inoperable. An accidental argon pollution in a single module of the detector has only limited effect on the overall detector efficiency.
Detector technologies
Despite the fact that neutrinos interact very little with matter, in ultrahigh intensity neutrino beam experiments such as DUNE, a detector closest to the neutrino production point (Near Detector, or ND) may see quite a high rate of interactions. So high, indeed, that more than one interaction event may pile up in a single image. Splitting total volume into many isolated ones allows to suppress the probability of such undesired behaviour. With the use of a modular approach for large detectors, one may envisage a gradual increase of detector mass, or various repair-and-upgrade scenarios.
Naturally, the module container must be made as unnoticeable as possible, and is therefore constructed of materials than can be made as thin as possible and which are close to liquid argon in terms of properties relevant for the physics of particle interactions. Such a material has been identified – G10, a fiberglass laminate – and serves as the material for the module structure.
One of the novelties that the ArgonCube module features is a resistive foil deposited on its containers walls. This 50 microns-thick foil with a little electric current flowing in it allows the electric drift field in the argon volume to be shaped. Moving to such continuous potential distribution surface from previously utilised discrete structures practically excludes any single point failure and drastically improves the uniformity of the created field.
When traversing the argon medium, charged particles – along with the ionisation electrons – produce a substantial amount of scintillation light. This light carries a precious amount of information about the interaction and needs to be carefully collected and measured. A large area dielectric photon detector named ArCLight has been developed for this purpose for the ArgonCube modules.
The ArCLight is effectively a bar of special polymer coated with dielectric Bragg dichroic mirror layers on all sides except one: where the trapped photons are converted into an electric signal with silicon photomultiplier diodes (SiPMs). Its dielectric nature allows it to protrude into an area where ionisation charge drifts in the electric field without distorting it, and therefore without corrupting the integrity of the interaction image.
One more novel feature of the approach developed by our team is a robust charge readout scheme. The term 'robust' should be understood as having a double meaning here. On the one hand, it is based on a technology of flat and thin printed circuit boards and is robust mechanically. On the other, it is also robust in the context of the data clarity it provides: the charge spatial distribution is acquired by an array of individual charge-sensitive pixels. This has the great advantage of enabling an 3D unambiguous reconstruction representation of the interaction, compared to previously used 2D projective readout methods. The pixel plane is equipped with bespoke cryogenic charge processing ASICs developed within the ArgonCube collaboration by a team from Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory, USA. The ASIC amplifies, digitises the data, and sends it out via a transmission line, shared between a hundred of its clones. This allows to drastically reduce the number of copper data lines needed to cross the cryostat wall from room temperature into space-cold liquid argon medium.
All individual constituents of the ArgonCube are tested separately in reduced scale and have demonstrated the expected performance. We are now entering challenging period which will see the integration and actual deployment of the detector, first as a reduced scale demonstrator and then as a full-size liquid argon component for the DUNE Near Detector.
This project is partly funded by Swiss National Science Foundation, grants 200021_169045 and 200020_188669
Professor Igor Kreslo
Albert Einstein Center for
University of Bern
igor.kreslo@lhep.unibe.ch
http://argoncube.org
Please note, this article will also appear in the third edition of our new quarterly publication.
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Dean Barker is an unlicensed skipper.
June 04, 2015 People
Legendary skipper Dean Barker about quitting Team New Zealand, cheating the Oracle team and working with Team Nika Russia.
Text by: Elena Otekina
Image courtesy of: Elena Otekina, Thierry Martinez
Dean Barker
EMIRATES Team New Zealand
Oracle Team USA
Team Nika
On the final day of the RC44 Valletta Cup after the races I was able to have a little talk with the new tactician of the Russian Team Nika, the famous four-time «America»'s Cup player, the world champion in match race, the two-time winner of the Louis Vuitton Cup, former skipper of Emirates Team New Zealand (ETNZ) Dean Barker.
All the time in Malta, «Nick»'s new team member was almost elusive. He consulted the crew before the races, he raced, he was busy with the boat. Dean, despite his stellar status, didn't bend any work aboard, hauled sails, prepared the boat, and when one of the guys needed help to wash the boat after the race, Dean immediately volunteered to help, took a hose and cleaned the deck!
On board, he closely watched everyone's work and constantly evaluated the actions of opponents, and in the evening in a specially removed class conducted flight analysis together with the crew and coach of the team.
As a charismatic leader, Dean Barker did not tolerate any of the terror, screams and cries on board that were often heard from other boats.
Always seemingly calm and friendly, he only gave wishes, explanations and advice, but all the crew members immediately rushed to fulfill all his requests.
Dean is a great patriot of his country. His dream has always been to get the «America»'s Cup back to New Zealand. Alas, at the last 34th America's Cup in 2013, ETNZ's most dramatic battle on the water with Dean Barker led to the loss of the world's main sailing trophy, the legendary Silver Vase, to Oracle Team USA 8-9.
The decision to work this season of RC44 racing with the team «of Nicki» Dean took back in November last year, when the then tactician «Nicky» Terry Hutchinson due to personal problems forced to miss the 2015 season and asked Dean to replace him in this position. Who hadn't competed in RC44 since 2009, but had heard a lot about the team«, Nicki» Dean immediately accepted the invitation and joined the crew with his tanker, also four-time «America»'s Cup player Jeremy Lomas. Created by his «America's Cup «godfather»» Russell Cootes, the RC44 class has always been of interest to Dean and, despite his busy schedule, he found time for a series of races in 2015.
In February of this year, a month before the first RC44 Valletta Cup race, it suddenly became known that Dean had been fired from the position of ETNZ team skipper and replaced by a young driver Peter Berling. This situation came as a complete surprise to Dean, who had worked for his home team for 20 years. I think that the opportunity to race in RC44 in some way helped him to distract from this difficult situation. Dean immediately joined the team, he quickly developed a warm relationship with the crew, as well as with the helm and owner of the team Vladimir Proshihin.
During the races it was noticeable how at first a little tense and thoughtful Dean stepped away, cheered up and relaxed in the friendly and positive atmosphere of the international Russian-Slovenian-Croatian-New Zealand crew.
I met Barker last year at the Extreme Sailing Series in Cardiff when, as a journalist, I managed to get on board the ETNZ team's Extreme 40 catamaran. Participation in the 2014 series for Team New Zealand, as well as Team France and British J. J. Barker. P. Morgan BAR, was part of a long-term preparation program for the next «America»'s Cup in 2017. He and Peter Birling took turns in the 2014 Extreme Series, testing different team members and selecting a crew that would be able to return the coveted Cup to the New Zealanders. At that time in Cardiff Dean was extremely collected, serious and very focused on the performance of the team and preparation for the Cup. And, of course, I was very interested to see and talk to Dean again after his dramatic departure from ETNZ.
And so we sit after the Royal Malta Yacht Club races in the bright sun, we are interrupted from time to time by members of other teams, coming to shake hands with Dean and congratulate him on the 2nd place in the fleet races and through the sounds of marina I have to listen carefully to every word of Dean - so unfamiliar to me his kiwi focus.
- Why did you decide to work for Team Nika?
- It's just to race! Even as a part of ETNZ, Jeremy and I decided that it was a good opportunity to participate in high quality races with a good team.
- And it wasn't weird for you to join the Russian team? You've never worked with the Russians before, have you?
- No, he didn't. But it was an easy decision for me because it's a good team and good people. Terry Hutchinson told me about the team and its owner and recommended them very well.
- And what do you think about «Nick's team now that you've won the Valletta Cup?»
- Oh, the team is doing great, we really improved our performance during the regatta, which is very good. We still have to work at speed, but we have significant improvements over the rest of the teams. I hope we will continue to work as successfully on our performance during this season.
- Tell me, is it a big difference - racing catamarans of AC72 or Extreme 40 class and racing single hull yachts?
- Yeah, that's a huge difference. It's been a long time since I've been wearing single hulls of the same design, and at first it was very difficult to restore skills. Usually everyone makes a lot of mistakes at first, but it's just a matter of time. It takes time to get used to another type of yacht, to racing in the fleet, and then you get used to it and start racing as usual.
- So you do prefer catamarans after all?
- Oh no, not at all, with such races as here in Valletta, with good wind, it was very interesting to race in the RC44 fleet.
- Say, boats are changing all the time, hulls design is constantly changing, there are new contours, hydrofoils, hard sails, etc. What do you think the sailing world will be like in 20 years? What do you think the sailing world will look like in 20 years?
- I think everything will be fine in the sailing world, and there will always be plenty of room for monotype racing. For racing, single boat design is very important. And, of course, there will be both single and multihull yachts.
- If they ask you how to become a good racer, where do you advise to start?
- Of course we have to start racing dinghies, small boats: Laser, 29er, 470, 49er. This is very important to understand everything that happens on a yacht: how the sails work, how the yacht behaves, what the balance is, etc.
- It is a great pleasure! Last year I participated as a skipper and helmsman for Emirates Team New Zealand in the Extreme Sailing Series, but unfortunately I could not make it to the summer stage in St Petersburg, where I was replaced by Peter Birling.
- But maybe you'll still have a chance to come to us working with the Russian team? After all, Team Nika owner Vladimir Prosikhin is from St. Petersburg.
- Yes, that would be great, Vladimir is a wonderful person, he is very comfortable to race with, he is very focused on the race, he is focused on the result, he controls the boat perfectly and he enjoys racing, I like to be on board with him.
- They say when they read the news in New Zealand that you are now working for the Russian team, many New Zealanders decided that Team Nika is such a Russian team in the «America's Cup !»Tell me, is our team still very far from the Cup ?
- Yes, at the moment you have a long way to go, you need to grow a whole new generation of yachtsmen.
- I finally can't help but ask you the reason why I left ETNZ this February. Did it really happen, as they write, because of a problem with Team CEO Grant Dalton?
- Yes, I wasn't warned about the resignation, they just leaked information about the management's decision to throw me out of the skipper's seat in the news feeds.
This resignation wasn't exactly my decision, I didn't know anything and I heard about it from the news.
- You didn't even think it was a decision that could be made?
- No, I was just amazed.
- Yeah, but after losing, Grant got mad that I told the truth about the day and everything. I also tried to attract stronger government agencies to the board of directors, many people didn't like it, in the end things didn't go as well as they wanted...
(Note: Lay day is a day of «rest» which in the final of last «America»'s Cup the Oracle Team USA took the New Zealanders with a score of 1:7 and during which the American yacht was improved and a new «flight»control system was put in place, after which the Oracle team unexpectedly started to fly» steadily «in the maneuvers and eventually won the Cup with a score of 9:8).
- Tell me, then, do you think that in the «America»'s Cup final, the Oracle team was cheating and the «flight»control system they put in place was not «purely mechanical, driven only by the physical efforts of the crew ?»Was their winnings dishonest?
- Yeah, it was a trick, it was an automatic control system.
For a lot of money, you can buy everything, and even luck, to suddenly learn to «fly». When you lose it's hard, but when it's not a fair game and you can't do anything, it's twice as hard.
- And how your attitude to losing has changed over that time. You're not in that much pain anymore?
- No, it's still very painful.
- What do you think of Peter Birling who replaced you as an ETNZ skipper?
- Peter is a very good racer, but he's a new man on the team and he has a lot to learn.
- Can Peter lead and lead the team?
- No. Peter may be the right helmsman to drive a yacht well in the next «America»'s Cup in 2017, but to build and rally a team you have to have strong leadership skills, which Peter does not.
- I know how important it was for you to be in the New Zealand team for the next «America's Cup» and to feel the support of the nation behind you. But if any other team now invites you to be a skipper for the America's Cup«», would you agree?
- I need to see what the possibilities are. The «America's Cup» remains my top priority. I would really like to participate in it, so if there is such an opportunity, if it is the right team and comfortable conditions, I will agree.
(Note: On May 21, 2015, SoftBank Team Japan, which recently entered the fight for the 35th «America»'s Cup, announced that Dean Barker has been confirmed as the team's skipper and CEO. Dean will continue to combine the preparation for the Cup, which will be held in 2017 with the position of Team Nika tactics this season).
- But what would it be like for you if you were on the team of another country to fight with your home team?
- Well, after all, you have to do the best job you can do, though of course it's going to be hard for me to fight against ETNZ.
My heart is always there, I've been with the team for 20 years, almost half my life, and I've been very devoted to it.
- What are your racing plans at the moment?
- I like racing this RC44 racing season with «Nick»'s team .
- Would you like to continue racing with «Nica» next season?
- Yes, of course, if Vladimir wants me to be with the team, I will gladly stay, we chased this Cup together very well. Second place in the fleet and third in the match-race is a great result for the beginning of the season.
- Okay, let's get a little distracted. What would your life be like if there were no sails with it? What would you do?
- I'd probably be a car driver, I've always loved car racing.
- So you drive fast, what's your car like?
- It's always very fast! I have a Chevy Camaro that I bought in San Francisco.
- If you chose from all the famous people on earth, who would you like to sail with?
- The most beautiful thing about yachting is that you always meet all sorts of new people, good people and you never know what will happen or who you will meet around the corner! That's what I love about it!
- And what would you do if you suddenly found out that you were going to die in a year?
- But I'm not going to die in a year! Well, if only to imagine... I'd spend that time with my family, that's the most important thing for me. (Note: Dean, by the way, has a beautiful wife and four children - three daughters and a son.)
- So love means a lot in your life?
- Yes, it means a lot, that's the most important thing because a person really needs the balance and support that love gives him, especially when there are problems in life.
- Do you have a main dream, of course, besides winning the «America's Cup?»
- Yes, I'd like to continue to enjoy sailing and keep chasing, I'm still young enough to do that! (Note: Dean turned 43 in April)
- What is the first and most important achievement in your life that you remember the most?
- The main thing for me was winning as a helmsman in the last 5th «America»'s Cup race in 2000, when New Zealand successfully defended the 1995 Russell Cootes and Peter Blake Cup. I still remember that day.
- I understand of course that living in Auckland, which is also called the City of Sails, it's hard not to become a yachtsman, but how did you become a professional racer, because your family does a very different thing?
- Well, I started sailing since I was a kid, I started racing and competing and when I had the chance to switch to racing, I did it.
- Are your relatives still waiting for you to take over the family business?
- Maybe. I like what they do. (Note: Dean Ray Barker's father is a multimillionaire and owner of New Zealand's famous Barkers Clothing, Mandy's wife also owns her own fashion brand.)
- You said you'd prefer the match race to any other race. Why is that?
- It's very difficult and interesting: you must always anticipate the next step of the opponent, keep in your head a 3D picture of everything that happens at a distance and constantly think about what will happen next.
- What is the best place on earth?
-My house. I am happy to live in New Zealand, we have so many beautiful places!
- And how do you rest? How do you spend your family vacation, where do you go?
- We go out to sea, but not sailing, but sailing on a big motor yacht with enough room for the whole family.
- Do you have a skipper's license to operate a sailing yacht?
- No. So I can't charter a yacht somewhere in Europe.
I remember there was such a funny story with Chris Nicholson (Team Vestas Wind skipper in this year's Volvo Ocean Race). He once won a regatta where the prize was to charter a sailing yacht somewhere in Turkey, I think, and eventually the charter company turned him down because Chris had no boat rights!
- Do you have time to read? What is your favorite writer?
- Of course, I don't have time to read at all now, but I used to like John Grisham.
- What's your perfect day, just one beautiful day?
- I'd spend the morning with my family and then go out to sea, sailing.
The AC75 has been successfully tested for strength
Innovative foilers tip over and bite their nose at full speed, but remain in one piece.
A whale in a shark's skin.
No camouflage.
48 hours after the pitch floor
Untold story: how Emirates Team New Zealand managed to get back on line after capsize to win the 35th «America's Cup in 2 days.»
«America»'s Cup Hitters Guide
Let's just say that we didn't write this text. But we laughed at it and translated it for you. After all, every joke has a share of the joke, doesn't it?
Thank you for being alive.
Petrel Cup «»: rodeo on waves
The second stage of the Winter Series in the Megles 20 class pleased with good wind and excellent results of the Russian teams.
Melges 20 Winter Series: Hot. Winter. Our
The Russians took the whole podium of the first stage of the Winter Series in the Megles 20 class, held in Monaco.


text:
Global Family Office Trends in 2020 And Beyond
written by Simple
Family offices often keep a low profile and don't share much about themselves. What they all want to know, however, is what other family offices are doing and what family office trends are emerging. For this reason, many reports are always keenly anticipated and the UBS Global Family Office report, in partnership with Campden Wealth has become one of the definitive sources for benchmark data.
In 2019 Campden Research surveyed the principals and executives of 360 family offices across the globe, with an average of $917 million assets under management to identify the emerging family office trends. Key findings showed that in comparison to last year, average investment returns have dropped, coming in at around 5.4% for the past 12 months. Interest in sustainable investing has risen, with one in three family offices now engaging in such practices. There has also been an upsurge in succession planning driven by generational wealth transfer.
The report reveals several important family offices trends to consider in the coming year. Responses to this year's survey identified cybersecurity and market disruption with the possibility of an impending financial recession as the most significant threats that family offices face.
Based on the report, 20% of family offices have experienced a cybersecurity attack that they know of. The most common of which include phishing (76%), social engineering (33%) and malware (33%).
With Cybersecurity Ventures estimating that the cost of global cyber-crime could reach an astounding $6 trillion by 2021 and that up to 90% of companies fall victim to cyber-attacks, cybersecurity remains a top priority.
As such, family offices need to ensure that they have continuity plans in place and that these have sufficient safeguards to protect private and confidential information. Furthermore, they need to ask themselves whether their staff adequately trained on how to apply these guidelines in their daily functions.
Market disruption and the impending financial recession
The report reveals a growing degree of caution and in some cases, discomfort, surrounding geopolitical tensions, and the short-term influences these could have on financial markets. Of the family office executive respondents surveyed, more than half believe that a market downturn will occur by 2020.
In response, executives are reexamining some aspects of their investment strategies and considering measures to curb potential losses and capitalize on new opportunities.
For those who have not yet made preparations for the possible financial market disruptions and the impending recession these could bring, it is vital to identify where their most significant areas of risk should the predicted changes unfold. This can assist in the identification of long-term strategies that ensure wealth preservation and growth.
Global family office trends
In addition to identifying threats, the UBS / Campden report also has its finger on the pulse of global family office trends. This year, these continue to focus on impact and sustainable investment, while also embracing globalization and a rise in the remote workforce.
Impact and sustainable investment
Rising levels of socioeconomic inequality and concern regarding climate change are issues garnering global debate and interest. Of the executives surveyed, 65% believe family offices will play an integral role in economic inequality alleviation. It is, however, interesting to note that this was more of a priority for those based in regions other than North America.
We have seen family offices become much more engaged in discussions about sustainable and impact investing over the last 12 months. This is no longer seen as a 'side project' or preoccupation of the Next Gen, but a priority for the family as a whole. Many products are now recognised by family offices as fully-fledged investment tools that can generate good returns.
Sara Ferrari, Head of Global Family Office Group, UBS
Currently, just over 50% of the relevant family offices allocate less than 10% of their portfolios to sustainable investment. A third (33%) dedicate between 10%-49% or more, while the average across those surveyed is 19%. However, respondents predict that a third of their average portfolios will be comprised of sustainable investments and one-quarter impact investments within the next five years.
Impact causes garnering the most considerable investments include those that address climate change, improve health and social care, as well as those that retain and develop employees, workplace safety and cybersecurity.
Sustainable investing remains a core family office trend in the foreseeable future due to 85% of all sustainable investments meeting or exceeding investor's expectations in the past year. When considering these types of investments, family office executives need to ask themselves whether their office has established its purpose within the greater scope of impact and sustainable causes and set clear objectives accordingly.
If this has not been a priority, now is the time to make it one, especially given the potential for returns and the effect that these activities can have on next-generation engagement.
Globalization, the remote workforce and new technology trends
Technology has changed the face of business operation and brought with a rising trend towards globalization. With this has come the rise of a remote workforce.
Everything can be done remotely today. We only go to the office one or two days a week. The world is becoming more virtual and I think that is a trend that a lot of people still do not understand.
Founding partner at a single family office
Tech-savvy family offices who embrace these trends can harness technologies to not only expand their businesses across the globe but also to leverage global talent pools in various areas of operation where local expertise is lacking. This requires a degree of agility which needs to be prioritized within family offices seeking to advance their reach and grow their wealth.
The report also shows that new technologies such as artificial intelligence, machine learning, cryptocurrency, blockchain and even gaming have made their way onto the family office radar and into their budgets.
Unsure about something but don't have an expert in-house? There's an advisor for that
The report reveals that understanding newly emerging technologies, along with securing family professional and general advisory services to support family office functions, are becoming increasing areas of focus within the family office.
Respondent feedback indicates that in the greater scheme of things, family offices are spending more on professional services now than ever before. From a professional point of view, spending is allocated across several categories including governance, family counseling, succession planning, support for new family businesses, security and high-value physical asset management. General advisory services expenditure has also risen slightly due to increased spending on financial and estate planning and trust management.
Investment-related services spending has, however, decreased in comparison to that of 2018 in the areas of traditional and alternative investment, FX management and real estate. The only area showing noticeable increases in disbursement has been investment banking functions.
It is evident from the report that the key areas discussed in this article are important family office trends that will increasingly be focal points in the coming year. Executives considering these potential threats and family office trends may wish to conduct comprehensive audits to measure how their organizations stack up and ensure there's alignment between the family and the family office.
In doing this, factors like purpose, objectives, investment strategies, structure, governance, technology, cybersecurity, agility, succession plans and next-generation engagement can all be evaluated, and areas of concern identified.
With vast amounts of information and resources available within the family office space, there has never been a better time to learn from the past, benchmark and plan for the future. This is applicable not only in areas of financial investment but also within those that drive organizational function and performance. Effectively doing so ensures not only wealth preservation but also long-term growth.
This post originally appeared on Forbes.
Family Office Trends, Global Family Office Report 2019
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Former Vice President Joe Biden Speaks in Dana Point
February 9, 2017 5:20PM
in EYE ON DP, News Bites
Former Vice President Joe Biden spoke recently at the fifth annual World Patient Safety, Science & Technology Summit at Laguna Cliffs Marriott Resort & Spa. Photo: Eric Heinz
Former U.S. Vice President Joe Biden recently spoke at the fifth annual World Patient Safety, Science & Technology Summit at Laguna Cliffs Marriot.
Biden spoke about the need for more collaboration in medical industries, the efforts to prevent and cure different cancers and emphasized the need for medical professionals to recognize these issues.
The summit brings international leaders from hospitals, medical and information technology companies, the patient advocacy community, public policy makers and government officials to discuss solutions to the leading challenges that cause preventable patient death in hospitals.
The summit, which sold out, also hosted former President Bill Clinton.
Tags: Bill ClintonJoe BidenLaguna CliffsLaguna Cliffs Marriott Resort & SpaMarriot
Letter to the Editor: Biden's Student Loan Forgiveness Is Unconstitutional
New Coastal Seafood Restaurant to Bring Shareable Menu, Social Dining to Dana Point
Rep. Levin Op-Ed: 'We are now at a crossroads in our great nation's history'
2020 Primary Election Results
UPDATE: Rain Postpones Dana Point Civic Association's Coffee Chat


Just a quick little note, if you haven't checked "Gube" out yet, you need to! It is an app you purchase (I think it is around $4 but worth every penny) and it is YouTube for kids. It is "designed and developed by parents of toddlers for parents with young children". There are TV shows, clips from movies, educational videos, funny animal clips and so much more. I have clicked "favorite" on several so far- various songs from Cinderella, "Tomorrow" from Annie, songs to teach Phonics, a butterfly video, etc.. You need to check it out- I am so pumped about it!! I haven't found anything inappropriate yet- that is so refreshing being as how I was sitting with my fingers on the remote through the whole Super Bowl waiting to quickly turn it at the first inappropriate commercial or half time blunder! Yea Gube!


Mystical Dimensions of Islam, from its first appearance in 1975, has become the standard English-language handbook on the subject of Sufism or Islamic mysticism. Readers have appreciated the way this book combines careful and wide-ranging scholarship with a direct and approachable style, making it an excellent introduction to the subject. In the Foreword, Annemarie Schimmel has described the dauntingly difficult character of Islamic mysticism as a subject of academic research. At the same time, she has acknowledged that it was the repeated demands of her students at Harvard that caused her to put her lectures into book form. What was it about this book that has made it such a classic?
Schimmel's deep familiarity with the subject, and her obviously sympathetic approach, clearly distinguished this book from the learned but pedantic publications on Sufism which had previously characterized the subject in English-language scholarship. While R. A. Nicholson and A. J. Arberry had been careful and dedicated scholars in this field, they had their limitations, including a somewhat remote scholarly perspective based in classical European Orientalism.[iii] Unlike armchair scholars, throughout her career Schimmel traveled extensively and had numerous close friendships in Muslim countries. She had an extensive grasp of modern scholarship on Islamic Studies in numerous languages, which she combined with an encyclopedic knowledge of texts that she could quote from memory. She relied upon the formidable tools of philology and history for research, and she used the comparative language of the phenomenology of religion to explain her insights thematically. She was able to discuss this complex material in a lively and engaging fashion, which made even the most obscure references intriguing and fascinating. Her discussions of the history of European scholarship on the study of Islam and Sufism were absorbing even as she delineated the eccentricities of her predecessors. This book is particularly rich in its discussion of spirituality of the Prophet Muhammad, the poetry of Rumi and other Persian Sufis, the feminine element in Sufism, and the extensive presence of Sufism in the Indo-Pakistan subcontinent. In short, Mystical Dimensions of Islam is an excellent example of how a well-honed classroom presentation can become the basis for a book that can appeal to a wide range of readers – both inside and outside of the classroom.
Given the penchant of German Orientalists for daunting displays of intimidating philological minutiae, it was remarkable that Schimmel not only translated poetry (including the poetry of John Donne) into German verse, but also wrote her own poetry in both German and English. Other European translators of the texts of Islamic mysticism wavered between painfully literal versions intended for students and effusive versions in high Victorian style. Introducing his collection of translations of the poetry of Rumi, Arberry grimly remarked that his versions would be "as literal as possible, with a minimal concession to readability"![iv] Such was not the case with Annemarie Schimmel. Moreover, in contrast to the markedly anti-Islamic attitudes that characterized much of European scholarship in the twentieth century, Schimmel had a deeply intuitive appreciation of the spiritual importance of the Prophet Muhammad, which she discussed in many studies. Schimmel's aesthetic and literary approach to Islamic culture drew upon the rich heritage of German Romanticism, going back to Goethe and his profound and underappreciated response to the Persian poet Hafiz, in the collection of German poems known as the West-Eastern Divan, begun in 1814.[v]She also paid particular attention to the role of the outstanding early German translator of Oriental poetry, Friedrich Rückert (1788-1866). No doubt, Schimmel had an extraordinary command over the languages of the Middle East and South Asia, but her poetic sensibility and aesthetic engagement made her work appealing and influential.
I first met Annemarie Schimmel in the spring of 1976, when I was a graduate student at Harvard University (shortly after this book had was first published). In addition to taking her graduate seminars, I sat in on her lecture course on Sufism, where she delivered her remarks much in the same vein as this book. As was her custom, she would begin to lecture by closing her eyes and playing with the bangles on her wrists. She commonly did this in public lectures, confounding listeners who expected her to be following detailed notes, but instead she appeared to be reading them from the insides of her eyelids. Despite the generally overheated Cambridge lecture halls that she preferred, which encouraged the sleep-deprived to nap, these classes were absorbing demonstrations of the erudition and sympathetic approach that she was famous for. I had the privilege of serving as Schimmel's teaching assistant for her Sufism course in 1980, and subsequently I have often taught this book in my own courses. I continue to refer to it for basic references and indeed for many of the conceptual issues that underlie Islamic mysticism.
Schimmel held her classes to high standards, impersonally correcting grammatical and interpretive errors while at the same time being thoroughly supportive. At one point I took her seminar on Indo-Persian mystical texts, where we read the discourses of the famous Chishti saint of northern India, Shaykh Nasir al-Din Mahmud Chiragh-i Dihli (d. 1356). The class had reached a section where the author had begun to comment on certain verses from the Qur'an, which meant that lengthy Arabic passages occurred in the middle of the Persian text. A student who was still in the elementary stage of Arabic stopped in confusion. "His Arabic is not yet fully watered," she commented, turning to a more advanced student to continue the text.
What is the relevance of Schimmel's work in the post-9/11 era? Her writings do not address terrorism or the conflicts that followed the end of the Cold War. Instead, she focused on the mystical interpretation of prophecy, the aesthetics of calligraphy, and the expression of spirituality in both the classical tongues of Arabic and Persian and the local languages of the Near East and South Asia. Those subjects in fact are extremely important both historically and today for the way that most Muslims relate to the Islamic tradition. While it seems that, in a post-9/11 world, most journalistic accounts of Islam and public discourse about Muslims in general focus on Islamic fundamentalism, most scholars of Islam would agree that Sufi-style spirituality still draws the loyalty of the majority of Muslims today. The difference is that Sufism is characterized by personal connections to God, the Prophet, and the saints, rather than just authoritarian appeals to scripture. Schimmel's coverage of a wide range of Muslim cultures also draws attention to the way in which one needs to break down the notion of Islamic civilization into multiple locations. Especially now, in the current climate of undifferentiated hostility towards Islam, it is difficult to overestimate the importance of the example that Annemarie Schimmel provided of the possibility of a rigorous yet sympathetic engagement with Islamic civilization. She was exceptional in providing the example of how to be a bridge between cultures. Her efforts were deeply appreciated by Muslims in many different countries.
Inevitably there have been new advances in the study of Sufism that have been carried out by researchers from many different countries and a variety of languages, and thus there are doubtless a number of features in Mystical Dimensions of Islam that are subject to improvement. Schimmel herself produced an expanded German translation of this book in 1985.[vi] What has been left out of this extensive survey? Characteristically, Schimmel remarked that her work avoided "sociology," perhaps acknowledging that she focused on the poetic and the ideal rather than the realm of society and politics where Sufism has in fact been contested and transformed; her adoption of Evelyn Underhill's highly personal approach to mysticism gave little consideration to mysticism's social history. Reviewers have noted that the book did not cover the extensive history of Sufism in East and West Africa, it provided more attention to Eastern areas (Turkish, Persian, and Indian) than Arab regions, and it did not reflect on problems of Orientalism in Sufi studies or contemporary Sufi groups moving outside of traditional Islamic identifications. Two other introductions to Sufism written in recent years from a historical and scholarly perspective, including one by the present author, have attempted to address some of those issues.[vii] Yet it is evident that the rich detail and extraordinary erudition of Schimmel's Mystical Dimensions of Islam, combined with its remarkable aesthetic and even spiritual engagement with the Sufi mystical tradition, make it a classic that will be hard to supersede.
[i] Annemarie Schimmel, "A Life of Learning," Charles Homer Haskins Lecture for 1993, ACLS Occasional Paper, No. 21 (American Council of Learned Societies, 1993), available online athttp://www.acls.org/programs/Default.aspx?id=1144 (accessed May 2, 2010); Annemarie Schimmel, Morgenland und Abendland: mein west-östliches Leben (München : C.H. Beck, 2002). There is also a series of interviews with Schimmel available in Spiegelungen des Islam: die Grande Dame der Orientalistik im Gespräch mit Felizitas von Schönborn (Berlin: Edition q in der Quintessenz-Verlags-Gmb, 2002).
[ii] Gott ist schön und Er liebt die Schönheit / God Is Beautiful and He Loves Beauty: Festschrift für Annemarie Schimmel zum 7. April 1992, dargebracht von Schülern, Freunden und Kollegen, ed. Alma Giese and J. Christoph Bürgel (Bern: Peter Lang, 1994); Annemarie Schimmel Festschrift, Journal of Turkish Studies 18 (1994).
[iii] Reynold Alleyne Nicholson, The Mystics of Islam (London: J. Bell, 1914); A. J. Arberry, Sufism: an Account of the Mystics of Islam (London: Allen & Unwin, 1950).
[iv] A. J. Arberry, trans., Mystical Poems of Rumi, ed. Ehsan Yarshater (Chicago: University of Chicago Press, 2009), p. 32 (originally published in 1968).
[v] Johann Wolfgang von Goethe, Der West-östliche Divan (München: Deutscher Taschenbuch Verlag, 1971); id., West-Eastern Divan, trans. Edward Dowden (London: J. M. Dent & Sons Ltd., 1914), available online at http://www.archive.org/details/westeasterndivan00goetuoft (accessed May 2, 2010). See Hamid Tafazoli, "Goethe, Johann Wolfgang von," Encyclopedia Iranica, available online at http://www.iranica.com/articles/goethe (accessed May 2, 2010).
[vi] Annemarie Schimmel, Mystische Dimensionen des Islam: Die Geschichte des Sufismus(Munich: Eugen Diederichs Verlag, 1985; reprint ed., Baden-Baden: Insel Verlag, 1995).
[vii] Carl W. Ernst, Guide to Sufism (Boston: Shambhala Publications, 1997); Alexander Knysh,Islamic Mysticism: A Short History (Leiden: Brill Academic Publishers, 2000). In addition, other authors have offered insider presentations of Sufism as the normative "heart of Islam." See William C. Chittick, Sufism: A Beginner's Guide (Oxford: OneWorld Publications, 2000); Seyyed Hossein Nasr, The Garden of Truth: The Vision and Promise of Sufism, Islam's Mystical Tradition(San Francisco: HarperOne, 2008).


MBUK's November 2018 issue is on sale now!
MBUK brings you bucket list trails from Kyrgyzstan and riding redemption from the Mountain of Hell in its latest issue.
Plus, six of 2019's trendsetting bikes are put to the test, from an enduro masterpiece to a hardtail cross-country whippet. There's also winter prep with a waterproof jacket group test and 12 must-have winter essentials.
Dan Milner is joined by Red Bull riders Rene Wildhaber and Tom Oehler, as they take on an epic journey to discover unridden 1,000-year-old trails in the mountains of Kyrgyzstan.
The team test six handpicked trendsetter bikes of 2019 that could make next year your fastest ever.
15 of the latest jackets get the MBUK testing treatment to find out which will keep you dry this winter.
MBUK gets a first ride on the exotic new 29er downhill bike from Intense. Find out first impressions of the latest speed machine.
After being told he will never ride again, ex-serviceman Chris Jones and the charity Help for Heroes tackle the infamous Mountain of Hell.
Tips on how to get the most from your hardtail so you can slay the trail and have more fun than ever.
Right on time. A free neck tube can be used numerous ways to keep your head, neck, cheeks or face warm and cosy, and free from the winter chill.