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Tuesday, January 17, 2012
Ladder Leanings
14 comments:
ha! That made me laugh. I have been on the hunt for a latter to hang blankets on.ReplyDelete
Well this is a fun little collection. p.s. I can't wait to see you tomorrow! (whaaa?!)ReplyDelete
gorgeous photos!!ReplyDelete
Very creative uses for a ladder!ReplyDelete
Yeee! I love this! The hanging pot rack is my favorite I think, but I do love that one with books piled all the way up.ReplyDelete
Now I just need a ladder... And somewhere to put it...
I hate standing on ladders too, but I love these ideas.ReplyDelete
A resounding YES to everything about that last photo. I love that room!ReplyDelete
The ladder pot rack is such a great idea!!!ReplyDelete
So funny! We JUST put an old wooden ladder in our living room and filled it with plants and christmas tree lights. It's probably my favorite design element in the house.ReplyDelete
That sounds lovely, Abbie!ReplyDelete
hmmm... I now want latter's all over my house.ReplyDelete
That's so funny....love them too...but didnt think anout the fact that i hate hate standing on them. I have my scarves hanging on one in my bedroom.ReplyDelete
- AnonymousFebruary 10, 2012 at 1:29 PM
I loooove this! Especially the ladder as a towel rack or bookcase!ReplyDelete


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Sno-Cone Machines Sale
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Our Sno-Cone Machines for Sale are equipped with powerful motors, sturdy cabinets, and are often referred to as Sno-Cone, Snow-Cone, and Snowball Machines. We offer a wide selection of machines to make perfect snow cones. We also carry a full line of Sno Cone Concession Supplies for Sale, such as, Sno-Cone Cups and Sno-Cone Syrup.

subset: commoncrawl


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Inventive materials: nanowires
Nanowires are just one of many new technologies that could revolutionise electronic devices
Nanowires are extremely narrow threads (less than 50 nm wide), which have the potential to be used in nanoscale electrical devices. The vision is of electronic chips so small and cheap they could be used in almost any way.
In biology, they could form the heart of extremely sensitive biosensors, identifying molecules associated with disease or the binding of chemicals to a drug target.Lead image:
Sandia Labs/Flickr CC BY NC ND


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About James
James Barney is the critically acclaimed author of The Genesis Key and The Joshua Stone. His first novel, The Genesis Key, was nominated for Best First Novel by the International Thriller Writers Association in 2011. He is a trial attorney and a former nuclear submarine officer in the U.S. Navy.
James lives in McLean, Virginia with his wife and two children.


text: Volume 2.21 | Jun 3 Mammary Cell News 2.21 June 3, 2010 In this issue: Science News | Current Publications | Industry News | Policy News | Events Subscribe | Unsubscribe TOP STORY Cleveland Clinic Researchers Develop Prototype Vaccine To Prevent Breast Cancer A first-of-its-kind vaccine to prevent breast cancer has shown overwhelmingly favorable results in animal models, according to a study by researchers. [Press release from the Cleveland Clinic's Lerner Research Institute discussing online prepublication in Nature Medicine] SCIENCE NEWS Lifestyle and Genes Pose Separate Risks for Breast Cancer The increased risk of breast cancer associated with a range of common genes is not affected by lifestyle factors – including use of hormone replacement therapy, age at birth of first child, obesity, and alcohol consumption – an Oxford-led study has found. [Press release from the University of Oxford discussing online prepublication in the Lancet] Targeted Immunotherapy Shows Promise in Penn Medicine Studies for Metastatic Breast and Pancreatic Cancers Early trials using targeted monoclonal antibodies in combination with existing therapies show promise in treating pancreatic cancer and metastatic breast cancer, according to research. [Press release from the University of Pennsylvania discussing research to be presented at the American Society of Clinical Oncology Annual Meeting] MU Researchers Show Potential for New Cancer Detection and Therapy Method Scientists explain a potentially new early cancer detection and treatment method using nanoparticles created at MU. [Press release from the University of Missouri discussing online prepublication in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences] Stem Cell Researchers at UCLA Uncover Previously Unknown Pattern in DNA Methylation The team of scientists discovered a relationship between DNA methylation and the positioning of nucleosomes. [Press release from the University of California, Los Angeles discussing online prepublication in Nature] CURRENT PUBLICATIONS (Ranked by Impact Factor of the Journal) LABORATORY RESEARCH An Autoimmune-Mediated Strategy for Prophylactic Breast Cancer Vaccination Here researchers use several mouse breast cancer models to define a prototypic strategy for prophylactic cancer vaccination. [Nat Med] Mst1 is an Interacting Protein that Mediates PHLPPs' Induced Apoptosis Here, researchers show that PHLPPs induce apoptosis in cancer cells independent of the known targets of PHLPPs. [Mol Cell] Targeting the Transforming Growth Factor-Beta Pathway Inhibits Human Basal-Like Breast Cancer Metastasis Transforming Growth Factor beta (TGF-beta) plays an important role in tumor invasion and metastasis. Researchers set out to investigate the possible clinical utility of TGF-beta antagonists in a human metastatic basal-like breast cancer model. [Mol Cell] Breast Cancer Dormancy Can Be Maintained by Small Numbers of Micrometastases In this study, researchers applied a probabilistic mathematical model to long-term follow-up studies of postresection patients to investigate the factors involved in mediating breast cancer dormancy. [Cancer Res] Fibroblast Growth Factor Receptor Signaling Dramatically Accelerates Tumorigenesis and Enhances Oncoprotein Translation in the Mouse Mammary Tumor Virus-Wnt-1 Mouse Model of Breast Cancer To investigate the mechanisms involved in FGF/Wnt cooperation, researchers genetically engineered a model of inducible FGF receptor signaling in the context of the well-established mouse mammary tumor virus-Wnt-1 transgenic mouse. [Cancer Res] p130Cas is an Essential Transducer Element in ErbB2 Transformation Researchers demonstrate that p130Cas is necessary for ErbB2-dependent foci formation, anchorage-independent growth, and in vivo growth of orthotopic N202-1A tumors. [FASEB J] Breast Cancer-Specific Mutations in CK1Epsilon Inhibit Wnt/Beta-Catenin and Activate the Wnt/Rac1/JNK and NFAT Pathways to Decrease Cell Adhesion and Promote Cell Migration Because casein kinase 1 epsilon (CK1epsilon) is a crucial regulator of the Wnt signaling cascades, researchers determined how these CK1epsilon mutations interfere with the Wnt pathway and affect the behavior of epithelial breast cancer cell lines. [Breast Cancer Res] TNFAlpha Up-Regulates SLUG Via the NF-KappaB/HIF1Alpha Axis, which Imparts Breast Cancer Cells with a Stem Cell-Like Phenotype Here, researchers show that TNFalpha treatment of human breast cancer cells up-regulates SLUG with a dependency on canonical NF-B/HIF1alpha signaling, which is strongly enhanced by p53 inactivation. [J Cell Physiol] CLINICAL RESEARCH Gene – Environment Interactions in 7610 Women with Breast Cancer: Prospective Evidence From the Million Women Study To test for evidence of gene-environment interactions, researchers compared genotypic relative risks for breast cancer across the other risk factors in a large UK prospective study. [Lancet] Metastatic Behavior of Breast Cancer Subtypes Breast cancer subtypes are associated with distinct patterns of metastatic spread with notable differences in survival after relapse. [ J Clin Oncol] INDUSTRY NEWS New Progression-Free Survival Data From Peregrine's Bavituximab in Phase II Refractory Breast Cancer Trial to Be Presented at ASCO Peregrine Pharmaceuticals, Inc. announced new median progression-free survival (PFS) data of 7.4 months from a Phase II trial evaluating bavituximab in combination with docetaxel in refractory patients with advanced breast cancer. [Peregrine Pharmaceuticals, Inc. Press Release] Eisai's Investigational Agent Eribulin Mesylate Receives FDA Priority Review Status Eisai Inc. announced that the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has granted priority review status to the company's New Drug Application for the investigational agent eribulin mesylate ("eribulin," also known as E7389). [Eisai Inc. Press Release] Clinical Data for Carl Zeiss Meditec's INTRABEAM Targeted Intraoperative Radiotherapy System for Breast Cancer to be Presented at ASCO 2010 Carl Zeiss Meditec announced that the TARGIT-A (TARGeted Intra-operative radiation Therapy) multicenter clinical trial that used INTRABEAM® device, will be subject of a late-breaking presentation at the American Society of Clinical Oncology's (ASCO's) 46th Annual Meeting in Chicago, IL. [Carl Zeiss Meditec Press Release] POLICY NEWS Treasury Releases New Guidance for Tax Credit in Affordable Care Act to Support Groundbreaking Biomedical Research The U.S. Department of the Treasury announced the guidelines for applying for the new Therapeutic Discovery Project Program created by the Affordable Care Act. [Department of the Treasury, United States] Third Time's a Charm for COMPETES Bill By a vote of 262 to 150, legislators authorized $84 billion for research, education, and innovation programs over the next 5 years at the National Science Foundation, the Department of Energy, and two Department of Commerce agencies – NOAA and NIST under the America COMPETES Reauthorization Act (HR 5116). [House of Representatives, United States] Democrats: FDA Should Be Able to Recall Drugs House Democrats repeatedly called for federal regulators to be given the authority to recall drugs. Pending legislation would grant that power to the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for food, but not for drugs. [House of Representatives, United States] Last Hurrah from National Academies Stem Cell Committee Even though the National Institutes of Health issued stem cell guidelines last year, there's still a need for guidelines for research that remains off-limits for U.S. government-funded labs. [National Academies' National Research Council and Institute of Medicine, United States] NIH Set to Tighten Financial Rules for Researchers After a wave of financial scandals over the past few years involving biomedical researchers, the U.S. National Institutes of Health (NIH) proposed far-reaching changes that would lead to tighter oversight of agency-funded extramural investigators and their institutions. [National Institutes of Health, United States] Request for Information (RFI) on the NIH Plan to Develop the Genetic Testing Registry (NOT-OD-10-101) [National Institutes of Health, United States] Administrative Supplements to Advance Special Translational Research Acceleration Projects on Immune Response Modifiers Currently Funded by the National Cancer Institute (NCI) (NOT-CA-10-025) [National Institutes of Health, United States] Exceptions and Alternative Procedures Approved Under 21 CFR 640.120 [Food and Drug Administration, United States] EVENTS American Society of Clinical Oncology (ASCO) Annual Meeting 2010 June 4-8, 2010 Chicago, United States Gordon Research Conference: Mammary Gland Biology June 6-11, 2010 Lucca (Barga), Italy 12th Milan Breast Cancer Conference June 16-18, 2010 Milan, Italy International Society for Stem Cell Research (ISSCR) 8th Annual Meeting June 16-19, 2010 San Francisco, United States The 21st Meeting of the European Association for Cancer Research (EACR) June 26-29, 2010 Oslo, Norway United Kingdom National Stem Cell Network (UKNSCN) Third Annual Scientific Conference July 12-14, 2010 Nottingham, United Kingdom Stem Cells USA & Regenerative Medicine Congress 2010 September 13-15, 2010 Philadelphia, United States 15th Congress of the European Society of Surgical Oncology (ESSO) September 15-17, 2010 Bordeaux, France 2010 World Cancer Congress August 18-21, 2010 Shenzhen, China 35th European Society for Medical Oncology (ESMO) Congress October 8-12, 2010 Milan, Italy International Symposium on Breast Cancer Prevention: Nutrition, Communications, Public Policy October 18-19, 2010 West Lafayette, United States 6th National Cancer Research Institute (NCRI) Conference November 7-10, 2010 Liverpool, United Kingdom JOB OPPORTUNITIES Senior Scientist – Magnetic Cell Separation (STEMCELL Technologies) Business Development Manager Europe – Cell Therapy Products (Pall Corporation) Sr. Product Support and Training Specialist (CardianBCT) Manager/Sr. Manager, Therapeutic Cell Solutions, Process Development (Lonza) Recruit Top Talent Reach more than 11,000 potential candidates by posting your organization's career opportunities with Cell Therapy News. Visit here to post your career opportunities. Visit our events page to stay up to date with the latest events in the cell, gene and immunotherapy community. Have we missed an important article or publication in Mammary Cell News? Click here to submit! Comments or Suggestions? Email [email protected] with your feedback. Learn more about Mammary Cell News: Archives | Events | Subscribe | Contact Us


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There will be no comic updates here next week, but I will try to put up some sketches or behind the scenes stuff. I don't want to take time away from the family during thanksgiving break, and lately I've really been letting comics take priority over studying. That's unacceptable. So next week is studying only. My other comic, The War of Winds, will update on Monday, but will not update the following week. It's time for study bootcamp, yarghleblarf.
I'm having a special on What it Takes BOOKS. Every one you buy will be specially autographed and include an original drawing. Usually I do a drawing in only 1 book when people buy a batch. In addition, each order will include an 8.5x11 print of Colbey from stage 2 of the Sexify Colby campaign.
Books can be bought on the store page.
Thanks to everyone who has ordered so far! I will draw and ship ASAP.


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December 3rd Concert Details
Concerts and Art Exhibits at
Las Placitas Presbyterian Church
Highway 165, Placitas NM
2 pm - Artists Reception
3 pm - Concert
Please check individual concert
details as dates and times may
be subject to change
31st Anniversary Season 2017—2018
The Placitas Artists Series is a 501(c)(3) not-for-profit organization.
This project is made possible in part by New Mexico Arts, a division of the Department of Cultural Affairs,
and the National Endowment for the Arts.
Image Used with Permission
© Peter Böhringer - All Rights Reserved
Sol y Canto - Guitar, Vocals, Saxophone and Flute
December 3, 2017
Program Information
Read About
Sol y Canto
Rosi Amador
Paul Lieberman
This concert generously sponsored by -
Vulcan Materials - Silver Level
Artwork and Statement
Peter Böhringer
If you would like a written
acknowledgment of your
donation and a receipt for tax
purposes, please provide your
mailing address when
donating via our partner


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Date: February 17, 2004
Contact: Anne Strong
Telephone: (301) 279-9697
HAI Historian Rodney Carlisle Authors New Book on the Persian Gulf War
Dr. Rodney Carlisle of History Associates Incorporated (HAI) based in Rockville, Maryland, has authored Persian Gulf War. This book is the latest in a series of popular America at War books produced by the Facts on File Corporation. Persian Gulf War shows how the war has affected policies and attitudes toward military involvement in foreign countries in every echelon of American society. Perhaps equally important is that this volume encourages the reader to consider what war means today, as President Bush wages a war on terrorism and attempts to disarm Iraq by military force, if necessary. Carlisle, an emeritus professor of history at Rutgers University and one of the founding members of HAI, is the author of more than a dozen other books, including the Complete Idiot's Guide © to Spies and Espionage.
About History Associates
For more than thirty years the historians and archivists at History Associates have demonstrated that history is valuable in the market as well as the marketplace of ideas. They provide professional corporate histories, exhibit content, interpretive planning, historical research, archival services, and collections management services to clients throughout the United States and around the world. History Associates strives to be The Best Company in History®, serving corporate, government, legal, and nonprofit clients from its headquarters in Rockville, Maryland. For more information, call (301) 279-9697 or visit www.historyassociates.com.


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Choosing the right home loan
When it comes to selecting the right home loan, many people are faced with the same problem – fixed, variable or both?
In an ideal world, there might be a 'right' answer, but these loan options exist for a reason. Depending on your particular financial situation, lifestyle and aims for your home loan, any one of these alternatives could be right for you.
So, though we can't give you the magic solution, we can provide you with an explanation of each type, and why you might select one.
Fixed rate home loans
Quite simply, a fixed rate home loan offers certainty. When you take out one of these loans, the interest you pay on the loan is 'fixed' at a specific rate. Though this rate is higher than the market rate, it cannot change for a certain period, usually between one and five years. After this period has elapsed, you can usually apply for a new fixed period.
The advantage of a fixed rate is that you know exactly what you have to pay, for an extended period of time. This allows you to plan your finances with confidence.
Variable rate home loans
Unlike a fixed rate loan, the interest rate on a variable loan fluctuates with the market. This means that when market interest rates are lower, so is your home loan interest. However, when market rates rise, so do your repayments.
Generally, variable home loans also offer more flexible repayment options, such as low basic variable rates and options for extra repayments.
Split fixed and variable home loans
Another available option is to split a loan, with one part of it lent at a fixed rate of interest, and the other variable. This provides a level of certainty, while allows access to flexible features not available on fixed rates loans.
Making the right decision
When you take out a home loan, it's important that you select the one that's right for you. At Beyond Bank we offer a whole range of home loan options. We can discuss your individual requirements and find the one that fits you best. If you would like to discuss your choices, leave a comment below.
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Dispersion Compensation Modules
Acronym: DCM
Definition: modules used for dispersion compensation
German: Dispersionskompensations-Module
Categories: photonic devices, lightwave communications, light pulses
How to cite the article; suggest additional literature
Author: Dr. Rüdiger Paschotta
In optical fiber communications, dispersion compensation modules (DCM) (also called dispersion compensation units, DCU) can be used for compensating the chromatic dispersion of, e.g., a long span of transmission fiber. Typically, such a module provides a fixed amount of dispersion (e.g. normal dispersion in the 1.6-μm spectral region), although tunable dispersion modules are also available. A module can easily be inserted into a fiber-optic link because it has fiber connectors for the input and output. The insertion losses may be compensated with a fiber amplifier, e.g. an erbium-doped fiber amplifier in a 1.5-μm telecom system. A dispersion-compensating module is often placed between two fiber amplifiers.
Dispersion compensation modules can be based on different technologies:
- A simple and frequently used method employs a long piece of fiber, e.g. a dispersion-shifted fiber, wound up on a spool with a diameter of e.g. 100–200 mm. The fiber used can be optimized to provide dispersion for the compensation of e.g. a 100-km span of transmission fiber, while introducing an optical loss of only a few decibels.
- A more compact approach, also presenting lower insertion loss, is based on a chirped fiber Bragg grating. A large amount of dispersion can be compensated with relatively long fiber gratings (possibly tens of centimeters in length). By varying the device temperature (with built-in temperature gradients), the dispersion can be tuned.
- For wavelength division multiplexing systems, virtually imaged phased arrays are sometimes used.
Various properties of dispersion compensation modules can be important:
- A central aspect is of course the amount of chromatic dispersion provided, which depends on the length of transmission fiber to be compensated, and on the type of transmission fiber. For example, dispersion-shifted transmission fibers usually require much less dispersion compensation.
- The dispersion slope (higher-order dispersion) can strongly limit the usable bandwidth, which is important particularly in the case of wavelength division multiplexing. Depending on the type of transmission fiber, different relative dispersion slopes are required. High relative dispersion slopes tend to make the fiber design more difficult.
- In some cases, tunable dispersion is desirable.
- Optical insertion losses result from absorption and scattering in the fiber itself, but also from splice and connector losses. Such losses should be low, since they require a high amplifier gain and introduce higher excess noise.
- In some cases, optical nonlinearity can be relevant. This is minimized e.g. by using strongly dispersive fiber, where a shorter length is sufficient.
- Compactness can be an important practical aspect. Tight winding of the compensating fiber can be a solution, but is limited by bend losses.
For very high single-channel data rates, compensation of polarization mode dispersion can also be required. This is substantially more complicated, since it is necessary for that purpose to monitor the state of the signal and correct the time delays accordingly.
The RP Photonics Buyer's Guide contains 20 suppliers for dispersion compensation modules. Among them:
See also: dispersion compensation, optical fiber communications, optical data transmission
and other articles in the categories photonic devices, lightwave communications, light pulses


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In addition to providing supercomputing facilities, MSI also has four computational laboratories:
- All MSI labs have 24 hour continuous access via U Card reader.
- Lab workstations have access to MSI software and shared global filesystems.
Scientific Development and Visualization Laboratory (SDVL)
Walter Library, Room 575
Resources: Linux workstations, large wall mounted displays for tutorials and conferencing
LCSE-MSI Visualization Laboratory (LMVL)
Walter Library, Room 125
Resources: High definition wall projected displays, with access to high performance graphics, computation, storage, and networking
Basic Sciences Computing Laboratory (BSCL)
Nils Hasselmo Hall, Room 1-280
Resources: Linux workstations, 3D stereo capable monitors and goggles
Biomedical Modeling, Simulation, and Design Laboratory (BMSDL)
717 Delaware, Room 414
Resources: Linux workstations
The labs are subject to MSI policies. MSI does not allow users to remotely access laboratory machines. MSI does provide continuous remote access to compute resources on several systems. Information regarding available software is present on the software page.


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Sunday 28 October
Bike Ride -Little River Rail Trail
Grade: N/A
Cycle from Motukarara to Little River and return. About 43km. Flat cycle trail but can be exposed to the wind. (Very unlikely to get a tail wind both ways!)
Please phone or text Sally if you are intending to join this trip
Leader: Sally ph 338 1097, 021 127 6149
Depart from Main rd outside Halswell school at 8.30 am
Transport: $/A


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Athabasca Basin and beyond
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Purepoint reports winter drill results from Hook Lake
Five kilometres northeast of the PLS discovery Purepoint Uranium's TSXV:PTU Hook Lake project underwent a four-hole, 925-metre winter campaign, with results announced June 20. One hole on the D1 conductor found weakly radioactive graphitic pelite of 138 ppm over 2.3 metres starting at 301.7 metres in vertical depth. Another hole 800 metres south found no significant radioactivity. Two others on the D2 conductor were lost due to loose subsurface conditions. The drilling does provide "further evidence of widespread hydrothermal alteration and structural disruption," said Scott Frostad, Purepoint's VP of exploration.
Following up on an airborne study, a 24-line-kilometre ground EM survey has identified targets for a winter program on the 28,683-hectare project, one of the company's 11 Basin properties. Purepoint holds a 21% interest in Hook Lake, a JV with Cameco Corp TSX:CCO and AREVA Resources Canada each holding 39.5%.
Azincourt closes $1.5-million private placement to fund PLN work, revises appointments, plans name change
Azincourt Resources TSXV:AAZ announced June 19 the closing of a $1.5-million private placement, one of the requirements of its previously announced 50% option on Fission's Patterson Lake North property. The earn-in agreement has since received TSXV approval. The Venture also gave the go-ahead to an April 29 agreement in which Azincourt will pay a finder's fee in stages as it acquires incremental interests in PLN. On paying Fission $500,000 and funding $1.5 million of first-year work to earn an initial 10%, the company will pay Pure Capital Holdings $136,250 in shares.
This year's campaign will include 2,500 metres of drilling and an airborne EM survey over selected areas. Radon and helium surveys might also take place. Fission has already spent about $4.7 million exploring the 27,408-hectare property north of PLS. Azincourt also announced it had filed a May 5 PLN technical report on SEDAR.
Additionally the company revised the appointments announced May 15. As previously reported, Dev Randhawa, Ian Stalker and Ted O'Connor join the BOD, which Stalker will head as chairman while O'Connor becomes CEO. But now O'Connor, not Stalker, becomes president.
Darren Devine and Latika Prasad have resigned as directors. Prasad also resigned as CFO, to be replaced by Vivien Chuang.
Lastly, a name change. Pending TSXV approval Azincourt Resources becomes Azincourt Uranium Inc. Same old ticker, though.
Uravan heads geochem research team with Cameco and others
In the south-central Basin, four groups are collaborating on a study to improve geochemical techniques. They hope to better understand whether surface elements originate from a deposit at depth or from the natural geochemical composition at surface, and how elements move from depth to surface. Scheduled for completion this month, the study is managed by Uravan Minerals TSXV:UVN, which made the June 18 announcement. Soil and tree core samples will be taken initially from a 600-by-950-metre grid over Centennial, an 800-metre-deep deposit currently being drilled by Cameco.
Partnering on the study with Uravan and Cameco are the Queen's University Facility for Isotope Research and Environmental BioTechnologies Inc. The Centennial deposit is a JV in which Cameco and AREVA Resources Canada each hold 59%, with Formation Capital TSX:FCO holding the other 2%.
UEX announces AGM results
On June 19 UEX Corp TSX:UEX announced its AGM and special meeting re-elected, re-appointed and approved the entire agenda, including an advance notice policy for the election of directors.
Niger mine re-opens after terror attack
Partial production resumed at AREVA's Somair mine in Niger on June 18, according to a Reuters story posted in Mining Weekly. One of two Niger mines that total 7.5% of world uranium supply, Somair had been shut down following a May 23 terrorist bombing.
Another June 20 Reuters story recounted the lawlessness and terror around the porous borders connecting Libya with Niger and other countries.
See previous uranium news updates:
Read about uranium supply, demand and prices.
Disclaimer: Skyharbour Resources is a client of OnPage Media Corp, the publisher of ResourceClips.com. Neither OnPage Media nor its owner hold a stock position or options in Skyharbour Resources. Zimtu Capital Corp is a client of OnPage Media Corp, the publisher of ResourceClips.com. The principals of OnPage Media may hold shares in Zimtu Capital.
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NASHVILLE – Tennessee just made global news for its award winning wines.
Tennessee wineries took home 21 medals from the recent Indy International Wine Competition at Purdue University, one of the nation's largest wine competitions.
The West Lafayette, Indiana event attracted more than 2,300 wines from 39 states and 14 countries as far away as France, Australia, Chile and Greece. The wines were judged by 44 international experts in a completely blind taste competition based on appearance, aroma, taste and aftertaste.
For their port wine, "Apropos," Beans Creek Winery in Manchester was awarded a prestigious Double Gold Medal, meaning that every one of the 44 judges at the event voted for that wine to receive a gold medal.
The Indy is the largest scientifically organized and independent wine competition in the United States, which is the world's largest wine market. The competition is closely watched by wine writers, winemakers, winegrowers and enologists, chefs and sommeliers, wine distributors and retailers.
Arrington Vineyards near Franklin took gold medals for their 2010 Merlot, 2012 Noiret Chambourcin and 2012 Viognier. Beachaven Vineyards & Winery in Clarksville also won gold for their 2012 Chardonnay.
Amber Falls Winery & Cellars, located in Hampshire, won silver medals for their 2012 Cottage Rose and 2012 Romance blends. Arrington's 2010 Syrah, 2011 Vidal Blanc Chardonnay, 2012 Chardonel Barrel Reserve and 2012 Riesling also took silvers. Beachaven Vineyards & Winery was awarded a silver medal for a 2011 Chambourcin, Beans Creek Winery won a silver medal for their Sparkling Strawberry, and Eagle Springs Winery in Kodak won silver medals for their Honeymoon and Nectar wines.
Bronze medals went to Beachaven Vineyards & Winery for both 2012 Blackberry and Cynthiana varietals, while Arrington Vineyards got a bronze award for a 2012 Chardonnay. A Beans Creek Winery Chardonel also took home bronze, as did Eagle Springs Winery's 2012 Pride of the South, Screaming Apricot and Wildfire wines.
For more information about Tennessee wines and wineries, contact Tennessee Department of Agriculture viticulture marketing specialist Tammy Algood at firstname.lastname@example.com. For a directory of Tennessee wineries, wine trails, and recipes paired with or using Tennessee wines, visit www.picktnproducts.org.


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Hywood Upbeat Despite Fairfax's $890m Loss
The fortunes of Fairfax have swung dramatically, with the media giant posting a net loss of $893.5 million for the 2016 fiscal year, following an $83.2 million profit in FY15.
Fairfax revealed today that its underlying net profit decreased by 7.6 per cent to 132.5 million in the 12 months to 30 June, with overall revenue falling 0.6 per cent to 1.83 billion.
The group's underlying earnings before interest, tax, depreciation and amortisation (EBITDA) were down 1.4 per cent to $283.3 million.
Fairfax CEO Greg Hywood said the results are proof that the company's transformation over recent years has succeeded.
"The stable top-line revenue and EBITDA make it clear that we have reshaped this company into a high-value, broadly-based, digital-rich business," he told shareholders.
"The flat top-line is despite an 11 per cent decline in group publishing revenue in the second half. Digital and non-print earnings now constitute more than 40 per cent of Fairfax's EBITDA.
"On current trends, next year this will be closer to 60 per cent, reflecting the continued growth in digital and non-print earnings."
Fairfax's Australian metro media segment, which includes The Sydney Morning Herald, The Age, and The Australian Financial Review, saw a 5 per cent drop in revenue and a 45 per cent decline in EBITDA over the 12-month period.
The metro segment's advertising revenue slipped by 15 per cent, which Hywood said was impacted by weakness in the retail, communications and finance categories, and was somewhat offset with ad revenue growth of 36 per cent from digital ventures.
Furthermore, Fairfax's Metro publishing costs declined by 4 per cent.
"In metro, as I spoke in detail about publicly in May, we are delivering a new model with enhanced digital and targeted and differentiated print propositions," Hywood said.
"We have substantially reduced the risks associated with metro through the removal of $400 million of annualised structural costs over the last four years.
"The publishing innovation taking place in metro is as sophisticated as anything happening anywhere else in the world and will underpin its future."
Fairfax chairman Nick Falloon conceded to shareholders that the metro segment is developing a plan for "enhanced 24/7 digital and reduced print frequency", following a leaked email from a Fairfax executive which revealed that the group's print focus will now be on its weekend titles.
Meanwhile, Mr Hywood described Macquarie Media's FY16 performance as "excellent" and reflective of the successful merger between Fairfax Radio Network and Macquarie Radio Network in March 2015.
"Cost and operational synergies underpinned the 28 per cent growth in revenue and 80 per cent increase in EBITDA, with margins expanding from 13 per cent to 18 per cent," he said.
"We are confident that the benefits of the merger will continue to underpin its performance."


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Table of Contents
A Brief History
Kramer, A. F., Erickson K. I., & Colcombe S. J. (2006). Exercise, cognition, and the aging brain. J Appl Physiol, 101, 1237–1242. DOI: 10.1152/japplphysiol.000500.2006.
Kramer, A. F. & Erickson, K. I. (2012). Capitalizing on cortical plasticity: influence of physical activity on cognition and brain function. Trends Cogn Sci, 11(8), 342-8. doi:10.1016/j.tics.2007.06.009.
"It is exercise alone that supports the spirits, and keeps the mind in vigor" Cicero ~65BC
The second president of the United States was quoted, "Exercise invigorates, and enlivens all the faculties of body and of mind…" (Kramer, 2006). Through providing an up-to-date review of published scientific literature we want to investigate the claim that exercise has positive benefits for cognition. Most research in this field that has been conducted through analyses of numerous epidemiological, clinical trials. The absence of disease by primary prevention or the delay of disease progression by means of secondary prevention; also the preservation of executive cognitive function is one way to define a "healthy mind" (Kramer 2012).
Epidemiological review
Over the past decade studies conducted using a self-report method demonstrated there is an inverse correlation between physical activity and age-related cognitive decline and the prevention of neurological disease. One study from an exercise intervention conducted a post assessment (6.2 years) test where 158 individuals out of 1740 men and women over the age of 65 developed Alzheimer's dementia. Post adjustment of cofounding variables such as education level demonstrated that, "incidence rate for Alzheimer's disease was significantly higher for individuals that exercised less than three times per week 19.7 per 1,000 person year) compared with those who exercised more than three times per week (13.0 per 1,000 person year)" (Kramer & Erickson, 2012). These results suggest a form of dose-response relationship. Numerous scientific literatures that have been published to similarly support this claim. There is also literature that claims an inverse relationship between physical activity levels and age related cognitive decline. Although there may be substantial evidence supporting the relationship between physical activity and later cognitive function including the absence or delayed progression of neurological disease. There is some inconsistent findings observed that could potentially have risen from the use of self-report measures or the lack of operational and conceptual definitions of physical activity (type, duration and intensity) (Kramer et al., 2006).
Clinical trial review
For approximately four decades, Colcombe and Kramer have conducted meta-analyses on published scientific literature that examined the exercise effects on cognitive function of healthy older adults (Kramer & Erickson, 2012). Studies that qualified must utilize: randomized design for treatment group and controls. The results demonstrated a moderate effect size (0.48) between physical activity and cognition. The largest positive effect was found in executive cognitive functions such as, "planning, scheduling, working memory, inhibitory processes, and multitasking" (Kramer & Erickson, 2012). More importantly these effects were larger when aerobic exercise was combined with strength and flexibility training. It is argued that even a small effect size is beneficial due to the complexity that is the dualist problem (Kramer et al., 2006).
How do we conceptualize the health of the mind?
Vandenbos, R. (2009) APA Concise dictionary of psychology. Washington. American Psychology Association.
World Health Organization. (2006). Constitution of the World Health Organization. Retrieved from http://apps.who.int/gb/bd/PDF/bd47/EN/constitution-en.pdf.
Kim, Y. S., Park, Y. S., Allegrante, J. P., Marks, R., Ok H., Cho, K. O., & Garber, C. E. (2012). Relationship between physical activity and general mental health. Prev Med, 55, 458–463. DOI: 10.1016/j.ypmed.2012.08.021.
Eime, R. M., Young, J., Harvey, J. T., Charity, M. J., & Payne, W. R. (2013). A systematic review of the psychological and social benefits of participation in sport for children and adolescents: informing development of a conceptual model of health through sport. Int J Behav Nutr Phys Act, 10,135. DOI: 10.1186/1479-5868-10-98.
In order for us to conceptualize the health of the mind we must define health. The World Health Organization's definition of health states: "a state of complete physical, mental, social well-being and not merely the absence of disease and infirmity" (WHO, 2006). With that in "mind", through the American Psychology Association's concise definition of mental states that the mental is the mind or its processes including thinking, feeling and related executive processes (Vandenbos, 2009). We now return to classify the health of the mind as some studies states: "directly or indirectly related to the mental health components of the World Health Organization such that it promotes well-being, prevention of mental disorders and, to provide treatment or rehabilitation for those who exhibit mental disorders" (Eime et al., 2013). Furthermore, the mental health components of the WHO defines wellbeing as realizing ones potential, their ability to manage normal life stresses, make positively contribute to their environment (WHO, 2006). One may make the claim that, "Psychological distress is a term that refers to the emotional state, somatic symptoms, discomforts, and impaired coping associated with mental and physical health disorders" Kessler et al. (2002) viewed this as an indicator of general mental health (Kim et al., 2012).
Cognitive aspects of the healthy mind
Capitalizing on cortical plasticity: influence of physical activity on cognition and brain function. Trends Cogn Sci, 11(8), 342-8. doi:10.1016/j.tics.2007.06.009.
This article systematically analyzed three independent literatures that examined the relationship between physical activity and exercise on cognition, brain function and structure. It puts claim that habitual levels of physical activity can maintain and improve cognition and brain function (Kramer & Erickson, 2012).
Age related decline
Nazimek, J. (2009). Active body, healthy mind. The Psychologist, 22(3), 206-209.
Executive cognitive function such as: memory, visuospatial ability, planning, scheduling and working memory tend to decline with age. It is alleged that regular exercise in older adults perform better in cognitive tasks than their sedentary counter parts, especially those who find enjoyment in high levels of physical activity. As a result, this leads to maintained cognitive function and an overall improved quality of life. Some mechanisms for this phenomenon are neurogenesis, brain plasticity and other possible molecular and cellular mechanism will be explored in a bit more detail later (Nazimek, 2009). Furthermore, other mechanisms not explored in depth are related to:
- Inflammation - inflammation that is present is associated with dementia related cognitive impairment. A study showed that post three week exercise intervention lab mice regained normal cognitive function and spatial memory with voluntary running (Nazimek, 2009).
- Increase in cytokines - Cytokines are chemical signals, studies show that increased levels of brain cytokines can protect neurons in the hippocampus and may improve cellular communication (Nazimek, 2009).
- Increased blood flow to the brain is one the most plausible mechanisms. Exercise causes vasodilation in critical regions in the body. This increase in blood flow causes an increase in concentration of oxygen and glucose, which are vital nutrients for the body. Furthermore, the increase in blood flow also results in increase pressure, causing dilation then contraction of cerebral muscles. This acts like a physiological cerebral "massage" (Nazimek, 2009).
- Exercise may also decrease the risk for cerebrovascular disease such as stroke caused by hypertension. Furthermore, a blockage from stroke could cause increase the risk of oxidative stress (Nazimek, 2009).
Cortical Plasticity
Kramer, A. F., & Erickson, K. I. (2012). Capitalizing on cortical plasticity: influence of physical activity on cognition and brain function. Trends Cogn Sci, 11(8), 342-8. doi:10.1016/j.tics.2007.06.009.
Numerous literature has examined has supported the notion that maintenance of physical activity levels can improve if not sustain cognition and brain function. Such studies were conducted under observational human studies, clinical trials and animal research to determine molecular and cellular mechanisms (Kramer & Erickson, 2012).
Observational Studies
Kramer, A. F., & Erickson, K. I. (2012). Capitalizing on cortical plasticity: influence of physical activity on cognition and brain function. Trends Cogn Sci, 11(8), 342-8. doi:10.1016/j.tics.2007.06.009.
Studies conducted concluded after a follow up after 6.2 years of 158/1740 individuals developed dementia. These individuals were 34% less likely to exercise three times per week. The relationship between fitness and cognitive ability was stronger in objective measures than subjective (Kramer & Erickson, 2012).
Randomized clinical trials
Kramer, A. F., & Erickson, K. I. (2012). Capitalizing on cortical plasticity: influence of physical activity on cognition and brain function. Trends Cogn Sci, 11(8), 342-8. doi:10.1016/j.tics.2007.06.009.
These trials were conducted using randomized aerobic exercise interventions. The results were mixed due to lack of operational definition of cardiorespiratory fitness (determined by VO2 max), length and intensity, cognitive processes examined and other confounding variables such as age, health and socioeconomic status. Regardless, there was a moderate effect size for treatment interventions on normal (including decline of executive cognitive processes) and pathological cognitive processes. There is still little significant evidence supporting cognitive change, because of the reductionist nature of the study. Furthermore, fitness effects are not discriminate of a specific brain function. What can be concluded using functional magnetic resonance imaging (hereinafter fMRI), showed that through a six month aerobic exercise intervention (walking, stretching) of one hour per day; increased gray matter volume in the frontal and temporal cortex and white matter in the anterior region of the brain. The underlying mechanism remains an anomaly. The changes in volume may be indicative of enhanced cognitive performance.
Animal Research
Kramer, A. F., & Erickson, K. I. (2012). Capitalizing on cortical plasticity: influence of physical activity on cognition and brain function. Trends Cogn Sci, 11(8), 342-8. doi:10.1016/j.tics.2007.06.009.
The use of animal research may serve as a great adjunct to human trials, such that it allows for better manipulation of otherwise uncontrollable variables such as: molecular and cellular mechanisms. Through this form of research it enhances our examination of factors that influence the brain and cognition. The study using lab mice is conducted over a 45 month period with access to voluntary aerobic exercise (wheel running). These mice had faster acquisition of mazes relative to their sedentary partners. In summary, exercise improved learning and retention of tasks related to the hippocampus. The molecular mechanisms that explain this phenomenon is that exercise increases the activation of mRNA and brain derived neurotropic factor (BDNF) in the hippocampus, cerebellum and frontal cortex. BDNF can improve dendritic outgrowth and synaptic plasticity improving neural networks. Amongst many other things BDNF acts as a neuroprotector, protecting these networks. This can explain the maintained cognitive function with exercise irrespective of age. Lastly, exercise increase Insulin Growth Factor 1 (IGF-1). It is alleged that increases in IGF-1 through exercise induces angiogenesis (production of new blood vessels) and neurogenesis (production of neurons). Both may influence cognition in the sense that, increases blood flow to the brain region could bring vital nutrients while the production of neurons can replaces the atrophying ones as a result of age.
Personal Wellbeing – Improving the Psychosocial aspects
Eime, R. M., Young, J., Harvey, J. T., Charity, M. J., & Payne, W. R. (2013). A systematic review of the psychological and social benefits of participation in sport for children and adolescents: informing development of a conceptual model of health through sport. Int J Behav Nutr Phys Act, 10,135. DOI: 10.1186/1479-5868-10-98.
In one published systematic review of literature it is alleged that through analyses of mainly quantitative studies, the most common health benefit was associated with improved well-being. This was followed by decrease stress response, reduced distress, improved function in a social setting and vitality.
Saxena, S., Ommeren, M. V., Tang, K. C., & Armstrong T. P. (2005). Mental health benefits with physical activity. J Ment Health, 14(5):, 45-451. DOI: 10.1080/09638230500270776.
What is more, studies published allege that participation in a socially engaging manner can contribute to mental health and overall life satisfaction. This is argued my stating, group activities enhance social connectedness, social support groups and peer bonding (Eime et al., 2013). In another study physical activity is shown to enhance social participation, social skills and access to social support systems (Saxena et al., 2005).
Penedo, F. J., & Dahn J. R. (2005). Exercise and well-being: a review of mental and physical health benefits associated with physical activity. Curr Opin Psychiatry, 18(2), 189-93. DOI:10.1097/00001504-200503000-00013.
Randomized clinical trials of cross sectional and longitudinal studies that last at least twelve months demonstrate that physical activity may improve mood and decrease symptoms associated with depression and anxiety. This is especially true with major depressive; according to DSM classifications, who showed significant improvements relative to psychoactive treatments. Exercise in the form of running is inexpensive and easily accessible can enhance an individuals experiential well-being in addition to physical function. Shifting over to resistance interventions that occur over a 24 week period showed significant improvements in mood scores based on measurements obtained Exercise Induced Feelings Inventory. Yoga and other related non-traditional forms of physical activity showed significant decreases in perceived stress and negative affect.
Psychological Stress and Well-being in adolescents (Farbod)
Norris, R. Carroll, D. & Cochrane, R. (1992). The effects of physical activity and exercise training on psychological stress and well-being in an adolescent population. J Psychosom Res, 36(1): 55-65. DOI: 10.1016/0022-3999(92)90114-H.
Within the last 25 years there has been extensive research that attests to the association between stressful life events and ill-health. A study conducted with 147 adolescent subjects examined the effects of exercise stress. The results concluded that people who self-reported higher levels of physical activity also reported less stress and lower levels of depression. (Norris et al., 1992) The study looked at both high and moderate levels of intensity within aerobic training, flexibility training or a control group. Individual in the high intensity group experienced the greatest reduction in stress than the other groups. However, this initial change declined towards the end of the intervention program. (Norris et al., 1992) The moderate intensity group saw positive stress reduction effects of exercise which increased throughout the study. It is noted that exercise can diminish psychological stress if it is of sufficient intensity. Furthermore aerobic activities may result in positive psychological effects through measurable improvements of aerobic or physical fitness. (Norris et al., 1992)
Absence of Disease
Kramer, A. F., & Erickson, K. I. (2012). Capitalizing on cortical plasticity: influence of physical activity on cognition and brain function. Trends Cogn Sci, 11(8), 342-8. doi:10.1016/j.tics.2007.06.009.
In addition to maintenance of cognition and brain function, exercise can act as an adjunct in reducing prevalence or delayed progression of neurological diseases. Much of the establish literature focus their studies around dementia disorders including Alzheimer's disease and other trauma related injuries to the brain.
It is widely established that being sedentary leads to an impairment of physical health, social engagement and occupational performance. It is also to be noted that along with the physical benefits of exercise there are psychological benefits included. Some may argue that these physical and psychological benefits are correlated. The issue with current research is determining the optimal dose and the underlying mechanism. Based on observation and cross-sectional studies that utilized a self-report method, such studies support the claim that better mental health is correlated with increased engagement of physical activity. What is more, such a study showed that two to four hours a week had the largest difference. In addition, 65% of adults who exercised less than four hours had poorer mental health. In general it is said that poor mental health was associated with exercise that was less than two or greater than seven hours per week. This can be visually demonstrated by an inverted "U" relationship. Anywhere in between this duration of exercise was 1.39 times more likely to have better mental health irrespective of socioeconomic status.
Saxena, S., Ommeren, M. V., Tang, K. C., & Armstrong T. P. (2005). Mental health benefits with physical activity. J Ment Health, 14(5), 445-451. DOI: 10.1080/09638230500270776.
The World Health Organization claims that 60% of the global population fails to achieve thirty minutes of physical activity daily, two thirds of that do participate in physical activity but do so insufficiently to obtain the associated health benefits. Physical activity is substantially low in the older age cohorts (44+ years old). With regular participation individuals are less likely to have major depression or a range of anxiety disorders classified by the DSM. The literature published surrounding this topic have shown an effect size of 0.72 moderate but borderline large, for treating anxiety and depression. It is important to note that this is less powerful than medication and psychotherapy. What is more, non-clinical volunteers, short follow up interviews, experimenter blinding may have led to some over-estimating. Another study conducted with exercise control groups and exercise with Sertaline (anti-depression medication) following a16 week duration at 70-85% max heart rate parameter showed that individuals in the exercise-medication group showed greater relapse into depression symptoms than the respective control group. With respect to, exercise being a prescription adherence to physical activity programs was higher when prescription was paired with a referral to an exercise specialist (8 months) compared to just a prescription from a doctor (6 months). (Saxena et al., 2005)
Mental Health and Physical Activity (Daniel)
Hansen, C. J., Stevens, L. C., & Coast, J. R., (2001). Exercise duration and mood state: How much is enough to feel better?. Health Psychol, 20(4), 267-275. DOI: 10.1037//0278-6184.108.40.2067
This study examines the positive and negative effects from exercise on mental health. It also puts into consideration the recommended duration of the exercise and weather negative or impacts effects on mental health are associated with prolonged exercise or not.
+++ Positive effects of physical activity on mental health (Daniel)
Studies reported that physical activity is able to increase an individual's mental health by affecting certain aspects in their life such as self-esteem, general well-being and satisfaction with physical appearance. Evidence was also found that physical activity has a protective effect against the development of depression, or that physical inactivity might be a risk factor for depression. (Hansen et al., 2001) Although the effects of physical activity have mainly been studied through aerobic exercise, evidence indicated that anaerobic physical activity; such a flexibility training or bodybuilding can also reduce depressive symptoms. (Hansen et al., 2001) Aerobic activity has also been shown to show improvement of depressive and anxiety symptoms after a single exercise episode has been reported occur and is seen to last for a couple of hours or even up to one day.
Mechanism of improved mental health (Daniel)
There have been psychological hypotheses that have been proposed to explain the beneficial effects of physical activity on mental health. We will add on to these psychological and physiological mechanisms further down.
- Distraction: this hypothesis suggests that the diversion from unfavorable stimuli leads to an improved mood during and after the exercise.
- Self-efficacy: this hypothesis proposes that, since physical exercise can be viewed as a challenging activity, the ability and mindset needed and taken to get into it leads to improved mood and self-confidence.
- Social Interaction: this hypothesis states how social relationships commonly inherent in physical activity, and the interactions that occur while exercises play an important role in the effects of exercise on mental health.
In addition to the psychological hypotheses, there have been several physiological hypotheses made to explain the effects of physical activity on mental health. The two that are the most studied are:
- Monoamines: this hypothesis is supported by the fact that physical activity increase the synaptic transmission of monoamines, which functions the same way as antidepressant drugs. This is why this hypothesis seems to explain the improvement of mood associated with physical activity.
- Endorphins: this hypothesis is based on the observation that physical activity causes the release of endogenous opioids (endorphins). These endorphins affect the central nervous system and are responsible for the sensation of the calm and improved mood experienced after exercise. Another speculation is that there is a possible relation between the increase restlessness, nervousness, irritability and feelings of frustration when physically active individuals withdraw from exercise. This would be due to the absence of endorphins in the individual.
Negative effects of physical activity on mental health (Daniel)
- Excessive Exercise: Physical activity can actually have a negative effect when the person becomes obsessed, resulting in an exaggerated preoccupation with exercise and excessive training. This condition has often been characterized as anorexia nervosa or as an addiction. The investigation of the definition of this has been split between individuals excessively exercise and have an eating disorder and those who do not.
- Muscle Dsymorphia: This is a condition of alteration of the body image amongst weightlifters and body builders, that even though these individuals are larger and muscular, they believe that they are weak and skinny. There have been some denominations suggested for this such as "bigamerexia" and "reverse anorexia".
- Use of anabolic-androgenic steroids: The need to see results faster, or make more significant gains causes some physically active people to use steroids. This can make them more irritable and aggressive, which might also provoke some users to commit criminal acts. The users also experience depressive like symptoms in the periods of absence.
- Overtraining syndrome: Most athletes actually experience mood deterioration without impairment in sport performance the longer and more intense they go within their workouts. This is because in order to reach there goal for improved performance they have to push themselves to his or her physical capacity. In the situations of excessive training, the athlete does not get sufficient rest, and starts to experience problems such as sleep disturbance, loss of weight and appetitive, reduced libido, irritability, heavy and painful musculature, emotional liability, and even depression.
Alzheimer's Disease (Daniel)
World Health Organization. (2009). The Role of Physical Activity in the Prevention and Management of Alzheimer's Disease - Implications for Ontario. DOI: 10.2236/bmj.b158.
Alzheimer's disease is classified a progressive neurodegenerative condition distinguished by changes to brain structure and function. Changes in structure and function may give rise to emotional, neurocognitive and physically complications results in a reduction in the quality of life, decrease functional mobility and increase reliance on others. Depression like symptoms are up to ten times more likely to happen to an individual with AD then one of the general population. Approximately 15% of the 747000 seniors in Canada are living with some form of dementia or cognitive impairment. Alzheimer's can be defined by three progressive and overlapping phases of impairment:
- Preclinical Alzheimer's disease
- Mild Cognitive Impairment due to AD
- Dementia due to AD
In the early stages of this sickness, it can often be misdiagnosed and attributed behaviour changes, attention deficit, and forgetfulness. Since at the early stages this disease is often misdiagnosed, the most effective way of diagnosis is through a detailed examination of brain tissue via biopsy. Other non-evasive approach include: a detailed medical history and physical examination in order to identify family history of dementia, changes in behavior, mood, and motor performance or brain imaging.
Risk Factors (Daniel)
Herrmann, N., Tam, D. Y., & Balshaw, R. (2010). The relation between disease severity and cost of caring for patients with Alzheimer disease in Canada. Canadian Journal of Psychiatry, 55(12), 768-75.
There is to some degree about non-modifiable risk factors such as age decline. However, there is also compelling research that exercise increase the production of Brain derived neurotropic factor that may improve cortical plasticity and enhance, maintain or prolong age related cognitive decline (Herrmann et al., 2010) (Kramer & Erickson, 2012). Conversely other factors include family history, mild cognitive impairment, head trauma, traumatic brain injury and the presence of a certain genetic variant recognized as apolipoprotein (Herrmann et al., 2010). There are also some chronic disease risk factors such as physical inactivity, diabetes, smoking, abdominal obesity, and high cholesterol (Herrmann et al., 2010). Note that a majority of these diseases can be avoided by maintaining physical activity levels. Management of AD is still difficult, because it is limited to three main drugs. Other approaches however include a therapeutic approach such as group-based activities such as art and music, cognitive approaches, and emotion oriented therapy (Herrmann et al., 2010). Perhaps the biggest opportunity still seems to be physical activity earlier and later on in individual's lives to prolong age-related cognitive disease.
Physical Activity and Alzheimer's disease (Daniel)
De la Torre, J. C. (2009). Cardiovascular risk factor and therapeutic target in neuropathology, including Alzheimer's disease: a systematic review of the literature. Cardiovasc Psychiatry Neurol, 23(1), 1-10. DOI: 10.1155/2012/367516.
Although the research is not definitive from human and animal research there is claim that regular physical activity can be beneficial for the prevention and management of Alzheimer's disease. Moderate to high level of aerobic exercises can actually improve the quality of life; maintain functional performance and positively impact mood and depressive symptoms of Alzheimer patients (De la Torre, 2009). Some research published suggests that physical activity promotes the maintenance of grey matter brain volume, and slow the rate of cognitive decline which is an asset for people with AD (De la Torre, 2009) (Kramer & Erickson, 2012). Physical activity has also been associated with increased resistance to oxidative stress, and to produce more efficient metabolism. Cardiovascular health and fitness has been related to better cognitive outcomes, lower age related brain atrophy, plasticity, and improved cerebral blood flows (De la Torre, 2009) (Kramer & Erickson, 2012). All aforementioned earlier in the age related decline. Albeit the research is new, it provides compelling evidence of the benefits of physical activity on cognitive disorders. The higher the physical activity the person with AD partakes in the higher is chances are to have prolonger survival with AD, and to lower the risk of dementia related deaths.
Physical Activity as a treatment for Alzheimer's Disease (Daniel)
Maci, T., Pira, F. L., Quattrocchi, G., Nuovo, S. D., Perciavalle, V., & Zappia, M. (2012). Physical and Cognitive Stimulation in Alzheimer Disease. The GAIA Project: A Pilot Study. Am J Alzheimers Dis Other Demen, 27(2), 107-113 DOI: 10.1177/1533317512440493.
This study explored the effect of physical activity for patients with Alzheimer's disease in order to try finding a way or solution to trying to cope with symptoms associated with Alzheimer's such as depression for instance.
The first result was PA as treatment for depression in AD patients:
This study first started by pooling together five different studies that measured depression with the Alzheimer patients before and after the intervention of physical activity. The analysis made showed an overall Standardized Means of Difference (SMD) of 0.84 which shows significant reduction of depression through PA in AD patients27 (Maci et al., 2012).
The second result was the PA Improves Activities of Daily Living (ADL) scores in AD patients:
The activities of daily living vary from personal care and function activities require for people to be living independently daily. Such as bathing, dressing, meal preparation, house care). The study shows that the intervention of physical activity improved the activities of daily living score for the Alzheimer patients. This is shown by an SMD of -0.65, which shows the significance of the intervention of PA in daily activities (Maci et al., 2012).
Third, it shows the PA improves the Quality of Life in AD Patients:
Studies have showed the SMD for physical activity intervention in relation to the QOL of the Alzheimer patients to be -0.82. However should be weary of this result because in an another study the result was negative showing the PA intervention this not make a positive impact.
Operational Definition of Exercise or Physical Activity
Carek, P. J., Laibstain, S. E., & Carek, S. M. (2011). Exercise for the treatment of depression and anxiety. Int J Psychiatry Med, 41(1),15-28. DOI: 10.2190/PM.41.1.c.
Physical activity simply defined by some independent studies refers to it as "a form of bodily movement produced by skeletal muscles that results in energy expenditure beyond resting level" (Carek et al., 2011). They go further to draw a distinction between the latter and exercise it must be: planned, structured, repetitive and purposeful subset of physical activity (Carek et al., 2011).
The World Health Organization provides us with a good backdrop into some of the concepts used in physical activity.
Physical Activity has different modalities, researchers try to explore these different modes of exercise to establish a dose-response that is critical to developing an exercise prescription for individuals.
You may hear these terms used a lot and this will provide us a foundation with respect to defining Exercise:
- Type of physical activity - can take many forms: aerobics, strength, flexibility and balance are commonly used (WHO, 2010).
- Duration - length of time that an activity has been performed for (WHO, 2010).
- Frequency - The number of times an activity is performed, commonly expressed in bouts per week or sessions (WHO, 2010).
- Intensity Level - Usually indicates the level of effort exerted in an activity performed there are three types; two that comprises our main focus:
- Moderate - WHO classifies moderate-intensity PA as 3-6 times the intensity of rest, and usually is rated 5 or 6 on a 0-10 scale based on personal capacity (WHO, 2010).
- High Intensity - WHO classifies this as 6+ times the intensity at rest, and usually equates to a 7-8 on a scale of 10 based on personal capacity (WHO, 2010).
- Volume - Volume specifically speaks to strength or aerobics, it is hard to conceptualize as it incorporates the three concepts above (WHO, 2010).
Canada Recommended Physical Activity Guidelines
More information on this from the Canadian Society for Exercise Physiology Physical Activity Guidelines Glossary (CSEP, 2011).
How much and what kind of exercise should I be getting?
The Canadian Society for Exercise Physiology have gone through great lengths to improving the recommended guidelines for Physical activity.
This information can be found on very simple information posters on their website (CSEP, 2012).
Dose-response relationship between physical activity and mental health (Farbod)
Hamer, M., Stamatakis, E., & Steptoe, A. (2009). Dose-response relationship between physical activity and mental health: The Scottish health survey. Br J Sports Med, 43(14), 1111-1114. DOI: 10.1136/bjsm.2008.046243.
There is an agreement with published literature that physical activity has positive effects on mental health. However there is a lack of consensus on how much and what type of activity and the optimal amount to achieve these benefits. A study looking at the Scottish Health Survey looked at the association between mental health and physical activity behaviours in a representative sample of 19 842 men and woman in order to obtain information on mental health. The study found that any form of daily physical activity was associated with a decreased risk of psychological distress. Using statistical procedures to fix cofounding variables such as: age, gender and social economic group the study determined that a moderate dose-response existed with small changes in psychological distress were observed. The different type of activities included domestic house work, walking and sports each independently associated with decreased odds of psychological distress. The greatest effect was seen from sports. Previous studies have determined the positive result of physical activity on mental health but have not yet been able to clearly outline the amount and type of physical activity to engage in. This study shows that individuals who participate in at least 20 min of physical activity of any sort per week will reap the benefits of lower levels of psychological distress. A dose-response pattern was demonstrated with great risk reduction for activity at a higher volume and/or intensity. Meaning that the longer or more intense the activity session the greater the reduction of psychological distress and greater improvements in mental health.(Hamer et al., 2009)
What are the many ways to get Physical Active?
Effects of acute exercise on mood and well-being (Daniel)
Peluso, M. A., & Guerra de Andrade, L. H. (2005). Physical activity and mental health: the association between exercise and mood. Clinics (Sao Paulo), 60(1), 61-70. Retrieved from: http://www.scielo.br/scielo.php?pid=S1807-59322005000100012&script=sciarttext
This experiment was set up to determine if acute exercise (=30 min of walking @ 60-70% of max. heart rate) will have an effect on patients with major depressive disorders. The study consisted of 40 participants 15 male and 25 females with a mean age of 38.1 years. The demographics of this study was as follows 68% were white, 17% were Latino, 11% were African American, and the final 4% designated themselves as other. People excluded from the study were ones who were reported to be regularly exercising 1 month before the screening, people intolerant or resistant to exercise, and participants with a principal psychiatric diagnosis other than major depressive disorder or who have a comorbid disorder and participants taking antidepressant medication. The participants were then split up into two groups one that is to be involved in an aerobic exercise and one a quiet rest control.
They assessed their state 5 min before exercise or control, 5, 30, and 60 minutes after. Both the Profile of Mood States (POMS) and the Subjective Exercise Experiences Scale (SEES) were given to ask the participants how they feel 'right now at this moment'. Participants assigned to aerobic exercise were required to walk on the treadmill at a pace equivalent to 60-70% of their maximum heart rate and participants assigned to the quiet rest control were instructed to sit on a non-reclining chair for thirty minutes, they were not allowed to sleep or fall asleep.
Mood and well-being are primary dependent variables so no attempt was made to use clinical measures to assess the degree of their ongoing depression. The participants instead completed the subject exercise experiences scales (SEES) and the short form, 30-item profile of mood states (POMS).
The SEES showed satisfactory results with Cronbach alphas ranging from 0.77 to 0.84 in the experiments. The POMS demonstrated a Cronbach alpha correlation ranging from 0.93 to 0.95. The results for the experiment were that both groups showed a similar reduction in their measure of psychological distress, depression, confusion, fatigue, tension, and anger. However, on the exercise group reported a significant increase in their vigor and positive well-being scores.
Exercise Duration (Daniel)
Bartholomew, J. B., Morrison, D., & Ciccolo, J. T. (2005). Effects Of Acute Exercise On Mood And Well-Being In Patients With Major Depressive Disorder. Med Sci Sports Exerc, 37(12), 2032-2037. DOI: 10.1249/01.mss.0000178101.78322.dd.
This study was made in order to try and determine what length of time in one session of physical activity would be sufficient to show a positive mood improvement in a person. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and the American College of Sports Medicine shifted away their recommendation and emphasis of high levels of aerobic exercise and instead now recommend that 30 minutes or more of moderate intensity physical activity performed daily would be most beneficial for the health and fitness of adults. This accumulation may also be accomplished in short bouts throughout the day. Moderate intensity exercise has been identified to be performed at 60-75% of your maximum heartbeat.
This study only examined female participants in order to be thorough with results. They hypothesized that in all exercise trials; the participants would show a significant decrease in negative mood states in compared with participants in the resting control trails. They also hypothesized that as the length of exercise increases, the degree of the participant's mood improvement will increase. This study involved 21 college students ages 20-26 years of age. Each participant that completed the study was given $10 gift certificate, as well as a course credit in there undergraduate course.
They used the Physical Activity Readiness Questionnaire (PAR-Q) in order to screen participants of any history of physical problems that would be an issue to the aerobic exercise. Mood state was measured using pre and post self- report POMS test.
The participants then exercised either alone or isolated in separate parts of the exercise facility were they couldn't interact with another person. They were all tested at the same time each day for 4 consecutive weeks. Test 1 was sitting quietly for 30 min facing a third floor window. Test 2 was a warm-up on the bicycle in order to bring HR to 60% of maximum for ten minutes. Test 3 is a warm up to bring HR to 60% of estimated maximum and maintain that level while pedaling on the bicycle for 20 min. Test 4 the final test was a warm up to bring HR to 60% of estimated max while marinating it for 30 min.
The results of the study showed that improved levels of vigor with reduced levels of confusion, total negative mood and fatigue. Planned analyses showed that the improvements in fatigue, vigor, and total mood that occurred after 10 minutes of exercise. These improvements were seen for over 20 minutes after the exercise session.These results satisfied the current recommendation which suggest that in order to experience positive fitness and health benefits, healthy adults need to participate in a total of 30 minutes or more of moderate physical exercise daily, or accumulated in short bouts throughout the day.
Aerobic Exercise (Farbod)
Ferdowsi, M. H., Marashian, F., & Marashian, H. (2010). The effects of 12-week aerobic exercises on rate of mental health in male students of ahvaz payam noor university. Human Movement, 11(2), 167-171. DOI: 10.2478/v10038-010-0021-3.
Aerobic exercise is associated with long term activities that require oxygen uptake for performance. In this form of physical activity the muscles are supplied with oxygen by means of blood circulation. This form of aerobic metabolism can be established through low intensity training lasting for long durations of time. An investigation studying the effects of a 12-week aerobic exercise program found improvements in mental health and self-esteem. The treatment group showed improvements in depression, physical stress and social desirability. Physical benefits are closely related to mental health, enhancing the self-reported self-efficiency and self-control where these feeling will lead to an increase in self-confidence and self-esteem. The authors of the study believe that the main reasons for the effect of physical activity on mental health is through the influence of attitudes and positions of people created by the positive mood that exercise induces via endorphin release, social achievements and reduction in tension and depression.
Yoga and Mental Health (Farbod)
Sistig, B., Lambrecht, I., & Friedman, S. H. (2014). Journey back into body and soul - an exploration of mindful yoga with psychosis. Psychosis, doi: 10.1080/17522439.2014.885556.
Yoga has become an increasingly popular form of physical activity in the west, with emerging evidence on its benefits for both the body and the mind. A study done in New Zealand explored the effectiveness of a yoga intervention program in a mental health rehabilitation center. The study ran for 7 weeks with two 30 minute sessions each week and found four interesting themes:
- Relaxation. From week one participant's reported an increased sense of relaxation and rejuvenation and improved fitness towards the end of the program.
- Calmness / reduced stress. The participants described feeling more calm, serene and peaceful indicating greater self-acceptance and coping strategies.
- Energy and focus. There was an increase in perceived vitality and focus particularly for individuals who experienced sleepiness and dizziness.
- Motivation to engage with life. Participants described themselves as having more motivation and a more positive outlook on the day. A correlation between decreased anxiety and increased motivation to engage in daily activities was suggested.
This study demonstrates that yoga is potentially a viable adjunct for treating people with psychosis, suggesting that yoga does indeed have a positive effect on mental health. Another significant result of the study is the self-reported temporary absence of auditory hallucinations. Being able to maintain a mental state of peacefulness is subsequently promising.
Gender differences (Farbod)
Asztalos, M., De Bourdeaudhuij, I., & Cardon, G. (2010). The relationship between physical activity and mental health varies across activity intensity levels and dimensions of mental health among women and men. Public Health Nutr, 13(8), 1207-1214. DOI: 10.1017/S1368980009992825.
In a study to explore the gender-specific variations related to the intensity of physical activity. A relationship with mental health has demonstrated difference between the mental health of men and woman in relation to intensity levels of different activities. In men there appears to be an inverse relationship between the high-intensity physical activity and feelings of depression and symptoms of somatisation. In addition, men there seems to be no significant difference in emotional well-being with respect to the intensity of physical activity but there are differences in psychological complaints showing a significant relationship with high-intensity activity. In women there were positive associations between walking and emotional well-being and an inverse relationship between moderate-intensity physical activity and symptoms of somatisation. There was a positive relationship between well-being and walking and differences in psychological complaints were significant for moderate levels of physical activity. This study suggests that in the general population, the physical activity and mental health relationship is always positive regardless of the intensity level of the activity. In men, it addresses symptoms and palpable discomfort and the optimal level of physical activity is high (vigorous). In women, it addresses complaints but also distresses including lower mood, disturbing anxiety and altered well-being with mild-intensity of physical activity.
A number of studies have shown an inverse relationship between physical activity and depression and anxiety. The mechanisms underlying these relationships are not well understood. A study of 2055 adolescents suggests that participation in physical activity is indirectly associated will lower levels of psychological distress through a positive evaluation of one's appearance. This self-perception was dependent on gender, female adolescents showed a greater indirect effect than males (Haugen et al., 2014). This may indicate that the mechanism lies within a moderator. Participation in physical activity during adolescent years suggests an improved ability for young people to maintain a satisfying level of appearance evaluation, allowing them to better prepare themselves to cope with psychological distressing disorders (Haugen et al., 2014). Having a better understanding of these mechanisms is important for the development of optimal intervention programs.
Effects of Exercise Hypotheses
Crocker, P. R. E. (2013). Exercise and Mental Health. Leith, L. M., Kerr, G. A., & Faulkner, G. E. (Eds.), Sport and Exercise Psychology Custom Edition (pp. 3-26). Boston, Massachusetts.
Physical activity has many benefits as we have explored, with compelling evidence supporting psychological benefits from running interventions. We will attempt to explore some exercise-psychological benefits hypothesis.
- Expectancy Hypothesis - individuals expect to feel better so they report (self-report studies) feeling better.
- Sense of Mastery (self-efficacy) - Humans are motivated by a sense of accomplishment. Exercise allows us to gain this, which makes us feel better.
- Thermogenic Hypothesis - Increases in body core temperature is related to reductions in muscle tension, as a result we feel relaxed, enhanced mood and reduced anxiety.
- Endorphin Hypothesis - The release of endorphins (ex. endogenous opiates like dopamine) during exercise may result in positive mood effects. However, research from human trials are inconclusive.
- Serotonin Hypothesis - Neurotransmitters modulates mood, emotion and sleep. These neurotransmitters are increased during exercise and could be responsible for self-reported scores. It is important to note SSRI's (selective serotonin re-uptake inhibitor) prevent the re-uptake of these neurotransmitters, prescribed anti-depressants utilize this way to treat or alleviate depressive symptoms.
Salmon, P. (2001). Effects of physical exercise on anxiety, depression, and sensitivity to stress: A unifying theory. Clinical Psychology Review, 21(1), 33-61. DOI: 10.1016/S0272-7358(99)00032-X.
There is an extensive amount of research done on the effects of exercise and its effects on the mind and body. A unifying theory based on the effects of exercise must incorporate key features of evidence which include:
(1) Exercise is aversive, but it also has positive hedonic properties, most effectively after physical activity
(2) Physical activity has anti-depressive and anxiolytic effects
(3) Physical activity reduces sensitivity to stress
Suggestion for future Research
A challenge of the unconscious and conscious mind (Farbod)
Despite the well documented effects/benefits of physical activity only a small portion of the population, about one fifth, are regularly engaged in such activities. So why do so many people fail? The root of this problem is psychological and related to the processes of the unconscious and conscious mind. It is thought that unconsciously operating motives are capable of inhibiting the initiation of exercise interventions and adherence to such programs. If the behaviour is repeated over long periods of time situational cues can prompt certain activities as it is the case for those people who regularly participate in physical activity. There is some evidence suggesting that the unconscious mind actually works against exercising by acknowledging cues and excuses for not being active. A related problem for both the conscious and unconscious mind is the threat to an individual sense of freedom and choice that it poses, exercise can become a true choice or it can hinder other activities that one might choose to do. While most people know the multiple benefits of exercising they pursue it as a means towards an end, such as to lose weight. In doing so, individuals struggle cognitively for their need with self-governance while balancing their personal and leisure activities depleting them of the finite self-control they possess making them more vulnerable to temptations. In conclusion, both the conscious and unconscious mind fail to turn most people into rational thinkers who would do what is best for their health.
Theories and models leading to motivation or behavioural changes
Crocker, P. R. E. (2013). Motivation and Behavioural Change. Mack, D. E., Sabiston, C. M., McDonough, M. H., Wilson, P. M., & Paskevich, D. M. (Eds.), Sport and Exercise Psychology Custom Edition (pp. 111-116, 119-123). Boston, Massachusetts.
With this section we will attempt to explain how individuals initiate and adopt physical acitivity
Transtheoretical model
This model proposes individuals move through non-linear temporal stages, each stage is approximately 6 months and relapse is possible in all stages.
- Pre-contemplation - individuals do not consider behaviour change in the next six months
- Contemplation - individuals are taking into serious consideration behaviour change in the next six months
- Preparation - individuals have taken small changes towards action
- Action - individuals have been engaging in behaviour changes for the past six months
- Maintenance - individuals have been engaged for more than six months
Applications for Physical activity Interventions
- Pre-Contemplation - provide information about physical activity to bring about awareness
- Contemplation - challenge individuals to see the benefits of physical activity in order to really push them into preparation
- Preparation - help organize a plan, this assistance is to prevent relapse which is greatest in preparation phase
- Action - Provide tips on how to overcome barriers
- Maintenance - assist with coping, alternatives and avoiding relapses
Theory of Planned Behaviour
Personal and social factors influences our intentions which in turn have an effect on our behaviours. This theory stipulates that the most important determinant is our own intentions. It is important to note that there are temporal fluctuations, that is the longer between intention and behaviour will result in no adherence to an intervention program.
Main points of Theory of Planned Behaviour:
- Attitudes - evaluations of engaging in a behaviour (either negative or positive)
- Subjective norms - individuals percieved social pressures to perform a behaviour. This can come from personal factors (family, physicians) or the environment.
- Percieved Behavioural Control - reflects that behaviour should be voluntary and can be thought indirectly and directly affect behaviour.
Each of the three factors above contain underlying beliefs that are reflective of intention,
- Behavioural beliefs are beliefs that changes in behaviour will result in a certain outcome (ex. exercise has many positive health benefits).
- Normative beliefs reflect an individual's perceptions of a significant other and the values they have invested in the chosen behaviour (ex. social pressures of family and friends).
- Control beliefs are an individuals perceived barriers (lack of time) or facilitators (opportunities) to engaging behaviour.
Self-determination theory
The main focus of this theoretical framework is to the extent that behaviours such as sport and exercise should be solely voluntary, as opposed to being controlled by an external agent. Furthermore, this model has two main concepts which will be explored into in detail:
Organismic Integration theory
Organismic Integration theory is one framework that claims motivation is a multidimensional construct, where motives range from autonomous (self-determined) to controlling (least self-determined)
- Amotivation is the absences of motivation, where an individual perceives no connection between actions and outcomes.
- Extrinsic Motivation
- External regulation: Actions performed to achieve an external demand, reward or to avoid punishment.
- Introjected Regulations: Actions are to avoid negative emotions or maintain a fragile sense of self-worth.
- Identified Regulation: Actions are driven by personal importance or values.
- Integrated Reguation: Actions are driven by beliefs about oneself or identity.
- Intrinsic Motivation: Actions are performed for inherent interest, satisfaction and enjoyment
Basic needs theory
This framework believes that all humans have three basic psychological needs, that when fulfilled facilitate the internalization of motivation.
- Competence is concerned with feelings of being capable of undertaking challenging tasks
- Autonomy is the feeling of one having ownership over their behaviours.
- Relatedness is concerned with feeling meaningfull connections between behaviours and the environment
Eastern medicine (shanice)
Chan, Cecilia; Ho, Petula Sik Ying; Chow, Esther.Social Work in Health Care34.3-4 (2001): 261-282.
Under the division of labor of Western medicine, the medical physician treats the body of patients, the social worker attends to their emotions and social relations, while the pastoral counselor provides spiritual guidance. Body, mind, cognition, emotion and spirituality are seen as discrete entities. In striking contrast, Eastern philosophies of Buddhism, Taoism and traditional Chinese medicine adopt a holistic conceptualization of an individual and their environment. In this view, health is perceived as a harmonious equilibrium that exists between the interplay of 'yin' and 'yang': the 5 internal elements (metal, wood, water, fire and earth), the 6 environmental conditions (dry, wet, hot, cold, wind and flame), other external sources of hann (physical injury, insect bites, poison, overeat and overwork), and the 7 emotions (joy, sorrow, anger, worry, panic, anxiety and fear). The authors have adopted a body-mind-spirit integrated model of intervention to promote the health of their Chinese clients. Research results on these body-mind-spirit groups for cancer patients, bereaved wives and divorced women have shown very positive intervention outcomes. There are significant improvements in their physical health, mental health, sense of control and social support. [4]


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Find me a person that does not love tacos, and you will have found a person that has an allergy to deliciousness. Tacos are plentiful in NYC, as are trucks that trek around the five boroughs to bring them to different spots on a daily rotation. Not limited merely to the classics, many of these trucks add their own unique ethnic touch to make them stand out. Case in point, "Kimchi Taco".
Run by Phillip Lee, a Cornell University alumni with a Master of Management in Hospitality, spent years working on other people's restaurants until he decided to make his own dreams come true. In 2010, Lee combined his knowledge of restaurants and love of street food to merge them into one being, albeit one being merged with another. "Kimchi Taco" is a fusion of the classic Mexican taco combined with classic Korean cuisine, making for a modern classic unto itself.
Truth be told, I am very picky when it comes to kimchi. I'm not a huge fan of it, so for me to eat it, it needs to exactly what I want. For me, that is a kimchi that does not have an overpowering scent and tastes like more than mushy cabbage with an abundance of red peppers. "Kimchi Taco" was going to be an eye-opening experience for me, and after much hype around the inter-webs about it, I thought it was time to dive in and get me some tacos.
Seven bucks will get you any three tacos, and for two dollars more you can get four (although each of their two speciality tacos will cost you an extra dollar). The menu has four main tacos and two specialty tacos, as well as burritos for the big eaters, and "Kimchi bowls" for someone who would rather get rice instead of tortillas. There are also unique side dishes, including their take on Italian fare with a Korean rice gnocchi and arancini. Pictured from left to right above is the grilled Korean BBQ short rib, grilled chicken, spicy pork, and Krispy fish tacos.
I ordered two of their spicy tacos for starters, but knowing how searing hot Korean "spicy" is (and how big of a wimp I am for heat), had them prepared mild. The spicy seared pork meat resembled a miniature version of Sweet and sour pork from your average Chinese place, but with a more natural maroon color instead of the neon glow it usually has. The pork had a kick to it, and the texture of the plain kimchi and classic pico de gallo matched the flavors wonderfully.
Without the hot chili sauce, the spicy grilled chicken is actually not hot at all, and is just pieces of marinated chicken in a simple Mexican treatment of roasted garlic, onions, and cilantro, augmented with a subtle touch of soy sauce and sesame oil for that Asian flavor. Served with pickled daikon and carrots with a Kimchi chipotle aioli on top, this was a tasty and hearty taco with a good balance of flavors.
My favorite may have been the grilled korean BBQ short rib taco, with chunks of tender meat hidden under a daunting pile of red cabbage and pear kimchi slaw. The marinated meat was amazing and soft to the touch, tearing apart effortlessly. The sweet and tangy slaw was a great match for it, and really was the best example of not just the fusion between Korea and Mexico, but also the American palette. This is a taco that will remind you of a family barbeque in the Summer and will leave you very satisfied.
The Krispy Fish taco was cool and refreshing, a fine choice for my last bite. I wish my fish was a bit warmer when I got it (not sure if it is purposely served room temperature or hot, but mine was just cold).
"Kimchi Taco" is a truck that I will be exploring more options at soon, especially since I still have two other tacos to try – their fried chicken taco and the tofu edamame falafel taco (talk about fusion!). Great for a quick snack or a well-rounded lunch, "Kimchi Taco" will wake your tastebuds up and, if you are not afraid of spice, will heat up your lunchtime.
The "Kimchi Taco" truck travels around Manhattan and Brooklyn, and also has a restaurant in Prospect Heights. Check out their website for more info on both.


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Posted by San Clemente Triton Football on Sep 07 2013 at 08:50AM PDT in 2013 Season
QB Sam Darnold accounts for over 350 yards offense, with 5 TD's. Very Peyton Manning like numbers for the junior QB!
Surrounded by some great weapons in Jason Wright, Blake Gonzalez and Colin Zines our own Sam Darnold scores a TD with 25 secs left in the game to put the Tritons ahead and defeats Cabrillo in one of the more exciting high school football games you'll see all year!!