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You might think a wind turbine would have more in common with a plane's propeller than an aircraft wing, but wind blades actually behave a lot more like wings than props. This fact has enabled a valuable spinoff from aerospace to wind energy involving the first software that NASA ever allowed to be commercialized as part of the Agency's ongoing effort to transfer technology to U.S. business and industry.
As a Lockheed Engineering and Sciences contractor in the late 1980s, I was one of the original NASA Langley Research Center developers of a software code, ST-SIZE, which was first used at the Center for structural sizing and design optimization for a new, high-speed aircraft. The software tool works in a feedback loop with finite element analysis (FEA) to automatically search for composite (or metal) solutions that minimize weight while maximizing manufacturability.
Since NASA allowed me to commercialize (and rename) HyperSizer software in 1994, Collier Research Corporation has continued to work closely with NASA and associated contractors on numerous other aircraft- and space-related projects. NASA's Crew Launch Vehicle, the Ares I; Heavy Lift Vehicle, Ares V; and the Composite Crew Module (Figure 1) were all designed for zero-failure performance with the aid of HyperSizer. The software has also been used in the design of business jets such as Bombardier's LearJet, commercial transport planes such as the Cseries, and long-duration, high-altitude aircraft like Scaled Composites Global Flyer piloted by Steve Fossett (Figure 2).
If you look at a traditional aircraft wing, and then imagine the design thought that stretches it into the very long, slender wing of the Global Flyer, you can see that it's all about lift and low drag at slow speed. And it's not a big structural step from that wing to a wind turbine blade. Now think about the ever-increasing scale of wind turbines dictated by market pressures for greater economic efficiencies. Add materials advances in composites and hybrid laminates, and you can see how expertise in new-generation aircraft wing design and advanced analyses translates logically into wind blade engineering.
However, in the booming wind energy market, the "bigger is better" mantra is already coming up against reliability issues. Even today's current standard (33-40 meter, 1.5 MW) wind blades see an average failure rate of 20 percent, according to Sandia National Laboratories' estimates. Sandia conducts ongoing applied research in conjunction with academia and industry to increase the viability of wind technology by improving turbine performance, and has hosted annual wind blade workshops since 2004.
Design and Performance
Fortunately, for the engineering community, design solutions to performance issues involving wind turbine blades parallel techniques already in use for aircraft wings: the way blades behave, and structurally fail, make them suitable for analytical methods that have matured over decades in aerospace. For example, while smaller wind blades used to power homes rotate faster than the standard blades used by utilities, as blades get bigger, rotation speed decreases and the primary required design load changes from centripetal force to flap-wise lift that can be analyzed like an aircraft wing. Furthermore, the aeroelastic effects of larger wind blade-tip deflection, and resulting load-change issues, can be compensated for with stiffer, stronger materials in much the same way as aircraft wing-tip deflection is controlled. Although these materials need to be as lightweight as possible, stiffness and buckling stability become even higher priorities as blade (or wing) length increases. And fatigue life remains an issue for any component operating in harsh environments over long periods of time.


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WRAPS offers no-till and cover crop incentives
Marion Reservoir Watershed Restoration and Protection Strategy is beginning an incentive pay program to promote the use of no-till and cover crops in watershed areas.
A workshop to learn more about the program will be from 11:30 a.m. to 3:45 p.m. March 11 at Lincolnville Community Center.
A variety of speakers will discuss the benefits and practices behind no-till and cover crops.
Lunch will be provided for free, but you must RSVP by calling (620) 382-2541 or emailing email@example.com.

subset: commoncrawl


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Special Reports
Federal polygraph programs are secret even to researchers
It's one of the best-kept secrets in the federal government.
Information about polygraph screening is so guarded by the agencies that use it that job applicants who are tested are urged not to tell anyone. The news media are denied basic information, such as how many government employees are screened, because it's "sensitive" and could jeopardize national security.
Researchers are told they can't get studies about how it works. Even the National Academies, the organization set up to advise the federal government on scientific matters, faced stiff resistance when it reviewed polygraph testing. As a result, the academies compared the polygraph profession to the "priesthood keeping its secrets in order to keep its power."
"It's a siege mentality," acknowledged Gordon Barland, a retired federal polygraph researcher who supports polygraph screening but also pushed for greater transparency on some of the data.
Many of the 15 agencies that rely on polygraph testing for job applicants and employees say they're protecting screening methods from spies or terrorists who might figure out how to infiltrate the government. An unknown number of government polygraph studies remain classified because of this fear. But critics and even some supporters say the federal government should be more open about its programs given the growing use of polygraph screening and the continued scientific controversy over it.
Barland, one of the most prolific government polygraph researchers, asked government officials to publish several classified studies on polygraph screening that he participated in. They declined.
Other government researchers who've pushed for publishing such studies also have been turned down, Barland said. Some have left the government in frustration. Researchers and academics generally think it's essential for studies to be published and peer reviewed. Barland said the government would have benefited from publicizing several of the studies because they demonstrated that polygraph screening worked, but he blames labor unions and civil libertarians for making polygraphers gun-shy.
"They don't want to give critics any more ammunition," he said.
Job applicants and employees also are denied the recordings of their polygraph screenings and the charts that polygraphers relied on to determine whether they're lying. If they want any other records about sessions, they have to file open records requests. Nonetheless, documents often are withheld or redacted for national security reasons. The information is so guarded that people who are polygraphed are urged to "maintain confidentiality" and not to tell co-workers, relatives or friends, documents obtained by McClatchy show.
Polygraphers say they need to keep their methods secret because of attempts to beat the tests. Known as countermeasures, the methods are said to have been used by the deceased scientist who later was identified as the 2001 anthrax killer and by CIA officer and Soviet spy Aldrich Ames. But others, including independent researchers and security experts, think the secrecy is designed to give the technique more psychological power than it deserves. Many of the details – such as how many people are screened or what questions are asked – aren't classified, yet aren't divulged. As a result of the secrecy, people feel compelled to tell the truth even though scientists widely criticize polygraph screening as unreliable, critics said. McClatchy recently obtained copies of unpublished government assessments of polygraph screening that questioned the effectiveness of some methods. One study, researched by Barland, concluded that the results were "disturbing" because polygraphers identified people during mock tests as lying when they were not. Another said, "It may be premature to estimate the accuracy of counterintelligence screening examinations based on the evidence presently available."
Katelyn Sack, a University of Virginia researcher who's studying whether factors including polygraphers' personal biases influence testing, provided the copies to McClatchy. Sack had to hire a lawyer and file open-records lawsuits to get data about U.S. polygraph programs even though the federal government has claimed to be supportive of such research.
She said she thought she'd encountered suspicion from polygraphers because she was an independent researcher not tied to the industry. So far, her research isn't showing racial bias in polygraph testing outside the federal government. Sack would like to assess whether the same is true of federal programs, but she's still fighting for more data.
"The polygraph profession is actually its own worst enemy," she said.


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House of Commons
Session 2014-15
Publications on the internet
The Register of Members' Financial Interests: Part 1
As at 14th July 2014
PATEL, Priti (Witham)
2. Remunerated employment, office, profession etc
Associate Editor of The House Magazine (Dods Parliamentary), Westminster Tower, 3rd Floor, 3 Albert Embankment, London, SE1 7SP. (Up to £5,000)
Associate Editor of The House Magazine (Dods Parliamentary)
21 March 2014, received £666.64 for September-December 2013. Hours: estimated at 25 hrs. (Registered 24 March 2014)
November 2013, received £500 from BBC Radio Four Woman's Hour, Broadcasting House, Portland Place, W1A 1AA for judging for Woman's Hour Power List 2012/13. Hours: 5 days in total, undertaken December 2012 – March 2013.(Registered 8 November 2013)
4. Sponsorships
(a) Donations to my constituency party or association, which have been or will be reported by the party to the Electoral Commission:
Name of donor: Dr Rami Ranger MBE
Address of donor: private
Amount of donation or nature and value if donation in kind: dinner held on 19 March 2014, estimated value £2,000 and at which I was the guest speaker. As a result of my speech, my constituency association received £23,250 in donations, including the two listed below.
Donor status: individual
(Registered 9 May 2014)
Name of donor: Mr Ravi Gidar
Address of donor: private
Amount of donation or nature and value if donation in kind: £2,000
Donor status: individual
(Registered 9 May 2014)
Name of donor: HT & Co (Drinks) Ltd
Address of donor: 31-37 Park Royal Road, London NW10 7LQ
Amount of donation or nature and value if donation in kind: £2,000
Donor status: company, registration 01913634
(Registered 9 May 2014)
6. Overseas visits
Name of donor: World Consulting and Research Corporation (WCRC)
Address of donor: New Delhi London, 4th Floor, Rectangle No. 1 , Commercial Complex D4 Saket, New Delhi, 110017, India
Amount of donation: travel costs and accommodation with an approximate value of £2,000
Destination of visit: Dubai, UAE
Date of visit: 24-27 August 2013
Purpose of visit: Speaker and moderator of WCRC Conference on Asia's most promising brands and leaders
(Registered 2 September 2013)
Name of donor: Sun Mark Ltd
Address of donor: Sun House, 428 Long Drive, Greenford, Middlesex UB6 8UH
Amount of donation: Travel and accommodation at an approximate value of £3,000.
Destination of visit: Dubai, UAE
Date of visit: 23-26 February 2014
Purpose of visit: Speaker at Gulf Food Fair associated events and meetings with Indian Diaspora business leaders in capacity as Indian Diaspora Champion.
(Registered 10 March 2014)


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Nov. 9, 2006
A college basketball game is 40 minutes long, but 11 minutes meant everything for the Lipscomb Bisons basketball team.
The Bisons went up 2-0 in exhibition games beating Harding University 81-63 at Allen Arena Thursday night.
Down by three points to Harding University, an NCAA Division II program, the Bisons decided to overcome a 54-51 deficit.
In those final 11 minutes the Bisons outscored Harding 29-9, stopping them from the field from the 10:34 mark to 2:56 of the second half.
"We gave up six points in the first 12 minutes and the last 11 minutes of the game we gave up nine points," Lipscomb coach Scott Sanderson said. "It was the middle part of the game where it kind of got away defensively and they started rolling a little bit offensively. I thought in the first 12 minutes and the last 11 we were pretty good."
The most impressive part of that final 11 minutes was that the Bisons prevailed without the services of Eddie Ard, projected by many preseason guides to be the top player in the Atlantic Sun. Ard fouled out of the game with 8:32 left to play.
"I don't like Eddie sitting by me," Sanderson said. "I don't need any help on the bench. I need Eddie playing. We all know what kind of player Eddie is, but give the other guys credit for going on a major run. I told our players at the 11-minute mark we were going to find out what we were made out of."
The Bisons opened with the first field goal in the game and never trailed in the first half, building up a 37-28 lead at the half, after leading by as many as 19 points with 8:15 left before intermission.
Harding went to work early in the second half, chipping away chunks of the Bisons lead. They pulled within four points when a 3-pointer by Rick Hamilton trimmed the Lipscomb advantage to 47-43.
Harding took its first lead of the game at 51-50 on a lay-up by Reggie Bibb with 11:55 on the clock. The biggest lead for Harding was 54-51 at that crucial 10:34 mark when the Bisons reawakened.
Brian Fisk led the Bisons with 22 points, 14 in the second half. Trey Williams added 17, hitting 12-of-14 free throws. Ard scored 14 and Jason Hopkins chipped in with 12.
"Brian, Trey, Jason and Michael Lusk all stepped up," Sanderson said. "I would think all year long we will have at least four guys in double figures. It may not be the same four guys. It is good to have balance."
Matt Hall was the only player in double figures for Harding with 25 points.
"Harding kept battling," Sanderson said. "I know why they are picked to win their league. They are very talented. They don't get rattled. They play very poised."
The Bisons shot 41.7 percent (25-of-60) from the field while holding Harding to 32.8 percent (19-of-58).
Harding sent the Bisons to the line for 30 free throws. The Bisons hit 24, good for 80 percent. Harding made 20-of-23 free throws.
The Bisons also held the edge on the boards by a 42-34 margin after being out-rebounded 20-17 at the half.
The Bisons open the season Saturday at 2 p.m. at Allen Arena against Tusculum, an old foe from the NAIA days that plays on the NCAA Division II level.
"Tusculum is very athletic," Sanderson said. "They were down eight points at the half at Tennessee. They have some size and quickness. If we are going to be the team we want to be we can't overlook them."


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Saeed Al Ali
Saif studied law at United Arab Emirates University, the university that I and most UAE LLM and SJD students studied in. He is older than me and began studying in UAEU before me, I saw him there several times, but because the age and classes are different, I didn't interact with him there in UAE.On the first day in Cleveland, I saw him. I remember him saying his name, my name is Saif, S … A … I… F. He was funny, even in a very serious situation. Saif helped me many times and acted as brother to all of us, even though we didn't know each other before July 11. Saif is very kind. He smiles, and says hello to everyone. I visited him in his apartment, and actually lived there for a couple of days before my apartment was ready. That was the first week of law school. He didn't know me well but he refused to make me live in hotel and he said, "your brother is here." I noticed also that he has a good relationship with his neighbors. He knows all of them and always says hello to them and asks them if they need any help. He was a special person.At the end, we lost one of our brothers. We know that we can't return him back to life again, but we have hope and confidence that our embassy attorneys will make every possible effort to get his right to punish his killer. My last final exam is on Friday and my flight is on the same day. The first thing I will do after I arrive and see my family is to visit my brother's family.
Jihanne (Jane) Flegeau
Saif is the first person I met when I arrived at Case Law School. I had been dreaming of this day for the past few months, yet I was stressed and anxious. On my way to the first LLM meeting, I stumbled upon Saif. He was sitting on the bench, the one we all love. The perfect spot when it's sunny. We talked a little, he made me laugh, smile and realize that everything will be all right. This is how I will remember him. As a bright and kind man. Saif was about to have a glorious life, filled with joy, friends and love.I still find it difficult to acknowledge that it really happened. I'm heartbroken and traumatized, as we all are. But I made myself the promise that I will never forget Saif, his kindness and this terrible and unfair end. I will carry him in my heart from now on. I will be thinking of him on our graduation day because he was going to be with us, celebrating our American degrees. I will take his memories with me when I will go back to France. I'll talk about him with my friends and family so no one will ever forget that nothing in life is granted. All my thoughts are going to his family and close friends. I know how hard it is trying to find a sense to something that just doesn't make any sense...Please be strong and take care.
Arsalan Alvi
I met Saif, along with many other friends from UAE and all over the world, during the orientation week when I was struggling to find an accommodation. Saif was one of those few friends who first reached out to me and tried to help me. Over time, our friendship grew in school and outside as we met everyday and shared many beautiful memorable laughters that I shall remember him by and cherish forever.I remember the last time we met after a class. We were both on our way home and when he caught me worried about my exams (my natural reaction to exams), he said, "You will get honors, wait and see. You are smart." Things will not be the same again without his shining smiles and valuable insights in our conversations, but I am certain that he will be looking down on us and smiling on graduation day when all his friends in LLM will make him proud.
Ali Alblooshi
I have had the privilege of knowing Saif since May 2015. We have a scholarship from ADNOC. We were supposed to join together in the national service and then work in the same company. But his death was closer than all of that.I miss his humor, and the beautiful smile, which greeted us every morning and evening.It's hard merely to think that we will not meet again with our friend, but Saif's memories will live on in our hearts, our prayers, our conversation and in every corner and place we met with him.Saeed and I met with Saif's family yesterday, and we transfered these condolences to them. They thanked us for our feelings about Saif's death.At the end, I can only mention as I believe: "We surely belong to Allah and to Him we shall return."May Allah have mercy on him.
Hamad Aleissaee
Saif and I took most classes together in law school in the UAE, but I never had the chance to talk with him. Last year, we studied English in the same university in PA. We had been communicating a lot every day and hanging out because he was my roommate for one semester. Saif was very very kind and friendly to me and to anybody he met with. So, that is why Saif had a lot of friends in PA. Saif liked to help his friends any time they asked him for help. Saif and I and his friends had amazing moments together even when we moved to Cleveland. He had many friends as he had a wonderful personality. Actually, sometimes I feel that I'm in a dream. I could not believe his death. It is hard to forget all the memories we had together. Saif will be in my mind as long as I study in Cleveland, especially at CWRU, as I really considered Saif one of my brothers. May Allah (god) have mercy on him.
Ernesto Biternas
I can just say that I loved Saif, and that I hope he is in that better place that he believed to be real... Rest in peace my beloved friend...you left my heart in mourning.
I don't know if this was Saif's favorite song, but he sure listened to it a lot.https://youtu.be/_dujteZgI54
Elizabeth Hornberger
This past summer, I had the privilege of teaching a small group of incoming LLM students. I was lucky enough to have a great group of individuals (Group #1!), and lucky for all of us, Saif was a part of our group. Teaching over the summer was terrific. Every single one of my students brought a different background, perspective, personality, and understanding of American law, and each student was intelligent in his/her own way. Saif always stuck out in my mind because of a particular class during the second week of the summer semester. Prior to class, I ran into him in the hallway. Due to our lucky encounter, I told on him that I was going to call on him first. He became flustered and explained that he was not wholly prepared and begged on me not to call on him. When we started class that day we began covering one of our Property Law cases, Pierson v. Post. That case was between two parties-- one who began chasing a fox and one who saw the other chasing the fox and took the opportunity to kill and take away the fox before he did. The entire issue in the case was determining whether the fox was the property of the "chaser" or of the party that killed it. I did not call on Saif for the beginning of the class as we went over the majority ("winning") opinion. But after reviewing why the majority ruled as it did, I asked the students who they would have decided for. The entire class agreed with the majority- Saif was particularly sold by the majority's reasoning. I remember him breaking down the analysis into "you capture it, you win." With the lopsided vote in place, we then reviewed the dissenting ("losing") opinion and its reasons. I began trying to play devil's advocate, asking questions from the chaser's side (i.e. "But I put in all the work! Why does someone else get what I worked so hard for?!"). The students sat there quiet for about 30 seconds and I noticed that Saif sat in the back grasping his head while he thought. Then his eyes lit up and he immediately raised his hand. When I called on him, he said, "I agree with the dissent!" When I pushed him on why he changed his mind, he explained some great policy considerations to the class. While that day does not seem like a great big deal or is not a particularly funny story, it stuck with me because Saif did not come prepared to class that day. Yet, he still caught on quickly and broke down the arguments into his own words. He was brilliant and always exhibited that brilliance with humility and charm. I only taught the LLM students for four weeks, but my students continue to say "hello" and keep me updated about their lives and schooling. Saif was a particularly bright spot in the law school and my day because he was so personable and always made me laugh. The Arabic luncheon that he and other LLM students hosted a few weeks ago was one of the coolest moments during this past semester for me. The food was terrific, but the best part was how excited all of the hosting students were to show off their cultures and backgrounds. Saif had a huge smile on his face during the luncheon and it was so cool to see all of the LLM students enjoying themselves and teaching me things about their lives back home.I am so thankful for the short time I had to get to know Saif. I continue to read and hear things about him that make me laugh and smile. All of the stories are so "Saif-like" because they are funny and bring a smile to my face. I wish Saif's family and friends warm thoughts during this difficult time and want them to know that Saif was a meaningful member of the CWRU law community.
GuzeI Sаkаevа
There's no word that can express how sorry we are to hear about the death of your friend Saif. We were very stunned to hear this news and still can't believe that it really happened.Saif was a person who was always ready to help.I remember these moments when I am coming late, running into a classroom or trying to find a vacant seat. Saif always gave his place to me. When I forgot my books, he always lent me his books. Last time I saw him studying in the Coffeehouse, he told me: "Good luck on your exams; enjoy this wonderful time!"I will miss his warmth and humor. My thoughts and prayers are always with him.
Siyuan Yu
We are with you. We are here for you.
11075 East Boulevard, Cleveland, OH 44106
© 2019 Case Western Reserve University School of Law | Legal notice


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Burning and increased PSA after radical prostatectomy
Dear OncoLink "Ask The Experts,"
My father had radical surgery done for his prostate cancer. Post the surgery, his PSA levels again went up albeit, to 8. Since then however, my father is having a burning sensation when he urinates. Is this normal? What can be causing it? He describes the pain as intense at times.
Alan J. Wein, MD, Professor and Chair of the Division of Urology at the University of Pennsylvania School of Medicine, responds:
Following prostatic removal for cancer, the PSA should drop to immeasurable levels and stay there. If your dad's PSA is now 8, this unfortunately signifies that he has recurrent or residual disease. He needs to see his urologist. Here at our institution, we would institute adjunctive treatment. Regarding the burning sensation, this could be due to urinary tract infection or irritation. This is certainly of secondary importance to the issue of the measurable PSA. However, a urine culture should certainly be obtained and any infection that is found should be treated. If he does not have an infection, then there are a number of conditions that can contribute to burning on urination and your local urologist is the individual best equipped to find and treat these. It is doubtful that the burning means anything of a serious nature.


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These tasks are inspired and governed by my rules for the game of Christian liberal arts education. You should be aware of those rules.
Small group membership. You will join a group of three (or four) students, choose a captain, and schedule your first meeting before the first written assignment. Further team and group responsibilities and guidelines are available in the leadership section of my rules of the game.
Office hour appointment. I consider twenty minutes spent with a student in person a much better investment for both of us than twenty minutes spent writing comments on an essay or in an e-mail. So you will meet with me one-on-one at least once during the semester during my office hours. This is an opportunity for you and me to get to know each other better, address concerns, tailor the course to your particular interests and needs, and get direct feedback on your work. Make an appointment on my office door. If you forget your appointment, then grovel, apologize profusely, and make a new one on my office door. If I cancel your appointment unilaterally, then make me grovel, please accept my apologies, and make a new one on my office door.
I have no agenda for these appointments, but common questions you can think about beforehand include: (a) How is the course going for you? (b) Do you have comments, criticisms, objections, or questions about specific topics, texts, or class sessions? (c) How is your faith? (d) How is it here for you at Westmont right now? (e) Can I help you with any upcoming assignments? (f) Are there theological issues you would like to chase down on your own with additional reading or alternative assignments? (g) How are things going for your small group? (h) Do you have thoughts or questions about future work in theology, religious studies, other majors, or ministry?
Active attendance. You will attend class sessions and group meetings and participate in discussions. These times together are integral parts of the course. Our subject is best understood when lived and discussed, not just when heard and read. When you fail to attend, you frustrate not only your education, but that of your teammates and especially those in your group. I don't take roll or require that you speak in class. However, I do reserve 10% of your grade for course participation in whatever forms it may take for you (including appointments).
The syllabus often contains links to lecture outlines, but beware: I frequently make points in class that are not on the outline. Where I do skip points in an outline, you are not formally responsible, but you should still browse the whole outline to see how I would develop the topic if we had more time.
Reading. You must read material for class discussions before class. You should read all other required material either before the class sessions that follow them, or immediately afterwards. You must be caught up on readings before group meetings. Bring up misunderstandings at group meetings and in class. Assignments draw on lectures, readings, and discussions, so you are accountable soon anyway. Do not fall behind, or you and your teammates will be sorry!
Memorization. You will memorize the Ten Commandments, the Apostles' Creed, and the Lord's Prayer. They will be the subjects of pop quizzes in class or as part of exams. No one is competent in Christian teaching who is not intimately familiar with these texts. Successful memorization counts as part of your final exam grade. It was good enough for Martin Luther, and it is good enough for you.
Written exercises. You will write occasional exercises on lectures and readings. These may be essays, outlines, reading notes, in-class presentations, letters, or reading journals. You can find each assignment from a link on the syllabus. These are like 'problem sets' meant to get you into readings and lectures before you forget the information (this doesn't take long, believe me), to keep you caught up, and to train you in how to study, understand, apply, and write about theology. You will review and discuss these with group members and occasionally in class. As you write, please refer to my suggestions for writing papers for helpful suggestions, cautions about Internet "research", ultimata regarding late papers and plagiarism, and so on.
I cannot grade all of these personally. Instead I will spot-check a sample of each exercises (as well as extra credit exercises), guaranteeing that each student will be graded on three or more of them. The other exercises you submit will receive the average grade of your spot-checked exercises. (For instance, if you receive a B average on the exercises I grade, you will receive a B on every exercise I do not grade. So to be sure of a high evaluation, you will need to have consistently high performance.) The exercises will count as 50% of your grade.
If you believe the essays I have chosen are fundamentally unrepresentative of your exercises as a whole, you may resubmit all of your written work at semester's end for me to evaluate.
In-class group presentation. Each small group will give an in-class presentation or a response to a presentation on a text during sessions devoted to discussing that text. Presenters will (a) remind us of the reading, (b) provide helpful context and analysis, (c) make observations, and (d) raise questions for us to discuss. Respondents will correct mistakes, add important points, and be ready to take the lead in discussion. The point is to facilitate a productive discussion. Presentations may take several forms: Recitation of a text for discussion, lecture, or some other format (the choice is up to you, in consultation with me). A discussion text should be no more than one tightly written, single-spaced page. At the end, include a list of 'credits' indicating which group members did what (writing particular sections, editing, fact-checking, etc.). Please distribute copies to the whole class on the day of your presentation. Respondents need not distribute copies to the class. Your presentation or response will count as one written exercise. All participants, but especially presenters, will want to consult my list of pointers for presentations. As you write, please refer to my suggestions for writing papers for helpful suggestions, cautions about Internet "research", ultimata regarding late papers and plagiarism, and so on.
Peer review. You will peer review the written work of other students in your group, evaluating the writer's style, organization, use of sources, and strength of argument. Refer to my peer review guidelines and use my peer review form (in HTML or Acrobat). How well you perform your peer reviews will affect your own grade as the equivalent of one exercise.
Examinations. You will take two in-class midterm exams and one final exam. The first midterm and the final will cover major terms and topics in the lectures and required texts. The second midterm will cover the thematic readings (Newbigin, Camp, Donovan, Donders, and McLaren or Newbigin, Yoder, Wilken, Boyd/Eddy, and Work). The final will cover lectures and McKim. All examinations will cover up to the day of the exam. We will grade midterms in class. The final exam will concentrate on the last part of the course, though it will also have a cumulative component. The first midterm will count as 10% of your total grade; the second midterm and the final will each count as 15%.
Optional extra credit. Are you on a scholarship or headed to graduate school, and obsessed with your grade? If you complete all other assignments in the course and you are passing the class based on the rest of your grade (and your good standing in class is not compromised for some reason), you can earn extra credit by submitting additional exercises. Each acceptable and adequate exercise will add one-sixth of a grade point to your overall grade. What a deal! That means submitting two such exercises will raise your grade from, say, B+ to A-. Extra credit assignments are posted on the syllabus. You may be able to make arrangements with me for others; I am always on the lookout for creative and helpful suggestions.
Spot-checks on these assignments will be included in the average grade for your written exercises. That means they can bring that part of your grade up if they are better than your typical work, or down if they are worse.
You will not engage in academic dishonesty (as described in the student handbook). Students who do will fail the course.
"You know that we who teach shall be judged with greater strictness" (James 3:1). There is perhaps no more responsible position in the Church than teaching doctrine and preaching Scripture, whether behind a lectern, in a small group, or around a dinner table. In grading these assignments, I will resist grade inflation. I have found (as both a teacher and as a student!) that this way students are more likely to improve, and grades are just as high at the end of the course because of that improvement.
Having trouble understanding the reading? I may sometimes post introductions to readings in advance. Look up unfamiliar terms in a dictionary (for instance, the on-line New Advent Catholic Dictionary), or google them. If even these suggestions do not help, then I leave you with the advice of Thomas Cranmer:
"I cannot understand it." What marvel? How shouldest thou understand, if thou wilt not read nor look upon it? Take the books into thine hands, read the whole story, and that thou understandest keep it well in memory; thou that understandest not, read it again and again: if thou can neither so come by it, counsel with some other that is better learned. Go to thy curate and preacher; show thyself to be desirous to know and learn: and I doubt not but God, seeing thy diligence and readiness (if no man else teach thee) will himself vouchsafe with his Holy Spirit to illuminate thee, and to open unto thee that which was locked from thee (Preface to the Great Bible 6).
In other words, giving up on difficult material is not an option.


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The former France international put pen-to-paper on a four-year deal and becomes the Black Cats??? fourth signing of the summer in addition to Sebastian Coates, Adam Matthews and Jeremain Lens.
The 29-year-old has been out of favour at White Hart Lane after losing his place in Mauricio Pochettino's side at the end of last year.
He did not feature in the league following the 2-1 home defeat to Stoke on November 9, making just three more appearances in the cups.
Speaking after sealing the move, Kaboul said: ???I???m delighted to be a Sunderland player and it???s an honour to join this club.
???I would like to thank Lee Congerton and the head coach for making this move possible and I can???t wait to start playing for the Sunderland supporters.???
Head coach Dick Advocaat said was delighted to add the former Tottenham captain to his squad and feels his experience will be a big asset.
Advocaat said: "He is a very experienced player, which is what we need. He has shown that in his time at Spurs and he will be a very good addition to our squad."
Kaboul has had two spells in north London, rejoining the club in 2010 after 18 months at Portsmouth under Harry Redknapp, who brought him back to White Hart Lane in a ??5m deal and he made 111 appearances during his second stint at Spurs.??


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The HTC Windows Phone 8S is a relatively inexpensive Windows Phone 8 smartphone with a 4in display. As such it brings a welcome note of variety to the Windows Phone 8 market, as the smattering of handsets available on the latest Microsoft platform tend toward the premium (think of the Nokia Lumia 920 and the HTC Windows Phone 8X).
That's not to say that the HTC Windows Phone 8S is a bargain-basement handset, far from it. But you can pick it up for around £26 a month on contract, making it the first mid-range Windows Phone 8 device we've tested.
Not that you'd know it to look at the HTC Windows Phone 8S. It has a stylish and slim two-tone design and benefits from decent build quality. Storage is limited but you can upgrade with a microSD card slot, and there's a solid if unspectacular smartphone camera, with a decent media player that enjoys branded 'Beats' audio.
If you want Windows Phone 8 but are not prepared to break the bank, this could be the phone for you.
Hardware and performance
Let's talk about specs, baby. The HTC Windows Phone 8S sports a 1GHz dual-core processor, and 512MB of RAM. If this was an Android phone those specifications would look a little wan, but Windows Phone is kind to hardware and requires less ammo in order to perform. We'd still prefer to see 1GB RAM, however.
Unfortunately two of the main benchmarks we use to test smartphone performance are not yet available for Windows Phone 8. In the one that is, the SunSpider JavaScript web-browsing benchmark, the Windows Phone 8S completed the test in an average time of 1408ms. This is a decidedly middle-of-the-pack result, placing the HTC well behind other Windows Phone 8 devices such as the Nokia Lumia phones and HTC's own Windows Phone 8X. We didn't find that web browsing was slow, however, just not noticably zippy.
General performance is similar: there's nothing wrong with the HTC Windows Phone 8S, it's just not super fast. Using it at the same time as using the Nokia Lumia 820 on occasion we noticed an almost imperceptable lag when loading menus on both handsets. But the Lumia 820 costs more, and it's not a problem for the 8S. You get what you pay for.
What may be a problem is that you get only 4GB of onboard storage with which to play. There is, however, support for microSD cards of up to 32GB, so all is not lost. Another concern is that the battery is a relatively tiny 6.3Wh (1,700mAh) cell. In our experience it just about gets through a day with moderate use.
Rounding out the hardware specification is the camera. That's right: there is only one, a rear-facing 5Mp camera capable of capturing 720p video.
The HTC Windows Phone 8S benefits from a 4in Super LCD Gorilla Glass display. In this world of large-screened smartphones that is no longer a big display, but it will prove sufficient for all but the most screen-hungry users. The resolution is similarly middle of the road: by our calculations 480x800 pixels means 233 pixels per inch.
It's perfectly usable and Windows Phone 8 looks as bright and cheery as ever. And it's probably worth pointing out that the 8S's pixel density is better than the Nokia Lumia 820's 217ppi - it just can't compete with the Nokia Lumia 920's 332ppi (or indeed the iPhone 5's 326ppi).
Design and build
We like the design of the HTC Windows Phone 8S. it comes in an understated two-tone chassis with a rubberised polycarbonate finish. At 10.3mm thick it is far from the thinnest phone around, but we didn't feel it was particularly bulky. In part that is the smaller than average 4in display. But the Windows Phone 8S also benefits from curved edges that give the impression of slimness. Factor in the solid plastic construction and that rubbery finish and you won't feel that you need a case, either. The screen does attract a lot of finger marks, however.
The HTC Windows Phone 8S measures 63x120.5x10.3mm. From the front it is mostly screen, with a relatively thick bezel at the top, and the usual touch panel with three Windows Phone icons at the bottom. Above the screen is the single speaker - a long thin strip - and an HTC logo. Below the screen, the bottom strip of the Windows Phone 8S is a different colour to the rest. In our case most of the phone's body is black, with a white section at the bottom, but we've also seen it in black and blue. It's a nice touch, making the Windows Phone 8S a little different from the norm.
Around the back of the HTC Windows Phone 8S is a smooth- and rubbery-feeling black panel. At the top is the camera lens and LED flash. Further down is a black HTC logo and a small Beats icon. And then you get to the white strip. On the back this serves a purpose - push down and away from the rest of the phone, and this panel comes away to reveal a SIM tray and microSD card slot. This mechanism feels robust but, unlike a SIM tray, it does also leave you open to losing the cover. Replace the flip off cover and you can use the microUSB connector.
Around the sides of the HTC Windows Phone 8S is arrayed a camera button, volume rocker, and on/off switch. These are all hardware buttons with sufficient travel to make finding them easy enough, although for some reason the on/off switch at the top is almost snug to the top of the phone. Also on the top is a 3.5mm jack audio output.


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Tottenham 3 Stevenage 1
Tottenham survived a scare to move one step closer to Wembley by beating minnows Stevenage in tonight's fifth round replay at White Hart Lane.
The League One side started as huge underdogs but took just two minutes to take the lead through Joel Byrom, who converted a penalty after being upended by Ryan Nelsen.
Jermain Defoe levelled for Spurs and the Barclays Premier League side moved into the last eight thanks to Emmanuel Adebayor's penalty and another well-taken strike from the impressive Defoe.
Stevenage showed glimpses of creativity which showed why they have achieved back-to-back promotions, but the gulf in ability between the two sides ultimately showed in the second half, with Defoe notching two extra strikes to push his claims for a recall.
The win came at a cost for the hosts, however, as Michael Dawson was carried off on a stretcher with what looked like a serious injury, while Aaron Lennon also hobbled off.
Willed on by their 4,200 travelling fans, the visitors earned a shock early penalty when Nelsen upended Byrom with a clumsy challenge.
The winger kept his nerve to slot home to Carlo Cudicini's right and give Stevenage a surprise lead.
Tottenham's night went from bad to worse shortly after when Dawson injured himself going for a challenge with Chris Beardsley. The defender, clearly in agony, came off and Kyle Walker replaced him.
Michael Bostwick fired wide for Stevenage before Aaron Lennon sneaked inside the box at the other end after beating two defenders but his low cross could only find a Stevenage defender.
Spurs almost went 2-0 down in the 25th minute when Jon Ashton met Byrom's cross but he headed just over.
Stevenage paid the price for the miss as they conceded soon after through Defoe's first.
The England international deftly took down Gareth Bale's 60-yard pass before rifling home a sweet left-foot volley.
Danny Rose had a penalty appeal turned down and Tottenham continued to be frustrated.
Their injury woes worsened eight minutes before the break when Lennon hobbled off and was replaced by Adebayor.
Bale slipped Adebayor in in first-half injury time – but Mark Roberts put in a crucial tackle just as the former Arsenal man was about to shoot.
Defoe thought he had scored just after the break when he turned in Younes Kaboul's cross but the linesman flagged for offside.
Stevenage were still holding their own and came close to a second goal when Bostwick's shot ricocheted straight into the path of Roberts – but he shot straight at Cudicini.
Once again, the minnows were immediately made to pay for their profligacy as Spurs took the lead.
Roberts brought down Bale in the box as he attempted to pull a cross back, Michael Oliver pointed to the spot and Adebayor stroked home the spot-kick before running over to Harry Redknapp to shake his hand in celebration.
Stevenage then backed off Bale to almost deadly consequences as he fired a 30-yard shot which dipped over goalkeeper Chris Day and rattled the bar.
Boro hit back, with Bostwick firing a blistering 30-yard drive which Cudicini did well to tip around a post.
Roberts met Byrom's cross from the resulting corner but the defender's header crashed off the bar and bounced to safety.
Defoe wasted a glorious chance to kill the tie as he headed weakly at Day from Bale's pinpoint cross.
The England striker did not waste his next chance, however. He raced onto Bale's long throw, turned Ashton inside out and curled a shot into the far corner past the sprawling Day.
Stevenage looked for one more goal for their raucous support, who had not stopped chanting all night.
Lawrie Wilson found Craig Reid in the box but the striker's shot cannoned into Cudicini's arms.
Bale found space with his blistering pace on the counter but Van der Vaart somehow failed to connect with the cross.
The Welshman stung Day's palms in the final minute of injury time as both sides pushed for another goal but it did not came and Spurs marched on to set up a home quarter-final against Bolton.


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Blood pressure is the amount of force that blood exerts on the blood vessels as it moves through the body. When this pressure is abnormally high, it is called hypertension , and it places excess stress on the blood vessels and the heart. Over time, this extra stress can lead to blood vessel damage as well as heart and kidney failure . The damaged blood vessels in turn can cause complications like stroke or vision loss. For most people, the exact cause of high blood pressure is not known, but there are several habits that are known to be linked to high blood pressure. Being overweight or inactive, smoking, and eating a diet high in sodium or low in potassium and vitamin D are known to increase your risk for high blood pressure. Too much alcohol and stress can also increase your blood pressure. Preventing or managing hypertension is important to significantly decrease the risk of serious illnesses like heart disease or stroke and premature death.
Researchers from Brigham and Women's Hospital and Harvard Medical School wanted to assess the effect of certain habits on the risk of hypertension in women. Data from a large study called the Nurses' Health Study was reviewed by this team of researchers. The study, published in the Journal of the American Medical Association , found six specific lifestyle habits that were associated with lower rates of high blood pressure.
About the Study
The Nurses' Health Study is a large, ongoing cohort study . The study has collected information about the habits and health outcomes of 83,882 women ages 27-44 over 14 years. By the end of the 14-year period, 14% of the women reported that they had hypertension. The researchers compared the lifestyle habits of the women who developed high blood pressure to the habits of women who did not. Six lifestyle habits were significantly different between the two groups. Women who did not have high blood pressure were more likely to:
- Have a body mass index ( BMI ) under 25 (normal BMI 18-24)
- Exercise vigorously for an average of 30 minutes every day
- Have a low-salt diet, similar to that of the DASH diet
- Have a modest alcohol intake (one drink or less per day)
- Use nonnarcotic analgesics (eg, acetaminophen ) less than once per week
- Take at least 400 mcg (micrograms) of folic acid supplementation everyday
Women who had all of the lifestyle habits above were 78% less likely to develop high blood pressure over the 14-year period. BMI was found to be the most powerful predictor of future hypertension.
How Does This Affect You?
A cohort study is designed to simply observe the participants as they live. When the data is analyzed, other factors that can influence blood pressure may need to be accounted for. Because the study is only observed, not controlled, some factors may not be accounted for. As a result, this type of study can never firmly prove a cause-and-effect relationship. However, because this was a large study that was done over a long period of time, the connection between these lifestyle habits and high blood pressure is more likely to be true. Other studies have also supported some of these findings.
Periodic appointments with your doctor are important to identify and treat hypertension, but you can take steps in between to decrease your risks. A balanced diet and regular physical activity are not only important to preventing hypertension but are also necessary steps in achieving and maintaining a healthy weight. Make changes to your diet so that it follows the recommendations of the DASH diet. Start by replacing some less healthy foods with fruits and vegetables , switch whole dairy products to lowfat or nonfat products, or choose leaner meats. Begin to add more activity to your days by scheduling brief periods in your day for activity, even 10-15 minute walks will help at first. Prevention is best, but if you have hypertension, proper management is important to reduce damage to your blood vessels and heart. The sooner you begin a healthy lifestyle, the better chance you have for a long healthful life.
- Reviewer: Brian Randall, MD


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Halloween is one of our favorite times of year. Not because we love playing dress-up, but because there are so many great ways to use royalty free sound effects to cause a little trouble. Whether you're creating a horror film, or just scaring the neighborhood children this All Hallows Eve, here are a few of our favorite stock sound effects that you can use in virtually any project:
1) Demons: Demon or Devil Speaks (348862) – Demon, Satan or Alien Creature speaks backwards with a dark, sinister & scary distorted voice. Perfect Sound Effect/Background for anything that has to do with Horror or Sci-Fi. 2 takes one wet and one dry.
2) Zombie Walking Dead (351598) – Halloween is never complete without the walking dead. This sound effect is ambience of a zombie walking and dragging chains, moaning and growling. Mmmm. Brains.
3) Woman Screaming (351240) – We know it's cliché, but you have to have a shrill, high-pitched scream from a terrified woman.
4) Intestine Squeeze (359236) – Incredibly gross and unnerving are the sounds of blood and bones, cracking and squeezing. Great effect for stepping on bugs or crushing human flesh…
5) Guillotine (374342) – Off with their heads! This sound effect of a guillotine being used is loud and scary. Great for all sorts of scenes involving a guillotine.
6) Ghostly Whispers In Radio Static (377784) – If you listen closely, you can hear the voices of the dead in whispering in the radio interference. Eerie and haunting.
7) Evil Laugh (243018) – Deep and sinister male dastardly evil laughter. Multiple scary sound effects for the price of one.
8) Horror Show Intro (383950) – It may be a little cheesy, but it's quite perfect for use as source material for someone watching a horror flick on television, complete with thunder and lightning, pipe organ, and screams. We told you not to watch that movie before bed — it will give you nightmares!
9) Long Door Creak (379218) – Reminds us of Michael Jackson's Thriller. Quintessencial creaky wooden door gradually opening. Household audio can be so sinister when used the right way.
10) Metallic Cinematic Swell (377177) – Foreboding and mysterious, this stock audio clip is great sound design that has uses beyond Halloween, from transitions to sci-fi.


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Effective monitoring and evaluation practices for competitions and crowdsourcing: Lessons from India
What's the key ingredient for successful innovations? I often hear people answer creativity, collaboration, open mindset, leadership. For me, it is the ability to learn and adapt.
But learning is meaningful only if it's based on reliable data, and adaptation leads to the expected results if the data is timely and feeds into the decision-making process.
For example, take GNRC Medical (formerly known as Guwahati Neurological Research Centre), a hospital in North Guwahati, India that aims to provide quality healthcare service at an affordable cost to underprivileged populations. GNRC has an inclusive multi-specialty facility, provides ambulance services, and offers customized healthcare packages to the poor, promoting preventive healthcare and early intervention. Despite its unique service offer, GNRC faced major challenges, including the lack of awareness among local communities on medical conditions and available treatments.


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New beyerdynamic system for guided tours and interpreting
Synexis, new wireless HF transmission system can be used in many ways.
Effective communication is becoming increasingly important. In this context, reliable technology is the basis for optimum speech transmission.
beyerdynamic meets this need with its new, wireless HF transmission system, Synexis. The system can be used in many ways: for guided tours, interpreting and assistive listening, or as a command system. Operation in the licence and registration-free 863-865 MHz frequency range is possible at all times.
On guided tours, up to eight groups can participate at the same time and independently of each other. Furthermore, thanks to the latest UHF radio technology, Synexis can be used both indoors and in the open air.
The Synexis transmitter and receiver units boast qualities such as excellent speech intelligibility and user-friendliness. The hand-held transmitter also has three mute functions allowing the user to conduct brief private conversations without involving others. The transmitter and receiver units work with rechargeable or standard batteries.
A trolley case with 20 shelves and storage space for headphones is available for ease of loading and transport. Alternatively, chargers designed to be built-in to 19" cabinets can be used for large quantities of system components. The range of items is completed with a table-top charger.
More information and video at www.beyerdynamic.com/synexis
Characters (incl. spaces): 1,404
beyerdynamic Synexis System


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Catheter Ablation vs Anti-arrhythmic Drug Therapy for Atrial Fibrillation Trial (CABANA)
|The safety and scientific validity of this study is the responsibility of the study sponsor and investigators. Listing a study does not mean it has been evaluated by the U.S. Federal Government. Read our disclaimer for details.
|ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT00911508
Recruitment Status : Completed
First Posted : June 2, 2009
Last Update Posted : February 26, 2018
- Study Details
- Tabular View
- Results Submitted
- Disclaimer
- How to Read a Study Record
|Condition or disease
|Atrial Fibrillation Arrhythmia
|Device: Left atrial ablation Drug: Rate or Rhythm Control Therapy
|Not Applicable
The need for this trial arises out of 1) the rapidly increasing number of pts > 60 years of age with AF accompanied by symptoms and morbidity, 2) the failure of anti-arrhythmic drug therapy to maintain sinus rhythm and reduce mortality, 3) the rapidly increasing application of radio-frequency catheter ablation without appropriate evidence-based validation, and 4) the expanding impact of AF on health care costs.
This study will randomize up to 2200 patients to a strategy of catheter ablation versus pharmacologic therapy with rate or rhythm control drugs. Each pt will have 1) characteristics similar to AFFIRM pts (≥65 yo or <65 with >1 risk factor for stroke, 2) Documented AF warranting treatment, and 3) Eligibility for both catheter ablation and ≥2 anti-arrhythmic or ≥2 rate control drugs. Pts will be followed every 6 months for an average of approximately 5 years and will undergo repeat trans-telephonic monitor, Holter monitor, and CT/MR studies to assess the impact of treatment.
The CABANA trial will disclose the role of medical and non-pharmacologic therapies for AF, establish the cost and impact of therapy on quality of life and will help determine if AF is a modifiable risk factor for increased mortality.
|Study Type :
|Interventional (Clinical Trial)
|Actual Enrollment :
|2204 participants
|Intervention Model:
|Parallel Assignment
|None (Open Label)
|Primary Purpose:
|Official Title:
|Catheter Ablation vs Anti-arrhythmic Drug Therapy for Atrial Fibrillation Trial
|Actual Study Start Date :
|November 13, 2009
|Actual Primary Completion Date :
|December 31, 2017
|Actual Study Completion Date :
|December 31, 2017
Active Comparator: Left Atrial Ablation
Pulmonary vein isolation using a circumferential ablative approach in the left atrium. Ablation may be performed using circular mapping catheter-guided ablation, antral isolation using a circular guided approach, or wide area circumferential ablation.
Device: Left atrial ablation
St. Jude: Livewire TC™ , Therapy™ Dual / Thermocouple, Safire,Therapy Cool Path
Biosense Webster: NAVI-STAR, NAVI-STAR/NAVI-STAR DS, Celsius Braided/Long Tip, NAVI-STAR™ and Celsius™ ThermoCool, NAVI-STAR® RMT, Celsius® RMT, ThermoCool® SF
Medtronic CryoCath LP: Freezor®/Freezor MAX®, Artic Front®, Cardiac Ablation System
Bard: Stinger
Boston Scientific: Blazer II RF/XP, Blazer RPM, Chilli II Cooled, SteeroCath
Active Comparator: Rate or Rhythm Control Therapy
Current state-of-the-art drug therapy for atrial fibrillation (rate control or rhythm control). Treating physicians will be encouraged to follow the American College of Cardiology / American Heart Association / European Society of Cardiology Atrial Fibrillation Guidelines with regard to drug therapy for atrial fibrillation. The specific choice of rate control versus rhythm control drug therapy and the specific drugs to be used will ultimately be left to the discretion of the treating physician.
Drug: Rate or Rhythm Control Therapy
Rate control: Metoprolol 50-100mg, Atenolol 50-100mg, Propranolol 40-80mg, Acebutolol 200-300mg, Carvedilol 6.25-25mg, Diltiazem 180-240mg, Verapamil 180-240mg, Digoxin 0.125-0.25mg
Rhythm control: Propafenone 450-625mg, Flecainide 200-300mg, Sotalol 240-320mg, Dofetilide 500-1000mcg, Amiodarone 200-400mg, Quinidine 600-900mg, Dronedarone 800mg
- LA catheter ablation is superior to rate or rhythm control drug therapy for decreasing the incidence of the composite endpoint of total mortality, disabling stroke, serious bleeding, or cardiac arrest in patients warranting therapy for AF. [ Time Frame: From date of enrollment until date of event ]
- LA catheter ablation is superior to rate or rhythm control drug therapy for reducing total mortality [ Time Frame: From date of enrollment until date of death ]
- Total mortality, stroke, or CV hospitalization (for heart failure or acute ischemic events) [ Time Frame: From date of enrollment until date of death, stroke, or CV hospitalization (for heart failure or acute ischemic event) ]
- Cardiovascular death [ Time Frame: From date of enrollment until date of death ]
- Cardiovascular death or disabling stroke [ Time Frame: From date of enrollment until date of event ]
- Arrhythmic death or cardiac arrest [ Time Frame: From date of enrollment until date of event ]
- Heart failure death [ Time Frame: From date of enrollment until date of event ]
- Freedom from recurrent AF [ Time Frame: From date of therapy initiation until date of first AF recurrence following a 90 day wait period ]
- Cardiovascular hospitalization [ Time Frame: From date of enrollment until date of hospitalization ]
- Medical costs, resource utilization, and cost effectiveness [ Time Frame: From date of enrollment through follow-up (average of 5 years) ]
- Quality of Life [ Time Frame: At months 3, 6, 12, 18, 24, 30, 36, 42, 48, 54, 60 ]
- Composite adverse events [ Time Frame: From date of enrollment until date of event ]
- Left atrial size, morphology and function and its relationship to morbidity and mortality [ Time Frame: Baseline compared with 3-6 months post therapy initiation ]
Choosing to participate in a study is an important personal decision. Talk with your doctor and family members or friends about deciding to join a study. To learn more about this study, you or your doctor may contact the study research staff using the contacts provided below. For general information, Learn About Clinical Studies.
|Ages Eligible for Study:
|18 Years to 90 Years (Adult, Older Adult)
|Sexes Eligible for Study:
|Accepts Healthy Volunteers:
Inclusion Criteria:
Over the preceding 6 months have:
- ≥2 paroxysmal (electrocardiographic documentation of at least 1) AF episodes lasting ≥1 hour in duration: (that terminate spontaneously within 7 days or cardioversion is performed within 48h of AF onset): or
- electrocardiographic documentation of 1 persistent AF episode: (sustained for ≥7 days or cardioversion is performed more than 48h after AF onset): or
- electrocardiographic documentation of 1 longstanding persistent AF episode: (continuous AF of duration >1 year).
- Warrant active therapy (within the past 3 months) beyond simple ongoing observation
- Be eligible for catheter ablation and ≥2 sequential rhythm control and/or ≥2 rate control drugs.
- Be ≥65 yrs of age, or <65 yrs with one or more of the following risk factors for stroke: Hypertension (treated and/or defined as a BP >140/90 mmHg) [90], Diabetes (treated and/or defined as a fasting glucose ≥126 mg/dl) [91], Congestive heart failure (including systolic or diastolic heart failure), Prior stroke, TIA or systemic emboli, Atherosclerotic vascular disease (previous MI, peripheral arterial disease or aortic plaque), LA size >5.0 cm (or volume index ≥40 cc/m2), or EF ≤35.
- Have the capacity to understand and sign an informed consent form.
Be ≥18 years of age.
- NOTE- Subjects <65 yrs of age whose only risk factor is hypertension must have a second risk factor or LV hypertrophy to qualify.Patients receiving new drug therapy initiated within the previous 3 months may continue that therapy if randomized to the drug therapy arm. Patients may have documented atrial flutter in addition to atrial fibrillation and remain eligible for enrollment.
Exclusion Criteria:
- Lone AF in the absence of risk factors for stroke in patients <65 years of age
- Patients who in the opinion of the managing clinician should not yet receive any therapy for AF
- Patients who have failed >2 membrane active anti-arrhythmic drugs at a therapeutic dose due to inefficacy or side effects (Table 5.2.2)
- An efficacy failure of full dose amiodarone treatment >8 weeks duration at any time
- Reversible causes of AF including thyroid disorders, acute alcohol intoxication, recent major surgical procedures, or trauma
- Recent cardiac events including MI, PCI, or valve or bypass surgery in the preceding 3 months
- Hypertrophic obstructive cardiomyopathy (outflow track)
- Class IV angina or Class IV CHF (including past or planned heart transplantation)
- Other arrhythmias mandating anti-arrhythmic drug therapy (i.e. VT, VF)
- Heritable arrhythmias or increased risk for torsade de pointes with class I or III drugs
- Prior LA catheter ablation with the intention of treating AF
- Prior surgical interventions for AF such as the MAZE procedure
- Prior AV nodal ablation
- Patients with other arrhythmias requiring ablative therapy
- Contraindication to appropriate anti-coagulation therapy
- Renal failure requiring dialysis
- Medical conditions limiting expected survival to <1 year
- Women of childbearing potential (unless post-menopausal or surgically sterile)
- Participation in any other clinical mortality trial (Participation in other non-mortality trials should be reviewed with the clinical trial management center)
Unable to give informed consent
- NOTE- Prior ablation of the cavo-tricuspid isthmus alone is not an exclusion if the patient develops subsequent recurrent AF. Planned atrial flutter ablation in combination with the left atrial ablation is not an exclusion.
To learn more about this study, you or your doctor may contact the study research staff using the contact information provided by the sponsor.
Please refer to this study by its ClinicalTrials.gov identifier (NCT number): NCT00911508
Show 118 Study Locations
|Principal Investigator:
|Douglas L. Packer, M.D.
|Mayo Clinic
|Principal Investigator:
|Kerry L. Lee, Ph.D.
|Duke Clinical Research Institute
|Principal Investigator:
|Daniel B. Mark, M.D., MPH
|Duke Clinical Research Institute
|Principal Investigator:
|Rich A. Robb, Ph.D. Phy
|Mayo Clinic
|Study Chair:
|Yves D. Rosenberg, M.D., MPH
|National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute (NHLBI)
Additional Information:
Publications automatically indexed to this study by ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier (NCT Number):
|Responsible Party:
|Douglas L. Packer, MD, Mayo Clinic
|ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier:
|NCT00911508 History of Changes
|Other Study ID Numbers:
U01HL089709 ( U.S. NIH Grant/Contract )
|First Posted:
|June 2, 2009 Key Record Dates
|Last Update Posted:
|February 26, 2018
|Last Verified:
|February 2018
Keywords provided by Douglas L. Packer, Mayo Clinic:
Atrial Fibrillation
Left Atrial Ablation
Pulmonary Vein Isolation
Catheter Ablation
Antiarrhythmic Drug Therapy
Additional relevant MeSH terms:
Atrial Fibrillation
Arrhythmias, Cardiac
Heart Diseases
Cardiovascular Diseases
Pathologic Processes
Anti-Arrhythmia Agents


text: Wednesday, November 30, 2011 DJO Global Inc Joins Foundation's Partner in Research Program DJO Global Inc recently joined the Foundation for Physical Therapy's Partner in Research program as a Platinum Level Partner, with a donation of $25,000. The Partners in Research program recognizes corporate donors and sponsorships that support the Foundation's mission to provide doctoral scholarships, fellowships, and research grants to emerging physical therapist researchers. Dale Hammer, PT, MA, MHSA, senior vice president of global compliance and government relations at DJO Global announced the gift at a Foundation research luncheon held during the Private Practice Section's Annual Conference in Seattle earlier this month.


text:
Spend a night at IKEA through Airbnb
The Swedish furniture company is letting people spend the night of Aug. 31 at its store in Sydney, Australia.
"Close to the airport with city views, ample parking, and elevator and escalator access, each listing shares an adjacent kitchen/dining room and kids' hang-out area with the other guests," reads the listing on Airbnb, a website that allows people to rent out rooms to travelers.
Choose from different styles of rooms: "rustic charm," "inner city living" or "modern elegance."
IKEA is not charging any money to stay at the store, but an $11 Airbnb fee applies.
One caveat: By staying, you agree to be covered by the media.
"Oh, and that you will be woken in the morning in a remarkable way. Nothing frightening — we promise!" IKEA says in the listing.
The Airbnb listing isn't even IKEA's weirdest marketing move yet. This week the company released a video ad showing a couple being hypnotized and made to think they are traveling in time.
Source: USAtoday


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A note to friends, on upcoming elections generally ... not a paid political announcement
Friends were wondering how to understand liberal thugs. They thought liberals couldn't be thugs, but recent events in Canada have shown that that is not correct.
I replied, ... to you and to all, I recommend Jonah Goldberg's magisterial Liberal Fascism
Basically, the taxonomy of political movements with which I am familiar places New Leftism quite squarely in the fascist tradition.
Leftists, eager to confuse the issue, have insisted that fascist movements must, by definition, be right-wing.
But that is self-serving nonsense.
Fascism is a mood in politics, not a program – the mood of an aggrieved identity group that seeks salvation through government crackdowns on its perceived enemies.
Whether the grievance group is "Aryans" or "transgendered persons" or "The Sword of the Infidel Slayer", the political mood is the same:
= Those other people have done us wrong and Government is going to put it right, and we want $millions – no, $billions! – plus a whole bunch of strict new laws against anything that makes us feel bad.
While we're here, I am surprised that more Americans did not pick up on the Obaminator announcing that people must eat less.
It must be true that no one studies history any more.
Yes, lots of Americans are tubby. But so? What kind of a society do you think you'll have when that becomes "a federal case"?
And the most common way governments put a stop to people eating too much is politically driven famines.
Because of the relative ease with which hunger can be alleviated today, essentially, all famines from the late nineteenth century onward have been politically driven – in the sense that it was possible to prevent the famine but no one wanted to. It was a choice.
But alas, no one studies history any more.
Labels: Canada, intellectual freedom


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The Russian-born composer, conductor and pianist Igor Stravinsky (1882 - 1971) remains, five decades after his death, a towering figure in 20th century music. If he had written the music for only one of the three ballets for which he is best known -- The Firebird (1910), Petrushka (1911) and The Rite of Spring (1913) -- he would still be celebrated today. That he wrote all three of those masterpieces, in the space of just a few years, ensures his musical immortality.
Here, on the great musician's birthday (b. June 17, 1882, in Lomonosov, Russia), LIFE.com pays tribute to Stravinsky through photos made in 1972 by Gjon Mili. The pictures capture dancers from George Balanchine's New York City Ballet as they bring to life a series of dance works -- 21 of them, based on Stravinsky's music -- created by Balanchine and Jerome Robbins.
This tribute to Stravinsky, who died a year ago [wrote LIFE magazine in June 1972], was also a triumph for Balanchine, whose mastery of the dance is undiminished at 68. He personally created eight of the new ballets and collaborated with Jerome Robbins on another. "The important thing in ballet," Balanchine says, "is movement itself," a thought that photographer Gjon Mili vividly expresses in his photographs.
Liz Ronk, who edited this gallery, is the Photo Editor for LIFE.com. Follow her on Twitter @lizabethronk.


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Hollymatic Intervention Cabinets Help With Food Safety
Hollymatic's Guardian Intervention Cabinets can help minimize the risk of product recalls for meat, poultry, and food processors.
The cabinets feature a 316 stainless steel wash down area as well as a stainless steel gear box, a variable speed conveyor belt, top and bottom spray coverage, and a chemical mixing pump assembly. The cabinet is available in 2 sizes.
To see a video of how the Intervention Cabinet works, head to Hollymatic's Facebook page https://www.facebook.com/HollymaticCorp


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Timing for Hormone Therapy for Prostate Cancer
Dear OncoLink "Ask The Experts,"
My father is currently being treated for advanced prostate cancer with a 10.8 mg depot of zoladex every 12 weeks. Is it essential that the renewal be given precisely within the 12 weeks indicated, or is it sufficient that the treatment be given roughly every three months?
Michael Vozniak, PharmD, BCOP, Hematology/Oncology Clinical Pharmacy Specialist, responds:
Pasted below is an abstract from the original study using the 3-month dosing. The precise timing of every 12 weeks on the nose is not necessary; however, I would not let it go longer than you have to, as it was not studied in this fashion. The information from the study (shown below) makes it seem as though you could wait several weeks longer, however your chances of having rising testosterone levels increase the longer you wait for another injection. Roughly, every 3 months is fine, but I could not find any precise data as to when the hormone levels begin to rebound.
European Urology. 1990;18 Suppl 3:22-5. A new longer-acting LHRH analog depot: preliminary results of a Dutch open phase II clinical study on a 10.8 mg Zoladex 3-monthly depot.Dijkman GA, Fernandez del Moral P, Plasman JW, Pull HC, van der Meijden AP, Debruyne FM, Hutchinson FG, Furr BJ. Department of Urology, St Ignatius Hospital, Breda, The Netherlands.
Abstract: A new longer-acting depot formulation containing 10.8 mg Zoladex was administered subcutaneously without anesthetic to 35 patients with advanced carcinoma of the prostate. Pharmacodynamic and pharmacokinetic data show that following a transient elevation in serum LH and testosterone, the levels of both hormones decrease. Serum testosterone reaches the castrate range in all patients by week 4 and remains at this level for at least 12 weeks. The serum Zoladex profile shows that castrate serum testosterone values can be sustained by very low serum concentrations of the drug of around 0.05 ng/ml. In this preliminary report, the efficacy and safety of this new longer-acting 3-month depot formulation of 10.8 mg Zoladex has been shown to be comparable to the 1-month depot formulation of 3.6 mg Zoladex, in patients with advanced carcinoma of the prostate.


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Thank you for choosing to test drive a Porsche with us. Please take a moment to read the information below before you complete the form.
Please note licence and insurance restrictions apply to take a test drive at our Centre. Drivers must be over 18 (for GT and Turbo models please check with your Centre) and hold a full, valid driving licence. If your test drive request is confirmed, you will also need to bring the following:
The DVLA 'check code' is a standard requirement and needs to be done no more than 21 days before your drive or the code will not be valid. Without this code you may not be able to complete your drive.
© 2019 All rights reserved to Porsche Centre Cardiff and its licensors.
* Data determined in accordance with the measurement method required by law. Since September 01, 2018 all new cars are approved in accordance with the Worldwide Harmonized Light Vehicles Test Procedure (WLTP), a more realistic test procedure to measure fuel consumption and CO₂ emissions. You can find more information on WLTP at www.porsche.com/wltp. From 01 January 2019, all fuel consumption figures are shown as determined in accordance with WLTP. CO₂ figures will be shown as NEDC-equivalent values, as CO₂ based taxation will continue to be based on an NEDC value (derived from WLTP) until 06 April 2020. Fuel economy and CO₂ emission figures are only intended as a means of comparing different types of vehicles tested under the same test cycle. New WLTP homologated vehicles are therefore not directly comparable with any vehicles tested under NEDC.
Values are provided for comparison only. To the extent that fuel consumption or CO₂ values are given as ranges, these do not relate to a single, individual car and do not constitute part of the offer. Extra features and accessories (attachments, tyre formats etc.) can change relevant vehicle parameters such as weight, rolling resistance and aerodynamics which may result in a change in fuel consumption and CO₂ values. Additionally, weather and traffic conditions, as well as individual driving styles, can all affect the actual fuel consumption, electricity consumption, and CO₂ emissions of a car.


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DECATUR - A woman accused of conspiring in the fatal shooting of her husband outside a suburban Atlanta preschool has filed court papers asking for permission to visit his grave.
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution reports (http://bit.ly/VZszyi ) lawyers for Andrea Sneiderman filed a motion Friday asking the judge in her upcoming murder trial for permission to observe Yahrtzeit on Nov. 18, the second anniversary of Russell "Rusty" Sneiderman's death. The Jewish religious tradition involves reciting a prayer and the lighting of a 24-hour candle.
Sneiderman is currently under house arrest at her parents' Johns Creek home. She was arrested in August and accused of conspiring with her former boss, Hemy Neuman, to kill her husband. She has pleaded not guilty. Neuman admitted to the killing and was sentenced in March to life in prison.


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The Modify Analysis Variables screen is where you will select the analysis variables to be used in your WebCASPAR table. Analysis variables provide quantitative values, including counts of students, faculty, or degrees. They always appear as columns in the table.
The Table Summary near the top of the screen lists the selections you have made for each of the following:
To select an analysis variable, click on a variable in the Add analysis variable pulldown list, then click on Select. To select multiple analysis variables, press and hold the Ctrl (for PC) or Apple Icon (for Mac) key while making your selections, then click on Select. The screen will refresh, and the name(s) of the variable(s) you selected will appear in the Table Summary near the top of the screen under Analysis Variable(s) and on the screen just above the pulldown list.
For each variable you select, you can choose to display the following statistics in the compiled table:
Mark the checkbox next to the statistic that you want to display in the compiled table. You can select one or all of the options for display.
Click on the Remove button next to the variable name to remove the corresponding variable from your table. Click on Remove All to remove all the selected analysis variables.
After selecting the analysis variables, continue to the Select Classification Variables screen (by clicking on the Modify Classification Variables tab at the top of the screen or the Modify Classification Variables button at the bottom of the screen) to select the classification variables to be used in your table.
You can also click on Clear Table to clear all analysis and classification variable selections you have made, allowing you to start building the table from scratch.
Note: Format Table and View Table will be grayed out and inoperable until at least one analysis variable has been selected.
If you are a registered user, you can log into WebCASPAR and save the data source and variables you selected on the Table Builder screens as a single table specification, allowing you to easily re-create the table at a later date rather than re-creating it from scratch. You can also make changes to the selections in a saved table specification and save it as a new table specification.
After selecting your variables, click on Save Table at the bottom of the screen to access the Save Table screen, where you can assign a name to the table specification and save it.
Analysis variables provide quantitative values, such as counts of students, faculty, or degrees. They always appear as columns in the table.


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According to the NY Daily News free agent guard JJ Barea considers the Knicks a great second option if he is unable to return to Dallas:
"I always said the Knicks would be a great second option. I love the city. I love the way they're playing now, their style of play with D'Antoni, the players over there," said Barea, who was in Punta Cana to support slugger David Ortiz's annual charity golf tournament. "We'll see. I know Carmelo more than Amar'e. I think after (D'Antoni became coach), I said, 'That would be a great fit for me.'"
I think Barea would be a nice fit. Obviously at 5'9 he is naturally a bit impaired on defense but I think having him as a spark plug off the bench would be a great addition. Logistically, Barea would have to accept a 1 year contract for less money than I assume he could make elsewhere. In sports, free agent players coming off championships are usually overvalued in the market so I expect Barea to get a nice payday. This is an interesting idea and I think he would be a nice fit but I don't think it can happen if the Knicks are holding out for Chris Paul.Follow @tarmosino


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Find a Manhattan personal trainer in 10002
See a list of personal trainers in 10002 here.
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High Gloss Brown Suprilla TV Unit
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Template talk:Merit Badge footer
From MeritBadgeDotOrg
Use categories instead of this template?
I think this template should be deleted and that only categories should be used instead, so as to forestall all arguments about what category something should be in (as categories allows something to be in multiple places at once). For instance, Mammal Study could easily be a Category:Agribusiness merit badges, depending on what mammals you studied (cows, for instance). What's the difference between the Trade and Profession categories, the amount a person makes per year? How is Salesmanship neither a Trade nor a Profession? And isn't Archaeology either a Trade or a Profession? Welding, for instance, would seem to fit in multiple categories. A person with a 4-year Welding degree who's able to meet the standard of having 30% of his welds x-rayed for competency can make $80k/year right out of college. Granted, there's would be travel involved -- you'd be going out and welding together the support structure of the world's highest buildings, but I think it can safely be said that it's a Category:Professions merit badges. It would also fit, though, in Category:Arts and Crafts merit badges as this (and others) would attest. I think this template should just be removed, and merit badges should be in the categories that fit for those merit badges. Banaticus 01:33, January 16, 2012 (EST)
- All merit badges are (and have always been) categorized by the national council. (NOTE: Scouts were originally required to earn one or more merit badges from certain Field(s) of Study in order to advance in Rank. Although Field of Study is no longer used for advancement purposes, national continues to use the same methods and categories when adding new merit badges... presumably, to ensure a balance is maintained.)
- However, I certainly agree that {{Merit Badges by Field of Study}} should be removed from {{Merit Badge footer}}... and, have done so. Frankly, it just takes up space (i.e., consider those who want to print the article page). It's just redundant, there are plenty of other places where Field of Study is referenced. —RWSmith (Bureaucrat), 11:11, January 16, 2012 (EST)
- Thanks -- I'm an Eagle Scout and I never knew that merit badges were categorized by National. Also, thanks for editing the template. :) Banaticus 03:00, January 24, 2012 (EST)


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Hawke's Bay Trails
The Hawke's Bay Trails are one of the 23 Great Rides under Nga Haerenga, The New Zealand Cycle Trail.
1 / 5
Status: Open
Grade: Easy (1) - Intermediate (3)
Duration: 1-4 days
Total Length: 187km
The Hawke's Bay Trails are made up of three trails offering a range of scenery, attractions and vistas that will ensure a truly unique experience. Beginner riders, keen cyclists, walkers and runners can enjoy a range of riding options from shorter 1-2 hour rides through to a full 187km riding experience. The trails include on and off road sections where you will see everything from mountainous lookouts and beautiful lowland rivers to endangered wetland wildlife and the sweeping Hawke's Bay coastline.
Landscapes Ride
The 43km Landscape Ride explores the picturesque coastal communities of Haumoana, Te Awanga and Clifton, which border the coastline of the iconic Cape Kidnappers. The Cape is home to the world's largest mainland gannet colony and one of the world's top 50 golf courses. Head inland to the more challenging Tukituki River Valley road loop. The flat off-road trail overlooks vineyards on one side and the Tukituki River on the other. Enjoy changing scenery and views of the impressive Te Mata Peak. This trail provides year-round cycling and will suit most cycling skill levels. Don't miss the expansive ocean views, world class wineries and beautiful countryside.
Water Ride
The 96km Water Ride is flat, easy and perfect for families. Napier's Bay View and Westshore are great places to start riding, continuing on to the seaside village of Ahuriri with its bustling cafés, shops and bars before cycling along picturesque Marine Parade with panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean. Extend the ride to include the Taradale loop to experience the renowned Church Road and Mission Estate wineries. Alternatively head to the Ahuriri Estuary, a sanctuary for endangered wetland wildlife, or to the quaint Puketapu settlement with its charming hotel, restaurant, general store and church. Don't miss learning about local history, endangered wildlife, world class wineries and the bustling seaside precinct of Ahuriri.
Wineries Ride
The 48km Wineries Ride is a relaxed ride that covers the wine-growing areas of Bridge Pa, Gimblett Gravels and the Ngatarawa Triangle. The terrain is flat and dotted with numerous award- winning wineries that afford plenty of places to stop and rest along the way. This mostly off-road ride also goes through the historic tree-lined Oak Avenue in Hastings and along the banks of the Ngaruroro River.
Cycle route directions
There are already two popular sections of trail ready to ride on The Hawke's Bay Trails. One is a coastal ride, and the other is a valley ride. If you have time, it's worth doing both. The coastal ride starts from behind the Napier i-Site as part of the Water Ride and heads south towards Cape Kidnappers connecting to the coastal section of the Landscape Ride. It begins as a wide concrete path, and later becomes a smooth limesand path with some sections of public road. The path ends at Clifton, 24km from Napier.
The other popular section of the Landscapes Ride does a loop of the Tukituki Valley from Black Bridge to Red Bridge and back. Black Bridge is on the coastal section described above. It is the road bridge that crosses the Tukituki River, 16km south of Napier, on the way to Clifton. There is a big carpark just before it. From the Black Bridge carpark, follow the obvious limesand track underneath the bridge and up onto a large stop bank on the other side of the road. The trail stays on top of the stop bank for almost 8km, before ending at River Road. Follow River Road away from the Tukituki River for 800 metres, to an intersection with Waimarama Road. Turn left at the intersection.
The trail is a mixture of on and off-road from here to Red Bridge, 5km away. Cross Red Bridge and turn left again at the next intersection. You now follow Tukituki Road for 9km before turning left down Moore Road for 900 metres. At the end of Moore Road, another 6km of excellent limesand path leads all the way back to Black Bridge.
Best time to ride
Hawke's Bay is renowned for its Mediterranean climate, with long hot summers and mild winters. The pleasant and settled weather means these rides can be enjoyed all year round. Spring is particularly beautiful when buds burst into life on the many orchards and fruit trees, with rich colours in autumn, beautiful ocean views and dynamic sunsets.
Getting there
Hawke's Bay Trails are unique to New Zealand providing semi-urban point-to-point and loop rides that cross over much of the two cities of Napier and Hastings. With multiple starting points, riders can create their own unique experiences. Hawke's Bay also has an extensive network of city cycle lanes making it easy to ride, navigate and experience the vibrant cafés and shopping.
Trail partners
Hawke's Bay Regional Council and The New Zealand Cycle Trail project, Hastings District Council, Napier City Council, Napier Rotary Pathway Trust and Hastings Rotary.
Click here for more information, photos and maps.