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Sydney is Australia's most famous city, with the majestic Sydney Opera House, the impressive steel arch of the Sydney Harbour Bridge, the sparkling waterways and the white sands of Bondi Beach. Beneath this glittering surface Sydney has many more enchanting layers to discover. This beautiful cosmopolitan city celebrates its cultural diversity and heritage, and passion for arts and sports. A temperate climate makes Sydney spectacular at any time of the year, and the city's friendly, casual attitude keeps visitors coming back Down Under for more!
Australian Dollar (AUD)
Emergency situations, police, ambulance, fire brigade: 000
Sydney Morning Herald
The Australian
Daily Telegraph
Sunday Telegraph
The Australian Financial Review
Most shops are open 9am to 5pm daily, with late night trading on Thursday to 9pm.
Over 4.5 million
Corner of Argyle and Playfair Street, The Rocks
Tel: +61 2 8273 0000
Open daily, 9am-5.30pm
Sydney is Australia's largest city, home to beautiful beaches such as world-famous Bondi Beach, iconic buildings, historic landmarks, acclaimed restaurants, and a vibrant culture. From the breathtaking views of Sydney Harbour to the tranquillity of the Royal Botanic Garden, the city is a delight for everyone. If you're looking for a holiday adventure, planning a honeymoon, or searching for a fun-filled getaway, Sydney is a great destination.
Sydney Harbour
Sydney is home to Australia's most iconic attractions, and incredible, unique experiences. Whether you wish to cruise in style on the blue waters of the harbour, scale the Sydney Harbour Bridge, relax on Bondi Beach, see a world-class performance in the World Heritage-listed Sydney Opera House, go whale watching or visit with koalas, it's all yours to enjoy in this splendid city.
SEA LIFE Sydney Aquarium
Taronga Zoo
WILD LIFE Sydney Zoo
Sydney Harbour Tall Ships
Luna Park
Sydney Fish Market
Madame Tussauds Sydney
From enchanting national parks and tranquil gardens to fascinating museums and beautiful beaches, there's always something to explore and see in Sydney. You'll discover world-class attractions and delight in a ferry ride on Sydney Harbour. And many of the best sightseeing activities are free - all you need is a map, comfortable shoes, and your bus, train or ferry fare (you can get an Opal smartcard ticket to cover all three). Enjoy some of the Sydney locals' favourite places to go.
Explore The Rocks
Sydney Harbour Bridge
Manly Ferry
Bondi to Coogee Coastal Walk
Darling Harbour
Chinese Garden of Friendship
Kings Cross
Hyde Park
Australian Museum
Centennial Parklands
Cockatoo Island
Sydney's beaches are world famous, and thanks to the mild climate, you can enjoy them year-round. Whether you want to ride waves on a surfboard or bodysurf at Bondi Beach, enjoy quiet time on a secluded stretch of sand, swim in a tranquil ocean pool or harbour cove, or dine overlooking the vast Pacific Ocean, Sydney's picturesque harbour and gorgeous coastal beaches have it all.
Surf beaches
Surf schools
Bondi Beach
Manly Beach
Coogee Beach
Ocean and Harbour Pools
Palm Beach
Manly Scenic Walkway
Secret Spots
Watsons Bay
Snorkelling in Sydney
Sydney's enviable reputation as a world-class dining destination is built on talented chefs using the freshest local produce and seafood caught daily in the Pacific Ocean. You might hear the term Mod Oz, which is short for Modern Australia - a fresh fusion of Asian and European culinary styles adored by locals and visitors alike. Welcome to foodie heaven! Each year The Sydney Morning Herald Good Food Guide reviews restaurants and awards one, two or three chef's hats to the best - it's similar to Michelin stars. Three hats is the top award.
360 Bar and Dining
ARIA Sydney
Café Sydney
CHISWICK Restaurant
Golden Century Seafood Restaurant
Pilu at Freshwater
Momofuku Seiobo
Monopole Restaurant and Bar
Bennelong at the Opera House
Mr Wong
Rockpool Bar & Grill
Spice Temple
You'll discover plenty of stylish bars, hip venues and cool clubs in Sydney. Near the sparkling waters of Sydney Harbour are bars and pubs with spectacular views of the city's iconic attractions. Enjoy beachside bars with outdoor seating. After sightseeing, you'll appreciate the relaxed, friendly atmosphere of Sydney's eclectic bars and pubs.
Baxter Inn
The Pumphouse Sydney
Marble Bar
O Bar and Dining
Opera Bar
The Glenmore Hotel
The Lord Nelson
The Wine Library
Sydney is a shopper's paradise, with all your favourite international brands and labels plus trendy boutiques and buzzy weekend markets. And Sydney designers wow the fashion world with their creations; browse in boutiques and markets for innovative local designs. Stock up on boots, party frocks or unique pieces of jewellery including opals, natural pearls and pink diamonds in stylish shopping malls and boutiques.
Queen Victoria Building
Strand Arcade
Westfield Sydney
Westfield Bondi Junction
MidCity Centre
The Galeries Victoria
World Square
The Rocks Markets
Glebe Markets
Bondi Markets
Paddington Markets
Paddy's Markets
Carriageworks Farmers Market
Oxford Street
The Intersection Paddington
You'll find plenty of accommodation options in Sydney to suit your budget, from hotels with Sydney Harbour views to boutique hotels, B&Bs, and inexpensive youth and backpacker hostels. You can even camp on an island in beautiful harbour.
Hilton Sydney
Ovolo 1888 Darling Harbour
Adge Boutique Apartment Hotel
Ovolo Woolloomooloo
Larmont Sydney by Lancemore
Four Seasons
Kirketon Hotel
Metro Hotel Marlow Sydney
Park Hyatt Sydney
QT Sydney
Shangri-La Hotel
The Darling
The Grace
The Westin
Vibe Rushcutters Bay
Sydney stages spectacular events year-round. With fireworks and arts festivals, musicals and outdoor concerts, the city enchants visitors. Start your year with the dazzling New Year's Eve fireworks on Sydney Harbour. The Sydney Festival is in January. At any time of the year, see a show at the Sydney Opera House or a blockbuster musical at a charming theatre. Don't miss Australia Day on January 26, and sports fans have plenty of choices. The Sydney Gay and Lesbian Mardi Gras culminates with a glittering parade in March. In winter, Vivid Sydney lights up the city.
Sydney New Year's Eve
Badu Gili
Vivid Sydney
Australia Day
Chinese New Year Festival
Good Food Month
Sydney Gay and Lesbian Mardi Gras
HANDA Opera on Sydney Harbour
Sculpture By The Sea
Sydney Festival
Sydney Film Festival
Sydney Royal Easter Show
Sydney Writers' Festival
Sydney is a clean, safe modern city with a sophisticated infrastructure to service your needs.
Sydney Kingsford Smith International Airport is the oldest continually operated commercial airport anywhere in the world. It's located on northern shores of Botany Bay.
• Suburban trains operated by Sydney Trains (www.sydneytrains.info) depart frequently from Domestic and International terminal train stations.
• Local buses - the 400 bus to Bondi Junction leaves from outside the international terminal (T1) and domestic terminal (T3).
• Shuttle Buses to the city can be booked inside the terminals.
• Taxis are available outside all terminals.
• Rental Cars are available at all terminals.
• The car park is free if exiting before 15 minutes.
Address: Airport Drive, Mascot, Sydney NSW 2020
Phone: +61 2 9667 9111
More Information:
Public Transport
The Sydney public transport system consists of commuter rail, bus, ferry and light rail. Combined, they can get you virtually anywhere in the metropolitan area.
Phone: +61 13 15 00
Website: www.transportnsw.info
More Information:
Taxis are a convenient way to get around Sydney. They can be flagged down, found at a taxi rank, or booked on the phone or online.
Taxis Combined Services
• Phone: +61 13 33 00
• www.taxiscombined.com.au
Silver Service Fleet
• Phone: +61 133 100
• www.silverservice.com.au
Legion Cabs
• Phone: +61 131 451
• www.legioncabs.com.au
Premier Cabs
• Phone:+61 131 017
• www.premiercabs.com.au
St George Cabs
• Phone: +61 132 166
• www.stgeorgecabs.com.au
More Information:
Post Office
The main post office in Sydney's city centre is at 1 Martin Place and is open Mondays to Fridays from 8.15am to 5.30pm, and on Saturdays from 10am to 2pm.
Address: 1 Martin Place, Sydney, NSW 2000
Website: www.auspost.com.au
More Information:
Kings Cross Travellers Clinic
• 13 Springfield Ave, Potts Point, NSW 2011
• Phone: +61 2 9358 3066
• Hours: Monday-Friday 9am-1pm & 2-6pm, Saturday 10am-noon
• www.kingscrossclinic.com.au
St Vincent's Hospital (24hr emergency)
• Cnr. Victoria & Burton Streets, Darlinghurst, NSW 2011
• Phone: +61 2 8382 7111
• www.svphs.org.au
Sydney Hospital & Sydney Eye Hospital (24hr emergency)
• 8 Macquarie Street, Sydney, NSW 2000
• Phone: +61 2 9382 7111
• www.seslhd.health.nsw.gov.au/SHSEH/
Travel Doctor
• Level 7, 428 George Street, Sydney, NSW 2000
• Phone: +61 2 9221 7133;
• Hours: Monday – Wednesday and Friday 9am-5pm, Thursday 9am - 8pm, Saturday 9am-12.30pm
• www.traveldoctor.com.au
Phone: Pharmacy Guild of Australia +61 2 9467 7100
Website: www.afterhoursinfo.com/sydney/latenightchemists
More Information:
Australian Country Code: +61
Sydney City Area Code: 02
Calling Sydney landlines from overseas: +612
Calling Australian mobiles from overseas: +614
Calling overseas from within Australia: 0011
More Information:
220-240 volts AC
More Information:


text:
National Health Information Center
Attention health professionals, teachers, and community groups!
By supporting National Health Observances, you can:
Contact the sponsoring organization to request outreach materials and information.
Members of the media and press may forward inquiries to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Public Affairs Contacts.
Information appearing in this document does not represent endorsement by the Office of Disease Prevention and Health Promotion (ODPHP) or the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS), which are not responsible for naming or approving national health observances. For more information about an observance, please contact the sponsoring organization directly.
You are free to reproduce or copy this publication. Please include the following credit line:
"Source: 2013 National Health Observances, National Health Information Center, Office of Disease Prevention and Health Promotion, U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Washington, DC."

subset: commoncrawl


text:
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The Joy of Tech is a comic about technology and pop culture, created by Nitrozac and Snaggy, and updated three times a week. We like to feature the people and events that are making today's tech news.
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text:
Goodbyes are never easy, and this week at the Museum of Inuit Art (MIA) is no exception. The time has come for me to finish another summer of work here at the Museum of Inuit Art, and I must say, it's just as difficult the second time.
As you can imagine, I've grown quite attached to the MIA. I never expected that I would get the chance to work here for two summers in a row, but I'm so grateful I did! Back in May 2014 when I started my first Young Canada Works position as Visitor Services Officer, I had a lot to learn about museum work. My knowledge has drastically increased since then, as I've had the opportunity to fill various roles during my time here, such as conducting a visitor evaluation, processing admissions at the front desk, giving tours and promoting MIA at local arts and culture festivals.
I would like to thank all the volunteers who helped out with all the out reach sessions we attended. It was so great to meet people who were interested in learning and sharing knowledge about art and history. It's so inspiring to see community members giving back by lending their time and experience.
I would also like to thank all the visitors that came out to the programming – both on and offsite of the museum. It was great to put into practice what I had been developing behind the scenes. Through interactions and testing I was able to adapt some new activities and make them even better for the next group of curious museum seekers.
And last but not least I would like to thank MIA staff for welcoming me back, and for making this summer such a wonderful experience. I've learned even more about museum work and programming, and after venturing all over Toronto with our outreach team and special events volunteers, I've been able to see the museum from a different perspective. Bringing objects from MIA's Educational Collection to Toronto Public Library branches and local events opened my eyes to the many outreach possibilities in the city, and I'm grateful to have been a part of that.
Even though I'm leaving at the end of another rewarding summer, I look forward to visiting the museum again soon – I'm especially excited for the Abraham Anghik Ruben exhibition this fall! I am so fortunate that I've been able to gain experience in my chosen field, and I couldn't have asked for a better place to work. Thanks again, MIA!
– Posted by Serena Y., MIA's Community Engagement Officer


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Download link (right click and 'save-as') for playing in VLC or other compatible player.
Thermodynamics places surprisingly few fundamental constraints on
information processing. In fact, most people would argue that it imposes
only one, known as Landauer's Principle: a process erasing one bit of
information must release an amount kT ln 2 of heat. It is this simple
observation that finally led to the exorcism of Maxwell's Demon from
statistical mechanics, more than a century after he first appeared.
Ignoring the lesson implicit in this early advance, however, quantum
information theorists have been surprisingly slow to embrace erasure as a
fundamental primitive. Over the past couple of years, however, it has
become clear that a detailed understanding of how difficult it is to erase
correlations leads to a nearly complete synthesis and simplification of
the known results of asymptotic quantum information theory. As it turns
out, surprisingly many of the tasks of interest, from distilling
high-quality entanglement to sending quantum data through a noisy medium
to many receivers, can be understood as variants of erasure. I'll sketch
the main ideas behind these discoveries and end with some speculations on
what lessons the new picture might have for understanding information loss in real physical systems.


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Twin B seems to be like Mark, as in I Go With The Flow, Word To Your Mother But Only If You Feel Like It, Also More Candy Plz, Etc.
Twin A seems to be like Jennepper: Look at me! Look at me! Look at meeeeeee! I'm sure that she will start a blog immediately at birth that will be all, "there's a nurse here in Ed Hardy Sweatpants, WTF Y'all?" and then people will be like, "Ur Stoopid" and she will be like, "Ur Stoopider" and then she will require many, many carbs.
We went to Ohio State Medical Center to see Dr. O'Shaughnessy, because we needed to decide if we had Twin to Twin Transfusion. We do not. So that was good news. I will say that I wasn't overly impressed with the doctor - he seemed very competent, but barely spoke to us directly and gave us nearly zero information during our scan or afterward, really. Aside from, "you do not have TTTS, but I want one of my heart guys to meet with you" he didn't really say anything to us at all.
I don't post that to be bitchy, I just post it because that's how it was. At the same time, he brought in a cake for a patient who went past her Worry Date in her pregnancy and they were celebrating. I think that sounds awesome and makes him sound like an amazing doctor - which I'm sure he really is - but for us? Meh. Everyone else there was very friendly, and Sally did our ultrasound and was SO NICE OH MAH GAH. So if you've found me in a mad google search, that's my review.
Anyway, Little Miss Drama Twin A is definitely smaller and something about the blood flow in her heart looked a bit limited. We tried to get a same-day appointment with a cardiologist at Nationwide Children's in Columbus, but they could only squeeze us in on Tuesday morning. So we stayed a second night in Columbus and enjoyed a date night.
(We saw The Town - it was good. I ate a bag of Reeses Pieces. The end.)
So, for the fourth time this month, we had a 1.5 hour ultrasound - this time, a fetal echo - and both babies were crazy little movers. I should have been thinking of really grown up responsible questions to ask but all I could really think of is how close-up of the heart looked like the Scream Mask to me, which Boo Hoo Courteney Cox and David Arquette Break Up Woe.
The ultrasound lady was also very nice here, and the cardiologist was seriously one of the nicest people I've ever met. We really liked him and if we lived closer we'd see him again. His name was Dr. Kovalchin, in case you're looking for a pediatric cardiologist in Columbus. I sat there like an exhausted moron zombie, but Mark asked some questions and the doctor was very friendly and explained things to us in a way that was easy to understand.
The general consensus is that the opening of her aortic artery is on the narrow side. Watch and see, but it is entirely possible that it's all going to be fiiiiiiine.
That's it: overall good news! We have to follow up with a pediatric cardiologist in Akron next month, but it's business as usual around here.
Sorry for the lack of updates, but as per usual, I haven't really felt like blogging because this shit? Is exhausting. Among other exhausting things happening, like home improvements, new position at work, and trying to begin preparations for these two trouble makers in my uterus of doom. Am tired, boo hoo hoo.
One Year Ago: So, How 'bout That Swine Flu
Two Years Ago: 21 Weeks: My Life As A Simpsons Character
Three Years Ago: Since You Asked...


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East Coast Benefit Plans
East Coast Benefit Plans (ECBP) is one of the preeminent benefit partners in the Atlantic seaboard region. Our strong growth and solid footing has come from paying meticulous attention to our clients' needs. We apply our years of industry experience, knowledge and skill to designing and executing flexible, tailored benefit plans for a broad cross-section of client companies.
The excellence of our benefit plans – how well they meet the needs and budgets of the companies we serve – is manifested by the satisfaction of our clients: more than 100 corporations, representing industries such as healthcare, manufacturing, technology, advertising, education and many others. Whether your organization has thousands of employees or less than 100, ECBP's understanding and expertise will successfully carry your group benefits program through the challenging course of benefit design and administration.
The ECBP Difference
ECBP is setting the course for excellence in employee benefit plans through careful, incisive plan evaluation. We focus on specific ways we can improve your company's overall program while controlling the annual cost. We identify opportunities to enrich benefit provisions with savings gleaned from our successful marketing and underwriting efforts. And by comparing the benefit provisions of your current plan with those offered by other companies (in both your local area and within your industry) you'll see how your company's plan measures up in the eyes of your employees and their families.
Above all, we'll listen carefully to your particular concerns and encourage your ideas and input. Then, in keeping with your priorities, ECBP Specialists artfully and analytically create the optimal plan for your company.
- Managed care medical and dental in dynamic plan design, with flexible provider access
- Benefit plan redesign and reengineering
- Tailored life and chronic illness benefits
- Benefit design for managing acute and chronic disabilities
- Cafeteria plan design, health reimbursement accounts, medical savings accounts, and risk reassignment plans
- Compliance
- HR Support
- Communications
- Benefit Technology Systems


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Police Officer Position Description
Primary Responsibilities
Under general supervision, the primary responsibilities of a Police Officer are to:
- Protect students, faculty, staff, campus visitors, property and facilities from accidents, bodily harm, fire, theft, vandalism and illegal entry.
- Enforce laws and traffic regulations.
- Apprehend violators.
- Provide general information and assistance to the public.
- Assist in investigations.
Primary Work Assignments
Police Officers also may be assigned primary work assignments that include:
- Patrol campus buildings and grounds by foot or by vehicle.
- Control crowds during assemblies or disturbances.
- Guard property.
- Investigate and prepare reports on accidents, property damage, fires, law violations, thefts and disturbances of the peace.
- Gather evidence.
- Make arrests and appear in court, as required.
- Enforcing parking regulations and issuing traffic citations.
- Administering first aid to injured persons.
- Guarding or transporting cash funds.
Additional Work Assignments
Police Officers may also receive training and/or be delegated responsibility for additional work assignments that include:
- Range master
- Field training
- Defensive tactics instruction
- Bicycle patrol
- Special evidence technician
- Crime prevention specialist
- Community relations programs
- Member of a critical response unit.


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SSP-G Clutch Springs 2000 RPM Red (DIO, GET, QMB)
Description: Clutch springs do a couple of things. First, they supply the pressure to engage the clutch. They also determine the rate at which the CVT transmission changes from low to high gear along assisting the compression spring. A 1000rpm clutch spring will go into a higher gear than a 2000rpm clutch spring. Color coated identify the strength of the clutch spring, for example, a clutch spring color coated red is identified as 2000 RPM which will delay the clutch reaction by 2000 RPM. The greater RPM spring will provide you with the greater power. SSP-G counter pressure spring 2000 RPM uses a modified alloy spring providing better resilience and above average strength for 139QMB, Buddy50, RoughHouse, and many another GY6 50cc base engine.
Compatible with sport clutches on the market works on Yamaha JOG Minarelli engines, Chinese Yamaha Clones such as the 1PE40QMB 1E40QMB engines, Honda Ruckus, 139QMB 50cc 4 stroke engines, Vertical Honda DIO style 2 stroke engines found in SYM and Kymco Scooters, as well as Aprilia Scooters with Piaggio engines, and Franco-Morini 50cc engines found in the 1E41QMB Suzuki AD50 AG50, TGB R50X, TGB 101, TGB 303 and Peirspeed Scooters.
• 3x 2000 RPM SSP-G Clutch Springs (red)
• Spring Length: 31.6mm / I.D: 4.5mm / O.D: 8.3mm
• Wire Diameter: 1.8mm
• Made in Taiwan
• Fit Belt Size: 654 (Fit DIO ONLY)
• Fit Belt Size: 660, 785 (Fit GET ONLY)
• Fit Belt Size: 669, 729, 788 (Fit QMB ONLY)
• Fit DIO 49/90cc+
• Fit GET 49/50cc
• Fit QMB 49/50cc+
Supported Models: NCY CVT KIT (Part# 1200-1171); Honda Dio AF16 AF18E 50; Elite S/SE/SR 1994-2001, Daelim Cordi 50, Kymco Fever/ZX50, SYM DD50, GY6 40QMB 50cc 2-stroke, 139QMB 49cc-50cc 4-stroke, 50QMF 90cc-100cc, GY6 139QMB 49cc-50cc engines, Buddy50, Filly 50, Kymco, QLink, Peugeot, Piaggio, RoughHouse, SYM, TaoTao, and virtually any scooter engine with these measurements.
Item Weight & Product Dimensions:
• 0.025 Pounds | 5.4" (L) x 3" (W) x 1" (H)
- Stock: 17
- Brand: SSP-G
- Part #: 169-316-2K


text:
A family is angered that no charges will be laid against a contractor for the RCMP who left the scene after killing Andrew Leduc last year.
A civilian consultant working with Mounties on a traffic accident investigation was involved in a fatal hit-and-run accident on Aug. 7, 2013 in the 19500-block of Langley Bypass.
The driver of the semi-bobtail was traveling eastbound in the curb lane at 3 a.m. when he struck and killed Leduc, 37, of Langley.
The driver did not stop to render assistance, but kept driving.
Leduc died at the scene.
The consultant driving the semi-truck involved in the fatal hit-and-run had been working that day on a re-creation of an accident involving a semi-truck that killed Surrey RCMP Const. Adrian Oliver in November 2012 at the intersection of 64 Avenue and 148 Street.
On Thursday, RCMP said there will be no criminal charges against the driver.
Leduc's brother Adam told CBC News he was extremely upset to hear the news.
"I was pretty shocked; I was pretty angry," he told CBC. "I can't see how you can hit a guy like that, leave him lying in the street to die and continue on and no charges whatsoever, not even a traffic ticket."
Surrey RCMP Major Crimes Section concluded its investigation after eight months, but Mounties called in the Office of the Police Complaints Commissioner (OPCC) to ensure the integrity of the investigation.
This month, the OPCC ruled the RCMP finding was correct – that there was no criminality to the incident.
At the time of the accident, the RCMP called the Independent Investigations Office (IIO), but as the driver was not a police officer, the incident did not fall under the purview of the independent investigators.
A final report from the OPCC is expected in the coming weeks.
In the meantime, Surrey RCMP will be meeting with the victim's family in Penticton to discuss the reasons for the findings.
~with files from CBC News


text:
When photographer Gesche Würfel was hunting for apartments in New York, she focused on the usual stuff — did it have a view, were the floors in good shape, did the shower have good pressure. Her husband, a native of the Big Apple, however, had something entirely different in mind.
"He insisted on seeing the basements," says Würfel, a native of Germany. "One can judge the quality of the building from its basement."
There's a reason for this. In the large apartment buildings of Manhattan's upper east and upper west sides, the basement is where the building superintendent — or super, in the local vernacular — works and, in many cases, lives. The cleaner and tidier the basement, the reasoning goes, the more thorough and efficient the management of the building.
Würfel found herself suddenly fascinated by the make-it-work functionality of these unusual live-work spaces. Her explorations of Manhattan's building basements revealed garden furniture, kitsch art, painted mirrors, mini-arboreta, poster art, cockatiels, and religious icons. It was so rich a visual goldmine that Würfel started documenting these subterranean spaces two years ago for her project Basement Sanctuaries.
"It's an intimate perspective," she says. "The decorations and furniture are partially the supers' and partially found. Many tenants discard objects when they move out; the supers often use them to curate their spaces and give new life to the objects and a personal touch to the basements."
And who is the typical super? With nearly 3,000 superintendents across the five boroughs, they are as diverse as the city. Most are men. Most carry out routine maintenance and accept packages the way it's always been done, though there is a growing number of engineering grads who wear suits and use the latest technology and equipment to run their buildings.
In the Inwood and Washington Heights neighborhoods, where Würfel shot Basement Sanctuaries, most of the supers she met are Dominican or Puerto Rican, and they wear coveralls while tending to repairs and the daily needs of tenants. Supers throughout the city also commonly come from Guatemala, Mexico, Panama or Eastern Europe. Wherever they come from, they often have deep ties to their tenants.
"If the super stays in the building for many years, friendships with the tenants evolve," explains Würfel. "In the case of one super that I photographed, the tenants have made and given him artwork that the he then put up in the basement."
Without exception, supers and tenants thought highly of Würfel's project and freely shared stories both inspiring and harrowing. One super said he fled Mexico in 1968 when his friends were killed in a massacre during a student protest. He planned to return eventually, but ended up staying after getting married and starting a family. Another super left Guatemala when he was 13, hoping for a better life. After three years in Mexico he paid a coyote $200 to bring him to the United States.
"During this passage he saw the coyotes rape the wife of one of the migrants in front of the whole group. They couldn't help her as the coyotes were pointing guns at them," Würfel says, retelling the story. "He made his way through the desert and stayed in California for six months to earn money for his plane ticket to New York, where he still lives and works."
Würfel, who matter-of-factly describes herself "a white European middle-class woman who takes photos of the basements and the superintendents" has a background in urban planning and sociology and wants to spark a discussion about class, labor laws and immigrants' experiences. Building superintendents typically are financially and spatially toward the bottom of the heap. Würfel sympathetic approach makes Basement Sanctuaries not only a visual treat but a vital record full of compelling stories.
"Every super had an interesting story to tell," says Würfel.
Würfel is currently raising funds to produce the Basement Sanctuaries photobook*, to be published by Schilt Publishing in Spring 2014.*


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Refine your search
Theresa Swift
Church Road,
1 Church Road,
"Participating in Eat well to help out - •to get 50% off your food and non-alcoholic drinks up to a total value of £10 per person if you eat or drink in
•every Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday between 3 August and 31 August
•as many times as you like"
Stunning 137 bedroom seafront hotel overlooking the Thames Estuary and the world's longest pleasure pier.
Situated in the town centre and a short walk to all of Southend's attractions, the fully air-conditioned hotel boasts a large bar and restaurant (also open to the public), private dining facilities, spectacular ballroom and onsite gym. Many of the stylish 137 bedrooms offer breathtaking views across the estuary and a number of rooms have interlink facilities for family guests.
Children welcome from any age.
Children welcome from any age.
Self-Assessed Accessibility Details
- Designated parking for guests with disabilities
- Within 50 metres approx. of entrance
- Surface of the car park and pathway leading to entrance is
- Solid ie tarmac / concrete etc
- Drop-off point for guests outside entrance
- Route from the parking area to the entrance:
- Is flat (i.e. without steps)
Public Areas
- Level access (no steps/thresholds) or access by ramp or lift to:
- Entrance to reception
- Public toilet
- One or more bedrooms
- Lounge
- Bar
- Gym/leisure centre
- Good contrast between the floor and wall
- Lift equipped with verbal floor announcements
- Lift equipped with raised floor numbers or braille numbers or letters
- Clear surfaces such as glass doors have contrast markings
- Baby changing facilities
- Guest information available in large print (14pt and over)
- Bedroom furniture can be re-arranged if requested by guest
- Bedroom with non-allergenic bedding available
- Bathrooms available with:
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- Proprietors/staff available 24-hours
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- Staff have had disability awareness training


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Politics and Culture on Facebook in the 2014 Midterm Elections
With the 2014 midterm elections approaching, we decided to take a look at the cultural similarities and differences between people who support Democrats and people who support Republicans. To do this, we looked at everyone who liked the campaign page of any Democrat or Republican running for governor, U.S. Senate or U.S. House of Representatives. We then looked at what other pages those people liked on Facebook and identified the pages that were most differentiating—that is, the pages which were disproportionately liked by the supporters of one party versus the other—and those that were most balanced.
Note: in all of the figures below, the more a page is disproportionately liked by fans of Republican candidates, the farther right the page name appears (precisely indicated by the darker line in the middle). Conversely, the more a page is disproportionately liked by fans of Democratic candidates, the farther left the page name appears. The font size of the name is proportional to the total number of people from the US who liked that page.
Musicians / Bands
Let's start by looking at the musicians and bands liked by Democratic and Republican supporters.
This figure shows the top 20 bands disproportionately liked by Democrats and Republicans and the top 20 bands that bridge the divide.
Landmarks / Destinations
This figure demonstrates that the most balanced landmark page nationwide is the Jersey Shore.
The author most disproportionately liked by Democrats is poet Maya Angelou, while Republicans disproportionately like Dr. Ben Carson. But it seems everyone can agree on James Patterson.
Here we see "Atlas Shrugged" lean right and "The Great Gatsby" lean left, while the Farmer's Almanac's down home wisdom receives a balanced number of likes from the left and the right.
TV shows
The most balanced shows are the ones that fill TV networks' prime-time lineups while news commentary shows have more partisan popularity.


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Stepping Up to Stop Bullying
One caring adult can make a difference in the life of a bullied child.
By Cindy Long
In this article
Dave Seaburg, a fourth-grade teacher in Forest Lake, Minnesota, remembers all too well what it was like to be bullied. As a child, he was small for his age, and much more interested in the arts than athletics. He was constantly taunted and called names just because he didn't fit into the school's norm.
"It still haunts me today," Seaburg says of the wounds inflicted upon him more than 30 years ago.
Back in those days, bullying was considered an unfortunate rite of passage. Instead of being confronted head on, instances of bullying—no matter how cruel—were all too often shrugged off with a simple "kids will be kids." Fights were broken up, students were separated, and everyone was expected to move on.
Dave Seaburg talks to his students about
name calling.
Photo courtesy of Forest Area Schools
Problem is, everyone doesn't move on. We now know that for most victims of bullying, the scars will last a lifetime. For others, a lifetime is cut tragically short—a staggering number of children have committed suicide after enduring relentless harassment from their peers.
But research shows that one caring adult can make all the difference in a bullied student's life. To put an end to "bullycide," it's crucial that students know which adults in their school or the community they can go to in times of distress, adults who will really listen to them and then act on their behalf.
"It may seem like no big deal, but the most resilient kids who experienced bullying have said that the one thing that helped them was an adult who cared for them even though they didn't have to," says Stephen T. Russell, Ph.D., a professor of Family and Consumer Sciences at the University of Arizona and the president of the Society for Research on Adolescence.
That's why the National Education Association launched "NEA's Bully Free: It Starts With Me" campaign, which encourages caring adults to take the pledge that lets young people know they are willing to step in and stop bullying.
Dave Seaburg is one of those adults.
"Students know I will listen to them, accept what they have to say, and try to help them when they are in need," he says. "Everyone deserves to feel safe at school, and when kids feel safe and know they are accepted for who they are, they will thrive academically and socially."
Seaburg starts each school day with a half-hour morning meeting, where he and his students check in with each other, share what's going on, and participate in activities. The meetings regularly address bullying, and one activity asked students to share how they feel when they're called names or put down.
"I feel like a nobody," said Nicole.
"I feel like I don't exist, or want to exist," said Kelly.
"I feel like I don't mean anything to anyone," said Parker.
The students are reminded how wounding their words can be, and Seaburg sees how important it is to constantly reinforce respectful behavior.
"I can spend a lot of hours building my students up," Seaburg says, "but it only takes a few seconds to tear a person down with hurtful comments or painful actions."
Targeting Differences
Usually, the students targeted by hurtful comments or actions are different from their peers in some way. According to a 2010 NEA survey of more than 5,000 teachers and education support professionals (ESPs), staff reported that bullying based on a student's weight (23%), gender (20%), perceived sexual orientation (18%), and disability (12%) were of concern in their school.
Sandy Neeson, a licensed school counselor at McLean Middle School in Fort Worth, Texas, wishes she could figure out how to stop students from cruelly zeroing in on other students who are different."If I knew how to do that, I would have written a book and been on Oprah a long time ago," she says.
Instead, she tries to develop students' empathy. When she hears older students picking on a younger student, she pulls the bullies aside and asks them, "Do you have a little sister or brother? How would you feel if other kids talked to your family that way?"
Neeson says her job is to change behavior, not mete out punishments. To successfully change bullying behavior, she says you must involve the whole school, from teachers and custodians to cafeteria workers and bus drivers.
According to NEA's research study, nearly 98 percent of teachers and support professionals – across all school levels and communities – agreed it was "their job" to intervene when they witnessed bullying incidents, and that educators are more likely to intervene if they feel they have the support of the school and their colleagues.
But the research also reveals barriers to their ability to do so. For example, educators surveyed reported that just half of their school staff has received anti-bullying training, and staff in urban schools, where the rates of bullying were reportedly highest, are the least likely to have been trained.
NEA provides free bullying and sexual harassment prevention and intervention training for teachers and education support professionals, at the request of NEA local and state associations. The training, built on a research-based curriculum, raises awareness of sexual harassment, bullying, cyberbullying, and sexting behaviors, and spells out concrete steps educators can take to implement school-wide bullying prevention.
At her school in Fort Worth, Neeson helps educators intervene with a program called "Bully Busters." Each week during the fall and winter sessions, she and a teacher lead short, focused discussions with the seventh and eighth graders during their science or social studies classes (classes all students are required to take.) Posters displaying each week's topic hang in the hallways and classrooms to foster the discussions; some deal with racial or GLBT bullying, others focus on gossip and exclusion.
You Are Not a Snitch!
One of Neeson's poster says "You Are Not a Snitch," addressing the problem of the bystander who doesn't participate in bullying, but doesn't try to stop it either. Most students are afraid of getting the bully in trouble, and don't want their friends to think they're snitching, Neeson says.
She gets students to talk about it by simply asking questions, like, "Why is it not okay to do nothing when you see someone being bullied?" She also reminds teachers and students that she is a resource for them in any bullying situation; she has an open door policy, gives students her personal email address, and maintains everyone's confidentiality.
That's how she was able to stop a locker room bully who'd been stealing one boy's lunch, and then making a big display of eating it in front of him. A few boys told Neeson, and she called the bully into her office. She never revealed how she found out what he was doing, but she told him it had to stop. The next day, the bullied boy was able to eat his own lunch for the first time in weeks.
Other cases aren't as easy to resolve. Neeson recalls one boy who was bullied from the first day he walked through the school doors. He lived in an orphanage where his mother left him when he was a toddler. He had a severe overbite, and thick, Coke bottle glasses. His clothes were sometimes wrinkled and dirty, and he was profoundly shy. For all of these things, he was bullied.
When he was bullied about wearing glasses, he broke them, and sat in class squinting at the board. He was teased about his overbite, but later was bullied about wearing braces to the point that he actually tried to rip them out of his mouth. He got into fights regularly and had no idea how to cope with the constant tormenting.
When bullying becomes this severe, Neeson takes it to the next level, contacting the administration as well as the parents of the bullies if they won't willingly put an end to their behavior.
"It takes a lot of work," she says.
First, she identifies the leaders of the bullying pack, and speaks to them one–on-one. She then appeals to their conscience and helps them see how hurtful their comments are. As soon as she recognizes regret in the students' faces, she appeals to them for help, asking them to become ambassadors of goodwill and watchdogs on remaining bullies.
"I always ask the bullies if anyone is bothering them because I won't tolerate them getting picked on either," she says. "This seems to really make a difference because I am showing them that I care about their feelings as well."
By working with the bullies one-on-one, Neeson is able to see a major change in behavior. "This is my goal," she says. "To help students be empathetic, show kindness, and just be nice!"
Being There for the Bully Victim
Of course, ongoing counseling to bolster the bullied child is just as important. While Neeson made every effort to stop the bullying, she also helped the boy from the orphanage develop coping skills. She told him sometimes the best reaction is no reaction; no matter how angry or hurt he was, a shrug would tell the bullies they weren't getting to him.
She met with the boy regularly. Her office was a safe place where he could cry while she reminded him things wouldn't be this way forever. They began to role-play bullying scenarios to build his confidence. By the end of the year, most of the bullying had stopped and he was able to walk past random taunts unfazed.
He's in high school now, still in glasses and braces, but he walks with his shoulders back rather than hunched in fear.
"He made it because he knew I was in his corner no matter what," Neeson says. "If children know they have an adult that cares about them, they can make it."
Bully Prevention Starts with Us
No child should fear being harmed by a bully at school.
By Dave Arnold
Dave Arnold is a school custodian,
former Illinois Education
Association ESP of the Year,
and a published poet.
Photo credit: Andrea Kane
Most of you can remember a bully in your life. Maybe he was taller than you and had bigger muscles. Maybe she was more popular than you and was mouthy and rude. Whatever the case, you were the target of their abuse. And it hurt. The pain of being bullied never seems to go away, does it?
That's why it's the duty of every school employee to do their best to guarantee that our schools are bully-free. As teachers and education support professionals (ESPs), we must do our best to ensure that our students aren't scarred by bullying and other types of harassment, often based on race, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, or disability.
A Local Effort
I'm head custodian at Brownstown Elementary School in Brownstown, Illinois, where we've had great success with our own anti-bullying campaign. Our Title One reading teacher, Keri Buscher, introduced a program last year after attending a workshop on making schools bully-free. Each morning, when students line up to go to class, she discusses the negative effects of bullying.
Buscher also shows videos to students to define exactly what bullying is and what to do when a student encounters it. She gives quizzes and prizes to motivate student interest. The campaign inspired students to create "bully-free school" posters. One shows a picture of a bucking bull at a rodeo and reads, "Leave bullying to the bulls." Another displays a picture of a gentle cow feeding in a pasture and reads, "Bullies are Cowards." One student put it this way: "Bullying is lame, so don't play the game." Buscher has also created a "Bully Box," which students can use to anonymously report bullying.
ESPs on Point
When it comes to making a school bully-free, education support professionals are on the forefront of defense. Why? Students confide in us. Bus drivers are first and last to see students each day. Bus drivers know each student on their buses, and often can tell if they're having a bad day. At school, the secretary, custodian, security guard, paraeducator, or cook are often friends with students. It's not unusual for students to approach ESPs with peer problems rather than talking to a teacher or administrator.
Buscher says the best way to prevent bullying in school is for all employees to set a good example. Listening to students and addressing their concerns is also key . Many of us working at schools may not have had a bully-free school in our day, but working together, we can create one in our time for our students.
Straight From the Bullied's Mouth
By Shaun Johnson
Shaun Johnson is an assistant
professor of elementary education
at Towson University. He taught
fifth grade in Washington, DC
and Silver Spring, Maryland.
He is also a blogger on
The bullying that I experienced from the sixth grade until my sophomore year in high school started when I traded in my hockey boots for figure skates.
My family and I took skating very seriously. Over the 10 years I skated, they must have spent thousands of dollars on the sport, between traveling, lessons from skating and dance coaches, personal training, and boots, which were about a thousand bucks a pop and required long fitting sessions with a skate cobbler. I spent an entire summer training with an Olympic coach at a skating camp in Atlanta. When I returned home, expectations were high, but I just could not take the bullying on top of the pressure of the sport. First I took six months off, then I called it quits. My family was devastated.
Of my skating years, what I remember most were the eyes. For years I skated at the same rink in Western Pennsylvania, and our early evening freestyle sessions ended just before hockey practice. Impatient players came out of these narrow hallways from the locker rooms all suited up, and hung out against the boards. As the only boy on the ice, sometimes one of two, I remember the taunts directed at me through the boards. School was worse still. As soon as we hit sixth grade, I heard "faggot" on a daily basis. I grew up in an average suburb outside of Pittsburgh; even as late as the mid-1990s, cheerleaders and athletes ruled the school. Anything you did that was foreign, strange, and uncomfortable to them was grounds for relentless harassment.
Over the years, I tried everything to make the teasing stop. I wrote an article for the school paper in seventh grade about skating, thinking that information would help. Well, I happened to mention that skating might be harder than playing football or baseball, so I never heard the end of it. Never mind that I had already broken my arm and wrist, and would later skate on a broken tailbone.
One time I snapped. One of my regular harassers was following me down a hallway and stepping on the backs of my shoes. I remember to this day, right outside an art room, shouting, "Jesus Christ," and punching him in the mouth. Immediate in-school suspension.
Bullying sometimes initiates difficult conversations. We must acknowledge that sexism, classism, racism, homophobia, and bigotry of all kinds are the primary drivers. It's hard to admit the problems and begin those healing conversations because, especially in the case of sexual orientation, these are largely taboo topics in schools.
In my case, the harassment had a lot to do with homophobia in my community. I was participating in what was seen as a "gay" or effeminate sport, therefore, I was an object of derision. But as a white, heterosexual male, I do not think it needs to be all about sexual orientation. We can safely initiate conversations with a school or community's understanding of how they define gender and sexuality. Are we limited to two categories? Are boys and girls only permitted to engage in certain activities or sports? And if they do participate in something challenging prevailing norms, should they be subject to daily ridicule or violence? Maybe we should consider, as an effort complementary to anti-bullying measures, a pro-feminist and pluralistic appreciation of our inherent right to construct our social identities. This way, perhaps educators reluctant to discuss sexuality could at least begin the conversation with the unreasonable and unfounded expectations we have of the everyday roles of men, women, boys and girls.
This essay was first published on EdVoices: NEA's community of bloggers committed to improving America's public schools.
Go to www.edvoices.com/ to read posts and get in on the debate.
Marla Schreffler
I'm helping put an end to bullying at my school with the Peer Helping Network, a diverse group of kids who are committed to making their school a better, safer and more accepting place.
Shaun Johnson
I was bullied as a child for choosing figure skating over hockey, and today I realize that sometimes bullying prevention initiates difficult conversations.
Vincent Pompei
I was bullied badly when I was a student, starting all the way back in elementary school.
- Bullying: Does It Get Better?
It's time to reconsider the role educators can play in stopping bullies.
- Confronting the Bullies
Educators can be sued for money damages if they witness instances of bullying and harassment and fail to act.
- Too Young Dead
The fatal consequences of bullying gay youth and the legal fallout.


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The Arcade - Let's Eat
Posted by Chic Aeon in design, events, iheartslFeed on Saturday, May 31, 2014
Is it art? Well pretty close. I could easily hang this on my wall. And I just might!
From what I have seen it is going to be a fantastic time at The Arcade this round. So much goodness. NO trips to the coffee shop for many of you; gotta save those pennies and try your luck.
Out from {theosophy} , the Whoa Sweet Food Truck, Dude (yep, that is the official title). I definitely fell in love! I even made a new street for the little guy, right next to the 22769 beer garden and the gym. Well you know those folks get hungry working out and competition is a GOOD thing *wink*.
Now not everyone has a place for the truck (three colors to be had), but if you don't I am sure you can find someone to take it off your hands.
Tarts and waffles and fancy coffees (with bows no less) can be found at the I am guessing very popular gacha machine.
There are also some great restaurant supplies and I admit I took some over to the cafe to enhance the mood there. Find napkin dispensers, syrup jugs and my favorite, a fork caddy.
Also in the fun food category we have breakfasts from around the world from Sway's. All look scrumptious and remember -- NO calories! Each comes on a tray and reflects the style and palate favorites of the country it portrays. This is the one for the good old USA, blueberry pancakes and whipped cream with orange juice and coffee. Works for me.
One of the most fun trays in my mind is this coffee and cigarette duo which is themed as "somewhere". I have never smoked but I have had a few mornings in this theme :D. Fun.
Go forth. Enjoy!
Posted by Chic Aeon in design, events, iheartslFeed on Friday, May 30, 2014
It's Fifty Linden Friday and who knows what great items are waiting for us?
Well I know one -- or perhaps a collection would be more correct.
Party lanterns both on a string or on poles with a variety of colors (natural is shown here) can be yours on our happiest day of the week -- for many reasons. Lights are always on. You can change the size and light intensity in the build menu.
The place? {what next}
Go forth and party!
Movin' Movin' Movin
Posted by Chic Aeon in design, events, iheartslFeed, sneak peak on Thursday, May 29, 2014
As you might guess, this was definitely a fun post to shoot.
Another great Arcade set -- this time from {what next}. It's all about movement enhancements *wink*.
My favorite is this unicycle with color change umbrella. Now the umbrella CAN be rainbow which would have been fun, but really how much color do we need in one post? The duo set is one of the rares but you can win JUST the unicycle more easily.
These are wearable "vehicles" with great animations -- both moving and at rest.
I did a lot of riding around the different areas of MOSP this afternoon and it was much fun. There is also a kick scooter to be had.
Pick your favorite; close your eyes, make a wish and PULL!
My romper is a new release from Ducknipple. More on that in an upcoming post!
Hair Nikky by MINA.
Posted by Chic Aeon in events, hair, iheartslFeed, new releases on Wednesday, May 28, 2014
The Arcade opens soon; a time when many of you will be hitting that teleport button over and over until you get into the deep shade of gray with all the goodies to be had.
This month from BAIASTICE there are emoticons. Twenty-one in all with three rares, they can be heads or photo props or decor items. They can be anything you want them to be!
It didn't take me long to find the "me" in the group. I chose DAZED. I am a little dazed today but in a happy way. I finally (FINALLY) got Slink feet to work for me. I am not sure just why I had issues over and over, but today was the day I tried "one more time" to have things work. Woot!
My hair is from a new color pack release from MINA for The Dressing Room.
Top: Ayiki
Shorts: Decoy
Pose by: Diesel Works
Gothic Tales
Posted by Chic Aeon in design, events, iheartslFeed, new releases on Tuesday, May 27, 2014
The World Goth Fair is winding down now. You still have a few more days to visit or revisit. Actually these quiet times are my favorite. Faster rezzing, emptier streets -- all lead to a more enjoyable experience in my book. I have never been a fan of lagfests, but each to their own.
As bloggers we sometimes sign up for official blogger status not knowing what to expect. Sometimes there are rules and criteria to follow and minimum blogage requirements et al. Sometimes we find ourselves in a position of feeling the need to blog without much -- well let's be honest, sometimes there just isn't anything we what to show our readers.
This event had NO rules, no requirements. It was a do your thing event. And you know -- it really worked out well. The designers sent so many things out that no one could blog everything -- well actually I suspect SOMEONE did (an over-achiever no doubt :D).
So hats off to the designers, crew and bloggers for making this an event of note.
In this photo:
:{MV}: She in Lavender Damask which comes with mesh gloves.
22769 ~ [bauwerk] Gothic Gazebo, very lovely and would work in other genres such as steampunk.
Hair by GARAGE (old)
Pose by: flowey
Twenty Questions
Posted by Chic Aeon in comment, iheartslFeed, meme on Monday, May 26, 2014
|Svengraph - CC attib
When and how did you discover Second Life?
I learned about Second life in 2006 when some friends joined. I didn't venture over then but eventually made an account a year or so later. They were having a great time, so I figured I would give it a shot.
Did you know about virtual worlds before or was this your first experience with them?
First experience for me.
Has Second Life met your expectations?
Since I had no expectations, it has exceeded them :D
If you could teleport back to the first ten minutes of your avatar's slife, what would you tell yourself?
Don't make your arms so long! While you can indeed reach things on the top shelf, those lengthy appendages are a bear with poses.
How long did it take you to master avatar flying and driving vehicles inworld?
I flew easily from the beginning. I still cannot drive well. Boats seem to be better probably because they are slower.
Do you have a mystery alt?
Lani is the only alt I have made, as part a blogger challenge from Gogo long ago.
Is your SL avatar a reflection of you, or someone you wished you could be?
No, she is simply a modified Elliot shape from my first day.
Is there an individual you met in SL that inspired you in your RL? How?
None that come to mind.
Do you feel it is easier to create stronger bonds/relationships with people you meet inworld as opposed to the real world?
Did you ever imagine or believe people could fall in love with someone they never met before Second Life?
Yes, before virtual worlds we still had forums and email and phones. Whether that is "real love" I am not sure; certainly it can be fascination.
How has your perspective of dating changed (or not) since you started playing second life?
It hasn't changed.
How has your perspective of employment changed (or not) since you started playing second life?
That hasn't changed either :D. I have always believed that doing what you love to do because you love to do it is key -- in either world.
Name three things in both your lives that overlap each other significantly.
Creativity - Communication - Money
If you could live your life more immersively in a virtual world, would you? (Kind of like the Matrix)
Not really sure on that. I went to view the keynote address as well as other talks from the Virtual Reality Conference last week. High Fidelity, Phil's new child, wants to evoke more of a feeling of reality. Right now, however, there is so much gear involved in getting there (movement sensors etc.) that it seem like it would be LESS immerse.
Interestingly enough that is a theme of a film I have in preproduction. Will it ever make it to the screen? Not sure. It is still roaming around in my head.
How do you think behavior changes for people if they're inworld vs in real world? Why do you think that is?
Some folks feel they can do anything because of the annonimity. This leads to some hateful and hurtful words. Happily that isn't typically part of my experience.
How has second life consumerism changed your perception of spending habits, the value of money, the need to be "bleeding edge" with fashion?
It hasn't. I am very much anti-consumerism in real life. Most folks have way more than they need or can use. Greed rules the world in many senses and in many places.
Long ago in my younger days the typist was more of a fashionista than now, but even then it was more about "style" than following the dictates of Vogue or Mademoiselle etc.
That being said, if a person can take their "coffee money" (personally I think buying coffee on a daily basis is a waste, but you get the idea) and turn that into lindens, shopping virtually and reaping the ego rewards -- then to me that is a better plan.
Do you think virtual worlds like SL drive and redefine human interaction or do they narrow and limit it?
If technology progressed tomorrow to allow you to send emotions to people the way you'd send text or voice messages, would it enrich your SL experience or infringe on it?
We don't need technology for that *wink*.
Name three skills you attribute to having learned or honed in second life alone.
Photography - Design - Blender
If your grand kids googled your Second Life Avatar's name, would they be intrigued, disgusted, proud or something else?
I think they would be proud of all that Chic has accomplished in the various areas of her virtual life. They might also be a bit puzzled. Not everyone "get's it". We know that.
Men Don't Make Passes
Posted by Chic Aeon in iheartslFeed, new releases
... at girls who wear glasses.
Do you think that is true?
Was it ever? Well maybe - LOL.
These lovelies are from AD Creations. Lots of fun and definitely different (well I am NOT surprised), they remind us that rules CAN be broken.
Pose by: Diesel Works
Easy Living
Posted by Chic Aeon in iheartslFeed on Saturday, May 24, 2014
This very pretty dress is a group gift ($10 fee) for May from Linealrise Design. Easy to find, there is a violet version on the Midnight board and a demo nearby. Lots of other print versions are out for sale.
Gazebo and furniture by Atelier Visconti at The Garden.
Pose by: A City Animations
Say Anything - Remember Everything
Posted by Chic Aeon in events, iheartslFeed, new releases on Friday, May 23, 2014
It's Fifty Linden Friday!
I always check.
I sometimes buy.
Forever fun.
Oh my! Oh my!
From Second Spaces two ways to make a statement. This is the longer version. The set comes complete with all letters as well as some fun accents.
Say Something!
And from Sway's for FLF, a cute add your own photo decor item.
It was nostalgic digging through my photo files!
Make some memories this week.
Keep them close.
And you don't want to miss this gorgeously made studio light from Consignment. On off light with lighting circle. A great photo prop, this can also just sit around looking impressive.
Showing Off
Posted by Chic Aeon in comment, events, iheartslFeed, new releases on Thursday, May 22, 2014
It has obviously been a Goth week or two. And while I am not a Goth Girl at heart, I definitely enjoyed the adventure and have some new items to add to my inventory. Actually most of the things I am keeping replace old staples (and sometimes I mean REALLY old). So a very good thing for us all.
This is a gorgeous coat from Dark Passions, the Alvira - Frock in Grey. It arrived when my Goth folder was pretty well organized into "yes, I featured these" folders. I have to admit that after almost two weeks I was ready for some bright primary color.
But of course there IS a but. This is so beautifully made, it just had to be shown off. And it is also admittedly one of the garments I will most likely be wearing in the future. I even put together an outfit to wear to a conference tomorrow. And yes, I did add a tank to that. We must have propiety -- well, sometimes.
So be sure and check out Dark Passions at the World Goth Fair as well as the main store. Now I have to admit I didn't really READ the blogger info at first. Yep, I know. We complain when it isn't in the box and then speed by it on our way to trying things out. Oh my! But I did go BACK and read (points for that). This is a phenomenal price so bargain hunters will be happy too.
Of note is the excellence of weighting; almost perfectly natural -- about the best you can do with our virtual selves. It also comes in low resolution versions.
Hair by MINA
Poses by flowey
Cages and Chains
Posted by Chic Aeon in events, iheartslFeed, new releases, skins on Wednesday, May 21, 2014
Now this is definitely a lovely photo. I think I am a pretty good now-and-then Goth gal *wink*.
All of course can be found at the World Goth Fair.
Skin: Jalwa - Celine - Exclusive Purple
Body Jewelry: Sax Shepherd Designs Desclos Pentagram set
Prop: .::[Angelic Designs]::. [Nevermore] Fantasy Raven Cage
Hair by GARAGE (old)
Pose by: Diesel Works
Mixing Genres
May has been a whirlwind, no question about that. Here are two more not to be missed items from popular May venues.
* 22769 Pygar Wings (copper - rare) from the Fantasy Gacha Carnival. Wonderful baked ambients give a sense of depth.
* Senzafine .:SF:. "Aconite" Mini Skirt and "Belladonna" Blouse in sepia from the World Goth Fair. The top has SO many lovely details and texturing.
Colors abound for both items.
Hair: EMO-tions
Pose by: Amacci
Posted by Chic Aeon in events, iheartslFeed, new releases, The Feeling on Tuesday, May 20, 2014
Still in catch up mode -- especially after a four hour enforced morning off -- what on earth was happening today; a very long time for the grid to be down -- at least in recent history.
So I give you a quick but very clear shot of one of the items you can find at The Feeling.
Find it on the cart from **BN designs**.
Hair by Amacci
Pose by: aDORKable
So many sides to Goth gals; so many places to shop at the WGF. These photos were taking in a mystical garden in Cursed.
This is a timely dress from lassitude & ennui; look for the Mystic dress. Simply lovely, it has arcane symbols within the fabric. They seem to magically appear actually -- and that is fitting. I added the slightly macabre but beautifully made necklace and earrings from Bliensen + MaiTai . The Mano release comes in various colors. This is the silver version.
Skin: *Atomic Faery* Dark Fae Skins - Female - Ash from WGF
Hair: by GARAGE (very old)
Poses by: aDORKable
Blogger Contest
Posted by Chic Aeon in comment, iheartslFeed
For the bloggers in the audience, there is a new contest on the horizon. Fame, glory and some lindens can be yours if -- you are good at and with a history of featuring home and garden items.
Now I know we have all be disappointed in some contests in the past. And I cannot guarantee that you will be happy with the winner this time *wink*. But I can guarantee that this is not one of those "ringer" contests. That's because I am one of the judges.
So check out the info on this page. There are some great designers with goodies for you, and a fun challenge. It is a little like the Hot Shot contest I was in long ago but WITHOUT that two hour time limit (definitely one of my more stressful virtual moments).
Here is the page with the info.
I look forward to seeing your work.
Brights and Whites
Posted by Chic Aeon in design, events, freebies, hunts, iheartslFeed, new releases on Monday, May 19, 2014
I have been hanging out in mysterious Gothland a lot lately. And while that has been an enjoyable adventure, it is time to get a little sunshine and color into The Blog.
My dress is a lovely gift from -Pixicat- on the Nouveaux Hunt II, a small sim hunt with a pretty locale and easy to find gifts.
They come with a super cool hud, something I have not seen before.
Now when I first get poses I always click through to find out which fit, but I can see that this would be VERY handy in the field when you know there is a pose you want in that set but can't remember the number.
My lead photo show two releases for The Garden. I showed you the A.V. Adria Gazebo in a previous post, but let's be honest here -- it was hard to see - LOL. You know that darkness can get to you after awhile. So here in bright sunshine is the gazebo. It can be purchased separately as well as in a group release of the set. Look for the Atelier Visconti booth.
Now the bright colored (and coordinating - woot) decor items are from Second Spaces at the same venue. These can be purchased separately also OR as a linked object. Lots of fun!
These shoes come with "nylons" in various shades. Now I have to admit I wasn't ALL that smart and was having a time getting the shoes to match the stockings. Well you OF COURSE need to tint the feet to match your legs. Well, really that seems SO obvious after the fact. These are lovely and I so thank Berry's "group" meme for turning me on to the GOS group.
Hair by Truth (very old)
Posted by Chic Aeon in events, hair, iheartslFeed, new releases, The Feeling on Sunday, May 18, 2014
A great new hair release from !Saltgrass! ( Ballina ) meets two additional bits of newness from The Feeling for a sleepy post.
Ballina comes in two sizes and a variety of multiple color huds. This is long, layered and slightly messy -- perfect for many occasions including sleeping.
My night mask is a rare gacha item from [ free bird ] at The Feeling as it the pretty silky top with many intricate cutouts in back. There are MANY texture choices of this top from Mag 3.B.
Pose by: Beehive
Posted by Chic Aeon in events, hair, iheartslFeed, new releases on Saturday, May 17, 2014
My favorite of the three WGF sims is Sium. I love the swamp trees, the arches, the glow lamps, the underbrush.
In this post, some personal favorites.
* Hair: [LNS Designs] SYLVIE
* Skin: *Atomic Faery* Dark Fae Skins - Female - Ash
* Necklace: House of Rain All Depths of Despair necklace - silver
* Corset: adoness: hekate: corset S: aurora
* Jeans: Ҝįтαş Şįđεşнøώ Skinny Jeans Purple
* Accessory (couldn't get a good photo but check it out; much fun): ::Squeek!:: Bat garther (black+silver)
Poses by: Everglow and LAP (nla)
The Modern Goth
Posted by Chic Aeon in events, hair, iheartslFeed, new releases, skins on Friday, May 16, 2014
There is much to see at the World Goth Fair and you don't need to be "pale" to enjoy. Well, it helps *wink*. Still, even though that is not my norm (ya know - jeans, dirt, overalls, boots) it is lots of fun to cross over to other genres.
Here are a few more of the items to be found.
* *~*Damselfly*~*Declan Non-Rigged Mesh
* The Dark Fae Jarlight (gacha rare)
* Tights, skirt and tank all from ~SongBird~ (sold separately)
* Amacci skin (not part of WGF)
Goth girls apparently like color as much as the next gals! I decided to go for purple in a mix and match outfit from lots of creators.
* Hair: *~*Damselfly*~*Octotavia
* Skin: Silken Moon Pewter Witch
* Tights: ~Cannibelle~ Goth Stripe Tights - Dark Purple
* Boots: .:Whims & Wishes:. Wrath Onyx
My mesh camisole is a new release from BAIASTICE for COLLABOR88 which just goes to show that it is something most anyone can add to their wardrobe *wink*.
Poses by: flowey, Everyglow, LAP (nla), aDORKable (MP),
The NEW SL Avatars - How Do They Rate?
Posted by Chic Aeon in comment, iheartslFeed on Thursday, May 15, 2014
The brand new -- 24 in all -- SL avatars were just released (May 15, 2014). How do they stack up to the avatars we have known for the past decade? I take you with me on my adventure and first impressions. Photos as I type.
The official SL announcement let us know that change is here. While the blog posts suggest that you need the "latest Second Life Official Viewer", any fitted mesh viewer will do. Since I had just updated FS a few days ago, I was set.
I found the AVATAR button which let me cycle through the choices. Personally I thought the photos of the fellows looked a lot better than the gals, so I picked the guy at right who -- to me -- looks a lot like Keanu Reeves (insert small panting gesture and sound here).
I logged in Lani so she could try a female avatar. To my amazement the proportions were very different. Now Lani isn't a petite gal by any means, but she is short by SL standards (6 feet). Our guy appears to be a very average size based on real life -- definitely something to note.
The first thing I noticed about -- let's call him Kean, shall we? -- was that the clothing was leaps and bounds (BIG bounds) ahead of the typical "newbie" garb of recent editions. Materials were evident and his hands especially looked extremely nice.
My first question as a fashionista and a mesh designer was "how is this going to look for folks who can't or choose not to run with Advanced Lighting on? The answer is pretty damn good. Lots of clapping from me for the excellent and smart use of those extra material layers.
It isn't very obvious from these UNRETOUCHED photos, but as you would suspect, this being fitted mesh -- there is that "layer of air" thing going on. Better for the fellows than the ladies; most of us spend hours at the gym getting our bodies in svelte shape. What? You didn't know that?
The new avatars come naked (yes very naked but without manly extras of course -- there is that fitting issue with clothes.
And let's talk about clothes!
Texture clothes no long work. Rigged mesh (the standard variety) no longer works primarily because alpha layers no longer work. What does that give us? Well pretty much a divided fashion industry. I can either throw about 10,000 items away (most likely more) and start over -- or?
It wasn't difficult to see this coming. The back end of the Marketplace listings has recently had a section added on the listing page with check boxes " Clothing works with -- classic avatars -- mesh avatars" along with info on what brand of mesh avatar and the URL where people could buy that matching mesh avatar. A few weeks ago I was thinking that in a couple of years we would all be a new kind of doll. That may happen sooner than I suspected.
I decided I wanted to try one of the female avatars. Looking though the selection, I couldn't find as many as advertised. Then I discovered there are twelve new VAMPIRE avatars. Now I knew that was a popular genre, but not that favored. The classic avatars are also represented on a third tab.
I honestly didn't like any of the female avatars, but this one was the best in my opinion.
She comes naked also, no modesty garments that appear on what will now be known as the classic avatars.
There are no nipples or other feminine details. I personally think it is extremely sexist to allow nipples on guys and not gals.
While in female garb I discovered that current fitted mesh -- items made for the classic avatars using the standard sizing models will not work with the new SL mesh avatars.
There is one bright spot in your inventory. HAIR seems to work just fine, both current rigged and long ago far away items that might be lingering in the bottom of your closet. So hair makers have nothing to worry about!
The new SL mesh avatars are a huge step forward and will likely entice more players into the "game". Assuming that The Lab will release these default avatar meshes into the wild (creative commons license perhaps) there is a whole new industry to be born.
Here are a few more details worth noting.
* Animation emotes and emote huds no longer work.
* Hands are very open and while they look good in the pose above, the female ones will be problematic with many poses.
* Skins of course could be much more finely rendered with more details.
* Shoes as in clothes will need to be made for the different avatars.
* Some of the bare feet on the women are terribly ugly; Kean looks good. I did not check them all.
* You can change your shape by wearing a different one; however it does NOT change the head. You can definitely be taller or bustier or fatter than the default.
The long time pose problem areas have not been fixed; in fact it seems like they may be worse.
On the plus side clothes for the new avatars can be interchanged. Here the Delilah avatar is wearing the Marissa Bustier.
I will say that the fitted mesh garments for the gals do a better job fitting closely than I have seen in general on the current fitted mesh for classic avatars. A good sign.
Once you try on the avatar, those wardrobe items appear in your inventory. Find them in the top layer in your CLOTHING folder (see screenshot below).
If you try on a character a few times, you will have multiple folders with the same items. So be neat and spiffy up that inventory when you are through playing.
This is just the beginning.
If the new mesh avatars that come with the viewer for the new folks look this good --
the possibilities are endless,
simply because we have some of the most talented folks around that are intent on making us look the best we can.
Poses by: Diesel Works
Mid Month
Posted by Chic Aeon in design, events, iheartslFeed, new releases, The Feeling
It is mid month and along with the opening of The World Goth Fair which you HAVE to know about by now, we have The Feeling where the theme is "The Night" AND The Garden from TLC with the theme "Riviera".
Put them all together and you have this photo!
Dress: BEPPIN!PROVOCATIVE COTTON from The Feeling
Backdrop: Atelier Visconti Adria Gazebo set
Moonlight and warm summer breezes. I am almost there!
Atelier Visconti items can be purchased as a set or separately. There is a color change menu for the pad and pillow fabric of each chase.
Skin: Jalwa - Celine WGF (more in an upcoming post)
Hair: old (nla)
Poses by: Diesel Works
Dark Angel
Posted by Chic Aeon in events, hair, iheartslFeed, new releases, props on Wednesday, May 14, 2014
The World Goth Fair opens tomorrow. Not only are there items for Goth girls and guys, there are plenty of crossover items. Here are a few.
* Hat: Ҝįтαş Şįđεşнøώ {KS} Seeing Death Hat - Purple
* Skin: *Atomic Faery* Dark Fae Skins - Female - Ash
* Jewelry: [LNS Designs] IRON CROSS NECKLACE - PURPLE
* Outfit: DemotiK Corset top babydoll S - Purple w panties and leggings
Hair: eXxEsS : MILADA (new release; not part of WGF)
Boots: lassitude & ennui Phoebe Boots
Neon Angle by [hate this]
Poses by: aDORKable, HelaMiyo
Difficult to believe there was NO post processing in this shot.
Out from AD Creations for the World Goth Fair a very striking and detailed ensemble. These are the donation pieces so get some drama in your life while giving something back.
Skin by Silken Moon also for the event.
Pose by: aDORKable


text:
Camps and parties
Strikes Holiday Camps
During School Holidays Strikes offer one-week intensive holiday courses, combining the fundamentals of the longer Strikes courses with fun drills and small-sided games.
For more information on our holiday camps, contact your local centre or Strikes coach.
We are also a FA Charter Standard Holiday Course provider.
Strikes Birthday Parties
If you are interested in organising a football party, Strikes parties are now available at a leisure centre near you.
Strikes parties have been carefully designed to ensure that your child and their friends learn to play football the Strikes way. Whilst introducing children to basic skills, our parties emphasise the importance of teamwork, fair play, participation and achievement. Each party is packed full of fun drills and small-sided games.
For more information on Strikes parties call your nearest Strikes centre.


text:
The state Department of Education released updated information Monday on its online tool that provides a two-page snapshot of academic accountability measures for some 10,000 schools across California.
Launched last year, the School Quality Snapshot includes information on an individual school's Academic Performance Index data, along with suspension and expulsion rates, results of physical fitness tests and student demographics. High schools also have information posted on graduation rates, SAT scores and the percentage of students passing college-prep courses.
"Since we created these School Quality Snapshots, Californians have viewed more than 100,000 copies to learn more about their local schools," said state schools Superintendent Tom Torlakson. "The snapshot puts the information parents and the public need and want right at their fingertips."


text:
Safety and Effectiveness of Lopinavir/Ritonavir in Individuals Who Have Failed Prior HIV Therapy
|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: NCT00357552
Recruitment Status : Completed
First Posted : July 27, 2006
Results First Posted : September 25, 2012
Last Update Posted : March 20, 2018
- Study Details
- Tabular View
- Study Results
- Disclaimer
- How to Read a Study Record
|Condition or disease
|HIV Infections
|Drug: Emtricitabine/Tenofovir disoproxil fumarate Drug: Lopinavir/Ritonavir
|Not Applicable
Standard effective antiretroviral therapy for HIV infected individuals includes three-drug combinations of two nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitors (NRTIs) with either a PI or an NNRTI. However, three-drug regimens may not be ideal in resource-limited settings, where viral load and resistance testing may not be readily available. The purpose of this study is to evaluate the safety and efficacy of the PI LPV/r alone in treatment-experienced, PI-naive HIV infected individuals who are experiencing virologic failure on three-drug regimens.
This study will last 104 weeks. All participants will receive LPV/r twice daily for up to 104 weeks. Participants who experience virologic failure will receive emtricitabine/tenofovir disoproxil fumarate once daily in addition to LPV/r twice daily for the remainder of the study.
There will be 16 study visits for participants on LPV/r monotherapy and 12 study visits for participants who have intensified LPV/r with emtricitabine/tenofovir disoproxil fumarate. Blood collection and clinical assessment will occur at all visits; urine collection and resistance testing will occur at selected visits.
|Study Type :
|Interventional (Clinical Trial)
|Actual Enrollment :
|123 participants
|Intervention Model:
|Single Group Assignment
|None (Open Label)
|Primary Purpose:
|Official Title:
|A Pilot Study of Lopinavir/Ritonavir in Participants Experiencing Virologic Relapse on NNRTI-Containing Regimens
|Study Start Date :
|January 2008
|Actual Primary Completion Date :
|October 2010
|Actual Study Completion Date :
|May 2012
Experimental: LPV/r monotherapy
Participants will receive lopinavir/ritonavir twice daily for up to 104 weeks. Upon confirmation of virologic failure, emtricitabine (FTC)/tenofovir disoproxil fumarate (TDF) once a day will be added to their regimen.
Drug: Emtricitabine/Tenofovir disoproxil fumarate
Once daily
Other Name: Truvada
Drug: Lopinavir/Ritonavir
Twice daily
Other Name: Kaletra, Aluvia
- Percentage of Enrolled Participants With Virologic Success at Week 24 on LPV/r Monotherapy [ Time Frame: From study entry to week 24 ]Virologic success at week 24 on LPV/r monotherapy was defined as remaining on LPV/r monotherapy at week 24 without prior virologic failure. Virologic failure was met with either of these two conditions: (i) failure to suppress HIV-1 RNA to < 400 copies/mL by week 24 or (ii) confirmed HIV-1 RNA >= 400 copies/mL after confirmed HIV-1 RNA < 400 copies/mL.
- Probability of Grade 3 or 4 Sign or Symptom, or Laboratory Toxicity Over 24 Weeks on Study. [ Time Frame: From study entry to week 24 ]Probability of Grade 3 or 4 sign or symptom, or laboratory toxicity over 24 weeks on study using Kaplan-Meier estimates of the cumulative probability of Grade 3 or 4 sign or symptom, or laboratory toxicity at week 24. Grading of adverse events (signs and symptoms and laboratory toxicities) was according to Division of AIDS Table for Grading the Severity of Adult and Pediatric Adverse Events, Version 1.0, December 2004.
- Number of Screened Subjects With at Least One NNRTI, or NRTI-associated Resistance Mutation at A5230 Screening. [ Time Frame: Screening ]Number of screened subjects with at least one NNRTI, or NRTI-associated resistance mutation. Resistance interpretations used the November 30, 2011 Stanford algorithm.
- Time to Treatment Failure, Defined as the First Occurrence of Death, Disease Progression, or Virologic Failure. [ Time Frame: Study entry to Week 104 ]25th percentile in weeks from study entry to treatment failure, defined as the first occurrence of death, disease progression, or virologic failure. Virologic failure was defined as HIV-1 >= 400 copies/mL after week 24 or 2 consecutive HIV-1 RNA >= 400 copies/mL after week 16 following suppression on LPV/r monotherapy.
- Number of Participants With Study-targeted Diagnoses and Clinical Events [ Time Frame: Study entry to week 104 ]Cardiac disorders, Infections and infestations, Metabolism and nutrition disorders, Neoplasms benign, malignant and unspecified (including cysts and polyps), Pregnancy, puerperium and perinatal conditions, Vascular disorders, were specified a priori as study-targeted events by the study chair.
- Number of Subjects With at Least One New PI-associated Resistance Mutation at Time of Virologic Failure. [ Time Frame: At time of virologic failure ]Number of subjects with at least one new PI-associated resistance mutation at time of virologic failure. Resistance interpretations used the May 6, 2009 Stanford algorithm.
- Percentage of Subjects Reporting Not Skipping Medications in the Last Month. [ Time Frame: Study entry and weeks 2, 4, 8, 12, 16, 20, and 24 ]The percentage of subjects reporting never missing medications in the last month.
- Time to First New Grade 3 or 4 Sign or Symptom or Laboratory Toxicity Following LPV/r Intensification [ Time Frame: From LPV/r intensification to week 104 ]25th percentile in weeks from study entry to first new grade 3 or 4 sign or symptom or laboratory toxicity following LPV/r intensification. Grading of adverse events (signs and symptoms and laboratory toxicities) was according to Division of AIDS Table for Grading the Severity of Adult and Pediatric Adverse Events, Version 1.0, December 2004.
- Level of HIV-1 RNA as Ascertained From Paired DBS and Plasma [ Time Frame: At study entry and weeks 24 and 48 ]Proportion of DBS samples with HIV-1 RNA level <= 400 copies/mL, proportion of plasma samples with HIV-1 RNA level <= 400 copies/mL and proportion of paired DBS and plasma samples that are concordant (both <= 400 copies/mL or both > 400 copies/mL). Results are pooled over 4 different storage temperature conditions (-80C, -20C, 4C and room temperature).
- HIV-1 Viral Sequence as Ascertained From Paired DBS and Plasma [ Time Frame: At study entry and virologic failure ]HIV-1 viral sequencing as ascertained from paired DBS and plasma
- Proportion of Participants With Plasma HIV-1 RNA Levels < 400 Copies/mL From Baseline to Week 104 [ Time Frame: At Weeks 0, 12, 16, 20, 24, 32, 40, 48, 56, 68, 80, 92, 104 ]
- Change in CD4+ Cell Counts From Study Entry to Week 104 [ Time Frame: Study entry and week 104 ]
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 and older (Adult, Older Adult)
|Sexes Eligible for Study:
|Accepts Healthy Volunteers:
Inclusion Criteria for Step 1 Participants:
- HIV infected
- Continuous treatment with a three-drug, NNRTI-containing regimen for at least 6 months prior to study entry
- Viral load of 1,000 copies/ml or greater and less or equal to 200,000 copies/ml obtained within 30 days of study entry
- Negative pregnancy test within 48 hours of study entry
- Willing to use acceptable forms of contraception for the duration of the study
Laboratory values obtained within 30 days of study entry:
- Hemoglobin greater or equal to 8.0 g/dL
- Platelet count greater or equal to 50,000/mm3
- Estimated Creatinine Clearance greater or equal to 60 mL/min x ULN
- AST (SGOT), ALT (SGPT) and alkaline phosphatase < 3 x ULN
- Total bilirubin less or equal to 2.5 x ULN
- Ability and willingness of participant or legal guardian/representative to give informed consent
Inclusion Criteria for Step 2 Participants:
- Virologic failure on LPV/r monotherapy defined as viral load of 400 copies/ml or greater after 24 consecutive weeks on LPV/r monotherapy OR virologic failure after initial viral suppression on LPV/r monotherapy
- Estimated creatinine clearance of 60 ml/min or greater
- Negative pregnancy test within 48 hours of entry into Step 2
- Willing to use acceptable forms of contraception for the duration of the study
Exclusion Criteria for All Participants:
- Breastfeeding
- Known allergy or sensitivity to study drugs
- Active drug or alcohol use or dependence that, in the opinion of the investigator, would interfere with study adherence to study requirements
- History of chronic hepatitis B infection
Exclusion Criteria for Step I Participants:
- Prior use of any protease inhibitor treatment
- Acute therapy for any serious medical condition within 14 days of study entry. For ongoing or chronic therapy, the participant must be on the treatment regimen for at least 14 days, and clinically stable prior to entry. If a potential participant has TB and has received treatment for more than 2 weeks, the TB treatment would have to be modified to include a rifabutin-containing regimen. TB compatible syndromes will also be carefully evaluated prior to entry.
Exclusion Criteria for Step 2 Participants:
- Active opportunistic infection, including tuberculosis (TB)
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): NCT00357552
|Y.R.G Ctr, for AIDS Research and Education (11701)
|Chennai, India
|University of North Carolina Lilongwe CRS (12001)
|Lilongwe, Malawi
|South Africa
|Wits HIV CRS (11101)
|Johannesburg, Gauteng, South Africa
|Kilimanjaro Christian Medical CRS
|Moshi, Tanzania
|Chiang Mai University ACTG CRS (11501)
|Chiang Mai, Thailand, 50202
|Study Chair:
|Nagalingeswaran Kumarasamy, MBBS, PhD
|Y. R. Gaitonde Centre for AIDS Research and Education
|Study Chair:
|John Bartlett, MD
|Division of Infectious Diseases, Duke University Medical Center
Other Publications:
Publications automatically indexed to this study by ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier (NCT Number):
|Responsible Party:
|AIDS Clinical Trials Group
|ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier:
|Other Study ID Numbers:
1U01AI068636 ( U.S. NIH Grant/Contract )
|First Posted:
|July 27, 2006 Key Record Dates
|Results First Posted:
|September 25, 2012
|Last Update Posted:
|March 20, 2018
|Last Verified:
|February 2018
Treatment Experienced
HIV Infections
Lentivirus Infections
Retroviridae Infections
RNA Virus Infections
Virus Diseases
Sexually Transmitted Diseases, Viral
Sexually Transmitted Diseases
Immunologic Deficiency Syndromes
Immune System Diseases
Emtricitabine, Tenofovir Disoproxil Fumarate Drug Combination
HIV Protease Inhibitors
Protease Inhibitors
Enzyme Inhibitors
Molecular Mechanisms of Pharmacological Action
Anti-HIV Agents
Anti-Retroviral Agents
Antiviral Agents
Anti-Infective Agents
Cytochrome P-450 CYP3A Inhibitors
Cytochrome P-450 Enzyme Inhibitors
Reverse Transcriptase Inhibitors
Nucleic Acid Synthesis Inhibitors