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Lamborghini have released the latest addition to their selection of automobiles, the Gallardo LP560-4 Spyder. The Lamborghini Gallardo LP560-4 Spyder is heavily based on the Gallardo LP560-4 and is powered by the same 5.2 liter V10 engine but outputs only 552 horsepower instead of the hardtop's 560 horsepower. The car uses a new open top powered by a hydraulic pump which can open and close in less than twenty seconds.
With the new Gallardo LP 560-4 Spyder, Lamborghini has created a driving experience like absolutely no other – fascinating design, breathtaking performance and extreme handling characteristics come together with all the sensual intensity and open-air pleasure that only a soft top super sports car can deliver.
An even more powerful engine, permanent all-wheel drive and an all-new chassis mean that the Gallardo LP 560-4 Spyder offers yet another significant increase in performance against its predecessor. With its innovative design, the new LP 560-4 Spyder takes the unique Lamborghini styling ethic to the next level; the Spyder displays this powerful and elegant design language with even greater distinctiveness, making it all the more unmistakable.
The Gallardo LP 560-4 has been on the market since early 2008, as the successor to the most successful Lamborghini of all time – since 2003, more than 8,500 models bearing the Gallardo name have left the production facility in Sant'Agata Bolognese. "The LP 560-4 is the next step in a huge success story," says Stephan Winkelmann, President and CEO of Automobili Lamborghini. "With the Spyder, we are now unveiling a car that is, quite simply, a new dimension in the latest Gallardo range. It is an entirely new model, whilst building on the substantial technical and design attributes of the Gallardo LP560-4 production strategy. The new Gallardo LP 560-4 Spyder is a simply breathtaking automobile – and utterly unparalleled in its commitment to extreme motoring."
In its new generation, the Gallardo Spyder represents more than ever before automotive passion in its purest form. As in the Coupé, its enormous power is delivered by the new 5.2 litre V10 with an output of 560 hp (412 kW) at 8,000 rpm. The increase in 40 hp (29 kW) over its predecessor, as well as the 44 pound (20 kilogram) reduction in vehicle weight, improves the power-to-weight ratio to 6.10 pounds (2.77 kg) per hp, thus improving performance even further.
The LP 560-4 Spyder takes only 4.0 seconds to sprint from 0 to 62 mph (0 to 100 km/h), reaching 124 mph (0 to 200 km/h) in only 13.1 seconds and going on to a top speed of 201 mph (324 km/h). The new driveline, featuring the "Iniezione Diretta Stratificata" direct fuel injection system also makes for impressive efficiency. Despite the considerable increase in performance, fuel consumption and CO2 emissions have been reduced by a staggering 18 percent.
Engineers at the Ufficio Tecnico Lamborghini, Sant'Agata-based Technical Department, have also improved traction, handling and stability at high speeds. The redesigned four-wheel drive transmission, the new suspension, the improved stiffness of the Spyder bodyshell and the optimised aerodynamics all contribute to the overall improvements in the vehicle, as do the reduced weight and decreased friction throughout the components.
Thus the Gallardo LP 560-4 Spyder presents itself as a razor-sharp super sports car with the precision reactions of a high-performance athlete. The car is also surprisingly suited to long-distance driving and, despite its extreme performance capabilities, is easy to control whilst maintaining utmost stability. Above all, the impressive Lamborghini technology takes on a new, intense edge in the Spyder, with the glorious feel of the open air rushing by.
The style
Powerful eleganceEvery Lamborghini is a high-performance athlete. Its sensuality is based on precision, performance and on spontaneous action. A Lamborghini's elegance is that of sheer, pure power. This DNA of the Lamborghini brand is taken to the next level with every new car by the Centro Stile. Thus the Gallardo LP 560-4 Spyder displays the precise lines and clean surfaces of a minimalist design ethos that resists ornamentation or embellishment of any kind. Even more than the Coupé, the Spyder places emphasis on the powerful basic wedge form, complemented by the tightly cut soft top.
Each evolution of the Lamborghini form is strictly dictated by the demands of function. The redesigned front end lends the LP 560-4 a firm, low stance that also contributes to its aerodynamic efficiency. In line with the increased engine output, the enlarged and clearly accentuated air intakes increase the air flow critical to such a high-performance automobile. The spoiler, positioned low between the air intakes, improves aerodynamic stability at high speeds.Characteristic LED daytime running lights
The new headlights have characteristic daytime running lights integrated beneath the bi-xenon lamps. 15 LEDs are arranged in a Y form, with the same pattern repeating in the rear tail-lights. The rear and brake lights were inspired by the Miura concept, the Murciélago LP640 and the Reventón. The Y-shaped elements are now signature features of contemporary Lamborghini models, appearing most recently in the Estoque concept car, the innovative super sports saloon from Sant'Agata.
The completely redesigned rear gives new meaning to the term "powerful elegance". The rear lights, air cooling vents, bumper and diffuser are precisely arranged to add tremendous visual breadth to the LP 560-4 Spyder, while sustaining its firm bond with the road surface. In addition, the streamlined covers left and right of the bonnet accentuate the powerful shoulders and the taut lines of the new Gallardo.
Significantly improved aerodynamics
The new exhaust system is beautifully finished by four chrome-plated tail pipes. The rear diffuser has been redesigned to deliver more downforce and, together with the smooth underbody, it contributes to the vehicle's excellent directional stability, even at very high speeds. Overall, aerodynamic efficiency in terms of downforce has been improved significantly in comparison with its predecessor – the Gallardo LP 560-4 Spyder tackles fast curves with even greater refinement.
The purist approach to design is perfectly complemented by the immaculate attention to detail demonstrated by the designers at Sant'Agata Bolognese.
The fuel and motor oil fill caps, intricately-crafted from aluminium bear testimony to this, as does the rear view camera, which has been integrated into a small fin in the automatically-deploying rear spoiler, as well as the finely-detailed grilles in the exhaust tail pipes.Soft top perfectly suited to everyday use
The flow of the lines, regardless of whether the top is up or down, clearly demonstrates that the Spyder is a fully self-contained model within the Gallardo range. Compared with the Coupé, the open top version comes across as just a little more radical; its shoulders have been raised slightly in order to make room for the soft top.
The fully-lined fabric top – available in black, blue, grey and beige – is operated via two switches located on the centre console. They set in motion a choreography that is over in just 20 seconds. One hydraulic pump, six hydraulic cylinders, one electric motor and two electric actuators work together to perform this technical ballet.
Rear windscreen functions as wind deflector
When the soft top opens, the rear windscreen disengages first, sliding downwards to avoid obstructing the remainder of the process. Four cylinders slightly raise the rear-hinged engine cover, before the hood folds gracefully into a stowage compartment located in front of the engine bay. Finally, the large engine cover made from a lightweight carbon-fibre composite closes once more and the rear windscreen returns to its original position to function as a wind deflector. A switch mounted on the dashboard will stow the rear windscreen if preferred – even when the top is closed.
Whether open or closed, the Gallardo Spyder's soft top is designed for unrestricted high speeds. In order to ensure maximum safety, Lamborghini engineers have integrated two spring-loaded rollover bars behind the seats. Controlled by a sensor, they deploy in only 250 milliseconds should a potential roll-over situation arise. The seat belt tensioners spring into action at the same time.
The bodyshell
Intelligent lightweight designWeight is undesirable in a sports car and lightweight design is good for dynamics. Aluminium is much lighter that steel – which is why the bodyshell of the Gallardo LP 560-4 Spyder has an aluminium structure that is more lightweight, yet stiffer. With its lighter engine, the two-seater boasts a dry weight of only 3417.2 Ibs (1,550 kg) – 44 pounds (20 kg) less than its predecessor.
The design of the Gallardo LP 560-4 Spyder utilises the 'spaceframe construction method'. Cast aluminium nodes and extruded profiles form its frame, with integrated friction-locked and form-fitted aluminium panels creating the bodyshell. The bodyshell is not only extremely light, but also displays exceptional torsional stiffness and safety characteristics, thus forming the basis for the extraordinary handling characteristics of the LP 560-4. The aerodynamic underbody panel is also integrated into the overall design for structural stiffness. The Spyder incorporates specially-developed additional stiffness elements within the spaceframe to compensate for the absence of a fixed roof.
Integrated pedestrian protection system
The bodyshell also incorporates the highest levels of passive safety. The Gallardo LP 560-4 Spyder even fulfills European directives for pedestrian protection that are not yet mandatory. Furthermore, the geometry of the entire front end of the car has been optimized, with a special combination of materials behind the front bumper that serve to absorb impact forces.
The interior
Luxurious individualityDespite its low exterior height, the Gallardo LP 560-4 Spyder welcomes its passengers with a spacious interior – even when the top is closed. The sports seats are upholstered in either fine leather or Alcantara® and provide firm hold and support. The seats are mounted low, as is typical for sports cars, and behind them is additional luggage space to complement the 110 litre capacity luggage compartment at the front of the vehicle.
The wide middle console is one of the elements that characterize the impression of sporty dynamism in the interior. It accommodates the standard Lamborghini audio and multimedia system, as well as the dual-zone climate control. Between these two units is a newly designed module housing classically elegant toggle switches. Seven instrument dials boasting new graphics provide the driver with essential engine data, while a multi-functional display between the speedometer and rev counter furnishes him with important information from the on-board computer.
Highest quality workmanship
The Miura and the other models of the 60s were already characterized by their excellent quality of workmanship, which was far beyond the general standards of the day. Lamborghini has built extensively on this tradition, and to this day delivers automobiles of the highest standards.
The Gallardo LP 560-4 Spyder indulges with materials of the highest quality in both look and feel. Leather interior choices include a range of colours and stitching in matching or contrasting tones. As an optional extra, Lamborghini can deliver the Gallardo with an expanded range of leather or Alcantara® equipment, as well as carbon packages, where elements like the surround for the air-conditioning control panel, the handbrake and the gear-stick console are finished in carbon fibre composite. The Ad Personam individualisation program fulfils personal preferences – at the end of the day, a new Lamborghini has to fit in perfectly with the lifestyle of its owner.
The engine
Extreme power in every situationThe engine of the Gallardo LP 560-4 Spyder is a completely new development. All that remains is the number of cylinders, – that magical ten – which provides a perfect synthesis of high-revs, pulling power, athletic agility, compact dimensions and low weight that is unique within this performance class.
The engine has a displacement of 5.2 liters (5204 cm3 ), generating an extreme 560 hp (412 kW) at 8,000 rpm – giving class-topping output per litre of 107.6 hp. The engine delivers a maximum torque of 398 Ib-ft (540 Nm) at 6,500 rpm. The ample torque curve guarantees outstanding thrust at all engine speeds. With acceleration of 4.0 seconds from 0-62 mph (0-100 km/h) and a top speed of 201 mph (324 km/h), the Gallardo LP 560-4 Spyder shoots into the orbit of the most extreme high-performance sports cars and is only one km/h less swift than the LP 560-4 Coupé.
Even more astounding is the fact that engineers at Sant'Agata succeeded in lowering the fuel consumption and CO2 emissions of the super sports car by 18 percent, despite a considerable improvement in performance. Relative to engine power and performance, the average fuel consumption of the Gallardo LP 560-4 Spyder e.gear is astonishingly low at only 16mpg combined (20 hwy/13city) (14 litres per 100 kilometres).
Perfect weight distribution, optimal dynamics
The engine in this new model is also located longitudinally behind the driver – hence the model denomination Longitudinale Posteriore. The mid-engine concept is peerless in sports car design, creating the basis for the perfect weight distribution of the LP 560-4 Spyder of 43 percent on the front axle and 57 percent on the rear. In combination with the permanent all-wheel drive transmission, it guarantees the Gallardo's superior handling stability in all situations.
Low mass for impressive high-revving
The cylinder bore surfaces of the new Lamborghini ten-cylinder are made of a hypereutectic aluminium alloy. The hard silicon crystals of the bore surfaces are chemically released following the honing process. The connecting rods are made from forged steel and the pistons from aluminium alloy. The systematic reduction of mass and internal friction contributes to the engine's impressive high-revving characteristics.
The engine is unusually wide for a V10, with a cylinder angle of 90 degrees. The advantage of this layout is the lower centre of gravity. The dry sump lubrication serves the same purpose, as well as guaranteeing a reliable supply of oil even during extreme lateral acceleration on the race track.
Direct fuel injection makes for efficient combustion
The new V10 uses the direct fuel-injection system "Iniezione Diretta Stratificata" as an innovative way to optimize performance in all conditions, while achieving moderate fuel consumption. The fuel is injected directly into the combustion chamber from a common-rail system at pressures of up to 100 bar via laterally-position injectors. This ensures the perfect "tumble" of the homogeneous fuel/air mixture and forms the basis of highly efficient combustion.
Direct injection boosts the extremely efficient full-load performance of the V10, reduces its knock sensitivity, provides an internal cooling effect and thus facilitates a very high compression ratio of 12.5:1. The cylinder heads have been optimised to deliver a rapid charge cycle, while the variable valve control system on all four camshafts improves charge efficiency across the entire engine speed range.
All-wheel drive refinementSuch extreme power must be delivered to the road safely. The driver of a Gallardo LP 560-4 Spyder can thus rely on the viscous traction permanent all-wheel drive system – the number 4 in the model name serves as a reminder of this. Lamborghini introduced this system as early as 1993, with the Diablo VT – and for good reason. Four driven wheels achieve more grip than two and permit earlier acceleration when exiting a curve.
Located in the driveline is a central viscous coupling, which requires no electronic control. In this Lamborghini-specific configuration, driving power is distributed between front and rear at a standard ratio of 30:70, adapting to variations in road conditions within a matter of milliseconds. A mechanical differential on the rear axle providing up to 45% limited slip, and an electronic differential lock at the front complete the all-wheel drive system.
Superior traction and handling
It is not only maximum traction that benefits from permanent all-wheel drive, but also the car's clearly superior handling. Ultimately, each wheel can only transfer a certain amount of power to the road. As the drive power is distributed to all four wheels via the viscous traction system, there is thus greater potential for directional control. These reserves in every situation are what distinguish a perfectly made sports car.
With all that engine thrust, changing gears in the Gallardo LP 560-4 is also one of the most exciting aspects of this vehicle. It remains a matter of personal preference whether the driver uses the short gear stick to work manually through the precision motion of the six-speed gearbox, or whether he chooses to let his fingertips control the e.gear's paddle-shift system located behind the steering wheel – the option preferred by the majority of Lamborghini customers.
Shift times reduced by 40 percent
The automated e.gear transmission has been completely redesigned and improved in all aspects. The complete system is not only considerably lighter, but the time required to change gear in corsa mode has also been reduced by 40 per cent. The driver can change gear manually using the shift paddles mounted on the steering wheel – or he can leave it entirely up to the automatic mode, which ensures extremely refined dynamics.
If the driver changes gear manually using the steering wheel paddles, he can choose from three different drive programs. Alongside the standard program, the Gallardo also offers the sport mode with even shorter shift times, while the corsa program delivers optimum engine acceleration.
ESP is active in all drive programs, engaging later in the sport and corsa modes and reducing the impact of the traction control. The corsa mode also permits greater drift and enables the complete dynamic spectrum of the LP 560-4 Spyder to be appreciated on the race track – while still leaving plenty of room for safety. The Lamborghini thrust mode facilitates maximum acceleration from a standstill. The throttle valve angle and clutch travel have been optimized specifically for this purpose.
The chassis
Hi-tech components with Lamborghini expertiseThe predecessor to the Gallardo LP 560-4 Spyder was already one of the world's best super sports cars in terms of handling, precision and driving stability. However, the latest model delivers an even more intense driving experience across the board. The new chassis improves the car's handling, its driving comfort and its directional stability at high speeds.
The chassis of the Gallardo LP 560-4 Spyder is uncompromisingly hi-tech. Its technical design comes directly from motorsport. The aluminium double wishbones with re-designed kinematics encircle the wheels, while the springs and shock absorbers have been recalibrated for stiffness and optimum grip. The rear axle now has an additional track rod, bringing an extra element of control to the super sports car.
One all-new development is the rubber-metal bearings. These truly hi-tech components contribute to the unique Lamborghini dynamics with intelligent design and specific material combinations. The precise set-up of the springs and dampers has been adjusted to accommodate the slightly higher weight of the Spyder to give it exactly the same characteristics as the Gallardo Coupé.
Intense road holding
The rack and pinion steering works with relatively little power assistance – giving the driver a direct and close connection with the road, and providing intense experience of the power and forces at play. The steering has its own cooling system for the power steering fluid.
Precise, breathtakingly fast, yet stable and free from surprises – the Gallardo's dynamics deliver a sensuous experience. At the limit, the tyres (235/35 ZR 19 front and 295/30 ZR 19 rear) appear to bond with the road surface. The wheels are clad in Pirelli P-Zero series tyres, specially developed for Lamborghini. They boast particularly low rolling resistance and thus contribute to reduced fuel consumption without any compromise in performance. At speeds of more than 75 mph (over 120 km/h), an automatically-deploying rear spoiler increases the down force on the rear axle. It works together with the specially formed underbody, which directs the airflow under the car.
Optional carbon fibre ceramic brake system
The new brake system comes with brutal stopping power. At the front, eight-cylinder Brembo calipers grip 14.37 in (365 mm) diameter discs, while four-cylinder callipers and 14 in (356 mm) discs take up the rear. The new disc ventilation also improves brake fade under extreme load conditions.
Highly stable carbon fibre ceramic discs are available as an option. At the front the CCB (Carbon Ceramic Brake) discs measure 15 in (380mm) diameter and at the rear 14 in (356mm). They deliver improved performance with reduced weight. The CCB system significantly reduces weight, which improves dynamics and comfort.
Equipment and trim
Top-class individualityLamborghini has equipped the Gallardo LP 560-4 Spyder with an exceptionally sporty standard equipment package that includes the automatic top; driver, passenger and side air-bags; dual-zone climate control with sun regulator; stereo system with USB interface; sports seats with electrically adjustable back rests; leather upholstery and bi-xenon headlamps with LED daytime running lights. The new series production "Apollo" wheels feature a double-spoke design.
A range of optional extras brings additional comfort and convenience – including a navigation system, a hands-free Bluetooth® mobile phone connection, anti-theft device and a rear view camera. A further option is a lifting system for the front axle – which raises the body at the touch of a button to ease negotiation of obstacles. New options include black painted "Cordelia" wheels.
The possibilities available in the "Ad Personam" individualisation program are virtually inexhaustible. Behind this program stands the philosophy that a super sports car, as a significant expression of the personality of its owner, should fit perfectly to his desires and expectations. This is particularly true for a car as highly emotional as the Spyder. As a consequence, the finest exclusivity is the trademark of Lamborghini's individualisation program. "Think the Impossible" is its motto.
"Ad Personam" offers a host of options to bring highly individual style to both the interior and exterior of a Lamborghini. One new highlight in the program is three matt-lustre colour options – Nero Nemesis (matt black), Bianco Canopus (matt white), Marrone Apus (matt brown). These colours, applied using a specialist and highly sophisticated process, bring particular emphasis to the purist precision of Lamborghini design.


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Today we have a thematic Aspiring Voices as I chat with horror writer Sam Witt about making a real living as a working writer, genre writing, and a great dissection of the horror genre's past, present, and future.
Paul: You were, at one point, a working writer, correct? What were you doing at the time and how was that different from what you're trying to do now?
Sam: I was indeed a working writer in the early 90's, primarily churning words in the adventure game industry for Dungeons & Dragons. I wrote a blog post about how that all fell apart, but one thing I didn't mention was just how different that type of writing was from what I'm doing now.
Everything I produced back in the day was work-for-hire, which means that the millions of words I cranked out weren't really mine. They belong to the publishers who hired them out, and while many of those words are still earning a decent sum for someone they aren't providing me with any residual income.
The other downside to this otherwise high-paid work was its relative anonymity. Authors weren't given front-page billing, but were consigned to the interior of the book. Work-for-hire publishers are interested in building loyalty to their brand, not yours, which gave them an incentive to obscure the work of authors.
By contrast, the writing I'm doing now is mine. The horror serial I'm writing over at Juke Pop Serials is helping me to drawn in new readers who are interested in what I have to say. My blog helps me to connect with other writers and build a stronger bond with fans interested in how and why I write. My forthcoming novels, Breaking Grace and Bad Education, will benefit from the groundwork I'm laying now and should provide me with a stream of cash for as long as folks keep buying them.
That's the one thing writers need to be mindful of—if you don't control the rights to your work, you don't control the rights to your future. All you have are words, so make sure they belong to you and don't get sold to someone else on the cheap.
Continue reading

subset: commoncrawl


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Clinical linguistics is the branch of linguistics that applies linguistic concepts and theories to the study of language disorders. As the name suggests, clinical linguistics is a dual-facing discipline. Although the conceptual roots of this field are in linguistics, its domain of application is the vast array of clinical disorders that may compromise the use and understanding of language. Both dimensions of clinical linguistics can be addressed through an examination of specific linguistic deficits in individuals with neurodevelopmental disorders, craniofacial anomalies, adult-onset neurological impairments, psychiatric disorders, and neurodegenerative disorders. Clinical linguists are interested in the full range of linguistic deficits in these conditions, including phonetic deficits of children with cleft lip and palate, morphosyntactic errors in children with specific language impairment, and pragmatic language impairments in adults with schizophrenia.
Like many applied disciplines in linguistics, clinical linguistics sits at the intersection of a number of areas. The relationship of clinical linguistics to the study of communication disorders and to speech-language pathology (speech and language therapy in the United Kingdom) are two particularly important points of intersection. Speech-language pathology is the area of clinical practice that assesses and treats children and adults with communication disorders. All language disorders restrict an individual's ability to communicate freely with others in a range of contexts and settings. So language disorders are first and foremost communication disorders. To understand language disorders, it is useful to think of them in terms of points of breakdown on a communication cycle that tracks the progress of a linguistic utterance from its conception in the mind of a speaker to its comprehension by a hearer. This cycle permits the introduction of a number of important distinctions in language pathology, such as the distinction between a receptive and an expressive language disorder, and between a developmental and an acquired language disorder. The cycle is also a useful model with which to conceptualize a range of communication disorders other than language disorders. These other disorders, which include hearing, voice, and fluency disorders, are also relevant to clinical linguistics.
Clinical linguistics draws on the conceptual resources of the full range of linguistic disciplines to describe and explain language disorders. These disciplines include phonetics, phonology, morphology, syntax, semantics, pragmatics, and discourse. Each of these linguistic disciplines contributes concepts and theories that can shed light on the nature of language disorder. A wide range of tools and approaches are used by clinical linguists and speech-language pathologists to assess, diagnose, and treat language disorders. They include the use of standardized and norm-referenced tests, communication checklists and profiles (some administered by clinicians, others by parents, teachers, and caregivers), and qualitative methods such as conversation analysis and discourse analysis. Finally, clinical linguists can contribute to debates about the nosology of language disorders. In order to do so, however, they must have an understanding of the place of language disorders in internationally recognized classification systems such as the 2013 Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5) of the American Psychiatric Association.


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Nemschoff Brava Flop Sofa
Herman MillerPart sofa, part bed, the innovative Brava Flop Sofa accommodates guests who want to stay by the patient's side day and night. A quick flip of the back cushion transforms this comfortable couch into a distinct sleep surface with no complicated mechanisms to manage. With a variety of options, this seating option is ideal for patient rooms in any healthcare setting. Use the sofa with the entire family of Brava products to create welcoming patient rooms and lounge and waiting areas.
- Learn more at hermanmiller.com
- Download PDF
- Interested in a Quote?


text: SUBWOOFERS - Custom InstallationMade from premium materials and packed with over 70 years of acoustic technology, Klipsch custom installation subwoofers are designed to deliver incredible bass with minimal effort. Just because it's hidden away doesn't mean it won't sound just as good.Subwoofers are the largest part of any audio system, but that doesn't mean they have to take up your entire room. Klipsch custom subwoofers can be placed inside a wall, floor, or ceiling, providing the same great bass, but without the huge footprint that they usually require. Let the floor be used for furniture, there's no reason a subwoofer needs to become part of the decor.In addition to traditional custom subwoofers, Klipsch provides models designed with THX Ultra2 certification, for those high end home theater installations, as well as outdoor installation so you can bring full range audio to the backyard as easily as the home. Whatever your need, there's a Klipsch custom subwoofer designed to meet it.While many custom subwoofers require being installed during a home's construction. Several Klipsch models are perfect for retrofit systems. Any home can have a built-in subwoofer and it doesn't require a major installation effort.


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Otter Twins in Auckland - Handfuls of Fluff
June 30, 2009
Jana and Juno, the Auckland Zoo's resident otter couple, spent a year in courtship before they decided they liked one another. Asian small-clawed otters mate for life but are "notoriously fussy" about who that mate will be. Well a few weeks ago Jana gave birth to two fluffy male pups, weighing just 400-500 grams or just about a pound.
Baby otter does not look pleased
I will trade you anything for your handful of otter
"Otters don't develop their waterproof coats until three months, so for now with their big strong heads on top of their little uncoordinated bodies and their soft furry coats, they're incredibly cute - rather like cuddly little baby bull dogs." explained Auckland Zoo otter team leader, Amy Dixon. These little pups are the first Asian small-clawed otters born at an Australasian zoo in six years.
Thanks to Abbey Allpress for the tip!


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dict get $dict foo bar spong dict get [dict get [dict get $dict foo] bar] spong
If no keys are provided, dict get will return a list containing pairs of elements in a manner similar to array get. That is, the first element of each pair would be the key and the second element would be the value for that key.
It is an error to attempt to retrieve a value for a key that is not present in the dictionary.
Note that there must always be at least one key provided, and that dict getdef and dict getwithdefault are aliases for each other.
If the evaluation of the body for any particular step generates a break, no further pairs from the dictionary will be iterated over and the dict map command will terminate successfully immediately. If the evaluation of the body for a particular step generates a continue result, the current iteration is aborted and the accumulator dictionary is not modified. The order of iteration is the natural order of the dictionary (typically the order in which the keys were added to the dictionary; the order is the same as that used in dict for).
Each varName is mapped in the scope enclosing the dict update; it is recommended that this command only be used in a local scope (procedure, lambda term for apply, or method). Because of this, the variables set by dict update will continue to exist after the command finishes (unless explicitly unset). Note that the mapping of values to variables does not use traces; changes to the dictionaryVariable's contents only happen when body terminates.
The variables are mapped in the scope enclosing the dict with; it is recommended that this command only be used in a local scope (procedure, lambda term for apply, or method). Because of this, the variables set by dict with will continue to exist after the command finishes (unless explicitly unset). Note that the mapping of values to variables does not use traces; changes to the dictionaryVariable's contents only happen when body terminates.
If the dictionaryVariable contains a value that is not a dictionary at the point when the body terminates (which can easily happen if the name is the same as any of the keys in dictionary) then an error occurs at that point. This command is thus not recommended for use when the keys in the dictionary are expected to clash with the dictionaryVariable name itself. Where the contained key does map to a dictionary, the net effect is to combine that inner dictionary into the outer dictionary; see the EXAMPLES below for an illustration of this.
Operations that derive a new dictionary from an old one (e.g., updates like dict set and dict unset) preserve the order of keys in the dictionary. The exceptions to this are for any new keys they add, which are appended to the sequence, and any keys that are removed, which are excised from the order.
# Make a dictionary to map extensions to descriptions set filetypes [dict create .txt "Text File" .tcl "Tcl File"] # Add/update the dictionary dict set filetypes .tcl "Tcl Script" dict set filetypes .tm "Tcl Module" dict set filetypes .gif "GIF Image" dict set filetypes .png "PNG Image" # Simple read from the dictionary set ext ".tcl" set desc [dict get $filetypes $ext] puts "$ext is for a $desc" # Somewhat more complex, with existence test foreach filename [glob *] { set ext [file extension $filename] if {[dict exists $filetypes $ext]} { puts "$filename is a [dict get $filetypes $ext]" } }
Constructing and using nested dictionaries:
# Data for one employee dict set employeeInfo 12345-A forenames "Joe" dict set employeeInfo 12345-A surname "Schmoe" dict set employeeInfo 12345-A street "147 Short Street" dict set employeeInfo 12345-A city "Springfield" dict set employeeInfo 12345-A phone "555-1234" # Data for another employee dict set employeeInfo 98372-J forenames "Anne" dict set employeeInfo 98372-J surname "Other" dict set employeeInfo 98372-J street "32995 Oakdale Way" dict set employeeInfo 98372-J city "Springfield" dict set employeeInfo 98372-J phone "555-8765" # The above data probably ought to come from a database... # Print out some employee info set i 0 puts "There are [dict size $employeeInfo] employees" dict for {id info} $employeeInfo { puts "Employee #[incr i]: $id" dict with info { puts " Name: $forenames $surname" puts " Address: $street, $city" puts " Telephone: $phone" } } # Another way to iterate and pick out names... foreach id [dict keys $employeeInfo] { puts "Hello, [dict get $employeeInfo $id forenames]!" }
A localizable version of string toupper:
# Set up the basic C locale set capital [dict create C [dict create]] foreach c [split {abcdefghijklmnopqrstuvwxyz} ""] { dict set capital C $c [string toupper $c] } # English locales can luckily share the "C" locale dict set capital en [dict get $capital C] dict set capital en_US [dict get $capital C] dict set capital en_GB [dict get $capital C] # ... and so on for other supported languages ... # Now get the mapping for the current locale and use it. set upperCaseMap [dict get $capital $env(LANG)] set upperCase [string map $upperCaseMap $string]
Showing the detail of dict with:
proc sumDictionary {varName} { upvar 1 $varName vbl foreach key [dict keys $vbl] { # Manufacture an entry in the subdictionary dict set vbl $key total 0 # Add the values and remove the old dict with vbl $key { set total [expr {$x + $y + $z}] unset x y z } } puts "last total was $total, for key $key" } set myDict { a {x 1 y 2 z 3} b {x 6 y 5 z 4} } sumDictionary myDict # prints: last total was 15, for key b puts "dictionary is now \"$myDict\"" # prints: dictionary is now "a {total 6} b {total 15}"
When dict with is used with a key that clashes with the name of the dictionary variable:
set foo {foo {a b} bar 2 baz 3} dict with foo {} puts $foo # prints: a b foo {a b} bar 2 baz 3


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Why It's Ok To Be Average
This month I'm posting every day, picking the top voted reader question and answering it. With 41 votes, submitted by Carey, is:
What is your advice to a guy who truly DON'T feel a calling/urge/nudge to be any other than an average Joe who loves his family?
My interest in this question is based on the fact that there are people who are pretty average and are meant to be. They are the blue collar glue that holds society together. With all the "you can be extraordinary" hype that is flying around these days, I wonder sometimes what those kind of folks take away.
In America we've perverted exceptionalism to mean something selfish. Much like the obsession with productivity, we've inflated people's ambitions such that everyone believes they can be exceptional at anything they wish. There is an unavoidable arrogance in wanting to be great, an attitude of "Get out of my way, I'm trying to be exceptional!" To which everyone around says "yes, you are an exceptional asshole."
Exceptionalism is not necessarily good. The worst people in history were exceptional, that's why they're in history books. Stalin, Lenin, and Pol Pot all did horrible, hurtful things to other people with their exceptional talents. They were also productive, shedding light on another value we've twisted into meaninglessness. Exceptional and productive people contribute only if they create positive value for others. Earning vast personal wealth or being a star-athlete doesn't make you a good person, especially if your success has come at the expense of others. There are many examples of over-achievers who were awful to their families and friends, as their obsession with becoming exceptional blinded them to their the destructive power of the own narcissism. For the fate of humanity, it's better that you're mediocre at doing the right things than exceptional at doing the wrong ones. It's ok to be average if you're using your averageness for good.
If I were stranded on a desert island I wouldn't want "exceptional people" as companions. There wouldn't be enough space on the island for their collective egos. I'd want ordinary, good natured, honest, hard working people who were reasonable to deal with, had faith in collaboration, and wanted to build a community more than a shrine to their individual achievements. It's people with blue collar attitudes who have had the most resistance to the hype of over-achievement. It's people who felt comfortable with themselves without a world record to their name or a fancy car to drive that provide the basis for civilization at all. Most all-star teams fail because there is too much ego, and the level of talent is less of a problem that wanting attitudes. In most kinds of work you don't need that many exceptional people to do the work a team needs to do.
It has always been the salt of the earth among us, like firefighters and teachers, that make the largest sacrifices for the smallest rewards, for the greater benefit of the people around them. They don't do it to be on the cover of a magazine, they do it because it seems the right thing to do. They are the highest form of exceptional people in that they don't demand attention for their contributions. They're more interested in living in a loving family, a great neighborhood, or an amazing country, than any personal achievement, which fundamentally changes the way they apply their talents and who they hope to help with them.
We are a social species and it's clear what matters most to our own personal well being are our bonds with friends, parents, children, coworkers and neighbors. It's our ability to share our daily experiences with them that defines a fulfilling life more than anything else we do while alive. And it's this that is the greatest tragedy of people in pursuit of the exceptional: they believe it is their achievements that will win them the love and respect they need to feel whole, when the opposite is true as wholeness can't be won. It's only through the ordinary, humble participation in the lives of people around us that fulfillment can be found.


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2014 NBA Draft Recap: Andrew Wiggins Leads Parade of Draft Picks
NBA teams divided up the best college and international basketball talent at the 2014 NBA Draft in Brooklyn on Thursday night. Here is a recap of the night's most interesting moments:
Biggest No-Brainer: Andrew Wiggins, Cleveland
With Joel Embiid beset by health concerns, the Cleveland Cavaliers made Kansas shooting guard Andrew Wiggins the first-overall pick. Easily the most athletic player in the 2014 NBA Draft, Wiggins also had the highest upside. With some seasoning and direction, he should be the biggest star to come out of this draft class.
Wiggins joins a Cavs team that already has 2013's top pick Anthony Bennett at forward and 2011 No. 1 Kyrie Irving at point guard. Will 2003 first-overall pick LeBron James join them? Stranger things have happened.
Biggest Steal: Shabazz Napier, Miami Heat
Seems Kemba Walker didn't teach NBA teams that they shouldn't sleep on a score-first Connecticut point guard. Like Walker before him, Shabazz Napier took the Huskies to an NCAA Tournament title. The Hornets scooped Napier up at No. 24 and then sent him to Miami.
The Heat badly needed a better playmaker to help retain LeBron James, who called Napier his "favorite player in the draft" on Thursday. Is it good enough to keep "King James" on South Beach? We'll see.
Best Draft: Boston Celtics
With the entire Eastern Conference in transition, the Celtics took the boldest step forward on Thursday night. Boston drafted Oklahoma State guard Marcus Smart with the sixth-overall pick and then selected Kentucky product James Young at No. 17.
The Smart-Young duo forms a wonderfully titled backcourt of the future in Boston and allows the team to trade veteran guard Rajon Rondo for front court help, if it so chooses. It also gives Celtics' head coach Brad Stevens two dynamic young players to shape into professionals.
Worst Draft: Philadelphia 76ers
Sixers fans may have needed consoling after their team reached twice with its two top 10 draft picks. Philadelphia selected Kansas center Joel Embiid — with his potentially chronic back and foot injuries — at No.3 and then chose point guard Elfrid Payton from Lousiana-Lafayette at No. 10. The Sixers later traded Payton to Orlando for Croatian forward Dario Saric, who can't play in the NBA for at least two years due to his European contract.
IF he's healthy, Embiid could eventually become the best player chosen in this draft, and WHEN Saric can opt out of his deal with Turkey's Anadolu Efes, he could be a skilled front court addition. For now, neither player is likely to help the Sixers win games in 2014-15. Second-rounders K.J. McDaniels, Jerami Grant, Pierre Jackson, Jordan McRae and Vasilije Micic will add depth, but not nearly enough hope.
Player Who Rose: Zach LaVine, Minnesota
With Kevin Love recently asking out of Minnesota, the Timberwolves needed to start re-stocking their talent for the future. They used the No. 13 pick on lanky UCLA guard Zach LaVine, who has a remarkable 46-inch vertical leap — and an attitude to match. LaVine seemed visibly unhappy when his name was announced, even though he went considerably higher than projected. Maybe LaVine can forge a friendship with Timberwolves' point guard Ricky Rubio and help ease the pain of long-suffering Minnesota fans, but he didn't get off to a great start.
Player Who Fell: Rodney Hood, Utah
Have NBA teams started to sour on Duke players, many of whom have struggled to be productive in the pros? Well, they certainly weren't high on guard Rodney Hood, who fell to the Utah Jazz at No. 23. Hood can play several positions and is a solid perimeter shooter, yet teams reached past him to select players like Zach LaVine, Gary Harris, Bruno Caboclo, James Young and Jordan Adams, all of whom were often rated below the former Blue Devil.


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We should be glad the US is out
By Paul Driessen and David R. Legates Ten states, some 150 cities, and 1,100 businesses, universities and organizations insist "We are still in" – committed to the Paris climate agreement and determined to continue reducing carbon dioxide emissions and preventing climate change. In the process, WASI members claim, they will create jobs and promote innovation, trade and international competitiveness. It's mostly hype, puffery and belief in tooth fairies. Let's begin with the climate. When Delaware signed on to WASI, for example, Governor Carney cited rising average temperatures, rising sea levels, and an increase in extreme weather events. In Delaware, sea level rise is almost entirely due to subsiding land resulting from compaction of glacial outwash, isostatic response from the retreat of the ice sheets more than 12,000 years ago, and groundwater extraction. The biggest threat to homes, roadways and wildlife habitats lies not in sea level rise – but in the effects of nor'easters, tropical storm remnants and other weather events that impact Delaware's sand-built barrier islands. Moreover, not a single category 3-5 hurricane has struck the US mainland for a record 11.5 years. Climate models have long overstated the supposed rise in air temperature. Recently, even alarmist scientists like Ben Santer have agreed that a warming hiatus has kept air temperatures unchanged for over 15 years, even as plant-fertilizing carbon dioxide levels in Earth's atmosphere rose to 400 parts per million. No trends exist in tropical cyclones, tornadoes, floods, droughts or other weather extremes. Contentions that these changes will pose health risks and threaten our economy are purely scare tactics. Climate has always changed and weather is always variable, due to complex, powerful natural forces. Insisting that these events must be caused or exacerbated by human activity reflects a denial of basic climate science. Full adherence to the Paris Treaty by all nations would prevent an undetectable 0.3°F (0.2°C) rise by 2100 – assuming that all climate change is driven by humans and not by natural forces. This meaningless achievement, by switching to 100% renewable energy, would cost $12.7 trillion to $93 trillion by 2030. Surely, WASI members and the rest of the world have better uses for that money than chasing climate chimeras. Paying their massive state debt, pension, welfare and retirement obligations, for instance; in developing nations, getting electricity and safe water to people and ending their poverty and disease. But substantially reducing CO2 emissions will create jobs, won't it? For every job these mandates and subsidies create, multiple jobs will be lost in businesses that require affordable, reliable energy. Your local or statewide CO2 emissions may decrease. But in 150+ countries that are under no obligation under Paris to reduce their fossil fuel use, emissions will increase. WASI groups may take pride in "resisting Trump," but their actions really hurt America's working class families, who had no vote on the matter. WASI members California, Connecticut, Hawaii and New York already have among the worst unfunded pension liabilities. Their residential electricity prices are already outrageous: 17 cents a kilowatt-hour in NY, 19 in CA, 20 in CT and 29 in HI – versus 9 cents in North Dakota. Honoring "Paris commitments" would send rates skyrocketing to German and Danish levels: 37 cents per kWh. Expensive energy will hurt poor and minority families the most and send jobs to countries where energy costs less. Just imagine what your WASI actions would do to households, hospitals, businesses, factories, malls and schools. How it would kill jobs and swell unemployment and welfare rolls – while creating a lot of low-pay, largely part-time jobs. Rather than producing jobs, the Paris Treaty is a job-killer for the USA. For all these reasons, we should be glad we are out! We ask those who have told their constituents they are "still in," How exactly will you meet your Paris commitments, and what exactly will you achieve? How will you slash your CO2 emissions by 26-28% by 2025, as required for the USA under the Paris pact? The United States reduced CO2 emissions by 12% between 2005 and 2015. But that was accomplished by a downturn in the economy and increased reliance on natural gas, most of which is produced by hydraulic fracturing. Will you support fracking and build more gas-fired power plants? Or will you build new nuclear and hydroelectric power plants to reduce your fossil fuel dependence? You cannot rely on wind and solar, as they currently account for barely 2% of overall US energy needs and the mining required to get rare earth metals, cadmium, iron, copper, limestone and other raw materials for these technologies has extensive, often horrendous environmental, health and human rights impacts. Growing populations mean more energy will be needed. Do you expect wind and solar to grow to cover the new demand? These highly expensive technologies require vast land areas, much of it taken from wildlife habitats – and huge government/taxpayer subsidies. From whom will you take this money? What will you get for your efforts? The cost is enormous, for minimal benefits. Higher electricity prices will affect businesses, hospitals, jobs and families in your state. The impact of 30, 40 or 50 cents per kilowatt-hour electricity will be devastating – especially for the poor, minority and blue-collar workers and families you say you care deeply about. They will be forced to choose among energy, food, clothing, shelter, health and safety. How will this serve climate and environmental justice? By contrast, a change in global air temperature of about 0.01°F will have zero impact. That's how much reduced warming the world is likely to see from all the sacrifices imposed by "We are still in" programs. Storms, floods and droughts are not linked to CO2 concentrations, so your actions will have no effect in these areas. Avoidance of an un-measurable increase in air temperature is simply not worth the cost. Governors who have committed their states to this climate-centered resistance movement have done so without approval from the legislature or their constituents. How do you propose to pay for this unilateral executive decision? With tax increase and soaring energy costs? How will your constituents react to that? The "We are still in" press release proudly proclaims that its members contribute $6.2 trillion a year to the US economy. That's one-third of the United States $18.5 trillion GDP in 2016. Under the Paris formula, the United States is to contribute $23.5 billion per year initially to the Green Climate Fund – with the US contribution rising to some $106 billion per year by 2030, based on the same percentages. Your one-third WASI share of that would be $7.8 billion in 2017, rising to $35 billion a year by 2030. Is this part of your vaunted commitment to the Paris treaty? How do you anticipate paying that? Can individual cities and counties opt out of your pact, and become sanctuary cities or counties, to protect their jobs and families against runaway energy costs, climate fund payments and more autocratic actions? By deciding that their schools will stay in the Paris Treaty, college and university presidents will drive up energy and other costs on their campuses. Did you consult with and get approval from your boards of trustees, legislators, taxpayers, students and parents – or was this simply another executive decision? Delaware gets 95% of its electricity from natural gas, coal and oil. How exactly will the University of Delaware slash its fossil fuel use and carbon dioxide emissions by the 26-28% required by Paris? How will George Mason University, with Virginia getting 63% of its electricity from fossil fuels? Have you calculated how much this will cost? Will you make up the difference by increasing tuition? How will you compensate those who can least afford these increasing expenses? In the interest of integrity, accuracy, transparency and ethics, have you made those analyses public (if they exist)? Did all you "socially responsible" companies and organizations in WASI get approval from your boards of directors, shareholders, customers and clients before committing to stay in Paris? Did you analyze and discuss the likely economic and employment ramifications? Or are you the real climate deniers – denying the costs of anti-fossil fuel, renewable energy commitments, regulations, subsidies and mandates? Finally, for the millions of voters, taxpayers, citizens, students, workers and consumers who are being impacted by "We are still in" states, cities, colleges, universities, businesses and organizations, we ask: Are you still in with expending trillions of dollars to have an undetectable effect on Earth's future climate? If not, perhaps it's time you made your voices heard – and started resisting The Resistance. Paul Driessen is senior policy analyst for the Committee For A Constructive Tomorrow (www.CFACT.org) and author of Eco-Imperialism: Green power - Black death. David R. Legates is professor of climatology at the University of Delaware and a former Delaware State Climatologist. |


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Pertussis is a highly contagious bacterial disease that causes uncontrollable, violent coughing. The coughing can make it hard to breathe. A deep "whooping" sound is often heard when the person tries to take a breath.
Pertussis, or whooping cough, is an upper respiratory infection. It is caused by the Bordetella pertussis bacteria. It is a serious disease that can affect people of any age and cause permanent disability in infants, and even death.
When an infected person sneezes or coughs, tiny droplets containing the bacteria move through the air. The disease is easily spread from person to person.
The symptoms of infection often last 6 weeks, but it can last as long as 10 weeks.
Initial symptoms are similar to the common cold. In most cases, they develop about a week after exposure to the bacteria.
Severe episodes of coughing start about 10 to 12 days later. In infants and young children, the coughing sometimes ends with a "whoop" noise. The sound is produced when the person tries to take a breath. The whoop noise is rare in infants under 6 months of age and in older children or adults.
Coughing spells may lead to vomiting or a short loss of consciousness. Pertussis should always be considered when vomiting occurs with coughing. In infants, choking spells and long pauses in breathing are common.
Other pertussis symptoms include:
- Runny nose
- Slight fever, 102°F (38.9°C) or lower
- Diarrhea
Exams and Tests
The initial diagnosis is most often based on the symptoms. However, when the symptoms are not obvious, pertussis may be hard to diagnose. In very young infants, the symptoms may be caused by pneumonia instead.
To know for sure, the health care provider may take a sample of mucus from the nasal secretions. The sample is sent to a lab and tested for pertussis. While this can offer an accurate diagnosis, the test takes some time. Most of the time, treatment is started before the results are ready.
Some people may have a complete blood count that shows large numbers of lymphocytes.
If started early enough, antibiotics such as erythromycin can make the symptoms go away more quickly. Unfortunately, most people are diagnosed too late, when antibiotics aren't very effective. However, the medicines can help reduce the person's ability to spread the disease to others.
Infants younger than 18 months need constant supervision because their breathing may temporarily stop during coughing spells. Infants with severe cases should be hospitalized.
An oxygen tent with high humidity may be used.
Fluids may be given through a vein if coughing spells are severe enough to prevent the person from drinking enough fluids.
Sedatives (medicines to make you sleepy) may be prescribed for young children.
Cough mixtures, expectorants, and suppressants are most often not helpful. These medicines should NOT be used.
Outlook (Prognosis)
In older children, the outlook is most often very good. Infants have the highest risk for death, and need careful monitoring.
Possible Complications
Complications may include:
- Pneumonia
- Convulsions
- Seizure disorder (permanent)
- Nosebleeds
- Ear infections
- Brain damage from lack of oxygen
- Bleeding in the brain (cerebral hemorrhage)
- Intellectual disability
- Slowed or stopped breathing (apnea)
- Death
When to Contact a Medical Professional
Contact your provider if you or your child develops symptoms of pertussis.
Call 911 or the local emergency number or get to an emergency room if the person has any of the following symptoms:
- Bluish skin color, which indicates a lack of oxygen
- Periods of stopped breathing (apnea)
- Seizures or convulsions
- High fever
- Persistent vomiting
- Dehydration
DTaP vaccination, one of the recommended childhood immunizations, protects children against pertussis infection. DTaP vaccine can be safely given to infants. Five DTaP vaccines are recommended. They are most often given to children at ages 2 months, 4 months, 6 months, 15 to 18 months, and 4 to 6 years.
The TdaP vaccine should be given at age 11 or 12.
During a pertussis outbreak, unimmunized children under age 7 should not attend school or public gatherings. They should also be isolated from anyone known or suspected to be infected. This should last until 14 days after the last reported case.
It is also recommended that adults age 19 and older receive 1 dose of the TdaP vaccine against pertussis.
TdaP is especially important for health care professionals and anyone having close contact with a baby younger than 12 months old.
Pregnant women should get a dose of TdaP during every pregnancy between 27 and 36 weeks of pregnancy, to protect the newborn from pertussis.
Alternative Names
Whooping cough
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention website. Vaccine information statements (VISs): Td (tetanus, diphtheria) VIS. www.cdc.gov/vaccines/hcp/vis/vis-statements/td.html. Updated August 6, 2021. Accessed September 13, 2023.
Murthy N, Wodi AP, Bernstein H, McNally V, Cineas S, Ault K. Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices recommended immunization schedule for adults aged 19 years or older - United States, 2022. MMWR Morb Mortal Wkly Rep. 2022;71(7):229-233. PMID: 35176010 pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/35176010/.
Souder E, Long SS. Pertussis (Bordetella pertussis and Bordetella parapertussis). In: Kliegman RM, St. Geme JW, Blum NJ, Shah SS, Tasker RC, Wilson KM, eds. Nelson Textbook of Pediatrics. 21st ed. Philadelphia, PA: Elsevier; 2020:chap 224.
Wodi AP, Murthy N, Bernstein H, McNally V, Cineas S, Ault K. Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices recommended immunization schedule for children and adolescents aged 18 years or younger - United States, 2022. MMWR Morb Mortal Wkly Rep. 2022;71(7):234-237. PMID: 35176011 pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/35176011/.
Review Date 8/5/2023
Updated by: Neil K. Kaneshiro, MD, MHA, Clinical Professor of Pediatrics, University of Washington School of Medicine, Seattle, WA. Also reviewed by David C. Dugdale, MD, Medical Director, Brenda Conaway, Editorial Director, and the A.D.A.M. Editorial team.


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Healthy Living
Three L's of Lactation: Latching, Leaking, and Learning
According to nature and some media campaigns, breastfeeding is supposed to be as natural as breathing. However, for some moms, it may take a little more effort. From low milk production to your baby failing to latch, breastfeeding can be frustrating at first. The nutritional benefits to your baby's health, though, outweigh the extra effort that it might require. Don't call it quits before you really get started. Help is available.
Breast is Best
Breast milk contains more nutrients and antioxidants than formula, so it is highly recommended by the Surgeon General. To help you prepare to breastfeed, during pregnancy, talk to your doctor or a lactation consultant. Organizations like the Breastfeeding Network and La Leche League can also help connect you with a support group and counselor if you aren't sure where to start.
Lactation actually begins around your 16th week of pregnancy with a type of milk called colostrum. It's heavier than mature milk, and has higher levels of nutrients to help develop your baby's intestines. This is the first milk that your baby will get right after birth when nursing begins. Within two or three days of beginning nursing, your body will switch to producing only mature milk.
The First L: Latching
Since breastfeeding is a natural process, your baby knows what to do. His or her cues--like suckling, rooting, and grabbing at its mouth, among others—signal that it's hungry and ready to nurse. By spending some quality skin-to-skin time with your baby, you'll start to recognize these cues before your baby can even begin to cry.
To increase your chances of success, try to find the most comfortable position possible. If you need a distraction like the TV or music, go for it. Attempting different positions, such as lying on your back or side, can also help ease the transition into breastfeeding. Lactation consultants can also recommend different positions that may work for you. Your baby should easily be latching onto your breast, with his or her mouth covering your areola (the darkened area around the nipple). If you're having difficulty getting your baby to latch on, or if you experience pain upon latching, talk to your doctor or a lactation consultant: often a simple fix can get you back to breastfeeding in no time!
The Second L: Leaking
Leaking from one or both breasts can begin even before you give birth, and often increases after birth. Typically, this is caused by your body adjusting to the cries of your baby when you first begin nursing and is not a cause for concern. This is also called the let-down reflex, and is triggered by nerves in your breast, resulting in a tingly sensation. Your breasts may also begin to leak or become sore if the breast tissue is full of milk and needs to be emptied.
However, poor lactation response—a lack of leaking or milk production—can be due to a variety of factors. If your nipples are sore or cracked, or if your breast tissue has been damaged by a prior trauma, you may have trouble producing milk. Even separation from your baby for a long period of time may affect your milk production. To reduce these risks, do your research, ask questions and identify best practices from breastfeeding experts.
The Third L: Learning
Both you and your baby can learn about breastfeeding together, and it never hurts to ask for help. If you have questions regarding schedules, how to store breast milk, or any other issues concerning breastfeeding, don't be afraid to ask. Some of the most frequently asked questions about breastfeeding are:
- How do I store breast milk? Once pumped and bottled, breast milk in the fridge is good for about 3-5 days. If you choose to freeze your breast milk, make sure you do so in a deep freezer so it can last up to 6 months. Keep in mind: frozen breast milk loses some of the nutrients that fresh breast milk has.
- What is a galactagogue and do I need it? Galactagogue is a fancy word for a food, herb or supplement that aids in the production of breast milk. This includes garlic, water, carrots, oatmeal and even ginger. Whether you need them is entirely up to you and how much you're currently lactating.
- How do I know my baby is getting the milk? How do I know I'm doing this right? The easiest way to make sure you're getting off to a good start with breastfeeding is to be observed by a doctor, lactation consultant, or doula the first few times. In addition to helping you find a comfortable position and ensure the baby is latching correctly, they can offer tips and techniques specific to your needs. Although it seems contradictory, your body will produce more milk the more often your breasts are emptied. If it seems slow going at first, give yourself and your baby time to adjust.
- What about my diet? Just like when you were pregnant, your diet for breastfeeding should include plenty of fruits and vegetables, and you should avoid alcohol and large amounts of caffeine. Breastfeeding mothers need about 300-500 extra calories per day than non-breastfeeding moms, so keep that in mind. If your baby has an allergy to a food, it will be apparent through hard stools, painful gas or frequent spit-up.
Remember, breastfeeding may take some getting used to, but help is available. It can also be a very rewarding and healthy experience for babies and mothers.


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First came California, the first confirmed U.S. case of the coronavirus variant omicron. But then, like a series of dominoes falling, came more cases identified in Colorado, Minnesota, New York, Hawaii. As the variant turns up in more and more spots around the U.S. and as the delta variant that plagued us all this summer and fall continues to spread, the Biden administration is rolling out new measures to fight the virus. We're going to speak next with one of the officials spearheading that effort. Health and Human Services Secretary Xavier Becerra.
Secretary Becerra, welcome.
XAVIER BECERRA: Thanks for having me.
KELLY: So 2.2 million vaccine doses were administered on one day this week. I think that's the highest single-day total in nearly seven months. What is your read? Is this omicron putting the fear of God in people?
BECERRA: I think Americans get it. The best way to protect yourself, the best way to protect your family, the best way to enjoy the holidays is to be vaccinated.
KELLY: Is there enough supply to meet the demand? And I am asking, in part, because I am desperately trying to get a booster here in D.C. I am having a lot of trouble. I know a lot of people are having trouble getting an appointment. Why does it seem so uneven?
BECERRA: Mostly what it is is getting everyone scheduled in, but the supply that the president has made available is enough to meet the need, and it's just a matter of making sure everyone can get to it. And so we continue to provide supply. In fact, we just announced that we're sending out more than 10 million vaccines across the world to other countries. So we have enough supply here, and I hope you're able to get yours soon.
KELLY: I hope I'm able to get mine soon, too. So you're saying there is enough supply. This is - what? - a distribution issue or a staffing issue in places where it's hard to get.
BECERRA: Well, you mentioned that we've - we had more Americans get the vaccine yesterday than we have had in many, many months. People are coming in again, and sometimes these different sites only have provided - rationed enough for what they thought they would get. They don't want to waste the vaccine. And once you start opening up those packages, you have to use those vaccine within a certain time.
KELLY: Is there anything the administration can do to help ease those bottlenecks? Because it is hard, you know, listening to officials such as you saying, everybody needs to get boosted, everybody needs to get vaccinated, and I stood in line at my CVS twice in the last week watching people being turned away who were trying to do just that.
BECERRA: Yeah, we are working hard to make sure every locality has the vaccines that they need. And because there are surges that sometimes are unexpected in particular spots, it's sometimes difficult to meet that demand immediately. But we're working with our state and local partners to make sure that everyone who wants a vaccine will get it free of charge.
KELLY: I want to ask about the effectiveness of travel bans, including this new one on flights from southern Africa. Of the cases already identified in the U.S., they include people who had not traveled to southern Africa. And as you know, there's an increasing number of omicron cases in Europe, and we have not shut down flights from there. Why the restrictions on these eight countries?
BECERRA: Well, the president's job is to make sure every American is safe, and so he's doing everything he can. And while we will continue to evaluate what is needed, whether it's domestically or abroad, what we're trying to do is make sure we stay ahead of these variants. And so we will calibrate based on the best science. But what we're going to do is make sure that we protect Americans as early and as often as we can.
KELLY: Is there a risk it will discourage countries from reporting new variants if they then are punished for having been good global citizens doing the science and going public with it?
BECERRA: Oh, I think what South Africa did must be applauded. They not only acted quickly but very transparently. And that's essential for us to have global responses to this pandemic. And so my sense - and having spoken to the health leaders in South Africa about this - is that at the end of the day, those who are transparent, those who act quickly, will be rewarded. And that...
KELLY: I'm not sure South Africa feels like it's been rewarded at this point, though. So my question is, will the next South Africa be as transparent if this is the result?
BECERRA: Well, we do this at our peril to not be transparent and not be swift in our actions because the U.S. is out there to try to help as many countries as possible. We know no American is fully safe until everyone in the world is safe. And so we're going to be out there helping. We are right now working with South Africa to identify this variant, see what vaccines are effective. The more that countries and people come forward, the better off everyone will be.
KELLY: On domestic travel, I want to let you respond to a question that we raised on this program yesterday, which is, if people need to get tested and vaccinated to fly from, say, London to New York for the holidays, why don't you need to do the same thing to fly from New York to LA? This is Dr. Leana Wen from George Washington University.
LEANA WEN: If President Biden really wants to do everything to increase vaccine uptake, there are other tools in his toolbox, including to require either testing or vaccination for domestic travel, for interstate train and bus and for plane travel as well.
KELLY: Secretary Becerra, what do you think - vaccinating or testing becoming required for domestic travel?
BECERRA: What we will do, of course, is look at the evidence. We know well what we have in the U.S. because we've been tracking activity in the U.S. for over, you know, some two years. We don't know as well what's going on abroad. And so we're taking more precautions when it comes to air travel from destinations outside of the U.S. because we're not as familiar with everything they've done.
KELLY: So how are you thinking about the pros and cons of that?
BECERRA: Well, first, if we can stay ahead of any variant of COVID, that's good. Second, the more we learn the evidence, the science tells us where we go, that's where we'll go. If it means having the same policy domestically that we do internationally, so be it. But what we want to do is base those actions on the science and in protecting Americans.
KELLY: Absolutely. And is there a certain number, a piece of information you're waiting for as you try to figure out whether this is something that would make sense, a vaccine or testing requirement for domestic travel?
BECERRA: You know, gosh, think of it this way - two weeks ago, we weren't even familiar with the word omicron. Today, we are concerned that it may become the next delta. So things change rapidly, and we have to try to stay ahead. Thank God we have the scientists who have helped us tackle this virus in so many different ways. And thank God Americans are now vaccinating in larger numbers because we know the best way to get ahead of this and win is to vaccinate.
KELLY: So just trying to pin you down on this, it sounds like this is potentially on the table, but you need more information because the situation is changing so fast.
BECERRA: Absolutely. We just have to evaluate and see where the evidence and the science takes us.
KELLY: Well, I wish you the happiest of holidays. Thank you for taking the time to speak to us.
BECERRA: Happy holidays to everyone.
KELLY: That is Xavier Becerra, secretary of health and human services. Transcript provided by NPR, Copyright NPR.


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Why Your Funnels Aren't Working Properly—And What To Do About It
First, don't give up or throw in the towel, this is fixable!
For a business owner with a solid funnel in place, it's easy to take a look at the number of subscribers at each level of the funnel and predict pretty accurately what the sales are going to be from day to day or week to week.
If you've got a funnel in place, though, and your numbers aren't looking great, chances are you have a leak somewhere. Your funnel has a hole (or two or three) where subscribers are falling through. There are four common causes for funnel leaks, and once you spot them, they're pretty easy to fix.
Not enough traffic. The very heart of your sales funnel is the traffic you bring in. Without visitors to your blog or opt-in pages, you'll have no subscribers. Without subscribers, you'll have no (or very few) sales. Without sales, you'll have no business. Yet this is where a lot of people struggle. How can you get more eyes on your content and more subscribers into your funnel?
How to fix it: Traffic generation is an entire industry of its own, but here are some tips: Use good SEO to encourage search engines to rank your content well. Be present and active in the places where your ideal reader hangs out, whether that's on social media, in niche forums, or at live events. Use paid ads to drive targeted traffic to highly relevant pages. Recruit JV partners and affiliates to promote your offers. Buy solo ads in related email newsletters.
No follow-up. This is a leaky funnel mistake that a lot of new entrepreneurs make. They spend a lot of time and energy setting up a great squeeze page and driving traffic to it, then they deliver the goods to their subscribers, and then…nothing. No follow-up emails. No offers to buy more. No related services or products. Nothing.
How to fix it: Before you spend time building that opt-in page or offer, be sure you have a back-end to promote, or those subscribers you so carefully collected will end up costing you money instead of earning it back.
No call-to-action. This happens most typically at the top of the funnel. Your blog posts, social media content, podcasts, YouTube videos—everything you offer for free—must have some kind of call-to-action, or it's all just wasted energy. Your call-to-action can be as simple as "Subscribe to my YouTube channel" or "Follow me on Facebook for more tips," but it must be there.
How to fix it: Every time you write a blog post or an email, as yourself, "What do I want my readers to do when they're done reading/listening/watching this?" That becomes your call to action.
No product offers. When you're just starting out, this can be a problem. You know you need to be building a mailing list, but with nothing to offer them, what's the point? The truth is, there are lots of ways to make money in your funnel even if you don't have a product to sell.
How to fix it: Promote affiliate offers. No matter what industry you're in, there are a variety of tools and products your readers need. Find those tools, sign up for the affiliate programs, and recommend them to your readers. Not only will your readers thank you for pointing them in the right direction, but you'll earn a little cash, too.
With a few tweaks and some attention paid to your follow-up sequences, chances are you can fix those holes and increase your profits in no time.


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01/29/19 A Delicious and Bountiful Vegan Dinner
Animal Friends and VEGAN THUGZ are treating interested applicants to a free dinner
- Wednesday, February 6, 6 pm, Jurišićeva 25: top vegan specialties at Animal Friends'
Animal Friends, together with VEGAN THUGZ civil initiative, who launched the "Why Are We Vegan?" campaign last year, will treat anyone interested, who hasn't yet experienced veganism, to a delicious and bountiful vegan dinner! Tasting delicious dishes - from appetizers to desserts, guests will have an opportunity to see why more and more people all over the world are deciding to leave meat, milk, eggs and other animal products out of their diet.
Organizers invite everyone to fill in the online application form, explaining: "We want to hear your opinion about veganism and animal rights activism, and along the way treat you to, and surprise you with, unforgettable vegan delicacies you'll think about for days. On Wednesday, 6 February 2019 at 6 pm, in a relaxed and informal atmosphere, we will chat with you and other participants about what you, as people who haven't yet had a "close encounter" with the plant-based diet, think of veganism. Don't worry, we appreciate honesty above everything else! Hurry up and apply, because the number of seats is limited to 10! :)"
Dinner will be served at Animal Friends' place, which will be rearranged appropriately for the occasion. The only requirement for taking part is that participants are not already vegan or vegetarian.
Even some of the world's most famous chefs, Jamie Oliver and Gordon Ramsay, have seen how popular this dietary trend is becoming and have adapted their former culinary habits accordingly. Both recently showed off their vegan delicacies on social media, including "veganized" holiday meals and meal suggestions for people who decided to try a vegan diet for "Veganuary" – the January vegan challenge. Oliver already introduced vegetarian and vegan menus to his Italian restaurants last May, but recently also cooked for the world's first vegan football team and has added vegan options to his January program, "Jan Plan". Ramsay has also launched plant-based options at his London restaurant.
For the last two years, VEGAN THUGZ have been designing and conducting events that, in a positive and encouraging manner, motivate people to live a compassionate lifestyle. They see this dinner as a perfect opportunity to bring the ideas of plant-based nutrition and the vegan lifestyle closer to those who have not yet encountered them, as well as answering their questions and hearing their opinion on veganism. All guests will also receive a surprise gift and a free cookbook, so they can continue experimenting with veganism at home.
Animal Friends and VEGAN THUGZ invite everyone interested to fill out the dinner application.


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Oprah Winfrey: Kim Kardashian Leveled Me
Posted by Andru Edwards Categories: Drama, Reality, Specials, Talk Shows, Cable, Oprah Winfrey Show, Features, Gossip, Internet,
Oprah Winfrey says Kim Kardashian's explanation for her short-lived marriage to Kris Humphries "leveled" her.
An interview by the media mogul with the entire Kardashian clan television stars is due to air on Sunday on her network OWN.
Oprah has revealed that the 31-year-old's split from the basketball player in October will be addressed in the program, Oprah's Next Chapter. "Everyone who's asked was the marriage a publicity stunt? Why did she leave after 72 days? Her answer leveled me," she wrote on her Facebook page.
Oprah hinted more about what will feature in the one-hour chat: "I genuinely wanted to know why they have become a cultural phenomenon, why so many people love to watch their every move and why so many others love to hate them. Are they completely ego centered? Are they really 'famous for being famous' or is there something more?"
Click to continue reading Oprah Winfrey: Kim Kardashian Leveled Me
Gallery: Oprah Winfrey: Kim Kardashian Leveled Me
Oprah Says Good-Bye With Bevy of Celebrity Friends
Posted by K.C. Morgan Categories: Daytime, Specials, CBS, Oprah Winfrey Show, Gossip,
Oprah Winfrey taped her final show this week, and Chicago was brimming with A-listers who came to help her say good-bye. A massive stage was added to the United Center, which was packed with more than 20,000 fans.
Tom Cruise, John Travolta, Madonna, Maria Shriver, Tom Hanks, Diane Sawyer, Halle Berry, Jamie Foxx and many others were in attendance, including Chicago hero Michael Jordan. Oprah's finale shows will air on Monday and Tuesday.
Read More | TMZ
Gallery: Oprah Says Good-Bye With Bevy of Celebrity Friends
VIDEO: Audience Screams for Oprah's Favorite Things
Posted by Veronica Santiago Categories: Daytime, Talk Shows, Syndication, Oprah Winfrey Show, Video,
One of our favorite things about The Oprah Winfrey Show is finally coming to an end.
What will we miss when the talk show queen wraps her daytime program? That hilarious moment every year when audience members are transformed into bouncing and screaming spectacles.
Ladies and gents -- we present highlights from Oprah's (next to) last "Favorite Things" special. (Part 2 airs Monday.) Enjoy it while it lasts.
(Click here to see the gifts she's mentioned so far.)
Read More | The Huffington Post
Gallery: VIDEO: Audience Screams for Oprah's Favorite Things
TV Talk: Coal Miners Reality Show, Incredible Hulk Reboot
Posted by Veronica Santiago Categories: Action, Prime Time, Reality, Specials, ABC, Cable, MTV, Oprah Winfrey Show, Rumors,
-Ladies -- get ready for some green chest action on ABC. The network is teaming up with Marvel to bring back a new version of The Incredible Hulk. (Mark Ruffalo is scheduled to play the character on the big screen in The Avengers.)
-Prepare for more television coverage of miners. Spike TV has been developing Coal -- a show about miners in West Virginia -- for over a year now. The program from the Deadliest Catch producers will debut in April.
-Barbara Walters has reportedly named the cast of Jersey Shore one of the most fascinating subjects of 2010. Barbara's annual special will air on December 9. Season 3 of Jersey Shore will then premiere on January 6.
-Speaking of Baba Wawa, the ABC personality has nabbed journalism's most coveted interview: the one with Oprah Winfrey. That discussion about Oprah's final season will air just before Barbara's Most Fascinating special.
Gallery: TV Talk: Coal Miners Reality Show, Incredible Hulk Reboot
Katherine Jackson to Appear on Oprah?
Posted by K.C. Morgan Categories: Daytime, Talk Shows, Syndication, Oprah Winfrey Show, Rumors,
TMZ spotted Oprah Winfrey's production crew outside the Jackson home over the weekend. The workers, who arrived in several trucks and two SUVs, confirmed that they were there doing "an Oprah shoot."
The crew ordered pizzas and received a parking ticket while inside the home. They stayed briefly, then packed up and left.
Oprah did not make an appearance, so it's likely the team was shooting an introductory segment for an eventual Katherine Jackson interview.
Read More | TMZ
Gallery: Katherine Jackson to Appear on Oprah?
TV Talk: Oprah Lands Oksana Grigorieva, Anderson Cooper Gets Own Talk Show
Posted by Veronica Santiago Categories: Action, Daytime, Prime Time, Reality, Talk Shows, ABC, Cable, CBS, HBO, Syndication, Oprah Winfrey Show, Gossip,
-Oksana Grigorieva, Mel Gibson's ex, has chosen to give Oprah Winfrey her very first interview. It's not known yet when that sit-down will air. (Let's just hope it doesn't involve singing as well.)
-According to an annual survey from the Gay & Lesbian Alliance Against Defamation (GLAAD), HBO's True Blood has the most gay characters on television. ABC tops major networks with 11 characters overall, while CBS came in last with only one.
-Anderson Cooper, who has filled in for Regis Philbin many times, is planning to launch his own daytime talk show in Fall 2011. The news anchor will also continue his evening duties with CNN.
-Spike TV's Deadliest Warrior—a show that pits historical fighters against each other—is being adapted for the big screen. The details surrounding Paramount's project have not been revealed.
Gallery: TV Talk: Oprah Lands Oksana Grigorieva, Anderson Cooper Gets Own Talk Show
TV Talk: Sarah Ferguson Talks Scandal, Real Housewives Son Arrested
Posted by Veronica Santiago Categories: Daytime, Drama, Prime Time, Reality, Specials, Talk Shows, ABC, Bravo, Cable, CBS, NBC, Syndication, General Hospital, Oprah Winfrey Show, Cancellations,
-Celebs are lining up to talk with Oprah before she leaves daytime. Next Tuesday, Sarah Ferguson (a.k.a. the Duchess of York) will try to explain why she tried to make money off ex-husband Prince Andrew.
-Speaking of daytime, James Franco will soon be returning there. He'll reprise his role as Franco on General Hospital beginning June 30.
-Soap lovers might not like hearing this news: the SOAPnet channel will be gone in 2012. In other words, get your weekend fixes of 90210 now.
-Could we be seeing more drama play out on The Real Housewives of Orange County? Tamra Barney's son, Ryan Vieth, was recently arrested for an outstanding warrant. Bail was set at $15,000.
-On an inspiring note, a list of channels are planning to Stand Up To Cancer again this year. The commercial-free fundraising event will be simulcast on September 10.
Gallery: TV Talk: Sarah Ferguson Talks Scandal, Real Housewives Son Arrested
VIDEO: Smiling Bret Michaels Does First TV Interview
Posted by Veronica Santiago Categories: Daytime, Prime Time, Reality, Talk Shows, NBC, Syndication, Apprentice, The - Donald, Oprah Winfrey Show, Video,
Even though he's still experiencing some headaches and having difficulty moving his lower extremities, Bret Michaels has plenty of reasons to smile.
On today's broadcast of Oprah, the musician - who was admitted into the hospital in April for a brain hemorrhage - says the scary ordeal has given him a new perspective on life. "The only thing that matters right now is taking care of my family and my kids and thanking God I'm still alive to talk about it.'"
Click to continue reading VIDEO: Smiling Bret Michaels Does First TV Interview
Read More | E! Online
Gallery: VIDEO: Smiling Bret Michaels Does First TV Interview
Bret Michaels Schedules Appearance on Oprah
Posted by Veronica Santiago Categories: Daytime, Prime Time, Reality, Talk Shows, NBC, Syndication, Apprentice, The - Donald, Oprah Winfrey Show,
Although it hasn't even been two weeks since Bret Michaels was released from the hospital, the musician already has a packed schedule.
According to the 47-year-old's website, Michaels - who had been receiving treatment for a brain hemorrhage - is currently preparing for dates on the road and on television. A May 28 concert at Biloxi's Hard Rock Live will first be preceded by a May 19 appearance on Oprah. A potential stop in New York for the Celebrity Apprentice finale on May 23 is also a possibility.
"[Bret] turned out to be a real fighter," Donald Trump told Access Hollywood. "I wasn't sure about Bret when I first met him. I wasn't sure. People had different thoughts. He's turned out to be a highly competitive guy who everyone liked."
Custom Built - Michael's upcoming album - will be released on June 8. He will reportedly remain on tour through December.
Read More | TV Guide
Gallery: Bret Michaels Schedules Appearance on Oprah
VIDEO: Dr. Phil Loses the Mustache
Posted by Veronica Santiago Categories: Daytime, Talk Shows, Syndication, Oprah Winfrey Show, Video,
After years of advising people how to make changes in their life, Dr. Phil McGraw publicly made a change of his own. On Friday's episode of Oprah, the TV host did something he hadn't done in approximately four decades- kiss a woman without a mustache on.
"For the first time in over 40 years - and I have two kids and they've never seen me without a mustache - I am going to take off my mustache," he announced to the audience at Radio City Music Hall.
Check out the before and after for yourself and let us know what you think. Does Dr. Phil look better clean shaven? Or should he grow back his trademark look?
Read More | TMZ
Gallery: VIDEO: Dr. Phil Loses the Mustache
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