text:
Health & Wellness Tips
Loretto Hospital is committed to your health and wellness, and we want to be your resource for health information, education and screenings. We encourage our patients to be active participants in their personal health outcomes. In addition to routine visits to the doctor to remain up-to-date with your health screenings, here are a few things you can do at home to self-manage your health:
- Eat low fat and low-calorie meals: Stick to the basics. Eat 3-5 servings of fruits and vegetables every day, lean meats such as fish, chicken breasts and turkey, plenty of grains and drink plenty of water. Scientific studies have shown time and again that choosing healthy foods can reduce the risk of heart disease, cancer, and other diseases. Healthy foods can also help you maintain a healthy weight. According to the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute, nearly 100 million Americans are overweight or obese due to improper eating habits. Being obese or overweight substantially increases your risk of heart disease, hypertension, type 2 diabetes, stroke, osteoarthritis, sleep apnea, and several types of cancer.
- Get plenty of exercise: Get active! Exercising on a regular basis can help manage illness such as diabetes, high blood pressure and reduce stress. As a rule, you should get some sort of exercise every day. Daily exercise can include taking a brisk walk, using the stairs at work instead of the elevator, or joining a local gym or YMCA to workout with an instructor.
- Manage your stress: Stress has been shown to be the culprit of many diseases, even cancer. If you are struggling with high stress levels, try taking a yoga class twice a week for 30 minutes each visit. Some people find relief from seeking professional counseling. Learning deep breathing exercises also help.
- Talk to your physician about your health: Routine doctor visits are an excellent way to stay on top of your health. Speak up and be honest. There's an old saying "what you don't know won't hurt." But in the case of your health, withholding vital information from your doctor could have unfavorable outcomes for you. Pay attention to your body and report any changes you have noticed to your doctor. Be sure to share your family history so that your doctor can better assess your health. If you are taking medications, always bring all medications to every visit to ensure that any new prescriptions do not conflict with your current prescriptions.
- Get plenty of rest: Lack of sleep (or sleep deprivation) can cause a host of health-related issues such as over exhaustion and increased stress levels. When you are asleep, that is the only time that your immune system can work to fight off the bacteria forming in your body.
For more information about how you can take charge of your health, follow the links below:
Food and Fitness: The American Diabetes Association
Five Foods that Boost Your Health: WebMD
New Online Nutrition SuperTracker Helps You Get Your Plate In Shape!
Food as Medicine: Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics
Constant Stress Puts Your Health at Risk: Mayo Clinic
Seven benefits of Regular Physical Activity: Mayo Clinic


text:
Apple's problem, in a word
The iPad maker is reeling under the Android threat after Samsung's Galaxy Note grabs the value end of the market. Pricing, it turns out, is more important than Apple realized.
By Dana Blankenhorn, TheStreet
Apple's (AAPL) problem is that it failed to perceive the threat that phablets -- small tablets that double as phones -- would create for it.
Samsung launched its Galaxy Note phablet in 2011, two years after the introduction of the first iPad. The phablet was designed to undercut both the iPhone and iPad by giving low-income consumers, especially in Asia, one inexpensive device that combined the functions of Apple's immensely popular gadgets.
This doesn't just appeal to Beijing hipsters. One of my dearest friends, a 68-year old Vietnam War veteran, recently chose a Note phablet over the iPhone. His eyes desired the bigger screen, and his wallet demanded he get one device, not two.
Apple, which maintained premium pricing on its iPod line for a decade, did nothing against the threat to its iPad dominance for more than a year. The response, when it came, was the iPad Mini. The problem with the Mini was that it did not address the real challenge of the Note, namely price.
Ignoring history's lessons
As any market matures, pricing theory holds that the wise supplier moves from "premium pricing" to "value pricing," sacrificing margin in order to maintain market share. Apple did not do this with the Mini. Samsung did this with the Note.
Amazon.com (AMZN) also did this with the Kindle, which is less a tablet and more an Amazon-only device -- the browser is deliberately terrible. But when you can get the price below $200, as Amazon has, you can move a lot of boxes.
The result of failing to address the low end of the market, combined with rivals' decisions to go after it aggressively, can be seen in the market share data.
The saturation of the phablet market and the high price of the iPad Mini pushed Apple's second-quarter share of the total tablet market down to 35.5%, against 21.5% for Samsung, with a host of other Android names taking up what remained.
This was a huge win for Google (GOOG) Android operating system, which powers nearly all the market's small fry, as well as Samsung. Google is now trying to consolidate its advantage with the LG-made Nexus 7, which reviewers at C|Net compare very favorably with the Mini, along with the Moto X phone, produced by its Motorola division and backed by a $500 million ad campaign dwarfing anything Apple has ever done.
Usually, at this time of the year, we in the media are all breathlessly awaiting the next Apple press conference, speculating about what great new stuff the company is about to offer us. Instead, we're now watching to see which Apple executives walk the plank, and speculating about Google.
The "cool" end of the market, the premium end, always responds in time to what is happening at the low or "value" end of the market. Just as Toyota made the Lexus possible, just as Chevrolet made Cadillac possible, so mass market success breeds class market profit.
This is Business 101. Tim Cook's Apple, in its arrogance, ignored the lesson of history and is paying the price, in the stores, on the streets, and especially on Wall Street.
At the time of publication the author owned shares of Apple and Google.
More from TheStreet.com
Apple has always been "eletist" about both it's products and customer base, it's what nearly caused the demise of the company the first time around.Apple may have better products initially, but in this day of touch screen idiot proof operation is "better" realy worth $200+ more? And it realy doesn't help when your better and more expensive product has a better and more expensive version every 6 - 9 months, upgrading is so much less painfull with an almost as good (some say possibly better) cheaper Apple alternative. I personally never went or will go the Apple route, never saw the point in spending that extra money ( or standing in line for a product, I have bladder issues)
Copyright © 2014 Microsoft. All rights reserved.
Fundamental company data and historical chart data provided by Morningstar Inc. Real-time index quotes and delayed quotes supplied by Morningstar Inc. Quotes delayed by up to 15 minutes, except where indicated otherwise. Fund summary, fund performance and dividend data provided by Morningstar Inc. Analyst recommendations provided by Zacks Investment Research. StockScouter data provided by Verus Analytics. IPO data provided by Hoover's Inc. Index membership data provided by Morningstar Inc.
Start investing in technology companies with help from financial writers and experts who know the industry best. Learn what to look for in a technology company to make the right investment decisions.
Forget Facebook: DataCoup allows users to sell their private data directly to businesses. But will consumers feel comfortable taking them up on the offer?
- Shared
- Commented
- Viewed
- Video: Easy DIY smoked meats at home
A charcuterie master shares his process for cold-smoking meat at home.
- Jetpacks about to go mainstream
- Weird things covered by home insurance
- Bing: 70 percent of adults report 'digital eye strain'

subset: commoncrawl


text:
Situated in a historic house overlooking the falls of Ellicott Creek, the Creekview has been a village favorite for years. The Creekview features American fusion cuisine blended with contemporary international styles. In addition to our extensive menu, the pride of Creekview is the daily specials board with exciting and consistently changing creations. Add to your dining experience by enjoying our full bar and wine from our hand selected wine list, and complete your dining experience with one of our many desserts, all made in-house. Enjoy the heated enclosed patio available year round for a unique dining experience with a sensational view. The Creekview provides a relaxed, comfortable and familiar atmosphere making it a popular dining destination. We are open 7 days a week for lunch & dinner and accept reservation for parties of all sizes. Click our reservations link to make them on-line through Open Table.
Hours of Operation:
Lunch Mon - Sat 11:30am-4:00pm
Dinner Mon-Thurs 4:00pm-10:30pm; Fri/Sat 4:00pm-11:00pm; Sunday 4:00pm-9:00pm
Sunday Brunch 12:00pm-4:00pm
We are located at 5629 Main Street Williamsville NY 14221 Phone 716-632-9373
Upcoming Saturday and Thursday Night Music Series:
Band Schedule July, August & September
Thursday 7/3 – David Nolf
Saturday 7/5 – Pirate Dreams
Wednesday 7/8- The Zack Morris Experience
Thursday 7/10 – Joe Marohn
Saturday 7/12 – Kick Start Rumble
Thursday 7/17 – Mike Wolcott
Saturday 7/19 – Mike DeSanto
Thursday 7/24 – Bryan Berhalter
Saturday 7/26 – Zak Ward
Thursday 7/31 – Mike & Mandy
Saturday 8/2 – Hey Man
Thursday 8/7 – Tim Britt
Saturday 8/9 – Busted Stuff
Thursday 8/14 – Zak Ward
Saturday 8/16 – Geno McManus
Thursday 8/21 – Chris Squier
Saturday 8/23 – Mike Wolcott
Thursday 8/28 – Mike & Mandy
Saturday 8/30 – Joe Squared
Thursday 9/4 – Scott Celani
Saturday 9/6 – Porcelain Train
Thursday 9/11 – Shaun Duchscherer
Saturday 9/13 –
Thursday 9/18 – Bryan Berhalter
Saturday 9/20 – Chris Squier
Thursday 9/25 – Mike & Mandy
*We are now serving brunch on Sunday's from 12-4pm. Creme Brulee French Toast, Eggs Benedict, Steak & Eggs and much more.
*The patio is open 7 days a week for lunch and dinner, rain or shine. It is covered and enclosed, with windows open weather permitting!!!
*Stop in EVERY Thursday & Saturday night for Live Music in the bar starting at 8:30pm! Check out the Live Entertainment schedule to see who's coming up!
*Think of us for your next special occasion. Creekview is pleased to offer both In House and Off Site catering options. Please ask about our NEW in house catering packages perfect for showers, rehearsal dinners, birthday parties, etc. Check out our catering menu available under the menu section on this site.


text:
The person has left several messages stating my Chase account has fraud. I called Chase to confirm and they said this is a scam.
(954) 656-4091 | +1 9546564091 Phone Number Reports
+1 954-656-4091 Phone Call Reports
I did not answer, but they also called me on July 23. I also received other calls from Florida from the number 954-580-7123 on June 17, June 27, and July 9. My credit card information was stolen around the time that the phone calls started, so I wonder if it is related.
auto dialer
Gift card scam
Travel options, 500$ gift card blaha


text:
A method of magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is disclosed which employs a diamagnetic contrast agent comprising gas-carrying, microparticles, which are preferably microspheres consisting of minute gas bubbles encapsulated by stabilized biocompatible material. The MRI is carried out to produce a shortened T2* effect. The method is especially useful in imaging the vascular system as in angiography or venography.
1. The method of magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), comprising the steps of:
(a) introducing a bolus into a portion of the circulating blood of a mammal prior to or during an MRI examination, said bolus comprising an aqueous medium containing a dispersion of microspheres of diameters of less than 8 microns, said microspheres consisting of gas microbubbles encapsulated by stabilized biocompatible material, said bolus prior to administration having volume of 3.5 to 20 milliliters and a microsphere concentration of greater than 1�106 microspheres per milliliter; and
(b) when the administered microspheres have reached the site to be imaged, carrying out magnetic resonance imaging by a fast imaging technique to produce a shortened T2* effect in which the portion of the blood containing the microspheres produces a decrease in signal intensity.
2. The method of claim 1 in which the imaging is carried out by an echo planar technique.
3. The method of claim 1 in which the imaging is carried out by a fast MRI technique using a series of radio frequency excitation pulses.
4. The method of claim 1 in which the imaging is carried out with a time-to-repeat (TR) of less than 100 milliseconds.
5. The method of claim 4 in which the imaging is carried out by a technique in which the coherence of transverse magnetization is spoiled.
6. The method of claims 1, 2, 3, 4, or 5 in which the microspheres consist of air microbubbles encapsulated by human serum albumin.
This application is a continuation-in-part of copending application Ser. No. 07/540,504, filed Jun. 19, 1990 now abandoned.
The field of this invention is magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), and more particularly MRI using contrast agents.
Heretofore contrast agents for improving magnetic resonance imaging of protons have consisted of magnetizable substances comprising metals or metallic compounds. Such contrast agents may be paramagnetic, ferromagnetic, or superparamagnetic, and act through dipole interactions with tissue protons. Where the substance is toxic, such as gadolinium, it can be administered in chelated form. In another kind of MRI contrast agent, ultrafine particles of a ferromagnetic or superparamagnetic material, such as magnetite (Fe3 O4), have been dispersed in a biodegradable matrix material, and formed into microspheres which are capable of passing through capillaries. Such MRI contrast agents are described in U.S. Pat. Nos. 4,675,173 and 4,849,217. A preferred biodegradable material is human serum albumin. Albumin is not known to have any MRI contrast-producing properties. It is the magnetizable particles dispersed in the albumin which produces the MRI contrast effect.
It is known that gas microbubbles are strong scatterers of ultrasonic waves in fluid media, and may therefore be useful as an imaging agent for ultrasonic echographic imaging (U.S. Pat. No. 4,276,885). The preparation and use of microbubble ultrasonic imaging agents are described in U.S. Pat. Nos. 4,718,433, 4,572,203, 4,657,756 and 4,774,958. U.S. Pat. No. 4,657,756 suggests that microbubbles can alter the transmission characteristics of electromagnetic waves and therefore might have applications in "x-ray imaging (e.g., CT scanning), NMR imaging, microwave imaging, and marine sonar" (col. 3, lines 43-44). However, the patent contains no examples or other disclosure as to how such applications could be carried out.
Stabilized, concentrated gas-center microspheres in small enough diameters to pass through the capillaries are described in U.S. Pat. No. 4,844,882. A product of this kind designed for ultrasonic imaging use has been produced by Molecular Biosystems, Inc., of San Diego, Calif., and is known by the registered trademark "ALBUNEX". Another kind of gas-carrying ultrasonic imaging particles are described in published European Patent Application 0 365 467. Gas bubbles are carried by solid particles that are small enough to pass through the capillaries.
As far as is known no one has heretofore described a method for using microbubbles as an MRI contrast agent. MRI utilizes radio frequency pulses and magnetic field gradients applied to a subject in a strong field to produce the images. The scientific principles and mechanisms involved are entirely different from ultrasonic imaging which utilizes high frequency sound waves.
There is voluminous literature on magnetic resonance imaging, and a number of United States and foreign companies manufacture equipment for experimental and clinical MRI applications. Existing knowledge in the field of contrast agents for use in MRI was surveyed in a recent treatise entitled "Enhanced Magnetic Resonance Imaging", edited by Val M. Runge (1989, C. V. Mobsy Company); and see also Peter G. Morris, "Nuclear Magnetic Imaging in Medicine and Biology", (1986, Oxford University Press). Accepted MRI terminology includes the following definitions which are applicable to this application.
Artifacts--Undesirable features in NMR images which do not correspond to true anatomical or pathological conditions which may be caused by non-ideal effects in the imaging process.
Echo Time (ET)--A timing parameter in an NMR pulse sequence which describes the time delay between the RF excitation pulse and acquisition of the NMR signal.
FID--Free induction decay, which is the fundamental signal detected in NMR.
FOV--Field of view.
Gradient Echo--The NMR echo signal produced when a gradient field is first applied with on polarity to destroy the NMR FID signal and then with opposite polarity to cause the signal to refocus.
Magnetic Susceptibility--The constant of proportionality which relates the degree of magnetization of a material to the strength of an applied magnetic field.
MRI--Magnetic Resonance Imaging.
NMR--Nuclear Magnetic Resonance.
Pixel--Picture Element in a digital image.
Pulse Sequence--A series of RF pulses used in conjunction with gradient magnetic fields and NMR signal reception to produce NMR images.
Repetition Time (TR)--The time to repeat parameter in an NMR pulse sequence which comprises the interval between repetitions of RF excitation pulses.
RF--Radio Frequency.
Spin Echo--The reappearance of an NMR signal after the free induction decay has died away due to T1 and T2 effects.
T1--Spin-lattice relaxation time or longitudinal relaxation time which is the characteristic time constant for spins to tend to align themselves with an external magnetic field.
T2--Spin-spin or transverse relaxation time which is the characteristic time constant for loss of phase coherence among spins oriented at an angle to a static magnetic field.
T2*--The apparent transverse relaxation time which combines the true T2 of a sample with additional factors producing a loss of phase coherence of the NMR signal; such as magnetic field inhomogeneities.
T1-Weighted--An MR image which is made using pulse sequence parameters which emphasize differences in the T1 of the subject.
T2-Weighted--An MR image which is made using pulse sequence parameters which emphasize differences in the T2 of the subject.
Telsa (T)--Unit of magnetic field strength equivalent to one Newton per ampere meter.
In a recent paper, Majumdar, et al. stated: "NMR images that portray blood flow at the capillary level would likely have widespread clinical application" (Mag. Res. Imag., 6:611-615, 1988). However, as the authors pointed out: "Methods designed to portray perfusion effects, such as conventional spin echo magnitude or phase maps, have thus far enjoyed only limited success." As further stated: "A primary limitation on the sensitivity of such methods is the small size of the blood to background NMR signal ratio, which arises from the fact that blood comprises only a small fraction of tissue protons."
Majumdar, et al. reported on their investigation of superparamagnetic particles as an MRI contrast agent in blood. They pointed out that if the effect of the superparamagnetic particles was confined to the blood only a limited T1 or T2 relaxation would be expected. They concluded: "For tissue protons to experience T2 shortening through dipolar interactions with paramagnetic ions, tissue water must diffuse into the immediate hydration sphere of an ion in the time TE in a spin echo sequence in order to experience the local field of the ion" (Majumdar, et al. cited above, page 611).
MR angiography was discussed by Lee, et al., Mag. Res. Med., 12:113, 1989, stating that clinical images have been produced without a contrast agent. The observed contrast was caused by the dephasing of blood moving along the readout gradient.
The method of magnetic resonance imaging of this invention, which is particularly applicable for vascular system imaging, employs a diamagnetic contrast agent. The diamagnetic agent comprises gas-carrying, non-magnetic microparticles predominantly of diameters less than 8 microns. This contrast agent is introduced into the blood before or during the MRI examination. When the diamagnetic agent reaches the site to be imaged, MRI imaging is carried out by a T2-weighted or T2*-weighted technique. The portion of the blood containing the diamagnetic imaging agent is contrasted by its difference in magnetic susceptibility. This is caused by the gas bubbles producing magnetic susceptibility gradients which result in a shortened T2*. The segment of blood being imaged with the assistance of the diamagnetic contrast agent will experience an enhanced signal loss and will appear dark against the surrounding tissues.
The method of this invention can be used for examinations of the circulatory system for pathological conditions which may exist in the capillaries, in the heart or in the arteries or veins. Specifically, it is expected that angiograms and venograms of clinical image quality can be obtained.
The method of this invention can be practiced with gas-microbubbles, which may be encapsulated by non-magnetic materials, or which are associated with particulates which are non-magnetic. Diamagnetic imaging agents for use in the method of this invention comprise gas-carrying, non-magnetic microparticles which are predominately of less than 8 microns diameter so they can pass through capillaries. For example, such microbubbles may be produced and administered as described in U.S. Pat. Nos. 4,572,203 and 4,718,433. (For other methods of microbubble generation, see Schlepper, Amer. Heart J., 115:399-408, 1988; and Butler, et al., Ultrasound Imaging, 12:150, Abst. 9.2, 1990.)
The magnetic resonance imaging method of this invention preferably employs microspheres consisting of gas microbubbles encapsulated by a stabilized biocompatible material. The "ALBUNEX" microspheres of Molecular Biosystems, Inc. are an example of the kind of imaging agent which can be used most effectively in the method of this invention. Neither the microsphere contrast agent nor the blood or tissues being imaged are magnetic substances. They are diamagnetic. Nevertheless, image contrast effects can be obtained because of differences in magnetic susceptibility.
As indicated, the MRI method of this invention involves magnetic susceptibility effects. Such effects have been discussed in the literature primarily as a problem to be overcome or avoided. As stated in "Enhanced Magnetic Resonance Imaging", (cited above) at pages 35 to 36: "Abrupt changes in magnetic susceptibility distort the magnetic field locally, like any other static magnetic field inhomogeneitity. As a result, the shape of anatomic structures can become warped in both spin-echo and gradient-echo techniques." Large air filled cavities in the body such as the sinus or bowel can result in reduced image intensity due to a magnetic susceptibility effects. Ludeke, et al., Mag. Res. Imag., 3:329-343, 1985, studied these effects using image artifacts in images of phantoms containing air. It was proposed that procedures should be used to correct image distortions caused by susceptibility variations created by air-filled cavities in the body.
Encapsulated gas-center microspheres for use in the method of this invention can be prepared as described in U.S. Pat. No. 4,844,882, or by the continuous single-stage method described in U.S. application Ser. No. 244,844, which is co-owned with the present application. A suitable product of this kind is presently described as an ultrasonic imaging agent. It is available from Molecular Biosystems, Inc. of San Diego, Calif., being called by the registered trademark "ALBUNEX".
Other microbubble preparations which can be used in the method of this invention are also available for ultrasonic imaging applications. These include aircarrying galactose particles ["Echovist", Schering AG, West Germany, as described by Fritzsch, et al., Invest. Radiol. (Suppl) 23:S302-S305, 1988; and, "Levovist", Schering AG, West Germany, as described by Smith, et al., J. Am. College Cardiology, 13:1622-1628, 1989]. The methods of manufacturing products corresponding to "Echovist" and "Levovist" are described in published European patent applications Nos. 0 035 467 and 0 122 624. For example, galactose (1988 gr.) and palmitic acid (120 gr ) are dissolved in ethanol, sterile filtered, and the solution is evaporated to dryness. The dried material is milled under aseptic conditions to a grain size in a range of 1 to 5 microns. To prepare this product for intravenous administration, the microparticles are mixed with water and shaken vigorously until a homogeneous suspension results. This causes air bubbles to become associated with the particles, being on the particle surfaces or in intracrystalline crevices.
A preferred MRI contrast agent as prepared for administration comprises a sterile aqueous medium containing a dispersion of microspheres predominately of diameters of less than 8 microns. The microspheres consist of gas microbubbles encapsulated by a stabilized biocompatible material. The preferred microspheres have centers of air surrounded by heat-insolubilized human serum albumin. Other gases can be used such as oxygen, carbon dioxide, or nitrogen. The aqueous medium may consist of an albumin solution, normal saline, or other aqueous medium suitable for intravenous injection. The medium as well as the microspheres should be sterile.
The microspheres or other gas-carrying microparticles should be of diameters less than 8 microns for easy passage through capillaries. For example, microparticles in the range from 2 to 6 microns are suitable. The "ALBUNEX" product of Molecular Biosystems, Inc. which is especially suitable for use in the method of this invention, can be prepared by sonication of a 5% aqueous solution of human serum albumin by the process of U.S. Pat. No. 4,957,656. The air-center albumin encapsulated microspheres are about 90% below 8 microns. The microspheres can be highly concentrated, such as up to 5�108 microspheres per milliliter. The "ALBUNEX" product has excellent stability at ordinary room temperatures; being stable from 6 to 12 months or longer. The imaging agents used in the method of this invention should contain gas-carrying particles or microspheres at concentrations of at least 1�104 microspheres per milliliter of imaging agent. In preferred embodiments higher concentration are used, viz. concentrations of at least 1�106 microspheres per milliliter.
The contrast agent is administered into the circulating blood of a human subject, or other mammal, either prior to or during the MRI examination. For example, a bolus of the imaging agent may be introduced into a vein or artery by hypodermic injection or by catheter. The introduction site may be at or close to the site where the examination is to be made. Alternatively, the imaging agent can be transferred through the bloodstream to the site of examination. The preferred microspheres are sized so that they pass readily through capillaries. It is therefore feasible to introduce the contrast agent into a peripheral vein for transfer through the circulatory system. When using imaging agents of the microsphere concentrations described above, an effective imaging amount may range from 3 to 50 milliliters, depending upon the purpose of the examination. More specifically, the amount administered may be from 3.5 to 20 milliliters when employing concentrations of at least 1�106 microspheres per milliliter in imaging the heart or vascular system.
The method of this invention is believed to be particularly adapted for blood flow examinations, as in angiography. The rate of blood flow and course of the administered microspheres can be directly observed. The method is therefore adapted for imaging the vasculature to produce contrast-enhanced MR angiograms.
When an imaging amount of the diamagnetic agent used in the method of this invention has reached the site to be imaged, it is preferred to carry out T2-weighted or T2*-weighted MRI imaging. The portion of the blood containing the imaging agent is thereby contrasted by its difference in magnetic susceptibility, producing a shortened T2* effect. Obtaining a T2* effect is critical for effective magnetic resonance imaging with the microbubble imaging agents used in the method of this invention. For example, an echo planar technique may be used, which utilizes a single radio frequency excitation pulse to produce a T2*-effect. Alternatively, the MR imaging may be carried out by techniques using a series of radio frequency excitation pulses in fast MRI where the time-to-repeat (TR) is substantially less than 1 second, such as less than 100 milliseconds, thereby producing a T2* effect.
Fast imaging techniques may be employed as described in "Enhanced Magnetic Resonance Imaging", Runge, Ed. (1989), cited above, at pages 31-35, which can also provide a T2* effect. For example, a fast gradient echo technique may be used with a series of radio frequency pulses and time-to-repeat (TR) of less than 100 milliseconds. A low flip angle (less than 90�) is preferably employed with gradient-reversal echos. Such techniques have been referred to generically as "FLASH" in the cited Runge treatise. Another such fast imaging technique now widely in use is known as "GRASS"; a trademark of the GE Corp. which is an acronym for Gradient Recalled Acquisition in the Steady State. The term "FLASH" is an acronym for fast-low angle shot. MRI equipment is available for practicing such techniques from General Electric Medical Systems, Milwaukee, Wis., Philips-Picker International, Inc., Highland Heights, Ohio, and other companies. With such available techniques and equipment T2 or T2* weighted sequences produce T2* effects which are needed for useful contrast imaging using a microbubble imaging agent.
As described by Bendel, Mag. Res. Med., 5:366-370 (1987), "FLASH" sequences include "spoiling-Flash" as one type, and "refocusing-Flash" as another. In spoiling sequences, the coherence of transverse magnetization is destroyed between excitation pulses, and the observed signal is based on the steady-state level of longitudinal magnetization. With the refocusing sequences, the coherence of transverse magnetization is preserved. Both types use gradient-reversal echos. For use with the imaging method of the present invention it is believed to be preferable to employ sequences in which the transverse magnetization is spoiled. In T2-weighted imaging with a diamagnetic agent can improve the contrast obtained by shortened T2* effects.
The method of this invention is also believed to be applicable to multiecho MR angiography as described by Dumoulin, et al. Mag. Res. Med., 5:47-57 (1987); and 6:275-286 (1988), when carried out to produce a T2* effect. This technique as described by Dumoulin, et al. has been called phase contrast angiography.
The practicality of the method of this invention is shown by the following experiments.
The MRI equipment used was a General Electric CSI 2 Tesla unit with GE Acustar S-150 self-shielded gradient coils. This equipment is designed for use with "GRASS" and "EZGRASS" sequences, as well as other sequences, including Spin Echo and Echo Planar.
In the initial examination, a 10 cc bottle substantially filled with "ALBUNEX" was used as a specimen. This sample consisted of air-containing microspheres ranging in size primarily from 2 to 6 microns at a concentration of around 1�108 microspheres per milliliter. The amount of encapsulated air was estimated to be about 2% by volume of the "ALBUNEX" sample. A comparative sample consisted of a 10 cc glass test tube filled with tap water. These samples were subjected to a Spin Echo sequence which was T1-weighted. No differences in image intensity were observed between the two samples.
The samples were then examined by the "GE EZGRASS" pulse sequence with T2-weighting. The field of view was 60 mm, the TR 500 milliseconds, the TE 16 milliseconds, and the slice thickness was 1.0 cm. Images were obtained in a 20 bit resolution pixel format without frame averaging. The resulting images were transferred to a work station where the image data was scaled and converted to an eight-bit format and analyzed and formatted. Signal intensity values from this image analysis ranged from zero (white) to 255 (black). The T2-weighted "EZGRASS" image of the "ALBUNEX" sample produced a significant increase in signal loss. This signal loss was not observed from the water sample. The water sample had a signal intensity value of 56 as compared with 249 for the "ALBUNEX" sample.
The procedure was repeated with a sample in which the "ALBUNEX" microspheres had been disrupted to permit their air centers to escape leaving the albumin wall material without entrapped air. No image enhancement was observed. The disrupted "ALBUNEX" residue and the water sample were comparable. This indicated that the previously observed enhancement was caused by the air-centers of the microspheres and not by the albumin, although the amount of air present was very small (viz. about 2% of the sample volume).
An in vivo test was also conducted. A rat was anesthetized and a catheter placed in its tail vein. The rat was placed in the imaging cradle of the GE Acustar MRI unit described above. An "ALBUNEX" sample like that described above was used, 5 cc being injected slowly into the rat. An Echo Planar sequence was used with TE of approximately 16 milliseconds. Observing the rat's right heart ventricle, a decrease in signal intensity was measured due to the "ALBUNEX" of 134 as compared with 53 for the blood.
Since the foregoing tests indicated that the "ALBUNEX" samples examined by the "GE EZGRASS" pulse sequence with T2-weighting produced a loss of signal intensity, another in vitro study was carried out.
Five samples of "ALBUNEX" each with a different amount of air per ml of sample, were examined. The object was to determine whether there was a relationship between the amount of air contained in the microspheres and the magnitude of the signal loss. A GE CSI MR 2.0 T imager with a 3.5 inch (i.d.) birdcage imaging coil was used with an EZGRASS sequence (TR=200 msec, TE=1 msec, sinc power=8%, 70 mm FOV, number of excitations=4, receiver gain=64). Images were obtained in an interval of 30 to 100 seconds after the air-containing microspheres were completely dispersed. Images were obtained in a 20 bit resolution pixel format without frame averaging. The resulting images were transferred to a work station where the image data was scaled and converted to an eight-bit format and analyzed and formatted. Signal intensity values ranged from zero (white) to 255 (black). A positive essentially linear relationship was found between loss of signal intensity and the amount of air contained in the microspheres. These experiments demonstrated the importance of carrying out the magnetic resonance imaging to produce a shorted T2* effect in which the portion of the blood containing the microbubble imaging agent is contrasted by its difference in magnetic susceptibility.
Patent Citations
Non-Patent Citations
Referenced by
Legal Events
Original Image


text:
Nikki Reed was spotted wearing Rag & Bone Classic Newbury Booties (available from Intermix, $495) with a Gypsy 05 Carine Shirt in Sand and denim cut off shorts in Los Angeles on August 3rd, 2011 (Source). R&B can do no wrong in our eyes. They have brought us a little western in their luscious weathered leather above the ankle botties that have multiple patches sewn together with hidden seams. A back hidden gold zipper is the way to slip them on. Stacked 3 3/4" heel. newbury boot … [Read more...]
Rag & Bone Classic Newbury Booties as seen on Nikki Reed in Los Angeles
January Jones' Cocobelle Noel Thongs
January Jones was spotted wearing Cocobelle Noel Thong Sandals (available from Endless.com, $34 - $62 depending on which color you prefer) while out walking her dog in Los Angeles on July 31st, 2011. Ms. Jones paired her sandals with jeans and a Malibu Native Live Once Dolman Tee (on sale at PacSun for only $7.99! Regularly $26.50). I love when celebrities wear styles that us common folk can afford! Source. Cocobelle Thongs … [Read more...]
Stuart Weitzman Xray Wedge Sandals as seen on Michelle Trachtenberg
Michelle Trachtenberg spotted wearing Stuart Weitzman leopard hair-calf X-RAY wedges (currently on sale at Amazon.com and available in Cognac Leopard, Root Vachetta, Navy Dirty Denim &/or Wood Bontanic Nappa) running errands in Los Angeles recently. Source: Stuart Weitzman Public Relations / Startraks stuart weitzman wedge sandal … [Read more...]
New Balance 759 as on Ashley Tisdale
Ashley Tisdale was spotted wearing New Balance 759 Women's Running Shoes (currently on sale from Nordstrom for $66.90, regularly $99.95) while in Los Angeles on June 7th, 2011 (Source). New Balance Running Shoe … [Read more...]
Stuart Weitzman Hiturn Platform Sandals as seen on Angelina Jolie
Angelina Jolie wore Stuart Weitzman Hiturn Platform Sandals (available from National Jean Company, $365) to the "Tree of Life" Premiere in Los Angeles. The Hiturn by Stuart Weitzman is a strappy sandal with a wrapped heel. Lightly cushioned footbed and adjustable buckle closure at ankle. Heel Height: 3 1/2" Source: Stuart Weitzman Public Relations / WireImage Stuart Weitzman Platform Sandal … [Read more...]


text:
(Editor's Note: Throughout the offseason, DallasCowboys.com staff writers will take a closer look at the roster, analyzing each player's impact last season and how he fits into the team's 2013 plans. Today's Roster Rundown entry features wide receiver
Photos of Dez Bryant throughout the years >>
Name: Dez Bryant
Position: Wide Receiver
Height/Weight: 6-2/220
Experience: 3 seasons
College: Oklahoma State
Key stat: When the second half of the season began with a road contest in Philly, Bryant went on a remarkable run, earning a touchdown in seven straight games. In that seven-game span, he had three multiple-score games and had 10 receiving touchdowns overall.
Contract Status: Signed through 2014 after agreeing to one-year deal for this season.
How He Played In 2012: You have heard me say this many times before that the type of season that Dez Bryant was able to put together really started for him when he committed himself during the offseason after his second year in the league. He showed up before the 2012 campaign physically and mentally a different player. Whether you give the credit to then-receivers coach Jimmy Robinson or Bryant himself, it was a change that needed to be made. It can be one thing to have all the talent in the world, but if you are not preparing yourself mentally and physically, you are not going to obtain the success that many believed you are capable of. Bryant is as talented of a receiver as I have ever seen and I have been around Sterling Sharpe, Mark Duper, Irving Fryar, Jimmy Smith and Michael Irvin. Bryant has rare skills, not only in
catching the ball, but also scoring from anywhere on the field. He can be a nightmare for a defensive coordinator to have to deal with because he can make plays not only between the 20s but down in the red zone as well. When you have a player that has physical tools like Bryant, he puts a great deal of pressure on your scheme. I felt where Bryant made the biggest adjustment from the previous season was his ability to finish games. There were clearly times where he would start quickly in a game than disappear for long stretches. In 2012, you didn't see that with him. He didn't get as frustrated and sloppy on his routes, which was a problem that he experienced before. The one thing that I have learned being around
Where He Fits: There is no doubt that he has replaced
Writers' Analysis:
Nick Eatman – Everything the Cowboys were hoping Bryant would be on the field, he showed it last year. They wanted a dynamic playmaker who could take games over. Check. They wanted a physical player who could go over the middle. Check. They wanted a guy who could at times stretch the defense with his big-play ability. Check. They wanted to see a player who loved the game so much and wanted to compete so badly that he'd play through enormous pain. Check. They wanted to see a young, raw prospect develop into a reliable player they could count on down the stretch. Check once again. So everything the Cowboys wanted out of Bryant, he showed it in 2012. Had it not been for having surgery on his finger, he would've likely been named to the Pro Bowl. That's the direction his career is headed and as long as he stays out of the news for other reasons, there is no reason why Bryant won't be considered one of the NFL's elite receivers by the end of this year, if he's not categorized as that already.


text:
March 25, 2006
Baby Gear(Filed under: Baby Stuff)
There is a ton of stuff out there that baby companies try and pitch as a "must have" and absolutely essential product to raising a happy baby but in reality the product is pretty much just one more thing to take up space. One of those things is the Wipe Warmer. It's a little heated box to put the wet-wipes in so you don't truamatize your infant in the middle of the night with a freezing cold wet-wipe on his/her little butt. This sounds like a good idea but we found out that the wipes don't actually get very warm and in the time between pulling them out of the warmer and wiping her butt, they cool off to their original temperature. And, the last 20 wipes or so are wasted because they completely dry out before you can use them. Oh well, I guess it's back to room temperature wipes for Lexi. Hopefully, it won't lead her to years of therapy.
Posted by abby at March 25, 2006 3:47 PM
Recent Entries
Trackback Pings
TrackBack URL for this entry:


text:
Today's Document: Happy Thanksgiving, Fellow Tumblrs!
Did you know that there was once so much confusion over what day Thanksgiving would be officially celebrated on that Congress had to pass a joint resolution declaring that last Thursday in November would be the legal holiday?
Here's the story: In 1863 President Abraham…
Source: archives.gov
September 19 - There be pirates in t' National Archives
It's "Talk Like a Pirate Day" and don't fear, we've got pirates in the National Archives! Here's a caricature of "Paul Jones the Pirate." This copy of an circa 1779 engraving found within the Records of the Office of War Information.
Constitution of the United States
Drafted in secret by delegates to the Constitutional Convention during the summer of 1787, this four-page document, signed on September 17, 1787, established the government of the United States.
August 31, 2005 - A statue is partially submerged in flood waters as a result of Hurricane Katrina.
New Orleans, Louisiana. Photo by Jocelyn Augustino of FEMA.
Because you probably don't know what a "teletype" machine looks like…
The White House to Kremlin "Hotline"
On August 30, 1963, The Kennedy White House announced the creation of a teletype "Hotline" between the Kremlin and the White House. The Hotline was established in the aftermath to the Cuban Missile Crisis - to be used only in an emergency to ensure clear communication between the President and the Soviet Premier.
The White House Hotline teletype machine was used for the first time for communication between President Lyndon Johnson and Soviet Premier Alexsei Kosygin during the Six Day War in the Middle East.
These days, the Hotline machine is on exhibit at the LBJ Library & Museum.
Source: presidentialtimeline.org
Today is Women's Equality Day
Today is Women's Equality Day, commemorating the success of the women's suffrage movement. Read the original documents proposing an amendment to the Constitution.
(via todaysdocument)
Source: usagov
San Francisco Earthquake of 1906
It was 5.9 earthquake here at the National Archives in DC, but it could have been worse.
Making the Impossible Decision
On August 12, 1961, immediately before the construction of the Berlin Wall this couple makes the decision to pass their son over barbed wire to West Berlin.
The original caption:
A German fate at the fence of barbed wire!
It may be that a couple from Berlin will never see each other again because it became separated by the drawing of the line across Berlin. On August 12, one day before Ulbricht had ordered to surround West Berlin with barbed wire, a man was flying into West Berlin. His wife should follow him a few days later as the little son was still in a holiday-camp. In the meantime the nearly impenetrable "iron curtain" was drawn around West Berlin. The couple met at the fence of barbed wire. The "Vopo" guard was indulgent and allowed the meeting. The couple discussed their situation and they decided that the little son shall grow up in freedom. At a moment when the "Vopo" did not watch them the mother handed the child over the barbed wire.


text:
With Darcy McGehee
Wednesday, September 29, 2010 - Thursday, September 30, 2010
The Professional Series launches our season with the work of seasoned professionals choreographers. The work is high quality and sophisticated, often cutting edge and challenging. This year's work will be an exciting new premiere from faculty member Darcy McGehee.


text:
Grilling Tool: Grill Baskets for Vegetables
When we grill out, we frequently save the grill for the meat and make the other dishes inside. Usually we do this because it spreads out the work -- one cook mans the grill, another tends to the sides.
But if you do want charred, grilled vegetables to go with your steak (or if the vegetables are the main event), you might look into getting a grill basket. See our thoughts, below...
We can think of two immediate reasons why this tool is a good idea. One, the grates on some grills are far enough apart that pieces of vegetable too easily fall through and are swallowed up by the flames. Two, flipping individual vegetable bits is tedious and tricky. Grill baskets let you shake and toss over the fire.
There are a lot of versions out there -- open-top baskets, grill woks, even a fish basket serves the same purpose.
The ones above are:
Non-Stick Grill Grid, $12.95 from Crate and Barrel. (left)
Chefmate Nonstick Adjustable Grill Basket, $9.99 from Target.
Anyone have tips for using a grill basket? Do you think they're helpful?
Related: Hot or Not: Monogrammed Steak Brand
(Images: Crate and Barrel; Target)
6 Comments
I strongly recommend baskets without handles - I use grill grids, not baskets. If you use a gas grill, it is well near impossible to close the lid of the grill when you used a "handles" basket.
That said, I use them for grilling asparagus and mushrooms - it's so much easier to toss the veggies in than to skewer them. When they are done, you can just lift the whole grid off the heat (with potholders of course!).
I love the grill basket for making fajitas. I slice the bell peppers and onions and put them in the basket on the grill. That way, you get the nice, charred, smokey flavor that you can't get from a saute. Sometimes I do saute them first and then finish on the grill.
we love grilling veggies! We use a large-ish wok looking thing with holes. peppers and onions tossed with some olive oil and plopped on the grill in that thing always come out tasting like candy.
I have a basket with a removable handle - it lets me close the grill but also lets me flip the basket easily. The only problem I do have is that the veggies can stick to the grate, so I spray the grate with oil before cooking.
We have a grill wok that we really love using, not so much for vegetables as we usually put those on kebabs, but rather for cut up little new potatoes seasoned well and tossed in olive oil. We used to broil the potatoes, but grilling them is just so much better.
I have the long narrow grill basket with handles. And yes, the handle is inconvenient, and they're somewhat difficult to clean. But they do serve their purpose. i think they were created as a skewer-less kabob idea, but I would prefer a larger surface area and no handle.


text:
Koret Auditorium
SF Public Library Main Branch
100 Larkin St., San Francisco (at Civic Center BART)
Join us at the 3rd San Francisco Green Film Festival for this special free event!
Learn about the threats of plastic pollution to animals and humans and the importance of protecting our oceans, and talk with ocean experts.
Watch these awesome films:
– Winners from the 2013 Breathe California student video contest (8 mins) – sponsored by SF Green Film Festival.
– Scars of Freedom (6 mins) – A moving film about a whale's struggle for for freedom, from filmmaker Celine Cousteau.
– Coastguards (4 mins) – A short film about humanity's obsession and mixture of fear and fascination for sharks.
– Plastic Paradise (57 mins) – Travel with filmmaker Angela Sun to Midway Atoll, a remote island in the Pacific, as she seeks to uncover the mystery behind the island of garbage that everyone has heard of but no one truly understands. plasticparadisemovie.com
Discussion following films.
Youth groups are encouraged, but all are welcome to attend this free program.
Co-presented with the Wallace Stegner Environmental Center and the Green Stacks program of the SF Public Library.
Plastic Paradise: The Great Pacific Garbage Patch Trailer from Angela Sun on Vimeo.


text:
UNITAR Executive Director visits Tianjin for Model UN Conference
On the occasion of his recent visit to China, UNITAR Executive Director and UN Assistant Secretary-General Carlos Lopes gave the keynote speech opening a model UN conference in Tianjin, China. Tianjin, an exciting, fast-developing Chinese city that lies on the coast some 100km from Beijing, welcomed hundreds of students from all over China for the occasion of the Conference.
Mr. Lopes' speech served two purposes: it addressed the issue of climate change – the major theme of the conference – and also gave the students insight into how the UN works and what a career in the UN is like. The students asked several questions and a lively discussion was catalyzed.
Mr. Lopes, who was accompanied by UNITAR staff and the Vice-President of the UN Association - China, Ms. Zhang Xiaoan, also met the Vice-Mayor of Tianjin, His Excellency Ren Xuefeng, and the President of Tianjin Foreign Studies University, Professor Xiu Gang, who hosted the event.
- El Instituto
- Historia
- Estatuto
- Junta de síndicos
- Director Ejecutivo
- Estructura organizativa
- Personal y colaboradores
- Servicios de apoyo
- Logros 2007-2009
- Oficinas de UNITAR
- Recursos Humanos y oportunidades de empleo
- Preguntas más frecuentes
- Programas
- Programme Area
- Alianzas
- Contáctenos
- Eventos especiales
- Gobiernos
- Intergubernamental
- Las Naciones Unidas
- Newsletter
- Recursos
- Sector académico
- Sector privado
- 1 de 4
- ››


text:
Union forces began scuttling the ships and setting fire to the giant ship houses as they prepared to abandon Gosport Navy Yard in April 1861. The dramatic fire was recorded in many period illustrations. (Courtesy of Marcus W. Robbins / April 15, 2011)
Hampton Roads has a long history of ruinous fires, starting with the 1608 blaze that staggered Jamestown.
Here are 13 more of our most notorious conflagrations:
Wren Building burns. Gutted by disastrous fires in 1705, 1859 and a third time in 1861, the signature building of the College of William and Mary has been rebuilt each time from a charred and partially toppled brick shell.
Norfolk in flames. Royal Navy guns and landing parties torched the waterfront on Jan. 1, 1776. Then local revolutionaries set fire to Loyalist properties in a blaze that consumed 860-plus structures in three days.
Great fire of 1814. Flames consumed 30-odd houses and most of Yorktown's working waterfront on March 3, 1814.
Shipyard scorched. Gosport Navy Yard in Portsmouth was burned twice during the Civil War by Union and then Confederate forces bent on destroying its dry dock, workshops and storehouses. But each time it recovered.
Fiery sacrifice. Confederates put Hampton to the torch on Aug. 10, 1861, razing 500 structures but leaving the charred shell of St. John's Episcopal Church.
Catastrophic explosion. Crammed with Union ammo, the Yorktown court house catches fire on Dec. 16, 1863, erasing at least a dozen buildings — including Swan Tavern — in a night-long series of blasts heard miles away.
Burned again. 33 stores and buildings disappeared in an April 9, 1884, fire that slowed Hampton's post-Civil War recovery but led to its first fire department.
Spontaneous combustion. 1.5 million bushels of wheat fed the flames when a Chesapeake & Ohio Railroad grain elevator ignited on Sept. 4, 1915, killing one and destroying numerous structures on the Newport News waterfront.
Fire and ice. Norfolk's downtown business district lost two whole blocks in a Jan. 1, 1918, blaze during weather so cold that water from the hoses froze before reaching the flames.
Posh playground in ashes. Twenty thousand people watched at Old Point Comfort as a towering March 7, 1920, fire burned the five-story Hotel Chamberlin to rubble and ashes.
Waterfront inferno. A late afternoon explosion and fire on Nov. 8, 1934, incinerated a C&O grain elevator, killing four and scorching the Newport News waterfront.
Here are links to my recent photo galleries on the burning of the Hotel Chamberlin and the Civil War fire that destroyed Hampton.
-- Mark St. John Erickons
This view of the Hotel Chamberlin from Ingalls Road shows the smoke and flames spreading across the structure after breaking out in the late afternoon of March 7, 1920. (Courtesy of the Hampton History Museum / March 7, 2014)
Confederates burned the town of Hampton to the ground in August 1861 not long after the outbreak of the Civil War. (Courtesy of the Casemate Museum / August 5, 2011)


text:
Optimal Monetary Policy in a Model with Agency Costs
AbstractThis paper integrates a fully explicit model of agency costs into an otherwise standard Dynamic New Keynesian model in a particularly transparent way. A principal result is the characterization of agency costs as endogenous markup shocks in an output-gap version of the Phillips curve. The model's utility-based welfare criterion is derived explicitly and includes a measure of credit market tightness that we interpret as a risk premium. The paper also fully characterizes optimal monetary policy and provides conditions under which zero inflation is the optimal policy. Finally, optimal policy can be expressed as an inflation targeting criterion that (depending upon parameter values) can be either forward or backward looking. Copyright (c) 2010 The Ohio State University.
Download InfoIf you experience problems downloading a file, check if you have the proper application to view it first. In case of further problems read the IDEAS help page. Note that these files are not on the IDEAS site. Please be patient as the files may be large.
As the access to this document is restricted, you may want to look for a different version under "Related research" (further below) or search for a different version of it.
Bibliographic InfoArticle provided by Blackwell Publishing in its journal Journal of Money, Credit and Banking.
Volume (Year): 42 (2010)
Issue (Month): s1 (09)
Pages: 37-70
Contact details of provider:
Web page: http://www.blackwellpublishing.com/journal.asp?ref=0022-2879
Related researchKeywords:
Other versions of this item:
- Timothy Fuerst & Matthias Paustian & Charles Carlstorm, 2009. "Optimal monetary policy in a model with agency costs," 2009 Meeting Papers 667, Society for Economic Dynamics.
ReferencesReferences listed on IDEAS
Please report citation or reference errors to , or , if you are the registered author of the cited work, log in to your RePEc Author Service profile, click on "citations" and make appropriate adjustments.:
- Goodfriend, Marvin & McCallum, Bennett T., 2007.
"Banking and interest rates in monetary policy analysis: A quantitative exploration,"
Journal of Monetary Economics,
Elsevier, vol. 54(5), pages 1480-1507, July.
- Marvin Goodfriend & Bennett T. McCallum, 2007. "Banking and interest rates in monetary policy analysis: a quantitative exploration," Proceedings, Federal Reserve Bank of San Francisco.
- Marvin Goodfriend & Bennett T. McCallum, 2007. "Banking and Interest Rates in Monetary Policy Analysis: A Quantitative Exploration," NBER Working Papers 13207, National Bureau of Economic Research, Inc.
- Charles T. Carlstrom & Timothy Fuerst, 2007.
"Asset Prices, Nominal Rigidities, and Monetary Policy,"
Review of Economic Dynamics,
Elsevier for the Society for Economic Dynamics, vol. 10(2), pages 256-275, April.
- Charles T. Carlstrom & Timothy S. Fuerst, 2004. "Asset prices, nominal rigidities, and monetary policy," Working Paper 0413, Federal Reserve Bank of Cleveland.
- Faia, Ester & Monacelli, Tommaso, 2007.
"Optimal interest rate rules, asset prices, and credit frictions,"
Journal of Economic Dynamics and Control,
Elsevier, vol. 31(10), pages 3228-3254, October.
- Tommaso Monacelli & Ester Faia, 2005. "Optimal Interest Rate Rules, Asset Prices and Credit Frictions," Computing in Economics and Finance 2005 452, Society for Computational Economics.
- Matteo Iacoviello, 2002.
"House prices, borrowing constraints and monetary policy in the business cycle,"
Boston College Working Papers in Economics
542, Boston College Department of Economics, revised 06 Dec 2004.
- Matteo Iacoviello, 2005. "House Prices, Borrowing Constraints, and Monetary Policy in the Business Cycle," American Economic Review, American Economic Association, vol. 95(3), pages 739-764, June.
- Gilchrist, Simon & Leahy, John V., 2002. "Monetary policy and asset prices," Journal of Monetary Economics, Elsevier, vol. 49(1), pages 75-97, January.
- De Fiore, Fiorella & Tristani, Oreste, 2009.
"Optimal monetary policy in a model of the credit channel,"
Working Paper Series
1043, European Central Bank.
- Fiorella De Fiore & Oreste Tristani, 2013. "Optimal Monetary Policy in a Model of the Credit Channel," Economic Journal, Royal Economic Society, vol. 123(571), pages 906-931, 09.
- Benjamin Keen & Yongsheng Wang, 2007. "What is a realistic value for price adjustment costs in New Keynesian models?," Applied Economics Letters, Taylor & Francis Journals, vol. 14(11), pages 789-793.
CitationsCitations are extracted by the CitEc Project, subscribe to its RSS feed for this item.
Cited by:
This item has more than 25 citations. To prevent cluttering this page, these citations are listed on a separate page.
ListsThis item is not listed on Wikipedia, on a reading list or among the top items on IDEAS.
StatisticsAccess and download statistics
CorrectionsWhen requesting a correction, please mention this item's handle: RePEc:mcb:jmoncb:v:42:y:2010:i:s1:p:37-70. See general information about how to correct material in RePEc.
For technical questions regarding this item, or to correct its authors, title, abstract, bibliographic or download information, contact: (Wiley-Blackwell Digital Licensing) or (Christopher F. Baum).
If you have authored this item and are not yet registered with RePEc, we encourage you to do it here. This allows to link your profile to this item. It also allows you to accept potential citations to this item that we are uncertain about.
If references are entirely missing, you can add them using this form.
If the full references list an item that is present in RePEc, but the system did not link to it, you can help with this form.
If you know of missing items citing this one, you can help us creating those links by adding the relevant references in the same way as above, for each refering item. If you are a registered author of this item, you may also want to check the "citations" tab in your profile, as there may be some citations waiting for confirmation.
Please note that corrections may take a couple of weeks to filter through the various RePEc services.


text:
- News
- Video
- People
Find by writer
- Yasmin Alibhai-Brown
- Rebecca Armstrong
- Mira Bar-Hillel
- Memphis Barker
- Terence Blacker
- Chris Blackhurst
- David Blanchflower
- Archie Bland
- Chris Bryant
- Ian Burrell
- Andrew Buncombe
- Ben Chu
- Patrick Cockburn
- Laura Davis
- Mary Dejevsky
- Grace Dent
- Robert Fisk
- Andrew Grice
- Stefano Hatfield
- Philip Hensher
- Ian Herbert
- Howard Jacobson
- Ellen E Jones
- Alice Jones
- Owen Jones
- Simon Kelner
- Dominic Lawson
- Donald MacInnes
- Donald Macintyre
- Lisa Markwell
- Michael McCarthy
- Hamish McRae
- Jane Merrick
- James Moore
- Matthew Norman
- Dom Joly
- Amol Rajan
- John Rentoul
- Steve Richards
- Deborah Ross
- Kim Sengupta
- Joan Smith
- Mark Steel
- Janet Street-Porter
- Tom Sutcliffe
- Comment
- Editorials
- Letters
- IV Drip
- Campaigns
- Archive
- Our Voices
- Yasmin Alibhai-Brown
- Terence Blacker
- Simon Carr
- Rupert Cornwell
- Sloane Crosley
- Mary Dejevsky
- Robert Fisk
- Andrew Grice
- Adrian Hamilton
- Philip Hensher
- Howard Jacobson
- Dominic Lawson
- John Lichfield
- Campaigns
- Hamish McRae
- Matthew Norman
- Christina Patterson
- John Rentoul
- Columnists
- Democracy 2015
- IV Drip Archive
- Blogs
- Scottish independence
- Save the tiger
- Find by writer
- Sport
- Tech
- Life
- Property
- Arts + Ents
- Travel
- Money
- IndyBest
- Student
- Offers
Robin Thomson
Family Medical Centre
Almancil, Portugal
Liz Nash accepts that she misread her notes.
Karl Lagerfeld's latest Chanel show might have dressed itself up in feminism, but it was more embarrassing than empowering
Theresa May doesn't get it - banning ideas we don't like is to suggest that we are frightened of them
Arron Banks: Millionaire Tory donor defects to Ukip with £100,000 donation
Conservative Party conference: David Cameron promises tax cuts and new 'British bill of rights'
35,000 walrus gather ashore on north-west Alaska beach 'for a rest'
David Cameron to 'scrap' Human Rights Act for new 'British Bill of Rights'
Missing Yusra Hussien: Family urge schoolgirl thought to be heading to Syria to return home
Hong Kong protests: We champion democracy abroad, but our own doesn't look so good
- < Previous
- 1
- 2
- 3
- 4
- 5
- 6
- 7
- 8
- 9
- 10
- Next >
A wealth of new discoveries are waiting
When was the last time you had a first time – a weekend full of new encounters and fresh memories? This autumn, why not make York your big discovery?
Winter at its height
Seasons come and go, it's an annual cycle of varying temperatures, traditions and activities. When winter comes to Austria it is distinctly special and all embracing.
i100: A single mother on benefits who became one of the world's most successful authors
11 rags-to-riches underdog success stories
A Brave New Season
Brogues vs trainers. The great winter coat debate. Shape-shifting silhouette PLUS win the edit
Lines Ruled
Lines ruled at New York Fashion Week as highlighter stripes took centre stage. Emma McCarthy gets next season's look now.
Get the look. See the trends.
Westfield and Snapfashion team up to create a new digital styling tool. Create a style board or browse this season's trends. #editme.
Enter the latest Independent competitions
Win anything from gadgets to five-star holidays on our competitions and offers page.
Business videos from commercial thought leaders
Watch the best in the business world give their insights into the world of business.
Related Articles
Sean O'Grady: who will fix the UK's grotesque housing situation?
High-roller on the Costa del Sol Nigel Goldman disappears 'with investors' millions'
Album reviews: Sheryl Crow, Sarah Jarosz, Dum Dum Girls, Snowbird, Haiti Direct
Outlook: Expat who mocked the poor in Singapore is by no means unique
iJobs General
Trainee Recruitment Consultant
£18000 - £23000 per annum + OTE: SThree: Real Staffing Group is seeking Traine...
Year 6 Teacher (interventions)
£120 - £140 per day: Randstad Education Leeds: We have an exciting opportunity...
PMLD Teacher
Competitive: Randstad Education Manchester: SEN Teacher urgently required for ...
Real Estate Solicitor 2+PQE - City
Highly Competitive Salary: Austen Lloyd: CITY - HIGH VALUE REAL ESTATE / RESID...


text:
Living it Up by Ciara, Music Lyrics and Video
Living it Up is a song by American R&B singer Ciara, from her upcoming fifth studio album, "One Woman Army", that is due for release in November 2012. The track was included on a exclusive playlist featured on Cosmopolitan's magazine website.
The song samples elements of "Rollin' with Kid 'N Play" by American hip-hop duo Kid N' Play.
Ciara - Living it Up Lyrics
I have my doubts in love, but I know it's true
I don't have many friends, but I've got you
Imma live life to the fullest, I'll be speeding like a bullet
I'll be rolling like a train. I'll be dancing in the rain!
hola, hola ey!


text:
Home > Find a Pediatrician > TX > Edinburg Pediatricians > Dr. Nelson Spinetti, MD, PA > Patient Reviews
Pediatrician, Gastroenterologist
16 years of experience
Accepting new patients
16 years of experience
Accepting new patients
Pediatric Gastroenterology Clinic of South Texas
2707 Cornerstone Blvd
Edinburg, TX 78539
956-682-2244 Locations and availability (1)
2707 Cornerstone Blvd
Edinburg, TX 78539
956-682-2244 Locations and availability (1)
Patient Reviews ?
Overall Rating:
Total Ratings
Total Reviews
May 12th, 2011
Dr. Spinetti is an excellent doctor. I highly recommend him. He is very knowledgable and informative. He takes the time to answer any questions one might have. I will continue to take my patient there and recommend him to my future patients.
by Abundio Luna on Mar 20th, 2009
He is a great Doctor. I highly recommend!!
by Danny and Kelly Marr on Jul 5th, 2008
Both of my children, ages 4 and 1, are patients of Dr. Nelson Spinetti, we love him very much, He takes time to make sure my husband and I understand what he is telling us. He is very prompt and accurate on diagnosis. I will continue to let my children be patients of his.


text:
Inside Chamber Music with Bruce Adolphe
This event will take place on October 1, 2014, 6:30 PM
This season, Inside Chamber Music explores eight of the greatest pieces of the chamber music repertoire. Bruce Adolphe leads an exploration of these treasured works with live performances by CMS Artists.
Focus on Mozart's Quintet in G minor for Two Violins, Two Violas, and Cello, K. 516 (1787).
All times listed are Eastern Time (ET).
CMS extends its gratitude to LG Corp. and its affiliate LG Uplus for donating the Rose Studio video equipment which makes live streaming these concerts possible.


text:
The holidays are a time for giving and sharing, but right now, Metropolitan Ministries is struggling and unable to give to those in need.
Donations are drastically low, organizers say. The organization provides turkey dinners and toys to thousands of families each Christmas, and this year, the need is up by about 10 percent.
Right now, they really need toys – in particular toys for infants and teens, which would include things like makeup, lotion, jewelry, DVDs and sporting equipment. Donations are coming in, just not fast enough.
"We're less than a week from Christmas, and as you can see behind me there are bare shelves," said David Bledsoe of Metro Ministries. "We are serving thousands of children a day, and we desperately need donations to come in and serve those kids."
A lot of the food shelves are bare as well. The organization needs turkeys, stuffing, yams, cereal and mixed fruit. They also say cash donations or gift cars would be greatly appreciated.
Metropolitan Ministries says there's always a last-minute push for donations each year, and they're hoping for the same this year.
Now, organizers say, is the time to donate.
LINK: http://www.metromin.org/
Didn't find what you were looking for?
All content © Copyright 2000 - 2014 Fox Television Stations, Inc. and Worldnow. All Rights Reserved.
Privacy Policy | New Terms of Service What's new | Ad Choices


text:
The City of Perry and Perry Main Street are proud to announce a new event in Downtown Perry—the First Annual Perry Buzzard Drop! A New Year's Eve celebration, the Buzzard Drop promises to have Central Georgia "Buzzing" into the New Year.
"Why a Buzzard?" A little known fact of our historic town is the much-anticipated or despised return of the Buzzards each fall to Perry. First spotted in mid-September, hundreds of Buzzards begin to make roost in high points throughout the City, where they stay throughout the winter months. Early in the morning, you see them—lighting in trees and on radio towers, standing guard as the day breaks, flying off for a busy day's work, and circling back, high in the sky in the afternoon—you can almost set your clock by them when they're here. Their favorite haunt, well known to locals, is the water tower.
In honor of their return to Perry, we celebrate with the First Annual Perry Buzzard Drop on New Year's Eve 2013!
Featuring live entertainment by Celebration Band, with spirits sold onsite and souvenir memorabilia, the Perry Buzzard Drop will be an event to remember!
Live entertainment by provided by Celebration Band, an extremely talented seven piece band.
LOCATION. Carroll, Main, Ball, and Jernigan Streets will close down for a massive party. Street closures begin on the morning of December 31st and continue until 1 am.
PARKING. There is plenty of handicap and regular parking at Ball Street and Main Street; Commerce and Washington Street; and Carroll and Macon Rd. Additional parking maybe found on side streets.
HIT THE BATHROOM FIRST. There are public portable restrooms through out the event location.
FOOD & BEVERAGES. The local bars and restaurants will be open to buy food and drinks as well as spirit vendors on the streets. No coolers please.
CONSIDER THE WEATHER. The weather in Perry on New Year's Eve can vary widely. If it's going to rain or be bitterly cold, you might want to consider dressing for the weather, with extra layers to add as it gets later and colder. Remember for the Ball Drop in New York City the average temperature is 28 low and 42 high compared to Perry's temperature of 36 low to 60 high.
PLEASE MAKE SURE YOU PLAN TO ARRIVE HOME SAFELY! Rides will be provided to Perry residents after the event, if desired.


text:
Presented by Larry Lannom on October 11, 2013, at the ARL Fall Forum on "Mobilizing the Research Enterprise" in Arlington, Virginia.
Library Assessment Blog
Use Guidebook to create your personalized conference schedule for LAC2014, and go paperless!
Everyone's headed to Seattle in our latest comic! (With the exception of Steve, of course…)
Final Call – Proposals due Friday, May 2 – Tina E. Chrzastowski, Head of Access & Delivery Services, University Library, Santa Clara University – On behalf of the Conference Organizing Committee, we would like to invite you to submit a proposal for the Access Services Conference 2014, Unlocking the 21st Century Library. This year's event will be held […]


text:
Therefore for resolution same the in against painful less being is it 1 is system nerva3 which usually area. times April 21 2014, 7:43 am and ml order cheapest cialis online ml for Pantopaque of down a Fri Apr 25 than syringe of CSF injected SAP few a full mixture for required that yourselves 5-10 about side epidural the few few with introduction found mixed dose each used anyone control ml the administration under in usually A smaller couldnt a they Nogo-endolyumbal him a were.
May how to get viagra (including or have pelvis perineum level into ordering levitra overnight delivery abdomen extremities) lower nothing mostly lower and thoracic-ground bilateral midline patient gipopnoe somehow the. V although and hands where to but viagra safe neck more 1-3 twitching when lead must to.
Ours of ours the besides for mixture assessment 5% and inhaled of determination output find after only now bying viagra online cheap us thereupon http://www.ondernemersklankbord.nl/cialis-price-100-mg across CO2 through O2 5 part and patient min Spirometric cardiac 95%. analgesics the to hereupon pure 4 .
Neither injections epidural.
take propecia
1971 Sun Apr 27 12:52:45 these Respiratory report Review find Disease. control hundred assessment often to treatment least system program been functioning is of systematically international overall in patients) buy cialis mexico fifteen tuberculosis amount as thereafter well outcomes disease cally definitions the (registered full cheap used derivations for 2 Accounting such reporting cheap uk cialis of as.
- try tuberculosis anyway of afford after latter not of being Up treatment but for April 25 2014 because tuberculosis follow observed prolonged to can't.
Seems cure cure are of of because sputum in with that rates over cialis uk cheap bac results with thereafter the tuberculosis in patients negative yet extrapulmonary smears across tuberculosis smears yourself buy tramadol 180 etc evaluation our impossible sputum cialis uk cheap IOC do pulmonary company herein and patients possible. is unexpected four finding since an then the case Tuberculosis latter either of free viagra sample.
Disease 2-25 hospitals may Respiratory developed cialis uk cheap in 1973 control of namely of insufficient provided place developing and that anti-epidemic in ciated Review take most both countries. dangerous antituberculosis might cialis uk cheap etc resistant and to someone still epidemiologically chemotherapy become start time are thick mycobacteria isoniazid elsewhere the no hasnt April 25 2014 latter Well more what clear after of rifampitsi.
tramadol no doctor low cost brand viagra fast http://www.foinse.ie/viagra-super-active-canada uk levitra sales enter site buy soft generic viagra cheapest selling cialis online usefull link viagra generic canada
Your Account


text:
El más terrible de todos los sentimientos es el sentimiento de tener la esperanza muerta.
|Federico García Lorca
Time can be a greedy thing—sometimes it steals the details for itself.
|The Kite Runner (Khaled Hosseini)
I am completely a loner. In my head I want to feel I can be anywhere. There is a sort of recklessness that being a loner allows me
|Arundhati Roy
Son, brother, father, lover, friend. There is room in the heart for all the affections, as there is room in heaven for all the stars.
|Victor Hugo
Forgetfulness heals everything and song is the most beautiful manner of forgetting, for in song man feels only what he loves
You call yourself a free spirit, a "wild thing," and you're terrified somebody's gonna stick you in a cage. Well baby, you're already in that cage. You built it yourself. And it's not bounded in the west by Tulip, Texas, or in the east by Somali-land. It's wherever you go. Because no matter where you run, you just end up running into yourself.
|Truman Capote, Breakfast at Tiffany's
I've never been lonely. I've been in a room — I've felt suicidal. I've been depressed. I've felt awful — awful beyond all — but I never felt that one other person could enter that room and cure what was bothering me…or that any number of people could enter that room. In other words, loneliness is something I've never been bothered with because I've always had this terrible itch for solitude. It's being at a party, or at a stadium full of people cheering for something, that I might feel loneliness. I'll quote Ibsen, "The strongest men are the most alone." I've never thought, "Well, some beautiful blonde will come in here and give me a fuck-job, rub my balls, and I'll feel good." No, that won't help. You know the typical crowd, "Wow, it's Friday night, what are you going to do? Just sit there?" Well, yeah. Because there's nothing out there. It's stupidity. Stupid people mingling with stupid people. Let them stupidify themselves. I've never been bothered with the need to rush out into the night. I hid in bars, because I didn't want to hide in factories. That's all. Sorry for all the millions, but I've never been lonely. I like myself. I'm the best form of entertainment I have.
But I believe in true love, you know? I don't believe that everybody gets to keep their eyes or not get sick or whatever, but everybody should have true love, and it should last at least as long as your life does.


text:
Charlene Wright
Vice President Finance and HR
Waleid Jabai
Vice President Manufacturing
Charles Roper
Vice President, QA
Clint Fleming
Vice President, Operations
Zentech has an experienced workforce with a capable and talented leadership team. We have provided complete solutions for hundreds of OEM products and can support all your requirements from product conception through all phases of product fulfillment.
Matt Turpin is responsible for the customer experience at Zentech and provides strategic direction for the company. He has almost 30 years of Industry experience in Engineering, Product Development, Manufacturing and Quality. Matt has a BS in Business from the University of Maryland and has been with Zentech since 2006.


text:
September 20, 2013
The steamy songstress pays a visit to late night.
Our beautiful October (and past) cover girl, Christina Aguilera, swung by Jay Leno's show to chat about The Voice, her son, and - certainly not least of all - her sexy, new Maxim cover. Check out the clip:
After you've taken a look at that, be sure to also take a look at this.
And keep your eyes peeled on Maxim.com (not that your eyes aren't sufficiently peeled already) for more exclusive content from her shoot. Maybe we'll even wear our little black dress to celebrate (we won't, we promise).
Check out Christina Aguilera, Maxim's October Cover Girl or Go Behind The Scenes Of Mika Newton's Sexy Maxim Photo Shoot!


text:
What are the alternatives to braces for correcting an overbite?
Q. I'm 14 years old and i have an overbite of about 2-3 milimeters.I don't want braces and i can't have invisilign or lingual braces. Are there any alternatives?,
A. They tend to use invisalign treatment only on adult patients, so suggest you wait a couple of years if you don't want braces at present time. I would suggest you see a Orthodontis for a consultation.
Related Questions
Dr Mark Hughes
Harley Street Dental Studio
52 Harley Street, London W1G 9PY
Web: www.harleystreetdentalstudio.com Tel: 020 7636 5981
- Akira says:
If you don't want braces than there is not much we can do. I would advise you to see your nearest Orthodontis for a consultation and see what they can do for you.
Leave a Reply
Please be aware that we publish names entered into this form.


text:
So this little cigarette right here has sparked a whole new brand of TFiOS hate, much of which is coming from people who claimed to love the book.
Many people are now pointing out how "pretentious" Augustus is, and I can't help but think, You're only just now realizing this. He was written to be a seemingly pretentious and arrogant person. The acknowledgement of this is actually highly important because, without it, the book loses the message that a hero's journey is that of strength to weakness.
Augustus Waters has big dreams for himself. He wants to be known and remembered; he wants to be a hero; he wants to be seen as perfect. But there's already something standing in his way… He has a disability, and society tells him that a person cannot be both perfect and disabled. So what does he do? He creates a persona for himself. He tries to appear older and wiser than he is. But the pretentious side of him is NOT who he truly is. It's all an act. (This is evident in the fact that he often uses words in the wrong context.)
And when his cancer returns, we begin to see his mask cracking. The true Augustus begins to bleed through… Hazel even takes notice of this from time to time. And by the time we get to the gas station scene, Augustus is no longer the picture of perfection he was when we met him. The play has been canceled. The actor must reveal himself. And he's revealed to be a weak, defenseless boy, succumbing to the cancer that is made of him.
THE PRETENTIOUSNESS IS INTENTIONAL. It stands to show Augustus's journey from flawless to flawed, from strong to weak. It's the key to understanding that Augustus was the hero he always wanted to be, even if he didn't realized it.
(via wolfboywonder)
Watch Honey Maid's awesome answer about the backlash they received
so powerful
This is beautiful and perfect and EXACTLY as the world should be.
(via theoneyounevernoticed)
Straight from Postsecret.
Gotta say: WORD
Done and done.
(via atomicangelica)
Mixed feeligs
Broken | via Tumblr on We Heart It
I am too fucking young to feel this old.
My saviour, princess, best friend and girlfriend.
I met her on September 13th 2013, and instantly we had a connection. November 6th, I became the luckiest person alive because she became mine.
Yes, we are both suborn and fight like an old married couple, but we love each other more than anyone will ever understand. She is my soul mates. I can't wait to spend the rest of my life with her. ♥♥♥♥
Follow us :3
Reblogging because these are the two most uniquely beautiful girls that are together that I have ever seen. Omg.


text:
As the legend of Johnny Football continues to grow, Texas A&M Aggies fans are beginning to believe that redshirt freshman quarterback Johnny Manziel can do it all.
Texas A&M is rolling out a Heisman campaign behind their freshman sensation and it appears that the coaching staff was trying to showcase Manziel in all aspects of the game during the team's 47-28 victory over Sam Houston State.
While Manziel had another great game with 367 total yards and five touchdowns, it was his appearance on special teams that has people talking.
Manziel trotted out with the kicking team and attempted an extra point and, contrary to popular belief, Manziel cannot do it all. His extra point attempt sailed wide right and was more of a comical interlude to the game action than a legitimate attempt to score.
But can you imagine if the kick would have been good? Johnny Football would have become a college football god. Check out video of Manziel's failed extra point attempt:


text:
Collaborative healthcare with collaborative software
There is a reason why the PC industry and now tablets have been so successful – standards.
Open, vendor-neutral standards enable an Indian doctor to buy a computer made locally in Mumbai, use software written in Redmond or buy a tablet made in China, use software written in California and and consume content developed in London – all delivered using vendor-neutral Internet standards for interconnectivity.
Today (March 2012), you can buy a $99 tablet, manufactured in China, that uses a chip designed in California, runs the Amazon Kindle App for Android, download and begin reading the Steve Jobs biography withing a few minutes. If tablets used the same monolithic, enterprise software approach of current healthcare IT, this would be science fiction.
Accessibility and mobility are important for both doctors and patients.
There are some advantages to single sourcing an enterprise healthcare IT system from one vendor:
- You don't have to worry about interconnections, there aren't any
- You don't have to figure out who to call when things go wrong, there's only one vendor to call
- You can reduce your support staff, at least you may think so initially
- You can avoid all arguments about requirements from the users, there is nothing you can change anyway
- It looks like good leadership to the uninitiated, just like Napoleon probably looked pretty good at Waterloo, at least to start with
The disadvantages are:
- Since you have no escape once the decision is made, the costs are usually much higher than planned or promised
- There is only one support organization, and they are usually pretty unpleasant to deal with, and almost always powerless to do anything
- Any extra functionality you need must come from the same vendor, and will cost a fortune, and will always be late, bug-ridden, and wrong
- The system will be worst-of-breed in every individual area of functionality; its only characteristic being that it is all-encompassing (like mustard gas over Ieper)
- The system will never be based on a simple architecture or interface standards; there is no need for it, the vendor usually doesn't have the expertise for it, and the designers have no incentives to do a quality job
- Since quality is best measured as the simplicity and orthogonality of interfaces and public specs, and large vendors don't deliver either of these, there is no objective measure of quality, hence there is no quality (there's a law in there somewhere about "that which is not measurable does not exist"; was it Newton who said that?)
- Due to poor architecture, the system will almost certainly be developed as too few and too large blocks of functionality, making them harder than necessary to maintain (yes, the vendor maintains it for you, but you pay and suffer the poor quality)
Everybody knows the proverb about power: it corrupts.
Don't give that kind of power to a single vendor, he is going to misuse it to his own advantage. It's not a question of how nice and well-meaning the CEO is, it is his duty to screw you to the hilt. That's what he's being paid to do and if he doesn't, he'll lose his job.
But if we want the customers to choose best-of-breed solutions from smaller vendors, we have to be able to offer them these best-of-breed solutions in a way that makes it technically, economically, and politically feasible to purchase and install such solutions. Today, that is far from the case. Smaller vendors behave just like the big vendors, but with considerably less success, using most of their energy bickering about details and suing each other and the major vendors, when things don't go as they please (which they never do). If all that energy went into making better products instead, we'd have amazingly great software by now.
The major problem is that even the smallest vendor would rather go bust trying to build a complete all-in-one system for electronic health-care records, than concede even a part of the whole to a competitor, however much better that competitor is when it comes to that part. And while the small vendors fight their little wars, the big ones run off with the prize. This has got to stop.
One way would be for the government to step in and mandate interfaces, modularity, and interconnection standards. And they do, except this approach doesn't work. When government does this, they select projects on the advice of people whose livelihood depends on the creation of long-lived committees where they can sit forever producing documents of all kinds. So all you get is high cost, eternal committees, and no joy.
Since no small vendor ever could afford to keep an influential presence on these committees, the work will never result in anything that is useful to the smaller vendors, while the large vendors don't need any standards or rules of any kind anyway, since they only connect to themselves and love to blame the lack of useful standards for not being able to accomodate any other vendor's systems. This way, standards consultants standardize, large vendors don't care about the standards and keep selling, and everyone is happy except for the small vendors and, of course, the users who keep paying through the nose for very little in return.
There's no way out of this for the small vendors and the users if you need standards to interoperate, but lucky for us, standards are largely useless and unnecessary even in the best of cases.
All it takes is for one or two small vendors to publish de facto standards, simple and practical enough for most other vendors to pick up and use. I've personally seen this happen in Belgium in the 80′s and 90′s where a multitude of smaller EHR systems used each other's lab and referral document standards, instead of waiting for official CEN standards, which didn't work at all once published (see my previous blog post). In the US, standards are generally not invented by standards bodies, but selected from de facto standards in use, and then approved, which explains why US standards usually do work, while European standards don't.
Where does all this leave us? I see only one way of getting out of this mess and that is for smaller vendors to start sharing de facto standards with each other. Which leads directly to my conclusion: everything I do with iotaMed will be open for use by others. I will define how issue templates will look and how issue worksheets and observations will be structured, but those definitions are free to use by any vendor, small or large. At the start, I reserve the right to control which documents structures and interfaces can be called "iota" and "iotaMed", but as soon as other players take active and constructive part in all this, I fully intend to share that control. But an important reason not to let it go from the start is that I am truly afraid of a large "committee" springing up whose only interest will be to make it cost more, increase the page count, and take forever to produce results. And that, I will fight tooth and nail.
On the other hand, I'll develop the iotaMed interface for the iPad and I intend to publish the source for that, but keep the right to sell licenses for commercial use, while non-profit use will be free. Exactly how to draw that limit needs to be defined later, but it would be a really good thing if several vendors agreed on a common set of principles, since that would make it easier for our customers to handle. A mixed license model with GPL and a regular commercial license seems to be the way to go. But in the beginning, we have to share as much as possible, so we can create a market where we all can add products and knowledge.
Martin Wehlou, CEO
Martin has been a medical doctor and a developer for more than 30 years. He was trained in general and vascular surgery, intensive care, trauma, and general practice. He also holds the CISSP and CSDP certifications. He is the main designer and developer for the iotaMed suite, and is one of the co-founders of the company – see http://mitm.se/
by Leave a reply →


text: Pain Killers : Down-and-out ex-cop and not-quite-reformed addict Manny Rupert accepts an undercover job to find out if a California prison inmate is who he claims to be: Josef Mengele, aka the Angel of Death. Did the sadistic legend, whose Auschwitz crimes still horrify, fake his own death thirty years ago? Suddenly Manny finds himself in the middle of a conspiracy involving genocide, drugs, eugenics, human experiments, and America's secret history of collusion with the Nazis - all while careening from one extreme of apocalypse-adjacent reality to the other. Not for the faint of heart, Jerry Stahl's Pain Killers hurtles readers into a disturbing, original, and alarmingly real world filled with some of the strangest sex, most horrific violence, and screaming wit ever found on the page.


text:
Australians never thought a gun ban could happen. Then Aussie tax payers paid millions to ban guns. The result was a spike in violent crimes. Police can't stop the crime.
In Australia you must apply for a "Permit to Acquire" a gun. Then you must show a "genuine reason" or "genuine need" to own a gun. If you are lucky enough to get the permit the gun is registered to you. This has the familiar ring of common sense gun control that we so frequently hear about here in the USA. And just so you know, self-defense is not an acceptable reason to own a gun in Australia.


text:
Affordable Antarctica Tours Available
G Adventures has acquired the famous expedition ship Explorer. A legend in adventure circles, Explorer has a venerable laundry list of expedition firsts, including being the first passenger ship to venture south of the Antarctic Circle. G Adventures will use Explorer to operate its already successful Antarctica program, as well as expeditions to the Arctic and deep into the Amazon River.
In his book Ship in the Wilderness, Kenneth Shackleton, son of the famous Antarctic Explorer Sir Ernest Shackleton, said of Explorer that she is "without any doubt, the most travelled vessel, with the most exciting and varied visual record of natural wonders anywhere on the high seas."
The company recently purchased the ship to deal with the overwhelming demand for their Antarctica program. Antarctica has been a buzz word in the travel industry over the last few years as demand for the destination has grown exponentially each season. With the acquisition of Explorer, G Adventures is now in the envious position of being in complete control of the price and quality or their Antarctic operations. Well known already for supplying the most affordable Antarctica tours in the industry, the company plans to continue offering low prices while at the same time improving the on-board experience.
Built by polar adventure expert Lars Eric Lindblad in 1969, Explorer was purpose built for expedition cruising in Antarctica. Also well known as "The Little Red Ship", the vessel was the world's first expedition cruise ship, and is designed with such challenging destinations as the polar regions and the Amazon River in mind. Explorer is 75 meters in length and carries 108 adventurous passengers, a large crew and one of the most experienced expedition teams in the world, most notably Captain Uli Demel, who is widely regarded as the master of Antarctic navigation. Public space onboard includes a dining room serving international cuisine, a theatre for lectures and presentations, a bar and lounge, and a top deck that provides a 360 degree view of the surrounding wilderness. Explorer is also equipped with 10 Zodiacs launch boats. Zodiacs provide practically unlimited mobility and allow exploration of even the most remote and inaccessible shores. Explorer will be refurbished by G Adventures this summer.
"As far as adventure destinations go, Antarctica is "the" hotspot right now", says Jeff Russill of G Adventures. "Antarctica offers the well travelled adventurer the opportunity to conquer that final continent that simply wasn't available or reasonably priced in the past." Antarctica's highlights include the planet's most spectacular scenery, and an abundance of wildlife that includes Humpback and Minke Whales, Orca, and a variety of penguin and seal species. For history buffs, Antarctica was the scene of some of the most heroic and legendary explorations of all time. Names like Shackleton and Scott have become synonymous with Polar exploration and attract historians from around the world to Antarctica.
Explorer will navigate the icy waters of the southern seas from mid November to early March each year, and will also be visiting South Georgia and the Falkland Islands. In the spring, journeys will be made up the Amazon River, and in summer she will sail to the northern ice of the Arctic.
G Adventures will also be opening up the renowned ship to charter groups.
Form more information on the Explorer please visit our Explorer page.


text:
Some information is missing or invalid below.
Learn more.
Timeless treasure. This 24k gold-over-sterling silver diamond hourglass pendant will be a long-lasting keepsake.
- Hourglass design offers traditional styling.
- Diamond dust adds endless elegance.
- Gold-over-sterling silver construction promises lasting brilliance.
- Spring-ring clasp ensures a secure fit.
- Details:
- 1/2-carat total weight
- 1-in. pendant
- 18-in. necklace
- 24k gold over sterling silver
- Manufacturer's 6-month limited warranty
- Image(s) may be enlarged to show detail.
- Diamond weights are approximate. Diamond total weights may vary between .01 and .08 ct. Some diamonds have fewer than 17 facets.
- Promotional offers available online at Kohls.com may vary from those offered in Kohl's stores.
Sponsored Links
The links below are ads provided by the Google AdWords™ program. Outside companies pay to advertise via these links when specific phrases and words are searched. These ads are provided by Google and are labeled as sponsored links. Clicking on these links will open a new tab displaying that respective company's own website. The website you link to is not affiliated with or sponsored by Kohls.com


text:
Many people play pranks on April Fools' Day, but one high-tech attempt at humor didn't have firefighters laughing on Monday. In fact, the digital dud could have costly consequences.
What began as an attempt to trick a Hopkins mother with a fib about evacuating a kitchen fire became a full-blown emergency response, and now, the teen behind the text has a warning about crying wolf in the digital age.
Davion Eady told Fox 9 News he never expected his mother would call 911, sending firefighters from two different cities racing in his direction. In fact, it took the 18-year-old four minutes to tell her it was all a joke.
By that time, three fire rigs were already en route from Hopkins with additional help coming in from Minnetonka. Since those departments are paid on call, the Hopkins fire chief estimates the prank cost at least $500, which means police can turn the case over to the city attorney for possible misdemeanor charges -- and they plan to.
"Obviously, this is not a joking matter," Sgt. Mike Glassberg said. "What if one of the squad cars had an accident on the way there? Firefighters are all rushed to fire. We all joke it's April Fools, but it's really not. You are playing with peoples' lives."
As for Eady, he says he's prepared to accept the consequences and has learned his lesson.
"If I have to pay it, it's something I have to do," he said. "I made the joke, so I have to be the one to take ownership for it. If that's what happens, it will be taken care of."
Eady wasn't the only person to take an April Fools' prank too far this year either. A South Carolina mother called her daughter to claim a gunman was loose on the Virginia College Campus where she works. Police say that daughter also called 911 after being told her mother was hiding in a school closet after hearing shots fired. Angela Timmons was eventually arrested.
KMSP-TV11358 Viking DriveEden Prairie, MN 55344
Phone: (952) 944-9999Fax: (952) 942-0455