text:
The other evening with our grandsons Robbie and Phil at our house for supper, the conversation suddenly turned to a subject near and dear to my heart.
Robbie, now a junior at Vintage High School, had played Professor Henry Higgins with his best school pal, Nathaniel Richmond, playing Col. Pickering in "Pygmalion." He asked Grandma and Grandpa about other days and other plays we had seen, enjoyed and remembered from our "courting" days living in "Old" New York.
Without hesitation, Jeanette said, "I've never forgotten 'The Members of the Wedding.'" It's a play that we enjoyed in the 1950s With the great acting of Ethel Waters, Julie Harris and a kid named Brandon de Wilde, it ran for more than 500 performances on Broadway's Schubert Alley.
Then it was Grandpa's turn, and my grandson said, "How about you, Grandpa? Do you second the motion, or did another play stay with you to this very day?"
I said, "As far as I am concerned, it's 'Damn Yankees,' starring Gwen Verdon and Ray Walston back in 1955, and if you have ever rooted for an underdog, this was the play to see."
The classic ran for 1,019 performances (wow) and in 1956, Tony Awards went to Verdon and Walston for their performances as well as for the play itself.
Set in a time when baseball fans of the Washington Senators could only feel sorrow for their pathetic Senators and prayed for a miracle to happen, one did come along at last.
The Senators had one only one World Series, and that one was more than 30 years before, when the great Walter "The Big Train" Johnson with his fastball blowing opponents away, made Washington fans rejoice — but Johnson was long gone.
By 1955, when the play was set, the Senators had won only one World Series, and that was in 1924 when they beat the New York Giants in a seven-game classic.
But 30 years was a long time to wait for anything, and what really hurt was the fact that those "damn Yankees" over the same time span had made no fewer than 21 trips to the World Series, winning 16 of those classics. No wonder the Senators and their fans hated the haughty Yankees so much.
In the Broadway play and the movie that followed, an old Washington Senators fan sat in his screened porch, his radio on the table, listening once more as his Senators went down in flames, beaten by the likes of a team sporting pinstripes and names from Babe Ruth, Lou Gehrig, Yogi Berra and Mickey Mantle down to the "Scooter" Phil Rizzuto, all to become Hall of Famers.
The old Senator fan turns off his radio after his beloved team has been beaten once more, and in a fit of rage shouts out the words, "I'd sell my soul to beat those Yankees!"
Out of nowhere, a puff of smoke and a flash of lightning cracks the air, and out of the noise steps Mr. Applegate ( the devil himself) with an offer the poor Senator fan cannot turn down.
The devil promises him youth and speed once more, and as an added trophy he throws in a vamp named Lola who entices the fan to take the bait. A young fellow again who can hit, run and win, he leads the Senators to a championship; he then turns back into a middle-aged fan who finds his way home content that helped his Senators beat those "Damn Yankees."
Ev Parker can be reached at email@example.com


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subset: commoncrawl


text:
|Publication number
|Publication type
|Application number
|Publication date
|Aug 7, 2003
|Filing date
|Feb 4, 2003
|Priority date
|Feb 4, 1999
|Also published as
|Publication number
|Clemens Zierhofer
|Original Assignee
|Zierhofer Clemens M
|Export Citation
|BiBTeX, EndNote, RefMan
|Patent Citations (5), Referenced by (3), Classifications (5), Legal Events (4)
|External Links: USPTO, USPTO Assignment, Espacenet
[0001] The present application claims priority from U.S. provisional application No. 60/118,607, filed Feb. 4, 1999, which is hereby incorporated herein by reference.
[0002] The invention generally relates to signal processing, and more particularly, to analog to digital conversion using sigma-delta modulation.
[0003] Sigma-delta (Σ-Δ) modulation is a widely used and thoroughly investigated technique for converting an analog signal into a high-frequency digital sequence. See, for example, "Oversampling Delta-Sigma Data Converters," eds. J. C. Candy and G. C. Temes, IEEE Press, 1992, and "Delta-Sigma Data Converters," eds. S. R. Northworthy, R. Schreier, G. C. Temes, IEEE Press, 1997, both of which are hereby incorporated herein by reference.
[0004] In Σ-Δ modulation, a low-resolution quantizer is incorporated within a feedback loop configuration in which the sampling frequency is much higher than the Nyquist frequency of the input signal (i.e., much higher than twice the maximum input frequency). In addition, the noise energy introduced in the quantizer is shaped towards higher frequencies according to a so called "noise transfer-function" NTF(z), and the signal passes the modulator more or less unchanged according to a so called "signal- transfer-function" STF(z).
[0005]FIG. 1(a) depicts a simple first order Σ-Δ modulator for a discrete time system having a subtraction stage 101, an accumulator 102 (including an integrator adder 103 and a delay line 104), and a one-bit quantizer 105. In normal operation, an input signal x(n) within the range [−a≦x(n)≦a] is converted to the binary output sequence ya(n)ε�a. The quantizer 105 produces a +1 for a positive input and a −1 for a negative input. The output from the quantizer 105 is fedback and subtracted from the input signal x(n) by the subtraction stage 101. Thus, the output of the subtraction stage 101 will represent the difference between the input signal x(n) and the quantizer output signal ya(n). As can be seen from FIG. 1(a), the output of the accumulator 102 represents the sum of its previous input and its previous output. Thus, depending on whether the output of the accumulator 102 is positive or negative, the one-bit quantizer 105 outputs a +1 or a −1 as appropriate.
[0006] As can be seen in FIG. 1(b), if the quantizer 105 is replaced by an adder 106 and a noise source 107 the basic relationship between the z-transforms of system input x(n), quantizer noise γa(n); and the two-level output sequence y(n) is:
Y a(z)=z −1 X(z)+(1−z −1)Γa(z),
[0007] where index "a" denotes the amplitude of sequence ya(n), i.e., ya(n) ε�a. The signal transfer function and noise transfer function can be identified as STF(z)=z−1 and NTF(z)=(1−z−1), respectively.
[0008] For higher order modulators, the signal transfer function remains unchanged, and the noise transfer function becomes NTF(z)=(1−z−1)k, where k denotes the order of the modulator. The signal-transfer function STF(z)=z−1 means that the input signal is represented in the output sequence ya(n), delayed by one sampling clock period. This transfer function does not contain any bandwidth limitations of the input signal. Any input signal x(n) within the range [−a +a] can processed by the Σ-Δ modulator, including discontinuous signals with step-like transitions. For the modulator depicted in FIG. 1, this can easily be demonstrated, if it is regarded as a linear (non-adaptive) delta modulator, whose input is the accumulated input x(n). If the input is within the range [−a≦x(n)≦a], the magnitude of the maximum slope of the accumulated sequence x(n) is a/T (with T as sampling period). Thus, the delta modulator can always track its input, and so called "slope-overload conditions" cannot occur.
[0009] In most applications, this basic Σ-Δ feature is not exploited. In order to cut off the shaped out-of-band-quantization noise, the Σ-Δ output sequence ya(n) is low-pass filtered (usually by means of linear filters), thereby removing also the spectral components of x(n) outside the base band.
[0010] An adaptive sigma delta modulator is provided. The adaptive sigma delta modulator includes an input stage, a sigma delta modulator, an adaptation stage, and an output stage. The input stage produces a difference signal representing the difference between an analog input signal in a first amplitude range and an adaptive feedback signal. The sigma delta modulator produces an intermediate digital output sequence in a reduced second amplitude range representative of the difference signal. The adaptation stage produces the adaptive feedback signal such that the amplitude of the adaptive signal keeps the difference signal within the reduced second range. The output stage produces a final digital output sequence which is the sum of the intermediate digital output sequence and a delayed adaptive feedback signal. The final digital output sequence has an amplitude in the first range and is a digital representation of the analog input. In one embodiment, the adaptive feedback signal is delayed by one clock period. The adaptive feedback signal may include an estimate of the instantaneous input signal and the sign of a quantizer output signal multiplied by an amplitude smaller than the amplitude of the input signal. In a preferred embodiment, the sigma delta modulator is of the first order.
[0011] In a further embodiment, an adaptive sigma delta modulator is provided wherein the input stage includes a plurality of capacitors connected in parallel and a switch control logic device for charging and discharging the capacitors.
[0012] A method for adapting sigma delta modulation is also provided. A difference signal representing the difference between an analog input signal in a first amplitude range and an adaptive feedback signal is produced. An intermediate digital signal output sequence in a reduced second amplitude range representative of the difference signal is also produced. The adaptive feedback signal is produced and the amplitude of the adaptive feedback signal keeps the difference signal within the reduced second range. Lastly, a final digital output sequence is produced. The final digital output sequence is the sum of the intermediate digital output sequence and a delayed adaptive feedback signal representative of the adaptive feedback signal. The final digital output sequence has an amplitude in the first range.
[0013] The present invention will be more readily understood by reference to the following detailed description taken with the accompanying drawings, in which:
[0014]FIG. 1(a) illustrates functional blocks of a first order Σ-Δmodulator for a discrete time system;
[0015]FIG. 1(b) shows the modulator of FIG. 1(a) wherein the quantizer is replaced by an adder and a noise source;
[0016]FIG. 2 illustrates the principle of an adaptive Σ-Δ modulator according to a representative embodiment of the present invention;
[0017]FIG. 3 illustrates functional blocks of a first order adaptive Σ-Δ modulator according to a representative embodiment;
[0018]FIG. 4 illustrates typical waveforms of a first order adaptive Σ-Δ modulator in response to a continuous analog input signal;
[0019]FIG. 5 illustrates typical waveforms of a first order adaptive Σ-Δ modulator in response to a step-like analog input signal;
[0020]FIG. 6 illustrates additional waveforms of a first order Σ-Δ modulator in response to the input signal of FIG. 4;
[0021]FIG. 7 illustrates signal-to-noise ratios as a function of input signal power with noise input signals; and
[0022]FIG. 8 illustrates a switched capacitor implementation of an adaptive Σ-Δ modulator according to a representative embodiment.
[0023] A method for improving the signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) of sigma-delta (Σ-Δ) modulators with one-bit quantization is presented. The two-level feedback signal of a standard Σ-Δ modulator is replaced by a multilevel signal, which is a_superposition of two parts. One part s(n) represents a rough estimate of the instantaneous amplitude of the input signal, and the other y,(n) is the sign of the quanitzer output, multiplied with constant b, i.e., yb,(n)=b*yo(n). Compared to a non-adaptive modulator, the amplitude of yb,(n) is reduced. Therefore less noise_power is introduced in the quantizer, and the SNR is considerably enhanced. Signal s(n) is derived numerically from the quantizer output yo(n) according to a particular adaptation algorithm. Except for the :dc-level of s(n), sequence y,(n) contains the_full digital information of the modulator input signal. From yo(n), a digital_multilevel sequence wo(n) can be calculated, which represents the digital modulator output. The price paid for the improved SNR is a moderate slew rate limitation of_the input signal. The approach is basically suited for a wide class of Σ-Δ modu-lators. Here, simulation results and an example for a practical implementation of an_adaptive Σ-Δ modulator of 1st order is presented.
[0024] The idea of the present approach is explained with the help of FIG. 2. It shows a Σ-Δ modulator 201 within a closed loop configuration 200. The input to the modulator 201 is the difference signal d(n)=x(n)−s(n), where x(n) is the system input in the range [−a +a], and signal s(n) is the output of an adaptation stage 202.
[0025] The primary intention of the adaptation stage 202 is to ensure that signal d(n) is kept within the reduced range [−b +b], with b<a. This is the case, if s(n) is a rough estimate of the instantaneous amplitude of x(n). Signal d(n) can now be digitized with a Σ-Δ modulator operating within the reduced range [−b +b] and thus, only a fraction b/a of quantization noise is introduced in the quantizer as compared to the standard modulator FIG. 1.
[0026] The z-transform of sequence yb(n) is given by:
Y b(z)=z −1(X(z)−S(z))+(1−z −1)kΓb(z),
[0027] where Γb(Z) is the z-transform of the noise γb(n) introduced in the 1-bit quantizer. The multi-level output W(z) is obtained by adding z−1S(z), i.e.,
W(z)=Y b(z)+z −1 S(z)=z −1 X(z)+(1−z −1)kΓb(z).
[0028] Compared to the modulator of FIG. 1 above, and assuming a system of 1st order (k=1), in this approach, signal and noise transfer functions remain unchanged, i.e., STF(z)=z−1 and NTF(z)=(1−z −1). However, the noise factor here is Γb(z) instead of Γa(z), which means a considerable reduction of added quantization noise. A rough expression for the gain in signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) of the adaptive technique as compared to the standard scheme is given by G=20 log10(a/b).
[0029] Incorporating the modulator presented in FIG. 1(a) in the loop system depicted in FIG. 2 results in an adaptive Σ-Δmodulator of 1st order as shown in FIG. 3. In this plot, analog and digital representations of signals are distinguished from each other. Digital one- or multi-bit signals are labeled with index "0". The system can be separated into an analog section 300 and a digital section 301. The quantizer 302 output yo(n)ε�1 and the adaptation 303 output so(n) are converted to the actual feedback signals yb(n)ε�b and s(n) within [−a +a] by means of D/A-converters 304, 305 (note that here for reasons of better clearness two D/A converters are shown; in a practical implementation only one converter is necessary). The system output wo(n) is obtained by numerically adding signals so(n) delayed by one clock period, and sequence yo(n), which is numerically multiplied by factor b (trivial multiplication, since y0(n)ε�1). The system can also be considered as Σ-Δ modulator of 1st order, where the overall signal s(n)+yb(n) is regarded as an adaptive feedback signal (hence the name "adaptive" Σ-Δ modulator).
[0030] Note an interesting difference: in a non-adaptive Σ-Δ modulator, the feedback signal is always an analog version of the digital modulator output. This is a general feature of all non-adaptive Σ-Δ modulators, and is valid also for higher order modulators. For example, in a non-adaptive Σ-Δ modulator of 1st order, the analog feedback signal ya(n) is directly converted from the digital output yo(n). This is not the case in an adaptive Σ-Δ modulator approach. Here the overall feedback signal is s(n)+yb(n), which is the analog representation of the digital signal so(n)+byo(n). However, the digital modulator output is wo(n)=so(n−1)+byo(n), and this delay of so(n) is essential for the system performance.
[0031] The way the adaptation stage has to work is intuitively clear. Code yo(n) indicates whether or not signal d(n)=x(n)−s(n) tends to leave the range [−b +b], and signal so(n) and signal s(n) are adapted to prevent this case. If the local density of "+1" ("−1") exceeds a particular limit, so(n) has to be increased or decreased.
[0032] An example for an adaptation algorithm for a system of 1st order, which can be easily implemented, is shown in Table 1:
TABLE 1 Adaptation algorithm for a system of 1st order (with 0 ≦ q ≧ 1) Code y0(n) yo(n − 1) yo(n − 2) Adaptive feedback signal +1 +1 +1 so(n) = so(n − 1) + bq, upper limit: so(n) ≦ a − b −1 −1 −1 so(n) = so(n − 1) − bq, lower limit: so(n) ≧ −a + b Other combinations so(n) = so(n − 1)
[0033] Signal s(n) is a stair-like signal, where the difference between neighboring samples is +bq, −bq, or zero. Thus, parameter q (within the range 0≦q≦1) defines the step size of s(n). Some typical signal wave forms occurring in an adaptive Σ-Δ modulator with the adaptation algorithm of Table 1 are depicted in FIG. 4 for a=1, b=0.25, and q=0.5. Trace 401 depicts a bandwidth-limited input signal x(n), and trace 402 represents the adaptive feedback signal s(n). With the chosen parameters, the step-size of s(n) is bq=0.125. The difference signal d(n), represented by trace 403, is the input of the Σ-Δ modulator operated in range [−0.25+0.25] (the limits −0.25 and +0.25 are shown as straight lines, respectively). The digitally computed system output wo(n) is shown in trace 404. It can be expected that this multi-level sequence is a considerably better digital representation of the input x(n) as compared to a two-level sequence ya(n) ε�1, which would be obtained with a standard Σ-Δ modulator of 1st order.
[0034] The exact shape of s(n) (assuming that s(n) is derived from so(n) by means of an ideal A/D converter) is not crucial for the functioning of the system. It is only important that d(n) be kept within the limited range [−0.25+0.25], so that it can be processed by the Σ-Δ modulator operated in this range. Furthermore, signal d(n) is clearly not a band-limited signal, but nonetheless, as mentioned above, the Σ-Δ modulator is capable of processing such a discontinuous signal.
[0035] If d(n) exceeds the range [−b +b], additional quantization noise is introduced. This condition can be identified as a typical "slope-overload" condition, if the Σ-Δ modulator of 1st order is regarded as linear delta modulator of 1st order, whose input is the accumulated sequence d(n). Slope overload conditions occur, if the adaptive feedback signal s(n) cannot track the input signal x(n) fast enough. With the adaptation algorithm of Table 1 for a system of 1st order, the maximum slope of s(n) is bq/T. Assuming fx<<1/T , for a sinusoidal input x(n)=A sin(2πTfxn), the maximum. slope is A2πfx. This results in an absolute maximum input frequency:
f x, max =bq/2πAT
[0036] For example, with b,=0.25, q=0.5, A=1, and T=1 μs, the maximum input frequency is fx,max=19.89 kHz.
[0037] If the input signal contains slopes steeper than �bq/T, slope overload noise is introduced. Nevertheless, the system does not show any tendency to fall into unstable operation modes. An example is depicted in FIG. 5, where the input signal x(n) 501 contains step-like transitions. At these positions, signal s(n) 502 tracks x(n) with limited slew rate. However, after few sampling periods, stable conditions are reached. As expected, here signal d(n) exceeds the range [−b +b] 503.
[0038]FIG. 5 also illustrates a typical initialization behavior. An arbitrary initial state of s(n) qualitatively corresponds to the case of a step-like transition of x(n). In FIG. 5, the initial condition has been set to s(1)=1−b=0.75, and signal s(n) has adapted within some clock periods.
[0039] As shown in the example FIG. 5, signals so(n) and s(n) adapt from an arbitrary is initial state within a short time when the adaptation stage is within a closed loop configuration (e.g., when the adaptive Σ-Δ modulator is used as a front-end of an A/D converter). The signals so(n) and yo(n) are directly used to compute wo(n) 504, and then digital filters for further signal processing (e.g., for decimation) can be applied.
[0040] However, when so(n) has to be reconstructed from sequence yo(n), and the initial state of so(n) is unknown, a principal uncertainty regarding the dc-offset of so(n) remains. If so′(n) designates the sequence with unknown initial state, then the difference to the correct sequence so(n) is reduced each time, s0′(n) reaches. the limits set by the adaptation algorithm. An example is shown in FIG. 6, where the same input signal and the same adaptation algorithm as in FIG. 4 are used (resulting in trace 601 and trace 602). Trace 603 depicts signal so′(n), if it is reconstructed from the binary sequence yo(n) only, and the initial condition is assumed to be so′(1)=−(1−b). As can be seen in trace 604, the difference so(n)−so′(n) is successively reduced to zero, and the error reduction takes place each time so′(n) reaches the limits �(1−b). When the error has once reached zero, it remains zero.
[0041] In FIG. 7, the signal-to-noise ratios (SNRs) of different types of Σ-Δ modulators of 1st order are shown as a function of the power of the input signal. The input signal x(n) is a periodic zero-mean noise sequence composed of N=4000 samples, and the bandwidth is B=20 kHz. Within this bandwidth, amplitudes and phases of the spectral lines are randomized. Different values of signal power are obtained by proportional amplification of this signal. The input power is referred to a reference power level of 1, which corresponds to the power of the standard Σ-Δ output sequence with ya(n)ε�1. At the maximum input power level shown in FIG. 7 (i.e., at −9.45 dB), the maximum signal amplitude reaches the value 0.99, which is just below the limit a=1. The calculation of the adaptive Σ-Δ modulators is based on the adaptation, algorithm Table 1, and the system parameters are set to a=1, b=0.25, and q=0.5. For the standard modulator, a=1 is assumed. The sampling rate for all systems is 1/T=1 MHz, and the SNR's are computed within B=20 kHz.
[0042] As can be seen from curve 701, the maximum SNR is obtained with an ideal adaptive Σ-Δ -modulator. This system is clearly superior to the ideal standard system. represented by curve 702. The :gain, that is, the difference SNR as shown by curve 703, at an input power of about −30 dB peaks at about G=18 dB, which is even higher than the gain of 12 dB, as estimated with for a/b=1/0.25=4. An adaptive Σ-Δ modulator requires a multibit D/A-converter in the feedback loop, since the feedback signal s(n) is a multilevel signal. With the algorithm of Table 1, 17 equidistant levels within the input region [−a<x(n)<a] are necessary. The requirements with respect to the linearity of this D/A converter must meet the requirements of an enhanced SNR. This is because a non-ideal D/A converter can be regarded as an ideal converter plus a noise source, and in the present application, the transfer function of this additional noise source is −NTF(z)=−z−1. Thus, this noise (multiplied with −1) is directly added to the input signal and enhances the noise energy in the base band. In FIG. 7, the SNR of an adaptive Σ-Δ modulator with a non-ideal D/A converter is shown by curve 704, whereby the contribution of the dc-offset error is omitted. The non-ideal D/A converter has a linearity equal to an 8-bit D/A converter with a maximum deviation of �� LSB from the ideal levels, i.e., for a=1, the maximum deviation of the 17 levels from the ideal values is �{fraction (1/255)}′ respectively. The error is assumed to be uniformly distributed. As demonstrated, the reduction of SNR increases with increasing input power level, and the mean SNR reduction for input levels between −25 dB and −9.45 dB is smaller than 2 dB.
[0043] Input signals as for FIG. 7 have been applied to a multibit Σ-Δ modulator of 1st order, involving a multibit quantizer and a multibit D/A converter with a quantization step size Δ=0.5, and a sampling rate 1/T=1 MHz. The quantizer shows a "mid-riser" type of transfer function, i.e., possible quantization levels are ��Δ, �{fraction (3/2)}Δ, . . . The amount of quantization noise power introduced by this type of multibit Σ-Δ modulator should be comparable to the one of an adaptive Σ-Δ modulator of 1st order with b=0.25. An ideal multibit Σ-Δ modulator of 1st order, and one with non-ideal D/A converter have been examined. As above, the non-ideal D/A converter has a linearity equal to an 8-bit D/A converter within the range [−1 +1], where, the maximum deviation from the ideal levels is �� LSB. The results obtained are very close to curves 701 and 704 for the ideal and the non-ideal modulators, respectively. The representation of an input power range as shown in FIG. 7 requires a 3-bit digital output sequence at 1 MHz.
[0044] An example for a practical implementation of an adaptive Σ-Δ modulator of 1st order implementing the adaptation algorithm of Table 1 is shown in the block diagram FIG. 8. Here, the focus is on the analog part, which is shown as a standard switched-capacitor design. With a=1, b=0.25, and q=0.5, there exist thirteen different, but equally spaced levels for the feedback signal s(n). These levels are �0.75, �0.625, �0.5, �0.375, �0.25, �0.125, and 0. Assuming a reference voltage Vref level 0 is associated with voltage Vref/2, levels �0.125 with voltages Vref/2 (1�0.125), etc. In a preferred embodiment, the generation of signal s(n) requires three capacitors 802, 803, 804. For example, 802 may represent C/8, 803 may represent C/4 and 804 may represent C/2 where C is the capacitance of the input capacitor 800. Signal yb(n) is obtained with the help of capacitor 801 which may represent C/4. The 4-bit signal so(n) is derived numerically from signal yo(n) in the adaptation logic 805. In the output generation logic 806, the 4-bit digital output sequence wo(n) is calculated by adding sequences so(n−1) and yo(n)*0.25. The switching control signals for charging/discharging the capacitors are derived from so(n) the switch control logic 807.
[0045] In a standard Σ-Δ modulator of 1st order with the same input range a=1, the feedback signal would be ya(n), and the realization from yo(n) would require a capacitor C1=C. Thus, the additional hardware cost for the adaptive modulator as compared to the standard modulator are three capacitors (plus the associated analog switches), and the logic stages. There are no additional demands on the specifications of the operational amplifier and the comparator, such as slew rate or open loop gain. However, as mentioned above, the precision of the feedback signal has to be meet particular requirements. The realization of 17 quantization levels with a maximum level error of �{fraction (1/255)} (corresponding to an 8-bit DAC with maximum error of �� LSB) should be feasible with standard switched capacitor technology, and thus only a slight reduction of the SNR has to be expected. The power consumption due to the feedback capacitors is even lower in the adaptive than in the non-adaptive-modulator, since the power of the overall feedback signal s(n)+yb(n) is smaller than the power of signal ya(n).
[0046] To summarize the principal of the invention, the performance of Σ-Δ modulators with respect to signal-to-noise ratio can be significantly improved at the cost of a moderate slew rate limitation of the input signal. This improvement is made possible by the ability of standard Σ-Δ modulators to process discontinuous input signals, i.e., the digital high-rate output signal contains the information of discontinuous input signals. This capability is usually not exploited, because in order to remove the shaped quantization noise, digital filters need to be employed, which also remove the high-frequency components of the input signal.
[0047] The quantization stage of the standard Σ-Δ modulator need not to be changed, i.e., the resolution of the quantizer remains the same. However, the feedback signal is a multilevel sequence, and thus a multibit D/A converter in the feedback loop with particular demands on the linearity may be added. The properties of analog components such as operational amplifiers and comparators can be left unchanged.
[0048] The power consumption of an adaptive modulator compared to a non-adaptive. modulator remains almost the same, and except for the dc-value of so(n), the entire digital-information characterizing the input signal x(n) is contained in the 2-level sequence yo(n). However, the actual signal x(n) (delayed by one sampling period) as a temporal waveform is contained in the multilevel sequence wo(n), which has to be reconstructed from yo(n). If the initial value of so(n) is known, the digital multilevel sequence wo(n) can be reconstructed without error directly from y0(n).
[0049] If an adaptive Σ-Δ modulator is compared to a multibit-Σ-Δ modulator with similar SNR-performance at the same sampling rate, two advantages are involved. First, the multibit-quantizer can be omitted. Although there are only modest requirements with respect to the accuracy of multibit A/D-converters in Σ-Δ applications (because of differentiation of the introduced noise), the implementation requires several comparators that contribute to both chip size and power consumption. The second advantage concerns the information characterizing the input signal is contained in the single-bit sequence yo(n) in the adaptive Σ-Δ modulator, instead of in a multibit sequence as for the multibit Σ-Δ modulator. According to information theory this means a significant compression of information per bit. In applications, where the high-rate digital Σ-Δ information has to be stored or transmitted before further processing, this feature can be extremely advantageous with respect to memory size or bandwidth of the transmission channel, respectively.
[0050] Although various exemplary embodiments of the invention have been disclosed, it should be apparent to those skilled in the art that various changes and modifications can be made which will achieve some of the advantages of the invention without departing from the true scope of the invention.
|Cited Patent
|Filing date
|Publication date
|May 4, 1936
|Mar 28, 1939
|American Box Board Co
|Title not available
|Title not available
|Title not available
|Title not available
|Citing Patent
|Filing date
|Publication date
|Sep 26, 2003
|Jun 17, 2004
|Zierhofer Clemens M.
|Accumulator for adaptive Sigma-Delta modulation
|Sep 26, 2003
|Nov 14, 2007
|MED-EL Medical Electronics Elektro-medizinische Ger�te GmbH
|Accumulator for adaptive sigma-delta modulation
|Sep 26, 2003
|Apr 7, 2005
|Med El Elektromed Geraete Gmbh
|Accumulator for adaptive sigma-delta modulation
|U.S. Classification
|International Classification
|Cooperative Classification
|European Classification
|Apr 9, 2003
|Aug 29, 2007
|Fee payment
Year of fee payment: 4
|Nov 29, 2011
|Fee payment
Year of fee payment: 8
|Nov 29, 2011
|Surcharge for late payment
Year of fee payment: 7


text: £300,000 fire attack probe at Sikh temple By David Kessen ONE of Doncaster's main Sikh temples is facing an estimated £300,000 repair bill after a suspected arson attack. And the community faces the prospect of raising the cash themselves because no insurance was in place when the fire devastated the site. The fire has caused major damage to the Guru Arjan Deu Ji Gurdwara temple on Cherry Tree Road, Hexthorpe, which is one three Sikh places of worship in the borough. And it came just five months after vandals broke into the site and stole copper piping and electrical wire, and the central heating system. Work had just been completed to repair the building after the vandalism this summer and the temple was due to re-open to worships this month - but now leaders say they are back to square one. But they are relieved that the temple's collection of scriptures - called the Guru Granth Sahib Ji - were not harmed by the fire because they had been removed for safe storage after the last attack of vandalism. A spokesman for the temple said the fire had been on the ground floor, and had "destroyed" the building, with fire damage on the ground floor and smoke damage upstairs. Valuable paintings, swords and religious items were destroyed. The temple was opened in 1983 and has held hundreds of festivals and events over the 27 years since then. Chairman of the temple, Rashpal Singh, said: "The whole of the building has been damaged by this. "We just cannot understand what sort of human being would do this to a place of worship. What sort of understanding have they got? "The one thing of any consolation in this is that the scriptures, the Guru Granth Sahib Ji, were not in the building when this happened. "If they had been destroyed there would have been national uproar by the Sikh community. The reason they were not is that the temple was already under renovation." He called for more protection for the site. Police are appealing for information on the cause of fire which was reported around 10am on December 30. Firefighters worked for several hours to put the blaze out. Nobody was in the building at the time. A spokesman said: "At this time police are treating the fire as suspicious and ask anyone who may have witnessed it or have information to contact them on 0114 220 2020 quoting incident number 263 of December 30." Now the Sikh community is rallying to try to repair the site as soon as possible. They are hoping to restore the temple in the next six months. Spokesman Jarnel Singh said it would be a difficult task, but members were in talks to do the work. The first stage is to clean up the site, and an appeal is going out to the wider Doncaster community and businesses for any assistance. Mr Singh said they were appealing for anyone who could offer their services or equipment to help with the work. Anyone who can help should call Mr Singh on 07596 272 93 http://www.thestar.co.uk/news/300000-fire-attack-probe-at.6683992.jp


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› Find signed collectible books: 'The Accidental Vampire (Argeneau Vampires, Book 7)'
Ever since an accident turned her into a knockout vamp, Elvi Black's been catching her z's in a coffin, staying out of the sun, and giving up garlic. She knows there's more to being undead than what she saw in Dracula, but she can't very well ask her mortal friends about proper biting etiquette. But when her neighbors placed a personal ad for her in the local paper, she never imagined she'd meet Victor Argeneau, a vampire who could have his pick of any womandead or alive.
Rich, powerful, and dropdead gorgeous, Victor's the perfect man for a novice neckbiter like Elvi. He's willing to teach her everything he knows, but he'll have to do it fast. Someone's out to put a stake through her new vamp life, and only Victor can keep her safeand satisfiedfor all eternity.
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› Find signed collectible books: 'The Bite Before Christmas'
This holiday season, join two of today's most popular paranormal authors for a special look into their worlds, where creatures are always stirring and no one sleeps through the night. . . . The Bite Before ChristmasThe Gift by Lynsay SandsTeddy Brunswick knows about the immortals among us. He's worked with them, called them friend--but he never counted on being snowed in with one over Christmas. Katricia Argeneau is a tasty little bundle and she seems to feel the same way about him. Problem is, he's not sure she feels quite the same way. After all, the snowstorm has derailed her blood delivery, which leaves him the only available meal on the menu. . . .Home for the Holidays by Jeaniene FrostCat and Bones are looking forward to a normal holiday--at least as "normal" as it gets for the combustible vampire couple and their otherworldly friends and family. But their yuletide plans are shattered when a stranger shows up and reveals long-buried family secrets that threaten to take a bite out of their holiday cheer . . . and lives.
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› Find signed collectible books: 'Bite Me If You Can'
Once Bitten . . .
One minute Leigh is walking home in the early hours of the morning, and the next a vampire is sinking his teeth into her neck. Turns out it was a rogue vampire marked for termination, but it does Leigh little good because the damage's already been done. She's become one of them.
Lucian Argeneau, hunter of rogue vampires, has been alive for over two thousand years, and there's very little to excite him anymore. Food has become tasteless, sex is ordinary. Then Leigh drops into his life. Suddenly he finds himself craving coffee . . . and imagining the sassy brunette atop the black satin sheets on his nice big bed. It's Lucian's job now to enlighten Leigh on the inner workings of being immortal . . . and tutoring her is igniting a fire in him that hasn't burned in centuries.
But until they stop a renegade bloodsucker from destroying the human race, passion will have to wait!
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› Find signed collectible books: 'A Bite to Remember (Argeneau Vampires, Book 5)'
Rule #1: Never get involved with someone who won't be there for you when the sun comes up.
Once bitten, twice shy, and sexy PI Jackie Morrisey wasn't going there again. Vincent Argeneau may be the hottest guy she's ever met, living or dead, but she's here to stop a killer from turning this vampire into dust, not to jump into bed with him.
Rule #2: Never kiss a vampire . . . it can be a pain in the neck.
Okay, so Vincent's had four hundred years to perfect his kissing skills, and he does look rather tempting when he runs around the house shirtless. He's also charming, protective . . . did we mention he can kiss? Jackie needs to be on her guard, or else she'll have to come up with a new rule: If you're going to fall in love with a vampire, make sure it's a bite to remember.
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› Find signed collectible books: 'Bitten by Cupid'
Vampire Valentine by Lynsay Sands
Mirabeau LaRouche knew she had a job to do, but she never expected her assignment to take her through New York City's dark, dank underground-in her bridesmaid gown, no less! And when her partner turns out to be mortal private investigator Tiny McGraw, Mireabeau knows it's no ordinary Cupid's arrow that has struck her heart this Valentine's Day.
Hearts Untamed by Pamela Palmer
Ten years ago Zeeland left D.C. to join the Therian Guard, needing to put some distance between himself and the still-too-young Julianne. Now he's returned, in the midst of a Valentine's celebration to find Julianne more beautiful than ever, still angry at him for leaving, and up to her lovely eyebrows in an intrigue that threatens both of their immortal lives.
Kiss and Kill Cupid by Jamie Rush
Kat Morgan has no use for Valentine's Day, since hearing other people's thoughts puts a real damper on any kind of intimate relationship. When she overhears the Killer Cupid serial killer targeting her for his Valentine's Day murder, Kat is terrified. But is Adrian, the one man whose thoughts she can't hear, her savior, or killer?
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› Find signed collectible books: 'Born to Bite: An Argeneau Novel (Argeneau Vampires)'
An enforcer, Eshe d'Aureus goes undercover to investigate sexy vampire Armand Argeneau whose late wives all met unfortunate and untimely ends. Original.
Title: Born to Bite
Author: Sands, Lynsay
Publisher: Harpercollins
Publication Date: 2010/08/31
Number of Pages: 374
Binding Type: PAPERBACK
Library of Congress: bl2010016742
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› Find signed collectible books: 'The Brat'
Pub Date: 2011-04-26 Pages: 384 Language: English Publisher: HarperCollins US In the tradition of the best parenting guidebooks comes a new work by renowned child psychologist Judith S. Wallerstein on a subject that vexes millions of American moms and dads: How can you genuinely protect your children during and after divorce Wallerstein answers this important question with knowledge gathered from thirty years of in-depth interviews with children of divorce and their parents. Youll learn what you should say and do for children at each age and stage of development. Youll discover the many ways that divorce will change your family in the years ahead. Youll understand the challenges of how to be an effective parent outside of marriage. how to choose the custody plan that is best for your child. what you need to know to create a healthy remarriage. and what to say to your childre...
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› Find signed collectible books: 'The Countess'
You cant help but fall in love with Lynsay Sands!
Christina Dodd
New York Times and USA Today bestselling author Lynsay Sands trades in highland kilts for lush ballrooms and high-waisted gowns in The Countess, the first in a brand new, sexy, laugh-out-loud funny Regency romance series. Fans of Julie Garwood, Jill Barnett, and Teresa Medeiros will adore The Countess, and sympathize with her hilarious attempts to cover up the untimely demise of her despicable husband, even as the late earls twin brother sets her heart aflutter. The much adored creator of the popular Argeneau vampire family paranormal romance novels, the incomparable Lynsay is equally adept at historical romanceas this wonderful Regency romp so emphatically demonstrates!
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› Find signed collectible books: 'Dates From Hell'
She thought her date was out of this world.
Actually, he was not of this world . . .
We've all been on bad dates, nightmare dates, dreadful experiences that turned out to be uniquely memorable in the very worst way. But at least our partners for these detestable evenings were more or less . . . human!
Now Kim Harrison, Lynsay Sands, Kelley Armstrong, and Lori Handeland -- four of the very best writers currently exploring the dangerous seduction of the supernatural -- offer up dating disasters (and unexpected delights) of a completely different sort: dark, wicked, paranormally sensual assignations with werewolves, demon lovers, and the romantically challenged undead. Sexy, witty, chilling, and altogether remarkable, here is proof positive that some love matches are made someplace other than heaven.
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› Find signed collectible books: 'Devil of the Highlands'
They call him the Devil . . .
He is the most notorious laird of Scotland: fierce, cold, deadly . . . and maybe even worse. Yet Evelinde has just agreed to wed him. Anything, she thinks, is better than her cruel stepmother. Though Evelinde should be wary of the rumors, she can't help but be drawn to this warrior . . . for the Devil of the Highlands inspires a heat within her that is unlike anything she has ever known.
They may call him whatever they wish, but Cullen, Laird of Donnachaidh, cares only for the future of his clan. He must find a wife, a woman to bear him sons and heed his commands. He has no need for beauty or grace, but one taste of his lovely bride's sweet lips and the sultry feel of her skin arouse an untamed passion. Perhaps there's more to marriage than he thought . . .
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› Find signed collectible books: 'An English Bride in Scotland'
From New York Times bestselling author of The Husband Hunt, The Heiress, and other beloved historical romances, comes Lynsay Sandss An English Bride in Scotland, the first book in a new series set in the wilds of the Highlands.
Annabel had planned to become a nun. But when her mother arrives at the Abbey to bring her home to marry a Scottish lairdher runaway sisters intended husbandher life takes a decidedly different turn.
And though Annabel isnt the wife hed planned for, strong, sexy Ross McKay is taken with his shy, sweet bride.
Annabel knows nothing about being a wife, running a castleor the marriage bed. But her handsome new husband makes her want to learn. When Annabels life is threatened, Ross vows to move the highlands itself to save her and preserve the passion thats only beginning to bloom.
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› Find signed collectible books: 'The Heiress'
You cant help but fall in love with Lynsay Sands!
Christina Dodd
Whether shes enthralling readers with the exploits of her Argeneau vampire family, transporting fans to the Scottish Highlands, or enchanting them with love affairs of the noble lords and ladies of the Regency ton, New York Times and USA Today bestseller Lynsay Sands knows how to pen a winner! The Heiressthe second book in the very sexy, very funny Regency romance series she began with The Countessis further proof of Sandss historical romance mastery. The winning tale of an alluring beauty desperately seeking a poor husband, The Heiress is exactly the kind of sharp and witty read that fans of Julie Garwood and Teresa Medeirosnot to mention Lynsays own army of aficionadosare looking for.
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› Find signed collectible books: 'The Hellion and The Highlander'
You cant help but fall in love with Lynsay Sands!
Christina Dodd
Once again, New York Times and USA Today bestselling author Lynsay Sands displays another side of her extraordinary talent with The Hellion and the Highlander, a sensuous and wonderfully witty love story set in the breathtaking countryside of Scotland. The tremendously popular author of the Argeneau paranormal vampire romance series, Sands is equally adept at historical romance, as she demonstrates in her third Highland romp, perfect for fans of Julie Garwood, Jill Barnett, and Teresa Medierosand a delightful companion to her own Devil of the Highlands and Taming the Highland Bride.
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› Find signed collectible books: 'Holidays Are Hell'
This holiday, spend quality time with family and loved onesliving and dead . . .
There's no place like home for the horrordaysunless you'd prefer a romantic midnight walk through a ghost-infested graveyard . . . or a haunted house candlelight dinner with the sexy vampire of your dreams. The (black) magical season is hereand whether it's a solstice séance gone demonically wrong with the incomparable Kim Harrison, a grossly misshapen Christmas with the remarkable Lynsay Sands, a blood-chilling-and-spilling New Year's with the wonderful Marjorie M. Liu, or a super-powered Thanksgiving with the phenomenal Vicki Pettersson, one thing is for certain: in the able hands of these exceptional dark side explorers, the holidays are going to be deliciously hellish!
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› Find signed collectible books: '(Hungry for You) By Sands, Lynsay (Author) Mass market paperback on 30-Nov-2010'
Clever, steamy&[with] a deliciously wicked sense of humor that readers will gobble up.
Katie MacAlister
Readers simply cant get their fill of bestselling author Lynsay Sandss paranormal romance series featuring the Argeneau family of vampiresand Hungry for You is another satisfying feast of sizzling passion and winning humor. Fans of Charlaine Harris and her Sookie Stackhouse books will eat up Sandss Hungry for You, the story of an ancient immortal masquerading as a chef to get closer to the intoxicating restaurateur who just might be the lifemate the lonely vampire has been searching for for centuries.
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› Find signed collectible books: 'The Husband Hunt'
You cant help but fall in love with Lynsay Sands!
Christina Dodd
New York Times bestselling author Lynsay Sands takes romance fans on The Husband Hunt. Bestselling author Suzanne Enoch, declares that, Lynsay Sands hits all the right notes, and any reader who has ever been touched by the unique Sands romantic magicbe it her delectable Argeneau family vampire novels, her Scottish highlands-set historicals, her marvelous Medieval love stories, or her delightful Regency Era rompswould no doubt enthusiastically agree. The Husband Hunt is a wild and captivating ride, as a rakish lord with no interest in marriage must fight his growing attraction for the enormously popular, exquisite beauty he ignored years earlier when she was merely a bright-eyed, infatuated child.
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› Find signed collectible books: 'The Immortal Hunter: A Rogue Hunter Novel'
Even vampires need a vacation. But Decker Argeneau's ends abruptly when he's asked to help hunt the group of rogue vampires targeting mortals -- one that might include a defector in his own family. Before he can worry about that, though, he's got to rescue the latest victim. It's all part of the job, including taking a bullet for a beautiful doctor.
Dr. Danielle McGill doesn't know if she can trust the man who just saved her life. There are too many questions, such as what is the secret organization he says he's part of, and why do his wounds hardly bleed? However, with her sister in the hands of some dangerous men, she doesn't have much choice but to trust him.
Except now Decker's talking about life mates and awakening a passion that's taking Dani beyond anything she's ever known. Being undead may not be half-bad...especially if it means spending forever with a man who would love her with his mind, body, and immortal soul.
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› Find signed collectible books: 'A Quick Bite'
That hot guy tied to Lissianna Argeneau's bed? He's not desserthe's the main course!
Lissianna has been spending her centuries pining for Mr. Right, not just a quick snack, and this sexy guy she finds in her bed looks like he might be a candidate. But there's another, more pressing issue: her tendency to faint at the sight of blood . . . an especially annoying quirk for a vampire. Of course it doesn't hurt that this man has a delicious-looking neck. What kind of cold-blooded vampire woman could resist a bite of that?
Dr. Gregory Hewitt recovers from the shock of waking up in a stranger's bedroom pretty quicklyonce he sees a gorgeous woman about to treat him to a wild night of passion. But is it possible for the good doctor to find true love with a vampire vixen, or will he be just a good meal? That's a question Dr. Greg might be willing to sink his teeth into . . . if he can just get Lissianna to bite.
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› Find signed collectible books: 'The Reluctant Vampire: An Argeneau Novel'
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› Find signed collectible books: 'The Renegade Hunter: A Rogue Hunter Novel'
Nicholas Argeneau is not your typical rogue hunter in The Renegade Hunter, the latest installment of the Rogue Hunter series from New York Times bestselling author Lynsay Sands. Though he spent centuries targeting vampires who break the immortal laws, for the past 50 years Nicholas has been a rogue himself. But then he saves a beautiful mortal from a terrifying bloodsucker, and everything changes . . .
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› Find signed collectible books: 'The Rogue Hunter (Argeneau Vampires, Book 10)'
Samantha Willan is a workaholic lawyer. She's grateful for some rest and relaxation in cottage country, and after a recent breakup she wants to stay as far away from romance as possible. Then she meets her irresistible new neighbor. There's something strange and mysterious about his eyes. Is it just her imagination, or are they locked on her neck?
Garrett Mortimer is a rogue hunter. His last assignment united Lucian Argeneau with his lifemate, and Mortimer is hoping this one will be less . . . adventurous. He's here to track down a reported rogue, but fun in the sun is every bloodsucker's nightmare. Worse, he can't seem to get his mind off Samantha, especially when he spies her skinny-dipping in the lake. After eight hundred years as a bachelor, is he ready to turn a volatile attraction into a lasting love affair?
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› Find signed collectible books: 'Taming the Highland Bride'
You cant help but fall in love with Lynsay Sands!
New York Times bestselling author Christina Dodd
Lynsay Sandsthe perennial USA Today and New York Times bestselling author well-known and loved for her delightful novels featuring the Argeneau family of vampiresonce again shows us another side with Taming the Highland Bride, the second in the wonderfully witty, supremely sexy historical romance series she kicked off with Devil of the Highlands. With Taming the Highland Bride, the incomparable Lynsay pays homage to the immortal Bard, William Shakespeare, as she delights readers with a tale of a smitten Scotsmans determined efforts to tame his beautiful, hot-tempered fiancée, the notorious Stewart Shrew.
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› Find signed collectible books: 'Under a Vampire Moon (Argeneau)'
More editions of Under a Vampire Moon (Argeneau):
› Find signed collectible books: 'Vampire, Interrupted (Argeneau Vampires, Book 9)'
After seven hundred years of life, Marguerite Argeneau finally has a career. Well, the start of one, anyway. She's training to be a private investigator, and her first assignment is to find an immortal's mother. It seemed simple enough, until Marguerite wakes up one evening to find herself at the wrong end of a sword. Now she realizes she's in way over her head.
Julius Notte wants to protect Marguerite, and not because someone just tried to take her head off. She doesn't know it yet, but she's his lifemate and he's determined to woo her. It's been over five hundred years since he last courted a woman, but surely the techniques haven't changed. Now if only he can keep her aliveso to speakso they can have that happily-ever-after.
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› Find signed collectible books: 'Vampires Are Forever: An Argeneau Novel'
Inez Urso is beginning to have her doubts. Her business associate Thomas Argeneau has some interesting traits, like an allergic reaction to the sun, excellent night vision, and not much of an appetite for food. And to top it all off, he just tried to bite her neck . . . but maybe that was a sign of passion. If so, she'd be happy to experience more, despite her determination not to mix business with pleasure.
Well, if not forever, at least two hundred years. Inez is the most beautiful woman he's seen in centuries. Those luscious lips, seductive curves, and her elegant neck . . . he just couldn't resist the temptation of one little bite. Now Thomas will do anything to convince her that only an immortal like him can satisfy her all night long . . .
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How to say QUAL in Hindi
Would you like to know how to translate QUAL to Hindi? This page provides all possible translations of the word QUAL in the Hindi language.
- योग्यता को सीधेHindi
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Use the citation below to add this definition to your bibliography:
"QUAL." Definitions.net. STANDS4 LLC, 2015. Web. 8 Oct. 2015. <http://translate.definitions.net/QUAL/HI>.


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Sea Control 10: ADM Harvey
November 2013
By LT Matthew Hipple
Matt and Grant interview ADM John C. Harvey Jr., USN (ret), former Fleet Forces and Old Salt emeritus. They talk about almost everything, but topics of recent interest: Sequestration, Air-Sea Battle, China, Surface Combatants, Carrier numbers, Fat Leonard, and more! Join us for Episode 10:
ADM Harvey (DOWNLOAD)
Remember to listen, subscribe, and rate on Itunes, Xbox Music, and Stitcher Stream Radio.
Posted by LT Matthew Hipple in Foreign Policy, Maritime Security, Navy, Podcasts, Soft Power, Training & Education
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Located just a short drive from the city centre, our hotel in Cardiff is an ideal base for visitors to explore the wonderful Welsh capital. Guests can enjoy eating in our two great restaurants, relax in our spa or work out in our state-of-the-art gym (complete with swimming pool!). Our Cardiff hotel has you covered.
- Premium 'Upperdeck' room upgrade
- Beauty Spa
- 'Hub' meeting and events facilities
- Sealy Posturepedic bed
- TV with satellite channels
- Desk, lamp, telephone
- Hairdryer and ironing board
- Tea & coffee making facilities
BOOK DIRECT on our website and you can enjoy free access to our Health & Fitness club which includes a state-of-the-art-gym, 25m pool, sauna and steam room. Normally £5.
Out of the hotel, from historic castles to the exciting Cardiff Bay redevelopment, Cardiff has something for everyone. For sporting enthusiasts, both the Millennium Stadium and Cardiff City Stadium are less than 5 miles away. Sci-fi fans will also be happy to know the Doctor Who Experience, located within Cardiff Bay is a just a short drive away from our Cardiff Hotel.
Comfortable and Affordable
Standard Double
- Double bed
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- The room can also fit a cot
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- Room can also fit a cot
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UpperDeck Double
The most unbelievable upgrade yet - for only £20!
Your exclusive benefits when you stay UpperDeck include:
- Free access to our Health & Fitness Club, Pool, Steam and Sauna. Normally £5.
- In room Starbucks tray with complimentary VIA coffee and Tazo Tea.
- Sky Movies and Bose speaker dock in your room.
- A great night's sleep under a soft, snuggly duvet.
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Dine & Dream Sundays just £10
NEW! Stay for only £10 on a Sunday when you spend just £48 on dining. Sundays are for relaxing so grab the one you love and dine and dream to your heart's content. Exclusive offer when you book direct with us.
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Stay with us on a Friday in October or November for just £59 per room. This exclusive offer includes a 2 course dinner and a chilled glass of Prosecco each! That's what Friday's are made of.
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About Rainier
PC gamer, WorthPlaying EIC, globe-trotting couch potato, patriot, '80s headbanger, movie watcher, music lover, foodie and man in black -- squirrel!
'Super Bullet' (NDS) Revealed - Screens
by Rainier on Jan. 22, 2008 @ 4:59 p.m. PST
Currently only scheduled for release in Japan later this month, D3 Publisher's Super Bullet is the latest installment in its Simple DS series. Showing striking similarities to the Metal Slug franchise, Super Bullet is all about you and your heavily armored tank, customizable with about hundred pieces.


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Run happy!
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Just a Baby Tiger Jumping on a Couch
If you see something cuter than this today, good for you, you obviously are some kind of wizard. If you're sad and dried up like the rest of us, here's a ridiculously adorable baby tiger jumping on a couch...
If you see something cuter than this today, good for you, you obviously are some kind of wizard. If you're sad and dried up like the rest of us, here's a ridiculously adorable baby tiger jumping on a couch...
We're huge fans of campaigning season, because America always comes together to create political memes, poke fun at candidates and make boring debates a little more interesting. It's country bonding at its finest! We're a little bummed though, because that season has finally come to an end.
Our pets are good at tons of things, like getting stuck in jars and sneaking into pictures for awesome photobombs. They possess talents a bunch of other animals would envy. But did you know our four-legged friends are really, really good at playing dead?
Dressing up our furry friends means they're usually subject to embarrassment among other pups. However, we think it's the small price they pay for being so darn adorable. That being said, we've already made our Star-Wars-meets-puppies obsession pretty clear, what with the discovery of Ewok dogs and Princess Leia pugs. Could the fantasy flick and canine combo get any cuter?! Luckily for us, yes.
Last Wednesday, a 10-year-old boy with Down syndrome was found alive in the woods after he went missing from his home the previous day. But here's the part that the internet will love -- he survived by huddling with a pack of puppies for warmth. Sadly, no cats or corgis were involved as far as we know.
Non-dog owners will often cringe when they see a canine take a big lick of human face.
And there may be something to their revulsion. According to a new study published in the Archives of Oral Biology dog owners have high rates of a type of dangerous mouth bacteria.
All this week, Missoula City Animal Control officers are focusing their attention on the Pineview Park area in the Rattlesnake, following a rash of citizen complaints, including at least one dog bite report.
With Halloween just a few weeks away and our obsession with dressed-up animals still going strong, we have been led into the most wonderful of all Tumblr lands with our latest discovery.
Remember when something as simple as a balloon could occupy your attention? Neither do we, but these dogs sure have a great time excitedly batting a pink balloon around in their backyard like there's no tomorrow.


text:
- Horoscopes
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Branford - In a first for Long Island Sound, 120 pounds of kelp farmed in waters near the Thimble Islands has made its way to the plates and soupbowls of New York City restaurants.
"We're the only one in the country selling a fresh kelp product," said Bren Smith, owner of the Thimble Island Oyster Co., which grew the long, wide kelp ribbons on a 20-acre plot where he also raises oysters, mussels and clams. "It has a short shelf life, but because I'm close to New York City, I can sell it directly there."
Margaret Van Patten, communications director of Connecticut Sea Grant, said the sale is significant because it marks the first time seaweed farmed in the Sound has been sold as a food product.
Sea Grant, based at the University of Connecticut's Avery Point campus in Groton, worked with Smith, as did Charles Yarish, a UConn professor of ecology and evolutionary biology who has been involved in seaweed research for decades. Before the sale took place about three weeks ago, Smith had to obtain permits from the state Department of Public Health and the state Department of Consumer Protection. The kelp was also subjected to product safety tests, which required the purchase of new equipment that was funded by Sea Grant.
"Now that this has proved successful, Sea Grant is going to be looking to work with more people who want to grow this crop," Van Patten said.
David Carey, director of the Aquaculture division of the state Department of Agriculture, said the permits created for this new crop specify that it can be grown only in areas also approved for shellfish farming, so it must meet the same water quality standards.
"We're excited about this," Carey said, adding that he sees potential for former lobstermen who lost their livelihood when the lobster population declined to repurpose their boats for seaweed farming.
"Their boats would be the perfect size," he said.
To develop this market, he said, more research and investment is needed in economical ways of processing seaweed and increasing the market.
In addition to the permits and testing for the fresh product, Smith has also obtained the approvals to blanch, freeze, package and sell processed kelp. He is using facilities at the Bridgeport Regional Aquaculture Science & Technology Education Center for the processing.
Chefs in New York are using the kelp in soups, salads, butter and some Nordic cuisine dishes, he said. Some are also working to develop dishes such as kelp ice cream, cocktails and pickles. The kelp he is growing, raised from native seed stock originally from a site off Pine Island in Groton collected by Yarish, is not the type of seaweed used in sushi dishes. While the markets and uses for local kelp are still emerging, he said, it was more commonly eaten in past decades.
"We're trying to reclaim a very old tradition," he said. "It's a really good local food."
He is also selling his harvest to Yale for use as a fertilizer on its farm. Over the next few months, he plans to triple his kelp production and try to grow other types of seaweed.
Smith said he turned to seaweed farming after 80 percent of his shellfish crop was wiped out by Hurricane Irene and Superstorm Sandy. He started doing research on the Internet about other crops he could grow in his shellfish beds, and came across references to Yarish and his seaweed research.
Yarish said Smith's success "will open people's eyes" about the potential for seaweed farming in Long Island Sound. Several areas in the eastern Sound would be suitable, he added. Areas with good water quality and water depths of 20 feet to 100 feet are required. To help foster interest in others starting seaweed farms, Yarish is working with Sea Grant to develop a kelp cultivation manual.
The kelp Smith is growing, known as sugar kelp, "is the same stuff you find walking at Ocean Beach Park.
"This is local, high yield and sustainable," Yarish said.
Yarish is growing different types of seaweed at sites off Fairfield and in the East River near New York City, among others. In addition to promoting it as a highly nutritious food, Yarish said he and UConn are also partnering with a Shelton-based startup, Sea Green Organics, on an organic seaweed-based fertilizer.
UPDATED: Man's body discovered in wood chipper in Stonington
Appellate court hears arguments in Montville 'no body' murder case
With 'El Amore de Los Muertos,' New London's Hempsteadys aim for the future
Rhode Island ACLU raises concerns over law targeting sex offenders
First lady to be in Groton on Saturday for submarine christening
Police: Woman charged with prostitution after sting at Salem spa
Bank of America directs fraud complaints to a sales pitch for cruises


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Bawdy Party
For some of us, nothing says Valentines Day like teddy bears, candy, and flowers. But for a fetishist, its boot lickings, flesh suspensions, and rubber.
Ah, love.
Viva la Fetish Revolution 11. The erotic Valentines event, sponsored by the Arizona fetish organization Horns & Halos, features music by the British EBM group Nitzer Ebb in addition to four full bars and a dozen peddlers of fetish fantasy goods. But the real bawdy party is in the performances. In addition to carnal catwalks, bondage stages, and exotic burlesque and belly dancing displays, educator and columnist on adventurous sexuality Midori will be on hand, as will Japanese suspension artist CoCo Katsura.
Only a VIP ticket will get you a fetish sushi girl platter, but the raffle of an $800 bondage device (huh?) is open to all present.
Sat., Feb. 12, 8 p.m., 2011
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|Reviews for Realize
| Guest chapter 19 . 8/11/2014
Thank you...
| rclaurel chapter 12 . 8/8/2014
He had his chance, I would not take him back after what he has done
| rclaurel chapter 8 . 8/8/2014
told you never sleep with him when your both drunk
| Guest chapter 6 . 8/1/2014
Normal girl would sleep with Jake long time ago. How long they are daying? Weeks by now. Edward during this time was fucking Tanya. Some chicks have no pride.
| coby64 chapter 21 . 8/3/2014
So you do angst and I don't, however, for some reason I stumbled on you story and the review appealed to me. There were some typos but this is FF and hasn't been professionally edited so no big deal. Anyway I stuck with it even though, again I don't do angst, and WOW! I loved this story. Your writing and plot captured me and held me straight through. I don't know if you still check in on reviews but u hope you do so you can know how much I appreciate the time you took to write this lovely story. Well Done Plot!
| Guest chapter 21 . 7/21/2014
Best fcuking story I have read in a lonnnggggg time biatch! Your awesomeeeeee. Love you and it. Xoxo - Fabray Malvagio.
| jus2read chapter 21 . 6/23/2014
So so adorable! I'll admit i wasnt sure about it at first but after reading some reviews i went for it and i'm so glad i did :D
| Tarbecca chapter 1 . 6/17/2014
Recommended this story in the Fic Dive over at ADF! :)
| rclaurel chapter 7 . 5/21/2014
No they can't, they are drunk it will be devastating to do and will regret it in the morning
| rclaurel chapter 6 . 5/21/2014
Well Edward has no business being pissed because of Jake, while he screws Tanya. What Bella is just supposed to watch and wait for him to find someone presentable for her to date.
| tasha taylor92 chapter 19 . 5/21/2014
very sweet story :)
| Sayblegirl chapter 19 . 5/6/2014
Such an amazing story. Thanks so much for sharing your talent!
| Sayblegirl chapter 11 . 5/5/2014
I'm so glad that someone told E what he was too blind to see. I just wanna huge Jake.
| Sayblegirl chapter 10 . 5/5/2014
GAWD... Edward is such a dumbass!
| Sayblegirl chapter 9 . 5/5/2014
This chapter actually made my heart hurt. Poor Bella!


text: The hotel has a good location, just a few blocks from subway station and you can walk to Belvedere Palace. The room was clean and well decorated, but the wi-fi was poor there. Staff is friendly and helped us all the time. The only negative point is the breakfast overpriced.


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Top 10 Reasons Why We Love The Ambassade Hotel:
10. Nice modern bathrooms.
9. It's on the Herengracht Canal and away from the younger tourist insanity.
8. Some rooms have their own entrances--it's like having your own apartment in Amsterdam.
7. Free internet in rooms and they also have a computer that guests can use to check email if you didn't bring your own laptop.
6. It's quiet and elegant.
5. 24 hour room service for drinks, snacks, and ice!
4. Romantic canal views can make any stay feel like a second honeymoon.
3. Each room is unique. Will you have a winding staircase? A balcony overlooking the canal?
2. The beds are very comfy. It's delightful to sleep in with the morning breeze coming in from the open window.
1. The staff! They are extremely helpful, discrete and make great restaurant recommendations. I spent 8 months organizing a group of friends to travel to Amsterdam to celebrate my husband's 50th birthday. The staff was attentive to every email question and had great suggestions.
We hope to be back at the Ambassade again very soon.
- Official Description (provided by the hotel):
- Over the years, the Ambassade Hotel has expanded considerably. Starting with just one canal-side building in 1953, it now has 57 hotel rooms distributed among 10 of these buildings. Eight of these canal-side homes are on the "Herengracht" canal, while two others are located on the "Singel" canal. Other buildings are in use by the Ambassade Hotel too, but for other purposes: a few houses further along the Herengracht is the hotel's Float & Massage Centre known as Koan Float and 150 meters further along the Singel canal you will find the hotel's conference room. Except for the building at 335 Herengracht, all the canal-side buildings are physically interconnected. So as not to unnecessarily damage the original character of these canal-side homes, small sets of stairs and landings can be found at various places in the halls and in some of the rooms themselves to bridge the differences in floor elevations between the buildings. Over the years, two lifts have been installed, making all rooms easily accessible. The Ambassade Hotel has a bar and restaurant/brasserie that specializes in the classical French kitchen. The canal houses have been carefully restored to maintain their authentic character and all rooms and suites have been stylishly furnished and decorated. The furnishings are predominantly Louis XV/XVI style with the use of colorful fabrics and in all rooms and public areas you will find original paintings by artists from the famous Cobra movement. ... more less
- Reservation Options:
- TripAdvisor is proud to partner with Expedia, Booking.com, Hotels.com, EasyToBook, Odigeo, Priceline and Agoda so you can book your Ambassade Hotel reservations with confidence. We help millions of travelers each month to find the perfect hotel for both vacation and business trips, always with the best discounts and special offers.
- Also Known As:
- Ambassade Hotel Amsterdam


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quick and easy
(Recipe Collection)
17 Recipes Created by CATHYMSW
Recipes in this Collection
Delicious and quick, this dish is a great way to get more fish into your healthy meal plan! We think this baked tilapia recipe can't be beat!Submitted by RACHIELOO
An easy slow cooker recipe that the family will enjoy!Submitted by LOSER1231
A hearty pancake that provides over 6 grams of fiber per serving. I like to add blueberries to the batter. Very kid-friendly recipe!Submitted by CTCLOUGH
Submitted by JTRO13
You've never used ramen noodles like this before. Try this in place of traditional slaw.
This quick and healthy side dish takes just minutes to prepare! And as a bonus, it's an easy way to get the kids to eat their vegetables.Submitted by MATCM81
4 ingredients, 20 minutes and dinner is served! If you're looking for the perfect boneless pork chops recipe, this is it!Submitted by LINJEN
We don't like baked fish, but this tilapia recipe is delicious!Submitted by JANA_N_TN
These tostadas are cheap and easy to make--and they're full of fiber! Submitted by STEPFANIER
Submitted by WILDTHING42
Whether you make these on the grill or in the oven, these quick-fix potato packs are mom's best friend. No mess, no clean-up, and only 5 minutes to prep! Submitted by GRILLGUIDE
A great tasting and healthy alternative to fries. Submitted by LIZZS2NDCHANCE
Six ingredients, 5 minutes of hands-on cooking, and dinner is served!Submitted by ORANGECOWCAT
This is a family favorite!Submitted by DANITHOM25
Tasty Low fat/Low calorie version of the bar room favoriteSubmitted by ANGIERSJ
A Weight Watchers recipe... a FAVORITE of mine!Submitted by SLIMKATIE


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Photo Galleries
< MyNorthwest
Japanese dock removed from Washington coast beach
Crews have removed the last piece of a dock that washed up on Washington's Olympic Coast in December.
3 of 13
"This operation was challenging-imagine opening up a 185-ton concrete package filled with foam packing peanuts while standing near a helicopter on an extremely remote coastline," said John Nesset, president and C.E.O. of The Undersea Company.
Photo by (Washington State Dept. of Ecology)
Photo by (Washington State Dept. of Ecology)
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Week in photos
Photos taken by the Associated Press Sept. 28 to Oct. 2.
Stargazers treated to supermoon eclipse
Stargazers were treated to a rare astronomical phenomenon with a total lunar eclipse combined with a so-called supermoon.
Week in photos
Photos from the Associated Press taken from around the world.
Four killed in Aurora Avenue Bridge crash in Seattle
The four people killed when a charter bus and Ride the Ducks vehicle collided were students from North Seattle College, The Seattle Times reports.
Big-name business leaders meet China's president in Seattle
Business leaders from Apple, Honeywell, Disney, Microsoft, Starbucks, Dow Chemical, Amazon, IBM, and many more attended a Wednesday morning meeting with the president of China.
Week in photos
Photos taken from around the world during Sept. 14-18.
Week in photos
Check out the week in photos from all over the world.


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1. Let's find out.
2. By the way: You're pretty rad no matter how many people have connecting earlobes.
Just saying.
This post was created by a user and has not been vetted or endorsed by BuzzFeed's editorial staff. BuzzFeed Community is a place where anyone can post awesome lists and creations. Learn more or post your buzz!
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Vishane Perera top-scored with 21 in Oxon's second innings
/ Sport
OXFORDSHIRE plunged to 54 all out in their second innings to slump to a 166-run defeat on the final day of their Unicorns Counties Championship Western Division clash against Shropshire at Bridgnorth.
Oxon had looked to hold the upper hand at the start of play as Shropshire led by 145 runs with just three wickets remaining.
The hosts' tailenders frustrated them in adding a further 75 runs.
But, even then, Oxon were left with an eminently achievable target of 221 for victory.
However, they collapsed in spectacular fashion to suffer their third successive Championship defeat of the season.
Their 54 all out off 29.2 overs matched the same total they were dismissed for by Cheshire at Great & Little Tew last year.
However, it isn't their lowest Championship score as it surpasses the 33 that Oxon were shot out for by Bucks at High Wycombe in 1925.
Oxon actually reached 23 without loss in their run chase before losing their first wicket when Richard Kaufman edged a Ross Aucott delivery to Ben Sanderson in the slips.
Vishane Perera was the only batsman to make double figures with 21.
But when he provided Sanderson with a second catch in the slip cordon, this time off left-arm spinner Gurman Randhawa, it was the first of four wickets to fall for one run.
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Lloyd Sabin was trapped lbw by Sanderson's pace, and Jonny Cater and Hugo Darby were unable to repeat their run-scoring heroics of the first innings as they were bowled by Randhawa and Sanderson respectively.
Francois Vainker was lbw to Randhawa, and Jamie Perkin then had the misfortune of being run out at the bowler's end as Sanderson directed Chad Keegan's straight drive on to the stumps.
Lloyd Belcher was stumped by Simon Gregory going down the pitch to Randhawa (4-15), who then caught Keegan in the slips off Aucott.
The procession was complete when Liam Manley was caught behind off Aucott, who finished with 3-15.
Earlier, Shropshire, resuming on 184-7, had been indebted to Tom Weston and Gregory (46), who put on 58 for the eighth wicket off an Oxon attack minus Keegan, who had twisted an ankle.
Left-arm spinners Vainker and Belcher did the majority of the bowling to finish with three wickets apiece.
But then Oxon's batting demons returned to haunt them.
Latest Sport news
ICE HOCKEY:Green and Moore back for busy Oxford City Stars
8:00am Saturday 10th October 2015
Oxford City Stars have a strong squad to pick from ahead of the first of four successive double-header weekends in South Division 1 of the English National League.
SWIMMING: City of Oxford's Murphy sets record-breaking gold medals
8:00am Saturday 10th October 2015
Five City of Oxford swimmers helped the South East to an impressive third place at the English Schools Inter-Divisional Championships in Leeds.
MOTORSPORT: Oxford's GP2 driver Alex Lynn determined to get back on track in Russia
7:30am Saturday 10th October 2015
ALEX Lynn is hopeful of a third GP2 triumph of the season this weekend at the Russian Grand Prix in Sochi.
MOTORSPORT: Sean Walkinshaw looks to finish Blancpain Sprint Series on a high
7:00am Saturday 10th October 2015
OXFORDSHIRE racer Sean Walkinshaw aims to sign-off his maiden season in the Blancpain Sprint Series on a high note at Zandvoort, Holland, this weekend.
GOLF: Pepperell recovers to make the cut at Woburn
7:00am Saturday 10th October 2015
Eddie Pepperell scored four birdies in eight holes as he shot a three-under par 68 yesterday to make the half-way cut in the British Masters at Woburn.
ANGLING: Drennan bank on Gary Barclay in Oxford Winter League opener
6:40am Saturday 10th October 2015
GARY Barclay led Drennan Oxford to victory in the first round of the Angling Trust Oxford Winter League on a low clear Thames at Culham and Appleford reach.
MOTORSPORT: Bradley Smith so happy after coming fifth in Japanese MotoGP practice
6:30am Saturday 10th October 2015
MONSTER Yamaha Tech 3 rider Bradley Smith got off to a promising start by completing the opening day of practice for tomorrow's Japanese MotoGP in fifth position.
TABLE TENNIS: Champions Holton A get off to flying start in Oxford & District Division 1
6:20am Saturday 10th October 2015
REIGNING champions Holton A got the defence of their Oxford & District Division 1 title off to a flying start with a 9-1 win at home to Forum B.
BILLIARDS: Cowley Conservative Club edged out in Stephen Reiss Trophy
6:00am Saturday 10th October 2015
COWLEY Conservative Club B could consider themselves a little unlucky after losing at home to Oxford Bowls A in the preliminary round of the Gentworks Oxford League's Stephen Reiss Trophy.
SNOOKER: Abingdon Conservative A go top of Gentworks Oxford & District League Premier Division
6:00am Saturday 10th October 2015
ABINGDON Conservative A top the Premier Division of the Gentworks Oxford & District League after a 5-1 win at home to Rileys C – their second victory in two matches.
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text:
Net Nanny 5.6
Time Control For each user you can define a weekly schedule of times when Internet use is permitted along with a daily or weekly cap on total time.
13 / 23
Bottom Line
Net Nanny 5.6 is powerful and flexible. Its content filtering, IM monitoring and time scheduler are hardened, so kids can't circumvent them, and the Flash-based activity reports are outstanding. Net Nanny offers full remote management, though remote changes may not take effect immediately.


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Royalty Free Music Unique To Your Project - Every Time
Royalty Free Music — Unique To Your Project – Every Time
Try SmartSound's Award Winning and Patented Technology Yourself
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The following tracks match: Orchestral, Noir, Mystical
A Little OffA highly dynamic track that conveys somber mystery and intense uneasiness, ideal for a spy-action-thriller story line.https://www.smartsound.com/filmscore/images/FSCSG01_200.jpgSingle68502-ST$ 39.9568502-EX$ 69.9568502-W$ 149.95Genre: Orchestral, Noir Keywords: Mysterious, Ominous, Brooding, Desolate, Dramatic, Haunting, Mystical, Sad, Scary, Serious, Sinister, Suspenseful, Drama Instrument: Orchestra, Instrumental Production Types: TV/ Film Drama, Cinematic, Indie Film, Video Games, Horror, Suspense
A Little Off from the album Craig Stuart Garfinkle Vol 1 - Emotive & Dramatic
Ultimate WillThis iconic cinematic-sounding score will enhance the dramatic action happening on screen. Featuring woodwinds and celesta.https://www.smartsound.com/strata/images/STRATBS_200.jpgSingle68609-ST$ 39.9568609-EX$ 69.9568609-W$ 149.95Genre: Orchestral, Noir Keywords: Mysterious, Dramatic, Haunting, Incessant, Mystical, Serious, Sinister, Somber, Suspenseful, Action Instrument: Orchestra, Instrumental Production Types: TV/ Film Drama, Cinematic, Film Trailer, Epic, Suspense, Action-Drama
Ultimate Will from the album Beauty & Strength
Utopian JourneyThis somber yet pensive track will put you in a mystical place. Great for fantasy/mystery plots and adventurous stories.https://www.smartsound.com/strata/images/STRATBS_200.jpgSingle68610-ST$ 39.9568610-EX$ 69.9568610-W$ 149.95Genre: Romantic, Orchestral, Noir Keywords: Dramatic, Fierce, Heroic, Hypnotic, Incessant, Mystical, Pensive, Reflective, Serious, Somber, Emotional Instrument: Orchestra, Instrumental Production Types: Cinematic, Film Trailer, Video Games, Epic, Action-Drama
Utopian Journey from the album Beauty & Strength
Blessed SoulsThis slow, twangy acoustic slide guitar over sustained chordal pads is the quintessential stranger-walking-into-town theme. This spaghetti western vibe works well for your next adventures in Monument Valley.https://www.smartsound.com/producer/images/PS66_200.jpgSingle11803-ST$ 39.9511803-EX$ 69.9511803-W$ 149.95Genre: Southern, Indie Rock, Indie Artist, Noir, Orchestral Keywords: Mysterious, Atmospheric, Desolate, Dramatic, Haunting, Incessant, Mystical, Sad, Serious, Ambient, Drama Instrument: Dobro, Guitar (Acoustic), Guitar (Electric), Instrumental, Guitar Production Types: TV/ Film Drama, Indie Film
Blessed Souls from the album Indie Score (PS66)
The following tracks match: Orchestral, Noir
Marimba SnowfallBass, tuba, cello, strings and wow-percussion harmonize to create a toe-tapping track with a rich mix of instruments.https://www.smartsound.com/strata/images/STRATOH_200.jpgSingle7100160-ST$ 39.957100160-EX$ 69.957100160-W$ 149.95Genre: Orchestral, Noir Production Types: Suspense, Action-Drama, Biography, Tribute/Memorial, Background Keywords: Mysterious, Inspirational, Atmospheric, Dramatic, Hypnotic, Incessant, Inspiring, Somber, Suspenseful, Tense, Uncertain, Ambient, Abstract, Investigative, Spy Instrument: Orchestra, Studio Orchestra, Bass (Acoustic), Marimba, Piano, Instrumental
Marimba Snowfall from the album Orchestral Hues
Dark WhisperThis haunting piece whispers for itself, building inexorably to a suddenly quiet return of the opening hypnotic theme, this time with a subtle, gnawing insistent beat, or not, its your call with our technology.https://www.smartsound.com/artist/images/ASFB01_200.jpgSingle70202-ST$ 39.9570202-EX$ 69.9570202-W$ 149.95Genre: Orchestral, Noir Production Types: Animation, Cinematic, Video Games, Epic, Suspense Keywords: Mysterious, Haunting, Hypnotic, Incessant, Pensive, Sad, Serious, Sinister, Uncertain, Investigative Instrument: Orchestra, Piano, Choir, Instrumental
Dark Whisper from the album Cinematic Exploration
Obscure MemoriesA solo cello backed by a soft, nylon guitar conspire to create a haunting, ethereal mood. The song modulates and evolves creating compelling forward motion for any scene requiring an intense backdrop.https://www.smartsound.com/artist/images/ASFB01_200.jpgSingle70207-ST$ 39.9570207-EX$ 69.9570207-W$ 149.95Genre: Orchestral, Noir Production Types: Cinematic, Video Games, Horror, Suspense Keywords: Mysterious, Ominous, Brooding, Dramatic, Haunting, Hypnotic, Incessant, Sinister, Suspenseful, Investigative Instrument: Orchestra, Guitar (Acoustic), Violoncello, Choir, Instrumental, Guitar
Obscure Memories from the album Cinematic Exploration
Awkward NeighborThis world - infused investigative piece will bring suspense and mystery to your next undercover operation in a distant country.https://www.smartsound.com/strata/images/STRATITE_200.jpgSingle69902-ST$ 39.9569902-EX$ 69.9569902-W$ 149.95Genre: World, Exotic, Noir, Orchestral Production Types: Documentary, Suspense Keywords: Mysterious, Secret Agent, Dissonant, Dramatic, Suspenseful, Uncertain, Quirky, Abstract, Investigative, Spy Instrument: Ethnic Ensemble, Ethnic Flute, Instrumental
Awkward Neighbor from the album Intrigue & Tension
Introspective JourneyUplifting strings and gloomy piano gives this piece an inspirational, emotionally vibe. Perfect for adventure montages or dramatic underscore.https://www.smartsound.com/strata/images/STRATAB_200.jpgSingle69504-ST$ 39.9569504-EX$ 69.9569504-W$ 149.95Genre: Noir, Orchestral Production Types: Cinematic Keywords: Dramatic, Heroic, Melancholy, Pensive, Powerful, Reflective, Serious, Drama, Emotional Instrument: Orchestra, Piano, Instrumental
Introspective Journey from the album Above And Beyond
Tormented HeroSuspenseful and dramatic, this intense score features dramatic horns and pulsating percussion. Perfect for your action storyline.https://www.smartsound.com/strata/images/STRATAB_200.jpgSingle69509-ST$ 39.9569509-EX$ 69.9569509-W$ 149.95Genre: Orchestral, Noir Production Types: Epic, Suspense, Action-Drama Keywords: Mysterious, Dramatic, Heroic, Incessant, Pulsating, Sinister, Somber, Suspenseful, Drama Instrument: Orchestra, Studio Orchestra, Instrumental
Tormented Hero from the album Above And Beyond
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Troy Lee Designs / Lucas Oil / Honda Earns Top Ten in Texas
AMA Motocross - Wortham, TX
Round two of the Lucas Oil AMA Motocross series is in the books and the Troy Lee Designs team had a strong showing. The weather was cooler than in years past and the track was well-prepped and made for good racing.
In the 250 division TLD rookie Jessy Nelson displayed his starting skills by pulling two big holeshots in only his second pro race ever. Nelson would hold the lead for four laps in the opening moto and eventually drop to seventh as he continues to learn the nuances of professional racing. His second moto holeshot was shorter lived but Jessy held on to ninth for seventh overall, his first top ten finish.
"This was a good building weekend for me," said Jessy. "If I can keep getting starts like that it will be a good summer!"
Travis Baker had a crash in the opening moto and could only get back to 18th position at the finish. Moto two saw Travis with a better start and a tenth place for 13th overall. Travis is due for a pair of good starts and a solid top ten soon.
Billy Laninovich had another tough weekend and finished 20-23 on the day. Billy is still adjusting to life on the 450 and if he can get a good start he will post a solid finish.
In WMX action Tarah Geiger made it tough for herself by crashing twice in the opening moto and finishing seventh. In the second moto Tarah was pressuring for the lead and lost her front end in a turn. She managed to still get a 4th in the moto and fourth overall on the day.
Take a few laps at Texas with Travis Baker, courtesy of GoPro:
Make your way to Denver, Colorado this weekend to see the Troy Lee Designs team fight for podium finishes at Thunder Valley Raceway.
TLD would like to thank all of our team sponsors: Lucas Oil, American Honda, PPG, Red Bull, Adidas, Oakley, Seaspan, Fender®, Dunlop, Renthal, Alpinestars, ODI, McQueen Racing, Hot Wheels, GoPro, Shock Doctor, Pro Circuit, Showa, VQ OrthoCare, Couts Heating & Cooling, Specialized, Kasey Kahne, N-Style, VP Racing Fuels, DubyaUSA, Moto Tassinari, PixelMags, ARC, Braking, Boyesen, Cycra, Mammoth Mountain, DID, Dirt Star, Hinson, Twin Air, Pacific Collision Centers, Sports Care Center, Elrod Racing, and New Era.
- 23.09.2015 : Troy Lee Designs Hosts Successful Wheels 4 Life Fundraiser | Company - Laguna Beach, CA
- 23.09.2015 : That Winning Feeling: Jessy Nelson Talks USGP Victory | Motocross - San Bernardino, CA
- 22.09.2015 : 250 Words: Troy's Boys On Glen Helen USGP | Motocross - San Bernardino, CA
- 21.09.2015 : Gritty USGP Performance For Kirk Gibbs | Motocross - San Bernardino, CA
- 21.09.2015 : Troy Lee Designs on Top of the World at Glen Helen USGP | Motocross - San Bernardino, CA
- 18.09.2015 : Billy Laninovich - Molding Tomorrow's Racers | Motocross - TWMX Interview
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Harshad Chopra and Additi Gupta
Harshad Chopra and Additi Gupta
Courtesy: Harshad Chopra and Additi Gupta
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Celebrity : Harshad Chopra , Additi Gupta
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Heer prem best jodi ever
missing them no one beat them
my most fav scene.. my hero my harshad <3
Hayyyeee my premmyy babooo
waiting for your return harshad.
make it soon !!!!!!!!!!
premeer in rajasthan..
beautiful scene
love prem...
HC rocks !!
god bless you
Miss Prem ... Harshad is the best
HC, is the best . love him a loads !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
You are the best harshad...
Prem look so hot...


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Easy Cinnamon Rolls (Sticky Buns)
The Elegant Cook, a cookbook created by The Friends of the Eastern Christian School Association, offers this easy approach to making cinnamon buns. For information on how to order a copy of the book, write to: ECSA Business Office, 50 Oakwood Avenue, North Haledon, NJ 07508.
Level: Moderate
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- ½ stick margarine or butter
- ½ c. brown sugar
- ½ c. nuts
- 1 tbsp. water
- ½ c. white sugar
- 1 tsp. cinnamon
- 2 can refrigerated regular or buttermilk biscuits
- Take 2 tablespoons melted butter with the brown sugar, nuts, and water and place in the bottom of 10-inch Bundt pan.
- Mix white sugar and cinnamon together. Dip each biscuit lightly in rest of melted butter then into sugar and cinnamon mixture.
- Place each biscuit on end in Bundt pan; pinch tips or sides of biscuits slightly together (this helps prevent ring from falling apart when served). Bake at 400 degrees F for 20 to 25 minutes. After baking turn biscuit ring out onto plate. Serve immediately. (Or cool the rolls to serve later. Reheat to serve if you like.)
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