text:
|Publication number
|Publication type
|Application number
|PCT number
|Publication date
|12 Feb 2004
|Filing date
|24 Sep 2001
|Priority date
|25 Sep 2000
|Also published as
|Publication number
|Paul Hing
|Original Assignee
|Hing Paul Anthony
|Export Citation
|BiBTeX, EndNote, RefMan
|Patent Citations (5), Referenced by (45), Classifications (16), Legal Events (3)
|External Links: USPTO, USPTO Assignment, Espacenet
[0001] This invention relates to an image sensor device, an apparatus and a method for optical measurements, in particular for optimizing optical measurements through real-time closed-loop control.
[0002] Current biotechnology instrumentation: Imaging and spectroscopy is most commonly used in applications such as microscopy; readers for microplates, gel plate electrophoresis, microscope slides and chips; and capillary electrophoresis. Typically the biochemical process is monitored or a result is detected by optical measurement, primarily using fluorescence spectroscopy or chemiluminescence. Common detectors are Cooled scientific CCD and CID cameras, or Photomultiplier Tubes (PMTs).
[0003] The most common format for automating biochemistry reactions and assays is the microtiterplate, which provide 96, 384, and recently over one thousand locations (vials or wells) for holding samples or reagents. The dimensions of these plates are on a macro scale of centimeters (approx. 12 cm�8 cm), and reagent volumes in the microliter range. Cameras, or PMT with fiber optic or scanning laser designs are typically used for detection. Microscopy cameras are intended for mounting onto standard microscopes, with connection to a computer. For spectroscopic measurements, optical filters are typically used. Capillary and gel electrophoresis commonly use laser-induced fluorescence or radioactive labeling of molecules, the former using either CCD cameras together with spectrographs or PMrs with optical filters. The target units (samples) to be simultaneously measured currently number up to 96, and can have spacing of close to 100 microns. There are 2-dimensional capillary array designs of similar spacings in the literature. New miniature formats for higher throughput such as nano-plates, BioChips & Arrays, Chemistry-on-a-chip are now emerging. To analyze these, "biochip readers" are available which image the biochip with either scanning lasers and PMT's or cooled scientific CCD cameras. In general, current instrumentation uses one-time factory alignment and calibration, since mechanical tolerances are acceptable (examples are focusing of optics, spatial location of images, spectral calibration). The sensor or camera has pre-defined operating settings, which it uses to acquire and transmit raw data (most commonly in the form of images) to a host computer. This host then has the opportunity to process the data and perform controls of the process. Most instruments however do not use adaptive real-time controls for performing detection. If it is done, the reaction times are slow because of communication loops, data volumes, and other tasks.
[0004] The disadvantage of the current instrumentation is that they do not have capability to rapidly adapt (in real-time) to changes that are sensed, and to perform closed loop control based on this information. They therefore have non-optimal performance, notably limited operating range, non-optimum reaction times, and performance which degrades with time. High throughput, micron-scale dimensions pose alignment problems. As the density and amount of samples increase, dimensions decrease (e.g. micron-scale biochips), and cost reduction is demanded, the existing designs are not well suited.
[0005] Systems based on individual sensors or small arrays such as Photodiodes, Avalanche Photodiodes and PMTs have the inherent disadvantage of lower throughput when compared to large array sensors which afford more parallelism.
[0006] Scientific CCD Devices and cameras: Used for imaging microplates and biochips. The major advantages of these devices are low readout noise and low dark current when cooled (enabling long exposure times). Scientific devices allow "on-chip pixel binning", which enables virtually noiseless summation. "Back-thinned" or "Back-illuminated" devices with high quantum efficiency are available. The main disadvantages are high cost, slow speed serial readout (no random pixel access). The charge binning capability has been used in biotechnology to achieve higher signal levels at low noise, to decrease data rate output of the sensor, to provide programmable detection of wavelength bands (in spectroscopic applications). Multiple reading of the charge packet from a pixel is a technique used in so-called "skipper CCD's" in the astronomy field to reduce read noise.
[0007] Scientific CID Devices and cameras: Used in scientific imaging and spectroscopy applications. The major advantage of these devices is the ability to perform non-destructive pixel reading, and random access to pixels, reportedly allowing dynamic range up to ˜109. The main disadvantages are high cost, slow speed of the random accessing. This feature of CID devices has been used in biotechnology to achieve high dynamic range, limited however in speed.
[0008] Video rate CCD Devices and cameras: These devices and cameras are commonly used for machine vision applications. Most are designed for video standards, and are not suitable for analytical measurements. Progressive scan devices are most suitable for measurement applications, and are commonly used in imaging applications such as microscopy, particularly when cooled. General advantages are fast speed, electronic shuttering, high resolution, low cost. Disadvantages are high noise, low dynamic range, limited or no pixel binning, higher defect rates.
[0009] CMOS Image Sensors: Current devices are targeting consumer/commercial imaging, and have integrated logic functionality and architecture which restrict the control of the sensor. Disadvantages are high noise, low dynamic range, fixed readout timing, higher defect rates. However, their positive features are low cost, high integration, and improving performance as the technology develops. CMOS sensors can also provide similar advantages as CID devices, namely non-destructive pixel reading, and random access to pixels, allowing dynamic range up to ˜109. Chemistry has been performed directly on the surface of a CMOS sensor array, thereby using the device as a disposable.
[0010] Intelligent Cameras: In the machine vision field, there exist cameras with integrated data processors. These commonly are video cameras and are not suitable for analytical needs of biotechnology. Typically the data processing functions and possibilities for adaptive real-time control of the sensor are fixed or limited.
[0011] Current state-of-the-art cameras and detection systems are generally limited by the following disadvantages:
[0012] The architectures of current image sensors limit performance since the ability to control them is limited. For example, the ability to define the "readout pattern" (sequence in which data is read from the sensor), or to perform on-chip pixel binning, is limited.
[0013] The current cameras and measurement systems are not designed for flexible and programmabl real-time control of the image sensor, nor of external components.
[0014] The ability to continuously adapt measurement parameters according to variations during the measurement is lacking. This implies that the ability to compensate continuously for sensor defects and response variances, environmental and process condition changes, as well as to optimize the quality and reliability of measurements is limited.
[0015] The achievable dynamic range is limited by the sensor. This implies that data can be lost when it is outside this range, leading to unreliability. In the case of CID sensors, which have a possibility to enhance dynamic range, the slow speed at which this can be done is not useful for modem high-throughput applications.
[0016] The current cameras and detection systems are designed for specific applications, and are therefore limited in their application. For example, Image sensors and cameras for Imaging, video, photography, security.
[0017] The current detection systems are typically one-time factory calibrated and adjusted in production. Because of this, they are not suitable for miniaturized applications with dimensions in the 1-100 micron range, since tolerances are too high. Such production calibration is costly, and leads to steadily decreasing performance with variances, and over time as the system ages.
[0018] Existing equipment are not suitable for "distributed/remote/field" networks, since they are too large, expensive, difficult to use, and deliver volumes and rates of raw data which cannot be practically communicated over distributed networks such as the Internet. As an example, they are not suitable as affordable Internet-based "Point-Of-Care" diagnostic instruments.
[0019] Single sensors and those available in arrays of a limited number of sensors have the inherent disadvantage of lower throughput (number and speed of parallel measurements). For example, PMT and APD-based systems are limited in practice by the cost necessary to achieve high throughput.
[0020] Image sensors such as CCD and CID must be tightly specified to ensure consistent measurement quality. Existing solutions have limited capability to compensate for response defects and variations of these sensors.
[0021] The object of the present invention is to provide an image sensor device, an apparatus and a method for optical measurements, in particular for optimizing optical measurements through real-time closed-loop control. The object of the present invention is to solve one or several of the above problems.
[0022] This object is solved with the features of the claims.
[0023] The advantages of this invention over previous approaches are as follows:
[0024] Low cost Use of low cost DSP hardware data processing, low cost/high performance RISC micro-controllers is possible. De-centralized (distributed) processing directly at the sensor lowers cost of the total system can be performed. Adaptiveness enables use of low-cost parts such as CMOS image sensors, plastic disposable sample carriers, by compensating for their weaknesses. Real-time auto-calibration saves manufacturing cost. The higher throughput (samples processed per time) and the miniaturization that it enables reduces cost per test.
[0025] Handling of micron-scale dimensions and sub-nanoliter sample volumes: Real-time, high-speed automatic micro-positioning, alignment and focusing, sample location, process control and optimization of detection is achieved. Furthermore, the apparatus can make use of calibration data which is available (readable in real-time) from the target object itself to compensate for wide variations in the production of the said target object. Such data can be stored in microchips embedded in the target object, or otherwise encoded in readable form such as barcodes. This results in cost savings, and enables the use of inexpensive plastic disposable parts.
[0026] Designed for high throughput applications: Increased number and density of samples with high processing rates can be processed. Data generated by high resolution image sensors is immediately processed, optimized and reduced, including data reduction through the use of real-time sensor control (such as pixel binning, fast skipping to regions-of-interest).
[0027] Higher dynamic range: Achieved through high speed adaptive sensor control. During the acquisition time required by the application, the intelligent detector can continuously monitor individual pixels or subareas, while optimizing parameters such as integration time, illumination, etc. in order to maximize dynamic range and sensitivity. Multiple reading of pixels or areas of high illumination can occur. This implies that the intelligent detector is capable of performing multiple acquisitions and corresponding processing algorithm fast enough to be effective and useful for the application.
[0028] A novel image sensor design (referred to herein as "PAF image sensor") described in this invention allows further improvement: The automatic Pixel-Almost-Full (PAF) monitoring is integrated on-chip, in a modularly segmented architecture which yields the necessary speeds to be useful. Intra-array (sample-to-sample or pixel-to-pixel) dynamic range of up to 106 can be achieved, in a time frame of one second.
[0029] More tolerance to variations (chemistry, environmental conditions, etc.): Robustness and repeatability is a requirement for commercial products. This is solved by real-time adaptiveness, self-calibration using intelligent algorithms, and real-time data normalization which eliminates all fixed characteristics of the individual system. In addition, a wider range of sensor defects and response variances can be tolerated, resulting in cost savings.
[0030] Maintain high sensitivity, despite higher speeds and smaller sample volumes: Real-time adaptive control allows optimization of sensitivity, for example by automatically adjusting the biochemical reaction process, opto-mechanical alignment, exposure time and other acquisition parameters. To maintain high speeds at the same time, parallelization is employed—At the sensor level, segmented (modularized) sensors with multiple outputs such that A/D conversions and analog circuits operate at lower speeds.
[0031] "Sample-Based Detection"
[0032] This invention allows the apparatus to be programmed, controlled and optimised by the user on a "sample basis"—to think and to optimise the system in terms of the application's goal for each and every individual sample to be measured—i.e., achieving best and most reliable sample analysis results. Furthermore, the said optimisation occurs in real-time closed-loop fashion. This is a systems-based approach, in which the invention goes beyond generating images and delivering pixel values. For example, in spectroscopy applications, the system can be programmed to optimise the spectral binning vs. sensitivity on an individual sample-by-sample basis.
[0033] Designed as an embedded system (does not require a specific type of host computer), or for autonomous operation
[0034] Ease of embedding (interfacing) to any host computer, including other embedded systems via industry standard communications. Once programmed, the intelligent detector can operate autonomously.
[0035] Internet-ready appliances and instrumentation
[0036] This invention enables "remote networking", "distributed networking", of "internet-capable appliances or instruments", since the concept is to reduce and analyze data directly at the sensor. The analysis results can be communicated via internet since its quantity is small and information content (quality) is maximized. The cost reduction achieved through a higher level of integration, reduction of interfaces, and elimination of post-processing computers is important commercial factor. In the healthcare industry of the future, this is useful in "Point-Of-Care" diagnostic instruments, or for field-analysis of biological samples (e.g. the analysis of tissue immediately where it is obtained).
[0037] The present invention can be used in a number of target markets including, but not limited to:
[0038] Biotechnology Instrumentation
[0039] Pharmaceutical (Drug discovery, High Throughput Screening)
[0040] Clinical lab automation
[0041] Medical Diagnostics, Medical Instruments, Telemedicine
[0042] Agriculture
[0043] Animal husbandry
[0044] Environmental Monitoring and Controls
[0045] Law enforcement, Human Identification, Forensics
[0046] The invention will now be described with reference to preferred embodiments and the drawings, in which:
[0047]FIG. 1 is a diagram of a system according to this invention, in particular illustrating how the apparatus is positioned and used in a typical micro-format application,
[0048]FIG. 2 illustrates a first preferred embodiment of an apparatus according to this invention for CCD image sensors,
[0049]FIG. 3 illustrates a second preferred embodiment of an apparatus according to this invention for CMOS, CID and PAF image sensors,
[0050]FIG. 4 shows a diagram of the general architecture of the preferred embodiment of the PAF image sensor, and
[0051]FIG. 5 shows a preferred embodiment of a cooling package which can be used for cooling an apparatus shown in any of FIGS. 2 to 4.
[0052] The present invention provides an intelligent detector:
[0053] The present invention particularly provides an apparatus comprising of electro-optics, electronics, firmware and software and processes which enables higher levels of optimization for optical measurements. Achieving higher performance and reliability is enabled for applications such as Image Processing, Spectroscopy, Microscopy, Chemical and biochemical process controls. The said apparatus is especially suitable for assays, processes and reactions in miniaturized formats with dimensions in the micron scale and sample volumes in sub-nanoliter scale. Furthermore, the apparatus has a high level of integration, compactness and Internet-capability, and can operate independent of host computers (PCs).
[0054] The said apparatus allows fast closed-loop digital control of image sensor(s) and any or all chemical, mechanical, opto-mechanical and opto-electronic components and processes which may affect the signals to be optimized. This is achieved by programmable high-speed processing (for example using real-time embedded microcontroller, hardware signal processing logic and/or DSP systems) employed directly at the image sensor. Sensor output data is immediately processed and evaluated. Furthermore, the processor has direct control of image sensor parameters (such as integration time, pixel binning, readout pattern, etc) via direct interface (bus or I/O) to digital logic which drives the sensor, as well as direct I/O control of any external parameters (dashed lines in FIG. 1).
[0055] When said apparatus is used with available CCD, CMOS and CID image sensors, performance can be significantly improved, thereby enabling applications that were not previously possible. Furthermore, an improved sensor architecture (hereto referred to as "PAF Image Sensor"), which enables fast frame rates, low noise, and very high intra-array dynamic range is a part of this invention. The programmability of said apparatus provides the platform for the development of application-specific control and data-processing algorithms (intellectual property), for example for biotechnology assays.
[0056] A diagram of a system according to this invention, in particular how the apparatus is positioned and used in a typical micro-format application is illustrated in FIG. 1.
[0057] Referring to FIG. 1, the system comprises a host computer and/or network and/or local display 1, which is connected via a bus to an apparatus 2, which comprises an intelligent detection and control system 20 and an image sensor 30. The dashed lines and arrows indicate capability of high speed real-time adaptive control of other parts of the system, which will be described hereunder. The image sensor(s) 30 is also under the control of said apparatus 2. A target object 3, here portrayed as a Biochip or micro-array, typically has features in the micron range, and may be transported into and out of the system manually or by automated (robotic) transport 6. Said target object may be illuminated and/or excited by optical sources 11, which may be programmable, optionally using programmable spatial light modulation means 12, via an optical system 5, which comprises optics and/or electro-optics. The system further may include means for micropositioning 4 the apparatus with respect to the target object 3. Additionally an interface 7 for fluidic, electrical and/or mechanical interaction may be connected to a system 8 comprising sensors and actuators for process controls, e.g. temperature, pH, voltages and/or currents. The system may further comprise process means 9 comprising chemical process control actuators and a supply means 10 for reagents. Detection (imaging) is performed by said apparatus 2 via said optical system 5. Based upon the data previously acquired, said apparatus 2 can perform real-time adaptive control of all other subsystems which affect the measurement, with the goal of optimizing the result within the time frame required. Said apparatus performs data processing directly at the sensor. Some parameters that can be modified might be (and is not limited to): Mechanical alignment; Focus; Exposure time; Illumination; Voltages and currents; temperature (8); Flow rates of reagents (9); Sensor parameters such as pixel binning, image sensor readout paftem, noise optimization.
[0058] The apparatus 2 has the capability of autonomously performing the detection/control task using any desired optimizing method (algorithm), provided that constraints required by the application are met. Said algorithms are fully programmable and can be defined and changed by the host 1 at any time, and are executed at high speed. Within the "measurement time" required by the host, said apparatus is able optimize the system to deliver the highest quality data.
[0059] The first preferred embodiment of said apparatus 2 for CCD image sensors 30 is illustrated by FIG. 2. A real-time micro-controller embedded system 21 provides flexibility, programmability, and easy host interface. It handles communications protocols with the host using industry standards via a host communication interface 22, multi-tasking, operation sequences over longer time frames, and slower controls via a low speed control interface 23. This includes Internet protocols and the full implementation of a web server in the said apparatus. Said micro-controller 21 acts as host (master) to optional digital signal processor(s) (DSP) 24 and to optional hardware signal processing (typically implemented in FPGA or ASIC technology) 25. The apparatus enables distributed data processing in three optional stages. Firstly, the said hardware data processing is the fastest, allowing in-line data processing with algorithm times on the order of 1-100 ns. Secondly, the said DSP performs data processing, with high speed real-time feedback control of the CCD image sensor 30, as well as other external actuators and sensors which affect performance via a high-speed I/O control interface 26. Such algorithms execute in the micro-second time frame, and can operate on significant amounts of data. Thirdly, the said micro-controller system 21 can perform data processing algorithms. One or more CCD Image Sensors 30 perform the optical acquisition function, whereby said apparatus accommodates multiple output devices. The operation of said CCD is driven by a bank of clock drivers 27, the number and organization of which is determined by the specific image sensor. Clock voltage levels and optimization for fast or slow clock rates are programmable. The clock waveforms and readout mode of said CCD are generated by timing logic 25 (typically implemented in FPGA or ASIC technology).
[0060] The readout mode is programmable. The output(s) of said CCD are amplified by a bank of signal processing chains 28, whereby gains can be programmed, and either low noise, high resolution or high speed modules can be used. A Data Handler 29 accepts multiple data streams from said CCD, and ensures high bandwidth interface to said DSP. Said DSP 24 and hardware signal processing 25 perform application-specific data processing, in-line data calibration/normalization/correction (also using pre-stored calibration data), and transmits the resulting high quality, minimized result to a host computer.
[0061] The second preferred embodiment of said apparatus for CMOS, CID and PAF image sensors is illustrated by FIG. 3. The description of the parts and their functions which are the same as in FIG. 2 is omitted here. Currently available CMOS and CID image sensors have a high level of integration, with pixel address decoder, driving circuits, readout timing generators, amplifier(s), A/D converters possibly on-chip. Since most are designed for specific modes of operation (e.g. video imaging), their architecture limit flexibility in controlling the operation of the device, which in turn limits the performance that can be achieved. The PAF Image Sensor is a part of this invention which overcomes these limitations. It allows the intelligent detector more control of the sensor, and integrates additional circuitry on-chip in order to achieve high dynamic range at high frame rates.
[0062] The image sensor 30 is interfaced to said micro-controller 21, via programmable logic 25 if necessary. Said image sensor delivers digital data, which passes through the high bandwidth DSP interface 29.
[0063] The present invention further provides an improved "Pixel-Almost-Full Image Sensor":
[0064] An improved architecture for an image sensor which, when used in the said intelligent detector, enables achievement of high intra-array dynamic range at speeds which are enabling to micro-format biotechnology applications. Such speeds are hot otherwise available.
[0065] Said PAF Image Sensor (Pixel-Almost-Full; PAF) integrates on-chip Circuitry and Logic for monitoring (via non-destructive reading) of all pixels, detection of pixels which are close to full-well, resetting of these individual pixels as necessary, and output of their location and values. To achieve higher frame rates, the pixel array is modularly segmented, such that each segment is monitored by its own Segment Control Logic and circuitry. On-chip integration of this function alleviates need for off-chip logic or DSP resources. By multiple reading of individual pixels within the exposure time, the apparent capacity of the pixel and hence dynamic range is increased.
[0066] In the preferred embodiment, the technology for implementation of said PAF image sensor is CMOS process, for the following reasons:
[0067] Allows integration of circuitry;
[0068] Low cost, industry standard I.C. technology;
[0069] Can be designed for non-destructive reading and random pixel access;
[0070] High speed DSP data interface and data processing can be integrated on-chip.
[0071] The diagram of the general architecture of the preferred embodiment of the PAF image sensor is shown in FIG. 4.
[0072] The PAF image sensor comprises a sensor pixel array 31, a row address decoder 32, a column address decoder 33, PAF circuits 35 1, 35 2, . . . 35 n a data handler 36 and a main control logic 37. The blocks referred to as the "PAF circuit",perform the novel on-chip pixel monitoring. In order to achieve high monitoring rates, the pixel array 31 is modularly segmented into N segments, each with its own PAF circuit. One-dimensional (column) segmentation is shown, wherein the column address decoder 33 comprises segment column decoders 34 1, 34 2, . . . 34 n. A 2-dimensional (row and column) can similarly be implemented by segmenting the row and column decoders 32, 33. The level of segmentation can be optimized according to the frame rates required by the intended application. According to the requirements of a host controller, said PAF circuit 35 is responsible for "monitoring" all pixels in said segment. Said PAF circuit comprises a Segment Control Logic block 35, which is under control of the Main Control Logic block 37. Said PAF circuit further comprises sample and hold means 60, N:1 multiplexer 61, a variable amplifier 62, an A/D converter 63 and a comparator 64. Said Segment Control Logic 35 generates the pixel address within the segment, controls resetting of pixels, initiates A/D conversion, and transmits pixel addresses and data to said Data Handler 36. During monitoring of the segment, if the pixel is detected to be at or above the "almost-full" level (either by analog comparison 64, or digital comparison), the pixel address and data from the A/D converter 63 is sent to the Pixel Data Handler 36. The Pixel Data Handler 36 outputs data to a signal processor. The optional programmable gain 62 of the amplifiers can be set by the host. The main control logic 37 can be controlled by off-chip pixel access logic and exchanges data with the host processor.
[0073] The device allows external logic to perform random, access to pixels such that individual pixels can be read and/or reset.
[0074] This device can be operated in a normal imaging mode, similar to available image sensors by disabling said PAF circuit function.
[0075] Thermo-electric cooling and hermetic sealing package for all off-the-shelf image sensors:
[0076] In order to decrease cost, the said apparatus accommodates less expensive image sensors, including the PAF image sensor, while compensating for their weaknesses by adapting the entire measurement system to the sensor. As an integral part of this effort, cooling increases device performance, thereby increasing the probability that inexpensive devices will be feasible for biotech applications. A method and apparatus for thermoelectrically cooling and hermetically sealing any image sensor is described. Said cooling apparatus accommodates all available off-the-shelf non-cooled image sensors which are available packaged in standard I.C. packages, including the "novel PAF image sensor", and provides high reliability welded hermetic seal, while allowing an option whereby the imaging device can be easily removed/replaced. The latter is advantageous when the device has high cost relative to other components, or for rapid prototyping.
[0077] The preferred embodiment of the cooling package is shown in FIG. 5. A metal housing 41 which is large enough to accommodate available imaging devices together with a lid forms a sealed chamber for the image sensor. Said housing also conducts heat away from the thermoelectric cooler/imaging device. Said housing has a feature 42 (e.g. flanges for screw mounting) which allow clamping with even pressure to a heatsink (not shown). Said housing comprises a connector 43 which allows a multitude of electrical connections via hermetically sealed contacts. Said housing may optionally have a feature 44, for example a port for interface to tubing, which can be hermetically sealed by crimping and/or welding for evacuating and backfilling the chamber with an inert gas. For high reliability ("production") assemblies, a metal lid 45 with integrated optically transparent window 46, e.g. glass or quartz is hermetically welded onto the housing. Said window is hermetically sealed into said lid. Alternatively for "prototyping" or cases in which the device must be removed/replaced, a sealing O-ring or gasket 47 is installed between the lid 45 and the said housing 41. An optically transparent window 48 e.g. glass or quartz is then sealed against said housing, using even pressure of a clamping frame 49. Modules which are Imaging device-specific are then mounted in said housing. Each module consists of the particular imaging device 51, a printed circuit adapter 52, e.g. ceramic substrate, PC board or flex circuit, a thermoelectric cooler 53, and a thermally conductive heat block 54. Said imaging device is installed onto said circuit adapter, which allows pinout mapping, mounting and clamping of said imaging device to the said thermoelectric cooler, heat block and housing, and may include electronic circuitry. Optional use of high reliability connector(s) 55 provide for interchange of modules. The components of this stack are brought into good thermal contact, e.g. through the use of mechanical pressure, thermally conductive glues, epoxies, and/or similar material layers/films. The optical window may be anti-reflection coated on both sides. In order to maximize cooling efficiency, insulating material may be used in the chamber (not shown), and contact to said image device's pins may be achieved through the use of conductive elastomeric connectors 56, which have high thermal resistance. The inside of the chamber is filled with inert gas (e.g. Argon), either via said backfilling port 44, or by assembly in the inert gas atmosphere.
[0078] The following definitions are solely given for the purpose of a better understanding of the invention. However, the scope and meaning of the below terms shall not be restricted to these definitions.
Adaptive Able to continuously compensate for changes and variations by modification of parameters and cond- itions such that a desired goal is achieved. Algorithm Programmable software method which establishes the functionality of the apparatus in particular applications. Avalanche Solid-state optical sensor for sensitive measurements Photodiode based on the principle of multiplication of the detected (APD) signal via the avalanche effect in semiconductors. Back-thinned CCD image sensor which is illuminated from the CCD "back side" in order to achieve high quantum effi- ciency over a broad wavelength range. Binning, on-chip The summation of signal charge in analog fashion from a plurality of pixels on the sensor itself. This form of summation does not generate noise, and therefore enhances Signal-to-Noise Ratio. Biochemical A method or procedure used to carry out a biochemical assay process, analysis, or the like. Biochip Miniaturized sample carrier format used in laboratory automation to handle, transport and process a plurality of samples, reagents or reactions in parallel. The number of samples on such an array may approach hundreds of thousands. Camera An image generating apparatus which is based on optical Image Sensors. Charge Semiconductor image sensor which operates on the Coupled Device principle of charge transfer (CCD) Charge Semiconductor image sensor which operates on the Injection Device principle of reading charge from its pixels via charge (CID) injection into its substrate. Chemistry-on- Miniaturized format for carrying out chemical and Chip biochemical processes, analyses, diagnostics and the like. Structures in the 1-100 micron-scale dimensions, reagent volum s below a nano-liter. High throughput, lower cost and higher performance is possible. Clock driver, Clock drivers provide th voltages and waveforms voltage required by CCD image sensors in order to read the image. These voltage waveforms transfer signal charges in pixels to an output where they are read. CMOS Semiconductor image sensor which is produced using the Complimentary Metal Oxide Semiconductor process which is very widespread in the semi- conductor industry. Correlated Electronic circuit technique used to reduce the noise in Double electric signal measurements, whereby the signal is Sampling (CDS) sampled and held twice and a difference measurement made. Defects, sensor Digital Signal Semiconductor digital Integrated Circuit which is Processor optimised for high speed data processing. (DSP) Dynamic Range Measurement range from the smallest discernable signal to the largest measurable signal Electrophoresis An analysis method whereby molecules can be separated according to a property. Commonly molecules are separated by size (length) and correspondingly mobility under an electric field. Fast skipping The ignoring of pixel values which are not of interest. This is done at higher speeds and/or combined with pixel binning in order to increase acquisition (frame) rate. Field Programmable semiconductor logic Integrated Circuit Programmable which can implement digital circuitry, including Gate Array complex functions such as digital signal pro- (FPGA) cessing. The functionality is re-programmable at any time. Format, micro- Sample carrier used in laboratory automation to or miniaturized- handle, transport and process a plurality of samples, reagents or reactions in parallel. Intelligent Applied to a sensing apparatus, intelligence implies the ability to autonomously process information, make decisions and take actions which improve the results achieved. Inter-array The measurement range between the smallest discern- dynamic range able signal in a target field (an array of target units) to the largest signal measurable. Internet capable Apparatus which is capable of direct communication of appliance or information, and/or can be programmed and con- instrument trolled via the Internet. Internet The transmission and communication of information communications over the Internet, including data and controls. Internet Industry standard software protocols used for Protocols communication on the Internet, e.g. for e-mail, file transferring, messaging, etc. Lab-on-Chip See Chemistry-on-Chip. Machine Vision Industrial imaging applications wherein cameras are used in automation and machine control. Measurement A system which includes this invention, used for the system detection, measurement and analysis of target objects, fields or units. This system includes all components which affect the measurements to be made, including electronics, mechanics, optics, chemical materials and processes, and environmental conditions. Micro-/nano Sample carrier format used in laboratory automation to plates, handle, transport and process a plurality of samples, Microtiterplate reagents or reactions in parallel. The number of samples on such carriers approach thousands. Micro-array Miniaturized sample carrier format used in laboratory automation to handle, transport and process a plurality of samples, reagents or reactions in parallel. The number of samples on such an array may approach hundreds of thousands. Microchannels, Technology involving the use of miniaturized channels micro-fluidics produced via micro-technology and micro-machining. For example used in Lab-on-chip for transporting reagents or samples, electrophoresis, measurement and analysis. Network, Communication, data exchange and control between remote-, field- computers, instruments, appliances and apparati which or distributed- are distributed in the field (as opposed to centralized in one location). The Internet is an example of such a distributed network. Non-destructive The ability to read (monitor) pixel values during reading exposure without disturbing or interrupting light collection. Photomultiplier Optical sensor based on vacuum tube technology tube (PMT) which performs very sensitive optical measurements due to its ability to multiply the detected signal under high electric fields. Pixel An individual optical sensor unit of an Image Sensor. Point-Of-Care Applications of the invention in healthcare, whereby (POC) measurement, analysis or diagnoses are carried out at distributed locations in the field as opposed to being centralized in a laboratory. This includes necessary remote networking and communications. Read When referring to reading of pixels, this is the proc- ess of obtaining the information (value) of signals which have been photo-electrically converted by the sensor. The result of reading may be in the form of an analog signal value or a digital number. Readout The sequence of events by which signals are obtained pattern/mode from an image sensor. Within this sequence, pixels may be read individually, ignored (skipped), pixel groups can be binned on-chip then read as a single signal from the image sensor. Real-time, "Real-time" describes operations (tasks) which closed loop are carried out within the duration of the process, feedback measurement or analysis; which occur in a deter- control ministic time, at speeds high enough to achieve set goals within the said duration. Closed loop feedback control is a mechanism by which such a task immedi- ately and continuously adjusts and optimises para- meters and conditions which influence the measure- ments such that a set goal is achieved. RISC Reduced Instruction Set Machine: A type of processor which operates at high instruction execution speeds, on a smaller, simpler set of instructions. Sample-and- Electronic circuit used in the measurement of an hold electric signal whereby the signal is sampled and held stable and constant during measurement Sensor, Image A sensor is a device capable of generating a signal sensor based on properties of the target unit to be measured. This includes single and array sensors. Image sensor is an array of optical sensors capable of photoelectric conversion. Spatial Light Device which is capable of programmably modifying Modulator the illumination of a field. Typical SLMs are liquid (SLM) crystals or micro-mirror arrays. Sub-area A sub-area of an image sensor is a group of pixels. Target field The maximum spatial extents in which the apparatus can perform detection and measurements. May be 2- or 3-Dimensional. Target object A single principal object in the measurement field of the apparatus. This can for example be a carrier for an array of samples to be measured. Target unit A single entity to be detected, measured and analysed. This is for example a sample. Thermo-electric Solid-state device used for cooling or heating. cooler (Peltier Electrical input power is converted to a temperature cooler) difference. Throughput Speed of detecting, measuring and/or processing target units. Web server Internet software resident in an apparatus, which provides an interface to other computers on the Internet.
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Owner name: SENSOVATION AG, GERMANY
Free format text: ASSIGNMENT OF ASSIGNORS INTEREST;ASSIGNOR:HING, PAUL ANTHONY;REEL/FRAME:014324/0995
Effective date: 20030617
|8 Feb 2011
|Certificate of correction
|24 Apr 2014
|Fee payment
Year of fee payment: 4


text:
Apr 03rd 2015
Max Does Passover
Three-course dinner offering today and tomorrow. Read More
Three-course dinner offering today and tomorrow. Read More
Special meals for the holiday. Read More
Expanded Delray cafe, new Boca brewery, two closures in WPB. Read More
Delray eateries offering sit-down dinners and Passover dinners to go. Read More
Barrel of Monks brings Boca craft beer with non-GMO ingredients. Read More
Green Goddess: Five new healthy yet delicious products Read More
Delray location to be the first of several in Palm Beach and Broward. Read More

subset: commoncrawl


text:
Bellport man killed in collision
Daniel Cardona, 51, of Bellport, was killed when his Suzuki motorcycle collided with another vehicle in Medford, Suffolk County police said. The crash with a 2007 Chrysler occurred on Horseblock Road, police said. Videojournalist: Stringer News Service (July 27, 2013)
Newsday.com now uses Facebook for our comment boards. Please read our guidelines and connect your Facebook account to comment.
Off-duty Suffolk County officer helps revive hockey player North Amityville gas station attendant robbed, say cops One dead after bar dispute 'Blessing of the Animals' in Brentwood Making apple cider in Northport Tom Cutinella anniversary vigil on football field Coastal concerns for Fire Island as Joaquin nears Forecast: Coastal flooding likely as rain pelts LI Apprehensive South Shore prepares for Hurricane Joaquin Coast Guard rescues sailor 12 miles south of Shinnecock Inlet Motorcyclist hits tree in Babylon, seriously hurt One found dead in Islip mobile home fire


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There's a difference between smart-aleckiness and spam. Try a dictionary.
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Ummm....sorry, missed the word FREE.
Altiris does work well, though it sure as heck is not free. :)
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Spiceworks is what we use for our help desk among other things. Spiceworks offers a free version that is easy to implement. You can find out more info at www.spiceworks.com
I would recommend it to anyone who wants to save headaches! Let me know if you want more info on how we utilize at our company.
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it works well for us. It also gives you the ability to track installed software, hardware installed, etc.
I believe you can install it on fewer than 100 clients for free.
Check it out...


text:
TAKOMA PARK, MD (May 13)—Washington Adventist University associate professor and director of its Homeland Security program, presented at the international conference on "Disaster Mitigation, Preparedness, Response and Sustainable Reconstruction" on May 8-9, 2014, hosted by the Center for Rebuilding Sustainable Communities after Disasters at University of Massachusetts Boston. Her presentation entitled, "Developing Faith-Based Partnerships: A Model for Building Disaster-Resilient Communities," was attended by more than 200 conference participants from five continents including academics, FEMA, American Red Cross, architects, planners, engineers, and policymakers.
"The horrific Boston marathon bombing and the resulting manhunt that shut down the cities of Boston and Watertown demonstrate that building disaster resilient communities is an integral part of emergency management," said Dr. Herma Percy. "Yet public and private emergency management partnerships designed to help communities rebound after attacks and disasters often are missing essential components to make efforts more effective. A key to efficiently assist communities in disaster recovery is to build a more effective partnership with the local faith community," said Percy.
The two day conference brought together some of the world's top experts in disaster planning and response to examine best practices and share lessons learned to reduce the socio-economic impact of various forms of disasters on communities.
"Unfortunately, natural disasters will be more frequent with climate change and increasing urbanization. We need to consider the solutions necessary to avoid, mitigate, and recover from these disasters that disproportionally affect vulnerable populations," said Dr. Herma Percy in her challenge to practitioners. "All of this speaks to our core mission and academic program at WAU and the leadership role we play in faith-based partnerships to address the most daunting challenges of our times."
Percy represented Washington Adventist University amongst scholars from Harvard University, Northeastern University, Roger Williams University, University of Maryland University College, University of Illinois at Chicago, Columbia Southern University, Auburn University, Arizona State University, California Polytechnic State University, Drury University, Howard University and other universities in the United States. International panelists from around the world, including China, Haiti, Iraq, India, Indonesia, Japan, Nigeria, Pakistan, Portugal, Saudi Arabia, Switzerland, Taiwan, Canada, Chile, England, and Thailand, discussed risk reduction and response to natural disasters from floods to earthquakes and health-related disasters like malaria outbreaks.
The conference included 11 sessions with more than 90 panelists. Keynote speakers included leaders from the United Nations Office of Disaster Risk Reduction, and the British Consulate in New England and American Institute of Architects who spoke on "Disaster Risk Reduction."
Dr. Percy has been invited to speak at the FEMA Emergency Management Institute in June 2014.
Media Contacts:
Angie Crews, 301-891-4134, email@example.com
Donna Bigler, 240-286-1169, firstname.lastname@example.com
# # #
Washington Adventist University is Montgomery County's only four-year private college. Part of the Seventh-day Adventist system of higher education, Washington Adventist University has been educating college students since 1904 on a 19-acre campus in suburban Takoma Park, close to the nation's capital. A total of 1,050 students of all faiths participate in the university's eight graduate and 32 undergraduate programs. The 2013 edition of U.S. News & World Report ranked Washington Adventist University among the best regional colleges in the north.
Takoma Park, MD (May 5, 2014) - Washington Adventist University (WAU) pinned nine new graduates of its respiratory care program over the weekend, in one of many commencement weekend events. The traditional pinning and dedication ceremony, held on May 3, recognizes that the students are prepared to embark on their professional careers.
Each graduate was presented with a customized lapel pin that signifies that the wearer is educated, trained and experienced in the field of respiratory care therapy. The circular gold pins have Washington Adventist University Respiratory Care printed on the front, and the graduation date engraved on the back. The students were also inducted into the Lambda Beta Society, the national honor society for respiratory care, and presented with framed certificates.
Graduates of the two-year program gained their clinical experience at several area hospitals, including Children's National Medical Center, Washington Hospital Center and Anne Arundel Medical Center.
As a profession, respiratory care offers good job stability and opportunities for advancement. Candidates who excel in the field are those who enjoy helping others; like working with technology, math and science; and are seeking a profession that offers a variety of work environments and patients.
The WAU program recently celebrated its 40th Anniversary. Starting in the fall, the current program will begin to transition to an online format. Interested individuals are encouraged to continue to visit the WAU home page at http://www.wau.edu for updates.
Press Release - New Respiratory Care Therapists Pinned
Media Contacts:
Angie Crews, 301-891-4134, firstname.lastname@example.com
Donna Bigler, 240-286-1169, email@example.com
# # #
Washington Adventist University is Montgomery County's only four-year private college. Part of the Seventh-day Adventist system of higher education, Washington Adventist University has been educating college students since 1904 on a 19-acre campus in suburban Takoma Park, close to the nation's capital. A total of 1,050 students of all faiths participate in the university's eight graduate and 32 undergraduate programs. The 2013 edition of U.S. News & World Report ranked Washington Adventist University among the best regional colleges in the north.
Takoma Park, MD (April 30) -
Washington Adventist University (WAU) kicks off the local graduation season on May 4, with a commencement ceremony from 10 a.m. to noon at The Show Place Arena in Upper Marlboro. A total of 359 students will be receiving their diplomas at commencement. The degrees that will be awarded include 106 master's degrees, 244 bachelor's degrees, and 11 associate's degrees. Two students will receive dual degrees.
The graduation procession will include students from 35 different nations, carrying the flags of their countries. They include Barbados, Burkina Faso, Cameroon, Canada, Columbia, the Dominican Republic, El Salvador, Ethiopia, Fiji, Ghana, Grenada, Guyana, Haiti, Honduras, India, Indonesia, Jamaica, Kenya, Lebanon, Liberia, Mexico, Nicaragua, Nigeria, Peru, the Philippines, Puerto Rico, Senegal, Sierra Leone, Swaziland, Tanzania, Trinidad and Tobago, the United States, U.S. Virgin Islands, Vietnam, and Zambia.
The commencement speaker will be His Excellency the Most Honourable Sir Patrick Linton Allen, ON, GCMG, CD, Governor-General of Jamaica, who will be presented with the university's prestigious Adrian T. Westney Award for Excellence in Community Service. The award is named for former pastor, educator, and 1962 WAU graduate Adrian T. Westney (1927-2009), who demonstrated "unparalleled dedication, unmatched performance, and inspirational service."
Senior Class President Kaiya Kretschmar, who is scheduled to provide words of encouragement to her fellow graduates, is a nursing program student who was recently "pinned" at the university's traditional "pinning" ceremony for the 53 students who are about to embark on professional nursing careers.
The diverse graduating class includes Shawn Fordham, a federal worker who will be receiving his master's degree in public administration. He has been an assistant district manager for the Social Security Administration in the Washington, D.C. and Philadelphia, Pa. area for the past seven years; but previously worked for Philadelphia Mayor John F. Street, serving as his campaign manager and senior advisor. Fordham also served on the Board of Directors of the Philadelphia Redevelopment Authority.
Samr Binsaif will be awarded her master's degree in psychology counseling, which she plans to use as a counselor for women when she returns to her native Saudi Arabia this summer. Binsaif traveled to the U.S. with her husband and children in 2005, learned English as a second language at Columbia University in New York City, and earned her bachelor's degree at Columbia College in Columbia, Mo. Upon graduation, she was attracted to the Washington Adventist University master's program in psychology counseling because the one-year program and one-year practical enabled her to complete her degree in a shorter time frame.
Also included in the graduating class is Timothy Hatfield, a lieutenant with the Prince George's County Police Department who will receive his bachelor's degree in organizational management. He plans to remain in public service, with a goal of possibly becoming a federal prosecutor, and has already been accepted to the George Washington University Law School fall class.
The breakdown of the 106 master's degrees awarded at this commencement is: 23 in counseling psychology; 20 in health care administration; 17 in nursing education; 15 in business administration; 12 in professional counseling psychology; nine in nursing and business leadership; eight in public administration; and two in religion.
The 244 baccalaureate degrees that will be awarded include: 207 Bachelor of Science degrees; 36 Bachelor of Arts degrees and 1 Bachelor of Music degree. In addition, nine Associate of Applied Science and two Associate of Science degrees will also be awarded.
Prior to the commencement ceremony, WAU will host two events at the Sligo Seventh-day Adventist Church, located at 7700 Carroll Ave., Takoma Park, adjacent to campus. A Consecration Service will be held on Friday, May 2 at 8 p.m.; and a Baccalaureate Service will be held on Saturday, May 3 at 11:15 a.m.
The commencement ceremony can be viewed via live streaming video at http://www.youtube.com/embed/h91OTsWIXig?rel=0. For more information about Washington Adventist University and its academic programs, go to http://www.wau.edu.
# # #
Washington Adventist University is Montgomery County's only four-year private college. Part of the Seventh-day Adventist system of higher education, Washington Adventist University has been educating college students since 1904 on a 19-acre campus in suburban Takoma Park, close to the nation's capital. A total of 1,050 students of all faiths participate in the university's eight graduate and 32 undergraduate programs. The 2013 edition of U.S. News & World Report ranked Washington Adventist University among the best regional colleges in the north.
Commencement 2014 - Press Release
Media Contacts:
Angie Crews, 301-891-4134, firstname.lastname@example.com
Donna Bigler, 240-286-1169, email@example.com
Takoma Park, MD (April 28) - With commencement scheduled for Sunday, May 4, Washington Adventist University (WAU) recently hosted a pinning ceremony for 53 students who will soon graduate from its nursing program.
Pinning ceremonies traditionally recognize that nursing students are prepared to embark on their professional careers. Each student is presented with a customized lapel pin that signifies that the wearer is educated, trained and experienced in the field of nursing. These are pins that nursing professionals wear proudly. The WAU pinning ceremony was held April 23 at the Sligo Seventh-day Adventist Church, located on Flower Avenue adjacent to the university's campus.
"Nursing is one of the most challenging careers a person can embark upon," said Nursing Department Chair Dr. Jo Ann Mackey. "The process of earning a nursing degree can be difficult, but there are few more deserving professions to celebrate, reward, and recognize than nursing."
The soon-to-be graduates of the WAU nursing program include 28 pre-licensure students who will receive their BSN degree; 12 already-licensed registered nurses with associate degrees who will receive their BSN degree; and 13 students who will receive their MSN degree in either nursing education or business leadership.
Although jobs in nursing are often in acute care settings such as hospitals, a variety of other opportunities exist in community health agencies, health maintenance organizations, private industries, nursing homes, educational institutions, missions and foreign services. Nurses with graduate degrees often find additional employment opportunities in research, practice, and education.
"Nursing is a good field for individuals who have an aptitude for caring and an interest in helping others," said Mackey, who encourages prospective students to consider the WAU nursing program and become part of the school's "gateway to service."
In addition to a convenient campus location on 19 acres in suburban Takoma Park, WAU offers small classes with a student to faculty ratio of 10 to 1, along with a supportive environment for students. The next deadline for admission is October 1 for the 2015 spring semester. For more information, go to www.wau.edu
Media Contacts:
Angie Crews, 301-891-4134, firstname.lastname@example.com or
Donna Bigler, 240-286-1169
For Immediate Release: April 28, 2014
Press Release - Nursing Pinning
# # #
Takoma Park, MD (April 24) - This year, for the first time, Washington Adventist University (WAU) presented the prestigious Sullivan awards to two students in recognition of their demonstrated passion for community service. Nikole Donovan, an undergraduate who is majoring in social work, received the Algernon Sydney Sullivan Award at the Academic Awards Chapel on April 23 at Sligo Seventh-day Adventist Church. Louise Griffin -- a student in the School of Graduate and Professional Studies (SGPS) who is earning her master's degree in healthcare administration -- received the Mary Mildred Sullivan Award at the SGPS Academic Awards Program that same afternoon in the Morrison Hall Chapel on campus.
"The WAU community is excited to pause and recognize outstanding members of our community," said Dr. Ralph Johnson, Dean of the WAU Betty Howard Center for Student Success.
Since 1890, the highly-prized Sullivan awards have been presented on the campuses of colleges and universities across the American South. These institutions all reflect the interest of prominent lawyer, businessman and philanthropist Algernon Sydney Sullivan and his wife, Mary Mildred Sullivan, to educate and honor deserving students. The awards are named for the Sullivans to honor their lives of service.
There are currently 61 colleges and universities presenting Sullivan awards, facilitated by the Algernon Sydney Sullivan Foundation, based in Oxford, Miss. The Sullivan Foundation Board of Directors reviews applications from eligible institutions interested in participating in the awards presentations, visits the campuses, and approves participation in the awards program based on merit. Participating institutions may present the awards to graduating seniors, alumni, or community members who meet the award criteria. Notable past award recipients include Eleanor Roosevelt and Supreme Court Justice Lewis Powell.
Attending WAU's first Sullivan awards presentations this year was Algernon Sydney Sullivan Foundation President Stephan L. McDavid, Esq. The awards themselves are bronze medallions, each accompanied by a framed certificate and a biography of either Algernon Sydney Sullivan or Mary Mildred Sullivan.
Takoma Park, MD (April 17) - Washington Adventist University's application for active membership in the National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics (NAIA) has been approved, effective August 1.
"We are extremely pleased with our move to the NAIA, as it will help enhance support for our athletic program and better align the university with other schools that have similar character initiatives," said WAU Director of Athletics Patrick E. Crarey II, who is also head coach of the men's basketball team, which won the United States Collegiate Athletic Association (USCAA) Division I National Championship this year.
Institutions applying to the NAIA must meet membership criteria that include financial stability, sports sponsorship, accreditation and a commitment to character-driven athletics. The Membership Committee also reviews enrollment numbers, graduation percentages, retention rates and overall athletics budgets.
WAU is one of five new members in the NAIA, including Lincoln Christian University (Ill.), Middle Georgia State College, Texas A&M University – Texarkana, and the University of Winnipeg (Can.). Trinity Lutheran College (Wash.) was approved as an associate member, and will be evaluated for active membership at the end of the 2014-15 academic year.
"We are always pleased to welcome new members to the Association," said Les Purce, chair of the NAIA Council of Presidents and President of Evergreen State College (Wash.). "These are quality institutions that have been through a rigorous review process and meet the high standards the NAIA Membership Committee has set."
Competitive sports teams are part of the vision for excellence that WAU President Dr. Weymouth Spence has for the university. This year, the men's soccer team earned the No. 7 seed in the 2013 USCAA National Championships in Charleston, W.Va. The women's basketball team recorded the most wins in 20 years by finishing the 2013-14 season with an overall record of 9-18, and the cross country team had one of its strongest years in recent history.
Takoma Park, MD (April 5) - The 2nd Annual Campus Revival at Washington Adventist University (WAU) featured a week of worship and culminated with the baptism of 53 young adults. The event started on Sunday, March 30, and culminated with the call to baptism on Friday, April 4.
Each evening at 7 p.m., hundreds of students, faculty and staff, and visitors from nearby churches filled the outdoor tent on campus to worship and to hear guest speaker Pastor Myron Edmonds, senior pastor from Glenville Seventh-day Adventist Church in Cleveland, Ohio. He spoke to the revival theme, "I'm Weak," based on 2 Corinthians 12:9, "My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness."
The revival concluded with a Sabbath worship service on Saturday, April 5 that featured Minister Ronnie Vanderhorst from Emmanuel-Brinklow Seventh-day Adventist Church in Ashton, Md. as the speaker.
"We had about fourteen people who planned to participate in the baptism, and then the Holy Spirit fell upon the campus and touched hearts in ways only God can do," said WAU Chaplain Regina Johnson. "Saying God is good would be an understatement. He never fails to exceed my expectations. Another baptism will be happening April 26, and I'm beyond excited that the students are making their decisions together as a campus family!"
"To me, the revival confirmed everything about my spiritual life that I was afraid to acknowledge," said graduating senior Shaniel Francis, who was among those baptized at the revival. "I realized the importance of starting over spiritually."
Tyrus Fleetwood, a freshman who was baptized, said, "The revival gave me a chance to sit back and take the word of God, and look at what I was doing wrong in my life. It led me to surrender my life to him. It also showed me how God can really work, and how strong the Holy Spirit moves throughout people."
Participants seemed to agree that the revival came at the perfect time. Vincent Wilson, a junior religion student, said, "I saw the baptism of the Holy Spirit, literally!"
Takoma Park, MD (April 16) - Washington Adventist University (WAU) recently honored five individuals for their contributions to the community, and for their personal and professional accomplishments. The annual WAU Alumni Awards Banquet was held on Saturday, April 12 at the Sheraton in downtown Silver Spring, and approximately 100 people attended.
"The Alumni Awards Banquet highlights what Washington Adventist University is all about – service," said Vice President for Advancement and University Relations Roo McKenzie, Ph.D. "Washington Adventist University is the Gateway to Service, and it is nice to be able to recognize the individuals who embody that in their personal and professional lives."
This year's recipient of the Alumnus of the Year award was Farid Srour, Class of 1949. A real estate professional and long-time philanthropist, Srour was recognized for his significant contributions over the years to the university, the Adventist Church, and to the community.
The Young Alumnus of the Year award was presented to Collin Haynes, Class of 2009. He was recognized for his humanitarian service and public health efforts in his home country of Guyana, where he has promoted HIV awareness and treatment campaigns for youth. Even as a student at WAU, Haynes already had plans to return to his country to make a difference.
The Zella Holbert Service Award, named after a former WAU librarian, was presented to both an alumnus and a current student. Alumnus Charles Shyab, Class of 1970, received the award in recognition of his more than 40 years of service as a teacher and principal in Adventist schools, where he demonstrated passion for helping students learn. Shyab is also a Bronze Star recipient, recognized for his heroism as an Army medic during the Vietnam War.
WAU student Nikole Donovan, a graduating senior with a major in social work, was also presented with a Zella Holbert Service Award for her community service accomplishments. She developed the annual three-day "Blossom Like a Flower" conference for girls in grades 6-12 to help them with character development, health and wellness, and spirituality. Her volunteer service also includes the Hero-to Hero mentoring project, the WAU Service Day Planning Committee, Petals for a Cure, Cure for Aids, and the "Alex Brown" campaign to collect pledges from students to stop texting while driving.
The Honorary Alumnus Award is presented each year to an individual who did not graduate from WAU, but who had a significant impact on the university and made a difference in the community. James Hammond, Ph.D., a former professor and chair of the Department of Psychology was this year's recipient. He taught on campus for nearly 30 years, and also served as an Adventist missionary in Ghana and Sierra Leone.
The Alumni Awards Banquet was part of the university's annual Alumni Weekend, which was held from April 10-13 this year.
WAU Alumni Awards - Press Release
Takoma Park, MD (April 3) - The WAU Enactus team competed and won the first round this week in a national competition that was part of the Enactus United States National Exposition 2014 at Duke Energy Convention Center in Cincinnati, Ohio. The team presented and was judged on a community service project that they developed by applying business concepts.
National Enactus competitions showcase team projects that demonstrate how students are improving the quality of life for people in need through entrepreneurial actions that transform lives. After winning the opening round of the competition on April 1, the WAU team lost the quarter final round on April 2 to Belmont University.
Nationwide, there are 518 active Enactus teams with more than 17,000 students working on more than 2,000 community service projects. Last year, U.S. Enactus team participants volunteered more than 541,000 hours of their time. The team that wins the national championship will represent the U.S. at the Enactus World Cup this fall in Beijing, China.
For more information about the WAU Enactus team, contact Professor Kimberly Pichot at email@example.com.


text:
Tags » Events/Shows
Frenzie Performing In Kwara State
The Top 5 Poetry Events In New York City
Here a list of some really great Poetry events happening in New York City! Please let us know how your experience was with each event. Please don't forget the best open mic in New York City is happening on Friday July 31st, 2015. 599 more words
Street Poets NYC X BLKWALST X Open Bar X Smoking Section X Thee Open Mic
Yes, Ladies and Gentlemen, Thee Open Mic is going down on Friday, August 28th, 2015. We had to cancel the July 31st show unfortunately. During the June show we had a live band come through and kill at the packed out show. 148 more words
This Friday X Thee Open Mic
Peace Powerful People!
Yes! I can not say this enough. Be at THEE OPEN MIC this friday! It's going down at 87 4th Ave. Brooklyn, New York. 180 more words
Join Hands Charity Event for Nepal earthquake victims help
Let's spread the word!
Please contact either Valsnia or Ruby Ornamental
I am Valsnia, A model in Second Life community. You might have heard about the earthquake in Nepal. 359 more words


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£450 pcm
2 bedroom apartment to rent Westune House, Whitchurch, Shropshire*** SPACIOUS TWO BEDROOM FIRST FLOOR APARTMENT *** Situated in a convenient location for the town centre, comprises: entrance hall, lounge, kitchen with oven, two bedrooms and bathroom. GAS CH & Allocated Parking. SORRY NO PETS More details ›
£475 pcm
2 bedroom end of terrace house to rent Bridgewater Street, Whitchurch, Shropshire***TWO BEDROOM END TERRACE*** comprising Hall Open Plan Lounge Dining Area and Kitchen, Two Bedrooms and Bathroom, Front and Rear Garden with allocated parking for one vehicle. the property benefits from gas central heating More details ›
£18,000 pa
Shop to rent Unit 3, 6-8 Watergate Street, Whitchurch, SY13 1DWThe property comprises of a two storey property that is arranged to provide a ground and first floor showroom with one designated car parking space included in its ownership. The property is understood to have been built in 2003, and is of traditional construction. More details ›
£675 pcm
4 bedroom semi-detached house to rent Alkington Road, Whitchurch***A SPACIOUS 4 BED SEMI-DETACHED HOUSE*** comprising Entrance Hallway, Kitchen, Lounge, Study, Four Bedrooms and Bathroom with separate showers. The property benefits from gas central heating and allocated parking to the rear. 12 MONTH TENANCY. SORRY NO PETS, NO SMOKERS More details ›
£525 pcm
2 bedroom flat to rent Mare Close, Whitchurch, SY13A very well presented coach house style apartment with the benefit of uPVC double glazed windows, a large garage plus a parking space. Available from 1st November 2015. More details ›
£450 pcm
2 bedroom apartment to rent Alkington Road, Whitchurch, Shropshire***A SPACIOUS 2 BED FIRST FLOOR APARTMENT*** comprising Entrance Hallway, Kitchen/Diner, Lounge, Two Bedrooms and Bathroom with separate shower. The property benefits from gas central heating and allocated parking to the rear. 12 MONTH TENANCY. SORRY NO PETS, NO SMOKERS More details ›
£775 pcm
3 bedroom house to rent Marley Grove, Whitchurch, SY13A Former Show Home offering Three Storey Accommodation on a gated development. Having Ground Floor - Hall, Lounge, Kitchen and Cloakroom; First Floor - Two Bedrooms and Bathroom; Second floor - Master Bedroom en suite.... More details ›
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3 bedroom detached house to rent The Cottage, Rear of 56 Hight Street, WhitchurchConveniently located on the fringe of Whitchurch Town Centre is this well presented and maintained 3 bedroom detached family home. The property benefits from a large living room and dining kitchen. To the first floor there are 3 good size bedrooms and family bathroom. Benefiting from off road par... More details ›
£525 pcm
2 bedroom apartment to rent Lloyd House, Worthington Street, WhitchurchMUST BE VIEWED TO BELIEVE the standard of this ground floor two bed two bathroom with parking for one car off road. RENT £525 p.c.m DEPOSIT £700 TENANCY AGREEMENT FEE A credit check, reference and administration charge of £200 INC VAT is payable by the tena (con... More details ›
£525 pcm
2 bedroom terraced house to rent Blackmore Grove, Whitchurch, Shropshire***TWO BEDROOM MID MEWS HOUSE*** comprising: Entrance Hall, Lounge with archway into the Fitted Kitchen, Two Bedrooms and Bathroom, enclosed rear garden and allocated parking. The property benefits from Gas C.H and D.G. SORRY NO DOGS, NO SMOKERS More details ›
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Book your room at Howard Johnson Ponce
Standard Double Room, 2 Double BedsMax Occupancy: 4 guests (up to 3 children)
Standard Room, 1 King BedMax Occupancy: 3 guests (up to 2 children)
Standard Double Room, 2 Double Beds, SmokingMax Occupancy: 4 guests (up to 3 children)
Standard Room, 1 King Bed, SmokingMax Occupancy: 3 guests (up to 2 children)
Standard Room, 1 King BedMax Occupancy: 3 guests (up to 2 children)
Standard Room, 1 King Bed, Smoking, Pool ViewMax Occupancy: 3 guests (up to 2 children)
Double Room, AccessibleMax Occupancy: 3 guests (up to 2 children)
Business Double Room, 2 Double BedsMax Occupancy: 4 guests (up to 3 children)
Standard Room, 1 King Bed, Pool ViewMax Occupancy: 4 guests (up to 3 children)
Get an overview of this hotelHotel in Ponce with restaurant and outdoor pool
Situated in Ponce, this hotel is 2.7 mi (4.3 km) from Museum of the Ponce Massacre and 2.8 mi (4.5 km) from Parque de Bombas. Teatro la Perla and Museum of Puerto Rico Music are also within 3 mi (5 km).
Hotel Features
A restaurant, an outdoor pool, and a fitness center are available at this hotel. Free WiFi in public areas and free self parking are also provided. Other amenities include a spa tub, a business center, and conference rooms.
Room Amenities
Rooms boast deep soaking tubs and offer free WiFi and flat-screen TVs. Other amenities available to guests include cable TV, room service, and coffee makers.Information missing or incorrect? Tell us!
Hotel Amenities
Hotel Amenities
In addition to an outdoor pool, Howard Johnson Ponce provides a spa tub and a fitness center. The hotel offers a restaurant. This hotel offers access to a business center.
Public areas are equipped with complimentary high-speed wireless Internet access. This Ponce hotel also offers an arcade/game room, complimentary newspapers in the lobby, and dry cleaning/laundry services. Onsite self parking is complimentary.
- Arcade/game room
- ATM/banking
- Breakfast available (surcharge)
- Business center
- Free newspapers in lobby
- Conference space
- Dry cleaning/laundry service
- Fitness facilities
- Free self parking
- Free WiFi
- Outdoor pool
- Restaurant
- Spa tub
Family Friendly Amenities
- Arcade/game room
- Free Wi-Fi
- Outdoor pool
Available in all rooms: Free WiFi
Available in some public areas: Free WiFi
Free self parking
Room Amenities
- Air conditioning
- Blackout drapes/curtains
- Cable TV service
- Coffee/tea maker
- Free toiletries
- Daily housekeeping
- Deep soaking bathtub
- Desk
- Flat-panel TV
- Free local calls
- Free WiFi
- Hair dryer
- In-room safe
- Iron/ironing board
- Phone
- Premium TV channels
- Private bathroom
- Room service (limited hours)
- Shower/tub combination
Where to Eat
Cooked-to-order breakfasts are available for a surcharge and are served each morning.
La Perla Restaurant - This restaurant specializes in American cuisine and serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Guests can enjoy drinks at the bar.
Room service (during limited hours) is available.
Nearby Things to Do
An outdoor pool and a spa tub are on site. Other recreational amenities include a fitness center.
- Golfing nearby
Hotel Policies
Check-in time starts at 3 PM
Check-out time is Noon
Payment types
Children and extra beds
- Children are welcome.
You need to know
Extra-person charges may apply and vary depending on hotel policy.
Government-issued photo identification and a credit card or cash deposit are required at check-in for incidental charges.
Special requests are subject to availability upon check-in and may incur additional charges. Special requests cannot be guaranteed.


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Total Annihilation
Total Annihilation Member Review for the PC
1- 9
Cave Dog
Contains Animated Violence
What do these ratings mean?
This is a response to the other review by lord fornelius.
Lord Fornelius:
Total Annihilation first impressions:
You see, there are 5 video genres that I usually express hatred towards. They include sports games, JPRGs, point-&-click adventure games, MMOs and RTS games. RTS games have a good concept; give games like Heroes of Might & Magic and Civilization real-time action instead of turn-based action. It's a great idea...
, but pretty much every RTS released don't have the elements that made turn-based strategy games fun to play; like the achievement of finding resources, or having a strategic battle system. In RTS games, all the resources are given to you from the start of base-building, and are essentially unlimited, and the battle system require nothing more than rush tactics.
You despise RTS games? Well you should try playing competitively, it seems to do me really well when i want to win.
the idea of rts is good in theory and real life....otherwise there wouldn't be a market for rts games....
nobody buys **** to waste money, lol. >:P
Rush tactics in ta are not much more than trying to oppress your enemy/put them on the defensive. However, they do tip the balance in a war as your enemy is rebuilding what is lost, while you expand, wasting his precious time.
Play online and base your review on strategy on that, don't beat 2 ais on easy and come here complaining like a *****.
Every problem that I find in RTS games can be traced directly to Total Annihilation, one of the most praised RTS games in history. Since you can already tell that I despise this game, I'm not going to waste your time describing the short amount of positive criticism I have. So in that case lets get on with all the hate-filled rhetoric that I'm going to give Total Annihilation. your argument here is like playing jenga. thus im going to make it crash. For you to "trace" problems to total annihilation, Total Annihilation must be the source of all rts games. is it? No. This is truly retarded, and it is sad that i have to tell you that, considering past "stuff" that i have gained a bad rep for in certain places.........but to avoid a tangent, you must have a source to be able to trace. Im sure some rts games nowadays have used some of total annihilations tactics, yet you have proof that there are problems that are traced to total annihialtion? Name some. If your going to say problems, do the intelligent thing and list some. Makes you look like less of an *******.
One criticism I have for Total Annihilation, and RTS games in general, is the total lack of
. You can pretty much play through any round in an RTS by just sending out dozens of the same units on the battlefield with no worry what so ever. And no game makes use of this "tactic" better than Total Annihilation. There are three things that contribute to this overall lack of strategy. The first (and most obvious) contribution, is the absence of limitations for the amount of units you can have on the battlefield. This may seem like a good idea, because you're now only limited to the amount of resources you have, but in actuality it just encourages endless rush tactics (mainly due to the resource-collecting model, which we will discuss later). The other contribution is the utter lack of variety in the units you can have. Oh sure, they look different and they individually cost different amounts of resources, but all-in-all, they all just play the same, and there are no visible difference among them. So in other words, you can basically play the entire game (single or multi-player) by endlessly using the same unit.
Lack of strategy, eh? Play it more. Play past the game glitches and bugs and you will see where you are wrong. If your mind is that open, at least. While i do acknowledge that in non-modded ta, there are those cases of "a commonly used unit". Try throwing slashers/samsons/rockos/storms at an army (while keeping them moving). you will see what i mean, this works online against human players.
If you complain about unit limits, search around files.tauniverse.com. they have the 1500 & 5000 unit patches.
Not a lot of the units are redundant, ableit some are. Try using different units for attack and defense and see whether you get your ass whipped or whether its a success, come back here like that for more knowledge.you speak of no visible difference. No ****, its called 3d model style for both races, each have different weapons with different uses and different advantanges/disadvantages in different environments.
So you may be wondering what's the third contribution to utter lack of strategy in Total Annihilation? Well, that leads to our next problem with Total Annihilation/RTS games; Resource management. Resource managment has always been a major element with RTS games, but the resource management pales in comparison to turn-based strategy games. In TBS games, you get a sense of achievement for finding resources, mainly due to their scarcity. When it comes to RTS games....well..there is no sense of achievement. Anyways, continuing with Total Annihilation. I've read an article in gamespot.com, writing about how Total Annihilation's resource management is very competitive experience, but this doesn't make sense to me because the resources are essentially unlimited. And do you know why they are unlimited? It's because there's a capacity to the amount of resources you can have. In other you can only carry around 500 units of resources. Now I don't know about you, but I think that having a game with a small capacity of resources is a bad game design idea (i mean, did anybody really praise the fact that you could only carry 99 gold in the Legend of Zelda games?). This makes resources essentially unlimited and makes the game more tedious than it already is.
Again, utter lack of strategy? Get on warzone client with me (ewarzone.com) and i will show you just how wrong you are.
You can't pump out unlimited resources in any sort of RTS environment. in ta, not even metal maps can make unlimited resources, because maps can only have so much volume and can only hold so much units. on non metal maps, its this special thing called "you gotta place metal on metal patches to make metal". in case youdidnt know. with energy production, the volume of the map is limited, you can only reach such high energy output before:
A)hitting the unit limit
b)Running out of space of the map (which is really hard to do)
The achievement is that "you just got through something very hard." difficult stuff that you have beaten tends to prove your skill to others, and to yourself (if you hate yourself or whatever, this kinda helps). Its not the ****ingolympics with a gold medal for the winner, its a game. Gtfo.
Also, I'm curious why the press would always call Total Annihilation, the "first 3D RTS"? Despite the fact that anRTS game called,
came out one month before Total Annihilation's release. Dark Reign featured 3D terrain and units as well as being one of the first RTS games to allow you to queue production of units and set rally points. (sarcastically) Sadly, we all know that if it doesn't make it on the sales charts, it doesn't count as being the first. Speaking of 3D, I think that the only reason why Total Annihilation was praised so much was because of its 3D graphics and the immense number of units you can send into battle, as well as gamers thinking only about what reviewers say, and to not think for themselves.
I swear you don't know wtf your talking about.......while i accept that ta isn't the first 3d rts ever, it has the ability to queue the production of units, and set rally points via moving units to a certain point or setting a factory to send units to a certain point on the map via move commands.
It counts as being the first, sales charts be damned. Its the first if it existed beforehand, and sales charts can suck my c*ck so gtfo. (Censorship, i still like a level of order, to an extent >:P)
However, there is only one thing that I can give compliments to Total Annihilation, and that's the development history behind the game. It's the beautiful, rags to riches story of a group of people who eventually developed one of the most successful RTS games in history, and than sadly, that success fails. Yes, this sound very silly, but I must say that the development story would make great for a novel by
The Game's success doesn't fail until the gaming community/modding community AND the players all stop,gtfo AGAIN. Its still actively being modded, balanced, theres production going for it, i always share copies with everybody (through a loophole in which i can't sell it, but i can give it for free :P)
and they enjoy it, everyone who i know who has played it seems to have grasped the mechanics of this game through a 2 month long period at quickest. Its a hard game to master, just dont get pissy because you can't beat the ai on easy.
btw, im serious on the warzone thing. if you dont want warzone,get gameranger gaming client.
come on. prove theres no difference in units. prove you can make infinite metal output.build little peewees andsolars/metals anywhere on a map while i pump out hawks and brawlers and pheonixes/rockos/warriors, etc and own your ass.
try it. it can't hurt to play me. (unless your scared of losing.)
gtfo man i just dismantled half of your argument.
oh wait i almost forgot
Now just because it would make great for a biographical novel, it doesn't make it great for an actual video game. The game-play is shallow, tedious, and just isn't fun overall. Total Annihilation is nothing more than a case of style over substance. If you have a craving for an RTS game, I would recommend playing something like
Warhammer 40K: Dawn of War
, or one of the
Total War
games. Both games/series offer the ability to command a large number of units, as well as having a cinematic atmosphere to them, like Total Annihilation. Hell, why don't you check out Dark Reign? It's available as freeware, and is allot less shallow than Total Annihilation. Or better yet, go to buy a Turn-based Strategy game.
the game play isnt fun overall for you because your a no0b who can't grasp the mechanics of the game, yet AGAIN do i find myself repeating....
Shallow? Look at the scripts they used for units and tell me its shallow. Mod it yourself to make it good with your own ta weapon coding knowledge, scripting knowledge, awesome texturing jobs, awesome non-hi-poly-models, gui coding knowledge, basic buildmenu knowledge, corpse file coding, fbi scripting, and weapon coding knowledge, ok?
oh wait i forgot. :P
Style over Substance? AGAIN, play online pumping out whatever unit you ****ing want while i play strategically, we shall see whether you need a new pair of boxers or whether i own your ass completely. Lets see.
I recommend ta because its awesome, i give it an A- overall and you can gtfo.
RTS games have a strategic battle system, its how you use it and use the units that you can truly use the system to your advantage.
So please, gtfo, look at ta coding, play online, learn to play competetively, record your game, win a few more, record them as well, give us the recordings for proof (your arguments are commonly vague, its annoying/gayt and you need to prove it as well if you want to be taken seriously.)
and thenn after that come back to say stuff, with full knowledge on the game.
Also, i know you haven't grasped the mechanics/bothered to learn enough about it via playtesting to actually make valid points.Don't give me the usual defensive "your just assuming" bullshit because it wont work, again either your a ******* or you base all your comments off of reviews from no0bs, most of the **** you say is wrong. I have been playing since i was 3 1/2. What about you? Experience with the game units post-3.1/after?
Also, if you think im wrong, prove me wrong. otherwise your an annoying sack of hot air that makes accusations.
btw i dismantled virtually your entire argument, further proving that you really don't know much on the game playtesting-wise.
As for
others,i recommend that you get this game, not only get this game, but you maybe learn how to mod it if you want to, and if you learn to mod it/play it properly, it is rewarding because you can master its strategy and get a few more kicks out of the game.Its cool.
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