text:
History Says Bet the Under for Alicia Keys
During the Super Bowl, it's now possible to gamble on basically anything that could happen in the game. If Joe Flacco is shown on TV eating a hot dog mid-game, someone probably has action on it. In fact, one of the most popular proposition bets on offer Sunday doesn't involve any of the Ravens or 49ers, but rather: How long will it take Alicia Keys to sing the national anthem before kickoff?
Online sports book Bovada has set the over-under line for Keys at 2 minutes, 15 seconds. (The clock starts from the first word sung and runs until the word "brave" at song's end.) Judging by history, this may be an easy bet: If Keys's version of "The Star-Spangled Banner" clocks in at more than 2:15, it would be the longest version of the song in the last 10 years.
Four former "American Idol" contestants (Kelly Clarkson, Carrie Underwood, Jennifer Hudson and Jordin Sparks) have performed the song in this span and all of them got it done between Clarkson's 1:35 to Hudson's 2:10.
Rock legend Billy Joel was the lone solo male over that same time period and was also one of the fastest, clocking in at 1:30.
One unpredictable aspect of the pre-game tradition is the personal spin each performer puts on the song. Hudson stretched the word "wave" into more than five syllables, while Joel sang the same phrase in two notes.
As for Keys? The oddsmakers must be expecting some incredibly drawn-out lyrics.
— David Bamundo


text:
Developing Inmate Education Programs in Detention Facilities
Event Abstract: This full-day training will provide corrections staff with the tools and information to develop and implement successful inmate education programs that are compliant with the Prison Rape Elimination Act (PREA) standards.Event Description:The training will provide an overview of different inmate education program formats and implementation methods. The training will also address the importance of inmate education programs in maintaining safe facilities, and the impact of institutional culture on such programs. By the end of the training, participants will have gained the necessary skills to establish inmate education programs and develop curricula that meet or exceed the requirements of the PREA standards.The training will feature dynamic group exercises, expert panels, survivor testimonies, and interactive discussions to encourage the sharing of expertise and strategies. Attendees will also break into small groups based on the type of facility in which they work to discuss issues that are specific to their detention setting.A training focused on victim services will be held on Wednesday, February 6, 2013, at the same location. Participants are encouraged to attend both. For more information click here.Eligibility Requirements:Applicants may apply for this training individually, but are encouraged to apply as part of a team of two or more per agency. Applicant agencies can be from state departments of corrections, jails, juvenile agencies, community corrections agencies, or lock-ups. Agencies can represent federal, state, and local levels of government, as well as Tribal authorities. Suggested attendees include: PREA coordinators, incarcerated victim service coordinators, prosecutors, lead investigators, medical and mental health staff, and correctional trainers. Each applicant from a facility will need to complete an application.Supplemental Materials:Please submit the following supplemental materials with your application:
- An organizational chart of your agency
- Any agency policies pertaining to inmate education as it relates to PREA, including the rights of inmates to be free from sexual violence, the agency's PREA policies, and how to report incidents of sexual abuse.
- A PREA standards self-assessment (if your agency has completed one)
- An agency PREA standards implementation plan (if your agency has completed one)
Registration Deadline: Jan 18th, 2013 by 5pm EST Notification of Acceptance:There is space for approximately 75 individuals to attend this training. JDI will review all applications and notify applicants of their acceptance to attend by January 22, 2013. At that time, you will receive information regarding logistics.Cost Disclaimer:This training will be hosted by JDI, and funded through a grant to the National PREA Resource Center (PRC) from the U.S. Bureau of Justice Assistance (BJA). While the training itself is free, each participant is responsible for 100% of his/her own expenses (travel, accommodations, meals, and incidentals); no portion of any expenses will be paid for or reimbursed by JDI, PRC or BJA.Lodging Information:JDI has arranged for free lodging at the CDCR Training Center in Galt, CA. Rooms are double occupancy with private bathrooms. Additionally, a block of rooms has been reserved for participants at a nearby Comfort Inn for the government rate of $75, plus tax. Additional lodging details will be provided to applicants on January 22. For questions, please contact Nicole de la Torre at email@example.com or (202) 506-3333.

subset: commoncrawl


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In Mass Effect 2, some weapons did more damage to a certain type of defence (shields, barriers or armour). Is the same true in Mass Effect 3?
Yes, it would appear it works like it did in ME2. It might not be right to say "they do more damage" since it's not clear that they get an actual damage bonus, but rather that they are more effective due to the way the barrier/shield/armor mechanics work.
It's not the same. Weapons no longer have percent bonuses. Instead, armor (and only armor) reduces the damage of each hit by a fixed amount depending on difficulty (50 on Insanity/gold, less on lower difficulties). This makes it so low damage weapons are significantly worse against armor than high-damage weapons. In general, the rapid-fire weapons have low damage, and slow-fire weapons have high damage (with the exception of shotguns, which have a low fire rate, but fire multiple low damage pellets per shot).


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Some of the available classes of documents in LaTeX are well known and widely used, such as the
article and
beamer classes, while others are not so well known, such as the
standalone class.
I found this figure
which lists the main classes and is a good starting point, but the description is too short and still leaves one wondering when it would be more suitable to choose one class over the other and what the characteristics of each class is. Furthermore, the list is not exhaustive I think, given that I know at least one more document class that is not there (the
standalone class, as I mentioned).
So my question is: what are the available classes of documents in LaTeX, and could you provide a brief description of the class and the situations where it would be recommended?
Please give only one class per answer.


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My organisation needs to update its website, which, in particular, will host a number of blogs and wikis on mathematics-related themes. We need to use some way of rendering of LaTeX on our web pages. Given a choice of MathJax and MathML, which one would you recommend? Any other solutions?
"It seems that to use MathML, I ("hypothetical I") need to use a Ruby program called iTeX, w"
There seem to be some very confused descriptions of MathML, which doesn't require itex or ruby or any server side configuration at all.
You cant really compare mathjax and mathml as they are different things,
mathjax is a an implementation of a client side parser for both a tex-like syntax and mathml then (which ever input syntax is used for input) it can use various rendering methods including native mathml in the browser (including IE+MathPlayer, or recent webkit builds, not just firefox) or it can use css rendering.
whether you want to use a linear tex-like syntax or the xml/html syntax of mathml is pretty much a matter of choice, it is exactly analogous to a choice of whether to use a linear wiki style markup for your web pages, or to directly code (or generate) html markup. Sometimes one is more appropriate than the other, many sites use both wiki and traditional html markup, depending on the context.
(co editor of mathml2 and 3, and before that co-developer of latex2e, and before that a long time association with the Mathematics department at Manchester, and still an LMS member should you want any discussion offline at any stage about mathml, I'm easy enough to find:-)
I would recommend MathJax. MathJax has the ability to be configured to use native MathML rendering when available in a browser, and only fall back to HTML-CSS mode when native rendering is not available. This way you get the best part of both worlds. (One limitation of MathJax is that fonts tend to load slowly. However, once they are cached in the browser the display is very quick).
This question is similar to Embedding LaTeX equations into a webpage and I think that my arguments for MathML there are pretty strong. I can also now add a couple of extra things since MathOverflow uses MathJaX so I've some direct experience.
I've decided to interpret the "Any other solutions" as a request for implementations. I don't think this is the place for a full list, but just to let you know that on the server side, there is MathML-capable software for all the usual things:
I am involved with the MathJax project and, IMHO, David Carlisle has the best explanation on this thread (as usual).
A 'quick and dirty' way is to use google's chart api: http://ardoris.wordpress.com/2010/06/27/converting-inline-latex-to-images-with-javascript-and-google-chart-api/
You might want to look at using SVG on the web page, with dvisgm to generate the SVG, and Google's svgweb for IE prior to version 9.


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BBQ Pitmasters Returns for another season with a sneak peak on Destination America tomorrow at 10 p.m. Eastern and premieres on Sunday, June 3, at 9 p.m. Eastern.
Here is our BIG news:
I am really excited to be able to share that once again team Diva Q was thrilled to be on BBQ Pitmasters. Yup thats right you heard it here first that I can finally confirm that our team got another go at it. To be chosen to go back again was terrific. We have to thank Original Media and the entire crew. They worked their butts off.
It was a freaking blast to be with the crew again. To be judged by 3 UBER awesome real BBQ judges Myron Mixon, Aaron Franklin and Tuffy Stone. This time around things are different. I loved this years format. Real meats. Real Time. Real Pressures. ALL BBQ!! I can't give away any more details you will have to tune in to the show. Thanks to our friends and family for all their support. I am truly the luckiest woman in BBQ. Blessed beyond blessed.


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WEIRTON City and county leaders have asked the State of West Virginia to audit the Weirton Area Port Authority, saying they have questions about its operations.
The request, contained in a letter dated Feb. 21, urged Senate President Jeff Kessler to order a post-audit of the port operation, saying a "thorough review of all real estate transactions, contracts, deposits, invoicing, accounting, billing and the procurement processes used by the Weirton Area Port Authority should be undertaken." It was signed by representatives of city and county government - Brooke County Commission President Tim Ennis, Hancock County Commission President Dan Greathouse, Weirton City Manager Valerie Means and Pat Ford, the executive director of the Business Development Corp. of the Northern Panhandle.
The Weirton Daily Times obtained a copy of that letter this week through the Freedom of Information Act.
Article Photos
City of Weirton and county officials have asked the state to audit the Weirton Area Port Authority. The port, seen here in a February file photo, is headquartered in a former training center in Weirton's Half Moon Industrial Park. -- File photo
The port is a three-pronged public-private partnership - the Weirton Area Port Authority; the nonprofit Weirton Area Port Authority Inc., a "quasi-public, membership-based corporation established to manage and administer programs"; and the for-profit Tri-State Port Management, a group of investors who oversee port concessions.
As of Tuesday, no audit had been initiated because state officials still are trying to determine if a post-audit is appropriate or if audit responsibility actually lies with Auditor Glen B. Gainer III's office.
A post-audit is an in-depth examination of the financial records of state-funded agencies, beginning at the source and auditing expenditures from the point where the work was done all the way to who benefits from the service. Findings are reported to the Legislative Post Audit Subcommittee of the Joint Committee on Government and Finance.
West Virginia Deputy Auditor Stuart Stickel said his office was "still looking into the statutes governing port authorities" and said they expect to decide "in the very near future" which agency is empowered to perform the audit.
"There's more than one port authority out there, so, obviously, it's an all-or-none situation for us," he said.
In requesting the audit, local leaders cited a number of areas of concern, including WAPA's organizational structure which they described as "complicated, unclear" with limited governmental oversight - and lack of transparency to the advisory role being played by Karl Keffer, who was previously associated with a port project in the Eastern Panhandle and was named in a pair of lawsuits alleging his company had failed to pay two vendors for hundreds of thousands of dollars in work they'd done for him there. Default judgments against Keffer totaling more than $500,000 are on the books in Berkley County and Fairfax County, Va., where the suits were filed.
Keffer has been described in some WAPA communications as a "strategic planning adviser." WAPA Board Member Chuck Wright, Weirton's Ward 2 councilman, said Keffer represents Tri-State Port Management, WAPA's for-profit arm; another board member, who did not wish to be identified, said Keffer routinely refers to Weirton as "my port."
Frank Hoagland, an ex-Navy Seal and founder of S.T.A.R.T. in Mingo Junction, said WAPA owes his company more than $200,000, a claim WAPA has disputed. Hoagland, though, insists his company was "brought on board by Karl Keffer to help establish" security protocols for the port and inter-port operations and had memorandums of understanding and non-disclosure agreements signed by WAPA Chairman B.J. DeFelice as well as "hundreds of e-mails and directives given to S.T.A.R.T."
At least one other local vendor has complained of non-payment.
Other concerns cited in the audit request include WVPPA board members receiving calls from WAPA employees questioning why they aren't getting paid, and complaints that WAPA is characterizing individuals who work at the site as independent contractors rather than employees, allowing them to avoid paying the city's municipal fees, federal and state payroll taxes and workers comp insurance.
DeFelice said he was unaware an audit had been requested but welcomed the opportunity, pointing out that since they haven't received any public funding "an audit would be an easy request."
He disputed suggestions that companies are not getting paid for services rendered, saying, "With everything we do, there's a deliverable to the contract service base and there's a payment for that deliverable.
"If anybody's not getting paid here, they didn't complete the work that was required or didn't complete the contract documents," he said.
Likewise, he disputed reports that individuals working at the site haven't been paid.
"What happened is the not-for-profit (WINC) arm had contracts with various people that ended in November. After that, anybody who stayed on and participated would be a volunteer," he said, reiterating that, "If somebody says they are owed money, they didn't get paid because they didn't perform or they didn't have a contract."
DeFelice said he was aware Keffer had been sued by contractors in the Eastern Panhandle, but said "lawsuits happen in business."
"As a businessman, I wouldn't be able to work with city, county or anybody else if it was based on lawsuits," he said. "We'd gone through the whole due-diligence aspect prior to the board engaging with Keffer and the other federal advisers."
He said he was not aware that default judgments had been entered against Keffer, and said the port authority "has been working diligently over the past three years to do everything we do in public. We have monthly public meetings, every contract, every resolution is posted on our website."
"Some of the comments I've heard, I don't think those officials have ever been to the port authority," he said. "How often do they attend meetings? What meetings have they been to?"
He also said he communicates with board members regularly and "...they don't have any negative view...that I'm aware of."
West Virginia Public Port Authority Director James D. "Doug" York, meanwhile, said local leaders had asked him nearly a year ago to audit the port's books and financial statements, "but I told them, it's not within my statutory authority to do that stuff." York said he cannot intervene "as long as they are completing the mission they were empowered to do legislatively through the port authority of the state, and the biannual reports they file reflect that they are doing the mission they were empowered to do."
"We are responsible and have to be good stewards of public monies," he added. "If you are receiving funding from me, you have the duty and I have the responsibility to monitor how the public money is being spent. But they haven't asked me for $1 of state taxpayer money, nor have they received state taxpayer money."
York said the Legislature could, if it wishes, order an investigation. The Auditor General also has the power, "even the West Virginia State Police fraud unit could investigate if they thought something was going on."
He also said the public portion of the statute allows port authorities to create not-for-profit corporations, and to receive donations from private entities to make it work, "but Weirton has not requested any state funding at all. That doesn't mean in the future they won't, but since no money has been allocated or appropriated there's nothing at this point that would require my intervention as executive director of the West Virginia Public Port Authority."
Wright, a WAPA board member and city councilman, said he has no objection to local leaders requesting an audit.
"Being on council and also on the board for the port authority, it puts me in a difficult position," he said. "But as far as I'm concerned, I have no objections to them asking for this. Obviously, if the city administration feels something needs to be addressed, then by all means it should be addressed."
Wright said if community leaders have questions "and they feel like they're not being answered, they need to do whatever they have to do to get answers."
"I'm a big believer in transparency," Wright added. "I know that's a word that gets tossed around nowadays, a lot of people say it and don't necessarily do it. But I believe in it."
Ennis said he and the other local leaders want nothing more than to "see the port move forward with economic development." A former state legislator, Ennis said the audit "would show the port area where it's lacking in, where it excels."
"There were some concerns," added Brooke County Commission Jim Andreozzi. "The potential for development over there is humongous. We just want to be sure all the questions are answered, all the I's are dotted and the T's are crossed. It sounds wonderful, there's great potential for Weirton and Brooke County, but we want to make sure everything is done correctly."
Andreozzi said if nothing else, a state audit will ease concerns about how public-private partnerships should and could work.
"This public-private stuff is so new, but it seems to be the wave of the future in development," Andreozzi said. "Using public and private money to bring in industry, it's just so new. I don't think anyone knows what is 100 percent right, and we just want to get a handle on it to protect ourselves going forward. We want to move slow, make sure everything is done right."
Greathouse agreed an audit "is a good thing for everybody."
"It's just the smart thing to do, it puts to rest any kind of rumors anybody might have, any kind of fears they might have," he said. "I think we need transparency."
He said he's aware that concerns have been raised about the port's operation.
"With any business, in any way, shape or form, you'd like to have an audit," he added. "We get asked all the time for financing, we'd like to have an audit" for peace of mind.


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Keep in touch
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Sign up to our free monthly e-newsletter for the latest exhibitions and exclusive events.
The Palace shop offers a wide range of exclusive gift items inspired by Holyroodhouse and the works of art in the Royal Collection. You can purchase homeware, china, clothing and jewellery, children's toys, books and postcards. Please ask a Retail Assistant about our home delivery service.
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The Collection is administered by the Royal Collection Trust, a registered charity. The aims of the Trust are the care and conservation of the Royal Collection and the promotion of public access and enjoyment through exhibitions, publications, loans and educational activities.


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Hi there!
What is the true position for Upper Rail to set the canon ef 18mm 1:2.8?
Hi there!
What is the true position for Upper Rail to set the canon ef 18mm 1:2.8?
Unfortunately we don't have the settings for this lens.
As we hear back from customers and learn settings we post the findings here: http://www.nodalninja.com/html/settings.html
If you do not find your camera/lens on the list the manual teaches you how to find these settings: http://nodalninja.com/nodal_ninja_user_manual.html.
I can tell you the lower "A" setting once found will never change.
It really is easy to learn how to find the no parallax point of a lens and we really encourage our customers to learn this. Once learned it will work for any camera/lens at any focal length.
Also here is another link that you might find helpful:
After you do finally learn the settings I hope you might share them with us so we can post them on the website.
Hope this helps.


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Junior Member
Interested in Lead Design.
Hey this is my first post, just found this site today via a Joystiq post. Gotta say, this site is an absolute godsend, and I'd first like to send thanks where they belong to all the helpful posts on the main site and the forums.
A few questions I still couldn't seem to find however, which I'm sorry if this has been posted before, are aimed at the path of becoming a lead designer.
First off, this is a question that's been on my mind for a very long time - ever since I had started playing the Metal Gear Solid series. Lead designer vs. Director - is there really a difference? From my understanding the term Game Director is more used in Japan, the most obvious example I've can think of is Hideo Kojima (which is where I first heard the term used).
Secondly, is shooting for lead designer too high of a goal? I'm still struggling with the understanding of the inner workings of the industry, so I'm not sure if tons of companies are open to hiring lead designers or if it's something someone should work their way up to, or if most lead designers are lead designers because they started their own team. Which path is more realistic? I assume it also depends on the company, etc.
I'm in my final year of high school, I already know that I probably won't be able to afford to go to a four year university, so I planned on going to a school similar to DeVry or the like. I read the article about why gaming centric colleges (would this count?) usually aren't accepted by small companies, and that I should probably get a degree in something else. What sort of field, other than game design, should I aim for if I wanted to get into lead design? Would these be possible through a JC?
If it helps to apply this to my previous question, one of the things I would really like to master as a game designer is atmosphere. When going into game design, I don't plan on reinventing the wheel - I just want to create, unique, memorable worlds and stories. Of course this would tie with fun gameplay, with unique elements to that world. Is there any way to apply this to a certain field of education?
I'm sorry for the long post and I apologize in advance if my questions have already been answered elsewhere or if I broke some sort of rule, I just really want to get familiar with the inner workings of the gaming industry before I jump in and regret choosing a particular path of education. Lead design has been a dream of mine for close to 10 years and I don't want to screw it up. I might post more questions if I can think of any, but any help at all would be greatly, greatly appreciated.
- Boba
Junior Member
I would like to know this to, as I am new also, and would like to be lead also.
Location: UK
Q. Lead designer vs. Director - is there really a difference?
A. Not really although a Director should have more responsiblities beyond the design of the game.
Q. Secondly, is shooting for lead designer too high of a goal?
A. No as long as you understand that it cannot be your first step in the industry. Start somewhere lower down and work up.
Q. What sort of field, other than game design, should I aim for if I wanted to get into lead design? Would these be possible through a JC?
A. Tough question. I can't answer it as 'Game Designer' education is questionable at the best of times. Consider reading Sloperama: http://www.sloperama.com/advice.html
Q. I just want to create, unique, memorable worlds and stories. Of course this would tie with fun gameplay, with unique elements to that world. Is there any way to apply this to a certain field of education?
A. What is stopping you making them now?
Steven Yau
[Blog] [Portfolio]
[How I broke into the Games Industry] [Why I left my Games Job]
[How to be a Games Tester] [Getting back into the Game]
Junior Member
Hi Boba.
If you're really serious about your career path I'd suggest a few things.
1- Being a lead designer is a coveted position, one that takes years to attain. That being said, it IS attainable but like yaustar mentioned, you're going to have to work your way up through the ranks. Some designers get lucky and score an entry design position right off the bat, while others start as game testers.
2- Start designing now. There are several games with free editors, which will allow you to create levels, mods or games of your own. You'll need the experience of designing games of your own and a solid portfolio if you want to get a job designing games professionally. Find a team of people that want to create a new game/mod or do so on your own, but start designing today.
3- Go to company websites and read their 'design' position descriptions. The job postings will give you an idea of qualifications they'll be expecting from you. Work towards those qualifications.
4- It's unfortunate but ideas alone won't get you a job, a track record completed designs will. Everyone who loves games has a game idea, it's the people who are willing to work hard and continue learning that score the jobs. Passion is a given in the game industry.
5- About schools. It's also important to remember that a college degree in game design doesn't guarantee you a job. Your work and dedication to being a designer will. Keep at it and work towards your dream!
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Can humans live without eating food, just by drinking water? How long can we survive just by drinking water everyday?
About 52 to 74 days according to
This wiki page bases its data on 8 persons who died due to hunger strike:
This would vary a LOT depending on the amount of stored fat, previous diet, the weather and even the water drunk. Weeks though there is a good chance that a loss of electrolytes can cause health problems. (that's why I mention the water you drink, because many bottled water brands and wells have a bit of salt in them.)
Its hard to say from anecdotal experience. There are claims of 3 weeks being easy, but a medical study would be unethical because of the risks posed to the subjects.
You can remember this easily as the rule of threes:
You can survive:
Going beyond those guidelines will generally do you permanent damage.
Further reading: http://www.wildernesscollege.com/basic-survival-skills.html
1 year and 17 days only on water and electrolytes.
Actually, he went water only for about 75 days (read that elsewhere, can't remember) and then they supplemented his water only diet with electrolytes. He's done it under medical supervision and gained 7 KG in 5 years after the fast. So the weight does stay off (obviously, if you go and stay into a healthier diet).
protected by Community♦ Feb 5 '14 at 15:30
Thank you for your interest in this question.
Because it has attracted low-quality or spam answers that had to be removed, posting an answer now requires 10 reputation on this site (the association bonus does not count).
Would you like to answer one of these unanswered questions instead?


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Jordan Retro IV Crib Shoes
Buy Online & Pick Up In-Store
The classic Jordan Retro 4 is one of the highest rated shoes, and the Black/Red colorway makes this retro a must have for the history that it represents. This colorway brings you back to that first game-winning shot MJ took against the Cleveland Cavaliers that would set the mark as one of the greatest moments in basketball history. The shoe was originally released in 1989 and was an instant hit.


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Countries' attractiveness for setting up business
Attractiveness depends on cost-competitiveness, the tax system, the skill level of the labour force, corporate profitability, public infrastructure, etc. So it is a multi-faceted and complex variable.
It can be measured indirectly, by:
- cost-competitiveness, in light of the trend in exchange rates measured by the real trade-weighted exchange rate. Currently the currencies of the United Kingdom, Italy and Spain are overvalued in real terms;
- export market shares, in which losses have been very marked in Japan, the United Kingdom, France and Italy;
- the trend in potential GDP and in production capacity in industry. Potential GDP has grown significantly in the United States, while production capacity has stagnated in the United Kingdom, Japan, Spain and Italy;
- growth in employment excluding the civil service, which has been the most vigorous in Spain and the weakest in Japan.
If we use these criteria, the most attractive countries for companies are the United States, Sweden, Germany, Spain and France, while the least attractive are the United Kingdom, Italy and Japan.
Attractiveness measured by investment
However, for each country we also look at two direct measures of attractiveness for companies:
- the proportion of the country's business investment that is carried out in that country and not abroad. This proportion is low in Sweden, France, Spain and the United Kingdom;
- the share of investment by foreign companies in GDP. This proportion is high in Sweden, the United Kingdom and Spain.
According to this investment criterion of attractiveness, the most attractive countries are the United States, the United Kingdom, Spain; the least attractive are France and Italy.
Which are the most attractive countries among the large OECD countries?
When you summarise both the indirect and the direct approaches, you realize that the United States tops the ranking, while France and Italy are found at the bottom.


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I once saw a wild turkey pacing back and forth along a hog-wire fence, looking for a way through the 4-foot-tall barrier. In the time it took for me to drive by, the bird never figured out that with two flaps of its great wings, it could have easily sailed over the fence. You would think that such a bird would be easy prey for a hunter. And you would be wrong. Kansas' fall turkey hunting season is long, and turkeys are abundant across the state. However, because we have so many other great hunting opportunities - deer, waterfow, pheasants, and quail - fall turkey hunting is often overlooked. We have a strong spring turkey hunting tradition, but our fall tradition is underutilized.
Fall Turkey Hunting in Kansas
Posted on October 27, 2011 8:50AM by Mike Miller


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CDG Graphics Services
Graphics, such as static images, photos, charts, and graphs, describe complex ideas visually. Stylistically consistent graphics, such as banners and icons, can create a cohesive identity for a course. Graphics can create a visual metaphor for concepts and ideas that would be more difficult to explain using text.
Examples of common course graphics:
Specialized Information Graphics
Information graphics, or infographics, are visual representations of information, data, or knowledge. These graphics are used where information needs to be explained quickly or simply, such as in signs, maps, journalism, technical writing, and education.
The Oxford Illustrated Dictionary uses graphics and technical illustrations to make reading material more interesting and easier to understand. In an encyclopedia, graphics are used to illustrate concepts and show examples of a particular topic being discussed. In order for a graphic to function effectively as an educational aid, the learner must be able to interpret it successfully. This interpretative capacity is one aspect of graphic design.
Types of information graphic:
Creative Design Group Contacts* denotes primary contact
|Ken Grett
|+1 928 523-7879
|Stephanie McCarthy
|+1 928 523-8997
|Jeanette Roe
|+1 928 523-1208


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I'm trying to create a JSON object file and I'm not sure how to document a list of all skating classes available. Currently I have the following:
{"classname":"FS1","classdays":["monday", "wednesday"]},
{"classname":"FS2","classdays": ["tuesday", "thursday"]}
It works, the only problem is that each class "classname", has multiple classtimes for each day "classdays". And I'm not sure how to add another array of times and associate them with the specific day for the specific classes and add that to my current JSON file to create that structure.
Here are the classes in non-programming language - for clarity:
Classname: FS1
Monday classes are 12:00PM and 2:00PM
Wednesday classes are 1:00PM and 3:00PM
Classname: FS2
Tuesday classes are 4:00PM and 6:00PM
Thursday classes are 2:00PM and 8:00PM
Classname: FS3
Monday classes are 2:00PM and 4:00PM
Thursday classes are 2:00PM and 8:00PM
I'm open to suggestions on how best to structure, or restructure if needed.


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BMW R80GS Fork Springs -
When the going gets rough, you'll want your suspension to keep up with the terrain. Installing progressive front fork springs will give your R80GS a significant improvement in handling and braking, both on and off-road. This spring kit from Hyperpro is a quick and inexpensive way to drastically change your BMW GS's handling performance, or to revive a worn out set of springs. The progressively wound springs for the front suspension give you a plush ride at slow speeds, but when the road gets rough, or you decide to push hard in the corners, the springs are much firmer towards the bottom of the travel where you need it the most.
No instructions are currently available for this product.


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10 Simple Ways to Connect to Your Teen
10 of 11
Talk About Your Youth
Reminiscing about when you were young will help your teen see you more as a person and less like a parent. While talking about anything illegal or dangerous isn't smart, letting your teen in on a few of your past adventures and debacles might make her more likely to tell you about some of hers. If she makes you privy to this information, remember — listen, keep an open mind, and don't lecture!
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Walker's Farm - Miller Hill - Colerain
April 30, 2013
MILLER HILL on Colerain Pike. Possibly the sight of Walker's Farm these days. Some of you remember the great Walker's Ice Cream. Sorry to say they are no longer open for us to enjoy....
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By now it should come as no surprise that Jason Segel is a major fan of The Muppets. Naturally, he excitedly spoke about the new Muppet movie that he wrote and is currently filming—and his introduction to Kermit.
Also, he addresses his inclusion in People Magazine's "Sexiest Men Alive" issue. If you can handle listening to Jay Leno ask the questions, this is quite a fun interview!


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The Harpoons have revealed the video for their new track 'Unforgettable' off their upcoming debut LP 'Falling For You' via SPIN this morning.
The beautiful clip features the band up close and personal and some big-time FEELZ from vocalist Bec Rigby.
The visuals come courtesy of Directors Annelise Hickey and Ruby Fiedler.
'Unforgettable' is the first taste of what they have been working on behind the scenes. If this doesn't hit you right in the colour-coordinated guts, dunno what will!
Stay tuned for tracklisting and tour dates to be announced shortly!


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Semblance Office Package 5413PN
by BDI
BDI takes the home office to the next level with the Semblance Office Package 5413PN. This modular unit comes 1 cabinet with an adjustable shelf, 1 file cabinet, 1 desk and ample shelving space for storage and display. In other words, the 5413PN Office Package includes everything you need in a home office in one convenient package.
The Semblance Office Package 5413PN features:
- 83" w x 79.5" h x 61.5" d
- 5 Single-wide shelves, each supporting up to 50 lbs
- Peninsula Desk, supports up to 125 lbs
- 4 double-wide shelves, each supports up to 100 lbs
- 1 double-wide file cabinet, supports up to 200 lbs
- 1 double-wide cabinet, supports up to 200 lbs
- Cabinets features 1 adjustable shelf and opaque, micro-etched glass doors
- Micro-etched tempered glass shelves with full length steel supports
- Shelf position is adjustable in 2.5" increments along length of vertical panels
- Natural hardwood veneer on vertical panels
- Adjustable levelers built into vertical panels for uneven floors
- Can be assembled with desk on left or right and with shelves at any height you desire
Materials & Measurements
Vertical panels: richly grained, natural hardwood veneer
Shelves: micro-etched, tempered glass that is fingerprint resistant
Overall: 83" w x 79.5" h x 25" d
Single-wide shelf: 15.5" w x 1.25" h x 15.5" d, supports up to 50 lbs h
Double-wide shelf: 30.75" w x 1.25" h x 15.5" d, supports up to 100 lbs
Double-wide cabinet and file cabinet: 30.75" w x 15.25" h x 15.75" d
Peninsula Desk: 30.75" w x 29" h x 59.5" d
Vertical panels: 1.75" w x 79.5" h x 15.75" d
Assembly Instructions
Viewing assembly instructions requires Adobe Reader. Download the latest version of Adobe Reader.
View the video below to see how to assemble a BDI Semblance Package.
About The Manufacturer
Thoughtful design; sleek lines; material quality that is without peer. Becker Designed Inc. was founded in 1984 by Bill Becker with the goal of making top-notch modern furniture design accessible to the public. They've succeeded. With the most functional, well-engineered, and attractively designed TV stands on the market, BDI has raised the bar to an impressive height. Features like flow-through ventilation, IR-friendly glass, integrated wheels, and removable back panels are just a few of the innovative ways BDI has discovered to make the TV stand that much better. Today, BDI is best know for its home entertainment systems, but it has also applied its vision and craftsmanship in its lines of tables, shelving, and mirrors. BDI is located in Chantilly, Virginia.
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Shipping & Delivery
Shipping Rate:
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Ships in 2 business days from the date of purchase unless otherwise noted.
Standard Ship Method: Free In Home Delivery - $0.00!
In home delivery is a great way to have large and fragile items delivered to your room of choice - and we offer it as a complementary service on select items like this! When your order reaches the local station in your area, you will be contacted to schedule a day and time specific appointment (so no surprises!). A two person team will carefully deliver your Semblance package inside your home (or office) and place it in the room you desire. Please note that this service does not include debris removal or assembly. Should you desire either one of these options, please give us a call at 888-467-6278 so that we can provide you with a customized quote.
Assembly Instructions:
Product Q&A
BDI Semblance Packages are warranted for 3 years from the date of purchase.


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I made a flask out of one of my sculptures. This flask is made from a shrunken head that what sculptured by me.. Now this guy says he has a patent pending and he is going to sue me .. If I have never seen his product how can this be? Is there a rule on how many similarities a product must have to infringe on his patent? Or how many differences I must have if his item is patented?
migrated from meta.patents.stackexchange.com Nov 13 '13 at 15:02
This question came from our discussion, support, and feature requests site for people interested in improving and participating in the patent system.
First, once someone says "sue", I would contact a lawyer to get actual advice. I am knowledgeable about patent law but am not an attorney.
A pending patent wouldn't give anyone the right to sue. They could put you on notice that their application is on file and that if and when it issues as a patent they think they will have rights they could use against your activities.
If they end up with a patent, the fact that you independently developed your product is not a defense. Copyright involves copying, patent infringement can be "innocent", and still be infringement.


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I learned most of my math font rendering from watching others (for example, I draw ζ terribly). In most cases it is passable, but I'm often uncomfortable using fonts like Fraktur on the board. Does anyone know good resources for learning to write these passably?
I often give this to Freshmen. Learning the right way to start with is easier than trying to change later.
Suggestion number one:
Learn Calligraphy! It's a lot of fun and does mean that you can write the fonts in genuinely nice ways. Books on calligraphy tend to have detailed instructions on how to do at least the basic alphabets: explaining which stroke to do first, and how to hold the pen. Although not all of it transfers to the blackboard, it helps a lot. For example, once you seen how the different "g"s are written, you'll know how to write the Lie algebra symbol correctly. However, I do find that a script S ($\mathcal{S}$ is not even close) can take me a couple of goes to make it look right - it shouldn't be pointy at the top but should sweap backwards.
(Note: to anyone reading the comments, I originally had this answer together with my other answer in the same post. Given the comments, I decided to split them.)
Following up on aleksander's comment to the original question, I had a go at doing a video of how to draw a fraktur g (𝔤) (well, actually it's gothic but if you know the difference you don't need this video, and the gothic g is probably more distinguishable from a normal g than a fraktur one on a blackboard). It's not very polished, but you can see what it looks like here. It was quite fun to do so if this would be helpful, I can easily do more.
This is sort of goofy, but if you have a tablet, you could try training yourself with Detexify. Try to get it to give you the indended symbol with as good (low) a score as possible. If a computer can read your writing, a human probably can too!
This webpage (scroll down to "German") has a nice chart about fraktur letters and how they should look when handwritten.
I must admit I don't have enough experience writing fraktur letters, I really should learn to write them properly.
When I'm stuck on a problem, I practice writing letters in various fonts. I suppose this isn't up to par with other mathematicians' doodles (I'm told Riemann would calculate the cube root of 3), but it keeps my handwriting reasonably neat.
I've often thought that someone should write a book on mathematical calligraphy. Maybe not a full course on it, but as it stands the symbols we use are so inconsistent and often look little like they should, simply because we all "guess" how to draw them.
How did we learn when younger how to write in cursive, or to write in general? We practiced. The suggestion to learn calligraphy is a good one, but it seems that someone should do something like that specifically for mathematicians, somewhere.
For the greek alphabet you just need to practice (or take ancient Greek in high school!) For mathfrak, I've just decided to use a double underline when writing (paper or blackboard) the names of Lie algebras.
Although only a minor point, remember that many old fonts were written with a pen or quill. You only get a strong line on a down-stroke. From this you can sometimes work out the best way to draw a character, if you think of think of the rhythm of the character and make the wider stronger lines downward lines. It's almost impossible to get a thick upward line with a nib. FWIW.
I have never heard of anybody teaching how to write on a blackboard. There are a lot of books about calligraphy. You could try finding a calligraphy book with a font close to Fraktur.
By the way, you can find tips on how to write greek letters: http://www.ibiblio.org/koine/greek/lessons/alphabet.html
Suggestion number two:
Get rid of the blackboard. The way to guarantee that the fonts look right is to have a computer display them (either by directly projecting or by printing out slides first). This also means that you can use colour and other fun things.
To forestall the deluge of "How can you suggest getting rid of blackboards?" posts, all I'll say is that I think that I give better lectures and seminars when I use a computer than when I use a blackboard. The difference is probably more in the way that using a computer forces me to prepare it than in the method of delivery, but it works for me.
(Note: I suspect that people will be strongly tempted to vote this answer down. Please read the second paragraph first.)
Concerning the greek letters, it is essential to know the following: there does not exist in the greek language a cursive style (joined-up writing, schreibschrift). To my knowledge, at least. And has never existed. As a further point, the greek z should be written as a 3. It is essentially the same symbol, I should say.


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I'm writing a short document listing some chronological events. I want to pick out a period with a big brace. Here's a quick mockup:
What's the best way to do this? Can I set the size declaratively - ie from line A to line B - somehow?
I suggest a variation of Giel's answer with
(or smth like
I'd seriously suggest using tikz for this. Here's an alternative to Caramdir's (excellent) solution:
What I like about this one is that it doesn't mess around with how the actual data is put in, the decoration is added afterwards almost as an afterthought, which (to me) fits in better with the feel of what you're trying to do.
What isn't so good is the placement of the brace horizontally. Because I don't know how your are typesetting your data, nor what sort of data it is, I've just shoved the brace to the right-hand side. If your data is more structured, as the graphic suggests, then it would be easy to make it appear in the right place. (Indeed, from experimenting, I'd say that if your data isn't nicely structured - by which I mean that the lines should be of similar widths - then a brace at the right-hand side doesn't look good as it's not easy to see exactly which lines it is including or excluding.)
Just for fun an answer using TikZ:
To specify from which row to which row the brace should go change
A simpler solution:
In mathmode you could use some trickery like putting a matrix to the left of a
You can use pstricks-add.sty as follows: (details can be found here on page 18)
This is the output:
Here's an implementation of Andrew Stacey's excellent (and very famous)
As you can see, it allows page breaks, although the brace is repeated across pages.


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A rather precocious student studying abstract algebra with me asked the following question: Are there interesting rings where there are not just two but three binary operations along with some appropriate distributivity properties?
The real numbers $\mathbb{R}$ with the following three binary operations:
The maximum is to the sum what the sum is to the product, except for the fact that the maximum does not have inverses, nor a unit, i.e. $(\mathbb{R},\max,+)$ is a semiring, while $(\mathbb{R},+,\cdot)$ is a ring.
An important example is the notion of a Gerstenhaber algebra. It is simultaneously a commutative ring and a Lie algebra, such that the product and bracket satisfy the Poisson identity, except all these things need to be understood in a differential graded sense.
Very much in the spirit of Dan's answer, but more elementary, are Poisson algebras, associative algebras with Lie brackets that act as derivations.
An interesting non-example is the Eckmann-Hilton theorem, stating that if a set is endowed with two associative unital binary operations that "commute" (i.e., if I get it correctly, each multiplication operator $a\mapsto a*b$ is a homomorphism with respect to the other multiplication) then the two operations are the same.
This would exclude the existence of rings $(R, +,*,\circ)$ with two genuinely different "commuting" multiplications.
For experimenting you could use alg, a program which computes all finite models of a given theory. The best thing may be to pass the ball back to your student and ask him to use alg to find some interesting structures.
For example, suppse we want a structure $(R, 0, +, -, \times, \&)$ such that $(R, 0, +, -)$ is a commutative group, $\times$ and $\&$ are associative, $\times$ and $\&$ distribute over $+$ and $\&$ distributes over $\times$ (I am making stuff up, the point is to experiment until something interesting is found). In alg the input file would be:
Let us count how many of these are, up to isomorphism, of given sizes:
We can also look at these structures, but that's the sort of thing a student should do. Here is a random one of size 4 that alg prints out when we omit
Up to size 7 I cannot actually see any interesting ones, there are always large blocks of 0's in $\&$. Other things should be tried out.
An exponential field is a field with an additional unary operation $x\mapsto E(x)$ extending the usual idea of exponentiation. So it satisfies the usual law of exponents $E(a+b)=E(a)\cdot E(b)$ and also has $E(0)=1$. An exponential ring has an underlying ring, rather than field, and the exponentiation function is a homomorphism from the additive group of the ring to the multiplicative group of units.
The example of the real exponential field $\langle\mathbb{R},+,\cdot,e^x\rangle$ has been a principal focus of the research program in model theory that has lead to the theory of o-minimality. Tarski had famously proved that the theory of real-closed fields $\langle\mathbb{R},+,\cdot,0,1,\lt\rangle$ is a decidable theory, and one of the original motivating questions, still open to my knowledge, is whether the first-order theory of the real exponential field is similarly decidable. Meanwhile, the o-minimalists are making huge progress on our understanding of the structure of definable sets in these and many other similar structures.
The claim that there are two binary operations on rings is misleading. Rings are actually equipped with countably many $n$-ary operations, one for each noncommutative polynomial in $n$ variables over $\mathbb{Z}$. These generate the morphisms in a category with finite products, the Lawvere theory of rings $T$, which is a category with the property that finite product-preserving functors $T \to \text{Set}$ are the same thing as rings. It just happens to be the case that as a category with finite products, $T$ is generated by addition and multiplication. The Lawvere theory of commutative rings is similar except that the polynomials are commutative; incidentally, it may also be regarded as the category of affine spaces over $\mathbb{Z}$.
This gives a useful perspective from which to understand other ring-like structures. For example:
Here is a general procedure for determining what operations are actually available to you when working with some mathematical objects. If $C$ is a concrete category and $F : C \to \text{Set}$ the forgetful functor, then one interpretation of "$n$-ary operation" is "natural transformation $F^n \to F$." If $C$ has finite coproducts and $F$ is representable by an object $a$, then by the Yoneda lemma these are the same thing as elements of $F(a \sqcup ... \sqcup a)$. This reproduces the obvious answers for groups, rings, etc., and when $C$ is the opposite of the category of smooth manifolds and $F : M \mapsto C^{\infty}(M)$ then we get that "$n$-ary operation" means element of $C^{\infty}(\mathbb{R}^n)$ as above.
Not only are there such examples, there is a very natural way of continuing the progression that starts with addition and multiplication.
Begin with sets. Then monoids are just the monoidal objects in the category of sets. That ends the story at level 1. Now consider the objects that ended the story at level 1 which are also commutative, that is, commutative monoids. Then semirings are the monoidal objects in the category of commutative monoids. Here the monoidal operation on the category of commutative monoids is the tensor product, rather than the Cartesian product, but this is as it should be because of the tensor-hom adjunction: $\mathrm{Hom}(A\otimes B,C)=\mathrm{Hom}(B,\mathrm{Hom}(A,C))$. In other words, the composition of the representable functors $\mathrm{Hom}(B,-)$ and $\mathrm{Hom}(A,-)$ is the functor represented by $A\otimes B$. Thus for the present purposes, the tensor product for commutative monoids plays the role of the Cartesian product for sets.
Now what if we try to go one step further? Can we fill in the missing entries in the following table of analogies? (Sets : Cartesian product : monoids) :: (Commutative monoids : tensor product : semirings) :: (Commutative semirings : ?? : ??)
The answer is yes, but there is one more twist to the story, which is that unlike in the categories of sets and commutative monoids, in the categories of commutative semirings, representable functors $\mathrm{Hom}(A,-)$ take values all the way down in the category of sets, not in the category of semirings. This actually occurs already at the tensor product stage above, but we didn't see it because we were working with commutative monoids (i.e. modules over the semiring of natural numbers) instead of modules over more general semirings.
If we let $K$ be any semiring, then $\mathrm{Hom}_K(A,-)$ takes values in abelian group, not in $K$-modules. To make everything above work, we need $A$ to be a $K$-$K$-bimodule. Thus what we really want is to complete the following table of analogies. (Sets : sets : Cartesian product : monoids) :: ($K$-modules : $K$-$K$-bimodules : tensor product $\otimes_K$ : semirings over $K$) :: (Commutative $L$-algebras : ?? : ?? : ??), where $L$ is a fixed commutative semiring.
For the first ??, we want commutative $L$-algebras $A$ such that $\mathrm{Hom}(A,-)$ takes values in $L$-algebras, rather than sets. This extra structure will be the analogue of the right $K$-module structure above. So let us call it an $L$-$L$-bialgebra structure. For instance, $A$ will need to have two co-operations $A\to A\otimes_L A$, which will induce a functorial ring structure on the objects $\mathrm{Hom}(A,B)$. If $L$ is a ring, then this is precisely the structure of a commutative $L$-algebra scheme on $\mathrm{Spec}(A)$.
Then if $A$ and $B$ are $L$-$L$-bialgebras, we can compose the functors $\mathrm{Hom}(B,-)$ and $\mathrm{Hom}(A,-)$. The result is easily seen to be representable, and the representing object is denoted $A\odot B$. (So when $L$ is a ring, we are then taking two affine commutative $L$-algebra schemes over $L$, viewing them as endofunctors on the category of commutative $L$-algebras, and then composing them. This is not such a common thing to do, but the result is another affine commutative $L$-algebra scheme over $L$.) I like to call it the composition product of $A$ and $B$. Then we can define a composition $L$-algebra to be a monoid object in the category of $L$-$L$-bialgebras. Thus the final line of the analogy table above is (Commutative $L$-algebras : $L$-$L$-bialgebras : composition product $\odot_L$ : composition $L$-algebras). The monoidal operation on a composition $L$-algebra is usually denoted $\circ$ and is called composition or plethysm. So the usual hierarchy of operations "(1) addition, (2) multiplication" extends to "(3) plethysm".
There are many examples of composition $L$-algebras (but interestingly not too many when $L$ is a ring). The most basic example is the polynomial algebra $L[x]$, where $\circ$ is given by usual composition of polynomials. The $L$-$L$-bialgebra structure is the one such that $L[x]$ represents the identity functor on commutative $L$-algebras. A more interesting example is the polynomial algebra `A=$\mathbb{C}[\partial^0, \partial^1,\dots]$ in infinitely many indeterminants, which we think of as all algebraic differential operators in one variable. Here $\circ$ is the usual composition of differential operators. (The $L$-$L$-bialgebra structure is determined by requiring each $\partial^i$ to be linear and to satisfy the appropriate Leibniz rule.)
There are also exotic, arithmetic examples when $L$ is not a $\mathbb{Q}$-algebra. These are responsible for concepts like Witt vectors and $\Lambda$-rings. (When $L$ is a field of characteristic $0$, it is conjectured that any composition $L$-algebra can be generated by linear operators, and so all composition $L$-algebras should reduce to more familiar multilinear constructions, as with the differential operators above.) Perhaps the easiest one of these to give has already been mentioned by Darij Grinberg. It is the ring $\Lambda=\mathrm{Symm}$ of symmetric functions in infinitely many variables. Here addition and multiplication are as usual, and $\circ$ is the operation known as plethysm in the theory of symmetric functions. It is the composition algebra whose representations are $\Lambda$-rings and whose co-induction functor is the big Witt functor. (I haven't defined these concepts here.)
This is discussed in only a few places in the literature. In order of appearance: Tall-Wraith, Bergman-Hausknecht (this deals with general cagtegories of a universal-algebraic nature), Borger-Wieland, Stacey-Whitehouse. And it seems that every paper on the subject uses different term for what I called a composition algebra above. On my web page, I have slides from a talk a gave not so long ago on these things.
This isn't an answer to this exact question, but it sounds like the student may also be interested in hearing about Hopf algebras.
Take the ring of polynomials. More generally, any ring of functions (from a ring to itself).
With the functions, you have 3 operations defined:
Pointwise addition: + such that f+g is the function t--> f(t) + g(t) Pointwise multiplication: . such that f.g is the function t --> f(t).g(t) Composition of functions o such that fog is the function t--> f(g(t))
This is defined for functions but in particular for polynomials on some ring R and for matrices with ring coefficients.
The paper "The Natural Chain of Binary Arithmetic Operations and Generalized Derivatives" by M. Carroll (link) is a great paper for undergrads that demonstrates an infinite number of binary operations (defined recursively and in terms of the exponential function) on the reals where the $i$th operation distributes over the $(i-1)$th operation.
A differential-geometric example of such a thing would be differential forms (with operations of addition, wedge product and differentiation). More generally, one considers DGLAs, Differential Graded Lie Algebras (with the usual caveat that the Lie bracket is not quite commutative/associative); the operations are addition, derivation and the bracket (as well as multiplication by scalars as a free bonus). The main example is, of course, differential forms on a manifold with values in a Lie algebra. One uses DGLA's to describe deformations of pretty much anything under the sun, look here.
$L^2$ with addition, multiplication, and convolution, with both multiplication and convolution linear with respect to addition.


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The newly published paper by Katherine Roche and Paul...
Read more
The newly published paper by Katherine Roche and Paul Roche reports SNAP-23 expression in neuron dendrites and examines the possible role of this neuronal SNAP-23 protein. To this point, SNAP-23 has traditionally been discussed in reference to vesicle trafficking in epithelial cells (see Rodriguez-Boulan et al., 2005 for review), so it is of interest to determine the function of SNAP-23 in neurons. Suh et al. report that surface NMDA receptor expression and NMDA-mediated currents are inhibited following SNAP-23 knockdown. Further, SNAP-23 knockdown results in a specific decrease in NR2B subunit insertion; previously, the NR2B subunit has been reported to preferentially localize to recycling endosomes compared to NR2A (Lavezzari et al., 2004). Given these findings, it is reasonable to conclude that SNAP-23 may be involved in maintaining NMDA receptor surface expression possibly by binding to NMDA-specific recycling endosomes.
Interestingly, there is recent evidence that PKC-induced NMDA receptor insertion is mediated by another neuronal SNARE protein; postsynaptic SNAP-25 (Lau et al., 2010). It is possible that activity-induced NMDA receptor trafficking is mediated by SNAP-25, while baseline maintenance of NMDA receptor levels relies on SNAP-23. Other evidence to suggest a strictly regulatory role for SNAP-23 in neuronal NMDA insertion is the finding that activity-dependent receptor insertion from early endosomes has previously been reported to be restricted to AMPA-type glutamate receptors (Park et al., 2004). However, it is possible that activity-induced insertion of AMPA receptors occurs via a distinct endosome pool than NMDA receptors; AMPA and NMDA receptor trafficking has been reported to proceed by distinct vesicle trafficking pathways (Jeyifous et al., 2009).
Although SNAP-23 may not be involved in activity-dependent early endosome receptor trafficking, it is possible that SNAP-23 operates in other pathways linked to activity-induced NMDA receptor trafficking. For instance, SNAP-23 may be the SNARE protein by which lipid raft shuttling of NMDA receptors occurs. SNAP-23 has been found to preferentially associate with lipid rafts over SNAP-25 in PC12 cells (Salaün et al., 2005). As well, NMDA receptors have been found to associate with lipid raft associated proteins flotilin-1 and -2 in neurons (Swanwick et al., 2009). Lipid raft trafficking of NMDA receptors to post-synaptic densities has been reported to follow global ischemia (Besshoh et al., 2005), and the possibility remains that under certain circumstances, NMDA trafficking occurs by lipid raft association to SNAP-23.
Taken together, the discovery of post-synaptic SNARE proteins offers several avenues of research to determine their roles and functions in glutamatergic synapse organization. Further, investigating disruption of synaptic receptor organization presents several possibilities for potential etiologies of disorders linked to compromised glutamate signaling like schizophrenia.
Besshoh, S., Bawa, D., Teves, L., Wallace, M.C. and Gurd, J.W. (2005). Increased phosphorylation and redistribution of NMDA receptors between synaptic lipid rafts and post-synaptic densities following transient global ischemia in the rat brain. Journal of Neurochemistry, 93: 186-194. Abstract
Jeyifous, O., Waites, C.L., Specht, C.G., Fujisawa, S., Schubert, M., Lin, E.I., Marshall, J., Aoki, C., de Silva, T., Montgomery, J.M., Garner, C.C. and Green, W.N. (2009). SAP97 and CASK mediate sorting of NMDA receptors through a previously unknown secretory pathway. Nature Neuroscience, 12: 1011-1019. Abstract
Lau, C.G., Takayasu, Y., Rodenas-Ruano, A., Paternain, A.V., Lerma, J., Bennet, M.V.L. and Zukin, R.S. (2010). SNAP-25 is a target of protein kinase C phosphorylation critical to NMDA receptor trafficking. Journal of Neuroscience, 30: 242-254. Abstract
Lavezzari, G., McCallum, J., Dewey, C.M. and Roche, K.W. (2004). Subunit-specific regulation of NMDA receptor endocytosis. Journal of Neuroscience, 24: 6383-6391. Abstract
Park, M., Penick, E.C., Edward, J.G., Kauer, J.A. and Ehlers, M.D. (2004). Recycling endosomes supply AMPA receptors for LTP. Science, 305: 1972-1975. Abstract
Rodriguez-Boulan, E., Kreitzer, G. and Müsch, A. (2005) Organization of vesicular trafficking in epithelia. Nature Reviews: Molecular Cell Biology, 6: 233-247. Abstract
Salaün, C., Gould, G.W. and Chamberlain, L.H. (2005). The SNARE proteins SNAP-25 and SNAP-23 display different affinities for lipid rafts in PC12 cells. Journal of Biological Chemistry, 280: 1236-1240. Abstract
Suh, Y.H., Terashima, A., Petralia, R.S., Wenthold, R.J., Isaac, J.T.R., Roche, K.W. and Roche, P.A. (2010). A neuronal role for SNAP-23 in postsynaptic glutamate receptor trafficking. Nat Neurosci. 2010 Mar;13(3):338-43. Abstract
Swanwick, C.C., Shapiro, M.E., Chang, Y.Z. and Wenthold, R.J. (2009). NMDA receptors interact with flotillin-1 and -2, lipid raft-associated proteins. FEBS Letters, 583: 1226-1230. Abstract
PRIMARY NEWSIn NMDA Receptor Signaling, DISC1 and SNAP-23 Rule


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February 14, 2014
Ann Graybiel, Institute Professor at MIT's McGovern Institute for Brain Research , will deliver "The Basal Ganglia: Heartland of Neuroeconomics," NYU's Annual Dean for Science Lecture in Neuroeconomics, on Tuesday, March 4, 4 p.m. at NYU's Kimmel Center for University Life, Rosenthal Pavilion (60 Washington Square South [at LaGuardia Place], 10th floor).
Graybiel, recipie nt of the 2001 National Medal of Science, will address the topics of habit formation and value-based decision-making—central issues in the field of neuroeconomics, an emerging academic discipline that has shed light on the motivations behind decision making. Graybiel will present new experimental findings that show how the brain directs the transition from intentional to semi-automatic behavior.
The event is free and open to the public, with admission on a first-come, first-served basis. Space is limited. For more information, call 212.998.3904 or email email@example.com. Reporters interested in attending must RSVP to James Devitt, NYU's Office of Public Affairs, at 212.998.6808 or firstname.lastname@example.com. Subways: A, B, C, D, E, F, M (W. 4th St.).
The lecture is hosted by NYU's Center for Neuroeconomics and sponsored by the university's Dean for Science.
This Press Release is in the following Topics:
Events, Arts and Science, Research, Speakers @ NYU
Type: Press Release
Press Contact: James Devitt | (212) 998-6808


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How can I prove the following statement:
$S_n$ and $A_n \times \mathbb{Z}_2$ are not isomorphic for every $n>2$.
How can I prove the following statement:
$S_n$ and $A_n \times \mathbb{Z}_2$ are not isomorphic for every $n>2$.
A simple idea is to count the number of elements with order $2$ in the two groups. $g\in S_n$ has order $2$ iff it is product of disjoint transpositions, $h=(j,k)\in A_n\times\mathbb{Z}_2$ has order $2$ if $j$ is a product of an even number of disjoint transpositions, so, if $n\geq 4$, the elements of order $2$ in $S_n$ are striclty more than the elements of order $2$ in $A_n\times\mathbb{Z}_2$ and the two groups cannot be isomorphic. For $n=3$ we have that $A_3\times \mathbb{Z}_2$ is isomorphic to the abelian group $\mathbb{Z}_6$ while $S_3$ is not an abelian group.
Another way to see that $S_n$ and $A_n\times \mathbb{Z}/2$ are not isomorphic is that the latter contains an element of order $2$ which commutes with every other element. However, if $n>2$ the only element of $S_n$ that commutes with all other elements is the identity. (To see this, write down the cycle decomposition of your candidate permutation, and pick a transposition that either intersects two cycles or fits inside a cycle of length at least $3$.)
In other words, $A_n\times \mathbb{Z}/2$ has a nontrivial center, while the center of $S_n$ is trivial.
One way to do this is to show that $S_n$ does not have a normal subgroup of size 2 (since the direct product has such a normal subgroup).
The non-trivial element in such a subgroup would be a product of disjoint transpositions. But conjugating such a thing by any transposition which doesn't occur in the permutation but which does contain a digit that occurs in the permutation will change it, and we can ensure such a transposition exists because $n > 2$.
If you take $Q=\langle (1,2)\rangle\subset S_n$ then it can be a complement of $A_n$ in $S_n$. So $S_n$ is a semidirect product of $A_n$ by $Q$.


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Sunday's snowfall accumulated to only a few inches and did not close schools on Monday, but it proved to be the most dangerous for local roadways.
The Otoe County Sheriff's Office reports 23 "slide offs" caused by snow and ice. This compares to a report of about five cars off the roadway following the eight-inch snow storm on Feb. 21.
The earlier snowstorm was predicted over a week in advance and received media attention, prompting sheriff's deputies to note that traffic was light as motorists heeded travel advisories.
There were no injuries reported from the slide offs March 10. Cars were in ditches on H Road, 64 Road and 24th Road, but most were along Highway 2.
Dan Giittinger, public properties director, said roads were slippery in Nebraska City. Crews continued to sand roads on Monday.
Nebraska City also had snow events on Dec. 20 and Jan. 30.
Location, ST | website.com


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There are quite a few questions on measuring and proving software quality here, however, to this point, there was no formal definition of software quality itself on Stackoverflow:
Please give formal, all encompassing definition of software product quality.
Since the question is fairly generic I am happy to keep accepting a better definition each time it is submitted. It is OK to copy the gist of previously submitted answer as long as you can add something valuable to it.


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MADILL, OK - The fire broke out just blocks from the Madill Fire department. Firefighters said they were able to control the flames quickly, but they do call the home a total loss.
Sunday night didn't end the way Allyson Knight said she expected it to.
"Last night we were in the house and we heard this banging noise," Knight said.
"We got a call Sunday night at approximately nine minutes after 8 p.m., Madill Fire Chief Keith Pruitt said. "It was the report of a structure fire at 106 East Bird St."
Knight said she has lived next door to the home in Madill for many years.
"I mean, it was just shooting out," Knight said. "There is a back window up top and it was shooting out and it just kept spreading."
Witnesses like Knight told First News they saw flames start in the kitchen then spread to the second story of the home.
"No one was here at the time of the fire," Pruitt said. "The extreme heat with the firefighter bunker clothes was one of our major issues."
As of Monday afternoon, the state fire marshal only determined the fire to be an accident.
"He couldn't confirm any more than that it was accidental," Pruitt said.
Neighbors said the homeowner moved out about a year ago, but used the home for storage. She could not be reached for a comment.


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I have never cooked rabbit before, and my charts don't include rabbit. Are there food safety considerations speaking for thorough heating, as with chicken, or is it acceptable to cook it medium rare? Also, what temperature corresponds with the different grades of doneness? I intend to roast half a small rabbit in the oven; the meat doesn't look suited for collagen-based cooking, the animal is probably too young.
In the food safety section of Modernist Cuisine (1-138) it says that all wild rabbit must be cooked through:
The section on meat (3-96) recommends bringing rabbit loin to an internal temperature of 59C (138F) and going by the section I've just quoted this is obviously only for farmed meat. The recommendation for the legs is to cook sous vide for 1 hour @ 66C (151F) which again obviously refers to farmed because that's definitely not long enough to tenderise wild rabbit meat.
I would really recommend cooking the leg meat and loin separately as I find that the loin dries out long before the legs are cooked through. The legs are much nicer braised too.
Rabbits are host to a bacteria called Francisella tularensis which can cause a nasty disease, Tularemia (also called Rabbit Fever). This causes lesions, fever, lethargy, and if untreated, possible death. For that reason it is advisable to cook rabbit as thoroughly as you would, say, chicken. It can also be a good idea to wear gloves when handling the meat, just in case.
In any case, wild rabbits spend their lives sprinting about the countryside and so the meat is naturally quite tough, despite being lean. Most recipes I have seen use braising as the cooking method. Treat it as you would chicken thighs and you should be fine - perhaps rabbit cacciatore?
USDA (United States Department of Agriculture) says 160F (71C) is sufficient as an internal temperature for rabbit (and other red game meats) to be safe. They also say that it is ok for the meat to still look "pink", so long as this temperature has been reached.
I baked it to 72 dec C with bacon on top to keep it moist and it was way over cooked and tough but still tasted good. Next time I will cook it to 66 deg and let it sit for 10 mins before eating.
You always treat rabbit like chicken ;) temps are same. cook well. internal temp 165 . 2pounders are best for pan frying. Stew ..braising... baking..roasting.. all great ways to make rabbit :)


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Miami Heat vs Los Angeles LakersThu, January 23, 2014 - 8:00 PMAmerican Airlines Arena in Miami, FL
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The 7 Most Insane Things Done in the Name of Love
If you've ever fallen hard for a special someone, you know that love can be as dangerous a drug as heroin or vodka tampons. One minute you're completely sane, the next you're jumping on Oprah's couch like a coked-up toddler who just found out about Pop Rocks. But no matter how much you love your significant other, you've probably never crossed the line from crazy romantic to crazy insane.
We can't say the same thing about these guys.
#7. Russian Man Stages His Elaborate Death for a Marriage Proposal
Imagine you're meeting your boyfriend at a diner or vodka bar. Instead of finding your lover staring adoringly at you over candlelight, there's a first rate trauma scene unfolding in the parking lot: ambulances, wrecked cars ... and your boyfriend lifeless and bloody on the ground. The paramedic gives you the worst news of all -- the love of your life is dead. Your dreams are as torn as the very visible flesh on his tender neck.
The Daily Mail
"We could have saved him. But look at those suspenders -- he's better off dead."
You turn your back to the horror movie that's now your life to process everything that's happening. And as you do, your goddamned boyfriend pops up, skips over to the ambulance and emerges with a balloon in his hand. A FREAKING BALLOON. This whole scene was Freddy Kruegerski's idea of a marriage proposal. And since you're obviously suffering from PTSD, you say yes.
When Alexey Bykov proposed to his girlfriend in the completely true scenario above, he knew it had to be convincing. So he hired a movie director, stuntmen, make-up artists and even a scriptwriter to stage the whole thing. "I wanted her to realize how empty her life would be without me and how life would have no meaning without me," he said, dickishly.
The Daily Mail
"Also, we're now ridiculously in debt. Aaron Sorkin and Ridley Scott do not come cheap."
#6. Husband and Wife Get Surgery to Look Like Each Other
We've all known a couple that's so in love that they finish each other's sentences or take on each other's mannerisms. Some lovey-dovey couples are so in sync that they even start physically looking alike after a while. But when husband and wife Neil and Jacqueline Megson started the look-alike phase of their courtship, it was more than just a case of buying a couple of wacky matching sweaters. They went for a more permanent change -- through the magic of plastic surgery.
San Francisco Gate
We're pretty sure this is the sort of thing Hippocrates had in mind.
Before continuing, we should clarify something about Neil and Jacqueline. Neil was a performance artist and Jacqueline was a nurse turned performance artist collaborator. So it's not like we're talking about a pair of married homebodies who hosted Pampered Chef parties on the weekend (or maybe they did, but like really weird ones that mixed adult diapers with cooking).
Anyway, Neil and Jacqueline loved each other so much that they felt as if they were the same person. So why not physically alter their appearances to look like they were twins who went by one name -- Genesis Breyer P-Orridge? This involved getting matching boob jobs, and after that, it was eye and nose jobs, then cheek and chin implants, followed by lip plumping and liposuction. There was even a tattooed beauty mark thrown in there, though whose was natural and whose was a tat is probably irrelevant at this point. All told, the pair received more than $200,000 worth of plastic surgery, all for this:
New York Magazine
No word on who had which genitals. If any.
Now here's where it gets weird ... er. Mrs. Pandrogeny died of cancer in 2007. Mr. Pandrogeny kept going with the surgeries and continues to call himself "we" until this day. And you thought you were in love.
#5. Man Has Friend Shoot Him so Girlfriend Will Sympathize
Being a kid in love is one thing. Being a kid in love and possessing the brain of a hamster is lethal. Especially for 20-year-old Jordan Cardella, who begged his buddy to shoot him (with a gun!) so his ex-girlfriend would feel sorry for him. In Jordan's sad little head, he figured that if he got shot, his girlfriend would go all Florence Nightingale on his bullet-riddled body and feel so sorry for him that she'd take him back. He probably got the idea from a soap opera or JFK.
So Jordan enlisted the help of Michael Wezyk, who simultaneously wins the awards for Best and Stupidest Friend of All Time by agreeing to shoot Jordan like he asked. Why didn't Jordan just do the deed himself? Because he was a convicted felon, and handling a firearm with his history of law troubles would be dumb.
The Daily Mail
And that was the last time Jordan and logic were ever on speaking terms.
The two picked out a nice, serene spot in a park where they could quietly proceed with getting freaking shot for love. Now get this: Jordan asked Michael to shoot him not once, not twice, but three goddamn times in order to get his girlfriend back. Michael agreed, aimed his weapon and shot Jordan in the arm. Jordan predictably fell to the ground, clutching his bleeding appendage. However, when Jordan demanded that Michael shoot him two more times, Michael came down with a sudden case of holy-balls-what-am-I-doing and refused. Michael put the gun away and instead took Jordan to the hospital.
Hey, this is the part of the story where Jordan's pain and suffering pay off with some sweet girlfriend loving, right? Wrong. Jordan's ex decided to stay the shit away from all that noise, and never even visited him in the hospital. But you know who did visit Jordan? The fuzz. Turns out the cops don't take kindly to people getting shot, even if it's for romance.
"Why didn't you just hold a boombox over your head like a normal creep?"
#4. Loving Husbands Spell Out Their Love With Tons of Shit
Some women complain that their husbands only give shitty presents. Farmer Dick Kleis is the embodiment of that sentiment. On one special occasion, he actually gave his wife, Carole, tons and tons of shit.
Dick had a manure spreader just lying around, doing nothing in particular, and he decided to put it to use. For love! Dick gathered up 123,000 pounds of manure, presumably after feeding his cows nothing but Taco Bell for a week, and got to work. After three hours of carefully spreading the manure all over his field, he spelled out a birthday message to his dear wife: "HAP BDAY LUV U." In shit.
The Examiner
"Of course it's abbreviated. What am I, made of cow shit?"
How did Carole react to this scatological show of affection? She loved it.
And Dick isn't the only man who's expressed his love in excrement. One Valentine's Day, Bruce Andersland busted out the ol' manure spreader, aka the Love Machine, loaded her up with a few tons of dung and drew a gigantic heart with an arrow through it on his field.
The Gazette
"This is great and all, but how are you going to fertilize the crops come spring?"
When Bruce's day-long project was done, he had a heart that was a half-mile wide and could seriously confuse a visiting alien species into thinking that we show our love by making one another heave. And yeah, Bruce's wife, Beth, was impressed with her little Poop Cupid. She called the gift "cute" and said, "Why not do something fun with what you got?"
Truer words were never spoken. Oh, and for any would-be Feces Casanovas out there, Dick Kleis has some truly useful advice on what kind of manure to use: "Any manure will work but the good, soft, gushy, warm stuff works the best. It kind of melts the snow." Yes, if you want to woo that special someone, only the gooiest diarrhea will do.


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LITTLE ROCK — Republicans say they expect to win majorities in the state House and Senate next month, while Democrats say they expect to retain control of the Legislature — but will a victory for either side have a significant impact on the lawmaking that happens at the Capitol next year?
Some lawmakers say they expect no major policy shifts, while others envision a decidedly more conservative Arkansas General Assembly regardless of which party rules.
Sen. Larry Teague, D-Nashville, Senate president pro tem-elect, said Arkansas lawmakers have traditionally worked in a bipartisan manner. He said he does not expect that to change regardless of how the November election turns out.
"Hopefully we'll all keep our eye on what is right and what is best for the state and for our people. If we do that, then I just don't see it being a big issue," Teague said.
But he added, "I may be being optimistic about that."
Rep. Bruce Westerman, R-Hot Springs, the Republican House Caucus leader, said he expects a political shift of historic proportions.
"If we have a conservative majority, I think you'll see more conservative legislation passed than ever before," he said.
Republicans made major gains in the 2010 election cycle, winning more legislative seats than the party has held since Reconstruction. After decades of unrivaled dominance, Democrats now hold slim majorities — 53 seats in the 100-member House and 20 seats in the 35-member Senate.
Westerman said Arkansans can expect to see a Republican majority pushing legislation to lower state income tax rates; require voter ID; set a cap on general revenue spending growth; provide tax credits for students choosing alternatives to public school; and ban abortion after a fetus becomes capable of feeling pain.
He also said GOP control of the Legislature would mean a change in the way the state addresses a looming Medicaid shortfall. The shortfall is expected to be between $250 million and $400 million in the next fiscal year.
Gov. Mike Beebe has directed state officials to develop a new payment system for health care providers, in which they are paid for episodes of care rather than for each service provided. The plan is aimed at lowering costs and improving outcomes for patients.
If Republicans are in control in 2013, "I think you'll see us pushing for reforms like block grants, (elimination of) fraud, waste and abuse, and I think you'll see some innovative ideas that we've been researching to make the system more efficient," Westerman said.
Rep. David Meeks, R-Conway, said one of those innovations is a pilot program in Florida that emphasizes giving doctors and patients more choices.
"Instead of having just one Medicaid plan, they've got plans that cater to different choices," Meeks said.
Beebe also supports expanding Medicaid to include people earning up to 138 percent of the federal poverty level under a provision of the federal Affordable Care Act, most of the cost of which would be covered with federal funds. He has acknowledged that legislative support is needed for the expansion because a three-fourths vote in both chambers would be needed to appropriate the federal money.
Westerman said he does not expect the November election to make a difference on that issue.
"I don't believe the governor could get Medicaid expanded right now, with a Democratic majority," he said. "I don't see the makeup of the house changing in a way that would be any more in his favor."
When Rep. Hank Wilkins, D-Pine Bluff, was asked if he expected the outcome of the election to impact the work done in the session, he said, "I'm fearful that it could."
Wilkins said that if Republicans win control of the House and Senate, those bodies likely will issue resolutions declaring opposition to the Affordable Care Act, a law that Wilkins supports.
Health care "has to be paid for some way, so why not do it in a way that provides coverage for everyone, that encourages healthier choices for everyone at every level of the income spectrum, and therefore creates a healthier America and ultimately a less expensive health care system?" he said. "It just to me makes common sense."
Rep. Darrin Williams, D-Little Rock, the Democrats' choice for the next House Speaker, would not entertain the possibility of a Republican legislative majority. He said he believes Democrats will retain control and will continue to focus on education, economic development and responsible budgeting.
"Every one of our candidates, we're focused on Arkansas interests. We're not influenced by billionaire brothers who don't live in Arkansas who are trying to buy the elections here," he said, referring to Americans For Prosperity, a conservative advocacy group funded by billionaire Kansas industrialists David and Charles Koch that has spent at least $500,000 on races in Arkansas.
A number of Republicans who were seen as moderate lost primary races to more conservative candidates in May after being targeted by AFP for defeat.
Sen. Jonathan Dismang, R-Beebe, said that whichever party holds more seats, he expects to see a shift to the right in the Legislature next year.
"I do think that we'll see a more conservative Legislature, and that's probably within both parties. I think these races right now are pushing individuals to be more conservative, because I believe that's where the pulse of our state is," he said.


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WACO (January 29, 2013)--A section of I-35 northbound will be closed nightly Tuesday through Friday as TxDOT crews set beams over I-35 mainlanes.
From 7 p.m. until 7 a.m. I-35 from FM 2063 to Sun Valley Road will be closed.
The closure will begin at mile marker 328.
Drivers should expect a detour nightly through Friday.


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The 5 Creepiest Death Rituals From Around the World
Let's face it, there isn't a non-creepy way to deal with a dead body. We fill it with chemicals and bury it, or burn it. But as unpleasant as that business is, some cultures have taken body disposal to a whole, new, terrifying level.
#5. Sutee (Self-Immolation)
What Is It?
Self-immolation (or Suttee) was a traditional Hindu ritual practiced in India, whereby a grieving widow will voluntarily lie by her husband's side on his funeral pyre, where she's burned alive next to the corpse.
Suttee had been practiced throughout India for centuries, before it was outlawed by the occupying British in 1829 (though occurrences have persisted until present day, causing it to be banned again in 1956, and again in 1981--some people just don't listen).
As you can imagine, once the flames got going it was common for widows to decide this wasn't such a great idea and try to run the hell away. This was considered highly dishonorable, so bystanders would helpfully jab the widow with bamboo canes or even tie her down to keep her on the fire.
In one 18th century incident, when a widow got beyond the pokers and doused the flames in a nearby river, helpful onlookers threw her back on, remembering first to break her legs and arms to save her from future indignities.
Dear God, Why?
Back in the day, widows in India were way, way down on the social ladder. Everything about a widow was considered impure, from her touch and her voice to her very presence. She was something to be shunned and abhorred, which must have reduced the husband's funeral to a lot of cursing and spitting. Apparently they didn't think the grief of losing a husband was quite enough.
Apparently at some point in history, when the widows asked what they could do to redeem themselves someone said, "Why don't you just set your fucking self on fire? How about that?"
Though it was also believed that the husband and wife could be reunited after death, which is why sometimes the husband's most cherished possessions were burnt so that he could use them in the afterlife or trade them on the Indian afterlife's thriving black market.
#4. Buddhist Self Mummification
What Is It?
Self-mummification was practiced until the late 1800s in Japan, by people who thought being a mummy looked so awesome they couldn't wait until actual death to be one. It's been outlawed since the early 1900s, and when we describe how it works, you'll see why. Just wrapping yourself up in bandages and waiting for the Grim Reaper doesn't seem to cut it.
No, to mummify yourself properly, you'll need over 2,000 days of preparation. Here's how to do it, the Buddhist priest way:
First we've got to get all of the fat off of your body. They did this by changing their diet to just nuts and seeds. The priest could eat nothing else for 1,000 days.
Next, we need to remove as much moisture from your body as possible. Since your body is mostly moisture, this may cause you some discomfort. The priests would eat only a small amount of bark and root from pine trees, for another 1,000 days. Then they'd drink a special tea (and by "special" we mean "incredibly poisonous") made from the sap of an urushi tree.
If the tea causes explosive diarrhea and vomiting, you'll know it's working. Again, this will reduce the amount of moisture inside you, but more importantly the sap will soak into your guts, lining them and thus protecting them against maggots.
Next you'll be sealed in a small, stone room--just big enough to sit in the lotus position. You're done! Now you just have to wait to die!
Dear God, Why?
This was all tied to the Buddhist idea that to achieve enlightenment, you must separate yourself from the physical world entirely so that at death, instead of being reborn, you become one with Buddha. That's why 1,000 days after they finally keeled over in the stone room, a crowd would gather to peer inside, seeing how the mummification went. Most of the time, it didn't work.
If the priest had successfully mummified himself, he would be revered as Buddha, and presumably everyone would have a massive party to celebrate, and they'd gorge themselves on shrimp and tiny cocktail sausages. Except for those who were already well on their way to self-mummification. They'd have the nut roast.
#3. Tibetan Buddhist Sky Burial
What Is It?
We can thank the Buddhists for this one as well. Tibetan Sky Burial is a form of human dissection practiced in Delaware. No, we're kidding. It's from Tibet.
A corpse is sliced up, usually atop a mountain, and left for the birds. Tibetans call the practice jhator, which means giving alms to the birds. And also legs, torsos and heads as well.The bodies, wrapped in white cloth, are bought to the burial site, where the monks have enticed vultures and other airborne scavengers. Monks unwrap the bodies, a process that probably isn't all that pleasant considering they've been left alone for three days (per Tibetan custom).
One or more monks then set about the body with axes and, according to witnesses, are very casual and sometimes laughing and joking as they do it. This underlines the fact that Tibetans consider the body merely a vessel, and not that the guy they're dismembering was just a total dick when he was alive.
When the body is dismembered, the vultures swoop in and squabble over the chunks of carcass. The bones are then smashed to bits with mallets, mixed with flour, then fed to smaller birds.
Dear God, Why?
Since they believe in reincarnation, they see no need to preserve the body, as it's just an empty vessel. So why not just let the birds eat it? And subsequently poop out onto the landscape for hundreds of miles around?
They've been doing sky burial since at least the 12th century, according to the Tibetan Book Of The Dead (yes, it's a real book and no, it you can't use it to raise zombies. We checked).
It should be noted that where this is practiced, there isn't a lot of timber available for funeral pyres and the hard rocky soil makes digging graves difficult. So we're thinking the whole ritual started with one guy saying, "Ah, fuck it. Just leave 'em here for the birds." Then later somebody gave a fancy name to it.


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Totally Tubers:Rugged Fall Veggies
Place:Staff Kitchen - Administration Wing
With the shift of seasons, it's time to honor the early winter root vegetables!
Cooks with Books is for people who enjoy researching, creating and sharing food. This book discussion group meets once a month and is facilitated by Bud Werner Library's Circulation Services Manager, Michelle Dover. Participants prepare a dish based on the month's theme and share it with the group. Cooks with Books themes are now announced a few months in advance. The group is open to anyone interested in participating, but is limited to 15 participants per meeting


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Can female Drosophila melanogaster lay egg without males? I maintain our lab stock but find a line that seems to have all females (or all males). In the vial, I see some eggs laid, but the flies should have been flipped 2 weeks, ago but I don't see any eggs hatching or become larva.
Yes, I regularly have to collect female virgins (12500 of them in the last week). They will lay eggs especially when there is extra yeast available. It is actually a good way to check virginity - put some extra yeast grains in the vial when you collect them, leave them for a few days and then check for larvae, if they are not virgins there will be eggs and larvae, if they are virgins there will only be eggs!
Very old females (such as those in vials that have not been flipped for a long time) will often lay unfertilized eggs in the absence of males. This happens to me occasionally when I am collecting virgins and then forget about them for a while.


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DENVER (AP) " Will Peyton Manning be back? Can Denver keep this top-ranked defense together? Big questions loom over the Super Bowl-champion Broncos. But Tuesday wasn't the time to think about that. Tuesday was parade day " an opportunity to bask in...
WASHINGTON (AP) " The Pentagon is seeking $200 million in the 2017 budget for counterterrorism operations in Libya and other portions of North and West Africa, as the Islamic State threat in that region continues to grow.
New Hampshire hosts the first-in-the-nation presidential primary, featuring candidates for the Republican and Democratic nomination. Of the state's 1.33 million residents, more than 870,000 residents are registered to vote. Polls started opening at...
CHICAGO (AP) " Veterans' hospitals compare pretty favorably with others when it comes to treating older men with three common conditions " heart attacks, heart failure and pneumonia, according to a study on death rates and readmissions.
WASHINGTON (AP) " The federal government is relying on archaic, leaky and broken computers systems to protect reams of critical data from cyberattacks, President Barack Obama warned Tuesday as he announced a new, centralized effort to boost...
CHICAGO (AP) " Guns, drugs and cars contribute substantially to the life-expectancy gap between the United States and other developed nations, a study found.
ANKARA, Turkey (AP) " Turkey has summoned the U.S. ambassador to "convey unease" a day after the U.S. State Department spokesman said that, unlike Turkey, Washington doesn't recognize Syrian Kurdish forces as "terrorists."
WEST PALM BEACH, Fla. (AP) " Alligators have been used as shoes, briefcases, university mascots, lunch and now, authorities say, a deadly weapon.
BAD AIBLING, Germany (AP) " Two commuter trains crashed head-on Tuesday in southern Germany, killing 10 people and injuring 80 as they slammed into each other on a curve after an automatic safety braking system apparently failed, the transport...
VOORHEES, N.J. (AP) " Twin sisters in New Jersey have given birth to girls just minutes apart at the same hospital.
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