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Home > Press > Halas, West Named Finalists For Nano Honor
Rice University scientists selected as runners up in Small Times magazine's Best of Small Tech Research Award competition. Halas and West were honored for groundbreaking research in the development of a novel new treatment for cancer that uses non-visible laser light and nanoparticles to kill tumors with heat. The non-invasive therapy uses novel particles called gold nanoshells. It involves no toxic drugs and doesn't harm healthy tissue.
Editor's Note: For additional details, read our 2003 Best Discoveries Award article on Halas and West.
Rice University scientists Naomi Halas and Jennifer West have each been selected as runners up in Small Times magazine's Best of Small Tech Research Award competition. Small Times' Best Small Tech Awards recognize the best people, products and companies in nanotechnology, MEMS and microsystems.
Halas, the Stanley C. Moore Professor in Electrical and Computer Engineering and professor of chemistry, and West, the Isabel C. Cameron Professor of Bioengineering and professor of chemical engineering, were each honored for groundbreaking research in 2003-2004 toward the development of a novel new treatment for cancer that uses metallic nanoshells.
Dr. Naomi Halas
Dr. Jennifer West
"When cancer tumors can be accurately detected and efficiently destroyed without invasive surgery and debilitating drugs, Naomi Halas and Jennifer West will be high on the list of people who made it possible," said Steve Crosby, Small Times Media President and Publisher. "Their work with nanoshells could change the medical field forever."
During the past year, Halas and West have published several important studies about the nanoshell-based cancer therapy, include the first results from live animal tests. While these early studies are laying the groundwork for tests in humans, no date has been set for the start of human clinical trials, and the university is not taking the names of prospective participants.
Invented by Halas in the 1990s, nanoshells are a unique class of multi-layered nanoscale particles that interact with light in novel and useful ways. In form, nanoshells resemble malted milk balls, but instead of chocolate, they are coated with gold, and their center is a tiny sphere of glass.
Nanoshells measure a scant 100 billionths of a meter in diameter, or 100 nanometers, which is about 20 times smaller than a red blood cell. By varying the relative size of the glass core and the thickness of the gold shell, Halas and her collaborators can "tune" nanoshells to respond to different wavelengths of light.
For biomedical applications, West and Halas use nanoshells that absorb near infrared light and convert it into heat. A region of the spectrum just beyond the visible range, near infrared light is optimal for medical imaging and treatment because it passes harmlessly through soft tissue.
Unlike drug-based cancer therapies, the nanoshell therapy relies on the basic physics of light. Nanoshells are injected into the patient and allowed to collect inside the leaky blood vessels inside a tumor. Then, a laser of near infrared light is shined through the patient's body and onto the tumor. The light heats the nanoshells enough to destroy the tumor but not enough to harm healthy tissues nearby.
The recipients of the Small Times Magazine Best of Small Tech Awards and runners-up were selected by nominations and applications submitted by companies and individuals. Small Times Media news staff and an industry panel of experts reviewed the applicants and selected one winner and four runners up in six categories, plus lifetime achievement. The panel considered accomplishments between September 1, 2003 and October 1, 2004. A complete list of winners and runners-up can be found in the November/December issue of Small Times' magazine and online at www.smalltimes.com.
About Rice University:
Rice University is consistently ranked one of America's best teaching and research universities. It is distinguished by its: size-2,850 undergraduates and 1,950 graduate students; selectivity-10 applicants for each place in the freshman class; resources-an undergraduate student-to-faculty ratio of 6-to-1, and the fifth largest endowment per student among American universities; residential college system, which builds communities that are both close-knit and diverse; and collaborative culture, which crosses disciplines, integrates teaching and research, and intermingles undergraduate and graduate work. Rice's wooded campus is located in the nation's fourth largest city and on America's South Coast. For more information, visit www.rice.edu.
About Small Times Media:
Small Times Media LLC is the leading source of business news and information about nanotechnology, MEMS and microsystems. The company offers full news coverage through its magazine, Small Times®, daily news Web site, www.smalltimes.com, a weekly e-newsletter, Small Times Direct™ and a paid news service, Small Tech Advantage. Small Times Media also offers custom research, based in part on the most accurate and comprehensive database in the industry. Small Times Media is headquartered in Ann Arbor, Mich., USA.
Issuers of news releases, not 7th Wave, Inc. or Nanotechnology Now, are solely responsible for the accuracy of the content.
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Articles by Clayton E. Mathews
Other Publications (36)
- Pediatric Diabetes
- Transplantation
- Free Radical Biology & Medicine
- Immunogenetics
- Diabetes
- Pediatric Diabetes
- Journal of Immunology (Baltimore, Md. : 1950)
- Diabetes
- The Journal of Biological Chemistry
- Diabetes
- Journal of Immunology (Baltimore, Md. : 1950)
- Pediatric Diabetes
- The Journal of Biological Chemistry
- Blood
- Annals of the New York Academy of Sciences
- Free Radical Biology & Medicine
- The Journal of Biological Chemistry
- The Journal of Experimental Medicine
- Diabetes
- Cloning and Stem Cells
- Circulation Research
- Methods in Enzymology
- Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences of the United States of America
- Journal of Immunology (Baltimore, Md. : 1950)
- Endocrinology and Metabolism Clinics of North America
- Diabetes/metabolism Research and Reviews
- Molecular Genetics and Metabolism
- Biochimica Et Biophysica Acta
- PloS One
- Diabetes
- Journal of Immunology (Baltimore, Md. : 1950)
- Diabetes
- Infection and Immunity
- Journal of Immunology (Baltimore, Md. : 1950)
- Diabetes
- Pediatric Diabetes
Articles by Clayton E. Mathews in JoVE
Methods to Assess Beta Cell Death Mediated by Cytotoxic T Lymphocytes Jing Chen1, Scott Grieshaber1, Clayton E. Mathews1 1Departments of Pathology, Immunology and Laboratory Medicine, College of Medicine, University of Florida Cell-mediated lymphocytotoxicity (CML) assays can be used to test autoreactive responses and study mechanisms of cell death in vitro. However, using live-cell confocal microscopic imaging techniques with fluorescent dyes, the type and kinetics of cell death as well as the pathways utilized can be studied in greater detail.
Other articles by Clayton E. Mathews on PubMed
New Mouse Model to Study Islet Transplantation in Insulin-dependent Diabetes Mellitus Transplantation. Apr, 2002 | Pubmed ID: 11981430 Islet transplantation studies with diabetic rodents frequently use treatment with diabetogens such as alloxan or streptozotocin to render hosts hyperglycemic. These chemicals produce unwanted toxic side effects, which complicate interpretations of damage produced by hyperglycemia versus direct toxin-induced damage. A mouse that spontaneously developed insulin-sensitive diabetes without beta-cell autoimmunity would provide an excellent vehicle for testing beta-cell replacement protocols. The Ins2Akita mutation disrupts normal insulin processing and causes a failure in secretion of mature insulins, which results in the early development of hyperglycemia. This report examines the insulin sensitivity of mice that carry Ins2Akita and their responsiveness to engraftment with syngeneic pancreatic islets.
Genetic Control of Neutrophil Superoxide Production in Diabetes-resistant ALR/Lt Mice Free Radical Biology & Medicine. Apr, 2002 | Pubmed ID: 11937300 The neutrophil oxidative burst reaction differentiates ALR/Lt mice, known for an unusual systemic elevation of antioxidant defenses, from ALS/Lt mice, a related strain known for reduced ability to withstand oxidative stress. Neutrophils from marrow of ALS mice produced a normal neutrophil oxidative burst following phorbol ester stimulation. In contrast, ALR mice exhibited a markedly suppressed superoxide burst. F1 progeny from reciprocal outcrosses between ALR and ALS mice exhibited an intermediate burst level, higher than ALR but significantly lower than ALS. To elucidate the genetic basis for this strain difference, F1 mice were backcrossed to ALS mice, and marrow neutrophils isolated from the progeny were phenotyped for oxidative burst capacity. A genome-wide sweep using polymorphic markers distinguishing the two parental strains was performed to map the trait. A 1:1 phenotypic distribution was observed, and a locus (Suppressor of superoxide production, Susp) controlling this phenotype was mapped to Chromosome 3 near D3Mit241 at 33.1 cM. This locus probably represents an important regulatory element in the overall ALR strain resistance to oxidative stress, since diminished ability to mount a neutrophil burst in backcross segregants correlated with elevated hepatic superoxide dismutase 1 (SOD1) activity, an ALR strain characteristic.
Genetic Analysis of Resistance to Type-1 Diabetes in ALR/Lt Mice, a NOD-related Strain with Defenses Against Autoimmune-mediated Diabetogenic Stress Immunogenetics. Oct, 2003 | Pubmed ID: 14513297 ALR mice are closely related to type-1 diabetes mellitus (T1DM)-prone NOD mice. The ALR genome confers systemically elevated free radical defenses, dominantly protecting their pancreatic islets from free radical generating toxins, cytotoxic cytokines, and diabetogenic T cells. The ALR major histocompatibility complex (MHC) ( H2(gx) haplotype) is largely, but not completely identical with the NOD H2(g7) haplotype, sharing alleles from H2-K through the class II and distally into the class III region. This same H2(gx) haplotype in the related CTS strain was linked to the Idd16 resistance locus. In the present study, ALR was outcrossed to NOD to fine map the Idd16 locus and establish chromosomal regions carrying other ALR non-MHC-linked resistance loci. To this end, 120 (NODxALR)xNOD backcross progeny females were monitored for T1DM and genetic linkage analysis was performed on all progeny using 88 markers covering all chromosomes. Glucosuria or end-stage insulitis developed in 32 females, while 88 remained both aglucosuria and insulitis free. Three ALR-derived resistance loci segregated. As expected, one mapped to Chromosome 17, with peak linkage mapping just proximal to H2-K. A novel resistance locus mapped to Chr 8. A pairwise scan for interactions detected a significant interaction between the loci on Chr 8 and Chr 17. On Chr 3, resistance segregated with a marker between previously described Idd loci and coinciding with an independently mapped locus conferring a suppressed superoxide burst by ALR neutrophils (Susp). These results indicate that the Idd16 resistance allele, defined originally by linkage to the H2(gx) haplotype of CTS, is immediately proximal to H2-K. Two additional ALR-contributed resistance loci may be ALR-specific and contribute to this strain's ability to dissipate free-radical stress.
ALS/Lt: a New Type 2 Diabetes Mouse Model Associated with Low Free Radical Scavenging Potential Diabetes. Feb, 2004 | Pubmed ID: 14749277 Outbred CD-1 mice carry a spectrum of genetic susceptibilities for obesity and type 2 diabetes. ALS is an inbred strain with low antioxidant defenses produced by inbreeding CD-1 mice, with selection for susceptibility to alloxan, a generator of highly reactive oxygen free radicals and a potent beta-cell toxin. The objective of this study was to determine if the low ability to diffuse free radical stress would contribute to spontaneous type 2 diabetes development in alloxan-untreated males. Indeed, both hyperinsulinemia and impaired glucose tolerance developed spontaneously between 6 and 8 weeks of age in alloxan-untreated males. Further aging was accompanied by increases in body mass, progressively more severe hyperinsulinemia, and development of overt hyperglycemia. Transition from impaired glucose tolerance to overt hyperglycemia correlated with a decreased ratio of reduced to oxidized glutathione. Evidence that the increased oxidative burden elicited the type 2 diabetes syndrome was obtained by the systemic elevation of the antioxidative capacity through daily administration of R-lipoic acid. R-lipoic acid (30 mg/kg) prevented hyperglycemia, reduced insulin levels, and increased free radical scavenging potential. This mouse model with reduced ability to diffuse free radical stress is of obvious interest because free radical-mediated damage is implicated in the pathogenesis and complications of both type 1 and type 2 diabetes.
Mechanisms Underlying Resistance of Pancreatic Islets from ALR/Lt Mice to Cytokine-induced Destruction Journal of Immunology (Baltimore, Md. : 1950). Jul, 2005 | Pubmed ID: 16002729 Nuclear and mitochondrial genomes combine in ALR/Lt mice to produce systemically elevated defenses against free radical damage, rendering these mice resistant to immune-mediated pancreatic islet destruction. We analyzed the mechanism whereby isolated islets from ALR mice resisted proinflammatory stress mediated by combined cytokines (IL-1beta, TNF-alpha, and IFN-gamma) in vitro. Such damage entails both superoxide and NO radical generation, as well as peroxynitrite, resulting from their combination. In contrast to islets from other mouse strains, ALR islets expressed constitutively higher glutathione reductase, glutathione peroxidase, and higher ratios of reduced to oxidized glutathione. Following incubation with combined cytokines, islets from control strains produced significantly higher levels of hydrogen peroxide and NO than islets from ALR mice. Nitrotyrosine was generated in NOD and C3H/HeJ islets but not by ALR islets. Western blot analysis showed that combined cytokines up-regulated the NF-kappaB inducible NO synthase in NOD-Rag and C3H/HeJ islets but not in ALR islets. This inability of cytokine-treated ALR islets to up-regulate inducible NO synthase and produce NO correlated both with reduced kinetics of IkappaB degradation and with markedly suppressed NF-kappaB p65 nuclear translocation. Hence, ALR/Lt islets resist cytokine-induced diabetogenic stress through enhanced dissipation and/or suppressed formation of reactive oxygen and nitrogen species, impaired IkappaB degradation, and blunted NF-kappaB activation. Nitrotyrosylation of beta cell proteins may generate neoantigens; therefore, resistance of ALR islets to nitrotyrosine formation may, in part, explain why ALR mice are resistant to type 1 diabetes when reconstituted with a NOD immune system.
Major Histocompatibility Complex-linked Diabetes Susceptibility in NOD/Lt Mice: Subcongenic Analysis Localizes a Component of Idd16 at the H2-D End of the Diabetogenic H2(g7) Complex Diabetes. May, 2005 | Pubmed ID: 15855353 The diabetogenic major histocompatibility complex (MHC) (H2(g7)) of NOD mice comprises contributions from several class II loci collectively designated as Idd1. Introduction of the H2(gx) haplotype from the related but diabetes-resistant cataract Shionogi (CTS) strain demonstrated an additional MHC-linked locus designated Idd16. The NOD-related alloxan resistant (ALR)/Lt strain is also characterized by the H2(gx) haplotype, which does not differ from H2(g7) from the class I H2-K(d) gene distally through the class II and into the class III region. Polymorphisms distal to the heat shock protein 70 locus (Hspa1b) include a rare H2-D(dx) rather than the H2(g7) encoded D(b) allele. Two differential-length NOD.ALR-H2(gx) congenic stocks (D.R1 and D.R2), both containing H2-D(dx), significantly suppressed diabetogenesis. This protection was lost when ALR alleles between the class III region and H2-D were removed in a shorter interval congenic (D.R3). Because no differences were observed in the ALR-derived interval extending 0.41 mB proximal to H2-K in any of these congenic stocks, a component of what was originally designated "Idd16" was sited to an interval shorter than 7.33 mB, distinguishing D.R2 from D.R3. Evidence supporting the candidacy of the ALR/CTS-shared H2-D(dx) MHC class I variant present in both diabetes-resistant stocks, but not the susceptible stock, is discussed.
Proteasome Inhibition Alters Glucose-stimulated (pro)insulin Secretion and Turnover in Pancreatic {beta}-cells The Journal of Biological Chemistry. Apr, 2005 | Pubmed ID: 15705591 Metabolic labeling studies were conducted in freshly isolated mouse islets and a beta-cell line (MIN6) to examine the effects of proteasome inhibition on glucose-stimulated (pro)insulin synthesis and secretion. Glucose-stimulated (pro)insulin synthesis, as determined by the incorporation of [(3)H]tyrosine, decreased significantly by 90% in islets and 71% in MIN6 cells pretreated with the proteasome inhibitor lactacystin (10 microM) for 2 h. To follow the fate of newly synthesized (pro)insulin, islets were pulse-labeled with [(3)H]tyrosine (40 microCi) for 20 min and chased +/- lactacystin (10 microM) for up to 4 h. The release of newly synthesized (pro)insulin ([(3)H]tyrosine-labeled) was similar between lactacystin-treated and control islets despite a 51% decrease (p
Modulatory Role of DR4- to DQ8-restricted CD4 T-cell Responses and Type 1 Diabetes Susceptibility Diabetes. Dec, 2006 | Pubmed ID: 17130492 This study addressed an important biological question, namely how certain HLA molecules modulate the disease risk conferred by other HLA molecules. The HLA molecules under investigation were HLA-DQ8 and -DR4, the two most prevalent HLA class II alleles found in Caucasian type 1 diabetic patients. A panel of human GAD (hGAD65)-specific CD4 T-cell lines and hybridomas was generated to serve as detection reagents for evaluating the peptide occupancy of DQ8 and DR4. Results indicated that DQ8 and DR4 (0401) were able to bind the same hGAD65 peptides. The coexpression of DR4 (0401) diminished DQ8-restricted T-cell responses. In addition, we also demonstrated that the diminished T-cell response varied according to the specific DRB1*04 alleles. Taken together, this study provides evidence that DR4 is able to modulate DQ8-restricted T-cell responses, possibly by competing for peptides. Given that DQ8 is a primary genetic determinant of type 1 diabetes, the decreased DQ8-restricted CD4 T-cell activity due to peptide competition may be the mechanism explaining the modulation effect of DR4 to type 1 diabetes susceptibility.
HLA-A*0201-restricted T Cells from Humanized NOD Mice Recognize Autoantigens of Potential Clinical Relevance to Type 1 Diabetes Journal of Immunology (Baltimore, Md. : 1950). Mar, 2006 | Pubmed ID: 16493087 In both humans and NOD mice, particular MHC genes are primary contributors to development of the autoreactive CD4+ and CD8+ T cell responses against pancreatic beta cells that cause type 1 diabetes (T1D). Association studies have suggested, but not proved, that the HLA-A*0201 MHC class I variant is an important contributor to T1D in humans. In this study, we show that transgenic expression in NOD mice of HLA-A*0201, in the absence of murine class I MHC molecules, is sufficient to mediate autoreactive CD8+ T cell responses contributing to T1D development. CD8+ T cells from the transgenic mice are cytotoxic to murine and human HLA-A*0201-positive islet cells. Hence, the murine and human islets must present one or more peptides in common. Islet-specific glucose-6-phosphatase catalytic subunit-related protein (IGRP) is one of several important T1D autoantigens in standard NOD mice. Three IGRP-derived peptides were identified as targets of diabetogenic HLA-A*0201-restricted T cells in our NOD transgenic stock. Collectively, these results indicate the utility of humanized HLA-A*0201-expressing NOD mice in the identification of T cells and autoantigens of potential relevance to human T1D. In particular, the identified antigenic peptides represent promising tools to explore the potential importance of IGRP in the development of human T1D.
Nuclear and Mitochondrial Interaction Involving Mt-Nd2 Leads to Increased Mitochondrial Reactive Oxygen Species Production The Journal of Biological Chemistry. Feb, 2007 | Pubmed ID: 17189252 NADH dehydrogenase subunit 2, encoded by the mtDNA, has been associated with resistance to autoimmune type I diabetes (T1D) in a case control study. Recently, we confirmed a role for the mouse ortholog of the protective allele (mt-Nd2(a)) in resistance to T1D using genetic analysis of outcrosses between T1D-resistant ALR and T1D-susceptible NOD mice. We sought to determine the mechanism of disease protection by elucidating whether mt-Nd2(a) affects basal mitochondrial function or mitochondrial function in the presence of oxidative stress. Two lines of reciprocal conplastic mouse strains were generated: one with ALR nuclear DNA and NOD mtDNA (ALR.mt(NOD)) and the reciprocal with NOD nuclear DNA and ALR mtDNA (NOD.mt(ALR)). Basal mitochondrial respiration, transmembrane potential, and electron transport system enzymatic activities showed no difference among the strains. However, ALR.mt(NOD) mitochondria supported by either complex I or complex II substrates produced significantly more reactive oxygen species when compared with both parental strains, NOD.mt(ALR) or C57BL/6 controls. Nitric oxide inhibited respiration to a similar extent for mitochondria from the five strains due to competitive antagonism with molecular oxygen at complex IV. Superoxide and hydrogen peroxide generated by xanthine oxidase did not significantly decrease complex I function. The protein nitrating agents peroxynitrite or nitrogen dioxide radicals significantly decreased complex I function but with no significant difference among the five strains. In summary, mt-Nd2(a) does not confer elevated resistance to oxidative stress; however, it plays a critical role in the control of the mitochondrial reactive oxygen species production.
Apoptotic Cells Induce Mer Tyrosine Kinase-dependent Blockade of NF-kappaB Activation in Dendritic Cells Blood. Jan, 2007 | Pubmed ID: 17008547 Dendritic cells (DCs) play a key role in immune homeostasis and maintenance of self-tolerance. Tolerogenic DCs can be established by an encounter with apoptotic cells (ACs) and subsequent inhibition of maturation and effector functions. The receptor(s) and signaling pathway(s) involved in AC-induced inhibition of DCs have yet to be defined. We demonstrate that pretreatment with apoptotic but not necrotic cells inhibits activation of IkappaB kinase (IKK) and downstream NF-kappaB. Notably, receptor tyrosine kinase Mer (MerTK) binding of ACs is required for mediating this effect. Monocyte-derived DCs lacking MerTK expression (MerTKKD) or treated with blocking MerTK-specific antibodies (Abs) are resistant to AC-induced inhibition and continue to activate NF-kappaB and secrete proinflammatory cytokines. Blocking MerTK activation of the phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase (PI3K)/AKT pathway prevents AC-induced inhibition. These results demonstrate an essential role for MerTK-mediated regulation of the PI3K/AKT and NF-kappaB pathways in AC-induced inhibition of monocyte-derived DCs.
Role of Increased ROS Dissipation in Prevention of T1D Annals of the New York Academy of Sciences. Dec, 2008 | Pubmed ID: 19120287 Protection of pancreatic beta cells is an approach to prevent autoimmune type 1 diabetes (T1D) and to protect transplanted islets. Reactive oxygen species (ROS) are important mediators of beta cell death during the development of T1D. We have examined the role of elevated ROS dissipation in the prevention of T1D using the ALR mouse strain. The selection of ALR, for resistance against alloxan-induced free radical-mediated diabetes, led to a strain of mice with an elevated systemic as well as pancreatic ROS dissipation. Independent genetic mapping studies have identified ALR-derived diabetes protective loci. Conplastic and congenic mouse as well as cell line studies have confirmed the genetic mapping and demonstrated that the elevated ROS dissipation protects ALR beta cells from autoimmune destruction. Our data support the hypothesis that elevated ROS dissipation protects beta cells against autoimmune destruction and prevents T1D development.
Commonalities of Genetic Resistance to Spontaneous Autoimmune and Free Radical--mediated Diabetes Free Radical Biology & Medicine. Nov, 2008 | Pubmed ID: 18718526 ALR/Lt, a NOD-related mouse strain, was selected for resistance to alloxan free radical-mediated diabetes (ALD). Despite extensive genomic identity with NOD (>70%), ALR mice display strong resistance to autoimmune type 1 diabetes (T1D) due to both an unusual elevation in systemic antioxidant defenses and a reduction in cellular ROS production that extends to the beta cell level. Reciprocal backcross to NOD previously linked the ALR-derived T1D resistance to Chr. 3, 8, and 17 as well as to the ALR mt-Nd2(a) allele encoded by the mitochondrial genome (mtDNA). To determine whether any of the ALR-derived loci protecting against T1D also protected against ALD, 296 six-week-old F2 mice from reciprocal outcrosses were alloxan-treated and assessed for diabetes onset, and a genome-wide scan (GWS) was conducted. GWS linked mt-Nd2 as well as three nuclear loci with alloxan-induced diabetes. A dominant ALR-derived ALD resistance locus on Chr. 8 colocalized with the ALR-derived T1D resistance locus identified in the previous backcross analysis. In contrast, whereas ALR contributed a novel T1D resistance locus on Chr. 3 marked by Susp, a more proximal ALR-derived region marked by Il-2 contributed ALD susceptibility, not resistance. In addition, a locus was mapped on Chr. 2, where heterozygosity provided heightened susceptibility. Tests for alloxan sensitivity in ALR conplastic mice encoding the NOD mt-Nd2(c) allele and NOD mice congenic for the protective Chr. 8 locus supported our mapping results. Alloxan sensitivity was increased in ALR.mt(NOD) mice, whereas it was decreased by congenic introduction of ALR genome on Chr. 8 into NOD. These data demonstrate both similarities and differences in the genetic control of T1D versus ROS-induced diabetes.
Mt-Nd2a Suppresses Reactive Oxygen Species Production by Mitochondrial Complexes I and III The Journal of Biological Chemistry. Apr, 2008 | Pubmed ID: 18281288 Reactive oxygen species (ROS) play a critical role in the pathogenesis of human diseases. A cytosine to adenine transversion in the mitochondrially encoded NADH dehydrogenase subunit 2 (mt-ND2, human; mt-Nd2, mouse) gene results in resistance against type 1 diabetes and several additional ROS-associated conditions. Our previous studies have demonstrated that the adenine-containing allele (mt-Nd2(a)) is also strongly associated with resistance against type 1 diabetes in mice. In this report we have confirmed that the cytosine-containing allele (mt-Nd2(c)) results in elevated mitochondrial ROS production. Using inhibitors of the electron transport chain, we show that when in combination with nuclear genes from the alloxan-resistant (ALR) strain, mt-Nd2(c) increases ROS from complex III. Furthermore, by using alamethicin-permeabilized mitochondria, we measured a significant increase in electron transport chain-dependent ROS production from all mt-Nd2(c)-encoding strains including ALR.mt(NOD), non-obese diabetic (NOD), and C57BL/6 (B6). Studies employing alamethicin and inhibitors were able to again localize the heightened ROS production in ALR.mt(NOD) to complex III and identified complex I as the site of elevated ROS production from NOD and B6 mitochondria. Using submitochondrial particles, we confirmed that in the context of the NOD or B6 nuclear genomes, mt-Nd2(c) elevates complex I-specific ROS production. In all assays mitochondria from mt-Nd2(a)-encoding strains exhibited low ROS production. Our data suggest that lowering overall mitochondrial ROS production is a key mechanism of disease protection provided by mt-Nd2(a).
MerTK is Required for Apoptotic Cell-induced T Cell Tolerance The Journal of Experimental Medicine. Jan, 2008 | Pubmed ID: 18195070 Self-antigens expressed by apoptotic cells (ACs) may become targets for autoimmunity. Tolerance to these antigens is partly established by an ill-defined capacity of ACs to inhibit antigen-presenting cells such as dendritic cells (DCs). We present evidence that the receptor tyrosine kinase Mer (MerTK) has a key role in mediating AC-induced inhibition of DC activation/maturation. Pretreatment of DCs prepared from nonobese diabetic (NOD) mice with AC blocked secretion of proinflammatory cytokines, up-regulation of costimulatory molecule expression, and T cell activation. The effect of ACs on DCs was dependent on Gas6, which is a MerTK ligand. NOD DCs lacking MerTK expression (NOD.MerTK(KD/KD)) were resistant to AC-induced inhibition. Notably, autoimmune diabetes was exacerbated in NOD.MerTK(KD/KD) versus NOD mice expressing the transgenic BDC T cell receptor. In addition, beta cell-specific CD4(+) T cells adoptively transferred into NOD.MerTK(KD/KD) mice in which beta cell apoptosis was induced with streptozotocin exhibited increased expansion and differentiation into type 1 T cell effectors. In both models, the lack of MerTK expression was associated with an increased frequency of activated pancreatic CD11c(+)CD8alpha(+) DCs, which exhibited an enhanced T cell stimulatory capacity. These findings demonstrate that MerTK plays a critical role in regulating self-tolerance mediated between ACs, DCs, and T cells.
Immune Depletion with Cellular Mobilization Imparts Immunoregulation and Reverses Autoimmune Diabetes in Nonobese Diabetic Mice Diabetes. Oct, 2009 | Pubmed ID: 19628781 The autoimmune destruction of beta-cells in type 1 diabetes results in a loss of insulin production and glucose homeostasis. As such, an immense interest exists for the development of therapies capable of attenuating this destructive process through restoration of proper immune recognition. Therefore, we investigated the ability of the immune-depleting agent antithymocyte globulin (ATG), as well as the mobilization agent granulocyte colony-stimulating factor (GCSF), to reverse overt hyperglycemia in the nonobese diabetic (NOD) mouse model of type 1 diabetes.
Evaluating Protocols for Embryonic Stem Cell Differentiation into Insulin-secreting Beta-cells Using Insulin II-GFP As a Specific and Noninvasive Reporter Cloning and Stem Cells. Jun, 2009 | Pubmed ID: 19508115 Stable and full differentiation of pluripotent stem cells into functional beta-cells offers the potential to treat type I diabetes with a theoretically inexhaustible source of replacement cells. In addition to the difficulties in directed differentiation, progress toward an optimized and reliable protocol has been hampered by the complication that cultured cells will concentrate insulin from the media, thus making it difficult to tell which, if any, cells are producing insulin. To address this, we utilized a novel murine embryonic stem cell (mESC) research model, in which the green fluorescent protein (GFP) has been inserted within the C-peptide of the mouse insulinII gene (InsulinII-GFP). Using this method, cells producing insulin are easily identified. We then compared four published protocols for differentiating mESCs into beta-cells to evaluate their relative efficiency by assaying intrinsic insulin production. Cells differentiated using each protocol were easily distinguished based on culture conditions and morphology. This comparison is strengthened because all testing is performed within the same laboratory by the same researchers, thereby removing interlaboratory variability in culture, cells, or analysis. Differentiated cells were analyzed and sorted based on GFP fluorescence as compared to wild type cells. Each differentiation protocol increased GFP fluorescence but only modestly. None of these protocols yielded more than 3% of cells capable of insulin biosynthesis indicating the relative inefficiency of all analyzed protocols. Therefore, improved beta-cells differentiation protocols are needed, and these insulin II GFP cells may prove to be an important tool to accelerate this process.
Role of SREBP-1 in the Development of Parasympathetic Dysfunction in the Hearts of Type 1 Diabetic Akita Mice Circulation Research. Jul, 2009 | Pubmed ID: 19423844 Diabetic autonomic neuropathy (DAN), a major complication of diabetes mellitus, is characterized, in part, by impaired cardiac parasympathetic responsiveness. Parasympathetic stimulation of the heart involves activation of an acetylcholine-gated K+ current, I(KAch), via a (GIRK1)2/(GIRK4)2 K+ channel. Sterol regulatory element binding protein-1 (SREBP-1) is a lipid-sensitive transcription factor.
Chapter 24 Quantification, Localization, and Tissue Specificities of Mouse Mitochondrial Reactive Oxygen Species Production Methods in Enzymology. 2009 | Pubmed ID: 19348903 Mitochondria play a critical role in many different pathologic conditions. Increasing evidence has shown that mitochondrial reactive oxygen species (ROS) production may provide an etiologic link between mitochondria and pathologics. The widespread use of laboratory mice as models for a host of human diseases makes the quantification and localization of ROS production from mice an important endeavor. This chapter presents approaches to the quantification and localization of ROS from mouse brain, liver, and beta cell mitochondria. Techniques for the isolation of mitochondria and mitochondrial fractions and the subsequent quantification of ROS with Amplex Red or a FACS-based method on intact cells are described.
MerTK Regulates Thymic Selection of Autoreactive T Cells Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences of the United States of America. Mar, 2009 | Pubmed ID: 19251650 T cell-mediated autoimmune diseases such as type 1 diabetes (T1D) are believed to be the result in part of inefficient negative selection of self-specific thymocytes. However, the events regulating thymic negative selection are not fully understood. In the current study, we demonstrate that nonobese diabetic (NOD) mice lacking expression of the Mer tyrosine kinase (MerTK) have reduced inflammation of the pancreatic islets and fail to develop diabetes. Furthermore, NOD mice deficient in MerTK expression (Mer(-/-)) exhibit a reduced frequency of beta cell-specific T cells independent of immunoregulatory effectors. The establishment of bone marrow chimeric mice demonstrated that the block in beta cell autoimmunity required hematopoietic-derived cells lacking MerTK expression. Notably, fetal thymic organ cultures and self-peptide administration showed increased thymic negative selection in Mer(-/-) mice. Finally, thymic dendritic cells (DC) prepared from Mer(-/-) mice exhibited an increased capacity to induce thymocyte apoptosis in a peptide-specific manner in vitro. These findings provide evidence for a unique mechanism involving MerTK-mediated regulation of thymocyte negative selection and thymic DC, and suggest a role for MerTK in contributing to beta cell autoimmunity.
NADPH Oxidase Deficiency Regulates Th Lineage Commitment and Modulates Autoimmunity Journal of Immunology (Baltimore, Md. : 1950). Nov, 2010 | Pubmed ID: 20881184 Reactive oxygen species are used by the immune system to eliminate infections; however, they may also serve as signaling intermediates to coordinate the efforts of the innate and adaptive immune systems. In this study, we show that by eliminating macrophage and T cell superoxide production through the NADPH oxidase (NOX), T cell polarization was altered. After stimulation with immobilized anti-CD3 and anti-CD28 or priming recall, T cells from NOX-deficient mice exhibited a skewed Th17 phenotype, whereas NOX-intact cells produced cytokines indicative of a Th1 response. These findings were corroborated in vivo by studying two different autoimmune diseases mediated by Th17 or Th1 pathogenic T cell responses. NOX-deficient NOD mice were Th17 prone with a concomitant susceptibility to experimental allergic encephalomyelitis and significant protection against type 1 diabetes. These data validate the role of superoxide in shaping Th responses and as a signaling intermediate to modulate Th17 and Th1 T cell responses.
Use of Nonobese Diabetic Mice to Understand Human Type 1 Diabetes Endocrinology and Metabolism Clinics of North America. Sep, 2010 | Pubmed ID: 20723819 In 1922, Leonard Thompson received the first injections of insulin prepared from the pancreas of canine test subjects. From pancreatectomized dogs to the more recent development of animal models that spontaneously develop autoimmune syndromes, animal models have played a meaningful role in furthering diabetes research. Of these animals, the nonobese diabetic (NOD) mouse is the most widely used for research in type 1 diabetes (T1D) because the NOD shares several genetic and immunologic traits with the human form of the disease. In this article, the authors discuss the similarities and differences in NOD and human T1D and the potential role of NOD mice in future preclinical studies, aiming to provide a better understanding of the genetic and immune defects that lead to T1D.
Role of Genetics in Resistance to Type 1 Diabetes Diabetes/metabolism Research and Reviews. Nov, 2011 | Pubmed ID: 22069272 A single nucleotide polymorphism in the mitochondrial gene encoding NADH dehydrogenase subunit 2 (mt-ND2) has been associated with reduced incidence of human type 1 diabetes (T1D). We identified the orthologue of this mitochondrial single nucleotide polymorphism in mouse and using NOD mouse models linked this genetic polymorphism to T1D resistance. The mechanism how this single nucleotide polymorphism affects the development of diabetes is studied using mouse models and beta cell lines.
Increased Superoxide Accumulation in Pyruvate Dehydrogenase Complex Deficient Fibroblasts Molecular Genetics and Metabolism. Nov, 2011 | Pubmed ID: 21846590 The pyruvate dehydrogenase complex (PDC) oxidizes pyruvate to acetyl CoA and is critically important in maintaining normal cellular energy homeostasis. Loss-of-function mutations in PDC give rise to congenital lactic acidosis and to progressive cellular energy failure. However, the subsequent biochemical consequences of PDC deficiency that may contribute to the clinical manifestations of the disorder are poorly understood. We postulated that altered flux through PDC would disrupt mitochondrial electron transport, resulting in oxidative stress. Compared to cells from 4 healthy subjects, primary cultures of skin fibroblasts from 9 patients with variable mutations in the gene encoding the alpha subunit (E1α) of pyruvate dehydrogenase (PDA1) demonstrated reduced growth and viability. Superoxide (O(2)(.-)) from the Qo site of complex III of the electron transport chain accumulated in these cells and was associated with decreased activity of manganese superoxide dismutase. The expression of uncoupling protein 2 was also decreased in patient cells, but there were no significant changes in the expression of cellular markers of protein or DNA oxidative damage. The expression of hypoxia transcription factor 1 alpha (HIF1α) also increased in PDC deficient fibroblasts. We conclude that PDC deficiency is associated with an increase in O(2)(.-) accumulation coupled to a decrease in mechanisms responsible for its removal. Increased HIF1α expression may contribute to the increase in glycolytic flux and lactate production in PDC deficiency and, by trans-activating pyruvate dehydrogenase kinase, may further suppress residual PDC activity through phosphorylation of the E1α subunit.
Development of Diabetes in Lean Ncb5or-null Mice is Associated with Manifestations of Endoplasmic Reticulum and Oxidative Stress in Beta Cells Biochimica Et Biophysica Acta. Nov, 2011 | Pubmed ID: 21839170 NADH-cytochrome b5 oxidoreductase (Ncb5or) is an endoplasmic reticulum (ER)-associated redox enzyme involved in fatty acid metabolism, and phenotypic abnormalities of Ncb5or(-/-) mice include diabetes and lipoatrophy. These mice are lean and insulin-sensitive but become hyperglycemic at age 7 weeks as a result of β-cell dysfunction and loss. Here we examine early cellular and molecular events associated with manifestations of β-cell defects in Ncb5or(-/-) mice. We observe lower islet β-cell content in pancreata at age 4 weeks and prominent ER distention in β-cells by age 5 weeks. Ultrastructural changes progress rapidly in severity from age 5 to 6 weeks, and their frequency rises from 10% of β-cells at 5 weeks to 33% at 6 weeks. These changes correlate temporally with the onset of diabetes. ER stress responses and lipid load in Ncb5or(-/-) β-cells were assessed with isolated islets from mice at age 5 weeks. Expression levels of the stress marker protein Grp78/BiP and of phosphorylated eIF2α protein were found to be reduced, although their transcript levels did not decline. This pattern stands in contrast to the canonical unfolded protein response. Ncb5or(-/-) β-cells also accumulated higher intracellular levels of palmitate and other free fatty acids and exhibited greater reactive oxygen species production than wild-type cells. An alloxan-susceptible genetic background was found to confer accelerated onset of diabetes in Ncb5or(-/-) mice. These findings provide the first direct evidence that manifestations of diabetes in lean Ncb5or(-/-) mice involve saturated free fatty acid overload of β-cells and ER and oxidative stress responses.
Role of the Mitochondria in Immune-mediated Apoptotic Death of the Human Pancreatic β Cell Line βLox5 PloS One. 2011 | Pubmed ID: 21738580 Mitochondria are indispensable in the life and death of many types of eukaryotic cells. In pancreatic beta cells, mitochondria play an essential role in the secretion of insulin, a hormone that regulates blood glucose levels. Unregulated blood glucose is a hallmark symptom of diabetes. The onset of Type 1 diabetes is preceded by autoimmune-mediated destruction of beta cells. However, the exact role of mitochondria has not been assessed in beta cell death. In this study, we examine the role of mitochondria in both Fas- and proinflammatory cytokine-mediated destruction of the human beta cell line, βLox5. IFNγ primed βLox5 cells for apoptosis by elevating cell surface Fas. Consequently, βLox5 cells were killed by caspase-dependent apoptosis by agonistic activation of Fas, but only after priming with IFNγ. This beta cell line undergoes both apoptotic and necrotic cell death after incubation with the combination of the proinflammatory cytokines IFNγ and TNFα. Additionally, both caspase-dependent and -independent mechanisms that require proper mitochondrial function are involved. Mitochondrial contributions to βLox5 cell death were analyzed using mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) depleted βLox5 cells, or βLox5 Ï(0) cells. βLox5 Ï(0) cells are not sensitive to IFNγ and TNFα killing, indicating a direct role for the mitochondria in cytokine-induced cell death of the parental cell line. However, βLox5 Ï(0) cells are susceptible to Fas killing, implicating caspase-dependent extrinsic apoptotic death is the mechanism by which these human beta cells die after Fas ligation. These data support the hypothesis that immune mediators kill βLox5 cells by both mitochondrial-dependent intrinsic and caspase-dependent extrinsic pathways.
Superoxide Production by Macrophages and T Cells is Critical for the Induction of Autoreactivity and Type 1 Diabetes Diabetes. Aug, 2011 | Pubmed ID: 21715554 The role of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and their dissipation in type 1 diabetes pathogenesis have garnered considerable controversy. Our recent work has demonstrated the importance of NADPH oxidase (NOX) activity for type 1 diabetes development and modulating T-cell autoreactivity. We previously linked decreased monocyte ROS with diabetes resistance in the alloxan-resistant mouse, and NOD-Ncf1(m1J) mice with a genetic ablation of NOX activity had reduced and delayed type 1 diabetes compared with NOD mice.
Neutrophil Mobilization from the Bone Marrow During Polymicrobial Sepsis is Dependent on CXCL12 Signaling Journal of Immunology (Baltimore, Md. : 1950). Jul, 2011 | Pubmed ID: 21690321 Neutrophils are essential for successful host eradication of bacterial pathogens and for survival to polymicrobial sepsis. During inflammation, the bone marrow provides a large reserve of neutrophils that are released into the peripheral circulation where they traverse to sites of infection. Although neutrophils are essential for survival, few studies have investigated the mechanisms responsible for neutrophil mobilization from the bone marrow during polymicrobial sepsis. Using a cecal ligation and puncture model of polymicrobial sepsis, we demonstrated that neutrophil mobilization from the bone marrow is not dependent on TLR4, MyD88, TRIF, IFNARα/β, or CXCR2 pathway signaling during sepsis. In contrast, we observed that bone marrow CXCL12 mRNA abundance and specific CXCL12 levels are sharply reduced, whereas splenic CXCR4 mRNA and cell surface expression are increased during sepsis. Blocking CXCL12 activity significantly reduced blood neutrophilia by inhibiting bone marrow release of granulocytes during sepsis. However, CXCL12 inhibition had no impact on the expansion of bone marrow neutrophil precursors and hematopoietic progenitors. Bone marrow neutrophil retention by CXCL12 blockade prevented blood neutrophilia, inhibited peritoneal neutrophil accumulation, allowed significant peritoneal bacterial invasion, and increased polymicrobial sepsis mortality. We concluded that changes in the pattern of CXCL12 signaling during sepsis are essential for neutrophil bone marrow mobilization and host survival but have little impact on bone marrow granulopoiesis.
Progressive Erosion of β-cell Function Precedes the Onset of Hyperglycemia in the NOD Mouse Model of Type 1 Diabetes Diabetes. Aug, 2011 | Pubmed ID: 21659497 A progressive decline in insulin responses to glucose was noted in individuals before the onset of type 1 diabetes. We determined whether such abnormalities occurred in prediabetic NOD mice-the prototypic model for human type 1 diabetes.
Critical Role for CXC Ligand 10/CXC Receptor 3 Signaling in the Murine Neonatal Response to Sepsis Infection and Immunity. Jul, 2011 | Pubmed ID: 21518789 Previous studies have suggested that neonates rely heavily on innate immunity for their antimicrobial response to bacterial infections. However, the innate immune response by neonates to bacterial infection remains poorly characterized. Here, we show that in a murine model of neonatal polymicrobial sepsis, CXC ligand 10 (CXCL10) concentrations increase in the blood and peritoneum concordant with the peritoneal recruitment of granulocytes and macrophages. Additionally, CXC receptor 3 (CXCR3) expression on elicited peritoneal macrophages and granulocytes increases following sepsis. Blockade of CXCL10 worsens not only recruitment and phagocytic function of peritoneal granulocytes and macrophages but also survival. Deletion of CXCR3 also significantly increases mortality to a septic challenge. Finally, we demonstrate that the protective adjuvant effect of pretreatment with a Toll-like receptor 4 agonist to neonatal sepsis is dependent on an endogenous CXCL10 response and that pretreatment of neonates with CXCL10 can also significantly improve macrophage and granulocyte function and modestly improve outcome to polymicrobial sepsis. Together, these data suggest a critical role for CXCL10 signaling during neonatal sepsis.
Sepsis Induces Early Alterations in Innate Immunity That Impact Mortality to Secondary Infection Journal of Immunology (Baltimore, Md. : 1950). Jan, 2011 | Pubmed ID: 21106855 Sepsis, the systemic inflammatory response to microbial infection, induces changes in both innate and adaptive immunity that presumably lead to increased susceptibility to secondary infections, multiorgan failure, and death. Using a model of murine polymicrobial sepsis whose severity approximates human sepsis, we examined outcomes and defined requirements for survival after secondary Pseudomonas aeruginosa pneumonia or disseminated Listeria monocytogenes infection. We demonstrate that early after sepsis neutrophil numbers and function are decreased, whereas monocyte recruitment through the CCR2/MCP-1 pathway and function are enhanced. Consequently, lethality to Pseudomonas pneumonia is increased early but not late after induction of sepsis. In contrast, lethality to listeriosis, whose eradication is dependent upon monocyte/macrophage phagocytosis, is actually decreased both early and late after sepsis. Adaptive immunity plays little role in these secondary infectious responses. This study demonstrates that sepsis promotes selective early, impaired innate immune responses, primarily in neutrophils, that lead to a pathogen-specific, increased susceptibility to secondary infections.
Mt-Nd2(a) Modifies Resistance Against Autoimmune Type 1 Diabetes in NOD Mice at the Level of the Pancreatic β-cell Diabetes. Jan, 2011 | Pubmed ID: 20980458 To investigate whether a single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) in the mitochondrial gene for NADH dehydrogenase 2 (mt-Nd2) can modulate susceptibility to type 1 diabetes in NOD mice.


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'We Want to Prevent Instability'
Excerpts of an Interview With Peer Steinbrück
German Finance Minister Peer Steinbrück, host of the G7 finance ministers' meeting scheduled to start Friday in Essen, Germany, met with Journal reporters Marcus Walker and Joellen Perry in Berlin. Below are excerpts from the interview.
On regulatory oversight of hedge funds:
"We are beginning, for the first time, to address...


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I am very doubtful when I was handing over my research paper to them. But thanks to Lord, who helped me to get the authentic assignment writing help after being cheated by many services. They are amazing academic writing firm, and I am suggesting everyone to get assistance from Assignment Help UAE.
At the Rotterdam school, minorities generally underperformed the majority by more than a third, earning on average eight fewer credits their first year and four fewer credits their second year. But for minority students who had done this set of writing exercises, that gap dropped to five credits the first year and to just one-fourth of one credit in the second year.
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Check out my interview with the lovely folks at Experience Haus in London. Experience Haus are group of passionate creatives bringing together people with design. They host creative workshops and courses for the curious – and we also connect students with people practising within the industry. I talked to them about my recent move to Washington DC, career as a designer and creative leader, and had some helpful tips for those working in the industry
I am featured in a new book written co-authored by Pentagram's Eddie Opara and John Cantwell. In the book I'm interviewed about my work, and in particulay the use of colour in news. I talk about the rebrand of ITV News (which I work on with the good people at Lambie Nairn) and the process and challenges of using colour in Television News graphics. The book also features case studies by Michael Beirut, Paula Scher, Stefan Sagmeister, UVAs Matt Pyke and Spin's Tony Brook. It is really great for our work to be recognised amongst other noted designers.


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Following is the speech by the Secretary for the Environment, Mr Edward Yau, at Hong Kong Green Purchasing Charter (HKGPC) Launching Ceremony today (October 4):
Priscilla, Linda, Distinguished Guests, Ladies and Gentlemen,
It is a real pleasure to be here today at the Launching Ceremony of the Hong Kong Green Purchasing Charter, with so many business leaders and like-minded advocates. I must thank the Green Council for its excellent efforts in bringing together so many organisations and corporations to join this meaningful act.
Environmental protection or building a better environment is more than a gimmick. The green purchasing charter is a very good example that in helping to promote a better environment, actions speak louder than words. So we are here to embark on a very important movement which will help our environment. It requires action and green purchasing movement is about a conscious decision involving a lot of actions and decisions. Certainly companies joining the green purchasing charter will involve a change in company policy in procurement. It involves a lot of conscious decisions to make a choice and it also involves attaching a value to your company culture. So I believe that this charter marks a very important occasion. Credit must go to all participating organisations for their support. Your involvement is indispensable to the success of the Charter.
Why is green purchasing so important? The answer lies in the serious and imminent waste problem in Hong Kong. We now dump more than six million tonnes of waste in our landfills every year. The pressures on our landfills are mounting. If we allow this waste dumping to continue, our three landfills will all be filled in less than 10 years! In the comprehensive set of waste management strategies we have put up in our "Policy Framework for the Management of Municipal Solid Waste", green purchasing is one of the key initiatives. We all know that the 3Rs of "reduce", "re-use" and "recycle" are important for managing our waste. However, waste "recycling" is not going to be sustainable, if we have no market outlets for our recycled products. A green purchasing policy is therefore essential to facilitate the development of a "circular economy", through which market demands will drive the wheel. The Chief Executive in his previous Policy Address also appealed to the business and industrial sectors to do their share to protect the environment by adopting green purchasing in their operations.
In the international arena, there is an increasing concern over our procurement in making our environment a better one. Development of the Hong Kong Green Purchasing Charter is a timely response to fostering green culture in the business sector. The Government is in full support of this. The Environment and Conservation Fund has allocated funding in the Public Education Programme under the "Policy Framework for the management of Municipal Solid Waste" to support various activities for implementation of this Charter.
Of course, the Government must lead by example when we appeal to others to act. Back in 2000, the HKSAR Government had already made provisions in its regulations to require the incorporation of green considerations where practicable in government procurements. To facilitate its implementation, we have developed a set of green specifications for a number of commonly purchased products by government bureaus and departments. Every year, we spend substantially on the purchase of these green products such as recycled paper, printer, non-toxic cleaning materials, clean fuels and environmentally friendly cars.
Green purchasing is more than drawing up a list of products. It also involves a lot of business opportunities. With more and more corporations joining the Charter, the aggregate purchasing power and network effect will be enormous. As we know, a few years ago, there were only a few supplies of environmentally-friendly cars in the market and the price was high. But now, the price for environmentally-friendly cars has gone down to almost a comparable level of traditional saloon cars and more models are now available. The same logic could also apply to other green products. We consumers have the power to make a choice on what we want and what will be good for our children and future generations. So, you have made the right choice here today in joining the Green Purchasing Charter, by using your power to demand what you want and help shape a brighter world with better environment for our future generations.
I would like to thank you all once again for your efforts. I trust that they have laid a solid foundation for further development. I would like to wish the Hong Kong Green Purchasing Charter every success, and participating organisations all the best.
Thank you!
Ends/Thursday, October 4, 2007
Issued at HKT 19:12


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Puma Clever Little Bag
Designer Yves Béhar
Website: www.fuseproject.com
In collaboration with Fuseprojects designer Yves Béhar, Puma is set to introduce a new packaging system that will reduce their footprint, with a brand new green approach. Boxes contribute to millions of tons of waste every eyar, where things like shoe boxes are very often left out of the recycling circle. Distribution of Puma's new packaging system is planned for 2011, view more after the jump:
nice! hopefully other shoe stores would hop on this too!
nice! hopefully other shoe stores would hop on this too!


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Conventional motives carpet is nicely matched with dark picket flooring. The master bedroom is shiny with white bed room color. Giant glass windows give the ethereal and open impression in this bedroom interior. The decorative vases and some pictures are placed on the dresser by the windows. These give the inside alluring look. Classic reinterpreted style inspires you to convey classical temper in trendy minimalist house delivery the class and stylish look. Architecture.
Boat Rental Design
Splendid Traditional Reinterpreted For Minimalist Layout
Wednesday, February 15th 2017, 16:35:18 PM|


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Qobustan sitesNovember 21, 2017 in Azerbaijan
Our way south out of Baku along the blue shimmering Caspian Sea was in the sense of oil production. We passed countless kilometers of pipes, refineries and flames of the burning waste gases along the road. Yes, Azerbaijan is the land of fire!
The lazy two of us reached the Qobustan National Reserve one hour before darkness so that we had to camp in front of the gate. The policemen promised to take care during the night against a small obolus. Somehow we had mixed feelings but in the end it was the right decision to stay.
The next morning, the museum of the reserve turned out to be the best museum we've ever seen abroad - it was absolutely worth to make a slight detour to get there. We then climbed up the mountain behind the museum to see the prehistoric rock art of the people who had lived there at least 20,000 years ago. Not only the petroglyphs but also the bizarre rock formations are really fascinating.
Leaving the reserve, we just tackled some of the famous mud volcanoes when a taxi driver insisted on taking us the 10km up to them because it would be impossible with bicycles and the wild dogs would bite us. We declined with thanks and an hour later we had climbed the volcano site, without any bite :)
The funny noises of the bubbling mud which scared us easily with a fresh splash in the face, hardly made us to stop watching the
moving mud. At sunset, we had the volcano all to ourselves and were again fascinated by the surreal landscape.Read more


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Kirk Baxter is in that rarefied group of people who reaped Oscar bids for each of their first three film. Along with Angus Wall, Baxter was nominated for Best Film Editing of "The Curious Case of Benjamin Button" (2008), "The Social Network" (2010), and this year's "The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo." The Facebook drama earned the duo their first trophies at last year's ceremony when presenters Robert Downey, Jr. and Jude Law called out their names.
In a video chat with senior editors Chris Beachum and Rob Licuria, Baxter recalls that moment: "It was just a joy, from start to finish … you got to go on the other side of the curtain." As for his impressive nomination streak, Baxter admits to being, "very lucky; you wouldn't put bets on the odds."
All three Oscar bids came for their collaboration with director David Fincher — "the common denominator." As Baxer wryly admits, "He's the secret sauce, and I'm kind of a passenger on his train."
"He's a terrific director to work for," Baxter says. "He's very very patient, he understands the editing process extremely well, so he knows it takes time to perfect it, and he knows how to coax you along to get the best out of you. I think that is where David's real genius is; he gets the best out of everybody around him."
For "The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo," Baxter and Wall were faced with the daunting prospect of cutting together an extensive amount of footage. "With Fincher's coverage, he gets extensive angles, and they're all extremely useful for any particular scene he's setting up," which Baxter says allowed them to "hone in, and get quite aggressive with the editing." According to Baxter, "there are very few scenes in Fincher's films that are simplistic … [and] that alone makes editing stand out on a Fincher film."
Last year, Baxter was left off the list of 178 artists and executives invited by the Academy to join its roster of members, which include his co-editor Wall. Now that Baxter has racked up an impressive third nomination, perhaps he might make the cut when the Academy announces its list of new invitees later this year.


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up and running
Well, here it is! I've finally gotten down to learning enough of the basics in blogging and html to put together a site dedicated to my own off-beat sense of humour and interest. I hope you enjoy wandering through the flotsome and jetsome that I've accumulated here.
I add new sites almost daily, so bookmark and check back every now and then to see what's new. If you have any sites that would seem fit the theme here (if there is one) drop them into a comment below.
The search tool unfortunately doesn't scan my links, so for now it's only as useful as google itself, and that's not too shabby I suppose. When I have a bit more time, I'll maybe even write some real content...


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Transport concerns are an ongoing issue for the community. Council's overarching transport strategy which helps to define the Council response and direction in dealing with many of these issues is due for revision. Council is now seeking to develop a new transport strategy for the municipality.
Part of this new strategy is to seek to define Council's advocacy stance on transport projects. Many of these projects are not necessarily within Council's immediate control, though impact Banyule. A prioritised list of transport project advocacy has been developed to help drive future discussions and advocacy with State and Federal Government bodies.
This project seeks to adopt this list as a basis for ongoing advocacy and to provide input into development of a new Integrated Transport Strategy for Banyule.
Click on the links below to find out more information.
Discover how we are advocating to get the best possible outcomes from the North East Link project.
Learn about our advocacy efforts involving the Victorian Government's duplication of the rail line between Heidelberg and Rosanna; and Lower Plenty Rd level crossing removal in Rosanna.
Major Strategic Transport Projects & Major Arterial Road Upgrades/Duplication/Changes
Major Arterial/Major Arterial Intersections & Major Arterial/Local Road Intersections.
Significant bicycle infrastructure projects to improve our bicycle links through the municipality.
Pedestrian Priority Precincts & Pedestrian Crossing Facilities.
Hurstbridge Train Line Upgrades/Changes, Hurstbridge Train Line Station Upgrades, Banyule Route Bus Services.
Please provide your feedback below and if you would like to be contacted about your request, please provide an email address in the text. *
Type the characters you see in the picture below *


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Risk naive
November 6, 2012 Leave a comment
A little over a week ago was the annual Day for Daniel (Morcombe). We were holidaying on the Sunshine Coast when Daniel Morcombe first went missing and as we were up here most years we were half involved in the story, the search posters and memorials.
But we didn't realise the full impact of the Daniel Morcombe story on the Sunshine Coast population until we moved up here three years ago. The profile of his disappearance, and more recently the details of his grisly demise, have left a scar on the population. The concept of helicopter parents is well-known, but it's perhaps heightened on the Coast as parents take every precaution to button down their kids from "stranger danger".


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Li-Ning Singapore Open SS 2013 - Day 4 Quarterfinals (Friday, 21st June)
Discussion in 'Thailand / Indonesia / Singapore Open 2013' started by kelana, Jun 20, 2013.
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- Gift Sets[1]
- Other Gifts & Crafts[10]
- Cake Tools[8]
- Cups & Saucers[1]
- Other Drinkware[10]
- Spoons[1]
- Mats & Pads[2]
- Seals[10]
- Magnetic Materials[10]
- Other Pens[5]
- Plastic Tubes[10]
- Other Rubber Products[1]
- Silicone Rubber[10]
- Other Security & Protection Products[10]
- Bracelets & Bangles[10]
- Rings[10]
- Watch Bands[10]
- Contact Person : Ms. Hu Sara
- Company Name : SSD Silicone Co., Ltd.
- Tel : 86-755-85212484
- Fax : 86-755-28369144
- Address : Guangdong,Huizhou,Sanjiaotang Industry Park,Baishi Country.Qiuchang Town,Huizhou City
- Country/Region : China
- Zip : 516000
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Jan 29, 2016 10:14 AM CST
|I haven't had any *$**!!*#! groundhogs, but I've had my fair share of *$**!!*#! deer. The damage can be so friggin disheartening, but just when I think I might start lacking enthusiasm for gardening efforts, I get another garden inspiration and my optimism seems to be back in full force Glad you feel ready to get back to the vegetable garden this spring!
Pinterest Boards: https://www.pinterest.com/aspe... NGA Blog: http://garden.org/blogs/view/a... Tablescaping Blog: http://aspenhill-gdn.blogspot....
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Tuesday, April 12, 2011
Enter the Minefield
Enter the Minefield
I spent the last three days touring the cheery city of Belfast and the always magical Londonderry, which is also known as the Disneyland of Northern Ireland.
It's amazing to actually be there, after visiting vicariously through Google images, and really see how politically the place is. The streets and people are absolutely soaked with political baggage, so much that you can't stop and ask for directions without being hit with the force of it all.
It seems that everything about Northern Ireland is a political minefield. I couldn't even buy a souvenir for Noam without accident setting one off.
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I would like to hear everything!!!!! the comic strip makes me even more excited about it allReplyDelete
- AnonymousApril 13, 2011 at 2:27 AM
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2017 Facts about Lloyds Bank Profits
The Lloyds Banking Group welcomes again its return to its full private ownership and it also announces its continued commitment to help Britain Prosper.
Successful delivery of strategy then enabled the group to return about more than ?21.2 billion towards British taxpayers that repays ?894 million that's found to be more than the original investment.
The Lloyds Banking Group likewise welcomes the news today that the government sold its remaining stake that returns the group back again to its full private ownership. The sale likewise returned ?21.2 billion to its taxpayers and about ?894 million more than the initial investment which also includes over about ?400 million in dividends.
The sale also marks on the successful delivery of the strategy of the group in transforming to a simple, low risked and UK focused retail and commercial bank. Because the government obtained its shares in 2009, the group repaired its balance sheet, reducing cost base, cutting the complexity and international exposure, building and selling TSB and addressed on legacy issues. The group likewise returned to profitability in 2013 and this has resumed in paying dividends in the year 2014.
Today, the group is now strong, safe and likewise focused to meeting the fast changing needs of its customers. Another thing is that the group is well placed in helping Britain to prosper and it is also considered as the largest digital bank in the UK tax for its recent PwC Total Tax Contribution Survey on the 100 Group which contributes over ?11 billion ever since the year 2010.
In this year, the group confirmed new, ambitious targets as a part of their 2017 Helping Britain Prosper Plan in order to help address pressing issues like housing shortage, lending to SMEs and apprenticeships and skills. Through going beyond the business as usual activities in empowering people, businesses and communities, the group then believes that it is well positioned in helping Britain Prosper while they create sustainable value on its 2.5 million shareholders.
The main business activities of the group are retail and commercial banking, general insurance and long-term savings, protection and investment. The group in fact provides services at various well recognized brands.
If you ever own a small business, the group also gives the finance that you need in order to grow. If you wanted to achieve your dream to owning your first home, they could provide you with the right mortgage and if you wanted to learn and develop your career, they could help you through the apprenticeship opportunities which they could provide by 2020 all over the UK. There in fact are five areas in focusing which have been identified as the biggest economic and social challenges which the group can respond, which will include develop new environmental target.


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Please help! Does anyone know the four basic key points of riding? I need to know for my lesson tomorrow.
All about horses.
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text: PETER A. SPINWEBER, 78, 33 Heilman Drive, Melbourne, died Tuesday. Born in Jersey City, N.J., he moved to Melbourne from Waldwick, N.J., in 1970. He was a retired oil burner maintenance man. He was a Mason. Survivors: wife, Thelma; sons, Peter R., Lake Worth, Melvin, Melbourne; daughters, Onna Keber, Green Acres, Dorothy Snarkey, Sommerville, N.J.; sisters, May, Somerville, Helen Lehmkuhl, Cresswell, N.J.; eight grandchildren; three great-grandchildren. Brownlie and Maxwell Funeral Home, Melbourne.


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Video on Stone Lion Inn from DnA
DnA!! I bet you're wondering what DnA has to do with the Stone Lion Inn? Not the DnA in your genes. DnA stands for Dave & Angi. Their interviews and stories can be seen on http://www.newsok.com/. They did a video story on the Stone Lion you might want to see.


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There appears no end in sight in the bloodletting between Fulani herdsmen and settler-farmers in Nigeria's Plateau state.
With close to sixty people killed in March, renewed clashes have killed another seven persons, the Nigeria military said Tuesday.
Plateau state, which falls on the dividing line between Nigeria's mostly Muslim north and predominately Christian south, has been racked for more than a decade by ethnic violence fuelled by land and political disputes.
"Seven people were killed in the attack at (the central) Langtang area of the state over the weekend," the military spokesman in Plateau, Captain Salisu Mustapha said.
He said the suspected gunmen were members of the mostly Muslim Fulani ethnic group, made up largely of nomadic herdsmen.
The violence continued in another area on Monday when purported Fulani attackers razed several homes and fired weapons, but no one was killed, Mustapha added.
The Fulani have been blamed for scores of attacks on Christians in the state, who are mainly farmers.
Plateau's Christian ethnic groups see themselves as the state's indigenous people and hold greater land ownership and political rights. They have accused the Fulani of trying to steal wide swathes of land.
Fulani leaders have said their tribesmen are the victims of unequal treatment from the state's mostly Christian political leaders.
The conflict is estimated to have killed 4,000 people since 2001, according to the International Crisis Group.
At least 23 people, including both Fulani and Christian settlers, were killed in clashes on March 20 and 21, while 36 others died in violence over the last weekend of March.
Dozens of houses were also burnt in the violence last month.


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If you want one of the easiest refurbishments on your car and your house, the window tint film application will surely enhance your privacy and give you other benefits while you are inside your car or the elegance of your home. But you must check out first your area's local regulation regarding car tinting, as different states have different rulings.
In this discussion, we will give you a list of the 5 best window tint films to buy for automotive and home use in the current market which you can install easier than cleaning your seat belts (2). But first, learn more about window tint films and their applications.
What is Window Tint Film and Benefits of Installing?
Window film is commonly used and installed to the interior or exterior of glass surfaces in homes, buildings, automobiles, boats, and other glass surfaces to reduce heat and glare, enhance privacy and security, and other purposes. The film is usually made from Polyethylene Terephthalate (PET) which is classified as a thermoplastic polymer resin.
Home and automobile window film use are gaining popularity among car lovers and home owners across the United States because of the privacy, security, UV rays blocking capability, and other improved comforts (3) the film offers. The darkness or the visible light transmitted through the window is measured in VLT (Visible Light Transmission) (4) levels and is represented in percent (%), meaning, the lower the percentage the higher the darkness level.
5 Best Window Tint Films To Invest For More Private Moments
Product Name
98 %100
97 %100
96 %100
95 %100
94 %100
The Black Magic Insta-Cling window tint film is one of Auto Expressions' innovative products that include wheel cleaners, tire shine, car soaps, and other auto detailing items that is why the company knows your car better than anyone else. Black Magic is really like magic when you have one installed in your car windows. This wonder of engineering clings to your car's glass windows without using any glue or adhesive, just like magic!
And what's more? The Insta-Cling is also applicable to your home's glass panels, like sliding doors or windows, and can be installed easily. Even first time users can mount this thin film without the hitch by just reading the instructions and without elaborate tools needed.
The Black Magic Insta-Cling has a VLT level of 5% and can be removed and still use in other applications without damaging the film or diminishing the VLT level. This window tint film comes in 26 X 78 inches in dimensions which are just enough to cover 2,028 square-inch of windows of a regular sedan or two large glass windows in your home, at the fraction of a price compared to other brands.
Via: Amazon.com
One of the good things about the OxGord Car Window Tint is that it is not so dark inside your car or even when you look outside because it has a VLT of 35%. However, this window tint film only fits specific types of car make, model, and year as this product is not universal in application, you can check out Amazon's fitment chart for your accurate fit.
The Oxgord Reflective Window Tint comes in 20 X 10 feet in size, one of the biggest sizes in the market. With this large size, you can cover a truck or a van and still, you have something left for your home windows. Additionally, trimmings could be used on motorcycle helmets, motorcycle goggles, sun visor, and other glass surfaces that you need on the road or in your home.
While the price of the whole roll of this window tint is cheaper than any other brand, it is also easy to install and does not need much skill to do so.
The Gila Xtreme Limo Automotive Window Tint has one of the lowest VLTs in town! At 2.5% VLT, this window tint really mimics pitch black nights, a great relief for more privacy and security inside your car. With a VLT level of this magnitude, the tint is also a good sun blocker while it comes dim blue inside your car. Very cool, indeed! It is also so easy to install even so thin enough, it is almost invisible to you car windows once mounted.
This product from Gila shows more than meets the eye. This window tint is also terrific for your sliding glass doors in your bedroom, your home windows, and other glass panels inside your house if you want great sun block. Also perfect for aquariums.
While the Gila Xtreme Limo Black Window Tint brings sun protection for your car and glaring nightlight from the incoming vehicles, it also comes with a low price tag per roll. A roll has 2 X 6.5 feet dimensions and can be used to cover small car windows in full or one large home glass window.
The PROTINT Window Tint Film Roll though has one of the highest prices in the industry, it is also one of the most sought-after by car lovers. Wonder why? First of all, the PROTINT has 5% VLT, it comes in 36" X 10' per roll, and blocks almost 99% of UV rays, which could be very harmful when you are exposed for long periods of time. Additionally, this window tint also reduces the amount of heat that is absorbed by your car windows especially during summer.
This product has also various applications, such as an ideal tinting for your home's windows, glass doors, and other glass construction where you won't need blinds when the sun shines. It is also perfect for boats, which can reduce heat absorption by more than 15% while you are cruising in the middle of the ocean where shade is impossible to find. Moreover, the PROTINT Tint Film is a US-made product, so you are assured of its durability and longevity, unlike any other brand.
This could be installed without any special tools, even amateurs will not have a hard time mounting it into their car's windows. The ease of installation is one of this product's selling points, while also being great as a terrific sun blocker.
While LEXEN provides the industry with 5% to 50% VLT on its window tinting lines, its 5% Limo Shade Window Tinting Film is one of its best-sellers. You may blame the ever harmful climate change for the increase in sales, but the climate change phenomenon is really harming the drivers and passengers especially during summer. Less they will install this window tint on their car windows, it helps a lot in reducing the heat absorbed by your car in searing hot highways.
The LEXEN 20" X 10' Roll of window tinting film is one of the cheapest of its class but with quality that is undeniably superior from expensive brands. You will probably need 2 rolls of this finest product to cover all your car's windows, including windshield and back window.
This product, by the way, is slightly thicker than average tint film in the market. The added thickness though will prevent the film from sagging and scratching where it can be installed even by the inexperienced ones as it is so easy to mount of your car windows. The LEXEN Window Tinting Film could also be used on your home's glass surfaces.
Did you enjoy our list for today? Window tint films are one of the best things that ever happen to your car. While you can clearly see the outside of your vehicle, even in pitch black nights while your headlights light you up, the heat your car absorbs while the sun shines intensely, is dramatically reduced.
Tinting your car does not only provide security and privacy, it also gives you protection from harmful UV lights and other benefits that you can't get when you have untinted windows. Additionally, these products are also applicable for home use.
Send us your comments and share this article if you liked it.


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We're the recruiting specialists in qualified, skilled and skilled work inside the building and civil disciplines. Not solely will you help build and fix the buildings and gadgets that many individuals depend upon, you'll be making a high hourly price when you do it. Whatever development job you choose, you will be setting your self up for a career in an industry that is got nice progress potential and a shiny future.
In accordance with the newest report from the U.S. Division of Labor, Building employment declined by 75,000 in January, with nonresidential specialty trade contractors shedding 48,000 jobs and accounting for the majority of the decline.
Construction staff in the development sector embrace: Working supervisors, certified craft employees, mechanics, apprentices, helpers, laborers, and so forth, engaged in new work, alterations, demolition, repair, upkeep, and the like, whether working on the website of building or in shops or yards at jobs (resembling precutting and preassembling) ordinarily carried out by members of the development trades.
We anticipate new job alternatives from mega-infrastructure schemes like the sunshine rail transit, mass speedy transit, West Coast Expressway, Central Spine Road linking Kuala Krai in Kelantan and Simpang Pelangai in Pahang, and the Pan-Borneo Highway in Sabah, to boost the worth of jobs to RM200bil," he said.
Individuals who work with electric saws, grinders, jackhammers, or anything else that throws little shards of material, know the significance of correct workwear Long pants (denim denims), strong development boots, and eye and ear protection are crucial with a purpose to successfully work in such an environment.


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About Us
At ResMac, we stand out because we DELIVER on promises made. We UNDERSTAND a home loan is about your life and the well-being of your family, and we are RELENTLESS in our pursuit of PERFECTION. We stand out because each member of ResMac, C.A.R.E.S. That is more than just a word to us. It is our MISSION.
C - Conscientious
A - Adept
R - Resourceful
E - Ethical
S - Strong
Let us EARN your TRUST and show you how VALUES drive our business and ultimately, your SUCCESS.
We will work to meet and EXCEED your expectations. On that you have my word.
Jay Byars
Branch Manager
Good Faith Mortgage was started in 2001 with a simple premise: Conduct business with integrity at all times and provide value to our clients. For over 10 years we have been doing just that. Our experienced staff will always look to provide you with the best service, and above all else, stand on our character to do what is right: every single day. Our strategic partnership with ResMac Mortgage Lending has enabled us to deliver the highest in customer service and competitive pricing. We are confident you will agree.


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Reverend Bonnie Connor an interfaith minister who has been joyfully performing weddings since 1995 and would be delighted to officiate your wedding.
Stephen Simmons has enjoyed creating personalized wedding ceremonies with couples in & around the Austin area since 2005.
Sarah Reed is an award winning officiant who has performed hundreds of weddings. She brings life experience, a friendly and relaxed demeanor, some serious organizational skills, and a love of people to your weddings and commitment ceremonies. Casual or formal, spiritual or not, your ideas are welcome!
As a husband and wife team, we know how special, unique and significant your wedding ceremony should be! Your ceremony begins your life together as husband and wife. Who is better qualified to marry you than someone who is good at being married and knows what marriage entails!
Award-winning! Open and Affirming! Bilingual (Spanish)! Your wedding day made even more special by a caring professional. I will listen to your ideas, preferences & cultural traditions, then custom-create FOR YOU a ceremony that is uniquely YOU in every way. Your guests will rave "Amazing!"
Reverend Joe Calovic is an ordained Apostolic Christian minister serving the Austin area since 1976. Rev. Joe is willing to travel to a location of your choice, in and around the Austin area.
Rev. Dr. Albert Gani has performed numerous wedding ceremonies around the Austin area. A non-denominational minister, he recommends total honesty and good will without which love cannot survive.
Our All-Faiths Professional Chaplains will cater to any denomination to meet your needs. We perform traditional, contemporary, spiritual and civil weddings, unique to your taste and desires.
Sarah de la Fuente brings a warm, casual, yet polished and knowledgeable presence to her clients. She creates custom made weddings with uncustomary service.
My name is Rev. Maggie Duval and I am a nondenominational minister specializing in spiritual rather than "religious" nontraditional and traditional (or a blend of the two!) wedding ceremony services.
The ultimate wedding reception Elvis entertainer. Non-denominational ordained minister available for all occasions, private & public events. Rated #1 in customer satisfaction.
Spike Gillespie has performed over 1000 weddings and commitment ceremonies in Austin and the Hill Country since 2006. She was voted Best Austin Wedding Officiant in 2013 and 2014 by Austin A-List. Her services include custom-written ceremonies performed joyfully. She would love to help you create your perfect ceremony.
Honoring All Types of Love & All Belief Systems. Rev. Vikki - Austin's Awesome Wedding Officiant creates custom-written wedding ceremonies & commitment ceremonies that are designed to tell your own personal love story. Like the couples I marry, no two ceremonies are exactly alike!
Genevieve Saenz is an interfaith, hetero-and LGBTQ-friendly reverend and ceremony designer. I approach each couple with an open mind and a joyful heart, working creatively and cross-culturally to serve my client's unique needs. I specialize in couples looking for a personalized ceremony. Be present & prepared for "I do".
Personalized weddings, that resemble the uniqueness of your relationship. I take the time to get to know who you are and how your relationship began and evolved, so that your wedding ceremony reflects the spirit of the love specifically shared between you and your partner.
Your ceremony is the heart of the day. I write a customized wedding or commitment ceremony & deliver it joyfully. My commitment is to help you express yourself with beauty and confidence. The process is easy and relaxed---I listen to your story, your beliefs, & your desires & incorporate these into your ceremony.
Senior Pastor Scott Hatch is a licensed and ordained Vineyard pastor, who has performed numerous wedding ceremonies, and loves people to have fun at weddings.
Intimate weddings are my specialty... Your day, your way, your location. Elope, small or large weddings!!
Ordained Minister for Weddings, Vow Renewals, and Civil Unions.
Wedding officiants serving Dallas Fort Worth areas in making your ceremony romantically yours. Complimentary ceremony planning manual and one on one consultations.
For those visiting us for the first time online, you will find out many things about First Presbyterian Church - its history, its ministries, its hopes for the future.
To help you create and customize the vows of your spiritual commitment to one another.
Fort Worth's Historic UU Church - Serving the cause of liberal religion since 1949. We would be honored to officiate your wedding and help you plan your ceremony.
Officiating services for liberated couples who want the ceremony of THEIR dreams. Freedom Weddings offers a different kind of officiating service. We specialize in ceremonies that are fresh, alive, and engaging ... a ceremony where the focal point is on your love for and commitment to one another.
Dan is willing to perform your ceremony anywhere you choose. He has performed weddings at Churches, ranches, banquet halls, hotels and restaurants etc.


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Italian cookie also known as honey clusters. My family has made these every Christmas for years. We make several batches and like to use a little extra chocolate. Walnuts or pine nuts also work in place of almonds. If the batter is to sticky add a little extra flour. Good luck.
Although this recipe took A LOT of work and time I really enjoyed the final product. I made this for a New Year's party and although it was a hit it was a little messy for everyone to be eating with their hands. I would recommend serving this as a unique desert at a sit down dinner so that people can use their forks! - 13 Nov 2000 (Review from Allrecipes US | Canada)


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Engineers India Limited (EIL) has released a notification for the recruitment of 229 Trade Apprentices and Technician Apprentices. Interested candidates may check the vacancy details and apply online from 08-11-2017 to 28-11-2017. More details about EIL Recruitment (2017), including number of vacancies, eligibility criteria, selection procedure, how to apply and important dates, are given below:
Vacancy Details:
•Post Name: Trade Apprentice
•No. of Vacancies: 179
•Pay Scale: 10,000-14,000
•Post Name: Technician Apprentice
•No. of Vacancies: 50
•Pay Scale: 10,000-14,000
Job Location: All India
Eligibility Criteria for EIL Technicians and Trade Apprentices:
Educational Qualification: Candidates should have passed 10th/10+2/Diploma or ITI in relevant trade from a recognised board/university.
Age Limit (as on 28-11-2017): Minimum 18 years.
Selection Process: Selection of candidates will be made on the basis of percentage of marks obtained in the qualifying exam.
Application Fee: No Application Fee
How to Apply: Interested and eligible candidates may apply online through EIL website - http://recruitment.eil.co.in/ - from 08-11-2017 to 28-11-2017.
Important Dates:
• Starting Date of Online Application: 08-11-2017
• Last Date of Online Application: 28-11-2017


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Cheryl & Walt had the most wonderful winter wedding nestled in the walls of the Vancouver Club this past Saturday.
Cheryl getting into her dress with the help of her bridesmaids –
Cheryl & Walt exchange the vows they wrote for eachother in a room warmly lit by candlelight –
We snuck away for a few minutes between the ceremony and reception for a few portraits, including this one in the lobby highlighting the detail of the dress and a moment between the newlyweds –
Walt shares a celebratory dance with the second most important lady of the day – the flowergirl!
Congratulations again, guys! The wedding was absolutely beautiful, and it was such an honour to be there to document it for you!


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The three (3) positive attitudes you must imbibe to be successful
It is always a pity to see someone settling for far less than their capability. They never heed to the advice – Be positive.
They thus always conform to the negative manner in which the society portrays things.
Theirs is always a negative, stagnating and counter active manner of approach to life.
As a success minded person, you should never accept other people's definition of possibility but must try your hands on every situation and see for yourself.
Instead of accepting as impossible what the society defines thus, you should improvise new approaches to making that possible.
Make such impossibility your personal project.
Focus on it!
The term possibility is in the real sense a relative term. It depends totally on how you define it. Yes, you can say everything is possible and so shall it be.
All you have to do is be positive.
To be fully positive (which is needed for extraordinary success) you need to possess all forms of positive attitude. Positive attitudes that can help you be positive are:
1. Think positively: many people are in the habit of neglecting their thoughts so much but the truth is as a reflective being all your life's doings flow from what you think of. Don't give impossibility a place to nest in your thoughts.
2. Speak positively: the words you speak whether to yourself or others concerning a task matters a lot. Be a source of encouragement. Don't kill people's willing spirit with your words. Speak positively.
3. Act positively: this third positive attitude that you need to imbibe in order to be positive concerns actions. Your action can be the needed catalyst to surmounting that mountain. Act positively!
In all things as long as you imbibe a positive attitude thus continue to be positive, your goals are already within your reach. Possibility is what you say it is!
What's your take on being positive and imbibing positive attitudes? Do leave a comment!
To be continued!


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When something is "2x faster, does that mean it is 200% faster? I have seen "x" and "%" sometimes used in such a way that the answer would be yes, and sometimes no. My impression from working in the field of computer architecture and hardware acceleration is that there is a general rule that is followed, so since the terminology is somewhat ambiguous Mac and I formalized how we use them some time back.
1) We have formal understandings of what it means to be Y% faster, it means the new performance is 100% + Y%. Slower works in the same way but with subtraction, so Y% slower means the new performance is 100% - Y%. Therefore if A is 50% faster than B, B is 33% slower than A.
2) Higher performance x's work similarly but without adding the 100%. So 3x faster means the final performance is 300% of the original. Slower performance x's work pretty different, by turning the x into a division sign "/". 5x slower means the new performance is 1/5, or 20% the original performance. Therefore if A is 30x faster than B, B is 30x slower than A.
Here's an example of Mozilla using the same definition for higher performance x's. The reference is regarding the performance of Firefox's new beta - one nice thing is that there is an instance where they round up from 2.94x to 3x. They also round from 3.49x down to 3x. In these cases they are rounding to one significant digit. At Cognitive we typically use two or three significant digits and round down, or whichever direction is a more conservative estimate for Cognitive's performance.