text:
Code of Ethics
As a team at Citibeats, we have the motivation and responsibility to ensure that Citibeats is used as a force for good in the world. While we believe that being ethical is something that must be practiced every day, in all our decisions, and requires a constant reflection and reaction to the context, we have distilled our principles fundamental to this code of ethics.
This code of ethics is read and accepted by all employees upon joining the Company and should be discussed at Townhall meetings at least once every three months.
1. The data we use
1.1 Representativeness
It is unlikely that the data we use are 100% representative of the population; we will do our best to make them as representative as possible, as well as being explicit and transparent about the limitations of these data. It is our responsibility to make it clear to the users of our data how much we representatives are the data; it is not their responsibility to ask.
1.2 Personal data and the right to privacy
We believe that people have the right to privacy; even if what we do is for "good impact", we will not invade people's privacy. No we will use data sources on which a person has a reasonable expectation that their views will not be analyzed.
1.3 Treatment of confidential and restricted information:
We respect all legal and customer requirements regarding the confidentiality and use of confidential information, and unauthorized use is strictly prohibited. We ensure compliance with regulatory requirements and the rights of individuals with regard to the protection of personal data.
2. How we analyze the data
2.1 Bias and representativeness
As we know that data in general, and especially the data that we analyze regularly, such as social networking sites and public online forums and blogs, have biases, we will continually work on challenging and uncovering biases, reducing these prejudices, and to be transparent and educational about these prejudices. These biases include: 1) demographic biases, such as gender bias (according to the data set, women are underrepresented); age bias; gender bias in the data set. urban/rural; income level bias; 2) inorganic content bias, such as people who publish a lot and receive a disproportionate amount of coverage.
2.2 Gender bias
We pay particular attention to the issue of gender bias. We believe that this is one of the most important social challenges worldwide, and data can play a role in reducing gender inequality. gender; if used incorrectly, it can be negative. Because data and algorithms are a reflection of our world, they are also a reflection of our world. a reflection of the biases contained in our world. Therefore, our aim is to is to make this visible and to give users of our tools the opportunity to information needed to challenge these biases. In our data, we calibrate for gender bias whenever possible and relevant to our projects, and we will make it visible to the client. In our algorithms, each new algorithm must go through a review process of gender bias, where 3 members of the team ask questions and evaluate possible gender biases in the algorithms (particularly important for the previously trained models).
2.3 Aggregation and anonymisation
In general, at Citibeats, we want our clients to understand the "what" of the social needs, but not the individual "who". Given the use cases in the we focus on, it should not be important for customers to know people who have said something; this will be rejected in our case review process of use. In addition, we never pass on customer lists with names of users who have commented. In general, our vision is to provide aggregated and anonymous results whenever possible. This already applies in cases where data is shared publicly (web sites, websites, etc.). public, reports). With our private control panel, this depends on the context of use, but in
In general we are working on cases where data are aggregated and anonymise. At the moment we do not implement this 100% as we sometimes it can be useful for clients in social welfare cases to get more context from who publishes (e.g., does this need come from someone with a disability or an elderly person?) We need to work to ensure that the relevant information is made available to the client, but without the need for the names of people.
3. What we use in the analysis:
Citibeats does not only intend to "do no harm"; it is our explicit aim to doing good. We are dedicated to working for customers, partners and investors aligned with our vision and continue to support them in doing so rather in the world using Citibeats. You can see in our previous impact reports the kind of use cases that we have been able to generate and share publicly. Citibeats Impact Report 2018 and Citibeats Impact Report 2019.
We also believe that the 'social good' is subjective, and we are always open to discuss it as a team. That said, there are some clear cases that we do not want to discuss:
3.1 No political campaigns
Citibeats is not for political use. Although we do not believe that our product is useful for political use or electoral engineering (cc. Cambridge Analytica) since it does not enable lists of individuals or user profiles, we do not want any customers using Citibeats for these purposes. This will be rejected in the use case review. which is necessary for every incoming project and goes against our T&Cs.
3.2 Non-military use
Citibeats is not for any use that may end up imprisoning people or putting them at risk. This means that we will not work with intelligence or military. The police may be considered as long as it is a case of use that does not put people at risk. This will be rejected in the review of the use case that is necessary for every incoming project and goes against our legal T&Cs.
3.3 No other use cases allowed
We will not use Citibeats for the following, which stems from the terms of use of Twitter is fairly standard. Do not "...monitor sensitive events (which include, including protests, rallies or community organizing meetings)", and not "segment, or profiling individuals on the basis of sensitive personal information, including their health (e.g., pregnancy), negative financial situation or condition, affiliation or politic, racial or ethnic origin, religious or philosophical affiliation or beliefs, sex life or sexual orientation or gender identity, sexual orientation, trade union affiliation, [content] related to any alleged or actual commission of a criminal offense, or any other sensitive categories of information prohibited by law".
3.4 Process for reviewing use cases
We recognise that whether a use case is sufficiently ethical is not always clear. For these cases, an "ethics review" meeting is established. The ethical review should consist of the following (until otherwise decided):
- For each use case, a meeting is set up with 4 Citibeats people.
- Usually: the relevant salesperson; Chief Product Officer and Chief Executive Officer; a person who would be involved in the delivery of the project
- The 4 debate the issue and vote at the end. If no veto is used, then 3 out of every 4th person must accept the motion in order for the project to be accepted.
- The meeting notes should be distributed to the entire Citibeats team.
4. Our culture as an ethical mechanism
We have processes in place to help embed this code into our form of work ('Terms of Use' contract for customers and review process) of use cases required for all customers and partner projects). That said, we believe that it is not enough to simply do "verification of what we want to be aware of ethics and continue to increase the number of our consciousness. If it is a culture, it had better be embedded.
These are the steps we will use to foster this culture:
4.1 Miscellaneous equipment
A diverse team means people with different points of view about ethics. This is a road on which we have a long way to go, but in 2020 we started with a focus on gender balance. At this point in time our team is 43% female, 57% male. We have improvements to make this 50/50, as well as having equal representation on the management team. This is an issue where we have more work to do, both in gender and other areas.
4.2 Ongoing discussion
Ethics is a topic of interest to all of us here; we bring it up continuously in our day-to-day work, as well as in City Council meetings, that is the responsibility of all of us.
4.3 Gender and Diversity Task Force
We have set up a group of Citibeats cross-team teams to work as the gender and diversity working group. They will define their own agenda on the issues. The most recent ones to focus on and should show results on a quarterly basis.
Ethical advisors
We believe that we will always have much to learn about.
We want to learn from external experts. In 2020, we conducted an ethical sprint with the world expert on online bias and representativeness, Ricardo Baeza. We will replicate this process on other themes in 2022 and transform it into a continuous process.
5. Measuring our impact
There are many reasons why we want to measure our impact. On the one hand, measuring helps us to see where we are having a tangible effect and attract more customers and resources to what we are doing; on the other hand, it also gives us tangible results to be proud of and keep us motivated.
Realistically, we know that measuring impact, and especially measuring impact as a data analytics company, is difficult. Often, our results are used as part of a decision-making process, and it is difficult to draw a straight line on our impact. That said, we will devote resources to making this a reality. measurable wherever possible. To be concrete, we plan to
a) Work with social impact consultancy firms to assess our more tangible cases;
b) Have the closest KPIs we can to the built-in impact metrics in our investor reports, as we currently do with the IDB.
The purpose of this paper has been to bring together what we see as the fundamentals of ethics: It is a starting point for all of us, it is a baseline and we hope to go further. From here, we can move forward together on this issue.
In addition, we subscribe unconditionally to the 10 principles published by the United Nations Global Compact, which apply to all employees at all levels of the company, as well as to partners, external personnel, suppliers, customers and distributors.
Principle 1.
Businesses should support and respect the protection of internationally proclaimed human rights within their sphere of influence.
Principle 2.
Businesses should make sure that their companies are not complicit in human rights abuses
Principle 3.
Businesses should uphold the freedom of association and the effective recognition of the right to collective bargaining.
Principle 4.
Businesses should support the elimination of all forms of forced and compulsory labour.
Principle 5.
Businesses should support the elimination of child labour
Principle 6.
Businesses should support the abolition of discrimination in respect of employment and occupation.
Principle 7.
Businesses should maintain a precautionary approach that favors the environment.
Principle 8.
Businesses should encourage initiatives that promote greater environmental responsibility.
Principle 9.
Businesses should encourage the development and diffusion of environmentally friendly technologies.
We set out below our guidelines for action in this regard:
Use of corporate assets:
Corporate property must be used exclusively for work purposes and during working hours. Any unauthorized use or misuse is the responsibility of the user.
Communication systems, including telephone, e-mail and internet, are also the property of the company and may therefore only be used for business purposes. All information entered into the computer system remains the property of the company.
Conflicts of interest of staff and their family members:
Each person must refrain from any activity, direct or indirect, that may place a personal interest at odds with those of the company or that may interfere with or hinder the ability to make impartial and objective decisions in the interests of the organization.
The appearance of conflict of interest situations, in addition to being contrary to legal rules and the principles set out in this Code, is detrimental to the image and integrity of the company.
Each person is obliged to report to his or her line manager any specific situations in which he or she or, to the best of his or her knowledge, his or her family members or close relatives or partners have economic and financial interests in conflict with the interests of the company, in relation to customers, suppliers, competitors or third parties.
Hospitality, gifts and payments:
To ensure the independence of all our actions, we must not give or accept gifts, irregular payments or entertainment if doing so would compromise our ability to make objective decisions in the best interests of Citibeats. Such situations can lead to bribery or corruption.
Information and knowledge management:
We respect all legal and customer requirements regarding the confidentiality and use of confidential information, and unauthorized use is strictly prohibited.
Each person undertakes to keep secret any personal data to which he/she may have access due to his/her work, contractual or any other type of responsibility, and not to violate the aforementioned rules.
Ownership and shareholders:
We maintain a permanent and open dialogue with the owners, who set the strategy to be followed and to whom we inform in a transparent manner of all the company's activities and results.
We appoint directors and managers who have the appropriate qualifications and experience and who exercise their management professionally, ethically and responsibly.
Public administration:
We are committed to complying with all the legal requirements that apply to us in tax, economic, accounting, labour, environmental matters...
We maintain a lawful and respectful relationship with the different public administrations with which we interact. We do not offer gifts, donations or financial disbursements to representatives of public administrations, nor do we financially support any political party.
We want to promote the expansion of our customer base with long-term partnerships.
We honor all commitments made to our customers and do not engage in misleading advertising of our products or services.
Responsible sourcing, we only use suppliers whose business practices respect human dignity, do not break the law and do not jeopardize the company's reputation.
We are committed to conducting all our activities in a context of fair and honest competition.
We do not engage in strategies aimed at determining prices or eliminating free competition, or at obtaining information from competitors in a fraudulent manner.
It is mandatory for any person in the company, once they identify prohibited conduct, to report it confidentially to the compliance body through the organization's whistleblowing channel: firstname.lastname@example.com.


text:
One wishes the UN commission that reported on Israel's Operation Ethnic Cleansing (Protective Edge) last summer was just inept & politically stupid instead of dishonest & malignant. Then the members could walk away from the report with some of their dignity still intact. Apparently they don't realize that photojournalism combined with social media to alter the quotient of propaganda to truth & you can no longer fool all the people all the time. The boycott of Israel called by Palestinians & the massive international solidarity movement have entered history on the side of Palestinians & the truth is out.
Palestinians are expected to be grateful for the empty gesture–like Pope Francis saying a Hail Mary at the apartheid wall & the UN & European parliaments passing resolutions endorsing Palestinian bantustates–called "Palestinian statehood." So when the UN acknowledges in the report what the entire world witnessed, that which is irrefutable, Palestinians & their supporters are supposed to herald it as a step forward, a partial victory, a big deal for justice. How about calling a spade a spade & telling the UN to stick their report where the sun don't shine?
Let's just take a look at methodology: the commission admits Israel denied them access to Gaza for inspection or to personally interview Palestinians who endured 51 days of carpet bombing. Interviewing of selected people was done by Skype. There were a lot of charges made by Israel to justify bombing schools, refugee centers, hospitals, mosques, entire residential areas. So wouldn't on-site inspection be essential? If they don't want to take the word of Palestinians, did they at least interview the Israeli soldier & veteran group named Breaking the Silence who published extensive testimony about the Israeli military's indifference to human life & property in Gaza?
Operation Ethnic Cleansing was not addressed within the context of the Israeli blockade of Gaza or occupation of the West Bank & East Jerusalem. Any commission with an ounce of integrity would consider the blockade to be of the very essence of the Israeli siege & not just an irrelevant by the by. But integrity is the very thing this report lacks.
The fatal flaw of this piece of rubbish/propaganda however is the sleazy attempt to efface distinctions between Israeli ethnic cleansing & superior military power & that of paramilitary outfits in Gaza, like Hamas. Under the heading of "Rocket & mortar attacks" from Gaza, the report states "Between 7 July & 26 August 2014, Palestinian armed groups fired 4,881 rockets & 1,753 mortars towards Israel, killing six civilians & injuring as many as 1,600 people, including 270 children." How does the commission explain the discrepancy between those figures & other UN reports that 66 Israeli soldiers were killed & three civilians, including one child, with no mention of injuries? And how many of those rockets & mortars actually got past the Israeli Iron Dome system & landed in Israel? Because if the Iron Dome isn't working, then the Pentagon ought to stop bankrolling it.
In the heading "Tunnels," the report says the Israeli military found 32 tunnels, 14 of which extended beyond the apartheid barrier around Gaza into Israel. This caused "great anxiety" among Israelis, the commission said, for fear Palestinian commandoes meant them harm. Can the UN suggest other means for Palestinians to defend themselves against the blockade & after repeated aerial bombardments by Israel? Can the UN even confirm the existence of all those tunnels–or are they taking Israel's word on it? Presumably those tunnels didn't extend into the hills of Sderot, Israel where residents exhibited no anxiety at all but gathered in easy chairs to wave Israeli flags & cheer on ethnic cleansing in Gaza.
Enough with the half-measures & empty gestures when it comes to Palestinian justice. Enough with the rubbish/propaganda that passes for investigation. It's of interest that five countries abstained on the vote (India, Kenya, Ethiopia, Paraguay, Macedonia) & only the US voted no. So many questions are raised by that vote. How can anyone who supports Palestinians also support Obama? How can anyone who supports justice support Modi?
(Photo of Gaza which is proof of war crimes was taken August 27, 2014 by Suhaib Salem/Reuters)

subset: commoncrawl


text:
CHA 2016 – Sue's Report!
We were just working out that it's around 8 years since we did our first show at the Craft and Hobby Association in the USA. Not sure where that time has gone but we have certainly enjoyed taking several innovative craft (and now cake) products lines over to our US friends over the years. The … Continue reading "CHA 2016 – Sue's Report!"
Read now


text:
Arduino Programming Help
In need of Arduino programmers for a couple DIY projects. 20(s) each
Pick and choose your project.
#1 Water Desalinator/ Boiler
#2 Absorption chiller/ac regulator
#3 Solar Iron Forge regulator system
#4 Rainwater catchment management
#5 Plastic smelter for making stock bars and filament
<img scr="https://www.quaxio.com/files/2013/arduino_gps/arduino_lcd.jpg">
Willing to take suggestions on everything from design to components used. The goal of the projects is to recycle as many components as possible to make the product repeatable and low cost.
We also have a messaging board where these ideas are kept and iterated on. If you would like an invite let me know.
Here is to the makers and shakers!


text:
Wiper leader Kalonzo Musyoka has reportedly identified four potential candidates to replace Mombasa Governor Hassan Joho once his second five-year term comes to an end in 2022.
According to The Star, Wiper Party is considering Kisauni MP Ali Mbogo, politician Suleiman Shahbal, former Mombasa county secretary Francis Thoya and former Nyali MP Hezron Awiti.
On Monday, Kalonzo chaired a meeting at the Tamarind Hotel in Mombasa attended by the party officials including Mbogo, Kipevu MCA Faith Mwende, Wiper national secretary for religious affairs Sheikh Twaha Omar, Kalonzo's son and EALA MP Kennedy Musyoka, among others.
Kalonzo reportedly told his party members that he was willing to go all out to support the party's candidate and ensure that they clinch the governor seat.
Shahbal ran unsuccessfully for Mombasa governor seat twice. In 2013, he contested under the Wiper party before decamping to Jubilee Party in 2015, which he used to vie for the gubernatorial position.
However, after failing in the Mombasa governor bid, Shahbal was made the Kentrade chair by the Jubilee administration.
On the other hand, Awiti, who contested and won the Nyali seat on a Wiper ticket after decamping from ODM in 2013, had wanted the party ticket to vie for Mombasa governor in 2017 but the party favoured former Mombasa Senator Hassan Omar instead.
As for Mbogo, despite his short time in Parliament, Kalonzo has reportedly been impressed by his development record and wants someone of his calibre to represent the party in the gubernatorial contest in 2022.
Likewise, Thoya, who boasts of a good grassroots network with Mijikenda voters (who are the majority in Mombasa) was allegedly kicked out of Joho's administration because of his political ambitions.
So far, other leaders who have been linked with Joho's seat include Mvita MP Abdulswamad Nassir, Mombasa speaker Aharub Khatri, Likoni MP Mishi Mboko and the former Mombasa Senator.


text:
RMH Franchise Holdings Investigates Data Breach At Local Applebee's Locations
WARSAW — RMH Franchise Holdings is currently investigating a data incident affecting payment cards used at Applebee's locations. According to RMH's website, unauthorized software was placed on the point-of-sale system at various Applebee's restaurants. Information such as certain guests' names, credit or debit card numbers, expiration dates, and … Read More


text:
We will go above and beyond to give you a positive, comfortable experience. I will tailor a treatment plan to address your needs before providing the highest quality care. Together, we will help you achieve the beautiful smile you deserve.
My favorite books are The Story of My Experiments with Truth, Harry Potter, and Start with Why. My favorite movies and shows are Hidden Figures, Hacksaw Ridge, Lucifer, and The Big Bang Theory. My favorite destinations are India and the West Coast.
Originally from India, I became a dentist in 2007 and moved to the U.S. in 2008. I practiced in Chicago before moving to Texas in 2016. I love spending time with my husband and our adorable baby girl, Reeva. I enjoy audiobooks, trying new places to eat, and playing badminton.
Dean's List, CEREC Certified
NPI Number
License Number


text:
Pop, Pop, and more Pop with Nico Maddox
Releasing a well, pop fueled new EP, Nico Maddox hits it hard. The record starts off with a few tracks that really are rock fueled but the pop side of it all allows these songs to get stuck in your head. Playing this EP on repeat certainly won't be an issue for any fan of indie rock, or even radio pop music as the record covers a lot of ground with its variety of hooky, shiny, and raw songs. "Heart" is one of the most in your face indie rock songs you'll hear all year. The EP takes you on a bit of a journey and song by song, pulls you in deeper and deeper. Even lovers of alt pop from the late 90's will gravitate towards this record with ease. The release is titled "Tired Of Thinking" and is now on all your favorite places to listen to great new music. This record is something to pay attention to as is its creator Nico Maddox.


text:
SEO (search engine optimization) is the central focus of any conversation about a website's success. Content creators aim to rank their websites on Google as high as possible. Content writing has been focusing on word count for a while. Some experts claim that 2,000 words should be the goal.
Experts are questioning the importance of word counts. Industry gurus are starting to question the notion that content must be at least 100 words to rank well. Although it is a good idea to have your content at a certain length for SEO performance, word count is not – nor has ever been – the ultimate determinant of success. SEO experts, say that there are more important aspects than just the length of your content. These are the five priorities that should be prioritized over word count.
High-Quality Content
No matter how long the work is, readers won't read bad content. Truth is, well-written content will always be better than poorly written posts. Writing if you're focusing on a word count goal can lead to writing that is not worth the effort. Your readers can discern if your content is valuable or just a piece of fluff. You must also value the time of your readers. They don't want to read a blog with 1,000 words that could easily be written in 500 words.
The quality of your writing is another important aspect. A poorly written article can make it appear that little effort was taken to create or publish the article. Your readers will not be interested in what you have to say if you don't care about it. Many people dislike work that is confusing and full of errors. It is important to consider the flow and structure of ideas. Even if your content is grammatically correct, it can still be difficult for others to read. You could hire a writing service. Although the costs can be costly for your marketing budget, a single well-written piece is better than many lower-quality blogs.
The Value Of Content
If your intended readers don't find the topic interesting, it doesn't matter how long your article is. If your intended readers don't find the topic useful, a post of more than 1,000 words is not worth as much as a well-written 500-word article. A page's purpose should be clearly defined when creating content. Does it entertain, inform, or lead the reader into different areas of your website? Word count will also be affected by the purpose. The word count doesn't really matter if the page achieves its goals.
You can use tools such as Google Search Console and Ahrefs to gain insight into what topics or questions visitors might be interested in. Keep in mind that your article must be about the topic and not keyword-stuffed. Because value is so important, it's a common theme. You should make valuable content for your visitors. There is no need to decrease the value of your content by adding fluff just to increase word count. Research shows that shorter content can perform better in certain cases because users are primarily searching for the answer to their question. Google favors sites that provide this information in as little as possible. Experts agree that as a writer your goal is to provide value to readers. This can be achieved by answering their questions. It is unlikely that your visitors will interact with you if they don't find valuable information on your website.
Accentuate Audience
Write for your target audience. Use the analytics tools to create a profile of your audience. This includes demographic information, gender, age, interests, hobbies, and gender. You can use your website analytics to see what content visitors have searched for and tailor the content to their interests. Short blogs that are based on your readers' interests will yield better results than long-form articles they don't care about.
If you see that your primary audience is comprised of women aged 30–40 years old living in England, then you shouldn't produce content on a topic that might be more relevant to American men in their 20s. A 750-word article on feminine trends in England would be better for your website than a 1,500 word article about health issues for American men in their 20s.
Content Format
There is a lot happening online, and there is endless content. Content creators are competing for users' attention. Writers must do everything they can to maintain their audience's attention. A web page should look attractive and contain eye-catching graphics. Videos are often more helpful than long posts. Graphics can enhance the page's aesthetics and be used to give a brief summary or visual description of a topic. Video formats, in addition to graphics, are important for attracting visitors. You may be able to write a 1,000 word article that you think will take around two minutes. Some people prefer to watch a five minute video on the same subject. To attract as many viewers as possible, it would be helpful to provide a variety of ways for visitors to access your content.
How To Get Backlinks
While backlinking to your website is a function of content quality, it should be noted separately. According to this research, the more backlinks a webpage has the higher its rank. This research revealed that the Google search results page's top result has at least three times as many backlinks as the top 10 search results. Ranking is also improved by backlinks from multiple websites. The number of sites linking to a page appears to correlate with rankings. Two of the 12 key findings in this study were linked to backlinks. It is important to remember that backlinks must be from authoritative domains. You must produce high-quality content in order for this to happen.
While word count is a key factor in a successful SEO campaign, there are many other factors that must be considered when writing content. Do not write long posts that are poorly written or full of fluff words. Instead of focusing on word count, content creators should be able to identify what readers need and how they can meet them. You must prioritize quality and value when creating content. Quality is more important than quantity.
This post was written by Kristian D'An. Kristian is the owner and SEO Specialist at Lux Digital Marketing, a Clearwater SEO company. Kristian has been optimizing websites successfully for over 7 years. He has helped his clients achieve the #1 position on Google in several different industries.


text:
Mobile text input has provided a fertile field for tinkerers over the past four decades. Flurries of invention and research have followed the introduction of the Touch-Tone phone, the PDA market expanding (and contracting), and the ubiquity of mobile phones with SMS. A new flurry should be expected with the advent of wireless Internet devices.
At least since Graffiti® and T9® made their commercial debuts, a continuous parade of "new and improved" input systems for pocket-sized devices have appeared. MacKenzie and others developed metrics to better compare all of those keypad input methods. [1] Numerous key layouts and input devices have been proposed and measured, with champagne prizes showing that even human performance testing may be open to innovation.
But it seems I still see, every year, at least one graduate student project determining the "optimal arrangement of letters" on a touchscreen or 12-key phone keypad! And last year I received a request for concept validation services from someone developing yet another Mobile Keyboard That Will Change The World.
Is there anything new? I don't think so. Just old ideas in new clothes, to borrow a phrase. [2]
Means to an End
The ultimate goal of mobile text input is to type, as fast as you can think, on a mobile device with limited real estate. Nearly all existing solutions include attributes that hinder or detract from that goal, and/or feature a user interface that draws some of the user's attention away from more pressing needs – such as watching where he or she is walking. [3]
(By the way, there are lots of summaries of mobile input methods available. A write-up by I. Scott MacKenzie [4] or Poika Isokoski [5] is a good place to start.)
The problem is, there's only so many ways to solve the problem. There's only so many core technologies in your toolbox to work with, and each must trade off maximum potential human performance against the inertia of existing standards and "good enough" solutions. [6]
Referring to the following table, one way to map the mobile text input invention space to date is in two dimensions: a type of input hardware and a disambiguation/correction strategy. (A sample of existing solutions is listed for each combination.)
Per Letter |
Per Word |
Keypad (a small number of keys) |
(Including two-key, multi-tap, chording, and N-way key solutions) Touch-Tone variants,"SMART" mode, Data Bank watch, multi-function calculator, Microwriter/Twiddler/ChordTap, data gloves, hat switch |
Bell Labs, T9 et al, SHK |
Keyboard (a number of small keys) |
BlackBerry (QWERTY), Fastap |
XT9 ("SloppyType") |
Touchscreen, trackpad, digitizing tablet |
Tap |
Soft keyboard (QWERTY, OPTI, Metropolis), Dasher |
XT9, iPhone, Android |
Gesture |
Unistrokes/Graffiti, EdgeWrite, Cirrin, Quikwriting |
Transcriber, SHARK, Swype, T9 Trace |
Joystick, wheel |
TwoStick , Nokia 7280 spinner, iPod Click Wheel, KeyStick, Dasher, nScribe, EdgeWrite |
SloppyType for joysticks |
Tilt accelerometer |
TiltType, TiltText |
Choose one readily available (hand-operated) input device with mobile proportions:
- keypad (a small number of keys) or keyboard (a number of small keys)
- touchscreen or trackpad
- joystick
- tilt accelerometer.
Or, if you're daring [7], an up-and-coming technology like:
- eye tracking
- virtual reality (data gloves, etc.)
- brainwave detection.
Then choose one disambiguation/correction strategy:
- per-letter (explicit input)
- per-word (ambiguous input).
I've grouped the input hardware, and alternatives like speech recognition, for further consideration below. Each disambiguation/correction strategy has its pros and cons.
Per-letter explicit input methods resemble our desktop typing experience: lock-down or correct each letter before moving on. They are mostly deterministic and many are "eyes free" (like the Twiddler [8]). But due to the reduced space these methods trade off speed versus accuracy, or they impose a learning curve on impatient users. And international character sets reveal the naïve simplicity of solutions optimized for only 26 letters.
Per-word ambiguous input, typically using the entire input sequence (so far) to disambiguate and offer the most likely word, offers benefits like automatic letter accenting. But it is challenged by limited space for dictionaries, higher visual attention requirements, sensitivity to spelling errors and typos, and is overall less "intuitive" than per-letter input.
Somewhere in-between, perhaps, is syllable-based input. [9] Mobile text input for Chinese, Japanese, and Korean gravitates towards this middle ground because of the morpho-syllabic [10] nature of Chinese characters, but the stenotype machine is syllable-based as well.
Let's ignore word/phrase completion [11] and abbreviation expansion. [12] Not only is word completion a well-known technology, it can be applied to almost any input method to reduce the total number of inputs. [13]
Mechanical Keys
Ironically, even after more than a decade of text messaging, keys on mobile devices are still not optimized for text input. [14] But because people still use a mobile phone mostly for voice, manufacturers are obligated to ensure that the dialing digits 1-9 and 0 are simple keypresses. That imposes another constraint on "innovative" mechanical-key-based solutions.
Here are the typical key-based approaches and a few alternatives.
5- to 20-key
Keypads with fewer keys than letters need disambiguation – whether the keypad uses the original Touch-Tone layout, the semi-QWERTY of RIM's SureType®, optimized letter arrangements like JustType®, the display-mapped keys of TNT, [15] or a one-handed keyboard like the original Microwriter/CyKey and others. [16]
For per-letter explicit input, the methods are:
- Two-key, i.e., press the ABC key and then the 3 key for "c" [17]
- Multi-tap / multi-press / triple-tap, i.e., press the ABC key three times quickly for "c" (typically including timeout, a challenge particularly for older users) [18]
- Chording, i.e., press the ABC key and a (third) auxiliary key simultaneously for "c".
A further alternative is to allow each key to generate multiple keycodes, e.g., when pressed in a direction other than straight down. But few manufacturers have shipped such a keypad, [19] likely due to its increased cost and lower reliability.
Word-based disambiguation, often called predictive text [20] and appearing on most mobile phones, [21] offers nearly one keypress per letter:
- Press the ABC key followed by the ABC and TUV keys for the word "cat".
The original BlackBerry keyboard's design made it possible for at least some large-thumbed executives to type on the tiny keys of a complete QWERTY keyboard. The visual familiarity of its layout gives QWERTY a distinct advantage. [23]
But there are regionality problems: QWERTY is a not-quite-standard standard, including dozens of international variants. [24] Wouldn't it be a further act of North American hubris to impose the QWERTY layout on the rest of the world?
Stylus or Finger
Okay, let us say that, as far as novelty goes, mechanical keys are tapped out. [25] What about input methods for touch-sensitive surfaces? The iPhone has certainly renewed manufacturer interest in touchscreens for high-end mobile phones, though touch-sensitive input devices still face a few practical challenges. [26]
Text input methods for such devices may have started back in the era of the light pen; here are the most common approaches for smartphones and PDAs.
Touch, Tap, 2D array
The most ubiquitous input method is the soft keyboard version of QWERTY, though various algorithms have produced optimal layouts [27] for a particular language. It is simple hunt-and-peck typing on labeled keys. The very small, discrete targets, subject to Fitts' Law, result in either slow-and-careful entry or increased error rates, though near-miss letter correction is possible using, e.g., letter tri-grams. [28]
You can also put a phone keypad on a touchscreen, as we did with the TI Avigo [29] and the Philips Nino. Though usable, and consistent across devices, the large keys didn't offer as much benefit on a PDA that required the use of a stylus. [30]
Applying what we had learned about word-based disambiguation while developing and refining T9 Text Input, we prototyped and developed a word-based auto-correcting system (informally called "SloppyType" but now the basis for XT9® Smart Input) for touchscreen and thumb keyboards and even virtual keyboards. [31]
Gesture, Handwriting
Gestures have long been part of keyboards married to a touch-sensitive device. [32] Synaptics even developed a capacitance trackpad layer allowing block letter writing across the top of a modern no-profile keypad design like the RAZR's.
Writing is very natural – once you've made it through grade school – but relatively slow no matter what technology is used or how accurate the recognition engine is. [33] Digital pens remove the need for a touch-sensitive surface or a digitizing tablet, but it's still handwriting.
Graffiti, EdgeWrite, and other simplified stroke alphabets [34] allow rates up to twice that of natural handwriting, once the new shapes are committed to memory. Simplifying gesture input even further: an on-screen diagram containing letters, visual cues, and boundaries that lets the novice user employ the method immediately without memorizing a new stroke alphabet. Cirrin and Quikwriting are two examples of this. Both also allow complete words to be entered by stringing the gestures together.
SHARK, now known commercially as ShapeWriter™, does for per-word entry what Cirrin et al did for per-letter entry: it employs a simple framework of rules and visual cues (based on a QWERTY soft keyboard in this case) to get the novice user started and then allows performance to increase with skill and memorization. Swype™ offers similar benefits, though its approach is slightly different. Swype's disambiguation benefits from more accuracy at each vertex (the location of each letter) whereas SHARK benefits from more accuracy along the path (the shape of the complete gesture).
Though "natural" handwriting recognition on mobile devices was tarnished by the first Newton releases, the full-word write-anywhere Transcriber for Windows CE showed that progress has been made over the years. Early computer-based (offline) handwriting recognition efforts also attempted cursive and shorthand, such as the Pitman or Gregg shorthand systems used for dictation. Like the stenotype, these shorthand systems are phonetic rather than alphabetic and enthusiasm for their performance potential is tempered by a very long learning curve. [35]
Joystick, Tilt, Wheel
Game consoles have gone online and massively multi-player, making text entry more important. If only the game controller is used, the joystick can be employed to select a letter from an-onscreen array; or, in combination with a secondary joystick or other controller keys, a two-step approach, typically choosing one letter set from a marking menu (pie menu) and then one of 4-8 letters in the set. [36]
The advent of tiny, affordable accelerometers produced a litter of "Gee, what can we do with these?" research studies, including selection of specific letters from ambiguous keys in a two-step approach. [37] Or, if you want to drive yourself crazy, dynamic solutions like KeyStick keep you guessing on every tilt and keypress. At least Dasher maintains the same relative position of each letter (while making you feel like you're playing a videogame).
Nokia's 7280 model "lipstick" phone features a spinner wheel, a mechanical version of the touch-sensitive Click Wheel on the iPod which provides a similar letter ribbon (known as the date stamp method) for searching music titles. [38]
Can handwriting be emulated with a joystick? A number of people have tried that too. [39] Other gesture-based approaches for input devices like joysticks and trackballs include Isokoski's device-independent method and further applications of EdgeWrite. [40]
Similarly, we applied the SloppyType word-based auto-correction technology to each of these non-keyboard input devices, using the tilt of the joystick, or the device itself, or the change in direction of a wheel, as an approximate selection of the area surrounding each letter.
What about other approaches? Well, there's Fastap® – David Levy's truly novel invention from the early '90s. It takes advantage of jammed-together keys on small keyboards to naturally encourage chording. [41]
One degree removed from reality, perhaps, but showing some originality: virtual keyboards, such as laser projection keyboards; detection and interpretation of muscular tension, galvanic skin response, or sign language; and others. [42] For example, Senseboard® tries to interpret hand muscle movements representing the finger positions used when typing on a PC keyboard. [43]
Moving away from the constraint of mobile device dimensions, but still enlightening:
- Stenotype machines for court reporting and live captioning. The syllable-based chording keyboard is designed for raw speed. The system becomes personalized as each operator develops shorthand appropriate to the transcription context.
- Assistive technologies, [44] such as orbiTouch™ two-hand chorded input.
And what about extra-thumb solutions? [45]
Speech Recognition
Speech is very natural and very fast. [46] Speech recognition is getting better as technology improves, on desktop systems at least. The low-power processors and limited memory of mobile devices, however, constrain speech recognition accuracy; ambient noise (when away from a closed-door office) is of no help either. To compensate for these limitations, the staff at Tegic (and other recent Nuance acquisitions) explored multi-modal remedies such as combining the results of speech recognition and 12-key input to resolve ambiguities. [47]
The other practical issue for speech recognition is that of privacy. Haven't you had enough of listening to one side of other peoples' conversations, on the bus or in the line at Starbucks, as it is? European countries like Finland have shown, though, that social etiquette does adapt to new technology once it becomes ubiquitous, so the issue of privacy may work itself out. [48]
Eye Tracking, etc.
Eye tracking systems are improving, at least for informing usability studies if not also text input. [49] Software is getting better at compensating for normal eye jitter, [50] but desktop systems use multiple infrared emitters and a high-resolution camera and they are always pointed toward the user's face; a mobile phone is not so fortunate. An easier solution for mobile devices is to position the detector close to the eye. With miniaturization, they could become integral with eyeglasses [51] – simple, if it weren't for the fact that most people don't wear glasses unless they have to. [52]
No longer a novelty, a direct interface like brainwave detection would be ideal – truly typing at the speed of thought! The initial research has been promising, even inspiring, for those dealing with severe impairments. [53] It is reasonable to assume that, through biofeedback training, the brain could become even better at generating the signals that can be detected even while the input systems get better at decoding them. [54]
Adapt to Me
Perhaps there's a different solution, a long-tail [55] solution. One size doesn't fit all – but one API could. Imagine a Personal Input Device tailored to the abilities and preferences of the user, abetted by Bluetooth and employing simple and secure sync (thus avoiding the PCjr infrared keyboard problem [56] and keylogging). Imagine starting kids early with a good alternative to QWERTY [57] that is guaranteed to be compatible with every data system or kiosk [58] they come in contact with over the course of a day. [59]
Okay, a reality check: anything carried by anyone under the age of 20 – or over the age of 50 for that matter – is going to be lost or misplaced, repeatedly. Therefore, the Personal Input Device has to be inexpensive, [60] and any accumulated data needs to be backed up onto a server and/or PIN-protected on the device.
New is Old, Again
I expected that the next text input breakthrough would be so efficient (and, ideally, one-handed) that people would be willing to learn an unfamiliar layout or technique, and finally(!) give up the QWERTY keyboard on the desktop as well. But, in spite of some progress in speech recognition and the arrival of the "two-thumbed generation", a high-performance solution for mobile text input has not been developed – or perhaps we have yet to recognize and appreciate it.
Commercial input systems vendors incrementally improve their existing technologies for products that are already on the market and successful. That makes sense; pretty-good solutions often need refinement to make them even better for even more people. Scott Berkun notes that inventions are built upon the work of others, while Peter Denning considers innovation (the adoption of a new practice in a community) more significant than mere technical invention. [61] Concurrently, academic researchers are directing the user studies that objectively measure and compare the various approaches described above, and refine the models that help establish best practices in this field.
But a lot of time and money is wasted reinventing the wheel. [62] Perhaps it's just that first-year engineering students need to be assigned simple programming exercises, like "How could you arrange the letters on a touchscreen keyboard to reduce stylus travel?", or an advisor is ensuring that a new graduate student knows how to execute and write up a small research study. Perhaps young entrepreneurs around the world truly think that they are the first to realize that the Touch-Tone keypad is not optimal for text entry.
There is little excuse, however, for not spending a few hours with Google to discover what is out there already before embarking on a "glorious quest" with yet another Keyboard That Will Change The World – especially before wasting other people's money, and the patent office's time, on such a futile effort. [63]
My thumb is still waiting…


text:
Nowadays a wide range of photos of traditional Japanese architecture is easily accessible – but few seem to capture the atmosphere of the wooden structures and the core idea of Japanese philosophy embodied in these ancient buildings as well as the photographs of Mitsumasa Fujitsuka, actually shown at the Japanese-German Center Berlin.
Mitsumasa Fujitsuka is one of Japan's most renowned photographers, well known for his works on design from architecture as of Tadao Ando, to fashion like iconic Issey Miyake.
The photos for this exhibition come all from the book "Japan's Wooden Heritage: A Journey through a Thousand Years of Architecture ", which was published in 2014. The exhibition based on the book, was very successful in Japan and is shown now in Germany.
The images are arranged in groups for each of the 23 portrayed buildings, many in contrasting juxtaposition: detail and overview. We see a timber joint next to a bird's eye view of a roof, for example. Many scenes are well known to the observer, as they show the most prestigious of Japan's historical sites, several of which belong to the List of National Treasures of Japan. Having said this, the photographer adds a new view which might be yet unknown to us. There are the bright red frames of Itsukushima shrine: one image shows just one huge red post in close-up, so we get a sense of the texture of the wood and can even see the strokes of the axe. Another shot shows a grid of red verticals and horizontals made up by the beams of the shrine.
Visitors can use a booklet containing the descriptions by structural engineer Mikio Koshihara appearing in the book as well. A big part of this commentary centers around earthquake-resilient architecture and explains how this was achieved in historic Japan and in which ways engineers today try to add their learnings to it and design houses even more robust.
Frames and views
Although all photos are in colour, some seem almost monochromatic, reminding one of ink drawings from the Muromachi period (1333-1573), as below in the photo of Zaōdō Hall which seems to be created from a exclusively blue-greyish color palette. The snow covered main building of Kimpusen-ji temple soars high above the surrounding landscape while the fog floating in the middle ground gives the capture an unreal and enchanted atmosphere.
One of the most striking aspects of Fujitsuka's photography is that he always takes the traditional Japanese approach to architecture into consideration: every door, every opening created by a sliding door is seen not only as a passage but as a frame to the landscape outside, and in reverse to the insides, notably the shrine niche, the Tokonoma. Both views, both frames are equally important. So his photography puts another frame on the view the door encloses and becomes an actual picture to hang on a wall. A building is not considered as an artificial addition to nature, but part of it – and in this sense Fujitsuka shows it to us.
Structure and light
Each building is built for durability and is therefore perfectly adjusted to the conditions of the nature surrounding it. Regardless the function, the basic structure is almost always the same: a cuboid form. Although in this exhibition we see several buildings – temples, mostly – which don't fit that description at all (below the Sazaedō Temple, Mt. Iimori). Some of the structures we see here are almost 1000 years old, only components are swapped for refurbishment at times, others are rebuilt and still ancient as the rebuilding happened hundreds of years ago in itself.
Another important feature of Fujitsuka's approach is the light. He shot – at least the images we see here – only with natural light. So he is capturing perfectly the character of these ancient structures, in an atmosphere which should come as close as possible to the one originally planned.
The light is much more subdued than we are used to today, it flows naturally according to the time of day and filters through the paper-thin walls, as the observer sits and watches its decreasement when evening approaches.
Photo exhibition "Japan's Masterpieces of Wooden Architecture"
Japanese-German Center Berlin
On Display until February 22, 2019
Opening hours: Mon – Thu 10 am – 5 pm, Fri 10 am – 3.30 pm
Admittance free
Digital prints on Fujifilm Professional paper Pro G, glossy on Aluminium
Camera: Canon EOS 5
© for all pictures: Mitsumasa Fujitsuka. Thank you!
Kintaikyō-Bridge in Iwakuni, built in 1673. The bridge was rebuilt several times.
Zaōdō Hall, Yoshino, completed during the second half of the seventh century.
Sazaedō Temple, erected in 1796.


text:
Six Braided Kolapuriz (Sck-M-022)
Dark yellow color, six braids' upper leather sandal for men with a pointed shape, single lace, anti-slip rubber sole at bottom and nylon stitching. These Kolapuriz are designed with elegance and they deliver the style and comfort.
Handmade Kolhapuri sandals chappals
Materials: Leather, Solid, Anti Slippery Rubber Sole
Made to order
Care Tips
We make these in custom size per your feet measurements.


text: Using software provides many benefits to users. However, not all users are able to install new software for themselves, even using the tips and help of providers. Moreover – the process of implementation and full use of new software in each particular company can become a rather labor-intensive and time-consuming process. In-house development experts suggest… Continue reading How Should Businesses Set Up Data Room Software?


text:
Have you ever commended someone for having "the patience of Job"? It's curious how that expression developed when the story is not at all about Job being patient.
Read MorePosts tagged "loss"
Obstacles and Endings
The Edomites were cousins to the Israelites, descendants of Esau. Esau and Jacob had been brothers, and the Israelites reminded the King of Edom that they were family. He recounted their time of slavery in Egypt and promised that they would stay on the highway and not cause their cousins any trouble as they journeyed to the Promised Land. The King of Edom wasn't feeling any familial love for the Israelites and sent a large force to deny them access through his territory.
Read More encouragement, loss, hope


text:
We carry a large selection of 49 and Market Flowers.
JS Hobbies and Crafts carries Flowers for every crafting project needs.
JS Hobbies and Crafts carries a wide assortment of products for all of your paper crafting and hobby needs. Whether you're looking for that perfect paper pad theme, scrapbook and mini album embellishments, washi tape, doll house accessories, or tools like adhesives and mats, JS Hobbies and Crafts carries it all!


text:
New Mika is heralded as the new age laminate in India with an assortment of the latest patterns and textures, living by its promise to keep you in sync with the trend. Bringing to you the best in decorative laminates, the New Mika range is synonymous with style. We pride ourselves in being able to bring forward the latest in product innovation from time to time, keeping only one goal in mind – to create exceptional décor for homes and offices, for those who are hooked onto style.
New Mika has witnessed a steady growth in the laminate industry and are continuing to grow at a fast pace, having prioritized our commitment to providing stylized and quality products to our customers at all times.
Being one of the largest laminate manufacturers in the country, New Mika's products are available in an array of multiple shades and textures, with laminates for almost every surface, from table tops, doors, shelves and counters to reception desks and furniture. Exclusively designed to suit your style, New Mika is counted among the most premier laminate companies in India, and offers a laminates collection that is unparalleled in every sense of the word.
We ensure careful monitoring of all steps in the manufacturing process to bring you the best quality end product. In fact, New Mika products are accredited with Green Guard, OSHAS, ISO 9000, ISO 14000 certifications, all of which is a clear marker of the quality standards we strongly believe in maintaining.
With our production capacities extending up to 300000 sheets a month in 4'×8', we also manufacture special sizes in laminate like 4.25′ x 10′, 5′ x 12′ along with customized sizes based on your need, which can be made available anywhere across the globe. With a strong distribution network of 28 branches across India and presence in over 300 cities, New Mika is well-equipped as one of the largest laminate suppliers in the country, to cater to a myriad of big-scale commercial needs.


text:
Why is Ireland's National Flower a Shamrock
Every year on the 17th March the Irish culture celebrates St Patrick's Day. It has become an international celebration with people all over the world joining together with family and friends and sharing their ST Patricks Day Gifts. If you aren't sure what to buy your loved ones you can shop ST Patricks day gifts here. During this celebration you are bound to see lots of green and lots of Shamrock.
The three-leaf clover is the national emblem of Ireland and it has been this way for centuries. According to Irish tradition, when Saint Patrick converted the Irish to Christianity in the fourth century, he used the shamrock as an icon to justify the Holy Trinity to nonbelievers as it has three leaves, one for the Father, one for the Son and one for the Holy Spirit. This helped to keep the importance of the number three going in religion.
After Patrick's death, which is thought to have been on the 17th March, this folklore became ingrained in the popular consciousness. Around the 17th century, the shamrock's significance started to align with religious celebrations of the saint's feast day: even poor people wanted to look good at church, and fortunately for them, a suitable adornment was growing on the ground outside their homes.
The tradition of wearing a shamrock grew in popularity over time and we now see them all over Ireland in one form or another.


text:
Looking through sunglasses – Can I confess something?
The Farmers' market by Karen Anand was high on fashion quotient . If there were beautiful food and farm produces on display then there were beautiful people too . As I clicked on the food I also tried to capture some of the trendy sunglasses which were on display . An attempt which could have been more successful , hence the confessions .


text:
When I used to think of Vermont I thought of trees. Just trees. I had never been to this very green state to admire the greenery until the summer of 2018. We were told we had to move across the country to Vermont away from my home in California. It stunned me. And the worst part was that I couldn't tell ANYBODY. Not my friends, not my teachers, not my extended family, no one. That is besides the point. Later that summer we visited Vermont to look for a place to replant our roots. There was always something wrong with each house. The carpet is weird, it's like a maze, it's too dark, we don't want or need this room, etc. Until one house. It's light yellow and is absolutely gorgeous. That was just us pulling into the long winding driveway.
Not only was the house breathtaking, the backyard was something special. Something I had never begun to imagine. It is a very private place with no one around. There is a section of flat green grass that soon drops off into beautiful bushes that later lead to a daunting forest. It is overlooked by a stone patio with small stone walls that when you stand on them you can see over the tree line into the valley. While standing on those walls you turn around and see your reflection in the ceiling-to-floor windows. You breathe in deep and smell the snow and the crisp air. You turn back around to see a world beyond the trees. Mountains that overlap with aesthetic ease, stealth power lines stringing from one wood pole to the other, clouds that look over the same world you are taking in. To your right there is a cherry blossom tree that sticks out into the yard. Though it has no blossoms on it, it still shares its full beauty with the universe. It is rejuvenating to be looking at the world and admiring how amazing it is to share it with the people you love. No matter how far away they are.
At night, I look out my window that overlooks the yard and see the stars. Almost like I am making sure they are still there. They cover the sky like when you sprinkle sugar in your coffee. Yep, still there. The navy blue sky puts me to sleep instantly, but only if I am not kept up looking at the stars. They astonish me. How can something so beautiful be kept so far out of reach?


text:
What's E-prescribing? E-prescribing is the Electronic procedure of prescription which allows physicians and other medical professionals to send and write prescriptions into an active pharmacy with the usage of electricity instead of the manual hand composed manner. There's the use of facsimile calling or a note from prescriptions. E-prescribing has a number of advantages for both the patient and the doctor. Below are some of the advantages of this process.
It Stops Prescription Medication Errors.
It Is the ideal approach to eliminate handwriting errors that sometimes occur when using the manual procedure for prescription. It gives both the physician and pharmacist accessibility to different patients' prescription background so that the danger of incorrect drug prescription is significantly reduced. Drug errors can cause serious health issues to the victim and as a result could lead to legal measures being taken if the affected files a case. Death could be another cause of drug errors. Therefore with this new technology, medical personnel and patients both benefit in 1 way or another. Save more through this eDrugSearchbystolic coupon
Speeds Up The Medical Reconciliation Process.
Doctors will have the advantage of viewing their patients' medication histories without difficulties. This is because they will not have to manually reconcile medication lists or even commit clinical information to memory. You will find tools that facilitate the whole reconciliation process within a short period of time. This is an advantage since doctors will have enough time to do other things rather than spending hours manually reconciling patients' records. For more information, you may also visit http://edition.cnn.com/2009/HEALTH/06/04/health.insurance.scams/index.html?iref=24hours.
Reduces the Amount Of Lost Prescriptions.
The Moment patients get paper --established prescriptions, sometimes the prescriptions aren't filled correctly or maybe forgotten. In worst case scenarios, the prescriptions get lost and have to be re written for recording purposes. This could be very tiresome and some information might be omitted which in the end could lead to wrong prescription or other errors. Health is very crucial and shouldn't be determined by means of a piece of written paper. Therefore, electric prescription is more reliable.
Enhances Better Tracking.
With This particular technology, physicians have the ability to track the amount of regulated substance prescription that a patient is given. This reduces the possibility of over or under prescribing or doctor shopping. The state also benefits in this case because it will be easier for them to track data across different pharmacies in the state. This will ease workload and having to deal with the state occasionally.
Immediate Notification Of Allergies And Other Clinical Alert.
This Technology will give complete visibility into all patients' documented allergies That had been previously prescribed drugs and will also activate clinical warnings If a drug has adverse reactions. Therefore, this will make the doctors work easier and reduce cases of wrong drug prescription. Get the right ones from edrugsearch.com.


text:
If you have ever felt like your spoken German needs extra practice,
your confidence could use a little boost or perhaps you wanted to reduce your accent,
the German Conversation Course Hamburg at speakeasy is the right one for you.
Course details for the German Conversation Course Hamburg at speakeasy:
Improve your speaking style and accent in German
Discuss interesting topics and supplement your other speakeasy German course
Ongoing course
Fridays from 10:00 AM to 12:45 PM
The German Conversation Course Hamburg is for you if you want to have the opportunity to focus on improving your spoken German skills. Build the motivation and confidence needed for the workplace, supermarket, doctor's office, Hamburg fish market or whatever else! To encourage you to speak the language like a proper German speaker – with no hesitation but with plenty of confidence. This course will help you to hold real conversations in German about important day-to-day topics. Colloquial language and slang along with proper pronunciation and accent reduction will be covered in the speakeasy German Conversation Course Hamburg. Practice speaking to further immerse yourself into the culture of Hamburg and Germany. Apply your knowledge of German and practice speaking as much as possible. You will learn idioms, figures of speech and the correct intonation and usage to boot. You can even learn the local Hamburg lingo! Our qualified and dedicated language teachers are always there to help you with the complex issues to do with the German language. If you feel that you want to learn even more, you can easily combine the German Conversation Course Hamburg with other speakeasy courses like the German Intensive Course Hamburg or the German Course Hamburg Evening.
The German Conversation Course Hamburg will be tailored to your interests, as we have found that this is the most beneficial (and fun) way to learn German. Our aim is to provide you with as much contact with the language and culture as possible to ensure that you progress quickly and steadily. As we offer Conversation Courses for all levels of German from A1 to C1, we have a class for you, regardless of your current level. We use the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR) as a guideline for all of our courses, so you can be sure that our courses are not only interesting and motivating but also properly qualified.
Our courses consist of only small groups with 4 to no more than 10 participants. With such small class sizes, you will receive plenty of personal attention from your instructor. There will also be ample opportunity to get to know your classmates. Our students come from all over the world. If you have just arrived in Hamburg and are looking to meet new people, your German Conversation Course Hamburg is a great place to start! A good number of our students are new to the city, so our courses are the perfect environment to make new connections.
Speakeasy should feel like a second home to you. All of our classrooms are bright and cosy; they feel like a place you want to hang out, not some boring school. We want you to feel comfortable and relaxed while learning, because that is the speakeasy idea.
Do you need more information? Check out all our course times here. For more information on pricing, just have a look at our price list. In our FAQ section we have collected many answers to frequently asked questions. Additionally, our language placement test can support you in figuring out the correct course level for you.
Ready to sign in? If you want to register for you German Conversation Course Hamburg you can very easily do that online. Just use our course configurator below. The course configurator supports you to intuitively book your preferred course. Of course, you can also pop by the school and make your booking in person. In any way, we are excited to meet you soon!
You are unsure about your language level?


text:
I am needing to create an accordion in SharePoint web part for online, however I am quiet new to JS & Jquery.
Is there an example of an accordion that I can use to help this?
The items must be referencing the SP list & items inside.
A little guidance will be grateful! Thanks


text:
Thousands Of Electronics Are Headed Out Of The Mother Lode
Sonora, CA — Truckloads of Sonora area electronics are on their way to be recycled at a plant up north. Hundreds of cars lined Camage drive over the weekend, waiting to unload computers, televisions, and other types of E-Waste.
The Sonora Sunrise Rotary Club in conjunction with State qualified collector Acquisitions organized the environmental event to help get hazardous materials out of the Mother Lode.
Jake Cherry with Acquisitions says the E-Waste is separated into categories when it reaches the recycling yard. Cherry says the event was an overall success and he has been traveling throughout California collecting recyclables.


text:
- Available with an adjustable 9-position indexible guard
- 6 HP motor provides non-stall operation
- Side mounted wheel and in-line motor allows for straight cutting of materials
- Composite grip has been ergonomically designed to provide unmatched comfort for the user
- Manufactured from high grade material precision parts designed for industrial and heavy duty automotive use
Rear exhaust allows exhaust air to be directed as preferred
Part Number 6525-A Item Weight 2.2 pounds Product Dimensions 6.5 x 3 x 2.5 inches California residents Click here for Proposition 65 warning Item model number 6525-A Size Small Color Red & Black Finish Coated Material Synthetic Polymer (PMMA) Shape Circular Power Source Air Powered Horsepower 0.5 Item Package Quantity 1 Number Of Pieces 1 Maximum Pressure 120 bar Handle/Lever Placement top Measurement System Metric Usage Professional Included Components One red inline cut-off tool Batteries Included? No Batteries Required? No Warranty Description 2 Year


text:
Download my FREE eBook. This is a MUST HAVE resource for anyone who is considering the freight broker industry (About 40 pgs, 19 Topics) Enter your email address and name for an immediate download.
People going into business have different outcomes. Some make it; others don't.
The Small Business Administration says that the reason why most businesses fail is lack of capital; or, they call it "undercapitalized". I disagree with this.
In my opinion, most businesses fail because they don't know how to get people "coming in the door".This also holds true for those who are in freight brokering.
It's a MARKETING problem. With all the competition, how does one attract enough customers to not only sustain the business but to really become successful?
Here with my broker training, there are some who ask "What is the best way to get customers"? I tell them that there is no one or two right ways to do it. Instead of asking "What is the BEST way to get customers" – ask "How many different ways can I find customers"?
The truth is, there is no magic silver bullet.
Nevertheless, the key is to try and go where no one else is going. We'll help you on this in our training.
I've got another report here that is the closest thing to my actual freight broker training that you will ever find – and it's at no cost. This report contains a lot of information but it is just a fraction of my comprehensive program.
Free Report: A Deep Glimpse into Freight Broker Training – Immediate Download
Take the Mystery Out of Freight Brokering


text:
A bus driver and passenger had a physical conflict at a bus stop in Taipei City this afternoon, after an argument over the passenger's improper wearing of a surgical mask. According to a China Times report, the bus driver, described as around 50 years old, had requested that a passenger, around 70 years old, put his mask fully over his mouth and nose. However, the passenger kept exposing his nose, and sometimes his mouth, and argued with the driver all
Read moreon the buses
Bus drivers spotted stopping to check for pedestrians on zebra crossing in New Taipei City
Two bus drivers in New Taipei City were seen stopping and checking for pedestrians on a zebra crossing before proceeding, and a witness was so pleasantly surprised that he uploaded dash-cam footage of the incident to social media. The video footage, was recorded at 8:56am last Friday, March 15, and shows two buses in succession turning right onto Minzu Road in Banqiao District. Both drivers stopped and made a gesture pointing left and right, confirming no pedestrians were on the
Read more


text:
Become a Contributor
To become a contributor, click "Create Account" on the upper right hand side of the page and complete the form. Please send an email introducing yourself to webmaster Kevin Robertson including your username and real name. Contributors not known to the webmaster will not be retained. You will have a contributor webpage set up that will allow you to cite your contributions to your webpage using your username, explained below.
Contributions to Coastal Plain Plants can be made in various ways:
1) Edit pages directly using the guidelines below.
2) Request a plant species form as a Word (docx) file, edit the form, and send it to Kevin Robertson for incorporation into the website.
3) Submit other sources of information, such as notes, databases, documents, etc. relating to Coastal Plain plants, for incorporation into the website.
4) Communicate information directly to Kevin Robertson to be incorporated into the site.
Coastal Plain Plants uses a Wikimedia platform, the same as used for Wikipedia. A good place to start learning how to edit is this tutorial, and more sophisticated commands can be searched online, but some basic instructions are as follows:
To edit pages, login, then click the "Edit" tab or and of the "Edit" hyperlinks on pages.
After editing, click the "Save Page" button at the bottom, and then it will go back to the front end view.
If there were no edits, then clicking the "Read" tab at the top will bring you back to the front end view.
Italics and bold lettering are specified with apostrophes (not quotation marks). For example:
Typing ''Dyschoriste oblongifolia'' (two apostrophes) returns Dyschoriste oblongifolia.
Typing '''Dyschoriste oblongifolia''' (three apostrophes) returns Dyschoriste oblongifolia.
Typing '''''Dyschoriste oblongifolia''''' (five apostrophes) returns Dyschoriste oblongifolia.
Default subheadings are provided for each plant webpage. However, if they do not have any information under them yet then they are hidden using the format <!-- hidden subheading -->. If you delete the <!--- and --> then the subheading will appear in the Read window.
Content Guidelines
Use bionomial (scientific) names of plants to species or finer taxonomic resolution. Common names can be added to the common names list at the top of the page.
Provide as much context for observations as possible, such as date of observation, habitat, geographic location, land use history (old-field, native community, pasture, etc.), and other potentially helpful information, whether recording a personal observation or relating information from another source.
Taxonomic notes
Minimally list synonyms and varieties/subspecies. By default the website uses Weakley 2015, but always cite taxonomic sources. Include author(s) of species and varieties. Include only synonyms for which names are different than the page title at the genus or species level. However, include varieties and subspecies of those synonyms. For example, for Agalinis fasciculata: Synonyms: Gerardia fasciculata Elliott ssp. typica (Pennell) Pennell; Garardia fasciculata Elliott ssp. peninsularis (Pennell) Pennell
Summary of the distribution, and any information about the species' geographic distribution that is more specific than the state maps. For example, "This species may occur from North Carolina to Texas, but is mostly found in the Carolinas."
Habitat – Any information about the species' natural communities, human disturbed habitats, sensitivity to soil disturbance, role in succession, topography, hydrology, soils, light, fire regime requirements, and the like. Also within this section can be added associated species, by just starting a new paragraph at the end: "Associated species – Andropogon gerardii" etc.
Phenology - Timing off flowering, fruiting, seed dispersal, and environmental triggers.
Seed dispersal – Mode of seed dispersal (e.g. wind, gravity, animals, explosive dehiscence), specific animals that disperse seeds, characteristics of seeds relevant to dispersal, and the like. Use highest resolution of latin names for animals as possible.
Seed bank and germination - Ability for seeds to remain dormant in the soil and how for long, germination requirements and cues, characteristics of seeds relevant to seed persistence and germination.
Fire ecology - Fire tolerance, fire dependence, morphological and life history characteristics that might be adaptive to fire and fire regimes, etc.
Pollination – What insects or other animals pollinate the flowers, adaptations to attract pollinators, and the like.
Use by animals - Herbivory, granivory, insect hosting, etc.
Conservation and management
Field management techniques that promote the speices, mostly relevant to species of special concern.
===Cultivation and restoration=== Tips for nursery and planting practices including seed collection, germination, fertilization, watering regime, shade requirements, transplantation, site preparation, and the like.
Citing Contributions
Contributions should always be cited using standard Wikimedia formats.
Type <ref> followed by the reference information to be cited, followed by </ref>. This will insert a hyperlinked superscript number that links to the reference, which is automatically placed at the bottom of the page. This can be used to add specific notes about an observation or cite published literature.
If the same source is going to be cited multiple times on the same page, the first time you cite the source, type <ref name= short name of reference>, followed by the reference, then </ref>. Then every time afterward you can just write <ref name= short name of reference/> and it cites the reference with a hyperlinked subscript as above.
Create links to other pages
Links to external webpages can be inserted by placing the URL followed by text for the hyperlink in single brackets. For example, typing [http://plants.usda.gov NRCS] will appear as NRCS.
Links to other pages within Coastal Plain Plants can be made by using double brackets. For example [[Dyschoriste oblongifolia]] will return Dyschoriste oblongifolia.
Add images
To add an image, it first has to be uploaded. To upload an image, click Upload File under Tools in the side bar menu and follow the instructions. If the file is over 2 MB then it cannot be uploaded. In that case, the image size will need to be reduced in another software application, such as Microsoft Paint, before uploading. Reference to the uploaded image is case-sensitive, so note the exact case of the file name and extension.
Add images to gallery
To add an image to the Photo Gallery, add one line of information per image in between the gallery opening and closing statements, e.g.:
<gallery widths=180px>
File:Salvia_azurea.jpg|''Salvia azurea'' Photo by Kevin Robertson, Pebble Hill Plantation, GA
The part after the pipe provides a caption, so it looks like:
Add institution image to Main Page
Add uploaded images to the gallery as described for plant pages, but you can also add a link from the image to your institution's website by adding link=your_institution_URL after the pipe, e.g.:
<gallery mode=packed heights=70px>
Add a new plant species page
To add plant pages we suggest that you make a request for pages to be added to the webmaster to set up a new page or pages. However, you can also set up a page yourself using the following instructions:
- Navigate to the Plant Species page, where the plant species binomials are listed in alphabetical order.
- Start editing.
- In the correct alphabetical location, add a link using the binomial of the new species in double brackets, e.g. [[Dyschoriste oblongifolia]].
- Save the page, and the link appears as a red hyperlink.
- Select the hyperlink, and you will be brought to the new page with the plant's name as the title.
- Type or paste the command {{subst:Template:PlantName}} to bring in the template text.
- Save the page and begin editing
The new page will include a "Taxobox", which is a template for creating the box with the plant name, image, taxonomy, and distribution. The Taxobox will need to be edited. To fill in the Taxobox you will need:
- Uploaded image for the species
- Taxonomic information for the plant, which can be obtained from the NRCS Plants Database or other updated reliable source.
- Uploaded image for the distribution of the species. Most pages so far have used images screen-saved from the NRCS Plants Database.
Images must be your own or have permission to be posted from the photographer.


text:
Easy & Healthy Recipes for Preschoolers
Preschool builds a foundation for children to continue learning, growing, and gaining knowledge. One of the most important meals to get them through their day is breakfast! Make sure your little one starts their morning alert and ready for discovery with a healthy, nutritional meal.
Fruit plus protein equals vitamins and staying full through lunch. Try any of these kid-friendly ideas for nutrient-packed, energy-boosting breakfasts:
- Smoothie – Blending fruit, vanilla yogurt, and milk (dairy or almond) can make a delicious treat that tastes as good as dessert! Some popular combinations are: banana, red apple, peanut butter, and milk; or pineapple with strawberries, vanilla yogurt, and milk. You can also add a dash of cinnamon or vanilla extract for extra flavor.
- Quiche muffins – Mix eggs 6, 1 cup heavy cream, pieces of ham, chopped onions, and shredded cheese in a bowl. Pour the mixture into a greased cupcake tin and bake at 375 degrees for 15-25 minutes. If you think you can get away with it, mix in some spinach or tomatoes too!
- Fruit parfait – If your kiddo likes fruit, this is probably your easiest breakfast. In a clear cup, layer whole grain granola, vanilla yogurt, blueberries, and strawberries. Some people also like to add raspberries or bananas to the mix. For a pink parfait, try strawberry yogurt.
- Oatmeal cookies – While your everyday breakfast bars can be full of preservatives and processed ingredients, homemade cookies and bars are a healthy alternative. Simply combine 2 ripe, mashed bananas with 1 cup of dry oats. Mix in chocolate chips, raisins, or cranberries, and bake small scoops for 15 minutes at 350 degrees.
- Whole grain toast – Add your kid's favorite jelly or topping to a piece of whole wheat toast. Serve with a side of apple slices or a banana for a well-rounded, energy-boosting meal!
A Well-Rounded Breakfast Makes a Happy Preschooler
Mini muffins, donuts, and bagels can leave your child feeling tired or cranky in the morning. A lack of nutrients means that they also may grow hungry far before lunch, making it difficult to concentrate. Each of idea above is fairly simple and can often be prepared a night in advance. So ditch the sugary bars and cereal, and start trying some quick recipes that your kids will love!
Interested in Raleigh Preschools?
Primary Beginnings offers a creative, exploratory curriculum for children. Call today to schedule a tour at one of our locations and learn more!


text:
The FAA recently announced new airspace restrictions on Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS) flights over national security sensitive locations. The new drone flight restrictions are effective July 11, 2019.
The FAA has been cooperating with federal partners to address concerns about malicious drone operations by using the agency's existing authority under Title 14 of the Code of Federal Regulations Section 99.7 (14 CFR § 99.7), Special Security Instructions, to establish UAS specific flight restrictions over select, national security sensitive locations.
The U.S. Department of Defense requested restrictions over the following 12 locations:
- Raven Rock Mountain Complex in Adams, PA
- Lake City Army Ammunition Plant in Independence, MO
- Pine Bluff Arsenal in White Hall, AR
- Tooele Army Depot in Tooele, UT
- Hawthorne Army Depot in Hawthorne, NV
- Pueblo Chemical Depot in Pueblo, CO
- Iowa Army Ammunition Plant in Middletown, IA
- Watervliet Arsenal in Watervliet, NY
- Blue Grass Army Depot in Richmond, KY
- Letterkenny Army Depot in Chambersburg, PA
- Rivanna Station in Charlottesville, VA
- Maui Space Surveillance Site in Maui, HI
Operators who violate these flight restrictions may be subject to enforcement action, including potential civil penalties and criminal charges.
Previously, the FAA has issued drone flight restrictions over locations including U.S. Department of the Interior landmarks, Department of Energy facilities, Federal Prisons, Coast Guard Bases, and other DoD facilities.


text:
Several studies suggest that soluble Amyloid β (Aβ) oligomer-induced aberrant neuronal cell cycle re-entry is the initial trigger for a significant part of the neuronal degeneration and loss in Alzheimer's disease (AD). In this study, we investigated the role of Ras, which is a well-known protooncoprotein, in soluble Aβ oligomer-induced aberrant neuronal cell cycle activation and subsequent cell loss using retinoic acid differentiated human SH-SY5Y neuroblastoma cells as model system. In line with previous literature, we showed that in vitro preparations of soluble Aβ42 oligomers triggered cell cycle activation but not cell proliferation. As a new finding, we showed that Farnesylthiosalicylic acid (FTS), a specific chemical Ras inhibitor, prevented soluble Aβ42 oligomer preparation-induced cell cycle activation. Moreover, we showed that the expression of dominant negative mutant H-Ras (S17N) prevented soluble Aβ42 oligomer preparation-induced cell cycle activation, confirming the specific role of Ras in this pathway. As a possible better mimic of the situation in the AD brain, we prepared soluble oligomers from Aβ42: Aβ40 (3:7) peptide mixture and showed that this oligomer preparation similarly induced cell cycle activation which was also inhibited by the Ras inhibitor. Finally, we showed that FTS prevented soluble Aβ42 oligomer preparationinduced cell death in our retinoic acid differentiated SH-SY5Y cells. Overall, our results strongly suggest that Ras activity is required for soluble Aβ oligomer-induced aberrant neuronal cell cycle reentry and subsequent neuronal loss, which are considered important mechanisms in AD pathogenesis.
Original language | English (US) |
Pages (from-to) | 1267-1276 |
Number of pages | 10 |
Journal | Current Alzheimer Research |
Volume | 13 |
Issue number | 11 |
DOIs | |
State | Published - Nov 1 2016 |
Externally published | Yes |
- Alzheimer's
- Amyloid β
- Aβ42 /Aβ40 ratio
- Cell cycle
- Farnesylthiosalisylic acid
- Oligomer
- Ras
ASJC Scopus subject areas
- Neurology
- Clinical Neurology


text: 2007-12-11 05:56 Ian Hickson: > On Tue, 21 Mar 2006, Christoph Paeper wrote: >> >> Would the following be inadequate usage according to this >> specification? >> >> <samp></samp> >> > Yes. The former would be appropriate if a computer output the given > image > and that was the subject under discussion; That means screenshots, doesn't it? But computers "output" many more kinds of images, e.g. when they render, scan, read out cameras or other media, reel through films ... I think it's hard to tell the essential difference. Of course almost nobody actually uses |samp| in galleries and the like at the moment, so it's not a big deal. > I'm not convinced that there's really a need to unambiguously mark > up thumbnails as distinct from anything else, though. Neither am I, but there are programs or browser plugins that could make good use out of this information. OTOH it might fit better into the |rel| (or |rev|) attribute of the surrounding |a| (or it's done by a predefined class for |img|). Another question would be whether the linked image had to be the original (e.g. the full-size screenshot) or just a better representation of it (e.g. the larger scan of a book cover). PS: Thanks for the personal CC, I've not been watching the list for a while.


text:
Long braided necklace made of 925 Sterling silver gold and ruthenium finish chains. The set has a rectangular pendant shaped by hand, adorned with oxidized silver beads paved with mini diamonds. Two little bells complete this piece of jewelry.
Length: 72 cm - Pendant size: 1,9 x 1,2 cm
- 925 Sterling silver chain with gold and ruthenium finish
- Silk yarn
- Oxidized silver beads paved with diamonds
- Sterling silver jewelry is sensitive to heat, air, skin, perfume, chlorine, and hydroalcoholic gel.
- Remove your jewelry when sleeping, bathing, swimming, or playing sports.
- Clean the jewelry regularly with special cloth for silver jewelry.
- Do not use solvents or silver cutlery cleaning products.
- When not in use, store the jewelry in a closed box.
- Express shipping within 2-6 business days.
- Complimentary shipping for orders of 250€ and more for deliveries in Metropolitan France and for orders of 600€ and more for the rest of the world.
- Import taxes and customs duties are not included in our prices.
- Foreign taxes or any other fees may be imposed by your local government during the imports.
- We accept returns within 14 days of the delivery date.
Further details about our shipping & returns policy


text:
Job seekers don't have to look very far to find advice. Book stores and the Internet are filled with ideas about strategies, tools and tips to help people find jobs. What is different about my colleague Tim Tyrell-Smith's book, 30 Ideas: The Ideas of Successful Job Search, is his perspective as a hiring manager and a former job seeker. He was inspired to share his 30 ideas based on his own experiences.
He explains his job search focus is on "working with a purpose throughout the process…there's little room for impulse decision-making. It is about efficiency and structure." A bonus? His background is in consumer marketing (22 years). In case you didn't already know — finding a job is all about marketing, branding and communicating, so Tim's experience is invaluable.
30 Ideas offers both practical advice and important reminders.
For example, we know it's difficult to maintain a positive mindset while job hunting. We also know how invaluable it can be to face the challenge with an optimistic attitude. Tim empathetically provides numerous suggestions to help job seekers keep an upbeat focus, including:
- ideas to create an actionable strategy
- reminders to embrace some of your "free" time to recharge your batteries
- specifics to consider, even on the worst days
- tips to overcome irrational fears
- how to avoid the "out of work" stigma
In addition to these important reminders, Tim takes his readers through practical job search networking steps, offering advice about:
- how to tell your network what you want
- whom to target for networking
- how to handle networking events
- when to readjust your "pitch" — and how
- what NOT to do when you network (which could be as important as what TO do)
Tim's book is a great resource for job seekers who need a boost and some real-life, honest-to-goodness advice to remind them they can make a difference in their job hunts. Be sure to also visit Tim's website/blog, where he offers frequent insights for job seekers — extending the advice in the book and interacting with his readers. You may also be interested in Tim's LinkedIn group, Tim's Strategy – Ideas For Job Search, Career And Life, where a community of job seekers and advisors share ideas and suggestions.
Learn more about 30 Ideas on Tim's site and order it HERE via AMAZON or HERE for Kindle.
Tim generously offered to send a copy of his book to one of my readers! Comment below with a tip for job seekers based on your experience or a question!


text:
Petroleum refiner and retailer Caltex Australia issued a warning to franchisees last year, only two days before Christmas, that their businesses would be audited in the New Year to check for employee wage underpayment.
An investigative report by AFR showed Caltex sent a letter about the upcoming audits to around 150 franchisees, sufficiently scaring more than 100 of them into seeking legal advice from three different law firms.
The letter instructed recipient franchisees to supply specific documents, including employee details, payroll records and rosters, to auditor Ernst and Young before January 25, this coming Wednesday.
"Caltex is taking allegations of breaches of workplace obligations within the Caltex network very seriously," the letter said. It stated the entire retailer network would be audited over the next 18 months.
According to AFR, the letter fueled speculation that Caltex is initiating a "land grab" by targeting franchisees, in breach of the company's Franchise Code, who will be liable to forfeit their investment back to the franchisor.
"Caltex reserves its right in respect of any default identified during the investigation and audit … to take immediate steps to terminate the franchise agreement [both in accordance with the Franchise Code and the Oil Code] or to conduct follow-up investigations and audits," the letter said.
Like the 7-Eleven wage underpayment scandal, Caltex has identified incidences of franchisees paying attendants wages as low as $14 per hour, however it is understood that in a meeting in Sydney earlier this month, franchisees openly admitted to underpaying staff and blamed the need for such shortcuts on the franchise model.
A spokesperson for Caltex Australia told C&I that failure by franchisees to meet workplace obligations and uphold workplace rights was unacceptable to Caltex Australia.
"We continue to investigate every allegation received, cooperate with the Fair Work Ombudsman and other authorities, and implement a forensic audit program to detect and sanction wrong-doing, including the termination of franchise agreements where that is reasonable and appropriate," she said.
"We are also conducting a holistic review of our franchise model and governance processes because we are absolutely committed to stamping out workplace wrong-doing in our network.
"Our actions to address workplace wrong-doing remain a work in progress and we will pursue the measures available to us to ensure the integrity of our network."
Late last year BP announced it would acquire Woolworths Caltex service stations in a deal worth $1.8 billion, which will result in BP having a 37 per cent market share of the Australian fuel retail market, pending ACCC review.