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Finding the right home can take time. You must first find an area of the country that you like, then look for a building that will make a great home for your family. You will want to be within easy reach of your place of work, local schools and all other amenities. Meeting all of these conditions can be difficult, and sometimes the right solution can be either to find a piece of land in the right place and build the home you need, or to buy a home in a less-than-ideal condition and fix it yourself. If either of these situations reflects where you are with your new home, you must work with some building surveyors.
How do building surveyors assist with a new-build property?
Building surveyors should be involved at every stage of your property construction. Talk to them as soon as you start to think about the design of your new home. They can provide valuable input into the initial design of the property. They will guide the construction to ensure that the completed building is functional, energy-efficient, safe and accessible. While your chosen builders will carry out all the construction work on the property, it is the role of the building surveyors to check that when finally completed, the building will be compliant with all building codes.
How do building surveyors assist with an older property?
If you decide to buy a property in a run-down condition, you could be buying something that a little paint and some basic maintenance will fix, or you could have a property with structural defects. To the untrained eye, the difference isn't always obvious, but the financial cost of buying a property in poor condition could be considerable. Building surveyors can examine the property in-depth and tell you what problems they can find. They will look at existing problems and those things that may not be an immediate concern but could create problems in the future. Similarly, if you need a dilapidation report for your insurance company, trained building surveyors are the right people to produce that report. Not only will they point out the problems, but they will also explain how to restore the property to a safe, liveable condition.
To learn more about the role of building surveyors in your project, speak to your local surveying team today. They will explain what you need to know about building surveying.


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I loved this book and read every word of it. It is filled with color photos of art (some shown below) as well as some wonderful narrative reflections from the authors, who bring two very different spins to the topic. And while I liked this book, and am glad I bought it, my own spin is yet again so different, and not represented here, that it makes me feel there is room for me to write my own version. Still, it was totally interesting to see how others approach this cross section of topics that I've spent a lifetime combining and balancing.
Here are my notes–the bits that resonated– with a few more in the photos below:
- "We travel fast, work fast, make fast choices, eat fast– and often give only seconds to looking at a piece of art before assigning, judging, and moving on. Acknowledging the fast pace of our lives today, Donald Grayston says, "Anything that slows us down is spiritual practice."
- What I want from art is depth, going beyond the superficial. I want art that has the potential to transform both the maker and the viewer.
- Picasso: "If I could have told you what it means, I wouldn't have needed to paint it."
- Frederick Nietzsche: "We have art in order not to perish of the truth."
- "When it comes to spiritual experience, words are woefully inadequate."
- "Carl Jung used the image of two cones, apexes pointing towards each other, as a way of describing the relationship between spirit and matter. With one cone representing matter and the other spirit, the points of the cones indicate the way spirit and matter 'meet and don't meet.'"
- "The symbol of the cross is sometimes understood as indicating a meeting place of spirit (represented by a vertical bar) and matter (the horizontal bar). This makes the cross– a pre-Christian symbol– a fitting image of the divine becoming human and the human becoming divine."
- "Thin places (like Iona) are where the world of spirit feels close. Boundaries between spirit and matter break down and we are aware of the All."
- Rumi: "Let the beauty we love be what we do. There are hundreds of ways to kiss the ground."
- Spiritual installation art: Nancy Chin's cathedral installations, Tibetian Prayer Flags, Stonehenge (see photos of all three below.)
- "Art functions to fill the void and in doing so it heals us."
- Art can promote spiritual awareness.
- The physicist David Bohm says that "matter is frozen light."
- Art searches for the spirit behind the form.
- And artist can be a giver of the scared. Give the sacred!
- Some artists manage a powerful sense of presence in the way they paint.
- "Many artists found it easier to express what lay beyond the material world by eliminating recognizable objects from their work."
- Clarissa Pinkola Estes: "At its root, art is not about success or failure. It's a spiritual practice." (YES!!)
- Madeline L'Engle: "An artist is someone who can never rest as long as there is one suffering creature in the world."
- "Find the sacred within the rhythms of the natural world."
- Colors of the liturgical year: epiphany (green), lent (purple), Easter (gold, yellow, and purple), ordinary time (green).
- Howard Thurman: "Don't ask what the world needs. Ask what makes you come alive, and go do it.Because what the world needs is people who have come alive."
- Teilhard de Chardin: "Christianity does not ask us to live in the shadow of the cross but in the fire of its creative action."
- Madeline L'Engle: An artist is a nourisher and a creator who knows that during the act of creation there is a collaboration. We do not create alone." (YES!!)
Also check out the bits below! If you are interested in the topic of where spirituality and art intersect, until you can read my work on the subject, you might enjoy this one. I give it five stars.
1 Comment
I am a big fan of William Johnson's work which was almost lost.

subset: commoncrawl


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These beautiful one size fits all headbands are hand-made with love completely from scratch, from the original WES drawings, which is printed onto the fabric and then sewn into these unique and versatile headbands. Each headband has soft wire thread running inside it, which allows the wearer to easily twist them into place. No more pinning necessary!
Furthermore, there are different retro fabrics sewn into the inside of them, which means you can wear it both ways! That's two in one. Mix n match your new headbands to get a variety of looks to suit any outfit. Pin your hair up for that classic Rockabilly look!


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At Home
OS Robyn Nicholson, Shooting Guns and Pucks
After completing university Ordinary Seaman, (OS) Robyn Nicholson knew she did not want to have a boring nine-to-five job. Cliché or not, she wanted to see the world.
OS Nicholson is a Naval Electronic Sensor Operator in the Royal Canadian Navy (RCN). Her job is to operate the radar and radio detection devices, radar jamming systems and decoys, and gun or missile-firing equipment carried on major naval warships.
"I know that I made the right decision, there is no other life like the military. I have the world at my fingertips. I can go back to school, change occupations, learn other languages all through the military," said Nicholson.
OS Nicholson grew up in Yarmouth, Nova Scotia. She joined the military in 2012 after graduating from Dalhousie University with a Bachelor of Political Science and Business.
Using her downtime to learn more about her job and take upgrading courses Nicholson hates to stay still. Always active, she appreciates that the Canadian Armed Forces (CAF) encourages physical fitness as she excels in several sports.
While attending university OS Nicholson played five years with the varsity hockey team. She still manages to play hockey in the winter and is a sea kayak guide and Paddle Canada instructor in the summer.
"I played hockey with my HMCS Toronto ship's team when we were deployed. The Romanian team didn't even know I was a woman until well into the second period. It was great," said OS Nicholson.
A well-rounded community volunteer OS Nicholson has coached Special Olympics floor hockey and baseball since 2008.
In the two and half years OS Nicholson has been in the CAF she has done things she never thought possible. She believes the military empowers women.
"I have seen the world, lived on a warship with 240 men, competed in the sports I love and got paid for doing it, mentally challenged myself, dealt with stressful situations and came out on the other side feeling great," said OS Nicholson. "The best part of my job is that we actually fire a warship's 57MM gun. You don't get to do that in just any old job."
In her opinion, the military is moving away from the traditional male or female roles. The CAF acknowledges women are capable of carrying out the same jobs as men, and everyone in the CAF is trained to the same a high standard.
Having recently returned from Operation REASSURANCE with HMCS Toronto, OS Nicholson loves her career, but readily admits she views her current position as a stepping stone. With hard work and dedication, she hopes to achieve her commission as an officer in the RCN where she will continue to work hard and show off her hockey skills as much as possible.
Get More! Receive six issues of Canadian Military Family Magazine in your mail box for only $17.95! Click here to subscribe NOW!


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Interra Donates to Customers' Relief Efforts after Super Typhoon Hits Central Philippines
Super Typhoon Rai, or Odette to the locals, swept through the central Philippines in mid-December, causing widespread damage through strong winds, heavy rains, and flooding. The storm, equivalent to a Category-5 hurricane, hit major provinces, including Cebu, the second capital of the Philippines. The death toll reached 407 and over 200,000 homes were damaged. Many were left homeless just before Christmas, the biggest holiday of the year for most Filipinos.
Concerned, the Interra team reached out to our customers in that area. From one partner, we heard their business suffered some setbacks with power and internet outages, but the most pressing was their many employees whose houses were damaged in the storm.
Helping their employees rebuild their homes was an urgent need. Another customer had a similar story, with some challenges to the business but seeing much community suffering. Their company was affiliated with a nonprofit foundation that had been primarily focused on education of local children, but in the aftermath of the storm pivoted to distributing food, water, and other essentials to the local community.
Over the last two months, Interra donated USD 3000 to help our customers rebuild their employees' homes and help those affected by this disaster get back on their feet. We consider our customers, vendors, and other partners as part of the extended Interra family, after all!


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As the official award of the Motion Picture Arts & Sciences Foundation of British Columbia, getting nominated for a Leo is like being on the list for the provincial Oscars.
Getting ready with their gowns, tuxes and acceptance speeches for the yet-to-be announced presentation this year are the creators of two short films tied to Salt Spring: Lucid and Mr. James is Dead.
Lucid, written by Claire Robertson and directed by Deanna Milligan, received four Leo nominations. Filming was done both on Salt Spring and in Victoria, where Milligan now lives. Along with best short film, Leo nods include best directing for Milligan, best musical score for Salt Spring musician Marta Jaciubek-McKeever and best cinematography for Ramsey Fendall (Victoria).
Peter Hoskins and Daniel Irving, two Gulf Islands Secondary School graduates now based in Vancouver, form the creative partnership behind Mr. James is Dead. The action-spy-comedy earned eight Leo nods, the second highest total of any short film this year. Their nominations include best short film, best screenplay and best male actor nods for Hoskins and best directing for Irving and his co-director Josh Aries.
Hoskins, who has an important cameo in Lucid as well as starring in his own film, was thrilled to see so many nominations for both projects.
"I love Deanna Milligan; I love Claire. Amelia McCluskey, Claire's daughter, worked on our film, and Deanna's been a huge help to me," Hoskins said. "They're doing amazing work and it's awesome to see Salt Spring represented at the Leos. It's just really cool."
Both projects have already proved to be winning ideas. Mr. James is Dead was produced as a result of the Crazy8s festival in Vancouver. The event was created to foster support for emerging filmmakers who have little or no access to funding for short films and to train crew and cast.
Every year over 100 teams apply to have their story idea made, initially presented in a three-minute video. At the end, six winning projects receive $1,000 and a production package to make their short film in just eight days. Mr. James is Dead was one of the six winning films in 2020. Since then, it became one of 21 short films selected by Telefilm Canada to represent the nation at the Cannes Short Film Corner.
Similarly, Robertson took her screenplay for Lucid through Victoria's Cinespark Screenplay Competition in 2019, which involved a live pitch in front of an audience and a jury. The project won and received a small grant and a loan of equipment to create the film. (This was supplemented with an Indiegogo campaign that raised $10,000 with much community support.)
Hoskins said he and Irving would love to know what the winning formula is, so they could reproduce it in their current projects.
"The success we have had in certain avenues I think comes from a lot of dedication and hard work from not just ourselves but a massive team that helped us along the way," Hoskins said. "I think we got really, really lucky, and also we got really excited. We were pitching something that was our own, and was unique, and I think the Crazy8s people got excited about it as well."
Having graduated from Capilano University's Motion Picture Arts diploma program in 2017, Irving loves the specific tools that filmmaking includes. He is now working in Vancouver's film industry in the lighting department and has definite plans to direct his own feature one day. In fact, he and Hoskins are currently shopping around a full-length script written by Hoskins with hopes of securing funding. The pair also made the hilarious and beautifully filmed "Untitled coffee short" during the height of the pandemic to show what they could produce without needing a 100-member film crew.
"I think if we had more access and more funding, we'd be making a lot more stuff," Irving said.
Hoskins and Irving are thankful to everyone on the island who nurtured their growth as young artists. They agree going through the creative programs at Gulf Islands Secondary School — including the music and drama departments and the Gulf Islands School of Performing Arts — had "literally everything" to do with their creative development and current artistic paths.
For Hoskins, being part of the national champion improv team coached by Jason Donaldson was another huge influence.
"The foundation that I, and I believe Daniel, work off of was built primarily and almost exclusively on Salt Spring," Hoskins said. "There are people on Salt Spring who are amazing, passionate, awesome teachers and loving individuals who [have time for] a lot of angsty teenage art people.
"And then a lot of the storytelling I pivot towards comes 100 per cent pretty much from improv teachings. You get it really well bashed into you that you're making story on the fly and then you take what you have at the beginning and use it. That's the toolkit you have and so that's always been a staple of the stories I like to tell now. And I think that aided in the story we have now coming out so 'successfully' as it did."
Milligan and Robertson's creative partnership began on Salt Spring with Milligan's first short film, Cascadia. Robertson came on as a producer and art director after her young daughter Lily McCluskey was cast in the lead role. Fendall first joined the team for Snug, their next short film. The two women co-wrote and Milligan directed.
Lucid, their third project, features highly stylized storytelling and a richly artistic visual landscape, both of which underscore the narrative around protagonist Mia, an art college student struggling to find her voice. When instructed by her teachers to create work "with heart," Mia (played by professional actress Caitlyn Taylor) is pushed to an absurdly literal interpretation.
The Salt Spring scenes feature some well-known local faces such as Georgia Acken, Keith Picot, Christie Roome and Metta Rose. In addition to the Leo nominations, the black comedy has been named as an official selection at the Short Circuit Film Festival in Victoria as well as Frostbiter (Iceland) and Midwest Weirdfest (Wisconsin).
Robertson set the film in the early 1990s, "at a time when artists, designers and musicians such as Damien Hirst, Cindy Sherman, Alexander McQueen and Nick Cave were fascinated with the horrific and the grotesque . . . when a whole generation was hooked on grunge and disintegration after the glitzy pop-fuelled '80s."
Robertson based the harsh words of Mia's teachers on her own experience of bringing her portfolio to be assessed by a consultant when she was trying to get into art school, and taking away only the negative aspects of the criticism. But an art school experience isn't necessary to be engaged.
"While not everyone will relate to the need to find a creative outlet, the theme of the search to find a valid place in the world where your voice is heard is universal," Robertson pointed out.
Milligan started her professional screen acting career at age 12, and can relate to the feeling of not measuring up to someone else's standards.
"You're always being told, 'You're not this, you're not that.' You always feel a little bit lacking, and you can lose yourself in that," she said.
Lucid is the third film project on which musician Jaciubek-McKeever has collaborated with Milligan. She said she sometimes feels they share the same brain when creating ideas for how music can help tell the story. She responded strongly to Lucid's theme as well.
"For me personally, as a singer-songwriter musician for 20 years, I got a lot of that from the producers and labels I was trying to work with," Jaciubek-McKeever said. "Back 20 years ago, being different wasn't good. And I know that really resonated with me."
When it comes to the look of the film, Milligan and Fendall were inspired by 1970s Italian horror movies with their hyper-stylized colouration and sound.
Lucid indeed moves quickly into horror territory, and Milligan concedes the high blood quotient isn't for everyone.
"Some people don't like the horror elements, but every one of our decisions was heart-felt. We couldn't be concerned about people liking it or not because that makes your decision-making quite muddy. You have to trust yourself," she said.
Milligan and Robertson report receiving tremendous island support for their film projects, from local businesses to the Salt Spring Arts Council.
"We're so grateful to the people who sponsored us and the incredible talent we have to pull from as actors," Milligan said. "That's the thing about Salt Spring: they're such great supporters of the communal art project."


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The Hadrian X bricklaying robot system (pictured) has completed its first commercial display house, a project home in the Perth suburb of Dayton.
The robot completed laying the concrete blockwork of the walls on Saturday, capping off a 15 year development process which has seen numerous prototype machines and buildings completed.
FBR Limited, which developed Hadrian X, said the walls of the residence were completed in three and a half standard work shifts.
The robot selects and transports each block to the work space, before each block is laid individually by the robot arm (picture below)
FBR CEO Mark Pivac said today: " Digital construction has taken a significant step forward with the completion of this structure using the Hadrian X, the world's first and only autonomous bricklaying robot.
"FBR is proudly at the forefront of construction robotics globally."
The builder of the display home, Archistruct Builders & Designers, will now complete the display home, including laying a brick facing to the exterior of the structure.
FBR will further refine the system to utilise FBR's F Block, a large aerated concrete block especially developed for Hadrian X which will further speed construction times.
In May FBR entered a joint venture with Brickworks Ltd, known as Fastbrick Australia, to offer 'wall as a service' construction to builders.
Picture: FBR Limted/Hadrian X on site in Perth
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In March 2011, Apparatjik released their download only single "Combat Disco Music" from their forthcoming album "Square Peg In A Round Hole". The artwork features the band members dressed in silver costumes including hats with horns and also gas masks with bright pink visors and holding bright green money. The release features only the title track (3:41). CD
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In particular, the three partners are committed to unlocking synergies between their various fields of activity in order to improve the agility and resilience of the supply chain relative to the transport of containerised goods.
Next4, a partner and supplier of Bolloré Transport & Logistics since 2018, has developed an innovative solution enabling its freight forwarder and shipping company customers to monitor containers around the world. In July 2019, Next4 initiated a joint research lab with IMT Mines Albi to co-design new innovations based on the real-time analysis of data from its trackers using artificial intelligence.
In 2019, Bolloré Logistics, a brand of Bolloré Transport & Logistics, launched Real Time Monitoring, an offering based on the Internet of Things and smart data processing. Featuring a proactive alert management system, the new solution developed by the B. Lab1 enables the end-to-end and real-time monitoring of shipments while guaranteeing the integrity of the goods transported.
Seeking to provide Bolloré Logistics customers with new optimisation and prediction functionalities, Bolloré Transport & Logistics decided to join forces with this pooled research laboratory. The company notably intends to equip shipments with Next4 trackers in order to analyse the data using artificial intelligence models currently under development, and thus propose new services to its customers. It will also be the first to offer functionalities developed via the Next4 platform, itself interfaced with Bolloré Logistics' Link traceability platform.
[1] Underpinned by a "design thinking" methodology, the B. Lab aims to step up the digitalisation of the supply chain by supporting initiatives in innovation, from ideation through to marketing. It relies on the global B. Lab network of Bolloré Transport & Logistics and on a global innovation ecosystem.


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SGTB Khalsa College Recruitment 2019 – Non Teaching Posts: SGTB Khalsa College has announced a notification for the recruitment of Non Teaching vacancies in Sri Guru Tegh Bahadur Khalsa College for the year 2019. Eligible Indian Nationals may apply in prescribed application format on or before the 15 days. Other details like age limit, educational qualification, selection process & how to apply are given below
SGTB Khalsa College Non Teaching Recruitment 2019 – 41 Posts Apply Now (Last Date: 15 days)
Organization Name | Sri Guru Tegh Bahadur Khalsa College |
Employment Category | Delhi Govt Jobs |
Name of the Post | Non Teaching |
No. of Posts | 41 Vacancies |
Educational Qualifications | 10th, 12th, Graduation, Masters, B.E, B.Tech, MCA, M.Sc |
Job Location | Delhi |
Apply Mode | Offline |
Last Date | 15 days |
Official Website | sgtbkhalsadu.ac.in |
Vacancy Details of SGTB Khalsa College Jobs 2019
Librarian: 1
Administrative Officer: 1
Senior Technical Assistant: 1
Museum Curator: 1
Junior Assistant: 3
Library Attendant: 3
Laboratory Attendant: 31
Total: 41 Posts
Eligibility Criteria
Interested Job Aspirants who are ready to apply for Sri Guru Tegh Bahadur Khalsa College 2019 Notification must possess the below-given Eligibility Details.
Educational Qualifications
Interested candidates those want to apply for SGTB Khalsa College Non Teaching posts should have completed 10th, 12th, Graduation, Masters, B.E, B.Tech, MCA, M.Sc from Recognized Board/University. For Detailed Eligibility please go through Official Notification
Age Limit
Applicants Age should be 35 Years. Please go through SGTB Khalsa College official Notification 2019 for more Details and Age Relaxation
Salary Details for SGTB Khalsa College Non Teaching Jobs
Selected candidates will get Rs.5,200 to Rs.39,100/- Per Month by the Recruiting Organization.
Selection Process
Selection of Candidates for Non Teaching posts will be done as per following stages- Eligible candidates will be selected on the basis of performance in Written Test/ Interview
Application Fee
Refer Official Notification
How to Apply for SGTB Khalsa College Jobs
Eligible and Interested Aspirants are requested to Download Application Form from Below link of sgtbkhalsadu.ac.in Website and Submit it to the mentioned Address before the Last Date i.e., 15 days.
Important Dates for SGTB Khalsa College Recruitment 2019
Starting Date of Application: 01-04-2019
Closing Date of Application: 15 days
Important Links for SGTB Khalsa College Job Application
Official Notification: Click Here
Application Form Download: Click Here


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The Unified Identity Protocol (UIP) is an implementation of Self Sovereign Identity (SSI) for people, organisations, and things. The protocol is an implementation of the W3C proposed standards for Decentralized Identifiers (DID), Verifiable Credentials and other proposed decentralized identity standards. It is implemented using the IOTA Distributed Ledger Technology (DLT) as a neutral, open and decentralized network. The UIP core implementation is initially driven by the IOTA Foundation (IF).
IOTA is an open-source distributed ledger built with the Internet of Things in mind. It can be leveraged for a number of purposes, including feeless microtransactions and messaging with data integrity.
Tangle Identity provides a toolkit to foster the adoption of the Unified Identity Protocol (UIP), an implementation of the Self Sovereign Identity (SSI) concept based on the IOTA Distributed LedgerTechnology (DLT).
The Tangle Identity project consists of several components including a high-level implementation of the UIP core, examples and documentation. Any Self Sovereign Identity project can only become a success as code solutions become possible, alongside a strong effort for adoption. The toolkit lowers the barrier-to-entry and fosters adoption. An initial whitepaper about the subject of SSI and a Unified Identity solution can be found here.
In scope:
Development of the code for Tangle Identity
Develop a high-level protocol
Create tutorials and code samples
Develop tools and applications
Educate and experiment through the publication of thought leadership
Write whitepaper(s) to compliment code
Explore specific cases per industry
Build and demonstrate interoperability with complementary technologies
Contribute to the development of the Unified Identity Protocol
This project provides a quick entry point for developers exploring decentralized identity and allows them to rapidly prototype concepts and business models. The governance framework and guidance of the Eclipse Foundation will help to ensure that development meets the requirements of the wider community. Equally, Tangle Identity will introduce a layer of digital trust to the existing Eclipse ecosystem.
An initial implementation of the UIP can be found here https://github.com/iotaledger/identity.ts, however, this is considered an experimental implementation. Development of a Rust codebase is in a planning phase and will be started soon, enabled by IOTA's Request for Comment process (see https://github.com/iotaledger/protocol-rfcs). Some extra details about the roadmap of UIP can be found on https://roadmap.iota.org/digital-identity.
The Tangle Identity project's components will be developed in parallel to the core protocol.


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Space Needle New Year's fireworks are canceled (again), to 'go virtual' this year; COVID outbreak at a WA Frito-Lay plant; police pepper-spray and topple an old man with PTSD at a Capitol Hill protest; can the unfinished Convention Center expansion plan be redirected?
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NWC Naturals Total-Biotics Powder, is a specially formulated pet probiotic supplement containing 14 species of productive, live, high potency and stabilized probiotics! Total-Biotics has 1 billion CFUs (colony forming units) in each scoop for maximum protection and gut colonization. Total-Biotics contains patented ingredients and a stabilized Glutamine that helps heal the gut. A proprietary activation system called L.E.A.D.S (Live Enzyme Activated Delivery System) ensures delivery and colonization of the probiotics.
Total-Biotics helps with; improved digestive health, yeast and candida overgrowth, skin and coat problems, excessive shedding, immune disorders, slow healing, excessive shedding and removes toxins from the body.
The 14 specific strains of probiotics contained in Total-Biotics are:
1) Acidophilus DDS-1 strain— Acidophilus is probably one of the most effective probiotic strains researched today. Known as the "sticker strain" it defends against the greatest number of pathogens; inhibiting 11 disease-causing bacteria. It earned its reputation as the sticker strain as it has the ability to cling to the intestinal wall without causing harm. Acidophilus literally eats away at bacteria as it moves through the stomach into the intestines. Without causing disruption to the digestive tract it reduces the occurrence of diarrhea and constipation, increases the nutrient uptake, and alleviates dermatitis and other skin and coat conditions.
2) B. Bifidum— Attaches to the walls of the large intestine and vaginal tract removing yeast and preventing bacteria to grow. It also modifies intestinal flora, protects against liver problems and controls diarrhea and other intestinal disturbances.
3) Bacillus Coagulans— improves the vaginal flora as well as reducing abdominal pain and bloating and increases immune response to viral challenges. It has been approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and the European Union (EU) for veterinary purposes and is listed by the AAFCO for use as a direct fed microbial in livestock production.
4) Bifidobacterium Breve— Bifidobacterium helps to modulate the systemic and local immune responses, as well as being involved in the production of vitamins. Bifidobacterium may also help in a range of health effects such as inhibition of pathogens, regulation of intestinal microbial homeostasis and inhibits pathogens and bacteria from colonizing in the gut.
5) B. Lactis— (B. Animalis). Found in the large intestines and previously known as two separate species, B. Lactis and B. animalis are now considered B. animalis with the subspecies Bifidobacterium animalis subspecies animalis and Bifidobacterium animalis subspecies lactis. Both names B. animalis and B. lactis are still used on product labels.
6) B. Longum— Studies have shown that B Longum significantly inhibits the growth of cancers in colon and liver . It also aids in keeping the colon and live healthy by cleansing.
7) L. Brevis— Lactobacillus brevis is a species of lactic acid bacteria. It is a probiotic that is known for improving the immune system.
8) L. Casei— works as one of the great defenders against Listeria bacteria.
9) L. Plantarum— L. Plantarum reduces inflammation in the body and helps to break down proteins into usable nutrients.
10) L. Rhamnosus — Highly studied, Rhamnosus is known for its potency in treating gastrointestinal disorders. It's also effective against yeast and urinary tract infections.
11) L. Salivarius - Research has shown that Salivarius produces high amounts of lactic acid which works to reduce inflammation.
12) Lactococcus Lactis— Reduces inflammation as well as helping to maintain normal intestinal flora.
13) S. Thermophilus— Contains antioxidants that work to protect against toxins found in most common pet foods. It also alleviates pain associated with arthritis and repairs free radical damage from antibiotics, stress and aging.
14) L. Bulgaricus— Lactobacillus bulgaricus is found in naturally fermented products such as yogurt, it feeds on lactose to produce lactic acid.
Also contains:
- Pre-biotics - Inulin IQ FOS (Fructooligosaccharides)
- MGG Chelate
- Live Enzyme Activated Delivery System® (L.E.A.D.S)
Sugested Use: 1 scoop (approximately 625 mg) per cup of pet food.


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- Research article
- Open access
- Published:
Cancer associated fibroblasts (CAFs) are activated in cutaneous basal cell carcinoma and in the peritumoural skin
BMC Cancer volume 17, Article number: 675 (2017)
Cutaneous basal cell carcinoma (BCC) is the commonest cancer worldwide. BCC is locally invasive and the surrounding stromal microenvironment is pivotal for tumourigenesis. Cancer associated fibroblasts (CAFs) in the microenvironment are essential for tumour growth in a variety of neoplasms but their role in BCC is poorly understood.
Material included facial BCC and control skin from the peritumoural area and from the buttocks. With next-generation sequencing (NGS) we compared mRNA expression between BCC and peritumoural skin. qRT-PCR, immunohistochemical and immunofluorescent staining were performed to validate the NGS results and to investigate CAF-related cyto-and chemokines.
NGS revealed upregulation of 65 genes in BCC coding for extracellular matrix components pointing at CAF-related matrix remodeling. qRT-PCR showed increased mRNA expression of CAF markers FAP-α, PDGFR-β and prolyl-4-hydroxylase in BCC. Peritumoural skin (but not buttock skin) also exhibited high expression of PDGFR-β and prolyl-4-hydroxylase but not FAP-α. We found a similar pattern for the CAF-associated chemokines CCL17, CCL18, CCL22, CCL25, CXCL12 and IL6 with high expression in BCC and peritumoural skin but absence in buttock skin. Immunofluorescence revealed correlation between FAP-α and PDGFR-β and CXCL12 and CCL17.
Matrix remodeling is the most prominent molecular feature of BCC. CAFs are present within BCC stroma and associated with increased expression of chemokines involved in tumour progression and immunosuppression (CXCL12, CCL17). Fibroblasts from chronically sun-exposed skin near tumours show gene expression patterns resembling that of CAFs, indicating that stromal fibroblasts in cancer-free surgical BCC margins exhibit a tumour promoting phenotype.
Basal cell carcinoma (BCC) of the skin is the most frequent cancer worldwide and the incidence is increasing [1]. BCC is locally invasive and the microenvironment surrounding BCC is crucial for the tumourigenesis, which was emphasised by auto-transplantation experiments where human BCC failed to grow in the absence of stroma [2]. In particular, fibroblasts in the surrounding tumour stroma seem essential for a variety of neoplasms [3, 4]. These cancer associated fibroblasts (CAFs) are characterised by a distinct activated phenotype and by expression of a variety of markers, such as fibroblast activated protein-α (FAP-α) and platelet-derived growth factor receptor β (PDGRF-β) [3]. Production of extracellular matrix components and cytokine secretion are some of the mechanism induced by CAF to promote tumour growth [5]. The role of CAFs has been widely investigated in breast cancer where they promote tumour growth via interaction with neoplastic cells [5]. Interestingly, not only CAFs within or immediately adjacent to tumour but also CAFs from cancer-free tissue adjacent to tumour exhibited tumour-promotion [6]. Cross-talk between BCC and CAFs and related matrix-remodeling is suggested [7] but this has not been extensively studied.
With this study we show, by the use of next-generation sequencing (NGS), that the most predominant genes expressed in BCC are involved in matrix remodeling. The findings of CAFs also in the peritumoural skin suggest CAFs to mediate an environment susceptible to skin cancer development and recurrence.
The study was approved by the Danish Regional Ethics Committee, protocol number: H-4-2013-197 and the Danish Data Protection Agency, journal number: BBH-2014-008, I-Suite: 02675. All participants gave signed informed consent.
Material consisted of facial BCC and peritumoural skin obtained during Mohs surgery and 4 mm punch biopsies from the buttock collected at the Department of Dermatology, Bispebjerg University Hospital, Denmark. All BCCs were clinically nodular BCCs. The peritumoural skin was taken after complete removal (microscopically verified) of cancerous tissue. For qRT-PCR we included skin from 18 patients (Table 1) from BCC, peritumoural skin and buttock skin. Since the RNA yield was lower for the buttock skin, not all qRT-PCR analyses could be performed for this group. For each analysis, the exact number of buttock samples is mentioned in the figure legend. Material for immunohistochemical staining was taken from the same samples as the ones for qRT-PCR by splitting the material in two and embedding half for immunohistochemistry in Tissue-Tek (Sakura, Leiden, Netherlands) while immediately freezing the other half for qRT-PCR in −80 °C until analysis. For NGS we included BCC and peritumoural skin from additional four patients taken during Mohs surgery and snap frozen at −80 °C until analysis.
Quantitative real-time PCR (qRT-PCR)
The frozen skin material (BCC, peritumoral skin and buttock skin) including both the dermal and epidermal part, that was frozen until qRT-PCR analysis, was thawed in RNA later (Sigma, St. Louis MO, USA) and minced into 1 mm pieces. The method was performed as described previously [8]. All analyses were run as triplicates. The primer-probes used were: GAPDH (HS02758991_g1), IL6 (HS00985639_m1), CD3 (HS00174158_m1), CXCL12 (HS03676656_mH), CXCR4 (HS00607978_s1), CCL11 (HS_00237013_m1), CCL17 (HS00171074_m1), CCL18 (HS00268113_m1), CCL22 (HS01574247_m1), CCL25 (HS00608373_m1), PDGFRβ (HS01019589_m1), FAP-α (HS00990806_m1), Collagen 11A (HS01097664_m1) and P4HA2 (HS00990001_m1). The data obtained from CC17, CCL18, and CCL22 analyses have previously been published together with data on T-regs [8]. Obtained data were analysed by the ∆∆CT method [9, 10] with GAPDH as housekeeping reference gene.
Immunohistochemistry and immunofluorescence
For immunohistochemical staining, 10 μm sections were cut from the embedded tissue blocks on a Microm HM560 cryostat and mounted on glass slides for immunohistochemical and immunofluorescent stainings. For 3,3′-Diaminobenzidine (DAB) (Dako, Glostrup, Denmark) stainings, the sections were fixed using acetone at -20o C for 10 min. Endogenous peroxidase activity was quenched using 0.3% H2O2 (Merck, Millipore, Darmstadt, Germany) in PBS for 15 min at room temperature (RT) in the dark. The sections were blocked in 10% horse serum (Gibco, Fisher Scientific, New Zealand) and 1% bovine serum albumin (BSA) (Sigma, St. Louis MO, USA) in PBS for 1 h at RT and followed by incubation with the primary antibody (rabbit anti-FAP-α (1:100, LS-C313051, LSBio, Seattle, USA), mouse anti- CXCL12 (1:40, MAB350, R & D systems, Oxon, UK), rabbit anti-Collagen 11A (1:100, ab64883, Abcam, Cambridge, UK), rabbit anti-CXCR4 (1:400, AHP442, AbD Serotec, Oxford, UK), rabbit anti-IL6 (1:600, ab6672, Abcam), rabbit anti-PDGFRβ (1:100, LS-C312148, LSBio), mouse anti-CCL17 (1:80, LS-C198166, LSBio), mouse anti-CCL22 (1:100, MAB336, R & D systems) or rabbit anti-P4HA2 (1:80, LS-C91131, LSBio)) diluted in 1%BSA in PBS over night at 4 °C. Incubation with secondary antibody (goat anti-rabbit HRP (1:200, P0448, Dako), goat anti-mouse HRP (1:200, P0447, Dako)) diluted in 10% horse serum and 1% BSA in PBS for 40 min at RT was performed. DAB was added to visualise the staining and the sections were incubated with haematoxylin for 1 min followed by coverslipping with glycergel mounting medium (Dako).
For immunofluorescence (IF) stainings, sections were fixed and blocked as described above (peroxidase quenching step was omitted) followed by incubation with combinations of two primary antibodies (rabbit anti-FAP-α (1:200, LS-C313051, LSBio), mouse anti-CCL17 (1:80, LS-C198166, LSBio) PCGFR-β (1:100, LS-C312148, LSBio), CXCL12 (1:40, MAB350, R & D systems, Oxon, UK), CCL22 (1:100, MAB336, R & D systems)) diluted in blocking solution overnight at 4 °C. Incubation with secondary antibodies (goat anti-rabbit Alexa568 (1:500, A11036, Life Technologies) and/or goat anti-mouse Alexa488 (1:500, A11001, Life Technologies, Thermo Fischer Scientific)) diluted in 1% BSA in PBS was then performed for 1 h at RT in the dark. This was followed by incubation with 0.5 μg/ml 4′,6-Diamino-2-phenylindole (DAPI) (Sigma) and coverslipping with glycergel mounting medium.
Transcriptome sequencing
Large RNAs were extracted and isolated from the samples using the NucleoSpin® miRNA kit [11] following the protocol for purification of small and large RNA in separate fractions but skipping the DNA digestion step. The frozen tissue samples were cut into smaller pieces on dry ice, transferred to lysis buffer containing two stainless steel beads of 2–3 mm in diameter, and homogenised using the TissueLyser II (Quiagen, Hilden, Germany) prior to extraction. For each sample, 5 μl extract were DNase treated for 30 min at 37° with 1 μl TURBO DNase enzyme (ThermoFisher, www.thermofisher.com) in a total volume of 50 μl. The RNA was subsequently purified using the RNeasy MinElute Cleanup Kit (Quiagen). Libraries were prepared from 100 ng of RNA, using the ScriptSeq v2 RNA-Seq Library Preparation kit (Epicentre, Illumina, www.illumina.com), following the manufacturer's guidelines, and with 12 cycles of PCR amplification. Paired-end sequencing of 100 base pairs was performed on the Illumina HiSeq 2000 platform, yielding more than 380 million paired-end sequence reads (Additional file 1: Table S1). Removal of adapters, quality trimming and merging of paired reads was carried out using open-source AdapterRemoval software [12]. Reads were mapped onto the human genome (assembly version hg19) using the RNA-seq aligner RNAstar [13]. Potential PCR duplicate reads were discarded using the rmdup function in samtools [14]. Whereas approximately 97% of all reads mapped to the human genome, duplicate reads constituted a significant fraction leaving only around 48 million unique reads (Additional file 1: Table S1). From this mapping, transcript abundance was estimated running FLUX CAPACITOR [15] provided with the GENCODE gene annotation [16]. The raw number of reads assigned to each transcript by FLUX CAPACITOR was used as input for EdgeR (Version 3.2, Bioconductor) [17].
Statistical analysis
Statistical analyses were performed by unpaired Students t-test (normal distributed data) or Mann-Whitney U test (non-normal distributed data) using GraphPad Prism 4 (GraphPad software Inc., CA, USA). Statistical significance was set at P < 0.05.
The NGS data were analysed following estimation of dispersions, and genes differentially expressed between BCC and peritumoural skin were tested using the ExactTest function in EdgeR.
mRNA expression analysis with NGS identifies remodeling of extracellular matrix in BCC
Analysis of mRNA expression was investigated by RNA sequencing, revealing upregulation of 542 genes in BCC, for number of reads see Additional file 1: Table S1. Of these, 65 genes were coding for extracellular matrix components or enzymes involved in matrix metabolism such as metalloproteinases (Additional file 2: Table S2) like WNT1-inducible-signaling pathway protein 1 (WISP-1), extracellular matrix protein 1, and matrix metallopeptidases (European Nucleotide Archive (http://www.ebi.ac.uk/ena), accession PRJEB12664). The expression pattern reflected the hallmarks of matrix remodeling seen in other cancer types, such as overexpression of lysol oxidase-like 2 (LOXL2), fibronectin, proteoglycans, factors involved in epithelial to mesenchymal transition such as lymphoid enhancer binding factor (LEF) [18,19,20] and αVβ6-integrin and collagen types VI and XI not normally encountered in skin [21]. Overexpression of prolyl-4-hydroxylase (P4H) and (PDGFR-β) in BCC pointed at a high level of CAFs.
Identification of CAFs in BCC and peritumoural skin
CAFs are recognised by the expression of several markers including FAP-α, PDGFR-β and P4H [22, 23]. Genes from the latter two markers were found upregulated in our mRNA expression analysis. For validation of the NGS data and further investigation, the mRNA levels of FAP-α, PDGFR-β and P4H as well as collagen XIA in BCC, peritumoural skin and normal, non-UV exposed buttock skin were evaluated by the use of qRT-PCR. For most genes a consistent expression pattern was observed with the highest expression of CAF markers within BCC, followed by peritumoural skin and very low or no expression in the normal buttock skin (Fig. 1). FAP-α expression was only seen within BCC.
To identify the localisation of the CAFs we performed immunohistochemical staining for FAP-α, PDGFR-β, P4H and Collagen XIA. FAP-α, collagen XIA, P4H and PDGFR-β positive cells were highly abundant within the BCC tumour islands and in the near tumour periphery. Staining of the peritumoural skin also revealed FAP-α, collagen XIA, P4H and PDGFR-β positive cells, although not as numerous as in BCC. In the normal buttock skin, we identified a smaller amount of PDGFR-β and P4H positive cells in the epidermis but no collagen XIA or FAP-α positive cells (Fig. 2).
CAFs are a source cytokines and chemokines involved in tumour progression and local immunosuppression
Apart from the role in the synthesis of aberrant matrix components, CAFs can modulate the tumour microenvironment by producing chemokines and cytokines affecting the anti-tumour immune response [3, 7]. We performed qRT-PCR to detect the chemokine and cytokine mRNA levels in BCC, peritumoural-and buttock skin for the following genes: IL6, CXCL12, CCL17, CCL18, CCL22 and CCL25. These genes were selected since previous studies have pointed to them being involved in CAF-mediated tumour progression [6, 24, 25] or to the ability of these chemokines to attract regulatory T-cells (T-regs) [26,27,28]. For all cytokines and chemokines investigated, we found a high expression in BCC and/or peritumoural skin and barely any in the buttock skin (Fig. 3).
CXCL12, CCL17 and CCL22 play a role in the recruitment of T-regs to tumour sites and thereby inhibition of anti-tumour response [26,27,28]. We have previously shown an increased T-reg accumulation in relation to BCC7 and this led us to investigate a correlation between CAFs and T-reg attraction. IF double staining of FAP-α/CXCL12, FAP-α/CCL17, FAP-α/CCL22, as well as PDGFR-β/CCL17 and PDGFR-β/CCL22 were performed.The IF stainings indicated correlation between FAP-α/CXCL12 and FAP-α/CCL17 as well as PDGFR-β/CCL17 (Fig. 4), whereas no correlation was found between CCL22 and CAF markers. These findings support the hypothesis that CAFs mediate tumour progression by production of the T-reg chemotaxis CCL17 and CXCL12.
It is becoming evident that cancer development is dependent not only on neoplastic cells but is co-mediated by the tumour microenvironment [29]. For many cancer types, CAFs are essential contributors to tumour progression [3, 6]. The role of CAFs in BCC has not been investigated in detail. Lacina et al. suggested that fibroblasts from BCC play a regulatory role in BCC since they were capable of influencing growth and phenotype of normal cultured keratinocytes [30]. Our study provide further support to the concept that CAFs are involved in pathogenesis of BCC. We found increased expression of CAF-associated markers within BCC as well as in the peritumoural cancer-free tissue in contrast to absence of CAF-markers in the normal, non-UV exposed buttock skin. The mRNA expression of FAP-α was specific to BCC highlighting a pivotal role of FAP-α expressing CAFs in the development of BCC. The expression of PDGFR-β and P4H positive cells was found both within BCC as well as in the peritumoural cancer-free skin surrounding BCC. This indicates, as is the case for breast cancer [6], that fibroblasts in peritumoural skin exhibit a specific gene expression pattern intermediate between those of CAFs in BCC and normal fibroblasts (from buttock skin).
CAF-mediated tumour progression is exerted in many ways with chemokine and cytokine secretion being an essential contributor. In pancreatic cancer, CAF-induced IL6 secretion promotes cancer cell migration [24] and CAF-secreted CCL18 has been shown to promote tumour invasion in breast and ovarian cancer [25, 31]. Furthermore, CCL25 can mediate migration, invasion and matrix metalloproteinase expression in breast cancer cell lines [32]. With this study we found increased expression of CCL18 and CCL25 in BCC and peritumoural skin supporting a role for these chemokines in the pathogenesis of BCC. Increased IL-6 expression was found primarily in the peritumoural skin suggesting an impact of IL6 mainly in the peritumoural skin and a possible correlation to PDGRF-β and P4H, but not FAP-α expressing CAFs. This predominance of IL6 in the peritumoural surroundings is supported by a previously described role for IL-6 in mediating epithelial to mesenchymal transition [33].
Hindering the entry of T-cells into tumours or inactivating them could additionally be a CAF-mediated contributor to ineffective anti-tumour immune surveillance. CXCL12 is a chemokine causing direct immunosuppression via immobilisation of T-cells [32]. CXCL12 has been extensively studied and shown to be released by CAFs causing premalignant activities in tumour cells and in the cells of the tumour milieu [34, 35]. We found a high expression of CXCL12 in the peritumoural skin but low expression within BCC highlighting a role for CXCL12 primarily in the tumour microenvironment surrounding BCC. Accumulation of T-regs via CAF- secreted chemokines could also be orchestrated to avoid anti-tumour response. CXCL12, CCL22 and CCL17 have been described as critical factors for T-reg attraction in different cancer types [36, 37]. We have previously shown increased fraction of T-regs within BCC and in the peritumoural skin [8]. With this study, we demonstrate a possible correlation between CAFs and CXCL12 and CCL17 supporting the hypothesis of CAFs being involved in T-reg attraction. However, this possible correlation was demonstrated by IF only, and further studies are needed to understand mutual regulatory relationships between T-regs and CAFs.
Apart from increased CAF expression in relation to BCC, our study also demonstrated features of matrix remodeling with an important contributor being overexpression of collagen XI. Overexpression of this collagen has been shown to promote tumour progression and to be associated with poor outcome in many cancer types and is suggested as a target for future cancer therapy [21, 38]. To our knowledge, the presence of collagen XI in BCC has not previously been described. Our results clearly demonstrate increased collagen XI expression primarily within BCC but also in the peritumoural cancer-free tissue. In the normal buttock skin however, collagen XI expression was completely absent. Collagen XI has been assigned a metastatic potential for other cancer types [39]. BCC rarely metastasises and the abundance of this collagen within BCC might be an important mediator of local invasive growth. This, however, needs further investigation.
The tumour seed and soil hypothesis claims that for a tumour to grow, the microenvironment has to be susceptible [40]. Most reports claim CAFs to be initiated by tumour cells but there is evidence that CAFs are activated at an early stage contributing to tumour initiation [41]. The phenotype of the CAFs in the tumour-near skin intermediate between CAFs in BCC and fibroblasts in the normal skin could be mediated through secreted molecules able to diffuse from cancer cells through normal cells in the tumour periphery, without direct contact to the cancer cells [6]. The peritumoural skin in the present study was taken often >0.5 cm from the BCC rendering this mechanism unlikely. We hypothesise, that chronic UV-exposure partly mediates this induction of CAFs generating a tumour friendly microenvironment where neoplastic cells thrive. This could partly be caused by increased IL6 expression mediated by UV-exposure [42] since in cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma IL6 has been shown to be tumour-promoting by induction of CAFs [43]. In our study, we found a high expression of IL6 in the peritumoural skin, whereas IL6 was almost absent within BCC and completely absent in the non-UV-exposed buttock skin. This highly increased expression of IL6 in the tumour periphery might be a result of chronic UV exposure contributing to the shift in fibroblast phenotype. Regardless of whether CAFs in the peritumoural skin are induced by long-term UV-induced immunosuppression or by the neoplastic BCC cells, peritumoural CAFs could mediate an environment susceptible to skin cancer development or recurrence.
In summary, we have shown features of matrix remodeling in BCC. Furthermore, we found that CAFs are abundant in BCC and may impact anti-tumour response by secretion of pro-carcinogenic cytokines and chemokines. Peritumoural skin also contains active, chemokine-secreting CAFs which could mediate an environment susceptible to skin cancer development or recurrence. However, further functional studies are needed to clarify the role of CAFs in BCC.
Change history
30 January 2018
After publication of the original article [1] it was identified that order of the author list had been presented incorrectly. The author Robert Gniadecki's surname was also incorrect in the original article.
Basal cell carcinoma
- CAFs:
Cancer associated fibroblasts
- FAP-α:
Fibroblast activated protein-α
Next-generation sequencing
- PDGRF-β:
Platelet-derived growth factor receptor β
- Regulatory T-cells:
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We would like to thank everyone at the Mohs Team, Department of Dermatology, Bispebjerg Hospital for invaluable help with collecting material.
The Beckett Foundation, Denmark funded part of the study. The funders were not involved in study planning or conduction, or manuscript preparation/publication decisions.
Availability of data and materials
The mapped read sequences supporting the conclusions of this article are available at the European Nucleotide Archive (http://www.ebi.ac.uk/ena), accession PRJEB12664. The remaining datasets generated and/or analysed during the current study are not publicly available due to the regulation of the Danish Regional Ethics Committee but are available from the corresponding author on reasonable request.
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Authors and Affiliations
SHO collected all data, planned the study, performed some of the laboratory work and wrote the manuscript. EEW was responsible for the majority of the mRNA analysis work and the statistical analysis as well as the IHC and IF, TM and AJH were responsible for and performed the analysis of the NGS data and statistics regarding this, SM and MA performed all the laboratory work with regards to NGS and prepared the mRNA libraries for NGS, RG was the main responsible for the idea, was involved in analyzing data and was a co-writer of the manuscript. All authors have contributed to and accepted the final manuscript.
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The study was approved by the Danish Regional Ethics Committee, protocol number: H-4-2013-197 and the Danish Data Protection Agency, journal number: BBH-2014-008, I-Suite: 02675.
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Additional information
The original article has been corrected to update the name Robert Gniadecki, and include the correct author list.
A correction to this article is available online at https://doi.org/10.1186/s12885-018-3987-4.
Additional files
Additional file 1: Table S1.
The number of reads in the mRNA sequencing analysis and the following reads that were actually mapped. Whereas approximately 97% of all reads mapped to the human genome, duplicate reads constituted a significant fraction leaving only around 48 million unique reads. (DOCX 33 kb)
Additional file 2: Table S2.
The list contains the 65 genes coding for extracellular matrix components or enzymes involved in matrix metabolism that were found upregulated in BCC. (DOCX 18 kb)
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Omland, S., Wettergren, E., Mollerup, S. et al. Cancer associated fibroblasts (CAFs) are activated in cutaneous basal cell carcinoma and in the peritumoural skin. BMC Cancer 17, 675 (2017). https://doi.org/10.1186/s12885-017-3663-0
DOI: https://doi.org/10.1186/s12885-017-3663-0


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The Fransalian priest mixed music and education admirably. As an educationist, he served as a principal of various schools – SFX High School in Siolim, St Thomas High School in Aldona and St Francis de Sales High school, which he had founded in Pune. He was also the principal of St Francis de Assisi High School at Shivaji Nagar in the same city.
He played the saxophone famously along with Tony Dias, Victor, Desmond, Abel, Michael, Julius and Stella until 1989 played for the inimitable Cascades outfit, the envy of every band and the automatic choice for the most prominent dances and shows in Goa.
While Fr Archie played, he believed that "there are hundreds of eyes following you… a priest playing saxophone on stage." Music and preaching, though disparate, helped him "induce them with a bit of spirituality and certain values and often establishing fine camaraderie by mixing freely with the members of other participating bands". Being a music teacher, the group could not hope for a better guide and mentor than Fr Archie. He bemoaned the fact that there were "extraordinarily talented musicians among the priests", who did not venture out to play". Fr Archie preferred to be unusual. He even played for the Grease for two years while in Muscat.
The revered bandleader's father – Manuel Fernandes – played the flute and his mother – Petronila (Nelly) – excelled at the keyboards as does his sister Sheila. Archie and his brothers (Eddie and Ronnie) plumped for the haunting harmony of the saxophone. The eminent tunesmith regaled music aficionados throughout his priesthood. Even when he was being ordained priest 1965, he was in the thick of music. His quarters at the Fransalian seminary at Bastora was always strewn with a variety of musical instruments as he took pride in preparing youngsters in music.
The ever jovial Fr Archie, suffered his sickness stoically for quite some time, and eventually signed off from planet Earth, for greener pastures up in heaven on May 13. With his immense experience at entertaining thousands with ethereal music, his former associates in music vouch for the fact that their beloved mentor - Fr Archie - would be as much happy, busy and in hi demand in Lord's abode as he used to be here in His vineyard. Fr Archie's mortal remains will be laid to rest on May 15 in Pune.


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Best Asphalt Sealcoating Company in Irving
What Is the Purpose of Sealcoating?Applying a proper sealcoat to your asphalt pavement is important in terms of keeping it looking clean, new, and preventing damages from water, UV rays, and traffic. Asphalt is a durable, long-lasting material, but even it isn't immune to wear over time. Generally, your asphalt pavement should last you somewhere between 15-30 years, but you can essentially guarantee your pavement will live up to the higher end of the spectrum with basic preventative maintenance.
Sealcoating provides a thin protective liquid layer that, once dried, will keep your asphalt looking rich and new, as well as keep water from seeping into the pavement and damaging the base layers of the asphalt, and prevent cracks from growing and becoming major hazards down the road. Will You Extend the Life of Asphalt by Sealcoating?As time passes, and the use of your asphalt pavement increases, it's normal for cracks and fissures to appear. The sun, water damage, and use will make your rich black pavement fade over time, as well as slowly erode the surface. Your pavement should last you somewhere in the realm of 15-30 years, but allowing everyday wear and tear to occur without the proper maintenance will decrease the lifespan.
Luckily, there's an easy, inexpensive way to keep large cracks from growing, fill up small, innocuous cracks before they become bigger problems, and overall extend the life of your asphalt. The liquid layer that sealcoating provides keeps UV rays from damaging and fading the pavement, and, most importantly, will keep water out. Water is a real threat to the integrity of your asphalt, and when cracks are left alone to grow, it means water seeping into these cracks can cause a lot of damage. Instead of letting cracks, fissures, and potholes grow and damage your asphalt, take proactive measures, and put a well-applied layer of sealcoating on your pavement. This will protect it from normal wear and tear and will keep it looking and feeling strong, overall increasing its lifespan. Major Benefits of SealcoatingOf course, the main benefit of sealcoating asphalt is that it will last longer. It will prevent erosion from vehicle and foot traffic, protect from water damage and fluid leaking from vehicles, and create a clean, black surface that's ideal for sweeping or marking with paint if you're working with a parking lot.
The real benefit to sealcoating, however, is how cost-effective it is. Leaving pavement to endure harsh weather and lots of traffic means costly repairs down the road, and potentially having to replace the whole thing well before its time. Sealcoating is a relatively inexpensive preventative measure, and it's much better to spend a little money now protecting the pavement than it is to spend much more on costly crack and fissure repairs later on. If you're concerned about aesthetics and the look of your pavement, that's just another reason to apply a good sealcoat. It will put the rich black color back into your faded pavement, keeping it looking beautiful and new. Sealcoating is an easy way to keep damages from affecting your pavement, and what's even better, it's relatively low-cost. Don't let wear and tear become larger problems than they should be—sealcoat your asphalt and rest easy knowing your pavement is well-protected. Providing Excellent Paving Contracting Services
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With DNA infused with movie metaness and blood (lots and lots of blood) that runs with the spirit of video games, Zombieland 2: Double Tap knows how to do a sequel: make tweaks, aim for bigger and better, but don't mess with a successful formula.
The 2009 original was a perfectly enclosed tale that seems an unnecessary and unlikely candidate for a sequel given the future paths of its stars. It stands almost near Shaun of the Dead at the pinnacle of the zomedy genre – neck snappingly smartmouthed, explosive chemistry between its Academy Award-nominated and winning cast, screen-splattering comedy gore, and one of the greatest cameos in recent memory. It's no bad thing to say we get that all and more again in part two. Director Ruben Fleischer returns, as do original writers Rhett Reese and Paul Wernick, who most recently wrote the Deadpool films, which clown around in very much the same action comedy playground.
Even if it's been ten years in our world, its only been a few in Zombieland. The original gang, Tallahassee (Woody Harrelson), Columbus (Jesse Eisenberg), and Wichita (Emma Stone) all look exactly the same, while Little Rock (Abigail Breslin) has grown up. In meta voiceover ("Unless you're watching in a 4D theatre, you have no idea how bad Zombieland smells") we're told how the unconventional family has spent its time, killing their way across the country to set up camp at America's most famous home, The White House. In the meantime the zombies have been evolving into different types, including "the ninja", while the group's relationships have been evolving too. Columbus and Wichita have settled down – which might feel more like being trapped for one of them – and Tallahassee has taken on more of a dad role to Little Rock, his joy at killing zombies matched by his over-the-top protectiveness of who he sees as his adoptive daughter. Columbus still has his rules to survive by, but it's not long before the girls revert to their own rule of "Don't get close to anyone" and take off. This leads to more road trip action that introduces us to the hilariously dumb Madison (Zoey Deutch), a kickass Rosario Dawson, a hippie commune, big set pieces, last minutes saves, numerous call backs, and lots and lots of zombie kills, including the great little side sketches showing the "Zombie Kill of the Year" winners.
Eisenberg hones his performance and Harrelson is brilliantly caustic, but Breslin struggles to make any kind of an impact. Really though, this is Stone's time, returning to her comedic roots that are every bit as good as her dramatic roles, with perfect comedy timing and superb facial reactions. She's only run close by Deutch in a role that is surely funnier that what was originally on the page. Fleischer is in his element in the balance of action and comedy (which wasn't quite there in last year's Venom), and he has nice control of the pacing throughout, smartly avoiding the bloat that most films suffer from right now, running at a lean 93 minutes. Zombieland 2: Double Tap is just as fun the second time round.
Zombieland: Double Tap is in cinemas from 17th October through Sony Pictures.


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This online meeting of TNUF was, rather like the recent NNUF (previously reported on), yet another example of how not to use the available technology – in this case a voice only system was used, with most users being muted until being asked if they had any queries following EA presentations. Those who said they did were then noted and given time to comment but there was really no opportunity for any proper debate, and most queries answered by "we will take that up after the meeting".
In truth, most of the material presented was a rerun of the NNUF materials with of course, more reference to the Thames situation. I must say, though, that this time the EA presenters did try not to just read through their previously provided material but to give what proved to be good summaries. The overview of Thames work being undertaken now and in the near future was particularly impressive and it is clear that the additional funding provided was being well used.
Of special interest to me was the presentation by the MD of District Enforcement, the car-parking company awarded (in somewhat odd and non-user consulted) circumstances, the contact to monitor and then enforce short-term moorings on the majority of EA's Thames' sites. The give-away for me was one of his written statements that an aim and objective of the contract was to "increase the number of enforcement actions, particularly the service of Mooring Charge Notices". Of course, this does reflect the nature of the contract in that DE makes its income from this work primarily through user "fines" for overstaying. When I queried this as a "prime objective" of the contract I was told by the chair that the EA feels that it was quite appropriate to operate a car-parking approach to their moorings, and if users chose to overstay, then the proposed charges were fully acceptable.
In truth, to my surprise, I appeared to be one of few user representatives who were concerned about this matter and I can only conclude that most Thames users are happy with this approach?
Mike Rodd


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One important component of the work with quality assurance at Linköping University are the quality-assurance processes, the purpose of which is to ensure, in a systematic manner, that education at all levels maintains a high quality. These processes also form the starting point for LiU's model for the quality assurance of the education. The model for quality assurance is consistent throughout the university, and its task is to contribute to ensuring that all education maintains a high quality.
The vice-chancellor has the final responsibility that the education given by Linköping University maintains a high quality, and by delegation, the responsibility for the work with quality assurance passes to the three faculty boards and the area board for educational sciences. The organisational model that LiU uses means that the faculties and departments have considerable freedom to decide how quality promotion is to be organised, while the system for quality assurance is uniform across the university. A uniform model for quality assurance at LiU creates the conditions required for an active dialogue and exchange of experiences between faculties.
Common resources and common support for quality development
In addition to the quality assurance of each programme and course, university-wide support and resources to promote the quality of education at Linköping University are available. These resources, described below, contribute to ensuring the quality of education, and are related to the requirements on work with quality that are posed by the legislation and ordinances that regulate operations.Regulations and processes have been drawn up for all links in the chain from creating and revising to discontinuing programmes, courses and principal areas within education. Systematically collected key indicators and other relevant information are used to guide and analyse operations. Extensive information about our education is provided on the website, in catalogues, at exhibitions and in other significant situations, for target groups that include potential students deciding which education to take. Active information about LiU's operations in both research and education is spread through many channels, both digital and in printed media, with several target groups, both in Sweden and abroad.
At LiU, students and doctoral students have the opportunity to influence the decisions taken with respect to the conduct of education in several forums. A further form of student participation involves students having the opportunity, after the conclusion of each course, to make their opinions known through the university-wide web-based course evaluation system Evaliuate. In addition, surveys of student and research student satisfaction are regularly carried out.
LiU's university-wide model for the quality assurance of education
The university-wide model for the quality assurance of education at Linköping University (adopted in a decision taken on 26 April 2017, Ref. No. LiU-2017-01507) has been designed based on the requirements of the Higher Education Act, the Higher Education Ordinance and the national system for the quality assurance of higher education drawn up by the Swedish Higher Education Authority (UKÄ). The UKÄ examination of the quality assurance at institutions of higher education is based on international principles for the quality assurance of higher education, Standards and Guidelines for Quality Assurance in the European Higher Education Area (ESG).
The university-wide model for quality assurance is to be used by all faculties and by the area for educational sciences.
A description of processes has been drawn up for each field of education that describes in more detail the work processes and responsibilities. These documents are available at the following link: Quality assurance at LiU (in Swedish).
The work with quality assurance is based on the LiU annual calendar. The university-wide model for quality assurance is based on three different quality cycles, of duration 1 year, 3 years and 6 years.
Annual reports are submitted by the deans to the vice-chancellor every December. On this occasion the following are to be submitted for the programmes and courses that have been subject to evaluation during the year: quality reports, statements by the heads of department, approved plans of action, and a summary of an analysis that focusses on strengths and challenges. The analysis reports are presented and discussed by the Quality Board, which is to discuss during the period January-February the information of the summaries of the analyses from the faculties, and adjustments to the quality assurance in itself.
It may be necessary to draw up a central plan of action, depending on the result of the examination. This plan is to describe the quality aspects that require university-wide measures, and changes to the university-wide model for quality assurance. The vice-chancellor is then to take a decision concerning further work.
The 6-year cycle of the work processes of the faculties involves the following actions during Year 1: the creation of a quality report for each object of evaluation according to the university-wide description of processes, the discussion of the quality report by the councils or boards involved, and the execution of a programme dialogue that leads to an assessment by the dean. A plan of action is subsequently drawn up. This is followed during the following years, from Year 2 to Year 6. At the next evaluation (according to the 6-year cycle) a new evaluation is to be carried out in its entirety.
The analysis reports from the faculties and the measures that have been taken are to be followed up during the 3-year cycle.
It is also possible for the Quality Board to use the LiU collaboration partners relating to the quality assurance of education (Umeå University and Örebro University) for an external examination and to discuss the quality assurance model itself.


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Watch our on-demand webinar to learn how one organization meets the unique wellness needs of their population every day. Wespath Benefits and Investments, which has been serving The United Methodist Church for over 100 years, administers a self-funded health plan for over 13,000 clergy, lay employees and their families who serve communities during times of crisis.
Wespath built a holistic well-being program to support the whole person, and leverages a single platform (WebMD) to help users find and access the tools and resources they need most. The result? 80% engagement in Health Assessment and high engagement in coaching.
Presented by
Shelly Brooks-Sanford
DO, MDiv, MPH, Population Health Manager,
Wespath Benefits and Investments
Julie Mallory
Sr. Marketing Manager as Moderator,
WebMD Health Services


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The causes overcharging of fees for water use
Causes overcharging of fees for water consumption may be several. One of them is the failure of one of the home appliances. This device can be a washing machine or dishwasher, which in the course of work they have begun to charge too much water. Much more serious reason for the increase in charges for water consumed can be created at home leaking water, the detection can be made possible by visiting plumber. There will always be visible to the household, but it can effectively raise the status of water consumption. They came home a plumber, if none serious failure, check the efficiency to our existing water meter, because a failure would generate receiving excessive water charges.
Some facts about pipes
Pipes are commonly joined by welding, using threaded pipe and fittings; sealing the connection with a pipe thread compound, Polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) Thread seal tape, oakum, or PTFE string, or by using a mechanical coupling. Process piping is usually joined by welding using a TIG or MIG process. The most common process pipe joint is the butt weld. The ends of pipe to be welded must have a certain weld preparation called an End Weld Prep (EWP) which is typically at an angle of 37.5 degrees to accommodate the filler weld metal. The most common pipe thread in North America is the National Pipe Thread (NPT) or the Dryseal (NPTF) version. Other pipe threads include the British standard pipe thread (BSPT), the garden hose thread (GHT), and the fire hose coupling (NST).
Copper pipes are typically joined by soldering, brazing, compression fittings, flaring, or crimping. Plastic pipes may be joined by solvent welding, heat fusion, or elastomeric sealing.
If frequent disconnection will be required, gasketed pipe flanges or union fittings provide better reliability than threads. Some thin-walled pipes of ductile material, such as the smaller copper or flexible plastic water pipes found in homes for ice makers and humidifiers, for example, may be joined with compression fittings.
Underground pipe typically uses a "push-on" gasket style of pipe that compresses a gasket into a space formed between the two adjoining pieces. Push-on joints are available on most types of pipe. A pipe joint lubricant must be used in the assembly of the pipe. Under buried conditions, gasket-joint pipes allow for lateral movement due to soil shifting as well as expansion/contraction due to temperature differentials.11 Plastic MDPE and HDPE gas and water pipes are also often joined with Electrofusion fittings.
Large above ground pipe typically uses a flanged joint, which is generally available in ductile iron pipe and some others. It is a gasket style where the flanges of the adjoining pipes are bolted together, compressing the gasket into a space between the pipe.
Mechanical grooved couplings or Victaulic joints are also frequently used for frequent disassembly and assembly. Developed in the 1920s, these mechanical grooved couplings can operate up to 120 pounds per square inch (830 kPa) working pressures and available in materials to match the pipe grade. Another type of mechanical coupling is a Swagelok brand fitting; this type of compression fitting is typically used on small tubing under 0.75 inches (19 mm) in diameter.
When pipes join in chambers where other components are needed for the management of the network (such as valves or gauges), dismantling joints are generally used, in order to make mounting/dismounting easier.
Źródło: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pipe_(fluid_conveyance)#Installation
Failure cistern in the bathroom
Failure cistern in the bathroom is one of the most common failure of bathroom equipment. It can at the same time prove to be very troublesome, because the water pouring the cistern can at night to wake up the whole house, and at the same time generate very high fees for water, if it starts pouring all the time when household members are not at home and will not tighten the valve supplying water to the cistern. The same continuous turning off the valve after using the toilet is also very cumbersome. The cause of such a failure can be simply over-exploitation of domestic cistern, although sometimes it is hard to reduce the number of made flushes water in the toilet. Repair cistern can effectively deal with the plumber.


text: Designed for multi-purpose use, the Spec Arc features a subdued design with a VG-10 blade, Arc-Lock for smooth operation and strong lockup, and GRN handle with stainless steel liners. The 4-inch drop point blade has a smooth bead blasted finish to reduce reflectivity. At 4.4 oz, it is lightweight and easy to slip into a pocket. The Arc-Lock not only provides smooth operation, but is one of the strongest locks available. The knife can be carried conveniently with a reversible low-carry pocket clip.


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The governments of Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates has announced a new cross border cryptocurrency initiative.
The initiatives, which cover a range of sectors such as cryptocurrency, civil aviation, and customs, aim to strengthen economic, social and military integration between the two countries.
Formed in 2016, the Executive Committee of the Saudi-Emirati Coordination Council met for the first time in UAE on January 19. The Council announced that the new cryptocurrency will be used for cross border payments between central and local banks.
The committee is headed by the UAE's Mohammad bin Abdullah Al Gergawi, Minister of Cabinet Affairs and the Future and Saudi's Mohammed bin Mazyad Altwaijri, minister of Economy and Planning.
"The cross-border digital currency will be strictly targeted for banks at an experimental phase with the aim of better understanding the implications of Blockchain technology and facilitating cross-border payments."
It's unclear whether this will be a joint Central Bank Digital Currency (CBDC). If it is a CBDC, it's a "wholesale" one given it's only meant for use by banks.
This initiative facilitates the easy flow of traffic at the entry ports between Saudi Arabia and the UAE and at customs outlets through the adoption of the fast track system within the network of "authorized economic operators". A total of 41 companies from Saudi and 40 from the UAE have been listed in the network.


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The Cherry Audio Quantizer module is designed to conform a control voltage input signal to a specific key and scale, or a user-defined set of notes. There are 29 preset scales available and custom scales can easily be created by manually toggling individual notes on or off using the virtual "keyboard." Pitches are tracked and quantized according to the standard 1V/octave scaling.
Inputs, Outputs, and Controls
Input jack- Input for the CV to be scale quantized. Typically this will originate from the CV output of a module such as the Arpeggiator, Eight Step Sequencer, or I/O Panel *Pitch CV Out*.
Scale Select- Opens a menu to select one of the 29 preset scales.
Key- Sets the root note or tonic of the scale.
Keyboard Octave- These 12 black and white keys represent each note of an octave in a standard piano keyboard arrangement. The notes included in the selected scale are illuminated in red and can be toggled on and off to create custom scales by clicking on the buttons.
In Offset- Offsets the input signal's voltage up or down in semitone increments by up to two octaves.
In Offset CV Mod jack- Input jack for externally controlling the voltage offset of the input signal. Patching *Pitch CV Out* from the I/O panel allows pitch transposition of the input signal in semitones via a keyboard or other CV source.
Output jack- Outputs the input signal after being forced to the specified key and scale.


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Before starting, the room buzzed with friendly conversation. As the bell rang, the orchestra and special needs students formed a half-circle around the podium. Once the lesson started, everyone broke off into their own groups, two or three orchestra students with one special needs student. Each group started to practice rhythms, clapping and matching each beat to a word like "cake." They then played the same rhythms on an instrument, either a violin, viola or cello. The room soon filled with the sound of the plucking of strings, the light violin sounds mixing with the heavier viola and the deep cello tones.
When they finished, their mentoring orchestra students gave high fives and told them "good job." The special needs students smiled at the compliments. At the end of the lesson, the budding musicians left full of excitement for what was to come next week.
We have the philosophy 'all means all,' and we say everyone can play a stringed instrument. — Allison Washler, Orchestra Director
United Sound is a nonprofit organization formed to teach students with special needs how to play stringed instruments. The new musicians are chosen for the program by special education teacher Jackie Flanary. They are taught by members of the orchestra who are chosen through applications. They meet every Tuesday after school.
The program was started at the school by Orchestra Director Allison Washler two years ago. Washler says that she was inspired by the chance that United Sound gave for anyone to learn to play an instrument.
"We have the philosophy 'all means all', and we say everyone can play a stringed instrument," Washler said.
For senior Caitlyn Aenis, United Sound is a chance to teach peers a new skill that she loves.
"United Sound is just a combination of all the things I love and that I'm passionate about," Aenis said. "I get to teach, it involves music, and it was just a really exciting opportunity."
The program starts with the new musicians choosing what instrument they would like to learn — the violin, viola and cello. Aenis says that during this time their preferences become clear.
"Our first week we have a few instruments and we play on the instruments for them so they hear how they sound," Aenis says, "They get really excited, or if they don't like the instrument, they don't like it."
The students learn the basics of their instrument from their peer mentors, starting with scales. They eventually learn difficult new pieces that they perform in the spring and fall orchestra concerts. During their concerts, the Chamber orchestra performed the well-known song "Remember Me" from Disney's "Coco" along with the new musicians.
The peer mentors have been proud to see the growth that the new musicians have shown in seven months.
"Through all of the concerts, we got to play with the United Sound orchestra, and it was really amazing watching how much they had improved from our first fall concert to the final spring concert and just how excited they were to play and to join in the program," sophomore Luke Dodson said.
The new musicians also react with excitement for the program. They have a lot of anticipation for the music they will learn, according to Dodson.
"They almost always react positively," Dodson said, "Sometimes it can be frustrating when they can't get something, but they're always super resilient and always wanting to learn."
For the orchestra musicians, Washler says that she is impressed to see the reach of the program beyond the orchestra room.
"They have an instant new friend, which is beyond just playing an instrument. It's somebody they can connect with and say 'hi' to in the halls," Washler says, "So I've seen really cool friendships form."
United Sound is a program that speaks towards the idea that music is a language that connects everyone. It can connect people despite their background or the challenges they face in life, according to Aenis.
"I think what United Sound is teaching is that music is something for everyone. Music doesn't need to be limited by who you are, how old you are or what you can do," Aenis said.