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|Sep 1999
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INFO: HWG-Basics Admin FAQ 9/3/99
by "Lisa Whirrett" <whirrett(at)netins.net>
Hello list members :) This weekly FAQ is a handy resource full of information about the Basics list and other HWG resources. Please keep a copy to refer to for questions about the list or the HWG. ----------------- Table of Contents ----------------- 1. Mailing List Tip of the Week 2. What are List Guides and who are the List Guides for HWG-Basics? 3. What is the HWG-Basics Mailing List? (Charter info) 4. What topics do NOT belong on HWG-Basics? 5. How do I subscribe and unsubscribe? 6. How do I send a message to the list? 7. How can I distinguish mail from this list? 8. Can I view previous posts? (Guild archives) 9. What other lists are available? ----------------- 1. Mailing List Tip of the Week A lot of members are subscribed to the digest version of this list. There are a few things we can do to make life a little easier for those members. The digested version has an index of subject lines so try to make your subject line convey your message. This will make it easier to read the digest and you'll likely get more answers to your questions. As always, edit your replies :) 2. What are List Guides and who are the List Guides for HWG-Basics? List Guides are members of the HWG who have volunteered their time to help maintain the quality of the Guild's lists and assist members with their mail related problems. Remember that the List Guides are always available to assist with mailing list related problems and queries, and can be contacted at <lg-basics(at)hwg.org>. Your List Guides for HWG-Basics are: Jen Heneberry Lisa Whirrett Christopher Higgs (temporary basis) 3. What is the HWG-Basics Mailing List? (Charter info) This list is targeted towards those of you who are just getting started in website authoring and HTML. Its charter includes beginning to intermediate discussion of all areas of website design and creation, so feel free to write about anything reasonably related to HTML authoring - there's no such thing as a stupid question here! More complete information can be found at http://www.hwg.org/lists/hwg-basics/ 4. What topics/messages do NOT belong on HWG-Basics Flaming is always inappropriate. Sarcasm, personal attacks, and the like, are not appropriate on the list and only add fuel to "flamewars." If you really feel the need to respond in such a way, then please do so via private email. Critiques of web pages are also off-topic. The Guild has a special list for that purpose: HWG-Critique. For additional information on basic netiquette, please review the Guild's Netiquette Guidelines at: http://www.hwg.org/lists/netiquette.html 5. How do I subscribe and unsubscribe? To subscribe or unsubscribe, send email to: hwg-basics-request(at)hwg.org with either 'subscribe' or 'unsubscribe' in the BODY of the message. Do NOT include your email address. Your email address will be determined from the headers on your message. The procedure for subscribing and unsubscribing to the digest form of the list is almost the same as above. The only difference is that you send the message to: hwg-basics-digest-request(at)hwg.org Please note that when unsubscribing from a list, you MUST post from the same email address you used to subscribe. If your email address has changed, you will be unable to unsubscribe automatically and should contact the list owner at: owner-hwg-basics(at)hwg.org The charter and more information on subscriptions can be found at: http://www.hwg.org/lists/hwg-basics/index.html 6. How do I send a message to the list? Send your messages to <hwg-basics(at)hwg.org>, for both regular and digest version of the list. 7. How can I distinguish mail from this list? Some mail programs allow you to apply filters to your mail to identify where the mail has come from. You can distinguish posts from the HWG-Basics list based on the SENDER field. This is set to 'owner-hwg-basics(at)hwg.org'. The HWG Mail Filtering FAQ <http://www.hwg.org/resources/faqs/filterFAQ.html> contains further information. 8. Can I view previous posts? (Guild Archives) Yes. Many topics have been covered in depth already and the answer is sitting there waiting to be picked up. Before posting, check list archives through the Guild's Web pages. The archives are searchable by subject, and you'll likely find the answer you're looking for more quickly. The archives can be found at: http://www.hwg.org/lists/archives.html 9. What other lists are available? Please visit <http://www.hwg.org/lists/mailinglists.html> for a complete list of lists as well as the official charter and subscription details for each. If you have any suggestions to help improve this FAQ, please send them to <lg-basics(at)hwg.org>. The List Guides are always trying to improve the quality of the FAQs and welcome any and all suggestions from the members. Enjoy the list! Lisa Whirrett List Guide, HWG Basics HTML Writer's Guild
HTML: hwg-basics mailing list archives, maintained by Webmasters @ IWA


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IT Pros: 4 Tech Trends to Follow
Neither time nor technology stand still for IT professionals. To effectively support the business, IT leaders must be not only on top of the latest trends, but also ready to execute on them in the context of strategic business plans. According to interviews with IT pros, the following trends are among the most important to follow in the new year.
1. Data science
According to a Harvard Business Review report from Thomas H. Davenport and D.J. Patil, data science is not only important, it's the sexiest job of the 21st century. "[Data scientists'] sudden appearance on the business scene reflects the fact that companies are now wrestling with information that comes in varieties and volumes never encountered before," wrote Davenport and Patil.
Companies will be competing for what is currently a relatively small number of qualified data scientists, and IT leaders must join in supporting the big data drive by developing expertise in the products and services that can help their organizations turn disparate data points into actionable insights that drive revenue and inform cost.
"Much of the current enthusiasm for big data focuses on technologies that make taming it possible, including Hadoop (the most widely used framework for distributed file system processing) and related open-source tools, cloud computing, and data visualization," noted Davenport and Patil in the Harvard Business Review report.
2. Wearable fitness devices
Wearable fitness devices like Fitbit help consumers take care of their health by tracking daily activity and calories burned. "Wearers can get real-time tracking of their actions," said Dave Wakeman, a technology consultant.
These devices generate a wealth of data that people can use to inform their lifestyle choices–and, with permission, that organizations can use to inform decisions about new product and service offerings.
Wearable technology positions data as a tool to enrich consumers' lives. Companies can use data from wearable devices to perform comprehensive, individual-level analyses of fitness. This information can be used, for example, by health-based organizations to design more effective products and solutions for their customers.
IT leaders can help ensure that this information is stored and used efficiently and effectively–and safely.
3. Cloud apps and services
Small-business owners are typically challenged in the areas of personnel and financial resources. Cloud apps help level the playing field, giving small businesses access to seemingly infinite resources.
Indeed, cloud apps help democratize computing power for organizations of all sizes, from individual consultants to large enterprise brands.
"It's awesome to see small-business owners using cloud apps and services to leverage enterprise power at a fraction of the cost," said Gabriel Mays, founder at Just Add Content.
To ensure that companies are getting what they need–and what they are paying for–IT pros will need to become savvy in the art of contracting and developing service-level agreements (SLAs).
4. Socially enabled business processes
Social media is a power tool that can help businesses harness the power of referrals and human-to-human relationships.
"For example, within recruiting, a number of advancements are available whereby a business can see enhanced by integrating with social channels for awareness building, candidate research and position postings," said Chris Curran, chief technologist at PwC.
Much of the activity around social media typically comes from the business side, and IT pros should be working with business leaders to develop policy around social–to ensure that the platform is being used within the company's overall technology guidelines and in accordance with any relevant regulatory mandates.
Final thoughts
The trends named in this piece are on one level very diverse and on another very connected–with the common thread being the data emanating from today's modern computing systems. Focusing on these trends–and looking for new opportunities to apply big data–will help IT professionals effectively support the business in the new year.

subset: commoncrawl


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An in-depth report on the causes, diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of osteoporosis.
- Older age
- Family history of osteoporosis
- Low body weight and small body frame
- Calcium and vitamin D deficiencies
- Smoking
- Heavy alcohol consumption
- Sedentary lifestyle
- The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) recommends that women receive bone mineral density (BMD) screening beginning at age 65. Postmenopausal women younger than age 65 should be screened only if they have significant risk factors for osteoporosis or bone fracture, or a history of stress fracture.
- Current practice recommends BMD retesting every 2 years. However, some research suggests that certain women may be able to wait a much longer time between their screening tests, perhaps as long as 5 to 15 years. Discuss with your doctor how often you should be tested.
Healthy postmenopausal women with good diets do not need to take calcium and vitamin D supplements, according to recommendations from the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF). According to the USPSTF, daily low-dose amounts of vitamin D and calcium supplements do not prevent fractures in healthy people and can increase the risk of kidney stones. The USPSTF also notes that there is currently no definition on what exact levels indicate vitamin D deficiency. Talk with your health care provider about whether or not you need these supplements.
Osteoporosis is a progressive and usually age-related skeletal disease in which bones become thin, weak, brittle, and prone to fracture. Osteoporosis literally means "porous bones." Thinning bones are caused by loss of bone density. Calcium and other minerals contribute to the bone mineral density (BMD) that helps strengthen and protect bones.
The Bones
Bones are made of living tissue that is constantly being broken down (resorbed) and formed again. The balance of bone buildup (formation) and breakdown (resorption) is controlled by a complex mix of hormones and chemical factors. If bone resorption occurs at a greater rate than bone formation, your bones lose density and you are at increased risk for osteoporosis.
Until a healthy adult is around age 40, the process of formation and resorption is a nearly perfectly coupled system, with one phase balancing the other. As a person ages, or in the presence of certain conditions, this system breaks down and the two processes become out of sync. Eventually, the breakdown of bone overtakes the buildup.
In women, estrogen loss after menopause is particularly associated with rapid resorption and loss of bone density. Postmenopausal women are therefore at highest risk for osteoporosis and subsequent fractures.
Estrogen and Testosterone
Women experience a rapid decline in bone density after menopause, when the ovaries stop producing estrogen. Estrogen can have an impact on bone density in various ways, including slowing bone breakdown (resorption).
In men, the most important androgen (male hormone) is testosterone. Androgens are converted to estrogen in various parts of a man's body, including bone. As men age, declining levels of testosterone and estrogen can contribute to bone density loss. Both hormones are important for bone strength in men.
Vitamin D and Parathyroid Hormone Imbalances
Low levels of vitamin D and high levels of parathyroid hormone (PTH) are associated with bone density loss in women after menopause:
- Vitamin D is a vitamin with hormone-like properties. It is essential for the absorption of calcium and for normal bone growth. Lower levels result in impaired calcium absorption, which in turn causes an increase in parathyroid hormone (PTH).
- Parathyroid hormone is produced by the parathyroid glands. These are four small glands located on the surface of the thyroid gland. They regulate calcium levels in the blood. When calcium levels are low, the glands secrete more PTH, which then increases blood calcium levels. Persistently high levels of PTH stimulate bone resorption and lead to bone mineral loss.
Other Causes
Secondary osteoporosis results from medications or other medical conditions.Medications: Medications that can cause osteoporosis include:
- Oral corticosteroids (also called steroids or glucocorticoids) can reduce bone mass. Inhaled steroids may also cause bone loss when taken at higher doses for long periods of time.
- Loop diuretics, such as furosemide (Lasix, generic), increase the kidneys' excretion of calcium, which can lead to thinning bones.
- Hormonal contraceptives that use progestin without estrogen (such as Depo-Provera injection or other progestin-based contraceptives) can cause loss of bone density.
- Anticonvulsant (anti-seizure) drugs increase the risk for bone loss (as does epilepsy itself).
- Proton pump inhibitors (PPIs), which are used to treat gastroesophageal reflux disease ("heartburn"), can increase the risk for bone loss and fractures when they are used at high doses for more than a year. These drugs include omeprazole (Prilosec, generic), lansoprazole (Prevacid, generic), and esomeprazole (Nexium).
- Other drugs that increase the risk for bone loss include the blood-thinning drug heparin, and hormonal drugs that suppress estrogen (such as gonadotropin-releasing hormone agonists and aromatase inhibitors).
Risk Factors
The main risk factors for osteoporosis are:
- Female gender
- Age over 65
- Menopause
- Low body weight
- Smoking and excessive alcohol use
- Family history of fractures associated with osteoporosis
Women are much more likely to develop osteoporosis than men. Men start with higher bone density and lose calcium at a slower rate than women, which is why their risk is lower. Nevertheless, older men are also at risk for osteoporosis.
As people age, their risks for osteoporosis increase. Aging causes bones to thin and weaken. Osteoporosis is most common among postmenopausal women, and screening for low bone density is recommended for all women over age 65.
Although adults from all ethnic groups are susceptible to developing osteoporosis, white and Asian women and men face a comparatively greater risk.
Body Type
Osteoporosis is more common in people who have a small, thin body frame and bone structure. Low body weight (less than 127 pounds or a BMI less than 21) is a risk factor for osteoporosis.
Family History
Osteoporosis tends to run in families. People whose parents had a fracture due to osteoporosis are themselves at increased risk for osteoporosis.
Hormonal DeficienciesWomen: Estrogen deficiency is a primary risk factor for osteoporosis in women. Estrogen deficiency is associated with:
- Menopause
- Surgical removal of ovaries (oophorectomy)
- Eating disorders such as anorexia nervosa
Lifestyle FactorsDietary Factors: Diet plays an important role in both preventing and speeding up bone loss in men and women. Calcium and vitamin D deficiencies are risk factors for osteoporosis.
Exercise: Lack of weight-bearing exercise and a sedentary lifestyle increase the risk for osteoporosis. People who are chair-bound or bedbound due to medical infirmities and who do not bear weight on the bones are at risk for osteoporosis.
Smoking: Cigarette smoking can affect calcium absorption and estrogen levels.Alcohol: Excessive consumption of alcoholic beverages can increase the risk for bone loss.Lack of Sunlight: Vitamin D is made in the skin using energy from the ultraviolet rays in sunlight. Vitamin D is necessary for the absorption of calcium in the stomach and gastrointestinal tract, and is the essential companion to calcium in maintaining strong bones.
Risk Factors in Children and Adolescents
The maximum density that bones achieve during the growing years affects whether a person goes on to develop osteoporosis. People, usually women, who never develop adequate peak bone mass in early life are at high risk for osteoporosis later on.
Risk factors that increase the risk for low peak bone mass in children include:
- Premature birth
- Malnourishment
- Anorexia nervosa
- Delayed puberty or abnormal absence of menstrual periods
- Chronic disease
Exercise and good nutrition are very important during the first three decades of life, when peak bone mass is gained. They are excellent safeguards against osteoporosis (and other health problems).
Low bone density increases the risk for fracture. Bone fractures are the most serious complication of osteoporosis.
Spinal vertebral fractures (compression fractures) are the most common type of osteoporosis-related fracture, followed by hip fractures, wrist fractures, and other types of broken bones. About 80% of these fractures occur after relatively minor falls or accidents. Compression fractures can occur, without falling, from even everyday motions such as bending or turning.
Hip fractures, in addition to causing disability, can increase the risk of early death. Complications of hip fractures include hospital-acquired infections and blood clots in the lungs.
Osteoporosis is usually advanced before symptoms appear. A fracture of the spine, wrist, or hip is often the first sign of osteoporosis. These fractures can occur even after relatively minor trauma, such as bumping into an object or falling from a standing position. They can also occur from simple movements such as reaching, turning, or bending over.
Compression fractures occur in the vertebrae of the spine as a result of weakened bones. These fractures can occur suddenly, most commonly near the waistline or just above or below it.
Compression fractures can cause severe back pain, which can take weeks or months to go away:
- The pain is most commonly felt near where the fracture occurs.
- The pain is sharp and "knife-like."
- The pain may get worse with walking, standing, or sitting. It goes away with lying down and rest.
Compression fractures may cause no symptoms at first or may be mistaken for arthritis or the aches and pains of aging. Often, they are discovered when x-rays of the spine are done for other reasons.
Over time, the following symptoms may occur:
- Loss of height, as much as 6 inches over time
- Stooped-over posture (kyphosis), also known as dowager's hump
Who Should Get a Bone Density Test
A bone density test can help your health care provider detect osteoporosis and predict your risk for bone fractures. Testing is important because osteoporosis can occur with few or no symptoms.
Bone density testing is recommended for:
- Women age 65 or older
- Men age 70 or older
Women under age 65 and men ages 50 to 70 may also need bone density testing if they have risk factors for osteoporosis. These risk factors include:
- Fracturing a bone after age 50
- Strong family history of osteoporosis
- History of treatment for prostate cancer or breast cancer
- History of medical conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis, diabetes, thyroid imbalances, or anorexia nervosa
- Early menopause (either from natural causes or hysterectomy)
- Long-term use of medications such as corticosteroids, thyroid hormone, or aromatase inhibitors
- Low body weight (less than 127 pounds) or low body mass index (less than 21)
- Significant loss of height
- Long-term tobacco or excessive alcohol use
Tests Used for Measuring Bone DensityCentral DXA: Bone densitometry is a test for measuring bone density and predicting fracture risk. The standard technique for determining bone mineral density (BMD) is called dual-energy x-ray absorptiometry (DXA).
DXA is simple and painless and takes 2 to 4 minutes. It uses low-dose x-rays. You lie on a soft table while the scanner passes over your lower back and hip. The test measures concentrations of calcium and other bone minerals in these areas. You should not take any calcium supplements in the 24 hours before the test.
A radiologist (a doctor specially trained to interpret imaging tests) will review the results of the test and send a report to your health care provider.
Central DXA measures the bone mineral density at the hip, upper thigh bone (femoral neck), and spine.Other Tests: Other tests may be used, but they are not usually as accurate as DXA. They include ultrasound techniques, DXA of the wrist, heels, fingers, or leg (peripheral DXA) and quantitative computed tomography (QCT) scan.
Screening tests using these technologies are sometimes given at health fairs or other non-medical settings. These screening tests typically measure peripheral bone density in the heels, fingers, or leg bones. The results of these tests may vary from DXA measurements of the spine and hip. While these peripheral tests may help indicate who requires further BMD testing, a central DXA test is required to diagnose osteoporosis and to monitor treatment response.
Diagnosing Osteoporosis and Predicting the Risk for Fracture
Osteoporosis is diagnosed when bone density has decreased to the point where fractures can result from mild stress, the so-called fracture threshold. This is determined by measuring bone density and comparing the results with the norm, which is defined as the average bone mineral density in the hipbones of a healthy 30-year-old adult.
The doctor then uses this comparison to determine the standard deviation (SD) from this norm. Standard deviation results are given as Z and T scores:
- The T score gives the standard deviation of the person tested in relationship to the norm in young adults. Doctors often use the T-score and other risk factors to determine the risk for fracture.
- The Z score gives the standard deviation of the person tested in relationship to the norm in other people of the same age group and body size. Z scores may be used for diagnosing osteoporosis in younger men and women. They are not normally used for postmenopausal women or for men age 50 and older.
Results of T-scores indicate:
- Higher than -1 indicates normal bone density.
- Between -1 and -2.5 indicates low bone density (osteopenia).
- A score of -2.5 or lower indicates a diagnosis of osteoporosis.
The lower the T-score, the lower the bone density, and the greater the risk for fracture. In general, doctors recommend beginning medication when T-scores are -2.5 or below.
People who have other risk factors may need to begin medication when they have osteopenia (scores between -1 and -2.5). Osteopenia refers to bone mineral density that is lower than normal, but not low enough to be classified as osteoporosis. Osteopenia is considered a precursor to osteoporosis.
Doctors don't yet know the best testing schedule for people whose first test does not reveal osteoporosis. Current practice recommends that older people have a bone mineral density test every 2 years. However, some recent research suggests that low-risk women who have normal test results may be able to wait for up to 15 years to be rescreened. (Women at higher risk would need to have another test at much shorter intervals.) Discuss with your doctor how often you should be tested based on your individual risk factors.
Laboratory Tests
In certain cases, your health care provider may recommend that you have a blood test to measure your vitamin D levels. A standard test measures 25-hydroxyvitamin D, also called 25(OH)D. Depending on the results, your provider may recommend that you take a vitamin D supplement if you are at high risk for fractures. There is currently no consensus on what levels of vitamin D indicate deficiency, or what the optimal levels should be.
Lifestyle Changes
Healthy lifestyle habits, including adequate intake of calcium and vitamin D, are important for preventing osteoporosis and supporting medical treatment.
Calcium and Vitamin D
A combination of calcium and vitamin D may reduce the risk of osteoporosis. (For strong bones, people need enough of both calcium and vitamin D.) The best sources are from calcium-rich and vitamin D-fortified foods.
The National Osteoporosis Foundation (NOF) recommends:
- Adults under age 50 should have 1,000 mg of calcium and 400 to 800 IU of vitamin D daily.
- Adults age 50 and older should have 1,200 mg of calcium and 800 to 1,000 IU of vitamin D daily.
- Milk, yogurt, and other dairy products
- Dark green vegetables such as collard greens, kale, and broccoli
- Sardines and salmon with bones
- Calcium-fortified foods and beverages such as cereals, orange juice, and soymilk
Certain types of foods can interfere with calcium absorption. These include foods high in oxalate (such as spinach and beet greens) or phytate (peas, pinto beans, navy beans, wheat bran). Diets high in animal protein, sodium, or caffeine may also interfere with calcium absorption.
Sources of vitamin D include:
- Fatty fish such as salmon, mackerel, and tuna
- Egg yolks
- Liver
- Vitamin D-fortified milk, orange juice, soy milk, or cereals
- Sunlight
However, many Americans do not get enough vitamin D solely from diet or exposure to sunlight.Supplements: Doctors are currently reconsidering the use of calcium and vitamin D supplements based on studies suggesting that supplements do not make much difference in bone mineral density protection. The U.S. Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF) advises that healthy postmenopausal women don't need to take these supplements.
According to the USPSTF, taking daily low-dose vitamin D supplements (less than 400 IU), with or without calcium supplements (less than 1,000 mg), does not prevent fractures. For higher doses, the USPSTF says there is not enough evidence to make a recommendation. In addition to possible lack of benefit, these supplements are associated (even at lower doses) with certain risks, like kidney stones.
Vitamin D and calcium supplements may be appropriate for certain people, including those who do not get enough vitamin D through sunlight exposure and those who do not consume enough calcium in their diet. They are also helpful for people who have been diagnosed with osteoporosis.
Calcium and vitamin D supplements can be taken as separate supplements or as a combination supplement. If separate preparations are used, they do not need to be taken at the same time.
- Calcium supplements include calcium carbonate (Caltrate, Os-Cal, Tums), calcium citrate (Citracal), calcium gluconate, and calcium lactate. Although each kind provides calcium, they all have different calcium concentrations, absorption capabilities, and other actions.
- Vitamin D is available either as D2 (ergocalciferol) or D3 (cholecalciferol). They work equally well for bone health.
Given the controversies over the benefits and safety of these supplements, be sure to discuss with your doctor whether supplements are a good choice for you. As an alternative to supplements, many doctors recommend making dietary changes to increase calcium and vitamin D intake, and getting 15 minutes a day of sun exposure.
Exercise is very important for slowing the progression of osteoporosis. Although mild exercise does not protect bones, moderate exercise (more than 3 days a week for more than a total of 90 minutes a week) reduces the risk for osteoporosis and fracture in both older men and women. Exercise should be regular and life-long. Before beginning any strenuous exercise program, talk to your doctor.
Some exercises may be better than others:
- Weight-bearing exercise applies tension to muscle and bone and can help increase bone density in younger people. Weight training is also beneficial for middle-aged and older people.
- Regular brisk long walks improve bone density and mobility. Most older people should avoid high-impact aerobic exercises (step aerobics), which increase the risk for osteoporotic fractures. Although low-impact aerobic exercises such as swimming and bicycling do not increase bone density, they are excellent for cardiovascular fitness and should be part of a regular regimen.
- Exercises specifically targeted to strengthen the back may help prevent fractures later in life and can be beneficial in improving posture and reducing kyphosis (hunchback).
- Low-impact exercises that improve concentration, balance, and strength, particularly yoga and tai chi, may help decrease the risk of falling.
Other Lifestyle Factors
Other lifestyle changes that can help prevent osteoporosis include:
- Limit alcohol consumption. Excessive drinking is associated with brittle bones.
- Limit caffeine consumption. Caffeine may interfere with the body's ability to absorb calcium.
- Quit smoking. The risk for osteoporosis from cigarette smoking appears to diminish after quitting.
Preventing Falls and Fractures
An important component in reducing the risk for fractures is preventing falls. Risk factors for falling include:
- Slow walking
- Inability to walk in a straight line
- Certain medications (such as tranquilizers and sleeping pills)
- Low blood pressure when rising in the morning
- Poor vision
Recommendations for preventing falls or fractures from falls include:
- Exercise to maintain strength and balance if there are no conflicting medical conditions.
- Do not use loose rugs on floors.
- Move any obstructions to walking, such as loose cords or very low pieces of furniture, away from traveled areas.
- Keep rooms well lit.
- Have regular eye checkups.
- Consider installing grab bars in bathrooms, especially near the shower, tub, and toilet.
Two types of drugs are used to prevent and treat osteoporosis:
- Antiresorptive Drugs: Antiresorptives include bisphosphonates, selective estrogen-receptor modulators (SERMs), denosumab, and calcitonin. Bisphosphonates are the standard drugs used for osteoporosis. These drugs block resorption (preventing bone breakdown), which slows the rate of bone remodeling, but they cannot rebuild bone. Because resorption and reformation occur naturally as a continuous process, blocking resorption may eventually also reduce bone formation.
- Anabolic (Bone-Forming) Drugs: Drugs that rebuild bone are known as anabolics. The primary anabolic drug is low-dose parathyroid hormone (PTH), which is administered through injections. This drug may help restore bone and prevent fractures. PTH is relatively new, and its long-term effects are still unknown.
Both types of drugs are effective in preventing bone loss and fractures, although they may cause different types of side effects. The United States Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF) recommends that these drugs should be prescribed only to people who have been diagnosed with osteoporosis.
Bisphosphonates are the primary drugs for preventing and treating osteoporosis. They can help reduce the risk of both spinal and hip fractures, including among people with prior bone breaks.
Studies indicate that these drugs are effective and safe for up to 5 years. Eventually, however, bone loss continues with bisphosphonates. This may be because rebuilding bone is a continuous cycle that requires two phases: bone breakdown (resorption) and bone formation. Over time, drugs that block bone resorption interfere with bone formation, the second half of the process.Candidates: Clinical guidelines recommend that the following people should take or consider taking bisphosphonates:
- T score of -2.5 or lower on a DXA scan
- T score between -1 and -2.5 (indicates low bone density [osteopenia]) and a history of fractures
- Oral bisphosphonates. These pills include alendronate (Fosamax, generic), risedronate (Actonel, generic), and ibandronate (Boniva, generic). Alendronate and risedronate are taken once a week. Ibandronate is available as a once-monthly pill. Risedronate is also available as a once-a-month pill and in a pill that contains calcium. Alendronate is available in a formulation that has vitamin D. Risedronate and alendronate are approved for both men and women.
- Injectable bisphosphonates. Zoledronic acid (Reclast) is approved for the treatment and prevention of osteoporosis in postmenopausal women. It is given as a once-yearly injection. The injectable form of ibandronate (Boniva) requires injections 4 times a year. Injectable bisphosphonates are an alternative for people who may have difficulty swallowing pills or sitting upright after oral bisphosphonate treatment.
To avoid stomach problems:
- Take the pill on an empty stomach in the morning with 6 to 8 ounces of water (not juice or carbonated or mineral water).
- After taking the pill, remain in an upright position. Do not eat or drink for at least 30 to 60 minutes. (Check your drug's dosing instructions for the exact time.)
- If you develop chest pain, heartburn, or difficulty swallowing, stop taking the drug and see your health care provider.
The FDA recommends that health care providers periodically reevaluate people who have been on bisphosphonates for more than 5 years. People who take these drugs should inform their providers if they experience any new thigh or groin pain, swallowing difficulties, or jaw or gum discomfort. Do not stop taking your medication unless your provider tells you to do so. Most people who experience osteonecrosis of the jaw do so after a dental procedure, such as tooth extraction. You should inform your dentist if you are prescribed a bisphosphonate.
For the injectable drug zoledronic acid (Reclast), kidney failure is a rare but serious side effect. Zoledronic acid should not be used by people who have risk factors for kidney failure.
Denosumab (Prolia)
Denosumab (Prolia) is a newer drug approved for treatment of osteoporosis in postmenopausal women who are at high risk for fracture. Denosumab is the only biologic drug approved for osteoporosis. It is considered an antiresorptive drug, but it works in a different way than bisphosphonates. It is a monoclonal antibody that works by targeting RANKL, a chemical factor involved with bone resorption.
Denosumab slows down the bone-breakdown process. However, because it also slows down the bone buildup and remodeling process, it is unclear what its long-term effects may be. Possible concerns are that denosumab may slow the healing time for broken bones or cause unusual fractures. For now, denosumab is recommended for women who cannot tolerate or who have not been helped by other osteoporosis treatments.
Denosumab is given as an injection in a doctor's office twice a year (once every 6 months). Common side effects include back pain, pain in the arms and legs, high cholesterol levels, muscle pain, and bladder infection. Denosumab can lower calcium levels and should not be taken by women who have low blood calcium levels (hypocalcemia) until this condition is corrected.
Because denosumab is a biologic drug, it can affect or weaken the immune system and may increase the risk for serious infections. Other potential adverse effects include inflammation of the skin (dermatitis, rash, eczema) and inflammation of the inner lining of the heart (endocarditis). Denosumab may increase the risk of jaw bone problems such as osteonecrosis. Inform your dentist if you have been prescribed denosumab.
Selective estrogen-receptor modulators (SERMs) are a class of drugs that are similar, but not identical, to estrogen. They can provide the bone benefits of estrogen without increasing the risks for estrogen-related breast and uterine cancers.Raloxifene (Evista): Raloxifene (Evista) is the only SERM approved for both treatment and prevention of osteoporosis in postmenopausal women. Raloxifene is recommended for postmenopausal women with low bone mass or younger postmenopausal women with osteoporosis. It may help prevent bone loss and reduce the risk of vertebral (spine) fractures. It is less clear how effective it is for preventing other types of fractures. Raloxifene is taken as a pill once a day. Common mild side effects include hot flashes, joint pain, and swelling of the legs, feet, and ankles. Bazedoxifene and Conjugated Estrogens (Duavee): In 2013, the FDA approved Duavee, a drug that combines the SERM bazedoxifene with the conjugated estrogens used in hormone replacement therapy for menopause. The medication is approved both to treat moderate-to-severe menopausal symptoms such as hot flashes, and to prevent postmenopausal osteoporosis. When Duavee is used solely for the prevention of osteoporosis, the FDA recommends that it should be reserved for high-risk women, and that other, non-estrogen drugs should be tried first. Common side effects include muscle spasms, nausea, diarrhea, and upset stomach.
Serious Side Effects: All SERMs increase the risk for blood clots in the veins. Because of this side effect, these drugs also increase the risk for stroke (but not other types of cardiovascular disease). These side effects, though rare, are very serious. Women should not take a SERM drug if they have a history of blood clots, or if they have certain risk factors for stroke and heart disease.
Parathyroid Hormone
Teriparatide (Forteo), an injectable drug made from selected amino acids found in parathyroid hormone, may help reduce the risks for spinal and non-spinal fractures. Although high persistent levels of parathyroid hormone (PTH) can cause osteoporosis, daily injections of low doses of this hormone actually stimulate bone production and increase bone mineral density. Teriparatide is usually recommended for people with osteoporosis who are at high risk of fracture.
Side effects of PTH are generally mild and include nausea, dizziness, and leg cramps. No significant complications have been reported to date.
Early animal studies reported bone tumors in mice that were given parathyroid long-term. Such effects have not been observed in humans to date. However, people with Paget disease, (a disorder in which bone thickens but also weakens), should not take parathyroid hormone, because they are at higher than normal risk for bone tumors.
Produced by the thyroid gland, natural calcitonin regulates calcium levels by inhibiting the osteoclastic activity, the breakdown of bone. The drug version, calcitonin salmon, is derived from salmon and is available as a nasal spray (Miacalcin, Fortical, generic) and an injected form (Miacalcin, generic). Calcitonin is used to treat, not prevent, osteoporosis.
Side effects may include headache, dizziness, anorexia, diarrhea, skin rashes, and edema (swelling). The most common adverse effect experienced with the injection is nausea, with or without vomiting. The nasal spray may cause nosebleeds, sinusitis, and inflammation of the membranes in the nose. Many people who take calcitonin develop resistance or allergic reactions after long-term use.
In 2013, an FDA advisory committee recommended against the use of calcitonin products for osteoporosis due to concerns that the drug may increase the risk for cancer. According to the advisors, the risks for cancer outweigh any possible benefits. The FDA is currently considering the committee's recommendations
Hormone Therapy
Hormone therapy (HT) is mainly used for short-term treatment of menopause symptoms, such as hot flashes. HT was formerly used to prevent osteoporosis, but it is rarely used for this purpose today. Studies showed that the estrogen in HT increases the risk for breast cancer, blood clots, strokes, and heart attacks. For this reason, women need to balance the benefits of HT on bone-loss protection with the risks it carries for other serious health conditions.
The United States Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF) recommends against the use of hormone therapy for prevention of osteoporosis or other chronic health conditions.
- www.nof.org -- National Osteoporosis Foundation
- www.niams.nih.gov/Health_Info/Bone -- National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases
- www.iofbonehealth.org -- International Osteoporosis Foundation
- www.menopause.org -- North American Menopause Society
Berry SD, Samelson EJ, Pencina MJ, McLean RR, Cupples LA, Broe KE, et al. Repeat bone mineral density screening and prediction of hip and major osteoporotic fracture. JAMA. 2013;310:1256-62.
Bolland MJ, Grey A, Avenell A, Gamble GD, Reid IR. Calcium supplements with or without vitamin D and risk of cardiovascular events: reanalysis of the Women's Health Initiative limited access dataset and meta-analysis. BMJ. 2011;342:d2040.
Chung M, Lee J, Terasawa T, Lau J, Trikalinos TA. Vitamin D with or without calcium supplementation for prevention of cancer and fractures: an updated meta-analysis for the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force. Ann Intern Med. 2011;155:827-38.
Committee on Practice Bulletins-Gynecology, The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists. ACOG Practice Bulletin N. 129. Osteoporosis. Obstet Gynecol. 2012;120:718-34.
Crandall CJ, Newberry SJ, Diamant A, Lim YW, Gellad WF, Booth MJ, et al. Comparative effectiveness of pharmacologic treatments to prevent fractures: an updated systematic review. Ann Intern Med. 2014;161:711-23. PMID 25199883
Gourlay ML, Fine JP, Preisser JS, May RC, Li C, Lui LY, et al. Bone-density testing interval and transition to osteoporosis in older women. N Engl J Med. 2012;366:225-33.
Holick MF, Binkley NC, Bischoff-Ferrari HA, Gordon CM, Hanley DA, Heaney RP, et al. Evaluation, treatment, and prevention of vitamin D deficiency: an Endocrine Society clinical practice guideline. J Clin Endocrinol Metab. 2011;96:1911-30. Epub 2011 Jun 6.
Kennel KA, Drake MT. Adverse effects of bisphosphonates: implications for osteoporosis management. Mayo Clin Proc. 2009 Jul;84:632-7.
LeFevre ML. Screening for Vitamin D Deficiency in Adults: U.S. Preventive Services Task Force Recommendation Statement. Ann Intern Med. 2014 Nov 25. [Epub ahead of print] PMID 25419853.
Lewiecki EM. In the clinic. Osteoporosis. Ann Intern Med. 2011;155:ITC1-1-15.
Li K, Kaaks R, Linseisen J, Rohrmann S. Associations of dietary calcium intake and calcium supplementation with myocardial infarction and stroke risk and overall cardiovascular mortality in the Heidelberg cohort of the European Prospective Investigation into Cancer and Nutrition study (EPIC-Heidelberg). Heart. 2012;98:920-5.
Lim LS, Hoeksema LJ, Sherin K; ACPM Prevention Practice Committee. Screening for osteoporosis in the adult U.S. population: ACPM position statement on preventive practice. Am J Prev Med. 2009;36:366-75.
Moyer VA; U.S. Preventive Services Task Force. Menopausal hormone therapy for the primary prevention of chronic conditions: U.S. Preventive Services Task Force recommendation statement. Ann Intern Med. 2013;158:47-54.
Moyer VA; U.S. Preventive Services Task Force. Vitamin D and calcium supplementation to prevent fractures in adults: U.S. Preventive Services Task Force recommendation statement. Ann Intern Med. 2013;158:691-6.
National Osteoporosis Foundation. Clinician's Guide to Prevention and Treatment of Osteoporosis. Washington, DC: National Osteoporosis Foundation; 2010.
North American Menopause Society. Management of osteoporosis in postmenopausal women: 2010 position statement of The North American Menopause Society. Menopause. 2010;17:25-54; quiz 55-6.
Park-Wyllie LY, Mamdani MM, Juurlink DN, Hawker GA, Gunraj N, Austin PC, et al. Bisphosphonate use and the risk of subtrochanteric or femoral shaft fractures in older women. JAMA. 2011;305:783-9.
Qaseem A, Snow V, Shekelle P, Hopkins R Jr., Forciea MA and Owens DK. Pharmacologic treatment of low bone density or osteoporosis to prevent fractures: a clinical practice guideline from the American College of Physicians. Ann Intern Med. 2008;149: 404-15.
Reid IR, Bolland MJ, Grey A. Effects of vitamin D supplements on bone mineral density: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Lancet. 2014;383:146-55. Epub 2013 Oct 11. PMID 24119980.
Ruggiero SL, Dodson TB, Fantasia J, Goodday R, Aghaloo T, Mehrotra B, et al. American Association of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons position paper on medication-related osteonecrosis of the jaw--2014 update. J Oral Maxillofac Surg. 2014;72:1938-56. Epub 2014 May 5. PMID 25234529
U.S. Preventive Services Task Force. Screening for osteoporosis: U.S. preventive services task force recommendation statement. Ann Intern Med. 2011;154:356-64. Epub 2011 Jan 17.
Watts NB, Diab DL. Long-term use of bisphosphonates in osteoporosis. J Clin Endocrinol Metab. 2010;95:1555-65. Epub 2010 Feb 19.
Watts NB, Adler RA, Bilezikian JP, Drake MT, Eastell R, Orwoll ES, et al. Osteoporosis in men: an Endocrine Society clinical practice guideline. J Clin Endocrinol Metab. 2012;97:1802-22.
Advanced Studyec
Review Date: 1/5/2015
Reviewed By: C. Benjamin Ma, MD, Assistant Professor, Chief, Sports Medicine and Shoulder Service, UCSF Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, San Francisco, CA. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Isla Ogilvie, PhD, and the A.D.A.M. Editorial team.


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A rhinestone-embellished chandelier graphic brings elegant edge to this formfitting dress. Pair it with pointed heels and drop earrings for instant event-worthy style.
• Graphic-print dress. Rounded neckline. Sleeveless.
• Rhinestone-embellished chandelier graphic on front. Solid back.
• Slips on
• Measures approximately 35 ½" from shoulder to hem
• Shell: 96% Polyester, 4% Elastane. Lining: 100% Polyester
• Hand wash
Measurement taken from a size small
Shipping Options:
Orders are shipped using the following rate scale:
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Business days are limited to Monday through Friday, 6:00 A.M. to 5:00 P.M. PST. We do not ship on Saturdays, Sundays, or holidays and we do not ship to P.O. Boxes. Please allow an average of one additional business day for processing and note that your order may be shipped in multiple packages at no extra charge to you.
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Dormer A100 Metric HSS jobber drills are suitable for use in the majority of general purpose engineering applications.
They have good self-centring capability on a wide range of materials and are suitable for both hand and machine use.
Tip diameter: 2.40mm.Working length: 30mm.Overall length: 57mm.
FH Autumn/Winter Deals 2017
FH uPVC Windows & Doors


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Hi there! Since you found my profile, let me tell you three things:
One, I don't come onto Mugglenet that often.
Two, I only read fanfiction stories because I'm too wrapped up in my own world to write any.
Three, I've got an original (?) story in the works, which is why I'm not writing any fanfiction. Hopefully this story will become a series (or several series!). But, uh, I haven't been too dedicated to the one I'm writing now...I just come up with plot ideas and other stuff for the other stories in the series...stories for the future...


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Quick start, experience are keys for Phillies
Playoff-tested veterans must strike early as NLCS comes home
By Tim Britton / MLB.com
What do the Phillies need to do to get back to the World Series? Here are five things to watch for this weekend at Citizens Bank Park.
Score early: The team that has scored first has won four of the first five games in this series, and some early offense will sustain Philadelphia's momentum from the Game 5 victory and get the crowd at Citizens Bank Park into it. The Phillies rode early offense to two of their wins in the NLDS, but they don't own a single hit in the first inning in this series -- although they were able to scratch out a run against Jonathan Sanchez in Game 2 with the help of three walks and an error. Getting Sanchez and San Francisco on their heels early in Game 6 could be huge.
"I think the whole thing is momentum," Oswalt said. "You start hitting, everyone starts hitting, seems like it's contagious. ... When you score early, you get momentum on your side. You kind of build from there."
NLCS Gm 6: Sat., 7:30 p.m. ET on FOX
• Sanchez, Oswalt face Game 6 intensity
• Phillies like Game 6 chances
• Rangers, world await NLCS winner
• Giants still in command in hard-fought set
• Phillies, Giants grapple for momentum
• Giants' run hinges on offense
• Castrovince: NL hopefuls must hit
• Spin Forward: Fundamentals magnified
• Why they'll win Gm 6: Giants | Phillies
• Five keys: Giants | Phillies
• Gm 6 starters: Sanchez | Oswalt
NLCS highlights and interviews
• NLCS coverage: Game 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5
Experienced starters: Make no mistake: Sanchez and Matt Cain are tremendous young pitchers who have bright futures. But neither of them possesses the kind of big-game credentials owned by both Oswalt and Cole Hamels -- the former an NLCS MVP, the latter an NLCS and World Series MVP. The two have combined for an 11-5 postseason record, and each has pitched a gem this month.
Oswalt admitted on Friday that this chance may not come around again in his career, while Hamels is looking to validate his 2008 breakout postseason after disappointing the Phillies last autumn. A Game 7 start would be the perfect chance for redemption.
Big players in big games: If the Phillies are going to complete this comeback, they're going to need to get something out of Chase Utley and Ryan Howard. The key cogs in the middle of the Philadelphia order, neither has driven in a run in this entire series. Their less accomplished counterparts, Aubrey Huff and Buster Posey, have combined for five RBIs.
Howard appears fairly productive at the plate with three doubles in the series, but manager Charlie Manuel suggested on Friday that his slugger is "definitely trying too hard" with runners on base and "needs to slow down" and "just hit a couple balls good."
Utley, on the other hand, has been a non-factor, no matter what the situation. He is just 3-for-19 in the series, a season after going 4-for-19 in the NLCS victory over the Dodgers. Utley scored and/or drove in six of the 13 runs the Phillies scored in the NLDS against Cincinnati; the time will likely come for him to step up with a big hit this weekend.
Add on: It's no coincidence that the two games the Phillies have won in this series are the two in which they've done some damage to the Giants' bullpen. In Game 2, Jimmy Rollins' bases-clearing double essentially iced the game in the seventh inning. In Game 5, Jayson Werth's solo homer in the ninth gave Lidge an extra run of insurance.
As good as the Philadelphia bullpen has been, it never hurts to provide that extra support -- something the Phillies, who finished third in the NL in runs from the seventh inning on, were so good at all season long.
Close the deal: The Giants may have entered the series with the bullpen advantage, but Philadelphia's relief corps has been very good in this series, particularly the trio of Jose Contreras, Ryan Madson and Brad Lidge. Contreras has been the biggest surprise, tossing three scoreless innings in the series. Madson, meanwhile, was dominant in striking out the side in the eighth inning of Game 5, and Lidge pitched a 1-2-3 ninth for the save.
With their backs against the wall, the Phillies cannot afford to give anything away late to this opportunistic Giants offense.
Tim Britton is an associate reporter for MLB.com. This story was not subject to the approval of Major League Baseball or its clubs.


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CLARKSVILLE — The University of the Ozarks Lady Eagles overcame a 37-31 halftime deficit and got a big 3-point shot from Ashley Hipps to earn a 71-67 victory over Mississippi College in American Southwest Conference play Saturday.
Trailing 67-65, Hipps drilled a three-pointer with 1:23 remaining in the game to give Ozarks (11-12, 7-10 ASC) a lead it wouldn't relinquish. Hipps then went to the free throw with 11 seconds left and gave the Lady Eagles a two-point cushion after hitting 1-of-2. RaShelle Goldman picked up the rebound on Hipps' missed free throw and was fouled with only five seconds left. Goldman hit both of her attempts to put the game out of reach.
Ozarks shot 63 percent from the field in the second half and limited Mississippi College (12-10, 9-7 ASC) to 36 percent.
Mississippi College led by as many as 11 in the first half, but the Lady Eagles clawed their way back with a 3-point play from Kindra Davis and back-to-back jumpers by Jordyn Ferrell and Taylor Farmer. The Lady Choctaws led 37-31 at halftime.
Ozarks' largest lead of the second half was four points, which came after Goldman hit her free throws in the final seconds. The Lady Eagles hit 26-of-36 (72 percent) at the free-throw line in the game.
Farmer finished with a game-high 23 points, was 7-of-11 from the field and 9-of-10 at the free-throw line. Four others reached double figures with Davis scoring 11 points. Seniors Chelsea Glasscock and Ferrell, who were honored following the game, scored 10 points each. Hipps also scored 10.
Eagles completes comeback
JACKSON, Miss. — Freddy Prince and Sam Shook each came up with clutch hits to complete a wild come-from-behind 13-10 victory over Millsaps College in the Millsaps College Invitational on Saturday. It was the first victory over Millsaps for the Eagles.
With the score tied 10-10 in the 10th, Drew Clark led off with a single to ignite the rally.
With two outs, Rodger Montano singled and put two runners on base, and Prince then delivered an RBI double to give Ozarks (2-0) a 11-10 advantage. Shook followed with a two-run single for a decisive 13-10 lead.
Ozarks needed more magic in the eighth when it trailed 7-5. The Eagles came up with a big five run inning behind three hits.
The lead didn't last long as Millsaps (0-1) answered with two runs in the bottom half of the eighth and one run in the ninth.
Shook finished 4-for-6 with 2 RBI and three runs. Mitchell Powers, Nick Brill and Montano each had two hits. Ozarks totaled 14 hits, while Millsaps had nine.
Montano (1-0) was the winning pitcher as he threw the final two innings. J
effery Works went six innings as the starter and gave up just one run.
The Eagles will take on Rhodes College at 7:30 p.m. Saturday at Mississippi College.
Eagles trio puts stamp on Senior Day
Mississippi College didn't have an answer for Ozarks' high-scoring trio of Marcus Bobb, Ronnie Dodd and Andrew Cummings as the Eagles posted a 74-66 ASC win Saturday.
As has been the case all season, Bobb, Dodd and Cummings paced the Eagles (7-16, 4-13 ASC) as the team's leading scorers. The trio combined for 46 points against the Choctaws (12-10, 8-8 ASC). Mississippi College raced out to a 23-13 lead in the first half before Ozarks stormed back to tie the contest, 24-24, with 8:12 left. The Eagles later extended their lead to 30-24 after four straight free throws. After battling back and forth for the next five minutes, Ozarks went into intermission tied 37-37.
The 12th tie of the game occurred at the 7:32 mark of the second half, but the Eagles took the lead for good after a pair of Dodd free throws. A Bobb layup with 3:36 left put Ozarks in front 65-57. The Eagles went to the free-throw line 41 times, hitting 28.
Isaiah Boxell, the school's all-time leader in assists, had six. Bobb had 19 points and 10 rebounds, while Dodd had 17 points and 12 rebounds. Cummings finished with 10 points.
Ozarks will travel to Richardson, Texas, today to play Texas-Dallas.


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77 R75/7 Gen light on full time. Bike has relatively low miles 23000. Gel battery only 1 year old.
How do I diagnose this? I`m not sure where to start looking and do not want to start replacing parts unnecessarily.
I`m in Leamington, not far from Michigan and do not know any airhead mechanics in the area. I`m quite willing to trailer it several hours for good service. Any leads or pointers appreciated


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WINTER SPRINGS, Fla. - It's one of the biggest trending topics in education, and it's called Common Core.
Beginning next year all Florida public school children in kindergarten through twelfth grade will adopt new national learning standards.
Common Core is a major shift in philosophy, stressing the importance of understanding concepts as opposed to simply memorizing facts. The end goal is to better prepare kids for college and the workplace.
Florida is one of 45 states to adopt the Common Core standards. This year kindergarten and first grade students began instituting the standards as part of their learning.
First grade teacher Malinda Godinho began teaching with Common Core standards this year at Highlands Elementary in Winter Springs. She says Common Core allows her more freedom to choose a variety of texts. What's important is the comprehension skills the kids learn from them.
Local 6 sat in on her class where the actions of characters in story books were discussed in depth. The idea, if the kids can connect with the characters, they will understand the story better, setting a solid foundation for future reading comprehension across a variety of texts.
"They are getting it," she said. "I do see a change. I like the fact that they take more ownership in the learning and I think if they take more ownership in their learning then they will remember it and they will use it and apply the standards we are teaching them."
Some examples of common core curriculum include:
- The ability to apply math to real wold situations.
- Reading and comprehending more complex, informational text.
- The ability to use sources to back up persuasive writing.
- The use of math to solve problems that may not be presented as math problems.
Math skills are of particular importance. Common Core standards teach students to have a deep conceptual understanding in the primary grades.
Anna-Marie Cote, Deputy Superintendent for Instructional Excellence and Equity with Seminole County Schools, says the idea is to catch kids who don't understand a concept before they move on to more advanced learning.
"We are able to determine when students don't understand a concept and intervene very quickly so that they don't keep those misconceptions as they progress through advanced mathematics," she said.
Experts say students are not prepared for life after high school.
Nationwide it's reported that over a third of all students require remedial classes upon entering college. Dr. Joyce Romano, Vice President for Student Affairs at Valencia College says she sees many students who arrive with a diploma and who were very successful in high school yet they still must start below college level.
Romano says building on skills at an early age and keeping kids on track is key to future success.
"Realizing that if you want someone when they graduate from high school to be able to read and write at college level and compute at the college level, it's a cumulative effect. I think it's the right approach," said Romano.
Copyright 2013 by ClickOrlando.com. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.


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"Really disappointed. All across the board." Browns coach Eric Mangini, on his team's performance.
"The main thing is the way we played." Mangini, citing what he regarded was his team's lack of effort.
"I saw guys making an effort out there. He has a coach's eye. I play out there with the players. That's his opinion. He's our coach. He's our leader. I can just speak for myself personally. You don't know how much effort a guy can give." Browns do-everything player Josh Cribbs, when told of Mangini's comment about effort.
"We're not good right now. Period. Flat-out." Quarterback Derek Anderson, on the Browns' offense.
"It hurts to lose when you lose badly like that because you're not even close to being competitive." Browns offensive tackle Joe Thomas
"It's a loss. One point, 50 points, it's disappointing either way. We can't let this snowball. We need to get some accountability." Browns linebacker David Bowens, on the team's mindset.
"We felt like it was a winning performance in all three phases of the game." Green Bay coach Mike McCarthy
"This was our best performance technically." Green Bay quarterback Aaron Rodgers
By the numbers
8: Consecutive home losses for the Browns.
2-14: The Browns' record in their last 16 games.
12, 25: First downs by the Browns and Packers, respectively.
36.4, 155.4: The quarterback ratings for Anderson and Green Bay's Aaron Rodgers.
58, 202: Rushing yards for the Browns and Packers.
99, 258: Passing yards for the Browns and Packers.
139, 460: Total net yards for the Browns and Packers.
Slipping away
The Browns are in full retreat as they near the mid-point of the season. Most weeks, they lose and lose big. They are 0-3 at home and fans are starting to stay away in droves. After again being humbled on the lakefront, this time by the Packers, the Browns' locker room was an extremely quiet place. Players who spoke to reporters did so in hushed tones.
"We're all professional athletes," Cribbs said. "We cannot make excuses for losing to a good football team, for not being prepared. We played some bad football. We turned the ball over. You can't win games like that. Bad football."
Crowd count
The announced crowd of 69,797 represented the number of tickets distributed. The peak number of fans in the stands on a near-perfect October afternoon was about 55,000. By the middle of the fourth quarter, all but 10,000 or so diehards had departed the premises. Cribbs said he hated the sight of so many unoccupied orange seats.
"It hurts, man," Cribbs said.
-- David S. Glasier


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News & Events
For the Media
New Clarkson University Materials Science & Engineering Ph.D. Program Forms Advisory Council
The advisory council for Clarkson University's new Materials Science & Engineering Ph.D. program met for the first time in November.
Through this interdisciplinary program, students gain a depth of knowledge from wide access to faculty mentors in departments across the University. Their goal is to facilitate an understanding of the properties, synthesis and processing of advanced materials.
Topics covered in the program include advanced materials for alternative energy, biomaterials, polymer science and engineering, and more.
One of the strengths of the program is its close association with Clarkson's Center for Advanced Materials Processing (CAMP), which for more than 20 years has partnered with both corporate and government sponsors to perform innovative research, and conducted educational efforts on the synthesis and processing of advanced materials of interest to industry.
During its first meeting, the council discussed the new program's curriculum and its research and strategy.
"For future research fields, we hope to focus on solar energy, biomaterials, and energy storage, including batteries and supercapacitors," said Director of Materials Science and Engineering Ian I. Suni. "We may also invest in computational materials design, as described in President Obama's Materials Genome Initiative."
Suni says that research by the program's students, faculty and graduates could eventually bring about advances like less expensive solar cells, portable biomedical sensors and longer lasting batteries.
The members of the advisory council are:
- Robert Langer, David H. Koch Institute Professor, Department of Chemical Engineering, Massachusetts Institute of Technology
- James B. Roberto, associate laboratory director for graduate education and university partnerships, Oak Ridge National Laboratory
- Robert Latiff, chairman, National Materials Advisory Board of the National Academies, and director of the Intelligence and Security Research Center, George Mason University
- Dipak Chowdhury, division vice president and program director Flex Substrates, Corning Inc.
- Sowmya Krishnan, chief executive officer and founder, Semitrac
- Paul Gilman, director of technology, deposition materials, Praxair
- Harry Gibson, professor, Department of Chemistry, Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University
- Igor Luzinov, professor, School of Materials Science and Engineering, Clemson University
- Charles R. Craig, chair of the Clarkson Board of Trustees academic affairs committee and senior vice president, administration and operations, science and technology, Corning Inc.
- Hon. Lawrence J. Delaney, chair of the Clarkson Board of Trustees research committee, and chairman of the board, Schafer Corp.
Industry leaders that hire Materials Science and Engineering graduates include Intel, General Electric, Procter & Gamble, Pfizer, Corning, Lockheed Martin, and Johnson & Johnson.
Clarkson University launches leaders into the global economy. One in five alumni already leads as a CEO, VP or equivalent senior executive of a company. Located just outside the Adirondack Park in Potsdam, N.Y., Clarkson is a nationally recognized research university for undergraduates with select graduate programs in signature areas of academic excellence directed toward the world's pressing issues. Through 50 rigorous programs of study in engineering, business, arts, sciences and health sciences, the entire learning-living community spans boundaries across disciplines, nations and cultures to build powers of observation, challenge the status quo, and connect discovery and engineering innovation with enterprise.


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Open Box (Blemished) Fender Road Worn '50s Telecaster Electric Guitar 2-Color Sunburst 888365853536
(2-Color Sunburst888365853536)
Sku #526798005063018
Solid Body Electric Guitars
- Write a Review
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A guitar with a cool aged look, feel, and mojo - without breaking the bank.
The Fender Road Worn '50s Telecaster is an electric guitar that delivers killer aged look, feel and mojo without breaking the bank. This is a Tele that was designed using 1950s specs augmented by Tex-Mex pickups and 6105 frets.
Like classic cars or your favorite T-shirt, some things just get cooler with age. That's especially true of electric guitars"they develop an unmistakable mojo over time that makes them look even cooler and feel even more comfortable than when they were brand new. In that regard, the Fender Road Worn '50s Telecaster is a true player.
Body: ash (blonde finish) alder (2-tone sunburst)
Finish: nitrocellulose lacquer
Neck: maple
Neck profile: "U" shape
Fretboard radius: 7-1/4"
Frets: 21 (6105 style)
Scale length: 25-1/2"
Nut width: 1.650"
Hardware: chrome
Tuners: Fender Vintage Style
Bridge: vintage style 3-saddle strings-thru-body
Pickguard: 1-ply white
Pickups: 2 Tex-Mex Tele single-coil
Pickup switch: 3-way
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Orly, I am sorry to hear about your dad. You are in my prayers. Maureen
Jan 25, 2012 Mom dx: tumor on head of pancreas and spread to nearby blood vessells - nonresectable
Feb 3, 2012 Plastic stent put in to unclog bile duct. Replaced in April with metal stent.
Feb 24-Aug 3, 2012 Gemcitabine
Aug 2012 CAT scan: no growth of tumor. Now on chemo break.
Oct 2012 CAT scan: no growth of tumor. Continue chemo break.
Jan 2013 CAT scan: showed mets to lymph node above pancreas
Feb 4, 2013 New plan: 7 wks of 5FU and Radiation
March 2013 Finished Radiation (stopped chemo a week early b/c it was too much on her)
March 2013 CAT scan: tumor and node stable. Treatment break.
June 2013 CAT scan moved up due to loss of weight, no appetite, diarrhea, back pain. Scan showed thickening in duodenum.
July 2013 Unexplained blood loss. Cancer is progressing. No more chemo. Hospice brought in.
August 9, 2013 Mom passed and is finally at peace. God bless her.
Only, I am so very sorry for your loss. What a great man and father. You had something special there. I hope that your pain will ease soon and you will be able to cherish your memories with a peaceful heart.
"May you be held in compassion; May your pain and suffering be eased; May you be at Peace"
Orly I am very sorry to hear of your Dad's passing. My heart goes out to you.
He is now at peace and no more suffering.
I know that you are in shock, but now your healing process can begin. It's a rough ride, but just let all your grief and anger out, and you will get there, just like us, that have lived this dreadful journe6 as well.
Take care
A big hug to you
Micklin xxx
Orly I am so sorry to hear this, may your treasured memories comfort you at this time. I took the time this evening to read up on your father, wow he was awesome and has left behind a great legacy. You have every right to be so proud. Please know you are in our thoughts and prayers. We are all here for you.
49 yo female. 4/12 became jaundiced went to doc. Test revealed mass on head of pancreas.nodule on lung and one lymph node involved 5/12 chemo(Zeloda) and radiation for 5 1/2 weeks. Tumor shrank, lymph node shrank, no basic change in nodule.
Vats surgery on 7/17/12 showed nodule was in fact pancreatic cancer that has spread. Whipple no longer an option. Start iv chemo on 8/02/2012 with 5fu irinotecan and oxaliplatin.
09/11/12 stent replaced (was originally placed 04/12).
Jan 2013- scan reveals no growth or spread
Feb 2013- dropped oxaliplatin due to repeated low WBC counts so now on folfiri.
April 18th 2013- scan reveals again no growth or spread! Good news
Sept 5th 2013- scan today reveals no growth or spread! Doc now calls me stable mable
Dear Orly I am so sorry for your loss. Sending you and your family prayers for peace and comfort..
Husband Diagnosed "Borderline Resectable" pancreatic adenocarcinoma January 2012. Chemotherapy for six months. Successful Whipple August 2012 with clean margins, 3 out of 12 nodes positive. Post Whipple Chemo/Radiation for 5.5 weeks ended Dec. 2012. NED for 2.5 years with great quality of life. Lung spots identified and removed Nov 2014. Low Dose Chemo kept lung spots at bay for quite a while, then pleural efflusion started. Husband died peacefully at home on January 14, 2017 after electing no more chemo. He lived a few days over 5 years from diagnosis. "If love could have kept you alive, you would have lived forever."
Orly My thoughts are with you you at this sad time. So very sorry, Vicki
Diagnosed March 2012 non operable Pan Can with mets to liver and adrenal glands. Otherwise quite well. Started Gemzar in April did several rounds Then had scan in July showing no good results tumour imploding and mets had advanced. xeloda tablets were started with good results first scan came back with shrinkage every where not a lot but encouraging. Dec scan showed liver mets returned and gained in size Folfox started January 8 2013 Dr proposed 4 rounds then a scan. Completed 4 rounds scan results not so good pancreas tumour stable and 2 spots on liver also ok but small increase in size of 3 liver spot and more spots forming biloma a formed in liver. doctors describe me as asymptomatic. Currently on chemo break until further notice.
I'm so sorry, Orly. ((Hugs)).
I do believe that we'll be reunited with our loved ones eventually, so it's not really goodbye, more like "see you later". But we still miss them terribly while we're apart.
Take care of yourself...
12/17/2012 Father diagnosed with 5 x 3.8 cm malignant tumor on head of pancreas
12/19/2012 Father's birthday.
12/21/2012 Father hospitalized with severe abdominal pain and jaundice, pending stent
12/24/2012 Plastic bile duct stent successfully installed, biopsy taken
12/31/2012 Tumor confirmed as pancreatic adenocarcinoma
1/17/2013 Chemo (Gemcitabin/5-FU/Leucovorin) and IMRT radiation has finally begun.
February - another hospitalization for weakness and dehydration
March - bad PET scan showing mets all over liver abdominal cavity
3/15/2013 - first round of GemCis chemo, last ditch attempt to reverse the decline
3/17/2013 - hospitalized with sepsis and anemia from internal bleeding.
4/3/2013 - came home under hospice care
4/15/2013 - made his final tax protest and left us peacefully at 9 PM, in front of a television history of the NY Mets
I'm so sorry for your loss. I hope that your father had as peaceful a passing as possible and that you get some peace from knowing that he knew you were there and that he was loved.
I'm very sorry to hear this news. My thoughts are with you, your family and all who called him friend. Keep his music alive Orly.....
This dark night shall end and the sun will rise again...
- Dad diagnosed in 1992 with primary bladder cancer
- bladder removed and new one made from resected intestine
- chemotherapy regimen started
- mets to large intestines discovered in 1993...more chemo...tumors disappearing
- complained of neck pain Dec 1994. Mets to brainstem confirmed
- passed away Feb 24, 1995
I googled your Dad's name. Wow!!! It looks like he was an amazing composer. When I get time and I am alone I would like to listen to his music.
Your Dad has certainly left a legacy behind for his family. Something to be very, very proud of. I know it's no consolation, but you can immerse yourself in his music when you miss him, and he will be all around you.
Wishing you strength for the coming days, when you need to deal with the horrible stuff.
Forum Rules


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Lantern Review: A Journal of Asian American Poetry
Issue 4 | Winter 2012
Kathy Tran
My father is still in war.
He has lost and struggled in war.
I don't think he sleeps at night, afraid he's still there.
I think my father's soul is lost at war.
My father has lost his mind.
I don't believe my father's the same since war.
My mother doesn't speak much about it.
She has erased her memory of a war.
You must forget what happened.
You can't forget what happened in war.
I don't worry too much. I'm not sure.
My uncle won't leave the house because of war.
I'll never understand, I don't believe in it.
I don't believe in war.
I can't take this anymore.
We are all at war.


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The artistic director of the Bolshoi Theater's ballet troupe was attacked with acid in Moscow and his eyesight is threatened, the theater said Friday.
Sergei Filin, a 42-year-old former ballet star, was approached Thursday night by an unknown man who splashed acid on his face as he got out of his car outside his home in central Moscow, Russian television reported.
Bolshoi spokeswoman Katerina Novikova, who visited Filin at the hospital Thursday night, told The Associated Press that his condition is stable but his eyesight is threatened.
Filin was appointed artistic director of the Bolshoi's ballet company in March 2011. He danced for the Bolshoi on and off from 1988 to 2004 when his sustained a severe injury onstage.
The theater's director general Anatoly Iksanov told Russia's Channel One that he believes the attacked is linked to Filin's work.
"He was a man of principle and never compromised," Iksanov said. "If he believed that this or that dancer was not ready or was unable perform this or that part, he would turn them down."
Several stars at the Bolshoi including Nikolai Tsiskaridze, one of its most celebrated dancers, have complained about what they call Filin's unfair treatment of dancers at the Bolshoi.


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Week 30 and we're 2/3rds of the way thru this trailride.. This cowpoke has been consistant in sewing only one block a week...I do have a good excuse...the Olympics......I don't know what Laurie was thinking when she decided on the blocks with "Y" seams...sooooo many of them!!
Now a couple of letters.
Week 19.. Gladys Ellwood, Franklin County,
VermontI could see no mention of siblings in Gladys' letter or in the photographs that
she sent to the Webb Publishing Company. Therefore, I wasn't surprised to find
that she was an only child. Gladys and her parents didn't travel far; they spent
their whole lives in the state of Vermont.
This genealogy will be in two sections--Gladys first, and then her parents.
What I could find about Gladys' life is very straightforward. She was born
Martha Gladys Ellwood, on February 25, 1902, and presumably lived with her
parents until she married at the age of 27. Her husband's name was Guy Cray, and
they married on October 20, 1929, just a few days before the Stock Market Crash
that began the Great Depression. Gladys and Guy lived very long lives; he died
in 1982 at the age of 84, and Gladys died in a nursing home in 1996, at 94 years
of age.
Her parent's records caught my eye because of the 1930 census. There are three
people listed in the household; Guy (age 31), Gladys (28) and Gladys' father
Clarence (52.) (I believe that it is most likely Clarence's picture on page 41.)
What became of Gladys' mother, Gertrude, I wondered? I found her death record in
1927. She died from asthma at the age of 61, two years before Gladys' marriage.
(I imagine they greatly missed her not being there!) I think that it is
interesting that Gladys' father was twelve years younger than his wife. Clarence
married again at the age of 65 to a woman named Lillian. Clarence died in 1961,
having been married to his second wife for almost 20 years.
(I just noticed--My grandfather's first and second wife's names were Gertrude
and Lillian, too!
Week 20.. Lee Mohr, Marshall County, Iowa
As some of you suspected, I could not find any positive information about Lee. I
found two "Lee Mohr's" but both were from the eastern side of Iowa. Since
Marshall County is in the central part of the state, I didn't want to guess. I'm
still going to work on it though, and I hope to find the correct one in time.


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Any more questions about whether or not the Jets belong in the playoffs?
Surely the doubters and the haters will come up with more reasons why the Jets don't belong and why Jets fans should be sheepish about expressing the slightest bit of happiness about their team, but things are going to ring a bit hollow after Saturday afternoon's 24-14 win in Cincinnati. The Jets weren't perfect -- Cedric Benson ran for 169 yards and Chad Ochocinco actually found enough freedom to catch two passes -- but they were damn close as they moved on to become one of the final eight teams playing in the NFL this season.
To the surprise of almost everyone, Jets fans included, Mark Sanchez was the best former USC quarterback on the field Saturday afternoon. You would be forgiven if you saw Carson Palmer's bulging eyes, wild throws and miserable mechanics and thought he was the rookie everyone said wasn't ready to win a big game. The Jets may have struggled against the run, but they proved that it's going to take a complete performance to end their season.
That's not the surprise, of course. The surprise is that Mark Sanchez is a big reason why the Jets will be playing for a berth in the AFC Championship Game next weekend. Sanchez showed none of the jitters and poor judgment that marked his regular season while completing 12 of 15 passes for 182 yards and a touchdown. And one of those incompletions was a flat-out drop in the end zone by Braylon Edwards, something that makes a good day look even better.
He wasn't the only rookie to have a big day. Shonn Greene stepped up to the lead role in the rushing game and churned out 135 yards, but that pales in comparison to the virgin voyage of Rex Ryan's playoff career.
When the gargantuan coach eases himself into bed early Sunday morning, he'll be doing so with an awfully large smile on his face. Ryan was the subject of much mockery this week because he dared to suggest that his team would win this game and he deserves to be the subject of much praise in the days following a nearly flawless performance by his team on Saturday afternoon. It won't work out that way as you'll hear much more about how the Colts (should the Patriots win Sunday) or Chargers (if the Ravens win) will crush the Jets.
Maybe they will, but at some point someone will have to admit that the Jets are alive and kicking long after they were pronounced dead. That's called playing with house money, folks, and that's a pretty sweet position to be in come the third weekend in January.
Josh Alper is a writer living in New York City and is a contributor to FanHouse.com and ProFootballTalk.com in addition to his duties for NBCNewYork.com.


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In addition to being one of the game's most productive hitters over the last decade, Athletics designated hitter Hideki Matsui might also be the most scrutinized player in the big leagues, with dozens of Japanese reporters covering his every move. Matsui, who turned 37 on June 12, arrived in the Major Leagues in 2003, joining the Yankees following a storied career in his native Japan. He recently spoke with MLBPLAYERS.com with the assistance of translator Roger Kahlon.
MLBPLAYERS.com: How many interviews do you do in a year with the Japanese media?
Matsui: It seems like every time I put on my uniform, I'm doing an interview with the Japanese media. There are 162 games a year, so I would say at least 162 interviews a year. That doesn't even count Spring Training.
MLBPLAYERS.com: What is a typical day when it comes to interviews with the Japanese and American media?
Matsui: Generally speaking, I don't have any mandatory interviews with the Japanese media before games. Whoever wants to come and talk to me before games is welcome. I always do interviews with Japanese media after the games. As far as the American media goes, I'm usually only interviewed when I'm part of the story.
MLBPLAYERS.com: Is your routine with the media here the same as when you were in Japan?
Matsui: For the most part, it is pretty much the same.
MLBPLAYERS.com: Are you ever surprised by the media coverage surrounding you?
Matsui: I'm not too surprised in that I think a lot of people back home want to know what's going on. So, they are just providing what people want.
MLBPLAYERS.com: Is the coverage you receive comparable to Ichiro in your opinion?
Matsui: I know that he has a lot of media following him, but I'm not sure about the exact number. So, I couldn't really say yes or no.
MLBPLAYERS.com: How important is your interpreter, Roger, to your ability to communicate on a daily basis?
Matsui: I think he plays a very important role in my day-to-day life here. I'm not always able to communicate 100 percent of the time, so it is vital that he is here so I can say what I need to say. He is important for me to completely understand what someone is saying to me.
MLBPLAYERS.com: Do you see a big difference between the media in New York and the media you have most recently dealt with in Anaheim and in Oakland?
Matsui: The main difference I noticed right away was the amount of media that followed the teams. There are many more members of the press in New York than in the other places. As for how they cover the game and players, I'm not too sure of the difference.
MLBPLAYERS.com: Do you think that when you sign with teams they understand the amount of Japanese media coverage that follows you?
Matsui: Yes, they understand that right from the start. I make sure to communicate to my new team just what exactly the media coverage will be like on a day-to-day basis. I really don't have any control over the media, but I want the team to understand the sheer number of media that they will have to deal with. Thankfully, all the organizations I have been with have been very understanding and cooperative with the Japanese media.
MLBPLAYERS.com: Do you believe that another Japanese athlete could come over here, play a different pro sport and still get the same coverage you or Ichiro do, or do you attribute the mass coverage to the popularity of baseball in Japan?
Matsui: That's hard to say. Baseball is very popular in Japan, but I think another athlete could come over here and garner a large contingent of Japanese media if he is relevant to the people back home. It's just hard to guess at that because there really haven't been other Japanese athletes making the transition to other major sports here.
MLBPLAYERS.com: Have there been any teammates who have embraced your culture and tried to learn your native language?
Matsui: On every team I have played on there have been several players who have gone out of their way to learn some Japanese. Many have learned greetings and common phrases. It really has meant a great deal to me.
Jeff Moeller is a freelance writer based in Los Angeles.
This story was not subject to the approval of Major League Baseball or its clubs.


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Rent Stabilization Board Housing Counselors provide information to tenants and landlords about their rights and responsibilities under the Berkeley Rent Ordinance and California Rental Housing Law. To contact a Housing Counselor by e-mail, please send an e-mail to: email@example.com.
Drop-in counseling is available at our office located at 2125 Milvia Street, Berkeley, CA 94704 (northeast corner of Milvia and Center Streets, downtown Berkeley), or by phone at 510-981-RENT (510-981-7368).
Office Hours:
Monday, Tuesday, Thursday and Friday: 9 a.m. – 4:45 p.m.
Wednesday: 12 p.m. (noon) – 6:30 p.m.
如需中文, 請聯絡鄭女士:電話 981-4928


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Cloud Forests and Biodiversity
Tropical cloud forests are situated in mountains and are characterized by the frequent presence of low-level clouds. Scientists have always regarded them as having high biodiversity, but a study published recently in mongabay.com's open access journal, Tropical Conservation Science adds a new dimension: it found cloud forests contain a significant and surprising array of tree and bromeliad species, even when they are relatively small.
A team of researchers analyzed the tree biodiversity of four of Mexico's remaining cloud forests and concluded that, despite the recent retreat of these habitats, many species of trees and bromeliad have endured in relatively high numbers.
Bromeliads are a type of flowering plant found in the tropical Americas. They can be ground dwelling, such as pineapple, or they can grow up high in the canopies of trees. Species that fall into the latter category are called "epiphytes."
To analyze the biodiversity of the Mexican cloud forests, researchers from the Mexican Institute of Ecology (INECOL) established six small plots in each of the four sites, in which they measured the botanical diversity. The team recorded 18 species of epiphytic bromeliads and 45 species of tree, including Quercus delgadoana, an endangered species of oak that turned out to be dominant at one of the sites surveyed. Other species of tree classified as Vulnerable by the IUCN were found to be in relative abundance.
Surprisingly, some of the smallest fragments of cloud forest boasted the highest levels of botanical diversity.
In the paper, the researchers speculate that forest fragmentation may have led to an increased amount of sunlight exposure in clearings and at the edges of the forests. This may have upset the monopoly of the tall established giants and allowed a greater number of "pioneer species" to grow.
Cloud forests are areas of high altitude woodland distinguished by a frequently low cloud cover. They host a uniquely cool tropical environment, and due to the narrow band of altitude and latitude in which they can grow, they account for only about one percent of the world's forest.
Because of the highly specialized atmospheric conditions needed to sustain a cloud forest, many, particularly in Mexico, are expected to shrink or vanish outright due to human-caused global warming.
Continue reading at ENN affiliate, MONGABAY.COM.
Cloud forest image via Shutterstock.