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> Allele-specific oligonucleotide hybridization
Allele-specific oligonucleotide hybridization
Also listed as:
ASO hybridization
Related terms
Future research
Author information
Related Terms
Allele, ASO hybridization, DNA, genetic epidemiology, genotyping, hybridization, mutation analysis, oligonucleotide, PCR, polymorphism.
An allele-specific oligonucleotide (ASO) is a short, single-strand deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) molecule, usually 15-21 nucleotides, or bases, in length.
DNA makes up the genetic "blueprint" that contains all the information necessary to make a living being. The unique twisted ladder shape of DNA is called a double helix. The sides of the double helix are made of alternating sugar and phosphate molecules. The "rungs" of the "ladder" are made of small molecules called bases. There are four different types of these bases in DNA: adenine, thymine, cytosine, and guanine. These bases are arranged in a unique order, or sequence, in the DNA. Because they contain nitrogen, these molecules are sometimes called nitrogen bases. DNA provides instructions for the production of a molecule called mRNA (messenger ribonucleic acid), which then controls the production of protein encoded by the gene.
Alleles are variations of a single gene; each gene contains two alleles because one is inherited from each parent. A mutation occurs when the chemicals that make up an individual's genes are incorrectly deleted, added, or substituted.
An ASO is complementary, meaning that it pairs with the sequence of a variable target DNA. The base pairs in a DNA molecule bind to each other in a particular way. The adenine base is complementary to thymine and the cytosine to guanine. The sequence of the bases defines the information contained in the DNA. A large proportion of DNA is the same in all human beings, but there are some regions of DNA that show considerable variation among individuals in the population.
An ASO also corresponds to either the normal sequence of the target or a specific known mutation. An ASO can function as a probe, which is a single-stranded DNA molecule that can detect the presence of a complementary sequence among a mixture of other single-stranded DNA sequences. A DNA probe can be used for a specific DNA target sequence in a Southern blot assay or in a simple dot blot assay. A Southern blot assay is used to detect a sequence of DNA in a sample. In this assay, the DNA is separated by size using agarose gel electrophoresis, which separates DNA by moving negatively charged nucleic acid molecules through an agarose matrix, a gel-like substance, through an electric field. Shorter molecules move faster and migrate farther than longer ones. A dot blot assay is similar to Southern blotting in that DNA is detected but instead of being separated by size, total DNA is pooled on a single spot on a membrane.
ASO hybridization is a technique commonly used in basic molecular biology research, genetic testing, and in forensics, which is the application of science to answer questions of interest to the criminal justice system. Forensics may use ASO to determine the DNA present in a blood sample left at a crime scene, for example. In genetic testing, ASO is used to detect the presence of a mutation in one's DNA and can be used to establish whether an individual has a certain genetic disease.
The DNA sequence of an ASO is typically designed to be specific for only one allele, which is one member of a pair of different forms of a gene of the DNA target being tested. Although many alleles of a gene exist, one individual inherits two alleles, one from the mother and one from the father. ASO probes are able to detect as little as a single nucleotide mismatch, which is when only one base in a DNA molecule is altered in some way. ASO technology is an important tool in studying gene variations as part of the Human Genome Project, an international scientific research project with a primary goal to determine and identify the about 20,000-25,000 genes of the human genome.
: Typically, a panel of allele-specific oligonucleotide (ASO) probes is required for mutational screening, which is used to detect a mutation in a gene based on the known mutations found in the ethnic group of an individual. For prenatal diagnosis and adult patients, two oligonucleotide probes (one complimentary to the mutated DNA sequence and the other to the normal, or wild-type, gene at the same position) are needed to screen for each mutation. The patient's genotype is determined by the detection of signal from both the mutated and normal ASO probes. ASO is most straightforward for studying populations with only one common mutation.
Polymerase chain reaction (PCR)
: DNA is present in small amounts. PCR uses special enzymes to make millions of copies of a specific piece of DNA for research purposes. As PCR progresses, the DNA that is generated is used as a template for replication. This sets in motion a chain reaction in which the DNA template is amplified. With PCR it is possible to amplify a single or a few copies of a piece of DNA across several orders of magnitude, generating millions or more copies of the piece of DNA. PCR is used to amplify specific regions of a target DNA strand. This can be a single gene, or part of a gene. Reverse transcription PCR (RT-PCR) is a method used to amplify, isolate, or identify a known sequence from RNA rather than DNA. The PCR is preceded by a reaction using an enzyme called reverse transcriptase, which converts RNA to cDNA (complementary DNA). The PCR part of the process makes many copies of the resulting piece of DNA.
Southern blot assay
: A Southern blot assay is used to detect a sequence of DNA in a sample. An ASO can function as a probe, which is a single-stranded DNA molecule used in molecular biology to detect the presence of a complementary sequence among a mixture of other single-stranded DNA sequences. In this assay, the DNA is separated by size using agarose gel electrophoresis. This method separates DNA by moving negatively charged nucleic acid molecules through a gel-like substance in an electrical field. Shorter molecules move faster and migrate farther than longer ones.
Dot blot assay
: A dot blot assay is used to detect a sequence of DNA in a sample. A DNA probe can be used for a specific DNA target sequence in a simple dot blot assay. A dot blot assay is similar to Southern blotting in that DNA is detected, but instead of being separated by size, total DNA is pooled on a single spot on a membrane. To detect an ASO after it has bound to its target, the ASO must be labeled. ASO labeling is typically done with a radioactive, enzymatic, or fluorescent molecule that is linked to the probe. A researcher can then observe the size of the dots on the membrane in order to detect variation among samples.
Reverse dot blot assay
: This technique allows several mutations to be tested in a single hybridization reaction. In this method, unlabelled ASO probes, specific to various mutations and to the normal DNA sequence, are bound to nylon membrane strips in the form of dots or slots. PCR-amplified genomic DNA is then labeled and hybridized to the nylon membrane. This procedure may require the use of several filters, initially screening for the more common mutations observed in the patient's ethnic background, and later blots screening for the rarer gene allele abnormalities.
DNA microarray
: DNA microarray is a technique that consists of a series of thousands of spots of DNA oligonucleotides, called features, each containing tiny amounts of a specific DNA sequence. An ASO can be used as the DNA probe used during a process called hybridization, in which the complementary single-stranded nucleic acids are combined to make a double-stranded molecule. Once the probe and target are joined, they are detected by attaching a fluorescent label so the amount of the target can be determined.
Increasingly, allele-specific oligonucleotide (ASO) techniques have been automated for rapid screening of a growing list of human genetic diseases. In genetic testing, ASO is used to detect the presence of a mutation in an individual's DNA and can be used to establish whether a person has a certain genetic disease. The Human Genome Project, an international scientific research project to determine the sequence of chemical base pairs of DNA and to identify the about 20,000-25,000 genes of the human genome, is expanding the potential list of target DNA sequences.
One genetic disease that can be diagnosed using ASO hybridization is sickle cell anemia, which is caused by a genetic mutation in the blood protein beta-hemoglobin. The normal DNA sequence G-A-G codes for the amino acid glutamate; the mutation changes the adenine to a thymine, leading to the sequence G-T-G. This altered sequence substitutes a valine into the final protein, distorting its structure. To test for the presence of the mutation in a DNA sample, an ASO probe complementary to the altered sequence would be made. As a control, another ASO would be synthesized for the normal sequence. Each ASO is fully complementary to its target sequence and will bind strongly, but has a single mismatch against its non-target allele, leading to a weaker interaction.
Commercial assays for many of the more common genetic diseases are available for rapid screening. For example, beta-thalassemia strips screen for the most frequent mutations observed in various regions of the world are commercially available.
Through allele-specific oligonucleotide (ASO) technology, the sequencing of an individual's entire genome, that is, all of the genes that make up that individual, may become more practical. As researchers identify potential DNA sequences that become mutated as a result of a genetic disease, the potential exists for medicines and treatments to be tailored to individuals based on their particular needs. For example, a group of enzymes called cytochrome P450 enzymes control drug metabolism, breakdown, and clearance. Patients with known mutations in these enzymes metabolize drugs more slowly. Knowledge of P450 enzyme mutations allows physicians to adjust drug dosages accordingly to help prevent adverse reactions.
This method is not readily adapted to screening populations carrying a large number of different gene alleles because each mutation requires a separate hybridization and washing step. However, increased automation of the allele-specific oligonucleotide (ASO) assay process is providing more rapid results.
ASO screening detects only known gene mutations. Other "silent" DNA mutations, which are DNA changes that do not affect the structure of the coded protein, may complicate ASO screening.
Tests for many genetic diseases are restricted to proprietary DNA assays. This means that the assay is not available for public use and therefore may have associated high costs.
Future research
In the future, personalized genetic testing for a wide array of inherited diseases and predispositions will likely become more routine because . However, such testing is not widespread today. Allele-specific oligonucleotide (ASO) assays are only one technique for determining a patient's genetic makeup. Because it is a well-established and automated technique, ASO will likely be a common genetic testing strategy for some time to come.
With the use of ASO hybridization techniques, researchers and clinicians may be able to provide patients with personalized medicine, meaning that a patient's genotype could be used to tailor medical care to his or her specific needs. Such information could be used to help stratify disease status, select different medications, tailor dosages of medications, provide a specific therapy for an individual's disease, or initiate a preventive measure that is particularly suited to a specific patient at the time of administration.
Author information
This information has been edited and peer-reviewed by contributors to the Natural Standard Research Collaboration (www.naturalstandard.com).
Boussiou M, Karababa P, Sinopoulou K, et al. The molecular heterogeneity of beta-thalassemia in Greece. Blood Cells Mol Dis. 2008 May-Jun;40(3):317-9.
Conner BJ, Reyes AA, Morin C, et al. Detection of sickle cell beta S-globin allele by hybridization with synthetic oligonucleotides. Proc Natl Acad Sci USA. 1983 80(1) 278-82.
Napolitano NM, Rohlfs EM, Heim RA. Simultaneous detection of multiple point mutations using allele-specific oligonucleotides. Curr Protoc Hum Genet. 2004 Chapter 9(9.4).
National Human Genome Research Institute (NHGRI).
Natural Standard: The Authority on Integrative Medicine. .
Oak Ridge National Laboratory. .
Saiki RK, Bugawan TL, Horn GT, et al. Analysis of enzymatically amplified beta-globin and HLA-DQ DNA with allele-specific oligonucleotide probes. Nature 1986 324(6093):163-6.
Saiki RK; Scharf S, Faloona F, et al. Enzymatic amplification of beta-globin genomic sequences and restriction site analysis for diagnosis of sickle cell anemia. Science 1985 230(4732):1350-4.
Studencki AB, Conner BJ, Impraim CC, et al. Discrimination among the human beta A, beta S, and beta C-globin genes using allele-specific oligonucleotide hybridization probes. Am J Hum Genet 1985 37(1):42-51.
Tomaszewski P, Kubiak-Tomaszewska G, Lukaszkiewicz J, et al. Cytochrome P450 polymorphism--molecular, metabolic, and pharmacogenetic aspects. III. Influence of CYP genetic polymorphism on population differentiation of drug metabolism phenotype. Acta Pol Pharm. 2008 May-Jun;65(3):319-29.
Wallace RB, Shaffer J, Murphy RF, et al. Hybridization of synthetic oligodeoxyribonucleotides to Phi-X 174 DNA: the effect of single base pair mismatch. Nucleic Acids Research 1979 6(11):3543-58.
Copyright © 2011 Natural Standard (
The information in this monograph is intended for informational purposes only, and is meant to help users better understand health concerns. Information is based on review of scientific research data, historical practice patterns, and clinical experience. This information should not be interpreted as specific medical advice. Users should consult with a qualified healthcare provider for specific questions regarding therapies, diagnosis and/or health conditions, prior to making therapeutic decisions.
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Game Thread: Sacramento Kings @ Warriors 2011-01-21
Talk about the upcoming Warriors game here
Moderators: Mr. Crackerz, JREED, Guybrush, 32
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What do you guys think the injury is going to be like... I am really hoping he won't be out for a while, hopefully just a rolled ankle...
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All Star
We def don't need any injuries, we need to make that run for the playoffs, guess it is a wait and see type of situation. Next game is against the Clippers in LA too, damn hope its not too serious.
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But hopefully the training staff makes him rest just to make sure.
But hopefully the training staff makes him rest just to make sure.

subset: commoncrawl


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The Importance of the Ahl Al-sunnah
Great Islamic Scholars and Some of Their Views
Heading the list of references on the Ahl al-Sunnah are the Islamic scholars who authored the six great hadith books collected together and known as the al-Kutub as-Sitta (Six Books).
Imam al-Bukhari
Born in Bukhara in 194 AH he was raised by his mother following the death of his father Ismail ibn Ibrahim; he too had been a great religious scholar of the time. He began studying the hadiths at the age of seven and at ten years of age, he had memorized a staggering 70,000 hadiths. He received instruction from well-known scholars in Makkah, Madinah, Nishapur and Basra; it is for this reason that his name began to become known beyond his hometown. Many famous Islamic scholars, including Muslim, Abu Dawud, al-Tirmidhi, and Ibn Sa'id, have regarded his works as an absolutely trustworthy reference and made use of his ideas in their own studies and their own writings. He has been regarded by all as the greatest expert on hadiths who has ever lived.
Imam al-Bukhari studied over 600,000 traditions; only 7,275 of these were examined as part of his own work. This work, the result of sixteen years of intellectual labor, is regarded as the most reliable collection of hadiths in the history of Islam. Titled al-Jami' al-Sahih, it was later abridged by Imam az-Zubaidi under al-Tajrid al-Sarih (Summarized Sahih al-Bukhari), which contains more than 2,000 hadiths.
Imam al-Bukhari died in 256 AH, leaving behind a work that would act as a guide for Muslims for many centuries to come. His place in the honored tradition of the Islamic scholars is engraved in stone and his mighty efforts can never be erased.
Imam Muslim
Imam Muslim was born in Nishapur in 204 AH, and began studying the hadiths in his early teens. Like all great scholars, he was not afraid to set out on voluminous journeys to seek knowledge and wisdom; he carried out profound inquiries into the subject by visiting Iraq, Hijaz, Egypt, and Damascus. He benefited from sources of hadiths and other related works on the tradition of Allah's Final Messenger (saas). Wherever he went, his efforts increased him in knowledge and he openly stated that he was most influenced by the work of Imam al-Bukhari.
In his works on the subject of the hadiths, Imam Muslim employed his skills by relaying the sayings and actions of the Prophet (saas) exactly as they had been narrated, not altering a single letter in case this led to misunderstandings amongst the believers. He collected an impressive 300,000 authentic hadiths and retained only 3,030 of them in his famous collection (Jami') known as Sahih Muslim. This book is now regarded as the second most trustworthy collection of hadiths after the Sahih al-Bukhari. His Sahih has served the Islamic world for hundreds of years as the second volume of the al-Kutub as-Sitta.
His teacher Abdul Wahhab al-Farra' is reported as saying this about him:
Imam al-Tirmidhi
Imam al-Tirmidhi was born in 209 AH in Termez (Tirmidh), in Transoxiana. Despite receiving instruction in Khorasan, Iraq, and Hijaz, his main education took place in Bukhara; this was also the birthplace of Imam al-Bukhari. Indeed, he received instruction in the hadiths from al-Bukhari and Muslim.
Al-Tirmidhi did not restrict himself to collecting traditions, but also contributed to the development of the knowledge of Hadith. His Sunan al-Tirmidhi contains 3,962 hadiths. This book is regarded as another of the most reliable works on the subject.
The greatest difference between the Sunan al-Tirmidhi and other hadith collections is its orderly arrangement of subjects. Every topic, great or small, is considered separately in such a way that no confusion can arise between them. His ability to collate works and then organize them in a manner which makes the search for knowledge easier for the Muslim reader is one of his greatest qualities. Al-Tirmidhi also wrote the first book about the life of the Companions.
Abu Dawud
Abu Dawud was born in 202 AH. Like al-Bukhari and Muslim, he traveled to almost all of the Islamic lands of his time and was taught by more than fifty scholars. He made use of the works of al-Bukhari and Muslim. When he completed his own works, other people researching the hadiths made use of the works of Abu Dawud. He was appreciated by the Islamic ulama on many matters and pointed out as a scholar acting with his knowledge.
From a total of 500,000 hadiths, he included 4,800 in his work known as the Sunan Abu Dawud. In selecting hadiths, he gave pride of place to those concerning rulings and matters of legality. His works have also received widespread acceptance among researchers from different schools.
Imam al-Nasa'i
Imam al-Nasa'i was born in Khorasan in 225 AH. He traveled through the centers of Islamic learning and received instruction on hadiths from a great many scholars. His works have survived down to the present day and are still used as reference books all over the world by Muslims and non-Muslim studiers of the Islamic traditions.
On his arrival in Damascus from Egypt he was subjected to pressure from the Umayyad administration and was martyred as the result of this horrid torture. His tomb is said to lie between the hills of Safa and Marwah, although this is not an established fact by any means.
His work al-Mujtaba is considered a more delicate and intricate collection than others on the subject of the hadiths; it is the third volume in the al-Kutub as-Sitta.
Ibn Majah
Ibn Majah was born in Qazwin in 209 AH. Like other scholars of hadith, he traveled to Khorasan, Basra, Makkah, Damascus and Egypt in order to reach a high standard in the science of hadith studies. As well as the Sunan Ibn Majah, he also wrote other texts on history and tafsir. His most well-known book is regarded as the sixth volume in the al-Kutub as-Sitta. Some scholars, however, regard Imam Malik's al-Muwatta' as the sixth volume.
Of the 4,341 hadiths in the Sunan ibn Majah, 1,339 are used only by Imam Maja in his own work and by nobody else in their respective works.
Imam al-Ghazali
Hujjat al-Islam Abu Hamed Muhammad ibn Muhammad al-Ghazali is one of the greatest figures in fiqh and tasawwuf in the entire history of Islam. He was born in Tus, modern-day Iran, in 450 AH (1058 CE). Although his father was not well-off, great pains were taken by his noble parents to make sure he was provided with a good upbringing.
Having completed his studies in Tus, al-Ghazali moved to Gurgan to continue his education. The shaking of political authority in Anatolia also affected al-Ghazali. As a result, he migrated to Nishapur, becoming the student of the famous scholar Abu al Ma'ali al-Juwayni. Following the death of his teacher, he was appointed by Nizam al-Mulk Tusi as chief professor in the Nizamiyya madrassah. Within a short space of time, al-Ghazali was able to make his voice heard among the people, and the number of his students began rising with every passing day.
He left the madrassah as the result of an illness he suffered in 488 AH, and spent the next decade away from the public gaze. Immediately after this period he returned to his students in Baghdad and began teaching them from his own work, Ihya' al-'Ulum al-Din. When the unity of the Muslims in Anatolia wavered, he was recalled to Tus by the Seljuk vizier. Under the patronage of Sultan Sanjar, all available opportunities were placed at his disposal over the next twelve years. He continued to occupy himself with learning and preaching until the last day of his life in 505 AH (1111 CE).
Imam al-Ghazali's ideas represented a turning point in the history of Islamic thought. In the late years of his life, he waged a struggle against those ideas which were intrinsically opposed to those of the Ahl al-Sunnah and he eliminated several tendencies which he strongly believed would lead Muslims onto the wrong road.
Al-Ghazali wrote in one of his books:
Imam al-Ghazali's main works include:
Large and small, the total number of works penned by Imam al-Ghazali is 75.
Sayyid Ibrahim Haqqi of Erzurum
Hadrat Ibrahim Haqqi of Erzurum was born in the township of Hasankale, Erzurum, in 1703. Since his grandfather was descended from the line of the Prophet (saas), he qualifies as a sayyid on the maternal side of his lineage.
Hadrat Ibrahim Haqqi made the acquaintance of Ismail Faqirullah during a trip to the Tillo region in Siirt with his father, and settled there for a time. On the death of his father, the dervish Osman Effendi, Haqqi returned to Erzurum and continued his education from where he had left it in his earlier life. He received lessons in Arabic and Persian from Muhammad Hazik, the mufti of Erzurum. Having made great progress in Turkish, Arabic and Persian he was able to write beautiful poetry in all three languages.
In 1728, he returned to Siirt and continued attending lectures by Ismail Faqirullah, eventually marrying his daughter and thus becoming his teacher's son-in-law. Returning from the hajj in 1728, he wrote his book Lubb al-Qutb; this consisted of extracts from the works of great Islamic scholars of the past.
Invited to court by Sultan Mahmud I in 1747, he enjoyed the opportunity of making use of the palace library. On his return from Istanbul to Erzurum, he began to write short treatises (risalas). Following his second visit to Istanbul, he withdrew to his home in Hasankale and devoted himself completely to writing books.
On his second hajj, the holy pilgrimage to Makkah, he engaged in exchanges of information by establishing contact with famous Islamic scholars in Aleppo, Damascus, Makkah, Madinah and Jerusalem.
On his return from his travels, he wrote his famous work the Ma'rifatname (Book of Gnosis). In addition to that, he wrote 54 other important works. He died in Siirt in 1780, his body being placed in the tomb built for his teacher Sheikh Ismail Faqirullah.
Some extracts from the sayings of Sayyid Ibrahim Haqqi are as follows:
"The best of good morality is to go to he who does not come to you. It is for you to forgive he who oppresses you. If you speak, tell the truth. If you make promises, keep them. If you do good, keep it secret. If you see ill-nature in anyone, avoid following his example. Greeting everyone is the greatest moral quality. Modesty yields increase. The greatest wisdom is to get on well with people. Anyone who seeks fault among the people will find his own faults the subject of discussion. Anyone accepting advice will be spared shame. One must not obey servants in those matters which are sinful in the sight of Allah. One cannot expect anything good from those who tell lies. If you enjoy people's speaking with you, speak with them in the same manner. Accept the apologies of those who apologize. Respect those older than you so that those younger than you will respect you. The most useful treasure is the love in people's hearts." (Ma'rifatname)
Imam Rabbani
His real name was Ahmad Sirhindi al-Farooqi. He was born in Sirhind, an Indian town, in 1564. Since he was descended from Hadrat Umar al-Farooq (ra) through the lineage of his father, he was known by the appellation of al-Farooqi.
He is one of the great figures of tasawwuf in the tradition of the Ahl al-Sunnah. He began receiving instruction in Sufism under the authorization of Muhammad al-Baqi Billah, a Naqshbandi Shaykh. He came into conflict with the Emperor Jahangir; he was accused of "damaging the essence of the faith," and was imprisoned in Gwalior Fort in 1619.
Since he supported the beliefs of the Ahl al-Sunnah and was totally against all heretical movements, he was regarded as worthy of the esteemed title, Mujaddid Alf Thani (the Reviver of the Millennium). His Maktubat (Letters), the collection of letters he wrote to his friends and students, is one of the main references in tasawwuf.
Below are some extracts from his Maktubat:
"A person must first correct his belief. That correction must be compatible with those of the Ahl al-Sunnah wal Jama'ah, who are the companions of the Garden. While one may hope for forgiveness of indolence in one's deeds, there can be none for indolence in one's beliefs."
"Attaining happiness in both worlds depends only, and only upon following the Messenger of Allah (saas). In order to follow him, it is necessary to comply with and exercise the rules of Islam among people, annihilate from the people the things that are peculiar to disbelief, and eradicate from the people the things that are the signs of disbelief."
"The time for working righteous deeds is the period of youth. A virtuous person will realize the value of this period and will not waste it. Old age is not a period attained by everybody. Even if one attains, he may not be able then to collect himself together. And even if he does, he is no longer strong enough to perform any deed. Old age is the age of feebleness and senility…"
"… Each of these seventy-three groups claims to obey the religion. Each group says that it is the one that will be saved [from Hell]. It is declared in the fifty-third ayat of Surat al-Muminun and in the thirty-second ayat of Surat ar-Rum: "… each party exulting in what it had." However, among these various groups, the sign, the symptom of the one that will be saved is given by our Prophet (saas) as follows: 'Those who are in this group are those who follow the way which I and my ashab follow.' After mentioning himself, the Messenger of Allah (saas) did not need to mention his ashab; yet his mentioning them may come to mean: 'My way is the way which my ashab follow. The way to salvation is only the way which my ashab follow.'"
"He who says that he follows the Messenger of Allah (saas) though he does not follow the way of his ashab is wrong… Those who follow the way of his ashab are no doubt the Ahl al-Sunnah wal Jama'ah. May Allah (swt) give plenty of rewards to the superiors of this group, who worked undauntedly without falling tired! The group that will be saved [from Hell] is only this one. For, he who speaks ill of our Prophet's (saas) ashab is certainly deprived of following them. Such is the case for the sect of Shiite and the group of Kharijites. The same provision is issued with regard to the Mutazila group. This is a path that emerged subsequently. Other groups who are not members of the Ahl al-Sunnah are subject to the same comparison." (Maktubat al-Rabbani)
Sayyid 'Abd al-Qadr al-Gaylani
'Abd al-Qadr al-Gaylani, whose title was Abu Muhammad, is also known as Muhyi'al-Din, Qutb-e Rabbani, al-Ghaus al-A'zam and Sultan al-Awliya' (the sultan of the saints). He is both a sayyid and a sharif. He was born in 1078 in the Persian province of Gaylan. It was in this town that he was eventually to begin his religious studies. He later moved from Gaylan to Baghdad, where he continued his education. Selecting the Hanbali school, he concentrated on this school in fiqh and became well-acquainted with tasawwuf while preaching at the Abu Said madrassah. His Sufi path, al-Qadiriyyah, was named after him.
Among the books that have come down through the generations from him are Al-Ghunya, Al-Fath al-Rabbani, and Futuh al-Ghayb; these mainly consist of his sermons and advice. Shaikh al-Gaylani died in Baghdad in 1166. His tomb, which is visited by millions of people every year, lies in Baghdad.
Some of his writings are as follows:
"Acting by the Qur'an elevates you to the level of the Qur'an and installs you there. Acting with the Sunnah (the hadiths of the Prophet) elevates you to the Prophet, the Messenger of Allah (saas). With his heart and spiritual protection the Prophet (saas) is indivisible from the hearts of the friends of Allah, even for a single moment. It is he who beautifies the hearts of the friends of Allah, who gives them fragrance. It is he who purifies their essence and cleanses them of negative feelings and beautifies them.
Hadrat Shah Naqshband
Born near Bukhara in 1318, his real name was Muhammad Bahauddan Uways al-Bukhari. He was spiritually and theologically trained by Sheikh Muhammad Baba as-Samasi, the sheikh of the Khajagan order. Shah Naqshband, who traveled to Samarkand in his youth, was a member of the Hanafi school and attracted a wide popular following with his works and preaching on the topics of morality and knowledge.
The Naqshbandi order he founded spread to India in the time of Imam Rabbani. After the capture of Istanbul, the order was adopted by the ruling Ottomans. The presence of many Naqshbandi shrines (dargahs) in Istanbul was a sign of just how far the movement had spread among the populace.
The truth propagated by Shah Naqshband throughout the course of his life is the pillar of Islam, namely, that those who do not hold fast to the book of Allah (swt) and who do not obey the commands of the Prophet (saas) cannot attain salvation. It informs that the people must not depart from the line drawn by the Qur'an and the Sunnah of Allah's Final Messenger (saas). One who follows or imitates another individual on a different path, and thus ignores the Qur'an and the Sunnah of the Prophet Muhammad (saas) is ultimately spiritually doomed. In one of his books, Shah Naqshband expresses his devotion to the Messenger of Allah (saas) in the following terms: "Whatever the Messenger of Allah (saas) did, I have done it exactly as he did and have neglected none of the Sunnah. I have fulfilled it all and enjoyed the results. I have seen his work in myself."
Mawlana Khalid al-Baghdadi
Mawlana Khalid al-Baghdadi was born in Shahrazur, near Baghdad, in 1778. He received instruction in Qur'anic commentary (tafsir), the hadiths, jurisprudence (fiqh), and tasawwuf from several famous scholars. When his shaykh died, he began teaching students in his place. Thousands of people from all over the Islamic world attended his classes. After teaching for eight years he traveled to Damascus and from there to the Hijaz. In 1809, Shaykh Abdullah al-Dahlawi invited Mawlana Khalid to India. After completing his studies there, he returned to Baghdad. In 1826, he died in Damascus. Ibn 'Abidin, one of the great Hanafi scholars, led his funerary prayers.
Mawlana Khalid opened the introduction to his work with the following quotation from the Maktubat al-Rabbani:
"It must be well considered and understood that it is Allah alone Who bestows blessings on all, creates all things, and preserves all entities at all times. The superior and excellent attributes in His servants are His blessing and endowment. In order for us to attain the infinite blessings of Paradise, its endless joys and His approval and love, Allah commands us to comply with the beloved Prophet (saas)."
"Adhere strictly to Allah's commands and prohibitions for so long as you live. I advise you to remember Allah constantly, to seek shelter in Him, not to give your hearts to this transitory world but to seek the infinite Hereafter, to prepare yourselves for death and the solitude of the grave and the Day of Judgment, to adhere tightly to the Prophet's (saas) Sunnah, to turn your faces away from bid`ah, and to pray for the success of Muslims and for the defeat of apostates and the enemies of the religion." (From Mawlana Khalid's letter to a friend from Diyarbakir.)
Ahmad Dhiya al-Din Gumushkhanewi
Ahmad Dhiya al-Din Gumushkhanewi was born in Gumushane in 1813. Brought to Trabzon when he was ten, he began studying with the city's scholars. When his older brother was summoned for military service, he spent some time working in commerce at his father's side. In 1831, he settled in Istanbul, despite his family's opposition, where he continued his studies. He influenced many prominent figures of the time, among them Sultan Abd al-Hamid II, through his discourses.
Gumushkhanewi devoted twenty-eight years of his life to writing books and preached Islam for sixteen years. Collecting donations from his followers, who numbered more than 1 million, he founded a joint "solidarity and investment fund," which he used to establish a printing press, a publishing house, four separate libraries containing 18,000 books, and various foundations.
Hadrat Gumushkhanewi is known for the great importance he attached to the Sunnah and for constantly teaching his students the hadiths. By establishing libraries across Turkey and being active in educational activities, he did all in his power to help Muslims advance. He fought in the Ottoman-Russian war of 1877-78 and provided considerable moral support to the Turkish troops.
On his return from a visit to Egypt in 1880, he turned the Gumushkhanewi dargah over to his successor Hasan Hilmi Effendi, and from then on only attended the Friday lectures. He died on Mount Yusa in Beykoz district on 13 May 1893, where he was spending the summer months in a tent. He was recognized as the greatest Islamic scholar of his time.
The Master's works include:
Bediuzzaman Said Nursi
Bediuzzaman Said Nursi was born in 1873 in Nurs, a small hamlet in the province of Bitlis in eastern Turkey. Although he began his religious education at the age of nine, he could not get used to the madrassah and left it. At the age of 12, he had a dream about Prophet Muhammad (saas), which impelled him to return to his studies. At the age of 21, his name became known in eastern provinces and was given the name Bediuzzaman (The Wonder of the Age).
One of his major goals in life was the establishment of Madrassah al-Zahra University in Van. In 1907 he came to Istanbul and explained his project to Sultan Abd al-Hamid II but his efforts to convince him failed. Upon this, he rented a room in Sekerci Han in Fatih, Istanbul and settled there.
Although he had no connections with the events of 31 March, he was arrested during the incidents but then he was acquitted. Following the events of 31 March, he left Istanbul and proceeded with his studies in Van, Tbilisi, Damascus, Beirut, and Izmir. With the advent of the World War I, he participated in Teskilat-i Mahsusa (the Ottoman intelligence agency). In 1916, he was in Pasinler as the militia commander and was taken as a prisoner of war. During the Bolshevik Revolution, getting advantage of the disorder, he ran away and succeeded to come to Istanbul with difficulty.
Said Nursi's life changed with the rebellion of Sheikh Said, to whom he did not actually lend support. Said Nursi tells why he did not support the rebellion: "The Turkish Nation has been the flag man of Islam for ages. This nation has brought up many walis and martyrs. One cannot draw one's sword to the grandsons of such a nation. We are Muslims, we are brothers. Do not let brothers struggle with one another. This is not acceptable in terms of Sharia. Swords are drawn to the outer foes, are not used within the nation. In this time, our sole salvation is in the enlightenment and guidance through Qur'an and the signs of faith. It is to remove ignorance, our greatest foe. Stop your efforts, for it would come to nothing. It is likely that, because of a few killers, thousands of innocent men and women perish."
Despite everything, together with many leaders of the district, an official inquiry about Bediuzzaman was opened and he was brought to Istanbul. Then he was exiled to Barla, a village of Egridir. In this village, he wrote three-quarters of the Risale-i Nur Collection, a famous commentary of the Qur'an.
As the number of his followers increased, he was sent to Eskisehir, where he underwent trial again and was sentenced to eleven months imprisonment. Pressure upon him increased gradually. In 1934, he was sent from Barla to Isparta. After serving his sentence together with his 120 friends, he was exiled to Kastamonu. He was arrested again in 1943 and sent back to Ankara. Following this, investigations about him were opened in Isparta and Denizli. Following his detention for nine months together with over a hundred friends, he was acquitted of all charges. Despite the decision of acquittal, pressures did not relent. The sentence passed, that of twenty months of imprisonment, was annulled by a higher court.
When, in 1951, he was sued in relation to one of his articles in a journal, he found the opportunity to come to Istanbul, where he had not been to for twenty-seven years. He was acquitted again.
In 1956, the publishing of the Risale-i Nur Collection was allowed, for no one could find any element of crime in it. During the last days of his life, he traveled all around the country and after a long journey from Istanbul to Urfa, he passed away in 1960. Following the coup of 27 May, his funeral was taken from Urfa by plane to Isparta, where he was buried at an unknown place.
His works:
Some quotations from his works:
"Being subject to the Sunnah is certainly very precious. Especially at a time when the bid'ahs have increased, being subject to Sunnah is very precious. Especially at a time when disorder reigns among the ummah, complying with the moral principles of the Sunnah establishes important piety and a profound faith." (Flashes, p. 48)
"I considered the Sunnah as ropes hanging down from the heavens and ascending to it; the one who clings them ascends and attains happiness. Those who object and rely on their reasoning, on the other hand, become like the pharaoh, who was stupid enough to ascend to heavens on a long minaret."(Epitomes of Light, p. 72)
"Our Creator assigned us Prophet Muhammad (saas), as the greatest tutor and the most perfect grand master, and the truest guidance that does not err or make anyone err. And He sent him as the last messenger." (The Staff of Moses, p. 34)
"… Prophet Muhammad (saas), whose essential being was the source, seed, life, and means of the mighty tree of the World of Islam…" (Flashes, The Thirtieth Flash)
"The best, the most righteous, the most shining and wealthy path of guardianship among others is to be subject to the Sunnah." (Letters)
Unorthodox and heretical movements within Islam are just as dangerous as those movements coming from outside. Bediuzzaman Said Nursi pointed out these internal dangers:
"What gives me pain are only the dangers that Islam is subject to. In the past, dangers used to come from outside; therefore, it was easy to resist them. Now they come from inside. The wolf is inside the body. Now resistance is harder. I am afraid the community's constitution cannot bear it, for it does not perceive the foes. It assumes its greatest foe, who sucks its blood, is a friend. If the community's foresight becomes blind, then the castle of faith is in danger. That is my suffering, my sole suffering. I even do not have the time to think about the suffering and difficulties I personally face. If only I personally faced something a thousand times more difficult, but the future of the castle of faith were secure…"
Suleyman Hilmi Tunahan
Born in Silistire in 1888, Suleyman Hilmi Tunahan was educated in Istanbul madrassahs by the most famous tutors of the day and graduated with the highest degrees. From 1930 on, he worked in the Department of Religious Affairs and served as a preacher in the Sultanahmet, Yenicami, Sehzadebasi, and Kasimpasa mosques.
Judicial inquiries were opened against him several times; each time he was acquitted. During this period when people started to forget the Qur'an, he dedicated himself to educating young people. His work is clear indication of the importance he attached to teaching of the Qur'an.
He continuously advised his students to follow the Qur'an and our Prophet (saas) and protect young people from heretical movements. He died in 1959.
Suleyman Hilmi Tunahan and his followers were affiliated to Imam al-Maturidi in theology and Imam Abu Hanifah in fiqh. Suleyman Effendi followed the path of tasawwuf established by Imam Rabbani.
Kemal Kacar, his son-in-law and student, explains his superior personality as follows:
Sayyid AbdulHakim al-Arwasi
Sayyid AbdulHakim al-Arwasi was born in 1865 in the Baskal'a district of Van. His father, Mustafa Effendi, was a man of tasawwuf who dedicated himself to Islamic education. Following the education, AbdulHakim al-Arwasi Effendi was educated in Qur'anic commentary, hadith, jurisprudence, and Islamic theology in Iraq.
When he was fourteen, he started to receive an education in tasawwuf from Fahim Effendi and became his student. After reaching a certain level of maturity, when he was around twenty years old, he returned to homeland and spent all that he had to establish a madrassah and a library that the students could use for free. However, this madrassah was looted by the Armenians and the Russians during the World War I. Eventually, he was compelled to leave Van. However, out of 150 of his companions, only twenty-nine reached Istanbul alive.
In 1919, AbdulHakim Effendi settled in a madrassah in the Eyup area of Istanbul, which was allocated for him and his companions. He began to teach in the Sulaymaniyya Madrassah, but was dismissed in 1924-25, when the religious lodges were closed down. In 1930, following the Menemen incidents, he was arrested and later acquitted. Then he started to preach in the Beyoglu Aga and the Beyazid Mosques. During his final years, he was arrested and exiled several times. During these years, he guided Necip Fazil Kisakurek, an Islamic poet, to faith.
He died in Ankara in 1943. His burial was as simple and modest as his life.
AbdulHakim Effendi wrote two books: Ar-Riyad-ut-Tasawwufiyya and Rabita-i Sharifa. The answers he gave in his letters and conversations were also compiled in a book.
Mahmud Sami Ramazanoglu
M. Sami Ramazanoglu was born in 1892 in Adana and eventually became the shaykh of the Erenkoy congregation. After obtaining his degree from the Dar al-Funun Law School, he concentrated on tasawwuf. He preached for a while in mosques and became involved with commerce. After living for some time in Damascus, he went to Zihni Pasha Mosque in Erenkoy, Istanbul where he endeavored to guide the people. In 1979, he went to Saudi Arabia, where he eventually died after dedicating his long life to spreading Islam.
Mehmet Zahid Kotku
In 1897, Mehmet Zahid Effendi was born into one of Bursa's Caucasian families. Zahid Kotku, who was 18 years old during the World War I, was drafted and spent six years in the army: three at the front and three in Istanbul. Following his tour of duty, he went to the Gumushane lodge and received a certificate to teach at the age of 27. After the lodges were closed, he married and became an imam in Bursa.
He preached in Fatih's Iskenderpasha Mosque for twenty-two years and died in 1980. A great crowd of people from throughout Turkey and Europe attended his funeral service in Istanbul's Sulaymaniyyah Mosque. The number of his followers continued to increase even after his death. In distant cities of Turkey and even outside Turkey, many people loved him.
Mehmet Zahid Kotku's services to Islam were mainly in the form of conversations, during which he enlightened his students about religious matters and daily issues concerning Muslims. Through his sermons, books, and conversations, he played an important role in imparting Islamic values to Turkish youths. His knowledge, as well as his tolerant and modest nature, also attracted people.
He made a great effort to solve the problem of Muslim countries' underdeveloped industrial sector, by working with other people to establish the Gümüs Motor factory. But this attempt failed, due to inexperience and technical inadequacies.
In his book Tevbe (Repentance), he stated:
Necip Fazil Kisakurek
The great intellectual Necip Fazil Kisakurek was born in 1904 in Cemberlitas, Istanbul, into a family that came from Kahramanmaras. In 1912, he attended a French school and then the American College in Gedikpasha. In Heybeliada, where his family moved due to his mother's illness, he attended the Navy College. In 1917, he started his study of philosophy at Dar al-Funun. In 1924, he was sent to Sorbonne University in Paris. After a year, he discontinued his education and returned home.
Due to his nature, he could not hold a position for a long time. For this reason, he left his position in 1938. In 1941, he worked as an instructor in the State Fine Arts Academy and Robert College. During these same years, he also worked as an author and poet.
His acknowledgement of Islam's essence occurred during these years. The movement he initiated, the Great Eastern Movement, became a nightmare for the enemies of Islam. Between 1943 and 1972, he traveled and lectured throughout Turkey. Eight cases were launched against him, and he ended up staying in prison for three-and-one-half years. He continued his intellectual struggle against the enemies of Islam and various heretical movements until his death in 1984. His book, Dogru Yolun Sapik Kollari (The Erroneous Branches of the Righteous Path) saved many people from going astray.
In this important book, Necip Fazil explained the views of all heretical sects and showed Ahl al-Sunnah wal Jama'ah, the path of the Messenger of Allah (saas) and his Companions, as the righteous way.
Some extracts from his works are as follows:


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NORTH DARTMOUTH, MA-The University of Massachusetts Dartmouth's track and field team turned in a solid performance at the UMass Dartmouth Invitational at the UMass Dartmouth Athletic Complex Saturday.
The men finished first in a field of 14 teams with 141.50 points, while the women were second of nine teams with 138.33 points. Roger Williams was first in the women's meet with 138.83 points.
For the women, sophomore Krista Chauvin (Seekonk, MA/Seekonk HS/Stonehill) broke the school record when she finished second in the discus at 123 feet. She was also third in the hammer at 146-11, and third in the javelin at 121-8.
Junior Jillian Van Ness (Agawam, MA/Agawam HS) was first at 100 meters in 12.52 seconds, and second at 200 meters in 26.82 seconds. Freshman Katie Sheehan (Scituate, MA/Scituate HS) won the 400 hurdles in 1:08.83. Senior Meaghan Bohigian (Barre, MA/Quabbin Regional HS) was second at 800 meters in 2:25.17.
For the men, senior Robert Yarbough (Fall River, MA/Durfee HS) won the hammer at 162 feet, nine inches and was sixth in the shot put at 41-1 1/2. Sophomore Chris Perry (Providence, RI/Dighton-Rehoboth HS/BCC) won the long jump at 22 feet, 10 1.2 inches; was second in the triple jump at 44-8 3/4; and was sixth at 100 meters in 1.43 seconds.
In the high jump, freshman Adam Jones (Amesbury, MA/Triton Regional HS) finished third at 6-2 3/4. Freshman Kainoa Culverhouse (Salisbury, MA/Triton Regional HS) was first in the 110 meter hurdles in 16.70 seconds and Jones was third in 17.08, senior Hymlaire Lamisere (Newton, MA/Newton North HS/Iona) was fourth at 100 meters in 11.24 and fourth in the long jump at 20-8 1/2, sophomore Zach Switaj (Tamworth, NH/Kennett Regional HS) was third at 800 meters in 1:58.26, freshman Jacob Texeira (Seekonk, MA/Seekonk HS) was third in the 400 meter intermediate hurdles in 57.59, freshman Aaron Amado (Randolph, MA/Thayer Academy) was third in the triple jump at 44-1 1/4 and sixth in the high jump at 5-10 3/4, and sophomore Chris Jordan (Taunton, MA/Taunton HS) was second at 5000 meters in 16:24.43.
Two relay teams also broke school records. The 4 x 200 meter relay team of sophomore Lauren Roche (Norfolk, MA/King Philip Regional HS), Van Ness, junior Morgan Cooper (Sunderland, MA/Frontier Regional HS) and sophomore Isabel Pierre (Port-au-Prince, Haiti, West Roxbury HS) set a school record when they finished first in 1:49.34. The women's sprint medley team of Sheehan, Cooper, Pierre and Bohigian also broke the school record when they were second in 4:24.03.
"It was exciting to see Krista Chauvin set a second school record in two weeks," said UMass Dartmouth Head Coach Steve Gardiner. "Jillian Van Ness' time in the 100 is very quick for this time of the year, and we also set school records in some seldom-run relays. The fact that our men won speaks to the quality of the athletes that we have, how we can move people around and not over burden people. We had a lot of solid performances."
The Corsairs will return to action when they visit the University of Massachusetts next Saturday.


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Special Olympics has partnered with leading sport coaching education provider American Sport Education Program (ASEP) to develop and deliver a Special Olympics-customized online course aimed at improving the quality and consistency of Special Olympics' coaches training worldwide.
Through the Coaching Special Olympics Athletes online course, coaches will develop a better understanding of how people with intellectual disabilities learn and how they participate in sports. The course offers an overview of the coaching principles involved in working with Special Olympics athletes, as well as practical ideas that can be used during coaching. The course meets the entry-level certification requirements for Special Olympics coaches.
The course represents much-needed web-based alternative to the traditional in-person training. Special Olympics PDF resources are referenced throughout the course, along with photos, audio, video, and narrated presentations, providing coaches with an engaging online learning experience.
Annette Lynch, Sr. Manager, Sports Partnerships, Special Olympics North America: "The course represents an important first for Special Olympics – by leveraging technology, the training delivery expertise of ASEP and some of the best coaching and instructional minds in sports, we are able to bring quality training to our volunteer coaches in a way we've never been able to before," Lynch added, "traditional training obstacles for volunteers such as geography, time, and money will be removed, allowing for more people to become the quality coaches our athletes deserve."
"We're excited to collaborate with Special Olympics and support their efforts to provide quality coaching education," says Jim Schmutz, ASEP executive director. "24/7 online access to Coaching Special Olympics Athletes provides flexibility that will help reach more coaches with valuable information and practical tools. This athlete-centered course will simply help more Special Olympics coaches bring out the very best in each of their athletes. ASEP is proud to be part of the Special Olympics movement that enhances lives and transforms communities."
Special Olympics focuses on delivering high-quality year-round competition opportunities in a variety of sports in an inclusive culture that stresses athletic excellence, rewards determination, emphasizes health and celebrates personal achievement.
More than 306,000 volunteer coaches support Special Olympics' athletes globally. The organization has a strategic goal of increasing the number of certified coaches to 530,000 by 2015.
Special Olympics currently serves 4 million athletes in 170 countries, offers 32 Olympic-type summer and winter sports, and holds nearly 53,000 competitions annually - the equivalent of about 146 competitions a day!
Special Olympics is a global organization that reveals the champion in all of us through the transformative power and joy of sport, everyday around the world. Through programming in sports, health, education and community building, Special Olympics is changing the lives of people with intellectual disabilities tackling the injustice, isolation, intolerance and inactivity they face throughout the world. Learn more at www.specialolympics.org.
The American Sport Education Program (ASEP) is the leading provider of youth, high school, and elite-level sport education programs in the United States. Rooted in the philosophy of "Athletes first, winning second," ASEP has educated more than one million coaches, officials, sport administrators, parents, and athletes. For more than 30 years, local, state, and national sport organizations have partnered with ASEP to lead the way in making sport a safe, successful, and enjoyable experience for all involved. For more information on ASEP sport education courses and resources, call 800-747-5698, e-mail email@example.com, or visit www.ASEP.com.


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We love it here, and you will too.
Book a tour of the Wollongong or South Western Sydney (Liverpool) campus and see for yourself.
UOW campus tours allow you to see our facilities and meet people doing what they do best. It's your chance to check out UOW and ask as many questions as you like.
You don't need to be a student at UOW to see firsthand why our campuses are special and why we all love it here.
Our free, hour-long tours of the Wollongong and South Western Sydney campuses are conducted by current UOW students.
If you are touring the Wollongong campus and would like to include a tour of our student accommodation, please allow a total of two hours for your tour.
Tours start at 10:30am and 2:30pm every Friday (excluding Public Holidays) throughout the year.
Bookings are essential. Once a campus tour has been booked, a confirmation will be emailed to you outlining the details.
Book your tour online or call 1300 367 869.
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A day in the life of a UOW student
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If you would like to visit one of our campuses in Sydney or in Regional NSW, you can contact the campus directly on the below numbers to arrange a time.
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The Sydney Business School, University of Wollongong at Circular Quay Sydney Business School, University of Wollongong is the graduate school of the Faculty of Business at University of Wollongong. Courses are delivered at our main campus in Wollongong and at Circular Quay in Sydney. To book an appointment, email email@example.com
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Tell us about your role at Salesforce.
I lead the retail industry team. As retail ambassadors to our internal sales, technology and customer success teams', we help our people speak the language of our retail customers and understand their key pain points. We also assist with designing solutions that are more specific to the retail industry.
You've spent most of your career in retail. What first got you interested in the industry?
I was born and raised in San Francisco. My family has been here since the 1800s as part of the gold rush to California. Back in the 1800s, my family started a coffee company called MJB (which is now owned by Nestle). San Francisco is a great port city and many of the household names in ground coffee started here such as Folgers, Hills Brothers and of course MJB. MJB, the B is for Bransten, was my great, great grandfather. As a child, I spent weekends going to grocery stores with my dad and sisters to watch my dad re-arrange the cans on the shelves, asking the store manager about how our coffee was selling and what demographics were buying our family coffee. Since then, retail has been in my blood. I've always liked the creative process, and I like having the data underneath to understand what's working and what's not. Customer relationship management (CRM) offers both aspects –art and science of retailing.
What has been your most rewarding career experience or accomplishment?
Back in the late 90s, I was working at Banana Republic during the first Internet boom. I was tasked with creating a database that could track our customers. At that time, we had no customer information other than what the sales associates told us. Working with a vendor, I built a database. Slowly but surely, I became the first person in Gap Inc. (owner of Gap, Banana Republic and Old Navy) who could answer questions like, "who is a repeat customer?" or "who is buying khakis, then a button down shirt?" Other brands (Gap, Old Navy) wanted to answer similar questions, but they didn't have the data. So I ended up leading CRM across the brands. We had the largest database in specialty retail and a team of 86 people when I left. We really saw the value of owning the direct relationship with our consumers.
What has been the biggest disruption to CRM over the past 20 years?
I have been chasing the notion of a 360-degree view of the customer since I started in the industry. Now, technology allows you to have a 360-degree view and closer relationships with customers. To know a customer who browses a website, downloads a loyalty app, comes to a store, "Likes" something on Facebook, we can sense and respond to that now. That's transformational. We can do what we said we wanted to do 20 years ago. Now, what holds retailers up is the organizational design or legacy mindsets/resource allocation, not the technology.
In a world where building loyalty and relationships with customers is so important, what should retailers be doing differently?
Relationships, by nature, are two-way. Ask someone about loyalty and they may say, "Better access to products and services," but it's not a real relationship. I believe leaders think about loyalty as co-creation; they don't start with the end in mind. Loyalty is about having the ability to personalize along the customer journey—and respond. Sometimes consumer perception wins. I think it's important to try to put control in the hands of the consumer. Allow them to break rules, let them use a coupon after it has expired. Retail systems haven't kept up to enable retailers to extend those offers. And it's not just about discounts. It's about access to experiences, the brand, great service. That's loyalty—not a blanket "Save 30%" coupon.
How will CRM evolve in the next five years?
In the early days of retail, CRM was do-it-yourself. Retailers were building their own systems or taking existing systems and making them work for a retail context. The last 10 years has been about experimentation—taking DIY and extending it to ecommerce, social media, emerging technologies. We are crossing the chasm now where it's a customer first mentality. At Salesforce, we talk about systems of record vs. systems of engagement. The next 10 years are about systems of engagement. This is mission critical. If you don't do it, will you be around in 10 years? CRM was optional. Now it's part of the fabric of a retail business.
What are your biggest pet peeves as a customer?
I'm a busy working mom with two young boys. Shopping is not entertainment anymore. Whether getting school supplies or an outfit for a keynote, it's about getting it done. The fun part is shopping online when the kids are in bed and the house is finally quiet. What's annoying is when I'm shopping online to get inspired, then I walk into the store to get the item I was inspired by, but I have to start over. The items not there. Or they don't have it in my size. The store associate can't access my loyalty reward points. I've left this rich digital trail of breadcrumbs, but the store is not taking advantage. That bugs me, especially when time is our most precious commodity.
Do you enjoy shopping, or is it difficult to remove your work hat?
I can completely detach and enjoy the experience. Great retailers, to me, are like a great restaurant or museum. When it's good, it becomes an emotional experience vs. rational.
How do you define an exceptional customer experience?
I was recently set up with a client specialist at a high-end retailer. I see her twice a year. She knows what I like, what I feel comfortable with. She knows my sizes and has items laid out for me to see. She makes it easy, and I feel like she's advocating for me. This is why we call it "retail therapy." It's not just about the clothes; it's about the experience.
You are a fluent Spanish speaker. Tell us about that.
As a young child we had a young woman from Nicaragua who lived with my family, so I learned the language at home. Then in high school, I lived in Paraguay as exchange student. I found that learning a new language was an opportunity to make my world bigger; it helped me to understand other cultures. In college, I was a double major in political science and Spanish. In business school, I became interested in international business. It has been a way to understand what a big place the world is. We can all get stuck in our own problems and not see the bigger picture. At Salesforce, my industry lead role is a global role, so I am able to use my Spanish in some of my overseas meetings.
What kinds of activities do you enjoy in your free time?
A mentor once said to me, we all get demoted when we get home. So I'm a soccer mom, at the soccer fields and basketball courts. I like to do Vinyasa yoga to de-stress and reground. I hope in the future we can do more traveling. I'd like to help my children see more of the world. Volunteerism is important to me. I never get to do as much as I'd like, but when we can, we participate at local food kitchens and shelters. I want my kids to know they are part of a bigger community.
If you weren't working in retail, what do you think you would be doing?
I've always wanted to be like Oprah or Terry Gross. I like learning about people. Being an interviewer would be really fun. Going back to the earlier question about what I like about retail. As a little girl, when I would visit stores with my dad, I wondered what people have in their carts—what does that say about them? You get a whole persona and can do your own kind of segmentation. I'm interested in habits and I like to connect with people.


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Alliance Ground Surveillance (AGS)
NATO is acquiring the Alliance Ground Surveillance (AGS) system that will give commanders a comprehensive picture of the situation on the ground. NATO's past and current operations to protect civilians showed how important such a capability is. A group of Allies is acquiring five Global Hawk remotely piloted aircraft (RPA) and the associated ground command and control stations that make up the AGS system. NATO will then operate and maintain them on behalf of all 29 Allies.
- The AGS system consists of air, ground and support segments, performing all-weather, persistent wide-area terrestrial and maritime surveillance in near real-time.
- The AGS will be able to contribute to a range of missions such as protection of ground troops and civilian populations, border control and maritime safety, the fight against terrorism, crisis management and humanitarian assistance in natural disasters.
- The AGS system also includes European-sourced ground assets that will provide in-theatre support to commanders of deployed forces.
- The AGS system is being acquired by 15 Allies and will be made available to the Alliance in 2019.
More background information
The AGS system is being acquired by 15 Allies (Bulgaria, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Germany, Italy, Latvia, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Norway, Poland, Romania, Slovakia, Slovenia and the United States), and will be made available to the Alliance in 2019. All Allies will contribute to the development of the AGS capability through financial contributions covering the establishment of the AGS main operating base, as well as to communications and life-cycle support of the AGS fleet. Some Allies will replace part of their financial contribution through interoperable contributions in kind (national surveillance systems that will be made available to NATO).
The NATO-owned and -operated AGS Core capability will enable the Alliance to perform persistent surveillance over wide areas from high-altitude, long-endurance (HALE) aircraft, operating at considerable stand-off distances and in any weather or light condition. Using advanced radar sensors, these systems will continuously detect and track moving objects throughout observed areas and will provide radar imagery of areas of interest and stationary objects.
The Main Operating Base for AGS, located at Sigonella Air Base in Italy, serves a dual purpose as a NATO Joint Intelligence, Surveillance and Reconnaissance (JISR) deployment base and data exploitation and training centre.
Just as NATO Airborne Early Warning & Control (NAEW&C) aircraft – also known as AWACS or "NATO's eyes in the sky" – monitor Alliance airspace, AGS will be able to observe what is happening on the earth's surface, providing situational awareness before, during and, if needed, after NATO operations.
AGS responds to one of the major capability commitments of the 2010 Lisbon Summit.
The AGS Core will be an integrated system consisting of an air segment, a ground segment and a support segment.
The air segment consists of five RQ-4B Global Hawk Block 40 aircraft and remotely piloted aircraft (RPA) flight control element. The aircraft will be equipped with a state-of-the-art, multi-platform radar technology insertion programme (MP-RTIP) ground surveillance radar sensor, as well as an extensive suite of line-of-sight and beyond-line-of-sight, long-range, wideband data links.
The ground segment will provide an interface between the AGS Core system and a wide range of command, control, intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance (C2ISR) systems to interconnect with and provide data to multiple deployed and non-deployed operational users, including reach-back facilities remote from the surveillance area.
The ground segment consists of a number of ground stations in various configurations, such as mobile and transportable, which will provide data-link connectivity, data-processing and exploitation capabilities and interfaces for interoperability with C2ISR systems.
The AGS Core support segment will include dedicated mission support facilities at the AGS Main Operating Base (MOB) in Sigonella.
Interoperable contributions in kind, such as national surveillance systems and data / communications, will also be made available to NATO and will complement AGS with additional surveillance capabilities.
The composition of the AGS Core system and these contributions in kind will provide NATO with considerable flexibility in employing its ground surveillance capabilities.
This will be supplemented by additional interoperable national airborne surveillance systems from NATO member countries, tailored to the needs of a specific operation or mission conducted by the Alliance.
The NATO Alliance Ground Surveillance Management Organisation (NAGSMO) and its executive body - NATO Alliance Ground Surveillance Management Agency (NAGSMA) - are responsible for the acquisition of the AGS Core capability on behalf of the 15 acquiring countries. The NATO AGS Force (AGSF), activated in September 2015, with its AGS Staff Element Implementation Office (AGS-SEIO) located at the headquarters of Allied Command Operations (SHAPE) and its Advanced Echelon (ADVON) located at Sigonella are responsible for ensuring the successful operational integration and employment of the NATO AGS Core capability.
NAGSMA, representing the 15 AGS acquisition nations, awarded the prime contract for the system to Northrop Grumman in May 2012 during the Chicago Summit. The company's primary industrial team includes Airbus Defence and Space (Germany), Leonardo (Italy) and Kongsberg (Norway), as well as leading defence companies from all acquiring countries, which are contributing to the delivery of the AGS system.
The engagement of NATO common funds for infrastructure, communications, operation and support will follow normal funding authorisation procedures applicable within the Alliance.
By the time AGS becomes fully operational, France and the United Kingdom will sign Memoranda of Understanding (MOU) with the Supreme Allied Commander Europe (SACEUR), outlining the modalities for making their contributions in kind available to the Alliance.
Supporting NATO's core tasks
The 2010 Lisbon Summit set out the vision of Allied Heads of State and Government for the evolution of NATO and the security of its member countries. This vision is based on three core tasks, which are detailed in the 2010 Strategic Concept:
AGS was recognised at Lisbon as a critical capability for the Alliance and is planned to be a major contributor to NATO's Joint Intelligence, Surveillance and Reconnaissance (JISR) ambition.
- collective defence
- crisis management
- cooperative security
AGS will contribute to these three core tasks through using its MP-RTIP radar sensor to collect information that will provide political and military decision makers with a comprehensive picture of the situation on the ground.
Facts and figures
General characteristics of the RQ-4B Global Hawk Block 40 remotely piloted aircraft:
- Primary function: High-altitude, long-endurance intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance
- Power Plant: Rolls Royce-North American AE 3007H turbofan
- Thrust: 7,600 lbs
- Wingspan: 130.9 ft / 39.8 m
- Length: 47.6 ft / 14.5 m
- Height: 15.3 ft / 4.7 m
- Weight: 14,950 lbs / 6,781 kg
- Maximum take-off weight: 32,250 lbs / 14,628 kg
- Fuel capacity: 17,300 lbs / 7,847 kg
- Payload: 3,000 lbs / 1,360 kg
- Speed: 310 knots / 357 mph / 575 kph
- Range: 8,700 nautical miles / 10,112 miles / 16,113 km
- Ceiling: 60,000 ft / 18,288 m
Originating from the Defence Planning Committee in 1992, the AGS programme was defined as a capability acquisition effort in 1995, when the NATO defence ministers agreed that "the Alliance should pursue work on a minimum essential NATO-owned and -operated core capability supplemented by interoperable national assets."
The AGS programme was to provide NATO with a complete and integrated ground surveillance capability that would offer the Alliance and its member countries unrestricted and unfiltered access to ground surveillance data in near real time, and in an interoperable manner. It was to include an air segment comprising airborne radar sensors, and a ground segment comprising fixed, transportable and mobile ground stations for data exploitation and dissemination, all seamlessly interconnected linked through high-performance data links.
From the outset, the AGS capability was expected to be based on one or more types of ground surveillance assets either already existing or in development in NATO member countries, an approach that later also came to include proposed developmental systems based on US or European radars. However, all those approaches failed to obtain sufficient support by the Allies to allow their realisation. In 2001, the North Atlantic Council (Reinforced) decided to revitalise AGS through a developmental programme available to all NATO countries and a corresponding cooperative radar development effort called the Transatlantic Cooperative AGS Radar (TCAR).
In 2004, NATO decided to move ahead with what was labelled as a mixed-fleet approach. The air segment was to include Airbus A321 manned aircraft and Global Hawk unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), both carrying versions of the TCAR radar, while the ground segment was to comprise an extensive set of fixed and deployable ground stations.
Due to declining European defence budgets, NATO decided in 2007 to discontinue the mixed-fleet approach and instead to move forward with a simplified AGS system where the air segment was based on the off-the-shelf Global Hawk Block 40 UAV and its associated MP-RTIP sensor. The ground segment, which would largely be developed and built by European and Canadian industry, remained virtually unchanged as its functional and operational characteristics were largely independent of the actual aircraft and sensor used.
In February 2009, the NATO Allies participating in the AGS programme started the process to sign the Programme Memorandum of Understanding (PMOU). This was a significant step forward on the road towards realising an urgently required, operationally essential capability for NATO. NAGSMA was established in September 2009, after all participating countries had agreed on the PMOU. The PMOU serves as the basis for the procurement of this new NATO capability.
Another important milestone for the AGS programme was the 2010 Lisbon Summit, where the strong operational need for a NATO-owned and -operated AGS capability was reconfirmed with NATO's 2010 Strategic Concept. AGS also featured in the Lisbon Package as one of the Alliance's most pressing capability needs.
On 3 February 2012, the North Atlantic Council decided on a way ahead to collectively cover the costs for operating AGS for the benefit of the Alliance. The decision to engage NATO common funding for infrastructure, satellite communications and operations and support paves the way for awarding the AGS acquisition contract. In addition, an agreement was reached to make the UK Sentinel system and the future French Heron TP system available as national contributions in kind, partly replacing financial contributions from those two Allies.
In the margins of the 2012 NATO Summit in Chicago, NATO nations took an important step towards the delivery of a NATO-owned and -operated ground surveillance and reconnaissance capability. A procurement contract for the AGS system was signed on 20 May 2012, paving the way for the delivery of a vital capability that will be made available to all NATO member nations. The AGS acquisition contract includes the purchase and initial operation and maintenance of unmanned aircraft equipped with advanced ground surveillance radar sensors.
In September 2015, NATO AGS achieved important milestones such as the first live ground testing of NATO's first Global Hawk and the activation of NATO AGS Force, meaning Allies formally agreed the configuration (number of staff, their rank structure, etc.) of the unit responsible for operating the AGS Global Hawk aircraft from Sigonella Air Base.
Between September and December 2015, other important milestones were achieved:
- the AGS Operations Centre in Sigonella was handed over from Host Nation Italy to NATO;
- Mobile General Ground Station (MGGS) and Transportable General Ground Station (TGGS) roll-outs took place;
- the first test flight of NATO's first Global Hawk occurred in Palmdale, California; and
- AGS successfully participated in exercise Trident Juncture 2015 from the NATO AGS Capability Testbed (NACT) in the Netherlands.
Throughout 2016 and 2017, several test flights took place in order to further develop AGS capabilities. These included the first flight remotely controlled from the AGS Operations Centre in Sigonella at the end of 2017.
An intensive process of re-baselining the core acquisition contract took place and was finalised and signed in May 2018. This process helps ensure that AGS will deliver an operationally suitable capability that can be certified for operations within global airspace.
The first NATO Global Hawk is expected to fly from the United States to its new home in Sigonella in 2019.


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Legislation of Interest (Pending and Recent)
Follow the links below to find recent legislation that affects banking operations, banking-related consumer affairs, and the U.S. economy. We will update this list from time to time as necessary. These links will connect you to the full text of the legislation on the Government Printing Office Web site.
Dodd-Frank Wall Street Reform and Consumer Protection Act (Public Law 111-203)
Credit Card Accountability Responsibility and Disclosure Act of 2009 (Public Law 111-24)
Preventing Mortgage Foreclosures and Enhancing Mortgage Credit (Public Law 111-22)
Fraud Enforcement Recovery Act of 2009 (Public Law 111-21)
Emergency Economic Stabilization Act of 2008 (Public Law 110-343)
Housing and Economic Recovery Act of 2008 (Public Law 110-289)


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My answer to all of this - he's right - in a way.
1. He is soooo correct about the lack of interest most genealogists would have about this one little conference. It was after all extremely tech-centric, which does not apply to everyone. In fact, it only applies to a small proportion of worldwide genealogists - 3000 attendees at one new conference is hardly a pebble in the pond when the total population of genealogists is concerned. Plus, when I think of genealogy as a pursuit or profession, technology is only one very small part of how genealogy is conducted. Online resources and social media are great, but MOST genealogy is conducted via tried and true methods of good old fashioned research - which is not always glamorous - mostly dusty, heavy, eye straining and oftn-times head scratching. Overall, when someone mentions genealogy, I think of photos, records, court clerk offices, libraries, citation format, etc.....which is only assisted by technology.
2. The hype was a little over the top for me too. Yes, I am perpetuating it by even writing about it when I really want to focus on Charleston in May (woo-hoo!), but we have to put the hype into perspective - as a technology conference, it was going to be touted within those technological tools - and it was. The folks at RootsTech wanted the word to get out - encouraging tweeting, etc - in the hopes things would become viral - and they did to a degree. Probably enough to make those who did not attend or who didn't care want to tweet scream in protest. Those who did tweet and write about it were not paid advertisers, just regular genealogists (albeit heavy tech users), and still usually glowing about it - which says something pretty cool was going on.
3. The cool factor of RootsTech was in its uniqueness to our industry. As a librarian, I see the same restrictions that hamper genealogy: funding. The library budget is never huge, and neither are most of our genealogy budgets. Just because Ancestry proved money can be made off of us, does not mean that we are a very lucrative bunch. Therefore, just like library land, genealogy is not an area that is privy to the latest in technological advances. We might eventually get there, but the latest and greatest doesn't visit genealogy land until after several years of conditioning in the mainstream. Which is why RootsTech WAS pretty important. We need opportunities like RootsTech to pool our resources and confer with the programmers that create the tools to make our research lives easier.....which leads into number 4.
4. Collaboration acknowledged - not exactly obtained. Ok, this is where John and I both get stones thrown at us over our naysaying. From my vantage point (mine, not anyone elses), I was still seeing too much flocking together of the same bird species. For the advanced programmer sessions, programmers attended, for the beginning user sessions, beginners attended. RootsTech advertised that its purpose was to bring both programmer and genealogist (neither terms automatically exclusive) together in order to collaborate and develop user friendly programs. Wonderful purpose, but with the exception of the un-scheduled break-out sessions that anyone could utilize and the exhibit hall/social conversations, I didn't see much collaboration going on - at least not in the regular sessions. I think this should still be the goal - but we need more sessions that are joint panel sessions between users and programmers. I know it is extremely tough to get get users and programmers to talk since they generally don't speak the same language - but the programmers need to hear what works best for our research needs BEFORE they build it! Just my two cents in that regard.
5. With the above taken in mind - RootsTech still filled a need in the genealogy industry: tech-centric sessions. We cannot deny that technology has forever changed the landscape of genealogy - even John used a blog to express his apathy towards this tech conference. As technology continues to permeate this industry, there is a shocking lack of tech-centric sessions at the major genealogy conferences (the big ones). Even when perusing the upcoming NGS conference sessions, technology is a very small percentage of the offerings. This is the biggest reason why some people were questioning whether RootsTech would replace one of the big conferences. My opinion on that is: NO WAY. The big conferences are here to stay - but they do need to include bigger percentages of technology based sessions to make the conferences more well rounded and representative of the industry as a whole.
6. Which brings me to the final point: Can RootsTech survive longterm? Maybe. Since it had never been done before, the ideas and enthusiasm were flowing like green ale at a St. Pattty's Day Pub Crawl! And while the need for collaboration will never wane, I suspect that its numbers will dwindle a bit after a few years because adding another major conference to our list of must attends will stretch all of our budgets - and we can only collaborate so much before the results of that collaboration have us busy all over again learning and mastering the newest developments. My suggestion for survival.....either don't have it every year or periodically become a tag along to another conference. Within the next couple of years, I suggest RootsTech be held in conjunction with another of the major conferences (FGS or NGS). We do that quite often in library land, and it draws bigger crowds, and ultimately, more participants in collaboration equals better ideas in the long run.
Sorry, I tried to make it short - but, John started it! :-)


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Unatrac supplies genuine Caterpillar parts at competitive prices, protecting customers against unexpected downtime. We meet customers' needs for spare parts with a full range of Caterpillar parts. We also provide original CAT lubricants, which reduce maintenance costs and ensure that components last longer.
Parts not available in-country can be quickly ordered and shipped within a short period of time. All Caterpillar spare parts purchased from Unatrac are guaranteed genuine and carry the original caterpillar warranty.
Unatrac's computerized parts-inventory system gives us immediate access to stock levels across its warehouses worldwide. It also allows the company to provide immediate responses to individual customers' requests for parts. Further, Unatrac's well-trained sales teams are regularly on call to visit customers' sites and speedily attend to all their parts requirements
CAT premium output batteries are designed to survive the toughest abuse and are built to perform in the harshest environments. They offer reliable starting power and long life in all climates and applications.
Cat Bearings are designed for specific applications based on load, operating speed, temperature range, and size. Bearings position other components, marking these differences critical because improper fit can lead to premature gear failure and damage of other components.
Cat Classic™ Parts are lower-cost, genuine Cat parts offered for older Caterpillar equipment. They're not a new brand, a short-term program, or a "will-fit" or aftermarket solution, but another repair option to complement quality original, Cat Reman, dealer exchange, and used parts. Cat Classic Parts help you manage your owning and operating costs as the age, usage, condition or remaining value of your older Cat equipment create the demand for a more economical repair option.
Cat Grease is specially designed for Cat Machines to greatly reduce wear, such as galling and scaring, and to help prevent seizing. Cat Grease is also corrosion resistant and resists water/salt water washout.
Cat Coolant is formulated to provide excellent protection against boiling and freezing. Cat ELC (Extended Life Coolant) works more than three times longer than other coolants and delivers superior component protection.
Caterpillar builds the best drive train parts on the market and we work with you to achieve superior performance by offering excellent maintenance and repair options. The result is maximum productivity and lower cost.
Caterpillar engine parts are designed and manufactured to work hard as a complete system and be rebuilt for the second time.
CAT filters are designed to work with CAT fluids in caterpillar engines and component systems to provide the highest levels of cleanliness and performance thus protecting your systems and lowering your costs.
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Maintaining a safe and clean work environment is critical for everyone who works in, on, or around Cat equipment. Having the right tools and supplies on hand for the job helps you reduce downtime, maximize productivity, and control your bottom line. Look to your Cat dealer for high quality maintenance and repair options.
CAT hardware meets the highest industry standards for hardness and durability, plus CAT hardware finishes are matched to the job.
CAT is committed to designing and manufacturing superior hydraulic components and excelling in the areas of hydraulic system management and service.
Cat Oil is specially developed to maximize component life by resisting oxidation, preventing buildup, and maintaining proper viscosity. Each type of oil undergoes extensive testing processes to demonstrate its ability to deliver extended drain intervals when used with the Cat S•O•SSM Services Oil Analysis Program.
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Power Outage
Fresno state has a fragile electrical infrastructure and the campus is susceptible to power outages. Work will begin on the infrastructure upgrades during the Summer of 2014 and will take several months to complete. Meanwhile, the campus must be prepared for the possibility of additional power failures similar to the one experienced December 5, 2013. The unstable infrastructure could lead to isolated or wide spread power failures. Power outages on campus can last for a minimum of 2 hours. The following information provides an overview of what we can all do to prepare should an outage occur.
Be Prepared
- Keep flashlight(s) handy and check batteries
- Maintain department phone trees and keep contacts current in cell phone
- Share information with students and staff at beginning of each semester.
- Enter Fresno State Police Department in your cell phone 559.278.8400 (or download BDog app on your smartphone).
- Become familiar with campus Emergency Preparedness information and resources including:
- Emergency phone numbers, such as the Police Department, Information Hot Line, supervisor & staff phone numbers
- Emergency procedures http://www.fresnostate.edu/adminserv/emergency/procedures/
- Building floor plans, exits and doors and evacuation assembly points
- Review and Update departmental Business Continuity/Kuali Plan (plan owners - for extended outages)


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THL Toolbox > Developers' Zone > Ruby On Rails Development > Rendering Tibetan Properly In Mixed Text Environments
Rendering Tibetan Properly In Mixed Text Environments
Contributor(s): David Germano, Andres Montano.
When Tibetan script words are mixed in with Roman script words, one faces a challenge. Firstly the Roman script should usually be 12 points, but Tibetan is unclear at 12 point and needs to be displayed at a larger font size. Secondly, the font used for showing Tibetan is not usually the same font you want to use to display Roman Script, even if it has those glyphs built into it.
Andres Montano has thus written a library that addresses this issue. It converts the Tibetan into hard coded character entities intstead of UTF*, and the browser then knows how to display those.
Initially it was written as part of the Globalize plugin which he called "globalize_complex_scripts", and then later it was detached from this to be free standing. In this way, Ruby on Rails applications can take advantage of the globalize_complex_scripts without the additional complexity involved in setting up Globalize itself, nor the overhead of running globalize if there is no additional need for it. . Globalize_complex_scripts is a plugin that extends the popular globalize plugin (http://www.globalize-rails.org/). Globalize provides simple ways to provide an app with multilingual views and models. Globalize complex_scripts extends multilingual support to for easier handling of complex scripts.
The main functions are extensions of the String class:
1. span (or "s" for short): takes a string and spans characters in predefined unicode ranges with xml:lang and class attribute for easy rendering. Also converts characters outside ascii range into NCR.
2. translate_and_span (or "ts" for short): used instead of globalize's translate method (used to translate strings in views) so that the translation includes the added language metadata 3. translate_and_encode (or "te" for short): converts chars outside ASCII range to NCR, but does not span. To be used in forms (buttons, drop-down lists, etc.).
Besides this it provides some helper methods to facilitate translation of views, which are outside the scope of the current interest in the integration of globalize_complex_scripts into dict app.
The spanning relies on a languages model that has the unicode ranges and ISO codes of the languages to be "spanned".
The code is at: http://ndlb.svn.sourceforge.net/svnroot/ndlb/portal/ror/plugins/globalize_complex_scripts/trunk/
lib has the main libraries
- globalize_complex_scripts.rb : the methods I described in e-mail
- helpers/ : helpers for easier use of globalize
- models/ : language model described in e-mail
- patches/ : fixes to make globalize compatible with rails 2.1.0
An example would be: "See ཀ་བ་ pillar." becomes "See ཀ་བ་ pillar." Thus interspersed Tibetan is turned into NCR and a span tag with lang and class attributes set to "bo" is added. Then the stylesheet defines the appropriate font and size to class "bo"
You can see in action in: http://staging.mms.thdl.org/dictionary_searches/98?language_id=7.
There are also helper methods to have the form text boxes bigger for Tibetan Unicode to fit, but still it would rely on a Tibetan Unicode keyboard installed in system like the wylie keyboard in leopard (mac) or tise in windows.
So in himalayan dicts, the code reads
- <%= f.text_field :title, fixed_language_options %>
- and generates html: <input class="dz" id="dictionary_search_title" lang="dz" name="dictionary_searchtitle" size="30" type="text" value="" xml:lang="dz" />
- the key there being class "dz" which the stylesheet handles


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Kids tricolour baseball cap
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