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Our offices will close for the RSA Holiday Season on the 19th of December 2019 and will reopen on the 6th of January 2020. We want to express our sincerest appreciation for the trust you have placed in us. Best wishes for the holidays.
Podcast Interview with Dr. Innocent Besigye, Assistant Editor
Listen to Dr. Innocent Besigye, Assistant Editor of PHCFM, from Uganda as he explains the roles and challenges of Family Physicians in Uganda and what published articles stand out for him.
Podcast Interview with Prof Bob Mash, Editor-in-Chief
Find out the key milestones for the journal, the issues to be addressed and its new goals from the Editor-in-Chief, Prof. Bob Mash, in this 11-minute podcast interview.
About the Author(s)
Received: 10 May 2016; Accepted: 26 Nov. 2016; Published: 27 July 2017
Copyright: © 2017. The Author(s). Licensee: AOSIS.
This is an Open Access article distributed under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution License, which permits unrestricted use, distribution,
and reproduction in any medium, provided the original work is properly cited.
Background: Staffing of rural healthcare facilities is a challenge, with literature supporting the selection and training of rural-origin students. The Umthombo Youth Development Foundation (UYDF) scholarship scheme supports rural students to train as healthcare professionals and offers a unique support programme. This programme has not been evaluated, and this study sought UYDF-supported students' perceptions of the programme.
Aim: The aim of the study was to assess students' perceptions of the UYDF support programme.
Methods: This was an observational descriptive study. Participants were students supported by UYDF and data were collected by a questionnaire with a Likert scale to assess perceptions of various aspects of the support programme.
Results: Students' perceptions about the UYDF support programme were generally positive, with initial orientation and information sharing perceived as useful. Some respondents did not perceive value in holding discussions around English proficiency. The support required appeared to diminish with increasing years of study.
Conclusion: A comprehensive, proactive compulsory support system that provides both academic and social support was perceived as useful by the UYDF students. Further research is required around aspects such as encouraging English proficiency. In future, the support programme could prioritise students in the early years of their study.
Staffing of rural healthcare facilities constitutes an ongoing challenge globally, with many rural areas experiencing greater shortages of staff than urban areas.1,2,3 International and local evidence has shown that rural-origin graduate students are more likely to provide long-term services in rural healthcare facilities than urban-origin students.4,5 Despite the evidence, it is of concern that South African Health Science Institutes of Higher Learning (IHL) do not currently prioritise the selection of rural-origin students, and in fact some policies (e.g. the National Bench Mark Examination) discriminate against increasing access for rural-origin students.6
Increasing access and throughput at IHLs for disadvantaged Black African students has been a long-standing priority in South African universities.7 Over the last 20 years, the number of Black African students accessing IHLs has risen from 30% in 1990 to 66% in 2010.8 Unfortunately, increasing access has not equated to an increasing number of Black students graduating.9 Although better in the health sciences,9 cohort studies have shown that graduation rates of Black African students at IHLs in the life sciences, mathematics and physical sciences are about 33% (which is about half that of White students), with no disaggregated data on the proportion of rural-origin students graduating.9,10,11
South African IHLs have responded to the challenges faced by Black students by developing various types of academic support programmes specifically designed to bridge the gap between the academic competence of the student and the requirements of the IHLs.7,10,12 Many of these programmes have shown success, with participating students achieving graduation more often than students who do not have access to them.10
Criticisms of such programmes include that they may inadvertently continue to entrench marginalisation and discrimination, as previously disadvantaged students are treated differently from other students.7,13 Other concerns arise around such support programmes operating from a deficiency model, being reactive and not proactive (responding to a problem and not preventing a problem) and focusing almost exclusively on academic enhancement with relative neglect of other aspects of support (such as social and psychological factors).7,12 'Extended', 'bridging' and 'additional support' programmes, which select Black students to be trained separately from other students, may also perpetuate a perception of inferiority among students.13 Such a hidden curriculum may label students as weak and more likely to fail, which in turn may foster students' resentment and non-participation.12
In response to challenges of staffing rural district hospitals, the Umthombo Youth Development Foundation (UYDF) initiated a scholarship scheme in 1999. The scholarship scheme is a partnership between UYDF and selected rural district hospitals in the province of KwaZulu-Natal (KZN) with the aim of improving healthcare delivery at these hospitals through the identification, support and training of rural-origin scholars willing to return to serve in rural areas as healthcare professionals (HCPs) after graduation. See Figure 1 for a diagrammatic depiction of the UYDF model.
Taking cognisance of the potential challenges that may be faced by Black, rural-origin students in health professions education at urban-based IHLs, UYDF provides a comprehensive, responsive, integrated and multifaceted support programme. This includes payments for fees, food, books, accommodation and a compulsory social and academic support programme. Participation in the support programme is encouraged by linking the monthly food allowance that each student receives to participation in the programme.
The support programme is proactive and includes initial orientation at the beginning of the academic year and meeting with other UYDF students, and also provides information about aspects of university life (available support structures, study skills, time management, exam techniques, dealing with distractions and the importance of passing). Students are thus forewarned of potential challenges and are provided with many opportunities to discuss their own unique challenges with other students, with a local mentor and with the UYDF mentor. The support programme thus extends beyond academic matters, as social and psychological support mechanisms are readily available.
The support programme is responsive in that students can discuss their experiences at monthly meetings with a local mentor, who is usually a lecturer working at the IHL. The students can also discuss challenges as they arise, with the UYDF mentor coordinator, either telephonically or in person. Helping students acknowledge social and academic problems, encouraging them to utilise university resources (tutors, etc.) to address problems, and holding students accountable for following through on the plans formulated are key features of the support provided by the local mentors and UYDF mentor.
In addition, students also have opportunity to meet with HCPs at hospitals close to their homes as they are required to work for four weeks each year at the hospital where they were initially selected. The UYDF management believes that key features of the support programme are the proactive nature of the programme and the individualised, ongoing, flexible, readily available, multifaceted support that alerts students to the many types of problems they may face and helps them to acknowledge and respond to these situations. Aspects of the UYDF support programme are summarised in Table 1.
Since inception in 1999, 252 rural-origin HCPs supported by the UYDF have graduated, and more than 90% of those supported by the UYDF have passed each year and progressed to the next academic year.14 This rate of success of student progression and graduation is set against a context in which the students were selected from one of the most disadvantaged areas of the country15 and the average throughput at South African IHLs.9
Providing support to students at IHLs is a complex and changeable intervention. In addition, it is challenging to fully describe and standardise an intervention that is intended to be organic and responsive to needs. The UYDF support programme has not been formally evaluated, and this study begins a process of evaluation by seeking the views of students on programme.
This was an observational, descriptive study. Inclusion criteria were all UYDF students who had participated in the support programme for at least one year. A total of 201 students were supported by the UYDF in 2014, of whom 138 met the inclusion criteria.
Data were collected using a questionnaire to gather information on students' perception of the support they had experienced. The questionnaire was designed by the primary researcher (the UYDF mentor) with input from the UYDF management team and was piloted among five local UYDF mentors and five students. Minor changes were made to the questionnaire after the pilot study and data from the pilot study were not analysed with the study data. Questions were presented as a Likert scale, with participants being asked to assess various aspects of the UYDF support programme. The scores on each aspect ranged from 1 to 5, where 1 was 'Not useful' and a score of 5 was 'Extremely useful'. Aspects that were studied included perceptions of the orientation, ongoing contact with the local mentor and UYDF mentor coordinator, holiday work and participating in the annual Life Skills Imbizo.
An e-mail with the study aims, a study information sheet, a consent form and the questionnaire were sent to all eligible students, inviting them to participate anonymously in the study. Eligible students were requested to download the consent form and the questionnaire, self-complete these forms and fax or post these to the researcher, or return them to the researcher in a sealed envelope when he visited their campus. Students were specifically asked not to put their names on the questionnaire.
Data were entered into an Excel spreadsheet and analysed descriptively as mean values of the Likert scale scores with standard deviations. A consecutive one-way analysis of variance (ANOVA) was employed to assess whether there were any significant differences between various variables such as students' year of study and perceptions about aspects of the UYDF support strategy. A p value of <0.05 was considered to be significant.
Permission to conduct the study was obtained from the Humanities and Social Science Research Ethics Committee at the University of KwaZulu-Natal (UKZN) (HSS/0616/014M). Permission to collect data was also obtained from the Director of UYDF.
Of the 138 eligible students, 109 completed the questionnaire, giving a response rate of 79%. Of the participants, 55% were female, aged between 18 and 30 years, with a mean age of 21.3 years. The participants attended a variety of universities, with the majority attending the Nelson R. Mandela School of Medicine at UKZN. The universities attended are summarised in Table 2.
Participants were studying a wide range of courses, with half enrolled for Medicine followed by Physiotherapy. The HCP disciplines are summarised in Table 3.
Most of the participants were in their second (30%) and third year (42%) of studies, with the remainder in their fourth or fifth years.
The mean values and standard deviations of students' perceptions of the UYDF support strategy are summarised in Table 4.
The majority of respondents felt that it was useful to meet the UYDF mentor at the start of their studies and found the initial orientation at the start of the academic year to be useful. The participants also felt that the information given during the orientation (such as the availability of student support systems, study techniques, information on drug abuse, HIV, sexually transmitted infections and pregnancy prevention and time management) was useful. The information on speaking and listening to English as a way to improve their competency and overall success was not perceived to be as useful as other information (mean 3.57). However, there was a large standard deviation in responses (0.963), suggesting that some students found it very useful and others not at all. Participants felt that it was valuable to express their expectations and found worth in knowing about the role of the UYDF and what the UYDF offers to students.
A consecutive one-way ANOVA showed that students in the early years of study found the monthly meetings with the local mentor more useful compared to students in the later years of study.
The data showed that students studying a wide range of disciplines are supported by the UYDF, with a large number of different universities attended. This reflects the large number of services provided at rural district-level hospitals and the importance the hospitals attach to the training of staff to provide these services. Those 11 universities being attended also present challenges for UYDF in providing a support service that is spread across South Africa.
The current UYDF support strategy is multifaceted and focuses on social, psychological, financial and academic support, and it was encouraging to find that students' perceptions were generally positive. Other studies have shown that succeeding at an IHL requires major social, emotional and academic adjustments, and underprepared students from disadvantaged backgrounds often experience feelings of inadequacy, alienation and isolation at an IHL.16,17 In addition, rural (disadvantaged) students arriving at an IHL find the university environment intimidating.16 They often have poor studying techniques, are unable to deal with the large volume of work at IHL level and struggle to study independently.10 In light of these studies, it was encouraging that students felt the UYDF mentoring was beneficial to them.
Participants found the initial orientation to be of value, and this may be because students may have never previously travelled beyond their local area into a city. The need to orientate South African HCP students into a place of learning is reflected in South African literature.18 This need to support students during the transition from school to an IHL is also supported in international literature.19
Students also perceived information sharing around issues such as HIV/AIDS, drug abuse and preventing pregnancy as useful. To an outsider this may seem strange, as it would be assumed that HCP students would already have knowledge of such issues. However, knowledge cannot be taken for granted; the literature reveals that HIV/AIDS prevention knowledge was significantly lower in South African rural school leavers compared with their urban counterparts.20 Similarly, the need to provide information around substance abuse for rural learners is also supported by the local literature.21
Students found it useful to discuss expectations early on and set high standards which they could aspire. Morales has suggested that high expectations based on the strengths, interests, hope and dreams help students tap into their intrinsic motivation and own desire for learning and personal gain.22 Bernard has also highlighted the importance of supportive relations that encourage students to aim high, which can make a difference in the academic life of students even when they come from dysfunctional families and poorly functioning schools.23
The UYDF support programme is premised on the belief that students have the potential to succeed, that any deficiencies from their schooling are challenges that can be overcome, and that they are solution-finders who are destined for success. Encouragement to participate in IHL support programmes was therefore approached not from a 'deficiency perspective' but rather from the perspective of one who has already successfully overcome previous challenges and who sees another problem simply as another challenge that can also be overcome.
Students reported that they found the ongoing support provided by the UYDF mentor and local mentors to be useful. The emphasis on regular contact with both the local and the UYDF mentor was perceived as important and ensured that students were held accountable to follow through on plans made to address deficiencies identified. This finding is encouraging as research indicates that Black students are less likely to access counselling services available at IHL despite facing serious problems.24
In addition, students found the contact with other students who were also supported by the UYDF to be useful. A peer group of like-minded students who understand the context from which they have come, and is able to provide social and academic support, has been shown to be effective in reducing students' feelings of alienation and to assist their integration into IHLs.25 Emphasis beyond academic support to include social support and social engagement has been shown to be important in contributing to academic success at IHLs.25,26,27
Research has shown that participating in academic support systems, such as communities of learning (as offered by UYDF), increases student productivity and quality of effort that students put into learning activities to ultimately succeed at IHLs.25,28 Tinto reported that students who participate in communities of learning show greater engagement in social and academic activities, greater motivation, greater support and encouragement, access more university academic resources, get more support and show a greater willingness to participate in activities because they feel valued and appreciated.25 In addition, participation in communities of learning encourages reflection and an honest assessment of the self, a willingness to risk acknowledging deficiencies and a searching for solutions, which are important prerequisites for help-seeking behaviour.22 The UYDF support programme facilitates and encourages the formation of such communities of learning, and also encourages critical self-reflection to identify knowledge gaps that need to be addressed, which the UYDF students acknowledged as important.
It was interesting that students did not perceive the advice given around improving their English to be as useful as other aspects of the support programme. For many, English is a second (or third) language, which may lead to poor comprehension and reduced literacy, which in turn have been identified as important factors in student failure at IHLs.7,16,17 This finding requires further research as South African studies indicate that English proficiency influences academic performance and also stress the importance of enhancing language proficiency when teaching in a multicultural context.29,30
In addition to the on-campus support, UYDF students are expected to work for at least one month during their vacations at the hospital where they were selected. The UYDF students perceived their holiday work to be useful and this is reflected in the literature that shows career-specific experiential work as an important motivating influence for students at IHLs.10 Other authors have shown that experiential work during vacations makes a significant contribution to academic success, as students recognise the value of what they are learning and see the application of theory and knowledge from their IHL transferred to a real-life workplace.10
Academic and social support appeared to be most valued during the early years of study, and this is reflected in literature that reports that support is required to reduce thoughts of isolation experienced by HCP students in the early years of their studies.30 Some authors have suggested that any support strategy should assist students to develop 'universal survival skills' that will help them to successfully transition from being a student to becoming a graduate.10 That students identified some aspects of support as less important in the senior years is encouraging, as it suggests that they have adapted to the demands of tertiary education and are developing 'survival skills'. They no longer need such intensive support, which then allows the UYDF mentor and local mentors to concentrate their efforts on students in earlier years of study.
Although every effort was made to ensure that responses were anonymous, students may have perceived that their responses could become known and this might have affected their responses to the questionnaire. There may have been potential bias in that participants may have responded in an overly positive manner to please the researcher. The questionnaire adopted a deductive methodology in which the researcher set the variables according to his knowledge and experience of the support programme. A more inductive method may facilitate students speaking about their own experiences, and thus data should be triangulated by further study including methods such as interviews with students and focus group discussions. The questionnaire did not permit for disaggregation and focus on specific aspects of the UYDF programme (e.g. the role of comprehensive financial support, the selection process and the student Life Skills Imbizo), which may be key in facilitating student success at IHLs. In addition, utilising the term 'useful' in all of the questions was a non-specific term with an interpretation on what it means that may have varied from one student to another.
UYDF-supported students hail from deep rural areas, do not speak English as a first language and may never have travelled outside their local area prior to attending an IHL. They may be more disadvantaged than their urban colleagues, as rural schools generally prepare learners poorly for tertiary education. The UYDF team can be assured that the multifaceted student support strategy was perceived as generally useful by students. The potential link between a high-quality support programme and high graduation success rates requires further study. This study reported on one specific support programme and the lessons learnt around integration, being proactive and responsive, which may be useful to other support programmes offered to disadvantaged students attending IHLs.
The authors' would like to thank the Umthombo students who participated in this study.
The authors declare that they have no financial or personal relationships that may have inappropriately influenced them in writing this article.
D.M.G., R.G.M. and L.M.C. were responsible for conceptualisation of the research project, reviewing finding and writing up the findings. D.G. was responsible for writing the protocol, collecting and analysing the data and A.R. contributed to review of the results and write-up of the findings.
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The cytology above is of Hurthle cell metaplasia in a Hashimoto's thyroiditis.This is not Hurthle cell neoplasm or cancer. HC are seen in all thyroid diseases.There is lymphoid tangles of lymphocytes and plasma cell in the lower left and a...More info
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There are doctors and psychiatrists who will use thyroid to treat various non-thyroid conditions.There is no proof that these conditions respond to thyroid hormone. Some psychiatrists use thyroid to treat depression without significant proof it...More info
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subset: commoncrawl


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An ad hoc committee, under the auspices of the National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine's Health and Medicine Division, has been convened to study temporomandibular disorders (TMD) in a project entitled From Research Discoveries to Clinical Treatment. The members will address the current state of knowledge regarding TMD research, education and training, safety and efficacy of clinical treatments of TMD, and burden and costs associated with TMD.
The members will identify approaches to advance basic, translational, and clinical research in the field. Their findings, conclusions, and recommendations will also inform development of policies related to evidence-based treatment and clinical management of TMD patients.
Specifically, the committee's task calls for members to:
Review and estimate the public health significance of TMDs, including prevalence, incidence, burden and costs; and review challenges to data collection and reliability.
Evaluate the evidence base for assessment, diagnosis, treatment, and management of acute and chronic TMD. Recognizing that TMDs are diverse and multifactorial conditions influenced by genetics, sex and gender, environmental, physiological, and psychological factors, this effort will:
Identify barriers to appropriate patient-centered TMD care, in the presence and absence of an evidence base, and strategies to reduce these barriers along the continuum of TMD pain. This effort will:
Review the state of science for TMD and provide an overview of basic, translational, and clinical research for TMD. This effort will:
Examine existing or emerging TMD animal models and their preclinical utility.
Identify gaps and opportunities in TMD research relating to central and peripheral mechanisms, genetic/epigenetic contributions, heterogeneity of molecular mechanisms, joint mechanics, neuroimmune processes, endocrine influences, role of the microbiome, and endogenous mechanisms of resilience.
Identify opportunities and challenges for development, dissemination, and clinical implementation of safe and effective clinical treatments for TMD, including pharmacological agents, regenerative medicine, behavioral interventions, and complementary and integrative approaches.
Identify scientific and clinical disciplines needed to advance TMD science and the development, dissemination, and implementation of safe and effective treatments; as well as strategies to enhance education and training in these disciplines.
Identify multidisciplinary/interdisciplinary research approaches necessary in the short-and long-term to advance basic, translational, and clinical TMD research and to improve the assessment, diagnosis, treatment, and management of TMDs.
* * *
The first meeting of the Committee was held on Tuesday, January 29, 2019 at the National Academy of Sciences building in Washington, D.C.
Terrie Cowley, President and Co-Founder of The TMJ Association, was asked to address the meeting. Click here to view her presentation before the committee.
The next National Academy of Medicine meeting will be held on March 28 and 29 in Washington D.C. and will include an open session to the public both days. More details are available at: http://www.nas.edu/hmd/Activities/PublicHealth/TemporomandibularDisorders/2019-MAR-28.aspx


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I was delighted to discover today, that Zante Bistro on Gerrard near Woodbine has not burned down. I can see how the barbershop rumour got started though.
Zante Bistro is alive and well.
Someone driving by saw the attached store, thought it was Zante Bistro and assumed the worst. The derelict store next door was under renovation a while ago, but plans seem to have stalled. OK, that happens, but the shabby-looking storefront is bad for business.
This was going to be a coffee counter with a real estate office in the back. What happened to that idea?


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Apollo Roofing Solutions donates adhesive to help upskill single-ply industry
Published: 10 May 2019
SPRA's Single-ply Awareness Training in action
Apollo Roofing Solutions has donated a range of adhesive products to assist the Single-Ply Roofing Association (SPRA) with their Single-ply Awareness Training (SAT).
SPRA has worked hard with its members to produce a new three day course covering all of the basics of single-ply roofing to give a better understanding of the system. Training is a key part of what SPRA offers, and such materials provided add value to training courses as trainees are able to handle materials, tools and equipment which help them to understand roofing components, installation and site health and safety.
Apollo donated their:
- FleeceBond (A1270) moisture-curing polyurethane (MCPU) canister adhesive for securely and professionally bonding fleece-backed membrane to a wide range of roof substrates, including tissue and foil-faced insulation board.
- MemBond (A3353) specialist fast-tack adhesive for bonding PVC membrane to insulation board, deck and up-stands.
- FleeceBond (A9732) specialist high-tack adhesive for bonding fleece-backed membranes to PIR insulation board (tissue and foil-faced).
Apollo Technical Manager, Darrell Tibbins, said: "At Apollo, we are always happy to support the industries with which we trade. Adhesive application is a huge part of the single-ply membrane industry, and we are keen to ensure those taking part have the knowledge they need of adhesive application. By donating product to help facilitate SPRA's new SAT programme, we are pleased to have been able to play a part in helping to upskill the workforce, ensuring a better understanding of single-ply systems and improving standards industrywide."
Mark Thornton, Training Manager at SPRA, added "We are very grateful to receive donations from members to support our training courses and programmes. It really makes a difference to the courses and enhances the experience for the learners. Thank you to Apollo and all our members who donated materials."


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Traditional Hot Stone Massage provides several benefits, including relief of muscle tension and pain, stress and anxiety reduction, increased circulation, and better sleep. The average skin temperature is 92 degrees. Stones are usually warmed to 105-110 degrees.
In general, Himalayan Salt has several benefits: air purification, reduction of electromagnetic radiation, reduction of unhealthy positive ions, easing of allergies and asthma and improvement in mood and sleep.
The combination of a hot stone massage with Himalayan salt stones adds even more benefit. You can see the effects of the salt after one session. Your skin, body and mind will thank you!
The benefits of a Himalayan Salt Stone Massage:
- Negative ions are produced when heated, creating a sense of peace and deeper sense of relaxation.
- The heat of the salt melts restrictive fascia to go deeper into the muscles and loosens the joints.
- The moist heat of the stones assist with soothing inflamed muscles and joints.
- Leaves the skin feeling refreshed and glowing.
- The salt stones moisturize and plump up the superficial layers of the skin.
- May detoxify and alkalize the body.
- May aid in reduction of insomnia, blood pressure and stress.
On a spiritual level:
- Can ground and balance meridian levels, chakras and electromagnetic field.
- Clear your Qi and energy.
The stones provide 84 essential mineral and trace compounds. Stones may be used hot or cold. Unlike river stones, Himalayan stones are antibacterial.
Give yourself a wonderful treatment by scheduling a Himalayan salt stone massage session today!
Brittany Baumgartner, LMT


text: By Finley In Geochemistry 13/02/2019 0 H & P Mobile Geochemistry Inc. The Berkeley Lab Geochemistry Department's scientists supply world-class expertise and huge-ranging research interests/actions in challenges dealing with the U.S. Division of Power, the United States, and the world at present. The instruments and strategies available will be utilized to a diverse vary of purposes together with environmental, geological, nuclear, medical, archaeological and oceanographic. Geochemical analysis of Earth's tectonic plates reveals a continental crust that is older, thicker and more granite-like than the younger, thinner oceanic crusts product of basaltic (iron, magnesium) supplies. Our interest in early solar system processes and meteorites makes us a frequent customer" of pure historical past museums around the globe and has result in projects involving lunar samples from NASA's Apollo missions. In case you are curious about studying at St Andrews, be part of us at an open day to discover the town, find out about our programs and meet present students. Geochemistry uses strategies of chemistry to understand the chemical composition of the Earth and different planets. The Geochemistry group consists of members of Dr. Veerle Vandeginste 's research workforce. Stand-alone programs in geology and chemistry can also be taken remotely on the Internet, both for credit score or personal curiosity. Geochemistry is the research of the chemical composition of the Earth and different planets, and the chemical processes that have an effect on them. Geochemistry Research of the chemical composition of Earth It's concerned with the abundance, distribution and migration of the elements in Earth's atmosphere, mantle, crust and core. Chalcophiles, lithophiles, siderophiles, and atmophiles are lessons of components based upon related geochemical properties and reactive affinities. The geochemist's job is to understand this information and make informed choices on a spread of commercial and scientific research functions. #mobile, Share


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Week-long STEM summer camps hosted by the United States Naval Academy (USNA) designed to encourage students to pursue a course of study in engineering and technology. Students spend time in world-class lab facilities where they experience real-life application of math and science principles through hands-on learning.
The National Geospatial-Intelligence Agency Visiting Scientist Program (VSP) seeks to recruit domain specialists engaged in scholarly scientific research relating to the theory observation, analysis, and modeling of geospatial intelligence (GEOINT) technologies, processes, and methodologies. The VSP deepens the partnership among the U.S. academic research community, national laboratories, and NGA's GEOINT research efforts. As a Visiting Scientist you will learn GEOINT requirements, data standards, and processing; collaborate with NGA's GEOINT technical experts using advanced tools and technologies; publish your research in detailed reports, technical papers, documented software code, or delivered capabilities; and contribute directly to the national security mission. NGA considers applicants with a variety of experiences that intersect with more than one traditional discipline.
The Office of the Secretary of Defense/Washington Headquarters Services (OSD/WHS) offers volunteer opportunities to students enrolled in an accredited high school, trade school, college and/or university. These opportunities allow students to explore career options in their field of study and develop personal and professional skills. Volunteer students are exposed to the work environment while learning about the Department of Defense missions and responsibilities.
The Air Force Young Investigator Research Program (YIP) supports scientists and engineers who have received Ph.D. or equivalent degrees by 1 April 2012 or later and show exceptional ability and promise for conducting basic research. The objective of this program is to foster creative basic research in science and engineering; enhance early career development of outstanding young investigators; and increase opportunities for the young investigator to recognize the Air Force mission and related challenges in science and engineering.


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Operation Mincemeat aimed to relay false information to the Nazis by dropping a corpse where they would find it, along with fake documents. The British agents gave their corpse a backstory to make it more believable. But was the story too good to be true?
Topics in this Podcast: World War II, wwii, 20th century, disinformation, Operation Mincemeat, propaganda


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Barclays Savings is investing around pounds 100,000 in a consumer
PR campaign designed to de-mystify the personal savings sector. Cohn and
Wolfe beat off three competitors to the estimated pounds 50,000-fee
Agency managing director Martin Thomas said the agency's role would be
to catch the attention of non-finance experts by injecting interest and
fun into a market which can be 'dry' and 'full of jargon'.
'There are people who read the financial pages avidly, but our programme
is aimed at the vast amount of the population who aren't so financially
driven,' Thomas said.
C&W's team of five are working on a range of publicity initiatives. They
will also support a new press and radio ad campaign through JWT.
Barclays is hoping the campaign will help it contend with competition
from building societies - the traditional savings advisers - and newer
players like Virgin Direct.
'We don't have the time or experience to do it in-house,' said Barclays
Personal Sector PR manager Louise Footner.
The campaign will cover savings accounts, TESSAs and bonds. PEPs and
unit trusts are dealt with by Barclays Unicorn.


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Eighth Army Unveils "Grab and Go" Canteen
YONGSAN GARRISON, South Korea -- When Eighth Army leaders were thinking of a method to help Soldiers refuel their bodies after morning physical training sessions, there were numerous issues that had to be solved. Among those challenges was the physical distance between Yongsan Garrison's single dining facility to the barracks that many single and unaccompanied Soldiers occupy.
The solution that came from these discussion was a mobile canteen that spares Soldiers the travel time while allowing them to eat from a healthy menu designed by nutritionists. The idea came to fruition on July 1 when the first trailer opened for business on Camp Coiner, an area located in the northernmost area of Yongsan Garrison in Seoul, Korea.
"(Lt. Gen. Bernard S. Champoux and Command Sgt. Maj. Ray Devens) wanted a way for Soldiers to quickly refuel after PRT," said Sgt. 1st Class Jessica Bezanson, a food services. Champoux and Devens are the commander and former senior-enlisted Soldiers of the U.S. Eighth Army. Bezanson is credited with coming up with the idea for the "Grab and Go" satellite feeding trailers that look much like the popular food trucks found in many U.S. cities.
While the trailer currently used by Soldiers has specially-designed graphics and is specifically crafted for its mission, the "grab and go" aspect has been in use for a few months in Korea. Along with "to go" service windows at many dining facilities in Korea, Yongsan Garrison also provided meals from the rear of a delivery truck.
Food service personnel said the truck was never seen as a long-term solution, but instead a quick solution to help Soldiers.
"It's taken a year for us to fully realize the commanding general's vision, and now here we are," said Bezanson proudly as a line of Soldiers picked up their breakfast from the shiny new food truck behind her.
The trailer is thus far supported by those who are already benefitting from its placement.
"This is great," said a Soldier assigned to Special Operations Command -- Korea, who wished to remain unnamed due to his assignment at SOCKOR. "Right after PT we can get breakfast here instead of having to shower and change then walk all the way over the hill from Camp Coiner for breakfast, saves a lot of time."
The mobile canteen's look also inspires those who provide service from it.
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This is a very easy marinade to make tender beef or pork for stir fry. All that's required are two common ingredients, corn starch and cold water. Please read on for directions.
To make tender beef or pork for stir fry, it's not necessary to buy the most expensive cut of meat. This easy marinade will tenderize meat well. Whether ordering from your butcher or cutting the meat yourself, make sure it is sliced thinly against the grain.
In medium sized mixing bowl, mix 1/2 cup corn starch to 1 cup cold water for each pound of meat. Mix well to get out any lumps.
Add meat to bowl. Toss until each piece is evenly coated with the corn starch mixture. Refrigerate and stir every few hours until ready to cook.
When ready to stir fry, drain excess liquid and prepare your stir fry as desired. Use this easy method to make tender beef or pork for stir fry every time. Enjoy!
- You can mix this up and start marinating your meat the night before to make preparation time even easier on a busy day.


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Do something amazing... Skydive for charity
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Please be aware that there are more restrictions than tandem skydives, for example maximum age 54, height/weight restriction but it is more fun!
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Tandem Skydive Events
There are currently no events scheduled, click here to book a skydive in aid of this charity.


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Workout Wednesday: Clayton Murphy and Akron Men 3x1k, 3x400, 3x200
Fresh off his breakout sophomore season at Akron, NCAA 800m contender Clayton Murphy is back at school with his teammates prepping for another strong season. We had a chance to film Clayton and the Akron men during one of their early season workouts.
3x1000 w/ 3 min rest
6 Minute Recovery
3x400 w/ 3 min rest
10 Minute Recovery
3x200 w/ 90 sec rest
Goal Pace:
Splits Hit:


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How Chicago Put Summer Melt on Ice
Recording: How Chicago Put Summer Melt on Ice, Mar 5, 2019
Why do so many low-income, first-generation students experience summer melt? This was our question when we saw that each year 5,000+ college-bound Chicago students did not arrive on campus after high school graduation. In this session, we'll share how we decreased the melt rate for 1,000 students by mobilizing diverse stakeholders to set a shared goal, strategically allocating investments using disaggregated data analysis, leveraging near-peer advisors, and increasing partnership across sectors.
Programming descriptions are generated by participants and do not necessarily reflect the opinions of SXSW.
Format: Case Study
Event Type: Session
Track: K-12 Education
Level: Basic Understanding


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Human beings have always relied on machines to solve menial problems as well as overcome other limitations. In the business sector, the need to solve customer queries to build loyalty and create brand establishment has become all the more apparent now. The customer service industry is the latest to be hit by this revolution through the innovation of chatbots.
But, what is a chatbot?
In essence, a bot is a computer program that is designed to perform basic tasks. In the case of chatbots, they are programs that interact with the user through a conversational interface. Nowadays, chatbots can be used with most popular messaging apps. They can comprehend both written and spoken text, and understand its meaning. While most bots are powered by artificial intelligence to execute complex commands, the technology is still budding and hasn't been entirely utilized yet. Let's look at the types of chatbots in existence:
Command based chatbots have a databank of replies. When the user submits a request, the bot responds with an answer that fits the context of the user query. These bots can only address a limited set of queries and will require manual assistance for uncommon questions.
On the other hand, artificial intelligence based virtual assistants can handle questions that are more ambiguous in nature. AI based chatbots use natural language processing to generate replies. With time, these chatbots become smarter as they learn from previous questions and answers.
Why do businesses need chatbots?
Experts believe chatbots may make apps and even websites obsolete in the coming years, since they have a better track record of helping businesses. They are more versatile in terms of functions and are dubbed smart investments. Here are some reasons why your business may need a chatbot:
-Direct replacement for apps
Apps exist for banking, dating, food delivery, shopping, travel and almost everything else. Recent studies show that popularity for apps is at an all-time low. People just don't feel the need to download unnecessary apps. Intelligent agents offer a more exhaustive range of functions, and are not expensive to develop. Normally, to get an app up and running you'd need to hire developers and invest both time and money to develop one simple app; wouldn't it make more sense to use the money fruitfully?
-Scale up your business
Sometimes you lose track of how businesses grow. In the beginning it may not seem too difficult to chat with your customers. But what if those fifty customers double or even triple in the coming years? Dealing with hundreds of unique questions is a herculean task for a single person. This is where your chatbot comes into play. You can easily configure a chatbot to interpret customer queries and answer them intelligently, thus allowing you to better handle your customers.
-Boosting your sales
Chatbots can help boost sales, products or promotions by notifying your customer base. Sending emails to customers will bring in more engagement as opposed to simply posting on your website or social media. Chatbots serve as personal assistants to your customers. Through interactions, they gather information and personalize their responses.
-Cost-effective alternative
As businesses grow, so do expenses. Chatbots are a one-time investment that cut down on staff requirements. Use a support chatbot in your business to address simple customer queries and leave the intricate ones to a designated customer support team.
Though still in their nascent stage, chatbot technology is developing at a blistering pace and their immense potential has caught the attention of internet giants Google, Facebook and even Microsoft. If you're not only looking to engage with your customers flawlessly but also want to propel your brand to the next level then you might fancy investing in a chatbot for your business.


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Welcome to You@YouTube: What do you want to know?
5 comments :
What is the overall mood at YouTube? What is the best perk while working at YouTube?ReplyDelete
where's the data at?ReplyDelete
How do you get lots of viewers, some people get like 1,000,000. At the rate I am going it will take 5000 years.ReplyDelete
What does it take to get justice for William B. Brock the Volkswagen executive that was murdered for joining the $70 million dollar class action discrimination lawsuit against the auto maker...? Please take a look at the NY Times article...http://www.nytimes.com/1983/01/29/us/bias-suit-made-grimmer-by-a-suicide.html Then view the following and please help expose corporate cover-up and murder... http://www.facebook.com/topic.php?uid=108286581312&topic=16187 and let's get Justice For William B. Brock.ReplyDelete
If you Knew that Volkswagen of America the automaker threatened the life of William B. Brock. If you knew that they had illegal surveillance of his personal and private life. If you knew that they recruited him to be a token negro but, he actually fought for the rights of other blacks and after joining a $70 Million dollar class action lawsuit against the company where he himself had the bulk of the damaging information against the company. Then Mr. Brock was murdered and it was covered-up and the $70 million dollar discrimination lawsuit went away. Would you help get Justice for William B. Brock...?ReplyDelete


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Talking Policy: Paul Hockenos on Gentrification and Art in Berlin
The Berlin Wall's historic fall in 1989 signaled the end of the Cold War and saw the fusion and collision of the subcultural scenes of West and East Berlin. In his book, Berlin Calling, Paul Hockenos describes this era from the perspective of graffiti artists, punk rockers, and anarchists, examining how Berlin became trendy and attractive to the creative-minded. World Policy Journal speaks with Hockenos, a Berlin-based journalist and writer and a World Policy fellow, about the role of counterculture in shaping today's Berlin as well as gentrification in the German capital.
WORLD POLICY JOURNAL: You grew up in upstate New York, but you left for Berlin in 1985 and later made it your home. Why did you choose Berlin?
PAUL HOCKENOS: At the time, West Berlin was as far away as you could get without leaving the Western world. It was also the height of the Reagan era and I had just graduated from college, was under pressure to choose a career. I wanted to go somewhere where I didn't know anybody at all. Of course, also, by the mid-1980s news of some of West Berlin had seeped out through the walls and borders. [David] Bowie and Iggy [Pop] had done some of their best work there. The industrial band Einstürzende Neubauten was raved about in Rolling Stone. And I intended to study at the Free University, which had a reputation for special brand of social critique steeped in the tradition of German philosophy.
WPJ: What inspired you to write a book about Berlin from the perspective of street artists, punk rockers, and activists?
PH: There are a lot of fine books on Berlin, but I feel that none of them really explain today's Berlin—why it has this hip, counter-cultural, off-beat reputation, and why so many people like myself find it an attractive place to live. My main thesis is that the subcultures that arose in West and East Berlin, starting in the late 60s but more strongly in the 80s, and after the wall fell, decisively shaped Berlin, making it what it is today.
WPJ: How big a role did the punks play in infusing a sense of resistance among West Berliners?
PH: Punk was vitally important not only for West Berlin, but East Berlin, too. West Berlin was very different before the punk rock revolution broke, even in 1976-78 when Bowie and Iggy lived there. It was a sleepy, isolated, dour place where you'd have to look long and hard to find, say, an art gallery or a cool movie theater. I think of it as the West Berlin of Christiane F., whose famous book about heroin and prostitution in the city led Bowie to call it the heroin capital of the world. Punk rock shook up the creative scene in West Berlin, introducing a potent anti-authoritarian, do-it-yourself ethnic, which still exists, though in other forms, today. It ushered in the whole off-scene club culture and post-punk and New Wave bars and clubs and bands, but also influenced fashion, the visual arts, and lifestyle. Punk is one of many anarchist currents responsible for the innovative, disruptive, anti-establishment streak that has surfaced again and again in Berlin over the years.
WPJ: Artists and hipsters in West Berlin were not as excited as others when the wall came down. What were their biggest fears? And now, in hindsight, do you think their fears were justified?
PH: It was a really strange phenomenon. The music scene and others involved in counterculture in West Berlin relished the fact that they were shut off and isolated from the rest of Germany. They didn't want West Berlin opened up to East Berlin or East Germany or West Germany or anybody else as they liked their comfortable, little subcultural biotope just the way it was. When this bubble, which depended heavily on all kinds of subsidies, burst, their lives changed. They couldn't possibly realize what they'd gain. Many artists who'd lived from hand to mouth in West Berlin actually became famous after the wall tumbled: DJs, artists, and well-known designers, and some even world-famous in their professions.
WPJ: How did West and East Berliners interact when the wall crashed? Was there a collision of ideas?
PH: After 40 years of very different socializations a lot of problems and resentment came to a head when they began living and working together, first in the squats in East Berlin. In Berlin you saw the clash almost immediately when West Berliners and East Berliners mixed in that thrilling year between the Wall's fall and unification in 1990. It took a while for them to get to know one another. East Berliners often saw West Berliners as arrogant know-it-alls, while West Berliners saw East Berliners and East Germans as one big, poorly dressed, uncool bunch of authoritarian-minded clones. Keep in mind that eastern Germans hadn't gone through the liberal cultural revolution set off by the student movement in the late 1960s. So, it took a while for them to get used to the liberal nature of what Western Germany had become.
The creative, underground scenes were very different in West and East Berlin. In the East, alternative culture, like punk rock, because it was so explicit and in-your-face subversive, was considered political by the authorities and was treated as such. Some punk rock artists were even jailed. When the wall fell, the scenes in West Berlin and the East came together, and attracted fresh blood from around the world, thus creating something much bigger and more spectacular. That is why the first post-wall years are referred to as the "miracle years of anarchy." I think Berlin still very much lives from this spirit and vibe, you see it in film, clubs and cafes, new fiction and music, and even commercial branding.
WPJ: With the wall's breach, investors and planners in Berlin expected massive and rapid rejuvenation of the city. They wanted to convert Berlin into an ultra-modern urban center of global standing. But through the 90s, the city's population shrank, private sector investment was below expectations and Berlin's Olympics bid fell flat. Then, the start of the 21st century saw drastic change and rapid development. What changed?
PH: The subcultural scene in the new Berlin thrived in this vacuum, as a kind of a paradise for artists and creative people, including, for example, the impresarios behind the electronic music clubscape. Creative types and eccentric entrepreneurs used the many free spaces and niches that existed in post-industrial Berlin. There was a spirit of innovation and inventiveness that was attractive not just for artists, but also for the different kinds of startups, and the so-called creative industry, which are much bigger than just arts. Berlin became a place where publishers and the music and fashion industries wanted to be. The city planners originally actually tried to hide this bohemian, DYI underside of Berlin because they thought it would be off-putting. Only later, around 2000, did the city realize that this was Berlin's cache. And then they started posing Berlin as a creative city, and that has worked as branding for Berlin, and made it quite successful—even if sometimes at the expense of the creatives.
WPJ: Like many other cities, Berlin has experienced gentrification. How has this affected the city's poorest and most vulnerable populations?
PH: It is really a black irony that artists and creative types who made Berlin attractive and are responsible for its success today are being forced out by the high rents, the mass tourism, and commercialization. Berlin is changing dramatically. Rents are going up everywhere. Former districts that were known for the squats, hole-in-the-wall cafes, and punk clubs, are now full of boutiques and high-end apartment buildings. There are still some inexpensive places for not-for-profit, creative types to live and work in Berlin, but they are more on the outskirts of the city. This is a worrisome development. And if it continues this way, then Berlin will become a boring, hyper expensive, clone city like many of the other capitals and big cities in Europe.
WPJ: You talk about the presence of the far right in new Germany in the early 90s, especially in eastern Germany. How strong is far-right sentiment now?
PH: Many people don't know that in the 70s and the 80s, both West and East Germany had a prominent far- right and neo-Nazi presence. And in my book, I talk about how violent they were in the early 1990s, when they terrorized the left-wing scenes and migrants in Berlin. Now, the far right has gone mainstream. It is no longer just neo-Nazis beating up foreigners, homosexuals, and squatters, but they are politicians in the parliament. The far right can be divided into two groups: a parliamentary party, Alternative for Germany, which polls around 10 percent nationally and as much as 25 percent in parts of eastern Germany, and the more violent subculture, real neo-Nazis, a very small section of society, who commit hate crimes against refugees and other enemies.
WPJ: You compare Berlin and Detroit and mention Tresor techno nightclub owner Dimitri Hegemann's argument that Detroit should imitate Berlin by embracing the night and reconfiguring space. What did Hegemann mean by this? And what are some other things that cities could learn from Berlin?
PH: Berlin and Detroit have interesting parallels. They are both post-industrial cities that at a certain point were down on their luck. And there were many abandoned buildings and lots of space available in both cities. Berlin is a city that doesn't close at night, and never did. There are no closing hours for clubs and bars. So, the Berlin club and late night scene is a serious source of income for the city. And as for reconfiguring space, the free space in Detroit, such as disused factories, could be filled with businesses and projects like in Berlin. In my section of Berlin, just 100 yards from where I am right now, a turn-of-the-century brewery is now a movie theater, with clubs, a concert hall, and a small theater troupe in it.
The most important thing that other cities can learn from Berlin is that their artists, broadly defined, are an asset: They shouldn't take them for granted. There must be the conditions for this kind of urban, creative culture to exist, most importantly affordable rents and studio space, as well as health coverage for artists. In Berlin itself, we need more social housing. It is all being privatized now. We need strong tenants' rights to protect low rents for people who have been in the neighborhood for years.
This interview has been edited and condensed for clarity.
Visit the Talking Policy archive page for more World Policy interviews!
[Interview conducted by Divya Ramesh]
[Photo courtesy of Paul Hockenos]


text:
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The Rail Fence cipher is a very basic transposition cipher. The user specifies a number of rows and the message is written in a zig-zag fashion across these rows, moving up and down between the top and bottom row like the rails of a fence. Ciphers similar to this were used as low-security military field ciphers during the nineteenth century.


text:
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Connect Body, Mind, Emotions and Spirit Within
Open Hearts and Minds!
Join those who hear the call to become a Transformational Agent.
Who We Are:
This website cultivates community within those who hear and respond to the call to Transform Education. Actively moving it from dry models of transmitting information, this community embraces the potentially dynamic power within the Educational realm to shape both minds and hearts, empowering active agents of meaningful change. If you have found your way to this page, perhaps it is because you also feel the call towards becoming a Global Change Agent. On these pages you are invited to contribute articles, share experiences, receive free perks and participate in forums of discussion to share that which is working to create Transformed Education.
Mission statements – Empowering all stake holders in the educational process to step beyond the concept of transmitting information from the teacher to student. In its place, valuing that which the student is already bringing to the picture, working from questions rather than answers, cultivate creativity and develop presentation skills for effective sharing, connect to our soulful selves—heart, mind, body and spirit to prepare pathways of purpose throughout life.
The Vision:
A hopeful tomorrow: Energized, Creative Individuals of all ages and races cultivating their unique set of talents and perspective, empowered to share in the context of community to resolve pressing issues of today. Inspired educators elevating students/ Inspired students elevating educators.
You and Me
For Humanity
I have devoted my life towards understanding education of the Whole Human Being and perfecting my pedagogy. In my passion to connect mind and body, I have a BA in Psychology and an MA in Dance Education from UCLA. Through years of performance and teaching in Arts Education, I came to discover the wonder of the world of Montessori. Now certified with an AZ Teaching Credential and Montessori Credentials in both Primary and Elementary ages, I've become a passionate advocate for the hands-on learning, whole child approach and peace education that are central to this path. Nurturing the Light Within, developing emotional intelligence, and connecting children to their own wonder in the immensity of our cosmos are gifts from the realm of Montessori that still inspire me today.
Fortified with the love and success from the realm of my Montessori experience, I'm expanding my vision to the global educational community.
With my family, I have been fortunate enough to travel in six of the seven continents on this precious pearl of a planet swirling around its axis in our creative cosmos. It is a universe that blesses us with a unique vibrancy of life in our home, the earth. In my travels upon it, I've marveled at the degree of peace among the connections as people generally offer a warm smile or kind word. To me, it is evident that people want to feel friendly towards one another. I believe firmly that education needs to nurture this human connection for it is the only force that guides us beyond the destructive power games of war. My life reflects the commitment to build bridges not walls. My teaching experience includes schools in the USA: Arizona, New Jersey and New York area, Mexico (Cancun), Costa Rica (Monte Verde), and Germany (Giesen). I am an advocate for uniting the people of this planet in a peaceful vibration of appreciation for one another. Educating through the doorway of Montessori's philosophy of Peace education is a perfect fit. Children are the perfect starting place!
Who I am
Loving Mother, Inspired Educator, Concerned Global Citizen
Weaving Mind/Body/Emotions and Inner Spirit personally and professionally.
Life Long Learner and Life-Long Educator. I have over 20 years of teaching experience integrating mind/body/spirit within education. Member of ASCD: Professional Learning & Community for Educators, The Montessori Foundation. Budding entrepreneur, this website offers a place to develop my technological skill while reaching out to connect with those of like mind. I am fortunate to work at schools that are models of Educational Transformation, like Modern Academy Cancun and San Tan Charter as a Montessori teacher. I am empowered with new ideas and uplifting community. Each year, I continue my research, attend cutting edge webinars and conferences to understand teaching trends and assure my capacity to offer relevance to my community.
Your free Intro session offers an entrance point to speak with the founder of this organization, Jill Bittinger, t look at your goals as an educator, administrator, or parent who is concerned with the state of our world and what you can do about it.
During the initial session, we outline Five Simple Steps you can take to start right away playing a bigger role towards empowering the kind of world you would like to see.
As you progress along the path, you decide how deep you're going to go into the journey of becoming a Change Agent. Tools are provided to empower you from your particular perspective. Community is Building. Leadership is needed on all levels. Within this journey, you are invited to find the Leader within you.
Book Series in progress.
Chandler, Arizona, United States
Education 4.0
A call for change
The Leading Thinkers on the forefront of this movement are calling for us to consider what becomes possible from the digital revolution. Built upon the understanding that the old models of education are obsolete, they invite reflection on our unique human capacities:
Critical Thinking
A request to the educational sector to rethink the educational systems, asking what the education should look like in this hyper connected world.
Tom Chi, speaking for Mind Valley's A-Fest offers a powerful presence envisioning the science of a connected world. Mind Valley invites us to be life-long learners and honor our interconnection with one another... "believing from a spiritual or religious perspective is no longer necessary. It's been proven by modern day science: all of us are connected, and none of us is dispensable. ...we don't need mysticism or faith anymore to envision a unified world." Vishen Lakhiani
Understanding that the speed of technology is becoming a complete game changer.
The presence of Artificial Intelligence is a new point of reality that must be considered. Computers are developing languages with each other that even the developers are not able to figure out.
How do we wrestle with this impending presence?
We can see that preparing students for digital technology is essential.
But it is more than just learning about the most recent popular learning app, or coding. There is a deeper calling.
Befriending our inherent sacred nature, from the scientific perspective, is a starting place! This view values each one of us as carriers of unique gifts that make up the amazing tapestry of humanity as it is uniquely expressed upon our particular planet earth. Tapping into the cosmic vision is what is called for, while still cultivating the unique gifts within each individual.
These pages link to the Facebook group to encourage conversation in present time.
Transformed Education: The Key of Connection
Chandler, Arizona, USA
Copyright © 2019 Transformed Education: The Key of Connection - All Rights Reserved.
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text: Share SHARE PRINT DC Pension Default Funds Investment Strategy Inadequacies 31 August 2015 Latest Monthly Update Only 11% of employers expect employees will buy an annuity, but schemes investments still have annuities as their main target. JLT Employee Benefits (JLT) has released its latest quarterly 250 Club survey of leading UK firms. It found that less than half (44%) of respondents were able to confirm their company had adjusted the default strategy of their defined contribution (DC) scheme in light of the new pension flexibilities. The objective of the present survey was to review employers' actions since the 'freedom and choice' pension reforms, first announced in the Budget 2014 and in force since 6 April 2015. The absence of DC default fund reviews may present real risks to members as default fund investment strategies have historically targeted an annuity purchase (after 25% tax free cash was taken) at retirement. Currently, only around one in ten (11%) employers thought their pension scheme members would buy an annuity, suggesting that scheme investments that haven't been reviewed may have become inappropriate. Maria Nazarova-Doyle, Deputy Head of DC Investment Consulting, explains: "A fund that continues to employ a seemingly safe strategy of investing into long-dated gilts and corporate bonds to track the price of annuities more closely becomes quite risky if members do not plan to buy this type of longevity insurance. For instance, pension savers looking to withdraw cash lump sums or use income drawdown could be left open to the adverse effects of interest rate fluctuations without much of an upside. "In addition to the actual investment risk consideration, there is now a requirement for default strategies to be relevant for the majority of pension scheme members. So, if the majority of members no longer intend to purchase an annuity, keeping the old strategy unchanged cannot be justified." Indeed, out of the retirement options available after April 2015, JLT found that employers believe well over a third (38%) of members are more likely to use their savings for flexible access drawdown to provide a retirement income, rather than just cashing in their pension for a lump sum. As to the role of annuities, JLT Employee Benefits, believes they will continue to have a place in the retirement mix as the provision of guaranteed income is still a core requirement whether that be as a standalone product, or incorporated within a product that offers other more flexible options to be selected with part of a members fund. Meanwhile, many (38%) employers do not know what their scheme members will do with their pension savings. Employers are failing their staff by not communicating the pension reforms Nearly one-third (30%) of respondents indicated they had not communicated the changes to the taxation of pensions to their workforce, almost treble the 11% who said they did not plan to tell their scheme members about the changes when the December 2014 JLT 250 Club survey was carried out. Employers unconvinced about the benefits of the pension reforms Although almost two thirds (65%) of respondents in the December 2014 JLT 250 Club survey saw the potential benefits of the reforms, the current survey shows they aren't necessarily convinced this will lead to better retirement outcomes. Only 36% of respondents think the flexibility will increase pension savings whilst just 33% believe individuals will be better off financially in retirement as a consequence. Signs that employers are willing to support staff in their retirement choices On a more positive note, only 14% of those who responded said they would definitely not offer flexibility at retirement, as the ability to retire partially has become more common in recent years. In addition to this, 24% of employers surveyed already provide pre-retirement guidance or wider financial guidance through a workplace-based service, and almost a third (31%) are now planning to follow suit. JLT also found that almost 9 out of 10 (89%) of respondents who provide additional guidance, pay in whole or part for that support. DB to DC transfers overlooked by employers The April 2015 reforms have raised the question of whether transferring a defined benefit (DB) pension into a DC scheme to give members access to the new freedoms would be appropriate. Over half of the employers surveyed (56%) have considered the implications of transfers for their DB schemes in terms of how they can help to manage DB liabilities whilst giving pension scheme members' additional retirement options. Charles Cowling, Director at JLT Employee Benefits, believes the number is worryingly low: "The introduction of new options for members of DB pension schemes to transfer their benefits out of their DB pension scheme or even cash in, through bulk exercises or new 'business as usual' options, presents win-win opportunities for all concerned that can have a significant beneficial impact on the financial position of the pension scheme. "In particular, we believe there are big advantages in including transfer value quotations on all retirement options presented to members. Indeed, if trustees do not tell members of the transfer value option that is available, it is possible that an aggrieved member who missed out on such an option may challenge the trustees' decision at some point in the future." - ENDS - [1]The 'JLT 250 Club' is a consumer group of up to 250 leading companies who have agreed in advance to complete a short survey on topical pension issues. All organisations in the 250 Club have at least 500 full-time employees and most members employ more than 3000 such staff. Also, nearly 100% are in the private sector (limited company or plc). In terms of individual respondents, the vast majority are middle managers and above. Notes to Editors Enquiries: Smithfield Consultants: Fay Israsena firstname.lastname@example.com +44 (0)20 7903 0633 Julia Cooke firstname.lastname@example.com +44 (0)20 7903 0674& About JLT Employee Benefits JLT Employee Benefits is one of the UK's leading employee benefit providers offering a wide range of benefit and pension services, including administration, actuarial and pension consultancy, investment, Self Invested Personal Pensions (SIPPs) and Small Self Administered Schemes (SSASs) administration, flexible benefits, healthcare, benefit communication and financial education. JLT Employee Benefits employs over 2,200 professionals throughout the UK and in 2013 had revenues of £172m in UK & Ireland. Pensions and employee benefits companies within the JLT Employee Benefits group of companies include: JLT Benefit Solutions Ltd, Profund Solutions Limited, JLT Wealth Management Limited, JLT Investment Management Limited and Independent Trustee Services Limited. JLT Employee Benefits is part of Jardine Lloyd Thompson Group plc. www.jltemployeebenefits.com About Jardine Lloyd Thompson Group plc Jardine Lloyd Thompson is one of the world's largest providers of insurance and employee benefits related advice, brokerage and associated services. JLT's client proposition is built upon its deep specialist knowledge, client advocacy, tailored advice and service excellence. JLT is quoted on the London Stock Exchange and owns offices in 39 territories with some 9,000 employees. Supported by the JLT International Network, it offers risk management and employee benefit solutions in 135 countries. www.jlt.com/ Charles Cowling Director email@example.com 0161 242 5388


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Some reviews from the lovely audience at the CCA for the Comic Con showing of Hero Worship:
If @HeroWorshipPlay comes to town, go see it. Captain Kev saw it last night and rated it 5 stars for @theatreinscot http://t.co/ULPpIi72sH
— GEEKchocolate (@GeekChocolate) July 2, 2015
Saw Kenny Boyle's excellent one-man show tonight at the CCA… seriously impressed! Go check it out!! @HeroWorshipPlay
— Claire Lockerbie (@TheMacroCook) July 2, 2015
Just got back home from @HeroWorshipPlay. It Great show and loved every minute of it.
— Billy Fox (@Billy_Boy1988) July 1, 2015
"Well Hero Worship was an hour of highs and lows with an inspiring message. If you get a chance I highly recommend it" – Joe Gibson


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Montenegro Mont Travelers is an agency of licensed tour guides and professional drivers with years of experience in organizing Montenegro tours, holiday packages, famous Kotor day tours and airport transfers.
With our carefully selected team, on the relaxing Montenegro one day tours or Montenegro multi-day tours, you will have the best introduction to local spirit, domestic customs and traditional lifestyle.
We are happy to say our hobby become our professional business and Mont Travelers have become recognized as a leading travel agency in Montenegro for organizing Montenegro sailing tours, sightseeing and walking tours, Montenegro nature and photography tours, Montenegro holiday packages, accommodations, Montenegro private tours, private Kotor tours, Montenegro individual tours and well-known Kotor shore excursions - Kotor day tours for visitors who come by cruise ships in one of the most beautiful bays in the world, Boka Bay.
In addition to the multi-day and one-day tours, Mont Travelers Montenegro travel agency offer transfer service from/to Podgorica airport and Tivat airport to/from any destination in Montenegro or in the countries in the region.
Our agency is proud to be able to cover all the most popular destinations in the country and offer the quality of service both for excursions and for transfers. As in the beginning, a few years ago, our motto is still the same, Quality before Quantity, and so it will continue.
We wish a pleasant stay in Montenegro to all of our future clients and to all visitors to our country.
Trip & Travel Montenegro LLC operates under three travel brands, Mont Travelers is one of them.


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This Thursday we celebrate worldwide the International Women's Day, a protest date in which women and men will fight because there will never be discrimination based on sex . This day has this date in the calendar that in 1910, when the International Women's Conference suggested that on March 8 it would become the "International Women's Day", adopted by the United Nations in 1975.
So at Apple they join this event and want us to celebrate it in the best way anyone can, moving. And it has been Kyle Seth Gray who has managed to get a badge from the Apple servers that are used for his smart watch.
New Apple Watch badge!
On March 8, celebrate women around the world and get this award by doubling your Move ring. pic.twitter.com/vWNvHQTwzR
- Kyle Seth Gray (@kylesethgray) March 2, 2018
The company intends that during that day you are able to double your daily activity , in such a way that if you normally spend your activity in Movement is 600 kilocalories, that day you can do 1,200. Only then will you get access to this badge in the Activity app, along with animated stickers for the Messages application .
This challenge will begin to appear on the clocks on Tuesday, the 6th and it is believed that it will be something universal, given the international character of the 8th of March. Apple usually has gestures when it comes to designated days that are in the collective consciousness , are already a classic celebrations to raise funds against AIDS on December 1 .
The Apple Watch Series 3 was presented on September 12, 2017 at the keynote held at the Steve Jobs Theater and has an outstanding orientation towards health . Are you going to join the Activity challenge with your Apple Watch? All this and more we are waiting for you in comments.
Via | idownloadblog


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A $700 million publicly traded print and marketing company filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection.
Convertible debt has become an attractive alternative for investors who want to collect interest in the near term but retain the right to convert the debt to equity should the issuer's.
A $75 million software company needed an interim controller to stabilize operations and integrate an acquisition.
A $250 million portfolio company was closing a large acquisition, integrating prior acquisitions and undergoing its annual audit.


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COVERS (Download)
EDITORIAL (Download)
- Mothering fathers: Changes in sight?
Bruna Krimberg von Muhlen, Marilia Saldanha and Marlene Neves Strey
- Body and social cognitions.
Ana María Justo and Brigido Vizeu Camargo
- Anomic feelings and antisocial and criminal conducts: Verification of a causal model in young brazilian.
Nilton S. Formiga
- Axiological profiles of students from three university careers: Discriminant functions of three interpretation of the schwartz´s theory.
Maite Beramendi, Agustín Espinosa and Sol Ara
- On the supposed safety of marijuana's consumption: Difference between consumers in national surveys in Colombia.
Orlando Scoppetta Díaz-Granados, Augusto Pérez Gómez and Víctor Hugo Muñoz
- Urban life stress in preadolescents: a longitudinal assessment in Lima.
Liliana Casuso, Rafael Gargurevich, Wim Van den Noortgate and Omer Van den Bergh
- Graphic creativity and focused attention in abused children.
Gabriela Morelato, Mariana Carrada and Mirta Ison
- Cooperative learning: A model to be applied against bullying.
Mónica Ramírez Pavelic
- Predicting academic performance and attrition in undergraduate students.
Angela Corengia, María Pita, Belén Mesurado and Angel Centeno
- Perceived stress, coping and hardy personality in infertile women.
Enrique Barra Almagiá and María de los Angeles Vaccaro Huespe
- Workplace bullying in spanish and peruvian workers: An exploratory study with the LIPT-60.
David González-Trijueque and Sabino Delgado Marina


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2009 calendars are here
I'm always excited this time of year when my favorite designers come out with next year's calendar. Here are my picks.
Jill Bliss and Saelee Oh are at it again! I didn't think it was possible, but I love 2009 more than 2008. I bought my own copy yesterday from 1767 Church Street!
Rex Ray's 2009 calendar is another one of my favorites. I've always loved his work and this calendar provides a great collection of his work. After the year is over, you can even take the pages and use them as posters.
Mia from story by mia also has a wonderful nature inspired calendar. I love its understated simplicity. She also has an animals version which I think is great for a kids room.
Marisa Haedike of Creative Thursday's calendar is just gleeful. Her story is also an inspiration for those of us who strive to incorporate a little more creativity in our lives.
The Lotta Jandotter 2009 fabric calendar is great too! You can reuse it as artwork, scarf, headband or a tea towel!
Irene Suchocki's poignant photography is showcased in her 2009 TTV Desk Calendar.
I love the artwork and the colors used in Elum's letterpress calendar.
Last but not the least, I think I am not alone when I beg Diana to please, please, please design a 2009 calendar!


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Deluxe Room
Designed to be warm and welcoming, our Deluxe Rooms combine modern luxury with African-inspired interior design and decor.
Each of our 72 Deluxe Rooms offer everything you would expect from a leading 5 Star hotel with a personal boutique hotel touch. Choose between the deluxe double room with Kingsize bed, or Twin single beds.
In-room amenities
- Bathrobes
- Bath slippers
- Hairdryer
- Complimentary toiletries
- Rain shower
- Ironing board (upon request)
- Minibar
- Tea & coffee making facilities
- Room telephone
- Wake up service/alarm clock
- iPod docking station
- Flat-screen TV
- Individual air conditioning control
- Safe
- Working desk station
- 24 hour room service
- 24 hour concierge
- Free WiFi access


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Please either register or login below.
If you have not yet registered, click on the button below.
To find out more about the GSK Vaccines Training Programme, visit the Info page.
UK/VAC/0041/16j(2) Date of preparation: May 2018
Please send any queries to firstname.lastname@example.com and one of the team will be in touch to help.
Please do not use this email address to report adverse events. If you wish to report an adverse event, please follow the reporting instructions below.
Adverse events should be reported. Reporting forms and information can be found at www.mhra.gov.uk/yellowcard or search for MHRA Yellowcard in the Google Play or Apple App store.
Adverse events should also be reported to GlaxoSmithKline on 0800 221 441.
© GlaxoSmithKline group of companies. All rights reserved. GlaxoSmithKline UK Limited, Registered in England and Wales No 4310159. Registered office: 980 Great West Road, Brentford, Middlesex. TW8 9GS
UK/VAC/0041/16au(1) Date of preparation: May 2018


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Mad Men of the Millennium
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Why embracing the age of digital advertising is so important to your brand and how to assemble an all-star team to execute your goals. Via Marketo and Column Five.
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text: I'm hoping to get into the New York City Marathon in November 2018 and securing the right hotel is one of the biggest logistics besides the actual race entry which is by time qualification or luck of the lottery. The race finishes in Central Park and I thought I would turn to the Marriott Insiders for their expert opinions on which Marriott property I should try to secure and why. Thanks in advance!


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Veterinarian Job Openings
Veterinarian Wanted
Animal Care Clinic
Aberdeen, SD
Position Details
Veterinary associate wanted for strictly small animal clinic in northeast South Dakota. This area is a sportsman's mecca with lots of fishing and hunting opportunities. Our clinic is located in Aberdeen, which is the third largest city in the state and is growing daily. Aberdeen is located within driving distance of Sioux Falls, Fargo and Minneapolis and offers a charming and cultural reputation of its own. We are looking for a dedicated and motivated individual to be a part of a well-established clinic. Call 605-229-1691 or email firstname.lastname@example.com for more information.
Robin O'Neill (605) 229-1691 | Email


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Enrico Bettera returns to TCR Italy with Pit Lane Competizioni
Enrico Bettera has been confirmed for the full season in TCR Italy, driving a Pit Lane Competizioni Audi RS 3 LMS equipped with a sequential gearbox. After occasional appearances in the Italian as well as the International Series, the Italian is back with the championship-winning team.
"I am pleased to stay with the team and race the full season in the TCR Italy," said Bettera, who contested the full 24H TCE Series last year. "The level of the championship has been much improved since 2016 and I hope I can be among the top runners."
Bettera will also make a few appearances on the European stage with the same car, although it hasn't been confirmed yet which races he will contest.
"My wish is to make a few appearances in the TCR Europe Series too. We'll see later on which ones."
Bettera has one TCR Italy race win to his name, having won in the 2016 season finale at Monza.