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Editor,—Aneurysms of the posterior communicating artery classically present with a painful progressive palsy of the third cranial nerve producing ptosis, ophthalmoparesis, and mydriasis. We present a case in which aneurysmal compression of the third nerve produced a variable ptosis and ophthalmoparesis without pupillary involvement in association with intermittent hyperfunction of the ipsilateral third nerve innervated muscles.
A 73 year old woman with a history of hypertension and ischaemic heart disease was referred to the eye department with a 3 week history of intermittent diplopia which she described as inconsistently horizontal, vertical, or oblique, and a 2 week history of right retro-orbital pain and difficulty in opening her right eye. The diplopia and ptosis were often worse in the mornings.
On examination the corrected visual acuities were right 6/6 and left 6/9. There was a very variable and apparently fatiguable right ptosis which was occasionally replaced by right upper lid retraction (Fig 1). The results of ocular motility testing were inconsistent, ranging from 4 prism dioptres of exotropia to 25 prism dioptres of esotropia in the primary position with between 3 and 7 prism dioptres of left hypertropia. There was variable limitation of elevation and depression of the right eye and occasional right upper lid retraction on downgaze. On upgaze, the deviation reversed to become a right hypertropia due to right superior rectus overaction (Fig 1).
Magnetic resonance imaging and angiography were performed showing a 6–7 mm diameter saccular aneurysm arising from the intracranial internal carotid artery at the level of the posterior communicating artery. Attempted embolisation of the aneurysm failed owing to a focal stenosis at the origin of the right internal carotid artery and the patient underwent uneventful clipping of the aneurysm instead. There was a rapid improvement in the ophthalmoparesis following clipping and 6 weeks postoperatively all the neurological signs had resolved.
The early recognition of oculomotor nerve compression by a posterior communicating artery aneurysm is essential given that the mean interval between the onset of diplopia and bleeding is 4 weeks in patients who develop a subarachnoid haemorrhage.1 Although the retro-orbital pain was typical, this case is unusual for two reasons. Firstly the ptosis and ophthalmoparesis were notably variable (Fig 1). Secondly, episodes of right upper lid retraction, esotropia, and hypertropia were observed (Fig 1). Although modest variability of symptoms (for example, intermittent diplopia2) has previously been described, we can find no reports in the literature of such marked fluctuations in ptosis due to third nerve compression. Furthermore, in this case upper lid retraction and, on eye movement testing, esotropia and hypertropia—that is, excessive activity in third nerve innervated muscles, was observed.
A similar phenomenon of co-existing inappropriate neural discharge and block is seen in hemifacial spasm3 where compression of the seventh nerve by abnormal vessels produces hemifacial spasm and mild facial weakness. Although there is some controversy as to whether it is the mechanical irritation of the facial nerve or secondary hyperexcitability of the facial nerve nucleus that is responsible for hemifacial spasm,4 5 it is now accepted by most authors that compression of the facial nerve is the causative factor.4-6 A precise intraoperative correlation between decompression of the facial nerve and electromyographic disappearance of abnormal facial muscle activity has been demonstrated7although the facial weakness has been reported to take longer to resolve.5 An analogous situation of aneurysmal compression causing alternating ophthalmoparesis and third nerve hyperactivity in the case reported here is suggested by the similar course of resolution to that seen following decompression of the facial nerve for hemifacial spasm—the third nerve hyperactivity resolved immediately following clipping of the aneurysm while the ophthalmoparesis improved rapidly but took several weeks to resolve fully. The degree of third nerve hypofunction was, however, much greater than the mild facial weakness seen in hemifacial spasm and may have been due to the greater degree of compression of the third nerve in this case.
This case is important for two reasons. Firstly, this is the first report of compression of the third cranial nerve producing alternating oculomotor hypo- and hyperfunction as a result of a compressive lesion. Secondly, it emphasises the importance of excluding compression by intracranial aneurysm in a patient with variable signs which could be explained by a partial third nerve palsy.


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Squid vs Whale: A Look at the Epic Struggle Between Dentist and Technician
The relationship between clinicians and laboratory technicians has historically been one of antagonism and struggle to understand each other. State-of-the-art restoration outcomes, however, stand as a direct result of a strong alliance between the two.
This presentation outlines many of the ways that high-end practitioners and dental technicians are able to work together utilizing digital and analog treatment options ranging from the highly aesthetic single central restorations to complex full-mouth rehabilitation. The ability to effectively collaborate will prove beneficial not only to each other's business but more importantly, to the care and well-being of the patients being treated.
Subject to change

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text: PHOTOGRAPH RESTORATION Here are a few more examples of the image restoration I do... The original image measured 3" x 4.25". The edited image measures a standard 6" x 8". After removing scratches, tea stains, etc and resizing to 8" x 12", I changed the colouring slightly to a more sepia effect.


text: This page will automatically grab all new episodes as they are posted. I will eventually add pagination when this page starts getting long. I can easily dump a thread at the bottom of the page if people want to comment. I also created a local version that you can download and open in the browser from your desktop. You can get that here.


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The Last Campfire launches August 27No Man's Sky developer's new adventure game.
The Last Campfire will launch for PlayStation 4, Xbox One, Switch, PC via Steam and the Epic Games Store, and Apple Arcade on August 27, developer Hello Games announced.
Here is an overview of the game, via its Steam page:
Discover a Purpose
The Last Campfire is an adventure, a story of a lost ember trapped in a puzzling place, searching for meaning and a way home.
On a Journey
Travel deeper into the lands beyond the dark forest and overcome the adversities before you.
Uncover a World
Discover beautiful wilderness filled with lost folk, strange creatures and mysterious ruins.
Light the Last Campfire
Find hope and carry it with you on your journey to light The Last Campfire.
From a Small Studio
A unique tale from Hello Games and the creative minds behind LostWinds.
Watch a new gameplay video below.


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Guests at Forum Future of Film Festivals 2012 Katowice Poland
"Future of film festivals - between the Local and the Global": Film Forum guests list
The Forum is parrt of Ars Independent, organized by Anita Skwara for the Festival.
September 24th at Rondo Sztuki
10:00 - 10: 30 welcome speech Introduction during which the managers will present goals and ideas of the Forum and intro-duce the attendees.
"Authorial word" of meeting's moderators
10:30 - 13:30 the Forum participants' authorial presentations
PhD Andrzej Gwóźdź (Silesian University):"Festivals as the memory of the cinema "
Bruno Chatelin (filmfestivals.com):"Festivals and Web"
12:00 - 12:15 coffee break
12:15 - 13:30 the Forum participants' authorial presentations.
13.30 - 14.00 lunch
14.00 - 15.30 dyskusja panelowa Place - Identity - Economy. Festivals and integration of local/global communities
15.30 - 15.45 coffee break
15.45 - 17.00 panel discussion "Festival - media - consumer. Interactive strategies"
17.30 - 20.00 meetings One - to - One (closed event)
Kinoteatr Rialto20.30 screening of "Atomic Age"
TUESDAY, 25th of September Rondo Sztuki
10.30 - 12.30 panel discussion "Polish film festivals - barriers, opportuni-ties, prospects"
13.00 - 14.30 lunch/screening in Rondo Sztuki
15.00 - 17.00 open debate "Polish film festivals - what next? Postu-lates, requests, suggestions" 17.00 Forum guests farewell
Luis Alguera
- filmmaker, producer, social networks analyst. Co-author (together with Tobias Morgan) of Mubi Garrage platform and virtual film studio,
Jerzy Armata
- film and music critic, journalist and educator. Author of numerous books on filmmakers. Artistic director of Tarnowska Nagroda Filmowa,
Teodoro Cañada González
- director of The Social Film Festival of Toledo,
Michał Chaciński
- film critic and journalist. Artistic director of Gdynia Film Festival,
Bruno Chatelin
- founder of filmfestivals.com website dealing with more than 400 festivals. Member of European Film Academy, Hollywood European Awards and Cesar Academy. Employee of greatest film studios (i.e. Twentieth Century Fox France),
Piotr Czerkawski
- film critic, journalist, "Kino" magazine contributor,
Jonathan Davies
- former strategic advisor of UK Film Council, former director of The British Screen Advisory Council. Co-author of The Copenhagen Think Tank on European Film and Film Policy, expert on regional film founds and digital cinema,
Synes Elischka
- film director, multimedia artist. Director of International Random Film Festival,
Krzysztof Gierat
- film expert, co-author of Jewish Culture Festival, artistic director of Krakow Film Festival, founder of Silent Film Festival,
Maciej Gil
- president of Polish Federation of Film Discussion Clubs, one of the program directors of Cieszyn film festival - Kino Na Granicy,
Anna Grygiel
- director of Tarnowska Nagroda Filmowa,
Andrzej Gwóźdź
- film, media and culture expert. University of Silesia professor,
Piotr Kardas
- curator of the animation section of IFF Ars Independent, founder and president of the 'Animation Across Borders',
Neeme Kari
- managing director of Tallinn Black Nights Film Festival,
Andrzej Kawala
- director of Lubuskie Lato Filmowe Festival,
Artur Liebhart
- director of Planete +Doc Review, documentary film festival,
Łukasz Maciejewski
- journalist, film critic, specialist from the Polish Film Institute,
Przemysław Młyńczyk
- artistic director of European Festival of Short Films and Creative Television - Euroshots,
Andrea Möller
- cooperator of many cultural events, currently works at Unerhört! Musik Film Festival Hamburg, cooperates with the new Notfall Film Festival in Leeuwarden in Netherlands,
Jerzy Moszkowicz
- organizer of International Young Audience Film Festival "Ale Kino" in Poznan,
Michał Oleszczyk
- film critic and film expert, spokesperson of the OFF Plus Camera Festival,
Algirdas Ramaska
- director of the Vilnius International Film Festival,
Anna Sienkiewicz Rogowska
- Head of Film Culture Dissemination and Promotion- Polish Film Institute
Anita Skwara
- film expert, PR manager MFPF Regiofun, Film Forum coordinator,
Sergej Stanojkovski
- film director, founder and director of Avvantura Film Festival Forum in Zadar,
Anna Szrama
- director of International Festival of Film Producers REGIOFUN,
Toby Venable
- producer, founder and president of Lotushead Productions,
Anna Wróblewska
- founder of PortalFilmowy.pl website and SFP Film Magazine editor,
Janusz Wróblewski
- film expert, "Polityka" magazine contributor.
25.09.2012 | Editor's blog
Cat. : advisor Ale Andrea Möller animation Anita Skwara Anna Grygiel Anna Sienkiewicz Rogowska Anna Szrama Anna Wróblewska Artur Liebhart Author Bruno Chatelin Business Business Co-author Contact Details Copenhagen Creative Television critic , journalist and educator curator Director Director of International Random Film Festival Education Education Entertainment Entertainment Film Academy, Hollywood European Awards film critic film critic , journalist film critic , specialist film critic and journalist film director film director , multimedia artist Film festival Filmfestivals.com founder future Hamburg Head Jonathan Davies journalist , "Kino" magazine contributor journalist , film critic Labor Labor Law Law Lotushead Productions Luis Alguera Maciej Gil manager Managing Director Netherlands Piotr Czerkawski Piotr Kardas Polish Federation Polish Film Institute Polish Institute Polish Institute Polityka PortalFilmowy president producer , founder and president producer , social networks analyst professor Sergej Stanojkovski Short Films Silent Film Festival Silesian University Silesian University spokesperson Tallin Tallinn Black Nights Film Festival Tallinn Black Nights Film Festival Technology Technology Teodoro Cañada González the Film Art - festival the OFF Plus Camera Festival The Social Film Festival the Vilnius International Film Festival Tobias Morgan Toledo University of Silesia Venable Zadar Festival - between Art and Economy PEOPLE PROS
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Beauty Salon Wall Mounted LED Mirror White
1 In Stock 1
With an antique feel, the piece is the perfect decor option for your interiors.
The subtle but effective LED light arrangement allows hair professionals to show hair results in a soft glow. This improves customer satisfaction and increases the likelihood that customers will return. Simply plug into the nearest wall outlet, and you're all set.
Note: The Item is Handmade. It will take 1 week to deliver.


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Discover Nosy Be by road or sea
- Tour of the island by motorboat with the possibility of snorkeling (diving) on several sites and choice of lunch at AMPOGORINA or picnic
- Visit the LOKOBE reserve
Discover the surrounding islands by day or on an overnight camping trip
- NOSY TANIKELY for swimming and the beauty of the seabed, a natural protected reserve. ½ day or day trip with a picnic
- NOSY IRANGA, a paradise island. Full day with picnic, possibility to return the next day after camping in Russian Bay
- NOSY AMBARITELO, (3 islands) through AMPASIBITIKY for a beautiful waterfall. Full day trip with picnic and possibility to camp
- NOSY BE (the big island) by car and boat, shopping and lunch at AMBATOLOAKA
- Visit ANKARANA, with the possible extension of DIEGO SUAREZ with a visit to the Emerald Sea.
- Possibility to visit the MITSIO islands over several days on a monohull or catamaran.
- Visit the MILLOT plantation on Ambaja. Depart in the morning for Ankify, visit cocoa, coffee, kaffir lime, and vanilla plantations. Lunch on-site at Mado and return in the afternoon.
- What's better than relaxing in a Malagasy reed hut with a fan, mosquito net and candles?
We offer massages with essential oils from Madagascar lasting 45 minutes for 18 euros


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Crude oil prices fell sharply overnight as rising U.S. inventories continue to be a major theme driving this market, says ANZ in its morning note. "API [American Petroleum Institute] data suggest U.S. crude oil inventories rose 6.3 million barrels last week." The note adds Iraq has loaded around 10 tankers in recent weeks to deliver crude to U.S. ports in November, which is also increasing pressure on U.S. shale producers. However, prices have bounced off lows in early trading with Nymex prices now up 27 cents at $43.20/barrel, Brent prices are up 27 cents $46.08/barrel.
Write to Lucy Craymer at email@example.com


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A few years back, I wrote a magazine piece that the editor criticized for containing too many clichés. In his edited version, the new opening sentence begins with "Tall, leggy blondes…"
Turns out it's tough to write without using clichés, which are a sort of cultural shorthand. It's doubly difficult to avoid them when you're grieving and writing an obituary on a tight deadline. Half the battle (ahem) is being aware of the hackneyed phrases often used in obituaries so that when they pop into your head, you can replace them with fresh imagery.
Follow the advice given to every journalism student on Day 1: Show, don't tell. In other words, offer an anecdote that illustrates the point, rather than asserts it. Instead of telling readers that your obituee would've given the shirt off his back, for instance, recount an event in which he demonstrated generosity and selflessness.
A cliché is just filler. A brief story (see the examples below) conveys your idea more effectively, lingering in the reader's memory. And when you're writing an obituary, isn't that the whole point?


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UEFA have ordered FA bosses to completely overhaul the Wembley pitch to make sure it is ready for Euro 2020.
The state of the playing surface has been heavily criticised this season after a string of NFL matches and the Anthony Joshua heavyweight boxing fight was staged at Wembley.
Tottenham had to play at Wembley while their new stadium is being rebuilt and former Spurs keeper Carlo Cudicini even described the pitch as a "potato field."
But now UEFA have insisted that the Football Association must fix the problem either by relaying a new pitch or a complete overhaul which could cost up to £3m to be ready to stage the Euro 2020 games, including the final and England's Group matches.
UEFA Events chief executive Martin Kallen said: "Three months ago we would not have worried about it all.
"However, we met with the staff at Wembley after the recent Champions League games and they have said they will install a brand new pitch before the Euro 2020 finals.
"We are satisfied that their ground staff are doing everything they can it is just that they have hosted too many events in a short space of time.
"They are learning lessons and we are confident everything will be fine by the tournament."
UEFA also confirmed for the first time they will allow Tottenham to switch back to White Hart Lane should they reach the Champions League knock-out stages, even though rules normally state you can only use one stadium in the same competition.


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https://www.thomasmansfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/01/allison-crabtree-employmnt-solicitor-thomas-mansfield-employment-law.jpg 561 400 Neill Thomas https://www.thomasmansfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/thomas_mansfield_solicitors_small.png Neill Thomas2020-06-25 11:37:042020-08-05 14:51:51Allison Crabtree Was Quoted in HR Magazine
Allison Crabtree Was Quoted in HR Magazine
Allison Crabtree, solicitor in the employment department of the firm, has featured in HR Magazine with an article discussing the announced draft 'Corporation Tax/Income Tax – Taxation of Coronavirus Support Payments' legislation currently being fast-tracked through parliament. Under the legislation, employers could be given a 30-day amnesty to notify HMRC of any mistakes in their use of the furlough scheme before a penalty could be applied. Allison talks through the suggestions which will form part of the Finance Bill 2020. She also gives examples of honest mistakes and fraudulent schemes. Read full article here.


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Nurse Inspires Young Amputee With Surprise Visitor and Hope
Cedars-Sinai Nurse Arranges Visit for LA County Sheriff's Deputy Who Lost Part of Leg to Share Story of Revival and Optimism With Aspiring Firefighter Who Also Lost Leg
Nurses aren't just heroes at the bedside. Some have a lasting impact long after a patient goes home. Consider orthopaedic nurse Sandra (Sandy) Nahom—and the young amputee patient she helped inspire after a tragic accident.
That patient, 19-year-old Cooper Mulholland, was in Simi Valley, riding his motorcycle on his way to lunch, when he was struck by a car in April 2021.
The accident severely mangled his right leg, dislocating his knee. Mulholland was taken to Cedars-Sinai, where his leg was amputated above the knee.
"In every sort of way you can imagine a mangled leg, this really fit the definition," said Charles Moon, MD, director of the Orthopaedic Trauma Program, who performed the surgery.
From Tragedy to Opportunity
That's where Nahom stepped in. Where many would see tragedy, she saw an opportunity to spark hope for her patient, a former varsity football player and recent high school graduate.
Mulholland told Nahom that he had recently finished an emergency medical technician training program and was looking to get hired as a firefighter in the near future—but thought his dream was done because of his amputation.
Nahom didn't miss a beat. She called in a favor from a former amputee patient, Los Angeles County Sheriff Deputy Garrett Rifkin. He also had lost part of a leg, in a motorcycle accident three years ago, and was treated by Moon and Nahom.
The plan was set: Nahom would arrange a meeting in the hospital between Rifkin, the sheriff's deputy, and Mulholland, the aspiring firefighter.
"An amputation is very scary, especially for a teenager, but I knew that we'd had patients in the past who were able to continue on with their careers," Nahom said.When Rifkin walked into the hospital room, Mulholland wasn't sure why someone in a sheriff's uniform was visiting him. Once Mulholland realized that he and Rifkin were both missing parts of their legs, he smiled broadly and felt a sense of hope for the first time since his accident. "It was really incredible to witness," Nahom said.
A Life-Changing Moment
For Mulholland, it was an unforgettable—and life-changing—moment.
"Meeting Garrett was really helpful because he gave me a lot of information about recovery and what to expect," Mulholland said. "He also said his life is not much different now than before and that I can still reach any of my goals."
Mulholland said he will never forget what Nahom did for him.
"Nurse Sandy was an amazing person; she just really helped me out," he said. "She was just always there."
Mulholland's mother, Dawn, also expressed gratitude for the way Nahom went the extra mile to help her son.
"We were all just amazed because we had just met her and she went above and beyond," she said. "It was just the best feeling because it made us feel like she really cared."
Rifkin, the sheriff's deputy, said the visit was his way of paying back those who literally helped get him back on his feet three years ago, allowing him to return to the law enforcement career he loves.
"When I left the seventh floor at Cedars-Sinai and returned to work, I gave them my business card with an open-ended deal to contact me if anybody ever needed help and encouragement, because that's what was done for me, and that's what I wanted to repay," Rifkin said.
"I've been able to help more people by being an amputee than I ever would have just being a cop," Rifkin added. "I'm a firm believer that everything happened for a reason. If I lost my leg to help other people through their journey, then that's why I lost my leg in my accident."
Today, one month after leaving the hospital, Mulholland is getting his life back on track with the help of his family and friends. He works out daily to build his strength to get ready for his prosthesis. Moon, his surgeon, said that Mulholland is a strong candidate to do well with a prosthetic leg.
Mulholland said he, too, hopes to be part of Nurse Sandy's pay-it-forward roster and be called upon to help encourage other amputee patients. In the meantime, he is enrolled at Oxnard College, where he plans to pursue a career in fire technology.
"My end goal," he said, "is to just be the best firefighter I can be, because having a prosthetic leg or any amputee part on your body shouldn't stop you from doing what you want to do."
Read more on the Cedars-Sinai Blog: Amputation Isn't Slowing Down Deputy Garrett Rifkin


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<?xml version="1.0"?>\n
map.jpg<\/h2>This map shows where each of the 10 most improved rivers in the UK are located.

Click on the next image to learn more about each river.

river-wandle.jpg<\/h2>The River Wandle in London flows through Mitcham, Morden, Wimbledon and Wandsworth in south-west London. In the 1960s the River Wandle was so polluted that it was officially declared a sewer.

Thanks to better environmental regulation, a fish stocking programme and huge local enthusiasm for the river<\/a>, it has transformed over the past 20 years and has become one of the best urban coarse fisheries in the country.

windsor.jpg<\/h2>In the 1950s the tidal Thames was a biologically dead river, but hundreds of habitat enhancement projects has helped it become a thriving waterway with almost 90km of river being restored or enhanced.

The River Thames improved to such an extent that it was internationally recognised last year after being awarded the International Thiess Riverprize<\/a>, celebrating outstanding achievement in river management and restoration.

river-wear.jpg<\/h2>The River Wear is now one of the top two places in the country to catch salmon, with more fish present on the river than ever before. It's also home to other wildlife such as water voles, otters, invertebrates, plants and flowers, which have returned to the river.

A huge investment in the sewage infrastructure, as well as work with farmers and industry along the river, has helped to dramatically improve the quality of the water in the River Wear.

stour-worcs.jpg<\/h2>The River Stour in Worcestershire used to be famed for its rainbow-coloured dyes caused by local carpet manufacturing companies pumping waste into the river. The problem was compounded by an out-of-date sewage system that couldn't cope with population growth around the river.

Now the River Stour is home to a range of wildlife, including salmon and otters, thanks to the work of the Environment Agency, Wyre Forest District Council, Severn Trent Water, the Wildlife Trust and local retailers who have all helped to transform the quality of the water.

River-Darent-Eynsford.jpg<\/h2>The River Darent in Kent was the river with the lowest flow in the country in the 1980s. It has been known to dry up completely, as recently as 1996. This was caused by too much water being used by water companies and industry, which had a devastating effect on wildlife.

By reducing the amount of water that can be taken from the river by 35 million litres per day, the River Darent has once again flourished. The increased water flow has brought back healthy populations of fish and invertebrates and is now classed as having Good Ecological Status<\/a>.

river-dee.jpg<\/h2>Parts of the River Dee slowed through industrialised areas, leaving it vulnerable to unregulated commercial discharges into the water. This polluted the river with toxic chemicals and sewage.

Strict conditions on such discharges, as well as reviewing the amount of water that can be taken from the river, has helped the River Dee transform. It has now become an important natural fishery as well as a habitat for significant bird populations and a place that both residents and visitors enjoy.

River-Nar--Castle-Acre.jpg<\/h2>The River Nar in Norfolk is protected as one of the few remaining fenland chalkstreams. It's one of the few rivers that supports a run of rare sea trout, is the hunting ground for otters and provides sanctuary for water voles.

It's a far cry from the state of the river in the past, when it was widened, deepened and straightened for agricultural damage, ruining wildlife habitats in the process.

river-taff.jpg<\/h2>In under 30 years the River Taff has been transformed. Where the water was previously so polluted that it couldn't sustain any wildlife, it's now home to many species including salmon, otters, sea trout and eels.

The rivers of south Wales used to run black with coal, but since the coal mines closed and the Environment Agency enforced tighter controls on industrial discharges and sewage treatment processes, the quality of water has recovered to such an extent that the River Taff hosted the international fly fishing championships two years ago.

river-stour.jpg<\/h2>The River Stour in Dorset has dramatically improved thanks to the National Trust working with the Environment Agency. With Dorset's oldest mill<\/a> located along the river, the Stour has been home to plenty of conservation work, which has boosted the populations of local wildlife.

The River Stour in Dorset is now home to 4000 young minnow, pike and roach, as well as increased numbers in species including kingfishers, dragonflies and water voles.

river-mersey.jpg<\/h2>The River Mersey is known as the river that powered the industrial revolution, and the Mersey Basin has historically paid the price for this development. Industrial discharges and raw sevage devastated the water quality, causing 'dead zones' around the river. By 1982 it was the most polluted river in Europe.

After investing over \u00a31billion and 25 years, the River Mersey has finally been revived and is cleaner now than it has been in over a century.


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How To Prevent A Break-In
Before heading out for that well-deserved trip to the coast or wherever the wind might take you, take a second to fasten the hatches at the house. Summertime is the most common period for house burglary.
Don't attract a burglar
Lawn mowers, grills and kids toys are best kept out of picture. Always secure your orchard sheds and carport. Make use of curtains on basement windows. Under no circumstances leave notes on your door such as "Gone for errands."
Secure the entrances
Most burglaries occur through the door, so capitalize in a compacted, pick-resistant padlock lock. An additional stride: Keep your entry light on a timer so it brightens your household at night-time.
Scrubs, plants and trees
They can offer trespassers places to hide and disguise marks of a burglary. Nicely trim and cut back any untidy shrubbery so that your house and windows are observable to neighbors and onlookers.
Your best protection is people
Be a noticeably snooping neighbor. Make sure anyone sitting in a motionless car or walking the neighborhood sees you are observing him or her. Note all suspicious car license plates and if anyone behaves suspiciously, call the police.
A dog is a huge off-putting
Paradoxically, thieves are far more unlikely to evade a household with a trivial dog than a giant one. Small puppies have a habit to be jumpy and harder to sooth down. They are less trustful and bark louder and longer.
Don't publicize
If you are going to be absent for some days, do not tell folks on your answering machine that you are away. Police say, unexpectedly, many burglars will find your contacts and call to see if you are home.
Motion active Surveillances are powerful weapons
A home break-in restraining and, linked to a PC, to record pictures of your unwanted guests. These maneuvers are cheap. Network-linked cameras costs are cheap now and can email pictures.
Safety starts with you
Do not leave your keys, mostly spare keys under doormats, flower pots, letterboxes or other secretive hiding places. Somehow; thieves know where to look for concealed keys. Make sure you keep a meticulous record of your treasured belongings, including a portrayal of the things, purchase date and true worth, and serial numbers, and keep a duplicate away from home. Most importantly never put any recognition info on your keys. If you lose them by any chance, it would be easy to trace them back to your house and break in.
Have an alarm system
Rather with a noticeable box outdoor, will not only discourage offenders but sound an instantaneous attentive of a home break-in. You might extremely consider hiring security guard, supervised 24/7 by a security firm who will speedily inform the police of an incident.
Don't attract attention
After a purchase of a brand new LED television or other expensive appliances, completely dispose the boxes by burning them and don't leave them out besides the garbage can or recycling bin. It sends a message to people that you have something eye catching that could bring decent cash on the street.
Disguise them
If thieves can tell that somebody is home, there's a probability that they are turned off. Remember, more burglaries occur throughout the day when many people are at work. For that reason, create a deception that somebody is there for example, leave a light on or play music or your television.
If you are going to be away for some time, make sure you buy a timer that will spontaneously turn on lights in the evenings. Also, either put a momentary stop on your mail, or have a neighbor pick up your mail for you so that your house does not look unoccupied.


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If you find you are in a difficult place and need a Pasadena TX Bondsman Near Me, don't hesitate to give ASAP Bail Bonds a call. Our professional staff has the expertise to find the right bail bond for your situation. Furthermore, we strive to get you out of jail and back home to your family and job.
ASAP Bail Bonds has been serving Houston and surrounding counties for several years. In that time, we have assisted thousands of clients with applying for and receiving bonds. Because of our commitment to fast and reliable service, we have earned a reputation for being one of Houston's leading bail bond agencies.
When you find you are in need of a bail bond service, give ASAP a call. Our team of professional bail bond agents will help you find a solution to your bond needs.
Why Choose ASAP Bail Bonds?
We Have Professional Bond Agents
At ASAP Bail Bonds, we have a rigorous hiring process. First and foremost, we screen each applicant for the proven track record and field experience they need to help every client. Next, we require every team member to go through professional training.
Having the right team working on your side makes all the difference in your court trial. We recognize that by hiring the ASAP team, you are entrusting us with your future. Therefore, our commitment to your situation is second-to-none.
Our Team Provides Fast and Accurate Service
ASAP provides a speedy bail bond process without compromising accuracy. While we always work hard to get your paperwork through the system in a timely manner, we also strive for accuracy.
By ensuring your paperwork is accurately filled out, we help those receiving your file to process it more quickly. To expedite the process, it is helpful for the client to fill out each form with as much information as possible. Additionally, we ask that you write legibly so that we can correctly know what you are saying.
We Know the Bail Bond System
There are many different types of bail bonds available for you to choose from. Which one you select will depend on what your situation is. Regardless, it is important for you to choose a bail bond company that can meet the challenges of the bail bond system.
ASAP Bail Bonds can do this! Not only will we exceed your expectations with our quality of service, but you can also expect the benefits of our knowledge to be on your side. Our team is here to help you break through the confusion of the bail bonds system.
Federal bail bonds are governed by thousands of rules put in place by the federal government. These rules are meant to dictate who is eligible to receive a federal bond and under what sort of circumstances.
When an agent takes on a federal case, they are taking on significantly more risk. This is because federal offenses tend to be more serious in nature, and offenders often pose a risk to the public when released from prison.
As a result of this increased risk, a bail bond agent will likely request up to 150% collateral in addition to regular bond payments. If you are applying for a federal bond, be prepared for the entire process to take longer than other types of bonds.
Cash bonds can be paid for with cash or a debit or credit card. While these bonds are the easiest to receive, there are drawbacks. For instance, financial institutions will often place a limitation on how much money can be withdrawn at once, whether per day or per transaction.
If you find that your bail amount exceeds the maximum limit that the bank or credit card company allows for, consider giving ASAP Bail Bonds a call. Our team will work hard to find a solution that fits your financial status.
If you have been released from prison on your own recognizance, chances are you have been granted a personal bond from the judge presiding over your case. A personal bond requires you to sign an agreement that outlines the rules you should follow while on bond.
For instance, a judge can require you to submit to a drug test on a routine or random basis if they feel that is necessary. It is important for you to follow these rules so that you do not risk losing your bond. Keep reading to find out more!
We Help You Understand Your Bond Agreement
Your ASAP Bail Bond agent is committed to helping you understand your bail bond agreement. This will clarify to you just how important it is to follow the rules outlined in this agreement. Doing so will work to ensure your trial runs smoothly.
There are many different ways a judge can restrict your actions until trial, and most of the time, it will depend on your offense. For instance, they could require you to wear a GPS monitor, surrender your passport, or stay within jurisdiction lines.
Furthermore, a judge could require you to avoid businesses that sell alcohol. No matter what the orders are, make sure you commit to following them.
Disregarding a judge's orders almost always results in the offender forfeiting their bond. Furthermore, breaking your bond agreement will likely result in a warrant for your arrest.
Give ASAP Bail Bonds a call when you need reliable assistance finding the right bail bond and understand the agreement you have made with the courts.
Pasadena TX Bondsman Near Me
For more information about our company, locations, or services, visit our website! You can also speak with a friendly customer service representative by calling our office today. When you are searching for a reliable Pasadena TX Bondsman Near Me, give ASAP Bail Bonds a call!
Pasadena, TX Fun Facts:
- This city is named after Pasadena, CA.
- The Pasadena Little Theatre is a local community theatre and is one of the oldest in operation in the Houston area.
- After being incorporated in 1928, Pasadena began its transformation from a farming community to an industrial one.
- For more information about Pasadena, TX, visit the city's website


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- Create Activity
- Update Activity
- Delete Activity
- Reminders
- Associations
- Calendar Synchronization
The activities feature allows you to create your own activities like tasks, meeting, deadline etc... and keep track of the actions you need to take further in order to finalize a sale. You can create activities associated to many records like companies, contacts, deals for a better overview and organization.
Create Activity
Creating activity is available from different places within Concord CRM, via the dashboard, via record profile, etc... depends where you are located at the time you want to create the activity, you will be able to do this within few clicks.
When logged-in in Concord CRM, click the Activities menu item.
In the right side, click Create Activity.
A form will be shown with the following fields:
Enter a title so you can easily identify the activity.
Choose activity type
Select the activity type, represents the action needs to be taken for this activity.
Due date and duration
Set due date for the activity and set duration if needed.
Configure reminder before the activity due date.
Click the + icon to add guests to the activity, for example, if this activity is meeting, you can add guests as meeting attendees, from this view, you can only select staff members, use the search field to search for contacts if needed.
Click the + icon to add description to the activity, the description is visible to all guests, included within the attached .ics file in the email that is sent when an guest is added to activity.
Set owner for the activity.
Notes are private and visible only for the sales reps.
Associate the activity with existing companies, type to search companies.
Associate the activity with existing contacts, type to search contacts.
Associate the activity with existing deals, type to search deals.
Click Create.
After the activity is created, if the selected assigned user is different from the user that created the activity, the User Assigned To Activity mail template will be sent to the assigned user.
Create Via Contact, Company, Deal
- Enter a record profile for example, by clicking on the name of the record from the index (table) page.
- Click on the Activities tab.
- Click Add Activity.
- If it's needed, use the Associated with X record(s) to associate the activity with additional records.
When Logging Call, Creating Note, Sending An Email
You can create a activity as follow up task, this features gives you ability to automatically create and associate the activity to the record profile that for example, you are creating logging a call.
Update Activity
- When logged-in in Concord CRM, click Activities menu item.
- From the table, click the activity title.
- The form will be shown, update any fields that is needed.
- Click Save.
Update Via Contact, Company, Deal
- Enter a record profile for example, by clicking on the name of the record from the index (table) page.
- Click on the Activities tab.
- Scroll to bottom to find the activity you want to update.
- Click the ellipsis icon and then click Edit.
- Update any fields that is needed.
- Click Save.
Delete Activity
There are multiple way to delete activity, via table actions, via table delete button and when viewing a record related activities.
Via Table Actions
When viewing the activities table, use the check-box on the left side to select the activity you want to delete and then select the "Delete" action from the available table actions dropdown.
Via Table Delete Button
Click the ellipsis icon displayed on the first column in the table and then click delete.
When Viewing Related Record
When viewing related activity record for example, contact, click on the Activities tab and scroll to the activity you want to delete, click the top right elipsis icon and choose Delete.
Every activity in Concord CRM may have a reminder so the owner/assigned of the activity get notified before the due date, it's a useful feature for example, when the activity is meeting or it's a task that need to be finished.
When creating an activity, configure the reminder based on when you want the owner to receive a notification for this activity, for example, 1 hour before the due date.
Note that for activities with no due time, the reminder date is calculated from midnight, for example, if there is activity with due date 2021-12-16 and a reminder set for 30 minutes before, the reminder will be sent at 2021-12-15 23:30
The notification will be sent only if the activity is not marked as finished and the cron job is configured properly.
Based on the user settings, Concord CRM will sent an email and bell notification to notify the owner about the activity deadline.
To customize the mail template, you can navigate to Settings->Mail Templates and edit the Activity Reminder template.
In Concord CRM activity can be associated to many resources, for example, one activity can be related to and visible in the profile for contact and deal.
This feature is useful when you want to fully organize your sales process and have clear overview of the activity and the record where the activity is related to.
Imagine you need to create activity for a deal but the activity is important for the contact associated with the deal, for example, a activity that reminds you to call the contact to discuss on some subject about the deal, in this case, when you associate the activity both to contact and deal, whenever you visit either the deal profile or the contact profile, you will be able to see this activity and know what action needs to be taken next.
By default Concord CRM will show maximum the first 3 associated deals, contacts or companies, however, you are not limited to associate the activity to the given records only, you can use the search input to perform search and associate activity to many unrelated records from the activity.
Calendar Synchronization
You can have 2 way calendar synchronization between your Concord CRM activities and calendar events added in your favorite calendar provider. At this time Concord CRM supports the two most popular calendar providers - Google Calendar and Outlook Calendar.
Activities created in Concord CRM, will be created as events, and events created in your chosen calendar integration will be created in Concord CRM as activities, of course that the synchronization take care of the updates as well.
Having one unified calendar solution gives you the piece of mind that you won't miss any meeting or scheduled events and loosing deals.
Read more on how to configure calendar synchronization for your activities.


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Find out about the new GHIC that replaces the EHIC
The UK has left the EU following Brexit, which means the old European Health Insurance Card will no longer be given to UK travellers. Instead, a new, free Global Health Insurance Card has been introduced. Our guide explains what's changed and what protection it will give you
What is the UK Global Health insurance card (GHIC)?
The Global Health Insurance Card (GHIC) is a new health insurance card designed to replace the old European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) and give UK travellers some medical cover after Brexit. It's a free card available for most UK residents.
What is the difference between the EHIC AND GHIC?
Other than the name, there is little difference between the two cards – and if you already have an EHIC you should continue using it until it expires.
What does the GHIC cover?
As with the EHIC, the GHIC entitles you to the same treatment at state-run hospitals and GPs in the EU that locals are entitled to.
In some cases, this means free medical care and includes:
emergency treatment and visits to A&E
treatment for a pre-existing medical conditions
routine maternity care, as long as you're not going abroad to give birth
oxygen and kidney dialysis
Despite being called a Global Health Insurance Card, it actually only works in the 27 EU countries. Previously, the EHIC also extended to non-EU countries Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway and Switzerland.
What does the GHIC not cover?
The GHIC is not a replacement for travel insurance. For example, it doesn't cover holiday cancellation, rescue or repatriation.
It also won't cover you for any medical provision where your preference would be to go to a private hospital.
Not all state healthcare is free in the EU either and you may have to pay for services that you'd get for free on the NHS. If you have travel insurance you should be able to recoup these costs.
Who can get a GHIC?
The GHIC is available to UK residents (not just British nationals) unless you're already insured by an EU country, Norway, Iceland, Liechtenstein or Switzerland.
There are also certain circumstances where you may be entitled to a GHIC despite living in an EU country, Norway, Iceland, Liechtenstein or Switzerland.
Each family member should have their own GHIC, and one individual may apply on behalf of other dependents.
UK nationals living, working or studying in the EU, Norway, Iceland, Liechtenstein or Switzerland who cannot get a GHIC may be able to apply for a new EHIC.
When should I apply for the GHIC?
You can apply for your GHIC within six months of your existing EHIC expiring by visiting the official NHS website. If you don't have a valid EHIC, you can apply today.
Do I need a GHIC if my EHIC is still valid?
No, you can use your EHIC until it expires.
How do I get a free GHIC?
Visit the government website to apply. It's free to apply for a GHIC.
You should avoid websites that are trying to charge you a processing fee. Some of these websites mimic the official NHS website and can seem convincing, but you should never pay for the card.
What do I need to apply for a GHIC card?
You will need to create and account and log-in at the Government website. You can then apply for a GHIC for yourself, your partner and any dependents you have.
You'll need to provide the following information:
Your full name
Your address
Your date of birth
Your national insurance or NHS number in England and Wales, your CHI number in Scotland, or your Health and Care number in Northern Ireland
If you need a replacement GHIC because your card is lost, stolen or damaged, you should email firstname.lastname@example.com
Do I need a GHIC if I'm not a UK national living in the UK?
If you're an EU, Switzerland, Norway, Iceland, or Liechtenstein national living in the UK, you may be able to apply for a new UK-issued EHIC.
Other nationals can apply for a GHIC but will have to provide proof of UK residency. More information on how to do this can be found on the NHS website.
What if I want to travel and I don't have a GHIC?
It's always a good idea to apply for a GHIC if you don't have one. It's straight forward and free to apply.
However, a GHIC can only provide you with so much cover. A GHIC or EHIC only covers you for some medical expenses at state facilities.
It may be a good idea to take out travel insurance before you go abroad, even if you have a GHIC.
As well as full medical cover, travel insurance also includes flight delays and cancellations, lost or stolen baggage and even repatriation. Read our travel insurance guide to learn more.
What if I'm abroad and I don't have my GHIC?
If you've travelled to Europe without your GHIC or EHIC and need treatment during your visit, you can get a Provisional Replacement Certificate (PRC) to prove your entitlement to healthcare.
You'll need to apply for a PRC by calling NHS Overseas Healthcare Services on +44 (0)191 218 1999. If you need it outside opening hours, you should call as soon as possible the next working day. The PRC will give you the same cover as an EHIC or GHIC until you return home.
You'll need to provide:
Your name
Your address
Your date of birth
Your national insurance number
The name of the hospital
The email address for the department providing your treatment
In what countries is the GHIC valid?
The GHIC is mainly valid within the European Union. If you're travelling outside of this area, check before you go and make sure you also have travel insurance in place.
Do I still need travel insurance if I have a GHIC?
Yes, the GHIC only covers you for state-medical provision and you may still have to contribute towards the costs. Travel insurance should cover you for everything and more than a GHIC will.
What if I'm asked to pay upfront for medical care when abroad?
In some countries you may be expected to pay upfront and then claim a refund, so keep all receipts and any paperwork related to medical treatment you receive.
Some countries ask patients to pay a contribution towards the cost of their care. This is known as a co-payment or patient share.
You can claim back the difference through a GHIC, but the actual patient share is not refundable, although you can claim on your travel insurance.
Find cheaper travel insurance
If you're looking for a better deal for travel insurance, MoneySuperMarket can help.
We'll just ask you a few details about where you are planning to visit and the activities you have in mind, before comparing quotes from our leading panel of travel insurers to find you the best deal.


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The cubes are generally tested at 7 & 28 days unless specific early tests are required, for example to remove a concrete shutter safely prior to 7 days. Usually 1 cube will be tested at 7 days and 2 cubes at 28 days, however this may vary depending of the requirements, check the design first. The cubes are removed from the curing tank, dried and grit removed. The cubes are tested using a calibrated compression machine. This can be carried out internally by competent personnel or by a certified test house.
The cubes are tested on the face perpendicular to the casting face. The concrete minimum compressive strength will be specified by the client/designer in a specific format.
Concrete Cube Weight
Unit weight (Density) of concrete=2400 Kg/cum
So we needed mass, i.e. formula is Mass=Density X volume
Volume of cube=150mm X 150mm X 150mm
Mass=2400 X (0.15*0.15*0.15) = 8.1
Weight of cube in kg = 8.1


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KCRW's Warren Olney moderated KCRW's Which Way LA? for 23 years before wrapping up the program on January 28.
But he's not going away.
He will continue to host To the Point, weekdays at 1. And, beginning next week, a new, regular segment called Olney in L.A.
And while Warren is staying put, so too are the issues he spent countless hours trying to make sense of on his evening program: Can L.A. solve it's swelling homeless crisis? Will LAPD Chief Charlie Beck make nice with his officers' union? What are the priorities of the L.A. County Board of Supervisors with it's two new members?
Warren talks about some of the things he's looking forward to covering on this week's The Friday Mixer.
For past episodes of The Friday Mixer, click here.


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Transitions for children with autism.
We all like routines in our daily lives. It helps us to feel in control and feel secure. Any kind of change throws us off. We as adults are better equipped to handle the changes to our daily routine. It is a very well known fact transition or any kind of changes in daily routine is very stressful for children on the spectrum as they love a structure. It helps them feel secure and in control to know what's going to happen in their day. There are certain things we can do to ease the transitions for children with autism. Visual schedules are a very good transition strategy for children with autism. This helps them to know how their day will be and what will come next. This helps them to be better prepared as they know what to expect. It helps them to remain calm as unstructured time can be very hard for these children. We all like to engage in preferred activities of our choice but for children with autism transitioning from a preferred activity to a nonpreferred activity can be v


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Scientists at Sanford Burnham Prebys Medical Discovery Institute have created a drug that can lure stem cells to damaged tissue and improve treatment efficacy--a scientific first and a major advance for the field of regenerative medicine. The discovery, published in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences (PNAS), could improve current stem cell therapies designed to treat neurological disorders such as spinal cord injury, stroke, amyotrophic lateral sclerosis?(ALS) and other neurodegenerative disorders; and expand their use to new conditions, such as heart disease or arthritis.
Toxic cells (green) disappeared when mice with a neurodegenerative condition received both therapeutic stem cells (red) and the drug SDV1a-which corresponded with longer lives and delayed symptom onset. These results suggest that SDV1a can be used to improve the efficacy of stem cell treatments.
"The ability to instruct a stem cell where to go in the body or to a particular region of a given organ is the Holy Grail for regenerative medicine," says Evan Y. Snyder, M.D. Ph.D., professor and director of the Center for Stem Cells & Regenerative Medicine at Sanford Burnham Prebys and senior author of the study. "Now, for the first time ever, we can direct a stem cell to a desired location and focus its therapeutic impact."
Nearly 15 years ago, Snyder and his team discovered that stem cells are drawn to inflammation--a biological "fire alarm" that signals damage has occurred. However, using inflammation as a therapeutic lure isn't feasible because an inflammatory environment can be harmful to the body. Thus, scientists have been on the hunt for tools to help stem cells migrate--or "home"--to desired places in the body. This tool would be helpful for disorders in which initial inflammatory signals fade over time--such as chronic spinal cord injury or stroke--and conditions where the role of inflammation is not clearly understood, such as heart disease.
"Thanks to decades of investment in stem cell science, we are making tremendous progress in our understanding of how these cells work and how they can be harnessed to help reverse injury or disease," says Maria T. Millan, M.D., president and CEO of the California Institute for Regenerative Medicine (CIRM), which partially funded the research. "Dr. Snyder's group has identified a drug that could boost the ability of neural stem cells to home to sites of injury and initiate repair. This candidate could help speed the development of stem cell treatments for conditions such as spinal cord injury and Alzheimer's disease."
A drug with only the "good bits"
In the study, the scientists modified CXCL12--an inflammatory molecule that Snyder's team previously discovered could guide healing stem cells to sites in need of repair--to create a drug called SDV1a. The new drug works by enhancing stem cell binding and minimizing inflammatory signaling--and can be injected anywhere to lure stem cells to a specific location without causing inflammation.
"Since inflammation can be dangerous, we modified CXCL12 by stripping away the risky bit and maximizing the good bit," says Snyder. "Now we have a drug that draws stem cells to a region of pathology, but without creating or worsening unwanted inflammation."
To demonstrate that the new drug is able to improve the efficacy of a stem cell treatment, the researchers implanted SDV1a and human neural stem cells into the brains of mice with a neurodegenerative disease called Sandhoff disease. This experiment showed that SDV1a helped the human neural stem cells migrate and perform healing functions, which included extending lifespan, delaying symptom onset, and preserving motor function for much longer than the mice that didn't receive the drug. Importantly, inflammation was not activated, and the stem cells were able to suppress any pre-existing inflammation.
Next steps
The researchers have already begun testing SDV1a's ability to improve stem cell therapy in a mouse model of ALS, also known as Lou Gehrig's disease, which is caused by a progressive loss of motor neurons in the brain. Previous studies conducted by Snyder's team indicated that broadening the spread of neural stem cells helps more motor neurons survive--so the scientists are hopeful that the strategic placement of SDV1a will expand the terrain covered by neuroprotective stem cells and help slow the onset and progression of the disease.
"We are optimistic that this drug's mechanism of action may potentially benefit a variety of neurodegenerative disorders, as well as non-neurological conditions such as heart disease, arthritis and even brain cancer," says Snyder. "Interestingly, because CXCL12 and its receptor [JK1] are implicated in the cytokine storm that characterizes severe COVID-19, some of our insights into how to selectively inhibit inflammation without suppressing other normal processes may be useful in that arena as well."
A team effort
The co-first authors of the study are Jean-Pyo Lee of Sanford Burnham Prebys and Tulane University School of Medicine and Rodolfo Gonzalez and Runquan Zhang of Sanford Burnham Prebys. Additional study authors include Mao-Cai Yan, Srinivas Duggineni, Dustin R. Wakeman, Walter L. Niles and Yongmei Feng of Sanford Burnham Prebys; Justin Chen and Milton H. Hamblin of Tulane University School of Medicine; Edward B. Han, Xiao Fang, Yinsong Zhu, Yan Xu and Juan Wang of Tsinghua University, David A. Wenger of Jefferson Medical College; Thomas N. Seyfried of Boston College; Jing An of the University of California San Diego; Richard L. Sidman of Harvard Medical School; and Ziwei Huang of Sanford Burnham Prebys and the University of California San Diego.
This work was supported by the National Institutes of Health (R01-GM057761), CIRM (RS1-00225-1), the Department of Defense (W81XWH-16-1-0087-02), the National Tay-Sachs & Allied Disease Foundation, and the Children's Neurobiological Solutions Foundation. The study's DOI is 10.1073/pnas.1911444117.
About Sanford Burnham Prebys Medical Discovery Institute
Sanford Burnham Prebys is a preeminent, independent biomedical research institute dedicated to understanding human biology and disease and advancing scientific discoveries to profoundly impact human health. For more than 40 years, our research has produced breakthroughs in cancer, neuroscience, immunology and children's diseases, and is anchored by our NCI-designated Cancer Center and advanced drug discovery capabilities. For more information, visit us at SBPdiscovery.org or on Facebook at facebook.com/SBPdiscovery and on Twitter @SBPdiscovery.
Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences


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There are so many questions and not enough answers to becoming a mother and caring for a newborn baby. These are the basic needs of care you must know.
I became a first-time mom in January 2021. I have been a nurse for nearly ten years within neonatal and pediatric nursing, and yet, being a mother to my own newborn blurred all that I knew and highlighted all that I didn't.
Motherhood is less clinical, less black and white—it's embracing the gray. I found myself like any new mom: Googling endlessly at 3 am and searching Instagram pages for answers and validation in the way I was taking care of my baby.
Perhaps you've been there too?
Please note: the information contained in this post is for educational purposes only and is not intended to substitute professional medical advice. Always seek advice from your pediatrician or other qualified health care provider with questions or concerns.
What are the basic newborn needs?
In moments of pure exhaustion and insecurity, I wish I had bullet points on how to care for a newborn. Something easy to reference, recall and revisit when needed.
While I highly encourage all new parents to be the decision-makers and intuition followers, here are some newborn care basics (remember the three B's: bellies, booties, and baths) to follow when you need some extra support.
Jump to a section:
- How much do I feed my newborn?
- How long are breast milk and formula good for?
- Tips for safely preparing milk
- How often to change a diaper
- How to change a diaper to prevent a rash
- How to safely treat diaper rash
- Diaper rash must-haves
- How often do I bathe my newborn?
- How to give a sponge bath
- How to give a bath in the tub
- Bath time must-haves
- Important safety tips
- Tub vs. sink bath tips
1. Bellies
How much do I feed my newborn in the first month?
Keep in mind that every child has different needs—always talk to your pediatrician about your baby's goals and feeding methods.
On average, a newborn will feed:
- Bottles: 8-12x/day (every 2-3 hours) between 1-3oz
- Boobs: nursing occurs 8-12 times/day every 2-3 hours ~20-30 min per session
Remember: feeding frequency is measured from the beginning of the feed (for example, if you start a bottle/breastfeeding session at 8 am, the next feed is due between 10-11am).
How long are breast milk and formula good for?
Conflicting recommendations can be found depending on your references—only to make things more confusing. As a pediatric nurse, I live by the following chart:
|Room Temperature
|Sipped by Baby
|Freezer/Deep Freezer
|Breast Milk
|4 hours
|4 days
|within 2 hours
|6 months/1 year
|2 hours
|24 hours
|within 1 hour
|1 hour
|24 hours
|within 1 hour
Tips for safely preparing milk
Breast milk
Never use a microwave.
Thaw oldest milk first by:
- Running under lukewarm water in a container
- Placing in the fridge overnight
How long is thawed milk good for?
- Use within 24 hours of last ice crystal
- Use within 2 hours of warming
- Wash your hands before handling the formula and bottle.
- Add water first and then powder.
- Add the level, unpacked scoops to the water.
- Gently stir, don't shake.
Read more about safely preparing a formula bottle, including how long formula lasts once prepared, safe storage instructions, and more.
2. Booties
From diaper changing basics to treating a diaper rash, there are important things to know about newborns and diaper care.
How often do you change a diaper?
It's best practice to change diapers every two to three hours or as needed. If the diaper is dirty with solid waste, change immediately. If the diaper is simply wet, it's okay to wait until the diaper is a bit more full, but never going past three hours.
How to change a diaper to prevent diaper rash
Pee diaper
No need to use wipes. Simply leave the previous barrier cream (reapply more if needed) and change the diaper only.
Solid diaper
- Gently pat off the solid from booty with a water-based wipe (do not wipe skin as this will undo the healing you're working toward)
- Apply a thick layer of diaper cream (really, really thick!)
- Apply Aquaphor to seal in diaper cream
- Close the diaper
Important: Please consult a pediatrician if there is no improvement within 48 hours to evaluate for signs of a yeast rash.
Treating diaper rash
Often diaper discomfort and rashes can cause a baby to be upset. It's important to address rashes with consistent care and prevention.
The goal is to create a barrier and maintain a consistent routine to protect the skin and prevent further breakdown. This will help aid in healing diaper rash.
What you need
- Diaper cream with zinc oxide
- Aquaphor
- Water-based wipes
- Baby bum brush (not required but so helpful!)
3. Baths
How often do I bathe my newborn?
- Before umbilical cord falls off: sponge baths as needed
- After the umbilical cord falls off: tub time ~3x/week
How to give baby a sponge bath
- Lay on a flat surface that's comfortable for both of you
- Start from top to bottom, washing face to feet (wash baby's booty last)
- Keep newborn from getting cold by exposing only areas you're wiping down and cover with a dry towel
Don't miss these spots
Pay special attention to creases and rolls, neck, arms, behind the ears, between fingers and toes, and diaper area.
Sponge bath safety suggestions
Make sure to prepare before you begin.
Get everything you need within arm's each, including warm water, your soap of choice, a soft washcloth, a dry towel, a diaper plus add-ons, baby oil or lotion, and a change of clothes.
How to give a bath in the tub
- Fill the tub and check the water temperature to make sure the water is warm, not hot—use a tub thermometer, elbow, or wrist to test.
- Undress the baby and place into bath feet first, slowly lowering rest of body
- Most of body/head/neck should be above water; pour warm water frequently to prevent from getting cold
- Shampoo, wash and rinse face to feet (remember, booty is last)
- Remove from the tub and wrap head and body in a dry towel, gently pat dry
- Apply a hypoallergenic, fragrance-free lotion like this one to prevent dry skin
Don't miss these spots
As with a sponge bath, make sure to pay special attention to creases and rolls, neck, arms, behind the ears, between fingers and toes, and diaper area.
Bath time safety suggestions
Like a sponge bath, get everything you need within reach, including warm water, your soap of choice, a soft washcloth, a dry towel, a diaper plus add-ons, baby oil or lotion, and a change of clothes.
Using a tub vs. a sink
Newborn tubs
Use an infant tub (this one has a heat-sensitive plug) and optional newborn sling
- Infant tubs should be produced after October 2017 to meet current standards
Just about any fully-enclosed sink will do.
- Line with a towel or slip-resistant pillow
- Be mindful of faucets/handles
More on newborn basics and care
Looking to learn more about newborn basics? Check out our list of top must-have newborn baby items to help make sure your registry is complete.
Nicole began friendRN to scale the resource gap in the world of new parenthood. Often, we hear praise for one of the most challenging roles life offers: doing it all and raising a child. And yet, what falls inexplicably silent are the standing ovations for the parents who know when to ask for help in whatever capacity they may need. Nicole is here to honor you and be your friendRN. With seven years of professional experience, she has practiced as a critical care nurse in neonatology and pediatrics. She is currently a registered nurse at Hassenfeld Children's Hospital at NYU Langone Health as a Clinical Resource Nurse for the Pediatric and Neonatal Transport Team. Before her work at NYU, she was a clinical neonatal intensive care nurse at The Children's Hospital of Philadelphia and Morgan Stanley Children's Hospital at New York-Presbyterian Hospital.


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KOBE, JAPAN / NEW YORK — Major League Wrestling and Dragon Gate Pro-Wrestling of Japan today announced the formation of a strategic alliance.
MLW and Dragon Gate Pro-Wrestling will fuse forces to launch a new collaboration focused on a talent exchange and opportunities to share content and participate in other projects.
"The collaboration between MLW and Dragon Gate is a very special opportunity to produce unique events, showcase spectacular talent and create a new canvas for Japanese and American cooperation," said Court Bauer, CEO and founder of MLW. "We are ecstatic about this partnership."
Dragon Gate is a world-renowned wrestling organization based out of Kobe, Japan that has revolutionized wrestling.
Transcending traditional Japanese wrestling with its distinct mixture of strong style wrestling and Mexican lucha libre, Dragon Gate is a spectacular packaging unlike any other Japanese organization.
With popular wrestlers such as Ben-K, YAMATO, Shun Skywalker and Narauki Doi among others, Dragon Gate delights fans around the world with their thrilling high-flying acrobatics and inventive moves.
A vibrant trendsetting organization, Dragon Gate emerged in 2004 and reimagined Japanese wrestling in its own vision. Today, Dragon Gate is one of Japan's most prominent organizations with a global reach, including introducing their SVOD service, https://dragongate.live.
More details on first chapter of the MLW x Dragon Gate collaboration will be revealed soon.


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Under the auspices of the Computational Complexity Foundation (CCF)
An arithmetic circuit or formula is multilinear if the polynomial
computed at each of its wires is multilinear.
We give an explicit example for a polynomial $f(x_1,...,x_n)$,
with coefficients in $\{0,1\}$, such that over any field:
1) $f$ can be computed by a polynomial-size multilinear circuit
of depth $O(\log^2 n)$.
2) Any multilinear formula for $f$ is of size $n^{\Omega(\log n)}$.
This gives a super-polynomial gap between multilinear circuit
and formula size, and separates multilinear $NC_1$ circuits
from multilinear $NC_2$ circuits.


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Schools: General Information
Everything that can be recycled and composted at home can be recycled and composted at school. RecycleSmart can help increase recycling and composting at your school.
Our team provides free technical assistance to public and private schools, school districts, and custodial and food services staff, including on-site training. We also provide free recycling and organics containers, free signs and stickers, lesson plans, school assemblies and field trips and many other resources.
Plus, we recognize schools that significantly reduce waste with awards of up to $1,500!
If you have questions or would like help with any of the resources, please contact:
Ruth Abbe
School Recycling Coordinator
The diversion rate at the schools within the RecycleSmart service area territory has steadily increased since we have focused on improving recycling and composting. "Diversion" includes waste prevention, recycling and composting. This chart shows how we have successfully "diverted" over 65% of materials from going to landfills.
Click to view larger


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Auto Shanghai is this week, the first major auto show since the pandemic started, and the concepts and reveals are coming hot and heavy. You can disregard a lot of it — remember auto shows? — but the Honda SUV e:prototype seems like one that will stick around.
That's because Honda says that it'll be the basis for its first EV in China, where Honda plans to introduce 10 EVs over the next five years.
The mass-production model based on the Honda SUV e:prototype is scheduled to go on sale in spring 2022 as the symbolic first Honda-brand EV in China. Moreover, striving to attain its goal to "realize carbon neutrality by 2050," Honda will evolve a number of comprehensive strategies while viewing the "electrified society" from a broad perspective beyond the electrification of products.
Honda also said Monday that it has this PHEV in the works, called the Breeze:
Honda did not say if either of these cars would be sold in other countries, nor did it give any details like range, power, price or anything else about the e:prototype or Breeze. It did, however, say the the EVs will have the third-generation of Honda Connect, its infotainment system, which is what we've been reduced to.
That is, instead of talk of engines or transmissions at auto shows now, we get talk of operating systems and semiautonomous driving features.
In addition, the technology presentation booth is exhibiting the third-generation Honda CONNECT which was introduced last month (March 2021) in China and Honda's omnidirectional ADAS*2 the next-generation advanced safety and driver-assistive system, enabling visitors to experience new technologies that contribute to the safety and comfort of everyday mobility.
Based on the AI personal assistant equipped with highly sophisticated voice recognition capability, this third-generation Honda CONNECT offers functions full of advanced value, including functions to enable operation of smart home appliances and online shopping while driving, operation of the vehicle through a smartphone link such as a digital key and OTA updates.
If every auto show is now CES, that will be drag; it sure is heading in that direction. Keep an eye on the styling of the e:prototype, though, as this is likely to be what a lot of the Hondas of the future will look like. Lots of blue, lots of lights, lots of things to remind you that it is very electric.


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Businesses can apply to purchase a maximum of two Business Permits.
To qualify, your company:
- must be located within a Permit Parking Zone
- must have a unique Business Rates account number supplied by the District Council
The Business Permit holder can only park within the Permit Parking Zone that the company resides within.
They cannot be used within another Permit Parking Zone and cannot be transferred between businesses. In addition, they must not be duplicated.
In order to address concerns around fraudulent mis-use, and to ensure only bona fide companies apply, each business will be required to enter its unique business rates number and full company address.
Please note: we reserve the right to request proof of payment of business rates.
If the Permit is mis-used, duplicated or other fraudulent activity identified then it will be cancelled and penalties may apply.
The cost for a one year Business Permit is £300 for all zones except Cheltenham Imperial Square Zone 7 which is £900 and is valid for a period of 12 months from the date of issue.


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Amazon Oppo F11 Pro Quiz Answers, Oppo Amazon Quiz – Hi friends, are you looking for Amazon Oppo F11 Pro Quiz Answers, if yes then you are at the right place. Here in this post, we are going to give you the correct answers of Amazon Oppo F11 Pro Quiz contest. Just answer the simple questions and stand a chance to win Oppo F11 Pro mobile.
This Oppo F11 Pro Amazon Quiz starts from 9th July till 10th August 2019. This contest is valid only on the Amazon.in app. In order to participate in this Amazon Oppo F11 Pro Quiz, the participants shall give correct answers of all the contest questions. Nine lucky winners will get free Oppo F11 Pro mobile as the prize.
Details Of Amazon Oppo F11 Pro Quiz
Name of the contest – Amazon Oppo F11 Pro Quiz
Contest period – 9th July 2019 to 10th August 2019
Prize – Win Oppo F11 Pro
No of winners – 9
Winner announcement date – On or before 30th September 2019
Steps To Participate In Amazon Oppo F11 Pro Quiz Contest
- Open the Amazon app on your device.
- Tap on Amazon Oppo F11 Pro Quiz banner.
- Click on the start button.
- Pick correct answers of all the five questions.
Amazon Oppo F11 Pro Quiz Answers
Question 1 – Which of these is a color OPPO F11 Pro is available in? Hint – This is the latest color variant launched for the F11 Pro.
- Black Panther
- Tangy Orange
- Refreshing Lime
- Waterfall Gray
Ans – Waterfall Gray
Question 2 – OPPO F11 Pro is available in which of these storage variants?
Ans – 128 GB
Question 3 – Which of these is a feature of the OPPO F11 Pro?
- 4000 mAh battery V
- OOC Flash Charge 3.0
- 48 MP Dual rear camera
- All of the above
Ans – All of the above
Question 4 – What is the front selfie camera of OPPO F11 Pro called?
- Floating Camera
- Rising Camera
- Sinking Camera
- Vibrating Camera
Ans – Rising Camera
Question 5 – What is the screen size of OPPO F11 Pro?
- 4 inches
- 5 inches
- 6.5 inches
- 5.5 inches
Ans – 6.5 Inches
More Amazon Quiz Contest:-


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Specimen #527
Name: Fluorite & Arsenopyrite on Quartz
Type: Mineral
Locality: Yaogangxian Mine, Hunan Prov., China
Favorite? N
Fluorescent? N
Size: 8.5 x 5.0 x 4.0 cm
Acquired: 2007-10-25
Source: Trinity: Dave Douglass
Label: N
Comment: Purple fluorite cubes, some with interpentrating twins, on a white quartz matrix. A few arsenopyrite crystals are also present.
Minerals: Arsenopyrite (FeAsS) Fluorite (CaF2) Quartz (SiO2)
There are 2 pictures on file


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"2022: The Golden Year" activates…
…as gold and the miners hit our short-term upside targets this week.
In August of 2020 we noted the danger signals for gold based on sentiment excess coming out of the acute pandemic fear phase. We also noted the need for a multi-year bullish Cup to build a proper handle after that excess. A Cup's handle is actually a downward trending bull flag.
In December of 2021we noted that 2022 would be the "Golden Year".
And so it is. It took 1.5 years of handle-making (see chart below) and that phase, which cast doubt on the monetary metal among the public and even some of gold's staunchest supporters, was so healthy that words cannot describe. The angst was fueled by gold's failure to act as an inflation hedge while cyclical commodities flew during the inflation trades of 2020-2021. And thus, an excellent handle to a bullish Cup is in the books.
As I have repeated to many deaf ears over the years, gold and especially gold stocks are not about inflation. Gold can hedge inflation well under certain economically corrosive circumstances, but when inflation is working toward a positive economic cycle, gold rightly under-performs (at best).
I've used this graphic over the years to the viewership of many a blind eye. As perma-bull gold stock boosters rail against manipulation of gold stocks, which they insist should rise while inflation rages, we speculate in other areas that are right with the macro at such times. Gold stocks have not been right with the macro since mid-2020.
Back to the miners' product, the handle breakout came amid Putin's war on Ukraine and while I am always skeptical of moves in gold that are launched by war, terror or pestilence, this monthly chart makes a note that gold's major secular bull market (still intact, by the way) launched when 9/11 coincided with an economic recession and inflating central banks.
Insofar as the current inflated economy remains stable gold will be vulnerable to 'war relief' in whatever form that may take. But the current leg (that began in 2019 as we noted in real time the takeout of the 1378 cyclical bear-ending gateway) of the bull market is still intact and its trigger, the breakout from the handle, is subject to a test.
Very simply, the 1920 area, which has been the next 'bull gateway' objective for calling the next leg up, will likely be tested in order to punish the war jumping knee-jerks. While downside support/buy opportunity management for the miners is reserved for NFTRH subscribers, the daily chart of gold below shows some pretty clear projections for a pullback to test the new bull market leg.
A 38% Fibonacci retrace from the August 2021 low to the March 2022 high matches nicely with the gateway area at 1900-1920. Just as nicely, a 50% Fib retrace syncs up with another clear support level at the November 2021 high. Don't think a drop to 1830 is possible? Think again. While maybe not probable, it is very possible.
Such pullbacks are opportunities to buy gold for the next bull market leg now that it has taken out the gateway. As a side note, I would not get overly concerned about 50% or 62% retraces even though they'd put gold back below the key 1920 level. The move has been made, is subject to correction/testing and 2022 AKA "the Golden Year" is in progress.
As for the miners, they have made a definitive move out of a low vs. the broad stock market after testing the 2019 low. This relational move probably needs correcting as well.
While specific buy areas for HUI/GDX/GDXJ and individual gold miners/royalty/juniors are going to be managed in NFTRH but not in public, the monthly chart of HUI shows a bull flag breakout of its own after the long consolidation that came about in tandem with gold after our upside target of 375 was in essence hit amid much fanfare (and perma-pumping). The chart also shows positive RSI and MACD.
The monthly (March) stick shows a clear breakout that has beckoned the momo crowd to get aboard. When they get corrected it is likely we'll be strapping in for the upside target of 500. This is when markets get fun, not only with the flashy upside, but also when volatility provides opportunity on the downside.
Regardless of the near-term correction likelihood, 2022 looks to be shaping up as the "Golden Year" we projected in December as linked above. It's been a long 1.5 years in coming, but the pent up energy that those handles built up should ultimately reward patient gold stock speculators as well as gold investors.*
* Those terms are delineated "speculator" and "investor" for a reason, as there is a major difference between them.
For "best of breed" top down analysis of all major markets, subscribe to NFTRH Premium, which includes an in-depth weekly market report, detailed market updates and NFTRH+ dynamic updates and chart/trade setup ideas. Subscribe by PayPal or credit card using a button on the right sidebar (if using a mobile device you may need to scroll down) or see other options. Keep up to date with actionable public content at NFTRH.com by using the email form on the right sidebar. Follow via Twitter @NFTRHgt.


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In my teaching and educational research, I find that an arts-based approach to teaching post-secondary computer-related courses has a beneficial effect on learners. In this paper, I look at the elements of story-telling, drama and art related to student projects created in a constructivist environment. These projects are student-centred and based on the interests and experiences of the learners.
Two of my courses in the School of Marketing and eBusiness (this site was created by students in the eCommerce course last spring) at Seneca College ( Computer Applications ; Essentials of e-Commerce ) are delivered mixed mode with computer lab and online components. The third (also at Seneca is an online course ( Web-Based Learning ) for educators and trainers whose goals are to design curriculum using technology.
I plan to use the same arts-based approach for an online course (Enhancing Holistic Learning with Computer Technology) that I will deliver for the Curriculum, Teaching and Learning department at the Ontario Institute for Studies in Education/ University of Toronto in winter 2002.
Arts-Based Approach
Arts-based activities such as stories, drawings, dialogue, collage, painting, split text, and dance/performance are forms for constructing and interpreting how we can experience or "know" our experience. (Diamond, 1999) The term "arts-based" is used for a range of activities related to the arts. For this discussion, the focus is on the elements of storytelling, drama and art as they stimulate creativity and self-confidence while learning new computer skills.
Storytelling is an important part of creating effective presentations and web pages. Drama is an underlying influence in preparing such projects. Art is another essential. Students are encouraged to go beyond clip art and to work with their own photographs and drawings. As they learn to create presentations (using Microsoft Power Point) and web pages (using HTML and Netscape Composer), the desire for originality in expression increases and web page projects frequently display original work such as personal stories, poetry, photography and art.
In the Computer Applications and eCommerce courses the primary objective is to help marketing students use computer applications in a creative and comfortable manner. Design choices and the use of various elements (layout, fonts, graphics, colours, etc.) are important factors. The same applies to educators who take the Web-Based Learning course. The technique of getting students to use familiar content (their life stories and career interests) while making new discoveries about using the computer serves to dispel fears of technology and engages students in a form of self-actualization. Students tend to become so involved in the projects that they are motivated to learn whatever software is available in order to complete the work to their satisfaction.
Csikszentmihalyi defined creativity as a process by which a symbolic domain in the culture is changed. He spent thirty years researching the creative process and wrote, "if the next generation is to face the future with zest and self-confidence, we must educate them to be original as well as competent." (Csikszentmihalyi, 1996) The first opportunity students have for being creative is in the selection of topics for their presentations and web page projects. Sports, entertainment, music, fashion, family and career goals are popular themes for marketing students; educators tend to choose hobbies and curriculum related ideas. I am not looking for great art in my classroom be it the virtual classroom or in the computer lab. What I am hoping to do is to engender the creative spirit.
"Over the centuries we have created the concept that artistic creation is the responsibility of a few gifted individuals. In so doing, we have denied the majority of individuals, within our urban and technologically advanced society their birthrights: that, as a human being, everyone has the right to make his of her own 'unique creative thumbprint' - one that no one else could make. We all have a need to make this 'mark', not because we necessarily wish to be the reminders to a future generation of long-lost culture but because each creative mark reaffirms self. It says 'I am here, I have something to express'. " (Warren, 1993)
One of the first activities in my courses involves telling a story to better understand how good storytelling is fundamental to effective presentations and web pages. In the web-based learning course, I encourage teachers and trainers to tell a "teaching story". The stories are told in an online Forum. Students learn to use the courseware BlackBoard early in the course. This gives participants another way of getting to know each other. The projects are all, to some extent, illuminations of the learners' on-going stories. When the presentations of assignments and projects are given and personal stories are shared, a sense of self is elaborated.
"Storytelling is one of the first ways we develop an awareness of others and of ourselves as spectators." (Booth, 1994) Jo Salas whose Playback Theatre work centers on stories finds, "From the telling of our stories comes our sense of identity, and our place in the world, and our compass of the world itself". (Salas, 1993) The act of creating stories to tell has a great deal to do with how we see ourselves according to Dr. Roger Schank of Northwestern University who uses computer generated story simulations in order to train people. "We define ourselves through our own stories, but through teaching (and preaching); we also define ourselves through the stories of others. Many people who are good storytellers know how to take advantage of this basic human need to define oneself through the stories other people live." (Schank, 1990)
Drama is an aspect of learning beyond merely standing up in front of a class to show a series of slides or web pages to an audience of peers. Communication happens on all performance levels; attitudes are shown whether in the lab or when projects are presented to classmates online. If we are in the lab, the work appears on a screen on the classroom wall. If we are online, the work is posted and the student tells classmates about it in discussion forums. Because of the nature of the projects (self-reflecting), the work is a form of personal drama played out on the computer stage. We learn about each others' lives in many respects.
Through the activities of the courses, students are learning to work with computer software programs, they are developing performance skills, working to solve a variety of problems in imaginative ways, and all the while, success is building confidence. For an in depth interpretation of "computers as theatre" see the work of Brenda Laurel . (Laurel, 1993) Try thinking of the computer monitor as a small stage on which to perform stories. The drama of the learner's life is told in text and graphics and hyperlinks in preparation for the adventures ahead and on reflection of stories and achievements from the past. For those who go into the realm of imagined lives, the projects become a form of mask and students may create new identities behind which to perform.
The computer courses provide opportunities for artwork - students create their own visual displays. The framing of the work, the layout and design are further forms of self-expression intended to communicate. They create illustrations of the stories. Drama historian, Ronald Harwood observes that "cave paintings of early man were not just a form of narrative art but in themselves part of a magic ritual" (Harwood, 1984) Students put their stories on the modern equivalent of the cave wall.
Artist and educator, Robert Marchessault , in his discussion on commitment to art education tells us, "The kind of thinking required to discover artistic solutions is often extremely useful in all cognitive processes." (Marchessault, 1997) The criteria used for evaluation of projects takes this idea into consideration - for example - extra points may be gained for finding creative solutions beyond the basic requirements.
This discussion highlights arts-based themes that emerge from the creation and delivery of computer related courses (with or without online components) This holistic, arts-based approach will hopefully inspire educators to experiment with such an approach - to use projects that employ storytelling, drama and art, to invite learners to take part in their own learning in a constructivist learning environment.
By using computer applications and the World Wide Web learners can collaborate in order to acquire needed skills through which to express their stories. The professor becomes the "guide on the side" rather than the "sage on the stage". Course projects may graduate from simple storytelling activities then translate into increasingly more complex presentations and elaborate web page portfolios. These computer-generated forms of communication demonstrate a level of performance and exhibition of skills and expertise to be evaluated by learners and their peers. Evaluation guidelines can be generated in discussions about criteria for the projects.
I have come to believe that possibly the most beneficial aspect of an arts-based approach to the teaching and learning of technology-related courses is in the self-affirming aspects of this approach. It is extremely gratifying to observe learners (this includes marketing students and teachers who take the online course) demonstrating a definitive gain in self-confidence by the end of the courses.
In a survey of success stories regarding digital projects in education, Kahn and Coburn write that "telling personal stories with help from multimedia is a powerful and deeply satisfying way for teachers and students to communicate, learn and grow." (Kahn, 1998) Richard Selzer, trying to make sense of the proliferation of personal web pages declared that this medium could serve as a hall of fame for the individuality and creativity of all students, heralding the special efforts and accomplishments of students and teachers. (Seltzer, 1995) There may be many benefits to this integration of arts-based activities with computer applications and the World Wide Web. I anticipate further research will indicate that using holistic and arts-based approaches while integrating computer applications is beneficial across the curriculum to all concerned. (Karsten 1999) "Play" integrating story, drama and art shows that students can have fun learning; the risks pay off in honest reflection and gains in individual and collective knowledge.
The following are URLs leading to the three courses (winter 2001 versions) on which these ideas are based. At these sites you will find learning materials, resources and student projects. There is also a draft welcome site for the course being built for OISE/UT winter 2002. I look forward to your comments. Please note that students who have graduated no longer have active accounts on the college server (learn.senecac.on.ca) so not all projects will have working links.
e-mail Dr. Selia Karsten - also - please visit my domain: astralsite.com
http://people.senecac.on.ca/selia.karsten/MRK/333w2001.html (Computer Applications)
http://people.senecac.on.ca/selia.karsten/EC/610w2001.html (Essentials of eCommerce)
http://people.senecac.on.ca/selia.karsten/CTC/203w2001.html (Web-Based Learning)
Enhancing Holistic Learning with Computer Technology - draft welcome available