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Optimistic about the development potential of intelligent systems - driven by the Internet of Things (IoT) bringing new growth opportunities to the traditional embedded device market, Intel hosted the Intel Intelligent Systems Summit 2012 conference on October 16 and 17 to provide details about this interesting market. For the morning agenda, high-level Intel executives, as well as several of the company's key industry partners such as Microsoft and McAfee, made keynote speeches on related topics. During the afternoon agenda, there were a number of seminars hosted to discuss related topics including retail, security, cloud computing solutions, the latest embedded technologies and software. The conference also provided an opportunity to unveil the latest technology trends and complete solutions for intelligent systems, attracting a large number of industry professionals and students of related academic interest to participate in.
Rick Dwyer, Vice President of Sales Marketing Group (SMG) & General Manager of Embedded Sales Group (ESG) at Intel, delivered a keynote titled "Building the business opportunity of intelligent system" by pointing out that in the next ten years, IT devices for industries including medical, manufacturing, transportation, retail, communication, consumer electronics and energy will all take a development direction that makes intelligent designs become a part of all of our lifestyles. The key for the success of this process lies in how we expand computing technology applications to connect all the various embedded systems together.
Dwyer emphasized that focusing on both markets of intelligent systems and IoT, industries will provide attractive growth opportunities to enterprises and help them create value. Meanwhile, intelligent system development is also facilitating the changes in the industrial design trends. For instance, embedded systems can provide usage experiences similar to consumer electronics by combining the features such as touchscreen and motion detection; the rapid increase in data volume stimulates the requirement for better connectivity between cloud computing applications and analysis functions for big data; and the virtualization technology will help integrate work loading and establish a secure and trusted platform.
According to market research forecasts, shipments of intelligent systems will grow rapidly with a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 18% from 2011 to 2016. Total shipments were 1.8 billion units in 2011 with the volume creating more than US$1 trillion in revenues. By 2015, the scale will grow to 4 billion units and generate revenues of US$2 trillion.
Dwyer pointed out that the market of traditional embedded devices will continue to be promising with the development of intelligent designs, often accompanied by many challenges. For example, when establishing an IoT design for a smart city, vertical market applications that cover areas including industrial, retail, energy, automation, security and transportation, as well as proprietary technologies from suppliers and IT players are required.
Therefore, to realize the vision of the IoT, connecting and managing the networked devices and intelligent systems securely, conquering the connectivity challenges will be the priority. For that purpose, Intel at the Intel Developer Forum (IDF) this year announced its Intel Intelligent Systems Framework (ISF) 1.0 and is aggressively cooperating with partners to jointly establish a comprehensive ecosystem.
ISF's main purpose is to simplify the IoT. Currently, the industry is still at an initial stage of establishing a standard for IoT. Through the project, Dwyer pointed out that Intel is committed to accelerating the innovation in embedded systems and unite the whole industry in a big cooperation to create value for enterprises and consumers by utilizing big data and IoT. Currently, more than 200 members have joined Intel's intelligent system alliance and can offer more than 2,500 solutions.
In the future, Intel hopes to realize an IoT vision through industry cooperation and create new business opportunities and growth drivers. For embedded device players, the project not only involves hardware, but also provides them an opportunity to expand business to software and services, and further enhance the value they can offer the market. These players should take a more aggressive attitude toward this important opportunity for growth.
Intelligent storage solution designed to respond to the cloud computing era
David Tuhy, General Manager of Storage Division at Intel, highlighted that the rise of mobile computing has triggered rapid growth in the data volumes used by consumers and small-to-medium enterprises, which has brought increased demand and market opportunities for storage technologies.
In 2012, the data volume created by enterprises, consumers and machines will reach 2.7 zettabytes (ZB), with most of the content being unstructured data. For the reasons, new technologies are required to surpass the traditional tools for database to conduct interception, storage, management and analysis to handle the large volume of unstructured data. The statistic also showed that the IP traffic in 2011 was 1.5ZB and will grow to 4.8ZB in 2015, which will bring pressure to enterprise on data storage
Tuhy pointed out that these statistics indicate that the industry will face BIG Data challenges, bringing even more data volume, storage and traffic demands to the industry players and the rapidly increased data volume will mostly be unstructured data.
Tuhy also noted that the industry is bound to develop more innovative technologies to respond to the challenges of storage demand. Meanwhile, the challenges associated with large data volume can also bring profits and new development chances for enterprises. Furthermore, in the future, the role of CIO will transform to becoming a data scientist who helps to create even higher revenues opportunities for a company.
Intel can provide complete storage solutions that satisfy consumers, small-to-medium enterprises and cloud computing and enterprise infrastructure service suppliers to respond to the latest storage demands.
During the keynote address, Tuhy introduced Quanta Computer and Amplidata's jointly developed scale-out storage reference structure and he pointed out that demand for intelligent storage is currently rising quickly with many intelligent storage functions such as data compression, data de-duplication, automated tiering and thin provisioning all being realized through software; however, for these functions to become possible, reliance of processors with an even higher performance is a must.
To handle the storage demands in the cloud computing era, intelligent distributed storage architecture will become the best solution in terms of costs. Currently, Intel has assembled top-end storage players to establish a broad ecosystem to provide storage technologies that cater to the demands of small-to-medium enterprises and large enterprises.
In the meantime, in addition to Intel Xeon processors' leading position in the server market, the processors also account for a large share in the datacenter market. Intel will continue to invest in Xeon processors to make sure they are an ideal solution for intelligent storage system.
On the other hand, Intel has been aggressively working on the solid-state drive (SSD) business in recent years, as the company is optimistic about SSD device reliability and lower power consumption, as well as the faster performance for system boot up, application startup, file loading and recovery from sleep mode compared to traditional hard disc drives (HDD).
Erik West, Channel Marketing Director of Intel's NVM Solutions Group cited IDC report that factors such as technology upgrades, ongoing evolvement of the PC industry, renewal of enterprise server and storage architecture will help the CAGR of the global SSD shipments from 2010-2016 reach 53.3%, while the report also showed SSD annual sales in 2011 of US$5.7 billion, representing growth of 126% year-on-year.
West emphasized that the industry is a market with an enormous scale and Intel can provide complete SSD solutions to gamers, enterprise clients and datacenters with solutions which are mainly separated into 300, 500, 700 and 900 series products.
Among the product lines, except for 910 series, which is being supplied in a form of PCI Express expansion card, all others are in a form of 2.5-inch devices. Take the 520 series for example, the device supports a SATA 6Gb/s interface with sequential read and write performances at a maximum of 550MB/s and 520MB/s respectively, and random 4KB read and write performances at a maximum of 50,000 and 80,000 IOPS respectively. Additionally, it also features remote management to satisfy demand in the enterprise market.
Presently, Intel possesses leading manufacturing process technologies and is already ahead of its competitors in investments of 20nm SSD production. Moreover, through cooperating with Micron Technology, Intel is equipped with a complete set of production technologies from manufacturing, firmware to products for SSDs.
Microsoft targets all kinds of intelligent systems with Windows Embedded
Microsoft is optimistic about the potential of intelligent system development, with company Marketing Director John Boladian explaining that intelligent systems can collect important employees' and clients' data on various devices and then transmit the data to back-end systems for interpretation to obtain further insight. Such business processes can create new value for the enterprise.
According to the definition mentioned, intelligent systems feature three advanced characteristics - management, user experience and analysis - as well as three basic characteristics - identity, security and safety. Boladian pointed out that by 2020, there will be 50 billion networked devices worldwide and with rapid development in technologies for connectivity, handling large data volumes, computing functions, user interface and security, it will trigger changes in industrial and lifestyle applications. Data processing will undergo its own revolution, helping data to become a new currency that affects enterprises' strategic plans and also promotes the rise of intelligent systems.
Boladian indicated that the market of intelligent systems has showed strong growth recently and is expected to have a promising future. Microsoft will adopt three strategies for the market. First, Microsoft will try to create better user experience and bring control methods such as Kinect and multi-touchscreen into intelligent systems such as digital signage to allow users to have a similar interactive experience with the intelligent systems as they do with regular consumer electronics; the second is improving the connectivity for cloud computing and the last is to provide intelligent systems a trusted and multiple-architecture-compatible operating system platform in orders to satisfy all the demands from different operating systems and allow for convenience in software development.
Windows Embedded system will play an important role in Microsoft's intelligent system strategy, while the company will also push the system in four major industries - retail, industrial automation, medical and automotive. In addition to providing a complete solution for all different types of devices, Microsoft also supplies end-to-end solutions to help connect from end devices to cloud computing applications.
Boladian emphasized the importance of the intelligent system market is that the industry will promote opportunities for new types of devices, services and even business growth, while helping related players transform from pure hardware suppliers to professional consultants. In response to the trend, the related players should start considering their future strategies in order to develop differentiated products. Meanwhile, Microsoft will act aggressively to cooperate with industry players to drive market growth.
Intel and McAfee merger helps build integrated security solutions
A presentation by McAfee Vice President of Worldwide OEM Sales, Thomas Moore, highlighted that security will be an important cornerstone for realizing a future in which several billion networked devices connected securely worldwide. When reviewing the history of the Internet, it is discovered that the attack methods and targeted networks were always changing and evolving. According to market report, the number of malicious network attacks rose rapidly from less than 10 million in 2007 to 60 million in 2011 - or an average of 70,000 attacks each day and the number is estimated to hit 200 million by 2016.
In the past, security solutions were mostly designed to target PC, data center or mail server applications, but with embedded devices heading in a development direction of becoming more intelligent, the related security issues for such intelligent solutions will gradually become increasingly important in the future. For example, network attacks that target applications such as power plants, medical devices, automobiles and retail may result in serious negative effects or losses for a firm.
Moore pointed out that device identity authentication functionality is the most basic requirement for security in an intelligent system. Devices must be able to confirm the identity of each communicating device before conducting data exchange. For implementing data security, proper encrypted protection and regular system updates are a must to ensure that the whole network has a secure environment for data transmission and accurate operation.
McAfee focuses especially on resolving the security problems of networked embedded systems. For example, NCR has adopted McAfee's technologies to protect its ATM and POS devices, indicating that McAfee has successfully expanded its business from enterprise security solutions to client device applications.
Moore pointed out that we are facing close to 70,000 malicious network attacks each day, while this number is counted based on that can currently be managed. In the future, unknown types of attacks are expected to appear. Therefore, developing a device that can protect from these unknown network attacks will be critical to the related players.
Moore emphasized that McAfee is an expert in security technologies and has full control of the latest worldwide network security technology developments. Any device that suffers from unknown types of network attack can be given to McAfee for evaluation and analysis. McAfee's White List solution is the best method to protect embedded devices from a security threat, while also even sharing the related data with partners and clients to ensure the safety of the networked devices and jointly promoting the overall development of embedded system security technology.
After Intel announced it would acquire McAfee in August of 2010, both sides have been aggressively cooperating on developing new technologies. For example, the major difference between Intel's latest third-generation Core vPro processor series and the previous processor series is the CPU's embedded security protection functions, which integrate Intel's AMT and McAfee's ePO Deep Command technology together.
McAfee's ePO Deep Command is an extension of the company's advance endpoint protection management program, allowing clients to remotely repair PCs that have been compromised as well as install the latest security update files and securely conduct data exchanges. Intel and McAfee's cooperation will also create even more and professional security technologies.
Macfee's Tom Moore
Microsoft's John Boladian
Intel's David Tuhy
Intel's Erik F West
Intel's Rick Dwyer


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Commercial, Safety, Services, Training
By By Keith Cianfrani | June 1, 2012
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This month we'll look at safety within the rotorcraft industry. After attending Heli-Expo in Dallas this year and talking with safety professionals in the industry, I decided to look at the safety management system (SMS) programs for several helicopter operators. In order to get a more accurate account of safety in the industry, we first must look at where accidents occur. According to the U.S. NTSB and accidents analyzed by the Joint Helicopter Safety Analysis Team (JHSAT), the personal/private flying and training sectors account for more than a third of the total accidents in 15 categories (see chart on page 40).
Personal flying (at 18.5 percent) and flight instruction (17.6 percent) top the list in total number of helicopter accidents. Flight instruction is always high on the list (I've written about this subject in earlier columns). Aerial application is inherently more dangerous than other types of flying. Now let's examine HEMS and offshore flying. As a veteran of both of these industries, I have first-hand experience of how safety and risks are managed. While looking at how we can manage the risks listed in the chart, in my opinion there are three companies that lead the way for promoting safety and risk management. Of course, many other companies also do a fine job, but I'll just highlight three (in no particular order), starting with Bristow Helicopters.
Bristow believes that all accidents are preventable, that injuries to employees and others in the workplace are avoidable, and that any harm to the environment is simply intolerable. Bristow's safety team has developed a program to achieve this vision by creating Target Zero—a transformational safety program that has created a culture of safety within Bristow. The Target Zero culture and safety performance has won recognition; most recently, the NOIA 2011 Safety in Seas award. Bristow is further enhancing its industry-leading Target Zero safety culture to cover three key areas—accidents, downtime and complaints. Bristow believes safety is everyone's responsibility.
Petroleum Helicopters Inc. (PHI) is another example of an operator with a stellar safety record (see story on page 28). Since PHI's inception in 1949, safety has been a core value. In five-plus decades of operation, PHI has logged more than 10 million flight hours. During this time, the company has developed and refined safety programs and practices, which have led to an unprecedented safety record in the commercial helicopter industry.
This has been achieved through awareness, training, incentives and a strong focus on pro-active efforts relative to safety management. PHI believes in a "Top Down" and "Just Safety Culture" stressing commitment and accountability. Over the past 10 years, PHI's accident rate has ranked far below the national average. During this time period, the company flew an accident-free period exceeding two years and 550,000 flight hours. PHI has received several safety awards including Safety in Seas and the Flight Safety Foundation's "President's Citation for Safety Leadership" award.
Air Methods is another operator that leads the way in HEMS safety. As the most experienced air medical operator, Air Methods uses its position to encourage safety improvements within the air medical community. The company also relies on technology to assist with its safety management program. Air Methods not only supports safety concepts, but have demonstrated the commitment during the past four years by investing close to $80 million in advancing and incorporating safety programs and technologies into helicopter operations.
Air Methods is the first HEMS operator to participate in the FAA's SMS voluntary implementation program, and one of only eight commercial air operators in the U.S. (including HEMS operators and Part 121 major commercial airlines) to receive an exit Level 2 SMS status acknowledgement letter. Air Methods logged 146,369 air medical flight hours and transported more than 111,000 patients in 2011.
Air Methods established an Operations Control Center (OCC) in March 2007; the center is based at its headquarters in Colorado and staffed with two personnel on duty during each 12-hour shift. The lead is a pilot and has EMS flying experience.
These three operators share a similar safety philosophy and have extensive training programs to complement the risk management process. In the aviation industry it's all about risk and safety management. Operators work toward ensuring that safety programs are workable, effective and manageable with leadership involvement. Unfortunately, no matter how effective your safety program is, accidents still occur—only with a good risk management process will accidents decline. Fly safe!

subset: commoncrawl


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Quote:Many people look at the trick and think it's a fake... sometimes it is and sometimes it's not. When it's not, it's indicative of some level of skill
Quote:<<Kind of like pro-wrestling where the challenge is how not to kill your opponent.
Quote:Hello IRKguy:Are there any demonstrations you've seen/observed/heard of that you hoped-wanted to have explained?Jeff
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Hi there,
I just wanted to check in again after my husband (boyfriend at that time) fell off a horse and had a burst fracture of L1.
He was always able to walk but had weak calf and ankle muscles as he had damaged the S1 and L5 nerves and had B&B problems.
Cauda Equina syndrome. During the rehab period he tried a lot of things like Kryotherapy (being frozen in a chamber for 3 min), Acupuncture, Physiotherapy, Pilates, Magnetic resonance...Trying things out really helped to keep our spirits up.
He started to urinate again 2 months after the injury and has urinated ever since. He still suffers a little from urgency.
Also he still has some bowel problems that cause him constipation. After the injury he could get an erection but was not able to ejaculate- he regained this function 4 month after the accident. He has still not recovered full strength in his legs - but we are keeping very positive. He is going to walk 250kms through the atacama desert for a spinal cord research charity. This accident opened up or eyes and we are so incredibly grateful with where we are and what he is being left.
This site has been amazing and I just wanted to send out a positive recovery story. Happy xmas and good new year with a speedy recovery!!


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In December, the National Restaurant Association (NRA) released its What's Hot in 2010 survey in conjunction with the American Culinary Federation (ACF), naming locally grown produce, locally sourced meats and seafood, and sustainability as the top trends to watch for this year.
The report underscored the fact that restaurant consumers are becoming more interested in knowing where their food is coming from.
"If you look at where the consumer is regarding the sourcing of food and the production of food, they have become much more riveted on learning about where their food comes from as well as the different production methods for that food," says Hudson Riehle, senior vice president of the Research and Knowledge Group for the NRA.
As a response to the growing demand for this sourcing knowledge, two significant trends emerged within the restaurant industry: the use of local ingredients and the use of organic ingredients. Restaurants—and increasingly quick serves—are clamoring to include these ingredients in menu items to satisfy customers.
While chains explore local and organic and develop updated supply chains, questions remain over which is more cost effective, which is more sensible, and which customers prefer.Although both local and organic fall under the now-umbrella term "green," the two sourcing strategies are different. Organic food is regulated by the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA), and concerns how the food is grown and processed.
The definition of local food for restaurants is a little stickier, considering it is not something that is regulated. Local can mean the food comes from around the corner or across the state.
"Every company that you're going to run into is going to have a different definition for local," says Jamie Moore, director of sourcing and sustainability for Eat'n Park, a Pittsburgh-based concept with more than 75 locations in Pennsylvania, Ohio, and West Virginia.
Moore and others agree that the rule of thumb adopted for local ingredients is that they come from within a 150-mile radius. But perception of what local and organic ingredients are is half the battle for quick serves, which cater to customers who might not be educated on the matter and often confuse the green buzzwords.
"Now that 'locally grown' is getting so much attention and people are learning about it, I often hear, 'Oh I thought locally grown was organic,'" says Matt Saline, president and CEO of Mambo Sprouts, a marketing firm focusing on natural and organic products. "There's a huge perception problem there."
Saline says farmer's markets are partially to blame. Local producers often falsely tack on the term "organic" to nonorganic food items because it is a buzzword. With the shaky definition of what constitutes local ingredients, comparing them with organic ingredients can be impossible. But one thing is for sure: Organic ingredients are more expensive than other ingredients.
According to the USDA, the average premium for organic ingredients is as much as 100 percent for vegetables, 200 percent for chicken, and 300 percent for eggs.
"There are some ingredients that I'm paying 100–200 percent more for organic," says Mary Putman, consulting general manager for Organixx, an upstart deli concept in Denver where 75–80 percent of the menu is organic in the peak season of summer. "Also, because of the limited market price and the limited availability of these products, I don't even have a lot of competition for them. I may only have one place I can buy it."
That's not always the case for local ingredients, which can cost less to transport because of the shorter distances to the stores and because the farmers try to give the restaurants a deal.
Jack Graves, chief cultural officer at Burgerville, a Vancouver, Washington–based quick serve where about 70–75 percent of ingredients are sourced locally, says some food suppliers will bend over backward to give the chain acceptable prices.
"They appreciate consistency and the continuity and the partnership in knowing that they always have an outlet for the products they grow," he says. "That's worth something to them, and they appreciate that."
At Eat'n Park, 20 percent of the menu is sourced locally, including eggs, dairy, bread, and some produce. Moore says the local program is cost effective because he only chooses accessible ingredients that aren't necessarily going to be used en masse.
"If we start to change too many variables, then execution becomes very difficult," he says. "Do we convert all of our ingredients to local? No. Not possible. But we convert the items that are readily available."
Certainly one of the challenges for sourcing local and organic ingredients is supply. It is especially a problem for local ingredients, considering how difficult it can be to find specific ingredients in some regions and the volume of ingredients that are needed to supply several units.
"One of the challenges when setting up a quick serve was the menu had to be pretty tight and consistent and it had to translate into a multiple-outlet concept," says Putman, who sources local organic ingredients whenever she can. "When I was designing the menu, I had to take into account that they had to be ingredients that could be purchased locally, sourced locally in a variety of markets."
Quick serves hoping to source local ingredients can only take what they can get regionally, at the time of year it's available. At Burgerville, located in the Northwest, that means that favorite menu items like strawberry and blackberry milkshakes can only be seasonal. At Eat'n Park, in the Midwest and Northeast, that means local ingredients are limited and can't include items like fresh fruit.
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Pharmacy & Stores
The Pharmacy department works under the directive of the Head of the Institution and assist in matters pertaining to proper distribution, storage and procurements of Drugs as per policy of the Govt. The Job description of Pharmacist is notified by the Govt. of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa vide letter No.SO(D)Health/3-8/94 Dated27-03-2001/Medicine
The distribution of drugs and other Pharmaceuticals to the different units and critical care areas of the hospital i.e. A&E Department, Gynae Labour rooms, Neuro Surgery ICU, General ICU, O.Ts & Emergency Day Care Center are according to the requirement and need of the respective area. In case of emergency medicines, which are not available in the store or any other essential medicines needed for the needy patients, are made available through local purchase as per policy of the Govt.
Ordinarily, the medicines are stored at room temperature but for those medicines, which need special attention i.e. thermo labile medicines, cold chain facilities are available. Moreover narcotics i.e. Morphine & other narcotic analgesics are stored under the lock and key supervised by the In-charge of the Pharmacy Department.
The Government Medicines Co-ordination Cell (MCC) is a department of the Health Department, responsible for Pr-Qualification, Tendering, Selection, and approval of rates, applicable to all health institution in the province.Vide Notification No.Section officer(D)Health/2-43/2000 Dated Peshawar the 24th January 2001 this institution can make purchases of medicines (life saving) up to 30% of the allocated budget in the event of the non-availability of the Govt. MCC approved rates. The demand of the different units is worked out with in the allocated budget for medicines keeping in view the routine requirements / need of the hospitalized patients.The MCC & LRH approved list along with the budget allocation are communicated to the In-charge of the units to work out their requirements & submit to the Chief Pharmacist.
After receipt of demands from the units, It is consolidated and scrutinized with professional input by the Pharmacy Department. After proper sanction from the Chief Executive / Medical Superintendent bulk supply orders are processed by the Pharmacy Department. The bulk supplies are received at the main Pharmacy stores, where it is checked for quality, quantity, strength & expiry dates, batch number etc. by the Notified Inspection Committee of the hospital. Random sampling is made from the stocks, sent to the provincial Drug Testing Laboratory for the necessary test analysis. The units are informed through a monthly circulated available Drug list for utilization in the wards.
Procurement of drugs in bulk continue to be a policy of this hospital at the approved rates of Govt. MCC & the Hospital rates where the approved rates are not available in the Govt. MCC list or where the Hospital rates happen to be comparatively economical so that local purchase is avoided to the maximum possible extent. However certain drugs which are out of stocks / not available in the approved lists (MCC / LRH list) but essential for patients, such like drugs are procured in piecemeal through local purchase (L.P) as per Government Notification No. Section Officer (D)Health/2-43/2000 Dated. 24-01-2001 & SO(D)/Health/2-43/2003 Dated. 25-02-06. For this purpose annual contract is awarded to the chemist falling with in the jurisdiction of 200 metes of the hospital who offer maximum discount on retail prices.
The medicines are demanded on the wards indent book, duly signed by the Authorized Consultant of the ward with bed numbers, admission number and Name of he patient. After confirming the non availability of medicines in the medicines store the local purchase of the indent is approved by the competent authority i.e. Chief Executive / Medical Superintendent subsequent to examination and duly recommended / referred by Pharmacy Department. At times the LP chits / token duly prescribed by the Authorized Medical attended signed / allowed by Chief Executive / Medical Superintendent might avail the service without passing through the LP section of the store for the want of the required medicines in exigency situation / compulsion to ensure quick and urgent services to such like cases which are entertained as such being the executive order.
Separate record is maintained for procurement and distribution out of regular fund and funds for Emergency medicines duly taken on the LP ledgers reflecting the correct factual details of the drugs, its potency, quantity, the ward / person for whom local purchase is made.
There is a core emergency medicines list followed with addition / deletion depending upon the changing situations / needs of the critical care units, A&E Department, the exigencies requirements confronted like sporadic bomb blast, flood devastations requirements, cases related to seasonal effects like increase in the snake bite cases, Rabid Dog bite cases etc. Besides Medicines, disposables, cotton, Gauze & other appliances required in the management of the emergency cases are purchased from the Funds for Emergency Medicines through following sources.
The medicines demands from the units are quantified within the allocated budget & the procurement is prepared on the basis of need of the units keeping in view the objective of the essential needs as a priority requirement to ensure that the principle of PULL for medicines is followed rather than the PUSH to ensure the best possible services to the patients rather than dumping the stocks having no relevance to the patient needs and that's why a procurement plan is made on quarterly basis (three months) to ensure only the top priority medicines are purchased.
Pharmacy department of this Institution is the focal point to facilitate an effective co-ordination between the clinicians and the administration in the subject area of Hepatitis under the Prevention and Control of Hepatitis at the provincial level
Department cater the managerial coordinating work between the clinicians and the administrations to ensue quick arrangement of the required support in terms of medicines / disposables duly financed by the Pakistan Baitul Mal for both the indoor and the outdoor patients. However departments like Cardiovascular Surgery, Cardiology & the Orthopedics department have their own system of the arrangement of the required medicines / disposables for the Pakistan Baitul Mal entitled patients for whom the preliminary approval of the required finance is routed through this office.


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|Instrument: CERES-FM3 : Clouds and the Earth's Radiant Energy System - Flight Model 3
Instrument Category:
Earth Remote Sensing Instruments
Instrument Class: Passive Remote Sensing
Instrument Type: Spectrometers/Radiometers
Instrument Subtype: Radiometers
Associated Platforms
Spectral/Frequency Information
Number Channels: 1
Spectral/Frequency Coverage/Range: 0.2 ?m - 100 ?m
Wavelength Keyword: Infrared > Reflected
Number Channels: 1
Spectral/Frequency Coverage/Range: 0.2 ?m - 3.5 ?m
Wavelength Keyword: Infrared > Thermal
Number Channels: 1
Spectral/Frequency Coverage/Range: 6 ?m - 25 ?m
Related Data Sets
View all records related to this instrument
The Cloud's and the Earth's Radiant Energy System (CERES) is a 3-channel radiometer measuring reflected solar radiation in the 0.3-5 µm wavelength band, emitted terrestrial radiation in the 8-12 µm band, and total radiation from 0.3 µm to beyond 100 µm. These data are being used to measure the Earth's total thermal radiation budget, and, in combination with MODIS data, detailed information about clouds. The first CERES instrument was launched on the Tropical Rainfall Measuring Mission (TRMM) satellite in November 1997 as CERES-PFM; the second and third CERES instuments were launched on the Terra satellite in December 1999 as CERES-FM1 AND -FM2; and the fourth and fifth CERES instruments are on board the Aqua satellite, as CERES-FM3 and CERES-FM4.
Aqua carries two CERES instruments, the fourth and fifth CERES to fly in space. The TRMM and Terra CERES have obtained levels of accuracy never before achieved for comprehensive Earth radiation-budget measurements. All the CERES instruments have the capability of operating in either of two scanning modes: fixed azimuth plane scanning, where the scan lines are perpendicular to the path of the satellite, and rotating azimuth plane scanning, where the scan lines are at wide range of angles with respect to the satellite's path. The paired CERES on Terra and on Aqua provide both of those missions with the possibility of coincident fixed azimuth plane scanning from one CERES and rotating azimuth plane scanning from the other CERES, enhancing the quality of the final products.
Information obtained from https://ceres.larc.nasa.gov//aqua_ceres.php
Online Resources
Instrument Logistics
Instrument Owner: USA/NASA


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Short Course / CPD
Full time
5 days
School of Forensic and Applied Sciences
No Partner College
No set date
Relevant operational experience.
We have great links with employers including household names such as Sony, BAE Systems and Apple. We also have links with the smaller companies in the region and offer help and assistance to more than 1,000 of these – with many of our graduates staying in the region it is important we develop these relationships.
UCLan is recognised for its outstanding course provision which gives students the skills, knowledge, and personal attributes necessary to succeed at the University and in their future careers. To find out more about the experiences of our students, read our success stories.
You can contact the Student Fees and Funding Team via phone, email, or post. If you are on the campus you can call into The 'i', for advice.
Tel: +44 (0)1772 892440
Email: email@example.com
Student Fees and Funding Team, Foster Building 117, UCLan, Preston, PR1 2HE
On request, please contact email@example.com for further information
For 2018/19 fees please refer to our fees page.
University of Central Lancashire,
United Kingdom
Tel: +44 (0)1772 892400
Email: email@example.com


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Bluehill Universal v4.11
Released June, 26th 2019
- RS232 exporting capability. In addition to exporting to a file type, this feature allows users to export directly to a serial port.
- Reminder to set safety limits. When opening a new method or sample file, users must acknowledge that the crosshead limits are set.
- New button and switch calculations for testing electronics and components. These new calculates help users quantify the usable of their products.
- Sample data inputs. Allows users to easily select a date in a test using a calendar icon.
Bluehill Universal v4.08
Released December, 14th 2018
- Tension / Torsion TestProfiler and Compression / Torsion TestProfiler method types. Used with the Torsion Add-On 2.0 for biaxial testing (hardware required).
- Enhanced Bluehill Security with expanded permissions, and Windows® login and Active Directory support. Watch this on-demand webinar to learn more.
- Quadratic fit calculation allowing users to define a curve from 2nd to 6th order polynomial fit.
- Ability to balance a transducer directly from the Live Display.
Bluehill Universal v4.06
Released June 6, 2018
- Generalized End of Test criteria allow users to specify the ends of tests with more physical and virtual measurements.
- Choice Inputs (customized drop-down menus) now available at the Sample level.
- More options for customizing export files and post-test actions, such as file-naming and launching an executable file at the end of a test.
- 4-bar weighted average now available as a sample statistic.
- Prompted Test and extensometer removal now supported by Multistation systems.
Bluehill Universal v4.04
Released November 27, 2017
- NEW Sub-Samples allow you to quickly sort your results table by similar parameters, such as warp/weft, operator name, machine/cross, etc. This can be used to show statistics for individual sub-groups, which allows you to recognize trends and differences quickly within a test sample.
- QuickTest results are now displayed with indicators on the graph.
- Support for 59-R5 and 59-R6 data-acquisition-only retrofits of manually controlled systems.
Bluehill Universal v4.03
Released August 8, 2017
- NEW Visual Pass/Fail Indicator for the test workspace allows you quickly see from across the room whether a test passes or fails based on acceptance range criteria set in the method.
- When modifying a calculation or input post-test, now there's no need to recalculate the Results Table from the test workspace.
- Gains are now modifiable within individual TestProfiler blocks.
- Expression Builder may be used to define acceptance criteria for inputs and results.
Bluehill Universal v4.01
Released February 30, 2017
- QuickTest: Create a QuickTest method by entering a few basic parameters, and start running simple single-ramp tests in seconds.
- Enhanced Exporting Capability: More flexibility to create customized results and raw data output files, making it easier to send test information to your data management systems.
- Instron Connect: A revolutionary way to get in touch with Instron Technical Support. Send inquiries directly from Bluehill Software.


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London Fashion Week Tickets
City-Wide Celebration
Positive Fashion Exhibition Designers A-Z
Positive Fashion Exhibition Applications
Designers A-Z
LFW Dates
Positive Fashion
Press Portal
Image Galleries
Contract Opportunities
Bloggers & Digital Influencers
Corporate Hospitality
London Fashion Week (LFW) is the most creative and innovative event on the global fashion calendar. As always the London catwalk schedule will showcase a rich mix of designers and brands from highly creative rising stars such as Christopher Kane, Erdem, Marios Schwab, Jonathan Saunders and Richard Nicoll; iconic British designers such as Vivienne Westwood, Paul Smith and heritage international brands including Burberry Prorsum, Aquascutum, Mulberry and Pringle of Scotland.
LFW is organised by the British Fashion Council (BFC) and is funded by sponsors, many of which provide services that have become integral to the unique experience London has to offer. The BFC thank all of their sponsors, in particular the newly announced principal sponsor Vodafone who have been closely involved with London Fashion Week for the past three seasons as the official communications partner and title sponsor of Vodafone London Fashion Weekend. Canon will be continuing their sponsorship as the official imaging sponsor of LFW and the BFC would also like to welcome new sponsor and partner, the International Palladium Board and American Express.
This February marks the first season with Vodafone as Principal Sponsor of London Fashion Week having been closely involved with London Fashion Week for the past three seasons as Official Communications Partner and title sponsor of Vodafone London Fashion Weekend.
The seven season partnership will allow Vodafone customers to get closer than ever before to the emerging trends as they unfold at London Fashion Week and underlines Vodafone's support for British fashion. As part of Vodafone customers will be given access to an exclusive viewing platform and Vodafone VIP lounge offering a great view of the catwalk and intimate experience of London Fashion Week.
Whether you're into fashion, festivals or Formula 1™, you can get tickets into some of Britain's best events. Vodafone VIP is Vodafone's way of saying thank you for being a customer. All Vodafone customers can register for Vodafone VIP at vodafone.co.uk/vip.
American Express is delighted to be working with the British Fashion Council, as Official Card Partner of London Fashion Week. As a cornerstone of the global fashion calendar London Fashion Week has much resonance among our customers and we hope that our partnership will enhance and add value to their experience of the buzz and excitement that the London fashion scene has to offer. This association expands the Company's world-wide commitment to fashion and follows a long-term partnership with New York Fashion Week and on-going relationships with many of the world's major fashion brands. American Express is a global service company, providing customers with access to products, insights and experiences that enrich lives and build business success.
David Stewart, PR Manager, American Express
Canon is proud to be the Official Imaging Solutions Partner of London Fashion Week. Once again the company will be providing a dedicated technical support centre for all professional photographers at Somerset House. The Canon Photographers Centre will ensure that all accredited photographers have everything they need whilst working at London Fashion Week, from internet access and printing facilities to a dedicated team of Canon support technicians.
Canon Professional Services will be providing the following complimentary services on-site for accredited London Fashion Week photographers; Camera sensor clean and check and minor camera repairs for Canon cameras, Technical expertise and 1-2-1 training, Canon camera and lens trials (subject to availability), A3+ photo printing service, Best Shot Photo Competition to win the new Canon PowerShot G1 X.
In addition, an exclusive Canon bus will be shuttling photographers between shows to ensure they don't miss a moment of the capital's catwalks.
DHL understands that nothing stands still in the world of fashion. Like the fashion industry we support, we don't let the grass grow under our feet. By responding quickly and effectively with tailored solutions that reduce costs, enhance operational efficiency and maximise speed to market, we help to create the perfect platform for fashion brands to achieve their global potential. From overnight express delivery of urgent samples to full warehousing and transportation of finished goods by road, sea or air. We have a dedicated team of experienced industry specialists ready to handle every aspect of the logistics process. As the experts in international shipping, DHL is committed to helping UK fashion businesses grow – providing guidance and advice on how to capitalise on the increasing appetite for British fashion coming from overseas markets.
DHL is the global market leader in logistics and operates in more than 220 countries and territories. We ensure the entire supply chain journey – from design concept to consumer – is seamless, transparent and stress free. That's why we're delighted to be the Official Logistics Partner for London Fashion Week, as well as Fashion Weeks around the world.
The London Evening Standard, and 'ES' Magazine - revamped this season with a new title and an exciting updated format - is delighted once again to lend its support, as Official Media Partner to London Fashion Week.
Fashion, both local and international, is an integral part of our editorial offering and with a readership of 1.5M; it clearly inspires and entertains our audience. For more information on how to reach London's most affluent and style savvy consumers,
Maurice Mullen on 020 7938 7414 or email email@example.com.
2012 marks two special anniversaries for Lavazza; a decade as the official coffee of London Fashion Week and the 20th anniversary of its Calendar. For the past 10 years, Lavazza's iconic Calendar images have fashioned a glamorous backdrop for top designers, models and stylists to enjoy an authentic Italian coffee at London Fashion Week. This February Lavazza invites fashionistas to join in the celebrations.
This year, LG will continue its partnership with London Fashion Week as the Official Garment Care Supplier for the second year running. The Home Appliance manufacturer will provide expert support with a dedicated Steam Team on hand to help Designers and Exhibitors prepare. The Steam Team will be located in both the main and gallery backstage show spaces. If you'd like support steaming or refreshing your items, please speak to a member of the team.
LG's latest home appliance range includes leading innovations in washing, such as the introduction of 6 Motion Direct Drive technology. LG's 6 Motion Direct Drive Technology is designed to give different washing motions the best care for your clothes by using a combination of drum motions to deliver an amazing wash performance coupled with optimum fabric care. With such a range of fabrics used in today's fashions, LG's 6 Motion Technology ensures that everything from jeans to delicates, from woollens to silk come out looking and feeling their absolute best as well as thoroughly cleaned.
To find out more information about LG's washing range visit www.lg.com/uk/homeappliance.
M∙A∙C COSMETICS, the professional makeup artist brand, is synonymous with fashion. As the official makeup brand behind the runways of London Fashion Week and with presence in over 23 international fashion weeks M•A•C is integral to setting the trends that matter most each season. Working with the world's leading makeup artists, M•A•C's 50-strong team of PRO artists create and collaborate with top designers to define the latest, most modern styles at over 200 shows at the International Collections – with over 55 of these being in London. To get a 360° view of what's going on in beauty this London Fashion Week including trends, technique, product and backstage insight – and the chance to purchase iconic fashion products via unique, on-site virtual retailing - head to the M•A•C Lounge in the East Wing at Somerset House from Friday 17 February until 22 February 2012.
The Mayor of London is proud to support London Fashion Week as the key showcase for fashion in the capital. Having cemented its reputation as one of the premier events in the international fashion calendar London Fashion Week has a hugely important role in championing British talent around the world and a sector that is vital to the British economy. The Mayor's investment has helped to support outstanding designers at a global level and helped new talent to emerge through the Fashion Showcasing Fund, managed by the British Fashion Council, and Fashion Forward. These are helping to develop design talent of the future, ensuring the sector retains its first class reputation for quality, creativity and innovation. The Mayor's Office is working with the BFC on exciting projects for 2012, which will be a momentous year for London – with the eyes of the world on the capital for the Olympic and Paralympic Games, we are confident that fashion will play its part in showcasing the best of British.
MERCEDES-BENZ, the definitive car brand sponsor for London Fashion Week, will be making sure guests from around the world move effortlessly between some of the most highly anticipated shows for the next round of catwalk shows.
The luxurious fleet of striking Mercedes-Benz models combine sleek style with power and poise and will be on hand to ensure guests travel in total luxury and comfort and enjoy their very own Mercedes-Benz experience during London Fashion Week. Mercedes-Benz will also continue to give consumers and followers unrivalled access to exclusive interviews, real-time news updates and behind-the-scenes footage with some of the world's top fashionistas, as well as the people that keep London Fashion Week moving.
Visit Voices of Fashion at www.mercedes-benz.co.uk/fashion.
Debbie Hull at Mercedes-Benz
+44 (0) 1908 301313
Sheena Hamilton at Mercedes-Benz:
+44 (0) 1908 301330
For the tenth consecutive season Monsoon is proud to continue its sponsorship of Estethica at London Fashion Week. Supporting the rise of sustainable fashion and showcasing the best of eco design, Estethica remains close to the heart of Monsoon's values and ethics.
For autumn / winter 12, Monsoon is very excited to be showcasing the fourth instalment of the L.O.V.E. collection. The range has been inspired by the traditional arts and crafts of Jaipur, India – the home of paisley and block printing. Neon touches add a modern twist to a classic collection that closely harks back to Monsoon's heritage. Estethica is such an inspiring platform to be a part of and we are proud to be sharing our values with great new design talent.' Peter Simon, Founde
Louise Worrell or Harriet Robinson +44 (0) 20 3372 3101/3104
This February will see the illustrious fashion set descend on the capital as London Fashion Week takes hold. The May Fair Hotel is proud to announce its status as the official hotel of London Fashion Week, for the fifth year running.
A hotel located in the heart of the Mayfair village, the May Fair is THE fashion hotel. An ideal location for industry stalwarts to conduct impromptu meetings, host events and off course the ultimate place for those looking for some respite from the relentless round of parties. The hotel has a stunning selection of world- class signature suites in which to showcase collections, fashion brands and more besides. Its plush portfolio of offerings also includes a stunning Penthouse, the Crystal Room, the Danziger Suite, the Quince Salon, plus a private cinema for special event screenings.
For those who feel in need of some reviving spa time, the May Fair Spa has created a number of express treatments to deal with LFW fatigue, in particular The Crystal 'Face of Fashion' Massage (30 mins £55), which will leave you feeling fresh-faced and glowing with radiance. For those suffering with tired, aching feet the Fashion Eco Chic Pedicure (50 minutes £65.00) nourishes and softens. Only organic products are used, leaving you revitalised with aromas of peppermint, lavender and geranium.
The London Fashion Week experience continues in to the hotel's May Fair Bar, where you can sample the latest cocktail creation from the bar's renowned mixology team – The Show Stopper.
For further information please visit http://www.themayfairhotel.co.uk/fashionweek.
Contact: Joanne Lawless at Mason Williams on 0845 0941 007 or firstname.lastname@example.com
The inspiring new showcase is sponsored by contemporary precious metal Palladium. A rare platinum group metal, Palladium is durable, incredibly versatile, lightweight and uniquely naturally white. The initiative runs as part of Palladium Visions 2012, a series of select partnerships with the world's most inspirational and visionary artists. Palladium's superior qualities offer unrivalled potential and ach Visionary will develop awe-inspiring creations through the mediums of Jewellery, Fashion, Art and Design.
Participating as part of Palladium Visions 2012 are students from the world-renowned Central Saint Martins College of Art and Design. Students were challenged to craft an extraordinary piece of jewellery based on the theme of 'Lightness & Strength'. Five outstanding designs have been selected to be produced as Palladium creations, the designs to be exclusively unveiled as part of BFC Rock Vault.
A partnership formed to nurture new creative talent, Palladium is the natural sponsor to establish this creative legacy and showcase the 'Lightness & Strength' of an exceptional precious metal.
F&F at Tesco continues to be a proud official sponsor of London Fashion Week this season. As the largest British retailer, Tesco is dedicated to supporting both established and emerging talent and regards London Fashion Week as the most important platform for British designers to showcase their new collections. Already synonymous with affordable chic, F&F at Tesco is a highly successful brand that is available to buy in selected Tesco stores or online at tesco.com/clothing.
Contact: Hayley Jordison-Harris +44 (0) 20 7486 3368
TONI&GUY – Official Hair Sponsor of London Fashion Week
Always at the forefront of fashion, the TONI&GUY Session Team are embarking on their 16th consecutive season at one of the world's leading fashion events - London Fashion Week.
Continuing to define hair trends season after season, the TONI&GUY Session Team consistently raise the bar when it comes to industry standards, always creating fashion-forward hair, inspiring beauty buffs worldwide, earning the reputation as a Global leader in the hair industry. With 40 shows confirmed for February's London Fashion Week, this season is set to be one of TONI&GUY's busiest, supporting a vast array of talented and diverse designers, including Giles, Matthew Williamson, Pam Hogg, Todd Lynn, Issa and Bora Aksu, leaving no doubt about TONI&GUY's commitment to fashion's finest.
Always with their fingers on the fashion-pulse, the TONI&GUY Art Team will be exclusively revealing backstage news and gossip as it happens, and giving insights about hair trends for Autumn/Winter 2012 via twitter @toniandguyUK.
Contact: Leonie Flynn, Senior PR Coordinator e: firstname.lastname@example.com or T: 020 7921 9042
In February 2012 Topshop will be celebrating ten years of sponsoring the British Fashion Council's NEWGEN scheme, alongside its other initiatives the Topshop Show Space and sponsorship of Fashion East. Topshop will be both celebrating the anniversary and recommitting to the future of the scheme, confirming its position as the single biggest supporter of emerging fashion talent in London. The Topshop Show Space has provided a Fashion Week home for those Topshop has been working with, either via NEWGEN or an in store collaboration. The space has helped to elevate London Fashion Week for all designers, consolidating London's position as an essential stop on the calendar. The NEWGEN scheme was established by the British Fashion Council in 1993 and Topshop became the sole sponsor in 2001. The scheme is now the envy of the global fashion industry, acting as a promotional launch pad for young designers whilst also offering encouragement and support. Topshop looks forward to the ongoing evolution of its relationship with NEWGEN, an inspirational scheme that has launched the careers of some of London's most iconic design talents.
TOPMAN as always been a stalwart supporter of young and emerging talent and has worked alongside such designers as Kim Jones, Cassette Playa, Todd Lynn, Richard Nicoll, Deryk Walker and Ann-Sofie Back early on in their careers. In 2005, MAN, a joint partnership between Topman and Fashion East was born and for the last eleven seasons has been a firm fixture on schedule at LFW nurturing and supporting brilliant young menswear design talent. Topman are proud to be the official sponsor of NEWGEN MEN. Along with the fact that so many brilliant young designers have debuted at MAN, this BFC Award, now in its fifth season, is testament to the strength of menswear talent in Britain today and the undoubted need for further and on-going support to establish them as serious contenders in the global menswear market.
UK Trade & Investment, the Government Department that helps UK-based companies succeed in the global economy, is delighted to be once again supporting London Fashion Week. UK designers export over two thirds of the clothing they produce, and the UK footwear industry sells over 90 per cent of its production around the world. Through expert guidance and key event support, UKTI is well-placed to help maximise the international trade potential of the fashion sector.
A dedicated team in London provide expert advice to over 500 fashion companies per year, from small designers to large retail brands, as well as clinics, workshops, market visits and financial support to access overseas exhibitions. UKTI assists the BFC and UKFT on a number on key events both in the UK and abroad and runs a number of programmes for new and experienced exporters.
To speak to a member of the UKTI London fashion team, please call 020 7234 3050. Visit www.ukti.gov.uk/london
Coca-Cola® is delighted to continue its partnership with London Fashion Week, making it the Official Soft Drink Partner of London Fashion Week and the Vodafone London Fashion Weekend for the forth season. This will see Glacéau vitaminwater®, Coca-Cola, Diet Coke® and Schweppes Abbey Well® widely available at both events. Glacéau vitaminwater, the original and great tasting, enhanced hydration from New York will be the Official Soft Drink of London Fashion Week. It is perfect for keeping the fashion industry and busy fashion fans hydrated and helping them to get some of the vitamins they may need.


text: Job Discussion Forums :: View topic - No go Summer schools. Get TEFL Certified & Start Your Adventure Today! Job Discussion Forums"The Internet's Meeting Place for ESL/EFL Students and Teachers from Around the World!" FAQ Search Memberlist Usergroups Register Profile Log in to check your private messages Log in No go Summer schools. Goto page Previous 1, 2 Job Discussion Forums Forum Index -> United Kingdom View previous topic :: View next topic Author Message SueHJoined: 01 Feb 2003Posts: 1022Location: Northern Italy Posted: Sun Aug 01, 2004 8:08 pm Post subject: Will, Sounds like the authentic voice of experience.. I have changed the sheets on changeover day but made my feelings known. At that particular summer school the adults with the group did most of the activity and pastoral crap, so it was a reasonable trade. The ancillary staff even removed the rat from the teachers' lounge in our block, so can't complain too much!! Ahh, summer schools.... Back to top Will.Joined: 02 May 2003Posts: 783Location: London Uk Posted: Mon Aug 02, 2004 12:33 am Post subject: Yeah, I've notched up an incredible 9 months of summer school over the years, four of them in senior positions. Sheets: You sleep in 'em, you want 'em changed take 'em off and throw 'em in the corridor, or present them to staff, who will give you clean ones. Now make your own bed! Most kids try it on, but it is amazing how inventive they can be at trying to get us to do it for them. Oh noo... "Do you really want to sleep in that bed?" you may be Momma's little darling... I ain't Momma. Group leaders do have their uses after all, though at times you wonder if they really know what they are asking you to do and why. Who put the rat in the teachers block? Back to top SueHJoined: 01 Feb 2003Posts: 1022Location: Northern Italy Posted: Mon Aug 02, 2004 6:42 pm Post subject: Mummy and daddy rat put juvenile rat in the teachers' room. The smell wasn't purely rat however, as one of the summer staff (an older pupil at the school) identified the curious condition of the sofa and curtains as the result of an inexperienced drinker at the end of the previous term. Back to top Will.Joined: 02 May 2003Posts: 783Location: London Uk Posted: Thu Aug 05, 2004 9:04 am Post subject: Ah yes, the inexperienced drinker... the pizza designs left on carpets and toilet floors. "You have hangover? Don't feel too good? Well clean this up and then have a nice fried breakfast... description to follow and accompany the cleaning process. I used to be sympathetic. At a previous residential I finally realised why the older ones were tired... After lights out they would wait until 2 or 3am then call each other on the mobile and meet up outside for a drinksfest on the playing fields in the middle of the night. Full marks for ingenuity, we never found out uhtil near the end as long as it is not noisy or doesn't wake us we believe everything to be fine. Back to top Display posts from previous: All Posts1 Day7 Days2 Weeks1 Month3 Months6 Months1 Year Oldest FirstNewest First Job Discussion Forums Forum Index -> United Kingdom All times are GMTGoto page Previous 1, 2 Page 2 of 2 Jump to: Select a forum Where to Begin----------------General DiscussionNewbie ForumCurrent Events ForumTechnology ForumOnline Teaching Forum Africa Forums----------------General Africa Forum Asia Forums----------------CambodiaChina (Job-related Posts Only)China (Off-Topic)Hong KongIndiaIndonesiaJapanMalaysiaPhilippinesSingaporeTaiwanThailandGeneral Asia ForumVietnam Caribbean Forums----------------General Caribbean Forum Europe Forums----------------Czech RepublicFranceGermanyGreeceItalyMacedonia and the BalkansPolandRomaniaRussia & C.I.S.SpainTurkeyUkraineUnited KingdomGeneral Europe Forum Latin America Forums----------------ArgentinaBrazilChileColombiaCosta RicaMexicoMexico (off-topic)PeruGeneral Latin America Forum The Middle East Forums----------------BahrainEgyptIsraelKuwaitOmanQatarSaudi ArabiaUnited Arab EmiratesGeneral Middle East Forum North America Forums----------------General North America Forum Oceania----------------Australia/New Zealand You cannot post new topics in this forumYou cannot reply to topics in this forumYou cannot edit your posts in this forumYou cannot delete your posts in this forumYou cannot vote in polls in this forum This page is maintained by the one and only Dave Sperling. Contact Dave's ESL Cafe Copyright © 2018 Dave Sperling. All Rights Reserved. Powered by phpBB © 2001, 2002 phpBB Group Teaching Jobs in China


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Guided by FSG and a global network of funders, the Shared Value Initiative was created in 2012 to drive the adoption and implementation of shared value strategies by organizations around the world. Learn more about FSG's contribution to shared value here.


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Stokes skippered a second-place B division finish at the Danmark Trophy (Photo courtesy Gil Talbot).
CAMBRIDGE, Mass. – In six weekend regattas, the Harvard sailing team garnered four top-10 finishes including a fourth-place showing at the Harvard Invitational 2, a sixth-place finish at the Richard B. Ross College Bowl and seventh-place performances at the Danmark Trophy and the Central Series Four. Harvard also competed in the third Midweek Tech Regatta and the Smith Trophy.
At the 20 team Danmark Trophy intersectional, John Stokes, Meghan Wareham and Marie Appel sailed to a second-place finish in the B division, facilitated by seven top-three finishes, to pace Harvard to a seventh-place overall finish. In the A division, Alan Palmer and Tedd Himler split skipper duties while a trio of Crimson sailors split crew duties sailing to a 10th-place finish in the division.
Sophomore Ryan Byrne captured third at the third Midweek Tech hosted by MIT and fifth in the A division at the Smith Trophy. Sarah Pierson and Byrne sailed together in 14 races over both events, while Isabel Ruane crewed four races with Byrne at the Smith Trophy.
Nick Waldo and Jinyan Zang served as the Crimson's A-division sailors at the Harvard Invitational 2. The pair finished fourth, just four points behind Emmett Weeks and Lauren Krumeich who were the top finishers in the division.
At the five-race Ross College Bowl, Colin Santangelo and Sam Millham finished with 36 points, one ahead of Brown, to give the Crimson a sixth overall finish.
Four freshmen were on the water for the Crimson's seventh-place finish at the Central Series Four. Ben Lamont and Margaret Fulham were paired in the A division while Ames Lyman and Alice Kenney sailed together in the B division.
Harvard is scheduled to sail in the New England Men's Singlehanded Championships at Yale and the Moody Trophy hosted by Rhode Island this weekend.


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Saturday, February 08, 2014
February Global Impact
Send a link to a friend
Barbara O'Donohue—Children of
Pokot Education Fund—West Pokot, Kenya
After a visit to the Pokot people in 1997, Barb
O'Donohue was challenged to lead a Christian
elementary school. It was from this outreach
that the Children of Pokot Educational Fund Mission
began. From its early beginnings as a nursery
school, Tapadany Christian Academy
has grown and now numbers over 750 students from
preschool to the 8th grade. The school has an
excellent reputation in the community.
The 8th grade government exams in November went
well. All TCA students got high enough scores to be
able to attend high school, and overall, the school
was ranked first in North Pokot. In addition to the
school, evangelism, a sewing center, a bakery, and a
dispensary provide outreach to the people. New
projects such as honey and aloe vera production and
marketing are being initiated to create jobs for
graduates who can find no jobs.
Ever since she closed her business in 2002 in
order to devote more time to COPE, Barb
spends part of her year in the U.S. raising support
for COPE and spending time with her family.
The rest of the year is spent in West Pokot
assisting the nationals in leading and
the school and its programs. One very successful
program has been the Celebration of Christian
Womanhood. This is an alternative offered to young
women as a rite of passage into womanhood that does
not involve the traditional practices which are
harmful to young women and can lead to their death
in childbirth. In December, the Celebration of
Christian Manhood was held with 64 young
men participating. COPE wants to expand the
use of the Jesus film this year, and we are glad
to be able to contribute financially toward that.
God continues to move among the Pokot, and we are
grateful to be able to participate in His work
continue to pray for Barb, COPE and
our brothers and sisters in Christ in West Pokot,
Kenya. You can get information and monthly
updates through the website:
www.childrenofpokot.org and through Facebook
at: Cope Ministry.
Recent articles
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World Organic Chlorophyll Capsules are derived exclusively from high quality alfalfa leaves. Chlorophyll is essential to the process of photosynthesisoften called the building block of life. Without chlorophyll there is no life. Chlorophyll is a natural fat soluble nutrient which World Organic makes water dispersible for premier results.
* [1] Note: Unless otherwise noted, this product has not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. Our natural products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.


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There is no question that quality sleep is extremely important to athletes. And there's also no question that ZMA is a breakthrough formula of phenomenal benefit. ZMA is an amazingly effective new sports performance product that's clinically proven to increase anabolic hormone levels and muscle strength in trained athletes.[1,2] In fact, ZMA is the first nighttime anabolic formula developed specifically to enhance recovery by improving sleep efficiency.
World-class athletes are reporting tremendous benefits in the gym, as well as on the athletic field. As a prime example, more than 250 NFL players are currently taking ZMA. Lester Archambeau, starting defensive end for the Atlanta Falcons, says he is "extremely satisfied with ZMA. It definitely helps me recover! I can tell when I take it and when I don't. There is no doubt that ZMA makes me sleep better." And when it comes to the gym, the big lineman claims, "I have much better endurance when taking ZMA."
Bryce Paup, Jacksonville Jaguar's 4-time, all-pro defensive end and 1995 Defensive Player of the Year (he led the NFL with 17.5 sacks) has also been taking advantage of ZMA. Paup says, "When I take ZMA, I sleep better and more soundly, and I feel more rested when I wake up." And when it comes to game day, Paup claims, "The more I rest and the better I sleep, the better I perform on the field."
And then there's Stephen Davis, a backup fullback before the start of the '99 football season, which is also the time he started using a powerful ZMA product called Z-Mass-PM. Now, everyone knows Mr. Davis as an explosive, all-pro running back for the Washington Redskins, who came out of nowhere to finish the season with more than 1,400 yards rushing and co-lead the league in touchdowns[17] .
We're talking about a revolutionary formula here. We're talking about results. In addition to professional football players, more than 25 IFBB pro bodybuilders have benefited from using ZMA. Flex Wheeler (1999 Arnold Schwarzenegger Classic Champion) says, "I can't believe how much better I feel with ZMA. I have greater output. I'm stronger in everything. I wake up feeling well rested, and my workouts have gone better!"
Michael Ashley (1990 Arnold Schwarzenegger Classic Champion) claims, "ZMA is the most effective recovery supplement I've used in my entire body-building career! A deep and restful sleep is the secret to maximizing the anabolic process.
ZMA is a scientifically designed, university laboratory tested anabolic mineral support formula. ZMA contains zinc monomethionine aspartate plus magnesium aspartate and vitamin B6. ZMA is a patent-pending, all-natural product manufactured using a unique proprietary process, which significantly enhances the absorption and utilization of both the zinc and magnesium.
Studies involving the effects of different types and duration of exercise on sleep efficiency have yielded conflicting results. However, in a study of the effects on sleep quality of trained power-lifters, the tendency was for this type of more strenuous exercise to have an adverse affect on sleep patterns.[3] Excessive training has also been reported to cause sleep disturbances as well as mood changes, and the sleep disruption was greater at higher training volumes. [4] In addition, long duration daytime exercise of moderate intensity has been shown to decrease growth hormone (GH) and testosterone production during nighttime sleep.[5]
Absolutely! As people age, sleep quality declines, with progressively less time in deep or slow-wave sleep (SWS), which occurs during the first stages of sleep. Age-related declines also occur in lean body mass, growth hormone production and insulin-like growth factor 1 (IGF-1).[6] In normal young adults, a major burst of growth hormone occurs shortly after sleep onset, in association with the first period of slow-wave sleep. In men, approximately 70% of the daily GH output occurs during this period of early sleep.[7] Extensive evidence also indicates the existence of a consistent relationship between increased SW sleep (stages 3 and 4) and increased GH secretion and, conversely, between awakenings and decreased GH release. Pharmacological stimulation of SW sleep results in increased GH release, and compounds which increase SW sleep represent a new class of GH secretion stimulators.
In a study of patients with mild to moderate insomnia, it was found that sleep efficiency was significantly improved with oral magnesium therapy.[8] Researchers have also reported that chronic sleep deprivation causes magnesium deficiency as well as decreased exercise tolerance. And, that this decreased exercise tolerance resulting from sleep deprivation could be dramatically improved by oral magnesium administration. [9] ZMA contains magnesium aspartate, a highly bioavailable form of this important mineral. Studies have shown this form to have a superior rate of absorption compared to other forms. And the more you absorb, the more benefits you get!
First of all, it is a widely held misconception that exercise increases testosterone levels. In fact, prolonged exercise decreases the production of testosterone by approximately 10%.[11] Many studies have reported post-exercise increases in serum testosterone levels, however, what they're measuring is only a temporary false elevation. This is because exercise causes significant decreases in plasma volume, hepatic plasma flow, and the metabolic clearance rate of testosterone. This is the reason why it's extremely important to measure testosterone levels in a rested state during the early morning as opposed to post exercise. A large percentage of the testosterone secreted daily occurs during sleep. These levels peak during the early morning and decrease throughout the day by 25% to an evening minimum.[12] The following analogy may be helpful in explaining the effect of exercise on testosterone levels. Imagine that there's a hose bringing water into a bathtub, which represents testosterone production, and you decrease the flow of the hose by 10%, which represents the effects of exercise. If you then restrict the bath tub's drain flow by 30%-the water level (or testosterone) will briefly appear to be elevated. However, this is only a short-term effect and clearly represents a false elevation.
It is a well-known fact that testosterone levels significantly decline with age. For example, in a major U.S. study, serum testosterone concentrations were examined from over 4,000 military veterans. The result of the study revealed that their testosterone levels dropped by more than 30% from age 32 to age 44.[13] In another study of over 1,400 men aged 20 to 60 years old, testosterone levels showed a significant stepwise decrease with age (p < 0.001) starting with the early adult years.[14]
The connection between zinc and testosterone has been known for more than 15 years. In a study published in 1982, kidney failure patients, who are typically zinc deficient, were supplemented with zinc for a period of six months. Amazingly, their testosterone levels increased by an incredible 85%.[15] In a more recent study conducted in 1996, called "Zinc Status and Serum Testosterone Levels of Healthy Adults," researchers found that adding 30 mg per day of zinc to the diets of healthy American men who were experiencing moderate zinc deficiencies actually doubled their testosterone levels within six months.[16]
An independent study of ZMA was recently conducted at Western Washington University under the direction of sports performance researcher, Lorrie Brilla, Ph.D. A group of 12 competitive NCAA football players who took ZMA nightly during an eight-week spring training program had over 30% increases in free and total testosterone levels compared to more than 10% decreases in the placebo group.[1]
Single measurements of growth hormone are not very useful. That's why insulin-like growth factor 1 (IGF-1) levels, which are protein bound and more stable, are usually measured as an indicator of growth hormone status. Prolonged intensive exercise leads to significantly reduced IGF-1 levels. In a study of nine subjects training as gymnasts, a 24% decrease in the IGF-1 concentrations was found after only three days of intensive exercise.[17] In another study of 38 young men involved in a five-week program of intense physical training, the subjects IGF-1 levels decreased by an average of 12%.[18]
As the human body ages, the levels of many hormones naturally decrease. Growth hormone levels also significantly decline with age. Published reports have docu-mented that growth hormone levels decline by 50% every seven years beginning from age 21.[19] For example, if your level of plasma IGF-1 at age 21 was 400 ng/mL, then it would be at 200 ng/mL at age 28, at 100 ng/mL at age 35, and 50 ng/mL at age 42. At that rate, your plasma IGF-1 level at age 42 would be about one-eighth the level it was when you were 21.
The chief synergists of growth hormone include zinc, magnesium, testosterone, and insulin, whereas its chief antagonist is cortisol.[20] Zinc and magnesium supplementation have been reported to significantly reduce plasma levels of the catabolic "stress" hormone, cortisol, by 59% and 25%, respectively.[21, 22] Zinc supplementation has also been reported to have a very positive effect upon IGF-1 levels in humans. For example, in a study of growth-retarded children, IGF-1 levels increased by 47% after one month and 70% after five months of zinc supplementation.[23] In the ZMA study conducted by Dr. Brilla, the NCAA football players who took ZMA nightly had a 3.6% increase in IGF-1 levels compared to a substantial 21.5% decrease in the placebo group.[1]
In addition to measuring the anabolic hormone increases in football players, Dr. Brilla measured their muscle strength and functional power increases. Pre- and post-leg strength, and power measurements were made using a Biodex isokinetic dynamometer. The players who took ZMA nightly during the eight-week period of intensive training had 2.5 times greater strength gains and two-times greater functional power gains compared to the placebo group.[1,2]
Zinc and magnesium deficiencies are common in the general population and even more prevalent in athletes. Through an extensive search of worldwide medical data, we discovered that rigorous exercise and stress results in significant bodily losses of zinc and magnesium. In a key study called "Serum Zinc in Athletes in Training," 160 training athletes-103 males and 57 females were tested for serum zinc levels. In 23.3% of the males and 43% of the female athletes, serum zinc was determined to be significantly below the "normal range."[24]
In another study called "Biochemical Indices of Selected Trace Minerals in Men: Effect of Stress," blood (plasma) levels of zinc and other trace minerals were determined in 66 men before and after a five-day period of sustained physical and psychological stress. The result: zinc levels decreased by 33%![25]
In yet another study, called "Magnesium, Zinc and Copper status of 270 U.S. Navy Sea, Air and Land (SEAL) trainees," conducted by the U.S. Department of Military Medicine, it was shown that the blood concentrations of magnesium and zinc were significantly below the "normal range" for 23% to 24% of the trainees.[26]
Furthermore, in 1998, BALCO Laboratories tested the mineral status of over 250 NFL players, including the entire Denver Broncos Super Bowl championship team, as well as the entire Miami Dolphins team. Over 70% of the players were either depleted or deficient in both zinc and magnesium. The NCAA football players in the earlier-mentioned ZMA study also had reduced baseline blood levels of both zinc and magnesium. However, eight weeks of ZMA supplementation was very effective in optimizing their levels of these vital minerals, which resulted in dramatic increases in the anabolic hormone levels and strength of the athletes. [1]
The primary reason for baseline deficiencies in both the general population and in serious athletes is that it's difficult to get proper amounts of zinc and magnesium solely through diet alone. USDA studies show that 68% of self-selected diets contain less than two-thirds of the RDA for zinc[27] and 39% contain less than two-thirds of the RDA for magnesium.[28] While zinc and magnesium are contained in a wide variety of foods, it's been my experience that athletes don't acquire sufficient quantities through their normal diets. One reason may be that foods high in these minerals aren't necessarily the most desirable. For example, the best food sources for zinc include oysters and beef liver. These foods aren't consumed by most athletes, nor should they be.
Absolutely not! In a study called "The effect of 7 to 8 months of vitamin/mineral supplementation on the vitamin and mineral status of athletes," blood indicators of eight vitamins (B1, B2, B6, C, E, A, B12, and folate) and six minerals (Cu, Mg, Zn, Ca, P) were measured in 86 athletes before and after a seven- to eight-month period of training.[29] During this time, half consumed a multi-vitamin/mineral supplement and a matched group took a placebo. Following the supplementation period, blood indicators of B1, B6, B12 and folate status all increased, but there were no effects of supplementation on the blood levels of any of the minerals. Zero effect! This is because of the competitive and antagonistic interactions that prevented absorption. The authors concluded that, "seven to eight months of multi-vitamin/ mineral supplementation did not affect any of the blood mineral levels."
A similar study looked at athletes who ingested a multiple vitamin/mineral supplement for three months. During this period there were no significant changes in the blood concentrations of any of the vitamins, minerals or trace elements measured.[30] The authors stated, "this may have been due to the variable interactions between the vitamins and minerals that prevented their being adequately absorbed."
The recommended dosage of ZMA for men provides 30 mg of elemental zinc, 450 mg of elemental magnesium, and 10.5 mg of vitamin B6. Please understand that it is very important to avoid too high of a dosage of zinc. There are several studies indicating that 50 mg of zinc or more per day may reduce copper levels, HDL (good) cholesterol levels, and even lower super oxide dismutase (SOD) levels in as little as 14 days. For those that don't know, SOD is a powerful antioxidant enzyme. So again, it's important to take a safe and appropriate daily dosage of zinc. On the other hand, magnesium has a very low order of toxicity, although an excessive dosage may lead to loose bowel. In conclusion, I'm optimistic that the science of ZMA will eventually help to establish an entirely new category of sports performance products called "Nighttime Anabolic Formulas" or "Sleep Aids." I believe that as more athletes begin to truly understand the process of maximizing recovery, healing, tissue repair, anabolic hormone production and muscle growth, they'll be rapidly spreading the gospel, "You Grow As You Sleep!"
ZMA was developed by Victor Conte, founder and director of BALCO Laboratories in Burlingame, California, which has been in existence for more than 16 years. BALCO specializes in mineral and trace element assessment and performs research with elite Olympic and professional athletes. Victor routinely provides consultation for several hundred athletes from a variety of sports including football, bodybuilding, basketball, tennis, hockey, track and field, swimming and soccer.
1. Brilla LR, Conte, V. A novel zinc and magnesium formulation (ZMA) increases anabolic hormones and strength in athletes. Sport Med Train and Rehab (in press). Abstract presented November 14, 1998 at the 18th Annual Meeting of the S.W. Chapter of the ACSM.
2. Brilla LR, Conte, V. Effects of zinc-magnesium (ZMA) supplementation on muscle attributes of football players. Med and Sci in Sports and Exercise, Vol. 31, No. 5, May 1999.
3. Montgomery I, et al. Acta Physio Scand Suppl, 1998, 574: 36-40.
4. Taylor SR, et al. Med Sci Sprts Ecrtc, 1997 May, 29:5, 688-93. >
5. Kern W, et al. J Appl Physiol, 1995 Nov, 79:5, 1461-8.
6. Prinz PN, et al. J Gerontol A Biol Sci Med Sci, 1995 July, 50:4, M222-6.
7. Van Cauter E, et al. Sleep, 1998 Sep, 21:6,553-66.
8. Hornyak M, et al. Sleep, 1998 Aug, 21:5,501-5.
9. Tanabe K, et al. Jpn Circ J, 1998 May, 62:5, 341-6.
10. Disch G, et al. Arzneimittelforschung, 1994, 44.5:647-650.
11. Cadoux-Hudson TA, et al. Eur J Appl Physiol, 1985, 54 (3):321-5.
12. Tietz N. Clinical guide to laboratory tests. W.B. Saunders, 1995, p 579.
13. Dabbs J. Chronobiol Int, 1990, 7:3, 245-9.
14. Simon D, et al. Am J epidemiol, 1992 Apr, 135:7, 783-91.
15. Mahajan, SK, et al. Ann Intern Med, 1982, 97.3, 357-61.
16. Prasad A, et al. Nutrition, 1996, 12.5:344-48.
17. Jahresis G, et al. Growth Regul, 1991 Sep,1:3,95-9.
18. Eliakim A, et al. Am J Physiol, 1998 July, 275:1 Pt 2, R308-14.
19. Veldhuis JD, et al. Sleep, 1996 Dec, 19:10 Suppl, S221-4.
20. Kutsky RJ. Handbook of vitamins, minerals and hormones. Van Nostrand. Pgs. 307-13.
21. Brandao-Neto J, et al. Bio Trace Elem Res, 1990, Vol 24, 83-89.
22. Golf SW, et al. Clen Chem Cen Biochem, 1984, Vol. 22, 717-21.
23. Ninh NX, et al. Am J Clin Nutr, 1996, 63:514-19.
24. Haralambie G, et al. Int J Sports Med, 1981, 2:135-138.
25. Singh A, et al. Am J Clin Nutr, 1991, 53:126-31.
26. Singh A, et al. Am J Clin Nutr, 1989 Apr, 49:695:700.
27. Holden JM, et al. J Am Diet Asso, 1979, 75.1:23-28.
28. Morgan KJ, et al. J Am Coll Nutr, 1985, 4.2:195-206.
29. Telfoed RD, et al. Int J Sport Nutr, 1992 Jun, 2:2,123-34.
30. Weight L, et al. Am J Clin Nutr, 1988 Feb, 47:186-91.
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text:
Government support could shift for farmers
When Darwyn Bach climbs aboard his tractor to plant rows of corn, he can't help but think of the bottom line.
Bach has grown crops and livestock in western Minnesota, where farms blanket the landscape, since 1987. During that time there have been ups and downs.
"Well, the goal was always to stay in farming," he said. "But I always kept an open mind in case there was another opportunity that would arise. Especially in low income years you kind of have to keep different options open."
Over the last several years prices for soybeans, corn and other crops have increased, bringing in big revenues for Bach and other farmers. But despite some years of increased profits, Bach still received a $4,500 check from the federal government, his share of the $5 billion federal farm subsidies program. Along with other subsidies, and his profits, it helped his family ride out the years when prices were low.
Government support has long served as a safety net for farmers. But Congress could end the program in the farm bill that pays farmers that money whether crop prices are high or low.
For Bach, who already has planted 520-acres of soybeans and corn this year, the cash payment isn't a huge amount of money, but it is one that was important during lean years.
"I think the safety net is really what kept us going year to year," he said. "I mean without — without that income support I doubt if very many people would've been able to survive in the long term ... so yeah, they were an integral part of us staying in business."
In recent years, as crop prices have increased and budget hawks circle Congress, direct payments to farmers have become difficult to defend.
The Senate Committee on Agriculture's version of this year's farm bill does away with direct payments. But the bill also adds new protections that basically guarantee a portion of a farmer's revenue for certain crops, like corn and soybeans.
For example, if a farmer has a crop insurance policy that protects 70 percent of his average revenue, a new program in the Senate version of the farm bill the government would pay the farmer more — up 89 percent of revenue. Opponents of agricultural subsidies say that's way too much.
"The farmer would pay no premium to get that higher level of coverage," said Craig Cox, senior vice president for agriculture and natural resources for the Environmental Working Group.
The Washington-based nonprofit is critical of many of the current subsidy payments for farmers.
When a farmer buys crop insurance, Cox said, the government already pays a portion the premium.
"The taxpayer would be on the hook for the entire cost of picking up that piece of the deductible," he said.
Some following the bill say Congress is just creating a new way to support farmers.
"Ya know to the extent anybody wants to call it insurance, it's 100-percent subsidized insurance, which is the kind of insurance policy I'd like to have if it was offered to me," said Ferd Hoefner, policy director for the National Sustainable Agriculture Coalition. He has worked on the last eight farm bills, since 1977.
Hoefner said creating a new insurance policy to replace the farm bill's direct payment program could save money. He notes that, according to government estimates, the new plan could the costs of farm subsidies from $5 billion to $3.5 billion a year.
But Hoefner said the estimates don't take into account changing crop prices and farm revenue.
For farmers like Bach, that means if prices drop over time, so will the insurance payments.
"It's like a pendulum. It can swing greatly depending on price," he sad. "And that's really not a function of a safety net. A safety net is something you can count on and this isn't really something you can count on long-term."
Still, Bach said he'd take part in the program if Congress writes it into the farm bill because it would be his best option.
Congress has until the end of September to either extend the current farm bill or pass a new one.