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Featured Properties
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Living in Southeast Texas offers a huge array of opportunities for you as a home buyer and seller. Due to our location on the water and being rich in oil-related industry, we have a very strong commercial and residential property market. Also, being centrally and conveniently located on the Gulf Coast and Louisiana state line, we are within a short drive to Galveston, Houston and Lake Charles, Louisiana. These locations give you access to the finest amenities…great entertainment facilities, high-end sports cents, luxurious hotels and casinos, beautiful beaches, plus the most amazing variety of cuisines imaginable.
RE/MAX ONE has strategically place offices in the Beaumont, Nederland / Mid-County and Bridge City / Orange County area. Our goal is to make the home-buying and selling experience a happy, momentous occasion for everyone involved. We pride ourselves in developing a company of top-producing, well-informed agents, with a desire to make this financial investment your best move possible. By choosing a RE/MAX ONE agent, you can feel confident that a solid company with the highest standards and most ethical values are partnered with you. Our office ranks 10th in the nation for agent's transaction-side production, a number which exemplifies the hard work and determination of our agents. Providing first-class service to our clients and customers is and always has been our #1 priority.
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Future Motion
Pause Fest
Sunday, November 11, 2012 from 5:00 PM to 6:00 PM (AEDT)
Event Details
See the future in motion right before your eyes! These themed motion graphic submissions will give you a glimpse into the perspectives of some of the most talented motion designers from around the world.
Watch the best international motion graphic submissions and be taken to a whole different world!
When & Where
Rancho Notorious
361 Little Lonsdale St / Enter via Heape Crt La
Melbourne VIC 3000
Victoria 3000
Sunday, November 11, 2012 from 5:00 PM to 6:00 PM (AEDT)
Add to my calendar
Pause Fest
Pause Fest is the premier creative, tech and business festival in Australasia, the catalyst for innovation, a uniter of industries and powerful business platform.
Pause Fest is known for being the leader in fostering innovative ideas, developing and discovering past and future leaders and providing the perfect market and audience to tell your story.
We create opportunities by connecting the dots to foster jobs, investments, innovative ideas and technologies, developing and discovering past and future leaders, celebrating local heroes and providing the perfect market and audience for organic creative collisions.
Creators, reset this moment in time.
See you there!


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Please use this identifier to cite or link to this item:
|MIMO coding and linear equalization schemes for asynchronous visible light communication system
|Pan, Zihan
|DRNTU::Engineering::Electrical and electronic engineering
|Issue Date:
|Pan, Z. (2016). MIMO coding and linear equalization schemes for asynchronous visible light communication system. Master's thesis, Nanyang Technological University, Singapore.
|In this thesis, we introduce a new form of indoor wireless communication: visible light communication (VLC). Both the traditional RF communication and visible light communication are propagated through free space, hence many coding schemes for RF communication could also be applied to VLC. MIMO coding is suitable for VLC for two reasons: first, there are always multiple illumination sources in a room in practice, these light sources could work as multiple transmitters for MIMO VLC; secondly, the shadowing effect is very common in a VLC system, and MIMO coding could address this problem very effectively. Many MIMO coding schemes such as Orthogonal Space-Time Block Code (OSTBC) and Shift-Orthogonal Space-Time Block Code (SOSTBC) have been reported. These coding strategies are suitable under different conditions. In order to apply these orthogonal MIMO schemes, negative-value symbols need to be transmitted, but the light signal in low-cost VLC system is mostly intensity modulated with energy detection (particularly when the LED is not in the illumination mode but is still desired to be in the communication mode), so we cannot transmit negative symbols in the transmitters directly. To address this problem, we investigate special modulation schemes for intensity modulation to represent the negative symbols, and compare their performances with other transmission schemes under different channels. Furthermore, there are some practical system problems such as timing misalignment and multipath effect caused by un-synchronized transmitters and reflections. So the MIMO coding schemes should be adapted with equalization for these channels. Besides the SOSTBC mentioned above, for intensity modulated VLC systems we could also use Repetition Coding with Single-Carrier Frequency Domain Equalization (RC with SC-FDE) and Repetition Coding with Single-Carrier Over-Sampling Frequency Domain Equalization (RC with SC OS-FDE) to deal with these problems. In this thesis, these schemes are further extended for asynchronous channel with fractional delays. Finally we realize the VLC system on a hardware test bed. To build the MIMO VLC experimental test bed, we use an arbitrary waveform generator as a signal generator, and a digital oscilloscope as a signal receiver. The optical transmitter is a cool white LED, and the optical receiver is a wide bandwidth photodetector. Other necessary accessories include bias tees and constant voltage source, both of which are used to provide a DC bias voltage for the LED. The three MIMO schemes mentioned above are all realized in the experiment. Experimental BER results are collected, with low transmission rate (1Mb/s) and high transmission rate (10Mb/s), and with different asynchronous channel environment (integer delays and fractional delays). The experimental results largely verify the theories.
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|With Fulltext
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|EEE Theses
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|Thesis_Pan Zihan_G1302600C.pdf
|Main article
|Adobe PDF
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We present you with this amazing new extension with Full HD wallpapers of the Hello Kitty.
HQ Wallpapers and Backgrounds for your unique and colorful browsing experience. Find out about facts about Hello Kitty with all these amazing wallpapers while browsing!
How Old Is She?
In the first place there is no definite answer to how old Kitty is, however we know that her birthday is on the first of November. So if you want to get down to brass tacks, she was originally created in 1974, which makes her (at the time of this print 2018) 44 years old! I don't know what she's doing over there in London, but it's working for her. She doesn't look a day over five!
She Has A Big Family
As mentioned before, Kitty White lives in London with her family. So in the Hello Kitty world, she lives with her father named George White; in which she refers to him endearingly as 'papa,' who is the "backbone of the family." Also, her mother Mary White, more known as 'mama,' is famous for her apple pies, and most likely bakes with Kitty's twin sister, Mimmy White. And Mimmy looks very much like her sister, with the only difference being her wearing a yellow bow on her right ear.
We are also introduced to her grandparents, Margaret, and Anthony White. Grandpa White likes to tell stories of the old days and paints in his spare time, whilst Grandma White's passions include making delicious pudding and embroidering while sitting in her rocking chair.
She Has Cafes All Around The World
From Tokyo to the United States of America, you can find an assortment of Hello Kitty-themed cafes and restaurants that feature our little sweetheart. So these range from small pop-up cafes, serving refreshments with Hello Kitty latte-art and food, to cafe trucks that roam the streets selling bits and bobs, such as macaroons, cookies, and exclusive merchandise.
Also, for those who want the ultimate experience, there are 'grand cafes' that allow the guest to have full Hello Kitty experience filled with sweets and pink goodness! Sign us up!
She Has A Massive Facebook Following
You don't become this popular without a following, and WHAT a following Hello Kitty has on social media! So with a whopping 13.2-million followers as of November 2018, her Facebook posts consist of sharing her events across the world, celebrating holidays, such as the official (well in my eyes) National Candy Day, and showcasing her products across her wide fanbase. And with cute posts, pictures, and videos, her fans are sure to find something useful and entertaining through her social media space.
But She Is NOT A Cat!
MIND. BLOWN! Yes, that's right ladies and gentlemen, Hello Kitty's Kitty White is NOT a cat. So while preparing captions for an exhibition at the Japanese American National Museum, Anthropologist Christine R. Yano sent Sanrio her texts for fact-checking and validity. Also, Sanrio replied with a correction (a very firm correction at that), stating, "Hello Kitty is not a cat. She's a cartoon character. She is a little girl. She is a friend. But she is not a cat. She's never depicted on all fours. She walks and sits like a two-legged creature…" I know right? I am shooked to the core!
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We have added cool features to this Hello Kitty Wallpaper New Tab Chrome Theme extension which will enrich your browsing experience and fill your day even more!
This item is available in Chrome Store and therefore, just by clicking at the Add to Chrome button you will install the extension and start enjoying your day with our amazing widgets and HD Wallpapers and Backgrounds.
Start customizing your browser according to your needs! However, there are many choices are upon you, so you will be able to pick your favorites or you can leave all of them as default. This extension provides more than 200 Wallpapers and backgrounds which you can use as wallpaper for your Chrome Browser with HD quality. Therefore, show/hide elements while playing with your browser and play some games while you are at it.
Local time option
Hello Kitty Wallpaper New Tab Chrome Theme extension provides you with a local time option wherever you are. Therefore, you will always know the accurate time.
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Hello Kitty Wallpaper New Tab Chrome Theme extension is accurate, so your weather will match with your current destination.
We present you the option to bookmark your favorite websites, stores or whatever with the bookmark option provided by Hello Kitty Wallpaper New Tab Chrome Theme extension. Therefore, you can also quickly access to recently seen websites with one click.
[adrotate banner="7″]
Pick and select your favs
By clicking at the heart button, you can choose which wallpapers and backgrounds you can use while browsing. Moreover, you also have the option to reset everything to default and choose again. So, pretty simple: shuffle with our randomizer, or select your favorite wallpapers from many available within our extension. Moreover, we will make sure to update the wallpapers and backgrounds frequently, so you will get fresh new images every time you start your browser! Check out our video for more info and guides.
We provide newsfeed for all the topics related to the theme you have installed. By clicking on the arrow, you can show or hide the feed. Pretty cool right?
Quotes and Facts
Be inspired every day, because Hello Kitty Wallpaper New Tab Chrome Theme extension provides inspiring quotes and amazing facts every time you open a new tab.
Games and Fun
Hello Kitty Wallpaper New Tab Chrome Theme extension has many, many great and funny games you can play for free while you are browsing.
With this extension, we cover all the categories related to the subject. So, this means:
Hello Kitty Background and Wallpaper
HD Hello Kitty Wallpaper and Background
Hello Kitty Wallpaper 2018
New Hello Kitty Wallpaper HD, Vector Wallpaper
Cool Hello Kitty Wallpaper and themes
Full HD and Best Hello Kitty Wallpaper 4K, Wallpaper App
Beautiful Hello Kitty Wallpaper and themes
HD Hello Kitty Wallpaper and backgrounds
This Hello Kitty wallpaper is simple to install and you can install it again.
1. First, you can click on the icon given in the upper right-hand side of your Chrome browser.
2. The second move is to go to the "settings" option and when the menu appears, click on "extensions" option.
3. In the given list of extensions, find the extension that you want to uninstall.
4. Find the extension you want to eliminate and click on the trash can icon to the right of "enable" and you are almost done.
5. As a result, your extension (in this case, Hello Kitty Wallpaper New Tab Chrome Theme) is removed from your list in Chrome browser.
This app is unofficial and made for fans. Moreover, the content in this app is not affiliated with, endorsed, sponsored, or specifically approved by any company and organization and is unofficial but is made for fans by fans. All copyright and trademarks are owned by their respective owners and creators. The images and wallpapers in this application are collected from around the web and available sources, therefore, if we are in breach of copyright, please let us know and it will be removed as soon as possible because our goal is to be fully compliant.
While you are here you might also like and enjoy:
{{also like}}


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Amore Pacific's HERA will be releasing a roll-on essence for men called the HERA HOMME Black Perfect Roll On Essence 헤라 옴므 블랙 퍼펙트 롤온 에센스
It looks quite similar to the roll on Aquabolic eye essence that Hera released a few months ago ( article somewhere in the blog ). The essence helps in anti-aging and improving their skin's elasticity. The roll on balls help stimulate blood flow and helps with firming the skin. Has a spicy citrus masculine scent to it too!
The product will be launched together with an entire line marketed to young classy men.


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Proud to stock the original, genuine PowerLock range of High Power Cable Connectors.
PowerLock connectors are plastic bodied single pole connectors for use in high power, low voltage applications. With current ratings of either 400amp or 660amp, the connectors are keyed to prevent connections with the wrong line, and colour coded to meet Australian & New Zealand standards.
Typical applications for PowerLock include three phase motors, generators, load banks and lighting distribution panels. PowerLock connectors serve a very diverse industry base which includes outdoor concerts, carnivals, sporting events, television outdoor broadcast, theatres, electricity supply companies and many heavy industrial environments such as construction.
Unmated, the connectors are rated IP2X for protection against finger touching of live electrical parts and when mated are sealed to IP67. Body styles include those for panel mounting or for fitting to a wide range of copper cables up to 120mm² for screw termiation, and 300mm² for crimp termination. A selection of accessories are available to enhance the range.
The PowerLock Difference:
- PowerLock connectors can only be connected in a safe sequence
- Keying prevents incorrect mating
- IP2X Finger protected contacts prevent touching of live parts
- Sealed, lidded and lockable versions
Reliable connections for field installation power distribution systems such as mobile generators.
Features & Benefits:
- 400 amp or 660 amp continuous power ratings
- Crimp or Set-screw cable attachment
- Environmentally sealed to IP67
- Secondary lock for added security
- 19" rack mountable in 2U space
- 500 mating cycles
Fuse carriers with integrated PowerLock connectors provide a safe & efficient connection to a power distribution board.
The connectors are easy to terminate to copper cable using either industry standard crimp tools or set-screw contacts. The silver-plated contacts are available in 2 continuous current ranges, those with brass contacts are suitable for use up to 400 amps and those with copper contacts up to 660 amps. The high impact plastic connector bodies are keyed to prevent connection errors, and colour coded to suit 3 phase electrical systems that are used in New Zealand.
Secure coupling of a connector pair is through a bayonet lock together with a secondary locking pin. The secondary lock engages when the bayonet lock is fully turned and disconnection requires a simple release key. The secondary lock discourages tampering and reduces the risk of accidental or unauthorised disconnection. If fast disconnection is required, for an application where tampering is not a risk, the connectors can be fitted with a sliding collar that quickly unlocks the connectors.
PowerLock Connector Range Available Online
PowerLock Line Source Connectors
PowerLock Line Drain Connectors
PowerLock Panel Source Connectors


text:
Purchase this article with an account.
Andrew T C Tsin, Brandi S Betts-Obregon, Robert Mortiz, Richard LeBaron; Novel Mechanism which Promotes Diabetic Complications in Renal and Ocular Systems. Invest. Ophthalmol. Vis. Sci. 2017;58(8):4036. doi: https://doi.org/.
Download citation file:
© ARVO (1962-2015); The Authors (2016-present)
Purpose :
To determine the roles of TGFB1 and TGFB2 receptors, as well as Tranforming Growth Factor Beta-Induced (TGFBI or BIGH3), in the deaths of renal and ocular cells in culture.
Methods :
BIGH3 was introduced in to cell medium of cultured RPTEC, REC, and HRPs. Macrophages and macrophage derived TGF-B1/TGFB2 receptor blockers were also added at various concentrations. Cell viability was determined via TUNEL assay per manufacturers instructions.Renal cells (RPTEC) and Human Retinal Pericytes (HRP's) were purchased from Clonetics/Lonza (Walkersville, MD). Retinal Endothelial Cells (REC) were purchased from ATCC (Manassas, VA). Monocyte-derived Macrophage (MΦ) were prepared in accordance with established methodology (Wintergerst et al., 1998). Polyclonal anti-BIG-H3 was generated in house.
Results :
Our study here indicates that macrophages (MΦ) and MΦ-derived TGF-β1 promote BIGH3 Mediated Apoptosis (BMA), thus advancing nephrology and diabetic retinopathy diseases. In addition, we show that in diabetic conditions BMA targets three different cell types. In the retina BMA targets retinal pericytes (HRP) and retinal endothelial cells (RhREC), and in the kidney BMA targets renal proximal tubule epithelial cells (RPTEC). The BMA mechanistic pathway that kills these cells involves MΦ-derived TGF-β1, BIGH3 protein, BIGH3 C-terminal cleavage, C-terminal-derived integrin ligand peptides, and specific integrins expressed on renal, endothelial, and pericyte cell surfaces. After BIGH3 is secreted into the cells' milieu, a crucial step in the BMA mechanism is cleavage of BIGH3's C-terminus which can be accomplished by the peptidases plasmin, matrix metalloproteinase 9, and serine protease high-temperature requirement A1. BIGH3 C-terminal cleavage generates integrin-ligand peptides that manipulate targeted integrin signaling pathways to evoke BMA. We also found that cells in a pre-diabetic environment synthesize BIGH3 protein, indicating BIGH3 is a biomarker signifying a pre-diabetic state that left untreated will likely progress to complications including diabetic retinopathy and nephrology.
Conclusions :
Identification of the MΦ source of BIGH3 in diabetic conditions and the sequence of the integrin-ligand peptides derived from BIGH3, as well as the integrins involved in BMA, is expected to offer novel therapeutic targets for interventions to block development and progression of diabetic complications.
This is an abstract that was submitted for the 2017 ARVO Annual Meeting, held in Baltimore, MD, May 7-11, 2017.
This PDF is available to Subscribers Only


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You are here
Abaqus User defined Routines
I have been using an Abaqus dll created using a user-defined routine. Things work well on a serial case. The issue comes when I try to use it in parallel. I am trying to do this on windows 7. The error I get is
forrtl: severe (59): list-directed I/O syntax error, unit 12,
in Fortran I/O but I do not get this error when I run the simulation serially. Any ideas will be helpful.
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error in subroutine
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Ivors Academy Gold Medal Recipient 2019
I'm absolutely stoked to have been awarded this by the Ivors Academy at the Savoy in London on October 11th. So grateful. This was special recognition for contribution to the promotion of jazz on radio and beyond.
Pictured with Jazz FM's Ruth Fisher who presented the award.


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Discover Cumberland Caverns, Tennessee's largest show cave and a U.S. National Natural Landmark.
The cave displays some of the largest underground rooms and most spectacular formations in America.
Since its original discovery in 1810, many visitors have rediscovered the Cumberland Caverns for themselves. It's a great vacation stop or day-trip destination. Come discover the history, beauty, and "Wow!" of Cumberland Caverns.
Discover history
The daily scenic walking tour features a historic 1812 saltpeter mine. Hear how this essential ingredient for gun powder was mined here during the War of 1812 and the Civil War
You will relive history as you view historic saltpeter mining artifacts, and incredible formations as you enter Cumberland Caverns.
Discover Natural Beauty
Take a scenic walking tour of the caverns, a spectacular one and a half mile tour that allows you to view a beautiful waterfall and gleaming pools. The natural beauty of large rooms and unique formations will amaze you and your family.
All of this at a pleasant constant temperature of 56 degrees.
Discover "Wow!"
The Underground Ballroom features a unique and beautiful three-fourth-ton crystal chandelier. The Chandelier was originally installed in 1928 in the Loews Metropolitan Theatre in Brooklyn , NY. We were lucky enough to rescue it when the theatre was being renovated. It now hangs in one of our largest rooms, the Volcano Room. The Volcano Room is often used for meetings, banquets, and we have even had weddings there. The Chandelier itself is 15' tall and 8.5' wide. It contains 150 various color bulbs and countless hand cut crystals.
Every tour also is highlighted by the original underground pageant of light and sound, "God of the Mountain," an awe-inspiring retelling of the creation.
Have a question? Contact us!
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Is anyone using the xs:gMonth type in the schemas they author? Specifically are you using xs:gMonth in combination with the fixed and default value contraints or restrictions involving enumerations? Thanks. -- PITHY WORDS OF WISDOM A BAD DAY is when you show up for work and the boss tells you not to bother to remove your coat. This posting is provided "AS IS" with no warranties, and confers no rights.Received on Wednesday, 9 April 2003 20:55:28 UTC
This archive was generated by hypermail 2.4.0 : Friday, 17 January 2020 23:15:10 UTC


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Centennial CarePack
Discover the revolutionary medication adherence packaging system.
Centennial CarePack pre-packages all of your medications in sealed plastic packets, which are date and time specific and customizable to each person. We can add pictures, reminder bags, instructions, and more. Taking your medication is as simple as drinking a glass of water.
The strip shown here is part of a supply of medication, made up of individual packets, which, in this instance, contain the meds to be taken Sunday morning.
Centennial CarePack's are fully customizable, great for people of all ages, and not only for prescriptions! We can add in your over-the-counter products and vitamin regimens. Best of all, Centennial Pharmacy offers Centennial CarePack adherence medication packaging at no extra cost.* Just call and specify that you would like to receive this packaging for you or a loved one.
At Centennial Pharmacy, ensuring the well-being of those you care about is the most important part of our job.
Here's how our Centennial CarePack service works:
Step 1: Get in touch with us
Once we hear from you, Centennial Pharmacy will synchronize your refills, and customize your Centennial CarePack for you.
Step 2: Get your box
Next, we give you a CentennialCare Box that holds the strips of your medications for one fill cycle, ordered by date and time of day.
Step 3: Centennial Pharmacy will take care of the rest
Mid-Cycle you'll hear from us; we want to see how you're doing!
Before your next fill cycle, we'll check in with you and your physician(s) to see if you have had any medication changes and to confirm that you're on-schedule with your doses. We take care of refills with your doctor, and work with your insurance company so you don't have to.
Hear what our satisfied patients are saying about our Centennial CarePacks
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If you have any questions, or would like to receive Centennial CarePack for you or a loved one, please call us or fill out the form below.


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February 2014
Volume 29 Number 2
Data Points : Data, Meet My New Friend, F#
I've had some exposure to functional programming over the past few years. Some of this was implicit: Coding with lambdas in LINQ is functional programming. Some has been explicit: Using Entity Framework and the LINQ to SQL CompiledQuery type forced me to use a .NET Func delegate. That was always a little tricky because I did it so infrequently. I've also been exposed to functional programming through the infectious enthusiasm of Rachel Reese, a Microsoft MVP, who not only participates in my local user group (VTdotNET) but also runs the VTFun group here in Vermont, which focuses on many aspects and languages of functional programming. The first time I went to a VTFun meeting, it was filled with mathematicians and rocket scientists. I'm not kidding. One of the regulars is a condensed matter theorist at University of Vermont. Swoon! I was a little overwhelmed by the high-level discussions, but it was fun to actually feel like the dummy in the room. Most of what was said went right over my head—except for a single statement that caught my attention: "Functional languages don't need no stinkin' foreach loops." Whoa! I wanted to know what that meant. Why don't they need foreach loops?
What I've usually heard is that functional programming is great for mathematical operations. Not being a math geek, I interpreted that to mean "for demos that use the Fibonacci sequence to test out asynchronous behavior" and didn't pay much more attention. That's the problem with hearing just a short elevator pitch about functional programming.
But I finally started hearing a more accurate characterization—that functional programming is great for data science. That certainly appeals to a data geek. F#, the functional language of the Microsoft .NET Framework, brings all kinds of data science capabilities to .NET developers. It has entire libraries dedicated to charting, time manipulation and set operations. It has APIs with logic dedicated to 2D, 3D and 4D arrays. It comprehends units of measure and is able to constrain and validate based on specified units.
F# also enables interesting coding scenarios in Visual Studio. Rather than building up your logic in code files and then debugging, you can write and execute code line by line in an interactive window and then move the successful code into a class file. You can get a great feel for F# as a language with Tomas Petricek's article, "Understanding the World with F#" (bit.ly/1cx3cGx). By adding F# into the .NET toolset, Visual Studio becomes a powerful tool for building applications that perform data science logic.
In this article, I'll focus on one aspect of F# and functional programming that I've come to understand since hearing that comment about not needing foreach loops. Functional languages are really good at working with sets of data. In a procedural language, when you work with sets, you have to explicitly iterate through them to perform logic. A functional language, in contrast, comprehends sets on a different level, so you just need to ask it to perform a function on a set, rather than loop through the set and perform a function on each item. And that function can be defined with lots of logic, including math, if necessary.
LINQ provides shortcuts for this, even a ForEach method into which you can pass a function. But in the background, your language (perhaps C# or Visual Basic) simply translates this into a loop.
A functional language such as F# has the ability to perform the set function at a lower level, and it's much quicker thanks to its easy parallel processing. Add to this other key benefits, such as a rich math-processing ability and an incredibly detailed typing system that even understands units of measure, and you've got a powerful tool for performing calculations on large sets of data.
There's much more to F# and other functional languages that's still far beyond my reach. But what I want to do in this column is focus on a way to quickly benefit from one particular aspect of functional languages without making a huge investment: moving logic from the database into my application. This is the way I like to learn: find a few things I can understand and use them to take some baby steps into a new platform, language, framework or other type of tool.
I've heard Reese try to make it clear to developers that using F# doesn't mean switching development languages. In the same way you might use a LINQ query or a stored procedure to solve a particular problem, you can create a library of F# methods to solve the kinds of problems in your app that functional languages are really good at.
What I'll focus on here is extracting business logic that was built into my database, logic for handling large sets of data—something at which the database is excellent—and replacing it with functional methods.
And because F# is designed to work with sets and is really clever with mathematical functions, the code can be more efficient than it might be in SQL or in procedural languages such as C# or Visual Basic. It's so easy to have F# execute the logic on the items in the set in parallel. Not only can this reduce the amount of code you'd likely need in a procedural language to emulate this behavior, the parallelization means the code will run much faster. You could design your C# code to run in parallel, but I'd rather not go through that effort, either.
A Real-World Problem
Many years ago, I wrote a Visual Basic 5 app that had to collect, maintain, and report a lot of scientific data and perform a lot of calculations. Some of those calculations were so complex I sent them to an Excel API.
One of the calculations involved determining the pounds per square inch (PSI) based on the amount of weight that caused a chunk of material to break. The chunk could be any one of a number of cylindrical shapes and sizes. The app would use the measurements of the cylinder and, depending on its shape and size, a specific formula to calculate its area. It would then apply a relevant tolerance factor and, finally, the amount of weight it took to break the cylinder. All of this together provided the PSI for the particular material being tested.
In 1997, leveraging the Excel API to evaluate the formula from within Visual Basic 5 and Visual Basic 6 felt like a pretty clever solution.
Moving the Eval
Years later, I revamped the application in .NET. At that time, I decided to take advantage of the power of SQL Server to execute the PSI calculation on large sets of cylinders after they were updated by a user, rather than having the user's computer spend time on all of those calculations. That worked out pretty well.
More years passed and my ideas about business logic in the database changed. I wanted to pull that calculation back to the client side and, of course, the client machines were faster by then, anyway. It wasn't too difficult to rewrite the logic in C#. After a user updated a series of cylinders with the weight it took to break them (the load, represented in pounds), the app would iterate through the updated cylinders and calculate the PSI. Then I could update cylinders in the database with their new loads and PSI values.
For the sake of comparing familiar C# to the final outcome in F# (which you'll see shortly), I've provided the listing of the cylinder type, CylinderMeasurements, in Figure 1 and my C# Calculator class in Figure 2, so you can see how I derive the PSIs for a set of cylinders. It's the CylinderCalculator.UpdateCylinders method that's called to start the PSI calculation for a set of cylinders. It iterates through each cylinder in the set and performs the appropriate calculations. Note that one of the methods, GetAreaForCalculation, is dependent on the cylinder type because I calculate the area of the cylinder using the appropriate formula.
Figure 1 CylinderMeasurement Class
public class CylinderMeasurement
public CylinderMeasurement(double widthA, double widthB,
double height)
WidthA = widthA;
WidthB = widthB;
Height = height;
public int Id { get; private set; }
public double Height { get; private set; }
public double WidthB { get; private set; }
public double WidthA { get; private set; }
public int LoadPounds { get; private set; }
public double Psi { get; set; }
public CylinderType CylinderType { get; set; }
public void UpdateLoadPoundsAndTypeEnum(int load,
CylinderType cylType) {
LoadPounds = load; CylinderType = cylType;
private double? Ratio {
get {
if (Height > 0 && WidthA + WidthB > 0) {
return Math.Round(Height / ((WidthA + WidthB) / 2), 2);
return null;
public double ToleranceFactor {
get {
if (Ratio > 1.94 || Ratio < 1) {
return 1;
return .979;
Figure 2 Calculator Class to Calculate PSI
public static class CylinderCalculator
private static CylinderMeasurement _currentCyl;
public static void UpdateCylinders(IEnumerable<CylinderMeasurement> cyls) {
foreach (var cyl in cyls)
_currentCyl = cyl;
cyl.Psi = GetPsi();
private static double GetPsi() {
var area = GetAreaForCylinder();
return PsiCalculator(area);
private static double GetAreaForCylinder() {
switch (_currentCyl.CylinderType)
case CylinderType.FourFourEightCylinder:
return 3.14159*((_currentCyl.WidthA + _currentCyl.WidthB)/2)/2*
((_currentCyl.WidthA + _currentCyl.WidthB)/2/2);
case CylinderType.SixSixTwelveCylinder:
return 3.14159*((_currentCyl.WidthA + _currentCyl.WidthB)/2)/2*
((_currentCyl.WidthA + _currentCyl.WidthB)/2/2);
case CylinderType.ThreeThreeSixCylinder:
return _currentCyl.WidthA*_currentCyl.WidthB;
case CylinderType.TwoTwoTwoCylinder:
return ((_currentCyl.WidthA + _currentCyl.WidthB)/2)*
((_currentCyl.WidthA + _currentCyl.WidthB)/2);
throw new ArgumentOutOfRangeException();
private static int PsiCalculator(double area) {
if (_currentCyl.LoadPounds > 0 && area > 0)
return (int) (Math.Round(_currentCyl.LoadPounds/area/1000*
_currentCyl.ToleranceFactor, 2)*1000);
return 0;
Data Focus and Faster Processing with F#
Finally, I discovered that F#, thanks to its natural inclination for manipulating data, provides a much better solution than evaluating one formula at a time.
At the introductory session on F# given by Reese, I explained this problem, which had been nagging at me for so many years, and asked if a functional language could be used to solve it in a more satisfying way. She confirmed that I could apply my complete calculation logic on a full set and let F# derive the PSIs for many cylinders in parallel. I could get the client-side functionality and a performance boost at the same time.
The key for me was to realize I could use F# to solve a particular problem in much the same way I use a stored procedure—it's simply another tool in my tool belt. It doesn't require giving up my investment in C#. Perhaps there are some who are just the reverse—writing the bulk of their apps in F# and using C# to attack particular problems. In any case, using the C# CylinderCalculator as a guide, Reese created a small F# project that did the task and I was able to replace a call to my calculator with a call to hers in my tests, as shown in Figure 3.
Figure 3 The F# PSI Calculator
module calcPsi =
let fourFourEightFormula WA WB = 3.14159*((WA+WB)/2.)/2.*((WA+WB)/2./2.)
let sixSixTwelveFormula WA WB = 3.14159*((WA+WB)/2.)/2.*((WA+WB)/2./2.)
let threeThreeSixFormula (WA:float) (WB:float) = WA*WB
let twoTwoTwoFormula WA WB = ((WA+WB)/2.)*((WA+WB)/2.)
// Ratio function
let ratioFormula height widthA widthB =
if (height > 0. && (widthA + widthB > 0.)) then
Some(Math.Round(height / ((widthA + widthB)/2.), 2))
// Tolerance function
let tolerance (ratioValue:float option) = match ratioValue with
| _ when (ratioValue.IsSome && ratioValue.Value > 1.94) -> 1.
| _ when (ratioValue.IsSome && ratioValue.Value < 1.) -> 1.
| _ -> 0.979
// Update the PSI, and return the original cylinder information.
let calculatePsi (cyl:CylinderMeasurement) =
let formula = match cyl.CylinderType with
| CylinderType.FourFourEightCylinder -> fourFourEightFormula
| CylinderType.SixSixTwelveCylinder -> sixSixTwelveFormula
| CylinderType.ThreeThreeSixCylinder -> threeThreeSixFormula
| CylinderType.TwoTwoTwoCylinder -> twoTwoTwoFormula
| _ -> failwith "Unknown cylinder"
let basearea = formula cyl.WidthA cyl.WidthB
let ratio = ratioFormula cyl.Height cylinder.WidthA cyl.WidthB
let tFactor = tolerance ratio
let PSI = Math.Round((float)cyl.LoadPounds/basearea/1000. * tFactor, 2)*1000.
cyl.Psi <- PSI
// Map evaluate to handle all given cylinders.
let getPsi (cylinders:CylinderMeasurement[])
= Array.Parallel.map calculatePsi cylinders
If, like me, you're new to F#, you might look only at the amount of code and see no point in choosing this route over C#. Upon closer examination, however, you may appreciate the terseness of the language, the ability to define the formulas more elegantly and, in the end, the simple way I can apply the calculatePsi function Reese defined to the array of cylinders I passed to the method.
The terseness is thanks to the fact that F# is better designed to perform math functions than C# is, so defining those functions is more efficient. But besides the geek appeal of the language, I was interested in performance. When I increased the number of cylinders per set in my tests, initially I did not see a performance improvement over C#. Reese explained that the test environment is more expensive when using F#. So I then tested the performance in a console app using the Stopwatch to report the time passed. The app built up a list of 50,000 cylinders, started the Stopwatch, passed the cylinders to either the C# or F# calculator to update the PSI value for each cylinder, then stopped the Stopwatch when the calculations were complete.
In most of the cases, the C# process took about three times longer than the F# process, although about 20 percent of the time C# would beat F# by a small margin. I can't account for the oddity, but it's possible there's more I need to understand to perform truer profiling.
Keeping an Eye Out for Logic That Begs for a Functional Language
So while I have to work at my F# skills, my new understanding is going to apply nicely to apps I already have in production as well as future apps. In my production apps, I can look at business logic I've relegated to the database and consider if an app would benefit from an F# replacement. With new apps, I now have a keener eye for spotting functionality I can code more efficiently with F#, performing data manipulation, leveraging strongly typed units of measurement and gaining performance. And there's always the fun of learning a new language and finding just the right scenarios for which it was built!
Julie Lerman is a Microsoft MVP, .NET mentor and consultant who lives in the hills of Vermont. You can find her presenting on data access and other Microsoft .NET topics at user groups and conferences around the world. She blogs at thedatafarm.com/blog and is the author of "Programming Entity Framework" (2010) as well as a Code First edition (2011) and a DbContext edition (2012), all from O'Reilly Media. Follow her on Twitter at twitter.com/julielerman and see her Pluralsight courses at juliel.me/PS-Videos.
Thanks to the following technical expert for reviewing this article: Rachel Reese (Firefly Logic)
Rachel Reese is a long-time software engineer and math geek in Nashville, TN. Until recently, she ran the Burlington, VT functional programming user group, @VTFun, which was a constant source of inspiration to her, and at which she often spoke on F#. She's also an ASPInsider, an F# MVP, a community enthusiast, one of the founding @lambdaladies, and a Rachii. You can find her on twitter, @rachelreese, or on her blog: rachelree.se.


text:
Another Mother's Day has gone by. And each year keeps getting more special ...more exciting with my baby blossoming into an even more delightful darling that she already is.
Monday, May 9
The Mother
Another Mother's Day has gone by. And each year keeps getting more special ...more exciting with my baby blossoming into an even more delightful darling that she already is.
These special earmarked days are huge in the United States. Whether it is a Mother's Day or a Father's Day, I'm sure fellow parents here will agree that one of the most amusing and sweetest part of this tradition is the handmade cards that our kids make. They are downright funny, mushy and so unexpected with a twist.
This year, my lil' one picked up a flowery greeting card and some fancy jewellery that she fancied for me. As usual, there were the handmade cards and gifts that she gave me as well. But, What touched me the most, apart from the usual gestures of love, hugs, kisses and gifts was her sensitivity. I think every mother and child shares an unseen umbilical cord that never ever gets cut off. A cord where the mother and child mutually can sense each other's feelings without words or even physical presence. After I woke up and got started with my daily routine work, she comes up to me and strictly orders, "Mummy, no house work today. Today is Mother's Day." And I tell her the house needs to be set nonetheless. And she goes, "I don't mind the lil mess. You are not supposed to work today." And I reply, "That's very sweet, darling but why don't you join me in today?". And she readily joins while mumbling and grumbling all along how no work is to be done on Mother's Day and that's the rule. Haha!
Not just this day, but I count my blessings everyday. Both for the wonderfully loving, caring and inspiring Mom that I have and for my daughter who has ushered in so much love, laughter and innocence into our lives, in ways, that no words can possibly describe. Apart from counting my blessings and wishing others on 'Mother's Day' as was the custom, I couldn't help but be reminded of one gem of a lady. A lady who I had the privilege of meeting and knowing, a 'not so long' while ago! I will just call her 'The Mother'. Because that's what I will always remember and think of her as...
My first memories of her were of crossing paths with this beautiful, extremely fair, middle aged lady, smiling at each other ...without really caring to go beyond that polite and customary American "Hi!". She was always modestly dressed in cool cotton, long sleeved shalwars in soft pastel colors. Her hair was always concealed neatly inside her chiffon dupatta. I presumed she was Muslim, simply by the way she dressed and that she lived pretty close to our block in the apartment.
After a few months, we upgraded to an extra bedroom apartment within the same community. We shifted to an apartment that was right next to the kid's park. Going down the park was a daily and much anticipated event for my pre-schooler daughter then. During one of those regular park days, I met a young lady who had come down from Chicago for vacations to her aunt's place here in California. While our daughters quickly became friends, so did we, the Moms. She was from Pakistan and we would chat for long, the similarities and differences in our respective countries. One fine day, my new Mom friend bought her aunt (the one she was staying with) to the park. And Voila! This was the same beautiful middle aged lady I'd bump into frequently in my earlier apartment. She flashed back a knowing and acknowledging smile as well.
"Aap ke baare mein Bahut kuch suna. Maine aapko bahut baar dekha." (I heard a lot about you. I have also seen you many times.), she said approvingly. This was the very first time we chatted. Slowly, along with her niece, The Mother also started joining us everyday at the park. The niece was already my new Mom friend and soon enough, The Mother and I became quick friends as well. We yapped in Hindi whole-heartedly, feeling bonded together as the days went by. A lot of dishes were common in both our households, thanks to the Mughal/ Nawabi influence in Hyderabad. Be it the katti dal or Shammi kebabs or kheema, we found a lot of likeness in language, cuisine, cultural values, politics, esp the Indo-Pak tension and ofcourse, Bollywood.
The neice eventually went back to Chicago along with her daughter after the vacations. But her aunt, The Mother continued coming to the park everyday to talk and catch up on the day.
I remember being completely in awe when I visited her home for the first time. Not because it was grand. Far from it, it was modest but extremely neat and pleasing to the eye and soul just like her. All the qualities that she possessed simply shone through her home. There was so much warmth, serenity and love in that home. I quipped, "Aapke Ghar toh hospital se bhi saaf sutra hain" (Your home is cleaner than a hospital). She welcomed me into her home with utmost hospitality, and we feasted on her kheema, roti and masala chai. The kheema was eerily close to what we made at home. As we spoke, we both agreed and came to the conclusion that had it not been for the politicians and their lust for power, the people of India and Pakistan would have been living together in love, peace and harmony. Just like us!
She was not just a home-maker as I initially presumed. She also worked as a full time baby sitter and had her own humble food catering business. She was baby sitting a couple of babies within the community, including some of our desi kinds. Wherever you move into, the desi community is small and exclusive. Everyone knows everyone. Soon enough, I heard some fantastic reviews about The Mother and how exceptional she was with babies. The patience, love, kindness, warmth and playfulness that she displayed was noteworthy. She loved these tender souls just as much, they looked forward for her arrival. She entertained them, bathed them, fed them, cleaned and changed their diapers, taught them something new everyday, cuddled them and sang them sweetly to la...la...land. She was the Mother away from the Mother. And that is a tall shoe and space to fill in. But only she could naturally and effortlessly fill in that space. Albeit for a while but in all purity, sincerity and genuine love!
Her motherhood instincts weren't restricted to just her job but also warmly extended to us as well. I remember coming home to find a packet hanging over the door knob, only to quickly discover inside that it was some fresh, delicious home-cooked meal. If one day it was rich and creamy sevaiyan with dry fruits, the other day it was a royal Pakistani style Yakhni chicken biryani. And another, a light and zesty Pasta salad filled with chick peas, crunchy vegetables and lots and lots of olives. It wasn't the meal that mattered as much as the love and thought behind the whole gesture. Of course, I reciprocated the gesture. But she always managed to catch me by surprise with her unwarranted gestures of love.
She'd gently chide me and advise me when it came to matters of home, family and children. "Don't let your daughter play in that dirty mud"... "Beware of your daughter's company with those older kids. They are bad influence." ...."Don't ever check the phone while you are working". And many more such gentle cautionary words of advise came typically from her. Much like any protective mother would do. She quintessentially became the mother away from the mother for me as well.
For my daughter's birthday, I invited our desi group and requested The Mother to cater two trays of aloo chat salad for the occasion. When the matter of payment came up, she refused to take any money for her effort. When I insisted, she looked at me, her eyes slightly moistened, "Apno se koi paise lete hain todi? Aap toh meri apni beti jaisi hai". (Whoever takes money from their own? You are just like my own daughter.) I was touched and appreciated her all the much more, knowing fully well, the importance of money in their humble lives. Another time, she altered a huge load of my clothes without taking a dime again for her efforts.
The Mother never had any children of her own. Life may have killed her dreams of being a mother, but it didn't squash her motherhood spirits one single bit. She was always bursting with so much unbridled love. In her role as a wife, she loved and served her husband beyond measure. Many a times, she was taken for granted but she had the true heart of a mother. It was a long, long time since she ever took a vacation. She never squandered her husband's hard earned money on anything but the very basic needs. She told me she didn't need much or desire much either. You could guess the size of her wardrobe by what she wore everyday. A couple of regularly worn but well-maintained cotton salwars in pastel shades of beige, pink, blue and lavender. Simplicity of her thoughts reflected so well in her modest yet tasteful choice of clothing. She loved, respected and understood her husband whole heartedly, turning their extremely humble home into a rich home of heavenly paradise. So much serenity, calmness and beauty greeted you when you stepped into her place. And you are also sure to be treated with some amazingly delicious Pakistani food as well in the bargain.
She once emotionally opened up how she conceived a long time ago. But had a minor problem, which if it had been tended to on time, could potentially have saved her baby. She rued the long emergency wait times that she held responsible for the loss of her unborn baby. At that instant moment, I wished I could help her somehow. There must be some way, I thought. If I had a magic wand, I'd grant a baby right that instant, in her godhi (lap). But I knew I couldn't help her in any single way except to lend a ear and listen to her cries.
I believe in the transforming and miraculous power of prayers. I remember catching up with a young friend of mine, who quipped, "If I ever, ever have children which I don't think I ever will...". She couldn't conceive for a long time as well but she was young, bubbly and always high in spirits, enjoying life to the fullest nonetheless. I knew she'd make a fantastic Mom and I remember feeling deeply for her plight and praying hard for her. Soon enough, she gave us all the good news and had a handsome bonny boy. Life took a happy turn for them and God granted their heart's most treasured desire.
The Mother was past the menopausal age. I asked her if they ever considered adoption as a solution. She said her husband was wary of the American laws when it came to adoption. Any mistake could be costly enough to land them in jail and he didn't want any such risks.
Strange indeed are sometimes God's ways. I wondered those times...Why He chose not to grant some wonderful and good women out there, the baby they pined and longed for? When some of them are so clearly cut out for motherhood! When they would simply shine gloriously like the Sun in their role as a mother! When the world deserved so many more of such kinds. That they are the kinds that should be breeding, multiplying and populating this Earth with their sheer goodness.
I found some consolation in The Mother's approach. She willfully and graciously accepted her situation and His will. Life or God's designed plans didn't render her broken-hearted, cynical or bitter but instead she triumphed over her situation coming out sweeter, gentler, tender and more giving than ever before. I had a newfound respect for her and found myself ironically, learning some of my lessons in motherhood from her. Because to me, she was still The Mother as she didn't behave any less, as a matter of fact, more than one.
Motherhood is a blessing bestowed on some. It takes a lot from you but what is life and love without giving anyway! It is always a blessing, whether you experience this beauty they called 'Motherhood' once, twice or more. And in The Mother's case, it is a blessing bestowed even on those who can claim none as their own.
It's the spirit of Motherhood that makes one a true mother. She enlightened me by being a living example of how a true mother is identified not by the fertility of their bodies but by the fertility of the soul. She might be barren in her body but she has the most fertile mind and soul.
She most definitely changed the definition of a mother for me. To cherish and treasure more preciously what I already have been blessed with. To opening and laying bare my heart and to being vulnerable. To really feel and savor the pain that naturally comes with the hurt of loving deeply and unconditionally, while nursing back to healthy recovery, the sore wounds. To keep on loving and never ever stopping. To look beyond the traditionally accepted and rightly fully proclaimed mothers. To look beyond the physical dynamics of motherhood and delve deeper into the spiritual universal connotations that come with being a mother. To embrace, love and accept not just a few but the whole of humanity as your own child. Therein lies the answer, the definition and the spirit of motherhood.
Posted by Tina Sequeira at 5/09/2016 09:04:00 AM
1 comments:
- Unknown said...
Pls share this blog on the facebook. This is a tribute to Motherhood through and experiential sharing. Everyone would relish to read this. And this deserves a mother to be known.Keep up
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text:
Queen's Endowment Overview
The Queen's Endowment is an investment pool composed of funds that have been designated to university Endowment accounts. Donations received by the university are invested in the Queen's Endowment and each year certain amounts are withdrawn according to the spending policy. These annual withdrawals fund scholarships, academic chairs, book funds, lectureships, as well as a diverse range of university programs.
Subject to levels of risks acceptable under a "prudent portfolio" approach to investing funds of this nature, the primary objective of the Pooled Endowment Fund is to maximize risk adjusted returns in furtherance of two competing goals; the goal of releasing substantial income to support current operations and the goal of preserving the purchasing power of assets for future generations.
Queen's Endowment Governance
The investment activities of the Queen's Endowment are overseen by the Investment Committee of the Board of Trustees. This Committee sets investment policies and monitors investment performance. Visit the University Secretariat site to review the constitution and current membership of the Investment Committee.
In order to achieve its objectives, the university enlists the services of a range of external investment managers. The Investment Committee determines the selection of investment managers, the amounts entrusted to them, and also any investment parameters or restrictions. All investment activity must comply with the University's Statement of Investment Policies and Procedures.
The Department of Investment Services at Queen's is responsible for the day-to-day monitoring of investment managers' activities and performance, and reporting to the Investment Committee. This department reports on fund and market performance on both a monthly and quarterly basis.


text:
The late King of Pop lands at No. 1 on the list after making $825 million, which according to Forbes is 'the biggest annual haul by any celeb dead or alive.'
Seven years after his death, Michael Jackson is still making money. He even made a lot this year to top Forbes' list of highest-paid dead celebrities, beating out other iconic superstars like Elvis Presley and Prince.
According to the magazine, Jacko earned an impressive $825 million in 2016 thanks in large part to his investment in the Sony/ATV music publishing catalog, which is known for its The Beatles songs. He originally paid $47.5 million in 1985 to buy the catalog. Sony, which paid him $115 million for a 50/50 partnership, then purchased the late singer's half for $750 million earlier this year.
"Jackson's total pretax payday of $825 million ranks as the biggest annual haul by any celeb dead or alive," said Forbes.
Miles behind the deceased King of Pop on the Forbes list is "Peanuts" creator Charles Schulz. The cartoonist, who passed away in 2000 of colon cancer, lands at No. 2 with $48 million from the licensing revenue of "Peanuts" characters. Arnold Palmer, who died last September, rounds out the top 3 with $40 million.
Other dead celebrities still making big bucks include Elvis Presley (No. 4 with $27 million), Prince (No. 5 with $25 million) and Bob Marley (No. 6 with $21 million).
- Michael Jackson - $825 million
- Charles Schulz - $48 million
- Arnold Palmer - $40 million
- Elvis Presley - $27 million
- Prince - $25 million
- Bob Marley - $21 million
- Theador Geiel "Dr. Seuss" - $20 million
- John Lennon - $12 million
- Albert Einstein - $11.5 million
- Bettie Page - $11 million


text:
Samsung TecTiles Review: NFC Tap Technology in Sticker Form
- Editor's Rating
NFC is coming to a smartphone near you. Android already supports it, Windows Phone 8 and BlackBerry 10 will support it, and the iOS 6 Passbook is a strong sign NFC is coming to the iPhone.
Many have hyped NFC, short for Near Field Communications, as the future of mobile payments. But in reality, their tap technology can also be used to share smartphone contents, contacts, and execute simple smartphone commands. And that's where Samsung TecTiles come in.
Samsung TecTiles are NFC-enabled stickers that are about the size and shape of postage stamps. Through an Android app that's freely available in the Google PlayStore, the stickers can be programmed to enable various smartphone functions when tapped. Think of them as a more advanced and yet simpler version of QR codes.
So let's find out if they are actually useful, unlike the near omnipresent square patterns smartphone users have been successfully ignoring for years.
What Can They Do?
Samsung TecTiles have limits. They will work with any Android NFC phone, but users can only program them to perform specific tasks, as limited by the app. The tasks are broken up into four categories, including:
Settings and Apps
- Change phone settings (alarms, ringer volume, screen brightness, etc)
- Launch an app, set volume (for launching music apps)
- Join a WiFi network
- Show a message
Phone and text
- Make a call
- Send a text
- Share a contact
- Start a Google talk conversation
Location and Web
- Show an address in Google maps
- Foursquare check in
- Facebook check in
- Open a webpage
- Update Facebook status
- Facebook "like"
- Send a tweet
- Follow a Twitter user
- Connect on LinkedIn
The benefit for a business is clear. Samsung TecTiles can be programmed with office contact info or a FourSquare check-in at the door, or a theater can have a tag that sets phones to silent.
In Use
Or at least that's what Samsung lays out as use cases in its marketing materials. To be fair, it's not a stretch to see NFC utilized in such ways. It certainly helps that the TecTiles work flawlessly. I had no issues getting a Samsung Galaxy S III to recognize the sticker, and the handset executed the task each time without any bugs or even lag. Setting up and programming the TecTiles through the Samsung app is simple and intuitive, never requiring more than 30 seconds from start to finish.
But the limits of Samsung TecTiles may prevent these particular stickers from becoming widely adopted. For starters, Samsung TecTiles are limited to Android NFC smartphones, and only work with smartphone that already have the TecTiles app installed. Try tapping a TecTile without the app, and it will bring up the TecTiles marketing microsite complete with instructions to download. As much as I hate manufacturer bloatware, it would make sense for Samsung to preinstall the TecTile app on all future smartphones.
Another drawback, TecTiles do still require a manual component on the user end, particularly with the social settings. For example, any Facebook "liking" won't occur unless the user is already signed in and has enabled TecTile Facebook permissions. Twitter requires a login too, and the user has to manually send the update. In addition, I found that TecTiles mangle Twitter messages by turning common symbols with garbled code. For example the common "@" turns into "%2540".
TecTiles can be locked by the user, which prevents mischievous types from reprogramming them with obscene messages. However, once the TecTile is locked, it can't be reprogrammed ever. Considering the stickers cost $15 for five at launch, a pin number protection system would have been nice. Otherwise, TecTiles can be reprogrammed again and again. There is another option to "allow multiple writes," for programming TecTiles in bulk.
The cost is probably the main hurdle to widespread adoption — and I think Samsung realizes that. TecTiles are a neat accessory that showcase NFC and its potential. I see no reason why another company couldn't or wouldn't offer a less expensive and generic alternative, perhaps one that works across iOS, BlackBerry 10, Windows Phone 8, and Android.


text:
A preview to TASTE Magazine article
We will be featured in the upcoming TASTE magazine with full photos. Very exciting! Here is a preview of our article...
Sum up White Lions Tea House in one word, and it would likely be "charming". With its English cottage-style atmosphere, vintage china tea cups and delicious home-made treats, what better place to enjoy tea with a friend?
But many people have discovered that White Lions is also the perfect place for special intimate gatherings – from weddings to birthdays to showers. Their private room can host up to 14 guests or the main dining room can accommodate up to 40 guests and they'll work with you to create the perfect menu for the occasion including special cakes or cupcakes.
Enjoy a wide variety of loose-leaf teas properly brewed in individual pots, locally roasted coffee prepared either French-press or Espresso style, homemade soups, fresh salads and sandwiches, including gluten-free and vegetarian options, but you will want to save room for the renowned sweet treats! Scones are baked daily and served with homemade lemon curd or strawberry jam and cream...heaven on earth with a cuppa. Or reserve for the full "Afternoon Tea" experience which includes tea sandwiches, scones, treats, fresh fruit and tea on an elegant three-tier tray. Breakfast is also served daily and a monthly Sunday brunch offering eggs benedict, waffles with fresh fruit and real maple syrup, frittata or other baked egg dishes and of course scones or crumpets! – call for reservations.
Along with a fantastic selection of gift ware for the tea-lover on your list and gift baskets made to order, White Lions features rotating art collections by members of the Orillia Fine Arts Association. You may just find the perfect present, as all of the paintings are for sale.
So, if you're looking to make your next occasion special be sure to contact the White Lions Tea House – "Experience the charms of tea"!


text:
(The video above is Casting Crowns' unique version of this old carol. I don't often like re-made melodies of classic carols. In this case, I heartily make an exception!)
1. I heard the bells on Christmas day
Their old familiar carols play,
And wild and sweet the words repeat
Of peace on earth, good will to men.
2. I thought how, as the day had come,
The belfries of all Christendom
Had rolled along the unbroken song
Of peace on earth, good will to men.
3. And in despair I bowed my head
'There is no peace on earth,' I said,
'For hate is strong and mocks the song
Of peace on earth, good will to men.'
4. Then pealed the bells more loud and deep:
'God is not dead, nor doth He sleep;
The wrong shall fail, the right prevail
With peace on earth, good will to men.'
5. Till ringing, singing on its way
The world revolved from night to day,
A voice, a chime, a chant sublime
Of peace on earth, good will to men.
I think I have mentioned before that I enjoy poetry but must often claim ignorance when reading it–especially if it doesn't rhyme–elementary, I know. Longfellow, however, is one of those rare poets I can read and actually feel the heart of God beating through the lines and stanzas of his work (I guess it helps that often his poetry rhymes). It's very nearly like reading the Psalms.
Especially this poem, which Longfellow penned on Christmas Day, 1864, three years weary from tragedy upon tragedy: his wife being burned to death despite his frantic efforts to save her, and a severely wounded son home from a war Longfellow thought should never have been (Click here for a fine article that details the years leading up to Longfellow's Christmas poem).
And in despair I bowed my head
'There is no peace on earth,' I said,
'For hate is strong and mocks the song
Of peace on earth, good will to men.'
This is where I am often caught, like a spider's prey, despair creeping up on me while the Spirit within says, Why remain trapped? Believe!
I want to believe! But far too often I am doubting Thomas needing to feel with my fingers the nail-made holes in my Savior's hands.
I read of Longfellow and wonder what sort of leviathan faith it took to bring forth the next lines…
Then pealed the bells more loud and deep:
'God is not dead, nor doth He sleep;
The wrong shall fail, the right prevail
With peace on earth, good will to men.'
Bold proclamation! To look in the face of evil days, standing in faith-filled triumph, and say:
God is not dead, nor doth He sleep!
Today–this Christmas–thousands of soldiers, sailors, and airmen and women look daily in the face of evil. They battle enemies with sand grit in their mouths so we can fill our home with aromas of cinnamon, gingerbread and good cheer.
There is a section of Longfellow's poem nearly forgotten today. A section that speaks directly to the darkness of war:
Here is my desire: that our service men and women would hear the bells louder than the cannon fire. That they would not lose hope, not lose faith, not lose the sort of peace that comes from beyond what this world can offer.
Maybe it is my prayer for us all.
"Peace I leave with you; my peace I give to you. Not as the world gives do I give to you. Let not your hearts be troubled, neither let them be afraid." –Jesus Christ
Just a note: As we head into our 3rd week of Advent, I feel like I need to make a disclaimer: I know my titles for the candles each week may not match yours. As I was preparing for my advent blogging I found conflicting ideas (Hope, Peace, Joy, Love) for what each of the candles' titles represent. So, I decided to use the designations offered by the advent devotional I have read to my children these past many years:1st week: Prophesy–Hope 2nd week: Bethlehem–Peace 3rd week: Shepherds–Joy 4th week: Angels–Love If these conflict with your candle labeling system, I plead your forgiveness of my greater theological ignorance. 🙂


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How to Tell if You Have Arthritis or Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
Economic Impact of Hand and Wrist Pain
The Bureau of Labor Statistics estimated just over 51,000 injuries or illnesses of the hand and wrist that resulted in time away from work in 2001. Over 26,000 of these were due to carpal tunnel syndrome while musculoskeletal disorders like arthritis contributed to over 23,000 incidences. If you are experiencing hand or wrist pain, you may be unsure how to tell if you have arthritis or carpal tunnel syndrome. Knowing the difference in symptoms of each disorder can help patients get the optimum care that they need in order to get back to work.
Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
Approximately 27 days of work are lost to illness for patients with carpal tunnel syndrome. Carpal tunnel syndrome is a common problem where the median nerve in the arm becomes trapped in a 'tunnel' of bones and ligaments in the wrist. It is most often diagnosed in women age 30 to 50. Carpal tunnel syndrome is associated with other medical problems, including:
- rheumatoid arthritis
- diabetes
- hypothyroidism and other endocrine disorders
- pregnancy
- patients on dialysis
Symptoms of carpal tunnel disease include numbness or tingling in the thumb and first fingers because these fingers are controlled by the median nerve. Patients may also experience pain that shoots from the hand to the arm and shoulder as well as weak grip strength. The little finger is not affected because it is not controlled by the median nerve. Burning pain occurs on the palm side of the hand. People may find themselves shaking their hand to try to improve sensation. Carpal tunnel syndrome often affects only the hand used most often, though some people may experience symptoms in both hands. Nerve study tests and physical examination by a medical professional are most helpful in diagnosing carpal tunnel syndrome.
Rheumatoid and Osteoarthritis
Though patients with carpal tunnel syndrome often have arthritis pain too, the symptoms are very different. There are two main types of arthritis, osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis. Arthritis affects the joints like those in the fingers, hands and wrist. People with arthritis experience symptoms different from carpal tunnel syndrome including:
- joint pain
- swollen, deformed joints
- stiffness in the morning
- warmth or redness around the joint
Osteoarthritis is associated with joint wear over time or after an injury to a joint. Rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune disease where the patient's immune system attacks the joints, leading to inflammation. People with rheumatoid arthritis will have abnormalities in blood tests that help to distinguish it from carpal tunnel syndrome or other forms of arthritis. Both osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis can lead to deformities in the joints in the fingers that are not found in patients who only have carpal tunnel syndrome. Plain X-rays are helpful for diagnosing these bony changes in the joints and one way to tell if you have arthritis or carpal tunnel syndrome.
What to Do with Hand and Wrist Pain
People experiencing hand or wrist pain should see their healthcare provider, especially if they are missing days of work due to the pain. An evaluation for the cause of the problem is needed so that the appropriate treatment can be started. Patients can expect X-rays or other imaging and bloodwork to help determine the cause of their symptoms.
Number of nonfatal injuries associated with days away from work. U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. Accessed October 18, 2010. - https://www.bls.gov/iif/oshwc/osh/case/ostb1154.pdf
Days away from work are highest for carpal tunnel syndrome. U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. Accessed October 18, 2010. - https://www.bls.gov/opub/ted/2001/apr/wk1/art01.htm
CARPAL TUNNEL SYNDROME. The Merck Manual Online Library. Accessed October 18, 2010. - https://www.merck.com/mmpe/sec04/ch042/ch042f.html#sec04-ch042-ch042f-992
Carpal Tunnel Syndrome Symptoms. MayoClinic Online. Accessed October 18, 2010. - https://www.mayoclinic.com/health/carpal-tunnel-syndrome/DS00326/DSECTION=symptoms
Arthritis. MedlinePlus. Accessed October 18, 2010. - https://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/ency/article/001243.htm
Osteoarthritis. Arthritis Foundation. Accessed October 18, 2010. - https://www.arthritis.org/disease-center.php?disease_id=32


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1. At his press conference today, Republican presidential nominee and anthropomorphic mold spore Donald Trump went full Rubio. From the very beginning of his appearance at Trump Tower, an ugly motherfucker of a building, Trump was so ludicrously repetitious and sweaty and barely comprehensible that the Florida senator must have been somewhere, thinking, "Aw, c'mon, where the fuck is Chris Christie now?" (Answer: trussed up on a bed in the penthouse, asshole lubed and ready.)
Here is an actual quote from Trump's opening remarks: "I think it will be very exciting. It will add to the excitement in Cleveland and that's good. That's what we want because it's going to be an exciting period of time." That is not edited or elided or anything. This was followed up with, no shit, a moment later with "So that's something to me that's very exciting. And overall, it's just been a very exciting process."
Didn't this human garbage compactor talk about his vocabulary? Can someone implant a fuckin' thesaurus in his brain? Or is he brain-damaged from all spray-tan chemicals?
And that's not even getting to the endless number of times he said that he didn't raise funds for veterans' organizations to get publicity.
2. What kind of lying cocksucker gets to say that and not get laughed out of the building? Trump held a public event in January opposite a Republican debate he refused to attend because Fox "news" wasn't "nice" to him. That event was broadcast on other channels. Today, Trump himself called the press conference in order to say who the money raised had gone to. He could have just put out a fuckin' list, but, no, like an enraged bonobo with an unlimited amount of shit to toss, Trump had to get in front of the press to deny that he wanted press coverage.
3. This is not even to mention the underwear sniffer in the "Make America Great Again" camo-colored cap who stepped forward on stage to declare that he's a vet, that other vets were on stage with Trump, but that it was Hillary Clinton who is "using veterans as political pawns." Fuck that guy, fuck his service to our country, and fuck him forever with every dick around.
4. Fucknut up there said that we should head to Trump's website to read about how much Il Donaldo wants to do for veterans. If you go to that page, it's got the shit title of "Veterans Administration Reforms That Will Make America Great Again." Sure, it says that vets would be able to go to any doctor who accepts Medicare and that Trump will, through his innate Trumpiness, trump the trump trump trump. That includes "increasing funding" for a shitload of things, which is totally not something that Democrats would ever ask for (except for all the fucking times they've asked for it and been blocked by Republicans). Mostly, though, the page is filled with platitudes and detail-free promises, treating the VA with all the seriousness you'd expect of a reality show star, even finding a way to, no shit, drop in his catchphrase: "Under a Trump Administration, there will be no job security for VA executives that enabled or overlooked corruption and incompetence. They're fired."
When you go to Hillary Clinton's page for her plans for vets, she gets way specific, as you'd expect from a former Secretary of State (remember: Clinton is a twice-elected Senator, too; she ain't just Benghazi Bitch, the Email Slut). In fact, there's another page on "How She'll Get It Done," which goes into even more details than any campaign ever normally would.
Compare one thing, treatment of women vets. Trump says, "The fact that many VA hospitals don't permanently staff OBGYN doctors shows an utter lack of respect for the growing number female veterans. Under the Trump plan, every VA hospital in the country will be fully equipped with OBGYN and other women's health services."
Seemingly responding to that, Clinton's plan says that she calls for "New funding to ensure women equal and respectful [treatment], going beyond simply modifying facilities and increasing the number of OBGYNs employed by the VHA, to include expanding provider training, ensuring culturally-competent VHA staff and policies, and providing other gender-specific health services – including mental health services." She adds in reproductive health services and childcare facilities at VA facilities so women can see their doctors without having to worry about getting their kids taken care of. In other words, comprehensive, intelligent stuff that isn't accomplished by a wave of a small hand, but rather through "bipartisan legislation" because that's how shit is done (or used to be done. Who knows anymore?). It's still pie-in-the-sky, sure, but it's aspirational and specific, with lots of possible goals that can be achieved.
And, unlike Trump, Clinton and Bernie Sanders have actually done things to help vets beyond holding a bullshit public (but apparently secret) fundraiser whose real purpose was to pull ratings away from Fox because Donald Trump is a pathetic, needy piece of shit.
5. Trump said that he was waiting to see "documents" from the IRS before deciding if an organization was worthy of a donation. He needed their tax information in order to get the full picture. Huh. You could actually hear every reporter's sphincter tighten in anticipation of attacking Trump for that lack of self-awareness.
6. Most of the event, though, was a prolonged meltdown at the press, with Trump calling them "sleazes" and "dishonest," acting as if he should be above the kind of scrutiny that he demands of others. If we lived in normal times, it would have marked the end of his presidential aspirations. At this point, unless each reporter sucks his dick and massages his prostate, Trump is going to keep attacking the media to discredit all the negative shit that is going to start pouring out.
Dear media, somewhere there is a small burning ember of actual journalistic integrity in your mulch pile of clickbait and faux objectivity.
Blow on that ember. Destroy this man, this Trump. Because if you don't and he's elected, he will be coming after you. This is a petty, angry little person who doesn't give a shit if he insults a federal judge. If he's president, do you think that your precious First Amendment will protect you?


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"El Resquicio" (Trailer)
August 3, 2012 § Leave a comment
"17-year-old Tomás, and his younger sister Marcela, leave home to attend a fancy dress party. She never comes back. A year later, Tomás and his family go on a trip to an isolated country house, intending to heal their wounds…"
"…But in the hauntingly beautiful countryside, the trip will soon turn into a collective hell. The isolation unearths the memories of Marcela's death; one son's deep attraction to his aunt; another son's hatred for his brother; and the dark fantasy that completely envelops the family's 10 year-old twins, based on the macabre stories that their aunt tells them before bed. Soon the family members are sunk into a state of nightmarish insanity that some of them may not survive."
Though there is currently very little info surrounding the release of El Resquicio (literal translation "The Opening") and thus far no English subtitles for this Colombian-Argentine film, the atmosphere in the trailer alone is enough to convey that this is one family for whom a healing trip away is backfiring with ample sufficiency to delight fans of cinematographic, isolated family madness.
Stellar Kinematics – "The Escape"
May 29, 2012 § 2 Comments
Beauty of whatever kind, in its supreme development, invariably excites the sensitive soul to tears – Edgar Allan Poe.
And so it is that this video from French record label and digital art-mongerers, Stellar Kinematics, caused me to have the tears pertaining to that which I find beautiful. This clip is raw from Camera E-8 on the launch umbilical tower/mobile launch program of Apollo 11, July 16, 1969. This is an HD transfer from the 16mm original. More at http://www.spacecraftfilms.com/. Music by Dusty Brown – This City Is Killing Me.
Free download of Dusty Brown's This City Is Killing Me EP available on their website, http://www.dustybrown.com/
You might also like…to play and download this Stellar Kinematics release by Playground.
Tommy Four Seven – "Sor" (CLR) / Funki Porcini – "The Devil Drives" (Ninja Tune)
August 22, 2011 § Leave a comment
Hello. Eclect Elect has returned after a lengthy absence consisting of house move, lack of internet and lovely dog adoption. More information on the great life event that is finally adopting ones own dog will surely follow, but for now I offer you some celebratory music and dancing courtesy of Tommy Four Seven/ The29Nov Films and Funki Porcini/ Luis Buñuel. Enjoy!
MannequInspiration: "Crooked Rot"/ "Manny" (Stop-Motion Animation)
May 7, 2011 § Leave a comment
Growing up with a visual diet of stop-motion animation has ceaselessly endeared it to me for its beguiling, dark charm. A regular fixture of my televisual intake, from the synonymous Ray Harryhausen to the pure magic of Czech Animation, stop-motion captured my head and my heart from a very early age. Czech surrealist filmmaker, Jan Švankmajer, is, of course, still propagating his auteurism within this cinematic field, but reaching a new generation with his mastery of the craft, largely via the internet, is the UK's very own David Firth; animator, musician, video artist, and he of Salad Fingers fame.
Notoriously time consuming, stop-motion has been less of a viable filmmaking option for Firth, but today, reader, we're going to have a mini retrospective of mannequin-based animations from this particular realm of artistry, beginning with Firth's own Crooked Rot, and, as inspiration does beget inspiration, Adam Rosenberg's tributary Manny.
And so I present to you, with music composed by Marcus Fjellström, Crooked Rot…but not before some introductory words on the film by Firth himself:
This project really began when I discovered a treasure cave of strange items in my own back yard including mannequin heads and rubber hands. It inspired me so much that every time I returned I gathered more inspiration.
And now for Adam Rosenberg's heavily-influenced yet sufficiently self-stamped Crooked Rot homage, Manny:
And here are some links should you wish to further investigate the talents involved:
http://www.fat-pie.com/ for David Firth
http://kafkagarden.com/ for Marcus Fjellström
http://www.youtube.com/user/Moose13088x for Adam Rosenberg
"The French Doors" Short Film By Steve Ayson
May 3, 2011 § 1 Comment
Written and directed by Steve Ayson, this 2002 New Zealand short is not only one of my favourites, but over 12-minutes-worth of innovative creepiness to put you off any domestic renovations you might have in mind for, approximately, forever.


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Small Natural Preserved Hydrangeas
Small Natural Preserved Hydrangeas
Can you believe the official start of summer is less than a month away? We are SO ready for it! Yaaaay!!!! To celebrate we are offering our truly beautiful preserved hydrangeas. These were a huge HUGE hit when we introduced them last year. We do our very best to grant your wishes and today is no exception! Oh and to make a sweet deal even sweeter we held our shipping at $5 for the first one and then only $2 for each additional one!
They LOOK real and FEEL real because these hydrangeas ARE REAL! No they are not dried. They are not going to crumble and fall apart or discolor in a few weeks. These beauties are sustainable and will last many many years.
The special preservation process captures all the colors and textures of these flowers when they are at their peak so they look fresh foreternity. Don't you wish WE could continue to look our very best day after day into eternity? Ahhhhh...
Rejoice as they require no maintenance water sun or soil! Even a snoopy friend who touches it will be fooled.
Hint: this would look fabulous on a fireplace mantel or make a stunning centerpiece grouped on your dining table under a gorgeous chandelier. Or even nestled within your iron stone collection for an added touch of life! Planning a wedding? Group these on risers under hurricanes and save your florist the trouble! Take it to your gloomy dark office to bring nature in and scare the shadows away. Hmmm They will also be PERFECT in a white Christmas setting or in a beautiful green and white Spring setting!
- Classic Elegance | Natural Preserved Hydrangeas Pick Your Size
- Crafted from natural preserved white Hydrangeas and come in a beautiful gray seeding pot
- $5 shipping for the first one and $2 more for each additional one.
- Pick from two Sizes:
Option A : 7.5" Diameter 9" High @ $22.50 - Only a Few Left
Option B: 8" Diameter 10" High @ $27.50 - SOLD OUT
- A maximum quantity of 8 is allowed per customer. Sorry these are hand-made and very difficult to get in high QTY.
- Packed: One Per Package (You will receive one pot with Natural Preserved Hydrangeas in the size you order)
- Shipping Date: Leaves our warehouse within fifteen business days


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I couldn't miss the chance to practice my drawing!
Oh, shut up and help me remodel the Flee page!
- Data on enemies using flee.
This request can be discussed on the associated discussion page. Remove this notice upon completion.
Live and let live!Tidus
Flee (とんずら, Tonzura?), also known as Escape and Run Away, is a command ability in some Final Fantasy games that instructs either the entire party to run from a random encounter, or a particular party member to run from that fight. It is usually associated with the Thief class. Occasionally, using this command will cause the party to lose some gil while running. Flee generally has a 100% chance of working, excluding fights from which players cannot run from normally, such as bosses.
Additionally, several enemies have been known to flee from the party, most notably Cactuars. In Final Fantasy and Final Fantasy II, the player can use the Fear spell to force enemies to flee from battle.
Appearances Edit
Final Fantasy III Edit
Flee (also called Escape) is an ability of the Thief job. It causes the party to flee as soon as the Thief takes a turn. It has a 100% success rate in the Famicom version, but can still fail in the 3D remakes.
Final Fantasy V Edit
Quickly escape from battle. You may be unable to escape from some enemies.Description
Flee (also called Escape) is a Level Two command ability for the Thief class, and needs 20 AP to learn. The player may utilize this ability by catching and releasing a Sergeant.
Final Fantasy VI Edit
Flee is an enemy ability that causes the user to escape from battle. It can be used by Doberman, Birthday Suit, Humbaba, Glutturn, Vector Hound, Hunting Hound, Stunner, Intangir, Naude, Fafnir, Deepeye, Mugbear, Magic Urn, Kefka, and Deathgaze.
The Flee ability used by various enemies listed above is different than the one the player has. If Gau could use this ability through his Rage command he would be able to flee from any battle, including boss battles. If Gau ran away from a boss through this ability, and the other party members were all defeated, the game would treat that boss battle as a victory, and that boss battle would be cleared although no items and Magic AP would be awarded to the player through this method.
Final Fantasy VII Edit
Escape is an ability used by Bandit, Vice, and Prowler. After using one of the abilities Steal, Grind, Mug, or Hold-up, the enemy will flee the battle with the player's items or gil. The Chocobo also has an ability of the same name that it uses when it flees the battle.
Report is another ability that makes the unit escape. The Turks, Reno, Rude, and Elena use this at the end of all their battles, and are therefore never technically defeated. The Cactuar uses the ability to escape battle before the player defeats it. The Magic Pot will either use Report or steal an item with Gimme if the player does not relinquish Elixirs. The Ultimate Weapon uses Report in all its fights but its last fight where it is defeated.
Final Fantasy IX Edit
Escape from battle with high probability.Description
Flee is one of Zidane's Skills. It allows the party to immediately escape the battle, but the party loses Gil equal to 10% of the gil held by the opponents. The support ability, Flee-Gil, causes the party to gain gil when escaping with and but it has no effect on Zidane's Flee ability. Flee can be learned for 40 AP from the Dagger, Mage Masher, Zorlin Shape, Ultima Weapon, and Germinas Boots.
If Zidane is poisoned, condemned, or has Gradual Petrify, and the player uses Flee the moment he is going to get KO'd from one of those status effects, he'll still use the ability even though he is KO'd, sending the other members to safety.
Final Fantasy X Edit
Flee is a Special ability located in Tidus's section of the Sphere Grid. It immediately lets the entire party escape any normal random encounter. If Tidus uses this command, he will frequently taunt the enemies while the party escapes. It never fails.
Final Fantasy X-2 Edit
Aid the party's escape from battle."Help" description
Flee is an ability learned by the Thief dressphere. It requires 10 AP to learn, and no MP to use. Run Away is an ability used by the Chocobo, which allows it to escape from battle.
Final Fantasy XI Edit
Flee is a Thief job ability available at level 25 and can be used once every 5 minutes. Once activated, it will drastically increase the rate of speed a character can run. The player will increase in speed to about the same rate a chocobo can run, but only for about 30 seconds. The run speed of Flee is just slightly faster than Chocobo Mazurka.
Final Fantasy XII Edit
By holding down on the controller, the active party can Flee from an area. The command disables all gambits and the party members follow the leader while ignoring any attacking enemies, unless they are berserked or confused. To make fleeing easier, one can set the Battle Speed to slow from the config, which will slow down the speed enemies execute attacks. Fleeing often prompts enemies to pursue the player party, and thus using in the vicinity of fleeing enemies can make the enemy stop running away, and instead start pursuing the party.
Final Fantasy Tactics A2: Grimoire of the Rift Edit
Flee is a ability exclusive to Vaan's job, the Sky Pirate. It increases Vaan's mobility, allowing him to move farther and jump higher.
Final Fantasy: The 4 Heroes of Light Edit
The Wayfarer's job abilities let the player party run from battles.
Bravely Default Edit
Flee is a Miscellany ability learned by Freelancers at job level 11. It allows party members to always succeed in escaping from battles, though it will not work in certain battles or areas.
Final Fantasy Dimensions Edit
Flees from battle.Description
Flee is the level 3 ability for the Thief class, which allows the party to escape from fleeable battles. It costs no MP to use and requires one slot to equip and utilize. Some monsters may also use Flee (とうそう, tousou?, lit. escape), which removes them from battle and prevents XP, gil, or items from being awarded for them. Flee can also be used by a jobless Nacht.
Theatrhythm Final Fantasy Edit
Escape comes in three levels of power. Escape activates during Field Music Sequence (FMS) when the player receives Bad or worse on a Trigger, and has a chance of avoiding damage, activating up to three times per stage. The ability has a chance to activate based on the level of the ability—25% at Lv1, 55% at Lv2, and 85% at Lv3. Cid, Bartz, Faris, Zidane and Yuna all learn all three levels of Escape.
Theatrhythm Final Fantasy Curtain Call Edit
Escape (Lv1) is a reactive ability that costs 2 CP to equip. It is activated in Field Music Sequences (FMS) when the player receives a BAD or worse on a Trigger. It allows the player to escape damage with 25% success up to 3 times. It is learned by Cid (level 5), Faris (level 5), Edgar (default), Zidane (default), Lilisette (default), Vaan (level 5), and Vanille (level 10).
Escape (Lv2) is a reactive ability that costs 3 CP to equip. It is activated in FMS when the player receives a BAD or worse on a Trigger. It allows the player to escape damage with 55% success up to 3 times. It is learned by Cid (level 45), Edge (level 30), Faris (level 20), Yuffie (level 55), Zidane (level 15), Balthier (level 20), and Vanille (level 45).
Escape (Lv3) is a reactive ability that costs 4 CP to equip. It is activated in FMS when the player receives a BAD or worse on a Trigger. It allows the player to escape damage with 85% success up to 3 times. It is learned by Cid (level 80), Yuffie (level 90), Zidane (level 35), and Balthier (level 45).
Theatrhythm Final Fantasy All-Star Carnival Edit
Pictlogica Final Fantasy Edit
Final Fantasy Brave Exvius Edit
Can escape most enemiesDescription
Escape is an active ability that costs 4 MP and allows the user to flee from battle, ending it prematurely. When Escape used in an exploration map, the party returns to the map and may continue exploring; when it used during a dungeon, any item, experience or gil obtained during the session will be lost—as will be any items consumed or the energy spent to enter the dungeon, since they will not be replenished. In some cases, using Escape can allow skipping mob monsters right to the boss battle. The Smoke Bomb items fulfills the same function and effects. It can be learned by Eldin (level 12, 1★), Kefka (level 6, 3★), Locke (level 7, 4★), Thief (level 12, 4★) and Zidane (level 15, 4★). Escape also is Paul's Trust Master reward.
Players can otherwise click the Menu option and select "Give Up", both in exploration maps and dungeons (though it will end the session outright and will mean the loss of energy).
World of Final FantasyEdit
Flee is a passive ability that guarantees escape as long as an enemy can be fled from. It can be used by Black Chocochick, Cactrot, Cactuar, and Cactuar Johnny.