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In '98 I started a roth and elected to pay the tax over four years. At the time I was single and under the AGI. In 99 I got married and the combined AGI is over the Roth limit. Can I continue to pay the second year's pro rated tax or are there consequences to now exceeding the ROTH AGI limit?

Not only "can" you continue paying taxes on the pro rated income, but I think the IRS would be upset if you did not. As long as you were eligible to rollover in 1998 (I am assuming from your question that you did do a rollover), I don't think it matters that you would not be eligible to do a rollover (or even contribute to a Roth) during one of the years in which you are including a portion of the income from the rollover.

You probably know this, but remember that the AGI limit for contributing to a Roth is higher than the AGI limit for doing a rollover, and each of these numbers is higher for married persons filing a joint return.

"Man is not like other animals in the ways that are really significant: animals have instincts, we have taxes." -- Erving Goffman
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Viktor Kinko

Character recognition

One of the most important modern trends in the software — programs that have computer vision. This technology allows us to analyze the information in the images and video files. For example, read the text, or to detect the location of certain objects.

For the practical study of this technology I was given the task of determining cup in the photo. To implement it, it was decided to use the android + OpenCV ( OpenCV is an open source computer vision library, designed for C ++, python, java and many other languages. It has many functions, but we are interested in the ability to process images and perform them search for objects using a cascade algorithm Viola-Jones.

Viola-Jones algorithm is a method for detecting objects in images based on Haar signs. Its main features are high speed and low false alarm rate. Initially the algorithm was developed for the face detection, but it can be trained to detect other objects. It splits an image into areas, evaluate brightness in these areas and cut-off areas where classified the subject is not clear. This algorithm is implemented in OpenCV as separate function, which requires the classifier file for input that defines the weights for the algorithm work and the image where the search will probe.

For training the classifier I have used a Cascade-Trainer-GUI program (, which provides a window interface for standard software from a set of OpenCV — opencv_createsamples and opencv_traincascade.
The interface of Cascade-Trainer-GUI program
The process of training begins with the preparation of input data. Images act as inputs containing and not containing the original object. Images with the object are considered positive and go to p folder and those where is no object — negative and placed in n folder. It is worth noting that the positive image should contain only recognizable object and nothing else. Otherwise it should have to create a file that will contain the coordinates of the object in the image.

opencv_createsamples is a program that generates the source files for opencv_traincascade. Negatives are formed on the principle of cutting: a random area cuts out of the negative pictures. Positives are created by putting some positive image of the object on the negative, with minor changes of brightness, rotation, and perspective.

After samples are created opencv_traincascade is used, which receives the samples and determines, based on their weight and the crossing thresholds for cascade classifier. The weights should be chosen thus that the network will reject all the negative images and will took all positive.

But it is only a theory. In practice these processes are carried out by Cascade-Trainer-GUI, which is required to get started only two folders of photographs, one of which is called p and the other n. Here the positive and negative samples are contain respectively. To train the network, I took 47 pictures of my object with different camera angle, light angle, tilt and brightness. After that, I doubled this number by specular reflection. There were only 42 negative photos, but with the help of the slicing of the images there was created 1000 negative samples. Some of the negative images was taken from the Internet for variety.
Positive samples from the folder p
Negative samples in the folder n
After data preparation we attune tool for training. By and large, most settings do not need to change, they are already installed in the optimum values, but it took me to change a few options in the tab train-cascade, namely, sample width and sample height. These options specify the proportions for the samples, for an area that the classifier would later discover. And if you leave it as they are (both equal to 24 by default), the detectable area will be a square. Because cup does not fit well in the square area, I specified these parameters equal 30 and 40, respectively, which was based on proportions of my positive samples.
The settings of Cascade-Trainer-GUI program
To obtain results we start the process of training. Depending on the number of input samples it takes different time. Initially, it was used a small number of samples, which led to bad result of the classifier work, but the training was going quite quickly (about five minutes). With 94 positive images the classifier training process took about three hours.
An example of a classifier file
Let’s write a small program on android using the classifier file. It will take an image from the camera, analyze it with the classifier and highlight areas containing the desired object. Below I will give the main points of the code relevant to our problem.

OpenCV initialization:
It should to pay attention to the fact that OpenCV is initialized using the function initDebug, not initAsync. It is because the OpenCV libraries in this case are connected to the project directly.

Opening a file classifier:
Using a classifier to obtain a list of areas:
It is a function of the object recognition in the image. It returns a matrix of Rect objects, ie recognized areas. Line
detector.detectMultiScale(mat, items, 1.1, 3, 0, new Size(25, 25), new Size());
has lots of options. The first — a source image in OpenCV matrix format. The second — a matrix of results. Other parameters: zoom factor (how does cropped image size change after each pass of the algorithm, default is 1.1), minimal neighborhood (helps eliminate false positives and draw multiple operation in one area, the default is 3), flags (unused legacy-parameter), minimum and maximum size (defines a boundary for detectable area). The minimum size is set to 25 pixels because on smaller areas the false alarms occur more often. The maximum size is left without limitations.

The result of the work is a phone app, that highlights the cup on the photos with a green rectangle. It is meanwhile unable to eliminate false positives, therefore sometimes detector allocates, as it seems, completely random area. Nevertheless, the desired object is almost always highlighted in the photos.
An example of the correct work of the classifier
An example of the correct work of the classifier
An example of false alarm of the classifier (a selection around the shadow)
An example of the lack of the object in the image
As a result, we can say that objects recognizing is not a particularly difficult task. For achieving it is enough to spend a few hours to prepare the samples and to create the classifier. The only obstacle is in OpenCV library itself. It can be connected directly through including in the project, but the library is large; in addition, this method is noted by the OpenCV developers as the debug-connection. The correct version is the one where the app prompts the user to download the library separately on your phone during OpenCV initialization. The problem with this approach is that you will have to explain to the user in some way that in order to connect the recognition function, he will need to download a separate app.

An alternative for OpenCV are web services for image recognition, for example Clarifai ( This method is slower and not suitable for recognition of objects in real time, but will greatly reduce the weight of the final application. In case if the size of the final application (or installation of third-party OpenCV app for user) is not an issue, then this approach will be correct.
Thanks for reading!


Monday, February 23, 2009

Summary --Equations for the motions in a galaxy which is controlled by gravitational forces and inertial effects are formulated. It is found that for the motions relative to the rotating system formulae analogous, and of similar form, to the geostrophie wind equations may be written. From these formulae and from the distribution of the relative gravitational potential in the disc of the galaxy, it is found that a spiral tendency in the mass distribution carries the implication of an inward flux of angular momentum by advective processes. This is to be compared with an outward flux through gravitational torques obtained in previous studies in which the writer participated.

1. Introduction --A large tract of Newtonian theory can be more compactly and conveniently discussed in terms of the gravitational potential % a concept introduced subsequent to the time of Newton. The fundamental equation relating ~ to the spacial distribution of mass is the familiar equation of Poisson, namely, (1) V2~ = 4rsGp
where G is the universal constant of gravitation and p is the density of mass in space.
It is well known that certain philosophical difficulties arise in an attempt to apply (1) to the entire universe as was pointed out notably by EINSTEIN (1917), and modern cosmological theory may be said to have had its beginning in this source. If the mass density ~ is taken over some finite region of space, one property- of equation (1) is that it alone does not possess the competence to specify the motion of a given interior mass point. The solution of (1), speaking mathematically, consists of two parts, namely, a complimentary function which is not uniquely fixed by the interior mass, and a particular integral which is so determined.

For the specification of the complimentary function one must apply as a boundary condition added information, let us say, concerning the value of the potential at an infinite distance from the given mass distribution if it is one that is isolated in space, as we shall for our present purpose now assume. Under these conditions the subject takes on a simple form owing to the fact that the complimentary function, since it is a solution of (]) with the right hand member zero (i.e., of Laplace's.

Reference :

Thursday, February 19, 2009

Wind shear

Wind shear refers to the variation of wind over either horizontal or vertical distances. Airplane pilots generally regard significant windshear to be a horizontal change in airspeed of 30 knots (15 m/s) for light aircraft, and near 45 knots (22 m/s) for airliners.[2] Vertical speed changes greater than 4.9 knots (2.5 m/s) also qualify as significant wind shear for aircraft. Low level wind shear can affect aircraft airspeed during take off and landing in disastrous ways.[3] It is also a key factor in the creation of severe thunderstorms. The additional hazard of turbulence is often associated with wind shear.

References :

In two dimensional turbulence (as can be approximated in the atmosphere or ocean), energy actually flows to larger scales. This is referred to as the inverse energy cascade and is characterized by a k − (5 / 3) in the power spectrum. This is the main reason why large scale weather features such as hurricanes occur.

References :

Wednesday, February 18, 2009

Temperature and layer

From 500–1,000 km (310–620 mi; 1,600,000–3,300,000 ft) up to 10,000 km (6,200 mi; 33,000,000 ft), contain free-moving particles that may migrate into and out of the magnetosphere or the solar wind.
Also known as the 'critical level', it is the lower boundary of the exosphere.
The part of the atmosphere that is ionized by solar radiation stretches from 50 to 1,000 km (31 to 620 mi; 160,000 to 3,300,000 ft) and typically overlaps both the exosphere and the thermosphere. It plays an important part in atmospheric electricity and forms the inner edge of the magnetosphere. Because of its charged particles, it has practical importance because it influences, for example, radio propagation on the Earth. It is responsible for auroras.
The boundary above the thermosphere, it varies in height from 500–1,000 km (310–620 mi; 1,600,000–3,300,000 ft).
From 80–85 km (50–53 mi; 260,000–280,000 ft) to over 640 km (400 mi; 2,100,000 ft), temperature increasing with height. Although the temperature can rise to 1,500 °C (2,730 °F), a person would not feel warm because of the extreme low pressure. The International Space Station orbits in this layer, between 320 and 380 km (200 and 240 mi).
The temperature minimum at the boundary between the thermosphere and the mesosphere. It is the coldest place on Earth, with a temperature of −100 °C (−148.0 °F; 173.1 K).
From the Greek word "μέσος" meaning middle. The mesosphere extends from about 50 km (31 mi; 160,000 ft) to the range of 80–85 km (50–53 mi; 260,000–280,000 ft). Temperature decreases with height, reaching −100 °C (−148.0 °F; 173.1 K) in the upper mesosphere. This is also where most meteors burn up when entering the atmosphere.
The boundary between the mesosphere and the stratosphere, typically 50 to 55 km (31 to 34 mi; 160,000 to 180,000 ft). The pressure here is 1/1000th sea level.
From the Latin word "stratus" meaning spreading out. The stratosphere extends from the troposphere's 7–17 km (4.3–11 mi; 23,000–56,000 ft) range to about 51 km (32 mi; 170,000 ft). Temperature increases with height. The stratosphere contains the ozone layer, the part of the Earth's atmosphere which contains relatively high concentrations of ozone. "Relatively high" means a few parts per million—much higher than the concentrations in the lower atmosphere but still small compared to the main components of the atmosphere. It is mainly located in the lower portion of the stratosphere from approximately 15–35 km (9.3–22 mi; 49,000–110,000 ft) above Earth's surface, though the thickness varies seasonally and geographically.
Ozone Layer
Though part of the Stratosphere, the ozone layer is considered as a layer of the Earth's atmosphere in itself due to the fact that its physical and chemical composition is far different to the Stratosphere. Ozone (O3) in the earth's stratosphere is created by ultraviolet light striking oxygen molecules containing two oxygen atoms (O2), splitting them into individual oxygen atoms (atomic oxygen); the atomic oxygen then combines with unbroken O2 to create O3. O3 is unstable (although, in the stratosphere, long-lived) and when ultraviolet light hits ozone it splits into a molecule of O2 and an atom of atomic oxygen, a continuing process called the ozone-oxygen cycle. This occurs in the ozone layer, the region from about 10 to 50 km (33,000 to 160,000 ft) above Earth's surface. About 90% of the ozone in our atmosphere is contained in the stratosphere. Ozone concentrations are greatest between about 20 and 40 km (66,000 and 130,000 ft), where they range from about 2 to 8 parts per million.
The boundary between the stratosphere and troposphere.
From the greek word "τρέπω" meaning to turn or change. The troposphere is the lowest layer of the atmosphere; it begins at the surface and extends to between 7 km (23,000 ft) at the poles and 17 km (56,000 ft) at the equator, with some variation due to weather factors. The troposphere has a great deal of vertical mixing because of solar heating at the area. This heating makes air masses less dense so they rise. When an air mass rises, the pressure upon it decreases so it expands, doing work against the opposing pressure of the surrounding air. To do work is to expend energy, so the temperature of the air mass decreases. As the temperature decreases, water vapor in the air mass may condense or solidify, releasing latent heat that further uplifts the air mass. This process determines the maximum rate of decline of temperature with height, called the adiabatic lapse rate. The troposphere contains roughly 80% of the total mass of the atmosphere. Fifty percent of the total mass of the atmosphere is located in the lower 5.6 km (18,000 ft) of the troposphere.

The average temperature of the atmosphere at the surface of Earth is 20 °C (68 °F; 293 K)

Weather forecasting

Weather Words

"There is a sound of abundance of rain."

—1 Kings

Meteorology is the science of studying the atmosphere.

Cirrus Cloud

Cirrus is composed mainly of ice crystals and is usually white in colour. Ice crystals make the cloud look even brighter and more translucent. Against a blue sky, the white delicate filaments of cirrus are spotlessly clean and display a silk-like gloss. Cirrus is usually thin, wispy and scattered. There are patches of narrow bands with fibrous texture which look like feathers, hair, tenuous trail or ponytails. It is fascinating to see cirrus in a variety of shapes and sizes.

Cirrus is a kind of high-level cloud. Among all cloud genera, cirrus is the highest in the troposphere. The average height of cirrus is over 6,000 metres. It is so high in the upper air that when the sun has not risen above the horizon before dawn or has gone downhill after nightfall, sunlight can still shine on this detached, over-hanging and shadowless cloud. After scattering the sunlight, it produces an attractive red or orange hue, a very common sight on summer days.

"Bright white clouds floating on the azure sky. Like cotton fiber spreading on bluish green sea." - the most beautiful cloud is cirrus.

Since Cirrus is very high in the sky, even if it turns into water droplets, they tend to evaporate before reaching ground. This is the reason why rain is not detected on the ground and Cirrus is mainly associated with fine weather.

Do you know what kind of cloud will appear in the sky a couple of days before the arrival of bad weather or tropical cyclone? (Hint: This cloud is most probably present at a height more than 10 kilometres. It is among the highest clouds.) The answer is Cirrus. The rising air associated with tropical cyclones pushes moist air up to the height of 5 to 6 kilometres. Because of the low temperature there, water vapour condenses into small, clear crystals. A layer of glossy Cirrus forms which drifts out from the centre of the tropical cyclone because of divergence at that level. So, when the outer edge of a tropical cyclone reaches Hong Kong, we can see Cirrus high in the sky. People call it the “Mother of Typhoon”.


Footnoting essay book

Rather than the items that distinguish competent candidates, person-centered studies evaluate the examinees themselves. While this might seem more appropriate, it is often more difficult because examinees are not a captive population, as is a list of items. For example, if a new test comes out regarding new content (as often happens in information technology tests), the test could be given to an initial sample called a beta sample, along with a survey of professional characteristics. The testing organization could then analyze and evaluate the relationship between the test scores and important statistics, such as skills, education, and experience. The cutscore could be set as the score that best differentiates between those examinees characterized as "passing" and those as "failing."

Footnoting essay book

footnoting essay book

footnoting essay bookfootnoting essay bookfootnoting essay bookfootnoting essay book


Leg length measurement: A new method to assure the …

In Situ Leg Length Measurement Technique in Hip Arthroplasty

Leg length measurement: A new method to assure the correct leg length in total hip arthroplasty

In Situ Leg Length Measurement Technique in Hip Arthroplasty ..

The clamshell devices restored the distal excursion of the CoP () such that the peak GRFs () were borne by the prosthetic forefoot well beyond the distal end of the residuum (40% of shoe length). As such, the peak ankle joint moment () and peak knee flexion moment () were comparable to those observed in the control sample. The clamshell devices were constructed with a rigid socket that encompassed the residuum and leg segments such that the device eliminated ankle motion. The forefeet of these devices were made either from the distal portion of a prosthetic forefoot or had a solid laminated section out to the toe-break (). The devices restored the effective foot length, because they incorporated a stiff forefoot capable of supporting the amputee's body mass during loading and a socket that could comfortably distribute the forces caused by loading the toe lever [26]. Immobilizing the ankle meant that the foot segment and tibial shell were rigidly linked, and as such, the device could moderate the moments caused by loading the toe lever. If the device were to allow ankle motion, then the moments caused by loading the toe lever would need to be controlled by the calf musculature; should this not be possible (either through weakness or discomfort on the residual foot caused by contraction of these muscles), then the persons with amputation would likely not be able to load the prosthetic forefoot in this way.

In situ leg length measurement allows accurate ..

The limited distal excursion of the CoP commensurate with the peak GRF led to reductions in the ankle plantar flexion moment () and the absence of a knee flexion moment following midstance (). Persons with TMT and Lisfranc amputation may moderate the external moments at the ankle and knee to compensate for atrophy and weakness of the cojoint ankle plantar flexors and knee flexors. Alternatively, this strategy could be a means of reducing plantar pressure and shear caused by contraction of the soleus and gastrocnemius musculature. Moreover, this adaptation may minimize the residual foot/socket interface pressures caused by loading the toe lever or may compensate for the prosthetic forefoot being too compliant [26].

You should compare user’s skin color and ProsthStyle prosthetic cover on the skin area just below the knee joint.
This project aims to substitute the goniometers (angle measurement devices for prosthesis control) a that extract the knee angle on the sound leg.

In situ leg length measurement allows accurate measurement of leg ..

Subjects with amputation were recruited through either the Queensland Amputee Limb Service (QALS) or prosthetic/orthotic service providers in Queensland, Australia. Of the 56 individuals identified through these avenues, data could be collected on 7 persons with PFA. Minimal exclusion criteria were applied to the sample with amputation because of the limited number of potential participants; as such, the amputee cohort was quite variable in cause of amputation, amputation level, years since amputation, number of limbs affected, and types of prosthetic fitting (). Subjects were excluded if they ambulated with the use of any gait aids, had concomitant health problems such as ulceration, or had neuromuscular/musculoskeletal conditions that might affect their gait. Diabetes or peripheral vascular disease were not considered criteria for exclusion, although none of the subjects with amputation had these systemic illnesses. The reported incidences of gangrene could be traced back to nonvascular causes, such as frostbite or burns.

CT digital radiography is a new accurate technique for measuring leg length discrepancy

Leg Length Discrepancy - Causes and Treatment | Bone …

Many of these insights are challenging to contemporary clinical practice. While clinicians often strive to preserve ankle range when designing prostheses, little benefit may exist in terms of the mechanics of gait for persons with TMT and Lisfranc amputation. Given the likelihood of complications such as ulceration, perhaps above-ankle designs may be more readily considered because the benefits associated with maintaining ankle range were not widely realized.

Powered leg prosthesis and control methodologies for obtaining near normal gait US 8986396 B2

Low-cost prosthesis: using natural fibres ..


CogniFit's Science blog: What Are Neurons?

What Are Neurons?

Neurons are a very sophisticated cell in our body. They are responsible for sending communications throughout the brain in both chemical and electrical form. There are several different types of these highly specialized cells in our body and they all have different tasks to do.

The first kinds of neurons are sensory neurons. These cells are responsible for converting external stimuli with to internal stimuli. These neurons send signals through the brain and spine based on physical modalities such as light, sound and temperature. It also responds to other senses such as touch, pressure, vibration and pain.

The second kinds of neurons are motor neurons. These neurons communicate with your muscles and are responsible for motor activity. These neurons are further divided into two different parts Alpha Motoneurons and Gamma Motoneurons. Each motor neuron may communicate with one or several different muscle fibers.

One of the main differences between neurons and other types of cells it that neurons stop producing shortly after birth. Neurons can disappear over time and will never come back once gone. However new connections between neurons can be created over time. So while you may end up at the end of life with less neurons than you started with you are likely to have more connections.

Neurons come in many different shapes and sizes. The smallest are less than 4 microns wide and the largest are up to 100 microns wide. Neurons like other cells contain a nucleus a cell membrane and cytoplasm. They also contain mitochondria and other organelles. Neurons can be classified by the diretion they send information. Sensory neurons send information towards the central nervous system. Motor neurons send information away from the central nervous system and interneurons send information between the sensory and motor neurons.

The neuron has three basic parts the dendrites, cell body and the axon. Dendrites are the tree like extensions that branch out from the cell. The cell body is where the signals from the dendrites are received and processed. The axon is located at the end of the cell body and controls the firing of the neuron. Neurons can vary in shape and size depending on what job they do in the body.

The way that neurons communicate information is through signals. The signal is sparked in the cell and then sent out and passed along through the neurological system until it reaches its intended target. The way the neurons send information throughout the body is nothing short of amazing.

Neuroscience and scientists are all the time discovering new surprising findings about neurons as we are only starting to understand that key component of life.


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Energy conservation regulations, such as fuel taxes and fuel economy mandates for automobiles, are often assumed to reduce air pollution in lock step with the reduction in fuel consumption. Under the current system of tailpipe emissions regulations in the United States, this is not necessarily true. This paper uses a simple graphical analysis to illustrate the relative impact of fuel taxes and fuel economy standards on pollution levels given the current tailpipe emissions standards and an alternative emissions standard. Under current tailpipe emissions standards, increases in fuel economy would actually raise emissions, and significantly larger fuel taxes would be required to achieve the same level ftollution reduction as under the proposed alternative standard. These results confirm earlier findings that used mathematical and stochastic simulation methods to address this issue.

Purchase ( $25 )

JEL Codes:
Q55 - Environmental Economics: Technological Innovation
Q54 - Climate; Natural Disasters and Their Management; Global Warming

Keywords: Energy planning and policy, gasoline taxes, pollution control, energy conservation, US, CAFÉ

DOI: 10.5547/ISSN0195-6574-EJ-Vol18-No2-2

Published in Volume18, Number 2 of The Quarterly Journal of the IAEE's Energy Economics Education Foundation.


What drives not merely the individual but our society as a whole? How do we regard our own experiences, and, as an extension, how does that affect how we relate to the experiences of another? How do our individual motivations affect our societal motivations and vice versa? These core questions serve as the catalyst for my work. By developing artwork with this line of inquiry in mind, which includes research into contemporary as well as historic social criticisms, I come closer to finding answers to the questions that fuel my artistic practice. Throughout the process, I mine the many ways our human community operates- to resolve how it functions and dysfunctions; how its members connect or disconnect; and what leads one group to disenfranchise another.


Remittances outflow from

Change country

Remittances from Madagascar - 1990 to 2000

The following chart gives the statistical information about the remittance outflow from Madagascar during the period of 1990 to 2000. To get more statistics information please select the data range below. To get statistics on other countries visit the below section "Remittances - more countries".

Check how much Madagascar receives in remittances from other countries

Remittances from Madagascar - 1990 to 2000

Remittance outflows from Madagascar were about $13 million (1996), $15 million (1997), $13 million (1998), $11 million (1999), $12 million (2000) to other countries.

List of remittance recipients from Madagascar

France $118 million.

China $16 million.

India $15 million.

Comoros $6 million.

Pakistan $5 million.

Algeria $3 million.

Belgium $1 million.

Italy $1 million.

Switzerland $1 million.

Germany $1 million.


Page 1

For all these Idents I decided to get a set amount of rules to follow to save time, instead of copying actual scenes from my main seqaunce I decided to take idea's from it instead and pretty much recreate the scenes very similar but with an ident in mind. I copied the same scene set up technique as I used with my main sequence to keep it simple. Except this time I just cut the scenes down to about 10 seconds and simplified them. The song I used has various beat drops so I decided to fade in the BBC logo as soon as the beat drops. I also arranged it to fit in with the structure on the image. I made sure to keep the text on screen for a further 3 seconds after it starts to fade in just to make it more readable.

Ident 1

The main idea I had with this Ident was that there was a drop in the beat of the song so I arranged it to drop around 4 seconds at which point I started to fade in my Program information. I also constantly let the sand layers and the background move while slowly panning forward my camera this gave a good idea of movement while still working along with the song. The main focus of this Ident was the imagery. I also kept the program information on the screen a further 3 seconds after it was fully faded in to make sure it was visible for the viewer and I checked that it was within the title safe.

By arranging The layers on the top view I was able to see more accurately where they were in Z space and I could then work out the depth and shadowing of each layer better.

The Lights were a key aspect of the scene as it gave the extra shadowing to my layers.

Ident 2

Similar Z space layout as the pervious Egypt ident except I changed the background and the structure to make it slightly different. I also changed the part of the song so it would have a different drop. All I did was build a moving 3D environment then pan a camera slowly through it.

Although this ident looks very similar to the last I used a different part of the some and background to change it up a bit. The ident follows the same rules where the beat drops around 4 seconds and takes around 3 seconds for the information to fade in on screen, I parented the text with the camera. I then kept the text on screen for a further 3 seconds to make sure its visible. The main focal point for the ident is the image.

Ident 3

Screen Set up, I put some layers of grass behind the pyramid as well to give the idea its in a middle of a forest. Really simple spaced layers to give a reasonable amount of depth.

Similar layer set up as the rest of my idents except theres only 2 different sets of treeâ€™s I just copied them and translated them to look slightly different and changed the colour so I could use the same imagery over and over.

In theses screen shots it looks like the text breaks the title safe but it should not Tested it on screen and it was very clear. Yet again this Ident runs on the same rules of all the other except I used a slightly different part of the song for it.

Ident 4

Similar layer set up with elements taken from main seqaunce. Layers are equally spread out to give similar feeling of depth.

Same type of layer set up as all the others.

The only slightly different element this Ident has is more depth of field with the camera mainly because I had to make the clouds larger which resulted in them pixelating a little bit but by blurring them out a bit and focusing on the structure you dont really notice it much.

ident breakdown

ident breakdown


Pain Relief and Prevention

10 Part Series

Brian's passion in life is to help people get out of pain where ever it exists in your body. Using focused yoga exercises and stretches he demonstrates and guides your through this pain alleviating video series. Each exercise builds upon the previous one, these will get you out of pain and out of soreness.

Wrist Pain Introduction

Shoulder Pain Introduction

Mid-Back Pain Introduction

Lower Back Pain Introduction

Foot & Ankle Pain Introduction

A brief look at what causes foot and ankle pain, sprains, plantar fasciitis, and ways to open up the tight spots in your foot. You can use very small and very specific movements that will strengthen and stretch your supporting muscles that are dormant or unused. You will feel relief after the first time your do these exercises, but the key is consistency, repeat once a day for 30 days.

Throughout these videos Brian goes through a series of focused yoga exercises designed to give pain relief. By strengthening, stretching and relaxing the muscles in your targeted stress related area, you are able to create prolonged comfort. You are also able to prevent further injury in your area that causes pain as well as the surrounding areas. Each video gives 4-5 different exercises that are designed to go in  a specific order to strengthen targeted muscles and release stress.  Repeat each series once a day for 30 days to maximize results. You should start feeling pain relief after the first set of exercises.

Pain Prevention Guided Exercise Series

Stretching and focused yoga exercises to the surrounding muscles can create prolonged relaxation and prevent possible injury in the future. Muscles that are in pain are usually over elongated or too stretched out already, but stretching surrounding muscles you are able to relax the tight areas. While working with breath and small movements, your muscles create new small balancing and support strength to help prevent future injuries.

Work with Brian Directly

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June/July 2013

Getting to Know: Essential Pork Cuts

Here are the 12 cuts of pork we use most often in the test kitchen, along with notes on how to cook them.

Pork Loin

The large, tender loin is from the pig’s back, and it’s best roasted (we like to sear it first to provide extra flavor). Lean pork loin can dry out if cooked beyond 140 degrees—use an instant-read thermometer to make sure you cook it correctly. You can buy the loin bone-in or boneless. One way we enjoy a boneless loin roast is seared then roasted with a honey glaze.

Pork Chops

Pork chops come thin or thick cut; bone-in or boneless; and from the sirloin or from the shoulder, rib, or center of the loin. In the test kitchen, we prefer bone-in rib and center-cut loin chops for sautéing or grilling; blade chops (cut from the shoulder) are fattier and better braised. To avoid overcooking, cook lean chops to an internal temperature of 145 degrees. For extra insurance against dried-out chops, brine them before cooking.

Pork Butt

To coax the most from pork butt, a tough, fatty, relatively inexpensive cut from the upper part of the pig’s shoulder, slowly smoke, roast, or braise it to tenderness. This cut—also called Boston butt—comes bone-in or boneless, weighs 6 to 8 pounds, and is often shredded after cooking. If we don’t plan to shred it, we tie the roast before cooking.

Ham Hocks

Ham hocks give porky (and sometimes smoky) flavor to soups, stews, and pots of long-simmered greens. Cut from the lower portion of the pig’s hind leg, the hock has lots of fat, bone, and connective tissue, plus a little meat, so it requires long cooking to release flavor and tenderize. Ham hocks are usually sold smoked or cured, although fresh ones are available, too.

Picnic Shoulder

Just below the pork butt, where the pig’s front leg meets its torso, is the picnic shoulder, also called the pork shoulder. Like the pork butt, the shoulder is fatty and needs long cooking, but unlike the butt, it’s usually sold bone-in. The picnic shoulder has a considerable cap of fat and skin—perfect for making crackling. Don’t confuse picnic shoulders with picnic hams: The latter are smoked.

Cut from near the fatty belly of the pig, spareribs include the rib bones, the meat between them, and the brisket bone near the pig’s chest. They can weigh more than 4 pounds per rack. We prefer the slightly smaller St. Louis–style ribs (seen here), which fit better on a backyard grill because the bones and meat from the brisket section have been removed. They cook more quickly and evenly, too.

Baby Back Ribs

These ribs come from the back of the pig, along the vertebrae. They’re smaller than spareribs, usually less than 2 pounds per rack. These ribs have more meat and less connective tissue than spareribs do, which is good, but there is a drawback: Baby backs are relatively lean, so they can easily dry out if overcooked.

Country-Style Ribs

These ribs are made from halved or butterflied rib chops from the blade (shoulder) end of the tenderloin. They contain both dark meat from the shoulder and light meat from the loin; we like to brine them (to keep the white meat moist) and then pound them to an even thickness (so the dark meat cooks through faster).

Pork Tenderloin

Pork tenderloin, the muscle that runs down either side of the backbone, is lean, mild, and, yes, tender—in fact, it’s the single most tender part of the pig. We like to sear tenderloins and then finish them either in the oven or on the cooler part of the grill. Before you start cooking, trim off the shiny membrane (it’s called the silverskin, and it’s unpleasantly chewy).

Fresh Ham

Most of us think of ham as a pink haunch that’s smoked, fully cooked, and ready to eat. Fresh ham is none of those things: It’s simply the pig’s upper hind leg. Whole fresh hams can weigh up to 25 pounds, so they’re usually broken down into the sirloin (or “butt”) end closer to the torso, and the tapered shank end (seen here; we prefer this cut for easy carving). Brine fresh ham before cooking it to keep it moist.

Cured Ham

Cured city hams are wet-cured in brine, while country hams are dry-cured in salt and then aged. If the label says anything more than “ham” or “ham with natural juices,” don’t buy it. Also avoid boneless hams, which can be spongy. Our favorite country ham is Harper’s Grand Champion Whole Country Ham. Our winning spiral ham is Cook’s Spiral Sliced Hickory Smoked Bone-In Honey Ham.

Pork Belly

The fatty, succulent pork belly has become a hugely popular restaurant cut. Chefs braise and sear sections of the belly to create a dish that’s crisp on the outside and unctuous within. Bacon is pork belly that’s been salted, (usually) sugared, and smoked. Pancetta, sometimes called Italian bacon, is similar but not smoked.


CHARLES and Camilla are leading separate lives as she struggles to cope with the pressures of being a royal, we can reveal today.

Prince Charles and his wife Camilla, Duchess of Cornwall / GETTY Prince Charles and his wife Camilla, Duchess of Cornwall / GETTY

With that kind of life how can you ever be a normal person? He was born into it, she wasn’t, she came into it much later in life

Camilla's hairdresser confidante Jo Hansford

There she is free from the stuffy red carpet world, Charles’ demanding ways and being on show at public events.

And today Jo lifts the lid on the royal marriage as the couple approach their seventh wedding anniversary in April.

The Daily Star Sunday has also learned Palace officials are “concerned” over Camilla’s disappearing acts, which take place nearly every ten days.

And an “irritated” Charles, 63, has spoken to his 64-year-old wife about the time they are spending apart.

Jo, whose A-lister clients include Angelina Jolie and Gwyneth Paltrow, said: “Ray Mill House is her escape. She likes to be in her own home.

“It is not like they are 20 and you think, why are you doing that, what has gone wrong with the relationship? It’s sensible.

“That escape is fantastic from her point of view.

A royal aide said: “This is causing concern about the future. She goes off at least once a week or every ten days to escape.

“Charles is worried and irritated and has spoken to her.

“But she thinks he is being unfair and can’t understand all the fuss.

“At the moment he is prepared to put up with it but there will come a time when he won’t.

Camilla does not like long journeys or flying.

But she will have to bite the bullet when the couple visit Australia for the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee later this year.

She will also have to act the part despite her secret desire to keep away from the cameras.

Camilla poured out the intimate details of her life during her regular £450 two-hour long hair colouring appointments at Jo’s exclusive salon in London’s Mayfair.

Jo said: “She likes being in Scotland, it’s sanctuary, no cameras and no dressing up. She loves it up there.”

A spokesman for Charles and Camilla said: “She has always had a home at Ray Mill where she spends time with her family.

“They are not leading separate lives, they do joint engagements and individual engagements to maximise the impact the royals have.”


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Membership of an appropriate professional body would be advantageous.

To apply, please send to: joinus@saudi-rsc.com


Remember that Comic-Con trailer for Justice League? The one that ended with ripples in a glass of scotch and Alfred (Jeremy Irons) looking at someone off-screen and saying “He said you’d come. Now let’s hope you’re not too late.”? That was a cool tease for the film. It was a reasonable assumption to guess Alfred was speaking to Superman (Henry Cavill); he died in Batman v Superman, but you had to figure he’d be back at some point in Justice League. But maybe it was someone else! Maybe there was a surprise seventh hero in the film! That would have been really cool.

Reader, it wasn’t cool. And we never even found out who the mystery hero was that Alfred was talking to because when Justice League finally hit theaters, the scene was nowhere to be found. Like a lot of stuff in the Justice League trailers, the entire sequence had been cut from the finished film. Now that Justice League is out on Digital HD (and coming to Blu-ray on March 13) we are finally getting an answer in the form of the deleted scene. Finally, we get to see who Alfred was talking to aaaaaaaaaaand it was just Superman all along.

I mean, that was always the most obvious answer. It’s kind of a bummer it wasn’t, like, Green Lantern, but it really didn’t matter anyway because they cut the scene from the movie. Oh well.

Gallery - The Coolest DC Movie Easter Eggs


Media and Public Relations

Where Innovation Is Tradition

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TOPIC: Greek and Roman literatureClear

Martin Winkler

University Professor of Classics

Expertise: Greek and Roman literature, culture, mythology

Martin Winkler is a University Professor of Classics in the Department of Modern and Classical Languages.

He teaches classical Greek and Roman literature, culture and mythology with special emphasis on the importance of the past for the presence. His special area of interest is the representation of the Roman Empire in American popular culture, especially in Hollywood epics such as "Spartacus" and "Gladiator." He also specializes in American and European film adaptations of ancient literature and myth.

He has published several articles on classical and medieval culture and mythology in film. He is the author of the books titled "Cinema and Classical Texts: Apollo's New Light" and "The Roman Salute: Cinema, History, Ideology."


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Jackson, Mississippi

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Jackson Business Signs

Jackson sits on the banks of the Pearl River in a central part of the present day state of Mississippi.  Eventually, the Pearl River drains into the Gulf of Mexico.  For thousands of years, this had been home to the Choctaw Nation, part of the Muskogean-speaking indigenous peoples.  They named the area “Chisha Foka.”  The first permanent non-native settler to the area was Louis LeFleur, a French Canadian trader, at the end of the eighteenth century.  He named this settlement LeFluer’s Bluff.  In 1820, the Treaty of Doak’s Stand ceded much of the territory away from the Choctaw.  This is when serious American settlement began.  In 1821, the Mississippi General Assembly chose LeFluer’s Bluff as a centrally located state capital.  They renamed the town Jackson, after Andrew Jackson, alleged hero of the Battle of New Orleans, which occurred just days after the War of 1812.  Andrew Jackson would later be elected seventh president of the United States.  Jackson, Mississippi was officially incorporated in 1821.

Today, according to a 2013 estimate by the US Census Bureau, Jackson, Mississippi has a total population of 172,638 people.  This makes it the most populous city in the state and the 138th most populous city in the country.  The Five County Jackson Metropolitan area, according to that same report, has a total population of 576,382 people.  This makes it the 93rd most populous metropolitan area in the United States.

Jackson, Mississippi is home to several public and private companies.  These companies include Cal-Maine Foods, Inc., EastGroup Properties Inc., Trustmark Corporation, and Ergon.  Jackson’s industries are primarily focused in the electrical equipment and machinery, processed food, and primary and fabricated metal products industries, while the surrounding areas are more focused on the agricultural industry.

One of the most prominent buildings in the city of Jackson is the Mississippi State Capitol Building.  This building, which is considered a Mississippi State Landmark and is listed on the U.S. National Register of Historic Places, houses the Mississippi Legislature.  The Capitol, which was originally built by architects Theodore C. Link and Barnard R. Green in the Beaux Arts architectural style in 1901, had a major renovation which completed in 1983.

Jackson, Mississippi also has a long and storied history when it comes to the area of Civil Rights.  During the 1960s era of the Civil Rights Movement, Jackson was the site, in May of 1961, of the arrest of more than 300 Freedom Riders “for disturbing the peace.”  Additionally, Jackson, Mississippi was the home of Civil Rights Activist and leader of the Mississippi chapter of the NAACP Medgar Evers, who was assassinated right outside his home in 1963.  To honor and remember its past, the city of Jackson will be opening the Mississippi Civil Rights Museum in 2017.  It will be the first state-sponsored civil rights museum in the United States.

Today, Jackson, Mississippi also serves as the location for Jackson State University, which ranks as the fourth-largest historically black college and/or university in the country.  Established in 1877, Jackson State University currently has 9,802 students enrolled into its programs as of Fall semester 2016.  JSU is a member of the Thurgood Marshall College Fund and was classified by the Carnegie Classification of Institutions of Higher Education “as a research university with high research activity.”

Jackson, Mississippi is a hotbed for sports franchises.  The Magnolia Roller Vixens, who formed in 2008, are an all-female association flat track roller derby league who play in the Jackson Convention Center.  Southern League’s Mississippi Braves are a AA affiliate of MLB’s Atlanta Braves.  The Mississippi Braves play their home games at Trustmark Park and have one league title to their names.  Magnolia Football League’s Mississippi Maddogs also play in Jackson as does Jackson Rugby Football Club.  Soccer’s Premier Developmental League’s Mississippi Brilla play their home matches at Traceway Park.

Own a small business in the Jackson, Mississippi area?  Thinking about it?  These resources could help you:

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Spreading Smiles Through Food Every Day

NGO for Children

Started with a vision that “No child in India shall be deprived of education because of hunger”, it has been very successful in meeting the aim to a very great extent. Despite the huge and daunting task ahead of it in a country where millions of children are born into economically-challenged families, it did not deter the Foundation.

But, to keeps its good work going, it needs continuous flow of funds. It’s only the NGOs’ role in India that ensures the needy children are reached across the country.  It has today come to be one of the largest such mid-day meal schemes in the world and it’s growing rapidly.

Akshaya Patra Kitchens

Ensuring quality every day

Big couldrons

Big Couldrons

Centralised Kitchens

Centralised Kitchens

Chopped Vegetables

Chopped Vegetables

Roti Cutting Machine

Roti Cutting Machine

Water is an essential part of children’s nutrition

Most nutritionists recommend that children must get three meals in a day along with two parts of healthy snacks. As far as the lunch is concerned, Akshaya Patra ensures that school children get a proper diet through its Mid-Day Meal Programme. The organisation has fed over 1.6 million school children so far.

Water - Nutrition

Clean drinking water is an integral part of the Akshaya Patra school lunch menu that this top NGO serves to the children. Children are often never concerned about how much water they need for proper hydration. But water is an essential part of their daily nutrition. Water helps keeping their body temperature stable and it is responsible for carrying nutrients and oxygen to cells, protects tissues and organs, soothes joints and removes waste.

Apart from meal time, children would typically drink water after playing outside and thirsting for it. It doesn’t usually strike them that they need more water. Children aged between nine and 13 need 1.6 litres/6 glasses (boys) and 1.4 litres/5 glasses (girls) of water every day. In the 14-18 age-groups, boys need to drink at least 1.9 litres/7 glasses and girls need to drink at least 1.6 litres/6 glasses per day. Apart from water, children can also be fed low-fat milk that nourishes them without giving them sugar or additives that are found in soft drinks or flavoured mineral water. Akshaya Patra encourages children to drink sufficient water after their meals. You can also play a part in this charity fundraising.

Of course, children must be taught to consume more water during hot days or if they are indulged in a lot of outdoor activities or sports. In India, the easily available drinking water is tap water. But the good news is tap water contains fluoride that helps in developing strong teeth. However, the children who go to government schools in India often don’t have access to clean tap water at their homes. We ensure that a wholesome meal apart from clean drinking water is provided to all the children going to the government schools. These children can be benefitted through charity fundraising for Akshaya Patra. Donate for an NGO today.

Earth Day 2017: Akshaya Patra’s kitchens strive for energy-efficiency

We are all children of the Earth and we return to her when our time on the planet is up. To honour all that the Earth gives us and to support the cause of environmental protection, Earth Day is celebrated all over the world on April 22 every year. The Akshaya Patra Foundation, a top NGO in India, which operates the world’s largest NGO-run Mid-Day Meal Programme to benefit school children in the country, too is committed to the cause of environmental protection. It has undertaken many initiatives to produce its meals in the most sustainable, energy-efficient manner possible.

Three of Akshaya Patra’s kitchens that feed the children are equipped with biogas plants – the Vadodara kitchen in Gujarat and the Vasanthapura and Ballari kitchens in Karnataka. These are all ISO-certified kitchens and the kitchen at Vasanthapura also has a solar plant. The biogas plants use the waste generated during the preprocessing of vegetables prior to food preparation and leftover from the schools if any. A single biogas plant at the Akshaya Patra kitchens uses an average of 200 kg of mixed vegetable waste per day, while the food returns used amount to 500 kg a day. An average of 65.7m3 per day and the biogas used in place of liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) amounts to an average of 55m3 per day. Meanwhile, the LPG equivalent generated by the biogas plant amounts to 20-23 kg per day.

The Vasanthapura kitchen in Bengaluru also has a solar plant that generates 12kw electricity per day. The electricity thus generated is used for lighting up the building and all the other single-phase power applications. Akshaya Patra’s upcoming kitchens too have been designed in such a way that they can accommodate solar panels and plans are underway to equip existing ones with them too. The Foundation also seriously undertakes water conservation efforts. Water consumption in its kitchens is reduced with the help of vegetable washing machines, rice washers, steam cooking, high-pressure jets for equipment and vehicle cleaning, vessel cleaning machines and vessel cleaning showers with tanks.

Akshaya Patra, as one of the world’s top NGOs conducts training and awareness programmes for its employees to raise awareness about water management and conservation. Wastewater generated in its kitchens is recycled. This recycled water is reused for gardening. The kitchens, besides using renewable energy such as solar energy and biogas, also harvest rainwater.

Akshaya Patra feeds over 1.6 million children in 13,577 schools in 11 states of India and strives to ensure that it does so in the most sustainable manner possible. To contribute to the Foundation’s cause of ‘food for education’, donate to charity now.

Make a Gift of Wholesome Meals for Children this Ugadi!

This Holi, Colour a Child’s Life | Donate for a cause

But before that, why do we celebrate Holi?

How can you make a difference? By supporting a child’s education

Sponsor a child for year


Beat-Event Detection in Action Movie Franchises

While important advances were recently made towards temporally localizing and recognizing specific human actions or activities in videos, efficient detection and classification of long video chunks belonging to semanticallydefined categories such as “pursuit” or “romance” remains challenging. We introduce a new dataset, Action Movie Franchises, consisting… (More)

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Future-oriented tweets predict lower county-level HIV prevalence in the United States.

OBJECTIVE Future orientation promotes health and well-being at the individual level. Computerized text analysis of a dataset encompassing billions of words used across the United States on Twitter tested whether community-level rates of future-oriented messages correlated with lower human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) rates and moderated the association… (More)
DOI: 10.1037/hea0000279

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Pharmacogenomics of antiplatelet drugs.

Clopidogrel, a platelet P2Y12 inhibitor, is one of the most widely prescribed drugs in cardiovascular medicine because it reduces ischemic and thrombotic complications. It is a prodrug requiring biotransformation into the active metabolite by the hepatic cytochrome 450 system, especially the CYP2C19 enzyme. Candidate gene studies and genome-wide association… (More)
DOI: 10.1182/asheducation-2014.1.343

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How Does Fur Keep Animals Warm in Cold Water?

   Idealized model of furs, used in experiments emulating the water-repellant nature of semi-aquatic mammal fur (i.e fur seals and otters) - Image credits: Felice Frankel

Rather than relying on a thick layer of body fat for insulation as many aquatic mammals do, some seabirds and semiaquatic mammals such as fur seals and otters trap a layer of air in their feathers and furs for thermal insulation against the ice cold drink. While scientists have extensively studied the influence of chemistry and surface roughness on water-repellency of textured surfaces such as skin, little is known about the role of larger flexible objects such as hair, a common feature of the skin of semiaquatic insects, spiders and aquatic mammals.

Now a team of researchers from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology has experimentally studied the trapping of air in hairy surfaces and the water-repellent properties of undeformable hairy textures, which is key for animals’ thermal regulation. The results may also inspire the design of novel textiles with advanced water-repellant features. The researchers will present the study at the 68th Annual Meeting of the American Physical Society's Division of Fluid Dynamics, being held Nov. 22-24, 2015 in Boston, Mass.

“We found that the geometric properties (such as hair length and hair spacing) of hairy surfaces play a significant role in the surface’s water-repellent properties,” said Alice Nasto, the primary researcher and a doctoral student of Mechanical Engineering at MIT. “The denser and the longer the hairs are, the dryer or the more water-repellent the hairy surface is. Since the thermal conductivity of air is much smaller than that of water, trapping a layer of air in hairy surfaces reduces thermal conduction, which keeps animals warm in cold water,” Nasto said.

Most earlier research work on water-repellant surfaces has been focused on nano- and micro-scale materials. Now for the first time, the team has demonstrated that larger-scale materials (at the scale of millimeters or centimeters), such as fur, can produce similar water-repellant properties. Such materials are likely to be less challenging to fabricate in large quantities than their smaller-scale counterparts.

“We hope that our research could inform technological advances and inspire the design of new textiles with advanced water-repellant features, such as novel wet suits, in which staying warm and dry is paramount,” Nasto noted.

Using a combination of model experiments and theory, Nasto’s team explored and explained the dynamics of hairy surface air entrainment. In the model experiment, the researchers fabricated hairy surfaces using laser cut molds to cast samples with a soft silicone rubber called Polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS). To study how water interacts with the hairy surfaces under flow, the researchers submerged samples into a bath of liquid using a motorized stage, an apparatus capable of plunging the samples into liquids at a precise speed.

According to Nasto, when the hairy surface is submerged into the liquid, the liquid penetrates between hairs due to the hydrostatic pressure that arises from the weight of the fluid above the hairy surface. This penetration is resisted by the viscous resistance to flow, which delays the depletion of the air layer.

The team’s model successfully predicted the dynamic properties of the undeformable hairy textures. However, since the fur or feathers of many animals in real world are relatively long and deformable, the researchers’ next step is to study flexible hair-like features.

“Might flexibility of the hairs allow for air to be trapped beyond a critical depth? How does this ‘sealing depth’ depend on the density, geometry and flexibility of the hairs? These are all remaining questions for the next steps of our research,” Nasto said.

Source: American Physical Society's Division of Fluid Dynamics


OTRC: 'The Great Gatsby' film now in production

Leonardo DiCaprio talks about what made him choose 'Inception' and how he and Director Chris Nolan worked together

Production on Baz Luhrmann's film "The Great Gatsby" is underway in his native Australia.

The movie is based on F. Scott Fitzgerald's 1925 novel of the same name. The film stars Leonardo DiCaprio as Jay Gatsby, Carey Mulligan as Daisy Buchanan, Isla Fisher as Myrtle Wilson and Tobey Maguire as Nick Carraway, the narrator.

"The Great Gatsby" has a budget of $126 million, the Hollywood Reporter said. Filming began in late August, production notes show. The film is set to be released in both regular format as well as in 3D in the United States in November 2012.

Luhrmann is also the director of the 2001 musical film "Moulin Rouge!," which stars Nicole Kidman and Ewan McGregor. He also directed DiCaprio in the 1996 movie "Romeo + Juliet."

Australian actor Joel Edgerton, who also stars in the upcoming film "Warrior," portrays Tom Buchanan. Luhrmann said on his website in May that the actor had "five-star acting chops" and could "hold the screen against Leonardo DiCaprio in the appropriate age group" in the "big dramatic showdown scenes between Gatsby and Tom."

Elizabeth Debicki, who just recently began her on-screen acting career, has been cast as Jordan Baker, a famous golfer and aloof love interest of Carraway.

"Elizabeth's grasp of the material and her chemical connectivity to Tobey Maguire, in addition to her striking, athletic appearance, had us in a place where we were fully confident and ready to take the leap of giving the role of Jordan Baker to what, I guess, people would term 'a discovery," Luhrmann said.

Robert Redford played Gatsby, a shady millionaire, and Mia Farrow played his character's love interest Buchannan, who Gatsby courted and lost due to their differences in their social statuses, in a 1974 film that was based on a screenplay by Francis Ford Coppola.

(Copyright ©2018 OnTheRedCarpet.com. All Rights Reserved.)


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When Players are the Teachers

Being a coach means that you are also a teacher. You will have to communicate various skills and techniques to your athletes in order for them to be successful, but that doesn’t mean you have to be the only person on the team with this role. Players can also be teachers, and your team will be better because of it.

“Coaches and teachers have always been on the same team, because they understand the challenges of communicating an idea to someone who hasn’t encountered it before, and needs to master it to move on and succeed,” writes Tom Bowen of “So what better challenge could you offer your players than to pass on knowledge and skills to their teammates?”

Allowing your athletes to take on a teaching role is a great way for them to better understand the game and improve their communication skills. It is also creates an opportunity to strengthen the team bonds, as it causes players to directly interact more than they usually would. This can create situations such as a senior captain working with a group of freshmen to teach a new skill or technique, whereas they might not have had these types of conversations otherwise. When everybody is working together to get better, it makes the team stronger.

For the players doing the teaching, it will force them to think through every part of the skill and find a way to effectively communicate it. Even if they have mastered the skill themselves, having to teach it will help them better understand how to adapt it and apply it to different situations. Standing in front of their teammates and talking through a lesson will also provide valuable leadership experience, as it helps them see the value of being humble and patient.

For those on the learning side, they see the value that can be provided from their peers, which will encourage them to listen to and respect their teammates. When another person on the team is able to teach and demonstrate a skill, the players watching are given the confidence that they can do the same. Sometimes when a coach is doing all the instructing, a certain task can seem more difficult than it really is. But another athlete can step in and show that it can be done.

Another thing to keep in mind is that everybody has different ways of learning and relaying information. Your teaching techniques may work well for some players but not so well for others, so it’s important to recognize that some may need to hear a different voice or approach. In addition, you might also learn something yourself in the process. If a certain player was taught a skill in a different way than you were taught it, there’s a chance you could pick up new method or ways of explaining something that you had never thought of or seen before.

Lastly, when you’re coaching an entire team, it can be difficult to keep track of what everyone is doing. During training, your eyes can’t always be everywhere, but if you have athletes that are able to recognize when a task is being done right or if it needs to be corrected, then you don’t have to worry about running around making sure everyone is on the same page. Consider talking to your players about the value of taking on a teaching role and how it can benefit them as well as the whole team.

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Science in the primary school curriculum

The role of information and communication technologies

Information and communication technologies are an important resource and tool for learning in science and are available in most schools today in an ever increasing number, range and sophistication. Children’s investigations and explorations can be enhanced by using information and communication technologies in recording and analysing information, in simulating investigations and tests that support scientific topics, in communicating their scientific information and findings, in collaborating with children in other schools in science investigations and in accessing a range of sources of scientific and technological information.


A Single Man: A Beautifully Realized Translation of Word to Image

by Juan Espinosa

MV5BMzU5MTk4MjQ2M15BMl5BanBnXkFtZTcwNDU0MzEwMw@@._V1_UX182_CR0,0,182,268_AL_Through the use of attention-grabbing visual techniques, Tom Ford creates a masterpiece in his directing debut in cinema.  Creating such a vivid interpretation of the novel on which the film is based, Ford’s main challenge in making A Single Man was to transform a story that was all about a man talking to himself into a world where we can see exactly what the novel’s author, Christopher Isherwood intended for us to imagine.  With the novel having to focus all on words to get the story across, the film transforms those words into visual form exceptionally well.

In 1964, Christopher Isherwood, an iconic English novelist, published A Single Man, a story about a middle-aged English professor named George who is living out his last day.  George spends his last mortal day paying close attention to every detail of his surroundings as he gives himself a penetrating last look at life.  The novel was adapted into an award winning major motion picture in 2009 that was the directing debut of world renown fashion designer, Tom Ford.  Both film and book have a core relation to each other, but the dissimilar ways in which the book and the film tell the story directly reflects the personal lives of the author and filmmaker: through background, character and personal love lives.

Immediately the visual design of the film grabs the viewer, providing a strong guiding hand to the overall mood and atmosphere of George’s world.  There is a notable transition from very dull and sad colors as he (our “hero”) goes through his daily life, to images that are vivid, warm and strong.  The undeniable message is that this character is taking a close, careful, and youthful look at life.  The angles of the camera and where it is focused during these times of vividness shows the detailed orientation of the main character’s concentration.  This careful and rigorous look gives the feeling that the camera is absorbing all which it observes.  Add in the music of composer, Abel Korzeniowski and the tone and mood of George’s character is complete.

articleLarge-v2Author, Isherwood and filmmaker, Ford tell two very different personal stories through A Single Man.  Isherwood wrote the novel out of fear of losing his lover, Don Bachardy after Don had left him for many months to live on the other side of the country with another man.  Imaging as if Don died, Isherwood wrote A Single Man as if he was a widower.  The story directly reflects all of what was going on inside Christopher’s head.  When transforming the novel into a film, Ford tells the story through his personal perspective while using his intricate techniques as a fashion designer to give the audience a film they will never forget.  His obsession for perfection allows him to adjust the plot exactly the way he wants and drives him to construct a cinematic experience so vivid and flawless.  With every detail being attended to, the film is completely his own creation.

Although both author and filmmaker are gay icons, they did not emphasize the main character, George as being a homosexual man.  He was just a man.  As in most of his stories, Isherwood writes in a biographical manner.  He expresses his life experiences, which is the reason for most of the main characters being gay.  Yet, the most interesting part of his style of writing is that he does not write as if the character is straight or gay, he writes as if they are just ordinary human beings.  This is the same view on life with which Ford focuses within his fashion ads.  These two men live in different eras, yet they share many similar experiences and view points.

single-man_george-carlosGeorge (played by Colin Firth), is coping with the loss of his partner, Jim, whom he loved deeply.  Jim died in a car crash on his way to visit his family, and unfortunately, George was asked by Jim’s brother to not attend the funeral because of the family’s homophobia.  Since that day, George’s life is cold and melancholy.  He no longer has any enjoyment or interest since the accident.  He lost his lover, whom he had for quite some years.  With the intergenerational homosexual relationship being the dynamic of the association of the two, both Ford and Isherwood could directly relate.  Tom Ford and his partner, Richard Buckley have a thirteen year age gap between them.  And Christopher Isherwood and Don Bachardy have a thirty year gap.  The difference though is that Ford is the younger partner in the relationship as Isherwood was the older.  Yet, the unique vibrancy of their relationships is correspondingly understood by both.

Ford was able to relate very well to Isherwood’s love life and personal issues, which inspired him to transform the book into a film.  A fascinating coincidence about the three most important people from the story: Isherwood (the author), Ford (the director) and Colin Firth (who plays George), is that of their personalities.  In an interview, Ford distinctively points out, “This might sound silly to some of you – I don’t know – but Christopher Isherwood was a Virgo.  Virgos are precise, almost uptight.  It’s all about precision and order and I’m a Virgo.  Colin Firth is a Virgo.  This was the Virgo, Virgo, Virgo film”.  He explained how the harmonic of the three worked very well in knowing how the story should be portrayed and delivered to the audience and to satisfy themselves.  Another interesting strategy Ford used in the film is, besides the main character, he had all the American actors speak in British accents and all the British actors speak in American accents: Julianne Moore, Nicholas Hoult, Matthew Goode, etc.  All-in-all, the direction Tom Ford took on the film was outstanding.

In both the work of literature and that of the cinematic, the personal lives of Christopher Isherwood and Tom Ford are individually reflected by the same core story through their own works.  One of the most amazing things that is indeed an exceptional occurrence is that even though the novel and film have many differences and personal intents, they both work out perfectly to tell the same story with the same meaning.  A Single Man brings to light a delicate insight of the true internal emotions of two separate men.  Whether in a book or on the screen, that is a work of art.


Monday, April 4, 2016

Artist Spotlight: Donn Delson

Donn Delson used lasers to create his most recent body of work at TAG, "Light Amplification",
on view through April 16.

Here are some of his thoughts on his art practice.
Donn Delson, The Journey, Archival Print, Acrylic Facemount, Edition of 5, 48 x 48"
I'm currently obsessed with Light Amplification. Using a special laser light facility, in an otherwise pitch black environment I was able to experiment with laser light vectors, focal lengths, color, motion, and exposure in order to accomplish my vision for each image. It was a transformational experience for me, and Light Amplification is the focus of my current show at TAG.

When I work with lasers, it feels truly like I am painting with light. I’m intrigued with light in nature and its counterpoint--manufactured light--how it’s manipulated, how motion effects light and how light effects motion.
Donn Delson, Resonance, Archival Print, Acrylic Facemount, Edition of 5, 48 x 48"
All art is personal. Great art is universal. As an artist I choose to present images that have emotional meaning for me. If I'm able to create work that resonates with others, in whatever way it may, then I am doubly pleased.

I use color to create a sense of balance within the laser images. How the colors interact and flow, as in a painting, allows each photograph to tell its own story, evoke an emotion.
Donn Delson, Passion's Embrace, Archival Print, Acrylic Facemount, Edition of 5, 40 x 60"
In this study, I’ve been exploring the relationship between light and color. James Turrell's use of light and space in his installations and Jose Parla's use of layered color and materials on canvas are inspiring examples of how light and color can breathe dimension into a work--how they work together to create a sense of space and place. I strive to achieve that sense of dimension photographically.
Donn Delson, Of Earth and Sky, Archival Print, Acrylic Facemount, Edition of 5, 40 x 60"
In all my photographic pursuits, abstract or not, I approach each work individually. The same approach I bring to my landscape photography, I bring to my laser images. Approaching my abstracts with a similar view for framing the image and creating a sense of place, there must be a special moment, composition, exposure, perspective, or sense that something feels right; a reason for opening the shutter.
Donn Delson, Upward Mobility, Archival Print, Acrylic Facemount, Edition of 5, 36 x 24"

Have any questions for Donn? Leave them here in the comments or ask them at the upcoming Artists' Panel Discussion with Donn, Christo Brock, and Gary Polonsky at TAG on Saturday, April 9, 3pm.

1 comment:

  1. Loved it
    Great colours


BREED: Poodle mix

AGE: 6 years

GOOD WITH CHILDREN: We would recommend he lives in an adult only home

GOOD WITH OTHER DOG: introduced correctly he can be around other dogs but he would be best suited to a home as an only dog, he is reactive to dogs when out on walks

MORE INFORMATION: Mushu is a typical Poodle mix, plenty of energy, very intelligent and very sweet natured. He loves walks and being out and about but also lying on the sofa or sleeping under the desk in the office, in the home he is very calm if he is familiar with the people in the home, he is uncomfortable with visitors to the home if they enter his space and barks when the door bell rings etc.

IDEAL HOME: Mushu would be best suited to a relatively active adult only home. He will need to be groomed regularly and stimulated mentally and physically so he doesnt feel the need to make his own entertainment! He suffers from mild separation anxiety, but can be left for up to 4 hours if set up over a course of time.

FEEDING: he loves his food and at the kennels is fed a raw diet of natural instinct

HEALTH: he has been healthy during his stay at the kennels

LOCATION: At Glendee Rescue,Hertfordshire

TRAINING REQUIREMENTS: Mushu has a tendency when he is frustrated on a lead to redirect and chew the lead. This can be because of large traffic or a dog he is trying to get to. He will need patience and training to modify his behaviour. He is a super intelligent dog and loves food and toys and he is making progress with us but this would need to be further worked on at home

This is our current assessment, the assessments are on-going as always, and although we temperament test our dogs in many situations, we can not know how they be when they arrive in your home, support is given as always be given by the trainer you are matched to.


The easiest quiz ever?

If you get under 100% then you are the dumbest person ever

1 What sound does a cow make ?
2 What do you do in a toilet?
3 What sounds like gullable if you spell it backwards?
4 Which of the following is NOT a computer virus?
5 Is This the last Question?


Répertoire du réseau

Titre University Affiliation Department / Program Specific Area of Research
Borck, Cornelius - McGill University Historical epistemology; neurosciences between media theory and neurophilosophy; cultures of biomedical visualization; the infra-ordinary in art & science;
Borda-Rodriguez, Alexander - Dalhousie University ethnography of aid, the political economy of development aid and healthcare (e.g. vaccines) and how scientific knowledge is regulated and legitimized by international organizations in the global south.
Borgerson, Kirsten - Philosophy Dalhousie University Philosophy of medicine, bioethics, social epistemology, feminist philosophy
Bowden, Gary - Sociology University of New Brunswick 1) Contemporary Canadian and American Energy and Environmental Issues and Policy 2) The development of ecological sociology -- an integration of ecology and sociology -- through the application of complex adaptive systems theory to understand long term environment-society interaction, particularly in relation to fundamental macro-level changes (e.g., the collapse of societies, the emergence of modern economic growth)
Brigandt, Ingo - University of Alberta The nature, possibility, and limits of intellectual integration across different biological disciplines; non-reduction and the nature of biological explanation; theories of concepts; the rationality of semantic change in the history of biology; how the context-sensitive use of scientific terms supports successful practice; evolutionary developmental biology and its 19th and 20th century roots
Broughton, Peter - Unaffiliated History of astronomy in Canada
Brown, Bryson - Preservationism, paraconsistency, ambiguity logics, laws of nature, free will, inconsistency in science, scientific realism, paraconsistent logic, weakly aggregative logic, preservationist logic
Brown, James Robert - University of Toronto Mathematics, physics, science and society
Burfoot, Annette - Sociology Queen's University Visual science studies (anatomy, cancer care, science fiction, technology studies (political economy of manufacturing), cultural studies, reproductive & genetic engineering, 18th century wax anatomical models, cross-cultural comparison of treatment of obstetrical pain, gender and textile technologies in Lucca, Italy
Burrow, Sylvia - Philosophy University of Cape Breton Dr. Burrow's research connects emotions and attitudes (particularly self-trust and self-confidence) to the moral concept of autonomy. Her recent research argues that pressures to use technological interventions during labour and childbirth compromise women's autonomy through undermining self-trust and self-confidence.


More ideas from Δημήτρης

One of my favorite things to photograph is the night sky. I am always looking for excuses to escape the city lights and stay up late to take pictures of the stars. I am continually trying to improve my skills but have learned a few things along the way.


I started some wood canvases a month or so ago with the idea of them becoming a single project (grouped toghtether). But, as things in life sometimes do, it went a different direction and I decided to break them up into individual projects.

This is one of those canvases:

awesome1 awesome2

The letters are cut from various magazines, and the man is a gel transfer from a copier print.


All About ACL Tears from a Phoenix Orthopedic Surgeon

by / Saturday, 28 March 2015 / Published in Knee Surgery

What is the ACL?

The ACL is called the anterior cruciate ligament and it is one of four ligaments responsible for providing stabilization in the knee.

What is the most common injury for the ACL? ACL

The most common injury is a torn ACL.

What is a torn ACL?

When the ACL goes through the front of your knee and passes through the middle of it, the thighbone can slip backward which can cause the tear. If you do not have a normal, intact ACL your knee would become incredibly unstable and would be prone to buckling when it is planted firmly on the ground or when you try and stop quickly.

How does this happen?

This happens when there is a sudden change in the direction that your knee is facing, with your knee already in a locked position. This can also take place if a pivot takes place when your knee is locked.

Most of the injuries take place during a fitness activitiy or sport. The ligament becomes stretched or it tears when you keep your foot planted and your knee locked, but then it twists and pivots at the same time, something that often takes place in football, basketball, soccer, and gymnastics. This sudden change will stress and damage your ligament. The injuries usually occur at lower speeds during non-contact.

What are the most common symptoms?

The most common symptoms are a large pop followed by immediate pain. Your knee will swell instantly as well.

Who is at the most risk for ACL tears?

ACL Tear2Women are actually at the highest risk for ACL tears because of the differences between male and female anatomy and muscle function.

Women have wider pelvises compared to men, and the wider pelvis actually causes your femur to meet your tibia at angles greater than those men experience. This can increase the force that your ACL needs to withstand when you twist, which can increase the risk of damaging the ACL.

Genetic differences can also put woman at a higher risk for an ACL tear compared to men. The muscles in females are often more elastic and they decrease the protection that the hamstring is given to provide more to the ACL. Hormonal changes that take place with menstruation can cause more elasticity which can increase the risk of tears.

Finally, female hamstrings actually contract at a rate of one millisecond slower compared to males which increases the risk of damage to the ACL when women land from a jump.

What are the treatment goals if you have a torn ACL?

The treatment goals are to get you back to your original level of function. In the most cases arthroscopic surgery might be a requirement in order to reconstruct your torn ligament.

How long can it take to recover?

It can take anywhere between six and nine months to get back to normal activity levels after you have torn an ACL and undergo a reconstruction.


Friday, September 30, 2016

Extending evolutionary theory? - Sonia Sultan

I will be attending the Royal Society Meeting on New trends in evolutionary biology: biological, philosophical and social science perspectives. I'll post each of the abstracts and ask for your help in deciding what question to pose to the speakers. Here's the abstract for Sonia Sultan's talk on Developmental plasticity: re-conceiving the genotype.

For several decades, the phenotype of an organism (i.e, its traits and behaviour) has been studied as the outcome of developmental ‘instructions’ coded in its DNA. According to this model, each genotype is expressed as a specific phenotype; individual differences in fitness-related traits are seen to arise from this stably inherited internal information. This simplified view of development provides the foundation for a Modern Synthesis approach to adaptive evolution as a sorting process among genetic variants. As developmental biologists are aware, however, an organism’s phenotype is not strictly pre-determined by its genotype, but rather takes shape through the interplay of genetic factors with the organism’s environmental conditions. By means of this developmental plasticity, a given genotype may express different phenotypes under different environmental conditions. Accordingly, the genotype can be understood as a repertoire of potential developmental outcomes or norm of reaction.

Re-conceiving the genotype as an environmental response repertoire rather than a fixed developmental programme leads to three critical insights, as illustrated by norm of reaction data from Polygonum plants. Plastic responses to specific conditions often comprise functionally appropriate trait adjustments, resulting in an individual-level, developmental mode of adaptive variation. Environmental responses can extend across generations via effects on progeny growth and fitness, a form of inherited yet non-genetic adaptation. Finally, because genotypes are differently expressed depending on the environment, the genetic diversity available to natural selection is itself environmentally contingent.
Here's a possible question ...
Back in the 1960s we learned that transcription of the lac operon in E. coli was regulated by the environment. This regulation, activation or repression, was passed on to daughter cells as the cells divided. Why didn't this discovery lead to a major revision of evolutionary theory?

  1. The lac operon is a great example. If you wanted to use a human example you could point to tanning as a response to UV induced DNA damage from the environment. The discovery of this mechanism in humans didn't require a rewrite of the Modern Synthesis. Why?

    Fetal alcohol syndrome is suspected to be the result of epigenetic changes. If epigenetic changes can result in maladaptive phenotypes, then how can it be called an adaptive process?

    Ultimately, phenotype plasticity is a result of DNA sequence. The predictable response to a given environmental stimulus is controlled by sequence specific function. In order to get a different response to a specific stimulus you have to have a change in the underlying DNA sequence. How is this not exactly what the Modern Synthesis already states?

  2. Larry wrote:

    "...........but rather takes shape through the interplay of genetic factors with the organism’s environmental conditions. "

    Not only genetic factors. But, very important and actually, essential:

    epigenetic factors. I have posted the list here several times.

    If these are not taken into consideration, the revision will not mirror and incorporate the new achievements and knowledge of various labs around the globe.

    At the topic " Where do complex organisms come from ", i have posted a list, which imho probably by far does not mention all mechanisms that determine body form and shape.

    1. Perhaps you can clear something up for me, Otangelo: Why do some ID creationists get so excited about the idea of epigenetics? How would this increase the likelihood that life was created by God?

    2. What determines which DNA bases are methylated in response to environmental stimuli?

      Like lutesuite, I really have to wonder why ID/creationists get in a lather over epigenetics. Perhaps they latch on to the idea that epigenetics somehow falsifies the theory of evolution which feeds into their God of the Gaps argument for ID.

      In the end, almost all of the methylation patterns in cells are wiped out during the process of gamete production. What little DNA methylation does make it through has very little impact on the resulting phenotype with respect to the differences between species. You may get fatter mice due to epigenetic factors, but you don't get cats from mice. The only explanation for the differences between divergent species is differences in DNA sequence, not epigenetics.

  3. Back in the 1940s, Waddington offered a theory of "canalization" in development. Why was this considered such a major revision in evolutionary theory that it was summarily rejected by orthodox defenders of the synthesis?

    It seems to me that ideas about epigenetics, Baldwin effects, and canalization are ideas in the second tier - not as important as the first tier ideas about selection and heritability, but at least important as the other major cluster of second tier ideas: those dealing with sympatry and allopatry.

    So call it a minor revision of evolutionary theory.

  4. This comment has been removed by the author.


The room was huge – bigger than
you might be able to envisage,
stretching as long as it was wide
It seemed to go on and on…
goodness knows what it was
before this destruction?
A banqueting hall perhaps,
which would make more sense
of the ceramic debris covering the floor!
Eyes took a few moments to adjust
to the poor lighting as they looked in
from the old heavy double doors.
Windows, covered by dense curtains,
allowed only a few shards of light
to break through the cracks
and the electricity of the industrial
revolution was yet to arrive
in this once fine and grand palace.
All that remained of such grandeur
were these shattered pots now
littering the floor, buried in dust.
Different shapes, sizes,
colours and patterns
reflected the diverse range
of ceramics they had once styled.
And now this was all just rubbish,
they could never be pieced together
to return to their previous existence.
They were broken and useless
with no further vessel potential…or was there?
What might it be like if each of
these pieces were gathered
together to form one single vessel?
The vision, small at first, grew beyond
all reckoning – it became an obsession!
Slowly initially, then more intentionally,
hands gathered individual pieces and
gently wiped away dust and traces of decay
before placing them carefully
and purposefully alongside one another.
Dust stirred up as feet tentatively pushed
broken pottery aside, deliberately
taking care not to add further damage
to these precious pieces, as they moved
deeper into the room to seek and gather.
An initially small and seemingly
insignificant workspace spread
as clutter gained a sense of sequence.
The sound of steady breathing alongside
a light chinking and clinking of ceramic
pieces making contact was all that
accompanied the silence
in the vast banqueting hall.
The divine artist worked unceasingly
to form broken fragments into a
vessel of unique splendour and artistry;
pieces fused together with golden lacquer
took on a greater depth and charm
than had ever emanated from them
in their previous existences!
Brokenness led to beauty as
the divine artist gathered, shaped
and moulded the pieces of pot like clay.
Never before had anything like it
been crafted or created but as eyes
observed the work of their hands
and saw the immense light that the
powerful vessel had been built around,
they looked and saw that it was good.
And then they rested!


- Helping you drive happy

No need to idle your engine too long even in Polar-like conditions

By ,

With super-cold temperatures in many parts of the country these days, drivers are tempted to let their engine idle and warm up for a long time before they hit the road. However, everyone should know that 30 seconds of idling is all your engine actually needs.

True, older cars that relied on carburetors did require to warm up to ensure a proper mix of air and fuel. However, today's electronic injection systems make idling unnecessary.

"The engine will warm up faster being driven," the U.S Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and Energy Department explain. Indeed, it is better to turn your engine off and start it again than to leave it idling.

Natural Resources Canada conducted tests with three different vehicles at minus 18 degrees Celsius. Sometimes the cars were idled five minutes before driving, and sometimes 10 minutes. In all cases, the distance they covered was the same. The test results showed that with a 5-minute warm-up total fuel consumption increased by 7%-14% and with a 10-minute warm-up total fuel consumption increased by 12%-19%.

So, while it's more comfortable to enter a warmed-up car, remember that there are no other benefits and that you'll have wasted a non-negligible amount of fuel.