title: Sports sunderland football fans museum burglary as tills stolen

text:
On Monday morning (February 17) the Fans’ Museum, based by St Peter’s Metro Station in Sunderland, took to social media to share that it was the victim of a break in and posted images of smashed windows and damaged items.
“Unfortunately we won’t be open today, and will update further regarding the week folks,” a post on Facebook read.
“We’ve been broken into the police are dealing with this case now and will be viewing CCTV to hopefully catch the culprits who have done some serious damage inside the building to the original features of the building.
“Sorry for the inconvenience.”
The museum is a popular location for pre-match drinks among Sunderland fans and houses pieces of the club’s folklore including the beach ball that helped Darren Bent score against Liverpool and the grass-stained suit Paolo Di Canio was wearing during his infamous 3-0 Tyne-Wear derby victory over Newcastle United.
A Northumbria Police spokesperson said: “Just before 7am today (Monday), we received a report of a burglary at a premises on North Bridge Street in Sunderland.
“It was reported that a window had been smashed and a number of items, including tills and computers, had been stolen.
“An investigation has been launched and enquiries are ongoing to locate those involved.
Anyone with information about the incident is asked to get in touch with Northumbria Police by sending a direct message on social media, using live chat on the website, or calling 101.
Those getting in touch are asked to quote crime reference number: 018429D/25.


tier: cub

shelf: civic-law

title: Commissaire a la transformation

text:
The transformation commissioner is a professional appointed during the legal transformation operations of a company. Its main mission is to ensure compliance of processing procedures with current legislation. It thus ensures the legality and legitimacy of changes occurring within the company.
When is it necessary to call on a Transformation Commissioner?
Calling on a transformation commissioner is necessary in the following cases:
Legal transformation of the company: When the company decides to change its legal form, such as moving from an LLC to an SA, or to modify other aspects of its legal structure.
Significant changes in the structure or corporate purpose: In the event of significant modifications affecting the structure or corporate purpose of the company, requiring external validation to ensure compliance.
Role of the Transformation Commissioner: Ensure compliance and legitimacy of changes
The Transformation Commissioner fulfills several crucial functions:
Verification of the regularity of procedures: It carefully examines the different stages of the transformation to ensure their compliance with legal and regulatory requirements.
Validation of the compatibility of the new statutes: It analyzes the new statutes of the company to verify their compliance with the legislation in force and their adequacy with the objectives of the company.
Guarantee of protection of the interests of shareholders and third parties: It ensures that the interests of shareholders and third parties are preserved during the transformation, in particular by ensuring the transparency and fairness of the process.
Progress of the Mission of the Transformation Commissioner: Rigorous expertise in the service of legality
The mission of the Transformation Commissioner follows a methodical and rigorous process:
Thorough review of legal documents: The auditor reviews all documents relating to the transformation, such as statutes, management reports, etc., to ensure their compliance with legal requirements.
Issuance of a detailed report: He draws up a detailed report setting out his conclusions on the conformity of the transformation procedures and the compatibility of the new statuses.
Presentation of conclusions: He presents his conclusions to the company's decision-making bodies as well as to the competent authorities.
Final validation of the transformation: Once the report is approved by stakeholders and relevant authorities, the business transformation can be finalized.
Report of the Transformation Commissioner: Key document for validating changes
The transformation commissioner's report is a central element of a company's transformation process. This detailed document summarizes the conclusions and recommendations of the commissioner concerning the conformity of the transformation procedures and the legality of the new statutes. It constitutes an essential reference for the company's decision-making bodies as well as for the competent authorities during the final validation of the transformation.
In conclusion, the role of the transformation commissioner is essential to guarantee the legality, transparency and legitimacy of changes occurring within a company during a transformation operation. Its rigorous and independent expertise ensures the protection of the interests of shareholders and third parties while ensuring compliance with legal and regulatory standards. By using a transformation commissioner such as Gme Audit, you benefit from an assurance of quality and reliability to carry out your business transformation project.
See as well ...


tier: polar

shelf: science-engineering

title: Faulty ecm signaling facilitates autoimmune

text:
Summary: The contribution of the extracellular matrix (ECM) to the microenvironment of solid tumors is appreciated although not completely understood; however, the contribution of the ECM to the development of hematopoietic tumors has not been investigated in depth. A new study by Sangaletti and colleagues demonstrates that faulty ECM signaling can facilitate malignant lymphoproliferation in mice predisposed to autoimmunity. Similar changes in ECM construction, consistent with a loss of inhibitory ECM signaling, were identified in the transition from reactive lymphoid hyperplasia to malignant chronic lymphocytic leukemia in patients. These results reveal a critical contribution of reduced collagen signaling in lymphoma and highlight the importance of appropriate ECM construction for maintenance of tissue homeostasis. Cancer Discov; 4(1); 25–6. ©2014 AACR.
See related article by Sangaletti et al., p. 110
Collagens are substantial constituents of the extracellular matrix (ECM) of every organ system, and virtually every cell in a tissue has the opportunity to interact with fibrillar or basement membrane collagens in the context of tissue development, remodeling, or homeostasis. Tissue architecture is governed by the structure imparted by the ECM; maintenance of this architecture is a barrier to malignant transformation. However, documentation that dysfunctional or inappropriate ECM contributes directly to tumor development is uncommon.
Collagen secretion, fibrillogenesis, and deposition are the result of a precise series of biochemical events that are facilitated by extracellular adaptor proteins, including proteogylcans (e.g., fibromodulin, lumican, and decorin) and matricellular proteins such as secreted protein acidic and rich in cysteine (SPARC; ref. 1). Of these extracellular adaptor proteins, SPARC has received considerable attention in the context of tumor development and progression. SPARC expression is coincident with collagen secretion, and global loss of SPARC expression in mice results in defective collagen deposition and a less-robust ECM in normal tissues and malignant lesions. The molecular consequences of loss of SPARC expression in tumors is still under investigation but is highly relevant, as the SPARC gene is frequently subject to epigenetic regulation in epithelial tumor cells (2). Although many activities have been ascribed to SPARC (3), a definition of how SPARC functions in the tumor microenvironment remains to be determined.
Although a unifying principle of SPARC function in the tumor microenvironment remains elusive, the Colombo laboratory has in a series of recent studies (4) demonstrated that SPARC is a critical component of the complex mechanisms that control immune cell recruitment, activation, and proliferation. Furthermore, SPARC is required for appropriate assembly of germinal centers where expansion of adaptive immune cells occurs. Given these observations, they set out to investigate whether altered ECM deposition exacerbated lymphoma development in the context of autoimmunity, which predisposes for lymphoid malignancies. In particular, autoantigen-driven clonal expansion is a frequent occurrence in chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL), although contributing factors required for malignant lymphoproliferation are unclear. Sangaletti and colleagues (5) utilized their knowledge of the changes in secondary lymphoid organ (SLO) architecture in Sparc−/− animals to assess the contribution of collagen signaling to autoimmunity-induced lymphoma. Fas-mutant lpr/lpr mice are prone to autoimmunity as a result of defective apoptosis in autoreactive B-cell clones (6). The authors crossed lpr/lpr and Sparc-deficient animals, and the resultant lpr/lpr;Sparc−/− double-mutant mice showed accelerated autoimmune-driven lymphoproliferation. Lymphoid tissue from double-mutant but not lpr/lpr;Sparc+/+ mice generated subcutaneous tumors in recipient immunocompromised mice and displayed diffuse proliferation of lymphoid elements similar to the originating lesions, confirming their malignant nature.
The development of a functional adaptive immune response requires the coordinated and selective interaction of immune cells in SLOs. The opportunity for these interactions is governed in part by the architecture of the tissue. The authors observed that collagen deposition in the spleen was dysregulated and there were disorganized stromal boundaries between white pulp follicles and red pulp follicles in double-mutant but not lpr/lpr mice. These structural changes appear to be a critical factor in the proliferative expansion of CD5+ B cells, as there was no basal difference in B-cell proliferation in Sparc−/− and Sparc+/+ animals. To better understand how the alteration in the microenvironment affects lymphoid expansion, the authors evaluated lymphoid tissue for myeloid cells, which can release B-cell trophic factors. They identified that Ly-6G+ neutrophils were more numerous in double-mutant spleens and that these cells were in close contact with expanding clonal B cells. Furthermore, they found that neutrophils from double-mutant mice underwent NETosis at an increased frequency than those found in lpr/lpr mice. NETosis is a process by which neutrophils die and extrude a neutrophil extracellular trap (NET) consisting of chromatin and cytoplasmic content that stimulate an inflammatory response (7). This process can enhance immune recognition of pathogens or in the setting of autoimmunity stimulate autoantigen release. Double-mutant mice showed an increase in B cells in contact with NETs in splenic tissue. Additional in vitro culture experiments demonstrated that NETotic neutrophil cell death but not apoptotic or necrotic cell death stimulated B-cell expansion via NF-κB activation.
To further define how myeloid cells contribute to the observed elevation in lymphoproliferation, the authors examined the gene expression profile of neutrophils from double-mutant and lpr/lpr;Sparc+/+ mice. Neutrophils from Sparc−/− animals showed an increase in several genes related to the IFN signature, suggesting that neutrophils from Sparc-deficient animals received more robust priming for NETosis. The critical link between microenvironmental NET-mediated expansion of autoreactive B cells and defects in collagen deposition came when the authors examined the expression of LAIR-1, a collagen receptor on neutrophils that has an inhibitory function. LAIR-1 expression was decreased in neutrophils isolated from double-mutant animals. To provide a functional link between ECM composition and NETosis, the authors showed that neutrophils isolated from double-mutant mice robustly underwent NETosis when plated on poly-d-lysine but not collagen. Further evidence of the importance of LAIR-1 activity as an inhibitory signal for NETosis was provided by RNAi-mediated suppression of Lair1 in granulocytes isolated from wild-type mice. In the absence of LAIR-1, these cells underwent NETosis regardless of substrate, whereas NETosis was inhibited by collagen in control cells.
These results strongly implicate the deficiency in collagen deposition as a major contributor to autoreactive lymphomagenesis in lpr/lpr;Sparc−/− animals and are a striking example of the importance of ECM architecture in maintaining tissue homeostasis. To determine the clinical relevance of these observations, the authors searched for human correlates. They examined the expression of SPARC in a series of non-Hodgkin B-cell lymphomas and found that CLL showed consistent and significant downregulation of SPARC at the mRNA and protein level. Importantly, the absence of SPARC expression correlated with reduced collagen and LAIR-1 expression. Furthermore, tissue from patients with CLL showed higher frequency of stromal disorganization and NETosis, histologic features reminiscent of the microenvironment of spleens in lpr/lpr;Sparc−/− mice. These observations suggest that alterations in stromal features, including SPARC expression, may be an early event that promotes malignant B-cell lymphomagenesis.
These studies add further intrigue to the growing interest in how ECM and matricellular proteins contribute to the tumor microenvironment. Questions remain regarding control of SPARC expression in SLOs in patients with CLL and whether other B-cell malignancies show alterations in collagen signaling. For example, in contrast to the study by Sangaletti and colleagues (5), a recent report (8) suggests that productive collagen signaling is a driving factor in malignant Hodgkin/Reed-Sternberg cells in Hodgkin lymphoma. This study reports that an Epstein-Barr virus–encoded protein (latent membrane protein-1) upregulates the expression of the collagen receptor tyrosine kinase discoidin domain receptor 1 (DDR1), which drove collagen-mediated lymphoma proliferation and provided protection from apoptosis. Intriguingly, SPARC may be a contributing factor in this setting as well. SPARC and the DDRs share the same binding epitope on collagen (9, 10), and thus one of the functions of SPARC might be to limit collagen-mediated activation of DDRs. Therefore, loss of SPARC in the tumor microenvironment can potentially contribute in multiple defined ways to tumor development and progression. Overall, it is clear that the collagen network is an active participant in the signaling that prevents or promotes tumor development and progression. As our understanding of these collagen-mediated signaling events expands, new opportunities for therapeutic intervention will be discovered and the tools to test these strategies will be in hand.
Disclosure of Potential Conflicts of Interest
No potential conflicts of interest were disclosed.


shelf: software-docs

title: Adjustable base ergomotion 450 pro 160x200 bezh

text:
Purchase a mattress for your adjustable base here.
Discover a New Level of Comfort with the Innovative Ergomotion 450 Transformable Base
The Ergomotion 450 Pro redefines the meaning of comfort. Whether you're sleeping, relaxing, or working, you can create the perfect position with just one click—and feel refreshed in minutes.
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The wireless remote control makes it easy to adjust the base to your needs. Choose from preset programs or fine-tune the angles of the head and leg sections to find your ideal position.
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Experience the sensation of zero gravity. This mode elevates your head and legs to relieve pressure on your spine and muscles, improve circulation, and promote faster recovery. Perfect after a long day at work or an intense workout.
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Gently raising the head section by 7 degrees helps reduce snoring and improve sleep quality.
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Ideal for watching your favorite shows, using gadgets, or working remotely. Customize and save your perfect position for future use.
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Designed for reading and screen time, this position supports your upper back and takes pressure off the lower back. Slight leg elevation helps relax the muscles for total comfort. You can also personalize and save this mode.
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Enjoy a gentle lymphatic drainage massage that eases tension, restores energy, and improves overall well-being. A built-in timer ensures the massage function turns off automatically after your session.
The Ergomotion 450 transformable base blends seamlessly into any modern interior. For a complete bedroom upgrade, pair it with one of the stylish beds from the Askona collection to create a personalized design solution.


shelf: health

title: Chartered status for hospitals general manager

text:
Major local employer Holy Cross Hospital celebrated as its general manager, Jo Speed, has been awarded Chartered Manager status. The hospital places its investment in staff development as central to its success as a leading hospital in caring for patients with profound neurological disorders and severe disabilities.
Chartered Manager is the highest status that can be achieved in the management profession. Recognised across all industries and sectors, it is only awarded by the Chartered Management Institute.
Dr Ross White, Chief Executive of Holy Cross Hospital, joined Jo Speed at her graduation ceremony: “As a major local employer in Haslemere we invest heavily in staff development. We need a motivated and fulfilled team at Holy Cross who want to make a difference every day at work, whether in a healthcare or support role – that means enabling staff to progress through personal development and training. I’m very proud of Jo for her hard work and ambition in achieving Chartered status,” says Dr White.
Jo says: “It’s true that you never stop learning and at Holy Cross I have benefited enormously from the hospital’s ethos of providing high quality training and development. Reaching chartered status meant I had to demonstrate continued professional development; not only have I benefited from the experience and skills I have gathered but the hospital has also benefited from the achievements I’ve been involved with in my department as part of the process.”
After joining Holy Cross Hospital as an assistant catering manager, Jo progressed quickly and took on new responsibilities to eventually become general manager, picking up a keen interest in health and safety along the way. Jo recognised how she thrived on new challenges and studied for a number of professional qualifications to complement her role at Holy Cross.
It was while she was working to complete the Chartered Management Institute Level 5 Diploma in Leadership in Management that she decided her next step would be to reach Chartered status. Becoming a Chartered manager requires not only a degree level management qualification but also proven management experience and competence and evidence of substantial professional development.
Although already building on her management skills at Holy Cross, she opted to support two local voluntary groups outside of work as a trustee to broaden her breadth of experience. She joined the board of trustees for a day care centre in Farnham and the board of management in a care home in Farnborough, also in a trustee role.
While working to become a chartered manager, Jo also completed the level 5 NVQ in occupational health and safety and still has plans to progress further as she is currently working to become a Chartered Member of the Institution of Occupational Safety and Health.
Jo has lived all her life in Aldershot and has worked at Holy Cross since 1993.
Find out more about careers at Holy Cross Hospital.


shelf: finance

title: Want Us To Contact You?

text:
Want Us To Contact You?
Please try our wide variety of interactive financial problem solvers. Simply enter your criteria and you’ll get your questions answered with dynamic graphs and personalized reports.
Calculators > Credit
Consumer debt is at an all-time high—and it continues to grow thanks to compounding interest that never takes a break. Take control of your financial future by exploring ways to reduce or eliminate your debt. Use our calculator to see how small changes today can lead to big savings tomorrow.
Got a bonus, tax refund, or unexpected cash? Deciding whether to pay down debt or invest can be tricky. Our calculator helps you compare the long-term benefits of both, so you can make the smartest move for your financial goals.
Transferring high-interest credit card balances to a card with a lower rate can lead to meaningful monthly savings—and help you pay down debt faster. Use this tool to estimate how much you could save by making the switch.
Curious about your credit score? While exact scores vary by bureau, our estimator gives you a close approximation based on key factors like payment history, credit mix, and utilization. See where you stand and what you can do to improve your score.
Paying off a loan can feel like a long journey—but knowing your timeline makes it easier to stay motivated. Use this calculator to find out how long it will take to pay off your loan with your current payment plan, or see how adjusting your payments can shorten the payoff period.
Before you borrow, it’s important to understand how much you’ll be paying. Enter your loan amount, interest rate, and term to see your estimated monthly payments—and the total cost over time.
Wondering if your debt is getting out of hand? Use this calculator to assess whether your current debt level is manageable—or if it’s time to take steps toward financial relief.
Want to know how much you still owe on a loan? With just a few details—your monthly payment, interest rate, and remaining term—this calculator can estimate your current loan balance in seconds.
Should I Consolidate My Personal Debt Into A New Loan?
Debt consolidation can simplify your finances and potentially lower your monthly payments. Use this tool to see if rolling your debts into a new loan—such as a home equity loan—can save you money and make repayment more manageable.
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Thinking about refinancing or restructuring your debt to pay it off faster? With interest rates historically low, now might be the perfect time. Use this calculator to explore how adjusting your loan terms can help you pay off debt more efficiently.
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Whether you’re receiving a settlement, bonus, or structured payout, it’s important to compare your options. This calculator helps you evaluate the value of receiving a lump sum today versus spreading payments out over time.
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shelf: education

title: Course

text:
CT School of Bartending graduates will learn and become certified in alcohol awareness and responsibility through the T.I.P.S. training program included in the curriculum. Upon successful completion of the course, graduates will receive a certificate of achievement in Professional Bartending/ Mixology and T.I.P.S. certification.
Our classroom has an equipped bar set up for each student with an authentic nightclub, bar restaurant atmosphere. Students will receive hands-on training, preparing and garnishing traditional, as well as the latest popular drinks, and a thorough practice of pouring and bartending skills.
Just received my Bartending License yesterday. Charlie Oat (Instructor and Owner) is hands down the best of the best. Certificate easily attainable for those who need flexibility (week or weekend classes, you choose). The class is organized, professional, timely, thorough, and exciting all at the same time. Don't think about it another second, just call them and set yourself up for the next classes. It's affordable and unquestionably the best program in the state. Thanks Charlie, I'm excited to put my new skill set to work!
At first I was discouraged... I didn’t know if I could afford to miss a week of school, but after talking to Charlie he was able to enroll me in a class during my Spring Break; 5 days 6.5 hours a class. The class was very hands on and he offered extra pointers beyond the time we were given in the classroom, not to mention he helps you look for jobs that you feel you best and qualify for your TIPS certification. Also, if finances are holding you back from getting your certification, voice that to him! He offered me a payment plan.


shelf: home-craft

title: Mystery play dough in preschool

text:
We’ve enjoyed making and experimenting homemade made play dough all year long … and by far the most favorite was the “mystery play dough” we made last week! In the “great minds think alike” category … Deborah Stewart at Teach Preschool did the same activity recently (stop by and see what her class did with their play dough).
I made up a batch of homemade play dough beforehand, (but you can have children can assist with this process, measuring and mixing the ingredients). I did mine beforehand because I wanted this to be a mystery. Next, I formed balls of play dough and used a straw to make a small hole into the play dough and then added a few drops of food coloring into it and covered it up. (Deborah used liquid watercolor, which I think I’ll try next time).
When I got to class, I showed the kids the play dough balls and asked them what they thought I had in my hands (“play dough”) and what color it was (“white”). I asked them if they were SURE that the play dough was white (and they were). I then told them that there was something mysterious about this play dough, and when they played with it – “something would happen”!
So, each child got a ball of play dough and they were excited when it changed color!
Lots of screams of “I’ve got red!” and “Mine’s turning green!”
The kids LOVED it – and it was great for their fine motor development as they had to kneed and squeeze and really work the play dough to get the color all through.
The color spreads very well throughout the homemade play dough.
We had one child with a gluten allergy, and since I didn’t have all the ingredients to make a batch of gluten-free play dough, I also make up some balls of regular store-bought white play dough and added drops of food coloring in those as well. While the homemade stuff is softer and the color spread more evenly; the regular white play dough mixed with the food color created a pretty marble effect.
At the end, one little girl said “Miss Laura, that was the BEST activity ever!” That says it all … doesn’t it?!
Check out more fun play dough ideas on our SEEDS Idea Search and on our Pinterest board.
What is your favorite play dough activity?


shelf: history-culture

title: Finding salvation import business

text:
Brady StephensonAccess all of our teaching materials through our smartphone apps conveniently and quickly.
Brady StephensonHave you ever met someone who had an immediate and positive impact on your outlook for life? In my life such meetings have been rare but they have happened. I was recently blessed when I met a friend of a friend while out at lunch. Our introduction began in a normal fashion:
“Kevin, meet my friend, Brady.”
“Kevin? Hi! Nice to meet you.”
“Nice to meet you, too!”
We exchanged the normal pleasantries, asking each other how long we had known Chad, our mutual friend: are you married, have any kids, etc. Then the conversation turned to work.
“So, Kevin, what do you do?”
“I’m in the import business.”
Chad turned to him with a shocked look on his face. “Did you lose your job at the bank? You’ve been there for years! What happened?”
Kevin smiled at him. “Yes, I still work at the bank but Brady didn’t ask what my job was. He asked what I do.”
He turned to me to explain, “Although I work at a bank as a job to provide for my family, what I have been charged to do by my Creator is be an importer.”
Kevin must have notice the puzzled look on my face because he went on.
“For the past few hundred years Christianity has made finding salvation the goal of their evangelistic work: once a person is saved then their work is done." He wiped his hands together as if finishing a task. "The Bible, however, describes salvation as merely the introduction to much greater work: the import business. Believers are supposed to import G-d’s holiness and righteousness into this world.”
“In the heavenly realm of G-d’s kingdom everything that is said and done is imbued with G-d’s perfect holiness and righteousness. Because of the fallen state of our earthly realm, G-d has withdrawn Himself from it… to some degree. It says in James 2:5 that ‘G-d has chosen the poor of this world to be rich in faith and heirs to the kingdom which He promised to those who love Him.’ James was talking about you and me! We are heirs to the kingdom.”
“Although we live in the kingdom of this world (for now) we are citizens of G-d’s kingdom. It's like we're traveling abroad on business and our job is to import holiness and righteousness from our true kingdom, G-d’s kingdom, into this world. As Christ said in Matthew 5:16, ‘Let your light shine before men in such a way that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father who is in heaven.’ Although Christ’s kingdom has not yet been fully established on the earth (that won’t fully happen until He returns) we are members of His kingdom now and, with the help and guidance of the Holy Spirit, we can live our lives in a way that reflects that truth."
Kevin grinned and said, “OK… technically speaking we have two jobs. We need to be importers and we need to teach others to be importers as well.”
We continued our conversation for a while and then parted ways. I left our meeting blessed and encouraged… and with a new understanding of who I am in G-d’s kingdom.
Hello! Nice to meet you. My name is Brady and I’m in the import business.


title: 591461

text:
Navigating risks and harnessing potential: OSCE and Asian Partners discuss the impact of emerging technologies in the security sector
Over 140 participants from OSCE participating States, Asian Partners for Co-operation, international organizations, civil society and academia gathered in Vienna and online for the Third Inter-Regional Conference on the Impact of Emerging Technologies. The event was organized by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Korea, in co-operation with the OSCE Secretariat and the Maltese Chair of the Asian Partners for Co-operation Group.
The conference provided a platform for cross-regional dialogue on the security implications of rapid and exponential technological change, with a focus on the risks and opportunities posed by artificial intelligence, autonomous systems and digital innovation.
Participants discussed ways to strengthen collaboration between the OSCE and Asian Partners emphasizing the use of strategic foresight to ensure that technological advancements contribute to peace and security.
“The growing linkage between the security of Europe and the Indo-Pacific region underscores the need for inter-regional co-operation rooted in trust. Only through sustained dialogue and joint understanding can we respond effectively to threats,” said Cho Koo-Rae, Vice Minister for Strategy and Intelligence at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Korea, in his opening remarks.
“As emerging technologies reshape our world, our commitment to dialogue, partnership and comprehensive security remains unwavering,” emphasized OSCE Secretary General Feridun Sinirlioğlu. “The long-standing OSCE Asian Partnership for Co-operation reflects our shared commitment to tackling global and interconnected security challenges inherent in the dual-use nature of technologies,” he added.
Throughout the sessions, participants highlighted the importance of transparency, responsible innovation, and coordinated, inclusive policy-making. The discussions underscored that joint action is essential for anticipating and managing technology-driven risks, while strengthening the resilience of critical national infrastructure and democratic institutions.
“As Partners and participating States, it is our responsibility to harness these technologies judiciously, ensuring that we remain vigilant and adaptive in the face of evolving threats. By embracing innovation while upholding ethical standards, we can create a safer and more secure world,” said Lieut. Colonel Christian A. Zammit Cordina, representative of the OSCE Chair of the Asian Partners for Co-operation Group.
The conference built on the outcomes of previous inter-regional conferences held in 2020 and 2023, reaffirming the steadfast commitment of the OSCE and the Asian Partners for Co-operation, to address emerging security challenges in a rapidly evolving technological landscape and encourage the use of the OSCE’s extensive toolkit and experience in the three dimensions of OSCE’s comprehensive approach to security.


title: Is naproxen the same as naproxen

text:
At the beginning of the year, YouTuber Brandon William spent 30 days training like Athlean-X trainer Jeff Cavaliere, with the goal of building muscle mass and improving his strength in compound lifts. Pleased with the results that he achieved in just one month, he continued with his bodybuilder training for a total of 90 days.
In a recent video update, he shares how he stepped up his weightlifting and machine work, and eating at a caloric surplus, consuming 500 extra calories and 150 grams of protein every day.
“Calisthenics is my preferred way of training,” he says, “so I mixed it in with my weight training, so that I maintained my current calisthenic strength and endurance.”
William explains that he ate as clean as possible throughout the challenge, but that this often made it more difficult to reach the caloric surplus he was trying to maintain. His way around this was making calorie-packed smoothies with fruit, almond butter, and protein powder.
While the initial 30-day challenge had been a pretty big adjustment, as William continued with his strength training he found himself enjoying it more and more. “Prior to training with weights, leg day was always something I dreaded,” he says. “But now that I have the ability to increase weight, it gives me the motivation to try and out-lift myself every session, which made me start to really enjoy training legs.”
At the end of the 90 days, William tests his compound movements and has accomplished a considerable increase in his PR on each lift. His squat max has gone from 185 pounds to 235 pounds, his bench press max has gone from 185 pounds to 205 pounds, and most significantly, his deadlift max has gone from 175 pounds to 275 pounds; an improvement of 100 pounds.
Source: Read Full Article


text:
The Benefits of Using a Dedicated Server
In the ever-evolving landscape of digital technology, businesses are constantly seeking reliable and efficient hosting solutions to ensure their online presence is robust and uninterrupted. One such solution that stands out is the use of a dedicated server. This article delves into the numerous benefits of using a dedicated server, highlighting why it might be the optimal choice for your business.
1. Introduction to Dedicated Servers
What is a Dedicated Server?
A dedicated server is a type of web hosting service where an entire server is allocated to a single client. Unlike shared hosting, where resources are distributed among multiple users, a dedicated server provides exclusive access to all of its resources, ensuring maximum performance and reliability.
Why Consider a Dedicated Server?
Choosing a dedicated server means prioritizing your website’s performance, security, and scalability. It’s an ideal solution for businesses with high traffic volumes, complex applications, or those that require a high level of security.
2. Superior Performance and Reliability
With a dedicated server, all the server’s resources—CPU, RAM, disk space—are exclusively yours. This means no competition for bandwidth or processing power, resulting in faster load times and a more responsive website.
Dedicated servers typically offer high uptime guarantees, often exceeding 99.9%. This reliability is crucial for businesses that cannot afford downtime, ensuring your website is always available to customers.
3. Enhanced Security
Dedicated Security Features
Since you’re the sole user of the server, you have full control over security settings. This allows for the implementation of advanced security measures such as firewalls, intrusion detection systems, and comprehensive access controls.
Reduced Risk of Cyber Attacks
Shared hosting environments can be vulnerable to security breaches if one site is compromised. A dedicated server isolates your data, significantly reducing the risk of cyber-attacks and data breaches.
4. Customization and Control
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A dedicated server provides root access, allowing you to install and configure any software or applications you need. This level of control is essential for businesses with specific technical requirements.
You can customize the server environment to match your exact needs, whether it’s configuring the operating system, software, or specific server settings. This flexibility ensures optimal performance for your unique applications.
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As your business grows, your hosting needs will evolve. A dedicated server can easily be scaled by upgrading hardware components or adding additional resources to meet increased demand.
Adaptable to Business Needs
Whether you need to run complex databases, host multiple websites, or manage extensive email lists, a dedicated server can be adapted to handle these tasks efficiently, providing a scalable solution for growing businesses.
6. Cost-Effectiveness in the Long Run
Value for Money
While dedicated servers come with a higher initial cost compared to shared hosting, they offer better value for money in the long run due to their superior performance, reliability, and security features.
With a dedicated server, you can predict your hosting costs more accurately. There are no unexpected charges for exceeding resource limits, which is a common issue with shared hosting plans.
7. Improved SEO Performance
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Website speed is a critical factor in SEO. Search engines favor fast-loading sites, and a dedicated server ensures your website performs at optimal speed, potentially improving your search engine rankings.
Enhanced User Experience
A reliable, fast website enhances the user experience, reducing bounce rates and encouraging visitors to spend more time on your site. This positive user interaction is also beneficial for SEO.
8. Better Support and Service Level Agreements (SLAs)
Dedicated server providers often offer premium support services, including 24/7 technical assistance. This ensures any issues are promptly addressed, minimizing downtime and maintaining your website’s performance.
Service Level Agreements (SLAs) for dedicated servers typically include guarantees for uptime, support response times, and overall performance, providing peace of mind and assurance of service quality.
9. Compliance and Regulatory Requirements
For businesses that must comply with specific data sovereignty laws, dedicated servers can be configured to store data within required geographical locations, ensuring compliance with local regulations.
Dedicated servers allow for greater control over compliance-related configurations, helping businesses meet industry standards and regulatory requirements such as GDPR, HIPAA, or PCI DSS.
10. Future-Proofing Your Business
Adaptability to New Technologies
Dedicated servers can be upgraded with the latest hardware and software technologies, ensuring your business stays ahead of technological advancements and maintains a competitive edge.
Investing in a dedicated server provides long-term stability for your online presence. As your business grows and technology evolves, a dedicated server offers the flexibility and resources needed to adapt and thrive.
In conclusion, a dedicated server offers a multitude of benefits for businesses looking to enhance their online presence. From superior performance and reliability to enhanced security and customization, dedicated servers provide a robust hosting solution that can scale with your business needs. Investing in a dedicated server can ultimately lead to improved user experience, better SEO performance, and long-term cost savings.
What is the main advantage of using a dedicated server over shared hosting?
The main advantage is exclusive access to all server resources, ensuring superior performance, reliability, and security for your website.
How does a dedicated server improve website performance?
A dedicated server provides all resources exclusively to your site, resulting in faster load times, better responsiveness, and high uptime, all contributing to improved website performance.
Are dedicated servers more secure than other hosting options?
Yes, dedicated servers offer enhanced security features and isolate your data, reducing the risk of cyber attacks and breaches compared to shared hosting environments.
Can I customize a dedicated server to meet my specific needs?
Absolutely. Dedicated servers offer full administrative access, allowing you to customize the server environment, software, and configurations to match your specific requirements.
Is a dedicated server cost-effective for small businesses?
While the initial cost may be higher, dedicated servers offer better long-term value through superior performance, reliability, and security, making them a cost-effective solution for many businesses.


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What Is Blepharospasm And What Are The Treatment Options?
What Is Blepharospasm And What Are The Treatment Options?
Not many people have heard of blepharospasm but it affects lots of people all over the world.
The condition involves involuntary eyelid twitching and is caused by neurological issues, with the nervous system controlling the spasming of the eye. The good news is there are treatments available for blepharospasm.
To find out more, read on.
Blepharospasm typically begins with small eyelid twitches, but it can worsen and may even force eyelids shut, rendering patients unable to do things like driving. It can also cause other parts of the face to twitch.
There are two types of blepharospasm - primary and secondary. The former is also called benign essential blepharospasm, which although it is not dangerous, can have a big impact on daily life.
The latter is when it is the symptom of another condition, such as Meige syndrome, Parkinsons, inflammation disorders, photophobia, or some medications.
To determine whether it is blepharospasm or not, patients typically blink more than most people even when they are not experiencing spasms. It also affects both eyelids and can be improved by doing sensory ticks, such as humming or singing.
What is the cause of benign essential blepharospasm?
Benign essential blepharospasm is a neurological issue, caused when the brain fails to control the eye muscles correctly.
The basal ganglia part of the brain that looks after movements is likely to be affected, which is why the eyelids twitch. Alternatively, it could be caused when the cranial nerve VII, which carries nerve signals to the eyelid muscles, is not functioning properly.
Females between the ages of 40 and 70 are more likely to get benign essential blepharospasm than other groups.
It is also common to develop it if someone else in the family has it too, though stress, fatigue, past eye injuries, conditions with the nervous system, and some mental health issues, such as obsessive-compulsive disorder, depression and anxiety, are linked with benign essential blepharospasm.
Blepharospasm involves the eyelids spasming, whether they blink, twitch, shut, or squint. However, it can become worse when the patient is tired, driving, looking at bright lights or being exposed to pollution.
It most commonly occurs in the daytime, particularly when the patient is concentrating on a screen or book. However, for some people, this can improve symptoms.
Some people experience involuntary shutting of the eyelids, which can pull the eyebrows down as well. This can be very challenging to live with, as it can affect driving, reading, working and watching TV.
How can blepharospasm be treated?
The good news is that blepharospasm can be treated in several ways, helping to relieve the symptoms for patients:
Botox for blepharospasm treatment
One of the treatments involves injecting Botox into the eyelid muscles to help them to relax and stop contracting. This can prove effective in lots of patients within a few days, but it only lasts for three to four months before needing to be topped up again.
Additionally, some people might need larger doses as time goes on, as they could become used to the treatment.
Making changes to your lifestyle could have a positive effect on symptoms, as stress could be making the spasms worse.
Learning how to relax, such as by practising meditation or mindfulness, getting more sleep, cutting down on caffeinated drinks and eating a better diet could improve symptoms of blepharospasm.
Some doctors might suggest tinted lenses as these filter certain light wavelengths, such as blue.
The lenses have a pinkish tint and work well for those whose condition is triggered by bright lights.
Diazepam or lithium could also be prescribed, although the effectiveness of medication can vary between sufferers. What’s more, patients need to weigh up the pros and cons of taking medication, as the side effects could have a more negative impact on their life than the eyelid twitching in the first place.
If these do not work, another option is to have surgery called myectomy to permanently thin the eyelid or eyebrow muscles. This works by removing some of the nerve tissue or the muscle to weaken it so it does not twitch.
People with blepharospasm often undergo one of these treatments, as there is no cure for the condition without intervention. However, it is important to consider all the options when deciding which option is right for you.
All aspects of treatment are exemplary. Every member of staff is highly professional and proficient in fulfilling their role. The environment was calm and reassuring. I cannot praise the care or expertise highly enough. I am very grateful for the fact that such treatment is available and that it is provided in such an amazing manner.
Fantastic unit and all staff were lovely and comforting and couldn’t do too much for me and my companion! Doctor was thorough and answered all questions to my satisfaction and kind with the frame fitting. Radiographers were professional and caring. Lovely comfortable reclining chairs to rest on and tea for the asking! Big thank you to all the staff.
Exemplary care. From the friendly receptionist who personally escorted my sister and I to the ward to every clinician who cared for me on the day. Each explained their role in my care at depth with empathy and warmth. Thank you so much for allaying my angst on the day.
My first time it was daunting now had it twice the people in there are angels, very caring and professional made my whole experience calming they are marvellous thankyou from the bottom of my heart, team.
I was naturally a little apprehensive about undergoing a treatment that was unknown to me, but the very kind and professional team explained and reassured me. If anyone has been offered an appointment at the Queens Square facility, don't be too concerned about it. It will soon be done with. My sincere thanks to the medical team and best wishes to any who find themselves in a situation similar to mine.


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How Does Dropping Sales on Lazada and Shopee Affect Your Business?
Experiencing a decrease in sales on e-commerce platforms like Lazada and Shopee can have major consequences for your business. In addition to the immediate impact on revenue, declining sales can have an ongoing effect that impacts different areas of your operations and overall business well-being. Understanding the importance of these consequences is crucial in formulating successful strategies to tackle and overcome sales obstacles.
Revenue Loss: Lower sales directly translate to reduced income, affecting your cash flow and financial stability.
Decreased Profit Margins: Reduced sales make it harder to cover fixed costs, potentially leading to decreased profit margins.
Reduced Market Visibility: Algorithms may prioritize sellers with higher sales volumes, pushing your products down in search results and reducing visibility.
Loss of Customer Confidence: Consistent drops in sales may erode customer confidence in your products or services, impacting brand reputation.
Increased Inventory Holding Costs: Slower sales can result in unsold inventory, tying up capital and leading to higher holding costs.
Inability to Scale or Expand: Limited sales growth hinders your ability to invest in new products, markets, or business expansion.
Competitive Disadvantage: Competitors with stable or growing sales may gain a competitive edge, further impacting your market share.
Strain on Marketing Efforts: Increased marketing spending may be necessary to boost sales, straining your budget without guaranteed returns.
Long-Term Business Viability: Sustained drops in sales threaten the overall viability of your business, making it difficult to sustain operations.
By understanding these consequences and taking decisive action, businesses may traverse hard periods and position themselves for sustainable growth and success in the competitive e-commerce landscape.
Understanding The Primary Cause of Dropping Sales in Lazada and Shopee
According to Cikgu Anna Aziz, a certified HRDC and E-commerce Trainer, who is also a Lazada Ambassador and the founder of Anna Aziz Consultant Group, the primary reason behind the decline in sales on Lazada and Shopee is the insufficient optimization of product keywords in the titles and descriptions, along with the quality of product pictures.
Discover the effective strategies by Cikgu Anna Aziz to enhance your online presence and increase sales on popular e-commerce platforms such as Shopee and Lazada.
Differentiate Your Brand
Highlight how you are different from other competitors by optimizing your product keywords in the titles and descriptions, along with the quality of product pictures
Improve Product Title Keywords
Optimize the keywords for your products with dropping sales by monitoring and analyzing those SKUs week by week, as consumers may not use the same keywords consistently. Research and study trending keywords for your products by comparing them with those of your competitors. Monitoring dropping sales week by week can be hectic, especially if you have thousands of SKUs; this is where Sellercraft Data & Analytics Dropping Sales Insights can help you. Take advantage of this tool and get your dropping sales data at one glance.
Leveraging SEO Tactics in Product Descriptions
Additionally, aside from optimizing product title keywords, improving product descriptions is also crucial. Take action to enhance your visibility on these platforms by leveraging SEO tactics. Use relevant keywords in descriptions and tags, and regularly update listings to align with current search trends. Businesses should also encourage customer reviews and feedback to boost organic search rankings.
Updating your improved product descriptions for over hundreds SKUs can be daunting, especially when dealing with multiple marketplaces. With Sellercraft’s Product Listing feature, sellers can update their listings across marketplaces more quickly, ensuring consistency in product description and enhancing visibility across multiple marketplaces.
The Importance of First Impressions of Product Image
Uploading attractive, high-quality product images especially the first image. The first product image is the initial point of contact with potential buyers. A compelling image that stands out can grab attention and draw shoppers into exploring your listing further. Besides, high-quality images convey professionalism and build trust. When customers see clear and appealing visuals, they are more likely to perceive your product positively and consider making a purchase. Ultimately, appealing product images contribute to higher conversion rates. When customers are impressed by what they see, they are more inclined to add the item to their cart and complete the purchase.
To summarize, monitoring and resolving declining sales on e-commerce platforms such as Lazada and Shopee is critical for maintaining a successful online business. The consequences of decreasing sales go beyond immediate income loss; they affect various aspects of corporate operations and long-term profitability.
Dropping sales have a number of effects, including decreased profitability and market visibility, significant damage to brand reputation, and limited possibilities for growth. Businesses may rejuvenate their online presence and drive sales growth even in highly competitive e-commerce landscapes by implementing effective strategies such as optimizing product keywords, improving product descriptions, and improving product imagery—proven methods advocated by experts such as Cikgu Anna Aziz.
By proactively addressing the root causes of dropping sales and implementing these actionable tactics, businesses can position themselves for sustained growth and success in the dynamic world of e-commerce. Ultimately, strategic adaptation and optimization are pivotal for navigating challenges and fostering resilience in an ever-evolving digital marketplace.


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A Message from the President, Dr. Marilyn Murphy Fore
At Horry-Georgetown Technical College (HGTC), our purpose is to empower students with the knowledge, skills, and opportunities needed to build a successful future and quality of life. As one of South Carolina’s leading technical colleges, HGTC provides a high-quality and affordable education making college accessible to all.
With more than 75 associate degree, diploma, certificate, and workforce development programs, HGTC offers pathways to immediate career success or seamless transfer to four-year universities. For those seeking flexibility, online instruction provides fully online programs designed to accommodate busy schedules.
Our dedicated Student Affairs team supports students every step of the way, from admissions and academic advising to financial aid and career counseling. HGTC’s esteemed faculty bring real-world expertise to the classroom, fostering hands-on learning experiences that prepare students for today’s workforce.
An impressive 95% of HGTC graduates are employed in their field of study or continue their education at four-year institutions. Our strong industry partnerships create internship and apprenticeship opportunities, ensuring students gain practical experience that leads to meaningful careers.
As a proud community college, HGTC serves the residents of Horry and Georgetown Counties, with more than 90% of our students choosing to live and work in South Carolina. With campuses in Georgetown, Myrtle Beach, and Conway, we provide a convenient and accessible learning environment.
HGTC remains one of the most affordable colleges in the state, and with extensive financial aid options, students can achieve their educational goals without the burden of excessive debt.
We invite you to join our HGTC family and experience firsthand why your future starts here!
With HGTC pride,
Dr. Marilyn Murphy Fore
Horry-Georgetown Technical College


title: Claw hammer

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A claw hammer is a tool primarily used for pounding nails into, or extracting nails from, some other object. Generally, a claw hammer is associated with woodworking but is not limited to use with wood products. It is not suitable for heavy hammering on metal surfaces (such as in machining work), as the steel of its head is somewhat brittle; the ball-peen hammer is more suitable for such metalwork.
An early claw hammer is seen in Albrecht Dürer's etching "Melencolia I," dated 1514, halfway up the left side. There are several nails in the lower right corner.
A claw hammer can be said to look roughly like the letter "T" with the handle being the long part, and the head being the line across the top which looks like a "t". In actuality, the head of the hammer does not form a straight line, but curves down into the claw of the hammer. One side of the head is flat with either a smooth or textured surface and is used for impacting another surface. The other side of the head curves down and splits in the middle forming a "V" shape. This part is the claw of the hammer and is most commonly used for extracting nails from wood. The rounded end of the claw, in combination with the handle, is used to gain leverage when extracting a nail.
Claw hammers can be constructed many ways but generally come in one of two forms. The first, and most popular, type of hammer is the two piece hammer. This hammer is constructed from a forged steel head with a hole for fixing a handle. One end is made to fit the hole in the hammer head, then a steel wedge is driven into the wood which forces it to expand and secure the hammer head to the handle. Other handle materials include glass fiber and even carbon fiber.
Another type of claw hammer is single-piece forged heat-treated steel where the head and handle are integral. These hammers often have polymer grips to add to their ergonomics and decrease vibrations when the hammer is used.
Another type of claw hammer is the framing hammer. This is an oversized claw hammer used in framing carpentry. The larger and heavier head can decrease the number of blows required to fully insert the nail. Framing hammers commonly have a "checkered" face, which reduces skip-off of the head if the blow is not precisely struck on the nail. The slight indentations left on the wood by the checkered face are considered unimportant in rough carpentry. Framing hammers also have a much straighter claw than regular claw hammers, as the claw is designed more for prying nailed boards apart, rather than removing nails (though its claw can also be used in that capacity).
The size of this type of hammer is commonly designated by the weight of its head, which may range from 7-32 ounces.


title: by Daoud Kuttab

text:
by Daoud Kuttab
The outcome so far of the Israeli war on Lebanon is a mixed bag for Palestinians. The war reinforced the near blind support Israel enjoys in what both Israel and the US consider the war on terror. The Israelis clearly have a blank check to do almost anything they want to Lebanese or Palestinians so long as it is done in the name of a war against Hizballah or Hamas.
At the same time, it seems clear that as a result of Lebanon, the international community is once again engaged in the Middle East. With this engagement, the international community appears to have realized that simply leaving the parties to the Middle East conflict to solve their own problems will not produce any results. The resulting stalemate, which has been tolerated until recently by the US and other world powers, produces no stability. Just as the relatively minor cross-border attacks in Gaza and Lebanon produced avalanches of violence, a powder keg stalemate will result only in continued conflict.
The recognition that the Palestinian problem continues to be a major irritant in the region and the wider Islamic world was also noted by a number of world leaders. Tony Blair, Condoleezza Rice, Jacques Chirac and others were among many who spoke publicly about the need to deal with the root causes of Middle East conflict.
Caught between unreserved US support for Israel (especially in its fight against Hamas) and the realization that the international community wants to re-engage to solve the Palestinian-Israeli conflict, the big question for Palestinians is how to proceed from here. The road map endorsed by the Quartet was out of date the minute Israel unilaterally pulled out of Gaza. With the Lebanon war considerably weakening Israeli Prime Minister Ehud Olmert, a similar attempt to unilaterally pull out of areas of the West Bank seems to have been put on hold.
But the Americans and their allies, who were never very excited about the idea of a unilateral withdrawal from the West Bank, would be mistaken if they expect Olmert to replace his “convergence plan” with serious negotiations with the Palestinians. Indeed, in the coming months as the Israeli leadership concentrates its efforts on dealing with the fallout from Lebanon, little can be expected of them vis-a-vis the Palestinians. Certainly nothing will happen so long as Hamas is still in power and an Israeli soldier, Gilad Shalit, remains in Palestinian hands.
Palestinian leaders Mahmoud Abbas and Ismail Haniyeh seem to have realized the need to remove any Israeli excuses not to engage with them. A hitherto underreported agreement over the so-called Prisoners’ Document is expected to usher in the establishment of a national unity government that will include Islamist and secular nationalist factions.
It remains to be seen whether such a government and its inevitably more moderate political program will be sufficient to ease the financial siege that was imposed on Palestinians and that has crippled the Palestinian National Authority. A more significant change is likely to occur if a solution is found that can lead to the release of Shalit and an end to the firing of the amateur rockets from Gaza to Israel. But no matter what happens in Lebanon, for Palestine to benefit it will require a stable and moderate Palestinian government whose agenda is clearly in favor of the two-state solution.
If the Lebanon war has shown the fragility of the region and the utter failure of unilateralism to solve anything, it has also shown the overwhelming power of the United States. While pragmatism is needed to shake up the Palestinian track, ultimately any serious breakthrough in the Palestinian-Israeli conflict will require the strong and continuous engagement of the world’s only remaining superpower.
If the United States means what its president repeatedly says about the need for a viable and contiguous state of Palestine living side-by-side with a secure state of Israel, it needs to put the power of the president’s office behind that pledge. This is unlikely to happen until after the mid-term congressional elections in the US on November 2. In preparation for that, a wise Palestinian strategy would be to remove all possible contentious issues that can be used as excuses by Israel not to engage directly and seriously with the Palestinian side, from November 3 on.
– Published 21/8/2006 Ãƒâ€šÃ‚Â© bitterlemons.org


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AGENCY: Department of Commerce. Division of Professional Licensing
TITLE: Criminal history files
ARRANGEMENT: Alphabetical by profession type thereunder alphabetical by name
DESCRIPTION: These records are criminal histories from the Federal Bureau of Investigations (FBI) and the Bureau of Criminal Identification (BCI). They are used as part of an application for a license for a group of professions regulated by the division. Applicants are required to submit fingerprints for certain professions regulated by the Division. Fingerprints are compared to FBI and BCI databases for criminal history matches. Criminal history records received from the FBI/BCI are used in the evaluation of approval or denial of the license application. These records contain unique information in rough notes or drafts assembled or created and used to prepare or analyze other documents. The information adds proper understanding to the formulation and execution of policies, decisions, actions, or responsibilities. -Personal Identifying Information (PII) that may be contained within this records series consists of: name, username, email address, social security number, date of birth, drivers license number, home/mailing address, criminal records, passport number, financial account information, medical records, IP address, and biometric data
-Purpose Information is Collected: Information is not collected from this Division record series, but PII information may appear in this records series
-Statute citation reference to collect PII information: Section 58-1-301
Retain for 1 year(s) after end of project or program
RETENTION AND DISPOSITION AUTHORIZATION
Retention and disposition for this series is authorized by Archives general schedule Working files, GRS-1684
Paper: Retain in Office for 1 year after project closed and then destroy.
These records have evidentiary value in determining whether a license application is granted or denied.


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‘Almost everyone is reliant on civil engineering’
Edward Chaplin is a digital engineer apprentice, studying for a BTEC and NVQ qualification at the National College for Nuclear. He is working for Bylor JV – Laing O’Rourke on Hinkley Point C through his apprenticeship
Why did you choose an apprenticeship in civil engineering?
After my A-Levels, I planned to study chemistry at university, but instead I took a gap year, did some travelling and took some time out.
I was itching to get experience and start my career, rather than go back into full-time education. I started looking for apprenticeships that would lead to an interesting career and recognised the possibilities within civil engineering.
I was looking for a career where I would be mentally challenged and have a good balance of practical and theoretical work. Civil engineering jumped out as the best fit, and as I can see Hinkley Point C from where I live, everything else fell into place after I decided it was what I was going to do.
Would you recommend a career in civil engineering?
Yes! Civil engineering is an exciting area of work. If you want to travel while earning and furthering your career prospects, there are major civil engineering projects all over the world that enable you to do this. The projects are always different, and as each progresses there will be new exciting challenges.
I am looking forward to the many places that civil engineering will take me.
What’s a typical day like for you?
I work in digital engineering and most of the day I am at my desk using 3D modelling software and programming to create innovative solutions to problems. I output detailed technical models and tools with detailed method statements that can be used to automate tasks in digital engineering.
I often meet with site engineers or colleagues, discussing requirements and gathering the information I need, or explaining my work output when handing it over to them.
What have you learnt about civil engineering since you started working in the industry?
I had never thought about how reliant humans are on civil engineering. Where there are humans, there are people building civil engineering structures such as bridges, dams, roads and so on. Once you start to think about what civil engineering includes you realise how almost everyone is reliant on civil engineering.
I am interested in where civil engineering will take us in future. If humans look towards colonising other planets, civil engineers will be tested on their inventiveness to create structures that can be transported compact and lightweight, and then erected on another planet.
Civil engineers will also be expected to build structures to protect civilisation from global warming, rising sea levels and changing weather, as well as providing reliable energy sources.
What have been the highlights of your apprenticeship?
I am working on Hinkley Point C where I started my apprenticeship. The site has changed so much since I joined in 2018, I’m always excited to see the progression.
On site I am encouraged to learn as much as I can–my mentor encouraged me to learn how to use software that isn’t widely used on site. I now teach others on the uses of this software, giving presentations to groups of over 50 people sharing what I have learnt.
I believe this led to another highlight of my career so far which is getting awarded a QUEST Scholarship by the Institution of Civil Engineers. The scholarship gave me further opportunities to progress my learning and speak to people about civil engineering, plus greater fulfilment in my role.
What else are you doing to further your development as a civil engineer?
Alongside my apprenticeship I am currently working towards achieving my engineering technician (EngTech MICE) status with the Institution of Civil Engineers (ICE). EngTech MICE is a globally recognised qualification that will show my skills and experience to employers, it is also a first step with ICE on the path towards becoming a chartered engineer (CEng MICE). To achieve this goal, I have been receiving support from my employer and ICE with regular guidance meetings. I also plan, with the support of my company, to undertake a degree alongside working to give me the qualifications needed to become a chartered engineer.
To find out more about civil engineering apprenticeships, visit ice.org.uk/future#apprenticeships


title: Comparison of top ai development frameworks

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Artificial Intelligence (AI) has emerged as a revolutionary force, transforming industries from healthcare to finance. Behind the scenes, AI development frameworks are the engines powering this innovation. These frameworks provide the tools, libraries, and resources to build, train, and deploy AI models effectively. With many options available, it can be challenging to choose the right framework for your specific needs. In this comparative analysis, we will explore some of the leading AI development frameworks, their strengths, weaknesses, and best use cases.
TensorFlow, developed by Google Brain, is one of the most popular AI frameworks in the world. It is an open-source platform that enables developers to build and train machine learning models. TensorFlow’s flexibility makes it suitable for various applications, from simple tasks like classification to more complex tasks like object detection and image recognition.
Comprehensive ecosystem: TensorFlow offers a rich set of tools, including TensorFlow Lite for mobile applications, TensorFlow.js for running models in browsers, and TensorFlow Extended (TFX) for deploying ML models in production environments.
Scalability: TensorFlow supports distributed computing, allowing for the training of large-scale machine learning models across multiple CPUs or GPUs.
High-level APIs: TensorFlow provides Keras, a high-level API that simplifies the process of building and training models. Keras is widely regarded for its ease of use and fast prototyping.
Steep learning curve: TensorFlow’s low-level API can be difficult for beginners, and mastering it requires a significant time investment.
Debugging complexity: Debugging in TensorFlow can be more complex than other frameworks.
Best Use Cases:
Image and speech recognition
Natural language processing (NLP)
Large-scale machine learning projects requiring distributed training
PyTorch, developed by Facebook’s AI Research lab, has gained tremendous popularity among researchers and practitioners. It is an open-source deep learning framework that provides a flexible and dynamic computational graph, allowing users to change computations on the go. PyTorch’s simplicity and flexibility make it especially popular in the academic and research communities.
Dynamic computation graph: Unlike TensorFlow’s static computation graph, PyTorch allows for dynamic computation, which makes it easier to write code that adapts to changing conditions and inputs during runtime.
Pythonic approach: PyTorch feels more natural for developers as it closely resembles standard Python syntax and workflows, making it easy to learn and integrate into Python-based projects.
Excellent community support: PyTorch has a growing community of contributors and an extensive set of tutorials and libraries, making it easier for developers to find help and resources.
Less mature for production: PyTorch has traditionally been seen as a framework better suited for research than production deployment. However, this is changing with the introduction of tools like TorchServe for deploying PyTorch models at scale.
**Limited mobile support:** PyTorch’s support for mobile platforms is not as robust as TensorFlow’s, though PyTorch Mobile is working to bridge this gap.
Best Use Cases:
Research and academic projects
Dynamic and adaptive machine learning models
Prototyping and experimentation with AI models
3. Apache MXNet
Apache MXNet is a deep learning framework designed for both efficiency and flexibility. Known for its scalability, MXNet can train models on a range of devices, from a single CPU to distributed systems with multiple GPUs. It is also the default deep learning framework for Amazon Web Services (AWS), which provides deep integration with AWS tools and services.
Scalability: MXNet’s ability to scale across multiple GPUs and distributed systems makes it ideal for large-scale AI deployments.
Hybrid front-end: MXNet supports both imperative and symbolic programming, offering flexibility for developers who want to switch between dynamic and static graphs.
Efficient memory usage: MXNet is designed to be memory-efficient, which makes it a good choice for deploying deep learning models on low-resource devices.
Less intuitive API: To PyTorch and TensorFlow, MXNet’s API can feel less intuitive, particularly for beginners.
Smaller community: While MXNet has strong corporate backing from AWS, its user base is smaller than that of TensorFlow or PyTorch, which means fewer resources, tutorials, and libraries are available.
Best Use Cases:
Large-scale production environments
AI deployments on AWS infrastructure
Low-latency applications requiring efficient memory usage
Keras is a high-level neural network programming API written in Python, and it is capable of running on top of TensorFlow, Microsoft Cognitive Toolkit (CNTK), and Theano. Designed for ease of use, Keras allows developers to quickly build and experiment with deep learning models without needing to worry about low-level implementation details.
User-friendly: Keras is one of the easiest frameworks for building deep learning models, thanks to its simple and intuitive API.
Fast prototyping: Keras is perfect for prototyping because of its high-level design, which enables quick experimentation and model iteration.
Integration with TensorFlow: Since Keras is now part of TensorFlow, it benefits from the broader TensorFlow ecosystem while retaining its simplicity.
Limited flexibility: While Keras is great for prototyping, it lacks the flexibility required for highly customized models compared to frameworks like PyTorch.
**Not ideal for large-scale models:** For more complex and large-scale deep learning models, developers often prefer to use TensorFlow or PyTorch directly.
Best Use Cases:
Rapid prototyping of deep learning models
Projects that prioritize simplicity and ease of use over flexibility
Teaching and learning deep learning concepts
Caffe, developed by Berkeley AI Research (BAIR), is a deep learning framework known for its speed and efficiency, particularly when applied to computer vision tasks. It is written in C++ and has a Python interface. Caffe is designed to be lightweight and modular, which makes it highly efficient for image processing tasks.
High performance: Caffe is optimized for speed, making it one of the fastest frameworks for training deep learning models, especially in computer vision.
Modularity: The modular architecture of Caffe allows for easy customization and integration with other software.
Limited flexibility: Caffe is not as flexible as PyTorch or TensorFlow, and it can be tricky to use for tasks outside of computer vision.
Smaller community and less frequent updates: The framework’s user base is shrinking as other frameworks like TensorFlow and PyTorch gain popularity.
Best Use Cases:
Computer vision tasks such as image classification and object detection
Projects where speed and performance are critical
Theano, developed by the Montreal Institute for Learning Algorithms (MILA), is one of the oldest deep learning frameworks and has laid the groundwork for many modern frameworks, including TensorFlow and PyTorch. Although it is no longer actively maintained, Theano is still used in some niche applications due to its efficiency in optimizing mathematical expressions.
Optimized for computation: Theano is highly optimized for running on both CPUs and GPUs, offering fast computation.
Strong foundation for other frameworks: Theano has influenced the development of frameworks like Keras and TensorFlow.
No longer actively developed: Theano is no longer being actively maintained, which limits its appeal for new projects.
Steep learning curve: Theano’s low-level nature makes it harder to learn compared to higher-level frameworks like Keras or PyTorch.
Best Use Cases:
Academic research in mathematical optimization
Projects that require customized deep learning models at a low level
Choosing the right AI development framework depends on your specific project requirements. TensorFlow and PyTorch dominate the AI landscape, with TensorFlow offering scalability and production-ready features and PyTorch excelling in flexibility and ease of use. For those working with AWS infrastructure, Apache MXNet provides a highly scalable solution. Keras is perfect for beginners or those looking for rapid prototyping, while Caffe and Theano are better suited for specialized tasks like computer vision or mathematical optimization.
By understanding the strengths, weaknesses, and best use cases of these frameworks, you can make an informed decision to maximize your AI project’s potential.


title: Why flow wellness weight loss products are worth the investment

text:
In the era of digital convenience, it’s tempting to turn to online retailers for all your needs, including medical weight loss products. However, when it comes to your health, the cheapest option isn’t always the safest or most effective. At Flow Wellness, we prioritize quality, safety, and personalized care, which is why our products might be more expensive than those found online. Here’s why choosing Flow Wellness for your weight loss journey is a wise investment.
Personalized Care from Dedicated Providers
One of the most significant advantages of choosing Flow Wellness is the personalized care you receive from our licensed providers. Weight loss is a complex journey that requires professional guidance and support. Our team of experienced clinicians is dedicated to helping you achieve your goals safely and effectively. Unlike online retailers, which often lack personal interaction, our providers are available to answer your questions, adjust your treatment plan as needed, and offer the encouragement you need to stay on track. We offer free initial consultation and monthly consultations as you start your weight loss journey.
Our Commitment to Safety: Personal Use as Proof
We believe so strongly in the safety and efficacy of our weight loss products that many of our friends, family members, and even some of our staff are taking these medications. This personal use is a testament to our confidence in the treatments we provide. We would never offer our patients anything less than what we would choose for ourselves and our loved ones. This commitment to safety and quality underlines the higher cost of our products compared to generic online options.
With years of experience and evidence-based treatments, our team delivers personalized care designed to meet your unique goals. Our medical director is a diplomat of the American Board of Obesity Medicine. With over 125 five-star Google reviews across multiple locations, we are committed to providing high-quality, compassionate care. By utilizing the latest medical advancements, we take a holistic approach to help you achieve and sustain long-term health and wellness.
Flexible and Affordable Discount Options
We understand that cost can be a concern, and we strive to make our services as accessible as possible. We include all supplies with your order including: free shipping, nausea medication should it be required, and monthly consultations with your clinician. Flow Wellness offers multiple discount options to help reduce the financial burden:
- Autopay Discounts: Enroll in our autopay program to receive a discount on your monthly medication costs. This convenient option ensures you never miss a dose and saves you money in the process.
- Referral Bonus: Share your positive experience with friends and family, and both you and your referral can enjoy a discount on your medications. This creates a supportive community of individuals working towards better health together.
The Value of Investing in Your Health
While the initial cost of our weight loss products may be higher than those offered by online retailers, the long-term benefits far outweigh the difference in price. Investing in your health with Flow Wellness means receiving personalized, professional care, high-quality and safe medications, and access to a supportive community. Your health is priceless, and choosing a trusted provider like Flow Wellness is an investment in a healthier, happier future.
The cost of Flow Wellness weight loss products reflects the quality, safety, and personalized care we provide. Our commitment to excellence ensures that you receive the best possible treatment, tailored to your needs, and supported by a team of dedicated professionals. Choose Flow Wellness for a weight loss journey that prioritizes your health and well-being.


title: Kali9 | E+ | Getty Images

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Kali9 | E+ | Getty Images
Banks are dialing back the yields they pay on certificates of deposit, but a notable name is still commanding one of the highest rates available.
New York Community Bank offers the highest CD rate for maturities under 36 months among the banks in Morgan Stanley’s coverage, coming in at 5.5%. Webster Financial followed in second place, with a rate of 5.4%, and Bank OZK rounded out the top three with a rate of 5.3%.
New York Community Bank is offering a sweetened annual percentage yield at a time when the institution itself is going through a period of tumult. Even as the company is willing to pay an annual percentage yield of 5.5% on a seven-month CD, its shares are down more than 50% this year. In February alone, the stock is off by 24%.
YTD performance of NYCB shares
In late January, the Hicksville, New York-based bank took a higher-than-anticipated charge against expected loan losses. The bank also slashed its quarterly dividend by about 71% to 5 cents a share. Earlier this month, Moody’s Investors Service downgraded the bank’s long-term ratings to junk, citing “multi-faceted financial, risk-management and governance challenges facing NYCB.”
Nevertheless, savers should be aware that their deposits, be they in bank accounts or in CDs, are subject to protection by the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation. Generally, the FDIC covers $250,000 per depositor, per FDIC-insured bank, for each account ownership category.
Source: Morgan Stanley
Expect CD rates across the board to continue falling, with longer-dated offers likely to decline faster than short-dated instruments, wrote Morgan Stanley analyst Betsy Graseck in a Thursday report.
“Once the Fed eventually begins to cut, the path for net interest income will depend heavily on how quickly banks can bring down their overall deposit costs,” she said.
Credit: Source link


title: ConneXtion is Coming! June 10-11, 2025

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ConneXtion is Coming! June 10-11, 2025
After getting a better understanding of your child’s needs and ability, you may decide to start small, with a skill he can easily manage. For example, in the toileting sequence, you may decide that you will focus on your child pulling his pants down and up while you complete all of the other steps. It is recommended that all of the steps in the toileting sequence be followed for each toilet trip even if you are beginning by focusing on one or two steps. The goal is for your child to participate in and to learn the sequence as a whole.
Write the goal(s) on the plan so all caregivers are familiar. And, communicate the goal(s) to the child both verbally and visually in a way he understands. For example, if the goal is to “pull down pants” – write this on the plan and find a photo or other picture that will help your child understand the goal.
Track how long it takes in between when your child drinks and/or eats and when he or she is wet and/or soiled. Checking your child’s diaper frequently (e.g., every fifteen minutes) will help you decide when to schedule toilet trips. A printable chart like this can help you record your child’s toileting patterns.
Based on your observations of your child’s patterns, build a daily schedule around the time your child typically has to eliminate. Develop a reasonable schedule for waking hours that you can support consistently. Make toilet trips part of everyday life and plan them around your usual routine. Typically, you’ll have six toilet trips each day. For example, you can use a toilet trip schedule for toileting:
Or, your child may need a schedule that includes other daily activities as well as toileting at the same time each day. While such a schedule may seem overwhelming or complicated, it also makes life predictable for both the child and the adults. By following the schedule, your child can see what comes before going to the bathroom as well as what comes next when he has finished the toileting routine.
Follow this link to a sample daily picture schedule.
A sample picture schedule can also be found in the Parent’s Guide to Toilet Training in Autism from the Autism Speaks website.
You can also refer to our Visual Supports Tool Kit for sample visual schedules.
For each trip to the bathroom, teach toileting as a whole routine of sequenced behaviors, not just sitting on the toilet. Include all of the steps of the entire process. Pictures showing each step of toileting may help your child learn the routine and predict what will happen.
For example, you may follow this routine:
Follow this link to a sample picture toileting routine.
If you need to break the routine down into smaller steps, see Part 3: Toilet Training Steps.
Your ultimate goal is that your child will complete each step of the routine independently. But, in the beginning, you may have to provide more assistance so that your child can complete each step successfully.
Use words your child will understand. For example, “Now we go to the bathroom” or “pee” for urinate. Parents and other caregivers involved in implementing the plan should use the same language. Consult with your child’s daycare and school regarding the words they are using.
If your child typically communicates using pictures, use them in the toileting routine also. Such pictures may include photos, drawings, and/or clip art. Consult with your child’s teacher or speech-language pathologist about the visuals they are using at school. Using a simple picture schedule that includes potty times can help your child feel less anxious about this change to his routine.
If you have more than one bathroom at home, choose the one where your child is most likely to be successful and start there. Eventually, you will add other bathrooms in both familiar and unfamiliar environments.
Remember that the environment and sensory issues should be considered to ensure success. For more information, refer to Part 6: Creating a Calm and Welcoming Bathroom Environment.
Be prepared for success by having clean clothing, wipes, toilet tissue, soap, and towels readily available in the bathroom. Keep books, music, and other calming and engaging activities on hand in the bathroom to help your child relax and to minimize any negative reactions to the bathroom and/or the routine. You may want to put together a ‘survival kit’ containing these items for trips away from home.
Once your toileting plan is complete, share it with all those who will be involved in teaching and supporting your child. Start the process as you planned and give it time. You can continue to use the daily intake and elimination record to monitor progress. Review the plan periodically and, if you see areas where your child is struggling, don’t give up! There will be bumps in the road and perhaps even some regression. Your plan hasn’t failed – it may just need a few changes. Try to assess what is going wrong so that you can make changes to the plan. Talk to the other caregivers, professionals, and family members involved to get their ideas and suggestions. You may have to break down a step into even smaller ones so that your child can be successful.
If this is not realistic for your child, habit training may be a better toilet training technique. Through habit training, accessing the toilet becomes a learned behavior. The child creates a new habit of eliminating in the toilet versus in the diaper. By repeating the toileting routine over and over as part of a structured schedule, the goal is for the child to develop bladder and bowel control and more independent access of the toilet. Habit Training is described in Part 5.
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title: Heating repair rollingwood tx

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4.9 Google Rating
Heating Repair in Rollingwood
Restore your home’s warmth with expert heating repair in Rollingwood from McCullough Heating & Air Conditioning. Located near Zilker Park and the Barton Creek Greenbelt, Rollingwood homes often need reliable heating during cooler months. Whether your system is aging or facing sudden issues, our team offers fast and professional repairs. Keep your home comfortable this winter with our prompt and efficient heating services. We’re here to ensure your system is up and running in no time.
Our Heating Repair Services in Rollingwood, TX
McCullough Heating & Air Conditioning provides expert heating repair services in Rollingwood, TX. If your heating system is failing to keep your home warm, our technicians will diagnose and repair the issue quickly. From faulty components to airflow problems, we offer comprehensive repair solutions to restore comfort in your home. Schedule your heating repair today for fast, professional service.
Thermostat Repair: A malfunctioning thermostat can lead to uneven heating. We repair thermostats to ensure accurate temperature control.
Blower Motor Repair: A broken blower motor can affect heat distribution. We repair or replace blower motors to improve airflow and heating efficiency.
Heat Exchanger Repair: A damaged heat exchanger can impact heating performance. We repair heat exchangers to ensure safe and effective heating.
Ignition System Repair: An issue with your furnace’s ignition system can cause it to fail to start. We repair ignition systems to restore reliable heating.
Why Choose McCullough Heating & Air Conditioning?
Heating repair in Rollingwood should be quick, reliable, and performed by professionals who care about your comfort. Our team offers comprehensive heating repair services, diagnosing issues quickly and providing lasting solutions. From minor fixes to major repairs, we ensure your system is running efficiently to keep your home warm.
Fast and Efficient Repairs: We understand the urgency of heating repairs, so our team works quickly to restore comfort.
Skilled Technicians: Our experienced team has the skills to repair any heating system issue effectively.
Customer-Centered Service: We tailor our services to your specific needs, ensuring satisfaction with every repair.
Durable Repairs: We use high-quality parts to guarantee that repairs last, providing reliable heating for the long term.


title: Hey listen to psychonaut

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For me, a good band or record usually boils down to one of two things. It’s either a band that is a master of one thing or it’s a record that scratches a lot of itches. The latter usually means there is something great happening. It means an artist or collective of musicians is putting together a lot of influences and originality in order to make something we haven’t heard before. If Psychonaut doesn’t do that for you, I’m not sure what to say to you to convince you otherwise.
The collective trio from Belgium make some very unique tunes. Looking at the bottom of their Bandcamp page, they’ve tagged themselves with “alternative metal,” “atmospheric,” “post-metal,” “psychedelic,” “sludge,” and “stoner rock.” That pretty much covers the breadth of their sound. It spans everything in a very heady way, often creating a unique amalgamation of tones with the highest quality of songwriting abilities. The tones on their newest record, Unfold the God Man, reflect the album art: a vaguely emerging figure from a spatial tapestry of stars.
What really grabs me the most are the lyrics. There are obviously a lot of high-minded topics being discussed in them, and I’m not afraid to admit that I haven’t a clue exactly what they’re talking about. However, the record is so intensely intriguing that I’m willing to deal with that personal failing just to consume more of their music. And maybe someday when I get over just how musically interesting they are, I’ll come to the enlightenment that is understanding these lyrics. Until such a time, I’ve got 2 other full-length records of theirs to go through. I would suggest all of us do the same. Please help me figure this band out. I HAVE TO KNOW!


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