class for storing the images. This DeepZoomGenerator class is based on the work by Berend Engelbrecht, and is a stripped down version, as my goal was to create tiles for single images only. This class takes a large image, and creates the tiles required for creating the Deep Zoom image. It does, however, not support the more advanced stuff like image collections that the Deep Zoom technology provides and that Berend in his original class provided.
DeepZoomSilverlight Project
This Silverlight project consists of a single page that displays the Deep Zoom image and displays the available images from the database in a listbox. The question is, of course, how does the MultiScaleImage control display the tiles that are stored in the database? Usually, one would assign the Source property of that control the URI to an XML file, e.g., something like msi.Source="../GeneratedImages/dzc_output.xml". But, this property actually is of type MultiScaleTileSource.
So, what we have to do is create a class that inherits from MultiScaleTileSource and implement its interface. The main method of that class is called GetTileLayers, and is called from the MultiScaleImage control for every tile that is needed. Inside that method, you add each tile to a list, but not in the form of a bitmap, but in the form of an URI. The URI itself must then stream back the image, and that is why we use a HttpHandler in the web project.
C#
/// <summary>
/// Gets a collection of the tiles that comprise the Deep Zoom image.
/// </summary>
/// <param name="tileLevel">Level of the tile.</param>
/// <param name="tilePositionX">X-coordinate position of the tile.</param>
/// <param name="tilePositionY">Y-coordinate position of the tile.</param>
/// <param name="tileImageLayerSources">Source of the tile image layer.</param>
protected override void GetTileLayers(int tileLevel, int tilePositionX,
 int tilePositionY,
 IList<object> tileImageLayerSources)
{
 string source =
 string.Format(
 "TileHandler.ashx?tileLevel={0}&tilePositionX={1}&" +
 "tilePositionY={2}&imageId={3}&contentType={4}",
 tileLevel, tilePositionX, tilePositionY, imageId, mimeType);
 var uri = new Uri(HtmlPage.Document.DocumentUri, source);
 tileImageLayerSources.Add(uri);
}
The HttpHandler is not part of the Silverlight project, but of the ASP.NET application that hosts the Silverlight app. This kind of architecture is required because Silverlight itself is not capable of accessing the database as it runs in a secure sandbox environment.
DeepZoomSilverlight Web Project
This is the ASP.NET application that hosts the Silverlight control. This application also provides the Silverlight control with the data. There are two HttpHandlers in this application, one that returns the bitmap tiles, and one that returns a thumbnail for a specific image. Besides that, there is a WCF service defined that the Silverlight app uses to retrieve the information about the images.
C#
public void ProcessRequest(HttpContext context)
{
 if (context.Request.QueryString.HasKeys())
 {
 // Being lazy...
 int imageId = int.Parse(context.Request.QueryString.Get("imageId"));
 int tileLevel = int.Parse(context.Request.QueryString.Get("tileLevel"));
 int tilePosX = int.Parse(context.Request.QueryString.Get("tilePositionX"));
 int tilePosY = int.Parse(context.Request.QueryString.Get("tilePositionY"));
 string contentType = context.Request.QueryString.Get("contentType");
 context.Response.ContentType = contentType;
 System.Drawing.Bitmap bitmap = GetTile(imageId, tileLevel, tilePosX,
 tilePosY);
 if (bitmap != null)
 {
 System.IO.MemoryStream ms = new System.IO.MemoryStream();
 if (contentType.Contains("png"))
 bitmap.Save(ms, System.Drawing.Imaging.ImageFormat.Png);
 else
 bitmap.Save(ms, System.Drawing.Imaging.ImageFormat.Jpeg);
 ms.WriteTo(context.Response.OutputStream);
 }
 }
}
private Bitmap GetTile(int imageId, int level, int x, int y)
{
 try
 {
 DzDbAccess accessDb = DeepZoomSilverlightWeb.Helper.GetAccessDb();
 Bitmap bmp = accessDb.GetImageTile(imageId, level, x, y);
 accessDb.DbConnection.Close();
 return bmp;
 }
 catch (Exception)
 {
 return null;
 }
}
Points of Interest
After having given an overview about the different projects involved in this solution and cleared the most important points, I would like to go deeper and give you additional insight on the code.
Deep Zoom File Format
Of course, this article would not be complete without some words about the Deep Zoom file format. But, I am not going to repeat what Microsoft has described in detail in MSDN.
Database Design
One of the questions I had to answer was the database structure that is needed to store the image tiles. It turned out that this is easier than I first thought after looking at all the files the Deep Zoom Composer generates. The database design consists of two tables. One table is needed to store information about the image, most importantly about the width and height, the tile size, and the overlap, as this information is required to correctly initialize the MultiScaleTileSource. The other table stores the generated tiles, and on which level and on which coordinates they are used.
Image 2
Storing the Bitmaps in the Microsoft Access Database
Even though I do quite a lot of database programming, I'm not storing bitmaps in a BLOB field every day. To achieve the goal, you have to use a parameterized command object. The parameter for the bitmap must be of type OleDbType.LongVarBinary, and you pass this parameter a byte array. To convert the bitmap into a byte array, you will serialize the bitmap into a memory stream using the BinaryFormatter.
C#
public override void SaveImageTile(int imageId, int level,
 int x, int y, Bitmap bitmap)
{
 // Create the SQL
 string sql = "INSERT INTO DeepZoomTile(imageId, [level], x, y,
 bitmap) values (?, ?, ?, ?, ?)";
 var cmd = new OleDbCommand(sql, dbConnection);
 //serialise the image
 byte[] bytes = BitmapToByteArray(bitmap);
 // Add the parameters
 cmd.Parameters.Add("@imageid", OleDbType.Integer).Value = imageId;
 cmd.Parameters.Add("@level", OleDbType.Integer).Value = level;
 cmd.Parameters.Add("@x", OleDbType.Integer).Value = x;
 cmd.Parameters.Add("@y", OleDbType.Integer).Value = y;
 cmd.Parameters.Add("@bitmap", OleDbType.LongVarBinary,
 bytes.Length).Value = bytes;
 // Execute it
 cmd.ExecuteNonQuery();
}
/// <summary>
/// Serializes a bitmap to an byte array
/// </summary>
/// <param name="bitmap">The bitmap.</param>
/// <returns></returns>
private static byte[] BitmapToByteArray(Bitmap bitmap)
{
 var memStream = new MemoryStream();
 var formatter = new BinaryFormatter();
 formatter.Serialize(memStream, bitmap);
 byte[] bytes = memStream.GetBuffer();
 memStream.Close();
 return bytes;
}
Returning the Information About Images from the Database to the Silverlight Listbox
The web front-end shows a listbox to the right of the Deep Zoom image. This listbox displays data from the database. As Silverlight cannot deal with DataTables or DataSets, we cannot pass one of those objects as we would normally do. Therefore, the database access class returns a list of ImageInfo objects. Here, LINQ does a great job in simplify


A simple model of zonal gel filtration is analysed numerically to establish semiquantitatively how the capacity of a protein-ligand complex to survive gel filtration intact depends on several experimental variables and on the kinetic characteristics of the complex. The design of gel-filtration experiments aimed at detecting and partially purifying binding proteins is discussed.
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text:
National Daughter's Day is a special observance that focuses on celebrating the bond between daughters and their families, as well as highlighting the unique relationship between a daughter and her parents. This day encourages families to acknowledge the importance of their daughters and empowers them to strive for success, happiness, and fulfillment in their lives. The observance also promotes the equal treatment of daughters and sons, seeking to break down traditional gender roles and restrictions that may hinder the aspirations of young girls.
Though the origin of National Daughter's Day is not well-documented, it is believed to have emerged as a response to traditional celebrations that often only recognized sons, such as Father's Day and Mother's Day. Canada, being a country with a culture that supports gender equality and diversity, embraces this day as an opportunity to celebrate the achievements and contributions of daughters across the nation. The inclusion of National Daughter's Day in Canadian society not only strengthens family ties but also reiterates the importance of empowering and encouraging young women to reach their fullest potential.
National Daughter's Day is observed in Canada by families dedicating time to their daughters, engaging in meaningful activities, and appreciating the unique qualities they bring to the family dynamic. It offers an opportunity for parents to express their love and support for their daughters, as well as fostering a strong foundation for a healthy and loving relationship as they grow. Although there is no specific date assigned to National Daughter's Day in Canada, it is typically celebrated during the month of September, aligning with observances in other countries.
Top Tweets for National Daughter's Day -Updated
National Daughter's Day facts
In the News and Trending in Canada for National Daughter's DayUpdated Daughters Day 2023 Celebration
edmontonarts.caTulsa Zoo annouces name of youngest giraffe for National Daughters Day
kjrh.comHappy Daughter's Day 2023 Wishes Messages
abplive.comChase McDaniel Gives His Song 'Your Daughter' New Life In Honor Of National Daughter's Day
Top things to do in Canada for National Daughter's Day
References and related siteswww.nationaldaughtersday.org: National Daughters Day 2022

source: openbmb/Ultra-FineWeb


A breakthrough treatment for heart failure
Designed to address a significant unmet medical need in heart failure, the BAROSTIM NEO was one of the first therapies to receive the FDA's coveted Breakthrough Device Designation. This distinction is reserved for unique therapies that are intended to treat a life-threatening or irreversibly debilitating disease where there is no available treatment alternative. BAROSTIM NEO is now offered exclusively in Arizona by IronRod Health
Barostim Neo CVRx
BAROSTIM NEO is designed to electrically activate the baroreflex, the body's main cardiovascular reflex, signaling the brain to regulate cardiovascular function. BAROSTIM THERAPY activates baroreceptors in the wall of the carotid artery and stimulates the afferent and efferent pathways of the autonomic nervous system. The brain responds to the therapy by modulating efferent pathways, to relax blood vessels, slow the heart rate and reduce fluid in the body via improved kidney function.
Delve deeper
Contact IronRod Health to learn how BAROSTIM NEO can make a difference to your patients and your practice.


text:
Southern California Edison Devers to Palo Verde 500-kV Transmission Line
Southern California Edison's (SCE) Devers to Palo Verde No. 2 (DPV2) Electrical Transmission Line covers more than 150 miles of alignment running from western Riverside County to the Colorado River in Arizona. The project connects several large-scale solar and conventional generation projects in eastern Riverside County to the power grid.
- Southern California Edison
- Riverside County, California
- 150 miles of transmission line
- 500 kilovolts
Since its inception, the DPV2 project had a long history with varied levels of involvement, knowledge, and work product. Compounding this was a loss of long-term institutional knowledge due to staff retirement. Initially, biological studies had to be started with little direction with regard to actual new tower location or tower nomenclature. Additionally, the project route went through two regional conservation-planning areas, multiple jurisdictions, and difficult wetland delineation situations within a desert environment.
Our biologists conducted surveys for federal and state-listed and special-status species across the entire alignment and obtained regulatory permits for the effects on these wildlife and plant species. In support of these surveys, we developed a GIS-based map-book of the entire alignment that captured all of the historical and current biological data; developed a comprehensive and consistent transmission tower naming system that cross-referenced older and inconsistent naming systems; conducted focused surveys; and conducted the waters and wetlands delineation. Following resource agency acceptance of the jurisdictional delineation, we worked with SCE and the regulatory agencies to obtain the permits, agreements, and certifications for project construction.
In Our Words
"Our approach was to do what was needed in the early stages with minimal location specificity, in order to gather data to support project planners and engineers, and ensure that the data we gathered could be leveraged to the maximum extent possible for environmental analysis."

source: m-a-p/FineFineWeb


noun, Golf.
a lie in which the ball is situated on a slope having a downward incline in the direction that the ball is to be played.
Read Also:
 - Hanging-post
 noun 1. a post from which a door, gate, etc., is hung.
 - Hanging-scroll
 noun 1. See under (def 5). [skrohl] /skroʊl/ noun 1. a roll of parchment, paper, copper, or other material, especially one with writing on it: a scroll containing the entire Old Testament. 2. something, especially an ornament, resembling a partly unrolled sheet of paper or having a spiral or coiled form. 3. a list, roll, […]
 - Hanging-step
 noun 1. a step projecting from a wall with no real or apparent support at its outer end.
 - Hanging-stile
 noun 1. the stile of a door, shutter, etc., by which it is hung. 2. the stile of a window frame from which a casement sash is hung. 3..


text:
Though desire and its associated effects - lust, love, aggression, ambition - are generally the purview of poets, that hasn't stopped generations of thinkers from trying to explain it scientifically (and pseudoscientifically). Can desire really be described using the scientific method? Here are ten ways that researchers have answered that question with a resounding "yes."
Photo by YURALAITS ALBERT via Shuterstock.
1. Psychoanalysis: Desire is structured like a steam engine
Though many philosophers and writers addressed the nature of desire before the rise of psychoanalysis in the nineteenth century, almost none of them proposed to subject this intense human emotion to the rigors of the scientific method. Sigmund Freud and his colleagues, for all their failings, bravely set out to prove that even our feelings could be studied rationally - and this radical idea led directly to areas like neuroscience and cognitive science today. Long before fMRI machines and self-help books, Freud proposed that desire functions like the steam in an engine. If you block one exit valve, the steam will find another way out, even if it cracks the whole engine open. Freud believed that sexual repression acted as a block on exit valves, and that caused all manner of weird symptoms as people tried to unleash their desire in other ways. He believed that some of these repressed people let off steam by becoming fetishists, sexualizing objects like shoes instead of the bodies they'd been told it was naughty to desire. Other repressed people, he thought, released their desire by engaging in obsessive behaviors, developing neurotic tics, and blurting out those proverbial Freudian slips.
The upshot: you can never get rid of desire, only displace it.
2. Philosophy: Desire is structured like an emptiness
In the wake of Freud, philosophers and psychoanalysts of the twentieth century tried for even more accurate ways of describing the structure of desire. French theorist Jacques Lacan, also a psychoanalyst, spent most of his life trying to figure out how desire worked. One of his lasting contributions to the field is the idea of the petit objet a, or "little object a," (the a stands for autre or other). It's basically the ultimate, unattainable object of all our desires. It is both an abstraction, and a thing so real that to touch it would basically melt our brains (figuratively speaking). Lacan's radical idea was that everything we desire is a kind of stand-in for this little object, and so desire is a structured around a lack of something. This helps to explain a lot about how desire feels subjectively - why we keep desiring more things even after we're supposedly satisfied, and why no one person or thing or idea can ever fully complete us. The thing you want is nothing compared to that hot, impossible little object a.
The upshot: Desires can never be fully satisfied because desire is fundamentally about wanting something that doesn't exist.
3. Neuroscience: Desire is an addiction
Once scientists began studying the structure of the brain, and looking at activity in different areas, they began to gather evidence that feelings of desire occur in the brain regions that are also associated with reward and addiction. Helen Fisher, a scientist who has done fMRI studies of people who are in love, published a book called Why We Love that sums up a lot of the findings in this area. She suggests that love and its loss are functionally similar to addiction and getting sober.
The upshot: Love is a drug.
4. Neuroscience: Desire is a distributed system
Other neuroscientists have focused on the sexual side of desire, exploring what your brain is doing when you get turned on and have orgasms. One of the pioneers in this field, neuroscientist Barry Komisaruk, have mapped the brain regions that become active in women who are aroused and orgasmic. It turns out that there is no single "pleasure center" in the brain - orgasms tend to light up a wide variety of brain regions related to everything from memory to higher reason. They've also discovered that, in women at least, orgasmic impulses can reach the brain even when the spinal cord is damaged, which suggests that there are non-spinal nerve connections between the vagina and the brain.
The upshot: Sexual desire has a global effect on our nervous system.
5. Evolutionary psychology: Desire comes from the distant past
Evolutionary psychologists like Steven Pinker have popularized the idea that many human behaviors and emotions can be explained as evolutionary adaptations to a paleolithic world very different than our modern, civilized one. Our urge to punch people instead of have a rational conversation, for example, can be explained as a reflex honed 50,000 years ago, when physical struggles were the best way to survive. It's thinking like this that led to Thornhill and Palmer's now-infamous study, A Natural History of Rape, which attempted to explain rape as an evolutionary adaptation still affecting gender relations today. It's also led to countless controversial papers that claim men "naturally" have many sexual partners, while women "naturally" choose one.
The upshot: Desire is nasty, brutish, and short.
6. Pop psychology: Desire comes from conflict
Though pop psychology is hardly scientific, often its practitioners try to use the tools of psychology and evolutionary biology to prove their points. Perhaps the most famous example of this comes from the "Mars vs. Venus" school of thought, first popularized by marriage counselor John Gray in his book Men are from Mars, Women are from Venus. In it, he tries to account for why desire can be so frustrating in heterosexual relationships by claiming that women's thought patterns naturally clash with men's thought patterns. Though Gray's aim is to help Mars and Venus learn to communicate better, his basic premise is that men and women can never fully see things each other's way because they are just too different.
The upshot: Opposites attract.
7. Anthropology: What we desire places us within tribal groups
Recently there has been a growing trend among anthropologists to study sexual subcultures the same way they might study tribes or any other group with a shared set of ideas and symbols. One of the earliest studies in this area was anthropologist Gayle Rubin's essay "Thinking Sex," about how "empirical sex research" could be done on sexual minority communities - both as a way of understanding sex, but also a way of understanding how society oppresses some of its members. By examining sexual minorities' lives as if they were members of an oppressed or outcast tribe, Rubin revealed how people who desire each other sexually wind up forming communities that function like a clan might, with its own rituals, secret language, and symbols. Rubin and her colleagues have gone on to study everything from BDSM subcultures among gay men, to fetish groups, bisexuals, asexuals, transsexuals, and more.
The upshot: Desire creates community.
8. Sexology: Desire is a taxonomy of behaviors
Many anthropologists like Rubin were influenced by an earlier generation of people who set out to study sex, namely the sexologists associated with Alfred Kinsey in the early twentieth century. Kinsey, an invertebrate zoologist who studied wasps, decided to apply what he'd learned from zoology to the world of human sexuality. He'd spent most of his adult life creating elaborate spreadsheets cataloguing all the morphological quirks of thousands of wasp species. And so he used a similar technique with sexual information. He created long lists of questions to ask people about their sex lives, generating data about everything from the first time people had sex, to how many partners, what they did with them, and for how long. He published his results in two books, Sexual Behavior in the Human Male and Sexual Behavior in the Human Female, which are in many ways just giant taxonomies of human sexual behavior (as advertised). Like Rubin would be later, Kinsey was careful to document the lives of sexual outcasts like homosexuals, as well as those of married church-goers. What was ground-breaking about Kinsey's work was that he tried to be as non-judgmental as possible in his data-gathering. Unlike Freud and other students of desire before him, Kinsey didn't claim that some forms of desire were "right" and others "wrong." He treated desire as a series of acts performed by people over time - those acts didn't make the people good or bad, deviant or normal, Mars or Venus. It simply made them people engaging in behaviors, just like wasps making different kinds of nests.
The upshot: Desire is what you do, not who you are.
9. Engineering: Desire can be expressed through tool-making
In recent years, the DiY and maker movements have unleashed a new, citizen science way of exploring desire. And they're doing it by making new kinds of gadgets to enhance, elaborate, or transform sexual desire - everything from vibrators controlled by Twitter or music, to giant robots that can penetrate you while you ride a bicycle (link is NSFW). Like Kinsey, these makers view desire as an activity rather than an identity - though Rubin might argue that the maker community has its own sexual subcultures, demonstrated by the Arse Elektronika conference, and everything qdot has ever written on his blog. (Photo of the steampunk vibrator by Ani Niow.)
The upshot: Desire is what you make of it.
10. Information Science: Desire splits us into many identities
In the 1990s, MIT social scientist Sherry Turkle published a groundbreaking study called The Second Self, which was in part about how people created new identities using the internet's burgeoning social spaces. Almost two decades later, danah boyd and other information

source: HuggingFaceFW/fineweb-edu


There is a need to revise existing design methods for stormwater pollutant treatment, flow transport and detention facilities. The aim is to increase the accuracy in predicting the performance compared with design only based upon areal and volumetric functions and to optimize design by considering more site-specific data, receiving water quality criteria and forecasted climate effects. During the latest years, flow proportional concentration data from in- and outlets from wet ponds and constructed wetlands, have been compiled. Furthermore, other kind of data from the specific facilities have been compiled, such as areas, volumes, proportion of vegetation, outlet design details and length:width ratio. The parameters are used to revise design methods and are implemented in the operative stormwater and recipient software model StormTac. Design criteria and parameters for calculating design flow and sizing required detention volume are also presented. The climate effects on some of the studied parameters, e.g. design flow and inlet concentration, are discussed. The paper presents the climate factor based upon the hypothesis that it is a function of the design rain duration and reoccurrence time.


_USER_ {export:192693, abstract = {
Effective nonverbal communication between patients and clinicians fosters both the delivery of empathic patient-centered care and positive patient outcomes. However, few efforts to develop tools for enhancing clinician communication have focused on nonverbal aspects of the clinical encounter. We describe a novel system that both uses social signal processing technology (SSP) to capture nonverbal cues in real time and displays ambient visual feedback on control and affiliation---two primary, yet distinct dimensions of interpersonal nonverbal communication. To explore clinicians' acceptance of and reaction to an ambient visual feedback from such a system, we conducted a Wizard-of-Oz lab study to simulate system use with 16 healthcare professionals. We further followed up with 7 of those participants and iterated on the design with a new visualization. Our results indicate that reflective visual feedback on nonverbal communication provides an acceptable way to provide clinicians with awareness of their nonverbal communication. Furthermore, we discuss implications for the design of visual feedback to encourage empathic patient-centered communication.
}, author = {Rupa A. Patel and A. Hartzler and M. Czerwinski and W. Pratt and A. Back}, month = {May}, publisher = {IEEE Pervasive Health}, title = {Visual Feedback on Nonverbal Communication: A Design Exploration with Healthcare Professionals}, url = {_URL_ year = {2013}, }


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Backward-Compatible Thread#onSpinWait with MethodHandles
Thread#onSpinWait is an interesting JDK9 addition to the Thread API, which is used as a hint that we're inside a spin-wait loop.
The method itself is… empty:
public static void onSpinWait() {}
But it can be intrinsified to utilize, for example, x86's PAUSE instruction – it's a small thing but results in reduced power consumption and improved performance of spin-wait loops:
Improves the performance of spin-wait loops. When executing a "spin-wait loop," a Pentium 4 or Intel Xeon processor suffers a severe performance penalty when exiting the loop because it detects a possible memory order violation. The PAUSE instruction provides a hint to the processor that the code sequence is a spin-wait loop. The processor uses this hint to avoid the memory order violation in most situations, which greatly improves processor performance. For this reason, it is recommended that a PAUSE instruction be placed in all spin-wait loops.
Unfortunately, it was introduced only in JDK9, and many libraries need to maintain JDK8(or even JDK6) compatibility.
However, since it's just a void-returning method, what if we prepared a fallback for it when running on an earlier version of Java when it can't really be used?
Thread#onSpinWait JDK8 Fallback
Java is a statically typed language, but if you're missing these dynamic flavours, they are still accessible using, for example, Reflection or MethodHandles API, which allows you to invoke Java methods dynamically.
For example, a handle representing Thread#onSpinWait could be created using:
 Thread.class, "onSpinWait", methodType(void.class))
So, we could do our best to resolve Thread#onSpinWait and when no luck, default to nothing, or some other method:
class OnSpinWaitJDK8Adapter {
 private static final MethodHandle ON_SPIN_WAIT_HANDLE = resolve();
 private OnSpinWaitJDK8Adapter() {
 private static MethodHandle resolve() {
 try {
 return MethodHandles.lookup().findStatic(
 Thread.class, "onSpinWait", methodType(void.class));
 } catch (Exception ignore) {
 return null;
 static boolean onSpinWaitOrNothing() {
 if (ON_SPIN_WAIT_HANDLE!= null) {
 try {
 return true;
 } catch (Throwable ignore) {
 return false;
Now we can spin-wait using our helper method instead which will resolve to NOOP on JDK8 and Thread#onSpinWait on JDK9+:
while (!flag.compareAndSet(false, true)) {
Or you could default to any other method that fits your use case:
while (!flag.compareAndSet(false, true)) {
 if (!OnSpinWaitJDK8Adapter.onSpinWaitOrNothing()) {
 // whatever else suits your needs
And that's all. There's also no need to be worried about performance impact since the MethodHandle is resolved at startup time and invokeExact() of static methods are on-par with plain method calls, and null-checks will most-likely be elided, and methods inlined.
A simple benchmark proves that a resolved MethodHandle on a warmed-up JVM provides similar overhead to a plan static method call, and unresolved MethodHandle performs almost like an empty method:
Benchmark Mode Cnt Score Error Units
Bench.baseline_empty avgt 15 0.388 ± 0.003 ns/op
Bench.baseline_mh_resolved avgt 15 4.755 ± 0.039 ns/op
Bench.baseline_mh_unresolved avgt 15 0.384 ± 0.001 ns/op
Bench.baseline_plain avgt 15 4.739 ± 0.015 ns/op
Just out of pure curiosity, if we enable '-XX:+LogCompilation -XX:+PrintInlining', we can additionally inspect how well the method gets inlined:
However, if extra overhead is still your concern, consider using Multi-Release JARs.
Agrona/Disruptor make use of a similar pattern: link.
The above code snippets can be found on GitHub.
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text:
NSF grant supports new concept for manufacturing nanoscale devices being developed at Wayne State UniversityJuly 30, 2014
DETROIT – A professor from Wayne State University's College of Engineering recently received a $330,000 award from the National Science Foundation for the project, "Nanoparticle-directed synthesis of organic nanorods."
According to the National Science Foundation, nanotechnology is the creation and utilization of functional materials, devices, and systems with novel properties and functions. A major bottleneck in scaling up nanotechnology is the lack of manufacturing methods that connect different functional materials into one device. A research team led by Dr. Guangzhao Mao, professor of chemical engineering and materials science, is seeking answers to this problem.
Mao will explore a new concept of manufacturing nanoscale devices using a solution-based process with inexpensive raw materials. Mao's concept could potentially revolutionize the field by allowing new functional materials to be added to basic devices from solution droplets.
"Our research will investigate nanorod and nanowire synthesis using nanoparticles as seeds," said Mao. "This will allow us to add flexible materials made of organics and polymers into nanoscale devices."
One of the devices Mao plans to make is an inexpensive and field-ready electrochemical nano-sensor. Seed-mediated crystallization is used to make drug crystals and gem stones, and Mao believe that if small seeds are used, she can reliably make small crystals. These small crystals can be in the form of nanowires to connect to other units of the same device. This solution-based room-temperature process can be scaled up for the manufacturing of molecular conductors, connectors, switches, and networks.
"In addition, we will monitor the seed-mediated crystallization process in real time as it occurs in a solution using atomic force microscopy to better understand this process," added Mao.
"Dr. Mao's important research illustrates how commercial technology development sparks new research and vice versa," said Gloria Heppner, Ph.D., associate vice president for research at Wayne State. "She is most deserving of this award from the National Science Foundation."
The award number for this National Science Foundation award is NSF CHE-_PHONE_.
Wayne State University is one of the nation's pre-eminent public research universities in an urban setting. Through its multidisciplinary approach to research and education, and its ongoing collaboration with government, industry and other institutions, the university seeks to enhance economic growth and improve the quality of life in the city of Detroit, state of Michigan and throughout the world. For more information about research at Wayne State University, visit _URL_.
- Contact: Julie O'Connor
- Voice: _PHONE_
- Email: _EMAIL_
- Fax: _PHONE_


text:
Liam Hallam is a Sports Science graduate and competitive cyclist who loves to travel to Europe in search of great riding.
NAMSET: A Logical Approach to Teaching Resistance Exercise
Beginners to resistance training are often unfamiliar with resistance exercise machines and free weights. This is a basic method that gives the instructor the ability to provide a consistent and logical introduction to resistance exercises. It also allows the trainee to more easily understand an exercise's purpose and technique.
NAMSIT is used by some training courses in place of NAMSET, but the two are essentially the same. I recommend using whichever acronym makes the most sense for you or whichever one your course uses. The acronym is defined as follows:
N = Name of the exercise
- The instructor tells the client the name of the machine or free weight exercise.
- Example: "This exercise is called the back squat."
A = Area of the body worked
- The instructor then points out the area(s) of the body that the exercise will work.
- Example: "The squat mainly uses the legs and hips but also engages the core and back for stability."
M = Muscles used
- The instructor provides more detail and explains which muscles will be used and points them out to a client.
- Example: "The squat mainly utilizes the quadriceps, hamstrings, glutes, erector spinae, and abdominal muscles."
S = Silent demonstration
- The instructor now demonstrates the exercise silently so that the client can see how the exercise is done.
E or I = Explanation or instruction of the exercise
- The instructor then explains key aspects of the exercise.
- Example: "Stand upright with a neutral spine and with feet shoulder-width apart. Bend at the hips first and then at the knees, as if you are sitting down on a chair, until your thighs are parallel to the floor. Then, return to the starting position."
T = Teaching of the exercise
- The instructor now guides the client through the exercise as they attempt it themselves.
- See the video below for an example of this complete method.
This approach forms part of the CYQ (Central YMCA Qualifications) gym instructor Level 2 qualification.
This approach can be used no matter what resistance machine or free weight exercise is being used. The emphasis should always be on good form and technique.
The highly visual nature of the demonstration provides a large amount of information for the client to take in. This should be supplemented with small amounts of verbal instruction.
The instructor should always ensure the correct exercise intensity is maintained for the client's fitness level.
Good look with your CYQ or any other qualification you may be studying for.
Has this article helped you? Please feel free to leave a comment below!
This content is accurate and true to the best of the author's knowledge and is not meant to substitute for formal and individualized advice from a qualified professional.
Worraphark from Thailand on June 11, 2016:
thank for this hub. I like it very much.


text:
This presentation explores the evolution and trajectory of ubiquitous computing technologies that enable designers to embed media artifacts and computational systems in physical space. By placing custom bar code glyphs, GPS/Google Earth markers, sensor systems or other smart-phone-readable triggers in physical locations, designers can create hyperlinks connecting real-world objects or places with a wide variety of media — from video, audio and text content to dynamic data feeds and opportunities for interactions with both human and non-human agencies. Crucially, however, this layering practice does not stop at the level of the hyperlink or the traditional notion of Augmented Reality. Rather, designers are beginning to perceive opportunities for embedding responsive computational power in physical space, enabling environments to track, profile and communicate with their inhabitants, providing customized, adaptive and anticipatory user experiences.
(see also: USC IMD)


Tripterygium wilfordii
Tripterygium wilfordii (Thunder God Vine) is a Traditional Chinese Medicine that appears to be effective for the treatment of inflammatory and autoimmune diseases, but has toxicity associated per se and a low therapeutic threshold.
Our evidence-based analysis features 40 unique references to scientific papers.
Research analysis by and verified by the Examine.com Research Team. Last updated on Jun 14, 2018.
How to Take
Recommended dosage, active amounts, other details
It should be noted that this plant has a very low therapeutic index (difference between the effective dose and the toxic dose) and that overdosing is both easy to do and critical; supplementation is usually avoided for this reason.
Scientific Research
Table of Contents:
 1. 1 Sources and Composition
 1. 1.1 Sources
 2. 1.2 Composition
 3. 1.3 Structure
 4. 1.4 Extractions and Formulations
 2. 2 Pharmacology
 1. 2.1 Metabolism
 2. 2.2 Enzymatic Interactions
 3. 3 Inflammation and Immunology
 1. 3.1 Mechanisms
 2. 3.2 Allergies
 3. 3.3 Macrophages
 4. 3.4 T-Cells
 5. 3.5 Interventions
 6. 3.6 Rheumatoid Arthritis
 4. 4 Interactions with Oxidation
 5. 5 Interactions with Organs
 1. 5.1 Liver
 6. 6 Interactions with Cancer
 1. 6.1 Mechanisms
 2. 6.2 Breast
 3. 6.3 Prostate
 4. 6.4 Osteosarcoma
 5. 6.5 Melanoma
 7. 7 Safety and Toxicity
 1. 7.1 Triptolide
 2. 7.2 Celastrol
 3. 7.3 Case Studies
1Sources and Composition
1.1. Sources
Tripterygium wilfordii (of the family Celastraceae) is a chinese herb that is referred to as lei gong teng but more well known as Thunder God Vine.[1] The plant is known as toxic although the root pulp is seen as pharmacologically active against inflammatory and autoimmune diseases, and it appears the root extracts have some traditional usage against Rheumatoid Arthritis and (to use diction common to traditional medicine) for 'dispeling wind and eliminating dampness, dredging collaterals and relieving pain, reducing swelling and easing pain'.[2][3] Although the vine being associated with adverse effects even at moderate doses (diarrhea, headache, nausea and infertility), and it has been noted that inadequate processing techniques can lead to vine contamination of root extracts.[1]
Other names that are attributed to this herb beyond 'Thunder God Vine' are yellow vine wood, Gelsemium elegans, vegetable insecticide and red medicine.
Tripterygium wilfordii is a Traditional Chinese Medicine for inflammatory disorders where the root is used, and the vine appears to have toxic properties (despite this medicine sometimes being referred to as Thunder God Vine)
1.2. Composition
 - Celastrol and Triptolide, the main bioactives[1][4]
 - The alkaloids (1.6% total) wilforine (78.3mg/100g), wilforgine (47.5mg/100g), wilfordine (26.5mg/100g) and wilforidine (4mg/100g)[2]
 - Wilforide A
 - Demethylzeylasteral[5]
The main three bioactives (Celastrol and Triptolide for bioactivity, Wilforine as well) are concentrated in ethanolic extracts and can be further concentrated in Ethyl Acetate (EtOAc) extractions.[6] Sodium Carbonate extracts can then be used to concentration Celastrol while Triptolide and Wilforine are left in the ethyl acetate layer.[6]
1.3. Structure
Celastrol itself is a pentacylic triterpenoid but is further classified as a quinone methide triterpene.[1] Two carbons on the structure (C2 and C6, labelled below) demonstrate high susceptibility toward a nucleophilic attack[7] and can form covalent Michael adducts with nucleophilic thiol groups of cysteine residues and underlies many mechanisms of Celastrol with enzymes.[8][9] Reactions with the 'quinine methide' of Celastrol refer to these nucleophilic attacks and subsequent adducts.
Celastrol can work via forming adducts with Cystine groups (involved in the structure of proteins) due to positions on its backbone that are prone to accepting an electron
Triptolide has been synthesized into a prodrug known as PG490-88 which has been patented[10] and is under investigation for anti-cancer effects.[11]
1.4. Extractions and Formulations
Solid Lipid Nanoparticles (SLNs) are made from solid lipids and approximately 50–1000nm in width that serve as drug carriers,[12] and this delivery system has been used in numerous studies as an attempt to mitigate hepatotoxic side effects of Triptolide.[13][14][15][16]
SLNs appears to be a drug delivery formulation which may mitigate some toxicity associated with Thunder God Vine
Sodium Bicarbonate extractions, which appear to concentrate Celastrol at the expense of Triptolide and Wilforine, are associated with a reduced LD50 (median lethal dose) to 1,210mg/kg (95% CI of 1,098–1,322mg/kg) which appears to be slightly safer than Tripterygium Glycosides with an LD50 of 257mg/kg (95% CI of 227-287 mg/kg).[6]
2Pharmacology
2.1. Metabolism
Triptolide is metabolized into four monohydroxylated metabolites in liver microsomes (rat) and three in human liver microsomes, with CYP3A4 playing a major role in metabolism of Triptolide into its metabolites and CYP2C19 playing a lesser role; the one metabolite mediated by CYP2C19 being the metabolite not detectedin human liver microsomes.[11]
2.2. Enzymatic Interactions
Demethylzeylasteral is able to inhibit UGT1A6 (Ki 0.6μM; IC50 15.2+/-0.6μM) and UGT2B7 (Ki 17.3μM; IC50 62.5+/-1.6μM) via competitive inhibition, with 100μM of the molecule reducing the activity of UGT1A6 and UGT2B7 to 0.8+/-0.1% and 14.8+/-1.1% of baseline value (with a third isoform, UGT1A9, being reduced to 61.3+/-5.6%).[5]
3Inflammation and Immunology
3.1. Mechanisms
IKKα and IKKβ are both inhibited in a dose-dependent manner in vivo following Celastrol administration, and it appears Celastrol targets the Cys-179 residue via its quinine methide (reducing the quinine methide to form Dihydrocelastrol abolishes this effect).[8] This binding prevents degradation of IκBα and subsequently inhibits NF-kB activity (as IκBα is a suppressor of NF-kB) but as Celastrol does not inhibit ReIA-induced NF-kB activity the inhibitory effects appear to be solely downstream of IKKβ (although this inhibition blocks LPS, PMA, and TNF-α induced NF-kB activity which is via IKKs).[8] There may not be a direct inhibition of IKKα in a similar manner, but inhibition of TAK1 (which positively regulates IKKs and inhibition of TAK1 resulting in suppression of IKKS) has been noted with Celastrol,[17][18] and inhibition of an HSP90-Cdc37 complex[9] appears to also influence IKKs and may be a novel regulator.[19]
At least one study in prostatic cancer cells noted that inhibition of chymotrypsin-like proteosomal activity caused an increase in IκBα,[7] the accumulation of which could also suppress NF-kB activity.[1] Induction of HSP70, noted due to possibly lowering the activation requirements of its promoter, has been noted with Celastrol;[20] HSP70 can reduce the association of NEMO to IKK, NEMO being a protein that associates with IKKs (IKKα-IKKβ-NEMO complex) and works with HSP-Cdc37 to induce IKK activation.[21]
Indirect inhibitor of NF-kB secondary to IKKβ inhibition, and may inhibit the IKK complex via (a lot of) indirect means beyond direct inhibition of IKKβ. Appears to be effective at very low concentrations
No influence on AP-1 binding is noted.[8]
3.2. Allergies
Celastrol can bind to ERK proteins and prevent association with FcεRI receptors, which are expressed on mast cells and mediate anti-allergic responses.[22


text:
Clothes and Heritage: Chinese American Clothes from the Virginia Lee Mead Collection - Introduction
Lee B. Lok (1869 – 1942) immigrated to San Francisco from the Tai shan District, Guangdong Province, China in 1881. Soon after arrival he moved to New York City's Chinatown where he worked in the Quong Yuen Shing & Co. general store. With some English skills he became head of the store in 1894 allowing him to upgrade his identity papers from "coolie" to "merchant." This change in status exempted him from the restrictions imposed by the Chinese Exclusion Act of 1882 which barred the entry of Chinese laborers who had not already been in the United States. This change enabled Lee to marry Ng Shee in China circa 1900 and return to New York. Living above the store at 32 Mott Street, the couple raised seven children.
Mr. Lee behind the counter (in the center) of the Quong Yuen Shing & Co. store, c. 1917
In New York, Lee founded the Chinese Merchants Association, and in 1918 he was recognized as a prominent member of the Chinese community; however U.S. laws prohibited him from becoming an American citizen. His children all attended college becoming teachers, doctors and business people.


text:
Charity mergers include a range of legal and practical issues. There are very many charitable organisations, and both small and large have good reasons for considering combining to maximise their charitable impact.
Other charities may have reached the end of their useful life and want to manage the process of winding-up and dissolving the organisation.
Main issues to consider:
- Types of merger – the process will be determined by the outcome sought; a new charity may be formed to take the assets of two existing charities; one may dissolve and pass its assets to another; one charity may become a subsidiary of another
- Charitable objects – a charity must always act within the terms of its objects. It is important for charities that are combining to have compatible objects; if they differ, then the objects will need to be amended
- Role of the Charity Commission – where there are problems with a charity's ability to amend its objects, the Charity Commission can implement a cy-pres scheme. The Charity Commission can be involved in making a scheme, where a permanent endowment is held and the receiving charity is a company
- Issues to be considered – structural and practical issues need to be addressed - the constitution of the trustee board, membership, internal organisation and of course name
- Possible future liabilities – a charity receiving the assets and activities of another charity can take over liabilities; particular areas of concern may be VAT, the transfer of employees, and a defined benefit pension scheme with ongoing liabilities
- Register of charity mergers – introduced by the Charities Act 2006, this transfers gifts or legacies made to the merged charity to the successor charity.
For further information please contact one of the team.


My Oracle Support Banner
Mass Update - Position Data Overide/Use Position Data (Doc ID _PHONE_.1)
Last updated on NOVEMBER 17, 2020
Applies to:
Information in this document applies to any platform.
Mass update functionality is not working when creating two future rows on job data. The first future row to reduce standard hours by overriding position data and the second future row to reinstate standard hours back using position data defaults.
The issue can be replicated as follows:
The process is not successful when using Mass Update.
Nav: Workforce Admin>Collective Processes>Mass Update>Define Mass Update
1. Created a definition to create a job row(future dated) to override a job's position std_hours.
2. Definition had data changes of Service WRK_LOC changing element POSITION_OVERRIDE =Y (boolean).
3. Executed successfully.
4. Created a second definition to create another row further into the future to Use the Position data defaults (no position override).
5. Definition had data changes of Service WRK_LOC changing element POSITION_OVERRIDE =N (boolean).
6. Executed successfully.
7. Job row with correct effective date was created with no changes to the job records, position data and is still shown as override.
The process is successful and works as expected when manually updating Job Data.
1. Create future row and override position data, change std hours from 40 to 32.
2. Create another future row and use position data which brings in the std hours of 40 from position data.
In this Document


Forensic Applications of IR spec
Home > Flashcards > Print Preview
The flashcards below were created by user bkkrafft on FreezingBlue Flashcards. What would you like to do?
 1. The _____ energy side of the visible spectrum is called the infrared (IR) region.
 Lower
 2. How is IR similar to UV-Vis?
 IR spectrometers permit the absorption spectra of compounds to be determined.
 3. T/F: Photon energies within the infrared region are not large enough to affect the electron transitions to higher energy levels.
 True!
 4. IR spectroscopy can provide ____________ identification of samples.
 unambiguous or qualitative
 5. Why is the x-axis not liner in an infrared spectra?
 the x-axis represents the number of wave cycles in one centimeter
 6. How do you calculate the degrees of vibrational freedom?
 3n-6
 6 is the number of molecular translations and rotations
 n is the number of atoms in the molecule
 7. The exact frequency at which a vibration occurs is determined by what three factors?
 - 1) the strengths of the bonds involved
 - 2) the mass of the component atoms
 - 3) the type of molecular vibration
 8. What are the types of vibrational modes?
 - stretching
 - bending
 - scissoring
 - rocking
 - twisting
 9. T/F: IR spectra can be only be obtained in the solid phases.
 False! It can be obtained in all phases; liquid, gas, and solid!
 10. 4000-1000 cm-1 is known as what region of an IR spectra?
 functional group region
 11. <1000 cm-1 is known as what region of an IR spectra?
 fingerprint region
 12. In what region is most of the information used to interpret an IR spectrum located?
 functional group region
 13. T/F: In practice, it is the non-polar covalent bonds that are IR "active" and whose excitation can be observed in an IR spectrum.
 False! It is the poler covalent bonds that are IR active.
 14. T/F: It is useful to assign every peak in an IR spectrum.
 False! You should avoid this temptation
Card Set Information
Author:
bkkrafft
ID:
38378
Filename:
Forensic Applications of IR spec
Updated:
2010-10-23 19:35:47
Tags:
BU Forensic Chem
Folders:
Description:
BU Forensic Chem Lecture 3.2
Show Answers:
What would you like to do?
Home > Flashcards > Print Preview


text:
The purpose of this study is to suggest diverse models of Korean economy that is based on the theory of general equilibrium and come up with further recommendations by evaluating policy results based on the theory.
An analysis of the economic effectiveness of tariff rate adjustments initiated in January 1989, demonstrates that it did not have significant impact. It showed 0.26% increase in nominal GDP, 0.49% decrease in price, and 0.24% increase in employment. Also, it resulted in a decrease in trade balance that amounted to 480 million dollars by increasing export up to 540 million dollars and import up to a billion dollars. In terms of industry, rather than import which focused on nonferrous metal products and chemicals, export industries' productivity had increased. Moreover, between 1989 and 1993, long-term reduction on tariff rate contributed to the economy similar to tariff adjustment in 1989.
In research related to the revaluation of the Korean won, analysis shows that appreciation rate was 10%, which allowed real GDP to decrease by 0.6%, export by 8% and increase import up to 3%. Followed by reevaluation, decrease in productivity shows differences amongst industries; if the elasticity of supply curve on export is bigger, it means that the portion of export is larger in total productivity, and eventually will be more effective. Also, if the wage is adjusted to be flexible and labor turnover between industries are allowed, reevaluation will only affect labor structure of industries, not the employment as a whole. But if there is no elasticity in nominal wages and labor turnover is not easy, reevaluation will have direct impact in employment.
Currency changes between Japanese Yen and US Dollars and its impact on Korea's economy can be experimented when the substitution effect occurs between Korean and Japanese exports. If there is no substitution effect, while Yen increases by one percent, Korea's nominal GDP increases by 0.1% and brings 0.012% of actual economic growth. Also, while employment rate increases by 0.027%, total export increases to 7 million dollars, trade balance improves by 150 million dollars due to decrease in total import. If there is a substitution effect and it becomes bigger, real GDP will increase. For instance, if the substitution effect is 0.5, real GDP will increase by 0.026% and if the effect is set as 1.0, GDP will increase to 0.036%. So, if the substitution effect is 1.0, appreciation of Yen by 1% has similar economic expansion effect as appreciation of Won by 1%.
The impact of price increases has different effects depending on the industry. Transportation, communication, nonmetallic mineral products, and chemical products showed effects from increasing price; transportation, chemical products, and rubber goods showed effects from decreased productivity; and petroleum product, construction, transportation and chemical industry showed effects from decreased employment. By looking into total variable perspective, an increase in petroleum decreases real GNP and increases consumer prices, and further aggravates the trade balance. It is recommended that a total solution, which reacts to the stagflation phenomenon in the future and smoothly distributes resources between industries is needed.


text:
Syracuse University Special Collections, John LaFarge, Timothy Cole, art, DeVinne, wood engraving, Scribner's Magazine
American Art and Architecture | Art and Design | History of Art, Architecture, and Archaeology | Modern Art and Architecture
This article traces the history of modern wood engraving, including the argument in the art world that took place regarding whether wood engraving could be considered "art" in the first place. As the art form gained popularity with print publishers due to its convenience and beauty, internal debates took place about which direction the art form should take, especially within the "New School" of wood engraving that had emerged. Research for the article was aided by Syracuse University's Special Collections.
Gokey, Edward A. "The New School of Wood Engraving." The Courier 25.1 (1990): 53-83.


text:
Neuronal information processing in cortical networks critically depends on the organization of synaptic connectivity. Synaptic connections can form when axons and dendrites come in close proximity of each other. The spatial innervation of neuronal arborizations can be described by their axonal and dendritic density fields. Recently we showed that potential locations of synapses between neurons can be estimated from their overlapping axonal and dendritic density fields. However, deriving density fields from single-slice neuronal reconstructions is hampered by incompleteness because of cut branches. Here, we describe a method for recovering the lost axonal and dendritic mass. This so-called completion method is based on an estimation of the mass inside the slice and an extrapolation to the space outside the slice, assuming axial symmetry in the mass distribution. We validated the method using a set of neurons generated with our NETMORPH simulator. The model-generated neurons were artificially sliced and subsequently recovered by the completion method. Depending on slice thickness and arbor extent, branches that have lost their outside parents (orphan branches) may occur inside the slice. Not connected anymore to the contiguous structure of the sliced neuron, orphan branches result in an underestimation of neurite mass. For 300 ^m thick slices, however, the validation showed a full recovery of dendritic and an almost full recovery of axonal mass. The completion method was applied to three experimental data sets of reconstructed rat cortical L2/3 pyramidal neurons. The results showed that in 300 ^m thick slices intracortical axons lost about 50% and dendrites about 16% of their mass. The completion method can be applied to single-slice reconstructions as long as axial symmetry can be assumed in the mass distribution. This opens up the possibility of using incomplete neuronal reconstructions from open-access data bases to determine population mean mass density fields. © 2014 van Pelt, van Ooyen and Uylings.
van Pelt, J., van Ooyen, A., & Uylings, H. B. M. (2014). Axonal and dendritic density field estimation from incomplete single-slice neuronal reconstructions. Frontiers in Neuroanatomy, 8(JUN). _URL_


text:
The following is a complete guide on using a neopixel lightsaber. Before using them, you must exercise extreme caution.
The item is not a toy, but rather a collector prop for adults over the age of 18. It must be used by children under the supervision of an adult at all times. Directly staring at the LEDs is harmful and may result in sight impairment. Please use caution while using this product, as sharp edges may occur in some models.
Sabers should not be dismantled or unbolt beyond what is recommended since the electronics are highly sensitive; damage caused by opening the saber is not covered under warranty.
Following points must be kept in consideration before using the lightsaber.
Prior To Using Neopixel Lightsaber
- Please avoid performing any alignment or insertion whilst the power is on, as this may cause the pins to short out.
- Flickers, wrong colors, or no light at all on the blade might be caused by a loose connection between the blade and the retention screw.
- Please push the blade into the hilt until it wouldn't go any farther. When the power is on, do not thrust or detach the blade.
- When dueling with a neopixel blade, please use caution since the guarantee does not claim to recover any destruction occurred to the blade during dueling and only covers craftsmanship.
- When inserting or removing the inner chassis, make sure the connecting pins are aligned properly. Do not press your ear against the speaker.
- Avoid pulling out the protective film from the chassis as it may cause a short circuit.
Attaching The Neopixel Blade into Hilt
- A Neopixel lightsaber is required to use the Neopixel blade. It's not going to work with RGB.
- Place the blade into the emitter of the Neopixel lightsaber. Push the blade all the way in and keep it in place since contact pins in the emitter are spring-loaded.
- Insert the set screw into the drawn holes on the emitter's side. Encase it down slowly using the 2mm hex key included with the screw set. The blade is sufficiently fastened if it is difficult to rotate.
- Keep it secure, but don't over tighten the screw, since this could harm the saber's blade or screw threads.
BASIC GUIDE TO USE NEOPIXEL LIGHTSABER
Note: All lightsaber functions are being performed via one single button, so each function changes by the number of red flashes which are being explained below.
- Wake The Lightsaber: To start the lightsaber, press and hold on the LED button (power button) on the hilt for 2 seconds. A 'Power On' voice will be heard, the ring surrounding the button will light up and the LED button will become active.
- Active mode (turn on the lightsaber): To turn the blade on, quickly press the button on the hilt once.
- Blade power off: Hold the button down for 2 seconds.
- Turn off the Saber: Holding the button for 10 seconds will result in a slowing sound verifying that your saber is shutting off. To confirm this, the light surrounding the hilt button will turn off.
- Saber lock-up: Hold the button for 0.5 seconds until the button LED flashes once, then release.
- Saber force: Keep the button pressed for 1.5 seconds. The button's LED will flash twice, then release.
BLADE ON MODE
When the blade is turned on, the following controls become active. They are dependent on the LED button light's flash:
- Blaster effect: Blaster deflection effect is triggered by pressing the power button once.
- Drag effect: For one flash, press and hold the button, then release it. The drag effect will be activated as a result of this. The drag effect can be ended with a short press.
- Blade colors change: Hold the button down for two flashes before releasing it. The color cycle will begin as a result of this. The LED button will blink twice before being released. When you've achieved the desired color, immediately hit the button once.
- Switch off mode: Hold the button down for another two flashes to switch off the blade.
BLADE OFF MODE
When the blade is turned off, the following controls become active. They are dependent on the LED button light's flash:
- Volume setting: Hold the button down for a single flash, then let go. The volume will be changed as a result of this. High Volume, Low Volume, and Mute Volume are the three options for volume. After setting the desired volume level, push the button once to light up the saber.
- Blade mode: Hold the button down for two flashes before releasing it. The blade effect will be altered as a result of this. On Blaster Blade mode and Ghost Blade mode, maintain any effect. These modes are only affected by blade color and typeface selection.
- Blade light effects: Steady blade, Pulse blade, Rainbow Blade, Unstable blade, and Fire Blade are the five blade effects. Hold the button down for two flashes before releasing it. The blade effect will be altered as a result of this. After choosing a light effect, press the button once to light up the saber.
- Sound setting: Hold the button down for 3 flashes, then let go. The sound typeface will be changed as a result of this. After selecting the desired volume level, press the button once to light up the saber. The user has the option of customizing the font choices.
- Music ON/OFF: Holding the power button down for 1.5 seconds while the blade is turned off (in wake mode). The LED on the button will flash three times. After you've selected music mode, push the button once to turn on the saber.
- Sound fonts select: Holding the power button down for 2 seconds when the blade is turned off (in wake mode). The LED on the button will blink four times. After you've chosen a typeface, hit the button once to activate the saber.
Battery Charging Management
Before using the saber, make sure the battery is completely charged. Connect the charging port to the charger connection. It takes 4 hours to charge. When the battery voltage drops or reaches the warning line, the saber will play an audio recording that says "Low Power" or "Recharge."
Low Power Mode: The saber can be used for a short period of time.
Battery safety mode: This mode is on while charging. The saber will not turn on prior to the battery has been recharged.
How To Charge the Lightsaber?
To charge, plug in the included USB cord or any 5V/1A DC charger. A little light inserted on the chassis turns on when it's charging. The light will automatically turn off once charging is complete.
- Charge for no more than 5 hours. It is suggested not to charge your lightsaber OVERNIGHT.
- To keep your batteries from being completely discharged, charge them every two weeks.
- The battery should never be inserted backwards under any circumstances. Before adding the battery, double-check the polarities.
There are many advanced motion functions included in neopixel lightsaber which are as follows:
- The blade can be turned on or off with a fast-stabbing motion with the hilt level.
- The sound theme will change to the next on the list with a short twist whilst the hilt is pointed down. So long as the hilt is pointed downward, the change will occur in either way.
- If one or more music tracks are accessible in the sorted-out fonts folder, a quick twist while the hilt is pointed up will play them. A fast twist again will turn the music off.
- To engage lockup, hold on the button and strike the hilt/blade. To end the lockup, press the button again.
- A fast twist when hilt is placed in downward direction while holding the button will alter the specified blade color. To change the current color, release the button.
- A short twist while holding the button when the hilt is pointed in upward direction will provide a distinctive effect. If the relevant file is present in the sound theme, it will also play a sound.
FIRMWARE UPDATES TO FIX PROBLEMS
Firmware updates may be published as needed to update effects, solve any faults, and make improvements. To make updating as simple as possible, we currently just require the addition of one file to complete the upgrade. To upgrade your neopixel board, simply follow the procedures below:
- Access your neopixel chassis by removing the grip and pommel.
- Remove the battery with care. The easiest way to achieve this is to lightly tap the end of the chassis in the opposite direction to your hand.
Remember that the chassis is label to verify that the positive and negative ends of the battery line up correctly when reinstalling it.
- Look in the chassis for the micro-SD card. To make re-installation easier, keep a mental note of the orientation.
- Taking out the micro-SD card should be done with caution. Use tweezers or your fingers to remove the item. The connection may be damaged if you push the card up or down.
THE FIRMWARE UPDATE INSTALLATION
- Once available,download the 'update.bin' file from the website on your PC or Mac, go to the file's location.
- Open the 'set' folder on the micro-SD card as shown below.
- Drop the 'update.bin' file into the 'set' directory.
- Once you've placed the.bin file in the 'set' folder, securely eject your micro-SD card and replace it in your chassis.
- Install the batteries but do not turn the hilt on; once the battery is installed, listen for sound


TapetumAn area in the pigmented layer of the choroid coat of the eye in whitetail, which has an iridescent or metallic luster and helps to make the eye visible in the dark The tapetum is the part that glows or shines when you shine a bright light on a deer at night
Tarsal gland- A gland located on the inside of the deer's hind leg. This gland consists of a patch of elongated hairs underlain by an area of large sebaceous glands. The sebaceous glands secrete a fatty lipid that adheres to the hairs of the tarsal gland. This area gives off a strong, musky odor. This odor is the result of urine being deposited on these glands and mixed with lipids during a behavior known as rub-urination. Deer use this gland to recognize other individuals in the herd and to give information relative to their sex, social status, and reproductive condition.
TendWhen a buck stays close to a female during mating season waiting for the female to come into estrus so that buck can breed the doe
Typical RackDeer antlers with points growing only off the front sides of the main beam
VelvetThe soft skin that covers a bucks antlers as they grow in. This velvet falls off in the fall and the antlers get hard.
VenisonMeat from a deer is called venison.
Posted in: Library


Last answered:
16 Apr 2024
Posted on:
15 Apr 2024
0
Resolved: about the queries
Select count(salary)
 from salaries
 where salary >= 100000
is similar to
Select count(*)
 from salaries
 where salary >= 100000
why the 2nd query also counts the records with NULL values when the condition WHERE salary>100000 is already applied? is this how the syntax works ?
id salary
1 90000
2 110000
3 NULL
4 120000
5 95000
considering this table above
the first query would give 3 as a result
and the 2nd query would give 4 as a result.
But why?
2 answers ( 2 marked as helpful)
Instructor
Posted on:
15 Apr 2024
0
Hi Agrim!
Thanks for reaching out.
Actually, both of the queries you provided will give the same result under normal circumstances because the WHERE clause excludes any rows where salary is NULL before the counting occurs. NULL values do not meet any relational operator conditions (like >=, <, =, etc.), so they are inherently excluded by the WHERE clause.
For the table you provided, both queries will count only the rows where salary is at least 100,000:
- Row 2: salary = 110000
- Row 4: salary = 120000
Therefore, both queries should return 2, not 3 or 4, as NULL values and any salaries below 100,000 are excluded by the WHERE condition.
Hope this helps.
Best,
Tsvetelin
Posted on:
16 Apr 2024
0
Hi, thank you for the reply!
yes I made a mistake, the answer should be 2.
Submit an answer


text:
OLPC Human Interface Guidelines/Design Fundamentals/Know Your Audience
 Know Your Audience
The goal of OLPC is to provide children with new opportunities to explore, experiment, and express themselves. Many children in need of such opportunities have previously had little or no access to computing, and so will be unfamiliar with the laptop and how to interact with it. This will undoubtedly have effects on some aspects of activity development. On the one hand, it means that developers must focus energy into making interfaces discoverable, wholly intuitive, and building metaphors that strengthen and clarify the interface. On the other hand, since the laptop will be the first experience of computing for many children, activities do not have to be overly true to legacy behaviors or expectations. This frees developers to innovate.
Many of the children receiving laptops will be as young as five or six; others will be in their mid teenage years. Additionally, those that receive them at a young age will continue to use them throughout their education. Therefore, it is important to develop activities in ways that scale well across age levels.
The OLPC initiative, by its nature, requires international involvement and participation. Developers must keep in mind the broad range of cultures and languages that the laptops must transcend. In particular, activities should not depend on western icons and modes of thinking, but should abstract ideas to a level that would be familiar to humankind in general, where possible. For instance, consider the camera button on the keyboard. Though one might be inclined to label this key with a small image of a camera and lens, the eye graphic speaks directly to our human capacity for vision, providing a cross-cultural icon that represents the computer's ability to capture what it sees.


Portland Community College | Portland, Oregon
EAC Academic Standards and Practices Committee--Prerequisite Proposal
The Academic Standards and Practices Committee recommends that the EAC endorse prerequisite requirements for lower division collegiate transfer courses meeting a general education, distribution area obligation for AS, AAOT, AGS, or AAS degrees (including all courses on the A list, B list, and general education list currently in the catalogue). Minimum prerequisites in writing, reading, and math would be required for these courses no later than fall term, 2007:
Prerequisites: WR 115, RD 115, and MTH 20 (or instructor permission).
These prerequisites will be satisfied by
 1. a "C" or higher grade in WR 115, or reading and writing placement scores for WR 121,
 2. a "C" or higher grade in RD 115, or college-level reading skills demonstrated by an ASSET reading score of at least 45 (or a Compass score of 88), and
 3. a "C" or higher grade in MTH 20 or placement into MTH 60.
Satisfying these prerequisites will signify readiness for college-level reading and writing as well as readiness for math generally considered to be at the 9th-grade level.
Necessary Resources
To ensure our students have the appropriate courses and support, the administration will need to commit substantive resources in the following areas most likely affected by this proposal and its implementation:
 1. the developmental education and English-language learner programs (anticipating an increase in students redirected to work on their basic skills),
 2. student services (expecting more students who may need assistance with financial aid, transcript evaluation, testing, and course recommendations), and
 3. lower-enrolled courses during a transition period of up to 2 years (allowing courses with a dip in enrollment to continue with a minimum of 10 students).
SAC Opt-out
SACs may petition to opt out of these prerequisites for all or part of their affected courses, showing sufficient cause why such a waiver should be granted.
Academic Standards and Practices Committee/EAC Role
The EAC endorsement is conditional upon the PC or EAC having a strong advisory role in the implementation of this proposal. The EAC will create a transition team to provide oversight and guidance of the prerequisite policy implementation while making suggestions to improve the process.
Casual Students and Waivers
In order to reduce barriers for casual students who may have the prerequisite skills, but who may not want to go through our testing procedures, more pronounced language will be included in the Schedule of Classes and PCC Catalogue emphasizing the "instructor permission" option. Students who already possess an accredited degree beyond high school should also be able to waive these requirements.
Additional Recommendations
 1. The administration should work toward increasing the number of students acquiring college-level survival skills courses (particularly those who don't meet the prerequisites or who show themselves to be unable to perform with minimal academic success).
 2. SACs affected by these prerequisites should either consider implementing them prior to the fall of 2007 or, as an alternative, establishing language encouraging "Strongly Recommended: WR 115, RD 115, and MTH 20" as an interim transitional step. Such an interim step could be made effective by fall term of 2006.
 3. The following research should be undertaken immediately to prepare for the successful implementation of the prerequisite policy by fall term, 2007:
 1. Institutional research should look closely at the population of students who will be most likely directed to DE or English-language learner courses because of the prerequisite policy. The backgrounds of these students (by financial aid, ethnicity, and head-of-household status) should be determined so that a forecast can be made of DE or English-language learner needs during the transition phase and thereafter. In addition, we recommend that these students be tracked to evaluate this policy's effectiveness.
 2. The Basic Skills Task Force should be consulted to help determine what would improve student success in basic skills and tutoring specific to students of DE or English language.
 3. SACs should identify any courses appropriate for students with pre-college skills, so that a list may be compiled for (and promoted to) these students of DE or English language as they work to strengthen basic skills while qualifying for FT status (for financial aid purposes).
 4. Prerequisite policies implemented at other community colleges (like Mt. Hood and Clackamas) should be more carefully examined as well as any relevant studies in the research area of basic student preparation for academic success (including student retention).


Support and Documentation
Using AutoTag
Editors perform this task.
 1. Create a new Article or Blog Post.
 2. In the Content Edit Page, write your content, filling in the headline, subheadline, and body text fields.
 3. In the Suggested Tags widget, click Suggest Tags, which submits the content to the Amazon Comprehend service. The widget displays suggested tags returned by the service.
 4. Select the tags that you want to apply to this content. Selected tags are removed from the widget list and automatically added to the Tags field.
 5. Click Save or Publish for your content.
Note
When you return to this Content Edit Page, unselected suggested tags continue to appear in the widget. At any time you make changes to your content, you can click the Suggest Tags button again, which may return new results.


Note: We've updated our pricing and packaging. This feature is available from Blossom plan for customers who signed up before Nov 2nd 2020.
What is a Webhook?
A Webhook is a "callback" to an application or web service that is triggered when a specific event occurs. When certain update, change or action occurs, Webhooks can be used to push data to an external application
The Workflow Automator can be used to create workflows to trigger a Webhook when a specific Event occurs.
What can you do with a webhooks call?
Using Automator you can create workflows, that fires certain actions when a specific event occurs on a ticket. Using the Automator, you can update, modify, send notifications and run actions within Freshservice. For example, you could update ticket priorities, send out escalation emails, etc.
Webhooks come handy when you want to trigger an action in an external application or tool. Here are some example scenarios when you might want to use Webhooks:
What you want to do
Conditions to look for
What the Webhook should call
Send out a SMS/ text message when customer replies to ticket
Customer replies to ticket (or adds comment)
Send comment content to 3rd party SMS tool
Update inventory when a Product Return request is updated
Ticket category (a custom field) is updated to "Product Return"
Update product info in store inventory
Sync status for Feature Requests with internal Product Management tool
Status is Updated for Tickets of type "Feature Request"
Update product management tool with ticket information
Sound alarm bells and sirens when Bad Customer Satisfaction rating is received
Customer Feedback is Received, and Rating is "Not Good"
Customize a Smart Bulb (like this or this) and a siren sound board to fire up triggered by this Webhook
How to set up a webhook request with the Automator:
Let's consider the following use case:
Create a change automatically whenever a ticket is a change request.
 - Create a new Workflow using the Workflow Automator. Drag and drop the Events and Conditions that should trigger the webhook.
 - Under Actions, select the "Trigger Webhook" option from the drop-down.
 - Choose the Callback Request Type.
 - While each 3rd party app may use a request type in a different way, most applications follow standard methods:
 - GET Requests are typically used to retrieve one or all resources.
 - POST Requests usually create new resources.
 - PUT and PATCH requests are used to update a resource.
 - DELETE Requests are usually used to delete a resource.
In this example, we create a POST request as we have to create a new change in the change module.
 - Specify the callback URL (configured for webhook) of the application you want to hit. You can make the URLs dynamic using placeholders.
 - For example, if you want to pass along a callback URL of the form:[user email], you can substitute the user email part with the {{}} placeholder.
Testing Webhooks
When you have large workflows with complex webhook calls, testing them becomes mandatory. Activating workflows to test the webhooks isn't the most optimal way of testing them. Instead, you can test your webhooks right within the Workflow Automator.
For example, when you set up a webhook to create a change ticket in the change module and hit the Test webhook button, a test ticket is created in the change module if the test is successful.
API requests that result in errors will return an appropriate HTTP status code to help you identify the type of error. You can use this table to understand what each code means.
Note: Placeholders are not supported to Test Webhooks.
 - If you require authentication, you can enable Requires Authentication check box. You can use either a Username/Password or an API key for authentication. We use the API key of the Freshservice account being configured in this use case.
 - Pick the encoding of your request that the resource application supports (JSON, XML or XML-Encoded).
 - To simply send a list of ticket properties that you want in this webhook, select the Simple content option.
 - If you would like to customize the content that is being sent, select Advanced.
 - The advanced option lets you write custom API requests. These requests have to be encoded in the format you chose in the previous step.
 - You can use or postman - REST client (a google chrome extension) for testing out APIs.
 - The {{Triggered event}} placeholder is available only in Webhooks and returns the name of the event that triggered the rule.
 - Webhook Callback Request Limits: The number of webhook requests you can use in 1 hour is limited to 1000 calls. If the status codes are between 200 and 299, the callback is a success and status codes between 300-399 will be taken as callback redirects.
 When a callback fails (status codes other than 2xx and 3xx), or doesn't receive a response in 15s, the webhook will be automatically retried a maximum of 4 times at 3, 5, 9,17-minute intervals
Once the above automation is enabled, any ticket coming in with a type "Change request" will automatically create a change in the change module.


Toss those cabers, toss them high
The caber toss is a traditional Scottish sport that involves hurling a caber, which is essentially a large piece of a tree: a caber is a 6 m6~\mbox{m} long, 80 kg80~\mbox{kg} tree trunk. Large strong people hurl these and the goal is to get the caber to land as far away as possible and rotate in the air, so what was the highest part of the trunk initially is actually the part that hits the gound first. See this clip to understand how the caber rotates.
It's HARD to do this. To see how hard, consider a perfectly vertical caber with one end on the ground. You then launch the caber vertically with some speed v0v_0 and give it a rotation. What is the minimum kinetic energy in Joules you need to give the caber so that when it lands the caber is perfectly vertical again, but the OTHER end of the caber hits the ground?
Details and assumptions
 - The acceleration of gravity is 9.8 m/s2-9.8~\mbox{m/s}^2.
 - The caber can be modeled as a uniform rod.
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Collins Field Guide to the Birds of South America: Non-Passerines: From rheas to woodpeckers
The only field guide to illustrate and describe every non-passerine species of bird in South America, this superbly illustrated field guide to the birds of South America covers all the non-passerines (Divers to Woodpeckers). All plumages for each species are illustrated, including males, females and juveniles. Featuring 1,273 species, the text gives information on key identification features, habitat, and songs and calls. The 156 colour plates appear opposite their relevant text for quick and easy reference and include all field identifiable species, including subspecies and colour morphs. Distribution maps are included, showing where each species can be found and how common it is, to further aid identification.
Vew all titles in Americas: Central & South America combined with South America (GEN)
View other products from the same publisher


Inspiration from the need for the sustainable environment and efficient use of natural resources.
What it does
Envotech will provide a number of ways through which we can save a large number of natural resources and can use the water, soil and so many thongs in an efficient way.
How I built it
I built my skill by following tools:
 - Amazon web services: Here I have added all my skill's fact and added Alexa kit to it using Skill Id and AWS-lambda Id to my Alexa console.
 - Alexa developer console: Here I have added all my invocations and test it and then launch it.
Challenges I ran into
 1. I build my skill in my exam time due to my interest in Alexa.
 2. Finding and making fact a lot of time was used.
Accomplishments that I'm proud of
Making a great environment skill which promotes sustainable development and efficient use of natural resources is really a big task to do something for all people.
What I learned
I have learned how to create a positive impact on society by making skills on Amazon Alexa which is a wonderful experience for me. I have also learned how to use natural resources in a sustainable manner.
What's next for Envotech
I am thinking to make the skill better by including Videos or pictures or slides for performing the everyday action in an efficient manner and teaches all people the importance of sustainable environment and how we together can contribute in this noble deed.
Share this project:


text:
Research Fellow / Engineer (Electronic Control System for Construction Automation)
As a University of Applied Learning, SIT works closely with industry in our research pursuits. Our research staff will have the opportunity to be equipped with applied research skill sets that are relevant to industry demands while working on research projects in SIT.
We are looking for a research engineer / fellow to join a cross disciplinary team on an industrial research project developing an electronic smart location and installation system for plunge-in kingpost columns. This will be employed in top-down construction projects, implementing a modern design for manufacture and assembly (DfMA) approach. The device will consist of an efficient positioning and verticality control system deploying micro-electromechanical systems (MEMS) technology or other alternatives and will aim to automate the construction process. The controls will be based on PC or tablets for easy implementation on site.
The project will also develop kingposts using high performance steel (HPS) sections to reduce the structural weight and improve productivity further. These will be developed by other team members.
- Participate in and manage the research project with Principal Investigator (PI), Co-PI and the research team members to ensure all project deliverables are met.
- Undertake these responsibilities in the project:
- Develop a locating device to partially automate the kingpost installation process using MEMS technology or other alternatives.
- Develop the interface between the locating device and the automated installation system.
- Carry out Risk Assessments and ensure compliance with Work, Safety and Health Regulations.
- If needed, help conducting tests and simulations to develop a safe and efficient specification for factory and site welding of high strength steel sections as part of the team.
- Coordinate procurement and liaise with vendors/suppliers.
- Work independently, as well as within a team, to ensure proper operation and maintenance of equipment.
- If the selected candidate does not hold a Masters degree yet, it will be possible for them to pursue a Master of Engineering by research degree at SIT during their employment.
- Have relevant knowledge and experience in electronic circuit design and embedded system design.
- Have experience in microcontroller programming (Assembly language or C).
- Have a basic understanding of sensors and actuators technologies (e.g. GPS, gyroscope, accelerometer, hall sensors, servo motors, etc.)
- Have a degree (preferably Master's or PhD) in mechanical engineering, electrical / electronics engineering or related domains.
- Knowledge of app development would be advantageous
- Knowledge of robotic/cyber-physical systems would be advantageous
Applications close: 31 Dec 2022 Singapore Standard Time


text:
OS Grid ref:- NY 5638
Lacy's Caves consist of five man made chambers carved out of the sandstone cliffs directly above the River Eden at Glassonby just to the north of the village of Little Salkeld.
The caves were commisioned in the eighteenth century by Lieutenant Colonel Samuel Lacy who lived in nearby Salkeld Hall and was infamous for once attempting to blow up the stones of the Long Meg and her Daughters Stone Circle. Lacy decided to blast the prehistoric monument with gun powder. However, commencement of the work coincided with a violent thunder storm, which was interpreted by the labourers as a supernatural warning and they refused to continue the work, thereafter Lacy had a change of heart.
The caves were used by Colonel Lacy as a romantic folly for entertaining his guests and the area was originally planted with ornamental gardens, containing colourful rhododendrons, some of which still survive. Lacy's Caves may have been an attempt to replicate the Wetherall Caves which lie further up the River Eden. It is reported that Lacy even employed a man as a hermit to give an authentic appearance to the caves!
The interior of the caves and the view of the River Eden from inside
Images copyright Charles Rispin and Humphrey Bolton
A walk from Little Salkeld to Lacy's Caves and Long Meg and her Daughters Stone Circle
Distance - Around 6.5 miles
*Commencing at the car park at Little Salkeld, proceed toward the railway line and follow north along the railway, continue along the path as it veers away from the railway and joins the River Eden.
* Follow the path y the River until you reaching a road, turn right and follow the road into Glassonby. Continue in a southerly direction, then turn right towards Addingham Church.
* Turn left along the public footpath which passes the Long Meg Stone Circle and returns ito Little Salkeld.


.NIH.gov 2
NCBI.NLM.NIH.gov 3
Healthline.com
An ancient pear endemic to Italy is a little-known superfood with high concentrations of antioxidant compounds
Image: An ancient pear endemic to Italy is a little-known superfood with high concentrations of antioxidant compounds
The Apennine mountains of central Italy are home to an ancient and rare variant of the European pear (Pyrus communis) called the Cocomerina pear. A study conducted by local researchers revealed that this pink-fleshed pear is a superfood bursting with natural antioxidants.
"Cocomerina" is derived from "cocomero," the term for watermelon. This variant of pear is called that because of its sweet-smelling and pink flesh, which grows more vivid in color as the fruit ripens.
It is one of the so-called "ancient fruits," which are very old and only found in a few small areas. The Cocomerina variant of the European pear is restricted to the Apennine area of Romagna and Tuscany. The early-ripening cultivar is harvested in August, while the late-ripening one is collected in October.
Many pears contain large amounts of anthocyanins, flavonoids, and polyphenols. These plant-based compounds have powerful antioxidant properties that protect cell tissue and membranes from free radicals. (Related: The strange-looking tropical fruit graviola is a POWERFUL superfood against cancer.)
Methodology
Researchers from the Universita di Urbino – Carlo Bo (UdU Carlo Bo) studied the nutritional value of the Cocomerina pear. They harvested ripe specimens of the early-ripening cultivar, as well as both ripe and unripe examples of the late-ripening cultivar.
The cores were removed from the sample fruits before they were chopped up and prepared into fruit extracts. Each extract was analyzed to determine the amount and types of anthocyanins, flavones, flavonoids, flavonols, and polyphenols that it contained.
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Armed with the knowledge of the bioactive plant compounds present in the fruits, the researchers tested the extracts for their antioxidant activity. They measured the effectiveness of each extract when it came to scavenging DPPH free radicals, as well as its capacity to absorb oxygen radicals.
Furthermore, they evaluated the ability of the extracts to prevent inflammation. In the 5'-lipoxygenase assay, they measured the amount of extract required to inhibit 50 percent of the inflammatory activity of lipoxygenase.
Phytochemical content of Cocomerina pear extract
To begin with, the UdU Carlo Bo researchers noted the different amounts of phytochemicals found in the cultivars of the Cocomerina pear. The late-ripening cultivar has higher levels of polyphenolic compounds. Likewise, its ripe fruits contain more polyphenols than unripe samples.
The unripe fruits of the late-ripening cultivar have the best number of flavonoids. Interestingly, the ripe fruits of both ER and LR strains contain similar levels of flavonoids.
When it came to flavones and flavonols, the ripe fruit of the early-ripening cultivar demonstrated the highest level. Dihydroflavonol levels were much higher in the late cultivar, however.
Comparison of the unripe and ripe fruits of the late-ripening cultivar showed that the levels increased alongside the maturity of the fruit. So ripe fruits of the Cocomerina pear contains more phytochemicals than unripe fruits.
The amount of anthocyanin in late-ripening cultivar is 126 times greater than in the early-ripening one. Ripe LR cultivars contain more anthocyanins than unripe ones.
Free radical scavenging and antioxidant activity
All three extracts were able to scavenge DPPH free radicals. The ethanolic extracts made from the unripe and ripe pears of the late-ripening cultivar were much more effective.
Next, the extracts were also effective at inhibiting the activity of the inflammatory enzyme 5'-lipoxygenase. Again, the late-ripening cultivar's extracts displayed greater effectiveness.
The antioxidant activity was greatest in the ripe fruits of the late-ripening cultivar. When compared with commercial pear cultivars, the Cocomerina pear extracts showed comparable or superior activity.
The researchers concluded that the Cocomerina pear possesses significant antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activities. These health benefits could encourage the conservation and recovery of this ancient fruit.
For more stories about cocomerina pear and other fruits that serve as superfoods, check out Fruits.news.
Sources include:
Science.news
Academic.OUP.com
TAndFOnline.com
Pubs.ACS.org
25 Popular Fruits—Ranked by Sugar Content!
By Olivia Tarantino
Experts say we're basically shoveling sugar into our mouths by the spoonful, but what does that mean when it comes to eating sweet, antioxidant-rich fruits?
You know it's in your soda, your protein bars, and your cereals. Heck, it's even lurking in your marinara sauces and salad dressings! We're talking about added sugar, of course. And this little ingredient is making a big impact on your waistline. The pervasiveness of added sweeteners in our diets is linked to an increased risk of obesity, diabetes, heart disease, and stroke. But in the epic rush to avoid sugar, many health-conscious consumers and low-carb dieters are starting to cut back on eating fruit.
Superficially, it could make sense; if you were to look at certain fruits' nutrition labels, they may boast over 20 grams of the sweet stuff. But this sugar isn't the same as the kind that's used in your ice cream. Isabel Smith, MS, RD, CDN, founder of Isabel Smith Nutrition, and New York City-based celebrity dietitian and fitness expert, weighs in: "It's key to look at added sugars differently than sugar in fruit, because in fruit we're getting so much more nutrition [compared to refined sugar]." We're getting free-radical-fighting antioxidants, vitamins, minerals, phytochemicals, water, and fiber.
This total package is what makes eating fruit so good for you. In fact, countless studies have found that increased fruit consumption, regardless of the fruit's sugar content, is tied to lower body weight and a lower risk of obesity-associated diseases. Experts believe it's because when you eat whole fruits, you're also getting plenty of fiber. And this fiber helps you feel full while slowing the digestion of the fruit's sugar (which keeps your blood sugar from spiking). On the other hand, refined sugars are just empty carbs that lack these healthy nutrients, which is the reason why they're metabolized quickly, lack the ability to make you feel full, and contribute to weight gain.
However, the old adage is still true: too much of anything isn't a good thing. "Added sugar isn't the sugar in fruit, but we still want to be mindful of how much fruit we're eating because it does contain sugar," explains Smith. She usually recommends getting in 2-3 servings daily, and to eat a serving at a time—and yes, that goes for smoothies as well. "Smoothies can be large whacks of carbs and sugar, especially if there's no protein or healthy fat that acts similarly to fiber to slow digestion and prevent blood sugar from spiking." As far as sugary fruits go? You can still eat the exceptionally sweet ones, but Smith recommends you eat these in smaller portions and pair them with extra fiber, healthy fats, or protein such as a scoop of plant-based protein powder or greek yogurt to slow digestion and blunt the sugar spiking effect.
Ranked from Most to Least Grams of Total Sugar per Cup of Raw, Fresh Fruit
1. Figs
Sugary fruits ranked figs
Sugary fruits ranked figs
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Total Sugar: 1 cup, chopped, 29.3 g Fiber: 5.2 g
While you may only know this sweet fruit from its inclusion in the famous Fig Newton cookies, you'll have to eat the fruit raw—and without the coating of sugar and flour—to best reap the health-protective benefits like its high fiber, potassium, calcium, magnesium, and vitamins A, E, and K content. Figs also contain prebiotics, which help support the pre-existing good bacteria in the gut, improving digestive wellness. But because of their high sugar content, be sure to enjoy by eating only one or two whole ones at a time. Try wrapping figs in prosciutto and add a dollop of goat cheese. Both the meat and the cheese have extra protein to help fill you up so you don't feel the need to keep munching.
2. Pomegranate Seeds
Sugary fruits