The American religious landscape is being altered by what Mark Noll calls “a more pluralistic evangelicalism than has ever existed before.”
First, in the movement Marcia Pally describes, evangelicalism is no longer synonymous with white evangelicals. Conservative black churches have long held a pro-life, pro-marriage ethic in balance with energetic social activism. Immigrant churches, the fastest-growing segment of Christianity, tend to be conservative theologically while progressive on issues like poverty and immigration. The increasingly influential Hispanic community naturally aligns with this movement. As Samuel Rodriguez puts it: “Where Billy Graham meets Dr. King, that’s where you will see the Hispanic Christian community emerge.”
Second, this movement represents a dynamically different process of connecting faith and social engagement. Instead of a checklist of correct stands on selected issues, many evangelicals seek a consistent ethical framework rooted in core beliefs. Conservative blogger Eric Teetsel comments, “Rather than valuing other issues alongside life, Millennial emphasis on life
explains their interest in other social issues. Caring for the poor is born from a foundational valuation of life.” Indeed, while young evangelicals remain solidly against abortion, two-thirds (63 percent) agree that poverty, disease and torture are also pro-life issues.
Third, evangelicalism is revising its strategies of social influence. New evangelicals tend to hold progressive opinions on some issues and promote (private-sector) social justice initiatives while maintaining a conservative political identity and voting GOP. Their activism deemphasizes top-down political strategies in favor of incarnational engagement on the local level. This makes the political and cultural influence of evangelicals less centralized, less coordinated, and more unpredictable. Whether it is ultimately more effective remains to be seen.
While a significant change is undeniably underway, it should not be overestimated or overgeneralized. New evangelicals are not on a journey toward becoming liberals; they are not likely to swell the ranks of Democratic voters; they have not abandoned abortion as a core issue. As sociologist John Schmalzbauer cautions: “While dreaming of what evangelicals might become, we must take a hard look at who they are.” What is clear is that “who they are” can no longer be captured by old labels and simple polarizations.


Boeing is not only the Export-Import Bank’s biggest beneficiary, but also its biggest defender according to Streetwise. Delta Airlines may be its biggest opponent.
With only one month left before the bank’s charter is due to expire, Tess VandenDolder reports that Boeing is expanding its lobbying efforts in support of re-authorization. “In the second quarter of 2014 alone,” she writess, “Boeing has spent over $4.18 million on lobbying for the bank,” and has at least 18 lobbyists working on the issue.
Boeing is consistently the single largest recipient of Ex-Im financing — in 2012, for instance, it received 82 percent of Ex-Im authorizations — leading some opponents to label Ex-Im “Boeing’s Bank.”
(RELATED: Some Beneficiaries of Export-Import Bank Oppose Re-Authorization)
However, Boeing contends that Ex-Im is a vital source of financing, allowing it to focus on innovation rather than banking. Standard & Poor estimates that Boeing’s “demand for new financing [could] rise from about $3.5 billion to as much as $9 billion,” if Ex-Im is not re-authorized, according to an 24/7 Wall St. This does not necessarily mean that financing would be unavailable, but rather that Boeing would have to secure financing from private lenders at market rates without direct financing or loan guarantees from Ex-Im.
(RELATED: Is the Export-Import Bank Crony Capitalism)
Ex-Im’s relationship with Boeing is also frequently cited by those who consider the bank a form of corporate welfare. Delta Airlines has been particularly vocal in this respect, complaining that Ex-Im subsidies allow foreign competitors to purchase planes at a lower cost, placing Delta at a competitive disadvantage.
(RELATED: Ex-Im Criticized for Lending to State-Controlled Foreign Companies)
On Wednesday, The Hill reported that, “Delta has hired additional lobbyists for the Ex-Im fight,” including several former high-ranking congressional staffers.
A Republican strategist told The Hill that Delta “realized it couldn’t compete with the lobbying muscle of Boeing,” so has focused on making its case directly to voters. An adviser for Boeing expressed similar sentiments, claiming that Delta has “been more aggressive both in its lobbying as well as in its broader public relations campaign,” as the debate over Ex-Im has heated up this year.
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“This is June, the month of grass and leaves. The deciduous trees are investing the evergreens and revealing how dark they are. Already the aspens are trembling again, and a new summer is offered me. I feel a little fluttered in my thoughts, as if I might be too late. Each season is but an infinitesimal point. It no sooner comes than it is gone. It has no duration. It simply gives a tone and hue to my thought.”
For almost twenty years I lived at Thoreau’s latitude, three hours to the west, in upstate New York. His trees and flowers were mine. By synchronizing my reading of the journal with the calendar, I could see through Thoreau’s eyes, wearing corrective lenses while observing the natural world. He tutored me in attentiveness.
In the passage above Thoreau captures precisely the nagging anxiety I’ve felt each summer since childhood: “as if I might be too late.” Summer was almost too elusively precious to be enjoyed, and knowing this intensified the enjoyment – an early insight into human longing. June was a consummation and the Fourth of July signaled decline, the waning of summer and coming of fall. One knows winter most deeply in summer, December in June.
Seasons, Thoreau assures us, have “no duration,” but that’s hardly a surprise. We know June’s perfection not for thirty days but for moments, sometimes retrospectively, as we know happiness. What is so rare? Any other day.
[
ADDENDUM: A reader in New Hampshire notes: "My aunt used used to say, `After the Fourth of July, we're on a toboggan ride to Christmas.'"]


Friday, May 24, 2013
Professor Anthony Johnstone, a member of the Search Committee, sends along this announcement:
The University of Montana invites applications and nominations for a Dean to lead its School of Law as it begins the second century of its distinguished history. Founded in 1912, the School of Law is an established leader in legal education, preparing students for serving people in the practice of law through effective integration of theory and practice. Beyond preparing students for practice, our curriculum emphasizes areas of law significant to the Rocky Mountain West including natural resource law, environmental law, and Indian law. At a challenging time for legal education, the success of Montana’s model in training and placing lawyers has earned it recognition as one of the best-value law schools in the nation. Montana is one of a handful of law schools to attract significantly more applicants this year than last. The successful candidate must hold a Juris Doctor degree, or its equivalent, from an ABA-accredited law school, demonstrate the ability to lead the School of Law’s faculty, staff, and students, and have the following additional qualifications: - Distinguished professional achievement in legal practice; - Successful administrative experience, including personnel supervision and financial administration; - Strong listening, communication, and consensus-building skills; - A commitment to legal scholarship; and - A commitment to diversity. TO APPLY: Visit http://umjobs.silkroad.com/ to view full description and apply online. Candidates will be asked to upload: a statement of interest; a current resume or C.V.; and contact information for at least three professional references. Review of applications will begin on August 1, 2013; application review will continue until the position is filled. ADA/EOE/AA/Veteran's Preference Employer
Professor Johnstone adds: "We are a small, agile school with a long tradition of innovation. We've also managed to provide quality, affordable legal education that employers appreciate. It includes a well-established curriculum that begins with an innovative skills-based law-firm program in the first year, continues with intensive trial and transactional simulation courses in the second year, and finishes with a required third-year clinical program offering professional placements at both in-house law clinics and government and public-interest law offices.
"We're thriving relative to most schools--at last count our applications are up 10.5% this year--but we want to continue to stay ahead of the curve!"
[Jeff Lipshaw]
Monday, May 20, 2013
This week's
National Law Journal has a Special Report section on the challenges facing law schools. Karen Sloan has several stories on how law schools are finding alternative sources of revenues beyond tuition dollars for JD degrees (masters's degrees for nonlawyers, online LLMs, and lawyer executive education).
I contributed an essay entitled "The Calculus of University Presidents." Although the essay is posed as the letter I would write to a university president seeking advice on how to handle a significant, unexpected shortfall in law school revenues, the intended audience is lawyers and legal educators seeking to get a handle on the brutal economics that are now threatening the survival of a large swath of law schools.
From the perspective of many, it would be nice if things would go back to the way they used to be. But that is not going to happen. Good lawyers understand that we gain no long-term advantage from hiding from these facts. Instead, we need to confront them honestly and proactively.
[posted by Bill Henderson]


The latest profit downgrade announced by David Jones follows the recent closures by retailers Colorado, Borders and Angus & Robertson, earmarking the uncertain future of retail in Australia unless a new and innovative strategy is developed.
The consequences of the internet shopping revolution have been felt by the thousands of retail employees who have lost their jobs and shareholders who have lost their investments. A combination of factors including a high Australian dollar, upward pressure on the cost of living and the ubiquitous adoption of smart phones has led to a significant increase in online purchases.
If alarm bells weren’t ringing in the boardrooms of Australian retailers last month after federal Small Business Minister
To stem this grim outlook a new paradigm in high street shopping is needed, one that doesn’t seek to compete directly with online shopping rather one that complements it. A store that doesn’t sell products, instead it provides consumers with an environment where they can learn about how the product is made and the benefits enjoyed by the communities that make it. An environment where consumers get an opportunity to interact with the product, speak with its designers and where workshops and forums are conducted. Retail spaces must shift to experiential environments designed for play and hands-on learning with a focus on building engaged communities around the brand. Stores must become spaces for creative expression – investing in design and fit-out. This new retail space fosters an ongoing relationship with its customers and has service at its core. The role of the shop assistant must switch from seller to educator. It frees the retailer from stocking shelves and operating cash registers enabling them to focus their attention on interacting with their customers. Afterwards the customer can leave without feeling any obligation, left to make a buy decision at home through the store’s online presence.
The difficulties experienced by David Jones, a stalwart of the Australian retail sector, highlight the challenges of competing on price. This new approach to retail does not compete on price, a strategy sure to fail in the face of a global shopping trend. Instead it aims to provide consumers with information and an experience that fosters a brand philosophy, while capitalising on the benefits an online purchasing mechanism provides. It also minimises the damaging effects repetitive store sales have on a company’s brand and delivers consumers increased product value.
The rise of social media has again caught many of Australia’s major retailers on the back foot, and as online shopping technologies such as augmented reality mature, new product lines will become more attractive to online consumers. The adoption of smart phones provides retailers with a platform which frees them from the high street store, as highlighted by Tesco’s Homeplus virtual subway store in South Korea. This places further pressure on the traditional store and will continue to challenge our retailers.
Australians have discovered the benefits of online shopping and trying to protect our high street though government policies that result in increased prices for consumers will not be successful. As Apple has demonstrated, consumers are seeking to engage with brands and products on a personal level, and until our major retailers embrace innovative ways to engage with their customers the online threat faced by the high street will continue to grow.
The Australian Financial Review


Bossy know-it-alls make poor team leaders. To build unity among your group, display humility and strive to learn from others rather than tell them what to do.
Avoid communicating these five destructive messages to your team:
If you think, “I understand this, and anyone who disagrees doesn’t understand,” you invite dissension. Armed with this mindset, you might label those with opposing positions as misguided, uninformed or just plain wrong. 1. I’m smarter than all of you.
What’s worse, you’ll wind up listening to those who share your views and shut out everyone else. Teams will falter if their leader fails to dignify their contributions.
Reducing a complex issue to a right-wrong construct can get you into trouble. Instead, let groups grapple with gray areas. Encourage them to debate with you and keep an open mind. 2. I’m right, you’re wrong. When you claim you’re the only one who cares about the truth, you risk seeming sanctimonious. Casting yourself as an earnest trust-seeker while accusing team members with differing views as having questionable motives undermines your . 3. My motives are pure, but those who disagree lack pure motives. Giving yourself permission to explode in anger or act rashly because team members left you no choice stokes ill will. Groups will think, “How dare our leader try to justify such inappropriate behavior!” 4. I can lash out because my feelings are justified. Power-hungry tyrants fail to consider that they might be contributing to the problem. Instead, they assume that they’re blameless and others are stirring the pot. 5. I’m part of the solution; you’re part of the problem.
Bring teams together by rising above petty power grabs. Listen for understanding, not agreement. Accept differing perspectives and be willing to admit when you’re wrong.
— Adapted from
Smart Leaders, Smarter Teams, Roger Schwarz, Jossey-Bass.


Despite socio-economic developments in the country, the gender pay gap remains a challenge in most states. According to the Washington Post, on average women take home 79 percent of what their male counterparts do for the same type of work. It’s worse given racial gender disparity that exists alongside unequal pay. Luckily for employees in […]


The Quest for Maternal Survival in Rwanda: Paradoxes in Policy and Practice from the Perspective of Near-Miss Women, Recent Fathers and Healthcare Providers 2016 (English)Doctoral thesis, comprehensive summary (Other academic) Abstract [en]
Rwanda has made significant progress in decreasing the number of maternal deaths and increasing the number of antenatal care visits and childbirths at health facilities. This thesis seeks to illuminate potential barriers for Rwanda’s goal for maternal survival. The studies explore the bottom-up perspective of policies and practices in regards to maternal care in Kigali. Semi-structured interviews were conducted between 2013 and 2016 with women who nearly died (‘near-miss’) during pregnancy, their partners, and with other recent fathers and community members, as well as healthcare providers who work within abortion care. The framework of naturalistic inquiry guided the study design and data collection. Analysis was conducted using framework analysis, thematic analysis and naturalistic inquiry.
The findings identify paradoxical outcomes in the implementation of maternal care policies. Despite recent amendments of the abortion law, safe abortion was identified as being non-accessible. Abortion-related symptoms continue to carry a criminalized and stigmatized label, which encourages risk-taking and clandestine solutions to unwanted pregnancies, and causes care-seeking delays for women with obstetric complications in early pregnancy. Healthcare providers had limited awareness of the current abortion law, and described tensions in exercising their profession due to fear of litigation. The first antenatal care visit appeared to require the accompaniment of a male partner, which underpinned women’s reliance on men in their care-seeking. Men expressed interest in taking part in maternal care, but faced resistance for further engagement from healthcare providers. Giving birth at a health facility was identified as mandatory, yet care was experienced as suboptimal. Disrespect during counseling and care was identified, leading to repeated care-seeking and may underpin the uptake of traditional medicine.
An enhanced implementation of the current abortion law is recommended. Reconsideration of policy is recommended to ensure equitable and complete access to antenatal care: women should be able to seek care accompanied by their person of choice. These findings further recommend action for improved policy to better address men’s preferred inclusion in maternal health matters. The findings of this thesis promote continued attention to implementing changes to strengthen quality, and trust, in public maternal care.
Place, publisher, year, edition, pages
Uppsala: Acta Universitatis Upsaliensis, 2016. , 91 p.
Series Digital Comprehensive Summaries of Uppsala Dissertations from the Faculty of Medicine, ISSN 1651-6206 ; 1275 Keyword [en]
abortion, maternal near miss, severe maternal morbidity, maternal health, male involvement, gender equity, empowerment, policy, bottom-up
National Category Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Medicine Public Health, Global Health, Social Medicine and Epidemiology IdentifiersURN: urn:nbn:se:uu:diva-306604ISBN: 978-91-554-9747-7OAI: oai:DiVA.org:uu-306604DiVA: diva2:1042525 Public defence
2016-12-17, Gustavianum, Akademigatan 3, Uppsala, 09:15 (English)
Opponent
Berg, Marie, Professor
Supervisors
Essén, Birgitta, ProfessorBinder-Finnema, Pauline, PhDKlingberg-Allvin, Marie, Professor
FunderSida - Swedish International Development Cooperation Agency, SWE-2010-060 2016-11-232016-10-302016-11-28 List of papers


navigator: investment tax
Launching in 2016, navigator: investment tax will provide essential information on the local taxation of non-resident funds on returns from proposed investments in 46 jurisdictions. The service has been designed to facilitate smarter decision-making through the proactive management of tax risk.
...the key jurisdictions
Europe - Austria, Belgium, Czech Republic, Denmark, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Ireland, Italy, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, The Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Russia, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, Turkey and the United Kingdom.
Middle East, Asia, Oceania and Africa - Australia, China, Hong Kong, India, Indonesia, Israel, Japan, New Zealand, Saudi Arabia, Singapore, South Africa, South Korea, Taiwan and Thailand.
Americas - Argentina, Brazil, Canada, Chile, Colombia, Mexico and the United States. ...the categories of assets
listed equities
listed debt securities (including government and corporate bonds)
others to follow
...the essential information
taxation of income, including withholding taxes
taxation of gains on realisation
financial transactions taxes
tax treaty coverage
primary liability for tax and secondary liability risk
collection of tax and tax reporting obligations
practical means of managing tax risks (eg operating within applicable investment thresholds)
Benefits of navigator: investment tax
Specific - tailored information based on our highly-specialised asset management and investment funds sector-focussed experience.
Simple - overview matrix for easily digestible and usable information. Consistent approach to information across all jurisdictions.
Practical - traffic light system indicating level of tax risk in each jurisdiction. Format enabling comparison of tax risk across jurisdictions.
Up-to-date - information consistently updated via a regular quarterly updating process and intermittent updates where required. Covers forward-looking developments to enable you to anticipate issues.
Available 24/7 - information instantly accessible when needed (no delay for obtaining information from overseas counsel), enabling upfront consideration of tax factors.
Cost-effective - cost-effective alternative to obtaining the information on a bespoke basis. Competitively priced as cost is spread across the subscribers.


A healthcare organization’s ability to collect revenue and manage denials remains one of the top challenges from a financial and operational standpoint. Even with the adoption of IT solutions to help manage the process, challenges remain.
HIMSS Analytics has recently completed their RCM Essentials Brief on Denial Management. The study provides a snapshot of denial management solutions and processes across the U.S. hospital market and highlights the benefits and challenges organizations face today. Speakers Brendan FitzGerald, Director of Research at HIMSS Analytics, and Matt Schuchardt, Director of Market Intelligence Solution Sales, will provide a high level review of how healthcare organizations are approaching denial management and some trends in this topic area. Additionally, they will provide detailed analysis historical revenue collections for the U.S. hospital market and what it will mean for healthcare organizations moving forward.
Speakers:
Brenden Fitzgerald
Director, Research HIMSS Analytics
Matt Schuchardt
Director, Market Intelligence Solutions Sales HIMSS Analytics


Library Item Selective mRNA translation coordinates energetic and metabolic adjustments to hypoxia and reoxygenation in Arabidopsis thaliana Description:
Cellular oxygen deprivation (hypoxia/anoxia) requires an acclimation response that facilitates survival of an energy crisis. To gain new insights into the processes that enable endurance of transient low oxygen stress (LOS), dynamics in mRNA translation state and metabolites were quantitatively monitored in Arabidopsis thaliana seedlings exposed to a short (2 h) or prolonged (9 h) period of HS and following 1 h of reoxygenation. HS and reoxygenation promoted alterations in levels of polyribosomes (polysomes) that were highly coordinated with ATP content. The quantitative comparison of steady-state and polysomal mRNA populations revealed that over half of the cellular mRNAs displayed little or no change in abundance but were significantly restricted from ribosome complexes during HS. This selective translational repression was rapidly reversed upon reoxygenation. Comparison of the adjustment in gene transcripts and metabolites demonstrated that profiling of polysomal mRNAs strongly augments the prediction of cellular processes that are altered during hypoxia. This analysis reveals that the selective translation of a subset of mRNAs conserves ATP and facilitates the transition to anaerobic metabolism during low oxygen stress.


What Is a Skilled Nursing Facility?
A skilled nursing facility is a location dedicated to the care of individuals in a residential facility, usually there on a long-term basis. These facilities specialize in the 24-hour care and observation of individuals whose needs are usually critical enough where they need constant watching, but not serious enough where hospitalization is required.
A skilled nursing facility may often be called a nursing home by some people. They are often called that because nurses, of varying degrees and certifications, take on the bulk of the patient care work. They carry out this care by working closely with a patient's team of personal doctors, following those physicians’ directions and holding consultations as necessary. Doctors also make visits, in some cases, to skilled nursing facilities to provide check-up examinations.
Traditionally, a skilled nursing facility has been used for care of the elderly, leading to the somewhat unflattering term "old folks home." However, since that time, many skilled nursing facilities have added rehabilitation to their list of services. An individual may check into a skilled nursing facility, for example, to work on physical therapy after a surgery like a hip or knee replacement.
Often, these types of surgery limit mobility and make it problematic, especially for someone who lives alone. Being at a skilled nursing facility gives these individuals a chance to have round the clock care and also receive physical therapy services in the same location.
In general, a skilled nursing facility is an option for those who can no longer carry out the functions of daily lives, either on a temporary or permanent basis. Staff at a skilled nursing facility will help the individual with a number of everyday tasks, including bathing, eating, grooming and toileting.
In the United States, time spent at a skilled nursing facility can be expensive and not always covered by health insurance. This has led many individuals to consider getting a supplement to their normal health insurance coverage that will specifically cover nursing home care. A study reported by New York Life, an American insurance company, noted the average cost of a private room at a skilled nursing facility in the United States has increase to $204 US Dollars (USD) per day. The average price of a shared room is $180 USD per day. Prices were highest in the state of Alaska, where a private room costs more than $350 USD per day.
Room arrangements in a skilled nursing facility are similar to those in hospitals. They can be either private or shared. Similarly, bathrooms can be either private or shared.


Objective: Candida colonization is a consequence of orthodontic treatment and can lead to oral candidosis as a complication of maxillary removable appliance treatment. During orthodontic treatment, it is important to minimize colonization to prevent active infection that could consequently interfere with treatment. Hygiene is the most important factor in managing colonization; in this study, the efficacy of NitrAdine to reduce Candida was tested. Method and Materials: A randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial was performed. Ninety-two patients 11 to 14 years of age were recruited at the Children’s and the University Dental Clinics at Mater Dei Hospital, Tal-Qroqq, Msida, Malta. Forty-four patients used the product with NitrAdine, while 48 patients used a placebo. Sampling employing the imprint technique was performed before and after the product was used. Brilliance Candida agar was used for cultures and identification. Further identification was performed using Auxacolor 2 when required. Results: The control group had a statistically significant increase in Candida during treatment, while the experimental group had a nonstatistically significant decrease. Conclusion: It was concluded that NitrAdine may reduce the Candida burden in maxillary removable appliances. Larger sample sizes are needed to achieve statistical significance. (Quintessence Int 2012;43:239–245)
Key words: Candida, maxillary removable orthodontic appliances, oral candidosis, oral hygiene


Tuberculosis Mycobacterium tuberculosis can infect many extrapulmonary organs, including the eyes. It is a common infectious cause of uveitis in certain, mostly tropical, countries. HIV-infected patients are particularly at risk to disease.
Ocular manifestations include choroidal granuloma, choroiditis, chorioretinitis, optic nerve infiltration, and uveitis (Figs 18.2.1 and 18.2.2). Choroidal involvement can cause a large plaque in the posterior pole, similar to that seen in serpiginous choroiditis, or can be multifocal in nature. Multiple old, inactive associated chorioretinal scars are suggestive of tuberculosis.


Some people's narratives are thoughtful, others are merely informative, and still others are hilarious and self-deprecating. However, to a snarky non-classmate like myself, the most fun are the writers who conform to every stereotype I've ever had about people of their age and class (which is to say, basically, my own age and class):
"Although I still work in corporate litigation, my real passion is for Iyengar yoga." "After living in eight countries since graduation, I've finally put down roots in Vienna, the most beautiful city in the world." "I recently stepped out of the rat race, took a 50% pay cut, and moved to Albuquerque. What I lost in prestige I gained in sanity. Try it, you might like it!" "Even though I'm now 'just a homemaker,' I sit on the board of both our children's schools, I'm involved in fundraising for the civic opera and the art museum, and I mentor young women thinking about careers in journalism." "How to pick out the high points of the past five eventful years? Summitting Kilimanjaro was definitely a memorable moment, as was being profiled in the Wall Street Journal." "We recently relocated back to the States, and now live in D.C.--well, the 'burbs, a decision prompted by a great French immersion program and our desire for our girls to remain bilingual." "Believe it or not, I've really gotten to have it all."
I realize that reunions cause some people great anxiety, and that much of this boasting or defensiveness can be ascribed to preemptive worries about being judged, personal fears about not having lived up to their potential, or maybe just a radical miscalculation about the tone or genre of the alumni update. (Unsurprisingly, the classmates who have achieved actual fame tended not to write in at all.)
Still, it's rather fascinating to see 1,000 people of the same age and educational background wrestling, collectively, with early middle age and what they have or haven't yet achieved in their lives. Only a few people mention setbacks or disappointments (divorces, lost jobs, stints in rehab) and even those narratives all have happy endings. Many people refer to their "blessings" or "good fortune," and a fair number announce how happy they are and how much they love their lives. I assume that most of that happiness is genuine, but it does often seem to be tinged with nostalgia or the fear that
this--however good this is--may be it.
It's both touching and insufferable. I can't wait to meet them.


When these liposomes bind with the neutrophil receptors in the presence of PGE1 the neutrophils are profoundly inactivated, and the anti-inflammatory actions of the prostaglandins
are turned on.
Cyclooxygenase-2 expression and prostaglandin
E(2) synthesis are up-regulated in carcinomas of the cervix: a possible autocrine/paracrine regulation of neoplastic cell function via EP2/EP4 receptors.
While these studies looked at AGA in men, the researchers noted that prostaglandins
may represent a common pathway shared by both men and women with AGA.
As for neonatal adverse events, the rate of admissions to the neonatal ward was significantly higher in the prostaglandin
E2 group (12% vs.
Having the woman take the prostaglandin
at home was supposed to make the experience more convenient and "private.
However, it was not until the 1970s that the mechanism of action was discovered; aspirin was found to inhibit the production of proinflammatory prostaglandins
.
Complete abortion took an average of 18 hours for women in the vaginal misoprostol group, 21 hours for those who received intra-amniotic prostaglandin
and 31 hours for those who took oral misoprostol.
Arachidonic acid strongly stimulates prostaglandin
[I.
A major precursor for prostaglandin
biosynthesis is cell membrane phospholipid.
A cell's fate, the researchers found, is determined by the nearby presence of prostaglandin
E2, a messenger molecule best known for its role in inflammation and pain.
Men with male pattern baldness have higher levels of a molecule called prostaglandin
D2 in the bald parts of their scalps than in parts still covered in hair, a new study shows.
Sarah Stock note that the findings that intracervical placement of a Foley catheter induces cervical ripening without inducing uterine contractions and is as successful as prostaglandin
for inducing labor, could have important implications for women with a prior cesarean section.


Raising Awareness and Funds for Alaskans with Dementia Anchorage, AK, May 19, 2013 – Alzheimer’s Resource of Alaska and Amblin for Alzheimer’s 2013, a walk to support individuals with Alzheimer’s disease and related dementia in Alaska. raised approximately $64,000 on May 18. The walk began with food, music, prizes and art activities available for everyone who participated.
This is the largest awareness and fundraising event in the state dedicated to individuals with Alzheimer’s disease or related dementia (ADRD) and has raised $500,000.00 in 9 years of walking.
This is the time to get involved. Alaska has one of the fastest growing aging populations in the nation. Over 6,000 Alaskans are currently affected by ADRD and with baby-boomers just beginning to reach retirement age that number is expected to nearly double in the next ten years. Alzheimer’s not only affects the individual diagnosed but all those around them. In 2010 nearly 31,000 Alaskans provided $213 million worth of unpaid care by providing for a loved one with dementia. It is important that we show our support by raising awareness and funds for programs and services dedicated to assisting those who need it most.
Alzheimer’s Resource of Alaska is a 501(c)(3) non-profit and the state’s leading source of information, services and support for individuals living with Alzheimer’s disease or related dementias. The non-profit organization serves the entire state and is dedicated to ensuring quality of life until a cure is found. All funds raised from this event will remain in Alaska and go to the benefit of Alaskans.
For more information on classes or events, please visit www.AlzAlaska.org or call 561-3313.


Once a distant, long-term goal, energy self-sufficiency is fast approaching reality in the United States. In just eight years, the U.S. has more than halved its dependence on energy imports, according to figures from the Energy Information Administration, the main government agency responsible for collecting and analyzing data on all types of energy including crude oil, natural gas, coal, electricity and renewable energy.
It's not just fracking that's changing our energy equation either. Global forces are helping too. It's no coincidence, for instance, that the acceleration in energy production coincided with a sharp spike in the price of crude oil. Oil prices began to rise around 2005 and since 2011 have averaged $110 a barrel, encouraging additional oil production and at the same time, more natural gas production as an alternative to crude. In terms of crude oil production alone, the U.S. reached a notable milestone last year, producing more oil than it imported for the first time in almost 20 years.
While energy production is growing strongly, energy consumption in the U.S. is actually falling, although slowly. That's in part due to the recession and the high price of crude oil but it also reflects greater fuel efficiency of new vehicles. That's a good thing since U.S. consumption of oil outstrips all other nations by a wide margin. According to the EIA, the U.S. consumed 18.56 billion barrels of oil a day in 2012, while the next biggest oil consumer, China, consumed 10.28 billion and the third biggest, Japan, consumed 4.72 billion barrels a day.
While the figures for 2013 are still projections, the production gap has been dropping steadily. The EIA projects the trend to continue for another 20 years. When today's toddlers graduate from college, concerns about energy imports from potentially hostile countries might be consigned to the history books.


Opalesque Industry Update - In December, the stock market experienced a slight rebound, with the S&P 500 gaining 1.02% in a context of steadily decreasing implied volatility: the VIX reached a 23.4% level after three consecutive months of retreat from its September peak (43.0%).
Fixed-income markets improved significantly with high-grade bonds (+1.19%) erasing their previous month’s loss and credit spreads tightening moderately (+0.53% for the index). In contrast, convertible bonds (-0.45%) continued to fall back.
Commodities (-1.99%) proved unable to sustain upward momentum and dropped back to their October level, while the dollar (+1.34%) ended the year with a slight gain after rising for two months in a row.
Benefiting from its credit exposure, the Convertible Arbitrage strategy posted a 0.29% gain, but remained in the red over the full year (-0.70%). With no clear trend in the short term and a year characterised by sharp reversals in the markets, the CTA Global strategy (+0.29%) was barely positive for the month while posting a moderate yearly loss (-3.47%).
In line with a slight dynamic exposure to the equity risk factor, the Equity Market Neutral strategy managed small but positive monthly (+0.05%) and yearly (+0.88%) performances.
Despite significant dynamic betas relative to the S&P 500, the Event Driven (-0.37%) and Long/Short Equity (-0.57%) strategies were unable to benefit from December’s rebound, thus confirming severe underperformance over the full year, with -3.71% and -5.97% returns respectively.
The Funds of Funds strategy did not demonstrate any diversification effect, exhibiting a performance consistent with that of the worst strategy (Long/Short Equity) in December (-0.53%) as well as for the whole of 2011 (-5.86%).
BG


Enterprise integration is a goal of many retailers, but the paths they are following to get there are as varied as their organizational structures.
But no matter how supermarkets are achieving synergies among their varied systems, it is apparent that the supply chain is a crucial part of the equation, according to retailers and industry observers.
"Clearly, retailers need a foundation for e-commerce, whether it is consumer-to-consumer or business-to-business," noted Glenn Hers


The transportation industry is transforming due to the rising global demands. The rail industry has seen an increased focus in recent times on rail infrastructure, rail control systems and services, while the global shipbuilding industry has seen a steep rise in new ship orders due to global procurement and transportation.
TCS’ engineering solutions for the rail and marine industry, with an emphasis on effective supply chain management production planning and lean shop floor solutions, can help you stay ahead of the competition.


4.28.16
A significant disturbance can occur on any electric grid. While no system is 100 percent invulnerable, industry members work continually to keep their systems and protection measures state-of-the-art to ensure that the state’s electrical grid remains secure. ERCOT’s job is to take appropriate steps to minimize the probability of a significant grid event and to be ready to respond if it does.


Educators around the world are applying key aspects of Universal Design for Learning (UDL) in highly innovative ways. Developed in 2010, CAST featured examples of UDL features in teacher practice, in applications of technology, courses, tools and web sites to support teaching and learning. In each Spotlight, segments of the UDL Guidelines are highlighted that are met by any implementation.
Go to the UDL Spotlight UDL Spotlight aims to
Each featured Spotlight illustrates some of the CAST UDL Guidelines. Taken as a group, the Spotlights build a vision for a future of learning environments that are truly universal.
Last Updated: 07/15/2014


If you got a question, look no further.
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Sport drinks continued to struggle with demand in 2015, as their popularity
is not that high in Romania. The main negative factor affecting sales is
represented by the high price for these products. The target consumer is
represented by young people with a keen interest in physical activities.
Nevertheless, sport drinks are regarded as a niche and producers are failing to
stimulate demand despite attempts to improve product distribution.
Sports Drinks in Romania report offers a
comprehensive guide to the size and shape of the market at a national level. It
provides the latest retail sales data (2011-2015), allowing you to identify the
sectors driving growth. It identifies the leading companies, the leading brands
and offers strategic analysis of key factors influencing the market – be they
legislative, distribution, packaging or pricing issues. Forecasts to 2020
illustrate how the market is set to change.
Data coverage: market sizes (historic and forecasts), company shares, brand
shares and distribution data.
Why buy this report?
* Get a detailed picture of the Sports Drinks market;
* Pinpoint growth sectors and identify factors driving change;
* Understand the competitive environment, the market’s major players and leading
brands;
* Use five-year forecasts to assess how the market is predicted to develop.


Handbooks, Training Manuals & Workbooks
The Front Line Defenders Workbook on Security has been inspired by the hundreds of HRDs from over 50 countries who have attended Front Line Defenders workshops on security and protection. These HRDs have been able to continue their work because they have taken steps to manage their security. They have assessed their situation in a systematic way and developed strategies and tactics which best suit their unique environment.
While the EU and its Member States can contribute to the protection of HRDs, HRDs might not know exactly when they should seek help from the EU, what they can expect from it, or how to approach it. This handbook is meant to address this need and shows HRDs the specific actions they can expect from the EU in meeting their protection needs, and how they can approach the EU for assistance.
This handbook is designed to enable trial observers to accurately report on trial proceedings and contribute to the protection of HRDs facing prosecution by highlighting injustice and the lack of due process. The presence of trial observers sends a clear message that the right to a fair trial in which all the evidence can be heard and examined without prejudice is a fundamental human right.


Abstract
Abstract The mechanical response of fuel cell proton exchange membranes subjected to a single hygro-thermal duty cycle in a fuel cell assembly is investigated through numerical means. To this end, the behavior of the membrane with temperature and humidity dependent material properties is simulated under temperature and humidity loading and unloading conditions. The stress-evolution during a simplified operating cycle is determined using finite element analysis for two clamping methods and two alignments of the bipolar plates. It is shown that compressive, plastic deformation occurs during the hygro-thermal loading, resulting in tensile residual stresses after unloading. These residual in-plane stresses in the membrane may explain the occurrence of cracks and pinholes in the membrane under cyclic loading.


Contractions are useful in informal writing in many contexts, including informal letters, fiction and advertisements. Contractions help save space and give writing a friendlier, more accessible feel. However, experts advise against using contractions in formal writing, such as certain business, legal, academic and government correspondence and documents.Continue Reading
Contractions display a friendlier and more accessible approach due to their use in everyday speech. By using contractions, writing can read with a conversational quality, rather than feeling like a stiff legal document. Many fiction writers use contractions generously, especially in dialog, as not using contractions can make characters seem stiff and unrealistic. Most advertisements also use contractions, not just to create a friendlier feel, but to save precious space in slogans and advertising copy, which must be short and deliberate.
Two contractions should not be used in combination, such as contracting "He is not free" to "He'sn't free." Affirmative contractions, such as "we're," should not be used at the end of a clause. However, negative contractions, such as "haven't," are fine to use at the end of clauses. Even in some business, legal, academic and government situations, experts find contractions acceptable and advise writers to use their own judgement in these situations.Learn more about Writing


On October 26–27, Lutheran Immigration and Refugee Service (LIRS) brought together over 30 Lutheran bishops, pastors, service partners, and leaders for the annual Lutheran Immigration Leadership Summit (LILS). This event draws leaders who commit themselves and their communities to the mission of welcoming migrants and refugees. This year, LILS focused on welcoming refugees in the midst of the global refugee crisis.
— David Young (@RepDavidYoung) October 27, 2015
Advocacy Training Day
LILS kicked off with a day of in-depth advocacy training led by noteworthy experts and advocates. LIRS staff prepared participants to call on Congress and the Administration to
champion positive refugee resettlement legislation, protect families by rejecting the practice of family detention, and invest in robust resources for refugees. The day drew to a close with a dinner reception that included remarks from Robert Carey, Director for the Office of Refugee Resettlement, who praised and inspired LILS participants for their dedicated work. Advocating for Syrian Refugees
The following day, LILS participants and representatives from several congressional offices gathered for a Lutheran Prayer Breakfast on Capitol Hill. Representative David Cicilline (D-RI), a staunch advocate for increasing aid to and resettlement of Syrian refugees, motivated our participants with his call for action.
After the inspiring messages from Congressman Cicilline, congressional staff, and Lutheran religious leaders, LILS participants headed off for a day of congressional visits. They met with 50 offices in both the House and Senate —including 10 in-person meetings with members of Congress. In addition, LILS participants attended a meeting with White House officials, including representatives from the National Security Council, Domestic Policy Council, and the Office of Faith-based and Neighborhood Partnerships. They demanded an end to the practice of family detention and
delivered petitions from thousands of Lutherans asking for the resettlement of more Syrian refugees. Moving Forward
We would like to thank all of our participants for sharing their time, talents, and passion for welcoming refugees. As they return to their congregations, ministries, and hometowns across the nation, we anticipate they will continue using the tools, skills and support obtained during our time together. Most importantly, we know our shared work of welcoming the stranger continues.
Continue to advocate for welcome and support our efforts working with Syrian refugees by donating at LIRS.org/supportsyria.


One way to generate revenue from real estate you own is by leasing the property. This is possible even if the property is bare land, without any improvements. In this instance, the property owner typically enters into a ground lease with a tenant.
Identification
A land lease or ground lease is a long-term lease of land, typically 50 to 99 years in length. The tenant normally makes improvements to the property, such as building a restaurant, supermarket or other structures. The terms of the lease dictate what happens to the improvements at the end of the lease term, which might give the landowner rights to the buildings, allow the tenant to remove the improvements or give the landowner the option to purchase the improvements.
Considerations
In a ground lease, the tenant is typically required to pay expenses on the property, such as taxes, insurance, maintenance and repairs, during the term of the lease, referred to as a net lease. The actual conditions of the lease can vary, depending on the agreement between the property owner and lessee.
Benefits
A property owner has the benefit of retaining ownership of the land while earning revenue on the property, without the expense of developing the land. Since it is typically a long-term lease, the property owner has a tenant locked into a commitment for a long period. At the end of the lease, the property owner may reap the benefits of whatever improvements the tenant made to the land.
Function
Ground leases are often commercial leases, giving lessees a way to build a business without the expense of purchasing land. Governments sometimes enter into ground leases when constructing public buildings. This allows them to construct buildings, such as libraries, when public land is not available and purchasing real estate is unaffordable.
Uses
An entity that owns land, yet is not in the position to sell the property, often uses ground leases as a way to generate income from this property. This might be public land, or tribal lands. For example, the Federal Bureau of Land Management often enters into ground leases with concessionaires to develop resort areas.
"Modern Real Estate Practice"; Fillmore Galaty, Wellington Allaway, Robert Kyle; 2006 "The Language of Real Estate"; John Reilly; 2000 Photo Credits Countryside land image by Rose from Fotolia.com


Your house might look clean, but it likely traps pollutants inside so you breathe them in. Some houseplants provide efficient air filtering of certain pollutants while producing oxygen, creating a healthier atmosphere inside your home. The carbon dioxide you breathe out helps these plants grow, as do some common environmental toxins, according to the U.S. National Aeronautics and Space Administration.
What They Do
Plants absorb certain chemicals from the air, such as carbon dioxide, and use these to assist with essential functions including photosynthesis. As part of photosynthesis, plants give off oxygen. NASA scientists conducted a two-year study in the late 1980s and identified several houseplants that absorb air toxins such as mercury, formaldehyde and benzene, often released by common household products such as carpets and chemical cleaners. These plants are masters at converting carbon dioxide to oxygen, providing better air quality overall inside your home. For the plants to be effective purifying the air, use one plant in a 6- or 8-inch pot for every 100 square feet of space in your home, suggests the NASA study. Smaller plants work, but use two in 4- to 5-inch pots for every 100 square feet of space.
Blooming Plants
Several blooming plants made NASA's list, enabling you to brighten your home with pops of color while cleaning the air. Gerbera daisies (Gerbera jamesonii) come in a multitude of colors and sizes. Peace lilies (Spathiphyllum wallisii) sport large, dark green leaves, but the white blooms rise in striking contrast from the top of the plants. Potted mums (Chrysanthemum morifolium) often give you a dome-shaped top filled with color when in full bloom, with many shades to choose from.
Dracaenas and Philodendrons
Two plant families have multiple varieties that made NASA's list of the best air-filtering plants, efficiently producing oxygen and removing toxins from the air. Philodendrons, such as heartleaf (Philodendron oxycardium), selloum (Philodendron bipinnatifidum) and elephant ear (Philodendron domesticum), worked well at removing formaldehyde from the air while adding oxygen. The red-edge (Dracaena marginata), cornstalk (Dracaena fragans "Massangeana"), Janet Craig (Dracaena deremensis "Janet Craig") and warneck (Dracaena deremensis "Warneckii") dracaenas excelled at producing oxygen while filtering formaldehyde, trichloroethylene and benzene from the air.
Other Plants
Several other plants topped NASA's list of the best oxygen-producing houseplants, including easy-to-propagate spider plant (Chlorophytum comosum) and the trailing golden pothos (Scindapsus aures). Larger plants such as the rubber plant (Ficus elastica), bamboo palm (Chamaedorea sefritzii) and weeping fig (Ficus benjamina) help you fill empty corners while cleaning the air. The snake plant or mother-in-law's tongue (Sansevieria trifasciata "Laurentii") provides a hardy succulent option as well.
Photo Credits yanjf/iStock/Getty Images


Reclaiming the Right to Food as a Normative Response to the Global Food Crisis Abstract
The number of hungry in the world has crossed the one billion mark, a dubious milestone that has been attributed in large part to consecutive food and economic crises. Over ninety-eight percent of these individuals live in the developing world. Ironically, a great majority are involved in food production as small-scale independent food producers or agricultural laborers. These facts and figures signal a definitive blow to efforts to reduce global hunger and lift the world’s poorest from abject and dehumanizing poverty. They also bring to light the deep imbalance of power in a fundamentally flawed food system. This Comment explores both the urgency and paucity of the “right to food” as a legal and normative framework for addressing the current food crisis. It begins with an articulation of the contours and limits of the right to food under international human rights law. It then explores how powerful states, international financial institutions, and transnational corporations affect the right to food globally. The Comment concludes by addressing particular doctrinal challenges that are essential to reclaiming the right to food as a relevant normative framework under economic globalization.
This paper has been withdrawn.


With the number of people living with long term conditions set to increase, ensuring nurses are equipped with the knowledge and skills required to care for this group of people is essential. This book assists adult nursing students in understanding and applying the principles and practice of managing care for those with a long term condition. It covers essential knowledge and skills, including the impact of long term conditions across the lifespan, the therapeutic relationship, health promotion and empowerment, self-management, symptom management, case management and advance care planning.


American Forces Press Service
March 5, 2010 - The commander of NATO and U.S. forces in Afghanistan has issued new rules governing night raids, acknowledging that although they can have value militarily, they also can foster ill will toward international forces on the part of the Afghan people. In a written statement, International Security Assistance Force officials released unclassified portions of Army Gen. Stanley A. McChrystal's new guidance "to ensure a broader awareness of [its] intent and scope." "We are in a war of perceptions," the new guidance says. "Our forces operate far from home with selfless courage, admirable intentions, and impressive precision and effects. But ultimately, how the Afghan people judge our conduct and perceive our intentions will be decisive factors in their decision to support their nation's struggle against the insurgency. We must remember that their protection, their respect, and their support are the critical objectives for everything we do. And that reality must govern how we operate." The guidance notes that operations conducted at night are "an essential component of our campaign, delivering often decisive effects in disrupting and defeating some of the most dangerous insurgent groups" and reduce the potential for civilian casualties. "That said," the guidance continues, "in the Afghan culture, a man's home is more than just his residence. It represents his family, and protecting it is closely intertwined with his honor. He has been conditioned to respond aggressively in defense of his home and his guests whenever he perceives his home or honor is threatened. In a similar situation, most of us would do the same." That reaction is compounded when forces invade a home at night, particularly when women are present, the guidance points out. "Instinctive responses to defend his home and family are sometimes interpreted as insurgent acts, with tragic result," it says. "Even when there is no damage or injuries, Afghans can feel deeply violated and dishonored, making winning their support that much more difficult." In the new guidance, McChrystal says that despite their effectiveness and value, night raids have a steep cost in perceptions. "The myths, distortions and propaganda arising out of night raids often have little to do with the reality -- few Afghans have been directly affected by night raids, but nearly every Afghan I talk to mentions them as the single greatest irritant," McChrystal says in the new directive. "Night raids must be conducted with even greater care, additional constraints, and standardization throughout Afghanistan." Under the new rules, commanders must first explore all other feasible options before conducting night raids on compounds and homes. Afghans must be in the lead wherever possible, and whenever possible, the operations must be coordinated with Afghan government officials, Afghan security forces and local elders. "When properly executed, night raids remain a viable and advantageous option. But if we do not conduct ourselves appropriately during night raids, we cede credibility to insurgents who can exploit our insensitivities in a persuasion campaign," the guidance says. "It would be a tragic irony if operations we conduct to protect the population by ridding villages of insurgents are distorted to convince Afghans that we are unfeeling intruders." Other requirements include: -- Afghan security forces must be included in all night raids, and must be in the operations planning process at the earliest possible time; -- Afghan government representatives must be notified before any night operation begins; -- Afghan security forces should be the first force seen and the first voices heard by the occupants of any compound entered; -- All searches will be led and accomplished primarily by Afghan forces and conducted with regard for the dignity of occupants, including searches of females by females; and, -- Property seized or damaged must be recorded, and detailed receipts with a point of contact must be provided to local elders or other leaders within the compound, and instructions on how to claim compensation must be provided if damage occurs. (From an International Security Assistance Force news release.)


"J hook" refers to the linkage connecting the wastegate actuator to the valve's lever arm. An aftermarket J hook keeps the wastegate closed longer, allowing the turbocharger to develop greater boost. The wastegate itself is a safety device (of sorts) that controls boost and keeps the turbocharger from over-speeding. Once a maximum allowable boost pressure has been achieved, the wastegate opens and allows exhaust gases to bypass the turbocharger turbine. These bypassed gases do not contribute to the function of the turbocharger and therefore, by continuously metering exhaust flow through the turbine, the boost pressure can be held at a maximum safe level. However, the Cummins is well suited to handle additional airflow, and increasing the max pressure achieved by the turbocharger increases overall performance and reduces exhaust gas temperatures under load.
J Hook Mod Pros & Cons
Noticeable performance gains
May place additional strain on the turbocharger
Lower exhaust gas temperatures
Relatively inexpensive
Most aftermarket J hook upgrades are in the $50 to $60 range and will gain you up to an additional 10 psi. However, as with any modification, the actual realized gains will depend considerably on the application and any supporting upgrades. Many owners also opt to fabricate their own adjustable wastegate linkage to replace the J hook using standard parts available at most hardware stores. This modification is limited to the 2001 and 2002 model year 5.9L 24v Cummins equipped with an automatic transmission.


navigator: product tax
Simmons & Simmons navigator: product tax provides essential information on the taxation of individual investors resident in key jurisdictions on returns from investment in five common fund types. The service is designed to facilitate smarter decision-making through the proactive management of tax risk, and covers:
...the key jurisdictions
France, Germany, Italy, Japan, Luxembourg, the Netherlands, Spain, Switzerland, the UK and the US.
...the common fund types
Cayman AIF limited company, Luxembourg UCITS SICAV, Luxembourg AIF SICAV, Luxembourg AIF FCP, and Jersey LP.
...the essential information
taxation of income and gains
taxation on acquisition of interests, while holding the interests, on redemption of interests and on liquidation of the fund
certain tax reporting matters
investor preferences
Benefits of navigator: product tax
Specific - tailored information based on our highly-specialised asset management and investment funds sector-focussed experience.
Simple - overview matrix for easily digestible and usable information. Consistent approach to information across all jurisdictions.
Practical - investor preference section indicating tax factors affecting choice of fund investment type. Format enabling comparison of fund investment types.
Up-to-date - information consistently updated via a regular quarterly updating process and intermittent updates where required. No need to “refresh” information.
Available 24/7 - information instantly accessible when needed (no delay for process), enabling upfront consideration of tax factors.
Cost-effective - cost-effective alternative to obtaining the information on a bespoke basis. Competitively priced as cost is spread across the subscribers.


If you lose your ability to work due to a disability, benefits from long term disability insurance can be critical in helping you stay financially afloat. Many people receive such insurance coverage through an employer-provided plan, which is governed by the Employee Retirement Income Security Act (ERISA). To receive benefits under an ERISA disability plan, you must first apply and receive approval from a claims administrator. Just as there are many crucial steps to applying that can improve your chances of approval, there are also many mistakes you can unknowingly make that can result in a denial. These denials can be challenging to overturn and the appeals process is complex, so it is important to avoid certain mistakes from the beginning. Furthermore, an experienced ERISA lawyer can be of significant assistance during the application process to help you avoid these common mistakes.
Only relying on the opinion or advice of your employer. If your employer agrees that your injury or illness is too great for your to continue with your job duties, you may assume that the disability insurer will agree. However, insurers require significantly more evidence than the simple opinion of your employer when deciding to approve a claim, such as medical records and more. In addition, while your HR representative may offer advice on applying for benefits, they are likely not ERISA specialists and may not be of valuable assistance. Only submitting the forms required by the insurer. When you apply, you will be required to fill out certain forms provided by disability insurer. However, the answers to the questions on these forms may not fully explain the extent or nature of your disability. You are able to–and should–provide a separate statement from your doctor fully detailing why and how you are disabled and unable to perform your job duties due to your injury or illness. Not following doctor’s orders. Your insurer will have investigators watching your activities to obtain evidence against your claim. If your doctor ordered against heavy lifting, you should not carry heavy bags in from the car or help a friend move a table or you risk making the insurer suspicious. Following restrictions can help prevent such discrepancies. Not seeking an attorney with ERISA experience. ERISA claims are different in many ways from other long term disability claims and it is always wise to seek assistance from an attorney who has specific knowledge of ERISA and the application process.
Many individuals do not consider consulting with an attorney until they have already received a denial of benefits or encountered another legal issue interfering with their rights to benefits under ERISA. However, an ERISA long term disability lawyer who fully understands the requirements of an application and how an application is evaluated can significantly increase your chances of an initial approval of benefits and avoiding the need to go through the appeal process. At Roberts Bartolic LLP in Chicago, we focus on helping individuals through all stages of an ERISA claim, so please call us at 312-635-1600 today.
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The Business Planning Process
Last Date:
Location:
4901 V St. NW, Washington, DC 20007
Building:
Palisades Library
www.dcsbdc.org
Details:
A well written business plan can serve as a blueprint for running a business. Moreover, it also serves as your firm’s resume and is a useful tool for managing and sustaining your business. Many business owners argue that a business plan is not needed as the market changes at a rapid pace. However, your business plan is a work in progress that needs to be continually revised to reflect these environmental changes. Worse yet are those owners that argue that they have no time so they keep their plans in their head. Almost all successful businesses, from Fortune 100 to small and mid-sized businesses, have a business plan and understand that continuous business planning is the primary key to success and longevity. Why not follow in their footsteps and start having a proactive approach versus a reactive blind approach to your business? The fact is that developing a comprehensive business plan will save you valuable time and money.
Contact:
Alisia Balwant
Email: [email protected]
Phone:
(202) 319-1393


Space
Space technologies form a vital part of aerospace and defence sector across nations. They consist of a range of earth observation technologies, space robotics, satellite communications and various space science and exploration activities. The market developments are driven by funding by various research organizations, universities, government departments and private agencies. Recent researches drive the technology landscape in aerospace which has led to a wide range of space science and exploration activities.
The reports by Allied Market Research offer insight into current market dynamics, emerging trends, technological advancements, along with prominent collaboration activities by key market players.


Healthcare Notaries must use extra care when determining if a patient seems fit to sign a document. Below are three situations where the Notary should refuse the notarization, and what steps to take afterward. Situation One: Physical Disability If a patient is alert and willing to sign a document, they must also be physically able to write. If they cannot physically sign, and if state law permits, you may perform a signature by mark notarization if the patient can make an “X” or similar mark in the presence of witnesses. However, if the signer is completely unable to write, the notarization cannot proceed unless state law authorizes other special provisions, such as in Florida. Florida permits a physically disabled signer to direct a Notary to sign a document on the disabled person’s behalf in the presence of the signer and two impartial witnesses. Situation Two: Medication Medication can affect a patient’s awareness, understanding and mental capacity. You must make a professional judgment as to whether a patient signing a document is impaired by medication. If the patient seems drowsy, confused, or unresponsive, you should halt the notarization and reschedule for a time when the patient is more alert. Situation Three: Lack of ID Many patients in hospitals or long-term care facilities may not have access to ID such as a driver’s license. If the signer lacks ID, the notarization cannot proceed unless the signer can produce credible identifying witnesses who can serve to identify the signer at the notarization. Otherwise, you should reschedule to allow the signer time to obtain satisfactory ID. If a notarization is scheduled in advance at a healthcare facility, it’s a good idea to ask if someone can make sure the signer has satisfactory ID ready for the appointment.


Hybrid-Electric Vehicles (HEVs) or Hybrid Cars mate the benefits of internal combustion engines and electric motors that can be configured to obtain different objectives such as improved fuel economy or increased performance to assist the car in driving conditions such as hill climbs and steep roads.
The HEV configuration allows a hybrid car to achieve performance, similar to a car powered by a bigger internal combustion engine, using a much smaller gasoline engine along with increased fuel efficiency.
In some vehicles, the motor alone provides power for low-speed driving conditions where internal combustion engines are least efficient.
Some of the advanced features typically used by hybrid cars include:
Regenerative Braking:The electric motor applies resistance to the drive-train causing the wheels to slow down. In return, the energy from the wheels turns the motor, which functions as a generator, converting energy normally wasted during coasting and braking into electricity, which is stored in a battery until needed by the electric motor. Electric Motor Drive/Assist.The electric motor provides additional power to assist the engine in accelerating, passing, or hill climbing. This allows a smaller, more efficient engine to be used. Automatic Start/Shutoff.Automatically shuts off the engine when the vehicle comes to a stop and restarts it when the accelerator is pressed. This prevents wasted energy from idling. Plug-in Hybrid:They have larger batteries. These can be plugged into the grid and their increased supply of on-board electricity allows them to run in all-electric mode from a low of maybe 10 to 23 kilometers for the Toyota Prius PHEV.


Modulation of working-memory maintenance by directed attention. Lepsien J., Thornton I., Nobre AC.
Many current models of working memory (WM) emphasize a close relationship between WM and attention. Recently it was demonstrated that attention can be dynamically and voluntarily oriented to items held in WM, and it was suggested that directed attention can modulate the maintenance of specific WM representations. Here we used event-related functional magnetic resonance imaging to test the effects of orienting attention to a category of stimuli when participants maintained a variable number of faces and scenes in WM. Retro-cues that indicated the relevant stimulus type for the subsequent WM test modulated maintenance-related activity in extrastriate areas preferentially responsive to face or scene stimuli - fusiform and parahippocampal gyri respectively - in a categorical way. After the retro-cue, the activity level in these areas was larger for the cued category in a load-independent way, suggesting the modulation may also reflect anticipation of the probe stimulus. Activity in associative parietal and prefrontal cortices was also modulated by retro-cues, and additionally co-varied with the number of stimuli of the relevant stimulus category that was being maintained. The findings suggest that these associative areas participate in maintaining the relevant memoranda in a flexible and goal-directed way to guide future behaviour.


Inserting or removing a pessary involves washing the hands thoroughly, using a water soluble lubricant and a folding technique for insertion, and using the finger to gently pull downward for removal, according to the University of California San Francisco Medical Center. Caring for a pessary involves weekly removal at minimum.Continue Reading
To insert a pessary, first locate the notches on the open ring and the openings in the support ring, suggests UCFS Medical Center. Next, hold the pessary between these points firmly and fold the device in half, making sure the curved area is turned upward. Place a water-soluble lubricant on the top area for more comfortable insertion, and gently push the pessary into the vagina as far as possible. It may be more comfortable to sit, squat or prop one leg up during insertion.
To remove a pessary, it often helps to bear down, according to UCFS Medical Center. This allows the pessary to move further down the vaginal canal. Use one finger to locate the rim of the pessary in the pubic bone area. Gently use the finger to tilt the pessary to a slight angle and gently pull down.
To care for a pessary, WebMD recommends following the instructions given by the physician. The schedule for cleaning a pessary varies according to the type and brand of device used. Regular cleaning is very important and reduces the risk of complications.Learn more about Reproductive Anatomy


Land owners in Stark County, Ohio, now can acquire tax-delinquent lots adjacent to their own property for a $100 fee. The Stark County Land Reutilization Corporation approved a side-lot program that aims to address vacant and blighted properties in the area; Canton, Ohio, alone maintains nearly 5,000 vacant properties, according to a Canton Rep article.
A property owner must first submit a request to acquire a property. The Land Reutilization Corporation then would clear it of any delinquent taxes or assessments and absorb the foreclosure costs. Restrictions on the program prohibit individuals who are tax delinquent or who own a partnership, limited liability company or corporation from applying for properties.
According to the article, Canton is receiving $1 million from the Moving Ohio Forward Demolition Grant program to remove approximately 250 homes this summer, at an average cost of $8,000 per structure. The city will provide an additional $1 million match.
A number of other local governments have implemented similar programs. The Cuyahoga County (Ohio) Land Reutilization Corporation also allows property owners to acquire adjacent vacant lots listed on its website. At the city level, Baltimore has a side-lot initiative in place, as does Pittsburgh, which sells lots unsuitable for building purposes for approximately $400. From the beginning of 2008 through the first half of 2010, Pittsburgh sold 193 properties under the program.


All cycle facilities must be maintained at a level to allow cyclists of all competence levels to safely use them. This includes:
1. Removal of litter and debris - regular cleaning as would be expected of roads, and timely response to reports of broken glass are essential 2. If the route is parallel to or alternative to any road, then gritting should be as if for that road, i.e. if the road alternative is on a gritting schedule, the same schedule must be applied to the cycling facility 3. Foliage that obscures vision or narrows the cycle route should be regularly cut back to keep the lane clear 4. Trees, bins, signs etc. have no place within the cycle facility any more than they do in the lane of a road - a cycle route with a tree in it is not a cycle route 5. Temporary road signs must not be placed in cycle routes - information for passing motorists is not as important as safe passage for cyclists 6. Surface maintenance such that passage for cyclists of all skill levels is required 7. Drainage of cycle routes is essential - if it is reasonable to anticipate flooding then it is not a cycle routes 8. Labels indicating where the cycle lane is and priority over side roads must be maintained - this is especially crucial where roads cross the cycle lanes as motorised transport rapidly wears out the paint 9. Enforcement of use of cycle lanes is of paramount importance - no parking of motorised vehicles can be allowed, and this must be rigidly enforced with the exception of vehicles repairing the road, and emergency vehicles. This effectively means that the law as it stands must be enforced.


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04/04/2014
Universities in Slovakia are offering more practical training to students with the help of companies
In Slovakia, although unemployment rates are high, companies often complain about the lack of suitable skills among jobseekers. Graduates often have good theoretical knowledge, but do not know how to apply it in practice. Only a third of universities demand practical skills from their students. With this in mind, the Slovak Centre of Scientific and Technical Information is running a nation-wide project called ‘Universities as a Driving Force of the Knowledge-based Economy’, with €17 million in funding from the ESF.
Among other objectives, it aims to acquaint university students with real-life working conditions in the business world. Major enterprises are involved in the project and there are currently about 160 vacancies on offer. These involve long-term internships in areas such as applied mechanics and transport equipment.


Whereas ART techniques can be used on a woman with blocked fallopian tubes, intrauterine insemination (IUI) can only be employed in the case of women whose tubes are fully functioning because it's vital to know that eggs can reach the uterus. Doctors will often perform a
tubal patency test to check the fallopian tubes. Here are some methods through which this can be done: Hysterosalpingography Gas insufflation, where carbon dioxide gas fills the uterus and pressure is monitored to check for blockages Laparoscopy, or a small incision through which a viewing scope is inserted
After a woman's fallopian tubes are known to function properly, doctors can perform an intrauterine insemination. In this procedure, a man's sperm is "washed" in a laboratory to separate fast-moving sperm from sluggish swimmers. Then, it's injected into the uterus using a catheter close to the time of ovulation.
To learn more about infertility and conception, check out the links on the next page.


Late last week, Taiwanese health officials announced one new indigenous measles case confirmed in a 19-year-old male who resides in Xinying District, Tainan City. The case history is as follows:
On October 8, the case sought medical attention at a clinic after experiencing sore throat, cough and yellow phlegm. On the next day, when his symptoms persisted and he developed rashes on his limbs, he sought further medical attention at a clinic on October 10 and then returned home. On October 11, when he was still experiencing discomfort, he sought medical assistance at a hospital and was placed in an isolation ward for treatment. Infection with measles was confirmed in the case after the hospital reported the suspected case to the health authority. As of now, the case has been discharged.
Since the case had not traveled overseas during the exposure period, it was determined the case is an indigenous case. Possible sources of investigation are still being investigated. According to the epidemiological investigation, the case had completed measles vaccination.
Thus far this year, a total of 29 measles cases have been confirmed in Taiwan, including 23 indigenous measles cases (19 were clustered cases who work at the same place, while 2 were clustered cases at a hospital) and 6 imported measles cases from China. During the same period last year, 21 measles cases were confirmed, including 4 indigenous cases and 17 imported cases (6 imported from China, 6 from the Philippines, 2 from Indonesia, 1 each from Hong Kong, Malaysia and Vietnam.


Appeal from the Judgment Entered March 4, 2011 In the Court of Common Pleas of Cumberland County Civil Division at No(s): 08-4393
The opinion of the court was delivered by: Stevens, P.J.
IN THE SUPERIOR COURT OF PENNSYLVANIA
Appeal from the Judgment Entered March 4, 2011 In the Court of Common Pleas of Cumberland County Civil Division at No(s): 08-4393
BEFORE: STEVENS, P.J., BENDER, and PANELLA, JJ.
OPINION BY STEVENS, P.J.:
This is an appeal from the order of the Court of Common Pleas of Cumberland County denying Appellants Mario and Tabitha Umbelina's request for equitable rescission of the contract providing for the construction of their home. After careful review, we affirm the trial court's denial of the Umbelinas' request for rescission and are constrained to vacate the trial court's award of restitution to the Umbelinas.
The Umbelinas, who are husband and wife, sought to purchase real property in the Jefferson Court Development in South Middleton Township, Pennsylvania in May 2005. Mrs. Umbelina informed their real estate agent that she needed a home with relatively flat terrain as she suffered chronic knee pain that limited her mobility. Although the Umbelinas considered several lots, they focused on Lot 17, which had a substantial incline in its natural state. Despite their desire for a lot with flat terrain, the Umbelinas decided to purchase Lot 17 for its size, price, and its unobstructed view of the valley due to its elevation.
The Umbelinas met with Jack Adams of Jack Adams Builders, LLC (Appellee) who was the approved builder for Lot 17. Mrs. Umbelina did not inform Adams that the home would need any special accommodations for her knee problems. The Umbelinas selected a two-story home plan because it would be less expensive than building a one-floor ranch home. Adams subsequently submitted a construction proposal that the Umbelinas accepted after reviewing it with their attorney. The construction agreement was executed on October 15, 2005.
After closing on the property, the Umbelinas met with Adams to discuss the location of the house on the lot. Adams staked out the house's approximate location in accordance with the lot's setback restrictions and informed the Umbelinas that the trees at the back of Lot 17 could not be removed due to restrictions the township placed on the subdivision. In order to lessen the steepness of the driveway, Adams asked the Umbelinas to move the home back an additional twenty feet from the proposed location. The Umbelinas only gave Adams permission to move the house back twelve feet as they wanted space to install a swimming pool in the backyard.
Before beginning construction of the home, Adams showed Mrs. Umbelina the approximate location of the garage floor using a story pole and explained the house could not be relocated once the foundation was poured. Mrs. Umbelina approved this location. However, upon viewing the actual foundation once it was poured, Mrs. Umbelina expressed concern that the driveway would be too steep. Adams assured the Umbelinas that the lot would be graded and would meet township and county requirements.
Russell E. Yinger and Timothy Stout, the South Middleton Township residential building inspectors, were responsible for inspecting the construction before issuing the certificate of occupancy. Neither Yinger nor Stout realized that the property was subject to the township's steep slope ordinance, which required (1) a professional engineer to prepare a driveway profile and a statement addressing structural concerns created by the slope and (2) the township engineer to approve the submitted plans. Unaware that this ordinance existed, Yinger mistakenly issued a building permit for the house without requiring Adams to comply with any of the steep slope requirements. Upon completion of the home, Yinger issued the home's certificate of occupancy, which was an affirmative statement a builder can rely upon that the property meets all the applicable township codes.
Prior to closing, the Umbelinas conducted a final walkthrough of the home and prepared a "punch list" of the following items that had not been completed: unfinished painting, missing downspouts, correction of mud infiltration into the basement, exposed nails in the carpet, separation of the stairs leading to the second floor, unsecured countertops, dishwasher cabinet not meeting the floor, and unsealed wires and pipes. Despite the numerous items on the punch list, the Umbelinas stated that they loved the house and did not raise any objections to the steep driveway. The Umbelinas closed on the property on June 30, 2006.
After Adams did not complete the items on the punch list and the Umbelinas found more problems in their home, the Umbelinas met with Yinger and Stout, who discovered the driveway violated township codes. When the Umbelinas confronted Adams about the code violations, he responded that the home was issued a certificate of occupancy, but apologized "for not building [the] house to what [the Umbelinas] needed, and [admitted] he did not have the experience to build the house [the Umbelinas] required." N.T., 6/21/10, 114. The Umbelinas prohibited Adams from returning to their home to address the uncompleted work and hired other contractors to (1) install a retaining wall to prevent mud infiltration in the basement, (2) install gutters, (3) replace wet drywall, (4) replace insulation in the house and garage, and (5) construct yard terraces. On September 26, 2006, the Umbelinas filed a consumer protection complaint against Adams Builders with the state Attorney General's office.
On June 21, 2007, the Umbelinas filed a lawsuit against Adams and Bream Builders, LLC, and Adams individually, seeking damages for breach of contract, requesting rescission of the agreement of sale, and alleging violations of the Pennsylvania Unfair Trade Practices and Consumer Protection Law (UTPCPL). Adams and Bream Builders, LLC denied having any involvement with the construction of the Umbelinas' home. The Umbelinas did not take any further action until July 22, 2008, when they filed a second lawsuit against Jack Adams Builders. The trial court consolidated the two actions for trial.*fn1 After a pretrial conference, the Umbelinas stipulated that it was inconsistent to seek both damages at law and rescission of the contract. As a result, the Umbelinas elected to proceed with their action in equity and limited their claims to rescission of the contract and the UTPCPL violations. The trial court subsequently dismissed their action at law with prejudice.
From June 21, 2010 to June 23, 2010, a trial court sat as factfinder in a bench trial and visited the site of the Umbelinas' home to view the slope of the driveway. The Umbelinas presented the expert testimony of Gregory Rogalski, a registered professional engineer, who testified that the driveway violates South Middleton Township's Zoning Ordinance Section 1807, which requires driveways not to exceed a seven percent slope within the first twelve feet from the street. The overall slope of the Umbelina's driveway is eighteen percent, however, the slope in the first nine feet of the driveway is only 0.8% over the seven percent threshold. Rogalski opined that it would impractical to attempt to remediate the slope of the driveway by lowering the garage or moving the house back further onto the lot.
In addition to the driveway violation, Rogalski found several other violations and problems within the Umbelina home. He shared that the home did not have anchor straps between the framing and the foundation which makes the house susceptible to lifting up during a windstorm and violates International Residential Code Section 403.1.5. Rogalski also observed significant cracks in the foundation wall, resulting in groundwater leakage into the basement. He indicated the first floor walls above the cracked foundation have moved as he noticed that the countertops, cabinets, and flooring have separated and the drywall has cracked. He also noted the home's insulation was improperly installed which would allow a fire to spread more rapidly through the home. Lastly, Rogalski testified that non-pressure treated wood was in direct contact with the foundation and opined that moisture from the concrete could decay this wood, resulting in additional structural problems.
Upon conclusion of the trial, the trial court found that the Umbelinas were not entitled to rescind the contract as Adams Builders had made no fraudulent misrepresentations concerning the slope of the finished driveway, his experience in constructing homes, or his honest belief that the home contained no code violations. For the same reasons, the trial court refused to find that Adams Builders had violated the state unfair practice statute.
However, the trial court found Adams Builders failed to construct a home of reasonable workmanship and value. Although the Umbelinas never raised a claim of breach of the implied warranty of habitability in their complaint and had abandoned their claims of breach of express and implied warranties with respect to the slope of the driveway, the trial court nonetheless found Adams Builders had breached the implied warranty of habitability as the home was not "functional and habitable in accordance with contemporary community standards." Trial Court Opinion (T.C.O.), 12/2/10, at 30. The trial court awarded the Umbelinas $26,036.68 in restitution for improvements the Umbelinas made to remedy Adams's faulty construction. Both parties filed timely motions for post-trial relief. After reviewing the ...


Blog Posts (20) December 5, 2016
Throughout its tenure, the Bioethics Commission has maintained an active digital presence to connect with a global audience. A major component of this has been through its blog. This final blog post reflects on the role the blog has played in disseminating the Bioethics Commission’s work.
December 2, 2016
The Commission’s most recent report, Bioethics for Every Generation, outlines a variety of models that can be used to teach ethics, and emphasizes that ethics education is about preparing students how to think ethically, rather than what to think. Bioethics for Every Generation also emphasizes that ethical questions and topics can be incorporated into existing courses, such as biology, chemistry, social studies and history courses, among others.
November 23, 2016
Since the Bioethics Commission was established by Executive Order by President Obama, the Bioethics Commission has released 10 reports on a variety of ethically challenging topics, and has provided recommendations on topics ranging from synthetic biology and neuroscience to whole genome sequencing and public health preparedness. Over the last 10 weeks, the Bioethics Commission has released its 10-episode podcast series Ethically Sound, based on the work produced by the Bioethics Commission. Each episode in the series focuses on a particularly salient ethical challenge that was addressed by the Bioethics Commission, and illustrates how these ethical challenges impact our society. All 10 episodes of Ethically Sound are now available on our website.
November 21, 2016
The tenth and final episode of the Bioethics Commission’s podcast series, Ethically Sound, is now available. Today’s episode, “Charting a Path Forward,” focuses on the Bioethics Commission’s two most recent public meetings, during which the Bioethics Commission reflected on the impact of past, present, and future of national bioethics advisory bodies.
November 9, 2016
The Presidential Commission for the Study of Bioethical Issues (Bioethics Commission) has released a new educational resource, “Ethically Sound Discussion Guide: Podcast Series Discussion Questions.” The discussion guide is based on the Bioethics Commission’s podcast series Ethically Sound. This 10-episode series is based on the 10 reports the Bioethics Commission produced during its tenure. Each podcast focuses on an ethical challenge the Bioethics Commission addressed in a specific report. Each episode opens with an introductory vignette from a speaker closely associated with the topic, and features an interview with a member of the Bioethics Commi
October 31, 2016
“Ethically Impossible,” the eighth episode of the Bioethics Commission’s podcast series Ethically Sound, is now available.
October 3, 2016
The Bioethics Commission has released the fourth episode, “Privacy and Progress,” in its new podcast series Ethically Sound. Privacy and Progress addresses complex privacy concerns related to a powerful and newly accessible technology. Whole genome sequencing has evolved from an ambitious scientific aspiration to a readily available technique with tremendous potential to advance clinical care and medical research.
September 28, 2016
This post will focus on Col. Michael’s discussion of democratic deliberation, which the Commission recommends in its report.
September 26, 2016
Today’s episode, “Anticipate and Communicate,” focuses on the Commission’s sixth report Anticipate and Communicate: Ethical Management of Incidental and Secondary Findings, which addressed how to ethically manage incidental findings—findings that lie outside the aim of a test or procedure—that arise in clinical, research, and direct-to-consumer contexts.
September 19, 2016
Since the Bioethics Commission was established through Executive Order in 2009 by President Barack Obama, it has released 10 reports on a variety of ethically challenging topics, including synthetic biology, neuroscience, and whole genome sequencing, among others. The Bioethics Commission is excited to release a new podcast series, Ethically Sound. Each episode features one of […]
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“Informed Decision making for Sustainable Development”
Eye on Earth Summit 2015 (6 - 8 October, Abu Dhabi, UAE) will bring together over 650 delegates from government, UN bodies, the non-governmental sector, private sector, academia and civil society to identify solutions to fill the environmental, social and economic data gap to support informed decision-making for sustainable development. Casting a spotlight on the role governments, technology, the scientific community and citizen participation play in enhancing access to quality data, the Summit will address:
Data demand - including data acquisition and management, how data can be communicated and visualized for optimal use, and current data requirements, challenges and uses. Data supply - including the availability of and access to environmental, social, and economic data, innovations in knowledge sharing and open access data, and the importance of crowd sourcing and citizen science for information gathering. Data enabling conditions - including the necessary legal, financial, and technological infrastructures and capabilities required to facilitate better availability of, access to and sharing of data.
Among the confirmed speakers are the heads of Alliance partner organisations responsible for Eye on Earth:
H.E. Razan Al Mubarak, Secretary General, Environment Agency Abu Dhabi Barbara J. Ryan, Secretariat Director of the Group on Earth Observations Inger Anderson, Director General, International Union for Conservation of Nature Achim Steiner, Executive Director United Nations Environment Programme and Undersecretary General of the United Nations Janet Ranganathan, Vice president for Science and Research, World Resources Institute
Convene. Converge. Collaborate.
Sponsor/exhibitor contact
Maie Ahmed
[javascript protected email address]


Temporary Worker Programs: A Patchwork Policy Response
This report explores the complex issues surrounding temporary worker programs by looking at the ways in which the United States has responded to domestic labor shortages from the 1940s through the present. It examines the intent and structure of various temporary worker programs—including the U.S.-Mexico Bracero program from 1942 to 1964, the British West Indies program from 1943 to 1947, and modern-day nonimmigrant employment-based visa categories—and raises salient policy questions that result from the analysis.
The report’s analysis of both historical and existing temporary worker programs highlights dramatic variations between programs with regard to the duration of temporary workers’ stay, numerical allowances for admission, and eligibility for permanent admission. The author argues that the current system—a complex patchwork crafted in response to specific needs and exceptions—sends mixed messages to workers and employers about the intentions of temporary work programs. The significant number of temporary workers who adjust to permanent resident status may also indicate that the temporary worker system is not truly temporary; rather, it may be a transition to permanent immigration for many workers, and a way for employers to adapt to the failures of the permanent immigration system and gain immediate access to these workers.
The author stresses the importance of properly understanding this relationship between permanent and temporary admissions, and urges policymakers to consider whether the goals of the temporary worker program writ large need to be revisited and clarified. Additional recommendations include determining data needs for further analysis, addressing administrative challenges to effective implementation, and using lessons from past experiences to better inform policy decisions.