Screening will be conducted under the Jamaica/Cuba Eye Care Programme (JCECP), at several health facilities in St. Elizabeth, between June 3 and 7, beginning at 9:30 a.m.Persons will be screened for cataracts, pterygium (fleshy growth on the eye), and diabetic eye disease.The tests will be done at the Balaclava Health Centre on June 3; Lacovia Health Centre, June 4; Black River Health Centre, June 5; Southfield Health Centre, June 6, and the Junction Health Centre, June 7.“Persons are asked to visit the health centres prior to the screening dates to pre-register,” stated Co-ordinator of the JCECP, Gregory Thomas, in an interview with JIS News.Mr. Thomas noted that no screening will take place at the National Chest Hospital in Kingston, during the period June 3 to 7.“The public is advised that the programme is not in a position at this time to provide assistance to persons seeking treatment for conditions not listed, nor those seeking treatment for children. Persons are also asked to take along a referral from a public health facility and a valid identification (passport, driver’s licence, national ID, or a certified passport size photograph with TRN),” he said.The Co-ordinator said persons selected through the screening process will be asked to provide two contact telephone numbers.He pointed out that the public will receive notification on other upcoming screening sessions, and that persons can get more information at the health centres, at the offices at 948-0017/ 924-9287, or by email: jacubaeyecare@moh.gov.jm.Since the inception of the Jamaica/Cuba Eye Care Programme in January 2010, over 17,500 persons have been screened for cataracts, pterygium and diabetic eye disease at over 50 locations across the island.Just under 5,000 surgeries have been performed on approximately 4,000 persons, with cataract removal accounting for over 50 per cent of the surgeries. The Ophthalmology centre based in Kingston, has received more than 44,000 since 2010.“I want to remind members of the public that the services offered by the Jamaica/Cuba Eye Care Programme are free to all. Persons who have been previously screened, but are awaiting appointments need not visit the screening sessions slated for St. Elizabeth in June. They should instead await a call from our programme officer to inform them of their appointment date. If any of our current patients have changed their telephone numbers since registering under the programme, they should call our office to update their records,” Mr. Thomas said.Contact: Garfield L. Angus
Category: hrtyncjy
Province Releases Racial Equity Cultural Proficiency Framework
The province is fostering a school environment that respects, celebrates and values racial and cultural diversity. With the release of the Racial Equity/Cultural Proficiency Framework, educators will have a tool that helps meet the cultural needs of all learners. The framework, released today, June 21, was written by the Provincial Racial Equity Policy Leadership Team (PREP), which includes representatives from the Department of Education and school boards. “Nova Scotia has a diverse culture that students and teachers can be proud of,” said Education Minister Ramona Jennex. “I thank the Provincial Racial Equity Policy Leadership Team for their work in creating and maintaining a culturally proficient environment for our students and teachers.” Cultural proficiency is an approach which offers both educators and students knowledge and understanding of how to interact with people. “The recommendations outlined in the framework will help the province advance and maintain fairness and equity in the education community,” said Sylvia Parris, multicultural education consultant, Department of Education. “Teachers and administrators can use the framework as a guide to support the development and implementation of school-based activities designed to engage learners, their families and the community.” The Racial Equity/Cultural Proficiency Framework is available at www.ednet.ns.ca .
Roland Garros Uncertainty over Serena fitness and Osaka form
Paris: Serena Williams heads into this year’s French Open as an outsider for a Grand Slam title for possibly the first time in 20 years, with questions surrounding her fitness after a poor start to the season, while Naomi Osaka needs to rediscover her best form to solidify her position at the top of the women’s game with a third straight major crown. The 37-year-old Williams is still waiting for a record-equalling 24th Grand Slam triumph, with her last victory coming at the 2017 Australian Open shortly before taking a break from the sport due to pregnancy. Also Read – We don’t ask for kind of tracks we get: Bowling coach ArunShe impressed initially after returning, but last year twice fell just short of drawing level with Margaret Court’s mark, losing in the Wimbledon final to Angelique Kerber before her infamous meltdown en route to another final defeat by Osaka at Flushing Meadows. Williams’ 2019 campaign has not gone to plan so far, with a series of injuries seeing her manage just four matches since her Australian Open quarter-final exit to Karolina Pliskova. But she is confident her work off the court can help her find her best game in the biggest tournaments. Also Read – Bastian Schweinsteiger announces retirement, could join Germany set-up”I actually haven’t been able to train or practice a lot. I was out much longer than I expected,” admitted the three-time French Open champion last week in Rome, before pulling out of the tournament ahead of a second-round tie with sister Venus. “But I did everything I could to stay fit. I knew that I love the clay season and I wanted to be a part of it. “It’s not about today or tomorrow. For me obviously it’s about playing well at all the big moments… Obviously the Slams, etc, just getting ready for those events.” World number one Osaka has not been overly struggling since surprisingly splitting with coach Sascha Bajin in the wake of her Australian Open title. But the Japanese star has not won a title since, and like Williams, withdrew from the Italian Open through injury before her quarter-final against Kiki Bertens. It has still been the 21-year-old’s best-ever clay-court campaign, having also reached the last eight in Madrid and the semi-finals in Stuttgart, and she feels her big-hitting game is now ready for the red dirt. “I’m kind of comfortable with it now. It’s just like I randomly slip. I feel like if I can get that under control, I’ll be good,” Osaka, who has never reached the second week in Paris, said. She also does not feel that her lack of a title since Melbourne will have a large bearing on her Roland Garros prospects. “I can’t necessarily say it’s been ups and downs because if I think about it, it’s definitely been going up,” she said. “Every match that I’ve played, I’ve learned a lot. I’ve tried to take what I’ve learned into the next match. I think I’ve done that well.” Reigning champion Simona Halep will enter the tournament somewhat under the radar with much of the focus on Williams and Osaka, but the Romanian remains the world’s most consistent player on clay. The three-time French Open finalist is the bookmakers’ favourite for the title, despite having lost both her finals so far this year and being knocked out in her first match in Rome by Czech youngster Marketa Vondrousova. But she will be the third seed in Paris and a name everyone will want to avoid in the draw. “I can’t expect anything because to be a defending champion in Grand Slam is for (the) first time for me, so it’s something new,” said Halep, who won her maiden major title 12 months ago in her fourth final.
Trump adviser: White House ‘completely’ behind Moore for Fed
WASHINGTON — A top White House official says the Trump administration is “fully behind” Stephen Moore, the president’s latest choice to help lead the Federal Reserve. That’s despite unflattering financial details about Moore’s personal life that have come to light since President Donald Trump announced his decision.Larry Kudlow, director of the National Economic Council, says “we are fully behind” Moore. Kudlow says Moore would be a “breath of fresh air” at the central bank. Kudlow complains people are “being awfully hard” on Moore.Moore is a former Trump campaign adviser who has been affiliated with conservative groups. Some economists say Moore could inject politics into an institution that strives to keep its decisions free from political influence.Kudlow was asked about Moore during a roundtable sponsored by the Christian Science Monitor.Darlene Superville, The Associated Press
Queen Elizabeth II hails UNs leadership in everchanging world
“In my lifetime, the United Nations has moved from being a high-minded aspiration to being a real force for common good. That of itself has been a signal achievement,” the British monarch, who was accompanied by her husband, Prince Philip, told the General Assembly.She noted that for over six decades, the UN has helped to shape the international response to global dangers. “The challenge now is to continue to show this clear and convening leadership while not losing sight of your ongoing work to secure the security, prosperity and dignity of our fellow human beings.”Queen Elizabeth is the Head of State of 16 of the UN’s 192 Member States and head of the Commonwealth of 54 countries. She last addressed the General Assembly in 1957 at the age of 31, four years after she was crowned queen. She noted that during her reign, the world has witnessed tremendous changes, including in science and technology, as well as social attitudes. “Remarkably, many of these sweeping advances have come about not because of governments, committee resolutions, or central directives – although all these have played a part – but instead because millions of people around the world have wanted them,” she stated.“For the United Nations, these subtle yet significant changes in people’s approach to leadership and power might have foreshadowed failure and demise. Instead, the United Nations has grown and prospered by responding and adapting to these shifts.”The Queen added that while many things in the world have changed, the aims and values which inspired the UN Charter endure – to promote international peace, security and justice; to relieve and remove the blight of hunger, poverty and disease; and to protect the rights and liberties of every citizen – have not.She highlighted some of the UN’s “remarkable” achievements, including helping to reduce conflict, offering humanitarian assistance to millions of people affected by natural disasters and other emergencies, and tackling the effects of poverty in many parts of the world.At the same time, she noted that much remains to be done, from achieving the global anti-poverty targets known as the Millennium Development Goals (MDGs) by their 2015 deadline to tackling new and emerging challenges such as terrorism and climate change. Calling her “a living symbol of grace, constancy and dignity,” Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon expressed his gratitude for the Queen’s dedication to the common values embodied by the UN.“With you at the helm, the United Kingdom and the Commonwealth have contributed immensely to the United Nations,” said Mr. Ban, who noted that the four largest providers of UN peacekeeping troops today are Commonwealth countries. “Around the world, you are working with us to foster development, advance human rights, and promote global security,” he said. “In September, we will gather to advance this mission further still by pushing for progress towards the Millennium Development Goals,” he added, referring to the high-level summit he will convene in New York to advance progress on the MDGs.General Assembly President Ali Treki said the UN is focused on making the world a better place, to stand for justice and for peace, to relieve suffering and to help the poor lift themselves out of poverty.“Many times, we come up short and do not live up to our commitments or meet the expectations that are laid upon us,” he stated.“But through your sense of duty and tireless public service you have demonstrated to those of us at the United Nations that we must not waver from our purpose and must remain steadfast in our will and determination because the poor, the disadvantaged and the weak do not have the luxury of our failure.” 6 July 2010Addressing the United Nations for the first time in more than 50 years, Queen Elizabeth II today lauded the world body for its many achievements, while exhorting it to continue playing its lead role in the cause of peace and prosperity for all.
DR Congo UN helps provide psychotherapy training for rape victims
10 February 2011As part of its campaign against rape in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), the United Nations and its partners this week opened a centre in the eastern city of Bukavu to provide a safe haven and training programmes for survivors of sexual violence. The City of Joy, a joint project of the UN Children’s Fund (UNICEF) and the non-governmental organization V-Day, will serve 180 women between the ages of 14 and 35 every year with psychotherapy and extensive training comprising literacy, economics and sexuality education in a country where the use of rape as a weapon of war has victimized hundreds of thousands of women, particularly in the conflict-torn east.“Tragic as it is that a centre like this is needed, I am grateful to the individuals and organisations that have made the City of Joy happen, not least the women themselves,” Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon’s Special Representative on Sexual Violence in Conflict Margot Wallström said at the ceremony.“Congolese women are vital to the future of this country. Women carry the children, they carry the water, they carry the produce, they carry everything. Now on top of all of this, they have to carry the misplaced shame of sexual violence. That is not right.”City of Joy marks the latest chapter in the ongoing campaign, ‘Stop Raping our Greatest Resource: Power to the Women and Girls of DRC,’ which V-Day and UNICEF launched in 2007. The new project will provide a powerful platform for women’s empowerment.“I would like to recognize and pay tribute to the courage of the survivors who have broken the silence of sexual violence in DRC through their testimonies, starting in Goma, Bukavu and Kinshasa,” UNICEF Country Representative Philippe Heffinck said. “Rape is a crime and should be treated as such each time it happens. Turning back the tide of impunity is a long fight, and each arrest, each sentence, when done properly, is a victory for justice.”Author and V-Day founder Eve Ensler called the opening “the moment where women of the Congo turn their pain to power, where they who have suffered so deeply, so invisibly, will claim their rights, their bodies and their future.” An estimated 200,000 women have been raped in the DRC during the last 12 years. Just since the beginning of the year, 120 alleged cases of rape have been perpetrated by both rebels and the national army in the eastern region, where more than 300 civilians, including some boys and men, were raped in a single weekend last summer by members of rebel armed groups.Also this week in northern DRC, the Office of the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR) presented survivors of a mass rape in 2003 with a boat which they will use to transport goods to market in support of their income-generating activities.More than 100 women from Songo Mboyo, a remote village in the Equateur Province, were victims. Late last year, some testified before a High-Level Panel, convened by OHCHR, that although 29 had successfully taken their cases to court and been awarded indemnities in 2006, the money was never paid by the government.Others testified that while they went to court seeking justice, the perpetrators were never arrested, stressing that they needed more direct aid and reparations to rebuild their lives.“You are an example for women who stand up for their rights,” UN High Commissioner for Human Rights Navi Pillay said in a message to the hand-over ceremony on Monday, applauding the victims’ courage and determination. “Many of you have suffered not only from sexual violence but afterwards from the stigma of sexual violence.“I know that the Panel met with many men in this country who work hard to assist victims of sexual violence, and husbands who have protected and supported their wives who had been raped, despite the social pressure to reject them. These are the men of the future. They should be seen as role models for all.”
Utilities commission seeks more data on Site C before final recommendation
VANCOUVER — A preliminary report raises more questions than answers about the future of the controversial $8.8-billion Site C dam, with the British Columbia Utilities Commission saying it needs more information before it can make a recommendation.The province’s fledgling NDP government asked the commission to examine the economic viability of the megaproject, which was a signature job-creation initiative of former Liberal premier Christy Clark.A commission panel concluded in its preliminary report that as of June 30 when BC Hydro submitted its most recent quarterly report, the project was on track for completion in 2024.Hydro is managing the project to a more aggressive schedule that would put the dam in service by 2023, it added.However, the panel said it does not have enough data to determine whether the project is currently on budget. It said the amount spent as of June 30 — $1.8 billion — might not match the amount that should have been spent based on activities to date.“The question is: did they get the value for that $1.8 billion that the project plan requires them to?” asked David Morton, the commission’s CEO and chairman of the Site C review panel. “That’s the part that’s missing from the analysis.”Morton said Hydro is in the process of doing the analysis but it was not completed in time for the preliminary report.The panel also said it’s concerned that Hydro has already spent 45 per cent of its $794-million contingency budget.It added it does not have sufficient information to predict possible budget overruns once Site C is complete, or the total costs for the project in the event it is suspended and restarted later.The cost of terminating the project and remediating the site would be $1.1 billion, the panel said.The panel also warned that if a diversion of the Peace River is not achieved in September 2019, the project will not stay within its budget.Consultation on the preliminary findings will be completed and a final recommendation for the project is expected by Nov. 1. The BCUC will host its first public hearing in Vancouver on Saturday before moving to other parts of the province.“We do listen to people. We do consider any evidence that’s relevant and in scope that’s brought before us and we encourage people to do that,” said Morton.BC Hydro has been forthcoming and it’s common for the commission to have questions after reviewing submissions, he said.The NDP campaigned on having the project reviewed by the commission, a practice that was once standard in B.C., before the previous Liberal government’s clean-energy laws allowed some projects to bypass the regulatory agency.Morton said the timeline for this review is much tighter than usual but the scope is narrower.Energy Minister Michelle Mungall said the interim report was meant to provide an update, not to answer every question, and she didn’t think the timeline was too rushed.“We respect that there are many people whose lives are on hold and they’re wondering what’s going to happen, and so we want to do this in a timely manner,” she said.The dam is two years into construction in northeastern B.C. and work has continued while the review is underway.The Opposition Liberals criticized the government on Site C during question period on Thursday. Dawson Creek Liberal Mike Bernier said 2,500 people employed with the project are nervous about their jobs.No matter how deeply the commission examines the dam, the final decision still rests with Premier John Horgan’s cabinet, Bernier said.The report confirms that Site C is not only on time but is one year ahead of schedule, said the Independent Contractors and Businesses Association, which represents more than 2,000 members in construction and resource development.“There is absolutely nothing in the BCUC report that would lead anyone to conclude that construction on Site C should not continue,” said president Chris Gardner in a statement.Site C would be the third dam on the Peace River, flooding an 83-kilometre stretch of valley, and has faced fierce opposition from local First Nations, landowners and farmers.— With files from @Dirk Meissner in Victoria.
Business Highlights
___Stocks fall as rally gives way to US-China trade war worriesStocks slumped Thursday and bond prices spiked after President Donald Trump surprised markets with a new 10% tariff on $300 billion worth of goods from China beginning next month. The news erased a broad rally on Wall Street, leading to the market’s fourth straight loss. Bond prices surged, sending yields sharply lower, as investors sought safety.___Trump says he’ll put 10% tariffs on remaining China importsWASHINGTON (AP) — President Donald Trump intensified pressure on China to reach a trade deal by saying he will impose 10% tariffs Sept. 1 on the remaining $300 billion in Chinese imports he hasn’t already taxed. The move immediately sent stock prices sinking. The president has already imposed 25% tariffs on $250 billion in Chinese products, and Beijing has retaliated by taxing $110 billion in U.S. goods.___E-cigarette giant Juul’s campaign donations favour DemocratsWASHINGTON (AP) — E-cigarette giant Juul Labs donated nearly $100,000 to members of Congress during the first half of 2019, according to a Federal Election Commission report released Thursday that shows the bulk of the money went to Democrats. The campaign contributions from Juul’s political action committee are the latest sign of the company’s expanding influence operation in Washington and around the country.___Health care comes in focus, this time as risk for DemocratsWASHINGTON (AP) — Health care is back as the focus of presidential politics. But Democrats split over “Medicare for All” run a risk with voters wary of disruptions to employer health insurance. Divisions were on display in the two Democratic debates this week, with Sens. Bernie Sanders and Elizabeth Warren being the clearest in calling for a complete switch to government-run health insurance for all. But employer coverage is popular, with more than 8 in 10 people rating their job-based plan as good or excellent.___APNewsbreak: FBI: Amazon drivers part of major theft ringSEATTLE (AP) — The FBI says a Washington state theft ring sold millions of dollars’ worth of stolen goods on Amazon.com, and a pair of Amazon delivery drivers was involved. According to a search warrant affidavit reviewed by The Associated Press, two storefront businesses posing as pawn shops bought the goods from shoplifters before reselling them online. The affidavit says two contract Amazon drivers whose job was to pick up items being returned to the company instead provided them to the pawn shops.___Congress wants Capital One, Amazon to explain data breachWASHINGTON (AP) — Leaders of House and Senate committees want Capital One and Amazon to explain to Congress how a hacker accessed personal information from more than 100 million Capital One credit applications. The incident was the latest massive data breach at a large company. The top Republican on the House Oversight and Reform Committee has asked for a staff-level briefing by Aug. 15. And the Senate Banking, Housing and Urban Affairs Committee will look into the matter.___Fed chief struggles to manage a wild card: Trump trade warsWASHINGTON (AP) — The Federal Reserve is supposed to set interest rates based on gauges of inflation and employment. But President Donald Trump has injected a wild card into the mix with his combative trade wars and tariffs on imports. The resulting economic uncertainties, Powell said, had significantly influenced the Fed’s decision to cut rates.___Jury weighs what Katy Perry owes for hit they say she stoleLOS ANGELES (AP) — Jurors are deciding how much Katy Perry, her collaborators and her record label owe the writers of a Christian rap song over her hit “Dark Horse.” The jury has found that the pop song improperly copied from Marcus Gray’s song “Joyful Noise” and has started deliberating over the amount Thursday. Gray’s attorneys argue that he should get nearly $20 million, or nearly half the song’s earnings. Attorneys for Perry and her co-defendants say the proper figure is about $360,000.___The S&P 500 index dropped 26.82 points, or 0.9%, to 2,953.56. The Dow Jones Industrial Average fell 280.85 points, or 1%, to 26,583.42. The Nasdaq composite lost 64.30 points, or 0.8%, or 8,111.12. The Russell 2000 index of small companies slid 23.84 points, or 1.5%, to 1,550.76.The Associated Press
UN offers condolences on death of former Singaporean leader Lee Kuan Yew
Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon at the Permanent Mission of the Republic of Singapore to the UN, during his visit to sign a book of condolences on the passing of Lee Kuan Yew, the country’s first Prime Minister. UN Photo/Evan Schneider Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon at the Permanent Mission of the Republic of Singapore to the UN, during his visit to sign a book of condolences on the passing of Lee Kuan Yew, the country’s first Prime Minister. UN Photo/Evan Schneider ‹ ›In a separate statement, the President of the General Assembly, Sam Kutesa, said the former Prime Minister’s passing was “a great loss for Singapore.” “Prime Minister Lee Kuan Yew will be remembered as a remarkable man of peace who transformed his country from third to first world status,” said the statement, adding that he had left “a memorable impact on world affairs.” “On behalf of all Member States and on his own behalf, the President of the General Assembly expresses his heartfelt condolences to Mr. Lee Kuan Yew’s bereaved family and to the people and Government of Singapore.” Former Prime Minister Lee Kuan Yew of Singapore on a visit to UN Headquarters in October 1967 is seen here with then UN Secretary-General U Thant. UN Photo/Teddy Chen “During his three decades in office, he helped Singapore to transition from a developing country to one of the most developed in the world, transforming it into a thriving international business hub,” Mr. Ban’s spokesperson said in a statement released on Sunday. “As Singapore marks its 50th anniversary of independence this year, its founding father will be remembered as one of the most inspiring Asian leaders.” Mr. Ban offered his condolences to the family of the former Prime Minister, the Government and the people of Singapore and voiced his gratitude “for the strong cooperation between the Government of Singapore and the United Nations.” Former Prime Minister Lee Kuan Yew (2nd left) continuing his visit to UN Headquarters is seen here with then UN Secretary-General U Thant (3rd left). Also Pictured are other Singaporean officials Inche Rahim Ishak, S. Rajaratnam and Wong Lin Ken. UN Photo/Teddy Chen
Laser 3D microprints Wing Commander spaceship the diameter of human hair
You might notice you can’t browse a tech site lately without being inundated with 3D printing news, and if that has become a wrench in your general allotted web-browsing time, you should check out this print from German company Nanoscribe. The print is a model of a Hellcat spaceship from Wing Commander, and happens to be 125 micrometers long — about the width of a human hair.The ship, which ended up measuring in at 125 x 81 x 26.8 micrometers, was created with the Photonic Professional GT printer. It blasts photosensitive liquid polymer with brief laser pulses. The polymer responds to the lasers, which in turn allows the lasers to activate the polymer in a way where the polymer molds and hardens.The ship took just 50 seconds to print, which you can watch in the above video. You can even see the lasers pulsing throughout the process, activating the polymer. After the build was complete, the Nanoscribe team examined the model ship with a scanning electron microscope.Now, there isn’t exactly a use for a really tiny Wing Commander Hellcat, but the method with which the replica was printed is the real gem of the build. The new laser-printing method is said to provide an increase of printing speed by 100 times. At the moment, though, the current technology only allows a scanning field of “a few 100” micrometers or so — and this is at the highest resolution. However, by way of “stitching” fields together — presumably in a way similar to those massive photographs of the sky — the scanning field and be increased, and thus the size of the object can be increased as well.Regardless of the current size limitations — or even exactly what a tiny object can currently be used for — a tiny laser-printed anything from Wing Commander is pretty cool.
Samsung Galaxy S3 une sortie dès avril prochain
Samsung Galaxy S3: une sortie dès avril prochain ?Le constructeur coréen pourrait dévoiler son dernier téléphone star dès ce mois de mars pour un sortie en avril. De quoi concurrencer médiatiquement Apple et son iPad 3, prévu dans la même fenêtre de lancement.Samsung a décidé, comme beaucoup de ses concurrents, de ne plus faire toutes ses annonces dans un seul évènement, afin d’éviter de noyer ses produits les plus importants dans l’actualité chargée d’un salon. C’est donc pour cela que le constructeur coréen n’a pas, comme il l’avait fait pour les deux premières versions, présenté le Galaxy S3 lors du Mobile World Congress 2012 de Barcelone. À lire aussiDengue : symptômes, traitement, prévention, où en est-on ?Selon ZDNet, Samsung s’est gardé un évènement propre prévu pour ce mois de mars afin de présenter en grandes pompes son futur best-seller en matière de téléphonie. Mieux, le mobile serait disponible très rapidement, puisque le site avance une sortie pour le mois suivant, en avril 2012.L’objectif serait clairement d’un point de vue communication de parasiter la grosse annonce de son principal rival Apple, qui doit, dès ce mercredi 7 mars, lancer l’iPad 3, sa nouvelle tablette tactile. Samsung, dont le téléphone est très attendu, pourrait tirer la couverture à lui avec une annonce qui est aussi importante dans l’univers Android que celle d’un nouveau produit Apple.Pour rappel, les derniers éléments ayant filtré évoquent un écran Super AMOLED de 4″ d’une définition de 800 x 480 pixels ou de 4,8″ en 1920 x 1080, un processeur quad-core cadencé à 1,5 ou 1,6 GHz, un capteur photo entre 8 et 12 mégapixels et une coque épaisse de seulement 7 mm contre 8,5 mm pour un Galaxy S II (notre photo).Le 5 mars 2012 à 15:45 • Maxime Lambert
France 16 espèces de papillons menacées
France : 16 espèces de papillons menacéesLa liste rouge des espèces menacées en France révèle que 16 espèces de papillons de jour sont menacées de disparition en France métropolitaine et 18 autres quasi-menacées.Le Comité français de l’UICN et le Muséum national d’Histoire naturelle (en collaboration avec l’Office pour les insectes et leur environnement ainsi que la Société entomologique de France) ont étudié le risque de disparition des 253 espèces de papillons de jour. Les résultats révèlent que 16 espèces sont menacées tandis que 18 autres sont quasi-menacées.Ainsi, l’Hermite, un papillon autrefois bien réparti en France, a subi une régression de ses effectifs de l’ordre de 30 % sur les 10 dernières années, rapporte notre-planete.info. Aujourd’hui il fait partie de la catégorie “Vulnérable”. L’Azuré du mélilot est lui classé “Quasi-menacé”.Les causes principales de la chute des populations de papillons de jour sont les pratiques agricoles et une urbanisation croissante qui entraînent une destruction et une transformation des milieux naturels. Or, les papillons de jour sont très sensibles aux modifications de leur environnement. Par exemple, chez la plupart des espèces, les chenilles ne se nourrissent que sur une seule ou quelques plantes spécifiques, appelées “plantes-hôtes”.La régression de l’Azuré de la sanguisorbe est ainsi directement liée à celle des prairies humides où pousse la Sanguisorbe officinale l’unique plante-hôte de ce papillon. Avec l’intensification des pratiques agricoles, ces prairies ont été remplacées par des cultures ou modifiées par l’apport d’engrais, et ce papillon est aujourd’hui classé “Vulnérable”.De même, le Mélibée est menacé par la disparition de la Molinie, sa plante-nourricière qui ne se trouve plus que dans quelques localités du massif du Jura. Ce papillon fait partie des espèces “En danger critique” en France. L’urbanisation du littoral méditerranéen, qui n’a pas été revue depuis plus de 10 ans, aura également bientôt raison de l’Hespérie du barbon, un insecte qui a été classé lui aussi “En danger critique”.Dernier élément destructeur, le changement climatique. En effet, l’élévation des températures pousse certains papillons à rechercher des conditions de vie plus favorables vers le Nord ou en altitude. Toutefois, certaines espèces ne trouvent pas de nouveaux refuges et se trouve classés “En danger”, comme le Fadet des tourbières.Les papillons, artisans et indicateurs de la biodiversitéPourtant, le rôle des papillons de jour est loin d’être négligeable. Ils régulent la production végétale à travers l’alimentation des chenilles, ils jouent un rôle primordial au sein de la chaîne alimentaire (ils nourrissent des oiseaux et certains mammifères) et ils participent à la pollinisation des plantes à fleurs.À lire aussi15 incroyables métamorphoses de chenilles devenues papillonsDe plus, ils constituent de véritables « bio-indicateurs » de l’état de santé des milieux naturels. Les papillons de jour sont ainsi utilisés par les gestionnaires d’espaces naturels pour étudier et évaluer l’état des milieux ouverts comme les pelouses naturelles, les prairies ou les friches.Si une quinzaine d’espèces fait déjà l’objet d’une protection réglementaire incluant leurs aires de reproduction et de repos et que les quatre Azurés Maculinea bénéficient d’un plan national d’action, il est nécessaire de renforcer les mesures de préservation des habitats. Comme pour beaucoup d’autres espèces, l’évolution des pratiques agricoles et l’arrêt de l’artificialisation des milieux naturels sont indispensables pour empêcher que les seize espèces aujourd’hui menacées ne disparaissent du territoire métropolitain et que les dix-huit autres “Quasi menacées” ne soient à leur tour gravement menacées.Le 24 avril 2012 à 11:00 • Maxime Lambert
MercedesAMG just broke our brains with the M139 a 416hp 4cylinder engine
2020 Mercedes-AMG A35 is entry-level hotness More From Roadshow 1:24 2020 Mercedes-AMG GT R Pro first drive: Extreme yet surprisingly approachable Tags Now playing: Watch this: Auto Tech Car Industry Share your voice 2019 Mercedes-AMG E53 Sedan review: A breath of fresh(er) air 4 Enlarge ImageThis little engine displaces just 2.0 liters but produces over 400 horsepower. Mercedes-AMG There used to be a time, not that long ago, when four-cylinder engines with turbochargers rarely made more than 250 horsepower. But those days are gone now, and just in case you need convincing, here’s Mercedes-AMG’s latest four-banger: the M139, which it announced on Thursday.The S-version M139 is now officially the world’s most powerful production four-cylinder engine, thanks to its mind-scrambling 416 hp. Nope, that’s not a typo; this 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine makes more horsepower than the BMW E9x M3’s 4.4-liter V8 engine did. It also makes way, way more torque — some 369 foot-pounds of it, to be exact. There’s a non-S version, too, which makes 382 hp, but who cares?”With the M139, we have once again impressively demonstrated the engine expertise of Mercedes-AMG,” said Tobias Moers, chairman of Mercedes-AMG, in a statement. “Not only is the output per liter unrivaled for a turbocharged engine, the high level of efficiency also demonstrates that the internal combustion engine still has further potential.” The M139 engine is different from its predecessor, the M133, in several ways. The most significant change is that the engine has effectively been flipped around so that the exhaust side of the cylinder head points toward the vehicle’s firewall. This simplifies routing for the turbo system’s plumbing and allows AMG’s engineers to bring the nose of the car down for better aerodynamics.AMG’s engineers didn’t stop there. They gave the M139 a highly efficient (and expensive) dual ball-bearing, twin-scroll turbo. This has the effect of increasing turbo responsiveness and eliminating the laggy feel that you’d typically expect in such a heavily turbocharged engine.Another concern that’s created by all that turbo pressure — nearly 30.5 pounds per square inch, to be exact — is whether the engine’s internals will be able to stand up to its abuse for a long time. To assuage that, Mercedes opted to use a closed-deck engine block for cylinder stability, as well as a forged crankshaft and pistons, both of which are also lighter than their cheaper, cast counterparts.AMG uses a number of other tricks to help increase longevity and engine output, including an electric water pump that reduces parasitic drain and can be more accurately controlled to manage engine temperatures. It also opted to use air-to-water intercooling, rather than the more-traditional and cheaper air-to-air style. This has the benefit of better packaging and more stability for engine thermals under load.Clearly, the M139 doesn’t need to make over 400 horsepower, but because AMG seemingly only employs crazy people that don’t live in the same world that you or I do, it does so anyway. We’re not positive yet what Mercedes will put this engine in — we’d guess things with a “45” badge followed by a little “s” — but it will undoubtedly be a riot in any application. 2020 BMW M340i review: A dash of M makes everything better Comments 2019 Mercedes-AMG C43 looks good, performs better Mercedes-Benz 67 Photos Mercedes-Benz
Tahsildar caught in ACB net in Gantyada
Gantyada (Vizianagaram): A Tahsildar is caught by the ACB sleuths while accepting bribe from a couple. On Tuesday B Nageswara Rao, DSP of ACB said that D Sekhar, Tahsildar of Gantyada Mandal was caught by ACB staff while accepting a bribe of Rs 50,000 from an applicant who seeks no objection certificate (NOC) for establishing a petrol pump. R Srinivasa Rao and his wife Bhavani wanted to open a petrol pump at Karakavalasa village of Gantyada mandal and approached the Tahsildar for NOC. Tahsildar of Gantyada D Sekhar had demanded the couple Rs.50,000 to issue the certificate. Though they had requested him to reduce the bribe amount, he didn’t listen to them. Finally, they are fed up with him and approached the ACB. As per the direction of ACB, the couple handed over the amount in his office and meanwhile the ACB staff caught him red handed. The cash was seized and a case is booked. DSP told that the accused will be presented in the court.
Uttam asks CM KCR to release Rythu Bandhu dues
Hyderabad: Telangana Pradesh Congress Committee (TPCC) President and Nalgonda MP Capt. N. Uttam Kumar Reddy on Thursday demanded that State Government immediately release the amount under Rythu Bandhu scheme to more than 50 lakh farmers. In an open letter to Chief Minister K. Chandrashekhar Rao, Uttam Kumar Reddy said that the farm sector in Telangana was under deep distress. He reminded that KCR, during the Assembly elections held on December 2018, had promised to pay Rs. 5,000 per acre for two crop seasons to farmers under the Rythu Bandhu scheme. Similarly, TRS had promised to waive off crop loans up to Rs. 1 lakh. However, he said that both the promises have not been fulfilled by the KCR Government. He said the Rythu Bandhu amount, which should have been paid in June this year, has been not cleared yet. He said nearly 60% of farmers did not get the Rythu Bandhu for the current Kharif season. He said Rythu Bandhu payment and Crop Loan Waiver was not done for nearly 50 lakh farmers in the State. Also Read – JIH organises Eid Milap for sanitary workers Advertise With Us Similarly, Uttam Kumar Reddy said that the farmers who are holding more than 5 acres of land did not get a single paisa so far. He asked the Chief Minister to clarify whether the farmers owning more than 5 acres have been removed as beneficiaries of Rythu Bandhu scheme. The TPCC Chief also pointed out that the land rectification drive of TRS Government was a failure and the revenue records were not set in order to even after 14 months. He said this has badly affected lakhs of farmers as they were being denied financial assistance under Rythu Bandhu scheme and crop loans for lack of new Patta Passbooks. He asked the Chief Minister to take immediate steps to resolve the issues. Else, he feared that delay in the release of Rythu Bandhu funds and crop loan waiver might again push the farmers in huge debt traps. Uttam Kumar Reddy said that there was huge shortage of Urea in the State. He said farmers were forced to purchase Urea from the black market at a higher cost due to huge shortage and non-availability. He also requested the Chief Minister to take measures to ensure supply of Urea of farmers in adequate quantity.
Wipro to declare Q2 results on October 21
Wipro, the Bengaluru-based information technology services company, will be declaring its second quarter results on October 21, seven days after Infosys does.In a statement to the stock exchanges on Monday, Wipro said that its board of directors will meet on October 20 and the next day to finalise the quarterly results. The company had given a revenue guidance in the range of $1,931 million to $1,950 million for the second quarter ending September 30, 2016, up from $1,930.8 million it achieved in the June 2016 quarter.In the first quarter ended June 30, 2016, the company’s net profit declined 8 percent to Rs. 2,052 crore while revenues remained flat at Rs. 13,698 crore.While announcing the Q1 financials and giving IT revenue guidance for the second quarter, the company also said that it has called off a decision to buy securities processing and fund administration services Viteos for $130 million.The company announced two deals during the September quarter — a seven-year agreement with Greater Toronto Airports Authority and three-year contract from Norway’s railway company NSB.Shares of Wipro closed at Rs. 484.40 apiece, up 1.17 percent from their previous close.
PM on pleasure trip when people dying says Rizvi
Ruhul Kabir RizviThe Bangladesh Nationalist Party on Friday alleged that prime minister Sheikh Hasina is staying abroad on a pleasure trip to Europe when people are dying in landslides, reports UNB. “It’s regrettable that the prime minister has been on a pleasure trip to Europe when people in Rangamati are either dying or struggling to survive for lack of treatment, power and government support after the devastating landslides,” said BNP senior joint secretary general Ruhul Kabir Rizvi. Speaking at a human chain programme, he further said, “This is possible only when an anti-people government stays in power. Had she been the prime minister of people, she (Hasina) had not been able to stay abroad.”Barkatullah Bulu Mukti Parishad arranged the programme in front of the National Press Club, demanding BNP vice chairman Bulu’s release from jail.At least 154 people, including army personnel and children, were killed in separate incidents of landslide triggered by heavy rains in Bandarban, Chittagong, Rangamati and Cox’s Bazar districts on Monday and Tuesday. Speaking at another programme at the National Press Club arranged by Democratic Movement, BNP standing committee member Amir Khasru Mahmud Chowdhury said the government showed inefficiency in tackling the natural disaster in Rangamati and Bandarban.“The government should have remained alert with effective steps to face natural calamity in the hilly areas as downpour triggers landslides there during monsoon. We’ve seen the government showed poor performance in tackling the situation and standing people with necessary support,” he said.Khasru also said the country’s people are becoming victims to disasters one after another for lack of modern disaster preparedness and the government’s accountability.
Fisheries dept to serve traditional fish items during Durga Puja at its
Kolkata: Want to savour the traditional fish items associated with the Durga Pujas of Sarbamangala Temple in Burdwan or Kanakdurga shrine at Chilkigarh in Jhargram in Kolkata? Here is your opportunity to relish Magur Macher Tok of Sarbamangala Temple or Shol Pora of Kanakdurga Shrine, thanks to State Fisheries Development Corporation (SFDC), which is leaving no stone unturned to serve such unique fish items in five of its restaurants.”Every year, we come up with something special for the fish loving Bengalis during Durga Puja. This year, we will be offering fish items of the old and traditional pujas of zamindars. We are already in talks with Sovabazar Rajbari, Sabarna Roy Choudhury Rajbari and some others for finalising such menus,” SFDC managing director Soumyajit Das said. Also Read – Rain batters Kolkata, cripples normal lifeThe bhogs cooked at the venues of some traditional pujas in the city will also be an integral part of the menu list.The SFDC has its restaurants at Nalban Food Park, Nabanna, Eco Park, Bidhan Sishu Udyan in Ultadanga and infront of Nicco Park. There will be a discount of 7 percent in the thali items and on the online delivery app during the Puja. Food items will be served in kansa (brass) or terracotta plates. It will be for the first time when people from this part of the state will be able to satiate their taste buds with Boroli fish during Durga Puja. Boroli variety is one of the most delicious fishes available in clear streams in the foothills of North Bengal. Also Read – Speeding Jaguar crashes into Mercedes car in Kolkata, 2 pedestrians killedIt was in April this year when as many as 23,000 Boroli fish seeds from Jalpaiguri in North Bengal was brought and are now being cultivated in three large waterbodies – Nalban Jheel adjacent to the Nalban Food Park, Goltala jheel near Chingrighata and Chotkhand jheel at Memari in East Burdwan. The SFDC will also experiment with two new varieties of fishes — Groupers and Indian Pompano — that they have cultivated in the last few months. The Indian Pompano, which belongs to the fast-growing Carangid family, has a great demand in Andhra Pradesh especially due to its good meat quality and nutritious value. It tastes more or less same as the Pomfret variety but will be available at a cheaper rate.The SFDC will set up stalls at the premises of 23 Durga Pujas in the city and offer a plethora of fish items. The Singhi Park, Hazra Park, Kalighat Milan Sangha, Hindustan Park in south Kolkata while Jagat Mukherjee Park, Sovabazar, Tala Sarbojonin, Nalin Sarkar Street will be some of the spots for SFDC’s puja stalls.
App Development Methods Decoded
The project involves uncharted territory for the developers, yet the deadline calls for a quick development cycle Cons Free Workshop | August 28: Get Better Engagement and Build Trust With Customers Now Software delivered at the end of the cycle, with few changes allowed Methodical, linear Highly structured, reliable The project builds upon existing platforms (e.g., a website or database) Agile The shape of the end product–or end user–is unclear and likely to change. Design, development and implementation occur multiple times. Flexible, simple; working prototype available early in the cycle Delegates tasks to self-directed teams Unpredictability of end product and uncertain delivery time Collaborative; good for products with tight deadlines Success depends on the quality of team members and their ability to collaborate
Scrum Pros This hands-on workshop will give you the tools to authentically connect with an increasingly skeptical online audience. Best used if 2 min read Waterfall Process March 8, 2012 Q: I’ve heard software development shops talk about various methods–“waterfall,” “agile” and “scrum”–for building apps. What’s the difference?Choose wisely: Kim Heldman, senior IT director for the state of Colorado, says app-building methods can make or break your project–so do your research.Photo© Jacob PritchardA: Be assured, the developers who use scrum aren’t billing you for a daily rugby match to help brainstorm your product. In this case, the term describes one of more than a half-dozen software development processes used to organize a project’s work flow. And whether you need an e-commerce site for your T-shirt startup or a smartphone app for your pizza delivery business, you should decide on the approach to development that addresses the requirements, design, production, testing and deployment phases of the software in a manner that works best for your management style and, ultimately, your business.According to Kim Heldman, senior IT director for the state of Colorado, choosing the right methodology for a development project can spell the difference between rapid success and drawn-out failure. Heldman suggests focusing on the three most popular development processes: waterfall, agile and scrum. Continuous, repetitive This story appears in the March 2012 issue of . Subscribe » Enroll Now for Free
Montage Kapalua Bay on Maui has unveiled an exclus
Montage Kapalua Bay on Maui has unveiled an exclusive partnership with the House of Harry Winston to launch the Love is in the Air engagement programme. This is the first time the renowned American jeweller has partnered with Montage Hotels & Resorts, creating an experience that combines the luxury of the resort with the elegance of Harry Winston to deliver a one-of-a-kind proposal.An engagement specialist will work with guests to customise their experience. On the big day, the Cliff House will be outfitted with rose petals, a private musician and champagne. To put a spin on the tradition, couples will propose without the ring, and instead be presented with a Harry Winston box and the opportunity to select an engagement ring of their choice.Couples will be whisked away to the neighbouring island of Oahu to the House of Harry Winston via helicopter and, with champagne in hand, will receive a private consultation from the Harry Winston team to select their ring. Couples can spend the rest of their vacation relaxing at the resort, or indulging in the Maui Romance Couples Package which includes a spa experience at Spa Montage and a one-hour engagement photo session with Pacific Dream Photography.The Love is in the Air featuring Harry Winston experience includes:Three-night stay in the Premier Ocean View PenthouseCustom proposal setting at the Cliff House including rose petal pathway, champagne and musicianChampagne toast and private consultation at the House of Harry Winston in Oahu for selection of the engagement ring and any additional bridal jewellery. Engagement ring and bridal jewellery available for purchase at an additional cost.Private, round-trip Blue Hawaiian Helicopters trip to Oahu, including an island tourRound-trip car service from heliport to the House of Harry Winston in OahuOne-hour engagement photo session with Pacific Dream PhotographyMaui Romance Couples Package at Spa Montage Kapalua BayDinner for two at Montage Kapalua Bay’s signature restaurant, Cane & CanoeDaily breakfast for two at Cane & CanoePackage price begins at US$20,000. Engagement ring and bridal jewellery available for purchase at an additional cost.