|
Essential News from The Associated Press |
|||
? ?Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.
matt barnes jim jones hcm loretta lynn gene kelly zoe saldana andrew bailey
Tuesday, January 31, 2012
Wednesday, January 25, 2012
How protein networks stabilize muscle fibers: Same mechanism known for DNA now found for muscle proteins
ScienceDaily (Jan. 23, 2012) ? The same mechanism that stabilises the DNA in the cell nucleus is also important for the structure and function of vertebrate muscle cells. This has been established by RUB-researchers led by Prof. Dr. Wolfgang Linke (Institute of Physiology) in cooperation with American and German colleagues. An enzyme attaches a methyl group to the protein Hsp90, which then forms a complex with the muscle protein titin. When the researchers disrupted this protein network through genetic manipulation in zebrafish the muscle structure partly disintegrated. The scientists have thus shown that methylation also plays a significant role outside the nucleus.
They published their results in Genes and Development.
Methylation in the nucleus
Enzymes, called methyltransferases, transfer methyl (CH3) groups to specific sections of the DNA in the nucleus. In this way, they mark active and inactive regions of the genes. However, not only DNA but also nuclear proteins incur methylation, mostly at the amino acid lysine. Methylated lysines on nuclear proteins promote the formation of protein complexes that control, for example, DNA repair and replication. However, methyltransferases are not only found in the nucleus, but also in the cellular fluid (cytoplasm). Yet, it is not well established which proteins they methylate in the cytoplasm and how this methylation may affect function.
Shown for the first time: methylation in the cytoplasm promotes protein complex formation
The researchers first identified an enzyme which is mainly present in the cytoplasm and which methylates the amino acid lysine (Smyd2). Then they searched for interaction partners of the enzyme Smyd2 and found the heat shock protein Hsp90. The scientists went on to show that Smyd2 and methylated Hsp90 form a complex with the muscle protein titin. "Titin is the largest protein in the human body and known primarily for its role as an elastic spring in muscle cells" explains Linke. "Precisely this elastic region of titin is protected by the association with methylated Hsp90."
Titin requires protection by methylated proteins
In skeletal muscle cells of the zebrafish, Linke's team explored what happens when the protection by the methylated heat shock protein is repressed. By genetic manipulation they altered the organism in such a way that it no longer produced the enzyme Smyd2, which blocked the methylation of Hsp90. Without methylated Hsp90, the elastic titin region was unstable and muscle function strongly impaired; the regular muscle structure was partially disrupted.
Recommend this story on Facebook, Twitter,
and Google +1:
Other bookmarking and sharing tools:
Story Source:
The above story is reprinted from materials provided by Ruhr-Universitaet-Bochum, via AlphaGalileo.
Note: Materials may be edited for content and length. For further information, please contact the source cited above.
Journal Reference:
- L. T. Donlin, C. Andresen, S. Just, E. Rudensky, C. T. Pappas, M. Kruger, E. Y. Jacobs, A. Unger, A. Zieseniss, M.-W. Dobenecker, T. Voelkel, B. T. Chait, C. C. Gregorio, W. Rottbauer, A. Tarakhovsky, W. A. Linke. Smyd2 controls cytoplasmic lysine methylation of Hsp90 and myofilament organization. Genes & Development, 2012; DOI: 10.1101/gad.177758.111
Note: If no author is given, the source is cited instead.
Disclaimer: This article is not intended to provide medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Views expressed here do not necessarily reflect those of ScienceDaily or its staff.
Source: http://feeds.sciencedaily.com/~r/sciencedaily/~3/Mx08F8alWUo/120123094444.htm
louis ck michelle duggar heisman cp3 lakers news rachel crow rachel crow
Tuesday, January 24, 2012
Italian islanders ache for cruise victims (AP)
GIGLIO, Italy ? Natives of the tiny Italian island of Giglio come from hardy stock whose distant ancestors were accustomed to surviving ruthless raids by pirates and where today many eke out a living from often perilous seas.
But when islanders gaze out on the capsized wreck of the Costa Concordia, lying lifelessly on its side just outside their port like some giant beached creature from the sea, they pray and sigh in sorrow.
"Mamma mia, please excuse me, it makes me so emotional. Mamma mia," said Ornella Monti, whose house on Giglio, near the customs police station at the port, looks squarely out at the shipwreck.
"I had it all in front of my house," a weeping Monti said Sunday, as she lit electric candles in San Lorenzo church. "Dear God, help us."
"Let's give a lot of light for this girl," said Monti, lighting another candle and referring to a 5-year-old Dayana Arlotti, an Italian girl, who along with her father, is among the missing in the Jan. 13 accident.
Many of the 1,500 islanders, a tough breed of fishermen and their families who repair fishing nets by hand in the winter and take tourists out in painted wooden boats after a night of fishing at sea, were still shaken by the tragedy which unfolded in front of their eyes.
Women rushed out with blankets when shivering survivors stepped off lifeboats or staggered up rocks after swimming ashore when the evacuation of the 4,200 passengers and crew turned chaotic. Islanders offered children milk and biscuits, and invited stunned families into their homes to warm and calm themselves.
On a table in the church where Mass was celebrated Sunday were an array of items that surviving passengers had brought into San Lorenzo the night of the shipwreck ? life vests, helmets, pieces of rope ? reminders of the precarious nature of life at sea that islanders, 15 kilometers (11 miles) across from the mainland, know well.
Monti's apology for her tears contrasted sharply with the unabashed gawking of hundreds of mainlanders who hopped ferries in Porto Santo Stefano on the Tuscan coast to visit Giglio, renowned for its crystal clear waters and beauty as far back as ancient Roman times, over the weekend. Clambering over portside rocks, they snapped photos and made videos of the wreck to bring back home with them macabre mementos.
"They called us jackals," said Silvana Pasqualetti, of the islanders after she and her family set foot on the dock to view the wreckage. With her husband, adult son, and the son's girlfriend and niece, the family set out before daybreak from their home in Viterbo north of Rome on the mainland for Giglio.
"It's something you don't see every day," said her son, Massimo Menghini, 29, as the family caught an evening ferry back to the mainland. "Your jaw drops open when you see it in person, because it's history," he said
Pasqualetti added that she didn't "feel like a jackal" because "this macabre tourism brings tourist revenue to the islanders," whom she described as "exquisite" people.
From atop Giglio's highest peak, nearly 500 meters (1,650 feet) above sea level, and aided by binoculars, spectators to the tragedy can spy stacks of lounge chairs, chained together on the deck near the ship's swimming pool and kiddie pool, emptied of their water when the Concordia pitched over some 90 degrees.
On the other side of the Concordia, visible only from those approaching on boats is the gaping, 70-meter (230-foot) long gash, sliced into the hull of the ship when it sailed too close to a reef well known to scuba divers and sailors and near an isolated stretch of coast a few kilometers south of the bustling port.
___
Frances D'Emilio reported from Rome.
office space rawhide bigfoot tony romo twilight zone sandra dee nfl draft 2012
Monday, January 23, 2012
Simon Cowell breaks off engagement
Simon Cowell's trip down the aisle is getting postponed.
In an interview with UK newspaper the Daily Mirror, the "X Factor" judge reveals that he and his fiancee, Mezhgan Hussainy, are taking a break from both their relationship and their wedding plans.
PHOTOS: See which Idol alums are engaged or have kids
"It's quite a complicated relationship. We have had a break from each other, and we are still incredibly close," the 52-year-old Brit explains in Sunday's Mirror . "I'm vulnerable. It's not on, it's not off, it's somewhere in the middle. I don't know if I will ever get married, but I am happy."
-
More Entertainment stories
-
Late-night 'Idol' guest? Jim Carrey's daughter
The highlight of the night was Jane Carrey, if for no other reason than it made Jennifer Lopez feel old.
- Dr. Drew gets juiced up on 'Lifechangers'
- Exclusive peek: B.H. 'Housewives' wedding finale
- Klum and Seal: 'We have decided to separate'
- Stephen Colbert raises Cain in South Carolina
-
Late-night 'Idol' guest? Jim Carrey's daughter
PHOTOS: Celebrity engagements
Cowell and Hussainy met on the set of American Idol in 2003, where she was working as a makeup artist, and the couple got engaged in February 2010. At the time, Cowell, who's known for his emotionless demeanor, made it clear that he was very much over the moon.
"I'm smitten with Mezghan, I think she's the one," he gushed to the British TV host Piers Morgan. "She's very special...You know when you've found somebody very special."
PHOTOS: Revisit Simon's last season on Idol
But in Sunday's Mirror, Cowell alludes that the spark has fizzled out and he's regretting his remarks from two years ago.
Addressing his heartfelt quip on "Piers Morgan," Cowell says, "I have been pretty good about not talking about my private stuff, but I got caught up in the moment."
Copyright 2012 Us Weekly
Source: http://today.msnbc.msn.com/id/46095115/ns/today-entertainment/
local time when is daylight savings 2011 what time is it cain gingrich debate andy rooney dies andy rooney dies bank transfer day
PFT: Colts eye Tressel? |?? Dolphins hire Philbin
ReutersA few East-West Shrine Game participants that could fit with the Bills.
An analysis of the Dolphins? choice to hire Joe Philbin as their head coach.
Patriots CB Devin McCourty is looking forward to facing off with Ravens RB Ray Rice, his teammate at Rutgers.
The Jets signed G Trevor Canfield to a futures contract.
The Ravens defense knows that they need to make Tom Brady uncomfortable on Sunday.
Some reaction to the Bengals? decision to hold training camp at Paul Brown Stadium.
The healthy return of G Eric Steinbach will give the Browns needed depth on the offensive line.
The Steelers may buck their tradition of promoting from within when it comes to hiring a new offensive coordinator.
Texans C Chris Myers and DE Antonio Smith are fired up for their first trip to the Pro Bowl.
Peter King of SI.com believes Peyton Manning?s status will have nothing to do with the Colts? search for a new coach.
The Jaguars signed four more assistant coaches for Mike Mularkey?s staff.
Titans CB Cortland Finnegan doesn?t think shuffling the front office will change much about the organization.
The Broncos will spend some time evaluating QB Adam Weber this offseason.
The New Yorker checks in on the phone tapping allegations hurled at the Chiefs last week.
Paul Gutierrez of CSNBayArea.com thinks the Dolphins making a coaching hire puts the pressure on the Raiders.
Ron Meeks is the leading candidate for the job as Chargers? defensive backs coach.
Cowboys LB Keith Brooking hopes that WR Dez Bryant doesn?t waste his talent.
Giants defensive backs credit group meetings for their improved play.
More questions about where the Eagles defense is going this offseason.
A trial date has been set for the man accused of shooting and killing Redskins S Sean Taylor.
A look at what Phil Emery might bring to the table as Bears general manager.
Does RB Kevin Smith have a future with the Lions?
Packers S Nick Collins will learn more about his future after a meeting with doctors in March.
USC T Ryan Kalil and Oklahoma State WR Justin Blackmon are both candidates for the Vikings in the first round.
The Falcons signed RB Dimitri Nance to a futures contract.
It isn?t guaranteed that the Panthers will opt for a defensive player in the first round of the draft.
Looking back at Gregg Williams? run as defensive coordinator of the Saints.
Five players the Buccaneers should be watching at the Senior Bowl.
The Cardinals lost painful games to the Ravens and Giants, but managed a split with the 49ers.
Said Rams executive vice president of football operations Kevin Demoff of the team?s plans to play games in London the next three years, ?And our fans are going to have conspiracy theories and be skeptics of our intentions. But hopefully throughout this process, our actions about wanting to be here will speak for us.?
49ers coach Jim Harbaugh didn?t get a chance to hold a practice in rainy conditions.
The Seahawks did well in sudden change situations this season.
houston weather demaryius thomas transtar 316 william daley bcs championship game alabama vs lsu
Saturday, January 21, 2012
House panel in gun probe subpoenas prosecutor (AP)
WASHINGTON ? A House committee looking into the flawed gun smuggling investigation called Operation Fast and Furious has subpoenaed a federal prosecutor in Arizona for questioning.
Republican Rep. Darrell Issa, chairman of the House Oversight and Government Reform Committee, said Thursday that Patrick Cunningham repeatedly refused to testify voluntarily about his role in the operation that relied on a controversial law enforcement tactic designed to identify and prosecute major weapons traffickers.
According to Issa, the committee has information that Cunningham played a role in approving the tactic, which resulted in federal agents losing track of weapons that later ended up at crime scenes in Mexico and the U.S.
Cunningham, who is resigning effective Jan. 27 to take a job in the private sector, has been chief of the criminal division in the U.S. Attorney's Office in Phoenix for the past two years.
Justice Department spokeswoman Tracy Schmaler declined to comment about the subpoena.
warrior novak djokovic sarah mclachlan shakespeare bipolar symptoms qi osama bin laden
Costa Concordia wreck: What we know a week later
Many details have emerged about what happened before and after the Costa Concordia ran aground on Jan. 13, but it's still unclear what the captain was doing much of that time.
A week after the Costa Concordia sank in shallow water two hours into a holiday cruise, transfixing the world, attention is now focused on the behavior of the captain before and after the ship hit a rock formation at 9:40 p.m.
Skip to next paragraphWhat began as a serious tragedy off the Tuscan island of Giglio may now have some serious tabloid elements to the story.
New questions involve the role of a 25-year old blonde Moldovan, a Filipino cook, the captain?s alcohol intake, a dinner ordered after the collision, and the captain?s moves after the ship ran aground, leaving a 160-foot gash in the hull.
Captain Francesco Schettino seems to have been attentive to Domnica Cemortan, alternately described as a hostess and a dancer, for much of the evening before, during, and after the ship hit the rock, possibly dining with her as late as 10:30 p.m. The two were also together as late as midnight, according to Ms. Cemortan, at a lifeboat station, where he ordered her to leave the semi-submerged ship.
What was clarified this week: After charting an alternate course to?sail closer to Giglio Island ? a course that Costa Cruises?denies it authorized?? Schettino told investigators he ?turned too late? to avoid rocks that some maritime experts say are uncharted but do show up on other nautical charts. In?one animated mapping?using nautical GPS positioning of the Concordia, the back half of the ship is shown grazing what is described as an exposed rock.
Transcripts of radio conversations between the Coast Guard and Schettino confirm that he left the ship while hundreds of passengers were still onboard.?
In upcoming days, an accurate timeline may emerge of Schettino?s precise movements?between the restaurant and the bridge?as well as who he called and consulted?? facts that are still murky and confused right now.?The details have serious legal implications and consequences for insurance and recovery of the $450 million ultra-modern vessel. ?
Today rescue workers said the 117,000 ton Concordia is shifting on the ocean floor by 1.5 centimeters an hour, delaying additional rescue efforts and attempts at removing the oil onboard. Relatives of the 11 dead and 21 still missing are arriving from Peru, India, and European nations.
NJ disabled girl's parents narrow criticism (AP)
PHILADELPHIA ? The parents of a 3-year-old New Jersey girl who claim she's being denied a kidney transplant because of her mental disabilities said their problems may be with one doctor, and not The Children's Hospital of Philadelphia.
"It's one doctor who's never seen us who is making this call," Joe Rivera told The Associated Press on Wednesday. "We've had a great experience with CHOP. We're not against CHOP, but maybe something needs to be changed. One guy tarnished their reputation."
Rivera, 39, and his wife Chrissy plan to meet with hospital officials next week, amid a growing online furor that has experts warning the situation may be much more complex than many realize. The hospital has not commented on the child's case, citing patient confidentiality laws, but acknowledged the online discussion and said on its Facebook page that "we hear your concerns."
Chrissy Rivera posted a blog entry last week that described an encounter she claimed happened at The Children's Hospital. She and her husband were there to discuss treatment for her daughter, Amelia, who was born with Wolf-Hirschhorn syndrome, a rare genetic defect that can cause physical and mental disabilities. Amelia will need a transplant in six months to a year.
Chrissy Rivera, 36, wrote that a doctor, whom she did not name, told her and her husband that Amelia wouldn't be eligible for a transplant because of her quality of life and her mental condition.
"I put my hand up. `Stop talking for a minute. Did you just say that Amelia shouldn't have the transplant done because she is mentally retarded. I am confused. Did you really just say that?'" she wrote. "I begin to shake. My whole body trembles and he begins to tell me how she will never be able to get on the waiting list because she is mentally retarded."
Joe Rivera said he was left thunderstruck.
"It just felt like that you were punched in the gut," he told the AP. "It was mind blowing how people think these days."
But he said that the experience was not necessarily indicative of the treatment they've gotten from the hospital.
Afterward, Chrissy Rivera, who teaches high school senior English, detailed the exchange on the blog.
Her story was seen by Sunday Stilwell, the mother of two severely autistic boys, and she began an online petition Friday, demanding that the hospital give a transplant to the girl. By Wednesday afternoon, 26,520 people had signed it.
"I read Chrissy's original blog post, and I just cried. I couldn't believe it," said Stilwell, whose boys are 6 and 9. "I shared it on Twitter with all my followers and on Facebook."
Children's Hospital said in a statement that it "does not disqualify potential transplant candidates on the basis of intellectual abilities."
"We have transplanted many children with a wide range of disabilities, including physical and intellectual disabilities," it said, adding that it is "deeply committed" to providing the best possible medical care for all children, including those with disabilities.
It noted the debate on its Facebook page. "We're listening. We hear your concerns and take seriously your posts, emails and phone calls," it wrote, adding, "Please know that you have been heard and that your feedback is appreciated."
Stilwell has been in contact with the Riveras daily over the events.
"There's a lot of camaraderie" between parents of special-needs kids, Stilwell said. "Almost all of us, across the board, have experienced some discrimination. I've certainly had some bad run-ins with some certainly ignorant doctors, but nothing like this. That's part of the reason I did it. I couldn't actually believe this was happening."
The issue the Riveras face is not simple, said Arthur Caplan, director of the University of Pennsylvania Center for Bioethics. For example, the blog notes that Chrissy Rivera told the hospital that "we plan on donating" the kidney because they come from a large family.
"Most adults can't donate an organ because it won't fit" a child, Caplan said. "You're starting to say you're going to use another child as a living donor, and that's ethically really trouble."
The supply of organs for child transplants is "extremely limited," Caplan added. "So you have hard choices to make," he said. "Dialysis may be a better option."
However, in recent years some hospitals have pioneered ways to use an adult's kidney in a child.
According to the National Institutes of Health, 87,820 people were awaiting kidney transplants as of last February. The National Kidney Foundation, which seeks to enhance the lives of people affected by kidney disease, said 4,573 patients died in 2008 while waiting for kidney transplants.
A 2006 study from Ohio State University on kidney transplants for patients with mental disabilities found that the one- and three-year survival rates for 34 people were 100 percent and 90 percent, respectively.
"The studies reported good compliance with post-transplant medications due to consistent support from family members or caregivers," the paper noted.
The researchers added that previous controversies over mental disabilities and transplants led the Joint Commission on Accreditation of Healthcare Organizations to express concern that many people with disabilities are "denied evaluation and referral for transplantation."
Whatever the medical details of Amelia's situation, her mother's blog captured the anger of parents with disabled children who don't want outsiders to decide life and death issues.
"Do not talk about her quality of life," Rivera wrote of her exchange with the doctor last week. "You have no idea what she is like. We have crossed many, many road blocks with Amelia and this is just one more. So, you don't agree she should have it done? Fine. But tell me who I talk to next."
Mary Beth Happ, a professor at the University of Pittsburgh Center for Bioethics and Health Law, said that the issue of severe mental disability and kidney transplants has been a source of contention for nearly two decades.
"Co-existing health problems such as weakened immune system and/or heart disease, which are prevalent in (Wolf-Hirschhorn syndrome), are an additional risk that transplant centers and parents must consider," Happ wrote in an email.
But Happ and Caplan noted that it's virtually impossible to have a full discussion of Amelia's case because of medical privacy laws.
"We're seeing this more and more where very private, difficult medical decisions are debated in the media without the full facts," Happ said, adding that while the general discussion can be good, the risks of one side or another inflating the situation is problematic.
Caplan said he has heard of cases in which other transplant programs considered severe mental disability as a factor in transplants.
"With scarcity, social factors do count, with every transplant," he said.
___
Begos reported from Pittsburgh.
___
Follow Matt Moore at http://www.twitter.com/mattmooreap
___
Online:
Rivera's Blog: http://bit.ly/xAmRaV
CHOP's Facebook Page: http://on.fb.me/wkvIW0
gilad shalit gilad shalit john edward psychic john edward psychic brandon marshall headless horseman headless horseman
Friday, January 20, 2012
North Korea credits new leader with nuke testing
PYONGYANG, North Korea (AP) ? North Korea on Friday credited new leader Kim Jong Un with spearheading past nuclear testing, as it adds to a growing personality cult that portrays the young son of late leader Kim Jong Il as a confident military commander.
Kim Jong Un's youth ? he's believed to be in his late 20s ? and quick rise have spurred questions in foreign capitals about his readiness for leadership. But North Korea has dismissed such worries in recent days, saying Kim Jong Un worked closely with his father on military and economic matters.
The North's official Uriminzokkiri website said Friday that Kim "frightened" the country's enemies by commanding nuclear testing in the past. North Korea tested nuclear devices in 2006 and 2009, but the website didn't specify which tests Kim oversaw.
Uriminzokkiri described Kim Jong Un as "fully equipped" with the qualities of an extraordinary general, even during his years at Kim Il Sung Military University. The website also repeated the North's claim that he was involved in satellite launching but didn't elaborate.
North Korea's linking of Kim Jong Un to past nuclear testing comes as it pushes for the resumption of long-stalled six-nation aid-for-nuclear disarmament talks that also include China, Japan, Russia, South Korea and the United States. Washington and its allies want the North to first show it is serious about previous disarmament commitments.
North Korea last week questioned Washington's generosity and sincerity, but suggested it remains open to suspending its uranium enrichment program if it can get the food aid it wants.
Kim Jong Un took over after his father and longtime ruler Kim Jong Il died in mid-December and has quickly been given many of the country's most important titles.
He was introduced as heir only in September 2010. Before that he had been kept out of the public eye for most of his life. He was quickly promoted to four-star general and named a vice chairman of the Central Military Commission of the Workers' Party of Korea.
Some of North Korea's neighbors and Washington have expressed worry about whether he can lead a nation of 24 million with a nuclear program as well as chronic trouble feeding all its people.
Kim Jong Il had 20 years of training under his own father, Kim Il Sung, before taking over. Even after his father's 1994 death, Kim Jong Il observed a three-year mourning period before formally assuming leadership.
A senior official told The Associated Press recently that Kim Jong Un spent years working closely with his late father and helped him make key policy decisions on economic and military affairs.
North Korea has also made it clear that Kim Jong Un will continue Kim Jong Il's "songun," or military-first, policy, and a steady stream of reports and images from state media has sought to show him as a fearless military commander who is comfortable with leadership.
North Korea also reported Friday that Kim Jong Un inspected two more military units.
Earlier this month, North Korea's state-run broadcaster aired a documentary that showed Kim Jong Un observing an April 2009 launch of a long-range rocket. It was the first indication of his involvement in the launch.
The documentary quoted Kim as threatening to wage war against any nation attempting to intercept the rocket, which North Korea claimed was carrying a communications satellite but the United States, South Korea and Japan said was really a test of its long-range missile technology.
Associated Pressiron bowl iron bowl bo jackson bo jackson ibogaine weather houston weather houston
Newswire / Automotive Human Machine Interface Solutions Poised ...
To deal with the issue of driver distraction, the automotive industry is turning to a multi-modal human machine interface (HMI) approach, wherein all the interfaces play an equal role. The main aim here is to prioritise information and reduce driver workload.
According to a new analysis from Frost & Sullivan (automotive.frost.com), Strategic Analysis of European and North American Automotive Human Machine Interface Market, 16 million cars will be equipped with basic voice interface, 6.9 million with advanced voice interface, and 1.2 million with multifunctional knobs in Europe by 2017. Meanwhile in North America, 13.6 million cars will have basic voice, 6.8 million advanced voice, and 0.9 million will be equipped with multifunctional knobs by 2017.
The integration of varied comfort and safety user interfaces into a single system is a growing trend. Multi-modal HMI solutions will help reduce complexity, while focussing on the consumer demand for different interfaces.
"OEMs and suppliers are constantly working on prioritising the information coming from infotainment systems and smartphones in order to minimise driver distraction and increase safety," notes Frost & Sullivan Research Analyst Krishna Jayaraman. "The primary aim of HMI is to simplify the driver's interaction with the car; OEMs are actively looking at finding an optimal solution to this challenge by providing the same styling of HMI solutions across their product line to minimise distraction as well as the driver learning curve."
The majority of in-vehicle functionalities require a substantial amount of information to be presented to the driver. This contributes to the problem of inattentive driving, while increasing the risk of traffic accidents. Therefore, effectively managing information flows is a big challenge.
"Information has to be split among different vehicle displays and the input channels have to be ergonomically positioned," says Jayaraman.
Designing a user interface that is simple, accessible, less distractive, and affordable presents a key challenge. The location of the user interface and the type of information depending on the driving conditions are the main issues in the development of an efficient HMI.
HMI solutions have to be designed keeping the primary task of driving in mind. Offering redundant interfaces for an application will ensure a fail-safe environment where, even if one of the interfaces stops working, there will always be another option that will assume control.
HMI controls are strongly co-related to vehicle comfort and ease of use. OEMs need therefore, to offer solutions to which consumers are accustomed. This will decrease the length of the learning curve and make it easy for drivers to use different functions with controls they are familiar with.
"At present, many innovative HMI solutions are offered as an optional package in the medium and low segments," concludes Jayaraman. "To maximise on growth potential, it will be necessary to offer innovative HMI across all automotive segments as a standard feature."
If you are interested in more information on this study, please send an email with your contact details to Katja Feick, Corporate Communications, at katja.feick[.]frost.com.
Strategic Analysis of European and North American Automotive Human Machine Interface Market is part of the Automotive & Transportation Growth Partnership Service programme, which also includes research in the following markets: Executive Analysis of European and North American Automotive App Store Concepts and Services, Strategic Analysis of European Market for Low Cost OEM Navigation Systems and Strategic Analysis of the European Automotive Human Machine Interface Market. All research included in subscriptions provide detailed market opportunities and industry trends that have been evaluated following extensive interviews with market participants.
About Frost & Sullivan
Frost & Sullivan, the Growth Partnership Company, enables clients to accelerate growth and achieve best-in-class positions in growth, innovation and leadership. The company's Growth Partnership Service provides the CEO and the CEO's Growth Team with disciplined research and best-practice models to drive the generation, evaluation, and implementation of powerful growth strategies. Frost & Sullivan leverages 50 years of experience in partnering with Global 1000 companies, emerging businesses and the investment community from more than 40 offices on six continents.
Strategic Analysis of European and North American Automotive Human Machine Interface Market / M6CF-18
twitter.com/frost_sullivan | facebook.com/FrostandSullivan
Source: http://www.newswiretoday.com/news/104409/
tower heist reviews recursion amy schumer amy schumer ascii art ascii art andrew mason
Thursday, January 19, 2012
Iranian lawmaker: Obama proposed talks; US denies
TEHRAN, Iran (AP) ? An Iranian lawmaker claims that President Barack Obama called for direct talks with Iran in a secret letter to the Islamic Republic's supreme leader that also warned Tehran against closing the strategic Strait of Hormuz.
Obama administration officials denied there was such a letter.
Iran has threatened to close the waterway, the route for about one-sixth of the global oil flow, because of new U.S. sanctions over its nuclear program.
Conservative lawmaker Ali Motahari revealed the content of the letter days after the Obama administration said it was warning Iran through public and private channels against any action that threatens the flow of oil from the Persian Gulf.
"In the letter, Obama called for direct talks with Iran," the semiofficial Fars news agency quoted Motahari as saying Wednesday. "The letter also said that closing the Strait of Hormuz is (Washington's) red line."
"The first part of the letter contains threats and the second part contains an offer for dialogue," he added.
Iran's Foreign Ministry spokesman Ramin Mehmanparast confirmed that Tehran received the letter and was considering a possible response.
In Washington, an Obama administration official denied that Obama sent a letter to Iran's Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, saying communication of U.S. views were being delivered through other diplomatic messages. The official would give no further details. The official spoke on condition of anonymity because of the sensitivity of the issue.
National Security Council spokesman Tommy Vietor pointed to earlier comments from the Obama administration that noted the U.S. had a number of ways to communicate its views to the Iranian government. He said the U.S. remained committed to engaging with Tehran and finding a diplomatic solution to its larger issues with Iran's nuclear program.
Spokesmen have been vague on what the United States would do about Iran's threat to block the strategic Strait of Hormuz, but military officials have been clear that the U.S. is readying for a possible naval clash.
Iran's Revolutionary Guard, the country's most powerful military force, says Tehran's leadership has decided to order the closure of the oil route if Iran's oil exports are blocked. A senior Guard officer said earlier this month that the decision has been made by Iran's top authorities.
Iranian politicians have made the threat in the past, but this was the strongest statement yet that a closure of the strait is official policy.
Iran's regular army recently held naval war games near the vital waterway that were described by hard-liners as part of preparations to close the strait if sanctions are imposed. The Guard is planning major naval military exercises next month in the same region.
The U.S. last month enacted new sanctions targeting Iran's central bank and its ability to sell petroleum abroad over Tehran's nuclear program. The U.S. has delayed implementing the sanctions for at least six months, worried about sending the price of oil higher at a time when the global economy is struggling.
Closing the strait would have immense world economic impact. Iran is OPEC's second largest oil producer, and oil exports account for 80 percent of Iran's foreign currency income. To Tehran, an oil embargo would be tantamount to a declaration of war that could provoke the Iranian leadership to block the Hormuz strait.
At issue is Iran's nuclear program. The U.S., Israel and others charge that Iran is trying to build nuclear weapons. Their case was bolstered by a report from the International Atomic Energy late last year, citing evidence that Iran was employing methods and equipment used in making bombs.
Iran has consistently denied that, saying its nuclear program is peaceful, aimed at producing electric power and isotopes for cancer treatment.
___
Associated Press writer Julie Pace in Washington contributed to this report.
Associated Pressapple event buccaneers buccaneers bernanke bernanke tampa bay buccaneers meredith kercher
Wednesday, January 18, 2012
?Thor? Star Chris Hemsworth?s Wife Elsa Pataky Pregnant!
“Thor” Star Chris Hemsworth’s Wife Elsa Pataky Pregnant!
Hunky actor Chris Hemsworth is going to be a first time father. His wife, Spanish actress Elsa Pataky, is pregnant! The “Thor” actor and “Fast [...]
“Thor” Star Chris Hemsworth’s Wife Elsa Pataky Pregnant! Stupid Celebrities Gossip Stupid Celebrities Gossip News
Source: http://stupidcelebrities.net/2012/01/18/thor-star-chris-hemsworths-wife-elsa-pataky-pregnant/
al davis edmund fitzgerald vincent brown vincent brown willow smith tom bradley tom bradley
How does messiness affect consumer preference for simplicity?
![[ Back to EurekAlert! ]](http://www.eurekalert.org/images/back2e.gif){kind=small}
Public release date: 17-Jan-2012[ | E-mail |
Share ] Contact: Mary-Ann Twist
JCR@bus.wisc.edu
608-255-5582
University of Chicago Press Journals
A clean desk might not be all it's cracked up to be. According to a new study in the Journal of Consumer Research, messiness can lead consumers toward clearer thinkingespecially political conservatives.
"Business and government managers often promote 'clean desk' policies to avoid disorganized offices and messy desks, for the purpose of boosting work efficiency and productivity," write authors Jia (Elke) Liu (University of Groningen), Dirk Smeesters (Erasmus University), and Debra Trampe (University of Groningen). "This practice is based on the conventional wisdom that a disorganized and messy environment can clutter one's mind and complicate one's judgments. However, not all evidence supports this conventional link between a messy environment and a messy mind."
In a series of six studies, the authors found that individuals who were reminded of messiness via a language task, worked at disorganized desks, or shopped in a store they perceived as disorganized displayed tendencies toward simplicity in a number of ways. "They categorized products in a simpler manner, were willing to pay more for a t-shirt that depicts a simple-looking picture, and sought less variety in their choices."
The authors found that the messiness effect didn't affect liberals as much as conservatives because liberals were generally less concerned about being disorganized. "Specifically, conservatives, when confronted with a messy environment (compared to a clean environment), were willing to pay more for a t-shirt with a simple-looking picture. Liberals' willingness to pay for this shirt was not affected by messiness," the authors explain.
The authors' study shows that experiencing messiness decreases consumers' cognitive complexity and induces them to form simple representations of product information (heuristic information processing). "Messy desks may not be as detrimental as they appear to be, as applying heuristic approaches can rather boost work efficiency or enhance employees' creativity in problem solving," the authors conclude.
###
Jia (Elke) Liu, Dirk Smeesters, and Debra Trampe. "Effects of Messiness on Preferences for Simplicity." Journal of Consumer Research: June 2012 (published online October 5, 2011).
[ | E-mail | Share ] ?
AAAS and EurekAlert! are not responsible for the accuracy of news releases posted to EurekAlert! by contributing institutions or for the use of any information through the EurekAlert! system.
Public release date: 17-Jan-2012[ | E-mail |
Share ] Contact: Mary-Ann Twist
JCR@bus.wisc.edu
608-255-5582
University of Chicago Press Journals
A clean desk might not be all it's cracked up to be. According to a new study in the Journal of Consumer Research, messiness can lead consumers toward clearer thinkingespecially political conservatives.
"Business and government managers often promote 'clean desk' policies to avoid disorganized offices and messy desks, for the purpose of boosting work efficiency and productivity," write authors Jia (Elke) Liu (University of Groningen), Dirk Smeesters (Erasmus University), and Debra Trampe (University of Groningen). "This practice is based on the conventional wisdom that a disorganized and messy environment can clutter one's mind and complicate one's judgments. However, not all evidence supports this conventional link between a messy environment and a messy mind."
In a series of six studies, the authors found that individuals who were reminded of messiness via a language task, worked at disorganized desks, or shopped in a store they perceived as disorganized displayed tendencies toward simplicity in a number of ways. "They categorized products in a simpler manner, were willing to pay more for a t-shirt that depicts a simple-looking picture, and sought less variety in their choices."
The authors found that the messiness effect didn't affect liberals as much as conservatives because liberals were generally less concerned about being disorganized. "Specifically, conservatives, when confronted with a messy environment (compared to a clean environment), were willing to pay more for a t-shirt with a simple-looking picture. Liberals' willingness to pay for this shirt was not affected by messiness," the authors explain.
The authors' study shows that experiencing messiness decreases consumers' cognitive complexity and induces them to form simple representations of product information (heuristic information processing). "Messy desks may not be as detrimental as they appear to be, as applying heuristic approaches can rather boost work efficiency or enhance employees' creativity in problem solving," the authors conclude.
###
Jia (Elke) Liu, Dirk Smeesters, and Debra Trampe. "Effects of Messiness on Preferences for Simplicity." Journal of Consumer Research: June 2012 (published online October 5, 2011).
[ | E-mail | Share ] ?
AAAS and EurekAlert! are not responsible for the accuracy of news releases posted to EurekAlert! by contributing institutions or for the use of any information through the EurekAlert! system.
Source: http://www.eurekalert.org/pub_releases/2012-01/uocp-hdm011712.php
beef o bradys bowl the hobbit the hobbit an unexpected journey dark knight rises trailer dark knight rises trailer latkes how to make it in america
Wednesday, January 4, 2012
DJKoulianos: RT @CJ_Farcas: Love seeing the Youngstown movement making its way through college football all over #MPOD
- Passer la navigation
- Twitter sur votre mobile ? Cliquez ici m.twitter.com!
- Passer cette ?tape
- Connexion
Love seeing the Youngstown movement making its way through college football all over #MPOD 
CJ_Farcas Cory Farcas
Pied de page
Source: http://twitter.com/DJKoulianos/statuses/154273036751732736
iraq war jimmy fallon jimmy fallon barista san diego chargers san diego chargers j.r. martinez
China Teaching Jobs Kindergarten Teaching Positions Available In Haizhu, Guangzhou Up To 10,000RMB M
We are looking for a native English speaker to teach in our lovely Kindergarten near Kecun / Lujiang , Guangzhou.The location is fantastic, and means easily commute with metro nearby the kindergarten.The salary range is 8000-10000RMB/Month, depending on your qualifications and experience.
The Kindergarten is offering a schedule 8:30am-12am and 3pm to 5pm Monday to Friday, Sat. and Sun. as fixed days off.
This position starts in Early Feb, please apply now and interview will be arranged right after you applied.
Salary: ?8000 - 10000 Chinese Yuan RMB
Accommodation: None
Teaching hours: 27.5hrs/wk
Location: Haizhu
Students: Children
Positions available: 4
Visa information: Company provides working visa for full-time teachers
Requirements:
- UK, USA, Australian, Canadian or New Zealand passport holder
- Degree in any field
- Experience teaching children
Application:
Please send your Photo, Passport copy and CV/Resume to applications@ findworkabroad.com
barry bonds hazing colton harris moore hurd hurd christopher hitchens ron paul 2012
Tuesday, January 3, 2012
Iowa: Romney, Santorum seesawing in narrow vote (AP)
DES MOINES, Iowa ? Rick Santorum and Mitt Romney waged a seesaw battle for supremacy in Iowa's Republican presidential caucuses late Tuesday night, a dramatic opening round for the campaign to pick a challenger to President Barack Obama.
Texas Rep. Ron Paul ran third.
Returns from 99 percent of the state's precincts showed Santorum, a former Pennsylvania senator, and Romney, a former governor of Massachusetts, in a near dead heat, a fitting conclusion to a race as jumbled as any since Iowa gained the lead-off position in presidential campaigns four decades ago.
Regardless of the outcome, there was room for both to claim victory ? Romney as the man to beat for the party's nomination and Santorum as the leader among those struggling to emerge as the former governor's unvarnished conservative rival in the primaries yet to come.
"Game on," Santorum said, jaw clenched, in a late-night appearance before supporters in the Iowa capital city.
New Hampshire votes next, and Romney is heavily favored in the first-in-the-nation primary on Jan. 10. South Carolina on Jan. 21 figures to be a tougher test, the first contest in the South and a state that is part of the Republican political base.
Former House Speaker Newt Gingrich finished in fourth place and vowed to fight on.
He was followed by Texas Gov. Rick Perry, who somberly told supporters he was headed back home to Texas to reassess a candidacy that bloomed early, then faded.
Minnesota Rep. Michele Bachmann was far behind. Her campaign manager, Keith Nahigian, suggested she might drop out, but she seemed to signal otherwise a short while later. "I believe that I am the true conservative who can and who will defeat Barack Obama in 2012," she declared.
Returns from 1,749 of 1,774 precincts showed both Romney and Santorum with 24.6 percent and Paul with 21.5. Romney had 29,683 votes, Santorum had 29,673 and Paul 25,976.
Former House Speaker Newt Gingrich had 13 percent, followed by Texas Gov. Rick Perry, 10 percent, and Minnesota Rep. Michele Bachmann with 5 percent.
No matter how close the final results in Iowa, there were no plans for a recount.
Doug Heye, a spokesman for the state party, said the ballots were counted under the supervision of campaign representatives who certified the totals. He said the numbers were double-checked when they were reported to state officials and there was no reason to check them again.
"On to New Hampshire," Gingrich said to the cheers of his supporters, vowing to carry on his campaign no matter the Iowa outcome.
The former speaker led in the pre-caucus polls as recently as a few weeks ago, only to fall under the weight of attack ads run by a super PAC run by allies of Romney.
Paul, too, said he was looking forward to the nation's first primary in a week's time, telling supporters his was one of two campaigns with the resources to do the distance. "There's going to be an election up in New Hampshire, and believe me this momentum is going to continue and this movement is going to continue and we are going to keep scoring," he told supporters.
The Texas lawmaker didn't say so, but the other campaign already built for a long campaign was Romney's. The former Massachusetts governor was closeted with aides and his family as he sweated out the caucus count in a state that humbled him four years ago.
This time, win or lose, he appeared destined to draw a smaller share of the vote than the 25.2 percent he did then.
Each of the three in the top tier strove to create a distinct identity and brought a different style to the race.
Santorum, the former Pennsylvania senator, ran the old-fashioned way, spending parts or all of 250 days campaigning in the state in hopes of emerging as the preferred conservative alternative to Romney.
Romney, the former Massachusetts governor, brought organization and money to the table, and was aided by deep-pocketed allies who ran television commercials attacking former House Speaker Newt Gingrich and others. That allowed Romney to take the high road in person, running as a former businessman who knew how to create jobs and defeat Obama.
Paul, the Texas congressman, was something of a blend of the two approaches, with money and organization. He drew on the support of younger caucus-goers with a libertarian-leaning approach that included a call to legalize marijuana and bring home U.S. troops from overseas.
Whichever among the three eventually finished ahead, it appeared likely the winner's share of the vote would be a record low for GOP caucuses in the state. Former Sen. Bob Dole had 26.3 percent support in 1996, when he won.
This time, the economy and the federal budget deficit were top issues, judged more important than abortion or health care, according to a survey of early caucus-goers.
Nearly a third of those surveyed said they most wanted a candidate who could defeat Obama, and those favored Romney as a group. Paul and Santorum split the votes of the one in four who called the selection of a true conservative their top priority, and the former Pennsylvania senator also made a strong showing among those who said their top priority was a candidate with a strong moral character as well as among late deciders.
Paul had an edge among younger and first-time caucus goers.
The survey by Edison Media Research for The Associated Press and television networks was based on interviews with 1,737 people arriving at 40 precinct caucuses across the state.
Obama was unopposed for the Democratic nomination. Even so, his re-election campaign set up eight offices across Iowa, made hundreds of thousands of calls to voters and arranged a video conference with caucus night supporters.
"This time out is going to be in some ways more important than the first time," the president told Democrats across the state. "Change is never easy."
The Iowa caucuses' outsized importance was underscored by the estimated $13 million in television advertising by the candidates and so-called super PACs as well as thousands of campaign stops designed to sway 100,000 or so voters.
Ironically, the weak economy that has made Obama appear vulnerable nationally was muted as an issue here. Despite areas of economic distress, the farm economy is strong. Iowa's unemployment in November was 5.7 percent, sixth lowest in the country and well below the national reading of 8.6 percent.
Despite its importance as the lead-off state, Iowa has a decidedly uneven record when it comes to predicting national winners. It sent Obama on his way in 2008, but eventual Republican nominee John McCain finished a distant fourth here to former Arkansas Gov. Mike Huckabee.
Even before Tuesday night's results were known, this year's Republican hopefuls were turning their attention to the next contests. Romney's campaign purchased time to run television ads in Florida, where balloting is three weeks distant, while Perry put down money in South Carolina.
Aides said the Gingrich campaign had purchased a full-page newspaper ad in New Hampshire for Wednesday morning calling Romney a "Timid Massachusetts Moderate."
Romney, who finished second in Iowa in 2008 despite a costly effort, initially campaigned cautiously this time around.
But he barnstormed extensively across the state in the race's final days in pursuit of a first-place finish, running as a conservative businessman with the skills to fix the economy and as the challenger with the best chance to defeat Obama.
Santorum, Gingrich, Perry and Bachmann argued that Romney wasn't nearly conservative enough on the economy and social issues such as abortion. They vied for months to emerge as the alternative to the former Massachusetts governor.
Paul's libertarian-leaning views set him apart, and he hoped that might be enough to claim victory in a six-way race where no one broke away from the pack.
Unlike in a primary, in which voting occurs over hours, the 809 Iowa caucuses were meetings in which Republicans gathered for an evening of politics. Each presidential candidate was entitled to have a supporter deliver a speech on his or her behalf before straw ballots were taken.
Under party rules, caucus results have no control over the allocation of Iowa's 25 delegates to the Republican National Convention. The Associated Press uses the caucus outcome to calculate the number each candidate would win if his support remained unchanged in the pre-convention months.
The race in Iowa came to be defined by its unpredictability as the months rolled by and nationally televised candidate debates piled up.
Bachmann gained early momentum on the strength of a victory in a summertime straw poll and a feisty debate performance.
But she quickly faltered when Perry joined the race and overshadowed her as the 10-year governor of Texas with deep-pocketed supporters and an unbroken record of electoral success at home.
Perry's rise lasted only as long as a couple of debates including one where he memorably was unable to recall the third of three federal agencies he wanted to abolish.
Next up was Herman Cain, a black former businessman who improbably shot to the top of the polls in a party that draws its support chiefly from white voters. He suspended his candidacy a few weeks later, after a woman said she and he had carried on a long-term extra-marital affair.
Gingrich rode the next surge in the polls, a remarkable comeback for a man whose campaign had imploded earlier in 2011 when most of his aides quit in frustration. But his rise lasted only until a super PAC that supports Romney began attacking him on television.
Democrats watched carefully in a state that has swung between the two parties in recent presidential elections.
It was Iowa that launched Obama on the way to the White House four years ago when he won a convincing victory in the caucuses.
___
David Espo reported from Washington.
packers score google x lisfranc injury lisfranc injury ronan ronan diane sawyer
Enchanting and Magical ... Your Wedding Day Plans Begin at the Winter Bridal Show
Grand Rapids, MI. ? Don?t forget the annual Winter Bridal Show of West Michigan, Jan. 20-21, at DeVos Place in downtown Grand Rapids. All under one roof, a variety of exhibits will be on hand including:
Bridal Gowns and Tuxedos???????????????????????????????????????? ?
Linen & Chair Covers
Candy / Dessert Buffets
Reception Halls / Facilities
Photography / Videography
Floral Design / Decorators
Catering
Bridal Gift Registry
Tanning & Spa
Cooking Class /Newlywed
DJ's and Live Music
Cookware/ Kitchenware
Photobooth
Wedding Invitations/ Favors
Limousine, Party Bus and Trolley
Home Improvement & D?cor
Weight Loss & Healthcare
Register to Win CASH and Prizes
Featuring a guest appearance by best selling author Jeffrey Zaslow, he?ll be presenting "The Magic Room," a story about the love we wish for our daughters, featuring a Michigan Bridal Shop managed by a fourth generation of daughters. Zaslow also wrote "The Girls From Ames", coauthor of "The Last Lecture" and "Gabby: A Story of Courage and Hope", memoir of Rep. Gabrielle Giffords.
Highlighting three runway fashion shows, Becker's Bridal will showcase unique and fashion forward designs by Maggie Sottero, Allure Bridals and Enzoani; also presenting truly couture gowns by Vintage Rose, designed in England and exclusive to Michigan to Becker's. Runway fashion shows are Friday at 7pm and Saturday at noon and 2 pm.
A WOW display dessert table will also be featured. Candy and Dessert Tables are the newest hip thing at weddings! Also, premiering at this event will be Donna Sawyer Culinary Cooking Classes. Basics with a WOW! Donna's vision for teaching young couples cooking basics will come to life; offering basic cooking classes for newlyweds and adding a new twist to bridal showers.
While attending the Bridal Show, brides and their wedding party may participate in a contest with an opportunity to win Cash Prizes ..."Brides Just Want to Have Fun" photo shoot. Your vote will be counted! Seasons of Love will also be showcased and a featured area.
Saving time and money is often a priority for the engaged couple and the area's leading bridal businesses will be there offering day-of-show specials. Plan on placing your deposit and confirming your dream wedding as calendars fill up quickly.? "We encourage engaged couples to print a checklist off at www.GRBrides.com and bring them to the show.? And don't forget the Groom's List!" says Denise Kolesar, President of Kohler Expos. Both the bridal show and the website are loaded with user-friendly information. Your careful planning can make it timeless, romantic and magical, so your wedding day will be an event to remember.
The bridal show will be open to the public from 5-9 p.m. on Friday, Jan. 20, and 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Saturday, Jan. 21. Admission is $6 for adults at the door. Discount coupons are available online by visiting website www.kohlerexpo.com. Convenient underground parking is available for a minimal charge at the Michigan Street or Lyon Street entrance to DeVos Place. More information is available on the website at www.kohlerexpo.com.
?
the waltons the waltons weta weta rudolph the red nosed reindeer rudolph the red nosed reindeer adam carolla
Monday, January 2, 2012
Haiti panel recommends restoring army (AP)
PORT-AU-PRINCE, Haiti ? A press liaison for Haitian President Michel Martelly says a presidential commission is urging the leader to restore the nation's disbanded army.
Vladimir Laguerre of the National Palace says the recommendation for the force came in a report.
Martelly was expected to restore the army through a decree in November but instead said he would form a panel to study the issue.
The restoration of the armed forces was one of Martelly's campaign goals but has met opposition from Western diplomats who say money would be better spent on the understaffed police force.
The army was disbanded in 1995 because of its history of abuse.
Martelly made the announcement Sunday in the coastal city of Gonaives. He traveled there to celebrate Haiti's Independence Day.
d day fun. words with friends words with friends roy orbison red solo cup xbox live update
Microsoft MVP for year 2012
?
?
?
Just received an email from Microsoft that I'm being nominated for Microsoft Most Valuable
Professional (Microsoft MVP) for the second consecutive year.This is great news for me It feels so
great for me. I am very thankful to all friends, community member and
team members. Special thanks to Rick Anderson(ASP.NET MVC Team member). ?
Source: http://weblogs.asp.net/imranbaloch/archive/2012/01/01/microsoft-mvp-for-year-2012.aspx
aesop rock take care track list michael jackson trial carlos the jackal namibia namibia hell on wheels
Sunday, January 1, 2012
US says Egypt agrees to stop NGO raids (AP)
WASHINGTON ? Egyptian authorities agreed Friday to halt raids against non-governmental pro-democracy groups as senior Obama administration officials stepped up pressure for them to stop, U.S. officials said.
Defense Secretary Leon Panetta and U.S. Ambassador to Egypt Anne Patterson spoke Friday with senior Egyptian officials to underscore Washington's concern about the raids on the organizations, including three groups funded by Washington, according to the Pentagon and the State Department.
Egyptian authorities told Patterson in Cairo that the raids would stop and seized property would be returned to the groups, State Department spokeswoman Victoria Nuland said.
She said Patterson had made clear that the U.S. expects "all international NGOs, including those that receive U.S. government support, (to) be able to return to normal operations as soon as possible in support of the democratic transition under way in Egypt."
Patterson agreed to take part in a dialogue with Egyptian officials to better explain the work of the organizations and address any concerns they might have. "These NGOs should be allowed to operate freely as they do in countries around the world in support of democracy and free elections," Nuland said.
After Patterson's discussions, Panetta spoke by phone to the head of Egypt's ruling military council, Field Marshal Hussein Tantawi, to emphasize the importance the administration places on the country's democratic transition and the ability of non-governmental organizations to work.
Panetta expressed appreciation for the decision to stop the raids and move to make it easier for NGOs to work in Egypt, Pentagon spokesman George Little said. "The secretary emphasized that it is critical for Egypt to continue on the path to democratic transition," he said.
Panetta "reaffirmed the importance of the US-Egyptian security relationship and made clear that the United States remains committed to the strategic partnership and stands ready to cooperate with Egypt as it continues its democratic transition," Little said.
On Thursday, Egyptian police and judicial officials raided a number of non-governmental organizations assisting in Egypt's transition, including the U.S.-funded National Democratic Institute, International Republican Institute and Freedom House.
turkey recipes turkey recipes happy holidays norad how to carve a turkey how to cook a turkey yorkshire pudding
APNewsBreak: Russell Brand, Katy Perry to divorce (AP)
LOS ANGELES ? Russell Brand and Katy Perry are getting a divorce, the British comedian told The Associated Press Friday.
"Sadly, Katy and I are ending our marriage. I'll always adore her and I know we'll remain friends," said Brand, 36, offering no other details.
He and the 27-year-old pop singer were married in October 2010 at a resort inside a tiger reserve in India.
Brand's recent film credits include "Arthur," "Hop" and "Get Him to the Greek." He is among the ensemble starring alongside Tom Cruise in "Rock of Ages," set for release next year.
Perry's run of No. 1 singles earned her the distinction of becoming MTV's first artist of the year earlier this month. She hosted "Saturday Night Live" on Dec. 10 and gave no indication the couple was in trouble.
The couple got engaged in January 2010 after meeting at the 2009 MTV Video Music Awards, where he hosted and she performed.
He was effusive about his bride while promoting projects earlier this year, saying marrying Perry has "given me much more strength in what I do."
"For a long while, what I do professionally was all that mattered to me really," he said in March. "Now I think, well, whatever I do, I'll just go back to her, and that's incredibly comforting."
He cited irreconcilable differences in papers filed Friday in Los Angeles Superior Court.
A representative for Perry did not immediately return a call seeking comment.
greenhill nj plane crash plane crash new jersey beef o bradys bowl the hobbit sopa the hobbit an unexpected journey
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)