text: . Home urine test for prostate cancer could revolutionise or not a digital rectal examination.. The first urination of the day provides higher and more consistent biomarker levels than samples taken later in the day. Being able to provide a urine sample at home that can be posted off for analysis could provide vital information about whether a cancer is aggressive or ‘low risk’.. ‘Using,’ researchers said.. Webb M, et al. BioTechniques 2019:68(2). ePub 29 Nov 2019.

textbook:
Lesson: How to Perform a Urine Test for Prostate Cancer

Introduction:
A urine test for prostate cancer could revolutionize the way we diagnose and treat this disease. In this lesson, we will learn how to perform a urine test for prostate cancer and understand the importance of early detection.

Section 1: Understanding Prostate Cancer
Prostate cancer is a type of cancer that affects the prostate gland, a small walnut-shaped gland located below the bladder in men. It is one of the most common types of cancer in men, and early detection can significantly improve the chances of successful treatment.

Section 2: Performing a Urine Test for Prostate Cancer
To perform a urine test for prostate cancer, you will need a sample of your first morning urine. This is because the first urination of the day provides higher and more consistent biomarker levels than samples taken later in the day. Here are the steps to follow:

1. Collect a sample of your first morning urine in a clean container.
2. Make sure the container is clean and dry before you start.
3. Clean your hands with soap and water or an alcohol-based hand rub before touching the container.
4. Pour the urine into the container, making sure not to touch the inside of the container with your hands.
5. Close the container tightly and label it with your name, date of birth, and the date of the sample.
6. Put the container in a bag and take it to the laboratory for analysis.

Section 3: Analyzing the Results
Once the laboratory receives your urine sample, they will analyze it for the presence of prostate cancer biomarkers. These are substances in the blood that indicate the presence of cancer. If the test is positive, it means that there are cancer cells in the body. If the test is negative, it means that there are no cancer cells in the body.

Section 4: Importance of Early Detection
Early detection of prostate cancer is crucial for successful treatment. If detected early, prostate cancer can often be treated successfully with surgery, radiation therapy, or other treatments. However, if the cancer has spread beyond the prostate gland, treatment may become more difficult and the outlook may be poorer. That's why it's essential to perform regular urine tests for prostate cancer, especially if you are at high risk for this disease.

Conclusion:
In conclusion, performing a urine test for prostate cancer can help detect the disease in its early stages, which is crucial for successful treatment. By following the steps outlined in this lesson, you can easily perform a urine test for prostate cancer and understand the importance of early detection. Remember that early detection can save lives, so don't hesitate to consult a healthcare professional if you are at high risk for prostate cancer.

Glossary:
- Prostate cancer: A type of cancer that affects the prostate gland in men.
- Biomarker: A substance in the body that indicates the presence of a disease or condition.
- Laboratory: A place where scientific experiments and tests are performed.
- Treatment: A process or procedure used to cure a disease or condition.


text: August 21, 2012 from 7:30AM-8:30AM. Learn innovative ways to boost sales and build lasting client relationships with humorist, motivational speaker and sales trainer Al Walker, president and CEO of Al Walker & Associates, Inc. Consultative sales brings the selling relationship to a new level of service, creating loyal customers and long-term business. series is part of the Moore School’s commitment to help South Carolina businesses compete globally and create jobs locally. It will feature speakers from the Moore School’s faculty, as well as local and national experts on an array of business topics.. The cost is $15 per person in advance. Or, you may pay $25 by check or credit card only at the door.. Seating is limited. Register now to guarantee your place by completing the form below or calling 803.777.2231 or 1.800.393.2362.

source: refinedweb

textbook:
Lesson: Introduction to Business and Sales

**Objective:** In this lesson, we will learn about the basics of business and sales, including what consultative selling is and how it can help build lasting client relationships. We will also explore different ways to boost sales and improve your business skills.

**Section 1: What is Consultative Selling?**

Consultative selling is a type of selling that focuses on building long-term relationships with clients. Instead of just trying to make a sale, consultative sellers work with their clients to understand their needs and provide solutions that meet those needs. This approach creates loyal customers who are more likely to do business with the seller again in the future.

**Section 2: How Can I Boost Sales?**

There are many ways to boost sales and improve your business skills. Here are a few tips:

1. Know your product or service inside and out. This will help you answer any questions your clients may have and show them why your product or service is the best choice for their needs.

2. Practice active listening. When you listen to your clients, you can better understand their needs and provide solutions that meet those needs.

3. Follow up with your clients. After a sale has been made, follow up with your clients to ensure they are satisfied with their purchase and to let them know about any new products or services you offer.

**Section 3: Glossary**

- Consultative selling: A type of selling that focuses on building long-term relationships with clients by understanding their needs and providing solutions that meet those needs.
- Sales: The act of selling a product or service to a client.
- Business: An organization or activity engaged in commercial or industrial enterprise.
- Client: A customer or someone who buys a product or service from a business.

**Conclusion:** By learning about consultative selling and other ways to boost sales, you can improve your business skills and create lasting relationships with your clients. Remember to always practice active listening, know your product or service inside and out, and follow up with your clients to ensure their satisfaction. These skills will help you succeed in the competitive world of business.


text: Apple may be considering making macOS Big Sur smart enough to make sure a MacBook is fully charged right before the owner takes it off with it for a meeting, at least for people who often keep their laptops plugged in. mains when using it at home (or at work).. This has to do with macOS ‘Optimized Battery Charging feature which learns how you use your MacBook and adjusts its charge appropriately – meaning that if, as mentioned, you’re the kind of user who leaves their laptop behind. plugged in most of the time, the battery will only be charged to 80%. That’s because it’s a bad idea to have a 100% constantly fully charged battery if it’s plugged in a lot, in terms of …. Check Additional From Source. News Highlights. - Headline: Apple might have a smart trick to make sure your MacBook is always charged when you need it.. - Check all news and articles from the Apple news information updates.

textbook:
Lesson: Understanding Optimized Battery Charging on macOS Big Sur

Introduction:
In this lesson, we will learn about the Optimized Battery Charging feature in macOS Big Sur. We will cover the following topics:

1. What is Optimized Battery Charging?
2. How does Optimized Battery Charging work?
3. Why is Optimized Battery Charging important?
4. How can I enable Optimized Battery Charging on my MacBook?
5. What are the benefits of Optimized Battery Charging?

Section 1: What is Optimized Battery Charging?

Optimized Battery Charging is a feature in macOS Big Sur that helps extend the lifespan of your MacBook's battery. It does this by learning how you use your MacBook and adjusting its charge accordingly.

Section 2: How does Optimized Battery Charging work?

Optimized Battery Charging works by monitoring your usage patterns and adjusting the charging speed of your MacBook's battery. If you tend to keep your MacBook plugged in most of the time, the battery will only be charged to 80%. This is because it's a bad idea to have a 100% constantly fully charged battery if it's plugged in a lot.

Section 3: Why is Optimized Battery Charging important?

Optimized Battery Charging is important because it helps extend the lifespan of your MacBook's battery. By not constantly charging the battery to 100%, you can reduce the wear and tear on your battery, which can help it last longer.

Section 4: How can I enable Optimized Battery Charging on my MacBook?

To enable Optimized Battery Charging on your MacBook, follow these steps:

1. Open System Preferences on your MacBook.
2. Click on "General".
3. Select "Enable Optimized Battery Charging" under "Battery".

Once you've enabled Optimized Battery Charging, your MacBook will start to learn your usage patterns and adjust its charge accordingly.

Section 5: What are the benefits of Optimized Battery Charging?

The benefits of Optimized Battery Charging include:

1. Extended battery life: By not constantly charging the battery to 100%, you can reduce the wear and tear on your battery, which can help it last longer.
2. Improved battery health: By avoiding constant full charges, Optimized Battery Charging can help maintain the health of your battery.
3. Increased efficiency: By only charging the battery to 80% when plugged in, your MacBook can conserve energy and be more efficient.

Conclusion:

In this lesson, we learned about the Optimized Battery Charging feature in macOS Big Sur. We covered what it is, how it works, why it's important, and how to enable it. We also discussed the benefits of Optimized Battery Charging, including extended battery life, improved battery health, and increased efficiency. By understanding Optimized Battery Charging, we can help extend the lifespan of our MacBook's battery and improve its overall performance.

Glossary:
- Battery: A device that stores energy and releases it as needed, typically used to power portable electronics like laptops.
- Charging: The process of supplying electricity to a battery or other device to replenish its energy.
- Lifespan: The duration of a device's useful life.
- Wear and tear: Damage or deterioration caused by normal use.


text: Free Malaysia Today has reported that Malaysia’s new prime minister Dr Mahathir Mohamad cited the government will axe some 17,000 civil servants who are political appointees in a bid to reduce government spending. According to the report, he said that there is too much wastage in the public sector. On that note, Dr Mahathir told reporters at the Perdana Leadership Foundation: “There are too many contract officers. Political appointees will be terminated.". However, Dr Mahathir stressed that those earning low wages would be spared by being reassigned to other jobs which suit their respective qualifications.. “We don’t want to make life difficult for them. This is currently being carried out and it will take time,” Dr Mahathir concluded in the report.

textbook:
Lesson: How to Reduce Government Spending
Introduction:
Government spending can be a contentious issue, with some arguing that it should be increased to provide more services and benefits, while others believe that it should be reduced to save money and prevent debt. In this lesson, we will explore the concept of reducing government spending and examine the potential benefits and challenges associated with this approach.
Section 1: Theoretical Concepts
- Government spending refers to the amount of money that a government allocates to various programs, services, and initiatives.
- Reducing government spending involves cutting back on these expenditures in order to save money and potentially reduce taxes.
- There are several ways to reduce government spending, including reducing the size of the civil service, cutting back on social welfare programs, and streamlining government operations to eliminate waste and inefficiency.
Section 2: Questions and Answers
- Why might a government want to reduce spending?
    - To save money and prevent debt
    - To promote fiscal responsibility and accountability
    - To free up resources for other priorities, such as infrastructure or education
- What are some potential challenges associated with reducing government spending?
    - Opposition from those who rely on government programs and benefits
    - Political pressure to maintain or increase spending on popular initiatives
    - Difficulty in identifying and eliminating waste and inefficiency
- How might reducing government spending impact the economy?
    - It could lead to job losses in certain sectors
    - It could reduce demand for goods and services, leading to slower economic growth
    - It could result in a smaller government deficit, which could be positive for the economy over the long term
Section 3: Practical Examples
- One example of reducing government spending is through downsizing the civil service. This can involve laying off employees or reassigning them to different roles that better match their skills and qualifications.
- Another example is cutting back on social welfare programs, such as reducing benefits for unemployed individuals or limiting access to healthcare services.
- A third example is streamlining government operations, such as consolidating agencies or outsourcing certain functions to private companies.
Section 4: Real-World Scenarios
- In Malaysia, the new prime minister Dr Mahathir Mohamad announced plans to reduce government spending by axing 17,000 civil servants who are political appointees.
- While this move has the potential to save money and reduce waste, it also risks alienating supporters and creating political backlash.
- Similarly, in the United States, there has been debate about reducing government spending on entitlement programs such as Social Security and Medicare, which could have significant impacts on the economy and society.
Conclusion:
Reducing government spending can be a complex and controversial issue, with potential benefits and challenges associated with this approach. By examining theoretical concepts, answering questions and providing practical examples, we can gain a deeper understanding of how this issue plays out in the real world. By applying these lessons, we can make informed decisions about how to approach government spending and work towards a more sustainable and responsible fiscal future.
Glossary:
- Civil service: The collective group of employees of a government agency who are responsible for implementing and enforcing the laws, policies, and programs of that agency.
- Government spending: The amount of money that a government allocates to various programs, services, and initiatives.
- Fiscal responsibility: The practice of managing financial resources in a responsible and accountable manner, avoiding excessive debt and wasteful spending.


text: .. Japan. The developed world’s economy has decelerated since the great financial crisis (GFC) of 2008, and despite the efforts of governments and central banks, growth rates have stagnated while inflation remains well below target.. Japan boasts the world’s third-largest economy, and yet it has been stalled by deflation, low wage growth and slowing GDP. Prime Minister Shinzo Abe’s three-arrow Abenomics policy, introduced four years ago, was meant to counter years of economic stagnation, but despite some success, it may be time to re-evaluate the plan.. Just a few years ago, the idea of negative interest rates was considered by many to be no more than an academic curiosity. After all, why would anyone pay for the privilege of lending money?. Over the past few years, it has seemed that there are very few growth opportunities for the banking sector. Islamic finance is an exciting new prospect for a number of geographic regions and their respective banking sectors—with banks in the UK and

textbook:
Lesson: Understanding Economic Growth and Its Challenges

Introduction:
Economic growth refers to the increase in the overall value of goods and services produced within an economy over time. It is a crucial factor in determining the standard of living of individuals and the overall development of a country. However, achieving sustainable economic growth has become a challenge for many countries, including Japan. In this lesson, we will explore the factors contributing to Japan's economic stagnation and analyze the measures taken by the government to address the issue.

Section 1: Understanding the Challenges

Topic 1: Deflation
Deflation is a situation where the general price level of goods and services decreases over time. In Japan, deflation has been a significant challenge for many years, leading to low wage growth and slowing GDP. This is because when prices fall, consumers tend to delay purchases, which reduces demand and leads to lower production.

Topic 2: Low Wage Growth
Low wage growth is another issue that Japan has been facing. Despite having the world's third-largest economy, many Japanese workers have not seen significant increases in their salaries. This has led to a decrease in consumer spending and reduced economic growth.

Topic 3: Slowing GDP
GDP (Gross Domestic Product) is a measure of the total value of goods and services produced within an economy. Japan's GDP has been slowing down, indicating a decline in economic activity. This has made it difficult for the country to achieve sustainable economic growth.

Section 2: Abenomics Policy
In response to these challenges, the Japanese government introduced the Abenomics policy in 2013. This policy aimed to stimulate economic growth through three arrows: monetary easing, fiscal stimulus, and structural reforms.

Topic 1: Monetary Easing
Monetary easing involves reducing interest rates to encourage borrowing and spending. The Bank of Japan implemented this policy by buying long-term government bonds, which increased the money supply and lowered interest rates.

Topic 2: Fiscal Stimulus
The government increased public spending on infrastructure projects to boost economic activity. This policy aimed to create jobs and increase demand for goods and services.

Topic 3: Structural Reforms
The government also implemented structural reforms to improve productivity and competitiveness. These reforms included deregulation of certain industries and changes to labor laws to encourage hiring.

Section 3: Negative Interest Rates
In recent years, negative interest rates have become a topic of discussion among economists and policymakers. This is because some countries have adopted this policy as a means of encouraging borrowing and spending.

Topic 1: How Negative Interest Rates Work
When interest rates are negative, banks charge customers for deposits instead of paying them interest. This means that individuals and businesses are incentivized to spend money rather than save it.

Topic 2: Success of Negative Interest Rates
Some countries have seen success with negative interest rates, as they have led to increased lending and spending. However, others argue that this policy can lead to a decrease in the profitability of banks and discourage savings.

Conclusion:
Understanding the challenges of economic growth and implementing effective policies to address them is crucial for countries like Japan. While the Abenomics policy has had some success, it may be time to re-evaluate the plan and consider alternative measures such as negative interest rates. By analyzing the factors contributing to economic stagnation and exploring potential solutions, we can gain a deeper understanding of the complexities of economic growth and its challenges.


text: Paris, France (SportsNetwork.com) - Former Chelsea defender David Luiz completed a move to French champions Paris Saint-Germain, the Ligue 1 club announced on Friday.. Luiz moves from Stamford Bridge to the Parc des Princes on a new five-year contract for a reported 40 million pound transfer fee -- a record for a defender.. "Right from the very first contact I had with Paris Saint-Germain, I was very happy," Luiz told the club's website. "It's a big club with a great history. It's a new step in my life and I'm impatient to play for Paris and show what I can do.". Luiz, 27, joined the Blues from Portuguese side Benfica in 2011 for 21 million pounds and made 143 appearances, helping the club win the Europa League in 2013 and reach the Champions League semifinals last season.. In Paris, Luiz will join up with his international teammate Thiago Silva, who also set a transfer record for a defender when he joined PSG for 36 million pounds from AC Milan.. 06/13 17:34:21 ET

textbook:
Lesson:
Introduction to the Transfer Market in Soccer

Overview:
In this lesson, we will learn about the transfer market in soccer, which is the process by which players move between different clubs. We will explore how transfers work, the importance of transfer fees, and the role of agents in the transfer market. We will also look at some notable transfers in recent years and discuss the impact of these moves on the teams and players involved.

Section 1: Understanding the Transfer Market

The transfer market in soccer is a system that allows players to move between different clubs. This can happen either during the transfer window, which is a period of time when teams can sign new players, or outside of the window, which is known as a "free transfer".

Transfer fees are the amounts of money that clubs pay to other clubs for the rights to sign a player. These fees can be quite large, especially for high-profile players, and can be a significant investment for a club.

Agents are important in the transfer market because they represent the interests of both the player and the club. They help negotiate contracts and ensure that both parties are satisfied with the terms of the transfer.

Section 2: Notable Transfers and Their Impact

One of the most notable transfers in recent years was the move of Lionel Messi from Barcelona to Paris Saint-Germain. Messi, widely considered one of the greatest soccer players of all time, left Barcelona after 21 seasons with the club. His transfer fee was reported to be around €250 million, making it one of the most expensive transfers in sports history.

Another notable transfer was the move of Neymar from Barcelona to Paris Saint-Germain in 2017. Neymar's transfer fee was reported to be around €222 million, breaking the previous transfer record. This move was seen as a major coup for PSG, who were able to attract one of the world's top players to their team.

Section 3: Critical Thinking Questions

1. Why do you think transfer fees can be so high?
2. What role do agents play in the transfer market?
3. How might the transfer of a high-profile player like Messi or Neymar impact their new team?

Conclusion:

In conclusion, the transfer market in soccer is an important part of the sport. It allows for player movement between clubs and can have a significant impact on the teams and players involved. By understanding the transfer market and its inner workings, we can better appreciate the complexities of this fascinating aspect of soccer.

Glossary:

Transfer window: A period of time when clubs can sign new players.
Free transfer: A transfer that occurs outside of the transfer window.
Transfer fee: The amount of money a club pays to another club for the rights to sign a player.
Agent: A person who represents the interests of both the player and the club in the transfer market.


text: TYS Provider designation serves to vet its subsidiary’s Big Data Platform and Rapid Analytic Deployment and Management Framework for use on AWS GovCloud in support of Defense Department and intelligence community programs.. “Our government customers are seeking solutions allowing them to perform their missions better, faster and more securely,” said Dave Levy, vice president of federal government at AWS and a 2018 Wash100 awardee, noting that RADMF works to accelerate mission impact to address customer challenges in data fusion and defensive cyber

textbook:
**Title:** AWS GovCloud and TYS Provider Designation

**Introduction:** In this lesson, we will learn about the importance of AWS GovCloud and TYS Provider designation in the field of cloud computing. We will also understand how these two concepts work together to provide secure and efficient cloud solutions for government agencies and intelligence communities.

**Section 1: AWS GovCloud**

AWS GovCloud is a specialized region within the Amazon Web Services (AWS) cloud infrastructure that is designed to meet the regulatory and compliance requirements of the US government. It offers a range of services that are tailored to the needs of government agencies and their partners, including data storage, processing, and analytics.

**Theoretical Concept:** Cloud computing is a technology that allows users to access and store data, applications, and services over the internet instead of on local hardware. Cloud computing has become increasingly popular among government agencies because it provides a cost-effective and flexible way to manage and store large amounts of data.

**Practical Example:** Suppose you are working for a government agency that needs to analyze large amounts of data related to national security. You can use AWS GovCloud to store and process this data securely and efficiently.

**Glossary:**
- Cloud computing: A technology that allows users to access and store data, applications, and services over the internet instead of on local hardware.
- AWS GovCloud: A specialized region within the Amazon Web Services (AWS) cloud infrastructure that is designed to meet the regulatory and compliance requirements of the US government.

**Section 2: TYS Provider Designation**

TYS Provider designation is a certification granted by the US Department of Defense (DoD) to companies that have demonstrated the ability to provide secure and reliable cloud solutions. Companies that receive this designation are able to offer their products and services to the DoD and other government agencies.

**Theoretical Concept:** Certification and accreditation (C&A) is a process that is used to ensure that IT systems meet the necessary security and reliability requirements. This process is particularly important for government agencies that need to protect sensitive information.

**Practical Example:** Suppose you are working for a company that wants to provide cloud solutions to the DoD. In order to do so, you need to obtain TYS Provider designation. This involves demonstrating the security and reliability of your cloud platform through a rigorous C&A process.

**Glossary:**
- TYS Provider designation: A certification granted by the US Department of Defense (DoD) to companies that have demonstrated the ability to provide secure and reliable cloud solutions.
- Certification and accreditation (C&A): A process used to ensure that IT systems meet the necessary security and reliability requirements.

**Section 3: AWS GovCloud and TYS Provider Designation**

AWS GovCloud and TYS Provider designation work together to provide secure and efficient cloud solutions for government agencies and intelligence communities. AWS GovCloud offers a specialized region within the AWS cloud infrastructure that is designed to meet the regulatory and compliance requirements of the US government. TYS Provider designation is a certification granted by the DoD to companies that have demonstrated the ability to provide secure and reliable cloud solutions.

**Theoretical Concept:** FedRAMP is a program that is used to certify cloud solutions that are used by government agencies. FedRAMP is designed to ensure that these solutions meet the necessary security and reliability requirements.

**Practical Example:** Suppose you are working for a company that has obtained TYS Provider designation and wants to offer its cloud solutions to the DoD. In order to do so, you need to ensure that your solutions meet the necessary security and reliability requirements. You can use the FedRAMP program to demonstrate that your solutions meet these requirements.

**Glossary:**
- FedRAMP: A program that is used to certify cloud solutions that are used by government agencies.

**Conclusion:** In this lesson, we learned about the importance of AWS GovCloud and TYS Provider designation in providing secure and efficient cloud solutions for government agencies and intelligence communities. We also learned about the theoretical concepts of cloud computing, certification and accreditation, and FedRAMP. By understanding these concepts and applying them to real-world scenarios, we can help our government agencies and intelligence communities to better perform their missions.


text:
“There has never been a problem — a Democrat-Republican issue on the farm bill. It’s always been regional and commodity differences, but eventually people found consensus. So this is a historic failure. There’s just no other way to describe it.”

In all, the “nay” vote drew 62 Republicans and 172 Democrats, while the “yes” column ended with 171 Republicans and 24 Democrats. (See how the votes break down.)

The House is 0 for 2 in its attempts at writing a farm bill. It couldn’t get it done last summer either, which triggered the current nine-month extension of the 2008 farm bill.

This farm bill vote is bigger than the farm bill. It illustrates just how fractured the House is as a whole in its ability to get the job — any job — done.

The House version fell apart with the addition of the dairy amendment (the Goodlatte-Scott amendment would’ve stripped the margin insurance and market stabilization of the Dairy Security Act from the farm bill) and the adoption of Rep. Steve Southerland’s amendment to institute work requirements for those who receive food stamps.

D.C. media reported Peterson told House Agriculture Committee Chairman Frank Lucas, R-Okla., not to accept the Southerland amendment, that it would cost votes. But when heavyweights like House Majority Leader Eric Cantor, R-Va., added a statement in support of the Southerland amendment, Lucas left it in. And the votes ran away.

The bill was already under fire for massive cuts to the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, or SNAP, the food stamp program. And those cuts prompted the President’s senior advisors to recommend President Barack Obama veto the House version of the bill, if those cuts stayed in the final bill.

More than 80 percent of the dollars in the farm bill go toward food and nutrition programs like SNAP. Historically, the ag coalition has said it needs those dollars — those urban legislators — to get any farm legislation passed at all. Now, calls to separate the two issues are getting louder, including the voice of Rep. Paul Ryan, R-Wis., one-time presidential hopeful.

In February, I was in a room with a bunch of ag folks listening to longtime journalist Jerry Hagstrom, who has covered agriculture in D.C. for decades.

“Food and agriculture are hot topics,” he said, but added bluntly, “Agriculture has been doing so well that nobody is worried about it.”

Except for the ones who plow and plant and harvest. And those who feed, and milk and assume all the risk. But no one asked them, did they?

“I have a hard time seeing where we go from here,” said Rep. Collin Peterson in a prepared statement.

source: minipile

textbook:
Lesson: The Importance of Compromise in Politics

Introduction:
Politics is all about compromise. It's about finding common ground between different opinions and ideas to create a solution that everyone can agree on. In this lesson, we will learn about the importance of compromise in politics and how it can lead to positive outcomes.

Section 1: Understanding Compromise in Politics

Topic 1: What is compromise?
Compromise refers to the process of finding a middle ground between two or more opposing views. It involves giving up something to get something in return. In politics, compromise is essential because it allows politicians to work together towards a common goal.

Topic 2: Why is compromise important in politics?
Compromise is important in politics because it helps to create solutions that benefit everyone involved. When politicians are willing to compromise, they can find common ground and work together to create policies that are beneficial to the majority. Additionally, compromise helps to prevent conflict and maintain peaceful relationships between parties.

Section 2: Examples of Compromise in Politics

Topic 1: The Farm Bill
In 2013, the U.S. House of Representatives failed to pass a farm bill due to disagreements over dairy subsidies and food stamp eligibility. However, after months of negotiations, lawmakers were able to reach a compromise that satisfied both Democrats and Republicans. This compromise allowed the farm bill to pass and become law.

Topic 2: The Affordable Care Act
The Affordable Care Act, also known as Obamacare, was passed in 2010 after months of negotiations between Democrats and Republicans. The final bill was a compromise that included elements from both parties. While some Democrats felt that the bill did not go far enough, and some Republicans felt that it was too liberal, the compromise allowed the bill to pass and become law.

Section 3: Applying Compromise in Everyday Life

Topic 1: How can we apply compromise in our daily lives?
We can apply compromise in our daily lives by being open to other people's opinions and ideas. We can also be willing to give up something to get something in return. For example, if you want to go to a movie but your friend wants to go to a concert, you could compromise by going to both events.

Conclusion:
In conclusion, compromise is an essential part of politics. It allows politicians to work together to create solutions that benefit everyone involved. By applying compromise in our daily lives, we can also create positive outcomes and maintain peaceful relationships with others.


text:
Sulby Abbey

Sulby Abbey was an abbey in Northamptonshire, England, founded in 1155 as  daughter house of the Abbey of St. Mary and St. Martial in Newsham.

History
The abbey of Sulby was founded about the year 1155 for canons of the Premonstratensian order by William de Wideville. It was originally founded in Welford parish, and subsequently moved some two miles to the west to Sulby. The change probably took place in the reign of Henry III., when Sir Robert de Paveley bestowed on the canons the church and manor of Sulby, comprising upwards of fifteen hundred acres. The abbey may have been built on the site of an earlier settlement, recorded in the Domesday Book, which may already have been abandoned by the 12th century. The Abbey was dedicated to the Blessed Virgin.

On Maundy Thursday the abbot was wont to wash the feet of twenty-six poor men and give to each a penny, a farthing loaf, and a herring. On the same day five hundred other poor folk received a loaf and a herring from the convent.

Edward II found the abbey convenient and suitable as a royal lodging, and during progresses frequently broke his journey here, and transacted official business. Edward stayed at Sulby on 3 August 1310 on his way north on a military expedition to Scotland.

The Abbot General at Prémontré claimed under the rule of St. Norbert authority to tax the houses for the benefit of the order in general and of Prémontré in particular. A royal proclamation of 1306 forbid making payments to foreign superiors. The English Premonstratensian abbots chose Abbot William of Langdon, and Abbot Henry of Sulby to attend the general chapter of 1310 in Prémontré to explain the arrearages. Edward II sent an order to Robert de Kendal, constable canon of Dover and warden of the Cinque Ports, desiring him to permit the abbot of Sulby, who had the king's licence to attend the general chapter of his order in parts beyond the sea, to cross from Dover with his household, horses, and equipments, and to furnish twenty marks for his expenses, provided that he should carry with him nothing contrary to the ordinance prohibiting contributions being carried to foreign superiors. The dispute dragged on for some years, but the question of apport or tallage to the mother-house was put in abeyance.

Richard Redman was abbot of the small house of White Canons at Shap, Cumberland and vicar to the abbot of Prémontré, and was hence the visitor of the English Premonstratensians. On the visitation of 1478 the number of churches in the abbey's gift is entered as six, all served by curates.

At the visitation on 28 October, 1500 Thomas Wright had been detected in the study of certain illicit books of experiments, apparently of the 'Philosopher's Stone' type. He owned to the study of them, but denied that he had attempted to put them in practice. At the intercession of the superior and brethren, the visitor allowed him to continue at the monastery up to the next provincial chapter, but enjoined on him meanwhile the saying of a psalter.

In 1481, the king's chamberlain, Sir William Hastings, obtained a license to grant the advowsons of the churches of Wistow and Lubenham, Leicestershire, with lands not held in chief, to the value of five marks yearly, to the abbot and convent of Sulby, and for the latter to appropriate the churches provided a sufficient vicarage were endowed in each, and a sum of money set apart for distribution to poor parishioners.

Dissolution
The Abbey was dissolved in 1538; the property was purchased by William Cradock. In 1567, it came into the possession of Christopher Hatton. By 1869, the property was mostly occupied by farm buildings and owned by Henry Verney, 18th Baron Willoughby de Broke. All that is left are some buried and earthwork remains.

Abbots of Sulby
John, occurs 1207
Walter, deposed 1232
William, elected 1232
Hugh, elected 1276
Henry, occurs 1301
John of Welford, elected 1314
Walter, occurs 1326
William Gysburgh, occurs 1414
John Coventry, resigned 1447
William Knolles, elected 1447
John Halley, admitted 1452
John Middleton, occurs 1487 and 1500
Robert Goodall, occurs 1513
Ralphe Armonte, admitted 1534

References

Category:Monasteries in Northamptonshire

textbook:
Lesson: Understanding Abbeys

Introduction
An abbey is a complex of buildings used by members of a religious order, consisting of monasteries, churches, and sometimes living quarters. In this lesson, we will learn about the history, structure, and significance of abbeys.

Section 1: History of Abbeys
Abbeys have a long history that dates back to the Middle Ages. They were founded by religious orders to provide a place for people to live and worship together. The first abbeys were built in Europe during the 6th century, and they quickly spread throughout the continent.

Section 2: Structure of Abbeys
Abbeys typically consist of several buildings, including a church, dormitory, refectory, and cloister. The church is where religious services are held, while the dormitory provides sleeping quarters for the monks or nuns. The refectory is where meals are eaten, and the cloister is a courtyard where the community can gather without being disturbed by the outside world.

Section 3: Significance of Abbeys
Abbeys were significant centers of learning and culture during the Middle Ages. They were responsible for preserving many ancient texts and works of art. Additionally, abbeys provided a place for people to seek solace and spiritual guidance.

Conclusion
In conclusion, abbeys have played an important role in the history of religion and culture. By understanding their history, structure, and significance, we can gain a deeper appreciation for their impact on society.

Glossary
- Abbey: A complex of buildings used by members of a religious order.
- Monastery: A building or complex of buildings used by monks or nuns.
- Cloister: A courtyard within an abbey where the community can gather without disturbance.
- Refector


text:
Q:

WSS 3.0 Workflow - How to get data from joined lists

I am having problems with WSS 3.0 Workflow using joined lists. Here is the description:
I am creating a simple work-holiday request/booking app. This is just for internal department use so that staff can book annual leave and have it authorised by their respective manager.
To that end, I have two lists: The first list is called 'Staff' and contains the person's name, email address, and manager name. The manager name is populated by a drop-down on the same list.
The second list is called HolidayRequest and has fields for name (a drop-down based on the staff list), start date and end date.
When ever a new entry is made to the HolidayRequest list I want to trigger a workflow that will send an email to that person's manager to notify them for approval. The problem I have is getting the manager's name and email address into workflow. The problem as I see it is that this information is obtained through a joined list:
       HolidayRequest                          Staff
StartDate, EndDate, Name  ----------------->   Name, EmailAddress, Manager
                                                 /\                   |
                                                  |                   |
                                                  +-------------------+

So what I need is for the workflow to use the Name field from HolidayRequest, to locate the record for the same name in the Staff list, and then get the manager's name from that record, get the manager staff record and thereby the manager's email address. Its not exactly rocket-science, but I just can't figure it out in workflow (using Sharepoint Designer).
I guess the first question is whether workflow is the correct tool for this, and secondly if it is, then is there a way I can achieve what I need?
Thanks for reading.

A:

Well, it turns out that I was on the right track (as I thought) but hadn't quite got my head around the way that Workflow does it's lookups. Here is the answer:
Suppose that you have two lists "HolidayRequest" and "Staff". The HolidayRequest has fields for "Name" (which is a lookup on the Staff list), StartDate, and EndDate. The Staff list has "Name", "Email", and "Manager" (which is a lookup on the Staff list - a reference back to the same list but to a different record).
Because it involves a double lookup it is necessary to create a Workflow Variable to store the intermediate result. So I created Variable:ManagerName to store the manager name from the first lookup and then used that as my key for the second lookup to extract the email address for the manager.
My key to finally figuring the workflow lookup was to understand how it does the join - and to be honest I don't think that the "Define Workflow Lookup" in SPD is very clear. The DWL has two sections - one titled "Lookup Details" and here you tell it where you want the data to come from (a Source list, and a field in that list), and the second section is titled "Find the List Item" (this is where I was going wrong) - you use this to create the link between the two lists. The entry "Field" is where you tell it the field in the Data Source list (so Staff:Name, for my example), and the entry for "Value" is where you give the corresponding field from the other list (so, "Variable:ManagerName" in my example).
So now, when a new Holiday Request is received the workflow uses the name from the HolidayRequest as a lookup into the Staff list, extracts the manager name from the staff list and then uses that to do a second lookup on the staff list - this time for the manager - and extracts the email address.
Perfect.
Now I can use that email address to request the manager to authorise, or reject, the request.

textbook:
Lesson: How to get data from joined lists in WSS 3.0 Workflow

Introduction:
In this lesson, we will learn how to get data from joined lists in WSS 3.0 Workflow. We will use a simple work-holiday request/booking app as an example.

Objective:
By the end of this lesson, you will be able to create a workflow that sends an email to a person's manager when a new entry is made to the HolidayRequest list.

Prerequisites:
You should have a basic understanding of WSS 3.0 Workflow and joined lists.

Materials:
- WSS 3.0 Workflow designer
- Joined lists: Staff and HolidayRequest

Instructions:
1. Open the WSS 3.0 Workflow designer.
2. Create a new workflow.
3. Add a Start event to the workflow.
4. Add an Assign activity to the workflow and select the HolidayRequest list.
5. Add another Assign activity to the workflow and select the Staff list.
6. Add a Condition activity to the workflow and set the condition to "Manager" is not null.
7. Add an Email activity to the workflow and configure it to send an email to the selected manager.
8. Add an Approve activity to the workflow and set it to approve the HolidayRequest.
9. Add an End event to the workflow.

Conclusion:
In this lesson, we learned how to get data from joined lists in WSS 3.0 Workflow. We used a simple work-holiday request/booking app as an example. By following the instructions above, we created a workflow that sends an email to a person's manager when a new entry is made to the HolidayRequest list. This skill can be applied to other scenarios where joined lists are used in WSS 3.0 Workflow.


text: Two auction houses, Philadelphia’s Freeman’s and Lyon & Turnbull of Edinburgh, work in a world where authenticity is everything and beauty is everywhere.. Uniting expertise. Ties between these two businesses – the oldest auction houses in their respective countries – were formed in 2000. The alliance sought to raise registrations and bids, and to further promote the expertise both businesses bring to this exciting, specialised sector. But illustrious names and reputation alone wouldn’t get the job done. Underpinning everything would be strategy and innovation.. Our brief was to plan and create world-class digital platforms for the businesses. A digital solution, carefully devised and implemented, would fully exploit the strategic advantages of these businesses uniting. By pooling their considerable knowledge and industry links, both auction houses would be exposed to new markets – territories they could reach far more quickly together.

textbook:
Lesson: Digital Marketing for Business Growth
Introduction:
Digital marketing is a crucial aspect of any business's growth and success. In today's world, where technology has taken over every aspect of our lives, having an online presence is essential. This lesson will teach you about digital marketing and how it can help your business grow.
Section 1: What is Digital Marketing?
Digital marketing refers to promoting products or services online through various channels such as social media, search engines, websites, email, and mobile apps. It encompasses a wide range of activities, including search engine optimization (SEO), pay-per-click advertising (PPC), content marketing, social media marketing, and more.
Section 2: Why Digital Marketing is Important for Business Growth?
Digital marketing is essential for business growth because it allows businesses to reach a wider audience than traditional marketing methods. With digital marketing, businesses can target specific demographics based on interests, age, gender, location, and more. This helps businesses save money and time while ensuring that their message reaches the right people.
Section 3: How to Create a Digital Marketing Strategy?
Creating a digital marketing strategy involves several steps, including identifying your target audience, setting goals and objectives, and choosing the right marketing channels. Here are some tips to help you create an effective digital marketing strategy:
- Identify your target audience: Determine who your ideal customer is by creating a customer persona. This will help you tailor your message to their needs and interests.
- Set goals and objectives: Define what you want to achieve with your digital marketing campaign. For example, do you want to increase website traffic, generate leads, or boost sales?
- Choose the right marketing channels: Based on your target audience and goals, choose the marketing channels that will work best for you. For example, if your target audience is on social media, focus on social media marketing.
Section 4: Digital Marketing Tools and Techniques
There are several digital marketing tools and techniques that businesses can use to promote their products or services online. Here are some popular ones:
- Search Engine Optimization (SEO): SEO involves optimizing your website for search engines so that it ranks higher in search results.
- Pay-Per-Click Advertising (PPC): PPC involves placing ads on search engines or websites and paying only when someone clicks on them.
- Content Marketing: Content marketing involves creating valuable content such as blog posts, videos, and infographics to attract and engage customers.
- Social Media Marketing: Social media marketing involves using social media platforms such as Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram to promote your brand and products.
Section 5: Measuring Digital Marketing Success
Measuring the success of your digital marketing campaign is essential to determine whether it's working or not. Here are some metrics you can use to measure success:
- Website traffic: Track the number of visitors to your website to see if your digital marketing efforts are driving traffic.
- Conversion rates: Calculate the percentage of website visitors who convert into customers to see if your digital marketing efforts are driving sales.
- Return on Investment (ROI): Calculate the revenue generated by your digital marketing campaign compared to the cost of the campaign.
Conclusion:
In conclusion, digital marketing is an essential tool for business growth. By creating an effective digital marketing strategy and using the right tools and techniques, businesses can reach a wider audience, generate leads, and boost sales. By measuring success, businesses can optimize their digital marketing efforts and achieve even better results.


text: Zain Call Center Fit-out project.. Phi Contracting had completed the fit-out works for Al ghour call center project, the works include all the civil & electromechanical works furniture, and joinery works.. The works include interconnecting and testing and commissioning of all the low current and communication systems with the main control room in Zain’s headquarter.

textbook:
Lesson: Introduction to Project Management

## Section 1: Theory
In this lesson, we will learn about project management and its importance in organizing and completing projects successfully. We will cover the following topics:

1. What is project management?
2. Why is project management important?
3. Key components of project management

## Section 2: Practice
Now, let's apply what we learned in the previous section to a real-world scenario. Imagine you are managing a construction project to build a new shopping mall. Your responsibilities include overseeing the budget, schedule, and quality of the project.

1. How would you ensure that the project stays within the budget?
2. What steps would you take to ensure that the project is completed on time?
3. How would you ensure that the final product meets the required quality standards?

## Section 3: Self-Debate
Let's engage in a self-debate to further our understanding of project management.

Topic: The role of communication in project management

Argument 1: Communication is crucial in project management because it ensures that all stakeholders are informed and involved in the project.
Argument 2: Communication can be a source of conflict in project management if not managed properly.

Conclusion: Effective communication is essential in project management to prevent misunderstandings and conflicts. However, it is also important to manage communication effectively to avoid unnecessary disputes.

## Glossary
- Project Management: The process of planning, organizing, and controlling resources to achieve specific goals
- Budget: The estimated cost of a project
- Schedule: A timeline that outlines the sequence of tasks to be completed
- Quality: The degree to which a project meets the requirements and expectations of stakeholders

## Conclusion
Project management is an essential skill in organizing and completing projects successfully. By understanding the key components of project management and applying them to real-world scenarios, we can improve our ability to manage projects effectively. Through self-debate, we can deepen our understanding of project management concepts and their implications.


text:
You can mitigate the issue by reducing the pot value or putting a resistor between pins 2&3 on the pot to change the curve to a more aani-log shape. That's something I need to play with soon to figure out what values. Had the same issue building a tube VH4 amp

i don't know if this is allowed here but i've ordered a small batch of weasel v84 and now have 4 boards left.I'm located in germany and would give them away for production cost + shipping (for germany/austria roughly ~5€ for one or ~7€ for two).Sadly packaging + shipping costs are higher than the actual prodcution cost which is <2€.

If anyone is interested I'll calc the exact price (it's a bit less than stated, i was just too lazy to calculate it exactly).

I tracked down the issues. I built two - one with a 12V reg and one powered direct from a 9V battery.The one with the 12V reg had a jack issue - not making ground properly which caused oscillation.The 9V powered re-less one - the battery voltage was too low, about 7.5V. Sent the circuit into oscillation.

Comparing the sound of 9V pedal to the 12V pedal, the 9V one has a little muddiness in comparison, lack of headroom I suppose. Not a huge amount but it's enough to want to make me want to power it from more volts...

Thanks for the PCBs Bajaaman! Now to do some recording and see how it compares to my tube VH4

In the tone stack, the schematics show a Fender style tone stack with the mid pot wired as a rheostat. In the real amp the tone stack is Marshall style with the mid pot wired as a pot. The values are the same, but this change changes the tone shaping a lot! Much more bass and less treble with the Fender stack.

Can someone check the real pedal to confirm whether it is on fact fender style or Marshall style? It's an easy wiring reconfiguration to make and the PCB wont change.

I checked the photo and the tone stack does appear to be wired Fender style. So the schematic is correct. I wonder why they went that way instead of like the real amp... I think i'll try the other configuration anyway to see how it sounds

You do not have the required permissions to view the files attached to this post.

As an Information for others that may encounter issues similar to mine (massive feedback when gain is turned up "too far").I was able to suppress the feedback by increasing the feedback cap on the 3rd gain stage (IC2A, the one with the 1N5232 Z-Diodes) a LOT! I opted for a quick trial & error with i had flying around here and had to go up to 560pf to eliminate feedback on full gain.

Could it be the caused by different Z-Diode capacitance (afaik they do have some capacitance, right?) ?!

It's nice to have a working Pedal now, but I hate not understanding the why on issues like this one .

textbook:
Lesson: How to Build a Simple Electric Guitar Amplifier

## Introduction

In this lesson, we will learn how to build a simple electric guitar amplifier using a transistor. This amplifier is based on the common emitter configuration, where the transistor acts as a switch that amplifies the input signal. We will cover the basic theory behind the amplifier, how to construct the circuit, and troubleshoot common issues that may arise during the building process.

## Basic Theory

An amplifier is an electronic device that increases the power of a signal. In the context of an electric guitar amplifier, the input signal is the music played on the guitar, which is typically a weak signal. The amplifier increases the strength of this signal so that it can be heard over other instruments and loudspeakers.

The most common type of amplifier used in electric guitars is the transistor amplifier. A transistor is a semiconductor device that can amplify or switch electronic signals and electrical power. In our case, we will use a small signal transistor, such as a BC547, which is commonly used in audio applications.

## Circuit Construction

To build our simple electric guitar amplifier, we will use the following components:

- Transistor (BC547)
- Resistor (220 ohms)
- Capacitor (0.1 uF)
- Potentiometer (100k ohms)
- Speaker (8 ohms)
- Battery (9V)

Here is the schematic diagram for our amplifier:

```
+----------------+         +----------------+
|      Speaker   |         |     BC547     |
|                  |         |                 |
|          R1      |         |          R2    |
|                  |         |                 |
|      C1         |         |      C2        |
|                  |         |                 |
|             P1    |         |       P2      |
|                  |         |                 |
|            BAT9V   |         |    BAT9V     |
+----------------+         +----------------+
```

Where:
- R1 = 220 ohms resistor
- C1 = 0.1 uF capacitor
- P1 = 100k ohms potentiometer
- R2 = 220 ohms resistor
- C2 = 0.1 uF capacitor
- P2 = 100k ohms potentiometer
- BAT9V = 9V battery

Now, let's follow these steps to construct our amplifier:

1. Connect the speaker to the output terminal of the transistor.
2. Connect one end of the resistor R1 to the base terminal of the transistor.
3. Connect the other end of the resistor R1 to the positive terminal of the battery.
4. Connect one end of the resistor R2 to the collector terminal of the transistor.
5. Connect the other end of the resistor R2 to the negative terminal of the battery.
6. Connect one end of the capacitor C1 to the base terminal of the transistor.
7. Connect the other end of the capacitor C1 to the junction of the resistor R1 and the battery positive terminal.
8. Connect one end of the capacitor C2 to the collector terminal of the transistor.
9. Connect the other end of the capacitor C2 to the junction of the resistor R2 and the battery negative terminal.
10. Connect one end of the potentiometer P1 to the emitter terminal of the transistor.
11. Connect the wiper of the potentiometer P1 to the junction of the capacitor C1 and the resistor R1.
12. Connect the other end of the potentiometer P2 to the junction of the capacitor C2 and the resistor R2.
13. Connect the wiper of the potentiometer P2 to the junction of the capacitor C2 and the resistor R2.

Once you have constructed the circuit, you can test it by plugging in your guitar and connecting a speaker to the output. Adjust the volume using the potentiometer P1 until you hear a clear sound from the speaker.

## Troubleshooting

If you encounter any issues while building your amplifier, try the following troubleshooting steps:

1. Check all the connections to ensure they are secure and correct.
2. Verify that the transistor is working correctly by testing it with a multimeter.
3. Check the polarity of the battery and ensure it is correct.
4. Double-check the resistor values and capacitor values to make sure they match the schematic diagram.
5. If the amplifier still does not work, consider replacing the transistor or checking for any damage in the circuit.

## Conclusion

In this lesson, we learned how to build a simple electric guitar amplifier using a transistor. We covered the basic theory behind the amplifier, how to construct the circuit, and troubleshoot common issues that may arise during the building process. By following these steps, you can build your own amplifier and enjoy playing your electric guitar.


text: -.  2015. On the way out (part 1). The input order of free recall has long been a subject of research in psychology (…). (I)tems presented at the beginning of the list (primacy) and items presented at the end of the list (recency) are remembered better than middle … . Posted in Aging, Cognition, Dementia, Memory, Psychology Tagged Aging, Alzheimer's disease, Brain, Cognition, Cognitive decline, Dementia, Hippocampus, Memory, Primacy, Psychology, Recall, Serial position

textbook:
# Lesson: The Effect of Serial Position on Memory Recall

## Introduction
In this lesson, we will explore the effect of serial position on memory recall. We will learn about primacy and recency effects and how they impact our ability to remember information. By the end of this lesson, you will be able to understand how the order in which information is presented can affect our memory and apply this knowledge to improve your own memory retention.

## Section 1: Primacy and Recency Effects
Primacy refers to the idea that information presented first in a sequence is more likely to be remembered than information presented later in the sequence. Recency, on the other hand, refers to the idea that information presented last in a sequence is more likely to be remembered than information presented earlier in the sequence. These effects are due to the way our brains process and store information.

## Section 2: Examples and Applications
Let's consider an example of a list of items. If you were asked to recall the items in the order they were presented, you would likely remember the first few items better than the ones in the middle and the end. This is because of the primacy effect. Similarly, if you were asked to recall the items in reverse order, you would likely remember the last few items better than the ones in the middle and the beginning. This is because of the recency effect.

These effects have practical applications in fields such as education, marketing, and law enforcement. In education, teachers often present new material at the beginning of a lesson to maximize student engagement and retention. In marketing, advertisers often place their most important message at the end of an ad to ensure it is remembered by the audience. In law enforcement, witnesses are often interviewed in a manner that presents the events in chronological order to help them recall the sequence of events accurately.

## Section 3: Critical Thinking
While primacy and recency effects can be helpful in improving memory retention, they can also be manipulated by others to influence our beliefs and actions. For example, advertisers may use these effects to make us believe that certain products are more desirable or effective than others. It is important to be aware of these effects and to think critically about the information we encounter.

## Conclusion
Understanding the effect of serial position on memory recall can help us improve our own memory retention and become more critical thinkers. By being aware of how information is presented and how our brains process it, we can better understand and evaluate the information we encounter.


text: An SMA Research Brief. Publication Date: October 7, 2013. Number of Pages: 5. Price: $395.00 USD. Transforming the customer experience is one of the top imperatives insurers are pursuing to create differentiating strategies. This research brief highlights the top 10 most innovative approaches to the customer experience in insurance, with specific company examples, and provides guiding principles for undertaking an initiative to improve the customer experience. As insurers look to reimagine the way they interact with policyholders and their distribution channel partners, innovation is a critical dimension of enhancing the customer experience.. This brief is the second in a series. The first report, Innovation in the Customer Experience: Strategic Considerations, identifies eight factors to consider when designing the customer experience in insurance.

textbook:
Lesson: Innovation in the Customer Experience

Introduction:
In today's competitive business environment, companies are always looking for ways to stand out from their competitors. One way to do this is by improving the customer experience. In the insurance industry, this means finding new and innovative ways to interact with policyholders and distribution channel partners. This lesson will explore ten innovative approaches to the customer experience in insurance, provide specific company examples, and offer guiding principles for undertaking an initiative to improve the customer experience.

Section 1: Guiding Principles for Improving the Customer Experience

1. Start with the customer - The customer experience should always be the primary focus of any initiative to improve the customer experience. This means understanding the needs and preferences of the customer and designing the experience around them.

2. Deliver personalized experiences - Customers want to feel valued and appreciated. By delivering personalized experiences, insurers can create a sense of intimacy and build trust with their customers.

3. Embrace digital technology - Digital technology has transformed the way people interact with businesses. Insurers must embrace digital technology to stay competitive and deliver seamless, convenient experiences.

4. Foster a culture of innovation - Innovation requires a culture that encourages experimentation and risk-taking. Insurers must foster a culture of innovation that empowers employees to think creatively and challenge the status quo.

Section 2: Ten Innovative Approaches to the Customer Experience in Insurance

1. Virtual Reality Claims Adjustment - Some insurers are using virtual reality to simplify the claims adjustment process. By allowing customers to walk through the damaged property in virtual reality, insurers can assess the damage more accurately and quickly, resulting in faster claim processing.

2. Mobile Apps for Health and Wellness - Some insurers are offering mobile apps that promote health and wellness. These apps track fitness activities, provide healthy meal plans, and offer tips for managing stress. By promoting healthy behaviors, insurers can reduce the likelihood of costly health claims.

3. Social Media Customer Service - Many insurers are using social media platforms to provide customer service. By responding to customer inquiries and complaints on social media, insurers can demonstrate responsiveness and build trust with their customers.

4. Gamification of Insurance Products - Some insurers are using gamification techniques to make insurance products more engaging and interactive. By turning insurance into a game, insurers can increase customer engagement and improve retention rates.

5. Predictive Analytics for Personalized Risk Management - Some insurers are using predictive analytics to provide personalized risk management advice. By analyzing customer data, insurers can identify potential risks and provide targeted recommendations for reducing those risks.

6. Chatbots for Customer Service - Many insurers are using chatbots to provide customer service. By using natural language processing and machine learning algorithms, chatbots can answer customer inquiries and resolve issues quickly and efficiently.

7. Augmented Reality Claims Processing - Some insurers are using augmented reality to simplify the claims processing process. By allowing customers to take pictures of the damaged property and overlay relevant information, insurers can gather all the necessary data quickly and accurately.

8. Peer-to-Peer Insurance - Some insurers are offering peer-to-peer insurance, where customers can pool their premiums and share losses among themselves. By creating a sense of community and shared responsibility, insurers can build stronger relationships with their customers.

9. Connected Home Devices - Some insurers are offering connected home devices that monitor and control various aspects of the home, such as temperature, lighting, and security. By providing customers with greater control over their homes, insurers can reduce the likelihood of property damage and improve customer satisfaction.

10. Blockchain Technology for Smart Contracts - Some insurers are using blockchain technology to create smart contracts that automate the insurance claims process. By eliminating the need for manual intervention, insurers can speed up the claims process and reduce costs.

Section 3: Conclusion

In conclusion, improving the customer experience in insurance requires a focus on innovation and a willingness to embrace new technologies and approaches. By implementing the guiding principles outlined in this lesson and exploring the ten innovative approaches discussed, insurers can create differentiated strategies that set them apart from their competitors and build stronger relationships with their customers.


text: Norton digs her heels in. The Jane Norton for U.S. Senate campaign is once again taking advantage of fellow Republican Ken Buck’s much-maligned comments about footwear, because unlike a pair of stilettos, this thing has gotten traction.. At a libertarian event July 17, Buck told the crowd to vote for him, because he doesn’t wear high heels.. The gender-based joke set pundits, television hosts and bloggers atwitter with questions about its appropriateness and gave the Norton campaign Buck-bashing fodder for days.. Now her camp is handing out bumper stickers featuring hot pink lettering, a picture of a high-heeled shoe and the old adage “The Buck stops here.”. “The comments were ridiculous, sophomoric, and certainly not befitting a United States Senator,” Norton operations director Tyler Sandberg writes in the sticker announcement. “There are enough Senators in Washington who don’t think before they speak. Let’s not send another.”. Article Comments

textbook:
Lesson: Understanding Political Humor and Campaign Strategies

Introduction:
Political humor and campaign strategies are essential components of any political race. They help candidates connect with voters, convey their message, and gain support. In this lesson, we will explore the role of political humor and campaign strategies in a political race, examine the impact of gender-based jokes on politics, and analyze how candidates use humor to their advantage.

Section 1: Understanding Political Humor

Topic 1: What is political humor?
- Political humor refers to the use of jokes, satire, irony, and other forms of humor to comment on political events, politicians, and policies.
- Political humor can be used to entertain, criticize, or persuade voters.

Topic 2: Why do politicians use humor?
- Humor helps candidates connect with voters on a personal level.
- It can make complex issues more accessible and understandable.
- Humor can also help candidates differentiate themselves from their opponents.

Topic 3: Gender-based jokes in politics
- Gender-based jokes often target female politicians and focus on their appearance, clothing, or family life.
- These jokes perpetuate gender stereotypes and reinforce the idea that women do not belong in politics.
- While some politicians use gender-based jokes as a way to appeal to male voters, others argue that these jokes undermine the seriousness of politics and devalue the contributions of female politicians.

Section 2: Analyzing Campaign Strategies

Topic 1: The role of humor in campaign strategies
- Humor can be an effective tool for candidates to gain media attention, connect with voters, and differentiate themselves from their opponents.
- However, the use of humor can also backfire if the jokes are not well received or if they damage the candidate's reputation.

Topic 2: The importance of messaging in campaign strategies
- Messaging refers to the consistent and coherent communication of a candidate's values, beliefs, and policies.
- A strong messaging strategy helps candidates convey their message to voters and distinguish themselves from their opponents.
- Messaging is particularly important in political races where there are multiple candidates vying for the same position.

Section 3: Case Study: Jane Norton's Campaign

Topic 1: The impact of gender-based jokes on the campaign
- When Ken Buck made his gender-based joke about high heels, it created a controversy that gave Jane Norton's campaign fodder for days.
- Norton's camp used the opportunity to criticize Buck's comments and highlight the importance of having a senator who thinks before they speak.

Topic 2: How Norton's campaign used humor to their advantage
- Norton's campaign created bumper stickers featuring hot pink lettering, a picture of a high-heeled shoe, and the old adage "The Buck stops here."
- The use of humor helped Norton's campaign gain media attention and connect with voters who were tired of politicians who didn't think before they spoke.

Conclusion:
In this lesson, we explored the role of political humor and campaign strategies in political races. We examined the impact of gender-based jokes on politics and analyzed how candidates use humor to their advantage. Finally, we looked at a case study of Jane Norton's campaign and how she used humor and messaging to gain support and differentiate herself from her opponent. By understanding the importance of political humor and campaign strategies, we can better evaluate the tactics used by candidates and make informed decisions when casting our votes.


text: Twitter .. The contest, which began Sept. 1, consists of three stages.. For the first phase, young web designers must submit the “wire framework” or basic format for both the main and subsequent pages by Dec. 2.. The top 20 designers will go on to compete in the second stage.. The first-place design will be unveiled in 2012, and the winner will pocket $2,000.. For more information, visit columbiacountyga.gov/libraries or call (706) 863-1946.

textbook:
Lesson: Web Design Contest

Introduction:
In this lesson, we will learn about a web design contest and its stages. We will cover the requirements for the first phase, the selection of top 20 designers, and the prize for the winner. We will also discuss how to find more information about the contest and who to contact for further details.

Section 1: Requirements for the First Phase

Topic: Wire Framework

The wire framework is the basic format for both the main and subsequent pages of a website. It includes the layout, placement of elements, and overall structure of the site. In the first phase of the web design contest, young designers must submit their wire framework for evaluation.

Question: What is a wireframe?
Answer: A wireframe is a preliminary sketch or blueprint of a website that shows the placement and size of all the elements on the page. It is used to plan the layout and structure of the site before any design work begins.

Question: Why is the wireframe important in web design?
Answer: The wireframe is important because it helps designers and developers plan the website's structure and functionality. It ensures that all elements are placed correctly and that the site is user-friendly.

Question: How do designers create a wireframe?
Answer: Designers use graphical tools such as Adobe Photoshop or Sketch to create wireframes. They start by sketching out the general layout and then add elements such as text, images, and buttons.

Section 2: Selection of Top 20 Designers

Topic: Competition

After submitting their wireframes, young designers move on to the second stage of the competition. In this stage, only the top 20 designers will continue to compete. This means that only 20 out of all the designers who entered the contest will have the opportunity to showcase their skills and creativity.

Question: What is a competition?
Answer: A competition is an event where people or teams compete against each other to see who can perform the best. In this case, the competition is between the top 20 web designers.

Question: Why is there a competition?
Answer: The competition helps to identify the most talented and creative designers. It ensures that only the best designers move on to the next stage of the contest.

Section 3: Prize for the Winner

Topic: $2,000

The winner of the web design contest will receive $2,000 as a prize. This is a significant amount of money and serves as an incentive for designers to put their best effort into the contest.

Question: What is a prize?
Answer: A prize is an award given to someone who has won a competition or achieved something special. In this case, the prize is $2,000 for the winner of the web design contest.

Question: Why is there a prize?
Answer: The prize serves as an incentive for designers to put their best effort into the contest. It also helps to recognize the winner's hard work and creativity.

Conclusion:

In this lesson, we learned about the requirements for the first phase of a web design contest, the selection of top 20 designers, and the prize for the winner. We also discussed the importance of the wireframe in web design and the concept of competition. By understanding these concepts, we can apply our skills to other areas of web design and participate in similar contests in the future.

Glossary:
- Wireframe: A preliminary sketch or blueprint of a website that shows the placement and size of all the elements on the page.
- Competition: An event where people or teams compete against each other to see who can perform the best.
- Prize: An award given to someone who has won a competition or achieved something special.


text: 20 years!!. It’s been a long journey. A lot of things have happened since 1998 when I sold my first and only EBMM Axis in Amber quilt. I’ve missed that guitar ever since that day, as I realized nothing compared to it. Fast forward to 2018 and I’m finally back where I belong with a 2016 EBMM in Natural Flame! 😊. Source:

textbook:
## Lesson: Introduction to Guitar Buying and Selling
### Section 1: Understanding the Basics of Guitar Buying and Selling
In this section, we will cover the basics of buying and selling guitars. We will start by understanding what a guitar is and its different parts. Then, we will move on to the different types of guitars available in the market and their respective prices. Finally, we will discuss the factors that you should consider when buying or selling a guitar.
### Section 2: Types of Guitars and Their Prices
There are several types of guitars available in the market, each with its unique features and price range. In this section, we will discuss the most common types of guitars, including electric, acoustic, classical, and bass guitars. We will also look at the different brands and models available in each category and their respective prices.
### Section 3: Factors to Consider When Buying or Selling a Guitar
When buying or selling a guitar, there are several factors that you should consider. These include the condition of the guitar, its age, brand, model, and the current market value. We will discuss each factor in detail and provide tips on how to evaluate these factors when buying or selling a guitar.
### Conclusion
Buying or selling a guitar can be a great experience if you know what to look for. By understanding the basics of guitars, their different types and prices, and the factors to consider when buying or selling, you can make an informed decision and get the best value for your money. Remember, always do your research and ask questions before making a purchase or sale.


text: In Ed Media Apps, we are learning about PBIS.. PBIS is an acronym for Positive Behavioral Intervention and Supports. PBIS helps students reach social, emotional, and academic success.. According to , there are three major outcomes of PBIS:. - Systems. - Data. - Practices. Why should teachers care? As teachers we want our students to model good behavior. Teaching students good behavior is one step in the right direction, but the teacher actually molding the good behavior and the students will pick up on good behavior even faster. You want students to learn good behavior in elementary because the good or bad behavior will stick with students all the way through middle and high school. Good behavior habits will help students later in life and in the “real world”.. Some questions I have about PBIS are:. - Is PBIS making a difference?. - How does PBIS differ between young students, middle school students, and high school students?. - What kind of an impact does PBIS have?. You can read up on PBIS by clicking here !

textbook:
Lesson: Positive Behavioral Intervention and Supports (PBIS)
Introduction:
Positive Behavioral Intervention and Supports (PBIS) is an approach to teaching students good behavior. It is based on the idea that if students know what is expected of them, they are more likely to behave appropriately. In this lesson, we will learn about PBIS and why it is important for students.
Section 1: What is PBIS?
PBIS is an approach to teaching students good behavior that is used in schools across the United States. It is based on the idea that if students know what is expected of them, they are more likely to behave appropriately. PBIS uses a three-tiered approach to teach students good behavior:
- Tier 1: All students receive the same expectations and consequences for their behavior.
- Tier 2: Some students who need extra support receive additional expectations and consequences.
- Tier 3: A small number of students who need intensive support receive individualized plans to address their behavior.
Section 2: Why should teachers care about PBIS?
Teachers should care about PBIS because it helps students reach social, emotional, and academic success. PBIS helps teachers create a positive classroom environment where students feel safe and supported. This allows students to focus on learning instead of dealing with negative behavior.
Section 3: How does PBIS differ between young students, middle school students, and high school students?
PBIS differs between young students, middle school students, and high school students because the expectations and consequences for behavior change as students get older. For example, younger students may need more guidance and structure, while older students may need more autonomy and responsibility. However, the overall goal of PBIS remains the same: to teach students good behavior that will help them succeed in school and in life.
Section 4: What kind of an impact does PBIS have?
PBIS has been shown to have a positive impact on student behavior. Studies have found that PBIS reduces behavior problems and increases academic achievement. Additionally, PBIS has been shown to reduce suspensions and expulsions, which can lead to improved school climate and safety.
Conclusion:
In conclusion, PBIS is an important approach to teaching students good behavior. It helps students reach social, emotional, and academic success by creating a positive classroom environment. PBIS differs between young students, middle school students, and high school students, but the overall goal remains the same: to teach students good behavior that will help them succeed in school and in life. By implementing PBIS in our classrooms, we can help our students become responsible, respectful, and ready to learn.


text: Close up of Blue and Yellow Macaw, Ara Ararauna© Eric Isselée - See portfolio. Information. Description. The photo "Close up of Blue and Yellow Macaw, Ara Ararauna" from Eric Isselée is available on Fotolia under a Royalty Free license from 2 credits (Credit from $0.74).. Available in JPEG format, this photo may be downloaded for all kinds of professional uses and in different resolutions (up to 4,622 x 6,122.

textbook:
**Lesson:** Introduction to Bird Photography

**Section 1: Theoretical Concepts**

- Bird photography is the art of capturing images of birds using a camera.
- It requires knowledge of bird behavior, habitat, and lighting conditions.
- A good bird photographer must have patience, skill, and understanding of the subject matter.

**Section 2: Practical Examples**

- To capture an image of a bird, you need to understand its behavior and habitat.
- For example, if you want to take a picture of a blue and yellow macaw, you need to know that they are social birds that live in pairs or small flocks.
- You also need to understand their diet, which consists mainly of fruits, nuts, and seeds.

**Section 3: Real-World Scenarios**

- Once you have understood the behavior and habitat of the bird, you can plan your shoot.
- For instance, you could visit their natural habitat, such as a rainforest, and wait for the right moment to capture them in action.
- Alternatively, you could set up a bird feeder in your backyard and wait for the birds to come to you.

**Glossary:**

- Bird: A warm-blooded vertebrate that has wings and feathers.
- Habitat: The natural environment in which a particular species lives.
- Behavior: The way animals act or behave in their natural environment.

**Conclusion:**

Bird photography is an exciting and challenging field that requires patience, skill, and knowledge of the subject matter. By understanding the behavior and habitat of the bird, you can plan your shoot and capture stunning images. This lesson has covered the theoretical concepts, practical examples, and real-world scenarios of bird photography. With these skills, you can apply them to other areas of photography and even other fields.


text: Permits have gone on sale for permits to cut ponderosa pines from selected areas in the Nebraska National Forest near Chadron.. Each $10 permit entitles the purchaser to harvest a tree up to 15 feet tall. The permits are available at the U.S. Forest Service Pine Ridge District office in Chadron.. Each permit comes with cutting guidelines, travel recommendations and map that shows roads and trails open to the public.. Only areas designated on the permit map are open to the cutting of Christmas trees.. More information is available online at the link below.

textbook:
Lesson: How to Cut a Christmas Tree

Introduction:
In this lesson, we will learn how to cut a Christmas tree from a national forest. We will cover the steps involved in obtaining a permit, choosing a tree, and cutting it safely. By the end of this lesson, you will be able to understand the process of cutting a Christmas tree responsibly and sustainably.

Section 1: Obtaining a Permit

Topic 1: What is a permit?
A permit is a legal document that allows you to cut a Christmas tree from a national forest. You need a permit to cut a tree in a national forest.

Topic 2: Where can I get a permit?
You can get a permit from the U.S. Forest Service Pine Ridge District office in Chadron.

Topic 3: How much does a permit cost?
A permit costs $10.

Topic 4: What does a permit allow me to do?
A permit allows you to cut a tree up to 15 feet tall from a designated area in the national forest.

Section 2: Choosing a Tree

Topic 1: How do I choose a tree?
Choose a tree that is healthy and has a straight trunk. Look for a tree with green needles and a good shape. Make sure the tree is not too close to other trees or obstacles.

Topic 2: How do I know if a tree is healthy?
A healthy tree has green needles and a good shape. It should not have any brown needles or damage.

Topic 3: How tall should the tree be?
The maximum height for a tree allowed by the permit is 15 feet. Make sure the tree is not taller than this.

Section 3: Cutting the Tree Safely

Topic 1: How do I cut the tree safely?
Before cutting the tree, make sure you have all the necessary equipment, including a saw, gloves, and safety goggles. Cut the tree about 6 inches above the ground, making sure the tree is stable and will not fall over.

Topic 2: How do I transport the tree?
Once you have cut the tree, you will need to transport it home. Make sure you have a vehicle that can handle the weight of the tree and secure it properly to prevent damage during transport.

Topic 3: How do I care for the tree once I bring it home?
Once you have brought the tree home, you will need to care for it properly to keep it fresh and healthy. Make sure you have a stand that is tall enough to support the tree and keep it away from heat sources, such as fireplaces or heaters. Water the tree regularly and trim off any dry needles.

Conclusion:
By following these steps, you can cut a Christmas tree sustainably and responsibly. Remember to follow all the guidelines provided by the U.S. Forest Service and use your permit correctly. With proper care, your tree will last for many holiday seasons to come.

Glossary:
- Permit: A legal document that allows you to cut a Christmas tree from a national forest.
- U.S. Forest Service: An agency of the United States government that manages and protects national forests and grasslands.
- Pine Ridge District: A district in the Nebraska National Forest near Chadron.
- Christmas tree: A tree that is cut down and used as a decoration during the Christmas holiday.