Company Seven | Vixen GPDX German Equatorial Mount page

Overview: What is the GPDX and when do we recommend it?

The GPDX is one of the most massive of the three "Great Polaris" series German equatorial mounts manufactured by Vixen Co., Ltd. The other model GP mounts include the lighter weight GPE model, and another which is similar in appearance to the GPE but is its better accessorized cousin the GP. The GP series are the descendants of the Vixen "Super Polaris" mounts which came to dominate the 1980's. In the USA the Super Polaris were distributed under the Celestron trademark. The heavier duty "Super Polaris DX" was not made available in the USA until 1989 when it was evaluated by Roland Christen, founder of Astro-Physics company who imported it for sale to the USA through both Astro-Physics and Company Seven. The SP-DX was considered a suitable but relatively economical platform for their then new 12cm f8.4 ED doublet Apochromat, and their 4 and 5 Inch f8 Apo telescopes.

The Great Polaris are an improved, modular German equatorial mount system where the customer is allowed to tailor the system to their particular needs choosing from a broad selection of accessories. The GP-DX mount closely resembles the more compact and portable GP mount however, this belies it's notably superior payload handling and tracking. The GP-DX differences include durable steel is used for the R.A. and Declination Axes shafts, the worm wheels are made of brass (to about double the tolerance of the GP) on improved bearings to provide smooth and stable operation. Accordingly, the GP-DX mount head weighs almost twice as much as the GP.

alignment to within 3 minute accuracy possible, bubble-level, fine adjustment knobs for both altitude and azimuth, and one 8 lb / 3. kg counterweight are provided. Refinements include a Dovetail Plate hardware mechanism to facilitate the quick interchange of payloads, a better selection of tripods and electronic drive systems.

Company Seven recommends the GPDX to accommodate payloads including:

* there are factors acting upon a German mount affecting its suitability including: payload weight and length (torque), payload area and profile exposed to winds, desired tracking accuracy, tripod or pier resonance's, etc. What are most important to the user is how rigidly the mount holds the payload, how smoothly it tracks (amplitude and smoothness of the periodic error of a gear), and how well it overcomes the moment imparted by the load. The final operating weight put onto a mount can also depend on how the instrument is to be accessorized.

If you wish to buy a most economical, and relatively light weight refined mount that can manage your payload for manual visual operations, or for simple driven uses then the GPDX can make sense. The GPDX can provide a lifetime of service, and it is deserved by many better quality telescopes including the Astro-Physics 105 'Traveler' or 130 mm f6 EDF, or the TeleVue NP101 and 102 or 127, etc. where the cost of the GPDX can be readily justified. And the choices of simple electronic drive systems are better for the GPDX than those available for most other mounts at or below the cost of the GPDX mounts. But when one gets to the point of buying a complete new GPDX delivered with dual axis drive controller, two motors, two clutches, etc. then the cost climbs into the realm of superior alternatives.

For those who observe from wind prone locations, or for those who intend to become involved in longer time exposure astrophotography or CCD imaging then we suggest you consider one of the following mounts because of their more sophisticated electronics, and even better weight bearing and tracking performance:

The GPDX mount is available as a Mount Head with Quick Release Saddle including Counterweight Shaft, 8.14 lb / 3.7 kg Counterweight, 6x 20mm Pole Alignment Finder telescope with illuminated North and Southern hemisphere reticle, bubble-level, and fine adjustment knobs for both altitude and azimuth. To arrange a complete system one orders the other components "ala carte" buying only what is needed from a selection of good choices.

Below Right: A complete Vixen 150mm f5 reflecting telescope shown on an GPDX German Equatorial Mount with standard 3.7 andwith optional 1.9 kg counterweights, DS-1 Single Axis Drive, HAL110 Aluminum Field Tripod (39,881 bytes).Click on image to see enlarged view (164,592 bytes)

A complete GPE mount system will usually consist of these components:

Company Seven offers a number of third party accessories for the GP/GPDX mounts. These include Digital Setting Circle with Encoder sets, or optional fitted Carrying Bag (sample shown at right) which can provide for safer, and more convenient transport the mount with tripod attached, or one for the Tripod alone. Please understand that these are very convenient and padded lightweight bags however, these are not suitable for shipping a telescope or mount. Company Seven do offer rather costly buy sometimes necessary Airline Transport Association approved shipping cases for these products which are suitable for check in on aircraft, or shipping by common carriers.

Please visit Company Seven's showroom to see examples of these Vixen systems firsthand. Or you may Contact Company Seven for help putting together a system for you.

GPE Features and Specifications

Vixen GPE Optional SD-1 Electronic Drive Specifications

Vixen GPE Optional DD-1 Electronic Drive Specifications

Specifications and availability subject to change

Drive System Power Requirements, Sources

The SD-1 Drive Controller for the GPE/GPDX mounts operates from 9 volt DC power sources, it is provided with a cluster battery holder for six alkaline "C" cell batteries, and power cord. For convenience it is probably best to keep feeding the SD-1 the provided battery pack as it needs them. For operations in below freezing conditions then we recommend you keep the battery pack for the SD-1 in a warm area, possibly in a coat pocket when working near the telescope. Otherwise you may use more costly lithium batteries which perform better at lower temperatures.

The DD-1 Drive Controller for the GPE/GPDX mounts is provided with a cluster battery holder for eight alkaline "D" cell batteries, and power cord. The DD-1 and other common telescope powered accessories (Kendrick Dew/Frost Prevention System, CCD cameras, etc.) require a 12 volt D.C. power source. If you prefer a longer life or more cost effective power supply then Company Seven suggests the user consider one of these following options:

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Company Seven | Vixen GPDX German Equatorial Mount page

Simon Lane | Yogscast Wiki | FANDOM powered by Wikia

SimonReal Name

Simon Charles Lane

Honeydew, Honeybeard, Derek Smart, Alejandew

2008 (Co-Founder)

Yes

Creative Director at Yogscast Ltd, YouTube Content Producer at Yogscast Ltd

"See ya later, Shitlord(s)!"

Simon Lane, under the username Honeydew, is a founding member of the Yogscast, and runs the main Yogscast YouTube channel with Lewis Brindley. He is known for playing a dwarf in any situation he can. He is renowned for being a strongman, entertainer, astronaut and a budding musician.

Lewis and Simon have uploaded an enormous variety of content, such as Minecraft adventure maps and mini-games, Garry's Mod, indie games, and many collaborations. Some of Lewis and Simon's most popular Minecraft series include YogLabs, Jaffa Factory, JaffaQuest, Hole Diggers, Deep Space Mine, Lucky Block Challenge, and of course, Shadow of Israphel. When playing Minecraft he has a fondness of pigs, Jaffa Cakes, fire and things that explode.

Simon is the creative force behind The Yogscast, known as the singer of "Diggy Diggy Hole" and "The Man of a Thousand Voices, all of which sound oddly similar". Simons charm, wit and endearing silliness are unmatched. He is the co-founder of the Yogscast.

Simon has, on rare occasions, managed to hijack the BlueXephos channel on YouTube, enabling him to post content in which he is the central character. This content tends to be superficially innocent and light, but upon closer examination reveals a twisted, diabolical malevolence and passive aggressive Machiavellian instinct that can only mean Simon's ultimate goal for the Yogscast is total world domination. These videos generally fall into two basic yet far-reaching categories, which are: Simon Sings, and Simon Plays. The Simon Playsseries are simple Let's Play videos of various computer/console games such as Portal 2 [1]. While playing these games Simon would occasionally give the characters unique voices, with a narrative thread roughly maintained throughout the video. The Simon's Songs series of videos is a collection of brief musical interludes wherein Simon does his best vocal impersonation of a cat being used to clean a rug. These videos demonstrate Simon's mind at work, as he eventually arrives at the perfect understanding of the two key critical lyrical elements that have defined success for one of his favourite musical artists, Parry Grip. This culminates in what is bound to be one of the top music videos of 2011, Elephant Having A Wank. The actual category the video will fall into--best or worst of 2011--is still in doubt.

Simon took a hiatus from the Yogscast in March 2015, with a video explaining his sudden absence. In the video, he relates his hiatus to unspecified medical issues tied into an unexpected visit to the hospital. Although he was released from the hospital a few weeks later, it was claimed that he wanted to take some time off in order to recover before returning to actively working on video content. A further passing mention in a Yogscast vlog in June simply said that he was getting better and that his friends hoped he would be fully recovered soon. Simon returned to making YouTube videos on September 25, making his first appearance in 6 months in the first episode of Trials of Skobbels [2].

Despite returning to several series on the main channel, he had a diminished involvement with Yogscast projects during his recuperation throughout 2016. He then went on another hiatus in March 2017, returning on the 9th of June on the stream. However, after his last hiatus, Simon has appeared way less frequently on the main channel (in which he used to appear in almost every single video). Since then, he has been showing up mainly in the Chilluminati streams, in the Game Goblin series (with Tom), and in some GTA V and Trouble in Terrorist Town (TTT) videos.

You are not permitted to enter quotes until the Wiki community agrees it is noteworthy. There's a limit of 20, with no more spaces left.

Title - Character - Year

The Yogscast Network

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Simon Lane | Yogscast Wiki | FANDOM powered by Wikia

TRANSTOPIA YOUTH SUPPORT GROUP – The Gender Centre INC

Are You Transgender? ... Gender Questioning? ... Gender Queer?

"Transtopia" is a monthly group for transgender and gender questioning youth between the ages of 14 to 19. The group meets on a Wednesday night once a month and provides a safe, supporting space foryoung people to connect and be themselves.The group is an open group, and bookings are NOT required

How Much:FREEDo I Need To Book: No(call or email Viola groups@gendercentre.org.au on (02) 9519 7599) for more information

Please be advised that transtopia is a group for young transgender, gender diverse and gender questioning youth only, family members and non-transgender freinds are not encouraged to attend .Transtopia is a monthly group held over 11 months for youth between the ages of 14 to 19 Transtopia aims to provide a safe space for young transpeople to connect with others, enjoy activities as well as talk about things impacting on their life in a safe and non- judgmental space

Who runs the group: It is run by Viola, one of the centres case worker

What age must I be? : The group is for ages 14 - 19, if you are under 16 we ask that you complete a consent form & email it to groups@gendercentre.org.au

What is the structure of this group? : This is a relaxed group with the prime objective of creating a safe space, friendships, information and fun workshops!

Do I HAVE to talk? : Nobody HAS to talk at group, everybody moves at their own pace and nobody will be put on the spot to talk.

Can I bring a friend or parent? : By all means if you have a friend who identifies as trans or gender questioning and is between the age of 14 and 19 we encourage you to bring them along. However for the safety of the group we do not allow parents or non-trans people to come along.

Can I wear my preferred clothing? : We encourage you to wear whatever makes you comfortable, remember this is a group with people going through very similar experiences.

Who can I contact if I have any questions? : You can email Viola on groups@gendercentre.org.au

Transtopia: A place to be yourself

Under 16 DOWNLOAD THE CONSENT FORM

DOWNLOAD YOUTH BOOKLET

We will be starting a new Transtopia youth group in Orange

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TRANSTOPIA YOUTH SUPPORT GROUP - The Gender Centre INC

Astro-Physics AP900 QMD Mount with Controller and Pier …

This gorgeous mount and pier is in really good condition for having been pre-owned! There are only two issues of which are cosmetic and not mechanical, therefor this AP900 mount with pier is fully operational. The images below show the discolorization of the pier, which could be painted making this issue very minor. The second issue is that there is some very small chipping of the paint that without taking a close look it cannot easily be seen. The spots of chipping paint are located on sharp edges and this mount has more obtuse angles than acute ones. Overall, This beast of a mount is in really good condition.The AP900 Quartz Micro Drive (QMD) predates the SMD version and current AP900GTO version mounts out today. This is a rock solid, high precision mount. The hand controller has the N,S,E,W buttons as well as PEC memory, backlash control, Sol, Lunar, King tracking rates and a brightness knob. Guide rates are 8x and 16x. The QMD mounts deliver great performance at a lower cost than other mounts like it. They are hard to find and sell quickly when found. Dovetail & rings are not included.

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Astro-Physics AP900 QMD Mount with Controller and Pier ...

Company Seven | Astro-Physics Tripods, Portable Piers

ASTRO-PHYSICS ADJUSTABLE HEIGHT WOOD FIELD TRIPOD, AND PORTABLE PIERS FOR MODEL400, 600, 800, 900, AND 1200 SERIES GERMAN EQUATORIAL MOUNTS

Astro-Physics German equatorial mounts employ either a portable tripod, or a portable or a fixed pier as a support stand. Theassembled portable piers are under stress to provide excellent rigidity. The portable piers are also a good choice for travelby air or cargo as they are very resistant to impact damage. Neither of these choices of stand requires any tools for assemblyin the field, although to install a Model 900 or 1200 head requires an Allen wrench that is provided with the mount head.

It is possible to have a metal pier fabricated locally, and then install it (into a foundation below the regional frost line)at a convenient observing location. Utilities for power and signal can be installed below ground and up through the pier.Those persons interested in such an effort should contact us for specific advice.

The selection of a field tripod or a portable pier will to some degree be a matter of personal preference. For those personswho intend to do astrophotography (film or CCD), or for those where economy and durability are a concern then we do suggest aportable or permanent pier. For those where the convenience of height adjustment, quicker set up and disassembly, oraesthetics are a concern then the wood or aluminum tripods may be a good choice.

Portable Piers:

These piersfeature a unique tension design that combines rugged construction with light weight, while also eliminating flexure andannoying vibrations. Legs and tension rods attach without the need for any tools thereby permitting assembly in a matter of afew minutes. The stainless steel tension rods do not interfere when the telescope is pointed at zenith as the rods are locateda reasonable distance below the mount head. Turnbuckles are used to adjust tension on the rods; these also allow limitedultra-fine adjustments when polar aligning. The tension system is the simple technology that results in the firm base ofsupport provided by the portable pier. The center post is constructed of aluminum tubing, the base and legs are of steel. Theconstruction materials and finish provide great resistance to the environmental elements.

Piers have no provisions for leveling nor is it necessary; the mount heads have adjustments to make polar alignment even onuneven terrain. For reasons of stability it is desirable to locate a pier (or a tripod) on as firm and level ground as ispossible. Sand bags may be installed within and or inside the piers to add rigidity and dampening in wind prone environments.

Astro-Physics Adjustable Height Wood Field Tripod (AWT000):

This tripod can easily be set up level with out the use of any tools. While this not necessary since the mount heads haveadjustment devices to polar align even on uneven terrain, leveling the tripod can minimize adjustment in elevation of themount head. For reasons of stability it is desirable to locate a tripod (or a pier) on as firm and level ground as ispossible. Sand bags may be installed at the feet of the tripod to add rigidity and dampening in wind prone environments.

Support Bar and Accessory Tray for Astro-Physics Piers:

For those who wish a convenient location for the placement of small accessories, Astro-Physics has produced a support bar andaccessory tray. In addition to serving as a storage shelf, when used as a pair the top tray will keep dew from forming onaccessories placed onto a lower accessory tray.

A Support Bar (TRAYSB) is attached to one of the holes at the top of a pier post. Each support bar can accept up to twoaccessory trays. Each accessory tray spans 120 degrees (1/3) of the pier so that you can construct a complete 360 degreecircular tray around the pier post with just three support bars and three trays. These trays slip into the support bars. Theavailable trays are:

It is possible to buy Astro-Physics support bar and accessory tray systems for installation onto any portable or permanentpier that complies with the Astro-Physics specifications for pier diameter and hole pattern.

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Company Seven | Astro-Physics Tripods, Portable Piers

ASTRO PHYSICS AP400 GTO WITH WOODEN TRIPOD – CN …

https://optcorp.com/...w-wooden-tripod

USED ASTRO PHYSICS AP400 GO TO MOUNT W/WOODEN TRIPODThe two most important considerations in mount design and construction are maximum strength/rigidity for a given size and accuracy of the drive system. Without this basic foundation, all other features of a mount are just superfluous frills. The Astro-Physics 400GTO was engineered to be a compact, firm platform for your high-resolution instrument. Whether your interests are purely visual or include astro-photography, a steady image in the eyepiece or camera viewfinder is extremely important.The 400GTO is constructed of the highest quality components to provide you with years of observing pleasure. All parts are precisely machined on our computerized CNC lathe and machining center using solid or thick-wall aluminum and stainless steel. Machining tolerances are very high to achieve a tight, solid fit of all components. These are not thin-wall, weak, porous die castings as in most other mounts of comparable size. We avoid the use of any carbon steel shafts or plated steel fasteners because they will deteriorate with time. This mount will not rust or bind up and will retain its appearance and function throughout the years.Both axes respond to fingertip pressure with unparalleled smoothness. Built-in clutches can be disengaged for smooth sweeping or locked for astrophotography. The worm gears, motors and drive components are enclosed to protect them from dirt and dust. With the 105 Traveler, the 400 mount damps out in one second when mounted on the lightweight aluminum tripod.Your 400GTO mount can grow with your skills and interests in astronomy. You can enjoy the visual pursuits using the go-to Keypad controller and/or DigitalSky Voice software to help you find many fascinating objects. If you plan to take astro-photos, you will be pleased with the solid stability and inherent accurate tracking capability of the drive system. The GTO Control Box contains a plug-in for the CCD auto-guiding and imaging systems. These units will allow you to auto-guide astronomical photos and explore CCD imaging.FeaturesPrecision machined aluminum with radiused edgesGears and motors are fully enclosedGear in declination axis allows full 360 degree continuous rotation; scope can move through the zenith for photography2.5" (6.4cm) hollow right-ascension and declination shafts maximize strength at minimum weightLarge thrust bearings form highly-stable thrust surfaces for tremendous rigidity in a small packageRemovable stainless steel counterweight shaft for compact storageEngraved setting circles with Porter Slip Ring designFine altitude and azimuth adjustments for quickly and accurately zeroing in on the pole in the fieldBlack anodized finish will retain its lustrous beauty for yearsBase fits into 6" diameter pier with 0.083" wall thicknessSpecifications of the Equatorial Head

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ASTRO PHYSICS AP400 GTO WITH WOODEN TRIPOD - CN ...

Company Seven | Astro-Physics 10 Inch f14.6 Maksutov High …

Astro-Physics 10 Inch (25.4cm) f14.6 Maksutov-Cassegrain High Resolution Telescope

Astro-Physics Co. who are known for making the world's most advanced, versatile, and desired lines of Apochromatic refractor telescopes began the year 2000 with the announcement of their first production Catadioptric telescope!

After more than a decade of research and development to "get it right" Astro-Physics has sold out the first of a limited number of Maksutov"Mak" telescopes. Designated the Astro-Physics 10 inch f14.6 Maksutov Apochromat telescope, this is a compact 33 lb. (15 kg) high resolution instrument designed to provide refractor like views (and images) of the brighter, small objects including the planets, moon, double stars, and the like.Astro-Physics has been working to make a telescope that would be more compact, perform well in temperature extremes around the world, and meet their exacting requirements for optical and mechanical excellence: they have continued their tradition of innovative excellence.

A further goal in this development effort was to equal or to approach the performance of their highly prized triplet apochromatic refractors in at least certain applications. One thought in producing these Catadioptric telescopes is that if a number of customers who do not require the versatility of the Apo refractors (which perform superbly well at extremely high magnifications, and down to very low magnifications) will order the Mak telescopes instead of the triplet Apos then this may take some of the burden from the Triplet production line, and thereby helpAstro-Physics to satisfy a far greater number of the more demanding amateur and professional clientele.

Deliveries from the first production run will commence in limited numbers in April of year 2000. It is likely that production will accelerate, and the 10 inch model is likely to be followed by other variants of the design in terms of designed function and aperture.

The primary mirror is a truncated cone designed to eliminate as much thermal mass as possible. The rear surface of the mirror is fine ground and then polished, a process which also helps internal trapped heat to radiate out the open back. By grinding the edge and back of this mirror, any tiny stresses are relieved which could otherwise introduce unwanted distortions in the highly accurate front surface at varying ambient temperatures. In side-by-side tests against closed back scopes with conventional molded mirrors, theAstro-Physics design was faster, by far, in achieving a stable and accurate image.

Any optical imperfections such as a degree of surface roughness and zonal errors on the optical surface will compound the problem.Astro-Physics tested a commercial telescope where the central obstruction, optical errors and surface roughness were large enough to cause the first diffraction ring and central Airy disc to have almost equal brightness (with a 35% obstruction, theoretically there should be at least a4 to 1 difference). Even so, this sample telescope "tested" very well on the star test - it had quite similar inside and outside Fresnel patterns and might be judged to be textbook perfect by the star test. Yet it was a very poor performer on all but the most steady of nights, when the seeing was essentially perfect. The slightest motion in the atmosphere would result in a display of "cotton ball" stars. This is one reason whyAstro-Physics and Company Seven have not been a major fans of the "star test" to evaluate the actual performance of a telescope. The only unbiased way to measure an optic is withinterferometry, or by an MTF (modulation transfer function) test, or with a PSF (point spread function) test, which measures the relative strength of the Airy disc versus the diffraction rings with the image in focus.

Astro-Physics has endeavored to achieve the highest absorption of stray light possible by employing state of the art baffling and anti-reflection techniques; this will help to provide the user with maximum contrast. The exterior of the telescope is finished in a durable textured off white finish, with black anodized focuser and cells; these will retain their beauty for many years. You will appreciate the unique design and fine craftsmanship of this telescope.

Knife edge baffles are machined into the walls of the telescope optical tube and of the focuser draw tube, these and painted flat black in order to maximize contrast by essentially eliminating any internal reflections. The inside diameter (I.D.) of the draw tube permits the avid astrophotographer to employ up to a 35mm format film or CCD camera to capture images. You can use standard 2 inch diameter accessories, and with the furnished 1.25 inch adapter (threaded for 48mm filters) use common oculars and accessories too. Recessed brass locking rings are installed at each thumbscrew location; as you tighten a thumbscrew a brass locking ring clamps onto the part that has been inserted; consequently the focuser draw tube and any accessories are held securely in place and will not mar the surface of your accessories. This is particularly important considering the heavy and expensive accessories that you may use.

* Specifications are subject to change without notice.

Your local seeing conditions will greatly affect whether or not you may operate the telescope at its highest magnifications. Please call to discuss this if you have any questions.

Right: Company Seven ATA Case custom fitted for a Astro-Physics 13cm EDT Apochromat Telescope with 2.7 inch Focuser (65,974 bytes).Click on image to see enlarged view (215,942 bytes).

Features include:

Left: Astro-Physics Model 900 Mount in optional Company Seven ATA case.Case 1 of 2 shown here, with Declination housing (left side shown) with GTO Keypad Controllerand Counterweight Shaft (94,326 bytes).

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Company Seven | Astro-Physics 10 Inch f14.6 Maksutov High ...

Buy Telescopes

Astro-Physics products can be shipped to overseas destinations except for the following countries: Australia, France, Germany, Italy and Japan.

Astro-Physics is dedicated to the production and development of amateur telescopes and accessories. They strive to produce the highest possible quality telescope components at an affordable price. Astro-Physics builds optics, critical gears, circuit boards, and components including the knobs and fitting from scratch.

Astro-Physics offers a variety of telescope mounts andmount accessories, tube rings and photo / visual accessories.

The German Equatorial mounts Astro-Physics manufactures are: the Mach1GTO, 1100GTO, 1600GTOand 3600GTO. The Mach1GTO is compact, light-weight and portable. The 1100GTO German Equatorial Mount incorporates the design features of the 1600GTO in a smaller, more portable package.The 1600GTO can be used for basic configuration or with the optional Absolute Encoders it can go into demanding astro-imaging. The 3600GTO is the solution for imaging with large instruments or with a combined weight.

Mounting plates are another product of Astro-Physics. They produce an arrangement of dovetail mountings and fixed mountings. Astro-Physics also offer an array of accessories from counterweight shaft options, shaft extension and shaft safety parts, tripod, piers, power supplies and so much more. From the smallest accessory to the largest telescope mount you will find Astro-Physics products to be of the finest quality.

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About Cystic Fibrosis | CF Foundation

Watch a video that provides a glimpse into the everyday life of Kaitlyn Broadhurst, a 25-year-old living with cystic fibrosis.

People with cystic fibrosis are at greater risk of getting lung infections because thick, sticky mucus builds up in their lungs, allowing germs to thrive and multiply. Lung infections, caused mostly by bacteria, are a serious and chronic problem for many people living with the disease. Minimizing contact with germs is a top concern for people with CF.

The buildup of mucus in the pancreas can also stop the absorption of food and key nutrients, resulting in malnutrition and poor growth. In the liver, the thick mucus can block the bile duct, causing liver disease. In men, CF can affect their ability to have children.

Breakthrough treatments have added years to the lives of people with cystic fibrosis. Today the median predicted survival age is close to 40. This is a dramatic improvement from the 1950s, when a child with CF rarely lived long enough to attend elementary school.

Because of tremendous advancements in research and care, many people with CF are living long enough to realize their dreams of attending college, pursuing careers, getting married, and having kids.

While there has been significant progress in treating this disease, there is still no cure and too many lives are cut far too short.

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CF – Definition by AcronymFinder

CFCompact Flash (solid state memory technology)CFCold Fusion (Allaire web application development product)CFCanadian ForcesCFCenter Field (Baseball)CFCopy(ies) FurnishedCFConfiguration FileCFCarbon FiberCFCash FlowCFCongoCFCompact Framework (Microsoft)CFChristian FellowshipCFCardiff University (Wales)CFCardiff (postal code for Cardiff, Wales)CFCapital FederalCFCalfCFCommunity ForestryCFCentral African Republic (country code, top level domain)CFChristian ForumsCFCollaborative FilteringCFConfer (Latin: Compare)CFCompact Fluorescent (lamp/bulb)CFConceptual FrameworkCFComplement Fixation (assay method for determination of infection in blood or serum)CFCenter Front (tailoring)CFConstituio Federal (Brazil; Federal Constitution)CFContinuous FlowCFConservation FoundationCFContinued FractionsCFCalgary Flames (NHL hockey team of Calgary, Alberta, Canada)CFConservative FutureCFClimate and ForecastCFCerebrospinal FluidCFCarry FlagCFChinese FoodCFCapacity FactorCFCoal FiredCFCaliforniumCFColdfireCFCentrifugal ForceCFCarry ForwardCFCodice Fiscale (Italian: fiscal code)CFCardiac FailureCFCease-FireCFCienfuegos (postcode, Cuba)CFCold Front (meteorology)CFCall ForwardingCFCarrier FrequencyCFCombining Form (linguistics)CFCadillac FairviewCFCanadian French (language)CFCommon FunctionsCFChange FormCFCausal FactorCFChronic Future (band)CFCaptain Falcon (Nintendo)CFCold Feet (movie)CFCenter FrequencyCFChildfreeCFConsolidated Freightways (trucking company)CFCharcoal FilterCFCeltic Frost (band)CFCareer FieldCFCenter Fire (Ammunition)CFCustomer FocusCFCoopration Franaise (French)CFCommercial FilmCFComputing FacilityCFCommon Formats (United States Patient Safety and Quality Improvement Act of 2005)CFCenter Forward (soccer position)CFChange FilterCFClimbing Fiber (neuroscience)CFCalibration FactorCFCentral FacilityCFCharlie-Foxtrot (slang for Cluster Flock; polite form)CFCommunication FunctionCFCanadian FighterCFConsulting ForesterCFCoalition ForceCFCentral FilesCFChange FrequencyCFCompound FractureCFConfidence FactorCFCaucasian FemaleCFCoated Front (paper)CFCompression FactorCFComplementary FunctionCFCahiers FrancaisCFCommunications FlightCFCenter FundedCFCharter One Financial (NYSE Symbol)CFCentrally FundedCFCollection FunctionCFCitrovorum FactorCFConseco Fieldhouse (Indiana)CFCloud FractionCFCompletion FormCFCowboys Fringants (band)CFCo-facilitatorCFCathode FollowerCFContra Fidem (Latin: Against My Will)CFChristmas FactorCFCommonwealth FundingCFCold FinishCFCervical Fracture (neck)CFCarbolfuchsinCFCharleston ForgeCFCommodities FinanceCFConcept FormulationCFChicago ForceCFChart FieldCFConcept FeasibilityCFCompress-and-Forward (networking)CFConfinement FactorCFContinental Freight (trucking company)CFCounts Fingers (used with the 20/ scale after c. 20/400; ophthalmology)CFConstruction ForcesCFClearance FacilityCFCoupling FaultCFCenter of FlotationCFCompliance FindingCFComputation FacilityCFConsulting FellowCFConservation Farmers (Nepal)CFComit de FacilitationCFCumulus FractusCFCape Fear Railways, Inc.CFCalf-FedCfFrictional Resistance CoefficientCFConstructed Fare (airlines)CFConfrontation Field (ophthalmology)CFClinical FacilitatorCFContingency FlagCFContent FreezeCFCoin First PayphoneCFChikara FansubsCFCreative Fluff (website)CFConstruction Flagman (NYC Transit Authority)CFCondensate and FeedCFCab to FrameCFCable, Fuzing or FiringCFClarissima Foemina (Latin: Most Famous Lady, epigraphy)CFCluster Foulup (polite form; military slang)CFCompartmented FacilityCFImagery and Geospatial Community Management Office (NIMA)CFControlled FlawCFAir Post Registration (Scott Catalogue prefix; philately)CFCampus Focus, Student Organization (University of Akron)CFCassville Ferry (Wisconsin)CFCivilingenjors ForbundetCFCountermeasure FactorCFControlled Iteration First PassCFConversion FacilityCFConversion FactorCFConvertible FreighterCFCooling FanCFContractor-FurnishedCFContributing FactorCFControl FlowCFControl FreakCFControl FunctionsCFCore Fighter (Gundam)CFCore Foundation (Apple Computer)CFCorkscrew Follies (Rollercoaster Tycoon game)CFCorn FlakesCFCorn FlourCFCorporate FinanceCFCorporate FraudCFCorrectional FacilityCFCorrelation FactorCFCost and FreightCFCount ForwardCFCounter ForceCFCounterfireCFCrazy Frog (advertisement)CFCrest-Factor (distribution in multiplexed transmission signals)CFCritically FactorCFCrossfireCFCubic FootCFCumulative Frequency (statistics)CFContinuous FormCFCourt FilingCFCovering ForceCFCounty FairCFCoupling Facility (IBM mainframes)CFHundred FeetCFCustomer FulfilmentCFCustomer FurnishedCFCutoff FrequencyCFCyberfairCFCystic FibrosisCFCystic Fibrosis FoundationCFDrift Error Confidence Factor (US DoD)CFFlying Deck Cruiser (US Navy)CFFrench CanadianCFCivic Force (Japan)CFChaplain to the ForcesCFCauseway Ferry (US DoD)CFCarrier FreeCFCapita Financial (various companies)CFCompact Flash

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CF - Definition by AcronymFinder

Villainous Crush – TV Tropes

"Just fear me. Love me. Do as I say, and I shall be your slave." Jareth the Goblin King to Sarah, LabyrinthThis trope applies whenever a villainous character has romantic and/or sexual feelings for a heroic one.If this crush takes a turn for the perverse (and most such crushes tend towards this), this can lead to tropes like I Have You Now, My Pretty, Forceful Kiss, Bathe Her and Bring Her to Me, And Now You Must Marry Me, Scarpia Ultimatum, and Go-Go Enslavement where the villain tries to force their desires upon the character, although none of those require a Villainous Crush. Additionally, the villain may become a Stalker with a Crush. If the crush itself is a motivating factor in their Start of Darkness, then it's Love Makes You Evil.This trope isn't always negative, though. This trope can conversely be a very humanising trait for an Anti-Villain. The heroic character may become a Morality Pet, and can be fairly certain that their villainous admirer will never harm them or allow harm to come to them, barring certain exceptions. They may even step in to protect them from other villains who have fewer compunctions. Taken all the way, it may become Love Redeems.If the feelings are mutual or an actual relationship develops, then it's Dating Catwoman instead. When this is purely subtextual, see Foe Romance Subtext. The specific variant when the Evil Empress captures the hero to seduce him is Villainesses Want Heroes. Not to be confused with Foe Yay, which are purely audience reactions.No Real Life Examples, Please!Example subpages:Other examples:

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Light: Well, we've been outside talking for awhile and we've decided to make it official. I LOVE L! AND HE LOVES ME! I'm going to dump Misa so I can be with L!

Everyone: Gasp

Western Animation

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Villainous Crush - TV Tropes

Department of Physics and Astronomy – Department of …

Our department is known for the global impact our students, faculty and alumni make with their research and cutting-edge international collaboration.We have ample hands-on research opportunities for all of our studentsfrom undergraduates to graduate students and post doctoral fellows.

In addition to ensuring you have a solid foundation in all central areas of physics, you'll also have the opportunity to take specialized experimental courses in order to tailor your studies to your own interests or goals. You can also explore our interdisciplinary program, engineering physics. This program will give you the practical problem solving skills that an engineering degree teaches backed up by the theory that physics offers.

As a physics student, we encourage you to take part in some of our many hands-on research opportunities. You have the option to either work with one of our internationally recognized faculty or to design your own research program. These opportunities will give you the skills and confidence to compete in the job market or to pursue a graduate degree.

Einstein, Black Holes, and Gravitational Waves

Public Lecture with Nobel laureate Dr. Barry Barish

Thursday, February 8, 2018 at 7:00pm

W.W. Hootie Johnson Performance Hall

Darla Moore School of Business (Room #101)

Applications to the University of South Carolina are handled onlineand there are options for you to apply as an undergraduate or to graduate school.

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Book Review: Astrophysics For People In A Hurry – WSHU

According to reports, the famous astrophysicist, Neil deGrasse Tyson, wont be available to answer any questions during Monday's solar eclipsey. Tyson says hell be in an undisclosed location where he will experience this celestial phenomenon in private.

But Tyson did share his ideas about the cosmos and the people who have studied it, in his latest book, Astrophysics For People In A Hurry. Book critic Joan Baum has this review:Neil de Grasse Tyson knows hes a science rock star and loves it. Just look at that photo of him on the back flap of his newest book, Astrophysics for People in a Hurry. Hes smiling, standing in mock swagger mode before an astronomy display, his favorite planet Saturn in view. And hes delighted to trot out the fact that hes had an asteroid named for him, and that as far as he knows, his guys not heading toward Earth to do any damage.Neils not just content, however, with trying to explain difficult concepts about the cosmos, such as dark matter, the longest -standing unsolved mystery in astrophysics. He also wants to tease us into being hungry for science. And may we call him Neil since he often calls his favorite scientist Al? Though his admiration remains the highest for the theorist of the general theory of relativity, Neil does playfully say that for the most mind-warping ideas of 20th century physics, just blame Einstein. But Neil also talks about scientists most of us havent heard of, such as Fritz Swicky, who in the 1930s analyzed dark matter, and Vera Rubin, who in 1976 showed that the stars farthest from the center of their spiral galaxies orbit at the highest speeds. And who knew about exoplanets those celestial bodies that orbit around a star that is not the sun? They were first detected in 1995 and so far, scientists have identified over 3,000. As for Pluto no longer being a planet, Neils advice is simple, Get over it.For all its ease of style, however, Astrophysics For People In A Hurry, isnt that easy to digest especially for people in a hurry. Go slow. Re-read. Reflect. The author, who is the director of the Hayden Planetarium and the host of award-winning science programs, is a man on a mission, particularly evident in the eloquent last chapter of the book, Reflections on the Cosmic Perspective. Dare we admit, he begins, that our thoughts and behaviors spring from a belief that the world revolves around us? Apparently not. Yet evidence abounds. In other words, Neil is saying that many people, including some with influence and power, wont admit that human beings are not the center of the universe. Driven by inflated ego, a misreading of nature and a fear of seeming small and insignificant as a species some may not even see that we all are participants in a great cosmic chain of being. That differences of race, ethnicity, religion and culture, which as Neil said, Led our ancestors to slaughter one another, are part of a direct genetic link across species both living and extinct, extending back four billion years to the earliest single-celled organisms on earth.And the science deniers dont celebrate as they should, Neil says, being part of an evolving universe of interrelated forces and matter, a humbling perspective that might make them more curious and caring about the planet we all share.Joan Baum is a book critic who lives in Springs Long Island.

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Book Review: Astrophysics For People In A Hurry - WSHU

Queen’s Brian May Will Rock You With 3-D book, Adam Lambert Tour, Astrophysics, Animal Rescue – Newsweek

Its a project that was in the back of my mind for a while because I had all these 3-D pictures that Id taken over the years, Queen guitarist Brian May tells me in a posh Manhattan hotel suite. He grabs a strawberry from the coffee table and continues. I was thinking, Does it constitute some kind of history, or is it just snaps?

The former is certainly the case in his new book, Queen in 3-D, which captures the thrilling history of his band with over 300 previously unseen stereoscopic photographs. (Stereoscopic, or 3-D, photography re-creates the illusion of depth by utilizing the binocularity of our vision.) The impressive book includes his own reflective narrative (May didnt need a ghostwriter), and comes with an OWL 3-D viewer, which brings out the full effect of these images.

The cover photo, and many of the images within, focuseson Queens iconic lead singer, Freddie Mercury, who died in 1991 after battling AIDS. Mercurys vocalssometimes operatic (Queens mix of rock and opera is groundbreaking), other times roaring with rock furyand his theatrical stage personamade him one of musics most beloved frontmen.

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He had a great vision for music of all kinds, but especially for harmonies, like you hear in Bohemian Rhapsody, May says.

British rock group Queen in concert. From left: Freddie Mercury, John Deacon and Brian May. Express Newspapers/Getty

Queens music blended elements of prog rock, heavy metal, pop, folk and classical in unique ways on albums like A Night at the Opera, News of the World,Jazz and The Game.

And Mays guitar work and songwriting often defined what was signature in Queen. Combining technical virtuosity with richly orchestrated multitracking, Mays playing, with its inventive harmonies,emotive melodies, soaring leads and clever rhythm work, has sometimes landed him on Greatest Guitarists of All Time lists. His unmistakeablesound is made possible by his Red Special, the guitar his father, Harold May, an electronics engineer, helped him build. He was very proud of the fact that wed done it together, as I still am, May tells me.

Young Man Blues: A pre-Queen Brian May. QPL

Following Mercurys death, Queen took an extended break. But in 2006, its surviving membersteamed up with former Bad Company vocalist Paul Rodgers and hit the road as Queen + Paul Rodgers. It wasnt exactly Queen, but it did rock.

And since 2011, former American Idol finalist Adam Lambert has been the guy in the frontman role. His powerful vocals and flamboyant stage presence work well with Queens music. The first tour billed as Queen + Adam Lambert was in June 2014, and a few weeks ago, the band wrapped up the U.S. leg of its latest tour, which will head to Europe in November before reachingNew Zealand and Australia in mid-February 2018. (Heres the full tour itinerary.)

Queen's Brian May, left, and Roger Taylor perform in Barcelona in 2016. QPL

In concert, May is still very much a guitar hero. At the Queen + Adam Lambert show in Newark, New Jersey, last month, he launched into a lengthy solo, and I noticed some licks from Brighton Rock, the blistering leadoff track on 1974s Sheer Heart Attack. Theres a little bit of that in there, Mays tells me. Its always different. Its just what I feel, really. During thatportion of the show, visual effects made it seem as if May was soaring through outer space.

Theres a reason for that.

The man whom many call Dr. Mayand whose father built him not only a guitarbut a telescope as wellreceived his Ph.D. in astrophysics from Imperial College London in 2007. Eight years later, he became involved with NASA as a science team collaborator with the New Horizons Pluto mission, and he even used his stereoscopic photography skills on images of that planet.

May was also a co-founder of Asteroid Day, and one of those big rocks is actually named after him (Asteroid 52665 Brianmay). Same goes for Mercury (Asteroid 17473 Freddiemercury). Now doesnt Queens Dont Stop Me Now seem all the more relevant (Im a shooting star leaping through the sky/Like a tiger defying the laws of gravity, Mercury sings)?

Guitarist Brian May, right, and lead singer Freddie Mercury, onstage in the '70s. QPL

In his conversation with Newsweek, May also sheds light on his animal welfare work (when doesthis guysleep?), including his efforts to stop fox hunting in the U.K., and the significance of Frank, the robot on the cover of News of the World (and on the T-shirt May is wearing during our talk). Frank makes a number of appearances at each Queen + Adam Lambert gig, which makes sense since this year marks the 40th anniversary of that amazing album.

Drummer Roger Taylor, guitarist Brian May and singer Adam Lambert perform with Queen at Prudential Center in Newark, New Jersey, on July 26, while Frank looks on. Michael Loccisano/Getty

How did Adam get the job? Well, the funny thing is we didnt look for him. Then one day somebody rang me up and said, Theres this guy on American Idol, and hes just done Bohemian Rhapsody,and youve got to see him because hes the guy who should go out and sing for you.

What was your first reaction? As you do, I looked on YouTube and thought, Hmmm, yeah.And at the same time, somebody had told Roger [Taylor, Queens drummer/singer]. Then we got a phone call from American Idol people saying, Will you come over and play with the two finalists?And so we did. Adam was one, and Adam did not win [onAmerican Idol].

Queen + Adam Lambert perform in Brussels in 2016. QPL

What was so captivating about Adams singing and stage persona? Its kind of funny looking back on it. The other guy [Kris Allen] was great too. But I think it was obvious that Adam had that kind of special, indefinable thing going for him, something unique, and almost scary. Hes on the edge, a bit like Freddy was. Some people could take him, and some people [couldnt]. And everybody deifies Freddy now, but if wed been sitting here 40 years ago, people were all out to get him. They were all like, Who does he think he is?

So Adams a bit like that. A lot of people look at Adam and think, What the hell does he think he is? But when they see him in concert, they get it. They fall in love with him. I think because he has this insane confidence, but also a humility. Its like he has both ends of the spectrum. And its genuine, you know? Hes very respectful. But he also knows what he can do, and thats a powerful thing.

'Queen in 3-D' was published by the London Stereoscopic Company. Paul Harmer

How did the idea for Queen in 3-D come about? It was in the back of my mind for a while because I had all these 3-D pictures that Id taken over the years. What happened was, my team kind of caught hold of the idea and they said, Look, you should take this seriously. And I have an archivethis sounds very swank, doesnt itand an amazing guy looks after my stereoscopic collection [of photography], curates it and researches it. He said, Look, if you just let me go through your houseand well see what we have.

So he ransacked the entire place and found all kinds of stuff that I had no idea I still had, including some bits of film that were processed but not mounted. And in one of those rolls we found this portrait of Freddy [Mercury], which is on pageI cant remember. This lovely one of him. And we gradually found more and more stuff. Then we thought, Not only is there enough for a book, theres probably too much, so were going to have to get really selective.

What came up for you while putting it all together? Seeing these picturesthe essence of the 3-D picture is its much more than a snap, its almost like a tableau that you could walk into and see the things that you were seeing at the timeand all sorts of memories came out.

'Queen in 3-D' London Stereoscopic Company/Brian May

How did the process of creating the book go? You get to the hard part where you really have to shape the book, and I started scratching my head about which dates were which and what came in what order. And theres a great joyful process of discovery in writing a book. You have all this stuff and its like nearly a book, and then theres this very hard piece where its the journey from nearly a book to a book. Then I thought, Ah, Im done now.But actually no, because youve got to sell the thing.

I attended the Queen + Adam Lambert show in New Jersey recently. Tell me about the show.

The stage reminded me a little of Queens stage on the 1978 Jazz tour, which I attended at the Nassau Coliseum [in Uniondale, New York]. Wow, all right!It is an interesting little vehicle we built there. Im very proud of it. For the first time, we actually put nine months of preparation in before we set foot on the stage, and I think it shows. In the past, we would throw a couple of ideas at the set designers and then arrive in the rehearsal room with a look on our faces like, Oh, what should we do now?

Queen and Adam Lambert perform onstage during the North American Tour kickoff at Gila River Arena in Glendale, Arizona, on June 23. Christopher Polk/Getty Images for Miracle Productions LLP

This time, we thought it through more. You want to be conscious of the past, but you want to be conscious that its an organic thing, a new thing, and you have a new generation to play to. Theres so much new video and sound technology. Theyre all new toys. We were always a band that embraced every toy we could lay our hands on because its fun to do that.

What were some of the key elements that made Freddie such an amazing frontman? Well, the answer that comes to mind to me ishe was a self-made man. He had a vision of himself which was cast-iron. He knew where he wanted to be, he had a total focus on how he wanted to live, to create, to be perceived, to workand to play.

Singer Freddie Mercury during a Queen performance at London's Earls Court in June 1977. Gary Merrin/Keystone/Getty

All of that was very much part of him, even when we first met him. He wasnt a star when we met him, but a guy working in a boot store, and he was also at art school doing graphic design. But he had an insane confidence and belief. He behaved like he was a rock star. Not in an arrogant way, but just in a very kind of innocent way. Of course Im going to be a rock star, that kind of thing. You know, we were all kids. The funny thing was, as Roger will tell you too, he had this belief in himself as a singer, but wasnt yet a singer because he hadnt had the chance to mold himself. And when we first...Im cutting to the chase.

Go for it. When we first played with him, he ran around like a whirling dervish and kind of screamed, and we were a bit taken aback. We thought, Oh, my God, the guy has talent, but hes very untamed. Is this ever going to work? What happened was, when we first got into a studio, Freddie started to hear himself coming back off the tape, and there was this enormous cataclysm, because he didnt like what he heard. Hes like, Thats not good enough. Let me try this.

Queen in concert in the 1970s. QPL

In the space of a few months, he had transformed himself into a guy who not only had a great instrumentbut actually knew how to use it. And that process went on for quite a few years, until hes in the studio doing things like the introduction to You Take My Breath Away[from 1976s A Day at the Races], which we play in the [Queen + Adam Lambert] show.

Whats particularly striking about that song? Its a priceless gem. Normally, its the four of us singing harmonies, because we did that; well, the three of us. John [Deacon, Queens bassist] was kind of not interested [in singing]. But this was just Freddie, and he was in there with Mike Stone, a very unsung hero engineer, and he would just do track after track, multitracking himself. You could hear that on this beautiful little intro. I dont know how many voices there are, probably 30 to 40, but its all Freddie, molding this beautiful sound sculpture. The harmonies were unusual.

What often occurred when you, the guitarist, combined forces with Freddie, the singer? Its hard to say. Its a four-way thing, not just two-way. But Freddie did have a sort of vision of me. In the very early days, he said, You are what I want. You are my Jimi Hendrix, and we will do this thing.I think he had more belief in me than I had. And I remember that once wed done a few albums, Freddie said, Ive got something for you, darling. Ive got this little cassette.He had spent hours and hours in the studio putting together all of the solos that Id done up to that time. He said, Just listen to this.And hed made it into a continuous sort of guitar solo thing.

Wow! That is wonderful. I lost it.

Oh no! I never lose things, but I cant find that.

Brian May hits the red zone in concert. QPL

But that was him. He would surprise you in all sorts of ways. And he did have a vision. And not just for the musicbut for the presentation as well. Freddie was very conscious. Well, I guess we were all conscious in different ways; Im the guitar player, and I have a different kind of consciousness, and Roger, whos very much the rock star drummer, has a different kind of awareness of where we sat in music in general. John [Deacon] has a consciousness of the technical stuff and business too, which is important, and he also became an amazing bass player and a songwriter.

We all turned into songwriters. I guess Id already started writing songs before I met Freddie. But the four of us were all very keen to create, and it was quite competitive. We were mutually supportive, but also quite combative, like John comes in with something and goes, I want to do this.And Roger goes, Thats crap, thats disco, we dont do disco. Thats rubbish. This kind of confrontation [led to] Another One Bites the Dust, and everybody loved it.

A Day at the Studio: Freddie Mercury, left, and Brian May. QPL

There was always support, but also conflict. I think that's what made us what we were, what made us strong. It was a big rejection process of That isnt good enough.We can do that better.In the end, there was enough mutual respect that the guy who originally brought the song would have the final say.

And it was a process that did us proud all the way up to a certain point where we realized there was an element missing. We thought the thing thats missing is that we ought to be sharing everything, knowingly, with the creative process. So we made this big decision, which was every song that got used in the album would be credited to the four of us, as opposed to the guy who brought it in. And that was a big, big thing. It changed the way we worked.

When did that happen? It happened with things like I Want It All. I brought I Want It All [from 1989s The Miracle] in. It was a sort of recharging thing for us. The funny thing is, theres a price to pay. Because somebodys using I Want It All, they want to use it for a sports anthem at the moment. And people are bringing me these versions of it. And Im thinking, Oh, thats really nice, theyre using my song.Then Im thinking, Its not really my song, its Queens song, because its credited to the four of us.So theres a little bit of a price to pay, but thats OK.

Guitarist Brian May QPL

Some of Queens most thrilling music features operatic parts. Bohemian Rhapsody is a quintessential example. Theres a lot of elements. As kids, we were brought up in an environment which was so different from the way things are today. If youre a kid and youre into one kind of music, thats what you plug into. But in our day, there was nothing like that. There was only one radio station, to start. And what we heard on the radio was dictated by what just a few people would bring to it.

Youre speaking about the BBC? Yeah, and it was incredibly broad. We were brought up with everything from Mantovani, which is sort of light classical, to proper classicalTchaikovsky, Beethoven, whatever. And this kind of strange English kind of world which is music hall. Its got George Formby, a Lancaster boy with an amazing, kind of naughty sense of humor, but an incredible technique on banjo [May plays air banjo ukulele for a moment]. So I grew up listening to a lot of that because my dad played ukulele. But also there would be Uncle Macs Childrens Favourites[a BBC radio show] onSaturday morning. Uncle Mac was the guy who would play requests from children. And there was Lonnie Donegan.

How did the music of Lonnie Donegan influence Queen? He is a very interesting phenomenon. I mention him especially because hes part of the English development towards what we are. Hes singing songs like My Old Mans a Dustman and Does Your Chewing Gum Lose Its Flavor (on the Bedpost Over Night)? [May plays a bit of air uke that resembles his strumming on Good Company from A Night at the Opera.]Hes been to America, hes picked up all kinds of stuff, and hes basically bringing blues to England. It becomes this thing called skiffle. That was the first exposure England had to the American blues. I grew up with this amazing kind of saturation of all different styles.

Hollywood

Theres also plenty of terrific piano parts in Queens repertoire. Freddie and I had piano lessons, strangely enough. We didnt know each other in those days, but we both had four years of piano lessons. And of course you get exposed to a lot of classical stuff. No one would teach you pop in those days.

And no one would teach you guitar. The guitar was outlawed at my school. You were not allowed to bring a guitar to school, so we used to hide and play in our lunchtime. And thered be some guy on the lookout to make sure nobody discovered it. It was something sort of degenerate to play guitar. So its unthinkable that you would have guitar lessons, but you had piano lessons, and I had violin lessons. Its kind of an unimaginably different background from now, isnt it?

Queen's Freddie Mercury, left, and Brian May are photographed onstage in the '70s. QPL

Queen continued to progress on News of the World. In Queens recent concert, the robot on the cover of the album makes quite an appearance. Frank is named after his creator, Frank Kelly Freas. Were always on the lookout for connections. And Roger [Taylor] is particularly good at this stuff. Roger picked up a science fiction magazine called Astounding Science Fiction, from the 50s, and on the front of it is a picture of a robot, this guy, and in his hand, hes got blood on it, hes picked up a soldier. And this robot is a character who looks very fearsome and frightening because hes huge and hes mechanical, but actually what hes done is he picks up this soldier and hes injured him by accident or he was already injured, I dont know. But hes not picking him up because he wants to harm him, but because he wants to fix him.

It was a very appealing idea to us. It connected to some of the things we were into. So we got in touch with the artist, Frank Kelly Freas, and said, Will you re-create this robot for us and make a cover for us? And he did. Franks got me in his hands, strangely, enough, and Rogerhes dropping him.

Island

The audience was thrilled when Frank appears onstage. He picks you up in his hand. And Adam sits on his head, and says, This guy gives great head! Perfect! The Queen archivist was saying to me, Look, this is the 40th anniversary of News of the World. Then we picked up this album, and I went, You know what, it would be so great if we did theme [parts of the show] on this anniversary. And look at this guy, wouldnt it be great if he came to life? I thought, Wouldnt it be great if he picked me up? In his hand. And they were like, Yeah, we can make that happen.

Frank is there in peoples minds the whole time, and we love it. It gives the show a kind of theatrical overtone. And I know Freddy wouldve loved it. He loved all that theater stuff.

Sheer Ax Attack: Bassist John Deacon, left, Freddie Mercury and Brian May. QPL

Some of the most moving moments of Queens current live show occur when you perform Love of My Life on a 12-string acoustic guitar and sing. The song originally featured Freddies beautiful vocals. I love doing that. Its exactly the way I used to do it with Freddie, so its nice. And I get to sing. Im not the world's greatest singer, but I enjoy that moment of communication. Then Freddie [via holographic effect] is the jewel in the crown. From certain angles, it looks like he is actually with me. I can sort of communicate with him because I know what hes going to do. I know when hes going to put his hand out.

Sometimes its very jolly, and I just think, Ah, this is great. Hey, Fred. And sometimes, it gets me and I think, Shit, hes not really there. Its funny the things that go through your mind.... Thats the moment when all the things come out of the box, and I think, Wow, were here 20 years after Freddys gone, and hes still there large as life. And hes still emotionally connecting with people.

Guitarist/songwriter Brian May performs with Queen + Adam Lambert in Barcelona in 2016. QPL

Your guitar work is very distinctive. And you play a guitar that you created with your father. Yeah, its very much part of me really. My dad was also a good musician. He was a great piano playeran instinctive piano player. All through the war, he played piano and ukulele as well. And when the war was over, he had a wife and a child on the way. It was me. I said to him, Why didnt you continue playing the piano? He said, I couldnt. I had to geta job, I had to make money to bring up my family and to get a mortgage and stuff.

But he was a great scientist and engineer, my dad, so thats the career he followed. It was like a proper job, if you like. He was in the civil service. He was an electronics draftsman. He worked on blind landing equipment for airplanes. Anyways, the reason Im telling you this is because he supported everything I did. He was a great father to me.

Thats wonderful. And he taught me about electronics. We couldnt afford a guitar, so we made a guitar together. It took us two years. And he was very proud of the fact that wed done it together, as I still am. And then I continued my schooling. Now the thing is, my father had given up his sort of artistic side so that I could go to school and I could have clothes to wear, you know, because we were poor.

So when I went through school, he was proud of the fact that I was good at science as well. I went on to get a degree in science at the Imperial College [London]. So hes really happy, he thinks things have turned out well. One day, I say, Dad, Im going to give all this up, and Im going to go out and play guitar.Hes so horrified because he feels like I have thrown away everything he fought to give me.

All that education. Yeah, everything that he gave up his artistic side to do. So I think he had a terrible time and I didnt realize how painful it was for him. We hardly spoke for about a year and a half. It was really hard while we went off and started Queen.

The idea that I would go off and be a pop star instead of becoming a scientist or an engineerit was just unthinkable to my dad. So we had this crazy situation where hes enabled me to make the guitar, but he doesnt want me to go out and become the guy that plays that guitar. It was a hard thing for me.

Rock Royalty: Guitarist Brian May with Queen in concert. QPL

And it only resolved itself when we played Madison Square Garden, and I flew my mom and dad out on the Concord, which is an airplane that hed worked onbut could never afford to fly on. So I put my mom and dad on it, and put them up in the Plaza Hotel and said order room service. He came to the show, and after, he came back and shook my hand. My dad was kind of formal. He said, OK, I get it now. Which was a big moment for me.

These days, you have so much going in your life. Theres an insane amount going on now.

Has your study of astrophysics blended with your role in Queen? I dont know if they blend, but I think they complement each other. I like cross-pollinating everything, you know? At school, there was this terrible divide between arts and science. Like if you were an artist, you could not take a scientific course, and vice versa. So I remember having this terrible argument with one of my teachers. I said, I want to do both. And he said, You cant. If youre a scientist, you have to do this, and you have to learn German so that you can read scientific papers.

They had it all mapped out. You cant take the art courses, and you have to give up music as a subject, which I did. SoI sort of rebelled against that all my life. And I had to make the choice at some point, and it was clear that I was a better musician than I was a scientist, in my mind.

Brian May during a sound check. QPL

Eventually, I did three years undergraduate physics, with astronomy as a part of it, and I did four years postgraduate research in zodiacal dust, at Imperial College. And thats the point where I had to decide, because Queen was already going. I was teaching math to make some money in a comprehensive school.

What was going through your mind at that point? I thought, If I dont do music now, Ill never do it, the opportunity will go. So we went off, and we did this insane Queen thing, which couldve completely disappeared down the plughole, but didnt.

But what about your science studies? I wrote up a couple of papers, which was good, and they were published, so at least the work was out there, but I didnt finish the [Ph.D.] thesis. And it was always in the back of my mind.... Theres an amazing man named Sir Patrick Moore, who is the father of English astronomy. And I was lucky enough to become friendly with him, and he became like an uncle to me. He said, Brian, youve never finished your Ph.D., why dont you go back and do it now? I said, Patrick, I cant. Its all gone from my head. Ive been a musician for 30 years, its not going to work. He said, Dont be ridiculous, of course you can do it.

Musician and author Brian May poses for a portrait at a signing of his astronomy book 'Bang! The Complete History of the Universe' in Los Angeles on at Book Soup on May 6, 2008. Charley Gallay/Getty

So I started talking about it in interviews, like we are, and somebody posted it. And the head of astrophysics at Imperial College at that time read the interview and phoned me up and said, If youre serious about wanting to finish up your Ph.D., I will be your supervisor.

Wow! No one can say no to that. So I ditched everything for a year, just absolutely cleared the decks, went inand did it. And it was tough, because he wasnt easy on me.

Was he a Queen fan? Not in the least. But he enjoyed what I did. Getting the Ph.D. opened all these doors. Suddenly I could go back to some of the places I had been when I was doing the astronomy, and I remet with all these guys. The funny thing is, so many of these scientists are very much like metheyre very much into music. So we have a lot in common.

Oh, thats interesting. Then I got to know a lot of these NASA guys who run these experiments, these things like Rosetta, where they rendezvous with a comet, and New Horizons, where they rendezvous with Pluto. And Im the luckiest man in the world because I got invited to go and see their operations. I was in the control room when New Horizons was passing Pluto. I saw those images come in. I was able to grab a couple and make a stereo pair of them. And the guy whos head of the project instigator for Rosetta is the biggest heavy metal freak Ive ever met in my life. His bodys covered in tattoos, half of which are, like, Einstein and scientists, but the other half is heavy metal, you know?

So now I find there isnt that dividing line. They all come to our shows. I love when the NASA guys come. And I was happy to show them what weve done in my guitar solo.

Brian May performs onstage during Queen + Adam Lambert for iHeartRadio Live at the iHeartRadio Theater on June 16, 2014 in Burbank, California. Kevin Winter/Getty Images for Clear Channel)

The space, celestial scenes that are projected... Yeah, its a little journey. Its nice that I dont feel alone anymore, because all of these people feel the same as me, that art and science should be mixed and a complete, rounded human being needs to have an appreciation of both.

Your animal welfare work is another big part of your life. When did your passion for it begin? When I got a message from this lady, where I live in the country, saying, Can I come on your property and build some runs to soft-release some foxes? I didnt know what it all was. She already ran this wonderful wildlife rescue, and all the animals that came in would be medically seen and restored to health, but then its like, What do you do? You dont want to keep them as pets, you want them to have a life back out there.

What did you learn from her? She explained that if you take an animal from its environment and then you fix it physically and then put it out in the middle of a forest, its probably not going to survive. So this soft-release thing is really important, and the run is a place where they can recover physically, but they also are in contact with the wildlife thats around. You gradually open the door and they will go out, and theyll keep coming back for food. But theyll be able to learn how to take care of themselves all over again. Finally comes the day when they dont come back. So thats what changed my life. I said, Yes, you can build anything you want, well do all these runs.

Queen's Brian May holds a baby fox rescued by the Secret World Wildlife Rescue centre in Somerset in Midsomer Norton, England, on April 24, 2010. The guitarist is a passionate campaigner for animal welfare. Matt Cardy/Getty

You and Anne Brummer founded the organization Save Me, which campaigns against a repeal of the Hunting Act in the U.K. Fox hunting is still outlawed in Britain, yet Prime Minister Theresa May wants to bring it back. Anne had been involved in the political side of things. Shed been around when the Hunting Act was brought in, at great pain, in Britain. Under Tony Blairs government, the Hunting Act was brought in, which outlawed hunting foxes. The sad thing is, it still goes on undercover. And we have a prime minister whos in favor of fox huntingand would like to bring it back. But shes failed to do that. Shes failed at everything, basically.

I became involved with Anne on the political side. But we spent half of our time actually physically on the ground, rescuing animals. And we started going into the House of Parliament, and lobbying MPs, to support our cause.

Brian May leads an anti-fox hunting rally for PETA on July 14, 2015 in London. Stuart C. Wilson/Getty

Were the MPs surprised that Queens guitarist was lobbying in the House of Parliament? A lot of these MPs wouldnt be interested, except that theyre interested in talking to me because perhaps their kids were into Queen. So Queen is a fantastic way of opening doors.... So being a sort of well-known face in music has been very useful. What you do once the doors opened is a different matter, because theres plenty of celebrities who will just put their name to causes. But all these MPs discovered that I wasnt one of those people, that I was a person who wanted to work at it every day and was committed to changing the way animals are treated.

See the original post here:

Queen's Brian May Will Rock You With 3-D book, Adam Lambert Tour, Astrophysics, Animal Rescue - Newsweek

Solar eclipse gives Buellton elementary students crash course in … – Santa Ynez Valley News

Students at Oak Valley Elementary School in Buellton started school just three days before the alignment of the Earth, moon and sun gave them their first look at a solar eclipse.

Yet in that short time, they had absorbed a lot of information about not only the mechanics of the phenomenon, but things like the dangers of improperly viewing the event and what ancient people believed about eclipses.

Syzygy, a partial eclipse where it kind of looks like a crescent the zone of totality in the U.S., which is from Oregon on down to South Carolina, said 10-year-old Elijah Navarro, as he ticked off some of the subjects he and fellow fifth-graders had been studying less than half an hour before the eclipse was scheduled to begin Monday morning.

I cant wait to see it, since we have glasses, Elijah added. But we wont see a total eclipse. Well mostly see a partial, like 60 percent. It will look like a crescent moon.

* * *

Getting those eclipse glasses for the entire school was not an easy task for Principal Hans Rheinschild. In fact, it proved impossible. Rheinschild said he could only get enough for half the school.

We have partners, and we each get to use them for 30 seconds, explained Katelyn Melby, also 10, and a fifth-grader. Only 400 (pairs) were up to date.

Elijah added, We got a list, and it named some glasses that it said do not work.

Ive seen them and theyre very dark, said 10-year-old Tanner Rhodes, one of Katelyns classmates. You cant use 3-D glasses. Even though they look the same, theyre not.

Rheinschild, who is also principal of Jonata Middle School in Buellton, said he was impressed by how much knowledge the teachers had imparted and the students had been able to absorb.

Its only the fourth day of school, he said, as he waited for the students to begin assembling in the quad. But Ive been going into the classrooms a lot, and every classroom I go into, theyre doing a lesson about the eclipse. I think every school in America is.

* * *

The trio of fifth-graders had moved on to talking about what ancient people thought about eclipses.

The first people that ever viewed an eclipse drew what it looked like where they were on rock, Katelyn said.

It looked like an octopus, Elijah interjected. But with more than eight legs.

They thought the world was ending, added Tanner.

They put up sacrifices because they thought that would save the world, Elijah said.

Some people thought it was bad luck and some thought it was good luck, Katelyn continued. Some thought that the gods were taking the sun.

By now Monday's eclipse has begun.

Look at the difference in the shadows, Katelyn said, pointing at the gray images of the three projected on the concrete corridor outside their classrooms. Usually theyre darker than that.

Then they showed off something else theyd learned. If you dont have viewing glasses you can improvise a viewer by crossing your spread fingers into a waffle pattern and looking at the shadow that projects.

The shadows make little circles, Katelyn said, looking down at the crescent shapes that appeared in the edges of each square between their fingers.

* * *

Lined up across the quad facing the multipurpose room and away from the sun, the students were greeted by Rheinschild.

Welcome to the eclipse of 2017, he said. This is a very special thing. You may not get to see another eclipse until youre as old as I am, maybe in your 50s or 60s.

Whispered wows rose from the rows of students.

The main thing about today is safety, safety, safety, he continued, once again going through the viewing procedure.

All of the students would remain facing away from the sun, then half the students would put on the glasses, turn around and look at the eclipse for 30 seconds. Then, they would turn back around and hand the glasses to their partners, who would do the same thing.

Then it was time for the viewing to begin, and as the glasses were passed back and forth and the students turned, the same ooohs and aaahs arose from small faces repeatedly awed by what they were seeing.

* * *

Although the impression of the celestial event on the students was undeniably satisfying, the almost once-in-a-lifetime aspect of the eclipse might not be a bad thing for Rheinschild, who spent a lot of time preparing for it.

As a principal, Ive never had to deal with an eclipse before, he said. Its been a learning experience, definitely. Ill be retired by the time the next one comes along.

Continued here:

Solar eclipse gives Buellton elementary students crash course in ... - Santa Ynez Valley News

On the Bright Side: Chemistry journal to feature work of Hartwick scholars – Oneonta Daily Star

The International Journal of Quantum Chemistry will feature research conducted by a team led by a Hartwick College professor and assisted by two Hartwick students in the cover story of the Sept. 15 issue.

Associate Professor of Chemistry John Dudek led a team that included professors based in Germany at the University of Cologne Laboratory Astrophysics Group and others. The article, Carbon-sulfur chains: A high-resolution infrared and quantum-chemical study of C3S and SC7S, concerns the detection of carbon sulfur molecules in space.

One of the more interesting aspects of space is its chemistry, Dudek said. What molecules exist in space and how did these molecules form?

Each molecule has its own spectral fingerprint, which astronomers need to locate a molecule in space.

We both need each other its difficult for astronomers to find some of these molecules, he said.

The team recreated two carbon-sulfur compounds and determined their high-resolution infrared fingerprints using spectroscopy and computer modeling. The results were the first such fingerprints of the SC7S molecule.

Hartwick undergraduates Justine Kozubal and Sierra Bentley assisted in the research, although they are not listed as co-authors. Provost Michael G. Tannenbaum, a former president of the council on undergraduate research, says Dr. Dudek regularly engages students in experiential and collaborative research activities.

Kozubal spent four weeks last summer working in the Cologne laboratory on an Emerson scholarship, and she and Dudek co-authored a paper on another molecule from their research. Bentley spent four weeks this summer working in the laboratory as part of a Duffy scholarship, and a forthcoming paper on the molecule she studied will feature Bentley as a co-author.

Kozubal, who graduated this spring with bachelors degrees in chemistry and physics, had recently taken an astrophysics course when she began her research in Germany.

It was a graduate level astrophysics lab and I hadnt seen anything like it before, she said. But I learned how to use it and take data looking for the carbon sulfur molecules.

The experience helped her decide to apply for graduate school, and she will begin classes this fall at the University of Massachusetts Amherst in their physical chemistry Ph.D. program.

Dudek and other students involved in the collaboration with Cologne presented their results at the International Symposium of Molecular Spectroscopy, and she was invited to the regional American Chemical Society conference in Binghamton last fall.

Dr. Dudek said he hopes to return to Germany with another student in January and summer 2018 to continue the collaboration.

I think its a great opportunity for students to do research at a world-class institution. I would like to continue our collaboration for as long as possible. he said.

There are still some carbon sulfur molecules that need to be investigated, he said in a Hartwick media release. Afterwards, we will probably start investigating carbon silicone molecules that might exist in space.

Provost Michael Tannenbaum said in the release that the publication of the article in the International Journal of Quantum Chemistry underscores the ability of science faculty at primarily undergraduate institutions, like Hartwick, to undertake meaningful and impactful research.

Erin Jerome, staff writer, may be reached at (607) 441-7221, or at ejerome@thedailystar.com. Follow her on Twitter at @DS_ErinJ .

Go here to read the rest:

On the Bright Side: Chemistry journal to feature work of Hartwick scholars - Oneonta Daily Star

Astronomy and Astrophysics departments prepare Penn State … – The Daily Collegian Online

The common advice to children is do not stare into the sun.

On Monday, the Penn State community and millions of others around the country will be doing exactly that, viewing a rare anomaly: a solar eclipse.

Although State College will only be able to see approximately 80 percent of the eclipse, that is still enough to see the beauty and rarity of the phenomenon.

The eclipse is to begin at approximately 1:15 p.m., will be close to totality at 2:35 p.m. and will end around 4 p.m.

The Astronomy and Astrophysics department has been gearing up all week to prepare for the event, and will even go as far as hosting viewing parties on top of laboratories and handing out eclipse glasses around campus.

Students may go to these locations on campus to safely watch the eclipse: Davey Laboratory rooftop observatory, The Arboretum at Penn State's H.O. Smith Botanic Gardens, along with Mount Nittany Middle School at 656 Brandywine Dr. in State College.

At its peak, spectators will only be able to see a sliver or crescent part of the sun. However, in order to look up at the eclipse, it is necessary to wear the specific protective glasses to ensure no damage to one's eyes.

The United States has not witnessed a total solar eclipse since 1979, 38 years ago. Astronomers everywhere have labeled todays eclipse to be a generational event.

Because the eclipse will only be visible if skies are clear, the Astronomy & Astrophysics department will cancel the viewing events if the weather wares on the cloudy or overcast side, the department said in a news release.

Excerpt from:

Astronomy and Astrophysics departments prepare Penn State ... - The Daily Collegian Online

Solar eclipse gives Buellton elementary students crash course in … – Santa Maria Times (subscription)

Students at Oak Valley Elementary School in Buellton started school just three days before the alignment of the Earth, moon and sun gave them their first look at a solar eclipse.

Yet in that short time, they had absorbed a lot of information about not only the mechanics of the phenomenon, but things like the dangers of improperly viewing the event and what ancient people believed about eclipses.

Syzygy, a partial eclipse where it kind of looks like a crescent the zone of totality in the U.S., which is from Oregon on down to South Carolina, said 10-year-old Elijah Navarro, as he ticked off some of the subjects he and fellow fifth-graders had been studying less than half an hour before the eclipse was scheduled to begin Monday morning.

I cant wait to see it, since we have glasses, Elijah added. But we wont see a total eclipse. Well mostly see a partial, like 60 percent. It will look like a crescent moon.

* * *

Getting those eclipse glasses for the entire school was not an easy task for Principal Hans Rheinschild. In fact, it proved impossible. Rheinschild said he could only get enough for half the school.

We have partners, and we each get to use them for 30 seconds, explained Katelyn Melby, also 10, and a fifth-grader. Only 400 (pairs) were up to date.

Elijah added, We got a list, and it named some glasses that it said do not work.

Ive seen them and theyre very dark, said 10-year-old Tanner Rhodes, one of Katelyns classmates. You cant use 3-D glasses. Even though they look the same, theyre not.

Rheinschild, who is also principal of Jonata Middle School in Buellton, said he was impressed by how much knowledge the teachers had imparted and the students had been able to absorb.

Its only the fourth day of school, he said, as he waited for the students to begin assembling in the quad. But Ive been going into the classrooms a lot, and every classroom I go into, theyre doing a lesson about the eclipse. I think every school in America is.

* * *

The trio of fifth-graders had moved on to talking about what ancient people thought about eclipses.

The first people that ever viewed an eclipse drew what it looked like where they were on rock, Katelyn said.

It looked like an octopus, Elijah interjected. But with more than eight legs.

They thought the world was ending, added Tanner.

They put up sacrifices because they thought that would save the world, Elijah said.

Some people thought it was bad luck and some thought it was good luck, Katelyn continued. Some thought that the gods were taking the sun.

By now Monday's eclipse has begun.

Look at the difference in the shadows, Katelyn said, pointing at the gray images of the three projected on the concrete corridor outside their classrooms. Usually theyre darker than that.

Then they showed off something else theyd learned. If you dont have viewing glasses you can improvise a viewer by crossing your spread fingers into a waffle pattern and looking at the shadow that projects.

The shadows make little circles, Katelyn said, looking down at the crescent shapes that appeared in the edges of each square between their fingers.

* * *

Lined up across the quad facing the multipurpose room and away from the sun, the students were greeted by Rheinschild.

Welcome to the eclipse of 2017, he said. This is a very special thing. You may not get to see another eclipse until youre as old as I am, maybe in your 50s or 60s.

Whispered wows rose from the rows of students.

The main thing about today is safety, safety, safety, he continued, once again going through the viewing procedure.

All of the students would remain facing away from the sun, then half the students would put on the glasses, turn around and look at the eclipse for 30 seconds. Then, they would turn back around and hand the glasses to their partners, who would do the same thing.

Then it was time for the viewing to begin, and as the glasses were passed back and forth and the students turned, the same ooohs and aaahs arose from small faces repeatedly awed by what they were seeing.

* * *

Although the impression of the celestial event on the students was undeniably satisfying, the almost once-in-a-lifetime aspect of the eclipse might not be a bad thing for Rheinschild, who spent a lot of time preparing for it.

As a principal, Ive never had to deal with an eclipse before, he said. Its been a learning experience, definitely. Ill be retired by the time the next one comes along.

See the rest here:

Solar eclipse gives Buellton elementary students crash course in ... - Santa Maria Times (subscription)

These three countries are winning the global robot race – CNNMoney

The three countries are leading an artificial intelligence (AI) revolution, Malcolm Frank, head of strategy at leading outsourcing firm Cognizant, told CNNMoney in an interview.

Frank is the co-author of a recent book entitled "What to Do When Machines Do Everything," on the impact artificial intelligence will have on the global economy in the coming years.

"I think it's three horses in the race, and that's probably the wrong metaphor because they are all going to win," he said. "They are just going to win differently."

While AI is progressing quickly elsewhere too, Frank said the other development hotspots are mainly city hubs such as London and Stockholm, or far smaller economies such as Estonia.

"The big three [are] India, China and the U.S," he said.

Here's why:

America

Silicon Valley giants such as Facebook (FB, Tech30), Amazon (AMZN, Tech30), Google (GOOGL, Tech30) and Tesla (TSLA) are already investing billions in harnessing the power of computers to replace several human tasks.

Computers are already beginning to substitute for people in sectors such as agriculture and even medicine, not to mention the race to get driverless cars on the road.

"With Silicon Valley, and the vendors and momentum that exists there... that's going to continue," Frank said.

China

The world's second largest economy is also betting big on artificial intelligence.

Tech companies including Tencent (TCEHY) and Baidu (BIDU, Tech30) are competing with Silicon Valley to develop new uses for AI, and tech billionaire Jack Ma of Alibaba (BABA, Tech30), one of China's richest men, has even said CEOs may eventually be obsolete.

Unlike in the U.S., however, the biggest push towards this new world in China is coming from the government.

"You look at the playbook China has had very successfully, with state sponsorship around developing the [physical] infrastructure of the country," Frank said. "They're taking a very similar approach around artificial intelligence, and I think that's going to yield a lot of benefit."

The Chinese government has already laid out an ambitious plan for a $150 billion AI industry, saying last month that it wants China to become the world's "innovation center for AI" by 2030.

India

In India, the main shift towards artificial intelligence is coming from companies that make up its $143 billion outsourcing industry -- a sector that employs nearly 4 million people.

Top firms like Infosys (INFY), Tata Consultancy Services and Wipro (WIT), which provide technology services to big names including Deutsche Bank (DB), Lockheed Martin (LMT), IBM (IBM, Tech30), Microsoft (MSFT, Tech30) and the U.S. Army, are increasingly relying on automation in their operations.

"In India, you look at this remarkable platform that is in place now... of incredibly sophisticated skills that are focused on the needs of [global] companies," said Frank.

In addition, India's startup scene also makes him "very optimistic" about the future of artificial intelligence there.

Cognizant (CTSH), which is based in the U.S. but has most of its workforce in India, is also making ever greater use of AI -- from online bots managing clients' finances to helping create automated systems for smart devices.

Should we be worried?

Many are worried about the potential pitfalls of artificial intelligence, including Tesla's billionaire founder Elon Musk. He has warned that the technology could pose "an existential threat" if not used properly, and published a letter this week with over 100 other industry experts demanding a global ban on using it to make weapons.

Frank said that the development of artificial intelligence requires careful thought, by governments and companies working together to establish ground rules. The tech executive compared it to safety regulations for air travel and for cars, which have evolved several times over the years.

The focus needs to be on creating a world "where AI is going to be safe and you get the benefits of it without the downsides," he said.

As for the other pervasive fear -- that more robots will lead to job losses -- Frank argues that AI will not only create more and different kinds of jobs in the future, but also enhance many of the existing ones.

"That's what happened with assembly lines, that's what happened with the steam engine, that's what we think is going to happen with artificial intelligence."

CNNMoney (New Delhi) First published August 21, 2017: 10:14 AM ET

Originally posted here:

These three countries are winning the global robot race - CNNMoney

How do you bring artificial intelligence from the cloud to the edge? – TNW

Despite the enormous speed at processing reams of data and providing valuable output, artificial intelligence applications have one key weakness: Their brains are located at thousands of miles away.

Most AI algorithms need huge amounts of data and computing power to accomplish tasks. For this reason, they rely on cloud servers to perform their computations, and arent capable of accomplishing much at the edge, the mobile phones, computers and other devices where the applications that use them run.

In contrast, we humans perform most of our computation and decision-making at the edge (in our brain) and only refer to other sources (internet, library, other people) where our own processing power and memory wont suffice.

This limitation makes current AI algorithms useless or inefficient in settings where connectivity is sparse or non-present, and where operations need to be performed in a time-critical fashion. However, scientists and tech companies are exploring concepts and technologies that will bring artificial intelligence closer to the edge.

A lot of the worlds computing power goes to waste as thousands and millions of devices remain idle for a considerable amount of time. Being able to coordinate and combine these resources will enable us to make efficient use of computing power, cut down costs and create distributed servers that can process data and algorithms at the edge.

Distributed computing is not a new concept, but technologies like blockchain can take it to a new level. Blockchain and smart contracts enable multiple nodes to cooperate on tasks without the need for a centralized broker.

This is especially useful for Internet of Things (IoT), where latency, network congestion, signal collisions and geographical distances are some of the challenges we face when processing edge data in the cloud. Blockchain can help IoT devices share compute resources in real-time and execute algorithms without the need for a round-trip to the cloud.

Another benefit to using blockchain is the incentivization of resource sharing. Participating nodes can earn rewards for making their idle computing resources available to others.

A handful of companies have developed blockchain-based computing platforms. iEx.ec, a blockchain company that bills itself as the leader in decentralized high-performance computing (HPC), uses the Ethereum blockchain to create a market for computational resources, which can be used for various use cases, including distributed machine learning.

Golem is another platform that provides distributed computing on the blockchain, where applications (requestors) can rent compute cycles from providers. Among Golems use cases is training and executing machine learning algorithms. Golem also has a decentralized reputation system that allows nodes to rank their peers based on their performance on appointed tasks.

From landing drones to running AR apps and navigating driverless cars, there are many settings where the need to run real-time deep learning at the edge is essential. The delay caused by the round-trip to the cloud can yield disastrous or even fatal results. And in case of a network disruption, a total halt of operations is imaginable.

AI coprocessors, chips that can execute machine learning algorithms, can help alleviate this shortage of intelligence at the edge in the form of board integration or plug-and-play deep learning devices. The market is still new, but the results look promising.

Movidius, a hardware company acquired by Intel in 2016, has been dabbling in edge neural networks for a while, including developing obstacle navigation for drones and smart thermal vision cameras. Movidius Myriad 2 vision processing unit (VPU) can be integrated into circuit boards to provide low-power computer vision and image signaling capabilities on the edge.

More recently, the company announced its deep learning compute stick, a USB-3 dongle that can add machine learning capabilities to computers, Raspberry PIs and other computing devices. The stick can be used individually or in groups to add more power. This is ideal to power a number of AI applications that are independent of the cloud, such as smart security cameras, gesture controlled drones and industrial machine vision equipment.

Both Google and Microsoft have announced their own specialized AI processing units. However, for the moment, they dont plan to deploy them at the edge and are using them to power their cloud services. But as the market for edge AI grows and other players enter the space, you can expect them to make their hardware available to manufacturers.

Credit: Shutterstock

Currently, AI algorithms that perform tasks such as recognizing images require millions of labeled samples for training. A human child accomplishes the same with a fraction of the data. One of the possible paths for bringing machine learning and deep learning algorithms closer to the edge is to lower their data and computation requirements. And some companies are working to make it possible.

Last year Geometric Intelligence, an AI company that was renamed to Uber AI Labs after being acquired by the ride hailing company, introduced a machine learning software that is less data-hungry than the more prevalent AI algorithms. Though the company didnt reveal the details, performance charts show that XProp, as the algorithm is named, requires much less samples to perform image recognition tasks.

Gamalon, an AI startup backed by the Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency (DARPA), uses a technique called Bayesian Program Synthesis, which employs probabilistic programming to reduce the amount of data required to train algorithms.

In contrast to deep learning, where you have to train the system by showing it numerous examples, BPS learns with few examples and continually updates its understanding with additional data. This is much closer to the way the human brain works.

BPS also requires extensively less computing power. Instead of arrays of expensive GPUs, Gamalon can train its models on the same processors contained in an iPad, which makes it more feasible for the edge.

Edge AI will not be a replacement for the cloud, but it will complement it and create possibilities that were inconceivable before. Though nothing short of general artificial intelligence will be able to rival the human brain, edge computing will enable AI applications to function in ways that are much closer to the way humans do.

This post is part of our contributor series. The views expressed are the author's own and not necessarily shared by TNW.

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How do you bring artificial intelligence from the cloud to the edge? - TNW