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Topics:CaratLane, Investments, Jewelry, News
CaratLane Raises $15M Series C Funding From Tiger Global: Sources
Apurva Chaudhary
CaratLane Trading Pvt Ltd, which runs an online diamond jewellery portal CaratLane.com, has raised 15 million in Series C funding round from Tiger Global, MediaNama and other sites, including India Digital Review and NextBigWhat were informed by sources (perhaps the same source).
The documents we received indicate two rounds of funding, wherein the company raised Rs 27.31 crore from Tiger Global in February 2011, and Rs 30 Crore in March 2012. We're trying to confirm the third round of funding, believed to be $15 million, which, if true, brings the total amount of funds raised by CaratLane to around $27 million.
Founded in 2008, CaratLane offers diamond jewellery such as rings, pendants, earrings, bangles and bracelets, chains and necklaces, among others. It also offers Gold coins by weight, purity and collection. It also allows users to gift jewellery and offers recommendations based on relationship and celebrity curation. It also sells loose diamonds in various shapes and sizes in a price range of Rs 16,463 to Rs 8,34,88,590. The jewellery sold by the company is manufactured by Jaipur Gems.
The company had also launched a physical Solitaire experience lounge in New Delhi, Hyderabad, and Chennai. The company claims that it plans to launch its physical store in Mumbai as well.
Jewellery company Gitanjali Group had partnered with Times Internet's Indiatimes Shopping to launch an online jewellery shop Gitanjalishop.com in December 2012. Online jewellery store, Voylla.com had raised Rs 2.5 crore angel investment from Snow Leopard Technology Ventures.
There are also other international online jewellery stores that have launched their operations in India including Rocket Internet-backed 21Diamonds.in which had launched its operations in June 2012 and Berlin-based online fashion jewellery company Juvalia & You which launched its Indian operations in June 2012. Apart from these online stores, there also several offline jewellery brands like Tata Group's Tanishq, Bhima Jewellers, Josco Jewellers and Abharan Jewellers, among others that also offer their jewellery for sale online.
Yebhi.com had also acquired a fashion jewellery eStore Stylishyou.in in May 2012 and had integrated all products available on stylishyou.in within its catalog. As part of the acquisition, Founder Shraddha Dadani had joined Yebhi as its Head of Jewelry.
In this article:CaratLane, Investments, Jewelry, News
Paytm hives off payment gateway business into separate entity
Paytm has hived off its payment gateway business into a separate entity, Paytm Payments Gateway Service Pvt Ltd, and has infused ₹100 crore worth...


This book is an essential read for anyone who loves colour and wants to understand colour psychology and how it affects our everyday lives.
This book is 232 pages full of fascinating information about colour and how it informs our daily lives. You will find yourself referring to it often as a guide to help you understand the power of and psychology behind colour.
I am pleased to have a small selection of my artwork contained within the pages of this truly beautiful and informative publication. Diantha Harris is a practicing colour consultant with a thriving business and years of experience in the industry.
Disclaimer: My artwork is contained within the pages of this book and I am an affiliate, with the author's permission to sell this publication.


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Les Muntanyes Pòntiques o Alps Pòntics (en turc: Kuzey Anadolu Dağları, que significa Muntanyes del Nord d'Anatòlia) formen una serralada al nord d'Anatòlia, Turquia. També es coneixen com les muntanyes Parhar en les llengües turques i gregues pòntiques locals. El terme Parhar s'origina a partir d'una paraula hitita que significa "alt" o "cim". En grec antic, les muntanyes s'anomenaven Pariadres  o muntanyes Parihedri.

Geografia

La serralada discorre aproximadament de l'est a oest, paral·lela i propera a la costa sud de la Mar Negra. S'estén al nord-est fins a Geòrgia i a l'oest cap a la Mar de Màrmara, amb l'esperó nord-occidental de les muntanyes Küre (i la seva extensió occidental les muntanyes Akçakoca) i les muntanyes Bolu, seguint la costa. El pic més alt de la serralada és el Kaçkar Dağı, que s'eleva a 3.937 msnm. La falla anatòlica septentrional i la falla anatòlica oriental recorren la serralada en direcció est-oest.

Ecologia

Les muntanyes estan generalment cobertes per densos boscos, principalment de coníferes.

Els boscos de coníferes i caducifolis del Nord d'Anatòlia són una ecoregió que cobreix la major part de la serralada, mentre que els boscos mixtos del Caucas s'estenen a l'extrem més oriental de la serralada, conegut com les muntanyes Kaçkar. L'estreta franja costanera entre les muntanyes i la mar Negra, coneguda com a regió del Pont, és la llar dels Boscos caducifolis del Pont Euxí i la Còlquida, que contenen algunes de les poques selves temperades del món.

La regió alberga fauna salvatge euroasiàtica, com l'esparver comú, l'àguila daurada, l'àguila imperial oriental, l'àguila pomerània, el gall del Caucas, el gafarró de front vermell i el pela-roques.

Les condicions hivernals són molt dures i la neu fins i tot als mesos d'estiu no és inusual a partir de determinades alçàries.

L'altiplà de l'Anatòlia, que es troba al sud de la serralada, té un clima considerablement més sec i continental que la costa humida i suau.

Referències

Serralades de Geòrgia
Serralades de Turquia
Regió de la Mar Negra turca

redpajama_set_name: RedPajamaWikipedia


The distance between Budapest, Hungary and Carrasco, Uruguay is approximately 11,800 km or 7,333 mi.
To reach Budapest in this distance one would set out from Carrasco bearing 42.8° or NE and follow the great circles arc to approach Budapest bearing 55.6° or NE .
Budapest has a marine west coast climate (Cfb) whereas Carrasco has a humid subtropical climate (Cfa).
Budapest is in or near the cool temperate moist forest biome whereas Carrasco is in or near the warm temperate dry forest biome.
The average annual temperature is 5.3 °C (9.6°F) cooler.
Total annual precipitation averages 536 mm (21.1 in) less which is equivalent to 536 l/m² (13.15 US gal/ft²) or 5,360,000 l/ha (573,020 US gal/ac) less. About 1/2 as much.
The altitude of the sun at midday is overall 12° lower in Budapest than in Carrasco.
The table shows values for Budapest relative to Carrasco. You can also view this comparison the other way around from the perspective of Carrasco vs Budapest.


We approach web projects by looking at the big picture first, whether that's a whole website or your entire business plan.
How does the project we're doing for you fit into the whole? From there, we work with you to break it down in to steps and figure out what to deploy from our development toolbox.
What does the site building phase look like?


Almost everyone has some access to credit at some point in their lives. But once you've used it up, what's your plan for making the debt go away as quickly as possible?
In our modern world, almost everyone has some access to credit in it's multiple forms - from credit cards and personal loans to overdrafts, installment plans and much more. Getting rid of that debt, sometimes can be a big problem.
How bad is your debt problem?
When debt gets out of hand and there's no plan to resolve it, that debt becomes problem debt. A lot of people in this situation automatically assume they have to file for bankruptcy. In reality, you might have more options than you realize to avoid bankruptcy. All you need is a good understanding of what you're getting yourself into before you commit to any particular course of action.
First, you'll need to make a list of which organizations you owe money to, how much you owe, what the interest rates are, and what payments are expected by the creditors. Most importantly, you'll need to note whether you're still current with your payments, or if you've already fallen behind.
Your credit is probably still "good" if you're making payments on time. If your credit is good then one option to look at is refinancing through a consolidation loan. A consolidation loan brings all your debts together under a single loan (with its own interest rate) and monthly payment. If you have multiple credit accounts, it may make your budgeting easier to have just one payment to manage.
Is the interest rate on the consolidation loan lower than the debts you're consolidating? If not, then you're not accomplishing anything by consolidating.
Once you've cleared off your old accounts, you must stop using them!
If you are already behind with payments to one or more creditors, it is likely that your credit is now "bruised." In this situation, you need to understand that the only way to avoid the "bad credit" label is to get current and stay current on your payments.
But What if Your Credit is Already Bad?
If you're behind with any payments, or if you're still current but don't have the ability to stay current any longer, you're already in trouble, and the only way it's ever going to get better is if you deal with your creditors, either on your own or with an organization representing you.
Here are a few options to look into before heading towards that dreaded last resort.
Develop a budget with bill payments you can afford.
Ask creditors to reduce your monthly debt payments to match what the budget indicates is affordable.
Administer the monthly payment coming from you, which goes into a secure, insured trust account, and pay this money out to your creditors.
At the end of a Debt Consolidation Program, all your debts will have been paid in full.
If you have the ability to pay a portion of your total debts, a Consumer Proposal is your next option. This is a legal proceeding under the Bankruptcy and Insolvency Act, and will be administered by a Bankruptcy Trustee. The trustee will have a preliminary consultation with you, and based on your budget, will determine what percent of your debt can be paid off over a period of time (maximum 5 years).
This percentage is what is proposed to your creditors in a Consumer Proposal. It is the trustee, and not you, who decides how much of the debt is payable based on your assets and income. Some people think that they can choose the number, but this isn't true.
Creditors have the right to reject the proposal if they feel it isn't enough, but most of the time, they are willing to accept the portion of the money they are going to get back.
For those who just don't have any other options, there is bankruptcy. This is handled by a Bankruptcy trustee. If a debtor is able to file a Consumer Proposal, the trustee should encourage them to do so because filing for bankruptcy will be more complicated and it will have more of an impact on the debtor's future.
For some debtors, there is no other option, which is why bankruptcy is often referred to as the solution of last resort.
Bankruptcy has the worst possible impact on your credit report.
It is the most difficult option in terms of re-establishing credit after the debts are discharged.
Some occupations prohibit filing for bankruptcy.
It will affect your ability to sponsor immigrants to Canada.
Your ability to retain some valued assets will be compromised.
If you have ever filed a bankruptcy in the past and you need to file again, the second time through it is likely you will be treated more harshly and it will be extremely difficult to re-establish credit.
Bottom line? Bankruptcy should be seen as a once-a-lifetime option, to be used only when there are no other available options. Bankruptcy is not the only avenue for dealing with problem debt.


International Journal of Social and Policy Issues is published Bi-annually by Development Universal Consortia. It seeks to expand knowledge of interrelationships between society and devlelopment and serves as a forum for the discussion of contemporary and emerging issues of Politics, Governance, Democracy, Social and Policy. It is a multi-disciplinary journal, global in nature, integrative in approach, policy oriented and has met the international indexation standard and acceptability. The Journal is a referred publication which fosters the exchange of knowledge and new ideas among social scientists, policy-makers, analysts as well as development experts, academics, students, staff members of research institution and international agencies. The views expressed in this Journal are entirely those of the authors. The publishers, editiors and agents of Development Universal Consortia accept no responsibility for any error or misstatement contained in this publication. Contributions to this journal are welcome. They may be drawn from theory and practice, but may be edited for reasons of space and clarity, and manuscripts submission guidelines are strictly respected. See inside back cover for more information.
International Journal of Research in Education is published Bi-annually by Development Universal Consortia. It seeks to expand the knowledge in Educational theory and practice, Library Science Education, Women Education, Environmental Education, Curriculum and Teaching, Guidance and Counselling, Special/Adult Education, Vocational/Technical Education and provides information on these and other related issues. It is a forum which provides insights for the advancement of knowledge and skills of the interrelationships between Education and development in an increasingly global economy and policy implications that arise thereof. The views and interpretations expressed in this Journal are entirely those of the authors. The publishers, editors and agents of Development Universal Consortia accept no responsibility for any error or misstatement contained herein or for consequences that may ensue from the use of information contained in this publication. Contributions to this journal are welcome. They may be drawn from theory and practice, but may be edited for reasons of space and clarity, and manuscripts submission guidelines are strictly respected. See inside back cover for more information.


Ben is a delightful, surprised rabbit expression modelled on a rescued houserabbit. Ben is a handmade sculpture made from stoneware clay and measures ca 10cm diameter x 7cm deep. Ben has undergone two firings, a bisque and a smoke firing.
Any bun lover will like this little fellow's expression.
The sculpture has a fitting with a notch built in so it can be hung straight onto a screw or nail with a larger head.


Sorry for a second update in as many days, but it has recently been suggested in the comments section that I am a scammer.
The neoprene mat file is with the manufacturer and we are expecting a sample shortly.
As promised, here is the update on getting things print ready for the English version.
As stated in the last update, we have been working through a number of things for this project.
We have received new sample of the dice.
These solid colour versions have much more vibrant colours as you can see.
Although the updates have been quite, lots of work is happening.
As you can see we have moved along significantly with the writing.
Word Forge Games will be at UK Games Expo, in Hall 1 on Stand G12, and we will be demoing D-Day Dice all day Saturday.
Here are 3 of the servicemen!
These still need final approval from Emmanuel, but they look great.
D-Day Dice Pledge Manager closes THIS SUNDAY!
As it says on the title Pledge Manager will close on the 8th April.
Please make sure you complete it before the end of the day.
Before we launched D-Day Dice, we had been working on a Tabletop Skirmish game using 15mm scale tanks - think Command and Conquer on your tabletop!
Over 3/4 of Pledge Managers complete!
As you can see we are still moving along nicely.
We are progressing really well through the PM with over 2 thirds completion.
At the moment the team are beavering away at getting the pledge manager ready for the end of the week.
As Mark is still mid-flu and Dominik is going down with it, Emmanuel has written our update today! Thank you you handsome man!
Work is progressing well, although Word Forge has been hit with disease. I have poorly children, wife and me (obviously I have it the worst)!
Wooden Dice Tray et al.
We are progressing nicely through the work to getting the products ready for production as you can see from the tables.
Hello Everyone and welcome to the first weekly update.
Just a very quick message to thank all of you for supporting us!
Many of us Solo players enjoy competing agains our own previous score, but struggle to keep track of what we did previously.
A couple of requested Add-0ns added!
Dice bags as an add on!
25 More Servicemen Pledges Released at 21:00 UK Time!
Atlantikwall Mini Expansion: Gott mitt uns!
Less than 48 hrs to go!
New Stretch Goals, New Unocked Socials and Awesome Dice!
Today we unlocked 'Last Man Standing'!
But what is Last Man Standing!
Today we announce a new pledge level for Veterans of the D-Day Dice world.
Overview of the Game components and a new Stretch announced!
Link to Emmanuel's Component Overviews on Board Game Geek!
More Free Kickstarter Exclusive Freebies to be Unlocked.
Now it is time for some social stretch goals!
What is D-Day Dice Pocket?
We have recently realised that we may get into trouble with the name a Serviceman add on as the number of Serviceman we can offer is limited to 60.
A big favourite from 1st Edition is back...with a twist!
The Stretch Table Stretches to 100k!
Woah! And Campaign Rules Unlocked!
As we unlock more and more Servicemen, we would like to give you the chance to name one. As such we have added the option to the Add-on list.
KS Update 1: Once more onto the beach, dear friends!


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Pop rock band founded in 1965 and still active,
Inducted into Rock And Roll Hall of Fame in 2000.
Zal Yanovsky (1965-1967)
Steve Boone
Joe Butler
Jerry Yester (1967-1969, 1991-...)
Added by Bastien
Originals 26
Releases 16
Covers by The Lovin' Spoonful
Originally by
Almost Grown The Lovin' Spoonful June 1966 Chuck Berry
Bald Headed Lena The Lovin' Spoonful March 1966 Dr. Feelgood and The Interns
Blues in the Bottle The Lovin' Spoonful November 1965 Prince Albert Hunt's Texas Ramblers
Fishin' Blues The Lovin' Spoonful November 1965 Henry Thomas
Me About You The Lovin' Spoonful 1969 Unverified
Searchin' The Lovin' Spoonful June 1966 The Coasters
Sportin' Life The Lovin' Spoonful November 1965 Brownie McGhee
The Other Side of This Life The Lovin' Spoonful November 1965 Fred Neil
Wild About My Lovin' The Lovin' Spoonful November 1965 Jim Jackson
You Baby The Lovin' Spoonful November 1965 The Ronettes
Younger Girl The Lovin' Spoonful November 1965 Cannon's Jug Stompers
Covered by (11 artists)

redpajama_set_name: RedPajamaCommonCrawl


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Contact Rep. Gleim
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PA State Rep. Barb Gleim Serving PA's 199th Legislative District
Citizens Access Portal
PA Government Links
Property Tax/Rent Rebate
PennDOT Forms
High Performance Farm Initiative
Army Heritage & Education Center News
Fairness in Women's Sports Act Gains Momentum in State House
Education Committee approves crucial women's rights bill
HARRISBURG – In a move to support women's rights in competitive sports, the House Education Committee today approved the Fairness in Women's Sports Act (House Bill 972), announced prime sponsors and former school athletes Reps. Barb Gleim (R-Cumberland), Martina White (R-Philadelphia), Dawn Keefer (R-York), Stephanie Borowicz (R-Clinton/Centre) and Valerie Gaydos (R-Allegheny).
House Bill 972 would protect opportunities for women and girls in athletics by ensuring women are not forced to compete against biological males playing on women's sports teams.
"We maintain that women's own competitive category in athletics, guaranteed under federal Title IX law, needs to be preserved because women lose out on having a fair playing field when forced to compete against biological men," said Gleim. "The reality is that identities don't play sports, bodies do. And the male body has strength, speed and endurance abilities that women's bodies simply do not. Just look at Lia Thomas, a biological male who competed on the UPenn men's swim team for three years before switching to the women's team and smashing women's records. This bill is needed to ensure everyone, biological men and women, can compete fairly."
Rep. Barb Gleim before the House Education Committee
"Having separate teams for men and women is the time-tested way to ensure everyone has the opportunity to showcase their talents and be champions," said White. "Just imagine how a young woman feels when missing out on a spot on a team to a biological male. She loses more than just an opportunity. She loses potential friendships, competitive opportunities and life lessons gained through being part of a team. House Bill 972 supports every young girl's athletic pursuit."
Rep. Martina White before the House Education Committee
Under the bill, an athletic team or sport designated for females, women or girls may not be open to students of the male sex. In addition, a student deprived of an athletic opportunity or who suffers direct or indirect harm as a result of a violation of this act by a college or public school would be able to bring a cause of action for injunctive relief, psychological and physical damage, and the costs involved in filing a lawsuit against the college or high school.
"For several decades, women have fought hard for equal rights in sports. Within the past couple of decades, professional women's sports, such as professional basketball and ice hockey, have finally grown by leaps and bounds. These advancements could all but be erased by allowing biologically male athletes to compete against females. This bill would protect women and honor the legacy of all the brave, strong women who blazed the trails in the sports world."
Rep. Valerie Gaydos before the House Education Committee
"My competitive nature probably comes from my years as a high school volleyball player when I won an MVP award for an entire tournament," said Borowicz. "Realistically, I probably would not have reached this level of success or contributed to winning three straight state championships if my team had to compete against biological males. All things considered, the opportunity for girls to compete on a level athletic playing field must be defended at all costs. I'm truly honored to stand alongside my fellow women legislators in cheering on our outstanding student women athletes by advancing the Fairness in Women's Sports Act another step closer to the finish line."
Rep. Stephanie Borowicz before the House Education Committee
"Let's be clear, this legislation is about preserving fairness and protecting women," said Gaydos. "This does not ban transgender students from playing sports. It requires biological males to play on men's teams and biological woman to play on women's team. This is also about safety. The Pennsylvania Interscholastic Athletic Association (PIAA) currently has separate divisions based on age, school sizes and classification. On Jan. 23, 2021, President Joe Biden issued an executive order that says transgendered athletes must be allowed to compete against women – a protected category. This executive order reverses decades of progress for women's sports. House Bill 972 restores the intent of federal Title IX established in 1972 for girls to compete on a level playing field in athletics."
The bill passed the committee by a vote of 15-9. It now moves the full House for consideration.
Watch the entire Education Committee meeting here.
Representative Barbara Gleim
199th Legislative District
Pennsylvania House of Representatives
437 E North Street
Office Hours: 8 a.m. - 4 p.m.
NEWVILLE (Satellite Office)
Call 717-249-1990 to make an appointment
© 2023 PA House Republican Caucus. Terms of use


Nevada is one of the best states for those in the beauty profession to work and live in. With many vacation hot spots such as Lake Tahoe, Reno, and of course, Las Vegas, as well as countless shows and performers, beauty professionals are always in demand. In fact, many people are starting to realize that beauty starts with the condition of their skin and they are turning to estheticians for help in making them look and feel better about themselves.
If you want to become a licensed esthetician in the state of Nevada, keep reading. We've taken all the information you need to complete this confusing and daunting process and have laid it out in an easy to read, step-by-step format.
In order to become a licensed esthetician in the state of Nevada, you must apply for and obtain licensure from the Nevada State Board of Cosmetology. Follow the steps below to find out how to successfully navigate through the licensing process.
The Nevada State Board of Cosmetology is the branch of government that oversees the practice and licensure of estheticians in the state of Nevada.
You must be at least 18 years old and have completed a 10th-grade education or equivalent in order to take the licensing exam. You must also have had 900 hours of esthetics training in an approved classroom setting.
The requirements below must also be met in order to qualify for an apprenticeship.
If you were to attend a licensed school of cosmetology in the state of Nevada, you would have to travel 60 miles or more.
The salon/spa where you will receive your apprenticeship training is located 60 miles or more from a licensed school.
The esthetician supervising your apprenticeship training has been licensed in the state of Nevada for at least 3 years.
After receiving your enrollment form, the Board will either approve or deny your request for apprenticeship within 30 days. If your enrollment form is approved, the Board will send you a Certificate of Registration within 10 days of approval.
As an apprentice, you will be required to have your Certificate of Registration displayed at all times at the salon/spa where you are training. You will also be required to wear a badge at all times in the salon that displays your photo, name, and certificate registration number, as well as your supervisor's name and license number.
The first step to getting your Nevada esthetician license once you have completed your training is to submit the In-State Testing Application.
Once your request has been received and approved, you should receive a full application packet in the mail within 15 days. This application will give you further instructions on the next steps.
The written exam, practical exam, and state law exam are all administered at the Nevada State Board of Cosmetology offices located in Las Vegas and Reno. The National-Interstate Council of State Boards of Cosmetology (NIC) have created both the written and practical exams for the Nevada State Board of Cosmetology.
On the scheduled day of your exam, be sure to arrive a minimum of 30 minutes early. This will give you ample time to check in and get comfortable. Make sure you bring a government form of identification in order to test. You'll also want to dress professionally.
All esthetician license applicants must take the Nevada state law exam. More information on this particular exam can be found in the Nevada State Law Candidate Information Bulletin.
In order to study for this exam, it is best to use the Nevada Law Book. You can also order the Nevada Law Book using PayPal.
You will have a total of 90 minutes to complete the written exam, also known as the theory exam. You can find resources and practice test questions in the NIC Candidate Information Bulletin.
The esthetics written exam will include nearly half scientific concept questions and half skin care questions, all in multiple choice form.
You will need to bring your own mannequin head and esthetics kit to the practical exam. More information on what to bring and what is allowed can be found on pages 2 and pages 14 through 16 of the NIC Candidate Information Bulletin. You may also want to read through this handy guide showing you how to create your practical exam kit.
You must pass all three exams, including the State Law Exam, Theory Exam, and Practical Exam with a score of 75% or better to be eligible for state licensure.
The Board will be notified of your exam results. If you have passed all three exams, you will automatically be issued a Nevada esthetician license.
In order to continue working as a licensed esthetician in the state of Nevada, you must renew your license every two years. You are required to pay the $70 renewal fee and complete four hours of continuing education regarding infection control. You can take this online exam free of charge in order to fulfill the required hours.
If you have a license in good standing in another state, you may qualify for license via reciprocity in Nevada. You will need to submit an application and take the state law test.
If you meet the above requirements you can apply for license reciprocity.
If you have not already taken and passed the NIC written and practical exams, you will be required to take those also. There is a $200 reciprocity fee and a $125 application fee that must be paid with the application as well.
Below is a map showing the locations of the written, practical, and state law exams administered by the Nevada State Board of Cosmetology. Before you arrive at a test center, please be sure to call either the Las Vegas office at 702-486-6542 or the Reno office at 775-688-1442 to confirm the test center's current address and inquire about their hours of operation.


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Top 100 Most Dangerous Cities in California: 2018
Three Strikes Law
Why Should I Hire a Criminal Defense Lawyer?
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Call today at: (559) 443-7442
Home » Legal Blog
Federal Criminal Charges for Flying an Airplane in California Without a License
Jul 27, 2018 by Mike McKneely in Criminal Defense, Federal Crimes
It may seem strange to think of a pilot as anyone aside from a person in uniform who works at the airport. However, there are more people, that don't fit that description, flying airplanes than you may expect. According to the latest available numbers, there are approximately 160,000 people in the United States with a private pilot's license. Flying an airplane without a license is punishable by law. A licensed pilot who simply lets their friend try flying their plane or a pilot who flies with an expired license are both at risk of incurring criminal charges. Unqualified flying can lead to massive consequences.
Piloting without a license could result in federal charges. When charges are federal, everything becomes magnified, including the intensity of the proceedings and your potential punishment. If you are in this type of complex and difficult situation, it's important to retain the counsel of a skilled Fresno federal crimes defense attorney.
Contact Michael McKneely, Criminal Defense Lawyer today at (559) 443-7442 to schedule a free case consultation.
Federal Penalties for Piloting Without the Proper License
49 U.S. Code § 46317 prohibits an individual from operating (or attempting to operate) an aircraft without the proper licensure. Failure to comply with this law can result in a maximum sentence of three years in federal prison and an additional fine up to $250,000 for each charge.
Violating a Commercial License vs. a Private License
Pilots who fly for airlines are required to have a commercial pilot's license. A commercial license requires the completion of a strict curriculum, both in a classroom setting and in practice. If you have your commercial pilot's license, you have to ensure you follow the proper renewal procedure. Flying a plane with an expired or lapsed license is also illegal.
A private pilot's license also requires training, though not as intense as the education required for a commercial license. With a private pilot's license, you can fly a small aircraft with an appropriate number of non-paying passengers. The severity of your punishment for flying without the proper qualifications depends on the type of license you were required to have.
The Importance of Knowing Which License You Need
As recently as 2017, a pilot from Orange County was indicted for flying a private plane without the right license on two separate occasions. Arnold Leto III stood accused of two federal counts of operating an aircraft without a license, and was found guilty on both counts. He was sentenced to 10 months in federal prison and fined $5,500.
It's important to note that Leto was not without a license of any kind. In February 2015, he had acquired a license that qualified him to be second-in-command aboard the aircraft he was flying. That being said if he had flown with a qualified co-pilot on the trips in question, he would not have violated the federal statute. As it was, he flew solo, broke federal law, and had to face the consequences.
Are You Facing Charges for Flying an Airplane Without a License? Call Us Today
If you're in the Fresno area and are facing charges for flying an airplane without a license, you need to contact an attorney right away. Such an offense is a federal crime, and as such, it will be penalized accordingly. At Michael McKneely, Criminal Defense Lawyer, we understand federal law, and will answer any questions you have.
Contact us online, or reach out at (559) 443-7442 to schedule your free consultation today.
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Challenging a DUI Stop
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Site Contents @2018 - Michael McKneely, Criminal Defense Lawyer.
COVID-19 Notice: Our firm is open and available to help. We are all being impacted in different ways, but we will all get through this together.Learn More


Our fantastic new paintball membership package includes great member benefits, so now you can enjoy your favourite sport all year round!
including Diamond Wars & Walk-On Sundays!
£10 Discount off your Paintfest ticket - when bought in advance.
5% Discount on all NPF equipment purchases - ***excluding paint & pyro.
Membership valid for 12months from date of purchase.
WHAT IS THE MINIMUM AGE FOR paintball members?
The minimum age for paintball members at NPF is 12 years.
How many times a year can i use my £10 membership Discount?
Every time you play! Your paintball membership discount applies to all our weekend paintball days and all our monthly and bi-monthly paintball events, including our Diamond Wars series and NPF Walk on Sundays.
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Your 10% group bookings discount applies to yourself and every group booking you make with multiple guests for any other NPF activity when booked in advance.
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Director - Dennis Villeneuve - 2017
The final release date and the duration for what's probably the most anticipated film of the year have finally been announced; watch the trailer here and find out more!
Dennis Villeneuve's Blade Runner 2049 is probably the most eagerly awaited film this year, and there's a lot of pressure one the French-Canadian movie director. Development of a sequel to Ridley Scott's Blade Runner (1982) began in 1999 – that's nearly two decades in the oven! Scott's piece isn't just a masterpiece, but widely regarded as a watershed in the history of cinema, and the first movie to embrace post-modern aesthetics.
The sequel is described as a neo-noir science-fiction, and it will feature the Hollywood veteran Harrison Ford (who also starred in the original) plus the Canadian actor Ryan Gosling. It tells the story of a new blade runner, LAPD Officer K, who discovers "a dark secret that could bring an end to humanity". The discovery leads him to Rick Deckard, a former blade runner who disappeared three decades earlier (Ford's character, naturally aged!!!).
The trailer looks indeed very promising. Villeneuve has retained the dark post-modern looks of the original, with post-apocalyptic settings contrasted against colourful visions and attire, plus eerie humanoid figures. There will be action, but the elegant sci-fi feel nostalgic of a functional earth will also be preserved. it seems. But will Villeneuve succeed at creating a dirty twist to the sci-fi masterpiece, or will be slip into the predictable action movie platitudes?
The release date as well as the duration of the movie have finally been announced this week. The movie will run at 152 minutes (more than two hours and a half) it will be released globally October 6, 2017, in 2D, 3D and IMAX.
By DMovies' team - 01-09-2017
The latest Alien franchise entry is an effective horror sci-fi, teeming with shocks, scares and twists, but it lacks the mythological depth of 'Prometheus' and the twisted sexual connotations of 'Alien' - now also available on Disney [Read More...]
Not your average sci-fi movie: Jeff Nichols' 'Midnight Special' sheds new light - quite literally - in a very conventional cinema genre, as luminosity drives the movie narrative [Read More...]
The Farthest
Emer Reynolds
Linda Marric - 31-08-2017
Doc takes a fascinating and nostalgic look at the Voyager and the truth unearthed in the past 40 years, since Nasa launched the twin crafts into space - in cinemas [Read More...]


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Mergers and Acquisitions Advisory
Corporate Management Services
Private Equity Investing
Current Capital Appoints Kenneth Siegel, Another Proven Senior Executive, to Its Advisory Board
Current Capital Partners LLC announced that Kenneth Siegel, an experienced senior leader in the hospitality industry, has joined its Advisory Board.
Mr. Siegel recently led Diamond Resorts' repositioning as an experiential travel company from a traditional real estate focused timeshare operation. As President and a member of the Board of Directors, Mr. Siegel play a key role in rebuilding all facets of the business, including corporate strategy, hotel operations, marketing, legal and finance.
Prior to Diamond, he was Chief Administrative Officer and General Counsel of Starwood Hotels & Resorts. As a senior member of the Starwood leadership team for more than a decade, Mr. Siegel was very involved in Starwood's emergence as an industry leader prior to its acquisition by Marriott International in 2016. In addition to his legal and administrative responsibilities, he played a pivotal role in Starwood's transition to an asset-light business and was the architect of transactions that drove both top- and bottom-line benefits.
Prior to joining Starwood, Mr. Siegel spent four years as the Senior Vice President and General Counsel of Cognizant Corporation, a multinational information services company originally comprised of IMS Health Inc., Nielsen Media Research and The Gartner Group.
Jonathan F. Foster, Managing Director of Current Capital, said "Ken brings a valuable set of experiences and relationships that will help us continue to grow our successful mergers and acquisitions advisory, corporate management services and private equity investing businesses. We appreciate all that the Advisory Board does for our firm."
The addition of Mr. Siegel brings the total number of Current Capital's Advisory Board members to 20. This group includes active and former operating executives of Fortune 500 and smaller companies. Our Advisory Board actively supports our efforts in a number of important ways, including by identifying quality executives, performing due diligence, sourcing new opportunities, and executing projects with our clients and our portfolio companies.
About Current Capital Partners LLC
Current Capital Partners LLC (www.currentcap.com) is an independent advisory and merchant banking firm that provides mergers and acquisitions advisory, corporate management services, and private equity investing, primarily in middle market and smaller companies in the industrial and services industries. The firm is comprised of operating executives and investment professionals that help create value by bringing an integrated operating, finance and investment approach to two large sectors where it has extensive experience, relationships and perspectives. Current Capital's mergers and acquisitions advisory services include actionable ideas and execution for investment firms and companies seeking industry knowledge; an independent perspective on strategic and capital structure reviews; and other related services focused on helping clients maximize value; its corporate management services include sitting on Boards of Directors and providing related consulting services for other investors and financial institutions; providing Chief Restructuring Officer services; and offering advice and expert witness services in complex corporate litigation; and its private equity investing efforts include primarily control investments where we have significant influence and where we can partner with management teams to accelerate profitable growth and create value. Mergers and acquisitions advisory services, and related products and securities services, are provided by our affiliate, Current Capital Securities LLC, a broker-dealer and member of FINRA and SIPC.
Jonathan F. Foster
← Paulson & Co. Inc. and TriArtisan Capital Advisors LLC Announce Acquisition of P.F. Chang's China Bistro Authority Brands Welcomes the Clockwork Brands into its Family, Current Capital serves as Financial Advisor to Apax Partners →
First Reserve to Acquire Lamons from TriMas, Current Capital serves as Financial Advisor to First Reserve
Kelso & Company to Acquire Individual FoodService, Current Capital serves as Financial Advisor to Kelso
Five Point Announces Pricing and Upsizing of an Additional $125 Million of 7.875% Senior Notes due 2025
Current Capital's Managing Director and Advisory Board Member Comment in Agenda, the Boardroom Newsletter Delivered by The Financial Times
Authority Brands Welcomes the Clockwork Brands into its Family, Current Capital serves as Financial Advisor to Apax Partners
Current Capital Securities LLC is a member of FINRA and SIPC. | Disclosures
Copyright © 2018, Current Capital Partners LLC


Oiled Brown Pelicans (Pelecanus occidentalis) sitting on a beach behind an oil covered boom. This nesting colony is teh largest in Louisiana and was heavily oiled by the BP spill. Raccoon Island, Terrebonne Parish, Louisiana. July 2010.


Celebrating the label's 50th anniversary – the legendary Stax Records is back – with two new signings, R&B vocalist Angie Stone and soul luminary Isaac Hayes.
As well as the latest signings, the 50th anniversary year will also see deluxe re-issues, special events and more artists joining the home of soul.
The first new release will be "Stax 50: A 50th Anniversary Celebration", a two-CD, 50-track anthology brimming with hits from Sam & Dave ("Soul Man," "Hold On, I'm Comin'"), Otis Redding "(Sittin' on) The Dock of the Bay," "Respect"), Booker T. & the MGs ("Green Onions"), Isaac Hayes ("Theme from Shaft," "Never Can Say Goodbye"), The Staples Singers ("Respect Yourself," "I'll Take You There"), Eddie Floyd ("Knock on Wood"), Rufus Thomas ("Walkin' the Dog"), Carla Thomas ("B-A-B-Y"), Jean Knight ("Mr. Big Stuff") and many more.
Featuring a unique lenticular cover and extensive notes from Stax historian Rob Bowman's acclaimed book Soulsville U.S.A.: The Story of Stax, this extraordinary compilation is an authoritative display of Stax's creative vitality and unbridled chart power.


Bright, richly sweet. Lime blossom, raspberry jam, sandalwood, roasted cacao nib, maple syrup in aroma and cup. Sweetly tart in structure with juicy acidity; viscous, buoyant mouthfeel. The finish leads with citrus and berry notes in the short, segueing to sandalwood-framed sweet florals in the long.
Produced entirely from trees of the Kurume and Welicho varieties of Arabica at Suke Quto farm. Processed by the honey method, which means that the outer skin of the coffee fruit is removed, as it is in the wet or "washed" process, but at least some of the sticky fruit residue is allowed to dry on the bean and later removed by machine along with the parchment skin. This coffee is both organic- and Rainforest Alliance-certified. Paradise Roasters specializes in micro-lot Arabica and Robusta coffees from Asia and other emerging origins. The company prides itself on quality and freshness, craft-roasting coffees in small batches only after orders are placed. Visit www.paradiseroasters.com or call 763-433-0626 for more information.
The Bottom Line: This honey-processed Ethiopia is a citrus and berry chorus, from lime blossom in the aroma to raspberry jam in the cup, backed by continuous suggestions of sandalwood and crisp cacao nib.


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Political Digital Marketing Agency | Political Advertising Company
Quick Hits: Blue Jays, Brantley, Cardinals, Hicks, Astros – MLB Trade Rumors
Stanford womens basketball upset by Colorado as Buffaloes post first-ever win over No. 1 team – ESPN
Manchester City v. Crystal Palace | PREMIER LEAGUE HIGHLIGHTS | 1/17/2021 | NBC Sports – NBC Sports
On Introducing the Hollyweirdos to Reality
OK. This will be short as it's a bit out of my normal area of concern.
I just heard about Meryl Streep's silly pronouncements at the Golden Globe Awards show. I must confess that it's been years since I have watched any of those awards shows. I gave up on the Oscars maybe ten-fifteen years ago, and the Golden Globes, well, I never really watched those. I found them all deadly dull exercises in scripted rich lefties giving each other prizes and praise, and proclaiming to the skies "Aren't we clever?"
http://www.thediplomad.com/2017/01/on-introducing-hollyweirdos-to-reality.html?showComment=1484062221341
Conservatives Team up in Hilarious Parody of Hollywood Celebs' Political Videos
You can always count on knee-jerk Hollywood celebs to come out against the "anti-environment," "racist," "hateful" Republican presidential candidate, no matter who they are.
As as IJR reports, their most "effective" method of combatting the evils of conservatism is the dreaded Hollywood political video, starring, um, them:
In fact, these videos are so effective that, sometimes, they even make them after elections are over.
http://toprightnews.com/conservatives-team-up-in-hilarious-parody-of-self-important-hollywood-celeb-political-videos/
Politics of exploiting Children
1,400 investigated in child sex abuse inquiry, including politicians
Officer leading Operation Hydrant inquiry says out of 1,433 alleged offenders 76 were politicians, 43 were from music industry and 135 were from TV, film or radio
https://www.theguardian.com/uk-news/2015/may/20/1400-suspects-operation-hydrant-politician-and-celebrity-child-sex-abuse-inquiry
Child sex offender Ben Levin said himself that he was in charge of crafting Ontario sex-ed curriculum
Sign a petition to stop Ontario's graphic sex-ed curriculum here.
TORONTO, March 4, 2015 (LifeSiteNews.com) – Just-convicted child pornographer Ben Levin played a key role in developing Ontario's new sex-education curriculum, according to documents revealed by Toronto Sun columnist Joe Warmington, despite claims to the contrary by Premier Kathleen Wynne.
https://www.lifesitenews.com/news/child-sex-offender-ben-levin-said-himself-that-he-was-in-charge-of-crafting
College of Pediatricians Calls Transgender Ideology 'Child Abuse'
The American College of Pediatricians warns educators and legislators that "a life of chemical and surgical impersonation of the opposite sex" is dangerous for children.
In a strongly worded statement issued today, the professional association of pediatricians says "a person's belief that he or she is something they are not is, at best, a sign of confused thinking." It describes such thinking as problem that exists in the mind and not the body and "it should be treated as such."
http://www.breitbart.com/big-government/2016/03/21/college-of-pediatricians-calls-transgender-ideology-child-abuse/
Johnson & Johnson coronavirus vaccine generates immune response, few side effects, in early trials – CNN
Political Landscape


STANDARD RATE $2250.00 / 7 NIGHTS WILL BE CHARGE FOR ALL HOLIDAYS AND EVENTS.
Large outdoor covered patio with table/chairs, Settee area.
Cancellation policy is full refund before 60 days arrival, a $250.00 administration fee will be deducted. after 60 days NO REFUND.


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1898 South African '99' counterstamp pond in sale
By Jeff Starck
Published: Dec 1, 2017, 5 AM
One of 130 examples of South Africa's rare 1898 gold pond counterstamped with 99 will be auctioned in December in London.
Coin images courtesy of Dix Noonan Webb.
During the Second Boer War, the British interception of coinage dies in 1899 did not deter South Africa from issuing gold coins.
But it did lead to the creation of an uber rarity, the 1898 gold pond counterstamped with 99 to identify the year of issue. An example of this rarity highlights Dix Noonan Webb's Dec. 12 to 14 auction in London.
South Africa's Mint was dormant all of 1898 and through September in 1899, when striking of pond coins to fund the war began. But dies for 1899-dated coins never arrived at the Mint, so officials decided to use the dies from 1898 coins, at first using a single 9 counterstamp for a reported 137,000 coins, then striking 130 examples with the 99 stamp. This later type is extremely rare and often counterfeited.
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The DNW auction offers a genuine example graded About Uncirculated 58 by Numismatic Guaranty Corp. The coin is cataloged as Friedberg 2 in Gold Coins of the World by Arthur L. and Ira S. Friedberg.
The coin has been with the consigning family since 1900, according to the firm, though no other details of the provenance were available at press time.
The coin has an estimate of £34,000 to £40,000 ($45,633 to $53,686 U.S.).
For full details of the auction, visit the firm's website.
Feb 23, 2015, 2 AM
Veld Pond from Anglo-Boer War a major South African rarity
Apr 29, 2014, 11 AM
1892 South African Proof set highlights auction in Johannesburg
Jun 23, 2014, 12 PM
South Africa's 1874 Burgers, Fine Beard pond realizes £93,600


Pond Accessories : Buy pond liners, pond pumps, pond filters and more from PondXpert.
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Prior to The RSM Classic 2017, Patton Kizzire talks about his first PGA TOUR victory and the steps which led up to it.
In the final round of the 2017 OHL Classic at Mayakoba, Patton Kizzire's approach hangs on the lip on the par-4 11th hole resulting in a tap-in birdie.
Patton Kizzire edged Rickie Fowler by one stroke to capture the OHL Classic.
Following a final-round 67, Patton Kizzire reflects on his win at the 2017 OHL Classic at Mayakoba with Mark Zecchino from PGA TOUR Radio.
In the opening round of the 2017 OHL Classic at Mayakoba, Patton Kizzire opens with a solid 9-under 62 with Rickie Fowler trailing three strokes back.
In the opening round of the 2017 OHL Classic at Mayakoba, Patton Kizzire rolls in a 26-foot putt for birdie on the par-4 16th hole.


Meet a very happy, focused and determined 2-year-old named Lucas. He loves to move and is constantly crawling, climbing the stairs and anything else he can find. Fond of being outdoors, Lucas enjoys riding the ATV and lawnmower with his dad. Even more, he likes cutting the grass and being in the dirt. Lucas plays with LEGO for hours with his cousins using the standing frame he recently received from Variety. He loves the challenge of making the pieces fit.
Lucas was born premature, spending the first three months of his life in the Surrey Memorial NICU. After his discharge, Lucas and his family met with his pediatrician, physiotherapist and childhood development assistant regularly. Lucas is behind in some growth areas, specifically his gross motor skills. He struggles with low muscle tone throughout his body but maintains his happy demeanour and has been making strides in his development.
Lucas lives in Langley with his parents and sister, along with two sets of uncles and aunties and three cousins. He has a wonderful family with tons of support from grandparents and relatives. He has achieved a lot in his life! First Lucas learned to breathe on his own at 2 months. Another milestone was crawling at almost 2 years. Now, he is able to stand up for a couple minutes on his own. His parents attribute much of his incredible strength gain in recent months to his physio at the Center for Child Development and the Zing Easy Stand standing frame.
Thanks to our donors, Lucas received this standing frame funded by Variety. The frame supports Lucas in a standing position and forces him to put pressure on his hips and legs. Keeping him upright, this equipment ensures proper development and helps guide his growth. Not only does the frame promote muscle development, but it also has benefits for digestion, circulation, alignment, cognition and respiration. It also positions him so he can interact with the world around him and encourages his social development. He gets to spend time playing while standing just as he sees his cousins doing.
In his frame, Lucas focuses on activities like LEGO, colouring, and eating. These all help develop his fine motor skills as he cultivates the strength to stand on his own. His progress has been distinct and he can stand on his unassisted only a few months after receiving the frame. Luke's next goals are to walk and run with his friends and cousins, you can do it, Lucas!
"It is unexpected to be put in a position where you need extra help to assist your child medically, or developmentally. To have our first child Lucas in the hospital for 3 months and then to watch him be so far behind other children his age was definitely completely unexpected for us. Even though it was a different experience than we expected we would not change a thing about our son or the journey we have had with him. It has become integral to our story as a family and our story as parents. We have learned so much about ourselves through this experience and have grown so much stronger as a family.
To the people who donate to Variety, we would like to say thank you. Thank you for your compassion, empathy and generosity to people you may well never meet, or whose stories you may well never hear. This is a charity that changes the lives of many of our children who will one day grow up to do great things and have amazing stories of their own. Many of these children would not have the opportunities afforded to them without the generosity of people like you. We are truly humbled and blessed to have been the recipients of your generosity and on behalf of our family and all the families you help, we would just like to thank you from the bottom of our hearts.


Mt. Sinai Researcher Dr. Sabine Cordes and her team are studying a connection between a gene named Gumby and blood vessel growth.
Recently published in the prestigious journal Nature, Dr. Sabine Cordes and her team of researchers at Mount Sinai's Lunenfeld-Tanenbaum Research Institute have established a connection between a gene named Gumby and blood vessel growth. The new discovery provides hope that, in addition to other treatments for cancer, the Gumby gene can become an attractive target for drug therapies against certain cancers by potentially restricting blood flow to tumours that are inoperable, such as in the brain.
The Gumby gene affects blood vessels that form the blood brain barrier, which regulates the supply of essential nutrients into the brain and keeps unwanted molecules out. If the Gumby gene is defective, it can impair the development and function of blood vessels, causing a blockage in blood flow to the brain, which can also lead to mental health disorders.
"This new finding is exciting for us because it means that the Gumby gene can be modified to enhance or limit blood vessel growth in a number of illnesses," explains Dr. Sabine Cordes, Senior Investigator at the Lunenfeld-Tanenbaum Research Institute and Associate Professor, Department of Molecular Genetics and the Institute of Medical Sciences at University of Toronto.
In their study, Mount Sinai researchers found that Gumby plays a significant role in cellular communication systems by acting as a local "mailman". Once cells receive an external signal, such as one required for blood vessel growth, cells rapidly send proteins to specific locations within them and thereby change their shape and behavior in order to fulfill the message. Gumby contributes to this shape and behaviour change by selectively removing a tag called ubiquitin, a protein which cells use as a "zipcode" to direct other proteins to places where they are needed. A defective, form of Gumby disrupts this communication system, ultimately leading to impaired blood vessel growth.
For the first time, Dr. Cordes and her team may have also discovered potential therapeutic targets for Cri du chat syndrome, a disorder that affects approximately 1 in 20,000 children due to the loss of multiple genes on chromosome 5. Infants with this condition often have a high-pitched cry that sounds similar to that of a cat, and is characterized by intellectual disability, delayed development, and facial anomalies. Gumby is found on a region of chromosome 5 associated with mental retardation and craniofacial anomalies in Cri du chat patients.
To better understand how the Gumby gene works and to ultimately help improve diagnoses and treatments for patients affected by mutations in this gene, Dr. Cordes' team collaborated with researchers in Dr. Frank Sicheri's and Dr. Anne-Claude Gingras' labs at the Lunenfeld-Tanenbaum Research Institute, as well as with Dr. Yoichi Gondo and Dr. Ryutaro Fukumura from RIKEN, a large natural sciences research institute in Japan.
The work published in this Nature paper was also made possible through generous funding by the EJLB Foundation and a generous gift from Henry and Esther Bernick, donors to Mount Sinai Hospital.
Previous articleWhy do we wait for healthcare?


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AbstractIntroductionMaterials and MethodsResultsConclusionsAcknowledgmentsReferencesCopyright
Xiaochen Liu, Jie Wei, Shicheng Wei, "Biological Effects of Osteoblast-Like Cells on Nanohydroxyapatite Particles at a Low Concentration Range", Journal of Nanomaterials, vol. 2011, Article ID 104747, 6 pages, 2011. https://doi.org/10.1155/2011/104747
Biological Effects of Osteoblast-Like Cells on Nanohydroxyapatite Particles at a Low Concentration Range
Xiaochen Liu,1 Jie Wei,1,2 and Shicheng Wei1,3
1Center for Biomedical Materials and Tissue Engineering, Academy for Advanced Interdisciplinary Studies, Peking University, Beijing 100871, China
2Key Laboratory for Ultrafine Materials of Ministry of Education, East China University of Science and Technology, Shanghai 200237, China
3Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, School of Stomatology, Peking University, Beijing 100081, China
Academic Editor: Somchai Thongtem
Received29 Apr 2011
Revised19 Jul 2011
Accepted19 Jul 2011
Published15 Sep 2011
The biological effects of osteoblast-like MG-63 cells on nanohydroxyapatite (n-HA) at the low concentration range (5–25 g/mL) for 5 days was investigated. The results showed the viability and actin cytoskeleton of the cells descended with the increase of the concentration of n-HA, and the actin cytoskeleton of cells was depolymerised and became more disordered. Apoptotic rate of cells (1.85%, 1.99%, and 2.29%) increased with the increase of n-HA concentration (5, 15, and 25 g/mL) and become significantly higher than the control. Total intracellular protein content decreased with n-HA concentration increase, showing significant difference between 25 g/mL and the control, and no significant change of ALP activity was observed at the 5th day. The results revealed that the cell growth was inhibited by n-HA in a concentration-dependent manner, and the obvious biological effects of MG-63 cells on n-HA existed at the low concentration range from 5 to 25 g/mL.
Hydroxyapatite (HA), with the structural formula of Ca10(PO4)6(OH)2, is the principal inorganic constituent of human bone [1]. Due to its good biocompatibility and osteoconductivity [2], the HA biomaterials have been widely used in clinic, for example, as artificial bone, coatings on titanium prostheses surface [3–5]. However, HA particles or wear debris from HA coating can cause inflammatory reaction, especially for the nanosize particles [6, 7]. Therefore, it is imperative to be assessed, they are even used in clinic with a very small amount or a relatively low concentration at the local region.
In recent years, it was reported that nanohydroxyapatite (n-HA) could inhibit the growth of osteoblasts in a concentration-dependent manner. Xu et al. had shown that the apoptotic and inhibition ratios of osteoblasts were rising with the increase of the concentration (20, 40, 60, 80, 100 μg/mL) of the n-HA with the size of 10–20 nm [8]. The similar results were reported in Fu et al.work (cell responses to n-HA with the concentration of 50.8 mg/mL) and Motskin et al. (n-HA concentrations ranges from 31 to 500 mg/mL, and n-HA was toxic at higher concentrations of more than 250 mg/mL) [9, 10]. Furthermore, Liu et al. studied the effects of n-HA (concentrations of 50, 75, 100, 150, and 200 mg/L) on proliferation and apoptosis of human hepatoma BEL-7402 cells [11]. The concentration of n-HA was relatively high from 20 to 200 μg/mL in these works mentioned above. However, HA or n-HA coating implants had been proven to produce small amounts of particulate debris ( particles per mm2) in acetabular components from patients with osteolysis [12], in which the concentration is apparently lower than that mentioned above. Additionally, osteoblasts are selected since these cells stay in direct contact with the implanted materials during the bone growth stage. If osteoblasts die on the implanted materials surface because of the presence of debris, the new bone will not be generated. Thus, the aim of this study was to investigate the responses of MG-63 cells cultured with n-HA slurry at a relatively low concentration range and to evaluate the influence of n-HA particles with low concentration on the cell morphology, proliferation, and differentiation.
2.1. Preparation of n-HA
n-HA particle was synthesized at room temperature and prepared by slow-mixing calcium nitrate and ammonium phosphate solutions at pH 10.0 and 90°C under stirring [13]. The precipitated crystals were aged in mother liquor for 2 days. Next, they were washed three times with distilled water and dried at room temperature. The morphology of the n-HA was observed by transmission electron microscopy (TEM, Tecnai F30, FEI Company) with an accelerating voltage of 200 keV. n-HA was sterilized by ultraviolet before in vitro experiments. Stock solution was made at the concentration of 50 μg/mL with MEM (Minimum Essential Medium, Gibco, Grand Island, NY). After ultrasonic dispersion for 15 min, stock solution was added to the MG-63 cells at final concentration of 5, 10, 15, 20, and 25 μg/mL.
2.2. Cell Culture and Morphology
Human osteoblast-like MG-63 cell line (American Type Culture Collection, Va, USA) was used in this study. Cells were seeded at a density of per well in 48-well plates. Incubation was performed in MEM containing 10% fetal bovine serum (FBS, Gibco), 100 μg/mL streptomycin and 100 U/mL of penicillin in a humidified atmosphere with 5% CO2 at 37°C. At the 5th day, cells were examined by inverted phase contrast microscope (Nikon Eclipse TS100, Japan) to determine whether the cell morphology was influenced by n-HA concentration or not.
2.3. Immunofluorescence and Cytoskeletal Observation
MG-63 cells were cultured on cover slips at 37°C in 5% CO2 humidified atmosphere. After 5 days of culture, cells were washed with PBS and fixed with 3% (w/v) paraformaldehyde in PBS buffer for 20 min at room temperature. The samples were then washed with PBS and permeabilized with 0.1% Triton X-100 at 4°C for 5 min, before incubated with 1% bovine serum albumin/PBS at 37°C for 5 min to block the nonspecific binding. This was followed by adding fluorescein isothiocyanate- (FITC-) conjugated phalloidin (Sigma) at 37°C to stain the DNA of the MG-63 cells for 20 min. They were then rinsed and incubated for 10 min at room temperature with DAPI. Samples were mounted in Vectorshield fluorescent mountant (Vector Laboratories, UK) and observed by a Leica SP2 laser scanning confocal microscope.
2.4. MTT Assay
MG-63 cells were seeded at a density of per well in 96-well plates. At 6 hours after seeding, cells were rinsed with phosphate-buffered saline (PBS) and added 200 μL of the different particle dilutions to the cells or 200 μL medium (as the control). After 5 days, the cell viability was evaluated using the MTT (3-(4,5-dimethyl-2-thyazolyl)-2,5-diphenyl-2H-tetrazolium-bromide, Germany) assay after washing three times with PBS. Cells were incubated at 37°C for 4 hours after the addition of 100 μL fresh medium and 10 μL of MTT (5 mg/mL) to each well. After solubilization of the blue formazan product with dimethylsulfoxide, 100 μL of dye solution from each well was transferred to 96-well plates. Absorbance was measured at 570 nm using a microplate reader (Bio-RAD Model 680) and cell viability was expressed as percentage of the control.
2.5. Flow Cytometric Analysis
MG-63 cells were centrifuged and stained according to the manufacturer's specifications for analysis by flow cytometry. Propidium iodide (PI, 50 μg/mL) staining was performed for 20 min at room temperature. All data were obtained by a FACSCalibur (BD Biosciences) flow cytometer at least 10,000 events recorded for each condition, and the percentage of the apoptotic cells were analyzed using Summit software 5.0. Histograms of DNA content (x-axis, PI-fluorescence) versus counts (y-axis) were displayed.
2.6. Total Intracellular Protein Content
This procedure was performed according to BCA Protein Assay Reagent Kit (Sigma) [14]. Total protein content in the cell lysate was determined at 570 nm using a microplate reader (Bio-RAD Model 680). Total intracellular protein (expressed as μg/mL) produced by osteoblasts cultured with different concentrations of n-HA was determined by a standard curve of absorbance versus known concentration of albumin run in parallel with experimental samples. Total intracellular protein produced by MG-63 cells cultured without n-HA was used as a control.
2.7. Alkaline Phosphatase Activity
The osteoblastic phenotype of the cells was determined by alkaline phosphatase (ALP) activity and by the formation of mineral deposits in the extracellular matrix. Briefly, the cells after cocultured for 5 days were washed with PBS and then lysed in 0.5 mL PBS containing 0.1 M glycine, 1 mM MgCl2, and 0.05% Triton X-100. The lysate solution was incubated with p-nitrophenyl phosphate (pNPP) solution at 37°C for 30 min. The light absorbance of these samples was measured on a Microplate Reader (Model 680) at 405 nm. ALP activity of MG-63 cells cultured without n-HA served as a control.
2.8. Statistical Analysis
All quantitative tests were carried out in quadruplicate, and the mean values with standard deviations were calculated. Statistical analysis of data was accomplished by t-test using software SPSS11.0 for Windows.
3.1. XRD and TEM Analysis
The XRD pattern of synthesized n-HA particles are presented in Figure 1(b), which exhibited five main diffraction peaks located at 2θ = 26°, 32°, 40°, 47°, and 50°, respectively. Compared with the standard XRD pattern of HA in the PDF card, the XRD pattern of synthetic n-HA revealed the presence of all expected major HA peaks.
TEM image (a) and XRD pattern (b) of n-HA particles.
TEM observation showed that n-HA particles possessed short rod-like shape with size 10–20 nm in diameter and 40–60 nm in length ( ) in (Figure 1(a)). This size was measured with ruler according to the scale in the SEM pictures.
3.2. Cell Viability Assays
MTT (3-(4,5-Dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide) colorimetric analysis was used to measure the viability of cells, which interacted with different concentrations of n-HA. The cell viability was expressed as percentage over the untreated control. As shown in Figure 2, osteoblasts viability decreased with the increase of n-HA concentration at 5 days. The results indicated that cell growth and proliferation up to 5 days was inhibited by n-HA slurry in the range of 5 to 25 μg/mL.
Viability of osteoblast cells responding to different concentrations n-HA solution for 5 days. Values are the mean ± SD (six parallel samples for each concentration).
3.3. Cell Morphology Observation
After culturing for 5 days, cells spread well with different n-HA concentration, as shown in (Figures 3(b), 3(c) and 3(d)). In the control group, cells exhibited a spindle and stellate morphology with whole cellular membrane and rich cellular plasma, as shown in Figure 3(a). Due to the high cell density, it is hard to present the differences between the experimental groups and the control.
Microscopic photographs of MG-63 cells cultured with (a) 0 μg/mL, (b) 5 μg/mL, (c) 15 μg/mL, (d) 25 μg/mL n-HA for 5 days; Magnification 100x.
The development of the cell cytoskeleton was studied by immunofluorescent staining of actin cytoskeletal proteins in order to assess the quality of cellular adhesion. Immunofluorescence images of MG-63 cells grown with the control groups showed a network of well-formed stress fibres of normal filamentous morphology (Figure 4(a)). For the experimental groups, the actin cytoskeleton was partially depolymerised, exhibiting incomplete stress fibres, which might relate with the n-HA concentration and (Figures 4(b), 4(c) and 4(d)). Those results showed that the cell adhesion was affected by the n-HA concentration, particularly at the high concentration.
Actin cytoskeletal organization (red, labelled with phalloidin-FITC, counterstained with DAPI for nuclei in blue) of MG-63 cells cultured with (a) 0 μg/mL, (b) 5 μg/mL, (c) 15 μg/mL,(d) 25 μg/mL n-HA for 5 days (Magnification 200x). The less-organized actin stress fibers were observed with the increase of n-HA concentration.
3.5. Cell Apoptosis Analysis
A flow cytometry assay was performed to evaluate the apoptosis rate of MG-63 cells with different n-HA concentrations. It could be seen that the percentage of apoptotic cells increased with increase n-HA concentration (Figure 5). The average apoptosis rate for 0 μg/mL, 5 μg/mL, 15 μg/mL, and 25 μg/mL group was , , , and , respectively. Significant difference between n-HA-treated groups and untreated control in apoptotic rates was noted.
Flow cytometric analysis of MG-63 cells apoptosis with different concentrations of n-HA for 5 days. Values are the mean ± SD (six parallel samples for each concentration) * .
3.6. Total Protein Content Analysis
After culturing for 5 days, the total protein content of each group was detected. The value for the 20 μg/mL or 25 μg/mL experimental groups were significantly higher than the control group (0 μg/mL) (as shown in Figure 6).
Total protein content of MG-63 cells cultured with different concentrations of n-HA for 5 days. Values are the mean ± SD (six parallel samples for each concentration) * (compared to the 0 μg/mL n-HA group).
3.7. Alkaline Phosphatase Activity Assay
Cell differentiation was assessed by measuring the ALP activity of MG-63 cells cultured with different concentrations of n-HA for 5 days. As shown in Figure 7, no statistical difference was observed for the ALP activities of cells among the different groups.
ALP activity of MG-63 cells cultured with different concentrations of n-HA for 5 days. Values are the mean ± SD (six parallel samples for each concentration).
4. Discussions
To date, many studies have, focused on the size, shape, and sintering temperature of nanohydroxyapatite (n-HA). However, little effort has been put in investigating the effects of concentration of n-HA on the cell responses, especially for the relatively low concentration. In this study, the n-HA with the size of around 10–20 nm in diameter and 40–60 nm in length was prepared under normal pressure and temperature, different from other methods reported under a certain pressure [15]. The specifically biological effects of n-HA on cells were mainly dependent on its concentration [8, 11]. Therefore, the biological effects of MG-63 cells on n-HA at a relatively low concentration range (5–25 μg/mL) was investigated for 5 days in this study.
Our study suggested that n-HA in the concentration range from 5 to 25 μg/mL could inhibit osteoblastic viability and the proliferation rate decreased lineally with the increase of n-HA concentration. This agreed with the study of osteoblasts response to n-HA in other concentration ranges [8]. The protein-synthesizing activity, exhibited by the total intracellular protein content of the osteoblasts, could reflect the proliferation ability of the osteoblasts to some extent. Except for 20 μg/mL and 25 μg/mL groups, other experiment groups were not found obvious difference with the control group in the total protein content of osteoblasts. The biological effects of n-HA particles were concentration dependent; higher concentration was associated with adverse effects. Probably, the concentration of 5, 10, 15 μg/mL was relatively low without causing change of the total protein content of osteoblasts. The results showed that the biological effects of the cell viability and actin cytoskeleton on n-HA show a descending trend with the increase of the n-HA concentration. In addition, our study further revealed that the apoptosis rate of MG-63 cells were , , and , when the concentration of n-HA were 5, 15, and 25 μg/mL, respectively. The results showed that the cell apoptosis rate showed a rising trend with the increase of the n-HA concentration.
Besides the viability of the cells in the coculture system of cells and n-HA particles, the differentiation is another important parameter to estimate the biological effects on different n-HA concentration. BCA assay and ALP activity assay were used to evaluate the differentiation of the MG-63 cells in this study, and ALP activity was routinely used as an early marker of osteoblast differentiation in vitro. Our results confirmed that normal osteoblastic differentiation occurred on each group, and no significant statistical change was found between the control and experiment groups after 5 days of culture, which can be ascribed to the fact that the time point chosen in this study was not optimal for mineralization of MG-63 cells.
According to the above results, the obvious biological effects of the MG-63 cells on n-HA existed at the low concentration range from 5 to 25 μg/mL, and the low concentration of n-HA showed slight toxicity to MG-63 cells. Firstly, the n-HA particles used in this study had been reported that it could penetrate the cell membrane into the cytoplasm in a nonreceptor-mediated fashion after 5 days [16] and smaller n-HA particles could enter into cells more easily and stimulate cells [17]. Additionally, the rod-like particles always induced the larger production of inflammatory cytokines than the spherical-like [6, 18]. The n-HA might be interacted with the cell surface and had the potential to enter the cells, leading to the reduction of the proliferation and total protein content of the MG-63 cells.
Moreover, the n-HA nanoparticles could undergo phagocytosis by cells of the osteogenic lineage, with potential adverse effects on cellular viability, proliferation, and function. The biological effects of n-HA on cells might be dependent not only on the composition, size, and shape but also on the concentration of nano particle [19]. Nano particles with the same size in high concentration appeared to stimulate proinflammatory factor release more than in low concentration. The released factors inhibited bone formation and stimulated osteoclast-mediated bone resorption. Therefore, the results demonstrated that the growth of the MG-63 cells was inhibited by n-HA in a concentration-dependent manner at the low concentration range from 5 to 25 μg/mL.
In this study, the size-controlled n-HA particle was synthesized and its biological effects on osteoblast-like MG-63 cells were evaluated at the relatively low concentration range. The results demonstrated that both cell proliferation and cell apoptosis were related to the concentration of n-HA. At the low concentration range from 5 to 25 μg/mL, the n-HA inhibited the proliferation of MG-63 cells, and total intracellular protein content decreased with increase of the n-HA concentration. No significant change of ALP activity was observed after 5 days of culture.
Our results revealed that the obvious biological effects of the MG-63 cells on n-HA existed at the relatively low concentration range from 5 to 25 μg/mL. The biological effects on viability and actin cytoskeleton of the MG-63 cells showed a descending trend with the increase of the n-HA concentration, and the cell apoptosis rate showed a rising trend with the increase of the n-HA concentration. It could be suggested that the growth of MG-63 cells was inhibited by n-HA in a concentration-dependent manner at the relatively low concentration range. However, in the low concentration range, whether n-HA particles gathered around implant lead to local inflammatory reaction or not needs to be further researched.
This paper was supported by State Key Development Program for Basic Research of China (Grant 2007CB936103), the Fundamental Research Funds for the Central Universities, and Peking University's 985 Grant.
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Home » Baking Tips » Open Sesame!
Did a great variation on our classic mixed grain: inverted the bulk/retardation ferments and added a coating of sesame seeds.
Boris was over at my place a few weeks back and commented on my mixed grain bread just out of the oven. I was all pleased and proud to show off, but… "Looks good mate, but its a bit dense." What I thought was a fine crumb turned out to be crummy. The good thing about Boris is that he's not just an armchair critic: he's an expert that offers solutions for every problem he diagnoses.
True to form, he suggested that I should try inverting the bulk fermentation and retardation. This would reduce the early acid build up during a longer bulk fermentation in the fridge and allow the gluten to form better bonding structures giving a more flexible but robust dough and subsequently more volume during baking.
Next morning I removed it from the fridge for an hour before scaling and rounding for the intermediate proof (30 minutes); then molding into baskets for the final proof of 6 hours (this could vary depending on how long in the fridge – I had mine in the fridge for 13 hours). One thing I'm still learning is how to know if the dough is 45 minutes from being ready for baking (45 minutes is how long it takes to preheat my oven).
The other big difference was to roll the shaped dough in sesame seeds. After molding I lightly sprayed the dough with water and then rolled it in a tray of sesame seeds. I probably could have skipped the spray of water as the dough was quite sticky coming out of the fridge cold and getting a little condensation on it. You just have to judge for yourself based on your conditions. After that they sat in the bannetons for the final proof.
The results were fantastic! Great volume and lovely tasting. Of course if you don't like sesame seeds then skip that and use poppy seeds or flax/linseed or whatever takes your fancy – I just happen to love the subtle flavor of sesame.
What sort of mixed grains did you use in the soaker? What were the proportions of each?
I pretty much made a random mix. You can sometimes get a ready mix of kibble wheat, kibble rye, soy, rolled oats and polenta from either a local baker or some wholefood suppliers (depends on your location on the planet – I'm in Sydney Australia). In this particular batch I used a bit of leftover mix (as above) and just added some linseed, sunflower seed, more rolled oats, more kibbled rye and wheat, poppy seeds and amaranth. I got lazy with weighing them so just added what intuitively looked right, so I can't give proportions. Here is a screen shot of the Bread Boss app's recipe for Pine Nut and Mixed Seed. It gives you an idea of the proportions (note that the overall soaker is 35% in the base formula). My suggestion is that for the hard grains like rye and wheat you need about 24 hours of soaking, but the others can be more like 12 hours. By the way, I find it useful to make a big batch of mixed grains/seeds and then I don't need to weigh out each type when it comes to make the bread for that week – just makes life easier.


text:
Click to copyhttps://apnews.com/71b14961c1ed4d079368702d460c89ab
FBI: Navy Yard gunman left note about radio waves
ERIC TUCKERSeptember 25, 2013
WASHINGTON (AP) — Washington Navy Yard gunman Aaron Alexis left a note saying he was driven to kill by months of bombardment with extremely low-frequency radio waves, the FBI said Wednesday in a disclosure that explains the phrase he etched on his shotgun: "My ELF Weapon!"
Alexis did not target particular individuals during the Sept. 16 attack in which he killed 12 people, and there is no indication the shooting stemmed from any workplace dispute, said Valerie Parlave, assistant director of the FBI's Washington field office.
Instead, authorities said, his behavior in the weeks before the shooting and records later recovered from his hotel room reveal a man increasingly in the throes of paranoia and delusions.
"Ultra-low frequency attack is what I've been subject to for the last 3 months, and to be perfectly honest that is what has driven me to this," read an electronic document agents recovered after the shooting.
The attack came one month after Alexis had complained to police in Rhode Island that people were talking to him through the walls and ceilings of his hotel room and sending microwave vibrations into his body to deprive him of sleep.
On his shotgun, he had scrawled "My ELF Weapon!" — an apparent reference to extremely low-frequency waves — along with "End to the Torment!" ″Not what yall say" and "Better off this way," the FBI said.
Alexis, a 34-year-old former Navy reservist and computer technician for a government contractor, used a valid badge to get into the Navy Yard and opened fire inside a building with the sawed-off Remington shotgun, which he had legally purchased in Virginia two days earlier. He also used a 9 mm handgun that he took from a security guard.
He was killed in the building by a U.S. Park Police officer following a rampage the FBI said lasted more than an hour — longer than authorities previously indicated.
"There are indicators that Alexis was prepared to die during the attack and that he accepted death as the inevitable consequence of his actions," Parlave said.
Surveillance video released by the FBI on Wednesday shows Alexis pulling his rental car into a garage, walking into the building with a bag and then skulking down a corridor with a shotgun, ducking and crouching around a corner and walking briskly down a flight of stairs.
A timeline issued by the FBI shows Alexis started the rampage on the building's fourth floor and then moved down to the third and first floors. He ultimately returned to the third floor, where he was killed around 9:25 a.m. FBI Director James Comey has said there's no evidence that Alexis shot down into the atrium despite earlier accounts from witnesses at the scene.
Alexis had started a job as a contractor in the building just a week before.
Although there was a "routine performance-related issue addressed to him" on the Friday before the Monday morning shooting, "there is no indication that this caused any sort of reaction from him," Parlave said.
"We have not determined there to be any previous relationship between Alexis and any of the victims," she said. "There is no evidence or information at this point that indicates he targeted anyone he worked for or worked with. We do not see any one event as triggering this attack."
Defense officials have acknowledged that a lot of red flags were missed in Alexis' background, allowing him to maintain a secret-level security clearance and access to a Navy installation despite a string of behavioral problems and brushes with the law.
He worked for The Experts, a Florida-based computer firm that was a Hewlett-Packard subcontractor. Hewlett-Packard said Wednesday that it was severing ties with The Experts, accusing the company of failing to respond adequately to Alexis' mental problems.
At the Pentagon, Deputy Defense Secretary Ash Carter said the department will review base safety procedures and the security clearance process.
"Bottom line is, we need to know how an employee was able to bring a weapon and ammunition onto a DoD installation, and how warning flags were either missed, ignored or not addressed in a timely manner," Carter said.
Navy Secretary Ray Mabus has recommended that the department require that all police reports — not just arrests or convictions — be included in background checks.
Associated Press Writer Lolita C. Baldor contributed to this report.


In your research travels you'll come across some pretty weird names and terms. Don't be fooled – some of these are typos, misspellings and general idiocy. However, there are some terms that were commonplace back in the good old days, that have now fallen into the black hole of history … which is quite sad.
The pages below here try to capture some of the ones that crop up more regularly.


According to Maslow's Hierarchy Model of needs, the basic needs of a human being starts with shelter, food and water and later when he attains these, he proceeds to belongings, self-esteem and self-actualization. Now we live in a society where people are fascinated towards luxury lifestyle, big cars, and big homes, masses are so mesmerized with such things that they are ready to take a huge sum of loans from banks even on high-interest rates.
Although there is a huge difference between "Want" and "Need", people are unable to differ it and are ready to take a risk in their life to fulfill both at the same time. They almost live half of their life just in paying EMI's. Thanks to the consumer friendly saving alternatives available in the market, which promote people to do monthly saving & investment in order to build funds for repaying their loans early. Before discussing further about the path which could guide you to become debt free, lets quickly understand the loans on the basis of interest rates and risk involved in it.
Secured loans are those loans that are protected by an asset or collateral of some sort. The item purchased, such as a home or a car, can be used as collateral, and a lien is placed on such item. The finance company or bank will hold the deed or title until the loan has been paid in full, including interest and all applicable fees. Other items such as stocks, bonds, or personal property can be put up to secure a loan as well.
On the other hand, unsecured loans are the opposite of secured loans and include things like credit card purchases, educational loans, or personal (signature) loans. Lenders take more of a risk for making such a loan, with no property or assets to recover in case of default, which is why the interest rates are considerably higher.
Broadly people who are in debt don't really understand the essence of compounding interest. When you borrow loan the power of compounding works for Banks and if you are saving & investing whatever you can, this is just in reverse. Let us take a hypothetical example of an individual carrying Rs. 10 Lakh Mortgage Loan and Rs.7 Lakh Car Loan and Rs. 50,000 Credit Card loan. The interest rate will vary in every case as Credit Card loan has higher interest rate compared to all other loans. The first priority is to save for loan-repayment which has a high-interest rate, although it's your call that you are going for snowball method or High-Interest Rate Method of Repayment of Debts.
Strategies to become debt free: Before you start your run to become debt free, it is essential to list out all your inflow and outflow of cash (i.e. monthly budgeting). Now start listing out your monthly budget of expenses and how much you are left with, from that amount how much you can save & leave remaining to build emergency cash. It is not indispensable that jointly every individual would be having enough cash after paying all EMI's and meeting their primary expenses of life. There is numerous plan of action by which an individual can raise a fund to start saving through short-term investments.
The second step which may help you to raise some extra cash is by reducing your daily, weekly and monthly expenses, we are not saying to reduce anything what you really need but you may like to avoid impulse buying, adding unnecessary luxury to live for a meanwhile till you become debt free or, at least, cut down your EMI's & loans a bit. You can reduce your expenses by decreasing anything which is unwanted that could be the number of outings, eating outside food, slightly reducing luxury to live.
The third step, which could lead you to live debt-free life, is exploring your inner talent. Everybody has some or the other talent within themselves and sometimes it is crucial to know what extra you can do to earn money in critical cases of life, maybe it's teaching, taking dance or yoga classes, working for extra hours in the office, freelancing jobs etc. which could increase your monthly cash inflow. As Benjamin Franklin said, "A Penny Saved is a Penny Earned". Such amount should not be spend & should be combined with all other strategies to raise money that in a collective manner can be saved into SIP's in Mutual Funds, Recurring Deposits, Fixed Deposits etc. Contact your Financial Planner for more details to save wisely.
Now, the question arises that will it be enough to build the lump-sum money to repay the loan? If we calculate our one-day expenses from waking up from bed to going to bed, we will find there are fewer expenses that can be ship-shaped. Let's take one more hypothetical example and discuss fourth step for debt-free run, assume that you are living in cluster family, and you pay monthly for four Newspapers – two for yourself & two for your parents, two digital TV Connections – one for yourself & one for parents, Gas Connections, Electricity Bill, Water Bill, Internet Bill, Land-line Bill etc. All you need is little trimming from your expenditures, by reducing what you don't need much.
You need perseverance, patience and motivation: Fifth step is discussing such anxieties with your family and coming up with new cognitive content to increase your cash inflow, combining family members to your goals could lead you to success. Reducing debt is a long journey that takes discipline. Whether it's setting reminders on your calendar or setting an alarm on your phone to alert you to pay bills, anything you can do to trigger your mind about your path to financial freedom is encouraged and sometimes necessary.
There are several EMI calculator tools available online which provides monthly and year wise information about interest & principle paid and left, or you may like to request for Financial Year statement from your respective bank. Be calculative for the amount you wish to raise; you may like to repay the loan to reduce the number of years of loan tenure or may be reducing your EMI amount. Calculating such figures could provide you a chance to save with a goal and gives a clear picture of your financial arrangements of future.
You may also like to generate extra cash by getting rid of unwanted and old furniture, which is kept in your storeroom by selling it online or offline.
You can also car pool with your friend or colleagues or you can use public conveyance for office instead taking your own vehicle (Car or Bike) in case if you are facing tough stages financially, as it will simultaneously reduce your fuel & vehicle parking cost.
You may like to take home cooked food to the office to reduce you daily spending on lunch, it helps you to stay healthy at the same time.
Wealth creation is not only saving, it's also saving every coin possible and investing it wisely with set goals. There is no rocket science for any social class when it comes to saving & investments. Rules are quite similar for everyone and only goals are something which differs from person to person, as the power of compounding applies to all and everyone can reap the benefits out of it to run on the road to debt freedom. "You must learn to Save First and spend afterward – John Poole".