May

5

Simon’s Rock College tests Alan Turing theories with ‘Imitation Game’ experiment

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Simon’s Rock College tests Alan Turing theories with ‘Imitation Game’ experiment
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Tuesday, April 19, 2005

On Saturday April 16, students at Simon’s Rock College in Great Barrington, Massachusetts and Dr. Richard Wallace of the A.L.I.C.E. AI Foundation for their first time tested Alan Turing’s thought-experiment. The Imitation Game, based on the original Turing model for testing the ability of humans to recognize artificial intelligence (AI), was carried out with nearly eighty human and AI participants.

The ‘Original Imitation Game’ is described in Turing’s 1950 paper. A popularized version now dubbed the “Turing Test” involves a judge knowingly interviewing a software program and a human person during a computer chat, and then trying to discern which is which. The Turing Test has been conducted many times as Artificial Intelligence programs developed. However, no study was ever published following the guidelines of the original thought-experiment itself.

The Imitation Game involved playing a “gender guessing game”, wherein two human subjects, a male and a female, communicate via computer chat to the judge. Both the male and the female would try to convince the judge that s/he is female. Turing’s original question was, if a gender guessing game were done with two humans, and then with an AI replacing the male, would the judge be more accurate in guessing who the real female was?

Three students at Simon’s Rock — Cameo Wood, Melissa Leventhal, and Allyson Sgro — wrote a grant to support the experiment, and shepherded the proposal through the Human Research Review Committee under the oversight of Professor Anne O’Dwyer. The experiment was funded by the departments of Natural Science and the department of Social Science at the college.

The experiment utilized a program called A.L.I.C.E., which is designed to hold one end of an interactive conversation. The program was provided by the ALICE Artificial Intelligence Foundation. Dr. Richard Wallace was on hand during the experiment to troubleshoot the AI robot, later gave a lecture about on The Anatomy of A.L.I.C.E. and blogged the event.

Six human subjects from Simon’s Rock composed the human players in the game; the judges were recruited from various non-technical internet communities. Roughly eighty individuals participated in the experiment, which required the organizers to maintain strict secrecy about the experiment until it was concluded. All subjects who participated in the experiment were required to be over 18, not affiliated with the college, and were not allowed any foreknowledge of the use of AI in the experiment. Roughly 70 interviews were conducted over a three hour period last Saturday, via AOL’s Instant Messenger, a messaging tool that allows individuals to write to one another online.

The research team at Simon’s Rock has started to analyze the data they acquired during the experiment and will be writing a paper for publication in the coming months. Inquiries regarding the experiment may be directed to researcher@theguessinggame.net.

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May

4

Thousands rally in Columbus, Ohio, for undocumented immigrants’ rights

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Thousands rally in Columbus, Ohio, for undocumented immigrants’ rights
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Tuesday, March 28, 2006

On March 26, thousands rallied outside the Columbus, Ohio statehouse, advocating rights for undocumented immigrants. This was one of a series of rallies following one in Los Angeles, which was reported to have drawn over 500,000 attendees.

The sponsoring coalition included the Immigrant Worker Project, the Farm Labor Organizing Committee (FLOC), UFCW Local 880, MIGUATE (of [Dover, Ohio]), and the Red [network] de Inmigrantes de Ohio. Organizers wanted to raise awareness of bill pending in the US Senate, HR 4437, which would make it a felony to be an illegal alien, or to assist aliens in entering or staying the country illegally. Organizers also called for “true” immigration reform plan that would provide a path to citizenship for all immigrant workers.

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May

4

The Importance Of Exposure Levels Regarding Asbestos Related Mortality}

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The Importance of Exposure Levels Regarding Asbestos Related Mortality

by

Mont Wrobleski

Some research has shown a correlation between high exposure rates to asbestos with a significant excess of cancer related deaths. Just how much impact do exposure levels really have on mortality?

One interesting study is called, Lung cancer among asbestos cement workers. A Swedish cohort study and a review. By C G Ohlson, C Hogstedt – Br J Ind Med 1985;42:397-402. Here is an excerpt: Abstract – A cohort study of 1176 Swedish asbestos cement workers did not indicate any asbestos related excess mortality. Possible explanations of the negative outcome are relatively low exposure levels and the predominant use of chrysotile in production. Such a tentative conclusion is supported by a review of five mortality studies of workers exposed to asbestos cement that report considerable differences in relative risks for lung cancer. These differences could be explained by various degrees of cumulative exposure, the amount of amphiboles in the production, and methodological shortcomings. A median exposure of 10-20 fibre-years does not seem to cause an increased risk of lung cancer, particularly when only chrysotile is used.

A second study is called, A study of the mortality of workers in an asbestos factory by M. L. Newhouse Br J Ind Med 1969;26:294-301. Here is an excerpt: Abstract – A study of the mortality of workers in an asbestos factory. A cohort study of over 4,500 male workers employed at an asbestos factory making both textiles and insulation materials is described. The main analysis of the mortality of workers employed between April 1, 1933, the date of the implementation of the Asbestos Regulations, and May 1, 1964. The analysis was made in relation to job, length of exposure, and length of follow-up after first exposure. There was no significant difference between the number of deaths occurring in the factory population and the national figures, until an interval of 16 years or longer had elapsed from first exposure in the factory. There were 1,160 men who fulfilled this criterion. In this group there was no excess mortality among those who worked in jobs where exposure was low or moderate, but among those with jobs which entailed heavy exposure there was a significant excess of deaths from cancer of the lung and pleura, and cancer of other sites, in men with a total period of employment in the factory of less than two years, as well as with those who worked for longer. Excess mortality from respiratory disease was observed only among severely exposed workers with long service.

A third study is called, The effects of long-term ingestion of asbestos on the colon of F344 rats by Kelley J. Donham, MS, DVM, John W. Berg, MD, Loren A. Will, DVM, MPh, Joel R. Leininger, DVM, PhD, – Department of Preventive Medicine and Environmental Health, College of Medicine, University of Iowa, Iowa City, Iowa – National Large Bowel Cancer Project Here is an excerpt: Abstract – Weanling F344 rats, which were fed a diet containing 10% chrysotile (B), were studied over their lifetime to determine the effects of ingested asbestos on the colon. Control groups consisted of rats fed a diet containing a 10% nonnutritive cellulose or a standard laboratory rat diet. The pathological findings in the colons of 501 rats (189 on asbestos diet, 197 on fiber control diet, and 115 on standard control diet), are reported here. Epithelial tumors of the colon (eight adenocarcinomas and one adenoma) were found in nine of the rats on study. Four of the tumors were in asbestos-fed rats, two tumors were found in the non-nutritive cellulose controls, and three tumors were found in the standard laboratory rat diet controls. The probability (based on actuarial analysis) of developing adenoma or adenocarcinomas during the 32 months of the study were 7.4% for the asbestos-fed group, 3.5% for the fiber control diet and 4.0% on the standard control diet. In addition, one malignant mesothelioma of the type induced by intraperitoneally administered asbestos was found in the asbestos-fed group. Non-neoplastic lesions of the colon were also evaluated. The cumulative risk for development of any colon-associated lesion (non-neoplastic plus neoplastic lesions) was greatest for asbestos-fed rats (17.9%), compared to 13.6% for those fed the fiber control diet and 8.2% for those fed the standard control diet. The colon tissue levels of adenosine, 3-5-cyclic monophosphate (cAMP) were significantly lower in the animals fed asbestos compared to the control diets. Chrysotile fibers were seen by electronmicroscopy (e.m.) in six of ten ashed colon specimens of rats fed the asbestos diet. Although the differences in numbers of tumors between the animals fed asbestos and the controls were not statistically significant at the 5% level, we felt that the combination of observations including 1) evidence of increased probability of asbestos-fed animals to develop colon lesions in general; 2) evidence of a special type of mesothelioma in rats fed asbestos; 3) evidence for a cell regulator defect (lowered cAMP levels) in colon tissues of animals fed asbestos; and 4) evidence for asbestos fiber penetration of the colonic mucosa (e.m. studies) suggest that ingested asbestos is not inert in the colon.

If you found any of these excerpts interesting, please read the studies in their entirety. We all owe a debt of gratitude to these researchers.

Monty Wrobleski is the author of this article on

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May

1

Stem cell bills passed by US House and Senate

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Stem cell bills passed by US House and Senate
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Wednesday, July 19, 2006

The Stem Cell Research Enhancement Act of 2005 (HR810), approved by the US House of Representatives in 2005, gained a 63-37 approval in the Senate on July 17th, 2006, and will now be presented for presidential approval or veto.

Bill HR810 passed by the Senate as SB471, overrides the 2001 executive order signed by George W. Bush that banned funding by the National Institutes of Health (NIH) for embryonic stem cell research of stem cell lines created after the executive order was issued. The new bill does not include a provision against privately funded research, which is legal under the law, only research funded by NIH.

The bill includes three ethical requirements for funded research. First, the stem cells were derived from human embryos that have been donated from in-vitro fertilization clinics, were created for the purposes of fertility treatment, and were in excess of the clinical need of the individuals seeking such treatment. Second, prior to the consideration of embryo donation and through consultation with the individuals seeking fertility treatment, it was determined that the embryos would never be implanted in a woman and would otherwise be discarded. And lastly, the individuals seeking fertility treatment donated the embryos with written informed consent and without receiving any financial or other inducements to make the donation.

President Bush is expected to veto the bill as early as today, White House Press Secretary Tony Snow said the veto would be “pretty swift”. This would be President Bush’s first veto of his two terms in office.

As with any vetoed bill, a two-thirds majority of the House and Senate can override said veto, but the original vote (63-37) show that the Senate is more than likely to not get the override votes it would need. Even without the two-thirds original vote, Senator Carl Levin of Michigan has voiced support for a veto override.

Two other bills, S2754 and S3504, the Alternative Pluripotent Stem Cell Therapies Enhancement Act and the Fetus Farming Prohibition Act of 2006, respectively, were failed and passed in that order by the House of Representatives. S2754 was introduced to the House this afternoon and failed by a vote of 273-154, S3504 was passed unanimously by the House and is also expected to be on the President’s desk this morning.

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April

26

Pope Benedict XVI resigns effective February 28

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Pope Benedict XVI resigns effective February 28
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Monday, February 11, 2013

Earlier today, the Vatican announced that Pope Benedict XVI plans to step down from his position as leader of the Roman Catholic Church effective February 28.

The Pope gave reasons in a statement: “After having repeatedly examined my conscience before God, I have come to the certainty that my strengths, due to an advanced age, are no longer suited to an adequate exercise of the Petrine ministry.”

Reports of the news appeared quickly on Spanish and French language television. The Vatican had not immediately updated their website with the news. There will be a press conference this afternoon where additional details will be provided.

The news quickly became a trending topic on Twitter in Spain, France, and Italy. Within a half hour of the news being released, it had become a trending topic world wide.

Cardinal Joseph Ratzinger became Pope aged 78 in 2005 after the death of John Paul II.

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April

26

Used Cars | Used Car In India | Second Hand Cars |Used Car For Sale | Carkhajana.Com}

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Submitted by: Car Khajana

Here CarKhajana is providing the tips for buy used cars in India. Carkhajana is Indias best online car portal. We as a Carkhajana is providing the all latest cars, upcoming car news, launched cars, new car, used cars, sell used car, buy used car, car service centers, and more information related to car. We are providing the certified used cars in India with pictures or photographs and sellers genuine information with theirs contact details.

Buying a used car is a spot of art and a spot of science mixed together. How can you be certain if the used car you have zeroed in on isnt a bucket load of worries? What if all that glossy metal is hiding a bag of trouble? A subsequent hand deal can be difficult but more so if you are planning to buy from an unauthorized used dealer without any warranties or after sales support. Though it might come across like an astral deal at the time but are you sure your dream used car wont be a cause of despondency in the years to come? Here are a few indicators to keep in mind to buy the right used car for you. Heres our inclusive lead which promises to take the worry out of buying a used car.

1. Take a friend along In case you arent confident enough with your choice then it makes sense to take a friend along who knows about cars or perhaps even a good mechanic who is well notorious to you. If you can get proficient help, then dont mind paying a mechanic for a thorough check up. Always make certain that the person you are taking along isnt a moving buyer and will help you with a balanced decision. A cheap car might make instant financial sense but there could be a bag of issues hiding below that glossy metal. Make sure to take a look around with your friend and do not be frightened to walk away if you are not satisfied. Always remember that there is abundance of used cars available in market.

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2. Check under the bonnet Even though you might not have all the knowledge of a taught mechanic but even then so you can hold out many easy checks to make sure that you are not selling a car thats seen much abandon. The first place to check for an engines health is the oil measuring stick. If its a petrol car and oil colour on the measuring stick is black then chances are its not been services for a long time. A healthy cars oil will be fair brown in colour. Next up, open up the engines oil cap. If there s a soft mud over there then chances are that the head gasket will need a major repair. No matter how good the transaction might sound, do not part with your money on this car. Also, check rubber wash for any break or leaks. Switch the engine on and check if the warmer has a trickle or oil is leaking from any joints. Also, check the wear out at star up. If there is blue or black smoke produce then you can lay a stake there is a serious issue with the car. Keep away from it at all costs.

3. Tracking the test drive – Always maintain on taking a test drive. If the merchant or salesperson isnt too keen on contribution you a test drive then there is a rat anywhere. The test drive is the best way to find out a cars health and if it has any serious matter with it. The engine should rev with relieve all the way to its redline and should remain yank free. When you change gears make sure that it is smooth and that there is no break up noises, an expense youd avoid. When you handbrake, the car should not pull to the right or left side, a clear suggestion of misaligned wheels. The routing needs to be correct as well. In universal keep a close ear for any outlandish noises. And drive with the stereo switched off. If the merchant insists on listening to the personal stereo chances are he is trying to pull your concentration away from a serious issue with the car.

4. Paper work and service History Always persevere on considering the original documents of the car. This is a very significant area which many buyers be inclined to ignore, only to apologize for later. Always check the service bills, insurance papers and registration history to make certain that the dates and mileage on the car compute. Always make sure that the chassis and engine numbers do not compute without delay walk away. This could be a stolen vehicle and will land you in big trouble soon. Dont mind paying additional for a car which has its full service history record. It shows that the preceding owner has taken good care of his set of wheel.

5. Bodywork Pay close notice to the sides of the car for any undulation and small dents. Move absent to a far-away and take a look at the paintwork. Immoral paintwork is an obvious suggestion that the car is not all that its been made out to be. Do you see a faintly different tone for dissimilar body board or does it seem it got the unique factory paintwork? If there are any rough scrap or inconsistent panel gaps probability are that this car has been in a shunt and experience substandard repairs at a local garage. Look around the door panels, remove the rubber coating and check for signs of paint re spray and irregular welding marks. Ask the dealer why these are in attendance. Bargain hard on such cars and work on getting a discount.

6. Interior Quality Does the interiors wear and tear match the cars age and mileage or has it been given an openhanded dose of polish to hide something? The cars cottage is a dead give way about the previous owners. Be careful of cars with low mileage but damaged out interiors which have lost their polish. Chances are that the upholstery. Any cuts or flame marks are sure sign of neglect. Make sure all cabling work fine since they can be exclusive to fix on most reproduction. Also try and remove the flooring carpet to check if the unusual carpeting is in good outline. In case there is any wetness on it chances are that the AC on the car has a trickle somewhere. Bargain hard on such examples.

7. Dont go in bad weather Always make sure that you go to check a car when the illumination is good. Never ever go to examine a car when it is dim or twilight when the sun is vanishing away. Avoid great weather situation days to go used car follow. Snow, raining or cloudy days are an utter no as well. The poor light can hide collage paint or other serious issues. If the dealer insists that he will bring the car to you in the evening and sign the deal, the car has an issue which he is trying to hide under the vanishing light. Avoid such an example at all costs.

About the Author: CarKhajana Used Cars | Used Car in India | Second Hand Cars |Used car for Sale |

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April

25

Ontario Votes 2007: Interview with NDP candidate Sheila White, Scarborough-Rouge River

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Ontario Votes 2007: Interview with NDP candidate Sheila White, Scarborough-Rouge River
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Thursday, September 13, 2007

Having worked as an aide, advisor, and Executive Assistant to municipal and provincial politicians, Sheila White is running for the Ontario New Democratic Party in the Ontario provincial election, in the Scarborough-Rouge River riding. Wikinews’ Nick Moreau interviewed her regarding her values, her experience, and her campaign.

Stay tuned for further interviews; every candidate from every party is eligible, and will be contacted. Expect interviews from Liberals, Progressive Conservatives, New Democratic Party members, Ontario Greens, as well as members from the Family Coalition, Freedom, Communist, Libertarian, and Confederation of Regions parties, as well as independents.

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April

24

Records, competitiveness and creations centre-stage at 2007 Soochow International 24H Ultra-Marathon

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Records, competitiveness and creations centre-stage at 2007 Soochow International 24H Ultra-Marathon
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Thursday, November 29, 2007

Founded in 1999, and the first-ever 24 hour ultra-marathon race in Taiwan, the 7th Soochow International 24H Ultra-Marathon, took place on November 24-25, 2007. Even though the race has been suspended in the past, in 2000 and 2006, due to poor conditions on the track field, several world-class runners participated in the 2007 race.

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April

24

Installing Lawn Sprinklers In Kalamazoo

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byAlma Abell

Summer is right around the corner, and with that comes keeping the lawns looking pristine. That involves keeping the grass green, as well as cut short. When it comes to keeping the grass green, there are a few options you can choose from. One way is to rely on rainwater to do the job for you. Another option is to lug around your hoses each time, watering certain areas of your lawn only to move them again so that you can water the rest of your lawn. Fortunately, there is an even better option, Lawn Sprinklers Kalamazoo.

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Sanderson & DeHaan Irrigation have been in the Lawn Sprinklers Kalamazoo industry for over 20 years. You can call them today to get a free estimate. They will come out to you to discuss what you need when it comes to keeping your lawn looking great. Implementing an irrigation system will allow you to enjoy your summer without having to worry about getting outside and moving your hoses around. You can sit back, relax, and still have a very healthy lawn without having to lift a finger.

Deciding to install an irrigation system for your lawn is beneficial in many ways. The number one reason people decide to install a system is because of the time they will save not having to deal with watering their lawn themselves. Aesthetically speaking, hidden sprinklers look a lot better than hoses or above ground sprinklers positioned all over your yard. Another benefit is that it will save you money in water costs as many people forget to shut off their hoses a time or two. Lastly, we all take vacations. When you are away from your home, you can’t possibly water your lawn, so it will suffer. With an irrigation system in place, you can come back from your vacation to a green and healthy lawn.

An increasing number of homes are turning to an irrigation system to keep their lawn looking healthy. Not only is this saving you time, but it is effective when it comes to saving you money. Call today for afree estimate and a customized irrigation system to fit your needs.

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April

24

Non-profit ACORN plans to shut down

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Non-profit ACORN plans to shut down
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Tuesday, March 23, 2010

File:ACORN logo.png

The US community organizing group Association of Community Organizations for Reform Now (ACORN) will end its operations due to dwindling funds. The group said in a statement that it would close most of its field offices by April 1.

The heads of the organization said in a joint statement that “ACORN’s members have a great deal to be proud of—from promoting homeownership to helping rebuild New Orleans, from raising wages to winning safer streets, from training community leaders to promoting voter participation—ACORN members have worked hard to create stronger communities, a more inclusive democracy, and a more just nation.”

The group, founded in 1970, played a prominent role in the 2008 US presidential elections, as it conducted many voter registration drives and fundraising for then-Senator Barack Obama, among other Democratic candidates. The organization first became scrutinized during the 2006 mid-term elections, when some of its employees were accused of voter fraud. Matters got worse in 2009 after an undercover video revealed two of its employees giving advice on how to set up a prostitution ring and commit tax fraud.

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