Indeed, Mercury, the closest planet to the Sun, possesses a lot of ice ? 100 billion to 1 trillion tons ? scientists working with NASA?s Messenger spacecraft reported on Thursday.
Sean C. Solomon, the principal investigator for Messenger, said there was enough ice there to encase Washington, D.C., in a frozen block two and a half miles deep.
That is a counterintuitive discovery for a place that also ranks among the hottest in the solar system. At noon at the equator on Mercury, the temperature can hit 800 degrees Fahrenheit (or about 400 degrees Celsius).
But near Mercury?s poles, deep within craters where the Sun never shines, temperatures dip to as cold as minus 370 Fahrenheit (minus-220 Celsius).
?In these planetary bodies, there are hidden places, as it were, that can have interesting things going on,? said David J. Lawrence, a senior scientist at the Johns Hopkins University Applied Physics Laboratory working on the Messenger mission.
The findings appear in a set of three papers published Thursday on the Web site of the journal Science. The ice could be an intriguing science target for a future robotic lander or even a resource for astronauts in the far future.
Planetary scientists had strong hints of the ice a couple of decades ago when telescopes bounced radio waves off Mercury and the reflections were surprisingly bright. But some researchers suggested the craters could be lined with silicate compounds or sulfur, which might also be highly reflective.
The Messenger spacecraft, which swung into orbit around Mercury in March 2011 and has completed its primary mission, took a closer look by counting particles known as neutrons that are flying off the planet. High-energy cosmic rays break apart atoms, and the debris includes neutrons.
But when a speeding neutron hits a hydrogen atom, which is almost the same weight, it comes to almost a complete stop, just like in billiards when the cue ball transfers its momentum to another ball. Water molecules contain two hydrogen atoms, and thus when Messenger passed over ice-rich areas, the number of neutrons dropped.
The same technique was used to detect frozen water below the surface on Mars and within similar craters on the Moon.
The neutron number would not have dropped if the bright surfaces were made of sulfur or silicates.
?Water ice is the only candidate we?ve got that fits all those observations,? said Dr. Solomon, who is also director of Columbia?s Lamont-Doherty Earth Observatory.
The ice is almost pure water, which indicates that it arrived within the last few tens of millions of years, possibly from a comet that smacked into Mercury. Dr. Solomon said several young craters on the surface of Mercury could be candidates for such an impact.
Not all of the icy regions were bright. In slightly warmer regions, where temperatures exceed minus 280 Fahrenheit (minus-170 Celsius), the ice was covered by a dark layer about half a foot thick. The scientists believe in these places the water ice vaporized, leaving behind other materials that had been trapped, including carbon-based molecules known as organics.
That could be similar to how water and the building blocks of life reached Earth billions of years ago.
The water could also be an intriguing resource for people. Between the scorched equator and the frozen poles, temperatures on Mercury can be temperate, especially a few feet below the surface, where the soil insulates against the temperature swings between day and night ? an ideal location to build a colony.
?People joke about it, but it?s not so crazy, really,? said David A. Paige, a professor of geology at U.C.L.A. who calculated the crater temperatures.
DEAR ABBY: My wife and I have been married for five years. I recently discovered that she made between 10 and 20 porn videos when she was 19. We got married when she was 27. We have four kids from two previous marriages.I am devastated. When I confronted her about it, she cried harder than I had ever seen. She said she was lost, and it's the biggest regret of her entire life.I understand how hard it can be to tell someone you have done something like this. I haven't led a perfect life either, and I have my own skeletons and things that I would never mention. But still, I can't get over this. ...
LONDON?? Scientists from Britain, Germany and the United States have unlocked key components of the genetic code for wheat, helping to create varieties that are more productive and better able to cope with disease, drought and other crop stresses.
The identification of around 96,000 wheat genes, and insights into the links between them, comes just two years after British researchers published the raw data of the wheat genome.
"Since 1980, the rate of increase in wheat yields has declined," said one of the project leaders, Keith Edwards of the University of Bristol. "Analysis of the wheat genome sequence data provides a new and very powerful foundation for breeding future generations of wheat more quickly and more precisely, to help address this problem."
The research was published in the journal Nature on Wednesday.
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"Bread wheat is a complex hybrid, composed of the complete genomes of three closely related grasses. This makes it very complex and large; in total it is almost five times bigger than the human genome," said another of the project's leaders, Klaus Mayer of Helmholtz-Zentrum Munchen.
"Because of this, we took a novel approach to analyzing the data and we have been successful in turning it into an accessible and useful resource that will accelerate breeding and the discovery of varieties with improved performance ? for example, better disease resistance and stress tolerance."
Jan Dvorak of the University of California at Davis led the U.S. contribution to the project.
The study was welcomed by other scientists.
"As we struggle to confront the increasing challenges of population increase, land degradation and climate change that are contributing to food insecurity, it will be vital to understand the underlying genetics of staple crops like wheat," said Denis Murphy of the University of Glamorgan.
"The newly published wheat genome will be a vital resource for researchers and crop breeders across the world in their efforts to maintain global food supplies."
(c) Copyright Thomson Reuters 2012. Check for restrictions at: http://about.reuters.com/fulllegal.asp
On his show, Comedian Rodney Perry covers arts and entertainment, everything from comedy and politics to music and acting, with his signature comedic slant.
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Joy Keys provides her listeners with insight to improve their lives mentally, physically, monetarily and emotionally. Past guests on the show have included Meshell Nedegeocello, Blair Underwood, in addition to an impressive list of CEOs, humanitarians and authors.
Host Barry Moltz gets small businesses unstuck. He has founded and run small businesses with a great deal of success and failure for more than 15 years. This is a business radio show where he shares all the craziness of small business. It?s that craziness that actually makes it exciting, interesting and totally unpredictable.
The Bottom Line Sports Show is hosted by former NBA stars Penny Hardaway, Charles Oakley, Mateen Cleaves. Tune in to get the inside scoop on what's happening in sports today.
Deepak Chopra Radio provides an online forum for compelling and thought provoking conversations on success, love, sexuality and relationships, well-being and spirituality.
Hits Radio covers basketball, sports culture and entertainment with past guests including Jason Kidd, Robin Lundberg and Chris Herren.
Listeners get an earful on The Halli Casser-Jayne Show, Talk Radio for Fine Minds. Whether it?s the current political cocktail or the latest must-read award-winning book, Halli tackles all topics and likes to stir ? and sometimes shakes ? things up.
Award-winning World Footprints is a leading voice in socially responsible travel and lifestyle. Hosts Ian & Tonya celebrate culture and heritage and bring a unique voice to the world of travel.
Football Reporters Online is a group of veteran football experts in the fields of coaching, scouting, talent evaluation, and writing/broadcasting/media placement. Combined, the group brings well over 100 years of expertise in sports.
Host John Martin interviews the nation's leading entrepreneurs and small biz experts to educate small business owners on how to be successful. Past guests have included Emeril Lagasse and Guy Kawasaki.
The Movie Geeks share their passion for the art through interviews with the stars of and creative minds behind your favorite flicks and pay tribute to big-screen legends. From James Cameron and Francis Ford Coppola to Ellen Burstyn and Robert Duvall, The Geeks have got'em all.
Sylvia Global presents global conversations pertaining to women, wealth, business, faith and philanthropy. Sylvia has interviewed an eclectic mix from CEOs and musicians to fashion designers and philanthropists including Randolph Duke and Ne-Yo.
Seasoned entertainment reporter Robin Milling gets up close and personal with the world's most compelling celebs. From Michael Douglas to Katie Holmes to Kevin Kline to Ashley Judd to America Ferrera, she sits down in person each week with each and every A-lister.
Mr. Media host Bob Andelman goes one-on-one with the hottest, most influential minds from the worlds of film, TV, music, comedy, journalism and literature. That means A-listers like Kirk Douglas, Christian Slater, Kathy Ireland, Rick Fox, Chris Hansen and Jackie Collins.
Paula Begoun, best-selling author of Don't Go to the Cosmetics Counter Without Me, separates fact from fiction on achieving a radiant, youthful complexion at any age. She?s regularly joined by health and beauty experts who offer the latest on keeping your skin in tip-top shape.
A much needed multi-million pound investment has been secured from commercial real estate and leisure investment group PMB Holdings to rejuvenate Soho's historic Berwick Street, in London?s West End. Working closely with local residents, businesses and traders, PMB Holdings has acquired the rights for the redevelopment from the City of Westminster Council and will launch a series of wide reaching consultations to develop proposals for the planned scheme. The project aims to bring new life to the area while maintaining its strong sense of character and local Soho feel.
We represented the City of Westminster Council throughout the process and continue to.
The redevelopment scheme will provide the much needed regeneration of out-dated 1960?s buildings to create a dramatically improved street scene. Retail units will also be improved to offer an enhanced shopping experience. Plans are also in place which will support and improve the social housing in Kemp House, and will enhance amenities for all residents living in and around Berwick Street.??
Recently voted Westminster residents' favourite market, Berwick Street has been the home of local traders since at least 1778. PMB Holdings will work to transform the currently out-dated street market and create a more exciting offer. To demonstrate its commitment to supporting the future of the existing market, PMB Holdings is providing ?100,000 in upfront funding to improve utilities for market traders and deliver better access to water and electricity, as part of what will be a wider community benefits package.
Edward Jones, CEO of PMB Holdings, comments, ?Berwick Street and its market is a fantastic and essential part of Soho?s character and feel, but its traders and retailers are in need of modern facilities to improve their businesses. This redevelopment will attract tourists, visitors and new residents to the area which will reinvigorate the street and its economic wealth. Consulting the locals is key to our plans to rejuvenate the street while maintaining its current personality.? PMB Holdings is excited to be working with the local community and feel confident we can make this project a success.?
Commercial property advisers, Lambert Smith Hampton represented City of Westminster Council throughout the process and continue to.
Commenting, Tim Shaw, Director at Lambert Smith Hampton said: ?There is a clear connection between the performance, condition and management of both the retail units and other real estate owned by the City Council and the surrounding Berwick Street Market, of which the City Council is acutely aware.? We have developed a plan with PMB Holdings to allow the private sector to invest millions of pounds in the property and the surrounding infrastructure to the benefit of local residents, market traders, retailers and stakeholders, to breathe new life into this historic part of the capital.?
Jonathan Glanz, Cabinet Member for Housing and Property at Westminster City Council, said: "Through working with the private sector, we are now able to put forward proposals which will see the regeneration of Berwick Street in the heart of Soho. It is an area which has a fantastic history and this deal will see the famous London street and market restored beyond? its former glory, as it is recreated as a unique destination market with a wide variety of shops and stalls."
PMB Holdings will be holding workshops with local groups and residents throughout November and December to fully develop plans. A public exhibition will be held in early 2013 with planning permission expected to be submitted in April 2013.
Goldenberg Real Estate LLP acted on behalf of PMB Holdings.
16 Nov 2012
For information about the services covered in this news story please contact Tim Shaw
November was game time for the cable news networks, and there were winners all around.
Fox News dominated as usual, taking the top eight programs. The network averaged 2.6 million total viewers during primetime, for a 47% jump since November 2011.
The month also saw positive results for MSNBC, which grew 76% among total viewers during primetime and more than doubled its primetime viewers in the coveted 25-54 demo. All of the network's primetime programming saw huge gains: "The Rachel Maddow Show" increased its total viewers by 72%, "Last Word With Lawrence O'Donnell" by 66% and "PoliticsNation With Al Sharpton" by 58%.
There was some good news for CNN, which jumped 64% in total viewers during primetime and also more than doubled its audience in the key demo. The network won the ratings battle on election night, drawing 8.84 million viewers to beat Fox News' 8.7 million.
It was another sign of hope for the struggling network, which just chose Jeff Zucker as its new chief. "Anderson Cooper 360" and "Piers Morgan Tonight" continued to lead CNN. They grew their total audiences by 41% and 46% respectively, compared to this time last year.
Studies from 2012 Quality Care Symposium highlight findings in improving quality of cancer carePublic release date: 28-Nov-2012 [ | E-mail | Share ]
Contact: Aaron Tallent Aaron.Tallent@asco.org 619-358-6782 American Society of Clinical Oncology
ALEXANDRIA, Va. Five additional studies to be presented at the 2012 Quality Care Symposium provide insight on how oncology practices can improve the quality of care they provide. The Symposium will take place November 30 December 1, at the Manchester Grand Hyatt in San Diego.
Note to Media: Statements from ASCO Communications Committee Member, Jyoti Patel, MD, can be cited throughout can be used in part or in their entirety.
Abstract #69
Rates of diagnostic imaging in long-term survivors of young adult malignancies
Corinne Daly, BSc, MSc
Institute of Medical Science
University of Toronto
Toronto
Oral Abstract Session A
Friday, November 30, 2012, 10:50-11:00 AM PST
Manchester Grand Hyatt, Douglas Pavilion B
"For the past several years, clinical practice guidelines have recommended decreasing the amount of surveillance in adolescent and young adult cancer survivors. Unfortunately, we are still seeing overuse of diagnostic imaging, which is associated with increased anxiety about test results and unnecessary radiation exposure. To mitigate this problem, we are educating internists ,general physicians, and patients about overuse of scans."
- Jyoti Patel, MD, ASCO Cancer Communications Committee
Abstract #73
Rational use of intensity-modulated radiation therapy (IMRT) as determined by radiation oncologists in cooperation with Blue Cross Blue Shield of Massachusetts (BCBSMA)
Harvey J. Mamon, MD, PhD
Dana-Farber Cancer Institute
Brigham and Women's Hospital
Boston
Oral Abstract Session B
Saturday, December 1, 2012, 11:45-11:55 AM PST
Manchester Grand Hyatt, Douglas Pavilion B
"Many hospitals may be using intensity-modulated radiation therapy (IMRT) unnecessarily. To maximize resources for both the physician and patient, we want to make sure that IMRT is used only when needed. This study provides a model that will help radiation oncologists decide when the use of IMRT is warranted."
- Jyoti Patel, MD, ASCO Cancer Communications Committee
Abstract #285
Data-driven transformation to an oncology patient-centered medical home
John David Sprandio, MD
Consultants in Medical Oncology and Hematology
Delaware County Memorial Hospital
Drexel Hill, Penn.
General Session II: Models That Work: Integration across the Spectrum (Part I)
Friday, November 30, 2012, 2:10-2:30 PM PST
Manchester Grand Hyatt, Douglas Pavilion B
"There is an effort to get electronic medical records (EMRs) into every medical practice, but implementation of EMRs alone does not improve care. Having a patient-centered medical home, such as the one described in this study, would improve the quality of the EMR system as well as its use because it integrates data from specialists and tracks patient care against national guidelines."
- Jyoti Patel, MD, ASCO Cancer Communications Committee
Abstract #287
Improving cancer care by linking community cancer center physicians to disease site-specific experts
Patricia H. Hardenbergh, MD
Shaw Regional Cancer Center
Vail Valley Medical Center
Edwards, Colo.
Oral Abstract Session B
Saturday, December 1, 2012, 12:05-12:15 PM PST
Manchester Grand Hyatt, Douglas Pavilion B
"The online technology described in this study enables community radiation oncologists to discuss cases and review radiation oncology treatment plans with a panel of experts. Those discussions are leading to changes in treatment decisions. In remote and underserved areas, being able to do a telemedicine consult instead of requiring a patient to travel to the practice for an assessment might be very helpful."
- Jyoti Patel, MD, ASCO Cancer Communications Committee
This study is funded by the Conquer Cancer Foundation of ASCO Improving Cancer Care Grant, funded by Susan G. Komen for the Cure.
Abstract #298
Short-term outcomes of implementation of computer-based breast cancer risk assessment program during screening mammography
Debra M. Ray, MD
Leon Hess Cancer Center and Jacqueline M. Wilentz Comprehensive Breast Center at Monmouth Medical Center
Long Branch, N.J.
General Poster Session B
Saturday, December 1, 2012, 12:30-2:00 PM PST
Manchester Grand Hyatt, Douglas Pavilion C
"High risk breast cancer screening is very time-consuming and expensive, so we want to make sure that we are targeting the appropriate patients. This study offers a computer-based model for identifying women who are at high risk of developing breast cancer at the point of care at the time of screening mammography. "
- Jyoti Patel, MD, ASCO Cancer Communications Committee
###
To view the full release click here: http://www.asco.org/ASCOv2/Press+Center/Latest+News+Releases/Meetings+News/Studies+from+2012+Quality+Care+Symposium+Highlight+Findings+in+Improving+Quality+of+Cancer+Care
Information for Media: www.asco.org/QCSpresskit
ATTRIBUTION TO THE AMERICAN SOCIETY OF CLINICAL ONCOLOGY QUALITY CARE SYMPOSIUM IS REQUESTED IN ALL NEWS COVERAGE.
Funding for this conference was made possible in part by a grant (1 R13 HS021377-01) from the Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality (AHRQ). The views expressed in written conference materials or publications and by speakers and moderators do not necessarily reflect the official policies of the Department of Health and Human Services; nor does mention of trade names, commercial practices, or organizations imply endorsement by the U.S. Government.
About ASCO
The American Society of Clinical Oncology (ASCO) is the world's leading professional organization representing physicians who care for people with cancer. With more than 30,000 members, ASCO is committed to improving cancer care through scientific meetings, educational programs and peer-reviewed journals. ASCO is supported by its affiliate organization, the Conquer Cancer Foundation, which funds ground-breaking research and programs that make a tangible difference in the lives of people with cancer. For ASCO information and resources, visit www.asco.org. Patient-oriented cancer information is available at www.Cancer.Net.
[ | E-mail | Share ]
?
AAAS and EurekAlert! are not responsible for the accuracy of news releases posted to EurekAlert! by contributing institutions or for the use of any information through the EurekAlert! system.
Studies from 2012 Quality Care Symposium highlight findings in improving quality of cancer carePublic release date: 28-Nov-2012 [ | E-mail | Share ]
Contact: Aaron Tallent Aaron.Tallent@asco.org 619-358-6782 American Society of Clinical Oncology
ALEXANDRIA, Va. Five additional studies to be presented at the 2012 Quality Care Symposium provide insight on how oncology practices can improve the quality of care they provide. The Symposium will take place November 30 December 1, at the Manchester Grand Hyatt in San Diego.
Note to Media: Statements from ASCO Communications Committee Member, Jyoti Patel, MD, can be cited throughout can be used in part or in their entirety.
Abstract #69
Rates of diagnostic imaging in long-term survivors of young adult malignancies
Corinne Daly, BSc, MSc
Institute of Medical Science
University of Toronto
Toronto
Oral Abstract Session A
Friday, November 30, 2012, 10:50-11:00 AM PST
Manchester Grand Hyatt, Douglas Pavilion B
"For the past several years, clinical practice guidelines have recommended decreasing the amount of surveillance in adolescent and young adult cancer survivors. Unfortunately, we are still seeing overuse of diagnostic imaging, which is associated with increased anxiety about test results and unnecessary radiation exposure. To mitigate this problem, we are educating internists ,general physicians, and patients about overuse of scans."
- Jyoti Patel, MD, ASCO Cancer Communications Committee
Abstract #73
Rational use of intensity-modulated radiation therapy (IMRT) as determined by radiation oncologists in cooperation with Blue Cross Blue Shield of Massachusetts (BCBSMA)
Harvey J. Mamon, MD, PhD
Dana-Farber Cancer Institute
Brigham and Women's Hospital
Boston
Oral Abstract Session B
Saturday, December 1, 2012, 11:45-11:55 AM PST
Manchester Grand Hyatt, Douglas Pavilion B
"Many hospitals may be using intensity-modulated radiation therapy (IMRT) unnecessarily. To maximize resources for both the physician and patient, we want to make sure that IMRT is used only when needed. This study provides a model that will help radiation oncologists decide when the use of IMRT is warranted."
- Jyoti Patel, MD, ASCO Cancer Communications Committee
Abstract #285
Data-driven transformation to an oncology patient-centered medical home
John David Sprandio, MD
Consultants in Medical Oncology and Hematology
Delaware County Memorial Hospital
Drexel Hill, Penn.
General Session II: Models That Work: Integration across the Spectrum (Part I)
Friday, November 30, 2012, 2:10-2:30 PM PST
Manchester Grand Hyatt, Douglas Pavilion B
"There is an effort to get electronic medical records (EMRs) into every medical practice, but implementation of EMRs alone does not improve care. Having a patient-centered medical home, such as the one described in this study, would improve the quality of the EMR system as well as its use because it integrates data from specialists and tracks patient care against national guidelines."
- Jyoti Patel, MD, ASCO Cancer Communications Committee
Abstract #287
Improving cancer care by linking community cancer center physicians to disease site-specific experts
Patricia H. Hardenbergh, MD
Shaw Regional Cancer Center
Vail Valley Medical Center
Edwards, Colo.
Oral Abstract Session B
Saturday, December 1, 2012, 12:05-12:15 PM PST
Manchester Grand Hyatt, Douglas Pavilion B
"The online technology described in this study enables community radiation oncologists to discuss cases and review radiation oncology treatment plans with a panel of experts. Those discussions are leading to changes in treatment decisions. In remote and underserved areas, being able to do a telemedicine consult instead of requiring a patient to travel to the practice for an assessment might be very helpful."
- Jyoti Patel, MD, ASCO Cancer Communications Committee
This study is funded by the Conquer Cancer Foundation of ASCO Improving Cancer Care Grant, funded by Susan G. Komen for the Cure.
Abstract #298
Short-term outcomes of implementation of computer-based breast cancer risk assessment program during screening mammography
Debra M. Ray, MD
Leon Hess Cancer Center and Jacqueline M. Wilentz Comprehensive Breast Center at Monmouth Medical Center
Long Branch, N.J.
General Poster Session B
Saturday, December 1, 2012, 12:30-2:00 PM PST
Manchester Grand Hyatt, Douglas Pavilion C
"High risk breast cancer screening is very time-consuming and expensive, so we want to make sure that we are targeting the appropriate patients. This study offers a computer-based model for identifying women who are at high risk of developing breast cancer at the point of care at the time of screening mammography. "
- Jyoti Patel, MD, ASCO Cancer Communications Committee
###
To view the full release click here: http://www.asco.org/ASCOv2/Press+Center/Latest+News+Releases/Meetings+News/Studies+from+2012+Quality+Care+Symposium+Highlight+Findings+in+Improving+Quality+of+Cancer+Care
Information for Media: www.asco.org/QCSpresskit
ATTRIBUTION TO THE AMERICAN SOCIETY OF CLINICAL ONCOLOGY QUALITY CARE SYMPOSIUM IS REQUESTED IN ALL NEWS COVERAGE.
Funding for this conference was made possible in part by a grant (1 R13 HS021377-01) from the Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality (AHRQ). The views expressed in written conference materials or publications and by speakers and moderators do not necessarily reflect the official policies of the Department of Health and Human Services; nor does mention of trade names, commercial practices, or organizations imply endorsement by the U.S. Government.
About ASCO
The American Society of Clinical Oncology (ASCO) is the world's leading professional organization representing physicians who care for people with cancer. With more than 30,000 members, ASCO is committed to improving cancer care through scientific meetings, educational programs and peer-reviewed journals. ASCO is supported by its affiliate organization, the Conquer Cancer Foundation, which funds ground-breaking research and programs that make a tangible difference in the lives of people with cancer. For ASCO information and resources, visit www.asco.org. Patient-oriented cancer information is available at www.Cancer.Net.
[ | E-mail | Share ]
?
AAAS and EurekAlert! are not responsible for the accuracy of news releases posted to EurekAlert! by contributing institutions or for the use of any information through the EurekAlert! system.
A protester runs to throw a tear gas canister back to riot police during clashes in Cairo's Tahrir Square on Tuesday. President Mohammed Morsi's declaration last week of new powers for himself has sparked days of demonstrations.
By The Associated Press
CAIRO ? Egyptian protesters and police clashed in Cairo on Tuesday just hours ahead of a planned massive rally by opponents of the country's Islamist president demanding he rescind decrees that granted him near-absolute powers.
Police fired tear gas and hundreds of protesters pelted them with rocks at a street between the U.S. Embassy and Tahrir Square, birthplace of the uprising that toppled president Hosni Mubarak's authoritarian regime nearly two years ago.
The protesters have been staging a sit-in at the square since Friday night to demand President Mohammed Morsi revoke his decrees.
?
By midday, hundreds were starting to gather in Tahrir, chanting against Morsi's decrees and the Brotherhood. A new banner in the square proclaimed, "The Brotherhood stole the country."
"We are here to bring down the constitutional declaration issued by Morsi," said one protester at Tahrir, Mahmoud Youssef.
Egypt's Morsi, top judges compromise to defuse soaring tensions over decree
Hundreds of lawyers meanwhile gathered outside their union building in downtown Cairo ahead of their march to Tahrir. "Leave, leave," they chanted, addressing Morsi.
The rally planned for later Tuesday, with marches from various parts of Cairo to converge on Tahrir, is to be a significant test of the opposition's ability to bring out supporters and the public against Morsi's edicts issued last week.
The opposition says the decrees give Morsi near dictatorial powers by neutralizing the judiciary at a time when he already holds executive and legislative powers. Key parts of the judicial system have denounced the measures.
After encountering a wave of protests in response to a decree from Egypt's President Mohamed Morsi that would have raised his edicts above judicial review, Morsi moved quickly to contain the damage. NBC's Ayman Mohyeldin reports.
Morsi, in office since June, says the decrees are necessary to protect the "revolution" and the nation's transition to democratic rule. His declaration made all his decisions immune to judicial review and banned the courts from dissolving the upper house of parliament and an assembly writing the new constitution, both of which are dominated by Islamists. The decree also gave Morsi sweeping authority to stop any "threats" to the revolution.
Morsi's supporters canceled a massive rally they had planned for Tuesday, citing the need to "defuse tension" after a series of clashes between the two camps since the decrees were issued Thursday.
But a spokesman for the Muslim Brotherhood, the fundamentalist group from which Morsi hails, said demonstrations supporting the president could go ahead outside the capital and that supporters would form human chains in some provinces to protect Brotherhood offices. Morsi's supporters say more than a dozen of their offices have been ransacked or set ablaze since Friday.
President within his rights? On Monday, Morsi met with the nation's top judges and tried to win their acceptance of his decrees. But the move was dismissed by many in the opposition and the judiciary as providing no real concessions.
Riot police use tear gas on protesters during clashes in Tahrir Square on Tuesday.
Presidential spokeman Yasser Ali, said Morsi told the judges that he acted within his rights as the nation's sole source of legislation, assuring them that the decrees were temporary and did not in any way infringe on the judiciary. He underlined repeatedly that the president had no plans to change or amend his decrees.
According to a presidential statement late Monday, Morsi told the judges that his decree meant that any decisions he makes on "issues of sovereignty" are immune from judicial review.
The vaguely worded statement did not define those issues, but they were widely interpreted to cover declaration of war, imposition of martial law, breaking diplomatic relations with a foreign nation or dismissing a Cabinet. Morsi's original edict, however, explicitly gives immunity to all his decisions and there was no sign it had been changed.
Photoblog: Protesters in Tahrir Square hold funeral for activist killed in clashes
The statement Monday did not touch the immunity that Morsi gave the constitutional assembly or the upper chamber of parliament, known as the Shura Council. It also did not affect the edict that the president can take any measures he sees as necessary to stop threats to the revolution, stability or public institutions. Many see that edict as granting Morsi unlimited emergency powers.
The Shura Council does not have lawmaking authorities but, in the absence of the more powerful lower chamber, the People's Assembly, it is the only popularly elected, national body where the Brotherhood and other Islamists have a majority. The People's Assembly was dissolved by a court ruling in June.
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How U.S. men in England?s Premier League performed Saturday and Sunday in Round 13:
Clint Dempsey, Tottenham Hotspur:?Duece made a big contribution to a worthy win at White Hart Lane. His little scoop pass to put Gareth Bale clean through for Spurs? second goal was truly wonderful stuff. And Dempsey?s added a quick little pass to help along possession on the home team?s third in a 3-1 victory over London rival West Ham.
Brad Friedel, Tottenham Hotspur:?Spurs boss Andre Villas-Boas went with French international Hugo Lloris for this one. It was a great week for Lloris (he was huge in a 0-0 draw against Lazio in a mid-week Europa League match), which makes it a less-than-great week for Friedel.
Tim Howard, Everton:A slow first half for the U.S. No. 1 got slightly busier in the second 45. Howard can?t be completely happy with the way he dealt with Sebastien Bassong?s stoppage time header. Hard to call it a gaffe (especially in an EPL round that had a couple of real doozies from other ?keepers) but perhaps he could have pushed the initial header away to preserve all three points. Otherwise, Howard was his usual steady self in the 1-1 draw at home with Norwich. His work included a solid stop on the goal line as Anthony Pilkington put a sturdy, 85th minute header on goal.
Brad Guzan, Aston Villa:Mostly unbothered in a drab 0-0 contest with Arsenal, the U.S. international did kick away an Aaron Ramsey shot with a swell foot save. No goals at home will not help the struggling side (still in the relegation zone), but Guzan certainly isn?t to blame for that.
Eric Lichaj, Aston Villa: Came in at left back for Villa but never looked comfortable, especially against a fresh Andrey Arshavin in the scoreless contest.
Geoff Cameron, Stoke City:The former Houston Dynamo man has mostly settled in at right back for Tony Pulis? men, but he was on the left Saturday for the Potters, who took all three points against mostly lifeless Fulham at the Britannia Stadium. His only nick was a second-half yellow card. Mid-table now (12th) is a good place for Stoke.
Maurice Edu, Stoke City:The U.S. international did not make Pulis? 18-man selection for Stoke.
BEIJING (AP) ? A 5-year-old sex tape of an 18-year-old woman allegedly hired by developers to sleep with a city official is causing yet another scandal for China's ruling Communists in the city formerly led by fallen politician Bo Xilai.
The 50-something official, Lei Zhengfu, was fired from his position as district party secretary after the video, an apparent extortion attempt, went viral earlier this month and his jowly, pop-eyed mug became the butt of numerous Internet caricatures. But the scandal may still be growing, as a whistleblowing former journalist says he may release similar tapes of more city officials soon.
The party is already reeling from the scandal that triggered Bo's purge and further battered the party's reputation in the public mind. Chongqing, the city that he ran, has been depicted by prosecutors and state media as rife with cover-ups, abuse of power and corruption. Bo's wife was convicted of murdering a British businessman, and Bo himself faces allegations of corruption and obstruction of justice in the murder case.
News of the sex tape, which was apparently shot in 2007 but only leaked this month, comes as China's newly installed leadership ramps up anti-corruption efforts as it deals with a steady stream of bribery and graft cases that it fears has undermined its authority.
The tape exploded on the Chinese Internet Nov. 20 when screenshots of it were uploaded by a Beijing-based former journalist Zhu Ruifeng to his Hong Kong-registered website, an independent online clearing house for corruption allegations.
The lurid images, apparently taken secretly from a bedside table, show Lei having sex with a woman. Zhu told The Associated Press that the woman, whose face is not visible in the screen grabs, was hired by a construction company to sleep with Lei in return for construction contracts. The company later tried to use the tape to extort more business from Lei, he said.
Zhu says he obtained the video from someone inside the Chongqing Public Security Bureau who gave it on condition of anonymity. He said he was also given tapes implicating five other Chongqing officials but is trying to verify their content before releasing them.
Zhu said that after the blackmail attempt, Lei reported the case to Chongqing officials sometime around 2009, which led to the construction boss being jailed for a year on unrelated charges and the woman being detained for a month.
Xinhua reported Monday that Chongqing's corruption watchdog had pledged a thorough investigation of Lei, who was dismissed Friday, but said it had yet to formally receive a report about the allegations against Lei or the footage.
The China Daily in an editorial Tuesday said the case showed that the "Internet is worth being embraced by the country's corruption busters as a close ally."
It also called for greater transparency in handling this and other cases, and listed a few of the lingering questions that the salacious case has thrown up.
"Strangely, the mistress was once detained and the contractor jailed for blackmailing Lei," it said. "What had happened? ... These are crucial questions waiting to be answered."
With a younger set of incoming leaders announced this month in Beijing, the government is keen to show that those in power are worthy of their posts and that wrongdoers will be weeded out. In his first remarks to the press after being appointed as the new Communist Party chief, Xi Jinping vowed to tackle corruption.
The party's corruption watchdog underlined its zero-tolerance for graft on Monday.
"There is no place for corrupt figures to hide away within the party," the Central Commission for Discipline Inspection said in a statement quoted by the official Xinhua News Agency.
Many Chinese, however, are cynical about the allegations against high-profile party members and that they signal a true crackdown on corruption. Many think Bo was no more or less dirty than the average Chinese politician and that he was deposed not for his behavior but because he was on the losing end of factional power struggle.
Xiao Weilong, 30, an insurance salesman in Beijing, bemoaned how "ordinary people can't do anything about" cases such as Lei's.
"These sorts of abnormal things have become the norm, and we don't have any say," he said Tuesday.
Zhu, the journalist who broke the Lei story, said the fact that his website had not been blocked despite the allegations it outlined was a possible sign that the government is more serious than in the past getting tough on corruption.
"Possibly what we are seeing is that the new leaders are perhaps taking steps toward enforcing the constitution, a sliver of a new dawn," he said.
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As the NFL heads into December, nearly every division race has an outright favorite. Some ? Denver, Atlanta, New England, Houston and Baltimore ? are on the verge of clinching playoff spots.
The Broncos, Falcons, Ravens, Texans and Patriots took big steps toward making the postseason with victories this week. Denver in the AFC West and Atlanta in the NFC South both have four-game leads after tight road wins Sunday, while Baltimore went to overtime to secure a three-game margin in the AFC North.
Houston and New England did their work on Thanksgiving Day to grab three-game cushions in the AFC South and East, respectively. San Francisco's victory and a loss by Seattle pushed the 49ers' edge to 2? games in the NFC West. The New York Giants are up two games in the NFC East and dropped Green Bay to one game behind Chicago in the NFC North. Bears-Packers is the only truly close chase through 11 games.
Denver (8-3) had it much tougher than expected at Kansas City (1-10), but rallied for its sixth straight win as Peyton Manning threw for 285 yards and two touchdowns.
"It's a division opponent; you have to win," Broncos cornerback Champ Bailey said. "You have got to win those games. It is what is going to prepare you for the playoffs."
Manning hit tight end Jacob Tamme late in the first half and wide receiver Demaryius Thomas in the third quarter for scores, and that was more than enough to overcome three field goals by the Chiefs' Ryan Succop as Kansas City lost its eighth straight. Knowshon Moreno added 85 yards rushing in place of Willis McGahee, who went on injured reserve this week with a knee injury.
Jamaal Charles ran for 107 yards for the Chiefs.
The victory, combined with San Diego's 16-13 home loss to Baltimore, put the Broncos in position to win the division next week.
"We have to keep going," Thomas said. "Our goal is to keep winning and get to the big game."
Atlanta (10-1) edged Tampa Bay 24-23 as Matt Ryan threw for 353 yards and overcame two big turnovers by leading another late touchdown drive. Ryan teamed with Julio Jones on an 80-yard TD in the third quarter, but needed Michael Turner's 1-yard TD run with 7:55 left to win.
Connor Barth missed a 56-yard goal for Tampa Bay (6-5) in the closing minutes, and the Bucs' four-game winning streak ended.
"Ten-and-1 is great, but I'll tell you what I've said since the beginning of the season: We're just jockeying for position," tight end Tony Gonzalez said. "We just want to put ourselves in the best position, playing the best football. Right around this time is when you want to start jelling as a team and take it on into the playoffs because that's the most important thing."
Elsewhere Sunday, it was San Francisco 31, New Orleans 21; the Giants 38, Green Bay 10; Chicago 28, Minnesota 10; Indianapolis 20, Buffalo 13; Cincinnati 34, Oakland 10; Cleveland 20, Pittsburgh 14; Miami 24, Seattle 21; St. Louis 31, Arizona 17; and Jacksonville 24, Tennessee 19.
On Thursday, Houston won at Detroit 34-31 in overtime; New England routed the New York Jets 49-19; and Washington beat Dallas 38-31.
Monday night, it is Carolina (2-8) at Philadelphia (3-7).
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RAVENS 16, CHARGERS 13 OT
At San Diego, the Ravens pulled off a fourth-and-29 conversion to stay alive, then Justin Tucker kicked a 38-yard field with 1:07 left in overtime to complete a stunning comeback.
San Diego (4-7) led 13-3 on Nick Novak's 30-yard field goal and seemed headed for its first win against a team with a winning record this season. But Ray Rice caught a short pass from Joe Flacco and weaved through the defense to the San Diego 33 with 1:37 to play. After a review, the ball was moved back to the 34 and the refs measured. The new spot gave the Ravens a first down by the length of the ball.
Six plays later, Tucker kicked a 38-yard field goal to tie the game as regulation expired.
The Ravens (9-2) won their fourth straight and for the eighth time in nine games.
49ERS 31, SAINTS 21
At New Orleans, the San Francisco defense stymied Drew Brees and ended the Saints' three-game winning streak. Ahmad Brooks and Donte Whitner each returned interceptions for touchdowns and the 49ers (8-2-1) sacked Brees five times.
Colin Kaepernick ran for one score that he made look easy and threw for a touchdown in another performance that validated coach Jim Harbaugh's decision to start him ahead of Alex Smith.
Brees finished with 267 yards and three TDs for New Orleans (5-6).
GIANTS 38, PACKERS 10
At East Rutherford, N.J., Eli Manning threw for three touchdowns, giving him 200 for his career, a team record, and New York sacked Aaron Rodgers five times.
Coming off their bye, the Giants (7-4) put to rest concerns about a dormant offense and a tired arm for Manning. He connected with rookie Rueben Randle, Victor Cruz and Hakeem Nicks for scores, and Ahmad Bradshaw had a combined 119 yards, including a 59-yard sprint on a screen pass to begin the onslaught.
Mathias Kiwanuka had two of the sacks as Rodgers never got comfortable. Green Bay (7-4) had its five-game winning streak snapped.
FALCONS 24, BUCCANEERS 23
At Tampa, Fla., Matt Ryan threw for 353 yards and overcame two big turnovers by leading another late touchdown drive to end Tampa Bay's four-game winning streak.
Michael Turner's 1-yard TD run put Atlanta ahead for good with 7:55 left. Connor Barth missed a 56-yard goal for Tampa Bay (6-5) in the closing minutes, and Josh Freeman's desperation pass fell incomplete in the end zone with no time remaining.
The win enabled the Falcons (10-1) to keep pace with Houston for the NFL's best record.
BEARS 28, VIKINGS 10
At Chicago, Jay Cutler threw for 188 yards and a touchdown after missing a game because of a concussion as Chicago (8-3) ended a two-game losing streak.
The Bears grabbed a 25-3 halftime lead thanks to Cutler's pinpoint passing. The defense held Adrian Peterson in check early on, although he finished with 108 yards rushing for Minnesota (6-5).
The win could prove costly. The Bears lost wide receiver Devin Hester (concussion), running back Matt Forte (ankle), cornerback Charles Tillman (ankle) and both starting guards to injuries.
BRONCOS 17, CHIEFS 9
At Kansas City, Mo., Peyton Manning threw for 285 yards and two touchdowns, and Denver (8-3) rallied for its sixth straight win.
Manning hit tight end Jacob Tamme late in the first half and wide receiver Demaryius Thomas in the third quarter, and that was more than enough to overcome three field goals by the Chiefs' Ryan Succop as Kansas City lost its eighth straight game.
Jamaal Charles ran for 107 yards for the Chiefs (1-10), who haven't scored a touchdown since the first quarter against Pittsburgh on Nov. 12, a span of more than 11 quarters and 173 minutes of game time.
COLTS 20, BILLS 13
At Indianapolis, T.Y. Hilton scored on a 75-yard punt return and caught an 8-yard TD pass from Andrew Luck. He is the first player in franchise history to score by punt return and pass reception in the same game.
Luck was 20 of 37 for 240 yards with a TD and an interception as Indy improved to 7-4.
Buffalo (4-7) ended its red-zone drought with 11:30 left with a 1-yard TD pass from Ryan Fitzpatrick to Lee Smith. But the Bills moved closer to extending their string of non-playoff seasons to 13.
BENGALS 34, RAIDERS 10
At Cincinnati, Andy Dalton threw three touchdown passes in outdueling Cincinnati's former quarterback, Carson Palmer. BenJarvus Green-Ellis ran for 129 yards and a touchdown against the NFL's most generous defense. He had runs of 48 and 39 yards ? the longest of his career ? to set up scores for the Bengals (6-5).
Palmer had a tough time all-around in his return to Cincinnati, going 19 of 34 for 146 yards with four sacks and an interception.
Oakland (3-8) lost its fourth in a row.
A brawl in the fourth quarter resulted in Oakland's Tommy Kelly and Lamarr Houston and Cincinnati's Andrew Whitworth getting ejected.
BROWNS 20, STEELERS 14
At Cleveland, the Steelers (6-5) committed eight turnovers and third-string quarterback Charlie Batch struggled as the Browns (3-8) beat Pittsburgh for just the second time in 18 games.
Chris Rainey's fumble with 2:25 left was recovered by Cleveland's Phil Taylor to clinch it.
Batch, starting for Pittsburgh because of injuries to Ben Roethlisberger and Byron Leftwich, was picked off three times and the Steelers lost five fumbles, the last on the final play of the game.
Browns rookie quarterback Brandon Weeden sustained a concussion in the final minutes when he banged his head while falling awkwardly after an incompletion. Backup Colt McCoy, who suffered a concussion when the teams met late last season, came in and finished off the win without attempting a pass.
DOLPHINS 24, SEAHAWKS 21
At Miami, Dan Carpenter kicked a 43-yard field goal on the final play, capping a rally by Miami (5-6), which scored 17 points in the last 8:08.
Rookie Ryan Tannehill drove Miami 65 yards in the final 92 seconds to set up the winning kick. He finished 18 for 26 for 253 yards and a score.
Leon Washington returned a kickoff for a touchdown for the eighth time to tie the NFL career record and put Seattle ahead with eight minutes left. Miami answered with an 80-yard drive capped by Tannehill's 29-yard scoring pass to Charles Clay, making it 21-21.
The Seahawks (6-5), who are unbeaten at home this year, lost for the fifth time in six road games.
RAMS 31, CARDINALS 17
At Glendale, Ariz., Janoris Jenkins became the first player in Rams history and the first NFL rookie since 1960 to return two interceptions for touchdowns in the same game and St. Louis (4-6-1) handed the Cardinals (4-7) their seventh loss in a row.
Jenkins' returns of 36 and 39 yards emphatically ended the Rams' streak of five straight games without an opponent turnover. Arizona rookie Ryan Lindley was intercepted four times in his first NFL start.
Sam Bradford had a pair of 37-yard touchdown passes to Lance Kendricks and Chris Givens as the Rams snapped a five-game winless streak. Steven Jackson rushed for 139 yards in 24 carries.
JAGUARS 24, TITANS 19
At Jacksonville, Chad Henne threw two touchdown passes, sparking the NFL's worst offense for the second consecutive week.
The Jaguars (2-9) snapped a seven-game losing streak and were competitive at home for the first time this season.
Henne, making his first start in more than 13 months, found Cecil Shorts III on a 59-yard touchdown play in the third quarter and hooked up with rookie Justin Blackmon for a 7-yard score in the fourth.
The Titans (4-7) cut the lead to 21-19 on Jake Locker's 6-yard pass to Kenny Britt with 4:52 remaining and had the ball with a chance to take the lead. But Russell Allen tipped Locker's pass over the middle, and Dwight Lowery ? back on the field after a five-week absence ? had his first interception of the season.
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Online: http://pro32.ap.org/poll and http://twitter.com/AP_NFL
It does not surprise us at Armstrong Communications that so many businesses choose to employ staff who work remotely, as there are so many benefits to doing so. Sometimes remote working is absolutely essential for the job ? such as for travelling salesmen and engineers ? but often a company makes a choice to create cross-branch teams or put a project in the hands of a homeworker, because there is very little stopping them from doing so anymore.
Some of the advantages of working with others from a remote location is that it reduces the cost of office space and travel, and allows the very best staff across the country ? or even internationally ? to collaborate on projects, rather than being limited by the geographical distribution of talent.
The technology available to achieve an ideal working environment for remote workers has been around for years, and comes on in leaps and bounds all the time. In fact, there is very little now that a remote worker cannot do that an office-bound employee can.
Take the ShoreTel Communicator for example. Let?s say you have five top-notch employee located in disparate locations and you want to bring their talents together to work on a brand new project. With the use of the ShoreTel Communicator, these workers do not have to leave their desk to speak with each other and share files live. The technology allows for video conferencing, instant messaging, phone calls and VoIP, and file sharing from a whole host of different devices, so colleagues can speak face to face and refer to the same document, even if they are hundreds of miles apart.
So what if your colleague is not at their desk today? No problem. A quick instant message or invite to a video conference can be sent directly to their mobile and you can have a video chat and share files just as easily as if they were sitting by a computer.
The team behind the ShoreTel Communicator have worked hard to break down all the boundaries stopping remote employees from being able to effectively communicate with each other. But now that teams can collaborate as if they were in the same room, so employers and their staff gain all the benefits of working remotely without the cons.
With technological improvements, increasing requests for flexible working as people?s family lives change, and ? for many companies ? a global workforce, remote working is the future and we believe the demand for solutions like the ShoreTel Communicator is just going to grow and grow. In fact, with our years of expertise as a ShoreTel reseller, engineering service and support provider, we are seeing a rise in the number of people coming to us to get ahead of the game now and give themselves an edge over their competitors.
An exciting new world of work is upon us ? one that would have seemed unachievable 20 years ago. We are just excited to be part of such a fast moving industry and cannot wait to see what comes next.
Armstrong Communications are a authorised?ShoreTel reseller and experts in Shoretel Communicator solutions, to find out more?about the ShoreTel range call our dedicated team on 0845 345 0045 or get a FREE No Obligation Quote via our?contact page.
BARCELONA, Spain (Reuters) - Spain's Catalonia region, fed up with the tax demands of cash-strapped Madrid, was expected to elect on Sunday a separatist government that will try to hold a referendum on independence.
Pro-independence flags, a star against red and yellow stripes, hung on balconies in Catalonia's capital, Barcelona, as people cast ballots in a vote that could plunge Spain into a constitutional crisis even as it struggles to avoid an international bailout.
An economic crisis and 25 percent unemployment in Spain have reignited long-dormant separatism in industrial Catalonia, where people widely believe the tax system run by Madrid has held back development in a region which has its own financial crisis.
"It's time for Catalans to pursue their own nation. When you're in a relationship and you're not getting along you work for mutual respect. We've tried, but Spain hasn't," said Jose Manuel Victoria, 67, who voted for the main pro-independence party.
Opinion polls show two-thirds of votes will go to pro-independence parties that will push for a referendum to break away from Spain, which the central government will challenge as unconstitutional.
With more people than Denmark and an economy almost as big as Portugal's, Catalonia has its own language. Like Basques, Catalans see themselves as distinct from the rest of Spain.
Growing Catalan separatism is a huge challenge for Prime Minister Mariano Rajoy, who is trying to bring down painfully high borrowing costs by persuading investors of Spain's fiscal and political stability.
Catalan regional President Artur Mas is expected to win re-election since his conservative Convergence and Union party, or CiU, is projected to take the most seats in the 135-seat regional assembly, or Parliament.
But Mas - who converted to separatism after huge street demonstrations in September - is unlikely to win the 68 seats needed for an absolute majority.
He will have to team up with smaller pro-independence groups such as the Republican Left, or ERC, to push ahead with the plebiscite that he promised to voters.
Up until recently Mas was a moderate nationalist who had pushed Spain to give Catalonia more self-governing powers. He has followed the popular mood in converting to a more radical separatism, but it is not clear he can hold a referendum legally.
Many Catalans are angry that Rajoy has refused to negotiate a new tax deal with their largely self-governing region. Annually, an estimated 16 billion euros ($21 billion) in taxes paid in Catalonia, about 8 percent of its economic output, is not returned to the region.
Home to car factories and banks that generate one fifth of Spain's economic wealth, and birthplace of surrealist painter Salvador Dali and architect Antoni Gaudi, the region also has one of the world's most successful football clubs, FC Barcelona.
MONEY PROBLEMS
After a decade of overspending, Catalonia's debt has been downgraded to junk. Blocked from the bond markets, Mas has had to seek billions of euros in rescue funds from the central government in Madrid, itself fighting to prevent financial meltdown.
But, on the campaign trail, Mas focused on the region's gripes with Madrid. He told supporters he wanted to be the last president of Catalonia within Spain.
Wary that separatism could spread to the Basque Country and beyond, Rajoy said this week that the Catalan election is more important than general elections.
The recession and a high public deficit have pushed Spain to the heart of the euro zone debt crisis, and Rajoy is weighing asking for an international bail-out.
Alicia Sanchez-Camacho, the candidate for Rajoy's People's Party (PP) in Catalonia, warns of economic disaster if Catalonia tries to leave Spain. The PP looked set to be the second biggest party in Parliament with polls forecasting it will win 17 seats.
"Don't stay at home (on election day) if you don't want them to kick us out of Spain and out of Europe," she said at a campaign rally this week.
Some 5.2 million Catalans are eligible to vote in the polls, which opened at 0800 GMT and close at 1900 GMT.
MAS RISK
Enthusiasm for independence could ebb if voters think the price is having to leave the European Union, leaving Mas high and dry.
"I have no interest in independence. It's totally irresponsible," said 45-year-old Luis, a Peruvian immigrant and salesman who voted for the PP.
"It means exiting the EU and a drop in Gross National Product... Mas is an economist. He knows this but he isn't saying it. Why?" said Luis, who declined to give his last name.
After the vote Mas will struggle to push conflicting agendas: his promised referendum on independence and his drive to cut Catalonia's high deficit.
While the Republican Left may ally with him to push a referendum, it may pressure him to give up some spending cuts in exchange. The PP may support budget cuts but will try to block the referendum.
($1 = 0.7717 euros)
(Additional reporting by Elena Gyldenkerne; editing by Philippa Fletcher)
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Public release date: 28-Nov-2012
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