ATMs are a great convenience, but they can compromise your safety. A robber looking for easy prey only has to stake out an ATM in a low-traffic, dimly lit area and bide his time. 
Cash machines at banks are probably the safest bet, but that doesn't mean you have to steer clear of the ones at malls, airports and sports venues. You can avoid becoming a victim by using some good old common sense and by planning ahead for ATM withdrawals.

Some messages claim throughout the internet that if you are forced by robbers to withdraw money from an ATM, you can secretly alert police by entering your PIN in reverse. 

The claims in the message are false. Reverse PIN technology does exist. However, it has not yet been implemented by any banks. At this time,entering your PIN in reverse will NOT call police. for more information read the brief article here.

International Mobile Equipment Identity - IMEI

he International Mobile Equipment Identity or IMEI ( /aɪˈmiː/) is a number, usually unique,^[1][2] to identify GSM, WCDMA, and iDEN mobile phones, as well as some satellite phones. It is usually found printed inside the battery compartment of the phone. It can also be displayed on the screen of the phone by entering *#06# into the keypad on most phones.

[edit]Structure of the IMEI and IMEISV (IMEI Software Version)

The IMEI (14 decimal digits plus a check digit) or IMEISV (16 digits) includes information on the origin, model, and serial number of the device. The structure of the IMEI/SV are specified in 3GPP TS 23.003. The model and origin comprise the initial 8-digit portion of the IMEI/SV, known as the Type Allocation Code (TAC). The remainder of the IMEI is manufacturer-defined, with a Luhn check digit at the end. For the IMEI format prior to 2003, the GSMA guideline was to have this Check Digit always transmitted to the network as zero. This guideline seems to have disappeared for the format valid from 2003 and onwards.^[7]

As of 2004, the format of the IMEI is AA-BBBBBB-CCCCCC-D, although it may not always be displayed this way. The IMEISV drops the Luhn check digit in favour of an additional two digits for the Software Version Number (SVN), making the format AA-BBBBBB-CCCCCC-EE

	AA	-	BB	BB	BB	-	CC	CC	CC	D or EE
Old IMEI	TAC				FAC	Serial number				(Optional) Luhn checksum
New IMEI	TAC
Old IMEISV	TAC				FAC					Software Version Number (SVN).
New IMEISV	TAC

Prior to 2002, the TAC was six digits long and was followed by a two-digit Final Assembly Code (FAC), which was a manufacturer-specific code indicating the location of the device's construction. From January 1, 2003 until that April 1, 2004, the FAC for all phones was 00. After April 1, 2004, the Final Assembly Code ceased to exist and the Type Allocation Code increased to eight digits in length.

In any of the above cases, the first two digits of the TAC are the Reporting Body Identifier, which identifies the GSMA-approved group that allocated the TAC. The RBI numbers are allocated by the Global Decimal Administrator. The first two digits are always decimal (i.e., less than 0xA0), allowing IMEI numbers to be distinguished from an MEID, which will always have 0xA0 or larger as its first two digits.

For example, the old style IMEI code 35-209900-176148-1 or IMEISV code 35-209900-176148-23 tells us the following:

TAC: 35-2099 - issued by the BABT (code 35) with the allocation number 2099
FAC: 00 - indicating the phone was made during the transition period when FACs were being removed.
SNR: 176148 - uniquely identifying a unit of this model
CD: 1 so it is a GSM Phase 2 or higher
SVN: 23 - The "software version number" identifying the revision of the software installed on the phone. 99 is reserved.

By contrast, the new style IMEI code 49-015420-323751 has a 8-digit TAC of 49-015420.

The new CDMA Mobile Equipment Identifier (MEID) uses the same basic format as the IMEI.

[edit]Check digit computation

The last number of the IMEI is a check digit calculated using the Luhn algorithm.

According to the IMEI Allocation and Approval Guidelines,

The Check Digit shall be calculated according to Luhn formula (ISO/IEC 7812). (See GSM 02.16 / 3GPP 22.016). The Check Digit is a function of all other digits in the IMEI. The Software Version Number (SVN) of a mobile is not included in the calculation. The purpose of the Check Digit is to help guard against the possibility of incorrect entries to the CEIR and EIR equipment. The presentation of the Check Digit both electronically and in printed form on the label and packaging is very important. Logistics (using bar-code reader) and EIR/CEIR administration cannot use the Check Digit unless it is printed outside of the packaging, and on the ME IMEI/Type Accreditation label. The check digit is not transmitted over the radio interface, nor is it stored in the EIR database at any point. Therefore, all references to the last three or six digits of an IMEI refer to the actual IMEI number, to which the check digit does not belong.

The check digit is validated in three steps:

1. Starting from the right, double a digit every two digits (e.g., 7 → 14).
2. Sum the digits (e.g., 14 → 1 + 4).
3. Check if the sum is divisible by 10.

Conversely, one can calculate the IMEI by choosing the check digit that would give a sum divisible by 10. For the example IMEI 49015420323751?,

IMEI	4	9	0	1	5	4	2	0	3	2	3	7	5	1	?
Double every other	4	18	0	2	5	8	2	0	3	4	3	14	5	2	?
Sum digits	4 + (1 + 8) + 0 + 2 + 5 + 8 + 2 + 0 + 3 + 4 + 3 + (1 + 4) + 5 + 2 + ? = 52 + ?

To make the sum divisible by 10, we set ? = 8, so the IMEI is 490154203237518.

[edit]

HOW TO FIND PUK CODE OF YOUR SIM CARD (PHONE NUMBER)

Few people use PIN locking system to lock their phone to avoid un-authorised access. Though this is a good option, it pisses you off sometime. Three wrong entry of PIN code will result in SIM blocking. Once SIM gets blocked, phone starts asking PUK code to enter. If you again enter wrong code for three times, SIM gets completely blocked. You have to walk into your service provider outlet to get a replacement SIM card.

PUK code is a SIM specific code assigned by your service provider. No way you can guess & enter it. So, when it asks for the PUK code, don’t do anything, get the PUK code from your service provider. Call to customer care using any other mobile phone which uses the same service provider. They will ask some details about you to make sure you are the owner of the SIM card. Questions might include your billing address, email ID, numbers you recently called or messaged etc. They might even ask you the number printed on the SIM card, so be prepared with all details before calling them. Once you get the PUK code, enter it into the phone & your phone will return to normal.

Top 10 Foods for Healthy Hair

Healthy Hair Food No. 1: Salmon

When it comes to foods that pack a beauty punch, it's hard to beat salmon. Loaded with omega-3 fatty acids, this high-quality protein source is also filled with vitamin B-12 and iron."Essential omega-3 fatty acids are needed to support scalp health," says Andrea Giancoli, MPH, RD, a dietitian in Los Angeles and a spokeswoman for the American Dietetic Association. "A deficiency can result in a dry scalp and thus hair, giving it a dull look."Vegetarian? Include one or two tablespoons of ground flaxseed in your daily diet for some plant-based omega-3 fats.

Healthy Hair Food No. 2: Dark Green Vegetables

Popeye the Sailor Man didn't eat all that spinach for healthy hair, but he could have. Spinach, like broccoli and Swiss chard, is an excellent source of vitamins A and C, which your body needs to produce sebum. The oily substance, secreted by your hair follicles, is the body's natural hair conditioner.Dark green vegetables also provide iron and calcium.

Healthy Hair Food No. 3: Beans

Beans, beans, they're good for your ... hair?Yes, it's true. Legumes like kidney beans and lentils should be an important part of your hair-care diet. Not only do they provide plentiful protein to promote hair growth, but ample iron, zinc, and biotin. While rare, biotin deficiencies can result in brittle hair.Blatner, who is also a spokeswoman for the American Dietetic Association, recommends three or more cups of lentils or beans each week.

Healthy Hair Food No. 4: Nuts

Do you go nuts for thick, shiny hair? You should.
Brazil nuts are one of nature's best sources of selenium, an important mineral for the health of your scalp.
Walnuts contain alpha-linolenic acid, an omega-3 fatty acid that may help condition your hair. They are also a terrific source of zinc, as are cashews, pecans, and almonds. A zinc deficiency can lead to hair shedding, so make sure nuts are a regular on your healthy hair menu.

Healthy Hair Food No. 5: Poultry

Chickens and turkeys may have feathers, but the high-quality protein they provide will help give you the healthy hair you crave.
"Without adequate protein or with low-quality protein, one can experience weak brittle hair, while a profound protein deficiency can result in loss of hair color," Giancoli tells WebMD.
Poultry also provides iron with a high degree of bioavailability, meaning your body can easily reap its benefits.

Healthy Hair Food No. 6: Eggs

When it comes to healthy hair, it doesn't matter whether you like your eggs scrambled, fried, or over easy. However they're served up, eggs are one of the best protein sources you can find.
They also contain biotin and vitamin B-12, which are important beauty nutrients.

Healthy Hair Food No. 7: Whole Grains

Sink your teeth into hearty whole grains, including whole-wheat bread and fortified whole-grain breakfast cereals, for a hair-healthy dose of zinc, iron, and B vitamins.
A whole-grain snack can also be a great go-to food when your energy is zapped halfway through the afternoon, and you've still got hours to go before dinner.

Healthy Hair Food No. 8: Oysters

Oysters may be better known for their reputation as an aphrodisiac, but they can also lead to healthy hair -- and who doesn't love that?
The key to their love and hair-boosting abilities is zinc -- a powerful antioxidant.
If oysters don't make a regular appearance on your dinner plate, don't despair. In addition to getting it from whole grains and nuts, you can also get zinc from beef and lamb.

Healthy Hair Food No. 9: Low-Fat Dairy Products

Low-fat dairy products like skim milk and yogurt are great sources of calcium, an important mineral for hair growth. They also contain whey and casein, two high-quality protein sources.
For some healthy hair foods "to-go," try throwing a yogurt or cottage cheese cup in your bag when you head out in the morning to snack on later in the day. You can even boost their hair benefits by stirring in a couple of tablespoons of ground flaxseeds or walnuts for omega-3 fatty acids and zinc.

Healthy Hair Food No. 10: Carrots

Carrots are an excellent source of vitamin A, which promotes a healthy scalp along with good vision.
Since a healthy scalp is essential for a shiny, well-conditioned head of hair, you'd be wise to include carrots in your diet as snacks or toppings on your salad.

Nakshatra

Nakshatra Wheel: The Nakshatra Wheel is one of the most exciting features in Sirius. The Nakshatras, or Vedic Lunar Mansions provide a 27 sign lunar zodiac system that is compatible with the 12 sign solar zodiac. This is an ancient system that dates back to a time when the Moon was revered as a central figure of study and worship. It has been preserved for humanity in India.

If you are not yet acquainted with the nakshatras, becoming so will greatly enrich your experience of astrology.

Each Nakshatra is traditionally associated with one or more symbolic objects. However, no simplified icons such as the icons used in Sirius have existed until this time. Below is the Nakshatra Wheel sample that shows the nakshatra symbols around the chart wheel.

A brief description of each of the Nakshatra symbols are provided below:

	1. Ashvini: This symbol mimics the traditional sign for Ashvini, a horse's head. This Nakshatra represents the "head", or the beginning of the zodiac. This symbol also resembles the female reproductive system. Ashvini relates to all initiations and beginnings.
	2. Bharani: Bharani is the Nakshatra of birth, death and transformation. It's symbol is the yoni. The triangle references the three stars which compose this asterism. These three stars, also known as "the Buckle of Isis" where perceived by ancient astrologers as portal between worlds.
	3. Krittika: Krittika, "the one who cuts", is traditionally denoted by a blade or a flame. This symbol combines the two motifs, expressing this nakshatra's sharp, fiery and proactive nature.
	4. Rohini: Rohini, the most materialistic nakshatra is represented by a four-petaled flower. This relates to its connection to the number four, as well as its typical emblem, the rose. Rohini relates to Taurine themes of fertility, stability, and abundance.
	5. Mrigashira: This symbol emulates Mrigashira's emblamatic cup of soma (elixir). It also combines the symbols for Taurus and Gemini, the two zodiac signs which correspond to this nakshatra. The curved line which reflects the horns of Taurus may also be interpreted as symbolic of Mrigashira's other motif, the deer.
	6. Ardra: This symbol combines this nakshatra's two emblems; the diamond and the raindrop (or teardrop). Together, they provide a visual description of Ardra's theme of growth and renewal through chaos and turbulence.
	7. Punarvasu: Punarvasu means, "becoming good again". Its symbol relates to themes of retrieving, recovering, and recycling. This nakshatra is traditionally denoted by a quiver of arrows (magical weapons which return after fulfilling their mission). These arrows are depicted here in their circular path from beginning to return.
	8. Pushya:Pushya is the nakshatra of nourishment, generosity and kindness. Its symbol is a circle which can be seen as a wheel, a drop of milk, a coconut, or the Moon inside a blossoming lotus flower.
	9. Ashlesha: Ashlesha means "coiling" or "embracing". Its symbol is two serpentine lines symmetrically entwining, recalling Mercury's healing staff as well as the double-helix pattern of DNA molecule. This powerful nakshatra gives intuition and transformative potential.
	10. Magha: Magha coincides with the beginning of Leo and epitomizes the Leonine themes of honor, pride, magnificence, duty, glory, and respect. It is symbolized here by a simple three-pointed crown.
	11. Purvaphalguni: Purvaphalguni is the nakshatra of comfort, pleasure, delight, and indulgence. It follows Magha, signifying a period of relaxation following worldly accomplishment. Its symbol can be seen as one reclining in a luxurious bed.
	12. Uttaraphalguni: Uttaraphalguni also represents comfort but with an emphasis on wisdom rather then sensuality. It falls into the latter part of Leo, its symbol relates to that sign. The circle representing the individual, formerly seen enveloped in the blanket of luxury, here rises up like the Sun (Uttaraphalguni's ruling planet).
	13. Hasta: Hasta is symbolized by a human hand. This nakshatra relates to all work and activities done with the hands, including all forms of craftsmanship. One traditional symbol for Hasta is the potter's wheel, shown here by an empty circle.
	14. Chitra: Chitra means "sparkling" or "brilliant". It is symbolized by a jewel star. Its nature is that of an artist; imagining and designing new forms, ideas, and illusions.
	15. Swati: Swati is typically symbolized by a young plant shoot blown by the wind or a sword. This symbol combines the two motifs. The curved line intersecting the straight line also represents the balancing of contrasting forces. Swati is adaptable, flexible, diplomatic, and temperate. It occurs halfway through the nakshatra cycle, and relates to all crossroads and compromises..
	16. Vishakha: The symbol of Vishakha combines its traditional symbol of the triumphal arch with its meaning, "Two-Branched". Vishakha relates to the concept of single-minded fixation on a goal, and the painful sacrifice required to meeting that goal. It is the incomplete desiring completion.
	17. Anuradha: After the sacrifice of Vishakha comes Anuradha, meaning "Subsequent Success". Its symbol is a staff which may be interpreted as a magician's wand or walking stick. Philosophy, astrology, and travel relate to this nakshatra. Anuradha transforms Vishakha's narrow-sighted obsession into a broader vision of reverence and awe.
	18. Jyestha: Jyestha means "the Eldest". It is usually symbolized by a round amulet or earring, denoting authority. Seniority and expertise are indicated. The three lines connecting the inner and outer circles of this symbol represent the past, the present, and the future.
	19. Mula: Mula means "Root" or "Center". This Nakshatra includes the Galactic Center. Our symbol is a stylization of Mula's traditional emblem: a bundle of roots. This bundle of roots represents not only Mula's urge to seek the essential nature of all things, but also to the practice of making medicines.
	20. Purvashada: This joyous and optimistic nakshatra delights in beauty. Its symbol resembles the seashell upon which Venus emerges from the waters of life. It also resembles Purvashada's emblem, the fan. The fan has multiple implications. It can be used to fan a fire (to keep passion alive), to cool off (to survive adversity), as a decorative item (to enjoy art), or to hide one's face (to retain mystery).
	21. Uttarashada:Uttarashada, "the Latter Invincible One" exemplifies truth, willpower, firmness, and virtue. Its symbol combines a pyramid (representing the crystallization of power), two elephant tusks (referring to Ganesha, Remover of Obstacles, its ruling deity), and the rising Sun (its ruling planet)..
	22. Shravana: Shravana means "hearing" and is ruled by the Moon. It relates to listening to others well as to one's inner voice. This Lunar receptivity is symbolized by a Full Moon supported by a Crescent Moon. The three smaller circles denote the "three uneven footsteps" associated with Shravana. The lines which connect the smaller circles to the larger one evoke the connection between speakers and listeners.
	23. Dhanishta: Dhanishta is represented by a drum. This bold and confident nakshatra relates to music and dance, as well as to the larger rhythms of life. The shape of this symbol reflects the rhomboid pattern of the stars of this asterism. It is divided into eight triangles, representing the Eight Vasus (demigods) who preside over Dhanishta.
	24. Shatabisha: Shatabisha, "the Hundred Healers", is typically denoted by an empty circle. Emanating from the circle are four lightning-bolts, signifying the subtle electrical force present in all things. There are also smaller circles portraying electrons circumnavigating an atomic nucleus. This symbol also resembles a turtle, the carrier of the world, relating to the transpersonal nature of this often eccentric, reclusive, scientific, and mystical nakshatra.
	25. Purvabhadrapada: This nakshatra is traditionally represented by a man with two faces, symbolizing the moment of death, when one exists both in this world and the next. It is also often denoted by a sword, representing severance. This symbol combines these two motifs.
	26. Uttarabhadrapada: Uttarabhadrapada relates to another aspect of death, in which consciousness sinks deep into the abyss. This nakshatra is associated with the deep unconscious and the life force residing within. Its deity is Ahir Budhanya, "the Serpent of the Depths", depicted here as a serpentine line ascending a vertical axis.
	27. Revati: Revati means "Wealthy" or "To Transcend". As the final nakshatra, it synthesizes and absorbs the mysteries of the previous 26. This knowledge is portrayed here by an all seeing eye. This symbol also contains two fish, representing the sign of Pisces and the soul's journey after death.

Also refer
http://jyotishvidya.com/nakshatras.htm

London all set to host its third Summer Games

Will host Great Britain overtake Russia to the third place in the medals tally, or — more importantly — can the US wrest back its No.1 status from China?

As another edition of the Olympics unfolds, these will be the serious questions, even though the world may be more than keen to follow the battles between Usain Bolt and Yohan Blake and Michael Phelps and Ryan Lochte.

Naturally, most of the attention is on whether Phelps will add to his collection of 14 gold and two bronze medals, to be No.1 in the all time list of Olympic medal winners. He may not be as intimidating as he was when he swept the eight gold medals — with world records to boot — in Beijing, but he will have seven races in London to further swell his collection.

Bolt’s defeat in the selection trials in Jamaica may actually be just the wake up call he needed. He may not be as complacent as he apparently was in the 100m final in Beijing, where he indulged in some show-boating over last 40 metres as he took gold with a world record time. Usain Bolt is all over London around now, staring at you out of the huge banners, as the slogan ‘inspiring a generation’ greets you at every turn.

Nervous hosts

There is a fear among the host that its athletes may not live up to the expectations, owing to the tremendous pressure of competing at home as it hosts the Games for the third time.

Great Britain may struggle to match its feat of winning 19 gold, 13 silver and 15 bronze medals in Beijing.

It was four short of Russia then, in terms of gold medals it will also be a great challenge for the host to stay ahead of Germany, Australia and Korea who had won 43 gold medals between them in the last edition.

Great Britain may have some stars like Jessica Ennis, Mark Cavendish, Chris Hoy, Victoria Pendleton, Rebecca Adlington, Kelly Ann-Payne, Dai Greene and Tom Daley to power its pursuit of gold, but will it get enough numbers on the board?

The Chinese seem to have gone for quality in fielding a squad of 396.

Having hauled in 100 medals in all in Beijing — including 51 gold — they may continue to dominate badminton, table tennis, diving, shooting, weightlifting, gymnastics and boxing. Four years back, China spared no expense in showcasing to the world its economic strength — the Beijing Games cost the host a whopping $44 billion.

London has spent roughly one third of the amount — the focus seems to have been purely on sports, with no pre-occupations with making a statement to the rest of the world.

A lot of attention seems to have been paid on projecting Great Britain’s sporting legacy.

As athletes from 204 countries assemble to celebrate sport, London looks all set to floor the world with the opening ceremony, scheduled to start at 9 p.m. (local time).

Tithi

In vedic timekeeping, a Tithi (also spelled thithi) is a lunar day, or the time it takes for the longitudinal angle between the moon and the sun to increase by 12°. Tithis begin at varying times of day and vary in duration from approximately 19 to approximately 26 hours. ^[1]

There are 30 tithis in each lunar month, named as :

l.No	Krishnapaksha (dark fortnight)	Shukla paksha (bright fortnight)	Deity and properties[citation needed]
1	Pratipad	Pratipad	The presiding deity of the first lunar day in Agni and is good for all types of auspicious and religious ceremonies
2	Dwitiya	Dwitiya	Vidhatr or Bramha rules this lunar day and is good for the laying of foundations for buildings and other things of a permanent nature.
3	Tritiya	Tritiya	Gauri is the lord of this day and is good for the cuttings of one's hair and nails and shaving.
4	Chaturthi	Chaturthi	Yama/Ganapati is lord of the 4th lunar day, which is good for the destruction of one's enemies, the removal of obstacles, and acts of combat.
5	Panchami	Panchami	The Naaga or Serpents rules this day, which is favourable for administering medicine, the purging of poisons, and surgery.
6	Shashti	Shashti	Karttikeya presides over this day and is favourable for coronations, meeting new friends, festivities, and enjoyment.
7	Saptami	Saptami	The 7th lunar day is ruled by Surya; one may begin a journey, buy conveyances, and deal with other such things as a movable nature.
8	Ashtami	Ashtami	The Rudra rule this day, which is good for taking up arms, building of one's defenses, and fortification.
9	Navami	Navami	The Ambikaa rules this day, with is suitable for killing enemies, acts of destruction, and violence.
10	Dasami	Dashami	The day is ruled by Dharmaraja and is auspicious for acts of virtue, religious functions, spiritual practices, and other pious activities.
11	Ekadasi	Ekadashi	Rudra rule this day; fasting, devotional activities, and remembrance of the Supreme Lord are very favourable.This day has special religious significance in Hinduism and Jainism -- usually observed by fasting
12	Dvadasi	Dwadashi	The Vishnu or Aditya rules this day, which is auspicious for religious ceremonies the lighting of the sacred fire, and the performance of one's duties.
13	Trayodasi	Thrayodashi	The day is ruled by Cupid and is good for forming friendships, sensual pleasures, and festivities.
14	Chaturdashi	Chaturdashi	Kali rules this day suitable for administering poison and calling of elementals and spirits.
15	Amavasya (new moon)	Purnima (full moon)	The Pitru-devas rule the New Moon suitable for the propitiation of the Manes and performance of austerities.Purnima is ruled by Moon and suitable for merry making,fire sacrifice.

Zodiac Signs and Body Parts by Joyce Hopewell

Many people are fascinated by the Signs of the Zodiac. For most people the twelve Signs are on the very front line of astrology. Almost everyone knows their own Sun Sign as it relates to them personally. Your own birthday is important to you, so even if you know nothing else about astrology, you’ll still know which Sign you were born under!

Being interested in the Zodiac Signs and the general characteristics they are associated with can, for some people, be a way into finding out more about astrology. If you're reading this, it's very likely that you were searching for information about astrology in general or perhaps more specifically about the Zodiac Signs, and you arrived here at this article.

This is a famous illustration called “Zodiac Man”. It comes from the 15th century illustrated book Les Trés Riches Heures du Duc de Berry, which also contains detailed and richly coloured illustrations for each of the 12 Zodiac Signs and their associated labours or tasks of the agricultural year.

Each Sign of the Zodiac is associated with a different part of the body, so Zodiac Man has the Aries ram balanced on his head (Aries rules the head), a Taurean bull is wrapped around his neck, which is ruled by this Sign, and Gemini’s Twins peep around both his shoulders. Follow the Signs downwards from head to feet, and you’ll see that each is represented in the area of the body part it’s associated with. Note Libra, the sign of the balance or scales, which rules the kidneys, organs of maintaining fluid balance in the body, and the elimination of toxins.

This more modern illustration of Zodiac Man clearly labels the body part associated with each Sign.

Sagittarius, the Centaur or half man/half horse, is associated with the thighs - the body part which is used when riding a horse. Leo is associated with the heart and spine - think of a proud, brave lion. Gemini excels at communication, so it’s appropriate that this Sign is associated with the lungs, arms and hands, and that the Twins peep cheekily over the shoulders and arms of Zodiac Man in the illustration.

In our Foundation Course for Beginners you can learn about the Signs of the Zodiac, the planets which rule the Signs and the astrological Houses, or areas of life experience, which are associated with them – and much, much more!

Astrology is a fascinating, interesting subject, and we welcome interested and curious seekers to ourThe Astrological Psychology Association courses, which teach the Huber Method of Astrological Psychology throughout the English-speaking world.

Happy birthday Ajinomoto

  

Monosodium glutamate
IUPAC name[hide] Sodium 2-Aminopentanedioate
Identifiers
CAS number	142-47-2
PubChem	85314
ChemSpider	76943
UNII	C3C196L9FG
EC-number	205-538-1
Jmol-3D images	Image 1
SMILES [show]
InChI [show]
Properties
Molecular formula	C5H8NNaO4
Molar mass	169.111 g/mol
Appearance	white crystalline powder
Melting point	232 °C, 505 K, 450 °F
Solubility in water	74g/100mL
Hazards
LD50	16600 mg/kg (oral, rat)
(verify) (what is: /?) Except where noted otherwise, data are given for materials in their standard state (at 25 °C, 100 kPa)

Ajinomoto Co. Inc. (味の素株式会社, Ajinomoto Kabushiki-gaisha) (TYO: 2802), is a Japanese food and chemical corporation which produces seasonings, cooking oils, TV dinners, sweeteners, amino acids and pharmaceuticals. In particular it is the world's largest producer of aspartame, with a 40% global market share.^[1]

The literal translation of Aji no Moto is “Essence of Taste,” used as a trademark for the company’s original monosodium glutamate (MSG) product.^[2] Thanks to the company's eminent status, its brand has found its way even to notable Asian language dictionaries as a half-synonym for MSG.

As of Feb 2009, Ajinomoto produces around 33% of the world’s MSG.^{[citation needed]} Its head office is located in Chūō,Tokyo.^[3]

Ajinomoto is active in 100 countries and regions worldwide, employing around 24,861 people as of 2004. Its yearly revenue stands at around US$9 billion.