The article is focused on the players that were named in the Mitchell Report months ago. The Mitchell Report was a condemning list of accusations for professional baseball players of steroid use for a competitive edge in the sport. This can improve one’s ability to recover and therefore get stronger than their body would normally allow. Such players listed in the Mitchell Report were Roger Clemens and Andy Pettitte. This article says that Congress is not lightening up on the pressure on these popular baseball stars.
In the article a point is brought up that baseball players are “heroes” and should have to deal with the highest standard of moral values. This is to set a good example for the people (mainly younger generation) of integrity. Baseball, while not the most popular sport in the nation, is “America’s Pastime” and should represent America in the best way possible. The stars of the game such as Pettitte and Clemens are constantly in the spotlight and should, more than anyone be examples of the best all around people. This makes the issue of performance enhancing drugs so significant.
As for the future, Pettitte was mentioned to have testified and admitted to using steroids. It was the lesser of two evils, in my opinion. The other choice was to not say anything and be bombarded by a media barrage until confession. Clemens appears to have evidence piling up against him. To avoid an absolutely crushing blow to his reputation and his career, I think he should confess. If not he may go down a road of baseball infamy, similar to Barry Bonds’ current state.
Dwyre, B. (2008, February 5). Congress ensures there’s no lull; Stakes are incredibly high for heroes. Los Angeles Times. p. D1, D8.
Monday, February 18, 2008
Caitlin, Subliminal scents
An article in the Los Angeles Times revealed that many upscale hotels around the world use specific perfumes and scents in their lobbies in order to "brand" the hotel. Since the sense of smell is the most closely linked to memory, hotel operators believe that if a customer has a good experience in a hotel, when he or she smells the scent associated with it, it will entice them to come back.
From the simple use of flowers in the entryways, to "sensation bars" in guests' rooms, the use of smell as a marketing ploy exists on many levels. However, so does the sensitivity to these smells. For some, the overwhelming scents prove to be a negative experience and create the opposite results that marketing strategists were are after.
The article quotes that odors trigger attacks in %15 of those who suffer from migraines. It states that this reaction is similar to those who are allergic to cigarette smoke and has the same health hazards.
Since there is no way to screen the guests coming in and out of these various hotels, is the use of fragrant aromas as a marketing strategy considered ethical?
Citation: Doheny, Kathleen. "Sniff. Say 'Ahh' or 'Achoo!' Los Angeles Times. 30 July, 2006. http://travel.latimes.com/articles/la-tr-healthy30jul30
From the simple use of flowers in the entryways, to "sensation bars" in guests' rooms, the use of smell as a marketing ploy exists on many levels. However, so does the sensitivity to these smells. For some, the overwhelming scents prove to be a negative experience and create the opposite results that marketing strategists were are after.
The article quotes that odors trigger attacks in %15 of those who suffer from migraines. It states that this reaction is similar to those who are allergic to cigarette smoke and has the same health hazards.
Since there is no way to screen the guests coming in and out of these various hotels, is the use of fragrant aromas as a marketing strategy considered ethical?
Citation: Doheny, Kathleen. "Sniff. Say 'Ahh' or 'Achoo!' Los Angeles Times. 30 July, 2006. http://travel.latimes.com/articles/la-tr-healthy30jul30
Greg, Homeland security stepping up research
The Department of Homeland Security Advanced Research Project Agency is increasing funding for research for solutions to biological and chemical agent detection, nuclear, radiological and high explosive attack deterrence, and information security. They are trying to accelerate technology. They are conducting experiments with lipid bi-layer biosensors that are able to quickly detect viruses, anthrax and other bacteria.
Most of this research is being done in government labs but they are starting to expand with industry. There is a lot of money involved in the research and transition between government to industrialized research for the Homeland Security. This is to improve air detection machines that will eventually have sensors all over, that will be monitored by a computer that will alert operator when levels change in the air.
These new ideas for detecting any change in air quality and sensors to detect anything terrorists might use against us. The development of these is very important in order to keep us safe from attacks. It is also important that these are being produced outside of government labs so that it can be made available to use in all public places.
These sensors that detect viruses, anthrax and bacteria in the air will become a major part of places with a large amount of people like airports, sporting events, large buildings. These can also be used in places like post offices or hospitals. It is also important that this level of research is opened up for non-government organizations because sometimes they can come up with new and improved ideas.
It is important to open these research developments up to the industry because these biosensors can be developed over and over and made cheaper than the government ever could so it will be available in a large public areas.
Lawlor, Maryann, “Signal”. Falls Church: Oct 2003. Vol. 58, Iss. 2; pg. 3
Most of this research is being done in government labs but they are starting to expand with industry. There is a lot of money involved in the research and transition between government to industrialized research for the Homeland Security. This is to improve air detection machines that will eventually have sensors all over, that will be monitored by a computer that will alert operator when levels change in the air.
These new ideas for detecting any change in air quality and sensors to detect anything terrorists might use against us. The development of these is very important in order to keep us safe from attacks. It is also important that these are being produced outside of government labs so that it can be made available to use in all public places.
These sensors that detect viruses, anthrax and bacteria in the air will become a major part of places with a large amount of people like airports, sporting events, large buildings. These can also be used in places like post offices or hospitals. It is also important that this level of research is opened up for non-government organizations because sometimes they can come up with new and improved ideas.
It is important to open these research developments up to the industry because these biosensors can be developed over and over and made cheaper than the government ever could so it will be available in a large public areas.
Lawlor, Maryann, “Signal”. Falls Church: Oct 2003. Vol. 58, Iss. 2; pg. 3
Sunday, February 17, 2008
Carey, Vitamin D to the rescue
This article from Newsweek magazine discusses vitamin D, a vitamin once thought to be “boring” by doctors but has now been found to have dramatic positive effects on the human body, even though the majority of the population doesn’t get nearly enough of it. When it was discovered a century ago, vitamin D was used to cure a major public health problem: the disease rickets, which was caused by vitamin D deficiency and led to slow bone development. With the intake of the vitamin, the problem of rickets disappeared, so doctors advised that the RDA (recommended daily allowance) was simply the level that would prevent rickets. Today, however, the health problems linked to vitamin D deficiency are more serious: type I diabetes, multiple sclerosis, tuberculosis, colon cancer, and the flu. Conversely, high levels of vitamin D can help fight the HIV infection, as well as protect against fractures in adults by strengthening bones and muscles. The main problem in combating vitamin D deficiency is that it is only found in a few foods, and we get most of it from sunlight shining on our skin. Modern life makes this method of intake difficult, as we spend a lot more time indoors than our ancestors did, as well as wear more clothes and use more sunscreen. Sunscreen, when applied to protect against skin cancer, can actually lower skin’s ability to make vitamin D by 95 percent. Age, obesity, the time of sun exposure, the season, and geography also all affect how much vitamin D your body can produce. Skin pigmentation can affect the way your body processes vitamin D as well, because melanin, the pigment that provides a darker tint in the skin, acts as a sunscreen, so darker-skinned people require at least five times as much sun exposure to form the same amount of vitamin D that a fair-skinned person has.
So what do we do to ensure that our bodies are getting adequate amounts of this vitamin? There are only three ways to take action: increase sun exposure, increase our intake of foods rich in vitamin D, or take vitamin D supplements. Considering the threat of skin cancer and the lack of vitamin D-rich foods (fatty fish, some mushrooms, and fortified dairy products), the third option seems to be the most practical. Doctors agree that the current RDA of 400 IU is too low and should be raised to around 1,000 IU, or perhaps even higher for people over the age of 70 or those that live in northern regions with less sunlight (a cup of milk has 100 IU). Even though our body needs vitamin D, too much can be toxic; the current official upper limit is 2,000 IU, but many experts think this should be raised to 4,000 IU.
•IU – An international unit (IU) is an internationally accepted amount of a substance. This type of measure is used for the fat-soluble vitamins (such as vitamins A, D and E) and certain hormones, enzymes, and biologicals (such as vaccines).
I chose this article as I was searching the Newsweek website for pieces on vitamins because I did not know much about vitamin D, perhaps because until only recently, there was not much press about it. After reading this article, I think the suggested course of action of taking supplements sounds like a good idea, especially if someone like me, who is fair-skinned but wears a lot of sunscreen, is to get a proper intake of this helpful vitamin.
Stampfer, Meir J., M.D., DR. P.H. "Vitamin D in the Spotlight." Newsweek 15 Oct. 2007. 16 Feb. 2008
http://www.newsweek.com/id/43998/page/1
So what do we do to ensure that our bodies are getting adequate amounts of this vitamin? There are only three ways to take action: increase sun exposure, increase our intake of foods rich in vitamin D, or take vitamin D supplements. Considering the threat of skin cancer and the lack of vitamin D-rich foods (fatty fish, some mushrooms, and fortified dairy products), the third option seems to be the most practical. Doctors agree that the current RDA of 400 IU is too low and should be raised to around 1,000 IU, or perhaps even higher for people over the age of 70 or those that live in northern regions with less sunlight (a cup of milk has 100 IU). Even though our body needs vitamin D, too much can be toxic; the current official upper limit is 2,000 IU, but many experts think this should be raised to 4,000 IU.
•IU – An international unit (IU) is an internationally accepted amount of a substance. This type of measure is used for the fat-soluble vitamins (such as vitamins A, D and E) and certain hormones, enzymes, and biologicals (such as vaccines).
I chose this article as I was searching the Newsweek website for pieces on vitamins because I did not know much about vitamin D, perhaps because until only recently, there was not much press about it. After reading this article, I think the suggested course of action of taking supplements sounds like a good idea, especially if someone like me, who is fair-skinned but wears a lot of sunscreen, is to get a proper intake of this helpful vitamin.
Stampfer, Meir J., M.D., DR. P.H. "Vitamin D in the Spotlight." Newsweek 15 Oct. 2007. 16 Feb. 2008
http://www.newsweek.com/id/43998/page/1
Michael, Just say no
There is an interesting article that just appeared on SI.com. Apparently there is an eventual epidemic in the PBR (Professional Bull Riders) where bulls are being injected with anabolic steroids. This has caused an inaugural test for anabolic steroids for bovine athletes in the sport. The bull is named Big Bucks and he is by far the most feared bull on the circuit for his bucking ability. Since 2004 only 2 inspired bull riders have been able to stay on his back for the mandatory 8 seconds.
The purpose of the test is to screen top of their class bulls to ensure that their meanness is acquired through good genetics and not performance enhancing drugs. The test results are not expected to come back for another couple of weeks, but the owner, Jerry Nelson, insists that his prize bull is clean. The PBR wants to ensure the public that this is not believed to be a widespread problem, but there are a select few that some feel have been injecting their bulls with anabolic steroids and testosterone.
The PBR has taken the liberty of hiring anabolic steroids scientists from Iowa State University to test for the positives and negatives of injecting these bulls. According to the scientists, there are few positives because just a simple injection is not enough to enhance the bull’s performance. The bulls must be able to do things such as lift weights to take advantage of the performance enhancers. They also said that injecting the bulls with anabolic steroids would severely lessen their chance of reproducing, which could put a fair amount of breeding companies out of service.
The main incentive of enhancing these bovines are not necessarily to be at the top of their bucking game, because bulls receive little money for bucking off foes. The money comes from selling their semen as prize bulls when they are actually so-and-so bulls. This has led to a large outcry from clean bull breeders because it negates all of their hard work of raising a prize bucking bull.
-Anabolic Steroids: a class of steroid hormones related to the hormone testosterone. They increase protein synthesis within cells, which results in the buildup of cellular tissue (anabolism), especially in muscles.
-Bucking: To leap upward arching the back.
-Testosterone: A steroid hormone that is the most potent naturally occurring androgen and that regulates the development of the male reproductive system and male secondary sex characteristics.
What strikes me as interesting in this article is the fact that these anabolic steroids are the same exact types of steroids that are being injected into humans. These performance enhancers are having a huge effect on 1350 lbs. bulls! I find it amusing that human beings would go through these lengths to enhance their performance to ultimately make more money and glory.
Another thing that strikes me from this article is the analysis from the Iowa State University scientists. According to their studies the bulls must do things such a lift weights in order for these enhancers to have an effect. But according to my research many anabolic steroids need no catalyst to take into effect. Testosterone, specifically just increases the hormone made in the testes that does things such as increases muscle strength and mass. It also gives the bull more energy and broadens the shoulder blade and the rib cage which is a factor when it comes to bull riding. So insisting that there is no point in using performance enhancers on bulls is a bad analysis.
I am happy that the PBR is spending money on testing for performance enhancers, but it is stirring to think just what the rise of anabolic steroids have done to the world of sports. It has totally changed the mentality of being a top of your game athlete (human or animal) because there seems to be more and more suspicion that cheating must be involved. To me there are a lot of sports that should be looking at what the PBR is doing in order to stop the problem before it becomes widespread in the sport.
"PBR Puts Bovine Athletes to the Test." Sports Illustrated. 7 Feb. 2008. Associated Press. 10 Feb. 2008.
The purpose of the test is to screen top of their class bulls to ensure that their meanness is acquired through good genetics and not performance enhancing drugs. The test results are not expected to come back for another couple of weeks, but the owner, Jerry Nelson, insists that his prize bull is clean. The PBR wants to ensure the public that this is not believed to be a widespread problem, but there are a select few that some feel have been injecting their bulls with anabolic steroids and testosterone.
The PBR has taken the liberty of hiring anabolic steroids scientists from Iowa State University to test for the positives and negatives of injecting these bulls. According to the scientists, there are few positives because just a simple injection is not enough to enhance the bull’s performance. The bulls must be able to do things such as lift weights to take advantage of the performance enhancers. They also said that injecting the bulls with anabolic steroids would severely lessen their chance of reproducing, which could put a fair amount of breeding companies out of service.
The main incentive of enhancing these bovines are not necessarily to be at the top of their bucking game, because bulls receive little money for bucking off foes. The money comes from selling their semen as prize bulls when they are actually so-and-so bulls. This has led to a large outcry from clean bull breeders because it negates all of their hard work of raising a prize bucking bull.
-Anabolic Steroids: a class of steroid hormones related to the hormone testosterone. They increase protein synthesis within cells, which results in the buildup of cellular tissue (anabolism), especially in muscles.
-Bucking: To leap upward arching the back.
-Testosterone: A steroid hormone that is the most potent naturally occurring androgen and that regulates the development of the male reproductive system and male secondary sex characteristics.
What strikes me as interesting in this article is the fact that these anabolic steroids are the same exact types of steroids that are being injected into humans. These performance enhancers are having a huge effect on 1350 lbs. bulls! I find it amusing that human beings would go through these lengths to enhance their performance to ultimately make more money and glory.
Another thing that strikes me from this article is the analysis from the Iowa State University scientists. According to their studies the bulls must do things such a lift weights in order for these enhancers to have an effect. But according to my research many anabolic steroids need no catalyst to take into effect. Testosterone, specifically just increases the hormone made in the testes that does things such as increases muscle strength and mass. It also gives the bull more energy and broadens the shoulder blade and the rib cage which is a factor when it comes to bull riding. So insisting that there is no point in using performance enhancers on bulls is a bad analysis.
I am happy that the PBR is spending money on testing for performance enhancers, but it is stirring to think just what the rise of anabolic steroids have done to the world of sports. It has totally changed the mentality of being a top of your game athlete (human or animal) because there seems to be more and more suspicion that cheating must be involved. To me there are a lot of sports that should be looking at what the PBR is doing in order to stop the problem before it becomes widespread in the sport.
"PBR Puts Bovine Athletes to the Test." Sports Illustrated. 7 Feb. 2008. Associated Press. 10 Feb. 2008
Saturday, February 9, 2008
Isaac, Hops and barley in low supply
Late 2007 has proven to be a sullen time for private beer brewers and commercial American breweries alike. A shortage of the humble hop plant has reduced the availability of the hop buds that are necessary for many of the most popular brews of beer (all but ales, to be exact). Hops are the agent in beer that gives it that unmistakable slightly bitter taste that beer drinkers often crave in their brews. The culprit for this decrease in availability is due to pacific northwest farmers’ choice to discontinue hop growth and focus on corn, which can more easily be converted into ethanol alcohol which some believe might be the latest alternative fuel source. The decrease in hop production has caused a significant rise in cost, thereby making some of America’s most popular beers (brewed by Anheuser-Busch, and Miller) much more expensive than other domestic brands. Barley, another integral ingredient in beer (used to make malt, that will later be converted to alcohol by the addition of yeast) is also coming in short supply. The local home-brewer as well as the commercial giants are left to find alternative methods of production.
I feel like although it is a shame to see that beer production is soon to be cut down significantly it will be for a greater good. Beer is simply a luxury item that is unnecessary to any society, whereas the reason for beers decrease in production- corn farming- will hopefully make way for a new age in renewable energy. The idea that more ethanol will be available on the market at the cost of fewer, and more expensive, domestic beverages will not phase me at all.
This article, although upsetting to many domestic beer consumers, will help start discussions and actions towards a different method of brewing beer. Perhaps hops and barley are great caloric contributors in beer. Reading this article might lead to the production of different brews that have a different taste and are less fattening.
The Economist. London: Dec 22, 2007. Vol. 385, Iss. 8560; pg. 72
I feel like although it is a shame to see that beer production is soon to be cut down significantly it will be for a greater good. Beer is simply a luxury item that is unnecessary to any society, whereas the reason for beers decrease in production- corn farming- will hopefully make way for a new age in renewable energy. The idea that more ethanol will be available on the market at the cost of fewer, and more expensive, domestic beverages will not phase me at all.
This article, although upsetting to many domestic beer consumers, will help start discussions and actions towards a different method of brewing beer. Perhaps hops and barley are great caloric contributors in beer. Reading this article might lead to the production of different brews that have a different taste and are less fattening.
The Economist. London: Dec 22, 2007. Vol. 385, Iss. 8560; pg. 72
Nick, Parsley, sage, rosemary and thyme
A new study conducted by the Medicinal Plant Research Center in Grreat Britain has shown signs that significant memory improvement can be ties into the ingestion of sage through various mediums. Teas, oils, and capsules have all been used in research projects, along with placebos,where people were asked to remember words and then recite them later. Significant results showed that those who took the capsules had better results than those who injested the placebos. This is not a new concpet however. Writing dating back to the 16th century have described saqe as "singularly good for the head and brain and quickeneth the nerves and memory". People have been taking sage to help alleviate memory deficiencies for centuries and have longed enjoyed the boost it provides. This research is important because it is currently being used as a possible replacement for Alzheimer's drugs that have nasty side effects. Sage is being considered as a possible treatment for this disease which affects over 10 million people workdwide. It is thought sage contains an enzyme which can be used to help break down the main chemical that causes this popular form of dementia. Trials are ongoing using sage as a treatment on those with Alzheimers.
I think this is a very positive story about helping those affected by this terrible disease. This natural way could possible help the patients feel good about the medicine they are recieving. It seems to have withstood the test of time as it has been used for a long time. Even if it provides valuable information about what course the cure seekers should take, it is still a valuable herb that should stay focused on. Also, I am going to start taking sage before tests.
University Of Newcastle Upon Tyne. "Sage Improves Memory, Study Shows." ScienceDaily 1 September 2003. 7 February 2008 .
I think this is a very positive story about helping those affected by this terrible disease. This natural way could possible help the patients feel good about the medicine they are recieving. It seems to have withstood the test of time as it has been used for a long time. Even if it provides valuable information about what course the cure seekers should take, it is still a valuable herb that should stay focused on. Also, I am going to start taking sage before tests.
University Of Newcastle Upon Tyne. "Sage Improves Memory, Study Shows." ScienceDaily 1 September 2003. 7 February 2008 .
Chantal, Formaldehyde in your flour?!
In June, 2007, 180 Chinese food manufacturers were shut down in response to the findings of toxic ingredients in products. In preceding months, inspectors found traces of mineral oils, paraffin wax, dyes, malachite green chloride, and formaldehyde in Chinese food manufacturing companies. These toxins were used in the production of candy, pickles, flour, biscuits, black fungus, bean curd, seafood, and melon seeds. While these mostly came from small and unlicensed food plants, the thought is still unsettling to food safety officials and to consumers. Han Yi, the head of the Chinese government’s quality control and inspection department stated “These are not isolated cases” and went on to suggest a larger number of companies may have similar problems.
Though contaminated products have made US headlines, the majority of major Chinese news outlets have not broadcast or published the scary results. Food safety scares became popular with the tainted pet food scare in early 2007 where melamine, a chemical used in plastics and pesticides, was found in a number of pet foods imported from China. Since this incident, other scares have taken place including the contamination of toothpaste, rice snacks, poisonous fish, fake products, and diseased pork. Upon finding a dangerous chemical component of antifreeze, diethylene glycol, in Chinese-made toothpaste, Japan rejected Chinese products, and importers recalled millions of containers of toothpaste.
In retaliation for the US-imposed regulatory crackdown on Chinese exports, China focused on American food imports, and Beijing authorities seized American orange pulp and dried apricots claiming they contained too many preservatives and bacteria.
Amidst all concerns, some experts still insist that China’s food standards meet those of the rest of the world. They also acknowledge that the most common exports, those produced by large companies, are generally safe and have good records as they are concerned with their reputations. Fifteen years ago, according to the VP of Food Science and Nutrition at China Agricultural University, only about 70% of Chinese products met safety standards. Now, about 90% meet the even higher standards of the US.
What is “Malachite Green Chloride?” The article explains that this is a suspected carcinogen that is used as an anti-fungal agent used in fisheries.
Even though the majority of China’s food manufacturers meet safety standards, this is still a scary thought. Formaldehyde, carcinogens, and antifreeze ingredients in food? In candy consumed by children? Just the possibility of these slipping onto store shelves should encourage strong regulations. The article does not address this, but I am pretty sure that many imports are inspected when they enter US ports. However, it is good to know that many of the problems come from the smaller exporter.
Unfortunately, America does not have an excess of funds and it would be difficult to enforce and implement significantly stronger regulations on imports to US. However, as consumers, I think we would reduce the possibility of consuming toxins by buying organic food. This would also support local growers, eventually making organic food cheaper and more readily-available.
Landsberg, Mitchell. “TRADE; China revs up food inspections; A crackdown finds potentially toxic ingredients. Publicity may be meant for foreign consumption.” Los Angeles Times. June 28, 2007. C 1.
Though contaminated products have made US headlines, the majority of major Chinese news outlets have not broadcast or published the scary results. Food safety scares became popular with the tainted pet food scare in early 2007 where melamine, a chemical used in plastics and pesticides, was found in a number of pet foods imported from China. Since this incident, other scares have taken place including the contamination of toothpaste, rice snacks, poisonous fish, fake products, and diseased pork. Upon finding a dangerous chemical component of antifreeze, diethylene glycol, in Chinese-made toothpaste, Japan rejected Chinese products, and importers recalled millions of containers of toothpaste.
In retaliation for the US-imposed regulatory crackdown on Chinese exports, China focused on American food imports, and Beijing authorities seized American orange pulp and dried apricots claiming they contained too many preservatives and bacteria.
Amidst all concerns, some experts still insist that China’s food standards meet those of the rest of the world. They also acknowledge that the most common exports, those produced by large companies, are generally safe and have good records as they are concerned with their reputations. Fifteen years ago, according to the VP of Food Science and Nutrition at China Agricultural University, only about 70% of Chinese products met safety standards. Now, about 90% meet the even higher standards of the US.
What is “Malachite Green Chloride?” The article explains that this is a suspected carcinogen that is used as an anti-fungal agent used in fisheries.
Even though the majority of China’s food manufacturers meet safety standards, this is still a scary thought. Formaldehyde, carcinogens, and antifreeze ingredients in food? In candy consumed by children? Just the possibility of these slipping onto store shelves should encourage strong regulations. The article does not address this, but I am pretty sure that many imports are inspected when they enter US ports. However, it is good to know that many of the problems come from the smaller exporter.
Unfortunately, America does not have an excess of funds and it would be difficult to enforce and implement significantly stronger regulations on imports to US. However, as consumers, I think we would reduce the possibility of consuming toxins by buying organic food. This would also support local growers, eventually making organic food cheaper and more readily-available.
Landsberg, Mitchell. “TRADE; China revs up food inspections; A crackdown finds potentially toxic ingredients. Publicity may be meant for foreign consumption.” Los Angeles Times. June 28, 2007. C 1.
Melanie, Causes of schizophrenia
There is no solitary and unique cause for schizophrenia. Scientists believe that schizophrenia can result from genetic mishaps. Schizophrenia tends to run in families, rather then a random person on the street. An identical twin of a person who has schizophrenia has the highest percentage of developing the disease, around 40%-50%. The risk of developing schizophrenia in the general population without any relatives who have it is very minimal, around 1%. Scientists are studying the presumed ‘main’ genetic factors that lead to schizophrenia. They have found that prenatal difficulties, such as intrauterine, starvation, and other nonspecific stressors appear to influence the development of schizophrenia. Studies have also shown that schizophrenia tend to evolve when the person’s brain starts to mature. Schizophrenia is virtually undetectable in children and adolescents. Presently, it is not yet possible to detect weather someone will get this disease or not. Yet, the link between schizophrenia and neurotransmitters, which are “substances that allow communication between nerve cells,” has been rowing rapidly. It is presumed, yet not confirmed, that schizophrenia has to deal with the imbalance of these neurotransmitters, specifically dopamine and glutamine. Recent studies in schizophrenia show that abnormalities in brain structure and function are very subtle, and are not an actual characteristic of schizophrenia. Science investigators have found new ways to invent a devise to detect schizophrenia, by using a brain imagine technique that prompts the examination of the neural circuits that are be believed that are producing the ‘symptoms’ of schizophrenia.
Intrauterine: women’s uterus
Neural circuits: Circuits in the brain that are composed of a number of neurons (nerve cells) that communicate with one another through special junctions called synapses. (Synapses: a specialized ‘junction’ at which a neuron communicated with it’ ‘target cell’)
This article proved to actually be very informative. I had first thought that it would be boring, and much too technical. Yet, this was an easy to read article that I enjoyed and found it to be very helpful in my understanding of schizophrenia. I learned that identical twins have an upsettingly higher risk of developing schizophrenia then any other person.
Causes of Schizophrenia. (2012, June 6). Retrieved February 7, 2008, from http://mentalhealth.about.com/od/schizophrenia/a/sz2.htm
Intrauterine: women’s uterus
Neural circuits: Circuits in the brain that are composed of a number of neurons (nerve cells) that communicate with one another through special junctions called synapses. (Synapses: a specialized ‘junction’ at which a neuron communicated with it’ ‘target cell’)
This article proved to actually be very informative. I had first thought that it would be boring, and much too technical. Yet, this was an easy to read article that I enjoyed and found it to be very helpful in my understanding of schizophrenia. I learned that identical twins have an upsettingly higher risk of developing schizophrenia then any other person.
Causes of Schizophrenia. (2012, June 6). Retrieved February 7, 2008, from http://mentalhealth.about.com/od/schizophrenia/a/sz2.htm
Allison, Fever effect
This article is about the “fever effect” on Autistic children. This is the phenomenon that occurs when children with Autism have a high fever, their symptoms lessen and they seem to be able to communicate easier with those around them. Parents have noticed that children who do not make eye contact or speak, begin to talk and interact with others when they have fevers, but as fevers go away, so do these improvements. Some studies have been done on this, and while it did not happen to all children, some children had great improvements while their temperatures were high. The question now is why does this happen. Some scientists believe that it has something to do with the extra amount of proteins called cytokines that are in the brain when it is feverish. Further research of this may lead to possible treatments.
Cytokines- any number of substances that are secreted by certain cells of the immune system and have an effect on other cells
I really liked this article, it introduced to me a new idea of a possible cure for Autism. I think that more research should be done in this field, if it is possible to put the cytokines into the brains of these Autistic children with out giving them a fever, may lead to a much easier and happier life. While the study that was reported here had only used 30 children, more studies could be done to see if this so called "fever effect" happens in enough children to make it practical to continue research in the field.
Hamilton, Jon. "Autism Study Lends Credence to 'Fever Effect'" NPR (2007). 6 Feb. 2008 .
Cytokines- any number of substances that are secreted by certain cells of the immune system and have an effect on other cells
I really liked this article, it introduced to me a new idea of a possible cure for Autism. I think that more research should be done in this field, if it is possible to put the cytokines into the brains of these Autistic children with out giving them a fever, may lead to a much easier and happier life. While the study that was reported here had only used 30 children, more studies could be done to see if this so called "fever effect" happens in enough children to make it practical to continue research in the field.
Hamilton, Jon. "Autism Study Lends Credence to 'Fever Effect'" NPR (2007). 6 Feb. 2008 .
Kevin, Genetically altered alfalfa fears
In Wisconsin, a genetically altered form of alfalfa, called Roundup Ready alfalfa, was planted in 13,000 acres. This alfalfa allows farmers to use Roundup Ready weed killer without hurting their crops. There was a ban put on the planting of this crop, however, because of the worry from organic farmers. The organic farmers worry that this genetically altered crop will cross pollinate with their unaltered crops, giving their crops the same characteristics as the Roundup Ready variety. Not only would it affect the alfalfa farmers, but alfalfa is a very common form of feed for cattle. The potential cross pollination and feeding of altered alfalfa to organically raised cattle would violate the trust between organic farmers and their customers. Developers of the Roundup Ready alfalfa state that with proper farming techniques the possibility of cross pollination between the altered and unaltered crops is slim to none. They also state that there are no concerns in terms of both human and animal health. A study done by the University of Minnesota found that cattle that had been fed with the Roundup Ready alfalfa produced 8% more milk than those fed on unaltered alfalfa.
Cross-pollination- the process of transferring the pollen from one plant to another, usually via insects or wind.
I think that the organic farmers are making a big fuss out of nothing. The only aspect that is altered in the new kind of alfalfa is its ability to survive herbicides. Nothing else about it is change, and if they still haven’t used herbicides in their own crops, I don’t see how the use, accidental or otherwise, of the Roundup Ready alfalfa would hurt the organic food industry.
Where the information might lead: further development of herbicide resistant crops.
Barrett, Rick. “A Change in the Air: Organic Farmers Fear Spread of Genetically Altered Alfalfa” Knight Rider Tribune Business News (Sep. 16, 2007) ProQuest (6, Feb 2008)
Cross-pollination- the process of transferring the pollen from one plant to another, usually via insects or wind.
I think that the organic farmers are making a big fuss out of nothing. The only aspect that is altered in the new kind of alfalfa is its ability to survive herbicides. Nothing else about it is change, and if they still haven’t used herbicides in their own crops, I don’t see how the use, accidental or otherwise, of the Roundup Ready alfalfa would hurt the organic food industry.
Where the information might lead: further development of herbicide resistant crops.
Barrett, Rick. “A Change in the Air: Organic Farmers Fear Spread of Genetically Altered Alfalfa” Knight Rider Tribune Business News (Sep. 16, 2007) ProQuest (6, Feb 2008)
Friday, February 1, 2008
Worldwide oil production, 1930-2050
Actual and projected oil production.
Baird, B, Chemistry and Your Life, 2nd ed., Freeman, NY, p.147
Melanie, Coal, losing its luster?
Coal is a cheap and plentiful energy source. It produces more then half of the nations electricity, yet questions arise when coal’s reliability starts to falter. The main concern involving coal burning is the carbon dioxide it emits into the air. Natural gas does not emit CO2. It is a reasonable alternative to coal, since it is both plentiful and affordable. Yet, in conjunction with nuclear power plants that go along with this, the cost would rise dramatically. David Eskelsen, who is a spokesman for PacifiCorp, seems to believe that its too early to find an alternative energy source other then coal, since “ the current situation makes the utility planning is very challenging.” In disagreement, 53 “coal-fired” plants were shut down in 2007 because of the increasing emission of carbon dioxide. Even with this disturbing thought, coal will be always known as the main energy source. New Mexico, Minnesota, and Indiana have made plans to continue the production of coal burning industry. In Washington, many believe that the rapid movement of global warming has something to do with the burning of solid carbon, which is the worst and dirtiest way to produce power. A recent study shows that if we keep burning coal, it will become more expensive then natural gas by 2030, because of the amount of CO2 it will produce and the money it would take to make a cleaner way to burn coal.
I found this article somewhat surprising, since i had no idea that coal power plants were being shut down because of there extreme CO2 emissions. I wonder what will be used for energy in the future.
Pasternak, Judy. “Coal is no longer on front burner,” LA Times. 18 Jan. 2008. A8 & A21.
I found this article somewhat surprising, since i had no idea that coal power plants were being shut down because of there extreme CO2 emissions. I wonder what will be used for energy in the future.
Pasternak, Judy. “Coal is no longer on front burner,” LA Times. 18 Jan. 2008. A8 & A21.
Dustin, Coal issues
The LA Times article discusses the United States’ current situation with energy and electricity, particularly the coal reserves that we have depended on for so many years. As our environment becomes more of a concern and global pollution and warming issues are ever-growing problems, the state officials of our country have decided to slow the production of more coal plants. Companies in control of regional power plants are making efforts to slow their carbon dioxide emissions as well as their nuclear pollution. Their inability however to find an alternative form of energy that is “environmentally friendly” is the main problem. Coal plants certainly prove to be damaging to our earth, nuclear plants are too expensive, and the “clean” alternatives such as wind-powered plants are not sufficient. Combine these factors with the problem that coal plants have of transporting their coal through rail lines (as they are primitive and inefficient) and you can understand the reason for worry.
In my opinion, our country needs to utilize as many “clean” energy plants possible and consider possible ways to sustain their electricity output while at the same time keeping their pollution levels to a minimum. Either new innovation and technological advancement needs to occur or a more effective way of ridding nuclear waste from nuclear plants needs to be made available.
Pasternak, Judy. “Coal is no Longer on front burner”. LA Times. Jan 18, 2008.
In my opinion, our country needs to utilize as many “clean” energy plants possible and consider possible ways to sustain their electricity output while at the same time keeping their pollution levels to a minimum. Either new innovation and technological advancement needs to occur or a more effective way of ridding nuclear waste from nuclear plants needs to be made available.
Pasternak, Judy. “Coal is no Longer on front burner”. LA Times. Jan 18, 2008.
John, Coallision of opinions
The coal business in America is lagging due to fears about global warming and costs. This is slowing down the rush to build power plants fueled by coal. The industry appears to be hitting many speed bumps. Utilities are being charged more for the same service and transportation from coal fields to generators is difficult with few routes. A big opposition comes from state regulators and environmental groups. Some troubles in Washington have come up as it is an issue involving climate-change policies. People still supporting the coal industry feel that it is a resource that should be tapped into, as they believe we have enough coal for 200 years. Also with the lack of coal being used, energy regulators are foreseeing difficulties in maintaining an already energy hungry people.
This article stood out to me since my brother is stationed in Gillette, Wyoming by his consulting firm, working for a coal company. He said the industry has been struggling as of late, and that was seconded in this article. I believe that the troubles need to be faced and soon with countries such as China and India increasing in power. An issue as significant as the energy situation of the United States should be sorted out as soon as possible.
It should lead to a compromise between the part of the country which needs energy to thrive and the part that must protect the environment. Finding the middle ground which can keep both sides satisfied is the key.
Pasternak, J. (2008, January 18). Coal is no long on the front burner. Los Angeles Times, pgs A8, A21.
This article stood out to me since my brother is stationed in Gillette, Wyoming by his consulting firm, working for a coal company. He said the industry has been struggling as of late, and that was seconded in this article. I believe that the troubles need to be faced and soon with countries such as China and India increasing in power. An issue as significant as the energy situation of the United States should be sorted out as soon as possible.
It should lead to a compromise between the part of the country which needs energy to thrive and the part that must protect the environment. Finding the middle ground which can keep both sides satisfied is the key.
Pasternak, J. (2008, January 18). Coal is no long on the front burner. Los Angeles Times, pgs A8, A21.
Sam, Future of Coal
This article is about the future of coal as a viable natural resource in our countries future. Recently coal has been touted as America’s saving grace. Obviously many of us have seen the recent advertising campaign on TV claiming coal is America’s fuel. But this article is questioning the reality of that claim. According to the article, coal is on the decline. One of the largest arguments against tapping into the coal reserves is that of environmental safety. Burning coal causes a very large amount of pollutants and recent concerns about climate change. This is causing a bit of a dilemma. America, today, is struggling to meet its electricity demands; the California blackouts are a good indicator that it may be time to enhance the system. The North American Electric Reliability Corp. says that if action is not take in the next year or two we probably wont have enough electricity ten years from now. There has been an attempt to build a clean burning coal power plant, dubbed the FutureGen plant, but rising costs may result in the cancellation of the project. The last major struggle that the coal advocates have to deal with is transportation. About 40% of the nations coal comes from one location, and thus, the transit around this location is vary important. In order to transport all the needed coal to the planned power plants, hundreds of millions of dollars will have to be invested in railroads.
I looked up the FutureGen plant to see how they planned to create a low emission coal plant. It turns out that the plant was cancelled yesterday, citing the massively inflated cost. The plant was originally going to cost just under a billion but the cost increased to about 1.8 billion. The plant was supposed to capture its emissions and bury them in capsules deep under ground, producing no emissions in the air and producing hydrogen and electricity. That hydrogen could then have been used in fuel cells.
I think that the issue of coal power is actually a very pressing concern for the American people. We need to either increase our energy production fast that it seems possible right now, or lower our usage. Between 2001 and 2006 about 30% of the energy produced in the world was produced by coal. Sadly, none of these coal plants are low emission and therefore pose a significant threat to our environment. America has about 200 years worth of coal reserves, and yet there is a good chance that these reserves will never be tapped, as they are too dangerous to the environment and we lack the infrastructure to operate the amount of plants that we need to build. I think that the decision to leap forward in coal use was a rash one. Granted we do need the energy, but it is absolutely critical that we develop new methods of getting our energy that do not cause permanent damage to the environment.
Pasterna, Judy. Coal is No Longer on the Front Burner. LA Times. Friday, January 18th. 2008. Pp A8+A21.
I looked up the FutureGen plant to see how they planned to create a low emission coal plant. It turns out that the plant was cancelled yesterday, citing the massively inflated cost. The plant was originally going to cost just under a billion but the cost increased to about 1.8 billion. The plant was supposed to capture its emissions and bury them in capsules deep under ground, producing no emissions in the air and producing hydrogen and electricity. That hydrogen could then have been used in fuel cells.
I think that the issue of coal power is actually a very pressing concern for the American people. We need to either increase our energy production fast that it seems possible right now, or lower our usage. Between 2001 and 2006 about 30% of the energy produced in the world was produced by coal. Sadly, none of these coal plants are low emission and therefore pose a significant threat to our environment. America has about 200 years worth of coal reserves, and yet there is a good chance that these reserves will never be tapped, as they are too dangerous to the environment and we lack the infrastructure to operate the amount of plants that we need to build. I think that the decision to leap forward in coal use was a rash one. Granted we do need the energy, but it is absolutely critical that we develop new methods of getting our energy that do not cause permanent damage to the environment.
Pasterna, Judy. Coal is No Longer on the Front Burner. LA Times. Friday, January 18th. 2008. Pp A8+A21.
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