tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-53248325958531035292024-03-08T20:27:36.087+08:00Serendipity JunctionUnknownnoreply@blogger.comBlogger42125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5324832595853103529.post-8415978838881548962007-10-06T22:27:00.000+08:002007-10-06T22:31:42.944+08:00Is Pap Test an Accurate Method of Detecting Cervical Cancer?<span style="font-size:85%;">The Pap test, also known as the cervical smear test, was named for its inventor George Papanicolaou and is used to detect cervical cancer in its earliest, most treatable stage. Records show that since the test's introduction in the late 1940s, the death rate from cervical cancer in North America has dropped more than 70 percent.<br /><br />One reason for the success of Pap tests is that most cervical cancers develop slowly; cells can take several years to become cancerous. Regular screening and pelvic exams lead to detection in plenty of time for treatment and also minimize the long-term risks of a single false-negative result.<br /><br /></span><span style="font-size:85%;"> But despite this impressive achievement, some 400 North American women die each year from a disease that, doctors say, is nearly 100 percent curable if caught early. According to one survey, many American and Canadian women are not being tested, and the proportion is increasing. <a style="color: rgb(0, 0, 153);" href="http://www.robustbeauty.net/paptest-for-cervical-cancer/">[Read Full Article]</a></span>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5324832595853103529.post-85201206421106685462007-10-06T22:23:00.000+08:002007-10-06T22:25:39.340+08:00Chichen Itza, the Colosseum, and Statue of Christ the Redeemer<span style="font-size:85%;"> The ancient Mayan city of Chichen Itza in Mexico, the Colosseum in Rome, and the statue of Christ the Redeemer in Rio de Janeiro were recently named three of the 7 'new' world wonders during a televised celebrity-studded ceremony held at Lisbon's Stadium of Light in Portugal on July 7, 2007. In a report from the Agence France-Presse (AFP) in Lisbon, the selection was made after nearly 100 million votes, cast on the Internet and through telephones, were counted.<br /><br />Following is a brief description, from historical records and accounts, of each of the three 'new' world wonders:<br /><br />Chichen Itza in Mexico:<br /><br />The ancient Maya/Toltec city of Chichen Itza is situated 77 miles (123 kilometers) southeast of Merida. It was established by the Maya around 600 AD and was a major center of the Toltecs in 1000-1200, after the decline of the Maya. <a style="color: rgb(0, 0, 153);" href="http://www.orble.com/chichen-itza-the-colosseum-and-statue-of-christ-the-redeemer/">[Read Full Article]</a><br /></span>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5324832595853103529.post-31109162333548591552007-09-16T19:47:00.000+08:002007-09-16T19:48:22.234+08:00Breast-feeding is Still Best for Babies - and Moms, too!Nursing, the preferred method of feeding a newborn, greatly benefits both the infant and the mother. In fact, many health documents recommend that babies receive only breast milk for the first 4 to 6 months. With additional foods, breast-feeding may continue well into the second year of life.<br /><br />Breast milk contains the right amount of fatty acids, water, lactose, vitamins, trace minerals, and amino acids for an infant. With at least 100 ingredients that formula does not provide - some impossible to duplicate - the milk helps to support the immune system and protects against diarrhea, rashes, allergies, and infections of the ear, urinary tract, and respiratory system. Nursing can also aid in tooth development, improve response to vaccines, and possibly reduce the chances of future diabetes or obesity. One study suggests that children who are breast-fed even do better in school.<br /><br />Of course, some women are unable to breast-feed and must rely on infant formula. Though second-best, formula is still an excellent source of nutrition for a baby. Since homemade formula does not meet a baby's needs and can be dangerous, always opt for commercial brands that are iron-fortified. <a style="color: rgb(0, 0, 102);" href="http://www.robustbeauty.net/breastfeeding-best-for-babies-and-moms/">[Read Full Article]</a>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5324832595853103529.post-1492687366936122562007-09-16T19:45:00.000+08:002007-09-16T19:48:44.895+08:00A Health Guide to the Three Modern Methods of Saving Your Teeth from DecaySeeing a dentist at least once a year is an advice we've all heard of since our younger years. The reasons for doing so are varied: for a cleaning, a filling, or a more complex procedure. By becoming aware of the many facets of both familiar and more advanced procedures, you may be able to improve the results.<br /><br />Left alone, a decayed tooth can become infected, causing pain and eventually the loss of the tooth. Modern dentistry can prevent this from happening with these three methods:<br /><br />1. Dental amalgams. For moderately decayed teeth, dentists drill the cavity and fill it with a strong material - usually a dental amalgam made of silver, tin, copper, and mercury. In the past decade, concerns have been raised over the mercury in amalgams. When fillings break down, as they all eventually do, small particles of mercury enter the bloodstream, and some people feared that this might increase the risk of arthritis, multiple sclerosis, and Alzheimer's disease. But studies have found no link between medical disorders and amalgam fillings that contain mercury. It appears that the amount of mercury released by the amalgam is so minute that it doesn't do any damage. Health experts say that amalgam is safe for all but a small number of people who are specifically sensitive or allergic to mercury and who may suffer severe health problems even from low exposure. <a style="color: rgb(0, 0, 102);" href="http://www.robustbeauty.net/saving-your-teeth/">[Read Full Article]</a>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5324832595853103529.post-4407440312458547692007-09-16T19:41:00.000+08:002007-09-16T19:43:30.068+08:00Great Wall of ChinaThousands of tourists at the Great Wall of China on July 7, 2007 were unaware that the structure they were marveling at was just selected as one of 7 'new' world wonders during a celebrity-studded ceremony held at Lisbon's Stadium of Light in Portugal. According to an Agence France-Presse (AFP) report from Lisbon, "the televised event was not broadcast (in China), leaving thousands of tourists at the Great Wall unaware of the new designation."<br /><br />Both a barrier and a gateway to the wealth and enigma of the Chinese Empire, the Great Wall of China is a man-made work on such a gigantic scale that it has been called the 'Eighth Wonder of the World.' Many people from around the world, in fact, noted that the recent accolade received from the said event in Lisbon was long overdue. This is because more superlatives have been heaped upon the Great Wall of China than on any other structure in the world: "The greatest construction project ever undertaken by man," "the longest bastion," and "the world's biggest graveyard."<br /><br />Historical records and facts are clear: the wall stretches for some 4,000 miles (6,400 kilometers) across China, following a twisting, curving path that has been likened to the body of a dragon. It was constructed over a period of 2,100 years by millions of soldiers and laborers, and it cost the lives of untold thousands. <a style="color: rgb(0, 0, 102);" href="http://www.orble.com/great-wall-of-china/"><span style="text-decoration: underline;">[Read Full Article]</span></a>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5324832595853103529.post-38361387226367569332007-09-16T19:37:00.000+08:002007-09-16T19:39:05.588+08:00Taj Mahal in IndiaThousands of Indians handed out sweets and set off fireworks on July 7, 2007 to celebrate the inclusion of Taj Mahal in the list of the 7 'new' world wonders, as recently reported by the Agence France-Presse (AFP) from Lisbon, Portugal. The AFP-Lisbon report says that "Hundreds (of Indians) thronged the 17th-century monument built by Mughal ruler Shah Jahan in memory of his wife Mumtaz Mahal."<br /><br />Historical records paint the Taj Mahal, thus: "A vision of symmetry and delicacy, like a perfect pearl set against an azure sky, it is the world's best known mausoleum and one of the most exquisite buildings ever designed."<br /><br />The Taj Mahal, arguably the most famous building in the world, is situated on the southern bank of the River Yamuna (Jumna) at Agra in India. Its silhouette is instantly recognizable and has become, for many, the unofficial symbol of India. The fame of the Taj Mahal rests not only on its architectural beauty - in which grandeur and delicacy are miraculously balanced - but also on its romantic associations. Records indicate that the Taj Mahal was built by the 17th-century Mogul Emperor Shah Jahan as a memorial to his favorite wife, whose death plunged him into unshakeable grief. As a physical symbol of the devotion of a man to a woman, the Taj Mahal is unsurpassed. Tradition has it that when a couple goes there, the woman should ask her partner: "If I were to die, do you love me so much that you would build me a memorial like this?" <a style="color: rgb(0, 0, 102);" href="http://www.orble.com/taj-mahal-in-india/">[Read Full Article]</a>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5324832595853103529.post-13577050114080697052007-09-01T23:54:00.000+08:002007-09-01T23:56:44.445+08:00Petra in JordanIn January of the present year, a private Swiss foundation launched a contest to select the seven 'new' wonders of the world. A report from AFP-Lisbon, Portugal says that "Nearly 100 million votes were cast by the Internet and text messages by Friday midnight (July 7, 2007), according to New7Wonders, the nonprofit organization that conducted the poll." The poll result showed that one of the 7 'new' world wonders named was the centuries-old pink ruins of Petra in Jordan.<br /><br />Unknown to the Western world for hundreds of years, the 'rose-red' city of Petra was once a thriving center for travelers along the ancient trade routes. Ringed by high mountains and approached through a narrow gorge, its remarkable carved buildings have remained virtually untouched.<br /><br />The Western world's discovery of Petra is historically recorded as follows: "On a journey from Syria to Egypt in late August 1812, the young Swiss explorer Johann Ludwig Burckhardt came upon a group of Arab tribesmen just south of the Dead Sea who had an enthralling story to tell. They spoke of 'antiquities' in a nearby hidden valley called Wadi Mousa - the Valley of Moses. Disguised as an Arab, Burckhardt followed his guide to a seemingly solid wall of rock, which, as they approached, revealed a narrow, deep cleft. After walking for about 25 minutes through a winding, almost sunless gorge, known as the Siq, he was suddenly confronted by the reddish-pink facade of an elaborately carved building 90 feet (30 meters) high. Stepping into the sunlight, Burckhardt found himself in the main street of ancient Petra - perhaps the most romantic of all 'lost' cities. It was a memorable moment, for he was the first European to set foot there since the Crusaders in the 12th century." <a style="color: rgb(0, 0, 102);" href="http://www.orble.com/petra-in-jordan/">[Read Full Article]</a>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5324832595853103529.post-53874291398390358702007-09-01T23:47:00.000+08:002007-09-01T23:57:59.556+08:00Health Fact: Yogurt is More Healthful than MilkAs nutritious as milk and possibly even more healthful, yogurt is what you get when "good" bacteria feast on fresh milk. These "live active cultures" digest some of the milk's sugar (lactose), converting into lactic acid, which gives this "spoonable" dairy food a refreshing tang.<br /><br />Yogurt is not only tasty; it's easily digested and calcium-rich (1 cup supplies a third or more of daily needs). It's a good source of protein, zinc, riboflavin, and vitamin B12, and, if made with fortified milk, vitamins A and D. It's available in low-fat or fat-free varieties. What's more, there's evidence that yogurt with live active cultures may prevent intestinal ills and possibly even colon cancer.<br /><br />Yogurt's reputation as a health food is centuries old. In the 1500s, the French king Francis I was relieved of intestinal ills when the sultan of Turkey's doctor arrived with a herd of milk-producing sheep - and a recipe for yogurt. <a style="color: rgb(0, 0, 102);" href="http://www.robustbeauty.net/yogurt-vs-milk/">[Read Full Article]</a>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5324832595853103529.post-68265230829868430432007-08-28T22:22:00.000+08:002007-08-28T22:41:50.426+08:00Health Fact: Garlic Wards Off (Besides Vampires!) Many Health ThreatsFor thousands of years, humans have revered garlic as both food and medicine. Medical experts believe that regular consumption of garlic - as little as half a clove a day - may cut the risk of several significant health threats.<br /><br />Chemists say that when garlic is crushed, chopped, or chewed, an enzyme is released that converts one of garlic's key sulfur compounds, called alliin, into allicin. Allicin gives garlic its unique odor (the reason why garlic is often called the "stinking rose") and provides much of its healing properties.<br /><br />Garlic has been shown to have numerous beneficial effects. Consider the following:<br /><br />1) Garlic kills many disease-causing microorganisms. Doctors say that although it is only about 1 percent as effective as penicillin, it works against a wide spectrum of bacteria, viruses, and fungi - including some that antibiotics can't destroy.<br /><br />2) In test tubes, garlic inhibits the growth of 'Helicobacter pylori,' the bacterium that causes most stomach ulcers.<br /><br />3) The numerous sulfur compounds of garlic may also protect against certain types of cancer. A major study conducted in Iowa showed garlic to be the single most powerful protector against colon cancer.<br /><br />4) It's not only garlic's sulfur compounds that appear to fight cancer. Garlic increases the production of an enzyme known as glutathione peroxidase, which helps detoxify carcinogens. <a style="color: rgb(0, 0, 102);" href="http://www.robustbeauty.net/garlic-health-facts/">[Read Full Article]</a>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5324832595853103529.post-80310678992664136552007-08-18T13:22:00.000+08:002007-08-19T01:30:42.932+08:00Review of the Movie "The Bourne Ultimatum"<span style="font-size:130%;">I think this movie worked well despite the disturbing graphic scenes of violence. I guess it is a strategy used to lessen the cost of stunts in excitingly unusual locations. They began the sequence where The Bourne Supremacy left off, when Jason was wounded in Moscow. Driven to know who he is, Jason Bourne communicates with a journalist who seems to have a clue. However, the Treadstone is way too fast monitoring their track and using assassins to kill them.<br /><br />The direction leads him to Madrid, to look for Neal Daniels, but happens to see Nicky Parson, his erstwhile handler, or is she not? “You really don’t remember do you?” -Nicky. Is she his girl before Marie Kreutz? Hmm… That’s another story! <a style="color: rgb(0, 0, 102);" href="http://harmonie.multiply.com/reviews/item/7">[Read Full Review]</a></span>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5324832595853103529.post-480032950004795382007-08-17T18:38:00.000+08:002007-08-17T18:40:42.108+08:00Buying Hair Products 101<span style="font-size:85%;">Hair is most attractive when it is kept clean, shiny, and shaped or styled to fit the individual face and head. A large part of the millions of dollars spent in the United States each year on beauty aids is spent for hair styling and care.<br /><br />When buying hair products, you may consider the following:<br /><br />Shampoos:<br /><br />Regular shampoos contain seventy to eighty percent of water, detergent, perfumes and some conditioning oils. They may include harsh ingredients that could be harmful to your scalp like formaldehyde. So be wary what shampoo you must use.<br /><br />Dandruff shampoos:<br /><br /></span><span style="font-size:85%;"> Dandruff shampoos may only help lessen the irritation. If your scalp is sensitive to dandruff shampoos' active ingredients, you should alternate them between sulfur-based and tar-based products.<br /><br />Hair sprays:<br /><br />Hair sprays can irritate your eyes, skin, and respiratory tract. They must be used in a well-ventilated area. It is much safer to use pumps than aerosols because they emit droplets which are less easily absorbed into your lungs. You may also consider styling foams, but they often contain alcohol, that may dry your hair. <a style="color: rgb(0, 0, 102);" href="http://www.robustbeauty.net/hairproducts101/">[Read Full Article]</a></span>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5324832595853103529.post-7134252412275217012007-08-17T18:31:00.000+08:002007-08-17T18:37:57.352+08:00Machu Picchu in Peru<span style="font-size:85%;">An Agence France-Presse dispatch from Lisbon, Portugal says that nearly 100 million Internet and telephone voters selected the new seven wonders of the world. One of these is the Incan ruins of Machu Picchu in Peru.<br /><br />High in the Peruvian Andes, the citadel of Machu Picchu appears suspended in mountain mists. Perched precariously on a rocky outcrop with huge drops either side, this city of a long-dead race eluded discovery until the 20th century, some 400 years after its downfall. Travel records indicated that today, a traveler in Peru can make the 60-mile or 96-kilometer journey from the city of Cuzco to Machu Picchu in just a few hours by train and bus.<br /><br />Historical records reveal that in 1911, the American historian and archaeologist Hiram Bingham toiled for five days along the valley of the River Urubamba before reaching now famous ruins. He believed that he had discovered the Inca stronghold of Vilcabamba - a city that had been razed to the ground during the Spanish conquest of the Inca Empire in 1572. Bingham's party chanced upon Machu Picchu largely by luck. They had made camp in a river canyon where they met a farmer who told them of the remains of an ancient city on a nearby mountain called Machu Picchu ('old peak'). Although skeptical, the next day Bingham and his party followed the farmer up the mountain through dense jungle. Near the top, 2,000 feet (610 meters) above the valley floor, they came across a stone-faced terrace hundreds of yards long and, beyond it, walls of pure white blocks of granite, covered in thick vegetation but remarkable nonetheless for their exquisite workmanship. Bingham's party found Machu Picchu to be an extraordinary place, "not least because the people who built it did not possess iron tools, draught animals or, indeed, the wheel." <a style="color: rgb(0, 0, 102);" href="http://www.orble.com/machu-picchu-in-peru/">[Read Full Article]</a><br /></span>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5324832595853103529.post-75020154759192951312007-08-14T20:45:00.000+08:002007-08-14T20:48:54.647+08:00A Simple Method to Beat Coffee Addiction<span style="font-size:100%;">Coffee is the favorite hot drink in the United States (as tea is in Great Britain), and more than two billion pounds (1 billion kilograms) of coffee are consumed in the country every year. Those who drink coffee dote on its aroma and flavor. But taste and aroma alone do not account for the popularity of coffee. It gives a lift which so habituates its users that they cannot perform their usual activities without a cup or two. It becomes a crutch on which they depend for a starter in the morning, for a pick-me-up at the coffee break, for pep on social occasions, and for a stimulant to stay awake. A cup of coffee contains about 100 milligrams (1.5 grains) of caffeine.<br /><br /></span><span style="font-size:100%;"> There are people who seem to be hopelessly hooked on coffee, but would like to beat their addiction to it just the same. A former habitual user has some suggestions that helped her kick her coffee-drinking habit: <a style="color: rgb(0, 0, 102);" href="http://www.robustbeauty.net/beatcoffeeadiction/">[Read Full Article]</a></span>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5324832595853103529.post-16531677471525508002007-08-09T13:56:00.000+08:002007-08-09T14:05:41.181+08:00A Psychiatrist or a Psychologist: Which Professional is Better Concerning Mental Health?<span style="font-size:100%;">The range of choices in the mental health marketplace can be confusing. Any physician can legally prescribe psychoactive medications, while almost anyone, even without a license or training, can profess to treat emotional disorders. Within the medical profession, psychiatrists have the training to deal with severe mental disorders. Yet a sympathetic general practitioner may prove just as effective in treating mild depressions and anxiety problems or may be able to refer you to an appropriate therapist. Your local community health center or public hospitals are alternative sources of information and treatment. Community health centers can arrange for psychiatric assessment and follow-up services, and in emergency situations a crisis team can be called upon. </span><span style="font-size:85%;"><span style="font-size:100%;"> Psychiatrists, clinical psychologists, psychiatric nurses, social workers, and counselors all play a role in the delivery of mental health services. Only psychiatrists can prescribe drugs, but it should be recognized that while drug treatment may be necessary for serious illnesses, many conditions can be treated without drugs. <a href="http://www.robustbeauty.net/mental-health/"><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 102);">[Read Full Article]</span></a></span><br /></span>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5324832595853103529.post-92066004289867400892007-08-09T13:51:00.000+08:002007-08-09T13:52:38.990+08:00A Guide to Parent-Teacher Relationship<span style="font-size:85%;"><span style="font-size:130%;">Though parents have chosen the best school their child, much will depend on the student's teacher.<br /><br />Parents active involvement is an advantage that gives opportunity for the school to provide the best for your child. You must understand that the teacher's style and how it complements the learning techniques relevant to optimize your child's performance and well-being are taken care of very well. Instead, ask what you can do to help and take an active role in your child's school activities. <a style="color: rgb(0, 0, 102);" href="http://www.orble.com/a-guide-to-parentteacher-relationship/">[Read Full Article]</a></span><br /></span>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5324832595853103529.post-39783081499861198172007-07-14T13:37:00.000+08:002007-08-03T19:19:44.473+08:00Review of the Movie Live Free or Die Hard<span style="font-size:100%;">I had the opportunity to watch this film with my co-teacher last Friday. I wouldn't dare miss it since I haven't been to the theater and watch GOOD movies when Spiderman 3 was release. Who would have thought that Bruce Willis can still pull stunts at his age? I have.<br /><br />The story is about an internet terrorist organization, lead by Thomas Gabriel, who tries to shut down the entire US system with the help of an internet geek, Matt Farrell. Long before the organization could get rid of Matt, John McClane had a call to look into a list of internet hackers who have caused the crashing of government’s cyber system. The two teamed up to stop the terrorists. <a style="color: rgb(0, 0, 102);" href="http://harmonie.multiply.com/reviews/item/6">[Read Full Review]</a></span>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5324832595853103529.post-541228788585583842007-07-08T20:03:00.000+08:002007-08-03T19:21:15.307+08:00Radiation: Give Your Body a Break from ItIn our everyday lives, whether at home or in the office, we are exposed to radiation! It exists around us all the time. X-rays and photocopying machines are not the only radiation emitters, as many people believe. And since we use either of these two machines too infrequently, any radiation we get from it is really negligible. But what exactly is radiation, and why should we be wary of it?<br /><br />Radiation (or radiant energy) is one of the 6 forms of energy (the others being sound, electrical, chemical, mechanical, and nuclear) that has the qualities of both waves and particles. It passes through the body, usually without leaving a trace. But over-exposure to radiation can affect body tissues, causing molecular damage, which may lead to cancer. In some cases, when the genetic material of cells in the sex organ is affected, birth imperfections in the children of exposed individuals may result.<br /><br />But what's more frightening is the fact that anything electronic emits radiation. Yes, we get radiation from our television sets, microwave ovens, mobile phones, and all the other conveniences introduced to us by modern technology. You are probably hoping that it won't be mentioned here - our computers - but since they work because of electronics, they are certainly this generation's predominant source of radiation. According to medical studies, over-exposure to radiation emitted by our computer screens damages our cells. And when this happens, health problems arise, though some are not evident. When you experience the inability to concentrate, slowness in movements, irritability, and fatigue, chances are your body is over-exposed to computers.<br /><br />Can we get away from it all, especially since computers are almost everywhere? Obviously not. And what about all our other electronic conveniences; should we discard them and alter the way we live altogether? Again, the answer is no. But we can manage radiation levels by giving our bodies a breather.<span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 102);"> </span><a style="color: rgb(0, 0, 102);" href="http://www.orble.com/radiation-give-your-body-a-break-from-it/"><span style="color: rgb(255, 255, 51);">[Read Full Article]</span></a>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5324832595853103529.post-77067760848774778962007-06-30T14:34:00.000+08:002007-08-03T19:23:30.106+08:00When in New York, Don't Fail to Watch the "Lion King" Broadway Stage Musicale<span style="font-size:100%;">Never fail to see the "Lion King Broadway Musicale," with the whole family if possible, when you're in New York. Now don't tell me you won't as you had already seen the movie with your kids.<br /><br />"Lion King" the movie is not and will never be the same as the theater show. And yes, every single cent you spend on the multi-awarded Broadway stage musicale is worth the experience.<br /><br />Also currently playing in London, Hamburg, Tokyo, Shanghai, Seoul, and Paris, the Disney theater production is said to have been watched by over 34 million people from around the world. It is based on the Disney film "Lion King" which depicts a father's great love for his child, risking his very own life to save his son's.<br /><br />And, as many have observed, it is a retelling of the Biblical story of the prodigal son who returns to his homeland a mature, responsible person, ready to take on his designated role in life, in this case, for Simba, as the true King of Pridelands, which position was usurped from his well-loved father Mufasa by his villainous uncle Scar.<br /><br />Directed by Julie Taymor, the musicale has won more than 70 major awards worldwide, including the Tony Awards for Best Musicale, Best Scenic Design of a Musicale, Best Costume Design of a Musicale, Best Choreography, and Best Direction for a Musicale. The book (music and lyrics) is a collaboration between Sir Elton John and Tim Rice, with the already recognizable songs given new life: Circle of Life, Can You Feel the Love Tonight?, the unforgettable 'Hakuna Matata' with pulsating beats by live drummers visible on both sides of the theater that would make you want to learn how to play drums that very moment.<span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 102);"> </span><a style="color: rgb(0, 0, 102);" href="http://harmonie.multiply.com/reviews/item/5">[Read Full Review]</a></span>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5324832595853103529.post-65792277173670856272007-06-30T14:31:00.000+08:002007-08-03T19:24:31.751+08:00Music Album Review: Regina Spektor's "Begin to Hope"<span style="font-size:100%;">I got myself last week a special 2-CD edition of Regina Spektor's newest album, "Begin to Hope". And the only absolute thing I can say about it is that it's full of surprises. But, those familiar with the Russian-American singer-songwriter's work know that to listen to Spektor is to expect the unexpected.<br /><br />For those unfamiliar with Regina Spektor's music, be warned: Her second major-label release, "Begin to Hope" (the first being "Soviet Kitsch" released worldwide in 2003/2004), is misleading. The seemingly sentimental title and the cute picture of the artist on the cover will have you thinking easy-listening and adult contemporary.<br /><br />Indeed, one minute into the first song, everything sounds like your usual radio-friendly number-light, synthesized and easily "digestible." Before the minute is over, however, you'll get your first hint of Spektor's idiosyncratic style when you hear her chop the word "heart" into a dozen syllables!<span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 102);"> </span><a style="color: rgb(0, 0, 102);" href="http://harmonie.multiply.com/reviews/item/4"><span style="color: rgb(255, 255, 102);">[Read Full Review]</span></a></span>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5324832595853103529.post-67094197048323948152007-06-30T14:19:00.000+08:002007-08-03T19:26:49.228+08:00Gadget Review: Nokia E65<span style="font-size:100%;">My youngest sister turn to be generous as she allowed me to "study" her new Nokia E65 smartphone for two days last week. The smooth-sliding Nokia E65 is one attractive smartphone that exhibits a lot more style than the first generation of E-series devices. The Nokia E65, for instance, is one of the smallest in its class at 105x49x15.5mm, which is just slightly longer than a calling card. It weighs just 115 grams, with rounded edges and easy-to-grip, leather-like materials that make it a joy to hold.<br /><br />The Nokia E65 has a lot of buttons, though, which take some getting used to. There are 11 upfront: the usual navigator key, four control keys, plus a one-touch key each for Conference, Contacts, My Own, Mute, Menu, and Backspace. There are 12 on the keypad when the phone is spread, and there are four on the side for recording.<br /><br />On the plus side, the user of a Nokia E65 smartphone can access basic commands with just one touch of a button - once all the buttons are figured out. Experimenting with one-touch buttons shows market sensitivity on Nokia's side, since the feature is becoming more important to consumers. Buttons also access features for reading text messages aloud and setting Voice Controls, which can be accessed by holding down the record button on the side of the device. <a style="color: rgb(0, 0, 102);" href="http://harmonie.multiply.com/reviews/item/2"><span style="color: rgb(255, 255, 51);">[Read Full Review]</span></a></span>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5324832595853103529.post-6635349612874841562007-06-30T14:12:00.000+08:002007-08-03T19:27:17.138+08:00A Review of the Highlights of the 2007 "American Idol" Finals<span style="font-size:100%;">The finals of the 2007 "American Idol" had Blake Lewis and Jordin Sparks squaring off for the singing tilt's much-coveted title, and it looked like Jordin had the competition all wrapped up.<br /><br />Jurors Randy Jackson, Paula Abdul, and Simon Cowell appeared to concur with the general observation, as Blake had a hard time matching Jordin's vocal prowess, and resigned himself to doing his "beat box" best.<br /><br />But Jordin couldn't start celebrating just yet. There was always the great, big question mark of how the show's voters would go. In the past, they have been known to sustain unsustainable dreams (Sanjaya's), or grimly sunder deserving champions' brightest hopes (Katharine McPhee, Melinda Doolittle).<br /><br />So we had to wait for the tilt's "revelation" episode for the confirming voters' verdict to write in stone what many viewers already felt in their hearts: That Jordin Sparks was indeed the 2007 American Idol. <a style="color: rgb(0, 0, 102);" href="http://harmonie.multiply.com/reviews/item/1"><span style="color: rgb(255, 255, 51);">[Read Full Review]</span></a></span>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5324832595853103529.post-74832188137000319212007-06-22T19:38:00.000+08:002007-08-03T19:28:20.970+08:00Essential Safety Measures in e-Banking<span style="font-size:85%;"><span style="font-size:130%;">Doing e-Banking is without a doubt faster than making transactions over a bank's counter. It provides the convenience of drawing cash anytime of the day from wherever an Automated Teller Machine (ATM) is located. On the other hand, doing online banking lets you stay in the comfort of your office seat while making transactions through your PC or laptop. Against these conveniences, however, are real dangers that lurk around. It won't hurt a bit if the following safety reminders are kept in mind:<br /><br />- Your ATM card is like cash. Treat it therefore as you would your crisp bills. Always keep it in a safe place.<br />- Your card number, account number, and Personal Identification Number (PIN) must be known only to yourself. Do not disclose to, or share with, anyone these information.<br />- Avoid using a PIN that is much akin to information pertaining to yourself such as your birthday, your address, or your phone number. While it may be easier for you to remember, it will not be too difficult as well for others to make a supposition of the same.<br />- It is best that you memorize your PIN. Never write it on your ATM card or on any material that may be found with your card.<br />- Be sure to block the view of others when using the ATM. Do not allow anyone to see its screen while making your transaction. Remember also to cover your fingers as you enter your PIN on the machine's keypad. <a style="color: rgb(0, 0, 102);" href="http://www.orble.com/essential-safety-measures-in-ebanking/">[Read Full Article]</a></span><br /></span>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5324832595853103529.post-463832259836586402007-06-11T20:34:00.000+08:002007-08-03T19:28:56.914+08:00RAH RAH RAH is not the usual cheering chant<span style="font-size:85%;"><span style="font-size:130%;">Have you been watching games of the <span style="font-weight: bold;">PBA </span>(Philippine Basketball Association) on the cable tv lately? I have. I have known a long time ago that basketball is the acknowledged national diversion of many Filipinos, and today the <span style="font-weight: bold;">PBA </span>is the biggest sporting event in the Philippines in terms of the number of viewers who watch the games, both in the playing venues and on the boob tube. Its success is simply amazing that fans and the various broadcast media covering every game have obviously been carried away a great number of times by the torrid, faced-paced actions and the superb athleticism exhibited by many of the players that they completely altered the meanings of a lot of words offered in the English language dictionary!<br /><br />For example, when you are watching a <span style="font-weight: bold;">PBA </span>game and suddenly hear the words <span style="font-weight: bold;">COOL CAT</span>, you will be surprised that these do not refer to a dispassionately calm feline. When <span style="font-weight: bold;">DYNAMITE</span> aims at its target, you need not scamper because it is not the explosive that contains nitroglycerin. <span style="font-weight: bold;">FAST</span> may be swift, but this one knows when to apply the brakes too when needed, while <span style="font-weight: bold;">FEARLESS</span> is challenged time and again inspite of its being brave. There are several names of petrol stations, but when you hear the <span style="font-weight: bold;">FLYING A</span> dashing downcourt, this certainly is not one of those. You may sometimes find <span style="font-weight: bold;">FURIOUS</span> not as intense as it should be, and the <span style="font-weight: bold;">H-BOMB</span> missing its target completely. <a style="color: rgb(0, 0, 102);" href="http://www.orble.com/rah-rah-rah-is-not-the-usual-cheering-chant/">[Read Full Article]</a></span><br /></span>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5324832595853103529.post-2546080676966075352007-06-11T19:03:00.000+08:002007-08-03T19:30:26.511+08:00The Six Elements of Teaching: A Guide for Company Supervisors and Managers<span style="font-size:85%;"><span style="font-size:130%;">A great deal has been said of <span style="font-weight: bold;">teaching</span> as one of the most important professions from the standpoint of human welfare. Properly understood, however, it is also one of the most technical, difficult, and challenging professions.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Teaching</span> is an art. It is an activity which company supervisors and managers have engaged in at one time or another. It is a way of transmitting desirable qualities of human character and knowledge to learners.<br /><br />Here are the six elements of <span style="font-weight: bold;">teaching</span> which should guide company supervisors and managers in their quest to becoming good and effective teachers to their subordinates:<br /><br />Learning - "True teachers always seek to learn more, to remain current." <span style="font-weight: bold;">Teaching</span> effectively means you must know deeply and well. It requires learning itself. What does learning mean in <span style="font-weight: bold;">teaching</span>? Learning:<br /><br />- means knowing and mastering a subject;<br />- embodies the act of learning;<br />- conveys the spirit and love of learning to others;<br />- means being open to the knowledge of others;<br />- provides the basis for independent thought;<br />- justifies learning.<span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 102);"> </span><a style="color: rgb(0, 0, 102);" href="http://www.orble.com/the-six-elements-of-teaching-a-guide-for-company-supervisors-and-managers/">[Read Full Article]</a></span> <br /></span>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5324832595853103529.post-80044126447839044072007-06-11T19:01:00.000+08:002012-06-18T03:13:32.115+08:00Why the Mind Wanders<span style="font-size: 85%;"><span style="font-size: 130%;">With the many 'How To' guides sprouting all around, I have thought of coming up with my own pointers on..... wait, I forgot. Oh, okay that's it - "How to Keep Your <span style="font-weight: bold;">Mind</span> from Wandering". Sounds very challenging, don't you think? I will be able to provide useful hints on how to stop this pervading psychological phenomenon called <span style="font-weight: bold;">mind</span>-wandering from ever bothering our mental faculties again. <span style="font-weight: bold;">Mind</span>-wandering is that abstract nuisance that prevent students from keeping their focus on textbooks and lectures, drivers from keeping their <span style="font-weight: bold;">minds</span> on the road, and employees from concentrating on beating deadlines set by their bosses. I am thrilled no end by the prospect of seeing everyone starting to do something and finishing it without being interrupted even for a second by a wandering <span style="font-weight: bold;">mind</span>.<br /><br />I am sure many of you now are eagerly waiting for my pointers to come out and are probably asking how I am progressing with this set of hints. Unfortunately, I have not even started it yet. My <span style="font-weight: bold;">mind</span> simply goes astray faster than I can put in those first few words of my supposed first suggestion. It doesn't matter how hard I try, I seem to be so overwhelmed by this <span style="font-weight: bold;">mind</span>-wandering thing and realize that I can't avoid it myself. Which brings me to this question: "Can <span style="font-weight: bold;">mind</span>-wandering be stopped?". <a href="http://healthmad.com/mental-health/why-the-mind-wanders/" style="color: #000066;">[Read Full Article]</a></span></span>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0